The New Blackmore Vale Magazine by The Blackmore Vale Limited

Friday, November 6, 2020

Edition 4

LOCKDOWN II: Where to turn for help in your area:

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Blackmore Vale

Stunning dress in tribute to the fallen Three generations spent days creating this gorgeous Remembrance dress. Kayleigh Jones and her six-year-old Max, spent days making scores of big poppies for the skirt, with Max making the green belt from poppy leaves. Kayleigh and her mum Nicola pinned them all on, which took three hours. “It was a labour of love,” says Kayleigh. “But it was worth it.” The pair run the Exclusively Yours Bridal Boutique in Salisbury Street, Blandford. While they are sadly forced to close during lockdown they are offering click and collect on all accessories and mother of the bride outfits.

PAGES 26-27 Fortnightly

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Stardom for blind gran in TV ad By Steve Keenan A Stalbridge grandmother with no professional acting experience is spearheading an emotional £3m TV advertising campaign. Julie Bennett, 61, plays a blind granny loved by her family and renowned for her standout Sunday roasts. The ad for frozen food firm Aunt Bessie’s aired in the UK last month and runs through the winter. The affectionate film was inspired by the ad agency’s creative director, whose own Nanna June was certified blind at 16. And it has moved many viewers to tears – including many of the pupils Julie taught at Sturminster Newton High School for 18 years from 1991. n Turn to page 3

Contact Us Advertising: adverts@blackmorevale.net Editorial: newsdesk@blackmorevale.net Postal enquiries to: The New Blackmore Vale, 3 Alfred’s Way, Wincanton, BA9 9RU

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Meet the Team Miranda Robertson

Editor newsdesk@blackmorevale.net Tel: 01963 400186 Debi Thorne

Ad sales manager adverts@blackmorevale.net Tel: 07876 563683

What’s inside this week Angling 82 Arts & Entertainments 60-63 Antiques & Collectibles 44-45 Beauty 37 Business 50-52 Church 66-68 Equestrian 78-79 Farming 83-88 Field And Stream 80-82 Food & Drink 40-42 Funeral Services & Death Announcements 34-36 Gardening 30-31 Health & Wellbeing 47-49 Home & Gardens 30-33 Items For Sale 20 Letters 64-65 Local Services 30-33 & 42-43 Motoring 69-72 MPs’ Round-Up 58-59 News 1-29 Pets 38 Planning Applications 54, 55 & 57 Property 87-95 Puzzles 56 & 67 Recruitment 53-54 Sport 73-77

Lloyd Armishaw

Publisher newsdesk@blackmorevale.net Tel: 01963 400186

Lorraine Drake

Distributor lorraine_drake@icloud.com Tel: 07850 529937

Ruth Armishaw

Commercial manager newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

Kate Smith

Steve Keenan

News editor

Reporter

newsdesk@ blackmorevale.net

sport@blackmorevale.net Tel: 07940 143223

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‘I wouldn’t say no to a series’ laughs gran n From front page Although she has never acted, Julie taught drama and dance and is still known to all she taught as Mrs Lea. “My daughter put the film on Facebook and lots of former pupils have written comments,” says Julie. “I have had tons of reactions. Some say how they cried at the film and found it moving. “You don’t appreciate sometimes what effect you have on their lives…” Julie herself went blind 10 years ago. An operation to remove a tumour near her pituitary gland was successful but a nerve in the brain was disturbed and she lost her sight. “It was like cutting a wire,” she says. Julie was then living in East Anglia with her second husband and ended up in hospital for two months. As part of her fragile rehabilitation, a friend persuaded Julie to join a drama group in Ipswich.

Another drama group, this time of people with varying degrees of sight, followed. It was that group that ad agency Grey London contacted as they looked for a lead actor. Julie had to film three videos and there were online interviews during lockdown. But her talent shone through and she was cast. “You could have knocked me down with a feather,” she says. Filming was in the first week of September in London. She even had a wardrobe mistress. “I was made to feel like Julia Roberts!” The film is meant to reflect the 1990s that the creative director, Chris Clarke, remembered in visiting his Nanna June. The film does not immediately make it clear that the granny cooking a Sunday roast in her kitchen is blind – that only emerges when viewers see a strip of braille stuck on a tin. Julie’s screen ‘husband’ then serves her plate and tells her the

A STAR IS BORN: Julie in the TV ad

beef is at six o’clock and the spuds at nine. “Braille was the only option back then,” says Julie. “I tried to learn the numbers as I play cards but I only got up to six.” Filming took two days and Julie loved it all. The advert was first shown during Coronation Street and was seen by some of her seven grandchildren. One didn’t say anything at the time but later asked her Mum why Granny was on the television, she laughs. Sadly, her second marriage didn’t survive the difficult times that followed her

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operation and accident and, in 2017, Julie moved back to Dorset to be near her youngest daughter, Jennifer, and her four children in Stalbridge. But she is upbeat and has mastered technology to help in her home. “I’ve created my life again,” she says. Now my phone and TV speak to me and I feel I have achieved a great height at 61, being on TV,” she said. “I wouldn’t say no to more. It could be a series, like the Gold Blend adverts. Or Bisto.” See the film at youtu.be/CU7VAIup27U

Shaftesbury Longmead Industrial Estate Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8PL 01747 851476 Warminster 5-6 George Street Warminster, Wiltshire BA12 8QA 01985 219200 3

By Steve Keenan newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

A year has passed but the identity of the elusive Dorset Banksy remains unknown. Since last autumn, seven road signs on or close to the A30 between Shaftesbury and Sherborne have been adapted. You may call it vandalism – but you can’t deny the quality of the additions. The first to appear was a cowboy and lasso added to the cattle sign on the A30 outside East Stour. Then two pedestrian signs outside of Fifehead Magdalen were altered: one had a top hat and carried a rabbit in a hat, the other bowler hats and a velociraptor on a lead. Fifehead Parish clerk David Redwood first saw them last September: “I asked around in the village as there are a few I thought might be capable of doing this - but any involvement has been flatly denied. I suppose it’s vandalism but I find it humorous: it adds fun to our mundane lives!” The self-adhesive silhouettes took a darker turn when another pedestrian sign was adapted on the A30 near Sherborne, adding a machete and severed head. But in February, the humour returned. A ballerina was added to a humpback bridge sign on a bridge, and a man propped up a narrow road warning they are at the same spot, as you enter Henstridge from

Cracking highway code to reveal ID of Banksy tribute

the east on the A30. A second cow/ cowboy image also appeared on the A30 before the Nyland turn. The last two also had a self-

mocking stencil ‘autograph’ added. Since covid-19 appeared, the artist has gone to ground: no more signs appear to have

been adapted in the area. The ‘artworks’ have generally been well received in the A30 villages. On Facebook, West Stour resident Peter Walker said: “Far from being vandalism, it brings the notice sign to the road user’s attention.” Another West Stour villager Pam Powell agreed with his comment. “They make people happy and we have a good idea who it is.” Asked if the artist was from West Stour, Pam would only say: “The hunt is what it’s about. Entrance to a village hall is the clue.” She added cryptically: “We don’t want staged fights.” n Do you know who the artist is? Or have you seen any other signs? Do let us know!

Recycling wizard Alison’s charity collection How many crisp packets are there in 22 kilos of them? A Shaftesbury woman can tell you, after collecting the mammoth amount in a drive to recycle. Alison Harding is collecting all sorts after registering with Terracycle earlier this year. The list of items she can take for recycling include: Pet food pouches, treats bags, biscuits bags, lids, plastic 4

wrapper securing six packs (pouches need to be cleaned and dry), crisp packets and plastic can carriers. She can also recycle Hasbro toys, Ferrero Rocher packaging (all except paper cups), Lavazza coffee eco caps (with or without coffee grounds), Ella’s Kitchen and other brand food pouches with caps and all cheese packaging , but not with nets

or wax). Loads of different plastics can be dropped off at her address in Shaftesbury – to get a full list go to her Facebook page Alison’s Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance Terracycle. The items are sent off to make other items including tables, chairs and watering cans. Not only that, but the money

Alison gets for all this environmental goodness goes to the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. All money gets sent direct to them via Terracycle. Alison said: “To date £170 has been raised for this worthy charity. “This week I sent off 22kg of crisp packets!” Go to her Facebook page for details.

Bikers all revved up with the spirit of Halloween ride-out Bikers gathered on the Milldown car park in the darkness on Saturday, but then the lights were switched on to reveal the ghoulish masks and ghostly faces for their third annual Halloween ride through Blandford. They rode up through Heddington Drive and Holland Way to the Blandford Heights estate

and back down Larksmead, Elizabeth Road and St Leonards Avenue to Wimborne Road, East Street and the Market Place, then on through Blandford St Mary before returning via the town centre and White Cliff Mill Street to finish back at the Milldown. Joint organiser Kirsten Wareham said: “Two years ago there were only a few of

us, but last year there were a few more, and now we are hoping we can turn it into an annual event.” Although they were unable to stop to give out sweets or have pictures taken this

year, they were happy to keep the Halloween spirits high for people who couldn’t get out, and dressed up with lot of lights, inviting others to join them or just wave as they passed.

Breed all about it! Seb’s a rising star By Miranda Robertson newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

A ten-year-old boy who breeds endangered pigs is becoming a bit of a star after winning a legion of fans. Sebastian Carr, who lives between Sturminster Newton and Hazelbury Bryan and attends St Nicholas’s School in Child Okeford, was given four British Saddlebacks for Christmas when he was just eight, after his parents installed the animals under cover of darkness on Christmas Eve. Two years later and Sebastian has his own rapidly growing business, selling meat and piglets, and recently won a national award for best young member of the British Saddleback Breeders Club. Mum Lissy is a teacher at Milton Abbas school, who

PORK OF THE TOWN: Sebastian Carr with his rare breed Saddleback pigs

specialises in vocational education and forest school and has always kept animals. She said: “The breed is on the ‘vulnerable’ list on the Rare Breeds Survival Trust watchlist. “Sebastian’s hobby came

into its own during lockdown as there was work to be done every day. We noticed a real surge in people becoming interested in keeping livestock during that time. “Life for the farming community just goes on,

despite the doom and gloom.” Sebastian is “very interested in preserving bloodlines and keeping this lovely breed going”, says his mum. His Facebook page (Seb’s Saddlebacks at Silver Birch Farm) is popular and he has lots of customers for his pork, weaner pigs and breeding stock. His pigs are expecting four litters next year – they have about ten to 12 piglets in each litter. It’s great news for the breed, as there are only just over 120 registered breeding boars and 300 sows in the UK. The animals are well cared for – the family has even installed CCTV to watch over them, particularly when piglets are due, and Sebastian delivers the litters himself. 5

Anger over car parking charge plan By Nicci Brown

centre have described the move as “hugely An announcement by Dorset counterproductive”. Council that car park charges The changes include are to be imposed from 8am extending the chargeable to 8pm each day including period, currently 9am to Sundays has been greeted 6pm, in all car parks from with disappointment and January next year together some anger. with the introduction of Those hoping to see a postcharges on Sundays in covid return of footfall and Blandford, Sturminster reduction in on-street Newton, Gillingham, parking in Blandford town Shaftesbury, and Sherborne. Free parking during the full covid lockdown was widely welcomed in Blandford and resulted in fewer people seeking one of NATURAL STONE PAVING, PATIOS, the limited number of FENCING, PATHWAYS, DECKING, free on-street parking GARDENWALLS, SLEEPER BEDS, spaces when they PONDS, TURFING AND ROCKERIES. came into town. MINI DIGGER AVAILABLE And there had been T: 01747 590157 M: 07809 415 902 hopes that the Jamespricelandscapes@gmail.com chargeable period @jamespricelandscapes might be reduced to newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

encourage residents unable to find parking near their homes when they returned from work to use the car parks more overnight. The council says that the changes are being brought as part of an ongoing review to make charging more consistent across the Dorset Council area following the creation of the new council, and most rates remain unchanged, with the exception of some popular visitor destinations on the coast. A consultation will also take place this autumn on a suggested council-wide shoppers permit giving discounted rates, similar to that which has operated in West Dorset for over 20 years, and will be consulted upon this autumn. Towns will continue to be offered free car parking on four days a year together with Small Business Saturday and one weekday in December. Chairman Nic Nicol of the

Blandford Town Team said: “I can understand the need for parking charges to go up, and like the idea of the permit scheme, but extending the chargeable hours to between 8am and 8pm and including Sundays is likely to be hugely counterproductive.” Town councillor Roger Carter said: “It’s an appalling decision. How on earth is our evening economy ever going to recover after covid? It’s a slap in the face to the many people around Blandford who are struggling financially.” Catherine Chapman, chairman of the Blandford Business Support Group, said: “My initial thoughts were we are trying to bring people into Blandford, NOT turn them away. “I appreciate the council need to raise funds, but if the council is not careful the already suffering High Streets will definitely close for good.

County councillors oppose move to charge for parking Both Blandford’s county councillors have opposed the move, saying they will be questioning officers and voicing their objections to the portfolio holder and leader of the council. Councillor Byron Quayle said: “Like many residents in Dorset I was surprised by the announcement regarding the parking changes. “Although I support a fair funding model in which car park users are charged equally across Dorset, I do not support the new recommendations and will be voicing my objections. “Simply, Sunday charges will negatively impact Blandford business and 6

charging from 6pm to 8pm does not take into account the pressures on local residents living in a town that does not have adequate on road parking.” Councillor Nocturin Lacey Clarke added “My wife and I, as residents in town that doesn’t have parking, will definitely be affected badly.” Councillor Ray Bryan, Portfolio Holder for Highways, Travel and Environment, said: “We are trying to achieve a delicate balance of maximising income from our car parks while ensuring residents and visitors will still choose to support our high streets, beaches and attractions.”

Birthday celebrations for Mary, 102 Well known Shaftesbury resident Mary Thomas has celebrated her 102nd birthday at her home in Bimport with a small private party for her immediate family. Afterwards Mary, who is believed to be one of the area’s oldest residents, said she was ‘happy but rather overwhelmed’ after receiving cards and presents from so many people. Mary, who has lived in the town since 1987, was a regular volunteer until quite recently with organisations such as Shaftesbury Royal British Legion, Westminster Memorial Hospital, Probus, the Women’s Institute and the local branch of North Dorset Conservatives of which she was president for a time. In 2000 she also took part in the Shaftesbury millennium community play On The Green Rock where she had a

speaking part as a nun. Mary retired to Shaftesbury from West Sussex with her late husband Cubby, a former RAF bomber pilot who flew operations in North Africa during the Second World War against Rommel’s Afrika Corps. They met during the war in Egypt where she was born a month before the end of the First World War. He died in 1994. The party was attended by two of Mary’s three children who live locally, both of whom also went into the Armed Forces - daughter Jane, who lives in Gillingham and was in the RAF, and son Richard who was in the Army and served in the Gulf. Richard, who is now an author and journalist, published Egypt Tales, a private account of his mother’s family’s time in Egypt before the Second World War in time for his mother’s birthday.

BIRTHDAY GIRL: Mary Thomas celebrates her 102nd birthday

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New manager for town’s foodbank Gillingham Foodbank has a new manager. Hannah ‘Han’ Gibbons has decided to step back from managing the foodbank in order to focus on heading up Gillingham Community Church’s Open Door café. Han has been the foodbank manager since its inception in 2011, and has been responsible for co-ordinating its development from a startup to what it is today. Neil MacBean, a Gillingham resident who has been volunteering at the Foodbank since 2014, takes on his new post at a time when an

increasing number of families are having to cope with a reduced income. Neil said: “One of my aims is to raise the profile of our foodbank locally and reassure people needing help who wouldn’t normally consider seeking an emergency food parcel, that the foodbank is here for them too. We at Gillingham Foodbank are ready, willing and able to assist anyone – individuals or families – who would benefit from a little extra help to provide meals. “Not only can we offer food parcels but also household

HERE FOR YOU: Neil MacBean is the new manager at Gillingham Foodbank

necessities, debt advice and additional support.” If you need help, or if you know of anyone who could do with a bit of support, then

email info@gillingham. foodbank.org.uk or on 01747 822076 during Foodbank hours (Monday and Thursday mornings).

Handlebars are wunderbar at law firm Solicitors in Blandford are tackling a particularly hairraising case in tribute to a much-loved colleague. Staff at Blanchards Bailey are taking part in Movember – an annual event involving growing moustaches during November to raise awareness of men’s health issues, such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and men’s suicide. Ben Jones, from the practice, said: “In October last year

we lost a beloved colleague to prostate cancer, Mark Bellman. Mark was one of the founders of Blanchards Bailey in its current iteration and was a popular part of the local business community. “prostatecanceruk.org tells us that prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the UK and the second most common cancer in men worldwide. More than 47,500 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer Notice of making a Public Spaces Protection Order under every year Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 – that’s TAKE NOTICE that: 1. Dorset Council has carried out the necessary consultation on its 129 men proposal to make The Dorset Council Dog Related Public Spaces Protection Order 2020 (the PSPO) in accordance with the Section every day. 72 of the above act. 2. The PSPO has now been made in accordance with Section 59 of “Every 45 the act and it comes into force on the 1 of January 2021 and will minutes expire on the 31 of December 2023. 3. For further information on the content of the Order, penalty levels, one man maps and exceptions see dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/environmentalhealth/dog-warden-service/responsibilities-of-a-dog-owner.aspx dies from 4. Under the provision of Section 66 of the act, an interested person may apply to the High Court within six weeks of the date that the prostate PSPO is made, to question its validity on the grounds that: (a) That thee local authority did not have the power to make the cancer – order of variation, or to include particular prohibitions or requirements imposed by the order (or by the order as varied); that’s more (b) That a requirement under Chapter 2 of the Anti-social than Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 was not complied with in relation to the order. 11,500 5. An “interested person” is defined by Section 66 (2) of the act as being an individual who lives in the restricted area or who men every regularly works in or visits that area. year. 1 in 8 Dated this 27 day of October 2020: men will Signed: be diagnosed Head of Community & Public Protection st

Authorised signatory

with prostate cancer in their lifetime. “In honour of our friend Mark, a number of the Blanchards Bailey men (‘Mo-bros’) are going to grow their mo and raise awareness and funds towards prostate cancer research. We are recruiting other “MoBros.” Each Mo-bro will raise sponsorship and awareness of prostate cancer over the month. Even the ladies are getting involved, pledging to run or walk 60km or more over the next month to raise awareness and sponsorship. The team has even designed a special moustachioed face mask, each bearing a mojestic mo which will be available for £5 from the Blandford office (postage can be arranged). Decorating, bedazzling or embellishing face masks is actively encouraged and the best decorated face mask by the end of the month will win a bottle of bubbles. The most outstanding mo at the end of the month will also be awarded a bottle. Ben added: “Participants will be encouraged to raise

MO-GNIFICENT: Ben Jones as he may look come November 30

awareness and funds by sharing progress pictures by email, Twitter, Facebook, carrier pigeon, smoke signal… (you name it!) with contacts, colleagues, clients, friends and family. We would love to get as many people as possible to join us in using the hashtag #markmovember.” Follow their progress at uk.movember.com, searching for Mark’s Mo Bros and Mo Sisters. Call 01258 459361 if you would like to join in or buy a mask.

By Nicci Brown newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

REMEMBRANCE activities will sadly be restricted this year with covid restrictions making the usual gatherings and parade impossible. But work recently carried out in the cemetery has come as a timely reminder that not all the graves with military connections are listed and maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, which is responsible for those of 50 British First World War casualties, 20 from the Second World War, nine Germans and six non-world war service personnel. A suggestion from Lt Col Retd Bob Brannigan before he retired as Garrison SO was followed up by town council staff who searched for any military reference on the gravestones, and in the council database. During the lockdown a meeting was held with members of the Royal Corps of Signals Junior Command Training Team with 11th Signal Regiment based at Blandford Camp who agreed to carry out some maintenance work and cleaning of some of the stones on the list. Town clerk Linda Scott Giles said: “We would ordinarily seek permission from the grave owner, but these were clearly not attended for whatever reason. Sergeant Instructor TKQ Raratabu and

MAINTENANCE WORK: Sergeant Instructor TKQ Raratabu, on the right, at Blandford Cemetery with his colleagues

Signals soldiers help out with gravestone tidy-up his colleagues spent a morning working there, focusing on cleaning the headstones which for whatever reason have been unattended for years of those who served their country and did not have a Commonwealth War grave in Blandford. The grounds staff have also fixed the little pillars back on one of the graves.” The gravestones they worked

on included those remembering Reginald Durdle and his parents, Leonard Arnold, and Leo Weldon and his son Julian, who died on active service in Korea in 1954 and is also remembered at St Mary’s School, Marnhull. Reginald William Durdle was the son of Salisbury Street tailor Robert William and Alice Sarah Durdle,

killed in action in 1918 age 25 while serving with The Buffs (East Kent Regiment), and is buried at Epehy Wood Farm Cemetery. Leonard Alfred Arnold was killed in action age 33, and his CWGC record reveals his number and rank as 1412625 AC 2nd Class and that he died on December 8 1941, and was buried at Whitley Bay cemetery.

Pop a poppy in your window to show you remember Put poppies in your windows for Stalbridge Remembers 2020 is the message from the town council. This year the Royal British Legion is working with St Mary’s Church and the Town Council to encourage community involvement in a safe act of remembrance. The traditional format which has been followed for many years has been changed – there will not be a parade to 10

and from the church and the number of people taking part in the act of remembrance at the war memorial needs to be reduced to a minimum to keep people safe and will be by invitation. Stalbridge residents are being asked to put pictures of big poppies in their house windows and atand at their front doors at 11am on Sunday for the two minutes’ silence. They are also being

NEW WAY TO SHOW RESPECT: Stalbridge residents are asked to put a poppy in their windows

urged to support the RBL with online donations. Arrangements are subject to change at short notice due to

covid-19 restrictions. Contact clerk@stalbridgetown council.gov.uk or call on 01963 364276.

Masks in loving memory of brother A loving sister is offering special poppy face masks to raise money for the Royal British Legion and Macmillan in her brother’s memory. Kevin Challis lost his battle with cancer aged 70 on August 9, 2018, leaving his wife of 48 years Beryl and his sister Angie bereft. Father of two Kevin – known to his mates and colleagues as Pat – served many years in the RAF as a rigger. “He was a big man in every sense of the word,” says Angie. After leaving school Kevin trained to be a gardener, starting his training at Belvoir estates, working for the Duke and Duchess of Rutland before joining the RAF. He served all round the world and was always on 24 hours standby, ready to be flown to wherever he was needed. His son Kieran followed in his footsteps and daughter Zoe became a teacher in China. ln his retirement as well as enjoying his gardening, Kevin and Beryl enjoyed travelling round the UK in his VW T5 campervan, bird watching and visiting places of interest. But two-and-a-half years ago Kevin was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He was cared for by Macmillan nurses ‘until his last breath’, says Angie, who is determined to raise as much as she can for the

FUNDRAISING TRIBUTE: The face masks in memory of Kevin Challis, pictured left with his wife Beryl and, right, on their wedding day

cause. She added: “With the coronavirus these two good causes are not able to do their usual fundraising activities and cancer and other life-threatening illnesses don’t stop because of it.

“I’m selling these masks till November 11. They are washable with a washable filter, with a soft nose bar and adjustable ear bands for an all-round comfortable fit, helping to stop glasses misting. They are £5 each plus £1 P&P – wear them

with pride for all service men and women who have served us in the past, present and the future.” To order yours email ang.challis@btinternet.com or call 07765 256875, or visit Bartletts County Stores in Blandford Forum.

Stay home to pay respects on Sunday Gillingham Town Council is urging people to: “Please stay home and pay your respects the Remembrance Sunday”. Due to current government guidelines the parade will not take place in Gillingham this year. The town council and the Royal British Legion’s Gillingham Branch are asking people who would normally come to pay their respects to stay home.The council and

the RBL will instead conduct wreath invited to lay a wreath on the afternoon laying on the town’s behalf, with the in accordance with government Mayor and a representative of the RBL guidelines.” after a two-minute silence at 11am Sturminster Newton Branch, The Royal British Legion on Sunday, November 8. Annual General Meeting will be held on Monday 9th November A council spokesman said: “As a at 8.00pm. Due to Covid restrictions it will be held as a virtual meeting via mark of respect, you may wish to Zoom or MS Teams. All current members are stand on your doorstep for two encouraged to attend. For a copy of the agenda and for instructions on how to join the meeting please email minutes’ silence at 11am. SturminsterNewtonRBL@Gmail.com. Representatives from Gillingham For further info contact the Chairman on 01258 821612. (Registered Charity number 219279) groups and organisations are 11

Janet’s epic pilgrimage for Fair Trade A Fair Trade volunteer from Mere has exceeded her fundraising target with a sponsored trek along The Pilgrim’s Way. Janet Way has been volunteering to help farmers and growers get a fair price for 40 years, and to mark the milestone she decided to undertake a 12-day trek from Winchester to Canterbury, aiming to raise £1,650. But friends and family have all chipped in and now Janet has raised a brilliant £2,000 for Traidcraft. She said: “I have been a involved in the Fair Trade

movement as a voluntary rep for Traidcraft for 40 years. It has always been a way by which I have felt able to help the craft workers and farmers around the world to a sustainable way of life through Fair Trade. “Because of the uncertain times we have been living in, I have been unable to hold any fundraising events but through the generosity of friends, family and the wonderful people in Mere, I have now raised £2,000 for the Charity which will make a real and tangible difference to the lives of

millions of people.” Janet was greeted at the finish line, Canterbury Cathedral, by her sister and brother-in-law holding a winning ribbon after ‘a wonderful 12 days’ walk’ including lovely sights along the River Itchen, the Surrey Hills and the North Downs. She said: “The walk led through all these small villages where the pilgrims of old would have stopped to rest.” Once back home Janet gathered all her sponsor money with a final fundraising event, a raffle outside the post office.

Charity’s snips and chips for a fiver The Blandford & Sturminster Newton Branch of Cats Protection are offering people on low incomes or benefits the chance to get their cats neutered and microchipped for £5. If you are claiming benefits or on a low income and live in DT10 DT11 BH21 and parts of SP5 SP7 please call 01258 268695 to get a voucher. You will need to use one of the charity’s vets. A female cat can get pregnant at four months of age, so it is recommended to get them neutered between

four and six months and keeping them safe indoors until you do. As well as avoiding pregnancy, which will help reduce the number of unwanted cats and kittens, neutering your cat can be good for their overall health: For female cats, neutering reduces

the risk of picking up some infectious diseases and reduces the likelihood of developing tumours, womb infections and other illnesses. Neutered male cats are far

New library book home delivery service A temporary non-contact doorstep delivery Home Library Service is now on offer to keep readers entertained during the long winter evenings. Anyone who can’t easily get to their local library can take advantage of the free service, which includes large print and talking books as well as 12

ordinary print. The Home Library Service had to be suspended due to covid, however there is now a non-contact delivery service. Books are chosen by staff at each library, based on individual preferences, and made ready for our volunteers to pick up and

deliver to our clients’ front doors. The volunteers can also pick up books and return them to the library. To find out more contact Maria Jacobson, Service Manager Dorset Home Library Service, on 01305 236666 or 07786 635154, or email maria.jacobson@royalvolunt aryservice.org.uk.

less likely to end up injured as a result of fighting. Their ‘wander lust’ is reduced resulting in them being less likely to go missing or be hit by cars. It will also stop spraying indoors. If you had a voucher from the charity earlier in the year, please make sure you use it or let them know if you no longer need it as they have a limited budget for this scheme. So far this year they have issued vouchers to neuter 221 cats and kittens.

They’re dab hands

Dorset Police are to be become one of the first forces in the country to use new technology to remotely transfer fingerprints for analysis directly from crime scenes. It’s one of a number of projects being run by the Forensic Capability Network (FCN), dedicated to improving forensic science in policing.

Brief ceremony in pants weather for campaign launch

Blandford Evening WI’s Sheila Chapman with the Great Dorset Pants Fence at Gorcombe Extreme Sports in more clement weather than on the launch day

Due to Storm Alex it was a seriously soggy affair when the instigators and sponsors of the Great Dorset Pants Fence gathered to raise the banner onto the designated fence at Gorcombe Extreme Sports ready to receive contributions. Due to covid restrictions, the raising was always going to be a limited affair with just five attendees. In the event, Blandford

Evening WI was represented by the treasurer, Sheila Chapman, dripping in her waterproof, Gorcombe by a hardy Phil Meaden soaked in shorts, and rain-lashed in their company jackets the sponsors, Danielle from Cheap Printing Dorset which designed and produced the banner, and Neil Middleditch from Bailie House Warehouse.

Nikki Davies-Thomas from the Dorset Cancer Care Foundation was up to the top of her wellies in water. And the first contributions to the fence got dropped in the mud and had to be taken home and washed! The Great Dorset Pants Fence is a fun adaption of the New Zealand Cardrona Bra Fence to highlight the message of the current WI Resolution “Don’t Fear the

Smear” and to encourage people to take tests for cervical and prostate cancers. Pants can be contributed any day, with pegs supplied from the Gorcombe café where a donation box is placed, and refreshments are being served only on Saturdays at the moment. Refreshments are also available from sponsors Bailie House Warehouse in Sturminster Marshall.

Council stops leisure centre funding Council tax payers in Blandford will not be asked again to pay extra to support the town’s leisure centre – to which they have contributed half a million pounds over the last ten years. Town councillors have agreed that they have fulfilled the commitment they gave in 2009 to support the centre with £50,000 a year for ten years when the centre was threatened with closure. They were told Dorset Council believed a further £50,000 payment was due, but investigations confirmed that the town council had already made ten payments. And they agreed on September 28 that the

By Nicci Brown newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

council was not minded to renew its service level agreement with Dorset Council over the leisure centre. Town and county councillor Nocturin Lacey Clarke, who made the proposal – seconded by fellow county councillor Byron Quayle – said: “I can’t see it means anything will change. But Dorset Council will have to find another £50,000 from this year’s budget.” Councillor Lynn Lindsay, whose proposal that the council should not make an 11th payment was seconded

by Councillor Lacey Clarke, said: “It would be a travesty for us to pay more, and we would have to reconsult to do so.” Councillor Steve Hitchings, who as then district councillor chaired a Blandford Leisure Action Group at the time of the original agreement, said: “We said at the beginning that the leisure centre was important, and it would have closed without our support.” But he said Dorset Council have now signed an extension of the contract to 2025 with Everyone Active which will then be amalgamated into one contract for all council-run leisure centres, and there

were big players who would love to have it. A report to Dorset Council last month revealed that Blandford Leisure Centre, which reopened on July 25 after four months of lockdown, had been busy with more than 1,250 visits from members keen to get back in the gym, where additional safety measures include one-way systems, enhance cleaning regimes and structure sessions. Group exercise classes were operating at over 85 per cent capacity, with additional classes added in September, and swimming lessons and bookable lane swimming were similarly proving popular. 13

Pub on the starting grid thanks to star By Steve Keenan newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

Former Top Gear presenter James May has driven off in two new directions – he’s bought half a pub and is fronting a new cookery show. The Royal Oak in Swallowcliffe, just off the A30 between Shaftesbury and Salisbury, had been closed since the lockdown. But as May lives within walking distance of his home in Ansty, he has stepped in to help it reopen. “I don’t want to be in a village where there isn’t a pub within walking distance, that would make life utterly pointless,” he told one magazine. May, Clarkson and Hammond famously left Top Gear and the BBC in 2016 to set up a rival series on Amazon Prime, The Grand Tour. But with coronavirus severely hampering filming this year, there will only be two episodes of The Grand Tour in 2020 – giving publican May time to call time in his new pub.

The Oak re-opened last week. Said a sanguine mine host: “More than 10,000 pubs have shut in the last decade. There has never been a worse time to buy half a pub. This one has never made a profit and the previous owners had enough. “Coronavirus means the capacity of the pub has been reduced by 50%, and if

capacity goes down by more than 25%, it goes into the red.” But despite his logic, May has been hands on, involved in the redecoration, choice of furniture, even deciding the sign ‘Loos’ be removed. “I hate it.” He is open to suggestions. The perfectionist publican who won’t stand nonsense

has also added a note to the menu - * Served on pieces of wood, £100 extra.’ May has given a copy of his new book Oh Cook to Johnny, the pub chef, in the hope that he may include fish pie on the menu. The book’s strapline is ‘Go easy recipes that any idiot can make.’ May begins his new cookery series on Amazon shortly.

School so proud of fundraisers A group of Sturminster Newton High School students were set to visit Fuoni, a school in Zanzibar, in July to help with building work and spend time with the pupils. Funds were raised by holding car washes, cake sales, a very popular quiz night, a Ska evening and the sale of Christmas cards. Students also helped The Lions with their Father Christmas visits. In total the students and their teacher / parent helpers raised £2,167.22. The trip was called off due to covid-19 and though all the students were very 14

disappointed they wanted the money to support the children. With the help of African Adventures, the school in Zanzibar said that they would like to use the funds to finish their perimeter wall, ensuring the safety of the site and the children there. A local NGO recently donated some desks and chairs to one classroom at Fuoni, and has committed to funding more if the school can improve security measures. This means the completion of the wall will not only help keep the pupils safe during school hours, but indirectly improve the facilities.

NEW FACILITIES: The school in Zanzibar

Emily Brookes from the school said: “We are very proud of the hard work put into fundraising by our students Sofia, Virginia, Amy, Flora, Finn,

Freddie, Kayley, Honey, Jamie, Darren, Dimitar and Naomi, and so pleased that the money will have such a huge impact on the school in Zanzibar.”

Benefits help for over-50s Age UK North, South & West Dorset holds regular surgeries where over 50s can come and ask an expert questions about benefits they may be entitled to receive. Working in partnership with Dorset Council, these benefit advice sessions are one-toone surgeries, free and by appointment only. Due to covid-19, these surgeries will go ahead but will be by telephone only. The charity also offers better balance workshops, footcare clinics and a range of lunch and games clubs, outside of lockdown. Richard Bristow from Age UK North, South & West Dorset said: “We are working in partnership with Dorset Council and can assist older people to access the benefits they are entitled to such as attendance allowance and pension credit “If anyone is not sure about the benefits they may be able to claim, I would encourage them to make an

appointment at one of our telephone surgeries. “We are also still offering help to complete benefit forms, such as attendance allowance, over the telephone through our welfare benefits team.” To book a telephone appointment please call Age UK North, South & West Dorset on 01305 269444 or email enquiries@ageuk

nswd.org.uk For further details of other ways in which Age UK North, South & West Dorset can help you, please telephone 01305 269444 or visit ageuk.org.uk/

northsouthwestdorset

Age UK North, South & West Dorset is a local charity supporting older people to live fulfilling and active lives. It provides a wide range of services and activities thanks to the ongoing support of the local community.

Tributes to popular mayor Shaftesbury Town Council has paid tribute to Ray Humphries, twice Mayor of the town, who died last week. He was also a town councillor for 13 years, as well as Mayor in 1997 and 2001. “His time in office is remembered for his distinguished service and unfailing good humour,” said a council statement. Ray was known throughout the town, stretching back to his drumming days in Shaftesbury in the 1960s. He was also a core member of the Town Silver Band, chairman of the carnival committee for 37 years, chairman of Shaftesbury in Bloom and a member of many other organisations. “In recognition of their unparalleled and dedicated service to the town, the town council was honoured that Ray and his wife Chris, accepted our invitation in

2010 to be Freemen of the Town – a rare honour that has only been awarded to 11 people,” read the statement. “In 2011, in recognition of his long service to our community Ray was awarded an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours. We extend our deepest sympathies to Chris, and to Ray’s family at this very sad time.”

North Cadbury to take on developers The idea of one large, new newsdesk@blackmorevale.net estate was rejected by villagers in a survey North Cadbury is the latest conducted a year ago which village in the region to begin will form part of a a potentially long and neighbourhood plan, due to bruising battle with land be finished by Christmas developers. before undergoing At a parish council meeting independent analysis. last week, architects Boon Michael Martin, chairman of Brown unveiled outline plans the working group, said: for 80 houses on a field “The resounding message owned by farmer Paul was that people didn’t want Longman, of which 30 urbanisation of North would be affordable. The Cadbury.” concept also included a A neighbourhood plan gives nature reserve and new road the community a much from the estate to the A359. stronger say in shaping There was no clarification development and growth in whether Mr Longman would local areas. Nine towns and build on or sell the land on villages in North Dorset have Ridgeway Lane if he won developed one since 2017, planning permission. If 80 including Motcombe and homes were built, it would Bourton. increase the population of Mr Martin said the Cadbury plan would include provision the village by half, to 650.

By Steve Keenan

to build 60 houses in the village, as demanded by South Somerset District Council, but that they would be spread out over 19 pockets of land and infill – not one estate. He suggested Boon Brown could be racing to push through its plan ahead of the local plan being signed off sometime in the new year. As last week’s meeting was simply to show initial plans, any public consultation will have to wait for detailed plans – perhaps at the next council meeting on November 25. But likely protests are that three tree preservation orders and rights of way would be affected, while a consultant’s report states the land is partially on a flood plain. “This does nothing to benefit

North Cadbury, apart from the pub and shop,” said Mr Martin. n A development firm is continuing its fight to build a number of houses in Milborne Port, despite being rejected twice. Toft Hill first submitted plans to build 56 homes on Station Road in February, 2018. Toft went to appeal and lost, then reduced the number of homes to 30 – which was turned down by South Somerset District Council. The firm is appealing again. The council refused plans on the grounds of road safety, the look of the houses, the fact that the primary school could not cope and insufficient information on how Toft intended to protect local ecology. 15

Pearl appeal for a very worthy cause AT the start of 1918, three years before the British Legion held their first Poppy Appeal, the Red Cross Pearl Appeal was launched. Lady Northcliffe, whose husband owned The Times and the Daily Mail, appealed to women to donate a pearl from their necklaces in the hope a single necklace could be created and sold to help wounded soldiers. The response from the grieving nation was overwhelming and 41 necklaces were created – raising £100,000. The Pearl Appeal was one of the most successful fundraising campaigns of the

By Kate Smith First World War. Now Anne Kings from Gillingham is launching The Remembrance Pearl Appeal to help raise finds for the Poppy Appeal. “I need everyone reading this to help,” she said. “We all know that the Poppy Appeal fund this year is going to struggle due to covid-19 regulations, so maybe we can steal the idea from what happened in 1918 and do a similar thing in this time of exceptional circumstances – 100 years later. “I know many people have little trinket boxes somewhere

in the home which hold odd leftover pearls, which have been collected over the years. “Now could be the time to sort out those little boxes. “If you are reading this and are someone who would be willing to part with a single pearl then these will be strung into beautiful pearl necklaces, which will be auctioned at a later date, with the funds raised going to the Poppy Appeal. “And who knows, you may be lucky and own one for yourself, or buy one for someone special, when these beautiful necklaces are ready to be sold. There couldn’t be

necklaces with more meaning!” Anne added: “Every one will be unique, pearls will not match in quality, colour, shape or size but in a way this will add to the charm and all will be beautiful.” Send your pearls to The Remembrance Pearl Appeal The Copy Shop, High Street, Gillingham SP8 4QT before December 20. Or The Post Office, 12 High Street, Gillingham SP8 4RZ Allum and Sidaway are the jewellers who will thread the pearls. For any more information email abnekings2@btinternet.com

Gorgeous winter treats now in stock at Shirley Allum’s With November arrived, it's time to get out warm, waterproof jackets from Seasalt. Shirley Allum’s November promotion is 20% off all UGG, FLY and Wolkies 16

winter boots – so grab a bargain before they all go. Her cashmere knitwear department is larger than ever, with amazing colours. There is also a larger selection of Brax Jeans, with

cords and velvets and Robell trousers in an array of colours and patterns (jeans and trousers in sizes 4-26). New in lingerie is Hatley Christmas nightwear. In bras they have sizes 30-50

back size, AA to K cup size – something for every size and shape. Gift vouchers are available for Christmas with a free box of chocolates if over £50. Shirley and the team look forward to assisting you.

Garden visiting rooms a blessing at care homes When face-to-face care home visits were banned back in the Spring, during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, many of our loved ones living in care homes, especially those living with dementia, were left feeling bewildered and abandoned. Despite the constant kindness of the tireless care assistants, many older residents simply couldn’t understand why their families and friends were no longer popping in to say hello, give them a hug or sit down for a cuppa and a chat.

For those of us watching the daily news bulletins at the time, the reasons were obvious. It seemed as though the only option for care homes was to pull up the drawbridges, cancel all nonessential visits, don the PPE, introduce even more stringent hygiene procedures and try their very best to explain to residents why all these measures were for their own good. Despite many of the residents having lived through World War II, it was such a challenging time for everyone concerned, not just for the residents, but for their friends and families as well. But tough times call for ingenuity. It’s times like these that can bring out the best in us all, not just our compassion and our determination, but our creativity as well.

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE At residential care homes such as Bramley House in Mere and The Old Rectory in Stalbridge, both owned by Dorset-based care business Bramley Care, managers could instantly see the dilemma. Vicki Collins, Registered Manager at The Old Rectory, and Caroline Nicholson, Registered Manager at Bramley House, both spoke on the one hand of the overwhelming urge to keep their precious residents safe from harm, but on the other hand, they both knew just how vital it was for the residents to have regular contact with their loved ones.

While battling with the daily frustrations caused by lockdown, such as sourcing PPE and toilet rolls (yes, even care homes were struggling to get hold of them), Caroline and Vicki put their heads together .….via Zoom of course!

Vicki explained how they quickly realised that the solution was going to be special visiting rooms in the gardens, so that visitors wouldn’t have to enter the homes at all. “Building them at the height of the pandemic was definitely a challenge, but we’re both really pleased with the end result. The wooden cabins look lovely, and they’re fully heated, with comfy furniture, so our residents and their visitors can really enjoy their time together. There’s a glass panel running from floor to ceiling across the middle of the room, so it’s safe for our residents and their families, but they can feel really close to their loved ones.” “We’ve installed a microphone system that means chatting through the glass is really simple,” added Caroline, “and the room gets fogged (professionally cleaned) after every visit.”

“Our residents and their families have been really overjoyed with their new visiting rooms. They’ve been a lifeline for so many during the bleak months of lockdown and they’re still in constant use, while we all of us wait for life once again to return to normal.” For those residents for whom the short journey to the visiting rooms is simply too arduous, maybe for those nearing the end of their lives, arrangements can also be made at both homes for relatives to visit loved ones in their own rooms, though strict precautions are taken in these circumstances. While government guidelines have at times been unclear, Registered Managers such as Caroline and Vicki have had to shoulder the unenviable task of deciding what is best for their residents. Both homes have remained Covid-free throughout the pandemic, and their residents are happy in the knowledge that their loved ones can visit whenever they choose, so it looks as though they’re both doing a pretty amazing job! For more information or a friendly chat, call Caroline at Bramley House (01747 860192) or Vicki at The Old Rectory (01963 362624). info@bramleycare.com www.bramleycare.com 17

Archive pictures shows Dorset Those with long memories and possible local ancestry may well remember when Ferne Estate, located in the parish of Donhead St Andrew, operated as an animal sanctuary, owned and run by the late Nina, Duchess of Hamilton and Brandon. The animal sanctuary was founded at the start of the Second World War in 1939, providing refuge for more than 6,000 pets during the war years – many of whom lost their owners during this time. Today, Ferne Animal Sanctuary still survives, largely adhering to the principles laid down by its founder, although since 1975 it has been based near Chard in Somerset. Last year it celebrated its 80th anniversary, an event in which they took great pride. The sanctuary has a small archive of material covering aspects of its history and volunteers are trying to gather as much information, archives and photographs as they can – particularly material relating to the years between 1939 and 1975 – for a new book, which will raise funds for the charity. Spokesman Sarah Cutler said: “As the Duchess sadly passed away in 1951 the survival of Ferne Animal Sanctuary during subsequent years would not have been possible without the hard work and loyalty of so many people and we feel that they too deserve to be remembered for the part they played in our history. “To this end we are calling on the people and families of Shaftesbury and surrounding areas, requesting your help in sharing with us any recollections pertinent to the early years of our small but greatly loved sanctuary. “Names of individuals do survive: Mr Joe Allen, who 18

WHO LET THE DOGS OUT? Miss B Broms, Miss P Reid, Miss M Atherton and Nina, Duchess of Hamilton, let the dogs out of the kennels and, below, feeding time

was with the Ferne Estate for more than 30 years and took particular responsibility for the horses and cattle and his assistant Mr Eric Butt. “Other names that are recalled are Mr E. Roberts, Mr J. Scammel, Mr D. Davidge, Mrs Joan Reynolds, Mrs May Clapp,

Miss Peggy Reid, Miss B. Broms, Miss Avril Tucker, Miss Ann Wigger, Miss Joy Tanner, Miss Betty Clarke, Margaret Barrett and Miss Mollie Atherton (Superintendent). “Any relevant material or lingering memories of the part they, and others, played would be greatly welcomed.

“If you can help, please do contact us, either by writing to: Sarah Cutler, Ferne Animal Sanctuary, Chard, Somerset TA20 3DH Tel: 01460 67587 or email: volunteering@ ferneanimalsanctuary.org. “Alternatively, Adrian Dixon can be contacted on 01308 868612.”

beginnings of animal sanctuary PET SUBLECT: Ferne Estate animal sanctuary founder Nina, Duchess of Hamilton, with some of her beloved dogs. Below, Nina and two horses which were saved from slaughter after the mechanisation of the dust carts and, below, right, Ferne House with residents

Deaf student is fundraising for uni A Blandford Nepalese student is appealing for help to achieve his dream of getting a university degree. Aayush Gurung is profoundly deaf, unable to speak and relies on sign language to communicate. The 22-year-old moved to the UK from his home country of Nepal in 2016 when he was 17 to improve his education. After passing his A-Levels, Mr Gurung has been offered a place at Bournemouth University, studying

By Nicci Brown Accounting and Finance. He has chosen to study at Bournemouth as he can easily travel to and from the campus from Blandford and will not have to pay any accommodation or maintenance expenses. But his immigration status of ‘limited leave to remain’ means he is unable to apply for student loans, Disabled Student Allowance (DSL), or any loans from the UK government, and his parents both have low incomes are

unable to support him. He has started a GoFundMe page to help him further his educational ambitions with an original target amount of £24,000. But Bournemouth University has agreed to reduce the fees by giving him ‘home’ fee status, and he has won the support of the Charity of William Williams with a £3500 grant together with £500 from Blandford Rotary Club and £840 from fundraising at Blandford Camp, so has reduced the

target to £14,810. By the middle of October £2500 had been raised towards his tuition fees, British Sign Language interpreters and note-taker costing £7800, and books, equipment and travel costing £2100. He said: “I have faced many barriers throughout my life but I will never give up. Donations from the public will help me to achieve my dreams, all donations will be very much appreciated.” To donate, visit gf.me/u/ywgi8d 19

Items for sale White Belfast Sink, 2ft x 18" wide x 8.5" depth £40 01258 451507. Double size wardrobe, approx 66" x 48", good condition £25 0196323333 Bishops Caundle. New John Lewis Cino Express Christmas tree stand £15 07802 233864. Canaries for sale. £13 each. 01963 33156. His Master’s Voice Portable Wind Up Record Player plus 36 classical 75's £100 - Tel 07749 259 000 /hugh.notley@gmail.com. Walker & Wheelchair, 3 wheeled walker £35, wheelchair £65 - both as new - Tel - 01258 456497. Model tug boat approx 38" long £50. Tel No - 01747 228845. Ornaments - Horse and Wagon £40, Gypsy Caravan and Horses £40 - 01963 371239 Well rotted horse manure £95 per transit load, delivered within 20 miles Sherborne - Tel 01963 210269 Wicker hampers (fill for Christmas) Can deliver to Blandford area £10, £15 and £2, Carol - 01202 423909 Wahl electric hair clippers, two in case, new, collection only, Salisbury £25 - 01722 711456. 20 jam jars £5, 25 pickling jars £10 - 07854 966 770 / 01747 824 240. Vax vacuum £50 ono, good condition, one recliner chair green, good condition £50 or 01747 829056. Staddle and striker stones for sale £60 to £100 each, Phone 01747 840835. Doll’s pram, excellent condition plus two dolls £10, 01258 818078. Flymo 300 mower and grass

box, £10, set of drain rods and attachments £10, 3-in-1 rechargeable portable jump starter £10, 01258 489188 Vintage Pendragon English leather suitcase £35, Regency rosewood picture frame £20 01935 389064 fish tank l48", h24", w12", lights, heater, autofeeder large/small filters, air pump etc, £100 - 07947 865774 golf carry bag, integrated stand, club dividers, zipped pockets, strap, good as new £30 - 01747 840681. Doll’s house perfect condition, six rooms plus all furniture, £50 - 01258 818078. Echo hostess trolley, good condition £40 - 01963 362159. 2 large Marco Polo suitcases £5 each - Tel 01258 880506. Set of 20 children's Britanica £5 ONO - Tel 01258 880506. Dunlop golf shoes, never used size 10 £33 - new golf balls still boxed £40 - 07787550145. Singer hand sewing machine £80 01258 860113. Brother word processing typewriter £80 01258 860113. Adler portable typewriter £40 01258 860113 Loom table, new, Ashford, £60 01963 34498 Grooming table 17 x 22 inches for small dog £20 01747 840018. Folding 5 panelled bath shower screen VGC £30 01747 825792. Bisley light grey 2 drawer filing cabinet VGC £35.00 01747 825792. 1 pair lined red velvet curtains 6 ft wide and 7 ft long, pinch pleat, heading, professionally made £75ovno 07523 564678 Black glass tv stand, 3 shelves perfect condition £40 01963 363978 Computer desk pullout

keyboard shelf, printer, shelf, disc compartment £40 01963 363978 Z bed, as new condition £50 01749 850201. Beige faux leather double headboard, as new, bargain £10, 01963 548224. Karaoke DBD, CDG player and disks, as new, great fun for all, £30, 01963 548224 Chainsaw bib and brace safety trousers, 38/40" waist, as new, £60, 01963 548224. Solid teak dressing/console table in VGC, W100xD45xH78cms + matching stool £65 - email maryfield1957@msn.com for picture. Grey metal office grade, 4 drawer metal filing cabinet + hanging files H132xW47xD64cms £50 email maryfield1957@ msn.com for picture. Persian carpet approx 10ft x 8ft main colour red, cost £1,000 will accept £100, 5/6 yrs old, 01963 210546 or 07815 589393. Faux black leather sofa bed excellent condition free! 01747 850546 (evenings) Old Newspapers 1940's, 1950's Free, Ring Rose on 01963 548522 2 part pool cue, Riley 9mm tip c/w, rigid box £10. Car bike carrier, Avenir Arizona, New, till in original packing £50 Call Tony 07763 008426.

CLASSIFIEDS Nattuzzi red leather sofa £750, chair £350 EXCELLENT CONDITION 07588 053555

Victorian Tiled Fireplace, tile depicts lily's in pot. With fire basket. Good Condition £500. Stihl FS45 2 stroke strimmer. Used for one season only, been in garage unused for several years, £35. Contemporary dining chairs with high backs, Pine Colour, black vinyl seat covers, set of 8, £50. Hazelbury Bryan Area, Call 01258 817389 Very attractive - 2x wooden 65mm curtain poles 275cm (9ft)long. Complete with rings, corded and minaret finials with extended brass brackets. £350ono (new £1,000+) 01747 839831 1950s Haberdashery counter in excellent condition £1,950 07588 053555 Aga, black with chrome lids, oil fired, dismantled and indoors, extensive flue , £250. 01258837250 m. 07710249177, email markjcrussell@ gmail.com Vertical radiator panels (2) - white (Milano) design; 11"x63". £40 each or £60 the pair. Tony 07949467117 (Shaftesbury)

Teenager launches calendar to fund his conservation work A calendar featuring old pictures of Blandford is being offered for sale by a teenager fundraising for a 2021 school expedition to Costa Rica to work on a conservation programme. Isaac Readhead, 15, lives near Broadstone but his mum Emma works in Blandford at the Blandford Chiropody 20

Clinic in Tabernacle Walk, and the pair say they have fallen in love with the town. Isaac needs to raise £4,500 to take part in the four week Camps International expedition focusing on community development, environmental conservation work, and wildlife protection and conservation. He has so

far raised around £700. The calendar costs £8 and has been sponsored by Blandford Town Museum, which has supplied the photographs and which will be offering the calendar for sale. It will also be on sale at the Blandford Chiropody Clinic and other local outlets, and by post. Email

BlandfordCharityCalendar@ gmail.com or go to gf.me/u/w54pjj

Villagers in battle to save Mere inn By Steve Keenan newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

Villagers in Mere fighting to keep their pub have won the first skirmish in a battle to prevent development of the site. The Butt of Sherry was sold by pub chain Enterprise in July to Oxygen 56, a London-based property developer, despite the community offering to buy it. The pub has been shut since but Oxygen later put in an application to build a holiday cottage on the land, replacing two garages. Protesters say it was a first attempt to start work on the site and pub, a 250-year-old Grade II listed building in Castle Street, a conservation area. It was also pointed out that the ‘holiday home’ is actually a three doublebedroomed house, which would

have access onto a single-track lane. The application was withdrawn last week. Pub supporter Mel Wilkinson said: “There were a lot of people objecting as they thought this was the start of something bigger. We can only hope that the campaign to have any development stopped was successful. We have won the first round.” Mel is a member of The Butt of Sherry Preservation Society (BoSPS), a group which fought for months to raise enough to buy the pub. Apart from The George Hotel, it was the only pub left in Mere. They obtained an Asset of Community Value certificate, which temporarily prevented a sale for development, and raised £275,000, half in cash and half as a mortgage. The BoSPS

believe their offer exceeded that of Oxygen 56, but that Enterprise wanted it all in cash. But the group haven’t given up hope that Oxygen will sell to them if plans to develop the pub fail – and there is precedent. The Spotted Cow and Calf pub in Belper, Derbyshire was also bought by Oxygen – who sold it after failing to win permission for change of use. It is now a community owned pub, café, Post Office and guest room. “We still want to buy The Butt,” said Mel. “So much has already gone in the town and Mere is well on the way to becoming a dormitory town. What we will lose is not just a pub but also the aspirations that we had for it. As it stands there will be no photographic society, no ukulele club, no book club, no collecting for the food bank in the pub.”

BUTT INN: Mel Wilkinson at the Butt of Sherry

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Make a date for five more fundraising markets in town hall Two more markets are set to be held at Shaftesbury’s town hall this year. The markets, which raise cash for Weldmar Hospicecare and the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, will be held on

Saturday and Sunday, December 19 and 20 from 9.30am until 4.30pm. It is an indoor market with buskers outside, and features stalls offering jewellery, pin boards, candles, jigsaws,

toys, dog coats / blankets, face masks, preserves, body shop, fragrance, household items, craft items, decoupage, photographs, cards and lots more. Most stalls are new produce and local small

businesses and stalls will be different each day. Shaftesbury High Street is pedestrianised during those hours, so parking in marked disabled bays or the local free streets or car park.

Granny Annie’s book sale boost for Julia’s House Hospice It was a really proud moment when Button Cottage Lockdown author Anne Kings, from Gillingham and known as ‘Granny Annie’, presented a cheque for £1,500 from the proceeds. Anne and her three grandchildren, Bella Rose and Noah and Abel Brady, who all attend The Abbey School in Shaftesbury, handed the cheque to Sarah Agnew, area fundraiser for Julia’s House Children’s Hospice. Anne wants to thank all those people who have played such a big part in helping her along the way in getting this book published at a time when everything was in lockdown, especially Shireen Brickell, who produced lovely illustrations, Anne Marie Reeves, who managed the book, all the shops and people who sold copies, and – not least – everyone who has bought copies.

COTTAGE INDUSTRY: Anne Kings presents a cheque to Julia’s House after raising cash with her book Button Cottage Lockdown

Pantry opens for community food By Steve Keenan news@blackmorevale.net

A community food pantry network that helps feed struggling families opened a branch in Sturminster Newton yesterday. Your Local Pantry originated in Stockport, south of Manchester, in 2013. It’s like a co-operative: you pay to join and can then visit the shop and take 10 or more items. The joining fee in Stur is £4.50 a week – in return, the basket value is worth £20-£25. The Stockport-based scheme says the format removes stigma and gives dignity and choice to local people on low incomes. Dorset Councillor Carole Jones organised the shop in Market Place, Stur, and The Vale Primary Care Network (PCN) is paying the bills. Stur was 22

chosen as the North Dorset base as data on social deprivation in shows the town top of the list. In fact, it is the first rural pantry to be established in a network of 31 – and the first in southern England. About 40 households have already become members at The Vale Pantry and Cllr Jones said 100 would be the cap. “I have never been involved in anything quite like this,” she said. “It is such a brilliant idea and the response from the community has been phenomenal.” There is a weekly delivery from Fareshare, a charity distributing surplus food from producers and retailers. The membership pays for the delivery. But already residents have given donations and offered free veg and fruit (always welcome, bring in Wednesday

afternoon please). One ex-Stur woman now living in Bristol also wants to pay membership for the year for one household. There are also 25 volunteers: four in the shop. Items on green shelves will be £1.50 or under, those on red shelves above that. Cllr Jones wants to show a little flexibility on the ten items dependent on the number of people in the household. Savings are considerable: it is estimated 1,200 households benefitted from pantry membership last year, saving £650 on food bills. But another

important aspect is creating a social hub, which helps tackle social isolation. The Blackmore Vale Partnership estimates half its appointments are for social, not for medical reasons. The BVP and Gillingham Medical Practice make up the Vale PCN, which will pay the running costs. The Pantry is in the former Spears Travel office and is open on Thursday from 58pm and Saturday, 9am-noon.

Remembering our heroic pilots A Sherborne man is asking for people’s help to get recognition for two war heroes killed in the town 80 years ago. Brian Matthews is concerned that the memories of two young RAF pilots who died on Black Monday aren’t remembered on the town’s war memorial. He said: “On September 30 I laid flowers beneath the plaque at the War Memorial to the civilians killed on ‘Black Monday’ in Sherborne 80 years earlier. “The dedication I included was to two people whose names are not presently recalled in connection with that awful event. They are Sergeant Leslie Reddington and Flying Office John Hardacre, young RAF pilots who gave their lives in an attempt to defend the town from the misdirected Luftwaffe raid. Both pursued the bombing force until off the coast of Portland and disappeared, presumed killed in action. The body of the unmarried John Hardacre was washed ashore on the Isle of Wight over a week later and was buried at Fawley in Hampshire, but no trace of Leslie Reddington or his Spitfire have ever been found.”

RECOGNITION: Sergeant Leslie Reddington and his daughter Lesley, who was born just months after his death

Brian has researched the lives of all the aircrew involved on that fateful day, and contacted one of Leslie’s daughters, aged 79,

who lives in Lincolnshire. Leslie’s wife, Georgina, was pregnant with their second child when her husband went missing. Brian

Prestigious prize for open spaces Open spaces in Gillingham have been awarded Green Flag accreditation. The Green Flag Award scheme, managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy under licence from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, recognises and rewards wellmanaged parks and green spaces, setting the benchmark standard for their management across the UK and around the world.

Gillingham’s open spaces were part of more than 2,000 sites across the country to collect an award for 2020. Mayor Barry Von Clemens said: “We know how much quality green spaces matter to residents and visitors, and this award celebrates the dedication that goes into maintaining our open spaces to such a high standard.” Keep Britain Tidy chief executive Allison OgdenNewton OBE said: “This year, more than ever, our

parks and green spaces have been a lifeline and we know that millions of people have used them to relax, meet friends, exercise or simply escape for a short time. “It is testament to the incredible dedication and hard work of parks staff and volunteers that, despite the challenges that went along with record numbers of visitors, Gillingham Town Council has achieved the highest international standards.”

said: “She gave birth to a baby girl in February 1941 who was, poignantly, christened Lesley after the father she would never know.” He added: “Earlier this year I contacted the Dean at Sherborne Abbey and the Town Clerk to ask for their support to add a further plaque to the memorial recording the RAF pilots’ names. “I proposed the town should consider naming two roads in any future developments in their honour. I received polite acknowledgements but no positive support, despite pointing out I would undertake fundraising to pay for the memorial and its upkeep. “Therefore, I now turn to the people of the area for support. “If, like me, you feel it is time the town showed a modest appreciation of the sacrifice of these two men and their families please send an email to info@sherbornetc.gov.uk voicing your support for my campaign or contact your local town councillor, individual contact details can be found at sherborne-tc.gov.uk/ Your_ Councillors_2045.aspx.

New number for Citizens Advice Dorset residents can now contact Citizens Advice free of charge, using a new freephone adviceline number. The Dorset Adviceline number has changed to 0800 144 8848. Helen Goldsack, chief officer for East Dorset and Purbeck Citizens Advice said: “This is a real benefit, as it allows everyone access to advice without having the added worry of call charges.” 23

Check out our smashing pumpkins North Cadbury Primary School children had a fabulous day immersed in pumpkin craft during the Pumpkin Extravaganza. Pumpkins galore were delivered and every child scooped out the seeds of their pumpkin and then marked out an individual face design for carving later at home. Nothing goes to waste at North Cadbury, and the seeds were collected up and went home with members of staff who happen to own pet pigs. The children loved the day and proudly left school clasping their individual Harvest Pumpkin. 24

£7k lights to cheer Blandford folks up PLANS are being made to light up Blandford’s Woodhouse Gardens in December to add to the festive spirit and increase people’s morale in the run up to Christmas. The town’s streets will again be decorated with trees and column lights at a cost of more than £7,000. But town councillors have also agreed to bring in a local company specialising in sound and lighting to provide the extra scheme at a cost of just over £1,200. The idea is for the gardens to be transformed with a mixture of colourwash and fairy lights each evening as the light fades, and remain open to visitors until 9pm, when the lights will be turned off and the gates locked to secure the equipment. Councillor Nocturin Lacey

By Nicci Brown newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

Clarke said: “It’s a really great idea, but there is a big dilemma as to whether this is the best use of our funds.” Councillor Alan Cross, who was the only person to vote against the proposal, said he would have problems justifying the expenditure, and asked how many would use or visit the gardens. But Councillor Lynn Lindsay said: “I think after the difficult year we have had, we should to the best we can to raise a smile, and maybe hold a socially distanced event.” Councillor Hugo Mieville agreed, saying that anything that cheered people up could be justified.

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CANCELLATIONS DUE TO LOCKDOWN n Sherborne Festive Shopping Day, December 6 has fallen victim to the lockdown. The Sherborne Chamber of Commerce says: “Even though lockdown is due to end on December 2, we feel it would be irresponsible to hold a day that would normally attract thousands of visitors just four days after this.” n Gillingham Christmas Food and Craft Fair, Riversmeet, November 29. n The Remembrance Service at St Mary’s Church in Sturminster Newton planned for Sunday, November 8. Rev Philippa Sargent has recorded the key spoken parts and will be putting an online version of the service on the church website from November 8 to 14. To enjoy the service go to stmaryssturminster newton.org.uk n Shaftesbury Remembrance:

There will be no parade or service at the Town Memorial on Sunday 8 November, or at St Peter’s Church afterwards, and the short commemorative service outside the Town Hall at 11am on Wednesday, November 11 has also been cancelled. Each local organisation is invited to place its wreath on the Town Memorial on Park Walk individually and separately on Sunday 8 November, taking care to avoid others doing the same. Members of the public are encouraged to remember the fallen from their own homes, at 11am on Sunday and Wednesday. n Blandford Town Council rescheduled its Remembrance service (in isolation for broadcast on Facebook) to Wednesday. Ceremonies they had planned for Sunday and next Wednesday have been cancelled.

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Lockdown II: the essential services

INFORMATION n Information Public Health Dorset: 01305 224400 n Coronavirus schools and

families information, latest advice and co–rdinated community response, Dorset Council: 01305 221000 n Covid–19 advice and

Today and tomorrow, 58 households will be delivered home cooked food from the Thyme After Time café run by Margot and Steve Dimmer at Spire Hill Farm, near Stalbridge. One house which has requested five steak and kidney puddings (£4.50). The orders were all placed before the cut-off of Monday lunchtime, as the café once again geared to offering a takeaway meal service. THYME TEAM: Margot “People know us from the last and Steve at Thyme After time we had lockdown,” says Time near Stalbridge are Margot, so she will likely also ready to help get orders for extras such as cheese, sausages and pasta. There are three meal options – support from the Volunteer the pies, lamb keema (£4.50) Centre Dorset: 01305 269214 and medjool dates (£3.85). n Shopping services Age Customers add their own veg. UK (North, South and West The meals can be delivered or Dorset): 01305 269 444 collected. Call 01963 362202.

FOOD DELIVERIES, SUPPORT, SHOPS AND ESSENTIAL SERVICES n AGE UK North, South and West Dorset: A multi– agency team helping people with food, money and medication along with loneliness, isolation, advice and information. 01305 269444, enquiries@ageuk nswd.org.uk n Buckhorn Weston Volunteers: Essential shopping and prescription collections during lockdown. Bev 07789 884984 or Sandra 07787 784009 buckhornweston2020@ gmail.com n Blandford food delivery The Dorset Game Larder – 01258 857206 n Frozen Food Delivery Phoenix Frozen Foods – 01903 215170 n Marnhull Stores: A free delivery service to customers in the village on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. To order 01258 820116, enquiries@hawtree andsons.co.uk n Oakhouse Foods 0333 370 6700 n Shaftesbury Community 26

Support Group: food aid support service – 01747 852420 n Shaftesbury: La Fleur de Lys. A takeaway meal service with free local delivery in Shaftesbury and a small charge for up to a three-mile distance. Pies £5, mains £15–£20, salads and desserts £7. Pick up and delivery Wednesday – Saturday between 4pm and 7pm. Grocery deliveries too. Order 24 hours in advance. 01747 853717 n Shaftesbury: Black Cat Catering. Wednesday to Saturday – Cooked meals and light lunches delivered free within 10 miles of Shaftesbury (or £3 charge within 20 miles) Sarah 07944 790514 W: blackcatcatering.co.uk n Sherborne: Total Well– Being Matters. We provide personalised home support including transport, shopping services, companionship and welfare checks. Amanda Whitlock – 07786 251637

totalwellbeingmatters.com n The Rose and Crown, Longburton: Food delivery and collection service Roast available ThursdaySunday. The Larder offers delivery and collection on milk, bread, veg boxes, meat boxes and essential food shopping Monday-Friday (9am–3pm) and Saturday (9am–1pm). 01935 713179 n Shillingstone: The Big Yellow Bus Project. The big yellow bus garden project will stay open for anyone who needs time out from the challenges of lockdown. The four-acre site has lots of room for social distancing, so if you just need time out to collect your thoughts, ground yourself and seek solace in nature, you know where to come. 01258 471 759, office@eqcic.co.uk n Sturminster Newton: No 41 Bakery in Bridge Street. Hot and cold food deliveries including all-day breakfast, cakes and traybakes including brownies and Aero rocky

road in portions of four or eight will be available for home delivery. Open daily for takeaway bread, cakes, pies and pasties 07887 856433 or via our Facebook page n West Stour: Riverside Garage and Spar Shop The garage and shop will be open every day between 7am and 10pm and Sunday 8am and 10pm. The Hawtree brothers will be offering free delivery to West Stour, East Stour, Stour Provost, Kington Magna, Buckhorn Weston and Fifehead Magdalen on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. The garage will also take orders for collections Monday to Saturday. Call 01747 838487 or email enquiries@ hawtreeandsons.co.uk n Yeovil: Nick’s Fruit and Veg. Next day delivery of fresh fruit and vegetables – 07703 292670 n Zeals: La Chasse Charlie and Cath Cotton are doing home deliveries in lockdown. 01747 840996 W: laschasselimited.co.uk

on offer across the Blackmore Vale PROFESSIONAL HELP

STARS OF THE SPAR: Riverside Garage in West Stour will be doing deliveries

COMMUNITY HELP n Age Concern North Dorset: 01258 475582 n Age UK (north, south and west Dorset) 01305 269444 n Blandford Stour Rotary Club – 01258 860743 n Bourton Community Support Group – 07543 777607 n Buckhorn Weston Community Volunteers – 07789 884984 n Blandford Food Bank The Methodist Church The Close – 01258 456093 n Briantspuddle, Affpuddle and Turnerspuddle Covid-19 Support Group – 07745 796 118 n Blandford Rotary Club – 07793 048075 n Colehill Resilience – 01202 880049 n Compton Abbas coronavirus support – 01747 850515 n Cranborne & Edmonsham Parish Council – 01725 551188 n Child Okeford Covid Support Group – 01258 863817 n Cerne Abbas Coronavirus

Support – 01300 341 400 n St Mary’s Charlton Marshall PCC – 01258 454653 n Frome Terrace / Orchard Street residents – 07470 338629 n Gillingham Cares: 07739 873147. n Gillingham Town Council – 01747 823588 n Gillingham Medical Practice has set up Gillingham Community Kindness as a permanent source of short-term essential support such as shopping or prescription collection or longer-term befriending. Call 01747 859202 or email gillinghamcommunity kindness@gmail.com. To register as a volunteer, call Liz Rose on 07960 043980 or Liz.Rose@dorsetgp.nhs.uk n Hermitage and Hilfield community group – 07718 900208 n Holwell Parish Council – 01963 23349 n Iwerne Minster Covid–19 Volunteer Group – 01747 812259 n Kington Magna Community Support – 07712 761427

n Butterflies Cancer Support Group Dorchester: covid support and buddy list: 07591 100672 n Covid–19 Information and advice for businesses in Dorset Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry: 01202 714800 n Carers Covid–19 helpline – The Leonardo Trust: 01202 698 325 n Five Ways Training – Coping with Covid, LiveWell Dorset: 0800 840 1628 n Specialised counselling for anyone affected by covid: Dorchester Trust for Counselling and Psychotherapy 07714 330120 n Specialised Covid–19 vounselling for key workers in Dorset & Somerset: Dorchester Trust for Counselling and

Psychotherapy 07714 330120 n Coronavirus hub Dementia UK: 020 8036 5400 n Coronavirus Support and Information Alzheimer’s Society: 0330 333 0804 n Dorset Recovery Education Centre – support & advice podcasts and videos for wellbeing: Dorset HealthCare 01202 584478 n Coronavirus and mental health – online support, tips and advice: Young Minds 0207 0895050 n Coronavirus information and advice for carers: Dementia Carers Count 020 3096 7894 n Coronaviris and older people – healthcare professionals advice: The British Geriatrics Society 020 7608 1369

n Leigh Lifeline – 07942 646052 n Lower Winterborne Covid Group – 01929 459244 n Milborne St Andrew Covid–19 Community Support – 07825 880807 or 01258 837033 n Marnhull Village Helpline – 01305 490000 n Motcombe is United – 07881 786526 n Okeford Benefice (Holy Rood Church) Covid–19 Support – 01258 863774 n Piddletrenthide Volunteers – 01300 348899 or 07818 063922 n Piddletrenthide Covid Response – 07717 885480 n Piddlehinton & White Lackington Support Group – 07702 370882 n Puddletown, Athelhampton, Burleston and Tolpuddle Covid– 19 Community Group – 07881 678126 n Sturminster Marshall Parish Council – 07469 780548 n Spetisbury Community WhatsApp Group – 07778 864375

n Friends of Stour Connect Covid–19 Action Group – 01258 471359 n Sixpenny Handley Covid– 19 Outbreak Support – 01725 552735 n Sydling Support Network – 01300 341386 n Stalbridge Helpers – 07746 100299 or 07512 489531 n Stalbridge Good Neighbours – 01305 265893 n Sturminster Newton Covid19 Action Group – 01258 447058 n Sherborne Viral Kindness – 07884 115987 n Sherborne – White Feather Care – Emily 07737 496617 n Shaftesbury Community Support Group – 01747 852420 n Tarrant Monkton & Launceston Parish Council – 01258 830527 n Wimborne Minster Community Resilience Response – 01202 881655 n Church of England Wimborne Minster – 01202 882340 n Yetminster Community Support – 07563 88332 27

Lion dresses as a rabbit Lions club member Barrie Haynes raised money for Breast Cancer Now by cycling from Poole Harbour to Gold Hill in Shaftesbury in high winds and pouring rain – dressed as a pink bunny. Barrie had previously undertaken the Special Olympics by cycling in the other direction dressed in a Lion suit! Gillingham, Mere & Shaftesbury Lions Club donated £100 towards his efforts, as did fellow

Lions Clubs in Wareham and Blandford and his own club, Bournemouth & Christchurch Lions. The Mayor of Poole saw him off and he was welcomed to Shaftesbury by Radio 2 legend DJ Johnnie Walker and his wife Tiggy. Lion David Taylor said: “GMS Lions would like to congratulate Barrie for his efforts and say a sincere thank you to Johnnie and Tiggy for braving the elements on IN THE PINK: Barrie Haynes is welcomed to Gold Hill by Jonnie Walker and his wife Tiggy such a foul day.”

Out of the Woods... Our estimable editor Miranda, hearing that I have retired after 27 years as the Incumbent of Sherborne Abbey, has invited me to contribute a regular column to the new BVM. I am delighted to see the BVM back in its new fortnightly form, but think I need to introduce myself to those of you east of Sherborne who have never heard of me. Being the Incumbent (or Incumbrance?) of the Sherborne Benefice for all

with The Reverend Canon Eric Woods DL

those years was a joy and a delight. I had never wanted to be anything other than a parish priest. Covid-19 robbed me of the great and glorious retirement services, presentations and parties which were planned – but what were such little disappointments compared with the very real tragedies going on around the world? Until I retired, I had for many years contributed a weekly column to the Western

Gazette. My 500 words then are 400 words now. I will do my best. But I have asked Miranda not to put me on the “Church” page. I want to be able to range more freely. My academic background is in history, theology, philosophy and ethics, and if that sounds like swank I can only respond that my only concern is to encourage my readers to use their little grey cells and think for themselves. My dear former parishioners at

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Sherborne will recognise that: I started and we ran a wonderful series of lectures, which we called the Insight Lectures, which could sometimes fill the Abbey with those of all faiths and none. For me, the genius of the Church of England is – or ought to be – that it doesn’t ask anyone to leave their brains at the church door. Sadly, far fewer of us nowadays can actually go through the church door, though here in our newlyadopted town of Sturminster Newton, Vicar Philippa is doing a wonderful job at keeping the church doors open as much as possible for regular services. We live in a time when freedom of speech and expression seems to be horribly under threat. There are many self-appointed Thought Police, who want to suppress anything and everything with which they happen not to agree. This column will appear just before Remembrance Sunday. It was for freedom that members of my family fought. It is for freedom of expression that we must continue to strive. I would be glad to play a small part in that.

Poignant service of Remembrance By Nicci Brown news@blackmorevale.net

IT was with added poignancy that Blandford Royal British Legion hosted their annual Act of Remembrance at the town’s cemetery on Sunday. The government’s announcement the previous day of a national lockdown from November 5 brought with it the realisation that plans for an albeit restricted but covid-secure ceremony in the town’s Market Place on Remembrance Sunday would have to be abandoned. The gathering a week before the main national and international commemoration acknowledges the military casualties of war – the majority during the two world wars– who are buried in Blandford. It was this year scaled down to include invited guests only, who included the Mayor of Blandford Lynn Lindsay, the commander of Blandford Garrison Col Mike Morton and Malcolm Yeomans of SSAFA, together with the President Gyan Tamang, chairman Terry Clarkson, and Poppy Appeal Organiser Robert Taylor of the Blandford Royal British Legion branch and Marilyn Gibbons, president of the RBL Club, all of whom laid wreaths on the Cross of Sacrifice. Branch secretary Bryan Kelly read the poem High Flight by John McGee. Mrs Lindsay thanked everyone for attending what could be the only formal service of Remembrance this year – a service which was important to them as it was to her – and Mr Taylor said that this year it focussed on the 75th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, which

RESPECTS: Blandford Garrison Commander Col Mike Morton, Mayor of Blandford Lynn Lindsay, and President of Blandford RBL Club Marilyn Gibbons prepare to lay their wreaths

TRIBUTES: Standard bearers Tony Lucas of Blandford RBL and Terry Smith of SSAFA with their lowered standards for the Last Post. Mr Smith, aged 81, has been a standard bearer for 50 years

SILENCE: A silent soldier watches over the military graves and, right, President of Blandford RBL Branch Gyan Tamang offers a prayer after laying his wreath

saw German pilots interred in Blandford alongside British casualties. “While the number of dead buried here at Blandford cemetery is small compared to the millions who lost their lives during the Second World War, it is not the number that tell the story,” he said. “Every individual who died has his own story, which was destroyed by the war

which ripped them out of their normal life and for which they made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Many people in both countries have dedicated themselves to good relations between Britons and Germans, and today’s event is just one part of the process, showing that former enemies can become friends and partners and that friendship can grow out of

hatred and tragedy.” The service was led by the recently appointed branch chaplain, the Rev David Flower, and assisted by standard bearers Tony Lucas and Marie Parsons of Blandford RBL and Trevor Smith of RAFA, Geordie Thomson who played the Last Post and Reveille were played by Geordie Thomson, and piper Lyndon Wall. 29

Home & Garden

Gardening... Cossetted from downpours and cruel chilling winds, greenhouse gardening during the winter should be more popular than it is. Especially so if you happen to garden on heavy clay soil that churns up after rain and takes a long time to warm in spring. If you possess an

unheated greenhouse that is only used to grow tomatoes and cucumbers you are not alone. In my experience, this is the norm even for avid gardeners. With little effort an unheated greenhouse is a huge horticultural asset, and will supply fresh, homegrown vegetables throughout the coldest Planning & Building Applications for seasons. New Build, Extensions and Conversions So, if your greenhouse soil is bare, Our advice is always free it’s not too www.bell-associates.co.uk

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with botanist Dr Dave Aplin late to transform it into a productive plot. As a child, I tended multiple allotments with my dad, growing long lines of vegetables. It took a while for me to realise a much smaller productive patch can be as rewarding. A small, unheated greenhouse can adequately supply a family with out of season crops such as rocket, spring onions, spinach, carrots, lettuce, and beetroot. Research has shown temperatures within an unheated greenhouse can remain at least 5˚C higher than the outside. Met Office average minimum temperature data for Fontmell Magna in January is 1.6˚C. Adding the protection-factor of glass elevates this to Alicante in Spain. Of course, January light levels in the Vale won’t match the Mediterranean’s but based on average minimum temperature alone this productive space could be yours. It’s worth sowing carrots, rocket, spring onions, beetroot, lettuce and perennial spinach under glass in autumn. From personal experience these all do incredibly well and are largely free from pests. Rocket adorned salads from November and good-sized carrots can be pulled in April. The carrots, rocket, beetroot and lettuce remained in the

Sliced, not pulled spring onions

greenhouse beds, eventually joined by the tomatoes and cucumbers. However, I experimented transplanting the glasshousegrown spring onions and perennial spinach outdoors in late spring. They performed brilliantly and now the tomatoes have finished there is room once more for them to be dug up and brought back in for a continued harvest. Incidentally, I was taught to harvest spring onions by pulling them up entirely. Gardening, however, is all about trying something different to see how plants respond. I now harvest them by slicing them off at ground level with a sharp knife. This allows new shoots to appear and extend the cropping period. I repeatedly do this and fully expect to have the same spring onions for some time to come.

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Home & Garden Tales from a half-wild garden...

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The summer harvests are in, and winter crops are tucked up snug in their beds, so it’s time for the annual Impossible Tree Management Quest – lest our half-wild garden become a full-wild forest. Which it would happily do. Each willow grows up to 10ft per year, given the chance. Multiply that by dozens of willows, plus ash, hazel, and too many other specimen trees to count? It’s a monumental task. Compare and contrast: The meticulously landscaped garden of my previous abode held five majestic palm trees, one mature avocado and a dwarf Meyer lemon. Every three years an enterprising chap would ring our doorbell, armed with a mountaineering rope, a sharp saw, and nerves of steel, offering to remove the dead palm fronds from on high. Every fourth year we hired a sensibly earthbound arborist to maintain the avocado’s graceful canopy. And I spent a genteel hour pruning the lemon tree each winter. Looking back, one can’t help but be a bit nostalgic for all that free time. And for those avocados and lemons, of course. Guacamole, mmm. But now, armed with several kinds of

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with Carrie Triffet

loppers, a chainsaw and chippershredder, I stand with others upon soggy ground and sigh at the futility of the task before me: Willow logs. Willow fencing. Willow bean poles (which, most inconveniently, become trees themselves if accidentally allowed to root) and mountains of chippings for paths. And that’s just the wood from the first two trees, both of which will be back, more robustly than ever, next spring. There are November delights – brilliant red rose hips. And hedgerow fruits aplenty. And as always my mad love affair with British sunsets, which never fail to knock me out, even when they come at 4pm.

LOGS

Well seasoned 1.6m3 Free delivery within 20 mile radius

01258 857824 Est.33 years

BARN STORED SEASONED HARDWOOD LOGS, £65 a dumpy bag, Free kindling with every load, Call Josh 07733414749.

TREEWISE Experts in all aspects of TREE SURGERY, HEDGECUTTING & STUMP REMOVAL NPTC qualified & fully insured No job too small, Friendly, personal advice and free quotations. Make a wise choice and call David Merefield today on 01747 850908 / 07966 522361

Husqvarna 135LTH £400, Castel garden ride on mower 6.5/63 £300 all have Grass collectors - 07879060338 Garden and planting design. Expert gardening and plant care. Wildlife gardens and meadows. Extensive plant knowledge. Call Stephen and Claire at Manyberries 01963 441454 manyberries.co.uk GRASS & BRUSH CUTTING Orchards, paddocks, plantations, etc Call 01963 237890 24/7 Seasoned hard wood logs, Barn stored, delivery up to 20 mile radius, Sherborne, Call 01935 815534

Home & Garden Carrie Triffet is an award winning author of four books, none of which are about gardening. Avocado toast aside, I wouldn’t go back to that politely manicured California landscape. It’s a rare privilege to play steward to this unwieldy plot of rural Dorset beauty. Muscular and opinionated, the half-wild garden is a magnificent beast at any time of year. May it never be fully tamed.

WANTED Vintage Bicycles - Pre 1980's Racing bicycles, Shoppers & Choppers & old parts any condition considered, Good Prices paid Tel - 07739808013 Non runners and Unwanted vehicles, Phone Keith on 07966 213 344

• Best selection of plants in local area • Huge range of pots and containers • Compost, fertilisers and sundry items • Friendly personal service • Help and advice always available

OLD BOOKS BOUGHT also autographs, diaries, photographs & postcards. £10 per volume paid for decorative leather bindings. We call by appointment entirely without obligation. We have been buying in Dorset for over 50 years. Bristow & Garland 01747 855666 Dave buys all types of tools. Call 01935 428975

Good Condition vinyl records wanted. Larger collections preferred. No classical please, cash paid. 07831266478 Jack’s House Clearance, Often without charge. Books also wanted for cash. 07542 389447 And website jackshouseclearance.co.uk

Milton on Stour, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 5QA 01747 824015 Monday to Saturday 9am to 5.30pm Sunday 10am to 4pm

Funeral services IN MEMORIAM

Beryl Griffin

MARGARET (LAWTON) COX

DEREK BLUNSDON

Passed away Peacefully at her home in Wincanton on 16th August aged 94 years. Much loved Mother, Granny and Great Granny who will be greatly missed by all the family and her many friends. A memorial service will be held next year to celebrate Beryl's life.

Passed away on 20th October 2020. Dearly loved mother of John, Mandie & Tracy. The funeral has already taken place. Donations, if desired for Marie Curie and Macmillan Cancer Support, may be made online by visiting or cheques payable to the charity c/o Colin J Close Funeral Service, Peel Close, Salisbury Road, Blandford DT11 7JU. Tel: 01258 453133

Remembering you on your Birthday today, 8th November. Missing you, Love Jean, Andy, Gary and Dawn and all the Grandchildren

JACK YEATMAN A sincere thank you from Helen and family for all the lovely cards and letters at this difficult time. A fundraising event will be arranged post COVID-19 in Jack’s memory. Also thank you to Peter Jackson Funeral Services

Raymond John Humphries MBE (Ray) of Shaftesbury. On 24th October 2020, peacefully at home aged 70 years. A much loved husband to Chris, a loving dad to Sharon and Mark and fatherin-law to Steve, grandad to Sam, Emma and Daniel. Also a much loved brother, who will be sorely missed by all family and friends. Private family service. Following the service the cortège will leave Bell Street United Church on Tuesday, 10th November at noon and stop at Shaftesbury Town Hall, where Shaftesbury Town Silver Band will play a tribute to Ray. The cortège will then continue down through the high street for the private family interment. Donations if desired to Hope, Shaftesbury Town Silver Band or Cancer Research may be sent to Merefield & Henstridge Funeral Directors, Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset. SP7 0BU. Tel: 01747 853532

O’Meara Janet Camellia of Fontmell Magna Former Landlady of the Nog Inn, Wincanton. Passed away peacefully at home on 24th October 2020 aged 72 years. A very much-loved wife of the late Terry, Mum of Martin and the late Laura. A private service will take place but donations in memory of Janet for Fight Bladder Cancer (Laura’s Charity) may be made via JustGiving or sent c/o Clive Wakely A J Wakely & Sons, 33 Sparrow Road, Yeovil BA21 4BT Tel: 01935 479913

Tillbrook, Ken After a long illness, Ken died peacefully at the Mellows nursing home, Gillingham on Friday, 16th October. There will be no funeral but a get together of family and friends to remember Ken, date to be arranged in the future.

IAN COLEBOURN It is with great sadness we announce that Ian Colebourn passed away, 15th October 2020 after a short illness. He was much loved by his wife, children, family and friends and will be so missed. Donations if desired can be made to the Brain Tumour Charity via Co-op Funeralcare, Salisbury Rd, Shaftesbury or at iancolebourn.muchloved.com

Funeral services Michelle Jeanette Dunford of Shaftesbury. On 29th October 2020 after a short battle with cancer aged 53 years. A much loved wife to Adrian, mum to Samuel, Petrina and Danielle, daughter to Bob and the late Eve, a loving granny to Rosie and Ezra, sister to Helen, Paul and Alan, who will be sorely missed by all family and friends. Private family service. Donations if desired to The Stars Appeal, Salisbury District Hospital, may be sent to Merefield & Henstridge Funeral Directors, Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset. SP7 0BU.

Douglas Thomlinson From Bourton. 09.09.1941 to 18.09.20 Douglas died peacefully at home with his wife and daughter by his side. He leaves two daughters, grandchildren as well as step children and grandsons and friends. His funeral was held in Salisbury on 8th October and we plan to have a gathering in Bourton to remember him when we are able to. We have been very touched by all the messages and offers of help from our friends, neighbours, Doug’s former colleges and the staff at the Bell & Crown.

Peter Jackson Funeral Services Independent Family Owned and Run Funeral Directors

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Choice of Hearses available including our Land Rover Hearse

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Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817 Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310

SHAFTESBURY Greenacre House, Salisbury Road, SP7 8BS 01747 824738

STURMINSTER NEWTON 4 Market House, Station Road, DT10 1FG 01258 472073

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

Obituaries

Tributes to Guides’ champion A DEARLY loved Girl Guiding champion and tireless fundraiser for Arthritis Research – who once saved a soldier from drowning – has died aged age 94. Tributes have been paid to Beryl Nancy Griffin, who leaves behind daughter Pauline and son Michael, five grandchildren and eight greatgrandchildren. Beryl dedicated her life to girlguiding. She also fundraised for Arthritis Research, with coffee mornings and hours rattling her collection tins. Beryl was born on May 2, 1926 in Havant in Hampshire. She joined the Auxiliary Territorial Service (ATS), serving in the women’s branch of the British Army. It was while serving in Germany that Beryl rescued the soldier.

Beryl met Fred Griffin, who was serving the British Army and they married in 1947. Beryl drove the mobile library van in Sussex and then Wincanton following the family’s move to Charlton Musgrove in 1987, thinking nothing of navigating the narrow Somerset lanes. In 1961 Beryl became Brown Owl to 2nd Emsworth Brownies and from 1987 until retirement, Snowy Owl for 1st Wincanton Brownies. She was President of Wincanton District Girl Guiding and formed the Wincanton Ranger Guides with Ann Rowlands. Beryl was awarded The Hampshire Rose after 30 years of service. Former Brownie Elizabeth Baxter said: “Beryl recognised the benefits of a Pack Holiday

and raised funds to buy the equipment to make them possible. “Beryl gave a week of fun, laughter and learning to some 500 Brownies. Many a girl thudded with a rope skipping to get her next Journey badge. She supported swimming galas, sports days, Brownie revels and organised a Run the World event for Sport Aid in 1986. She also encouraged the girls to ‘do their good turn’ especially at Christmas.” While in the ATS, Beryl was promoted to Lance Corporal. “Lance Corporals didn’t generally do the driving, which we all know was Beryl’s passion,” said Elizabeth. “Beryl’s solution? Stay out all night so she was busted back to Private and back behind the wheel!”

She added: “Beryl was an inspiration to all her Brownies and leaders and she will be missed enormously. She was truly a very a special lady.” Beryl celebrated her 90th birthday with a party in Charlton Musgrove Village Hall with a surprise visit from Brownies and Guides who sang camp fire songs for her. Her grandson Sam said: “Gran was the most amazing and generous person who dedicated a huge amount of time to others, which was something she absolutely loved to do and thrived on.”

A personal tribute to Albert JAMES Tyrrell

lbert JAMES Tyrrell passed away peacefully in Wincanton Memorial Hospital on October 22, at the age of 89. Much loved father of Amanda, and stepfather of Clive, known to all as James, he will be dearly missed not only by his family, but so many who knew him throughout the years. James served in the 8th King’s Royal Irish Hussars and later the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. After leaving the army he enjoyed a long and successful career in marketing. He moved his family to Wincanton in 1988, where together they owned and operated the White Horse

James Tyrrell 1931-2020

Father, stepfather, jovial pub landlord and friend to many

Hotel for several years. I think it’s safe to say many will remember ‘James the Landlord’– a father figure to all his patrons, jovial, friendly, firm when needed,

but always fair. From the White Horse, James ventured into mobile catering and ran a successful doughnut enterprise which he loved and continued until

2018. His passion in life was travelling. He and daughter Amanda travelled extensively around the world, enjoying far-flung adventures before he found a love of cruising in later years. The travels continued with his partner Marjorie and his family right up until March 2020. He will be forever in our thoughts as he travels on to his next adventure. A closed, private cremation will be held in light of the times we find ourselves in, and a memorial service will follow for friends and family in spring 2021. Details of the memorial service will be announced nearer the time.

Beauty

Restorative power of a good face pack By Caroline Swaffield Owner and director of Amazing Face Dorset Face Masks...... what are they what do they do? There are so many types of face masks around now that do different things, but how do you pick the correct one? When I’m looking for a face mask I look at what my skin needs & then find a mask that will target these problems, so dryness, oiliness, clogged pores,brightening or hydration. My favourite natural mask contains Fullers Earth, which helps to unclog pores and remove impurities from the skin. The great thing about Fullers Earth is it’s cheap to buy from

the chemist and you can mix other fun things in like fruit juice (for the vitamin C) cucumber and banana for the potassium. Clay masks in general are good for oily/acne prone skin, they are able to absorb excess oils without drying the skin out too much. Mud masks are hydrating and help to balance the complexion and tighten the

skin. They can be used by any skin type. Sheet masks again can be used on any skin. They nourish and moisturise the skin, giving a healthy glow, Charlotte Tilbury does a fab one which I use before a special occasions it really makes my skin glow and is radiant fir 24 hours and you can reuse it! Bubble masks are new, they are a deep cleansing,

detoxifying, exfoliating carbonated clay mask made from natural mud that hydrates dry skin, controls open pores leaving a bright and fresh complexion, these are relatively new and once on the skin they react with the oxygen in the air, creating tiny bubbles which help push the ingredients sink into your skin for maximum nourishment. So have fun, popping a mask on once a week really improves your skin’s resilience, texture and tone, and if you are a bride, the night before your wedding a mask freshens and improves the brightness making you glow. amazing-face.co.uk

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Pets The Blandford & Sturminster Newton Branch of Cats Protection is urging people to let them know if you have a cat regularly visiting your home or your garden that nobody claims to own. The charity reunited one last week that had been missing for over four months. He was microchipped, which enabled thm to reunite him quickly. A spokesman said: “We have a number of people searching high and low for their beloved cats. “We also have cats that have been found, so please check out our Facebook page for up to date information on lost and found cats in our area, or call our helpline 01425 858644. These are the most recent cats that have been lost or found: Lost Cats: Chalwell, Child Okeford – Blue grey tabby 18/9: Castleman Smith Close, Blandford – tabby & white boy 27/9: Sturminster Newton blue grey tabby 13/9: Beckett Close, Blandford – grey & peach tortie 30/9: Rickyard,

Big Betha is a tabby and white girl – age unknown but she is an older outside cat looking for a stable or smallholding home without other cats in it.

Charlie (2) tabby & white outside boy looking for a farm, stable or smallholding to call his own.

To rehome a cat, call The Blandford & Sturminster Newton Branch of Cats Protection on 858644 or go to blandford.cats.org.uk Shaftesbury – tabby 30/6: Homefield, Milborne St Andrew – b/w fluffy 6/10: Henstridge – grey & white fluffy 18/9: Sturminster Marshall – black with a little white on chest 6/10: Westbury Way, Blandford – fluffy blue grey boy 28/10: reminder Wiltshire Close, Gillingham –

b/w boy missing since January: Sturminster Marshall – longhaired blue grey & peach calico tortie 19/10 Still not been found: Lost from outside Friars Moors Vets Sturminster Newton – black female last seen between Rixon Close and Green Close 12/10. Could have moved to

n A Blandford cat owner has been reunited with her pet eight weeks after going missing, thanks to social media. Caroline Townend’s puss Moses disappeared early in September. She appealed for sightings but no joy. However Benjamin Dean’s post on the Blandford Forum Facebook page asking if anyone was looking for the cat caught a friend’s eye and Moses was returned home. Caroline said: “I've missed him so much!” anywhere by now. Found Cats: Penny St, Sturminster Newton – Brindle tortie since April. Hazelbury Bryan – tabby white cat for about a year: Maple Close, Shaftesbury – tabby female not chipped: Downside Close, Blandford black cat with a little white on his chest.

Can I use human remedies for my pet? It is often tempting to use human medications for our pets because we are so used to using them in ourselves. But many human medications can be toxic, even fatal, to our pets and dose rates of safe drugs vary hugely which can make a relatively safe drug harmful if given in overdose. Drugs that we take such as ibuprofen and paracetamol may appear to be safe because side effects are less common in people. However ibuprofen has a very narrow dose range of safety in dogs and, as such, it is not routinely recommended. Paracetamol at any dose is lethal to cats as they lack the enzyme to break it down. We have many licensed drugs in dogs and cats and we are obliged by law to use these before off-licence drugs. This is because scientific trials 38

have been carried out to clarify safe doses, identify toxic doses and to identify potential side effects or interactions with other drugs. We also use drugs which are licensed in humans but not animals when we have no equivalent available. These drugs are used based on experience but have been less rigorously tested and there is potential for unknown side effects. As such these drugs are used with caution and only when their benefits outweigh side effects. Each species has its own drug doses and some drugs which are safe and beneficial in one may cause death in another.

For instance penicillin given orally Vet can be fatal to Lynn rabbits, guinea Broom pigs and horses because they rely on healthy gut bacteria to survive and penicillin can kill these off and allow others to multiply. Ivermectin is a commonly used wormer and anti-parasitic in many species but is fatal to tortoises. We should also consider the size of our patients. The average cat is around 5kg and the average adult male human in the UK is 84kg – if we gave a human tablet to the cat we could be giving almost 17 times the correct dose, making the potential for toxicity very high. Animals’ metabolic rates vary hugely. In general the smaller

the animal the higher their metabolic rate. Different species also have different metabolic rates. This is reflected in the doses needed. For instance birds and rabbits metabolise drugs much faster than dogs and often need a higher and more frequent dose of the same drug. Underdosing can be just as problematic as overdosing. If we give antibiotics at a lower than effective dose then bacterial resistance can develop and infection can progress and become less easy to treat. Overall there are human medications which we can use in our pets but you should speak to your vet before using them as they may cause more harm than good if used inappropriately.

Morris men looking to go undercover for the winter

BELLS ON: Wessex Morris Men dancing in public before the 2020 lockdown and covid restrictions Picture: Mike Phelan

Wessex Morris Men want to go under cover – outdoors – as they hone their traditional dancing skills while obeying covid-19 rules. They have been practicing outside at team members’ homes to maintain their physique and dance style. But they need a covered outdoor venue for their

practice sessions to keep in-step during the winter months. “We can’t practice indoors and outside winter training is more likely to be thwarted by the weather over the coming months,” said a team spokesman. If you can help, email bagman@wessexmorris men.co.uk

Support grows for pool roof hopes A campaign to make Shaftesbury’s open-air swimming pool a year-round attraction is gaining momentum. The heated Oasis pool managed to open for 10 weeks this summer - with only half its normal capacity – having put covid-19 precautions in place, including timed slots and a ‘turn-up-andswim’ option to reduce changing room usage. And demand was huge as lockdown eased and the temperature climbed: as a result, the pool earned £30,000 – nearly as much as it did over 16 weeks last summer. “It has been a true lifesaver in this year of coronavirus, with all its stresses and uncertainty,” says regular user Janice Jackson. “There is a group of hardcore regular swimmers from Oasis

By Steve Keenan sport@blackmorevale.net

who would now like to persuade the council to consider installing a retractable roof.” Oasis is owned by Shaftesbury Town Council and is the only pool in the area after the closure of St Mary’s School in July. It is highly valued by locals and drew in customers from much further afield this summer. Pool manager Ryan Baker said: “The public were incredibly grateful to have the pool open for summer, in particular as it brought some kind or normality. Many regulars were also very passionate about having the pool available all year round – but this would only be possible with a fixed or retractable roof due to running costs.”

In the meantime, essential maintenance and upgrade works also need to be carried out, while a year-round pool would mean extra staffing – all costs that far outstrip an annual council grant and gate income. Yet there is strong interest and the cost of a retractable roof has already been sourced from Italy by Shaftesbury town councillor Phil Proctor. “The council can raise the money if people want it,” he posted on Facebook. Said Ryan: “We have got some passionate swimmers and there a lot of people supporting the idea of a roof. I need to speak to the council in more detail but a lot of things need to be done to improve the place. A roof would be lovely but it is an old fashioned set-up and design and requires a lot of money for a lot of things.”

The Oasis had a roof but it collapsed in 2012 during heavy snowfall. Before that the pool was used by several groups – for swimming lessons, scuba diving training, lifesaving and canoe roll training. “It would be a fantastic facility to have in the town, and to have a Lido in summer within walkable distance would be amazing,” said one comment on Facebook. Added Janice Jackson: “The main issue is to convince the council that there is sufficient interest and support within the town. “If you would like to show your support for this then please contact the clerk to the council , Claire Commons (townclerk@ shaftesbury-tc.gov.uk) and copy me in (bathhurst08@ btinternet.com) so I can keep you informed on progress.

Gillingham School Sixth Form “Where you study for your success”

Virtual Open Evening Thursday 26th November 2020

For further information, please see our website or contact Jo Stirk Email: jstirk@gillingham-dorset.co.uk Phone: 01747 822222

Food & Drink n North Dorset’s first community food pantry will be opening in Market Place, Sturminster Newton in early November. For a weekly membership of £4.50, members will be able to choose a selection of food with a value of approx. £20 £25 each week. The pantry’s purpose is to help people top up their weekly shop, and the variety of food available will include fresh fruit and veg, store cupboard favourites, bread, dairy products as well as frozen items. The Vale PCN is funding this much needed scheme which will provide a choice of good quality food to those who may need a little bit of help. Jane Dawes, managing partner of The Blackmore Vale Partnership, said: “This will) reduce food waste and we are delighted to be able to support our local community with this initiative’. The shop premises have kindly been made available due to the generosity of John Romans Park Homes and Spear Travels To apply for membership, go to yourlocalpantry.co.uk or email thevalepantry@gmail.com. with any queries, or if you would like to volunteer, or if you are a business with surplus stock you wish to donate.

Pudding the art before the course

Christmas pudding and cake, For Christine it all started Christmas chocolate bites, with another offering of a crackers from Easy Bean, fruit salad as a dessert while apple balsamic from Liberty eating out. It was one fruit Fields and Chutters for salad too many that inspired her to launch Christine’s Cheese from another local Puddings. producer A Jar Of. Christine’s been a celiac for So if you are looking for that By Katharine Wright over 40 years and decided to thehungrygiraffe2020@gmail.com lovely gift to give your set herself a goal to make friendly neighbour, a loved puddings that are delicious ginger, apricots and one, your best friend or even for all to enjoy whether a pineapple. a treat for yourself then preceliac or not. I think you will Currently, Christine is busy order your gift box by find that after reading this stirring and baking this visiting her website, sit back she has reached her goal. traditional festive favourite. and she’ll do the rest. Christine is an inspirational, Tucking into a traditional Take a look at Christine’s full creative, award-winning Christmas pudding for me range by visiting her website pudding maker, based right makes Christmas, especially christinespuddings.co.uk – here on our doorstep. In her with fresh double cream and think – no more fruit pudding room in deepest, darkest Dorset, she bakes the poured over the top. salad! most delicious, tastiest This year puddings and tarts. Christine 07944790514 I have enjoyed Christine’s has created hello@blackcatcatering.co.uk Treacle Tart for many years. two ‘Tasty blackcatcatering.co.uk It is a childhood favourite Christmas’ During these challenging times where getting out to do and I could eat it every day. boxes. A shopping or collecting a takeBut for many, it is her Sticky luxury gift away is difficult, we can help! Toffee Pudding – a light, soft box Let Black Cat Catering remove sponge oozing with flavour, the stress and look after the food for packed full topped with a rich toffee you. If you need a freshly prepared, delicious homeof glutensauce. cooked meal, along with a tasty dessert then look no free or Over the years this pudding further. We will deliver to your home or you are vegan has won many accolades welcome to collect from Sarah at 15 West Orchard. Betty and Brian Cave made goodies. Your order will be ready for you to simply heat up and including the 2 star Great our Hazel’s Dorset Apple enjoy! Please visit our facebook page or our website Packed Taste Award. Another awardCake, featured in the second to look at our menu of the week or just give us a call into the winning pudding is her light edition. They decided to use a and place your order! box there and fruity Christmas 9” square tin and we think it Vegetarian and gluten free options are available by Pudding, packed full of is a looks scrumptious! request. Saturday orders will be delivered on Friday.

Readers’ bake of the week

Food & Drink

She’s back! Cooking...

with Mrs Simkins

Sticky Gingerbread with Raisins This sticky, fruity gingerbread is perfect for the dark days of winter. It’s lovely eaten tucked up at home with the curtains drawn against the cold and a hot cup of tea at your elbow. If you’ve never tried a spoonful of clotted cream with gingerbread before, it’s highly recommended. Cuts into 16 squares 50g (2oz) dark brown sugar 200g (7oz) salted butter, diced 7 rounded tablespoons golden syrup 110g (4oz) raisins Plus 225g (8oz) flour 2-4 teaspoons ground ginger,

according to taste 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground mixed spice 2 teaspoons baking powder Plus 1 large egg, beaten Preheat oven to160C fan oven (180C non-fanassisted) gas mark 4 or equivalent You will need a square 20cm

(8 inch) brownie tin or similar, lightly buttered, with the bottom lined with greaseproof paper cut to fit Heat the sugar, butter, and syrup gently together until melted and the sugar has lost its grittiness in a roomy pan. Stir in the raisins once it has all melted and leave it to cool

slightly. Combine the flour, spices and baking powder in a bowl then sieve over the cooling butter mixture in batches, whisking to combine as you go. Whisk in the beaten egg with the last couple of batches. Continue to whisk until smooth. Pour into the prepared tin and bake for 35-40 minutes until springy to the touch and a skewer inserted comes out clean. Cut into squares and eat warm or cold. This keeps well for a couple of weeks: cool completely and wrap closely in foil. Store in an airtight container. MrsSimkins.co.uk twitter.com/mrssimkinscooks

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Food & Drink

New way to buy direct from farmers A new online marketplace is allowing people to buy direct from Dorset farmers. Ben White-Hamilton has launched the service, called Harvest Bundle, after recognising a need when the country went into lockdown. He said: “Ever since the start of lockdown there has been a

By Miranda Robertson more about how their food is

newsdesk@blackmorevale.net grown.” Ben was born on a farm in paradigm shift of consumers West Dorset and says he is looking to source their foods ‘fanatical’ about supporting from new avenues. Some British farmers. He aims to fascinating and brilliant new promote Britain’s unsung entrepreneurial ideas from farmers, their stories, their individuals and businesses passion and produce whilst have sprung up. providing them with the “We are thrilled to have platform to sell direct. Porky Blinders, launched our new online He said: “People don’t live Quality Pork, beef marketplace, a digital near the farmers any more, and lamb delivered farmers’ market to respond they live in cities, and they to your door. Locally to changes in the food reared, Visit porkyindustry, allowing foodies to blinders.com, not only buy direct from the 07715253822 farmers, but also allowing them to connect Licensing Act 2003 Notice of application for the with the GRANT of a PREMISES LICENCE farmers Proposed licensable activities: Sale of alcohol for off-site consumption and Name of applicant: Robert Whale allowing Address of Premises: Rosebank, Southdown, Shepton Montague, Wincanton, Somerset Post Code: BA9 8JP them to Date by which Responsible Authorities and other learn persons may make representations: 20th November 2020

rarely meet. Harvest Bundle is re-establishing the link which existed for hundreds of years but which has been lost in the last 50. I genuinely believes this is my calling – to reconnect the farmer with the consumer.” Harvest Bundle is focusing on produce, quality, taste, sustainability and provenance. Ben added: “Fortunately, there has been a generational move towards eating better quality, more sustainable and more ethical produce, and a willingness to pay the right price for it.” For more information and to order fresh produce direct from the farmers to your door visit harvestbundle.co.uk or find @harvestbundle on Facebook or Instagram.

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:

South Somerset District 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 and is subject to an unlimited fine on summary conviction for the offence.

Local Services D J B Plumbing All Plumbing Work Undertaken No job too small 24-hour emergency service 36 Years’ experience no Callout Charge Call Dave On 07973121984 PAUL SPILLER painter & decorator interior & exterior est. 1984 01258 471037

Your Right Hand Van 24hr Moving & Delivery Service, two assistants, same day & overnight service available. Contact: 01749 813227 righthandvan agency@ yahoo.com Cleaner available for Gillingham area. Please contact Lin on 07563893570

MATHEMATICS TUITION Very experienced mathematics teacher can help with Key Stages 2 and 3, GCSE and A Level. 01747 870361 robandjill1982@ btinternet.com SW Building & Renovations All aspects of building & plumbing catered for. Tel: 07970 437786 swbuildandrenovatio n@gmail.com

HOUSE CLEARANCE SPECIALISTS enquiries@back2market.com Tel: 01258 440838 Freephone: 0800 2425012

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FRANKS INTENANCE GROUP Installations, servicing and maintenance

01747 826656 franksgroup.co.uk

• Boiler Replacement • Boiler Servicing • Gas, Oil & LPG • General Plumbing • Bathrooms • Landlord Certification • Solid Fuel Stove Installation and Servicing

John Banham’s

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Bathroom & Kitchen • Upgrades & Carpentry • Decorating Services • Refreshing sale and rental upgrades • Handyman projects • Plumbing repairs • Tiling services Contact: John Banham

Office: Mobile:

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email: refreshingrenovations@gmail.com

Dorset Lime Specialists in all external & internal lime work. Lime crete flooring. All aspects of traditional building Contact Dave or Dan 07492 181788

SHINY STOVES OVEN CLEANING Ovens,Ranges, Aga’s, etc. Independent Family Run Business Covering The Blackmore Vale Area

Tel 01935 592461 Mob 07875 272401 www.shinystoves.com

DORSET WOOD TRADITIONAL BUILDINGS

Oak Timber Framing Bespoke Timber Building Traditional Building Specialist inc All Building WorkGAll aspects of Lime External and Internal Rendering/Plastering/Repointing Lime Crete Flooring Chimney Rebuilds and Repointing

www.dorsetwood.co.uk Contact Dave Welsh 07838 654468

djwelsh@btinternet.com

JASMINE CARS TAXI SERVICE

074959 922821 Comfortable, spacious, clean, estate cars, for Hospitals, airports, seaports and local work. Distance no object, day trips and special occassions. Lady driver available. For safe Covid aware transport. 5 star Google rating. JUST ASK! www.jasminecarsdorset.co.uk jasmine.cars@btinternet.com

Rob’s Clearance House, shed and site clearance. Rubbish removed. Recycling carried out. Good/ interesting items purchased for cash. Friendly and reliable. 01747 839751/ 07956 414896

PLANNING CONSULTANT 01963 371180 0789 4020 735 Site appraisals Planning applications Appeals Planning drawings Advice

Archway plastering traditional or modern rendering/finishing/ plastering/dry-lining 07500-280483

Hand picked field flints Available in 1 ton bags. Various sizes, unknapped, call Tim on 07543 666197

www.whiteacreplanning.com

ADVERTISE HERE: CALL 01963 400186

SKIP LETS

4LJQ )JSF t 4IFSCPSOF Competitive prices Phone 07916 154183

Gardener available for all aspects of garden maintenance. From £10 per hour. Call 07835931640

Property & garden maintenance & gutter cleaning Fully insured. Call Harvey G on 07815 307497 01963 548226

Window & Gutter Cleaning Local, Affordable & Professional

Wobbly broken chairs?

Domestic & Commercial Specialists Book online or call us 0800 689 0186 Email: info@northdorsetpropertycare.com www.northdorsetpropertycare.com

North Dorset & Somerset Property Care

Consult the Chair Doctor. Any period. Call Alan Baldwin 01747 870 118 Also caning, upholstery and antique restoration 43

Antiques & Collectibles

Host of fine items in November sale Clarke’s Auctions at Semleys latest sale held on October 10th was another roaring success, with a fine 16th century Renaissance period Maiolica fragment from the rim of a charger, measuring approximately 10 cm in length, selling for £5,600 to a telephone bidder. Maiolica is a

fine white pottery of the Italian Renaissance, the decoration of which was a difficult and precise process requiring great control by the painter. By the early 16th century, a full range of colours were available, and judging by the colour palette of the fragment, it was

we are OPEN

the old

GRAIN STORE

empo�iu

Tuesday - Saturday 10am - 5pm 1st Sunday of the month 10am - 4pm

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contact: 07745 477795

or theoldgrainstoreemporium@outlook.com

@TheOldGrainstoreEmporium

The Old Grainstore Emporium | Shaftesbury Lane | Blandford | DT11 7EG

CLARKE’S AUCTIONS Auctioneers & Valuers Antiques, Collectables & Asian Art Saturday, 14 November

An 18th century Mughal watercolour painting of Bhim Singh (1778-1828), 25th Maharana of Mewar. Estimate £300 -£500

Viewing Thursday and Friday, November 12 and 13 9am-5pm (following social distancing guidelines)

Please contact Richard Clarke or Karen Marshall on 01747 855109 Station Road, Semley, Shaftesbury, SP7 9BU enquiries@clarkesauctions.co.uk clarkesauctions.co.uk 44

A Victorian silver four-piece tea set by makers Martin Hall & Co Ltd, London. Estimate £800 £1,200.JPG

probably produced in workshops of Deruta and of Maestro Giorgio or one of his descendants in Gubbio. In the inaugural automobilia auction on the following day, a BRDC (British Racing Driver’s Club) Member’s Badge, awarded to Harry Attwood, sold for an above estimate of £480 to an internet bidder, and a collection of ‘oily bits’ of Austin 7 spares found far flung buyers for a total of £3,000. In the same sale, a well presented Bultaco Sherpa 350T trials bike realised £2,000 on the hammer, and a locally owned 1955 Morris Traveller achieved £3,000. Clarke’s Auctions are now looking forward

to their next sale of Antiques, Collectables and Asian Art, to be held on Saturday 14 November. Already consigned are

A Chinese Doucal Porcelain shallow dish. Estimate £1,200-£1,500

approximately two hundred lots of Chinese, Japanese and Asian art to include ceramics, jade, cinnabar lacquer and paintings and in the Silver & Jewellery section is a Victorian silver four-piece tea

service, hallmarked London 1876 and made by Martin Hall & Co Ltd. Martin Hall & Co Ltd exhibited at the Crystal Palace Exhibition of 1851 and are renowned for the design and quality of their items. Also to be included in this sale is a large, single-owner collection of stamps, which should garner the interest of philatelists, having a collective auction estimate in the region of £10,000. They are following social distancing guidelines and are offering free home visits to value items for consignment and are open for free verbal valuations Monday to Friday at their salerooms behind the Kingsettle Antique Centre on Station Road, Semley, Shaftesbury, SP7 9BU. For further information about this sale or to enter any items to this or future sales, please contact Richard Clarke, Karen Marshall or Matthew Whitney on 01747 855109 or email enquiries@clark esauctions.co.uk A late Victorian / early Edwardian mahogany hanging coat rack, later decorated with a central roundel - Blackmore Vale Fox Hounds, 1872. Estimate £160 - £200

Antiques & Collectibles From barn finds through sporting delights and vintage behemoths to prestige power houses, DVCA’s first online auction was a stunning success. Vehicles sold include: A 1938 Austin Big Seven which the vendor rested on blocks in his barn in about 1990 rather than part with it as his dad had given the motor car to him in 1969. Although estimated at £250-500 bidding climbed to a dizzy £1,900 plus premium. A 1931 Morris Cowley Folding Head Saloon, sharing the same barn as the Austin for the last 30 years was very much complete but the gearbox was removed prior to a clutch change which was sadly never completed. Estimated at £2,000- £3,000, bidding romped on to £4,400 plus premium. A 1965 Mini Moke proved how popular these little runabouts have become. Although much abused and in a garish orange, the estimated £2,000- £2500 was totally ignored as bidding (including numerous telephone bids) swept on to £4,600. A 1966 Ariel Leader boasted all its original equipment, was declared comfortable and running well if not concours. The £2,700 estimate was spot on. On the sporting front, a 1934 Singer Nine Le Mans two seater was rightly irresistible to a Czechoslovakian gentleman and demonstrated the power of the internet by claiming a strong £24,000 plus premium. A 1998 Mazda Mx-5 was carefully used by its last owner and with only 44,200 miles it

Main picture: The star of the sale was a 1937 SS Jaguard 2.5l sports saloon. Inset, a 1934 Singer Nine Le Mans two seater A 1959 ArmstrongSiddeley Star Sapphire

1965 Mini Moke

Star lots attract global bids exceeded its top estimate at £3,400 plus premium. A 1979 MG Midget 1500 with much work clearly and competently carried out was a great purchase at mid estimate £3,600 for a life-long enthusiast with plans to convert the Midget for competition. A 1969 Morris Minor convertible (conversion) was of no expense spared restoration quality. Two ladies starting a wedding car fleet bought it for £7,000 plus premium. Vintage enthusiasts loved the giant 1926 Renault O.S. Estate

Next Auction: Next Auction

MARCH 1119TH March 2021 PLEASE CONTACT BRIAN CHANT: T: 01963 363353 E: info@dvca.co.uk W: www.dvca.co.uk

1937 Bentley SS Jaguar 2.5 Litre 2000 Arnage RedSports Label Station Road, Stalbridge, Saloon SOLD: £50,600 £15000 - £17000 Dorset, DT10 2RH

Bus which boasted accommodation for most of a cricket team or a modest herd of sheep. A new home was found with a family for right on the estimated £7,000. A 1962 Beardmore Mk 7 London Taxi that retired with its taxi-driver owner to Dorset has a new home in Germany for £6,500. In the prestige sector, a 1959 Armstrong-Siddeley Star Sapphire was claimed by the owner’s club to be probably the best with a fantastic history and it rightly met the estimated £22,000 plus premium. A 1955 Bentley R Type

KEITH ALLEN FURNITURE RESTORATION Repairs & Restoration to all antique furniture, City & Guilds Qualified, BAFRA Member. Telephone 01258 860068 or 07717827427

standard steel saloon with invoices for £45,000 was a delight and did its best to repay a large part of the investment. The true star of the sale was a 1937 SS Jaguar 2.5-litre sports saloon in gleaming black and utterly superb throughout. DVCA proved their worth as leading west country historic vehicle auctioneers by smashing through the estimated £40,000 - £44,000 to take a well-deserved £46,000 plus premium. The 224 lots of automobilia attracted buyers from Monte Carlo and America thanks to the wonder of the worldwide web We Buy boosting the home RECORDS, trade. COLLECTIONS There will be those LARGE and who longed for the SMALL. Call regular grand marquee BILL 01747 on nearby Henstridge 811000 Email Airfield and hopefully bill@rebornreco normality will return rds.co.uk by the next sale on March 11. 45

Stunning, yet sustainable treasure trove Red Panda Trading is a Dorset family business run by Wendy Beale and her partner Kev Lane. They both have an enthusiasm for living sustainably and are very keen organic nodig fruit and vegetable growers. They also supply a farm shop in Mere with fresh veg. Kev’s background is in farming and he has a separate cattle consultancy business. Wendy said: “We decided to set up Red Panda Trading early this year as we wanted to create an ecofriendly online shop that sources highquality products that are not only gorgeous but really handy and made from sustainable materials. However, covid-19 kicked in just as we were ready to launch our new website. There have been some challenging times and a few supply issues from manufacturers but we are now relieved to see product availability improving. “Our online shop offers sustainablyproduced footwear by Evercreatures, awardwinning Seedballs, natural rubber Waves flip-flops, British organic BeeBee & LEAF food wraps, ecofriendly

bamboo tableware, Backdoorshoes garden clogs, bamboo garden products and sustainably made delicious Twist Teas. Evercreatures wellies are handmade from sustainably sourced rubber and our tall, short and ankle wellies come in a range of fun designs. We also have organic bamboo welly socks from Bonsai to keep you warm in your wellies.” The pair’s food wraps enable you to ditch the cling-film for good and keep your food fresh for longer. Their ecofriendly reusable BeeBee & LEAF wraps come in a range of gorgeous patterns and choices of either plant-based wax or beeswax. The Backdoor Shoes range of clogs and flipflops are comfortable and machine-washable and come in a number of fantastic designs. Wendy added: “We say no to plastic or ceramics with our selection of plant pots and children's plates that are all made from sustainable bamboo, and will not only last

years but are completely recyclable.” “We are delighted to sell the complete range of Waves flip flops. Using 100% natural rubber from Sri Lanka, these are ethically sourced and plastic-

free. You can grow your own personal wildflower meadow and encourage pollinators

with our amazing seedballs. So easy to use and importantly, suitable for urban

environments too. They are also available in gift packs for those special occasions.

Red Panda Trading offers sustainably produced footwear, award-winning seedballs, natural rubber flip flops, British organic food wraps, eco-friendly bamboo tableware, garden clogs, bamboo garden products and sustainably made delicious Twist Teas. Go to redpandatrading.com to find out more...

“Our newest range is from Twist Teas; gorgeous and unique tea blends available in cute micro-caddies for gifts, medium or fullsized caddies, tasting menu boxes or large selection tins. Will you try Lemon Drizzle from the Puds Without Sin range or an indulgent green tea such as Cocoa-Nut Green? All Twist teabags and packaging are plastic-free and compostable. “Come and take a look at our wonderful range of eco-friendly products at Red Panda!” redpandatrading.com

Health & Wellbeing

Value of sleep on health and wellbeing You may have heard of Dr Rangan Chatterjee. He is a GP, an author, TV presenter and producer of the excellent podcast, Feel Better, Live More. In one of his books he states, “It’s thought that between 60 and 80 per cent of GP consultations are related to stress.” That is huge! It’s another warning to take stress seriously. I suspect right now that figure is significantly higher. But don’t lose heart, because here is another way you can manage the stress in your life: Dr Sleep. You can find more information on my website (below), about the effects of sleep deprivation if you are concerned, but put simply it can have a similar effect on our minds and bodies as stress. Adrenaline and cortisol are released if

our sleep is deprived. Our memories aren’t as sharp, our emotional resilience drops and it can even lead to a resistance to insulin resulting in type 2 diabetes. For now, let’s concentrate on how you can improve the quantity and quality of sleep. You need to prioritise sleep. Try not to think of it as tagged onto the end of a fullon, full speed day. Prepare for it. Plan your evening.

This may mean making some changes such as eating your evening meal earlier, cutting down on caffeine and alcohol in the evening and turning off computer screens (phones, laptops, but not TVs) an hour before going to bed. The busier and more stressed we are, the more important it is to allow our bodies and brains to recover properly at night. Preparing to fight

another day. Allow your mental and physical self to slow down before going to bed. We know how sleepy a hot bath or shower can make us feel – so try that. Reading a book – not your company’s accounts but something to take you away from the everyday, to distract, to entertain. This part of stress management is like all others – small changes make big differences so whilst it may require thought and effort to change your routine it will be worth it. Why not try a new routine for a couple of weeks and see how you sleep and if you are more productive during the day? Sleep well! Alice Johnsen is a life coach based just outside Sherborne. 07961 080513 alicejohnsen.co.uk

The tick-tock of nature is reassuring By Dr Susie Curtin Nature writer and qualitative researcher rewildingjourneys.com Welcome to my meditations in nature. Here in the Blackmore Vale we are blessed with a unique and biodiverse landscape that affords a welcome distraction in these unnerving times. I hope you will join me in celebrating all that nature offers us this autumn. September has quietly drifted away in a misty Indian summer haze and a rainy October has crept in behind. Now as the nights grow colder, the seasonal colours are slowly taking hold and the greenness is tinged with saffron and cinnamon tints; autumn is stirring. A few days ago, whilst

walking in Duncliffe Woods, I was mesmerised by a large flock of swallows feasting on the tiny insects that drifted on the strong breeze. These powerful aviators were diving, circling and freefalling over the grazing cattle on the southern edge of the woods. Standing snug against an old oak tree, I watched as their fly-pasts came ever closer. It was the 9th October. Now, as I write this, these elegant birds will already be making their way south; travelling over Western France, Eastern

Spain, across the Straits of Gibraltar to Morocco, over the Sahara and the rainforested Congo all the way to South Africa. They travel hundreds of kilometres a day, flying low over the landscape. It is hard to fathom how these small creatures have the capacity to make such enigmatic migrations, but they do. As I watched them that day, amidst the wonder, I felt a tinge of sadness. Their imminent departure would leave our skies bare for a while and their exodus was a

final marker to end the summer warmth. But nature moves swiftly and already our winter visitors are en route to take their place. Flocks of starlings are arriving from Northern Europe and it won’t be long before the chattering redwings and fieldfares appear overnight from Russia and Scandinavia. Listen out for their ‘seep seep seep’ calls as they travel in the darkness over your gardens. There is something reassuring about the tick-tock of nature’s rhythms; the comings and goings that signify that nature is still working, and the world is still turning. It keeps things in perspective. That is why nature’s cure is so powerful and why protecting our environment is so important. 47

Health & Wellbeing

Herbs as medicine... Herbal medicine is a fascinating and eye-opening subject to be studying and has completely changed the way I look at my garden and the surrounding countryside. Once I started learning about herbs, I realised that my garden had everything I might need and, what was even more amazing was that I had, inadvertently, planted a huge amount of plants that I had no idea were medicinal, such as berberis vulgaris, barberry – good for dredging the liver; viburnum oculus or guelder rose – cramp bark, good for stomach cramps; chamomile, a mild sedative that calms the system; rugosa rose with wonderful antiinflammatory rosehips; sweet smelling mahonia, good for cleaning the blood; marshmallow, wonderful for healing the gut… to name a few. And not to mention the “weeds” that I have been battling for years: nettles, burdock, dock,

self heal, feverfew and dandelion, which hardly touches the herbal surface! Now, I have a wonderful policy – much to my husband’s horror – of leaving a big swathe of the garden to “go wild”. Not only have the herbs flourished, but so have the insects and birds. A win- win situation.

A walk around... CANN YES YOU CANN! Normally, when I explore a parish, I park near the Church and look at it first, but Cann hasn’t got one! So here’s the route you can walk in my footsteps. It’s only about 2.5 miles. Park your car in the side road off the A350, just north of the river, which is the parish boundary. Cross the A350 and head west along the footpath passing the old mill by the stream. The route takes you over the border into Melbury Abbas but you’re soon back in Cann when you get to the road and cross the bridge. Head north up the road, 48

French Mill Lane, then branching up what becomes a sunken track after a while. When there are signs of civilisation, turn right along a footpath through a field following the Shaftesbury boundary heading ENE until you get to the A350. Cross the road and take the path meandering through a pretty wood until it gets to the B3081. Turn right and head downhill, SSE, until you find a footpath on your right. This takes you first W then SW down a wriggly hollow way which takes you to the A350 again. This is at a junction with a footpath that takes you E for a quarter of a mile across fields until you reach

with Fiona Chapman

Herbal medicine is a very old body will keep you well if you “art”. Many modern drugs are let it. It always wants to be in derived from herbs where one balance and it has the most element has been extracted such remarkable ability to regrow as salicin in white willow and and heal itself. Naturopathy meadowsweet and then and herbs can help by feeding manufactured synthetically to the blood, cooling inflammation make what we all know as or nurturing mucous aspirin. The most usual question membranes. I get when I say I am studying To me, herbalism should be like herbal medicine is: “but is there eating well. any scientific proof?” The It should keep us at our answer is some – some herbs optimum potential and should such as the amazing hawthorn compliment modern medicine. has been studied quite In the next few issues, I will extensively and is considered write about some of the good for the heart and common herbs found in circulatory system. However, abundance in Dorset and, if you cannot patent a herb and lucky like me, your garden – it studies are extremely expensive, will change your attitude to so us herbalists have to rely on weeds! ancient tried and tested wisdom. In China, the ‘doctors’ were paid to keep the patient well. This is what Fiona Chapman is herbalists and studying naturopathy naturopaths and herbal medicine at should be able the College of to do. Your Naturopathic Medicine

with retired Dorset rights of way officer Chris Slade

a minor road where you turn right and it takes you back to your car. If you drive up to Shaftesbury, turning left at the roundabout, you’ll soon come to St Rumbould’s Church on your left hand side. It’s not far from Old

Boundary Road, which explains why Cann has been without a Church for the last century. The signs at the Church suggest that it’s used for other purposes nowadays but the cemetery is still in use.

Health & Wellbeing

Make: Calming lavender bath salts By Clare and Vicky Brunton The nights are now longer and colder so itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s high time for a nice relaxing, fragranced soak in the bath. We have an attractive and therapeutic bath salt recipe which we would love to share with you. The beauty of this recipe is that it couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be easier to make, looks beautiful on display as well as making wonderful homemade gifts for birthday and Christmas presents. Epsom Salts are a fantastic addition to any bath as they are renowned to relax sore muscles, reduce pain and inflammation as well as give you a better night sleep due to the magnesium content. Lavender is a wonderful plant as it promotes calmness, reduces stress, anxiety as well as being said WOULD LIKE TO MEET Hi Im Richard, 70's own house & car, would like to meet females for company. 07811 589712

to reduce mild pain. Ingredients: FOOT CARE AT HOME Epsom Salt â&#x20AC;&#x201C; available from your local health Professional, friendly service since 2005. All common problems treated. food shop and some Blandford, Sturminster Newton, Gillingham, supermarkets Shaftesbury and Sherbourne areas. Lavender Ring 01258 820203 essential oil â&#x20AC;&#x201C; also available www.bmvfootcare.co.uk in health food shops as well as online (Naissance is great for quality oils â&#x20AC;&#x201C; naissance.co.uk). Dried lavender (optional but looks great if gifting in a clear jar). Large mason jar or storage container of Natural Pain Relief your choice therapist in Gillingham. Directions: When the home that you love has become too much for you to cope Bio resonance scan and with, and you worry about the everyday things like cooking meals and Open your mason jar treatments.clinical caring for yourself, then it may be time to consider an easier way of and half fill with the reflexology & baby/ life. St Denis Lodge is a beautifully appointed house with an attractive epsom salts. Add toddler reflexology. garden and conservatory. We would welcome an opportunity to show T: 01747 826931 you why it is one of the most highly regarded homes in the area. approximately 15 -20 yvonne@intelligenthealth Contact Vicki Elesmore on drops of essential oil to clinic.co.uk Making Life More 01747 854596 the salts along with a Comfortable! St Denis Lodge, Salisbury Road, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8BS spoonful of dried lavender. Stir well or close the lid OPEN DAY this Saturday and give it a good shake. Then fill the remainder of the jar with epsom The friendly team at Shaftesbury Chiropractic, led salt and again stir or shake. Your by Dr Vanessa Spencer, are committed to helping bath salts are now ready! If gifting, you get back to doing the things you love. you can always add a handwritten Come and chat to one of our Chiropractors or label and a ribbon or twine to finish. try a taster massage! 7 Seater Hot tub, ÂŁ3,250. Please call 01935 812725

Adele Clinch, BSc hcpc registered chiropodist/podiatrist 01935 812231 Home visits in NW Dorset sherbornepodiatry.com

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Business

Exporting from the Vale... Finding new business and new markets is crucial in these difficult times. What could we be doing differently? Our maze business in Durweston is 80 per cent export, across 40 countries. Until recently, this has been

fee-based design services for visitor attractions open to the public, such as mirror mazes and landscape hedge mazes. With covid-19 and the resulting tourism shut-down, capital budgets for visitor attractions have collapsed for the foreseeable future,

REMOV ALS & STORAGE

ARMISHAWS SMALL MOVES Its not the size that matters it’s the way you move it! Armishaws operate a 昀eet of small removal vans throughout Dorset, Somerset and Wilshire catering for those clients who only need a small removal but still want the expertise provided by a larger removal company. With prices ranging from £300 for a local move our services are tailored to meet your needs. Blandford (01258) 453898

Dorchester (01305) 783795

Shaftesbury (01747) 828680

Wincanton (01963) 34065

with Adrian Fisher MBE

certainly longer than our capital reserves can carry on ‘empty’. We have faced massive disruptions to our markets over the years, but never across all countries simultaneously. Before, global regions rose and fell, and we could switch focus; this year, they all moved together. Our fresh marketing strategy is to build on our strengths and unique selling points (USPs), identify specific markets with sniper-style precision, and devise a viable business plan. What to offer: things that can be provided either electronically or delivered direct to the customer’s home. We are expanding from what we have achieved in the past, to scale up rather than start from scratch. We have an acclaimed world class 50-challenge puzzle for the 2021 e-Toy Fairs, to be bought online globally and delivered to each customer’s address; it will also have an online games version. We are working with experienced marketers in the fashion, couture and high-end art markets, to bring our Geometrica range of geometric art designs to sophisticated international markets such as headscarves, tablecloths and interior

fabrics, as well as limitededition fine art prints and custom-made mosaic murals. For other companies in the Vale, I see a strong export future for many foods and beverages with high quality ingredients, great product design, a lively narrative and effective distribution in targeted export markets. Tasty and refreshing lowalcohol or no-alcohol drinks, from the Vale of Avalon (the vale of apples) could achieve exports of cider and ginger beer to countries that don’t want driving and alcohol to mix, or simply forbid alcohol. Our wonderful cheeses. And so much more. From Dorset electronically, the whole world is the same distance away. Email, Skype and Zoom involve no cost. English is the world’s language for business. I hope this conveys some of the experience, challenges and opportunities of Exporting from the Vale. Adrian Fisher was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the Queen’s 2020 Birthday Honours, for services to International Trade and the Creative Industries. Next issue: Which countries to target

Business

Causing Stur in property market So soon after featuring in a BBC Radio 4 programme on how the town is bucking the trend in defying the decline in market towns, Sturminster Newton (alongside Shaftesbury) recently appeared in a BBC Business News article. It reports that according to Rightmove, homeowners are now looking to move from cities and large towns to the coast and countryside and our town is included in a list of nine popular locations where searches have doubled. Local estate agents have confirmed this increase and added that demand is coming from those in the

Bournemouth area looking to move from the city. We know that Christmas will be a little different this year, but to bring a little early cheer many of your favourite Stur town centre businesses will be extending their opening hours until 8pm on Friday, November 6 for a Late Night Opening. A Producer’s Market, selling fabulous local food and drink will be in attendance too. Further information on past and future Stur activities can be found at: sturminsternewton.org.uk/events/ events-festivals and MAGNET: Stur is proving popular with city leavers facebook.com/SturBiz

Get on board with Dorset partnership Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) is seeking new private sector board directors. Applicants should be business people passionate about the region’s economy who want to share their skills and experience to help Dorset prosper. A spokesman said: “Dorset LEP is building a vision where everyone living, working and studying in Dorset will be living better, and to create a local economy that is sustainable, innovative, resilient and inclusive, achieved by leading a digital and cultural transformation using opportunities from new technologies. “These exciting opportunities to join Dorset LEP are open to business leaders who can bring a depth of experience aligned to our strategic aims... As a board member you will be a director of Dorset LEP, making decisions in driving investment into Dorset.” Members have the chance to influence policy and spending decisions that will make it easier for businesses to grow, attracting investment into Dorset. They will be expected to promote Dorset to a regional, national and international audience and shape

priorities to have the biggest impact on growth and jobs across the region. You will spend about two days a month carrying out this role, including attending bi-monthly board and committee meetings across Dorset, as well as occasional media interviews, promotional activity and events. You must live or work in Dorset and be committed to serve for a term of three years. Dorset LEP welcomes applications Fully qualified care provider with 30 years experience, current enhanced DBS certification, providing assistance for your day to day living and well being, doctor and hospital appointments, social events, shopping, meal preparations, companionship etc. References available, NO AGENCY FEES, for further details please call 07752308521

regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, faith or disability. Recruitment is through an open and transparent process. Board member applications should be submitted by 9am on Monday, November 23. Go to dorsetlep.co.uk/work-with-us. Dorset LEP is also seeking candidates to join as committee members, with applications closing on Tuesday, December 1.

Mature, experienced carer available Professional and very reliable. Enhanced C.R.B, able to live in, happy to job share. Sherborne area 07977 130963 Do you need help with shopping (doing or taking you), taking to appointments etc, companionship? Please call 07547 505 867.

SITUATIONS WANTED Dog walking £10 per hour. Flexible time/days. Good refs. 07542 187858

Care Worker Available Experianced in dementia, Parkinson's, palliative care. Good cook & house keeper, DBS & refrences available. Live in or out. Call 07775 211891 51

Business

ARE YOUR RETIREMENT PLANS ON COURSE? Contact us for a pension review.

PETER HARDING WEALTH MANAGEMENT Principal Partner Practice of St. James’s Place Wealth Management

30 Haven Road, Canford Cliffs, Dorset BH13 7LP Tel: 01202 830730 40 High Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8JG Tel: 01747 855554 9 Cheap Street, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3PU Tel: 01935 315315

Email: peterhardingwm@sjpp.co.uk Web: www.peterhardingwm.co.uk

The Partner Practice is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the title ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives. Peter Harding Wealth Management is a trading name of Peter Harding Practice Ltd.

Recruitment UK Supported Living – Vacancies Night and Day support staff required to join our CQC rated GOOD services in Sturminster/Blandford area. Salary up to £19,219.20 day staff 42 hrs, waking night part time positions, salary up to pro rata £20,616.96 both positions depending on experience and hours. Please apply with CV to: or telephone 01202 038 005

DTR Urgently Require Experienced Roof Tilers, Groundworkers, Multi-Trade & Labourers for immediate start. Guaranteed work x5 days a week, Weekly Pay, Transport provided during working day. Email/Call today if you'd like to join us! Email: office@deantevershamroofing.co.uk Tel: 01258 455428

Help required with horses. Part time, very flexible. Nr Shaftesbury. 07710490599

Stock Person/ GFW required on dairy farm nr Sherborne, Some experience preferred. Call Richard on 07702 607806 for more details.

Admin Assistant PT 9hrs-15hr week Managing diary/email & general admin Tel 07809 129868 Email countylawnsandtrees@ gmail.com

Tree surgeon/ grounds person required Full time employment for the right person/s. Full UK licence required and CS certificates. Experience essential. CV's to enquiries@ westreecompany.co.uk

Local Security Guard required in Gillingham 15+ hours a week, must have valid SIA Licence SG Minimum, own transport is essential. Please send a copy of CV and Passport size photograph to or call the office on 01963440050 or Jon Allen 07828 679659

DRIVERS & PORTERS URGENTLY NEEDED to join busy moving & storage company at our Wincanton or Salisbury depots. Experience of the moving industry an advantage, but full training given. Guaranteed 45 hr week plus overtime. Good rates of pay. Contact Steve Mobley 07714289402

Mechanic/ Technician Required for busy local garage. MOT tester an advantage. Must be able to work on all makes and models of vehicles and work as a team. Hours of work Monday to Friday 8.30am-5.30pm Overtime usually available. Phone James at Bristol Road Garage, Sherborne 01935 812720 Email: bristolroad garage@gmail.com

I love working with great colleagues Join our team of friends at Fern Brook Lodge We’re looking for passionate people to join our team Maintenance Operative 40 hours per week - Monday to Friday The successful candidate will be responsible for carrying out a varied range of building maintenance and repairs to ensure a safe and comfortable environment for our elderly residents. Assistant Chef 27 hours per week (3 days) - 7.30am – 5.30pm The successful candidate will be preparing and cooking nutritious and varied meals for our residents as well as supervising and supporting our kitchen staff. They will assist the Head Chef in planning meals, consulting with residents and care staff to ensure that individual dietary needs and preferences are met. We are ideally looking for someone with experience in a similar role. 4 March 2020

Contact our Recruitment Team on 01202 712448 or visit our careers pages at care-south.co.uk/jobs for more details about opportunities with us Fern Brook Lane, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 4QD | 01747 834020 info@care-south.co.uk | care-south.co.uk 53

Recruitment Community Staff Nurse, Band 5 Various Locations

£24,907 to £30,615 p.a. Full time and Part time hours available Permanent Are you a qualified or newly qualified Nurse looking to work in a District Nursing team? Look no further……. Dorset HealthCare is all about progress and innovation and ensuring we achieve the best possible patient care and health and wellbeing outcomes for all our communities. We are looking for individuals with excellent communication skills, who pride themselves in the quality of care they provide to our patients to work within our District Nursing teams. Currently we have vacancies in n Blandford n Sturminster Newton n Shaftesbury n Sixpenny Handley n Longfleet District Nursing Team based at Alderney Hospital n Rosemary Road n Poole Road District Nursing Team based at Parkstone Towers Please visit jobs.NHS.uk to apply or find out more detailed information regarding the job description and person specification. Job ref 152-C200.20

Parish Council Clerk Required The Stours Parish Council (including the parishes of East Stour, Stour Provost, Todber and West Stour) We require a clerk to start in January 2021. Ability to take minutes, up to date computer skills (including simple accounting and updating the website) and an interest in Local Government essential. Previous experience welcome but not essential and training will be provided. Approximately 10 hours per week in your own time and laptop and printer provided. There are six parish council evening meetings per year and two evening meetings per year for each of the other parishes. Salary will be in accordance with the NJC scale – £20,092 – £24,012 pro-rata commensurate with experience and qualifications. Please contact clerk@stours-pc.gov.uk for an application form. Closing date 30th November 2020.

Planning applications in South Somerset Validated between September 28 and October 28 Bruton Tolbury Farm Tolbury Lane: Non-material amendment to approval 20/00551/HOU to permit changes to proposed single storey extension only: 1. Proposed new metal roofing changed to timber cladding. 2. Length of proposed extension roof reduced by approximately 900mm roof. 3. Proposed rooflights reduced from 3 to 1 rooflight. 4. One window omitted from back / north east elevation. 5. One window omitted from left / north west elevation. 6. Proposed stone walls changed to timber cladding Castle Cary Scotland House South Street: 54

Notification of intent to fell No 1 Tree within a Conservation Area Galhampton Land Os 8000 Part Sandbrook Lane: Prior notification for the erection of an agricultural storage building. Charlton Musgrove Land North of Verrington Lane: The erection of one dwelling and ancillary works. Corton Denham Corton Denham House Corton Denham Road: Notification of intent to Fell No 2 trees within a Conservation Area Henstridge The Homestead Shaftesbury Road: Certificate of Lawfulness application for the proposed demolition of existing side conservatory and the erection of a single storey

side extension. India Cottage Restaurant And Take Away Shaftesbury Road: Alterations, conversion and extension of existing takeaway/restaurant (Use Class A3) to Funeral Service Establishment (Use Class A1). Virginia Ash Hotel Sherborne Road: The display of 2 No. externally signs - Sign 1 Replacement hanging sign on original iron frame to front face of Pub Sign 2 Replacement hanging sign in free standing sign gallow at entrance to car park. Rerendering of front southeast facade in lime render and lime wash. Colour change of render and woodwork. Design change of hanging

sign boards and the installation of a new front entrance door. (Part retrospective) Holton Badgers Way: Erection of a detached workroom to the front of the dwelling Horsington Land Adjoining Barley Lands Cabbage Lane: Erection of an agricultural building Lovington Land Adjacent The Haven Lovington Road: Section 73 application to vary condition 2 (approved plans) of planning approval 19/03228/FUL to enable amendment of dimension from the South West boundary to the dwelling from 14100mm to 12600mm to reflect actual site arrangements.

Planning applications in South Somerset Martock Witcombe Farm Witcombe Lane Ash: Notification of intent of formation of a manure store. Notification of intent of formation of a silage clamp and associated effluent pond. Land OS 5389 Milton Lane Ash Martock Somerset: Notification of intent to erect an agricultural building for storage of farm machinery and dry foods & hay /straw. Paddock House Hurst: To widen existing access to improve access both in and out of the site 1A North Street: Replacement timber windows Land Off Martock Lane Ash: Change of use of land and the erection of a detached dwelling with double garage, driveway, parking and gardens. Widening of existing site access to allow for access to new house and a separate adjoining access into the field. Milborne Port The Old Post Office High Street: Prior approval for Change of Use from Shops (Class A1), Financial and Professional Services (Class A2), Takeaways (Class A5), Betting Offices, Pay Day Loan Shops or Launderettes (Sui Generis Uses); or a Mixed Use combining use as a Dwellinghouse (Class C3) with a Shop (Class A1) or Financial and Professional Service (Class A2), Betting Office, Pay Day Loan Shop or Launderette (Sui Generis Uses); to Dwellinghouses (Class C3), and for building operations reasonably necessary for the conversion. Victoria House 1 North Street: Notification of intent to fell No 2 Trees within a Conservation Area Rivendell Wick Road: Conversion of existing garage into kitchen space & the erection of a new garage 17 Redwing Road: Erection of a first storey extension above original garage and erection of

single storey side extension (part retrospective). South Barrow Land OS 1712 North Of Barn Croft Sparkford Road: Application for reserved matters following approval of 19/03069/OUT for the erection of 2 single storey dwellings; to include details of appearance, landscaping, layout and scale. Land At Church Farm Fosters Lane: Reserved Matters application for approval of scale, access, layout, landscaping and appearance following outline approval 17/03669/OUT for the erection of one detached dwelling. South Cadbury East End Compton Road: notification of intent to carry out tree surgery works to no 4 trees within a conservation area. Sutton Montis Land At The Red House Buckland Lane: Notification of prior approval for the proposed erection of an agricultural barn for storage. Corton Wood Farm: Farm Diversification and Regularisation Proposals including conversion of farm outbuildings to x2 holiday lets (retrospective), provision of x3 timber holiday lodges, erection of x2 agricultural barns and re-provision of displaced manege, extension of existing car port, engineering works to provide expanded pond and new driveway into residential element of site and other ancillary development including hardstanding and tree planting. Templecombe 13 Yarnbarton: Demolition of single storey entrance porch and erection of two storey extension to side of dwelling. Wincanton 10 Manor Gardens: Application to carry out Tree Surgery Works to No 1 tree as shown within South Somerset

District Council (WINC 1) 2002 Tree Preservation Order Blackthorne House 11 Locks Lane: Application to carry out Tree Surgery works to No 1 Tree within South Somerset District Council (WINC 1) 1984 Tree Preservation Order. Approved 30 Cale Way: Erection of a single storey extension to rear of dwelling 66 High Street: Erection of a detached residential outbuilding The Firs Bayford Hill: Alterations & extension to the rear ground floor elevation with part two-storey extension to create new kitchen & utility room and additional bedroom on the first floor. Installation of three roof lights to rear pitched roof. 6A High Street: Change of use from A1 (retail) to sui generis tattoo studio. Yeovil 79 Sherborne Road (First Floor Offices): Prior approval of change of use of First Floor Offices to 2 dwellinghouses. 154 Ilchester Road: The erection of rear extension to bungalow including a Juliet balcony. 27 Roping Road: Erection of a single storey rear extension and a raised terrace to rear of dwelling Land North Of The Cottage Roping Path; Change of use of land and the creation of hardstanding for additional parking space. 15 Hawthorn Road: Proposed rear extension (i) the projection of the rear extension beyond the rear wall is 5.50 (ii) the maximum height of the extension is 3.00m (iii) the height at the eaves of the extension is 2.20m. 8 Wyndham Street: Prior approval for the change of use of shop to a ground floor flat. St Michaels Church St Michaels Avenue: Application to carry out Tree Surgery Works to No 1 Tree within

South Somerset District Council (YEOV 5) 2011 Tree Preservation Order 25 Grove Avenue: Notification of intent to Fell No 2 Trees within a Conservation Area 21 The Park: Non material amendment to approval 12/03941/FUL; to allow for the omission of chimney and alteration to roof. Refused 171 Ilchester Road: Removal of existing vehicular access & formation of a new vehicular access & hardstanding to front of property Bell Inn 207 Preston Road: New external bar servery, timber covered pergola and new external festoon lighting. 56 Eliotts Drive: Erection of a two storey extension with flat roof garage to side of dwelling Land Adjoining 104 Westland Road: Application to carry out Tree Surgery Works to No 1 Tree within South Somerset District Council (YEOV 3) 2000 Tree Preservation Order 18 West Coker Road: Alterations and the construction of rear extensions. Removal of garage building and construction of replacement garage extension to side. New pitched roof over existing two storey rear flat roof extension. Extension of raised patio to rear. 14 Southwoods: Conversion of existing outbuilding to form a granny annexe 39 Lime Tree Avenue: To modify existing double garage from a flat roof to pitched roof 20 Stone Lane: Removal of existing single storey rear extension and erection of a single storey extension to the rear of dwelling 20 Darwin Drive: To replace roof material of rear canopy from OSB board to polycarbonate, re-submission of 19/02312/HOU, permitted with conditions 28.11.19 55

Puzzles Arrow words

Crossword 1

She

Remember

US ‘Z’

Poetic ‘before’

To no degree

A Yucatán Indian

Melancholy

Row of seats

3 8

Egg-shaped

Least inhibited

Notices

Impartial

Judo level

Cricketing essential

Grains found on the beach

Halt

Dislike

Gratification

Someone who works without pay

Résumés (abbr) (1,2)

Expert

Genetic material (inits)

Pastry dish

Threw out as rubbish

Passage between seats

Hoover (abbr)

Across 7 Odd (7) 9 Temporary hold (5) 10 Psychic ability (inits) (3) 11 Disclosing (9) 12 Located (5) 14 Areas (7) 16 Version (7) 18 Marshy lake or river outlet (5) 19 Preparedness (9) 20 PC socket (inits) (3) 21 Break in pieces (5) 22 Ado (7)

Lodge

Letter after zeta

Wordsearch World Snooker Champions

O J O H N P U L M A N D M S E

D O E O J A I E O C A T H T I

Y E O R O L E D E L V T S E R

R J N A E E R E E I I O N P R

H O U C D X Y N R F L R I H N

ALEX HIGGINS CLIFF THORBURN DENNIS TAYLOR HORACE LINDRUM JOE DAVIS JOE JOHNSON JOHN HIGGINS JOHN PARROTT

S H R E A H E N F F L R G E P

I N A L V I N I D T U A G N E

V S Y I I G R S J H S P I H T

A O R N S G O T I O O N H E E

D N E D Y I E A L R E H N N R

E N A R P N T Y I B I O H D E

V I R U A S E L D U N J O R B

E E D M M B D O C R N N J Y D

JOHN PULMAN NEIL ROBERTSON PETER EBDON RAY REARDON RONNIE O’SULLIVAN STEPHEN HENDRY STEVE DAVIS TERRY GRIFFITHS

T A O J N E E R I N O D R N O

S O N O S T R E B O R L I E N

Down 1 Gather (8) 2 Firm hold (4) 3 Existing from birth (6) 4 Leaped (6) 5 Pertaining to hearing (8) 6 Floating mass of ice (4) 8 Surroundings (11) 13 Appropriately (8) 15 Tripped (8) 17 Imbeciles (6) 18 Diagonally-moving chess piece (6) 19 Remainder (4) 20 Central boss on a shield (4)

Sudoku

4 5 8 7

3 1 4 1

2 5

For the solutions turn to page 67

7 1 9 3

3 8 2

6 4

8 9

Brain chain RESULT

+50%

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+24

-10

Planning applications in North Dorset Blandford Forum Shaftesbury House, Milldown Road: T1 - Lime - Crown reduce canopy of 3 codominant stems south-easterly towards the BT wire, by removing branches a maximum of 3m in length. T2 - Cherry - Fell. T3 - Hazel Reduce to the same height as laurel as per photo. The Old Rectory Sheep Market Hill, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 7DP T1 - Sycamore - Coppice to a height of 2 feet to twinstemmed tree with a large area of decay from removal of a third co-dominant stem. Child Okeford Shephards Cottage, Gold Hill: T1 - Horse Chestnut - Fell due to extensive dieback and is in decline. The Olde House, High Street: T1, T2 & T3 - Robinia x3 Reduce branches back to the original pollard points to allow for regeneration. Laurel Farm, Station Road: T1 - Conifer - Fell. T2 - Magnolia - Reduce crown height and spread by shortening all branches to a maximum of 1m from the tips as per annotated photo. Durweston Durweston Farm House, Rapsons Lane: G1 - Cypress Fell. G2 - Cypress - Fell. Farnham Cherry Tree Cottage, High Street: T1 - Ash (fraxinus excelsior) - Remove as tree was showing signs of ash die back throughout the summer. T2 - Hazel - Remove to open up area where a cesspit is located. The Old Rectory: T1 - Ash Fell under regulation 14 as tree is dead. Hazelbury Bryan Brewery Farm Partway To Churchfoot Lane Wonston: Installation of 8 No. dormer windows, erection of first floor balcony, conversion of garage into habitable space and internal and external alterations. Ibberton

Hemmick Leigh: Non material amendment against planning application 2/2019/1565 to allow relocation of approved outbuilding on site. Iwerne Minster Brook Cottage, Old School Lane: T1 - Birch - Reduce crown by 3m (previous reduction points). Jazz House, Post Office Road: T1 - Sycamore - Clear BT wire by 1m and remove any branches beneath the wire over the neighbour’s lawn. Crown thin remainder of canopy by 10%. T2 - Sycamore - Clear BT wire and remove any branches beneath the wire over the neighbour’s lawn. Remove branch over Hazel. Crown thin remainder of canopy by 10%. T3 - Ash - Remove lowest limb. 1 Ash Grove, Blandford Road: T1 - Yew - Fell as the client has suffered a severe reaction resulting in medical assistance and followed by a treatment of antibiotics. Milborne St Andrew Old School House, The Square: T1 - Plum - Reduce laterals and leaders by up to 1.5m. Milton Abbas The Three Bears, 58-59 Milton Abbas: T1 - Apple Fell large apple tree due to the 9 metre height the apple’s fall from over a seating area. T2 English Yew - Fell. T3 - Hazel - Coppice to ground level. T4 Ash - Fell as dead and may be dangerous. T5 - Hornbeam Fell as dead. Motcombe Keepers Cottage Thanes Lane: Erect single storey rear extension extending 8.00 metres beyond the rear wall of the original dwellinghouse, 3.0 metres maximum height and 2.6 metres height at the eaves. 1 & 2 Fernbrook Cottages Shaftesbury Road: Demolish 2 No. existing dwellings. Erect 2 No. dwellings, create new vehicular access and 6 No. parking spaces. Church Farm Turnpike Road: Demolition of existing barns

and erection of 8no. dwellings with associated parking and landscaping. Okeford Fitzpaine Nutmeg Cottage, Higher Street: T1 - Norway Maple Reduce height to 4-5m trunk as detailed in tree survey. 12 Nether Mead: T1 - Twin stemmed Ash - Fell. Reason: Tree has a large wound facing east at approx 7m (partially covered by ivy). Also because of the lack of lower branches this tree is end loaded, potentially putting extra stress around the wounded area. Please note that I revisited the site on 15th October to carry out a climbed inspection and have provided photographic evidence to support this action. The photos show extensive wood decay with evidence of wood boring insects. Also mycellium is evident at the base of the wound. The wood showed little resistance when probed with a knife as shown in the photo. Shaftesbury 22 St James Street: T1 - Apple - Reduce by up to 2m all over. T2 - Sweet Chestnut - Reduce to previous reduction point. T3 - Sweet Chestnut - Reduce to previous reduction point. T4 Beech - Crown raise to 4m from ground level. T5 - Birch Fell. 11 Tout Hill: T1 - Eucalyptus Fell. Spetisbury Land At E 387679 N 101384 North Farm, West End: Installation of an extension to an existing solar farm and associated development, including perimeter fencing, CCTV cameras and landscaping. Land at Garden of Suvla Bay, High Street: Erect 1 No. dwelling and retain 3 No. parking spaces, (demolish 2 existing outbuildings). Stalbridge 26 Hardy Crescent: Erection of an extension Stourpaine 5 Manor Road: Non material

amendment against planning application 2/2019/1677/HOUSE to allow changes to north wall construction from muntin to rendered block masonry because of proximity to oil storage tank. Stourton Caundle 2 Pophams Golden Hill: Erection of greenhouse & timber shed to front garden (Retrospective) Sturminster Newton Land outside 8 Filbridge Rise: Notification of the provision of 1 new telephone pole and associated wires. 12 Friars Moor: Alterations to the garage first floor, raise the height of the roof and erect in fill extension to form a bedroom with en suite above the existing garage. Sutton Waldron Summerlea, 45 The Street: T1 - Prunus - Fell due to honey fungus. Tarrant Monkton Tarrant Monkton Cottage, High Street: G1 - Willows Reduce to previous reduction points which are at a height of 4m. T2 - Horse Chestnut Remove hanging branch and hung up limb. Crown lift above highway and drive to 5.2m and remove low branches to achieve a clearance of up to 2m above the Old Chapel. Owl Cottage, High Street: T3 Horse Chestnut - Fell to ground level. T4 - Cherry Reduce broken stem to 4m from ground and remove easterly growing limb overhanging highway. T5 Ash - Crown lift over the highway to 5.2m from ground and footway entrance to 2.5m from ground and prune to give 1m clearance of overhead cables. Winterborne Houghton Michaelmas Cottage Water Lane: Notification of new premises licence application Winterborne Stickland Knife Hill Farm Knife Hill Farm Road: Erection of agricultural building 57

MPs’ round-up

I’m looking out for you in Westminster At a time that is fraught with such uncertainty, I know that the disconnect between those charged with taking decisions and those who feel their effects can feel wider than ever. Over the last six months, my team and I have given 55 advice surgeries, replied to over 38,000 emails from constituents, supported over 500 businesses and processed around 200 cases a week from those in need – on everything from PPE shortages in care homes to businesses attempting to navigate a maze of government support schemes. But the last few weeks have also seen some critical debates in Parliament. So here is an update on what I’ve been doing to support people in our part of Somerset. n I spoke in two debates on Government support for the arts during the pandemic. My constituency houses some incredible businesses and freelance workers within the

Somerton & Frome MP David Warburton creative industries and it’s an area that’s too easily overlooked when economic support measures are being pondered. As a former composer and musician, I’m passionately committed to ensuring the arts community gets the support it needs, and though the £1.57 billion Cultural Recovery Fund, the Job Support Scheme and the Self-Employed Support Scheme have provided a safety

net, I’m conscious that there are many for whom this has not been enough to ensure their businesses remain viable. Some key sites (including the Cheese and Grain in Frome) now have support in place, but there’s much more to do. n I spoke in a debate on the Internal Market Bill designed to ensure the UK is able to continue the free movement of goods within its borders – regardless of the outcome of our continuing negotiations with the EU. This is not only economically important, but constitutionally vital in ensuring all four parts of the UK can continue operating as one. n I’ve had innumerable conference calls with ministers and local authorities to ensure covid-related financial support from central government is reaching those in Somerton and Frome who need it most. n I’ve also been discussing the proposals for restructuring

local government in Somerset to ensure it’s better placed to deliver efficient and responsive services to the most vulnerable. The superb work of our local authorities in coping with the current crisis serves to remind us just how critical they, and the services they provide, really are. I’ve been keeping that question – how the delivery of public services to the most vulnerable can best be structured – at the forefront of my mind. n Only a couple of weeks ago, I was delighted to have the opportunity to take part in a Westminster Hall debate around rural productivity – especially important in a post-Covid recovery context. In that debate, I banged the drum for full dualling of the A303, ensuring our £5bn investment in rural broadband targets our hardestto-reach areas and ensuring that agriculture and food production is not forgotten.

Better ways of helping vulnerable kids Firstly, I’d like to welcome BVM back and thank Miranda and the editors for the invitation to contribute. Free School Meals for eligible children during the holidays have dominated the news recently. I voted with the government on its amendment to Labour’s proposition of extending Free School Meals during holidays up until Easter 2021: I’d like to explain why. The government’s amendment to the debating motion tabled by Labour which I backed included outlining what has already been done to support families affected by the pandemic. Overall, the package for supporting people is larger than those of comparable economies and Chancellor Rishi Sunak is widely credited with having 58

MP for South West Wiltshire Dr Andrew Murrison done a good job. This has included upping Universal Credit by £1,000 and distributing large sums to local authorities – including millions to Wiltshire Council – to make provision for vulnerable people. I’m pleased to

say this extends to the 8,000 vulnerable children identified in Wiltshire in the school holidays. Cutting through any partisan political opportunism, what I hope this debate now does is focus attention on better ways of helping vulnerable children whose life chances will have been damaged further by covid. That means so much more than ad hoc meal vouchers, a popular way of dealing with the short term though they may be. I’m thinking about things like lunch and breakfast clubs with catch up activities on the menu as well as food. The levelling up agenda means focusing on children left behind, now with every prospect of lagging behind further because of covid. It means attending to nutritional needs, of course, but also the education and skills that will

give them a chance to maximise their potential throughout life. Beyond school, it means looking afresh at further education and apprenticeships shamefully neglected in our modern obsession with poorly taught degrees in subjects of little relevance to working lives or the UK economy on which we all depend. I look forward to more news on a rebalancing of our education and skills priorities shortly. Maybe at last we will learn the lessons of economies that have been so very much more successful over the past couple of generations, notably Germany. If Marcus Rashford’s campaign has a lasting legacy, it may not just be about food. I hope it is in getting to the heart of inequality of opportunity in this country.

MPs’ round-up

Boost your local traders during lockdown Here we go again…. We are on the cusp of the pantomime season and, like many, I certainly wanted to be shouting at covid: “You’re behind us!” Alas that is not the case and the virus villain is still very much in our midst. By the time you are reading this I will have voted, with a heavy heart, to bring in a second lockdown. Let me stress: the PM, Government and Parliament have not taken this step lightly. Government pulled every other lever to try to win through without having to resort to another lockdown. We were not successful, and, against a rising tide of positive tests and hospitalisations, no serious Government could ignore the unanimous warning and advice of its top advisors. Our two top priorities must be to ensure the NHS does not implode under the weight of covid and the annual increased demand that the winter months always brings. Our second is to keep

MP for North Dorset Simon Hoare our places of learning open. We cannot and must not deprive our local young of the keys of learning that they will use to unlock all of life’s doors. At the start of the first lockdown the death of our high streets was predicted. Local businesses across North Dorset rose to the challenge as I know they will do this time. People working from home suddenly found themselves shopping in

their locality too; pleased to be able to get out and about. They found a treasure trove of unique market town shops, pubs and cafes offering excellent service and quality products. The great food and drink that we produce in abundance across North Dorset was enjoyed and appreciated again. Many made full use of the internet to satisfy the needs of customers. Lots offered click and collect or home delivery services. Independently produced quality takeaway food was available with some pubs doing more weekday trade than if their doors had been open. May I make this plea: it’s not just the national companies that can trade online. Our local businesses are doing so too. The sign on the door may say ‘sorry we are closed’ but the internet keeps them open 24/7. Please use them. Not as an act of charity but because they are good businesses providing great product. So, before you start

Christmas shopping remember our local high streets. If you can buy a takeaway lunch, midmorning snack or teatime treat a couple of times a week; especially so if you are working from home and would normally buy a sandwich and cake from a local outlet for your lunch. None of us want to find ourselves saying next year, when we survey a ghost town, ‘I remember when there were shops here’. Our town businesses make our towns. Their doors may have to be temporarily shut but their online business is always available to us. Let’s not pay lip service to supporting local while shopping national. We all have a part to play in this. Let’s support them. I hope and pray that all across North Dorset keep well and safe during this time. North Dorset is a strong and resolute community. We will get through this. There will be a brighter tomorrow.

I abstained to send a firm message The high-profile issue of Free School Meals in holiday time generated a considerable postbag. Politics is to choose and I believe that, given the extenuating circumstances of covid and its financial implications for many, the Government should have continued direct, centrally funded provision for this half term. I hope that a rethink will occur before Christmas. In politics, you have to pick your battles, and this is not one that the Government can win while covid looms large. In the Parliamentary vote I abstained, or as the websites have it, ‘no vote recorded’. It

sounds that I couldn’t be bothered doesn’t it? An abstention does carry weight – I thought it would be useful if I explained. When the Division Bell rings you can either vote Aye or No. Your vote is recorded in Hansard. Your colours are nailed firmly to the mast and it’s there for all to see. If you don’t want to vote or cannot vote (a doctor’s appointment or you are caring for a relative) you can be slipped or paired. Both are agreed by your Whips Office and there is a Pairing Whip in the Tory and Labour Parties. If you are slipped you do not vote because the Government thinks it has enough votes to win. If you are Paired the

Whips agree that Mrs X (Tory) and Mr Y (Labour) won’t vote in a particular division, cancelling each other out. A proactive abstention such as mine is a vote taken off the Government tally but with no cancelling out from the other side. So, an abstention is not a ‘couldn’t be bothered’ or ‘too busy’ or ‘didn’t care’ but a very firm message. Around 25 Tory colleagues abstained so the Government’s majority was below the usual 80/90 mark. My abstention followed lengthy conversations with my Whip and the Education Secretary where I made the case that the policy we followed over the summer should be continued. My

abstention said to the Front Bench: if there is another vote I am more than likely to vote against the Government. Many in Dorset are financially comfortable so the issue may not be a daily concern. Our beautiful surroundings leads observers to thinking everything is rosy. I know it isn’t. There’s disadvantage in every town and village. It’s not clustered in one area so it’s sometimes hard to spot. Covid is, for many, increasing it. Free School Meals, in and out of termtime, are important. For their sake, and at this time, we need to get the policy right. I will do all I can to ensure it happens.

IMPORTANT NOTE: In our print edition, the column above was attributed to west Dorset MP Chris Loder. We are happy to make it clear the column is written by north Dorset MP Simon Hoare. Mr Loder would like to make it clear he would never abstain from a vote.

Arts & Entertainment Book Review Loving Spirit by Linda Chapman After a tragic accident, fourteen-year-old Ellie finds herself on the other side of the world living with her mean and grumpy Uncle Len who she has never met before. The days before her are deemed to be filled with misery and loneliness, as she cries herself to sleep wishing for home and her parents who she will never see again. That is until she unexpectedly buys an abused and scared horse

‘Spirit’ at a horse auction. At last she can begin to be happy again. Ellie learns to connect with Spirit in a way that allows her to see his memories; memories of being ill-treated and hurt by past owners. Will this friendship between two broken hearts and souls last? Or will it end in disaster? Linda Chapman had created a world for Spirit and Ellie that brings them together through descriptive and detailed writing…..this book is recommended for all horsey lovers, is an easy read, mildly sad in some

parts but has a happy ending. Aimed at readers age 10+. Keziah lives in Blandford with her parents and siblings, attends Knighton House Prep School and loves books, tennis, netball and riding. She hopes that her monthly book reviews will inspire other children to pick up a book and read…

CUTE! Steve Joyner sent us this pic of his grandson to cheer us all up

MISS CHRISTMAS NAUGHTY ELF AND FAIRY Modern and traditional carols and fun. Outside social distancing. Lifting our spirits. Contact Suzanneh43@hotmail.co.uk, 07590 546095 or 07879 956614

MP in call for musician support A local MP has called on the government to help selfemployed musicians and other creative industries during the pandemic. Speaking in two separate House of Commons debates, David Warburton – MP for Somerton and Frome – cited music events such as Somerset’s Glastonbury Festival and the Cheese and Grain in Frome as huge contributors to the cultural, social and economic life of the region. Mr Warburton stressed the urgent need for government support and proposed a Tourism and Social Resilience Fund to support those venues unable to access Income Support Scheme funding. He also called for the urgent implementation of an empty seat subsidy to help venues remain economically viable until audience number restrictions can be lifted. He told the house Frome’s Cheese and Grain, a Social Enterprise, member-run, registered charity is now forced to consider making 40 60

CALL FOR SUPPORT: The Cheese and Grain at Frome and, inset, MP David Warburton

of the venue’s 53 staff redundant. Having been closed for eight months, independent venues such as The Cheese and Grain are now at high risk of insolvency. He also called for an indicative date from the government as to when full re-opening would be permitted, and highlighted

the plight of self-employed musicians, one third of whom are currently unable to access the Income Support Scheme due the unique way their industry is structured. Mr Warburton said: “If we don’t help these businesses, they really will go under, they will be devastated. I wrote to the Minister and suggested we have a Tourism

and Social Resilience Fund with targeted support and grants to carry these businesses through the winter. I also proposed the furlough scheme should be extended for businesses unable to open. “We must keep changing lives and supporting those whose business it is to change lives.”

Arts & Entertainment

Exhibition of lockdown drawings Artist Alexandra Drysdale and retired architect Allan Howles are holding an exhibition at her studio in Pitcombe, of their drawings produced during the pandemic. Entitled Lockdown, the exhibition is mostly of landscapes local to Bruton and south-east Somerset. Being confined to their immediate environment, apart from brief sojourns in Derbyshire and Devon after lockdown was eased, the positive side of lockdown enabled them to explore the beauty of the local landscapes in the spring and summer and to interpret this in their drawings, most

A sketch of Pitcombe Cottage

of which were created en plein air. The exhibition also includes artefacts by Alexandra completed over the past year. She calls them “artefacts” because they are neither sculpture nor painting, but a collage of different materials

and dimensions. She uses traditional craft techniques such as patchwork and embroidery but in a fine art context. Alexandra has exhibited widely over a long career, and in 2019 she was Artistin-Residence at Bruton

School for Girls. She is also a freelance lecturer in art history here and abroad. Allan retired from a 40-year career in architecture some five years ago. He moved to Wells in 1987 to join the architectural practice Beech Tyldesley as a partner, latterly Senior Partner, before going solo. The drawings in the exhibition display his lifelong enjoyment of buildings and landscapes. The exhibition is at Pitcombe Studio, Pitcombe Farmhouse, Bruton BA10 0AU, from November 21 to December 5 from 10am to 5pm daily except Monday and Tuesday and by appointment at other times. For further information contact alex@alexandra drysdale.com or call 07787 827793, or go to alexandradrysdale.com.

£50k grant for new stage academy A husband and wife team who pre-pandemic worked with global stars have received £50,000 of government funding after diversifying due to covid. Bertie and Kelly Hunter, from Blandford, were hard at work before the lockdown with their business Stagecore Productions. They were responsible for the audio production for Glastonbury’s South East Corner, and worked with artists such as Liam Gallagher, Echo and the Bunnymen, Spandau Ballet and many more. Bertie remains the director of Stagecore, while Kelly is now the director of The Artori Academy, which is offering courses and training in all sorts of arts disciplines, from acting to scenic artistry, singing to sound engineering, or even dance to puppetry. Kelly said: “We are excited

Orchestra’s manoeuvres

KEEPING THE ARTS ALIVE: Kelly Hunter has won funding for a new academy

and grateful to announce that Stagecore Productions was one of 1,974 companies to receive a grant from the Culture Recovery Scheme. “This grant will allow us to keep our business afloat, allowing us to diversify during this unprecedented time, and turn our skills to teaching, instead of touring. We are passionate about educating the young people of the very town we ourselves grew up in.”

She added: “The whole world is available to our students, and we are here to guide them every step of the way. With industry professionals coming to teach our young people, we are excited to use part of this grant in a way to benefit our local community, and to keep passion for the arts alive.” Keep an eye on theartoriacademy.com for news on upcoming open auditions.

The Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra has returned to Poole Lighthouse – performing to socially distanced audiences every Wednesday. And the live concerts are being streamed, with tickets costing £6 each. You can watch these broadcasts in the comfort of your own living room with the bonus of close-up shots of the musicians and conductor. The quality of sound and camera work has been praised by a number of reviewers and the first concert received a five star review in The Times. Go to bsolive.com. 61

Arts & Entertainment

Writer’s web of intrigue in spy thriller Beyond the Funeral is the intriguing title of a second spy thriller published this month by Gillingham author Peter Marshall, a retired BBC journalist. Again, his story explores the ruthless world of espionage and the activities of Russian and Western secret services. It takes readers from Hampshire and London to the USA, Canada and Mexico and introduces a new female spy, Samantha Lord, who embarks on hazardous international assignments. Peter explains the title this way: “My previous novel, The Russian Lieutenant ended with a dramatic funeral service on the sea wall in Portsmouth. “A red rose was mysteriously cast into the water together with the ashes, but it was not the end of the story. “It was the beginning of another one which starts with

the arrest and trial of a Russian diplomat on a charge of conspiracy to murder – and there are the inevitable reprisals by Moscow including a second poisoning incident”. Since his retirement to Dorset, Peter had written or

edited a dozen nonfiction books before turning to fiction last year – inspired by the Salisbury Novichok poisonings. Beyond the Funeral is another fastmoving story in which even the Russian secret service is fallible as they are outsmarted by the British and US intelligence agencies. Peter says his international career travels provided the framework for his works of fiction. He also draws on his experiences when serving in the Royal Navy and then as a journalist for local and national newspapers and the BBC. He went on to pioneer the use of international

communications satellites for TV news, finally working in the satellite business in the USA for 14 years until his retirement. In 1986, he served as Chairman of the Royal Television Society in the UK and then in the USA he became President of the Society of Satellite Professional and a Director of the Arthur C. Clarke Foundation. After retirement, he was a trustee of the Dorset Blind Association, a member of the team producing the weekly Shaftesbury Area Talking Newspaper, a member and then Chairman of the Gillingham Probus Club and an active member of Rushmore Golf Club. n Beyond the Funeral and The Russian Lieutenant are available from Amazon.co.uk – as paperbacks or as e-books.

Rural media charity launches new website Rural media charity Windrose now has a new website where you can view old film, listen to audio and order DVDs. Windrose, which is known for its film archive of Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire life, along with educational, archival and creative work in rural communities, has presented 256 archive film shows in village halls, cinemas, theatres and arts centres across Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire Recent grant funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund has enabled the charity, which was set up in 1984 under its earlier name of Trilith, to forge ahead with new community-based work. All of its projects had been cancelled or postponed 62

because of the covid-19 pandemic. Via its website, you can buy DVDs and CDs and access the interactive map of the Close Encounters Media Trail, which gives you a fascinating insight into the lives of people in years gone by, as well as more contemporary commentaries. Director Trevor Bailey said: “Creating a website for Windrose has always been a difficult prospect since the charity has tended to work project by project, so much so that while some of those projects have seen the development of their own standalone website, Windrose has never had the resources to create its own bespoke presence on the web.

“The opportunity arose during the course of our current Heritage Lottery funded project A Century of Sights and Sounds. As well as working on digitising more than 200 hours of the Windrose video and audio archive, which is being done by James Harrison, the project also gave Windrose the resources to look at creating a website to publicise our work creating and preserving this important media.” Windrose has produced several video and audio productions of its own, but the only real ‘retail outlet’ had been shows and talks, and sometimes local shops. Now, you can order DVDs and CDs, featuring archive films and recordings of local

life, via the website, which has been developed by The Mustard Agency from Wilton, Wiltshire. Mr Bailey said: “The new website also provides an exciting opportunity to share those projects yet to come.” n windroseruralmedia.org Piano Tuning, Repairs, Sales of reconditioned pianos Julian Phillips BA CGLI 01258 471194 Rogers Upright Piano For Sale overstrung underdampered £995ono good for Grade 5+ Sherborne area 01963220855

Arts & Entertainment An ancient mosaic which forms a key part of Roman history in Dorset is at risk of being exported. The 2,400-year-old floor fragment is so valuable that the Culture Minister Caroline Dinenage has placed a temporary export bar on a panel of mosaic from a Roman villa at Dewlish. She said, “This mosaic is a piece of history telling us about the lives of our Roman ancestors more than 2,000 years ago. It is an incredibly rare example of the Roman occupation of Britain and I hope that, even in these challenging times, a buyer can be found to keep this important and striking work in the UK”. The minister’s decision follows the advice of the Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Objects of Cultural Interest The committee noted that there were few mosaics from the Durnovarian school showing this quality and exceptional workmanship and that there was much to be learned about RomanoBritish mosaics from further research and study of the fragment. Committee member Leslie Webster said: “The mosaic’s spirited depiction of a leopard bringing down an antelope is a brilliantly accomplished image of nature red in tooth and claw; the soaring leap of the deer, and the precise delineation of the leopard’s

ROMAN HERITAGE: The ancient mosaic is in danger of beilg exported

Funding bid for mosaic muscular power and ferocious grace is a tour de force of the mosaicist’s art. “The grand mosaic from which this fragment came, dominating the principal public room of the villa, was clearly designed to impress the spectator with the learning and cultural aspirations of its owner. “For us to lose it from Britain would be a great misfortune.”

The mosaic is considered by many to be an exceptional piece and is at risk of being lost abroad unless buyers can be found to match the £135,000 asking price. Apart from one smaller piece in the Dorchester Country Museum, much of the mosaic floor at the Dewlish Roman villa has now been destroyed, so this fragment is of crucial importance to understanding the whole composition.

The decision on the export licence application for the mosaic will be deferred until January 16, 2021 and organisations or individuals interested in helping with the purchase of the mosaic can use the GoFundMe crowd funding campaign at gofundme.com/f/stop-exportof-dorset-roman-mosaic. Contact Dorset County Museum in Dorchester on 01305 262735.

List of cancelled or postponed theatre shows Due to the second lockdown the Octagon Theatre will be closed Thursday, November 5 to December 3. Sale of tickets have been suspended for: Russel Kane and Friends Octagon Auditorium, Nov 6 Mark Steel and Friends Octagon Auditorium, Nov 13 Sales have been cancelled for:

Armonica Consort: Vivaldi Four Seasons with Rachel Podger. Nov 19 The Exchange Sturminster Newton The programme of events for the remainder of the year have been cancelled. Assistant manager Sharon Clifton said: “We are doing a lot of work behind the scenes

and as soon as we can open we will. We are going to bounce back.” The Exchange is hoping to reopen in January. Shaftesbury Arts Centre The box office is closed until further notice. More details can be found at shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk Artsreach says: “Whilst we

aren’t able to welcome touring performers to our community venues at present, many of them are working hard to keep in touch with us all, releasing lots of lovely creative content online. Go to digital diary at artsreach.co.uk 63

Letters

Claiming credit for work during crisis nIn the past few weeks we’ve seen two graphics from Wiltshire Conservatives claiming credit for the hard work done by Wiltshire Council employees during the coronavirus crisis. Given the Conservative Government’s repeated calls not to politicise the public health crisis, we condemn the local Conservatives’ actions – which are politicising the crisis. We all should be rightly proud of the massive efforts over many months by local volunteers and officers at parish, town and Wiltshire councils which has, so far, led to a relatively good outcome compared to the country as a whole. By attempting to claim credit for work which is not theirs, the Wiltshire Conservatives reduce trust in public authorities, trust which is essential to continue to keep people and jobs safe. We trust we will see no more of these awful attempts by the local Conservatives to claim credit for the hard work done by many others. Wiltshire Liberal Democrats nPerhaps Simon Hoare missed my letter about housing standards in the previous issue (Letters, October 9), but it would have been good to have some positive news on this topic amongst his “reasons to be cheerful” (October 23). Nearly 2,000 houses in Gillingham, apart from thousands more nationwide, should surely be built to the highest possible thermal standards if we are to conserve energy and reduce global warming. Anyone can check what is possible by doing an internet search for the Norwich housing 64

I just wanted to share this photo with you that I took last week on a glorious autumn morning as the rising sun caught a spider web in my garden. Feel free to use it in the magazine if you wish. It is so lovely to have the Blackmore Vale magazine back again, you have all done a tremendous job of bringing it back to life in the format we all love. Thank you! Bev Jones development given a RIBA award in October 2019. Colin Marsh Gillingham nA quick email, long overdue, to say congratulations on getting the BVM back out. I was delighted to learn that it was going to be up and running again. Well done to you all, and best wishes for it remaining with us for a long time to come. To all the team, good luck. Deborah Purdue Iwerne Minster

nMay we send our congratulations also on such a terrific publication. Little tweaks here and there, no major changes for the readers, and so interesting with such varied, good articles, reporting and photography. But this has caused a problem: A battle between who gets to read it first. Anonymously Us nCongratulations on a really good read, I found your latest edition such an easy magazine to read. The larger font and colour

make every page interesting and exciting. The style of many of the adverts having been given a new makeover look much more interesting too. It is a great privilege to have the BVM back in circulation. We have all missed you. But how you could go to print without a letter from your infamous contributor? Must have been difficult. So here goes... Good dry spring, or good wet spring, global warming or climate change I’m not sure which, but I do know my eight-year-old olive tree has borne fruit this year, not enough to ‘do’ anything useful, but if things continue, wowee! for next year. When ready, Giles Herschel from Olives et al, has offered to harvest the fruit and prepare them for eating. So I can hardly wait. This fantastic news is a true sign of brighter days to come. So stay safe and keep smiling Della Jones MBE nNot everyone uses social media so I would like to use the letters page to inform all Shaftesbury Swimmers that there is a movement to lobby the council for the installation of a retractable roof at the Oasis pool so this great facility can be used all the year round. If you are passionate about swimming and willing to support this then please contact Claire Commons, the clerk to the council at townclerk@shaftesburytc.gov.uk. For future communication it would be useful if you could email me too on bathurst08@btinternet.com. Janice Jackson nWith leisure centres closing

Letters across the country, we are very fortunate in Gillingham to have Riversmeet. The management and staff are to be commended for their determination to keep as many activities going as possible. They have made huge efforts to ensure a safe environment is maintained within the necessary restrictions. In zumba, for instance, each of us is confined to a marked-out square, while Spinning and Pump and Tone are carefully distanced. One can even feel safe in swimming, circling in lanes with restricted numbers. All of these changes for our safety have of course reduced the number of people Riversmeet can accommodate; but it continues to be a great service to the community as well as fun and enjoyable. Pippa Shillington Gillingham nIt’s so lovely to have you back in print again. Many of our residents have read the Blackmore Vale Magazine for years and it’s lovely to be able to pick up a pile to bring into work each week. At Abbey View in Sherborne we are planning to support the poppy appeal this year by creating a large display of poppies in a cascade outside of our home. The local businesses supporting our appeal are also displaying a wreath outside of the home and we have set up a Justgiving page. Di and Emma Abbey View nAs someone who assisted Peter Jones with the production of the first editions of the Blackmore Vale Magazine (subsequently sold to Mr and Mrs Chalcraft) I felt I must write and say how pleased I was to see our ‘old friend’ again. I

Seedy characters wish you every success with your new venture, long may you continue. Diana Hine Stalbridge nIt was wonderful to read all the positive news about Sherborne in your last edition. Four new shops, the Sunday markets and plans for Sherborne House! I hope the impending lockdown of most of the country (other than schools and universities which appear to be the main source of the problem) will not dent this progress. I was also pleased to hear that some Sherborne residents funded much needed school dinners during half-term to replace those axed by the Government. One thing that does concern me is that I have heard of

n Readers have been sending in pictures of their unusually shaped fruit and veg – here the latest we’ve received. Wendy Chambers of Witchampton says: “I loved Teddy the Potato and can’t quite match that but one of my peppers, I thought, was rather cute as a seahorse!” Also pictured are Snoopy and Tweety Pie potatoes from Gina Richardson’s allotment. We also received a spud pic so anatomically correct it couldn’t be printed in a family newspaper... Keep ‘em coming! Email your funny fruit and veg pictures to newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

people seeking a covid test being referred to Cardiff or the Isle of Wight. Given that Sherborne has a hospital, GP surgeries, chemists with consultation facilities, etc, I struggle to believe such oneminute swab tests cannot be carried out here, even outside such premises. If it is beyond the wit of man to use existing local medical facilities, perhaps one of the remaining empty shops could be turned into a testing centre. Significantly increased testing, especially on a routine basis of people with no symptoms, and vaccinations are crucial to solving the problem, but local residents need these to be delivered right here in the Vale and not hundreds of miles away. Mike Bignell Sherborne

Corrections and clarifications P25 Tony Bonnell, who died on September 26, was headmaster at Stower Provost Community School in Gillingham, and not Stour Provost school. Heartfelt apologies. P49 In our arts coverage, we stated ‘Taboo has devised a socially distanced play’. Flea the Pandemic was written for Taboo Theatre by playwright Sue Ashby who, together with Tony Benge, co-wrote ‘Rage, Tears & Cider’ and ‘The Miller’s Daughter’ for Taboo. 65

Tumourator mums smash target for cancer charity

A trio of Blandford mums have raised £1,340 for the Brain Tumour Charity after walking 10k around Bryanston School. Tammy Andrews, Caryl Clarke and Michelle MillerBoardwell (AKA The Tumourators) are all living with a meningioma brain tumour and wanted tto raise

money for the charity, which is he largest dedicated funder of research into brain tumours globally. It also supports those living with brain tumours. To donate even more towards their fundraiser go to thetwilightwalk.com/ teams/the-blandfordtumourators-twilight-walk

Church

Grief: You’re not on your own Nothing can throw us off balance like the death of someone important to us. From the very day that we are born, we live in relationships with other people and come to know who we are through those relationships. In fact, we learn very quickly that our very existence depends on others. Our parents name us, care for us, and teach us how to behave. Our siblings and contemporaries help us to learn how to interact with others. We spend a lifetime making friends and defining ourselves through our relationships. But the relationships that have the most impact on us are those with loved ones, and that impact is even more profound when we lose them. I read of one man who after the death of his wife said: ‘I feel like my whole self has been thrown up into the air and is floating down in little 66

pieces. I don’t yet know how the pieces will come back together.’ We might try to avoid our grief because we do not want to be a burden or because we desire to get on with life. However, when we hold back on our grief and prevent ourselves feeling its pain and sadness we may find it is just buried within us, only to resurface. If we refuse to grieve we also refuse to be healed. There will probably be a difference in the way we feel over someone’s death after a long illness as opposed to a sudden one. We will react differently to the death of a child to that of an elderly person. Our feelings of sadness, anger and guilt can become so intense that they scare us. Someone I know who suffered the loss of a very dear friend used to talk about her ‘Black Dog Days’ when it didn’t matter what she did or where she went she just felt totally alone

and morose. Others are afraid if they started crying they would never stop. Yet our emotions are not our enemies. Emotions help us to express the depth of our pain and grief and they also help us to communicate our distress to others and to God. The church helps us realise we are not on our own, especially as bit by bit we are entering lockdown and loneliness again. Jesus himself was not beyond crying for the loss of a friend. His tears over the death of Lazarus can serve as a powerful example for us in our own grief. John tells us in his Gospel that ‘Jesus was greatly disturbed in spirit and deeply moved and began to weep. Jesus wept because he loved Lazarus. He honoured his friend with his grief and tears just as we do. Like us Jesus cared for someone and lost them and also like us he could turn to someone and rant

with the Rev Richard Priest, of Stour Vale Benefice

Vicar in the Vale and rave and swear and shout. He turned to the Father just as we can turn to him. If we are in pain then try expressing that pain to God. Show him we are angry, shout at him, tell him all our troubles. Then just sit and take some deep breaths and listen to what our heart tells us. If we feel that we have failed to tell our loved one just how much they meant to us, then why not write them a letter? It will help us to muster our thoughts and express them in a positive way. Then imagine what your loved one would say in return. As we remember all those who have died we pray for those who are left behind.

Church

£5,000 milestone for St James’ funds A major milestone in the development of St James’ Church Longburton has been marked with the handing over of a cheque for £5,000 by Dorset Historic Churches Trust (DHCT). The congregation at this beautiful Grade 1 listed building needed to increase storage space and to add a toilet to become more convenient for Sunday services and for baptisms, weddings and funerals alike. The inside of the church did not really provide space to achieve this, so in consultation with Historic England an existing store behind the church is being replaced with a completely new building. At the same time access is being improved by upgrading all the church access pathways for disabled use and repairing sections of the boundary wall. The need to lay on new electricity and water supplies, together with new drainage pipes has added to

THANKS A LOT: The Revd Lesley McCreadie receives a cheque for £5,000 from chairman of DHCT John Stokoe, with Alyson Edwards, pictured left

the cost of this project which totals over £77,000. The DHCT’s grant has been an encouraging step towards this total. Alyson Edwards, who has been overseeing the development project, explained that the church needs to be open to all

members of the community and this development will be vital in achieving their goal. “We are planning to re-open our village café in the New Year, she added, “Covid permitting.” The Revd Lesley McCreadie, Team Vicar at Longburton, thanked John Stokoe,

chairman of DHCT, who handed over the cheque. “We are very grateful for this important financial support for our development project,” she said. “Despite this difficult year, we are looking forward with enthusiasm.”

Puzzle solutions Crossword

Sudoku

1 7 4 6 3 5 8 9 2

8 6 3 9 2 7 5 1 4

5 9 2 8 4 1 7 3 6

6 2 5 7 1 9 3 4 8

3 4 9 5 8 2 1 6 7

7 8 1 4 6 3 2 5 9

2 5 6 1 9 8 4 7 3

9 1 8 3 7 4 6 2 5

A S S E M B L E

4 3 7 2 5 6 9 8 1

Brain chain 20

R E S T

G I T R A N G I B S P R E E A S E D U D I T I O T D E A D I N B O P L I T Y S

S A B E P A U S E N R D R V E A L I N G I N T R E G I O N S O R T N B A Y O U M I M E S S U S B N H M L T R O U B L E P O D

Any problems with these puzzles? Email newsdesk@blackmorevale.net Arrow words H Z E R E F R E E C S A N P L E V O L U T T S C R V A A I S L

N M O V A S T Y B A D L A S U R N T E E O S A P P E C I N E E T

L T I E R D N A

Church

PRAISE BE: Holnest Church has received more Than £100,00 for repairs. Below: The Jacobean pulpit and, right, the unusual pews with candles

£100k boost for historic church repairs A village church has received more than £100,000 to repair its historic building. Holnest Church won £74,500 from the National Lottery’s Heritage Fund, plus £10,000 each from the Dorset Historic Churches Trust and the Erskine Muton Trust, £5,000 from the Friends of Holnest Church and an amazing £7,000 from local whist drives. The church’s heritage project Mend & Make Good will preserve the heritage of the Grade 1 listed building and its churchyard, which is a site of nature conservation interest. The church will reopen in March after essential 68

repairs to the chancel roof, church windows and the repointing of the church tower and south westerly walls. Three new interpretation boards will tell the story of the church and churchyard. There will also be a programme of heritage events and activities inside the church and in the churchyard, with workshops and events such as the chance to learn timber preservation and nature conservation. Holnest Church mainly dates from the 14th and 15th centuries and has unusual architectural features

including an original 13th century font, a 1650 stone porch, a Jacobean six-sided pulpit, Georgian box pews and an original medieval barrel-vaulted roof. The churchyard has one of the best examples of wildflower grasslands left in the area, with at least ten plants which are ‘Dorset Notable’ as indicators of grassland of high wildlife value. It is also the site of the former Byzantine style mausoleum built for John Samuel Wanley Sawbridge Erle Drax (1800-1887) now marked by a large inscribed stone. Churchwarden Jenny

Hunnisett said: “We are thrilled to have received this support. Holnest Church is the only public building in a village with no shop, school or public house. It serves as an important hub in this rural environment.” The full cost of the project is £129,324. Unfortunately, due to covid the final push for funds has been hit by the cancellation of events. To donate, contact Jenny Hunnisett on 01963 210562 or jenny7keith@ btinternet.com or the PCC treasurer Ben Lane at ben.lane289@gmail.com. Donations may be eligible for gift aid.

Motors

Wait, watt? – classic cars that you plug in? Imagine climbing into a classic car. It smells like a classic car, it feels like a classic car... but then you go to roarrrrrgh off and burn some serious fossil fuels and... it’s silent. Believe it or not, there’s a restoration specialist in our area who loves to convert old cars from gas-guzzling, throaty steeds into electric motors. Just think – it’s possible to own that vintage motor you always wanted, but without the huge running costs. Add electric to the cheap insurance and zero tax and you’re practically Elon Musk. If you have a graceful classic car gathering dust, it could be time to call in Jack Kerridge of Silent Classics in Compton Abbas. He’s been converting a wide range of classic cars to electric, and with a range of up to 300 miles on a single charge there’s no compromise when it comes to practicality either. One restless night in 2016, engineer come entrepreneur Jack had an epiphany and Silent Classics was born. From working as a trainee engineer at Gilo Industries, Jack couldn’t resist the itch to start up his own business. Jack’s Father, Tim Kerridge has a long established classic car restoration business at The Old Forge in Compton Abbas.

FIAT? BRAVO! Jack Kerridge and Luna, three, with a Fiat 500 and below, the Fiat 126 he uses every day. Photo: Madeline Cardozo

With Tim approaching retirement Jack leapt at the chance to take over the prized workshop. With a passion for

meticulous restoration, Jack and his team convert petrol classics to electric classics. The vehicles not only enjoy lower running costs, but vastly increased performance, says Jack: “You may be surprised at the

transformation,” he says. Silent Classics are still very passionate about restoration and are still very open to taking on restoration projects not just electric conversions. Jack said: “Your car will have its engine and fuel tank removed and replaced with a conversion kit. “State of the art Tesla batteries will be its source of energy, banishing petrol for good. Bespoke restoration is standard – you can also expect an upgrade to the brakes, suspension and more to complement the extra torque put out by the electric motor.” Jack specialises in retaining the beauty of each vehicle, both inside and out. Getting

your car converted can take anything between two weeks to six months depending on the enormity of the job, the age and state of the vehicle. Driving an electric classic car is a very unique experience and one that Jack wants to get more people into The cost of a conversion is not cheap – it can be as much as buying a brand new car. However Jack proomises the results will be spectacular – your classic car will again be a reliable delight to drive and a work of art to look at. “The upside financially is that you will no longer have to pay road tax, insurance will be low and there will be no trips to the petrol station,” says Jack. Silent Classics is at The Old Forge, Compton Abbas, Shaftesbury, SP7 0NQ Call 07719 445703, email Info@silentclassics.co.uk or go to silentclassics.co.uk 69

Motoring

Quality used vehicles from family firm ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE Crews Car Sales in Shaftesbury have been supplying quality vehicles across Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire for over 70 years. Founded by Ronald Crew in 1946 at Stourpaine near Blandford, Ron & his wife Hilda built the foundations of a business that has taken great pride in the service provided to customers. In the late 70s Ron and Hilda’s son Geoff took the reins of the family business. With the help of his wife Laura, they expanded the business with another site on Wimborne road in Blandford, where they became the locals’ favourite vehicle dealer.

Many other businesses arrived in the local area over the next 20 years but eventually faded away, making way for the big unpopular multi-site dealerships that many felt lacked the personal touch of the smaller family firms.

Crews remained strong and continued to serve the local community for many years until 2002, when Geoff decided to leave the premises in Blandford for semiretirement – a housing development was built on the former site.

Geoff’s son and current owner Jason took control of the company and with Geoff’s help, located to a site on the Sunrise Business Park in Blandford, where they continued to offer quality vehicles and exceptional service.

( 01747 854789 / crewscars.co.uk Five Square Motors (Bosch Garage) Salisbury Road (A30) Shaftesbury SP7 8BU

CAR SALES

2013 (63) BMW 1 Series 1.6 116i M Sport Automatic 5dr. 136bhp, 8-speed, bluetooth, lovely M Sport model, parking sensors, climate control, auto lights and wipers, 67,500 miles. £10,450

2017 (67) Honda Jazz 1.3 i-VTEC SE Navi Automatic 5dr. 102bhp, petrol, sat nav, parking sensors, touch screen, auto lights & wipers, auto main beam, cruise control, sign recognition, bluetooth, 13,500 miles. £11,350

2015 (64) BMW 3 Series 330D M Sport 3.0TD Automatic 4dr. 258bhp, diesel, 8 speed, sat nav, leather, park sensors, adaptive suspension, Harman Kardon audio, auto lights and wipers, cruise control, 48,800 miles. £15,750

2006 (06) Jaguar S-Type 3.0V6 SE Automatic 4dr. 240bhp, petrol, sat nav, heated leather seats, electric seats, parking sensors, cruise control, air con & climate control, luxury car at an affordable price, 80,500 miles. £4,950

2017 (17) Fiat 500 1.2 Lounge 3dr. Petrol, cruise control & speed limiter, sun roof, parking sensors, touch screen, bluetooth, great looking car with retro looks, upto 51mpg, 40,800 miles. £6,975 2018 (68) Ford Ka+ 1.2 Active 5dr. 85bhp, petrol, city & technology packs, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, speed limiter, parking sensors, touch screen, bluetooth, Active has raised ride height & exterior styling, only 850 miles. £9,650 2018 (68) Ford Fiesta 1.0 EcoBoost Active X 5dr. 140bhp, petrol, 1/2 leather, heated seats, touch screen, sat nav, park sensors, camera, cruise control, auto lights/wipers/main beam, sign recognition, up to 55mpg, 6,900 miles. £13,975 2017 (17) Ford Fiesta 1.0 EcoBoost Titanium Automatic 5dr. 100bhp, petrol, multi award winning engine, auto lights & wipers, climate, cruise control, bluetooth, up to 65mpg, 33,700 miles. £9,500 2019 (19) Ford Focus 1.0 EcoBoost ST Line X 5dr. 125bhp, petrol, ST styling pack, 1/2 leather, heated seats, touch screen, sat nav, parking sensors, auto lights & wipers, auto main beam, cruise control & speed limter, lane keeping aid, traffic sign recognition, bluetooth, 12,800 miles. £16,500

2015 (65) Peugeot 208 1.2 Allure Automatic 5dr. 110bhp, petrol, parking sensors, touch screen, auto lights & wipers, cruise control and adjustable speed limiter, £20 a year road tax, up to 60mpg, only 13,300 miles. £8,650 2018 (68) Renault Clio 0.9TCe GT-Line 5dr. 89bhp, petrol, sat nav, touch screen, 1/2 leather seats, cruise control & speed limiter, auto lights and wipers, bluetooth, parking sensors, hill start assist, keyless entry system, 14,400 miles. £9,975 2017 (67) Vauxhall Corsa 1.4 SRi 5dr. Petrol, air con, alloys, cruise control, touch screen, automatic lights and wipers, hill start assist, 29,500 miles. £7,950 2012 (12) Vauxhall Corsa 1.4 SE 5dr. 100bhp, petrol, part leather, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, air con, alloys, cd, ipod input, automatic lights and wipers, 32,300 miles. £4,950 2017 (67) Vauxhall Astra 1.6CDTi Elite Nav 5dr. 136bhp, diesel, sat nav, touch screen, heated front & rear seats, heated steering wheel, leather seats, cruise control, auto lights and wipers, 58mpg, 82,500 miles. £8,250

2013 (63) Ford Focus 1.0 EcoBoost Zetec 5dr. 125bhp, petrol, awardwinning engine, more power than most 1.8s, appearance pack, bluetooth, £30 to tax & up to 56mpg, 35,100 miles. £6,750

2012 (12) Vauxhall Astra 1.6 SE 5dr. 115bhp, petrol, very low mileage, partial leather, auto lights and wipers, cruise control, only 26,500 miles. £5,500

2017 (17) Ford Kuga 2.0TDCi Titanium X AWD 4x4 SUV 5dr. 180bhp, diesel, all wheel drive, sat nav, touch screen, heated leather, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, park sensors, camera, sunroof, electric tailgate, 32,100 miles. £15,950

2017 (17) Vauxhall Mokka X 1.4T Active SUV 5dr. 140bhp, petrol, high seating position, large boot, parking sensors, cruise control, automatic lights, touch screen, bluetooth, hill start assist, 42,800 miles. £9,500

Motoring

established 74 years Since 2015 Crews has been operating as a used vehicle sales outlet from the forecourt of Five Square Motors on the A30 Salisbury road in Shaftesbury. The move allowed Jason and his wife Brenda to offer a selection of quality pre-owned vehicles at competitive prices whilst the preparation and aftercare of vehicles for MOT testing, servicing and all aspects of vehicle repairs are carried out on site by the team at the Bosch-accredited site of Five Square Motors. Today the business keeps things personal with just Jason and Brenda organising all aspects of the business, Jason says all customers deserve to be treated fairly and with respect. All vehicles are professionally valeted by Robert Smith and

his team at RTS Valeting, comprehensively checked prior to sale, serviced where appropriate, have a long or new MOT and have a FREE warranty. Warranties can be upgraded to one, two or three years at remarkably low prices, vehicles are supplied with all documentation and at least two keys. Selling up to 30 vehicles each month, Crews are constantly looking for vehicles so if you have one to sell why not give them a call? They do all the paperwork for you, including notifying DVLA of vehicle transfers and reclaiming or taxing vehicles during the buying or selling process. So if you are looking for your next vehicle, give Jason Crew a call on 01747 854789 or view current stock at crewscars.co.uk.

Honest pricing Quality work Exceptional customer service

Motors

Lockdown II motoring: all the rules Lockdown II looks pretty different to Lockdown I for motorists. Here are the basics! You won’t be able to visit a car showroom, as these will be shut. However they can still trade online and offer click and collect services. Garages and MoT station will still be open – so no MoT extensions this time! Learners will sadly have to wait to take their tests, and won’t be able to have lessons during Lockdown II. Even theory tests will be cancelled, forcing new drivers to wait yet again to take their tests. Although you’re allowed this time to drive pretty much anywhere, you’re only supposed to drive for a handful of reasons – travelling to work if you cannot work from home,

shopping for essentials and to drive to outdoor spaces to exercise. Parents can also drive to childcare providers and schools. You can also drive to medical appointments and to help others. If stopped with a person not from your household in your car you could face a fine – similarly, if you’re not using your car for any of the reasons recommended by the government. Drivers should wear gloves while filling up. You’ll have to clean your own car – as car washes, including unmanned ones, will be closed. The government has said that anyone who is unable to work from home are allowed to travel to their work places.

Vale Auto Services

Austin 7 Ruby, Good condition, 07956 000580 Landrover Discovery, TD5, 1999 Diesel, Green, £1,000. Please contact 01747 830484. 4 lightly used tyres and wheels for Ford cmax or similar, Michelin 205/55 R16 91V, 5 bolt wheels £80 01747855306 Pick up truck - Nissan Nivara 2002, king cab pick up, spares and repairs. £850 ono. Please call for information 01963 363969

Ford Fiesta Style 1.2, ideal first car, long MOT, serviced, new waterpump & cambelt kit. £995 07779 979617

John’s Caravans Mobile Caravan Servicing & Repairs

01747 853114

07546 548017

WANTED CAR TRAILERS ALL TYPES CONSIDERED 07736 871092

Vale Auto Services Ltd., Bazeland hill, Shaftesbury Road, Henstridge, Somerset BA8 0TD Tel; 01963 362843 or Mobile; 07734 955524 Email: valeauto@hotmail.co.uk. Deejay’s Prestige Tel; 07767 404900. www.valeautoservices.co.uk.

Our Van Collection’s are the cleanest vehicles in your area, most with full service history and one owner, finance available. Vale Auto Services and Dee Jay’s Prestige growing together Small Van’s 14/14 Fiat Doblo 1.2 Multijet SX , manual , 83,k in Blue at £4,875. + V.A.T 14/14 Fiat Doblo 1.2 Multjet Maxi, manual, 51,k in White at £5,450. + V.AT 14/64 Ford Fiesta 1.6 tdci, manual, 53,k, in Blue at £5,495. + V.A.T 07/57 Ford Transit Connect 1.8 tdci, 156,k in White PX at £2,995. NO V.A.T. 11/61 Ford Transit Connect 1.8 tdci, 56,k in White Arriving Shortly 12/62 Ford Transit Connect 1.8 tdci, 80,k in White at £4,995. + V.A.T. 13/62 Ford Transit Connect 1.8 tdci, 78,k in White at £ 5,295. + V.A.T 13/13 Ford Transit Connect 1.8 tdci, 55,k in White at £ 5,500. + V.A.T. 14/64 Ford Transit Connect 1.6 tdci, 72,k in Blue at £6,995. + V.A.T 14/64 Ford Transit Connect 1.6 tdci, 74,k in Blue at £6,995. + V.A.T

14/64 Ford Transit Connect 1.6 tdci, 59,k in Blue at £7,500. + V.A.T 17/67 Mercedes Citan 1.5 dci , 65,k in White at £6,450. + V.A.T 15/65 Nissan NV200 1.5 dci Acenta, 64,k, in White at £7,500. + V.A.T 14/14 Nissan NV200 1.5 dci Acenta, 41,k, in White Arriving Shortly 14/14 Nissan NV200 1.5 dci Acenta, 40,k, in White Arriving Shortly 14/14 Peugeot Partner 1.6 hdi , S , 48,k in White at £5,500.+ V.A.T 15/64 Peugeot Partner 1.6 hdi , S, L2 ,25,k in White at £6,500.+ V.A.T 15/64 Peugeot Partner 1.6 hdi , S, L2 ,25,k in White at £5,500. + V.A.T 14/64 Peugeot Kangoo 1.5 dci , 42,k in Blue at £5,500.& V.A.T 15/65 Vauxhall Combo 1.6 Cdti , 23,k in White at £6,995. + V.A.T. 17/17 Vauxhall Combo 1.6 Cdti , 35,k in White Arriving Shortly 17/17 Vauxhall Combo 1.6 Cdti , 41,k in White Arriving Shortly

Medium Vans 15/15 Ford Transit Custom 2.2 Cdi Ltd, in Met Blue, 27,k at £15,950 NO V.A.T 16/16 Renault Trafic 1.6 Sport Dci SL27,swb, in Black, 46,k at £11,995 + V.A.T 16/16 Vauxhall Vivaro 1.6 2700, in white, 69,k , s/s at £10,000 + V.A.T 15/65 Vauxhall Vivaro 1.6 2900, in white, 47,k ,at £10,795 NO V.A.T 16/66 Vauxhall Vivaro 1.6 2700, in white, 49,k at £11,000 + V.A.T Large Vans 17/17 Nissan NV400 SE lwb, L3 high roof, 2.3 Dci, Manual, in Silver, 71,k ,Possible motorhome conversion or Day Van, at £11,000 + V.A.T Tipper’s 16/66 Vauxhall Movano L3 H1 2.3 D fwd, in white ,46,k at £12,500 + V.A.T

Viewing by Prior Appointment Only

Sport

Shaftesbury bid for all-weather pitch Shaftesbury FC is planning to install an all-weather pitch in an ambitious cash for car parking deal with the Town Council. In return for the council agreeing to underwrite a loan, and give £100,000 of reserves, the club will convert its car park into 30 parking bays for permit holders. Separately, another 40 bays will be created next door on land leased from Tesco. “The combined 70 bays represents the single biggest step anyone has proposed to fix the parking problem that has dogged our town centre for decades,” said councillor Alex Chase. The club also hailed the project as the biggest deal it has ever done. “It is the way forward,” said club secretary Lewis Disson. Around 300 club members train and play every week in

FEVER PITCH: Shaftesbury FC plans to replace the grass at the club’s Cockrams ground

10 youth teams and five adult teams. “They all want to play on the pitch,” said Disson, but many have to travel as far as Blandford to train. The recent heavy rainfall has taken a heavy toll on pitches, with many fixtures postponed across Dorset, including Shafesbury’s game away to Tadley Calleva. The all-weather, 3G model would mean SFC can

consolidate training and games at its ground. It will also mean no cancelled matches and no need to paint lines, said Disson. “The great thing is that we can also rent it out to anybody who wants to use it. You can play any sport on it.” 3G pitches are top of the range artificial pitches, and the club’s business plan

estimates it will need £450,000. The nearest 3G pitch is at Blandford School. Dorchester Town FC play on an artificial pitch, as do Hamworthy United. The intention now is for the club to apply for a 30-year loan, underwritten by the council. The club pay £16,500 a year to the council, to go into the grants budget.

Matthews at double to clinch away-day joy for Rockies Bashley 2 Shaftesbury 3 Wessex League Premier October 27 Shaftesbury rode their luck to snatch a late winner in a five-goal thriller. The Rockies went into the game on the back of eight straight defeats, the last a 6-1 mauling at home to AFC Stoneham. It was also only their second game in four weeks, in which manager Danny Holmes was busy trying to bring in players. In a goalless first half, the hosts missed two hitters then hit the bar. Rockies’ keeper Paul Woods, who had just recovered from coronavirus, also made a wonderful save. However, Shaftesbury did have one good chance, with Cam

Butler’s shot being cleared off the line. The Bashley pressure continued after the inteval with Rhys McGrath clearing

off his line, his collision with a post later causing him to be subbed. Bashley again hit the bar before Joe Freak came on as

a sub to make his debut for Shaftesbury and quickly had a half-chance that went wide. Bashley went ahead on 68 minutes but things clicked into gear for the Rockies. First Ryan Mitchell, on as a sub for McGrath, headed in from a corner on 75 minutes, then Jordan Matthews was put through on goal by Connor Millar to make it 2-1 seven minutes later. “Totally against the run of play,”moaned the Bashley Twitter feed. The home side went straight down the other end to equalise but with just two minutes left of normal time, Matthews added his second to win the game. “Bashley failed to take any of their chances and paid the price,” said Twitter. 73

Sport

Swans tear strip off Zebras

Four out of five for unbeaten Utd

Swanage Town + Herston 4 Sherborne Town Reserves 1 Dorset Prem League, Oct 31 After a narrow 1-0 defeat to Westland Sports, The Swans were hoping to return to winning ways against highflying Zebras, in fourth place in the table with 12 points from six games. It was goalless at half-time before Swanage took the lead through Paul Best. Sherborne worked hard to equalise but then the game ran away, with further Swan goals from Cam Barnes, Sam Beale and Charlie Brassington. Gillingham Town 6 Wareham Rangers 0 Dorset Prem League, Oct 24 The Gills demolished bottom club Wareham to make it 13 goals from their last three games and cement their promotion place. Benji Bensalem scored twice, with goals for Daniel Hawkins, Tom Jarvis Buddy O’Shea and Elliot Bevis. “Another good performance from the boys today,” said manager Paul Down. The Man of the Match was awarded to to midfielder Ryan Down: “Always

produces the right pass at the right time.” Sturminster Newton Utd 1 Bournemouth Sports 1 Dorset Prem League, Oct 24 New manager Nick Squires took charge for the first time in a home match, and looked for a while as if he might pull off a much-needed win. Stur had taken just one point from the previous nine, and were looking good when Neil Sweatman scored to give them a 1-0 half-time lead. But the visitors hit back after 53 minutes through leading scorer, Jack Voisey. “A share of the spoils on the road but we feel frustrated

not taking all three points,” said Sports’ Twitter feed. Hamworthy Recreation 3 Blandford United 2 Dorset Prem League, Oct 24: abandoned after 60 minutes. Goals from Jack Jones and Archie McCarthy kept The Royals in the game and were pressing for an equaliser when the heavens opened. Said the @BlandfordUtdFC Twitter feed: “Called off with the Royals trailing 3-2, we was looking good too!” Games postponed, Oct 31: Blandford Utd v Merley Cobham Sports Sturminster Newton Utd v Gillingham Town

Tisbury United remain the only unbeaten team in the Dorset Senior League with four wins from five. The draw came in their last game on Oct 24, away to Cranborne First with two goals from Lee Gale, a penalty and tap-in. From 2-0 down, Cranborne came back strongly and Tisbury had defender Joeleon Denyer sent off on 80 minutes. Cranborne equalised with five minutes to go but Tisbury maintained their unbeaten record with a great save from the keeper. Goals from Adrian Beardsmore and Joseph Paterson gave Mere Town a 2-1 victory over Hamworthy Recreation Reserves in their last outing, their fourth win of the season. Stalbridge have lost their last two games to waterlogged pitches but Ryan Garrod remains the league’s leading scorer with nine from four games. Wincanton Town Reserves won 2-1 away at Poole Borough First on Oct 24, their fourth consecutive victory and one that pushed the team into second place.

to the season, see report above. The photo was taken

before a 2-1 victory over Beaminster, with goals

coming from Lee Hale and Joeleon Dyer.

Tisbury Utd look the part on the park Tisbury United have sent a massive ‘thank you’ to Tony Howell of Plumbase, Gillingham, for his and the firm’s generosity in supplying the first team with a new kit this season. “Local clubs like ours can not survive without the help from local businesses,” said a spokesman. Tisbury currently play in the Dorset Senior League and havemade an unbeaten start 74

Sport

Wincanton extend unbeaten run to eight Wincanton Town 2 Corsham Town 2 Toolstation Western League Division One, October 31 Corsham Town arrived looking to defend a 100 per cent start to their season while Wincanton were looking for five straights win and eight undefeated. The game did not disappoint a bumper crowd as the spoils were share in a pulsating encounter, an excellent advert for Western League football. Wincanton scored first on 40 minutes: Williams collected the ball on the edge of the area and rifled home a left foot shot. But three minutes later Wincanton centre back Harry Turner was sent off for a second bookable offence. The second half started much as the first: Wincanton soaking up pressure and trying to hit on the break, which led to a second goal Allen saw his shot beaten away and Cole followed up to fire home. Corsham upped the pressure as legs began to tire on a

THANKS: A collection at Morrisons Wincanton raised £265 to help repair vandalism damage at the town’s football club. Media officer Steven d’Arcy, centre, received the cheque

soggy, heavy pitch and were rewarded on the hour, a free kick headed home unchallenged to make it 2-1. Wincanton had a let off on 69 minutes as chief tormentor Higdon worked some space in the box and shot against the crossbar. Then Baggs’ rasping shot hit the outside of the post. On 78 minutes Corsham's constant pressure paid off that man Higdon fired home from the edge of the box despite protests from Wincanton for a foul. Corsham now looked the most likely to go on and win the game but it was

Wincanton who created two half chances. Sub Louis Irwin shot just wide from distance and Williams fired into the keeper’s arms when well placed. So the game ended 2-2, an

action packed, fully committed contest from both sides which ultimately was a fair result: Corsham's 100 percent season was ended but Wincanton extend their unbeaten run to eight. Chris Martin

Sherborne also on the rise The Zebras’ FA Vase clash away to Millbrook was called off last Saturday, with Sherborne keen to be in action after two successive wins in the league. Josh

Williams scored twice in a 5-1 thrashing of Cheddar on Oct 21, then came from behind to win 3-1 at Bishops Lydeard, on Oct 24 with two goals from Luke White.

Wincanton striker voted fans’ Player of the Month New signing Cameron Allen has had an immediate impact at Wincanton FC, winning a fans poll in his first month. Supporters of the Toolstation Western League voted him their Player of the Month for October in Division 1. He won 32% of 520 votes in a poll against other

nominated players from Warminster, Bristol Telephones and Hengrove. The forward, aged 21, made his debut as a sub last month against Devizes - and scored two goals within 10 minutes of coming on! Another goal and two assists came in his next two games, not bad going.

Wincanton FC was also nominated for Team of the Month, having won four, drawn one and lost none in October, scoring 11 and conceding just four. The Town were pipped by Bristol Telephones but a club spokesman was positive: “It has been confirmed that we have got

an enforced break now. We go into lockdown in great form, eight unbeaten and with our average crowds up by more than 90% on last year. Thank you very much to everyone who has come to support us home and away and we hope to see you in a few short weeks!” 75

Sport

Last putt win for Ashley Heath GOLF Due to covid-19 restrictions the final of the 2019 Stokes Salver Invitation competition run by Yeovil Golf Club was delayed until this autumn but that did nothing to lessen the tension as Ashley Wood beat Knighton Heath with the last putt on the last green of the last singles match. The match, played in great spirits, was a fitting finale to what is usually an annual competition in memory of Roger Stokes, the well-loved former Captain, Chairman and President of YGC. The clubs invited to take part this year were Ashley Wood, Barton-on-Sea, Came Down, Enmore Park, Knighton Heath, Lyme Regis, Rushmore, Sherborne, Wareham and Weymouth. Previous winners Knighton Heath had beaten three teams to reach the final, played out over the Old Course at Yeovil Golf Club. Ashley Wood, twice beaten finalists, started with a bye in the first round which left them facing Sherborne Golf Club, strong favourites to take the salver. A victory over Lyme Regis then provided them with another chance to win the

HI HO SALVER: The Ashley team with Yeovil captain Keith Funnell

sought-after Stokes Salver. Each round is played over 36 holes with a morning round of four foursomes followed by eight singles. The final was all square after the foursomes and seven of the single matches. It was still all square when the final match reached the last green, but to the delight of the Ashley Wood team their last man sank his putt to win. Yeovil’s Captain Keith Funnell made the presentation to winning captain Michael CollingsCarter. In doing so he was complemented by both teams for the way in which the Club had managed to finalise

the competition within current guidelines, as well as the good condition in which the Old Course had been prepared by the green staff. WINCANTON GOLF CLUB October results Seniors monthly Stableford 1 Philip Welch 38 2 John Westaway 37 3 Harry Eden Champion of Champions 1 Ross Chandler nett 72 ocb 2 Nicholas Weeks 72 3 Joe Atkins 72 Monthly Medal 1 Mike Bullen nett 67 2 Chris Chapman nett 70 ocb 3 Pete Anyan nett 70

Try on screen zumba during the lockdown Virtual zumba classes are being made available to get Dorset residents moving during lockdown. Teacher Abby Down said: “Attending a fitness class even from your living room – is not just good for physical health but also extremely important for our wellbeing and mental health too. “It is also something to look forward to in the week, knowing that you have somewhere to be and where you are expected. It really can make a positive impact on our lockdown worries.” Abby is holding morning, evening and weekend classes to appeal to all age groups and abilities. A number of pre-recorded classes are also available if the livestream timetable clashes with work or family commitments. If you fancy a go but are unsure whether it is for you, Abby is offering a free trial class. Call 07901 597129, instagram.com/absdown. Web: zumba.com/ en-US/profile/abbydown/1437523

Gillingham hockey season off to a flier Gillingham Ladies 1st XI began the league campaign against Royal Wootton Bassett and it wasn’t long before Emily Lewis scored for the home team. Sophie Wollard made it two with a deft little flick past the keeper. RWB were always in the game but Laurn Burch in the GHC goal kept them at bay. The final goal came from Michelle Burt with a lovely move: 3-0. The Ladies Seconds travelled to Cheddar without a keeper and lost 6-0 but the result would have been different with a full complement. The Ladies 76

3rds had an early start in Bridgewater but the team performed well in a 5-0 win with Kerry Reynolds dominant in midfield. Goals from Alex Edwards, Beth Judd, Poppy Miller and Thea Primrose (2). The Mens Firsts travelled to Salisbury and lost 4-0, not a true reflection of the game. The Mens Seconds played table topping Aldershot & Farnham Thirds and found out why their opponents top the table, going 2-0 down in 15 minutes. The home team got into the game with a Tom Frampton reverse stick shot, and came close but lost 2-1.

n Last weekend the Ladies Firsts played Marlborough. The game started when a Liz Basson reverse stick tomahawk screamed into the net. Lewis scored twice, Anne Spicer once in a well deserved 4-1 win. The Ladies Seconds came up against a well drilled Mid-Somerset team and came off second best. The Thirds beat Yeovil and Sherborne Fouths 5-1 win to stay top of the league. The Men’s Firsts played Havant Thirds, and a 5-2 win was a great result. The Mens Seconds had a trip to Yateley Seconds for a well earned 1-1 draw.

Sport

Sport lockdown hits the Vale CYCLING Steven d’Arcy, chairman of Wincanton Wheelers We are still awaiting the official guidance from British Cycling as we are an affiliated club. However, should we have the same as before where you can only ride with one person it is going to stop all club activity. Currently we have been allowed to ride in groups of six and so we have being organising club rides according to the rules. Both have not been ideal as we are a club that embraces all kinds of cyclists and so the social and group element is important to us. We are finding some members have not been out much on their bikes since March and this is a shame as the health benefits (both physical and mental) are huge. We have been encouraging new riders to join us for club rides with the current rules adhered too, but our recruitment push will also be on hold again. SWIMMING Alex Wynter, chair North Dorset Turbos Swimming Club We are 100% based at Riversmeet in Gillingham so we have no option other than to stop swiming. Swim England is trying to persuade the government not to close the swimming pools in leisure centres. They can close the gyms in the centres but you are probably safer in a pool than anywhere else because of the chlorine. But if it’s only a month’s closure, it’s not too serious. FOOTBALL Liam Searle, spokesman Gillingham Town FC I think we have a fear of another season which is

OFF THE ROAD: Wincanton Wheelers: “It will stop all club actitivity.” Below: North Dorset Turbos Swimming Club

going to be missed as it's now going to be a squeeze to get all the games played. Obviously this effects us as a club as we have goals and ambitions this season which are now up in the air. It's frustrating, and the boys just want to get on the pitch and show what they've got. We've had a decent start and that momentum is going to be halted. We, however completely agree that it's in the best interest of everyone involved and the one thing is that we are all in this together as a collective society of grassroots football clubs. HOCKEY Stephen Way, Gillingham Hockey Club With the Government saying a national lockdown is to start we are unsure if grass

roots hockey will take place, fingers crossed it will be. GOLF Driving ranges and golf courses have been told to close, affecting seven clubs in North Dorset and South Somerset. England Golf says it will "respectfully challenge the government's rationale" over the decision. TENNIS Angela Phipps, membership secretary, Shaftesbury Community Tennis Club We are waiting to hear from the Lawn Tennis Association but our thinking is that single matches will be allowed but no groups or club mornings. There won’t be any league matches as all games are doubles but the winter league lasts until March 30, so we will be able to reschedule.

North Dorset Touch Rugby kicks off North Dorset Touch Rugby kicked off with the mixed youth game: ND Green v ND Multicolours. Players from u13s to u16s, both boys and girls, took part. Many senior players watched and scouted the future of North Dorset rugby. After the youth’s game and a massive round of applause, the senior section got down to play. Saxons lost to Romans 3-2 and Celts roared to a 4-0 lead before the Normans started to claw their way back. Time was not on the Normans side and Celts ran out 4-2 winners. In the next round of matches Celts found their stride and dismantled the Saxons 13-5. In the other game with a minute left Jonathan Hooper scored what looked to be the winning try for the Normans which put them 4-3 up. However, Sean Perry had other ideas, seconds after the restart he gathered his own kick and scored a fine try. The Romans were not satisfied with a draw and from the restart a loose kick was expertly counter attacked by Gavin Weeks who scored the winning try in the dying seconds. Jubilation for the Romans winning 5-4. The games are fortnightly: the second round is tonight (Fri). Top Try Scorers 3: Jonathan Hooper, Daniel Brickell, Sam Vincent, Danny Hill. 2: Sean Perry, Emily Wraith, Mike Green, Sofia Mazzone, Barry Taylor, Daniel Lock, Sam Baker, Robert Sampson. n If you are interested in playing rugby for North Dorset Rugby Club please visit www.ndrfc.co.uk/rugby for more information 77

Equestrian

Dressage rider enjoys new pastures By Jade Leahy Dressage rider Yasmin Dadkahar and her fiancé farrier Sam Wilkes are enjoying a change of rein – running an award-winning glamping site. The pair offer the chance to be at one with nature in luxurious accommodation that won a hattrick of Visit England awards last year. Their glamping site, Loose Small bale hay & small bale wheat straw. Collect or delivered. 07980147019 01747870360

Reins in Shillingstone, is tucked away in a coombe, with a backdrop slightly reminiscent of Canada. There are three ranch-style cabins that sleep four, with kitchen, bathroom and log burner, and log burner, and three luxury canvas lodges that sleep six. Guests have a chance to experience farm life and children join in The Buckaroo Club, caring for resident sheep and chickens. Competitive rider Yasmin began her career in saddle with The Pony Club before a

Dorset Showground What’s on... Sun 8th Nov Eventers Challenge

Sat 21st Nov Unaffiliated Dressage

Sun 15th Nov Clear Round Arena Event Jumping Sat 21st Nov Show Jumping Sun 15th Nov Improvement Lesson Assisted Gridwork with Charlotte Williams with level 2 UKCC Coach Sat 14th Nov Arena Eventing Clinic with Sam Griffiths

Sat 22nd Nov SWW Pony Club Show Jumping Sat 29th Nov BS Senior & Unaffiliated Show Jumping Sun 6th Dec Arena Eventing

Show Jump & Arena Eventing Course Hire www.dorsetshowground.co.uk for info, entries & Covid protocols Tel: 01747 83888838 888

degree in psychology. Through joining a stallion station in Germany, as a show jumper and flat work rider, she soon discovered working with high calibre dressage horses more than equalled the buzz of a jump off. Yasmin has a track record of bringing on high quality horses, having trained her horse Dragunov to Grand Prix level. Her horse NikNak

was intermediate and came third at the nationals in the Bronze section aged 23. Her focus now is on DS Foenix, her aspiring international dressage horse, who boasts multiple Grand Prix bloodlines, that she hopes to compete when she is rising 10. Not content with bringing on high quality horses for the competition market, Yasmin intends to shape bloodlines of the future with her Hanoverian colt Don Weltraum standing at stud next year. We are also likely to see Yasmin producing a dressage star with embryos from Don Foenix next year. Yasmin and Sam also plan to develop an equine rehabilitation centre at Loose Reins, with veterinary and farriery clinics.

Top tips for keeping horses By Gibbs Marsh Equine A small independent equine practice based just outside Stalbridge Here are our top tips to support your horses general health and immune system at this time of year. Vaccinations – influenza and tetanus vaccines are important to support the immune system and avoid unwanted challenges. The influenza vaccination

schedule starts with two injections around a month apart, followed by a booster six months after that. Some competitions require six-monthly vaccinations and your vet can advise on this. It is just as important to vaccinate horses who live alone and companions. Tetanus is often a life threatening and is easy to protect against.

Equestrian Lockdown rules for horse owners

STABLE RELATIONSHIP: Andrea with Archie

Surprise gold made me so proud Every year British Breeding hold their Futurity headings, where a panel of international judges assess breeding stock in the UK. They are looking for potential competition animals, suitable for dressage, showjumping, eventing or endurance. The horses and ponies are examined head to toe, and given points for veterinary, conformation, and movement. There are 50 different aspects that are scored, and owners are given really detailed feedback. We are very small breeders, one or two a year, and would never have thought to enter anything, as all the big studs enter their beautiful stock.

By Andrea Nicholson of Larkhaven Stud, Caundle Marsh

Because of covid, the evaluations had to be done via video this year. With most of the shows cancelled, I decided it would be fun to teach my yearling colt Archie all the things he would need to do if he were to be entered. Arche is very special to us as his dam, Lannibob, was given to us when his breeder, Babette Cole passed away. She proved to be a wonderful mum, and her boy is as fabulous as she is! Having made the two videos, just for fun, I decided to enter them.

I cannot begin to tell you how I felt when I received an email to say Archie had been awarded a Gold premium, and was also the highest placed yearling Sport Pony! As a breeder I strongly believe it is my responsibility to do all I can to secure a future for the ponies I breed. With this behind him, Archie has made a good start. The process ended with a fun Webinar hosted by Dr. Eva Maria Broomer. It was lovely to hear other breeders talking about their horses and to realise that whether you breed one pony or a yard of dressage horses, we all have the same pride in our youngsters.

Stables and riding centres will once again be closed for leisure but what does that mean for you? Can I leave my house to look after my horse? Clearly, the welfare of your horse is critical and if you are the sole carer, then yes. If your horse is kept in livery then you must respect the guidelines put in place by the yard owner or manager. You must respect social distancing and wash your hands regularly. Avoid using shared tools. If this is unavoidable then wear gloves and disinfect your hands before and after use. If your horse is on full livery, visits must be essential. What should I do if I have to self-isolate? You must have an emergency care plan as you should not be leaving your home under any circumstance. Can I go for a ride? Guidelines allow people to exercise however, there are no specific guidelines for horse riding. The BHS is asking riders to consider the pressure on emergency services. It is advised not take part in high risk activities, such as jumping or ride a particularly young, green or spooky horse.

well this winter â&#x20AC;&#x201C; here is our equine MoT checklist! Teeth: Regular dental examinations and rasps are vital. Good teeth mean good mastication, good absorption and less risk of complications such as choke or colic. Worming: A worming programme is essential. Worm egg counts during the year will help identify the right wormer. Tapeworm and encysted red worms do not show up on routine egg counts, and can cause

internal damage or be fatal. Encysted red worms should be treated with Moxidectin and tape worms with Praziquantel. Environmental management: Clean, dry and dust-free bedding is necessary, particularly if they have airway disease. Rugs should be waterproof and well fitting, correct weight can help older horses or those who struggle to

maintain weight. Beware of over-rugging. Check rugs daily to check for any rubs. Nutrition: Feed good quality feed and hay or haylage. Adding corn oil (50mls for a 500kg horse) to feed twice daily can help with ulcers, coat and skin health. Rapeseed oil offers extra calories for weight and condition. Adding salt or electrolytes helps hydration. Ensure there is always access

to clean water. A top tip, in very cold weather, add a kettle of warm water to make coled water tepid and more palatable to drink. When issues arise contact your vet. Treating minor issues such as mud fever, rain scald, conjunctivitis etc. quickly will prevent escalation and protect the immune system If you wash legs, give them time to dry or manually dry them. 79

Field & Stream

We’re surrounded by wildlife wonder The Blackmore Vale and areas on its periphery offers outstanding scenery and havens for wildlife all with easy travelling distance and is a dream for naturalists. To the east is the New Forest with its mighty oaks, which affords sanctuary in the busy south of England to roe, sika, muntjac, fallow and the mighty red deer which I consider king of the UK’s mammals. Ober Heath being the generations old location for October’s rutting grounds for the red deer stags. Watching two stags viciously clashing antlers in dawn light for the right to mate has to be one of the wildlife events of the year. Heading south is the rolling chalk downlands of Cranborne Chase roamed by my favourite animal, the hare. The earth pocket marked by ancient man’s and Roman earthworks looked

PLAIN TO SEE: A Great Bustard on Salisbury Plain and, inset, David Bailey’s latest book Wildlife Wanderings

down upon by the red kite soaring in the skies, a recent newcomer to the area not seen here just 20 years ago. Many of the Chase’s great land-owning estates now actively protects wildlife, replanting trees and hedgerows to entice and regenerate wildlife onto their vast tracts of land. Sandwiched between the chase and sea are the great

heaths of Dorset, famous for rare reptiles such as the smooth snake and sand lizards. Bordering the heaths to the east is Poole Harbour where during the summer months ospreys are seen due to a reintroduction program. Flowing through the heart of the Vale is the mighty River Stour, classed as life blood to the area, as all life requires water, here river life

abounds, otters, kingfishers, the list is long. How long will it be before the beaver is reintroduced? The Somerset Levels can be found to the northwest, well known and loved by the bird twitchers of this world with the spectacular starling murmurations and home to the successful introduction of the crane. Heading east once again to complete a full 360 degrees we stumble on to Salisbury Plain, home of the British Army, affording a discreet and safe location for the highly successful Great Bustard project. You can book a hide in advance with the project, to be driven on to the otherwise off-limits MoD land, with the months of April/May affording the best time of year to witness their lek (display) season. DAVID BAILEY

Hedge laying to curb flock’s wanderlust THE FIELD with Tria Stebbing With the sheep happily grazing it is time to turn our attention to the security and maintenance side of the field. We plan to keep the ewes on autumn grazing in the next village as long as there is good grass. This gives us time to look carefully at the hedges in our own field. How boring… but it’s nice work in the wintery sun, and far better to have it sorted before they come back. Him indoors, or in our world “Him outdoors”, has been working hard laying the hedges on our boundary. Hedgelaying is a craft that has been practiced for hundreds of years. It allows the hedge to slowly increase in size and keep healthy as well as providing a stock barrier and 80

dense habitat for wildlife. If you see a hedge that looks as though it has been plaited or woven at the bottom rather than harshly cut across the top, the chances are that it has been laid. When you lay a hedge, you bend or partially cut through the shrubbery and arch the stems without breaking them so they can be intertwined, forming a dense base from which shoots will form future height. Pleaching is the term used to describe the partial cut stem, which is laid over, sap will continue to rise through this small piece and will force the plant to regenerate, and shoot new life from its base. Its nature’s own mindfulness, to sit in the sun, pleaching and weaving the “Liggers” knowing that you are making a hedge secure, thick and a haven for nature. In different parts of the country there are even different

styles of laying. This is not to be confused with the huge machinery currently flailing the hedgerows next to the roads. These can only be cut back at certain times of the year – it is not allowed between March and August to protect nesting birds. It looks barbaric at times but needed to maintain light and to prevent the hedges from growing out too far into the fields or roadside. It is not practical for a farmer to sit

basking in the sun laying his hedge, hence those big tractors crawling along with their huge arms spread out – usually when you are in a hurry! A quick word of warning: if you are out walking don’t step on the freshly cut hawthorn. A good friend did this recently, we had to cut her welly boot off to release the thorn from the bottom of her foot, it was a painful experience. The stock fence will need tensioning, one of the lambs had a fascination for putting her head through it last spring, the grass always being greener no matter if it is on the other side of a fence. The field will be safer for this essential maintenance and when I am walking the perimeter in the dark and mud next spring trying to put the sheep to bed I will at least be confident that they can’t escape….I hope!

Field & Stream

Amazing autumnal almanac

The clocks have gone back, the nights are drawing in and photographer Paul Dibben has captured the glorious autumunal and reflections around Sherborne castle

Field & Stream

Farming Sale raises cash for charity

Mark Northcott, head of onsite sales at Symonds & Sampson, was delighted to hand over a cheque for £3,595 to James and Julie of Future Roots Charity at Holnest following another very successful auction at Rylands Farm. He said: “Despite the horrendous weather we had a marvellous attendance and a keen trade. This sale of vintage & classic tractors, farm machinery, collectables and bygones is building a good following and

becoming an annual fixture and we look forward to doing it again next year!” Symonds & Sampson auction livestock, equipment, fodder and standing crops in the south of England, conducting sales for retirement, closure, insolvency and dispersal. CONCRETE RAILWAY SLEEPERS For cow tracks/retaining walls. Contact Ricky or Robert at Liquiline Ltd, 01258 830324

Guns wanted for cash

Air rifles and air pistols, any make or model and condition, we collect in any area 07970 742471

Chilly fish took some persuading! ANGLING Dorchester and District Angling Society joined BLESMA, British Limbless Ex-servicemen Association, to host a fishing match at Revels fishery. Five anglers turned out for what would be a rather gruelling day. The lakes looked beautiful in the golden sunshine but, there was a stiff breeze and the first real frost of the year the night before was not going to help. But the guys were not going let the blustery wind dampen their spirits. Grant Harvey, a carp angler from Devon, was given peg 2, Terry Brooks from Bedfordshire peg 8, last year’s winner Andy Derry from Wiltshire peg 11, the club’s 82

Colin, left, and Roger, right

Roger Fullbrook on 21 and Colin Wilson from Hampshire on 22. Most of these pegs had some kind of form so optimism was high for a good day. During the early hours it became clear a bit of a struggle was on the cards. Coaches were trying their best to find ways to coax the fish into being hungry, but the cold snap had made the fish wary and, although there were

signs of fish moving here and there, none seemed interested. Andy had snared a couple of carp by midday and there was the odd silverfish. But there was a lot of head scratching and shrugging of shoulders. As the match was coming into its final hour however, things started to happen for some and Roger hit a purple patch with the help and wise whisperings of

Terry Dell. Roger took the day and the prize for the biggest fish of the day. Weighing a modest 13lbs 8ozs, including a carp of 4lb 12oz. Andy Derry came second and Colin Wilson was third. Despite the weights being low everyone seemed to enjoy themselves and there was some hilarious, first class banter. Some of these amazing guys have had and continue to have some real issues in their lives, and not all of them are physical. One cannot help but be inspired by them. Event organiser Roger Fullbrook, would like to thank all those who gave their free time to help out, especially Jason Fricker for hosting. For more information about BLESMA, go to blesma.org

Farming G R E E N S L A D E TAY L O R H U N T Forthcoming Dairy Sales Telephone: 01278 410250. Email: SEDGEMOOR AUCTION CENTRE NORTH PETHERTON, SOMERSET, TA6 6DF (M5, J24) Tuesday 10th November at 10.30am with the Heifer Calves The November Collective Dairy Sale of 305 DAIRY CATTLE n 87 Freshly Calved Cows & Heifers from Beneknowle, Bettiscombe (x14) Birchwood (x18 Dispersal) Clevian, Dinnaton, Dorset (x11) Hinton, Huntlodge, Lilylane, Peacehay & Rotherfield Farms LLP (x12, Crossbreds) n 16 Incalf Cows from Rotherfield Farms LLP (Crossbreds) n 37 Incalf Heifers from Dayhouse, PT & JC Hinds (Pedigree), Rotherfield Farms LLP (Crossbreds) & J & J Waldron n 3 Holstein Bulls from Beneknowle & Woodstone n 8 Bulling Heifers from Greathill & Mr D Thorner n 40 Yearling Heifers from Sutton Hall Farms n 52 Heifers Calves from Hinton, Pensdown, Thakeham & Mr D Thorner To Include The Dispersal Sale of 62 HOLSTEIN AND FRIESIAN DAIRY COWS AND HEIFERS Comp: 47 Dairy Cows & Heifers Inmilk &/or Incalf; 12 Incalf Heifers & 3 Maiden Heifers n NMR HERD AV: 8039 KGS. 4.11%BF; 3.34%P; SCC=127 n HERRINGBONE Parlour; CUBICLE Housed n CLOSED HERD for 13 years For GDW Isaac & Son (Removed from Beer Farm, Broadhembury, Honiton, Devon) The large selection of high yielding milkers and dispersal sale cattle (including Pedigree, Commercial and Crossbred) coupled with all types of dairy youngstock makes this one of our most comprehensive sales to date just when dispersals are starting to slow down across the country. Please note that Social Distancing will be in place and we ask that only one purchaser per farming business attend. Online Bidding Available on Marteye. NOVEMBER: Thurs 19th SEDGEMOOR AUCTION CENTRE. Dispersal Sale of milking and incalf heifer portion of the 9,160 kgs CIS recorded dairy herd being 200 Holstein Friesians for MB & LC Haskell (Removed from Beaulieu Wood Farm, Dorchester, Dorset for convenience of sale).

Sedgemoor Auction Centre North Petherton, Somerset, TA6 6DF (M5, Junction 24) Telephone: 01278 410278 TOTAL STOCK FOR THE WEEK 7143 Stock from across the West Country, sold to buyers from throughout the Nation Returns for Saturday 31st October 2020 DAIRY CATTLE (73) Heifers to £2080. Others £2020. Cows to £1840. Others £1720. (1184) STORE CATTLE & STIRKS - FORWARD STORES (933) Steers to £1365 (FLE). Others £1300 (AA) £1295 (LIMX) & £1270 (LIMX). Heifers to £1265 (CHX). Others £1235 (CHX) £1200 (LIMX) £1155 (LIMX) & £1150 (HEX). GRAZING COWS (2) to £615 (LIMX). Others £580 (LIMX). SUCKLERS (4) Cows & Calves to £850 (4x). STIRKS (247) Steers to £880 (LIMX). Others £870 (3x LIMX & BRBX) £855 (BRBX) & £835 (LIMX). Heifers to £818 (LIMX). Others £720 (BRBX) & £700 (AA). CALVES (408) - Beef Bulls to £400 (CH). Others £398 (BRBX) £390 (BRBX) & £388 (BRBX). Heifers to £300 (2x BRBX & CHX). Others £285 (CHX) £278 (BRBX) & £275 (LIMX). Black & Whites to £182. Others £165. (4675) SHEEP Store Lambs (2720) to £100. Others £99, £96 & £95. Overall Ave £74.88. Cull Ewes & Rams (1197) Ewes to £137. Others £133. Rams to £166.

Others £96. Overall Ave £67.10. BREEDING EWES (204) to £143 (2x). FRIDAY 30TH BREEDING EWE SALE (459) to £122. GOATS (11) to £187. Overall ave £92.64. RAMS (12) to £225 (2x). Others £136. FRIDAY 30TH STOCK RAM SALE (72) to £610 for a powerful shearling. Others £470.

The West Country’s Gateway to National Abattoirs Returns for Monday 2nd November 2020 PRIME CATTLE (93) Steers UTM av 187.4ppk to 213.5ppk & £1,327.28. Others 209.5ppk, 209.0ppk, 208.0ppk & 206.5ppk. Others £1,293.63, £1,287.00, £1,283.12, £1,280.30 & £1,261.77. Heifers UTM av 180.7ppk to 214.5ppk (2x) and £1,310.50. Others 204.5ppk, 204.0ppk, 199.0ppk (2x) & 197.0ppk. Others £1,233.42, £1,205.05, £1,201.20, £1,168.50 & £1,138.32. BARREN COWS (56) Continental av 118.5ppk to 119.5ppk and £808.40. Others 117.5ppk. Native Beef av 103.6ppk to 126.5ppk and £906.75. Others 124.5ppk & 118.5ppk. Others £882.97 & £861.77. Dairy av 97.8ppk to 113.5ppk and £966.89. Others 112.5ppk & 109.5ppk. Others £945.73 & £914.63. FINISHED SHEEP (654) Lamb ave 202.94ppk to 231.0ppk and £115.00. Others 230.0ppk, 220.0ppk & 219.0ppk. Others £113.00, £108.00 (5x) & £106.50.

Forthcoming Special Sales For full rules on market attendance and up to date sales list please refer to our website and/or Saturday market report. NOVEMBER: Sat 7th Monthly Catalogued Sale of Organic Store Stock 10am Ring 2: Saturday 7th November Monthly Catalogued Sale of 125 Suckler Cows, Calves, Heifers & Bulls Approx 12.30pm Ring 1 Entries to date include:n The dispersal sale of 50 Incalf Suckler Cows (Sim, Ch, Lim, He & AAx) all pd’d to calf Feb onwards to Ped Charolais bull for NB Needham & Sons, Old Henley Farm, Dorchester (changing farming policy). n 3 Bulls – Ch, He & Lim n 42 Continental Cows & Calves – 6 Ped Lim cows & calves n 14 Native Cows & Calves n 58 Incalf Cows & Hfrs – 1 Ped Lim & 1 Ped He For further information contact Meg on 01278 410278 Fortnightly Sale of Pigs 11am Sat 7th Sat 14th ***CANCELLED*** Collective Catalogued Sale of Purebred Poultry **CANCELLED*** ***CANCELLED*** Monthly General Sale of Thurs 19th Antiques and Furniture ***CANCELLED*** Sat 21st Fodder Sale 1pm Orange Market Dedicated Sale for bTB Wed 25th Restricted Cattle. Store Cattle – 15 Months & Over, Prime Cattle & Barren Cows.Stock to be booked in with the market office by 18th November. Licences to be obtained from Truro Trading Standards on 03000 200301 or Sale commences 4.30pm Fri 27th Monthly Seasonal Catalogued Sale of Breeding Ewes & Ewe Lambs 3pm Sat 28th Monthly Sale of Native Store Cattle 10am Ring 2

Forthcoming Fodder Sale NOVEMBER: Sat 21st SEDGEMOOR AUCTION CENTRE. The Collective Fodder Auction of Hay, Silage and Straw. Entries to be in by Monday 9th November 2020.

Farming

Dreary days and blustery days when that does its own thing; it can offer us brilliant blue skies as the sun rises, to leave a hoar frost across the Dull November brings landscape, or it can blow the very last leaves out of the the blast, then the trees and turn umbrellas leaves go whirling inside out. Winnie The past.... November is a month Pooh’s Blustery Day. The stunning autumn colours are still visible but the leaves are falling with the same regularity as the chiming of the church clock, We provide a friendly, local service at competitive prices. Based at the ticking time that moves Redlynch near Bruton, we supply Car, Commercial, Agricultural, Plant & 4x4 the days inexorably towards tyres and offer a 24hr breakdown service. We won’t be beaten on price. the close of the year. Call us on In open scrub a myriad of 01749 813957 or spider webs are strung 07971 012628 or find us at across shrubs and tall

Country Diary with AJ Selby

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 To book an appointment please call us on 01747 852377

TYRES AROUND LTD

Mobile Service Agricultural Specialist Over 35 year’s Experience NIGEL MARTIN 07921 929891

www.southwestyreservices.co.uk

grasses, each thread glistening with moisture in the weakening sunshine. This month also brings its share of dreary days, when the sun fails to smile at us and the sky is as grey and still as the heron on the lake. The poet Thomas Hood captured these melancholy days in verse: No sun – no moon! No morn – no noon – No dawn – no dusk – no proper time of day. No warmth, no cheerfulness, no healthful ease, No comfortable feel in any member –

Dangers of acorns and sky lanterns By Alice Miller of Friars Moor vets As a farm vet, I get to admire the beautiful golden and red colours of the many hedgerows I pass. Whilst it is lovely to take in the autumnal scenes it also reminds me of some of the hidden dangers, we may face on farms this time of year. We are lucky to see so many ancient oak trees in our fields and meadows, however, their abundant acorns are a real risk to ruminant animals. Ruminants include cows, sheep, goats and deer. They are herbivorous animals who have four stomach compartments, the rumen, reticulum, omasum and abomasum. Food such as grass and hay pass through each chamber to get digested. Acorns contain tannins, and when digested in the rumen produce acids that are highly toxic. These acids can cause ulcers in the gut which leads to colic and diarrhoea, but they also cause damage to the kidneys. The functioning 84

kidneys remove other toxins from the blood into the urine, but with acorn poisoning this function is impeded which leads to further toxin build up, blood poisoning and eventual death. It is best to graze them away from oak trees at this time of year as they may be tempted to find these alternative food sources. If acorn poisoning is suspected, offer fresh water and hay, and call your vet. Another problem many

farmers encounter this time of year are sky lanterns. They can have a disastrous impact for animals and the environment. We have had to operate on cows to remove these wires from their stomachs, after they have ingested them, but sadly, often the damage is irreversible causing trauma and infection to vital organs before anything

can be done. On some farms the problem is so bad that farmers have to routinely administer magnetic boluses to their cows. The magnet sits in the rumen and any ingested metal then sticks to it rather than passing through the digestive tract. Pleasingly many councils across the UK have already banned the use of sky-lanterns.

Independent veterinary services for livestock in Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire Collection points for livestock medicines and supplies at Sherborne, Sturminster Newton, Blandford and Shaftesbury Please call the office on 01258 472314

www.friarsmoorvets.co.uk

Farming

November blows in No shade, no shine, no butterflies, no bees, No fruits, no flowers, no leaves, no birds – November! Walking into the old wood on one of those still, dull afternoons, the silence is almost deafening. Not a sound comes from the trees so the other senses are enhanced; the smell of the decaying leaf mould and the sight of small

CLASSIFIEDS 3 ton tipping trailer, good condition, £800, call 07816 536788. Young friendly flock 23 CharollaisX breeding ewes running with Charollais ram from 27.09.20. FABL. HeptovacP. Blandford 01258 860107. Pedigree black non-short Dexter cow with 16mth dun steer calf at foot. Kings Stag 01258817988 Caravan removal service, old unwanted caravans, cars, vans etc. Metal, yard, garden, garage removal clearances undertaken. Please call 01935 873169 WANTED – yard or area of land to rent in Dorset. With or without a covered area, please contact Tony on 07415198735. WANTED Sheep Grazing, Tisbury/Shaftesbury area. Anything considered, suitable for 20-200 ewes, Can electric fence if necessary - 07968 049218 Muscovy Ducks, Ready for new Homes, call 01963 362 936

details that are missed at other times of year. The wren busying herself in the undergrowth, the contrasting greens of moss and lichens on tree bark, the bracket fungi jutting out of tall trunks, and the activity of small insects in rotten branches, scattered about like so much driftwood. As dusk falls, the light fades fast in the forest and as you are enveloped by the blackness so the sounds start again. The call of an owl, the barely audible activity of an invisible creature in the near undergrowth, the rustle of leaves as a breath of wind whispers across the forest floor. When the moon peeps from behind a cloud the branches stand out as bare blackened fingers reaching for the night sky. Leaving the wood behind and heading for home along the headland of an old pasture you may be lucky to see the ghostly silhouette of a barn owl sweeping the rough turf looking for prey. This quintessential English farmland bird is still a sight to behold however many times you have seen it. Roofing Sheets, New Boxed Profile, Galvanised Steel, Heavy Duty, Extra Wide Cover, Most Sizes Available also Clear GRP Roof Lights, Ridging, Fixing Screws, Delivery Possible. Please contact 01823 674414 or 07766 898886 POL HYBRID Pullets for Sale. Started to lay 07545 468 700 Wanted to rent long term, barn 10 mile radius Stour Provost contact Maureen email maureen469@ yahoo.co.uk or 01747838079

Mob: 07966 244536 Hydraulic Hose Specialists and Stockists to the Agriculture, Forestry, Automotive and Transport Industry Pneumatic fittings Quick release couplings Air brake fittings Pressure wash hoses + lances Hose clamps Up to 1 ½ “Hose stocked Hydraulic Hoses Variation of oils Mobile service available

Cote Farm Works, Kilmington, Warminster, Wiltshire BA12 6RF Email: hoses@ardiesels.co.uk

Pedigree polled Hereford Bull, 18 months, well bred, suitable for heifers. 01963 220620 WANTED dead or fallen trees, NOT rotted, ash, oak or beech - anything considered. Taken away and cleared. Tree felling service also available. Call 01935 873169 Silver Bantam also Black Bantam ducks £10 each 01963 250240

Flail Hedging, Hedge Laying, Haulage. Please phone Andrew 01747 855198

Two Pedigree Ryeland White Ram Lambs. 9 months. Docile, very friendly great grass cutters. £120 each. 07511 748344 Sheep Keep wanted for small flocks of sheep. Anything considered, 15 mile radius of Wincanton 07564277083

Portland ram lambs, 3, friendly and quiet, for sale. 07947474317

BWM Shearlings from Est Registered Flock for sale. Level lot bucket trained.01725518356

Grazing land wanted in North Dorset to rent for sheep. Call Kieran on 07548 171553

7 Store lambs @ £75 4 Zwartble Ewe lambs £110 each Zwartble Ram lamb @ £125 07736 425211

Farming

We’ve scrumptious lockdown treats Ruth Kimber’s Farmer’s Diary Colours of Autumn are still delighting us, but a sharp frost and a windy day will fetch the leaves off the trees, however the starker beauty of winter still holds visual pleasure. Brisk walks with the thought of hot soups, casseroles and Sunday roasts are some of the compensations of winter. Covid-19 delivers more challenges, our kitchen café and Somerset Trading Barn will be closed for walk-in customers. However, The Kitchen at Kimber’s will be offering a take away service: To begin with, The Tiffin Club Wednesday evenings. Breakfast take outs Fridays and Saturdays, takeaway menu Friday nights. Phone 07864 466867 or the

shop for details and bookings. Our chef will also be making some ready meals which will be available in the farm shop. Life on the farm follows much the same seasonal routine as usual. Calving is still underway, we have a mixture of dairy heifer’s calves, the future milkers, a few dairy bull calves, which will be grown for rose veal and the remainder are Aberdeen Angus, of which the heifers (females) will supply the farm shop and Kitchen, while the bulls (males/steers) will be sold as store cattle. The turkeys are growing well, still enjoying the pastures when the sun shines, but are quick to decide to keep inside when it rains! The geese don’t seem to mind the rain so much. Orders are coming in well and we are quietly hopeful that the great British public will find a way to celebrate Christmas.

The land is beginning to take on water and care must be taken to prevent damage to next year’s crops. There is always the inevitable treading around gateways and feeders, to which there is no solution on wetter claybased soil. As with all things a compromise has to be made. If we bring in the animals early, they leave behind valuable feed (grass) in the fields which in turn stifles next year’s spring growth, adding to winter feed costs, not to mention 1animal health... most cattle keep healthier outside in the fields, as long as they have a dry bed and shelter, so we keep ours out as long as sensibly possible. But depending on the weather we bring them in for the winter. The cows in particular soon tell you when they would prefer to stay in the barns with a dry bed and food laid on! And again, in the spring the opposite is true, when they

reach over the gate and smell the young spring grass growing. Hedge trimming has been done on the farm for the time being, taking care to leave enough food and habitat for the wildlife, some insects rely on second year growth for their caterpillars, so again it’s a balancing act to maintain stock proof hedges with a variety of plants to keep a thick barrier and at the same time provide for the wildlife we share the farm with. We are guided by law when we can trim the hedges which is 1st September – 28th February, which helps protect wildlife, but it can be tricky to do before the land becomes too wet for a tractor to work without making ruts and damaging the soil. So many aspects to cover in this job alone, there is still a little more to do but the land is now too wet, we will wait till after Christmas and see if we can finish then.

LOOK AT ME! I am a lovely, tasteful ad from the New Blackmore Vale’s design team.

You want me? I’m yours if you email adverts@blackmorevale.net 86

Property

Stunning bolthole in Langton Long

The Old Stables at Langton Long, just outside Blandford Forum is one of those conversions that you’d see on the pages of a glossy ‘homes’ magazine. The light, the space and the character of this Grade II Listed building have all been beautifully captured during its conversion, and enhanced to create a stylish family home. Neutral colours throughout

ensure that the Georgian features retain centre stage throughout this stunning three-bedroom house from the splendid vaulted ceiling in the sitting room with mezzanine above to the exposed timbers and unusual arched windows affording delightful views over the parkland. The grandeur doesn’t stop at the door either as beyond the enclosed sunny terrace,

there are maintained formal gardens and acres of parkland to enjoy, bordered to one side by the River Stour. It’s a stunning house, whether you’re looking for a family home, up-sizing, down-sizing, or a bolt-hole to enjoy. The Guide is £515,000, and for further information, please contact Stuart Bramley – 01258 452670.

WANTED A cottage, Apartment, Annexe, or “WhatHave-You”, for extremely quiet, Retired, Widower Gentlemen, 43 Years in public service, - Non Smoker, Non-Drinker, No Drugs or Pets, Property in rural quiet country location please, not needed to be modernised as original traditional is preferable but not essential! – Long Term Tenancy, Own Finance, In Dorset, Somerset, Wiltshire, Hampshire Areas. Please Telephone 07956 934 861 Property to Let self contained 1 bed flat, carpets & Curtains, Gillingham town Centre £480/month Exclusive. 07936060881

TO ADVERTISE HERE CALL

01963 400186

South west enjoys highest rise in sales The West Country has been identified as the most attractive area for homemovers, according to the latest Property & Homemovers Report from data experts TwentyCi. The southwest has recorded the highest rise in sales agreed (+38 per cent) and has experienced a 10 per cent rise in average asking price. The southeast has seen the next highest increase of sales agreed at +33 per cent and an eight per cent increase in asking price. By comparison,

London has performed relatively poorly, with inner London achieving a sale agreed increase of just four per cent and a drop in asking price of five per cent – the only region in the country to have recorded a decline. In general, the number of homemovers in the UK is set to reach its highest level for over a decade. The report reveals that in comparison to the third quarter of 2019 new instructions are up by 36 per cent, equating to 150,000 properties and sales agreed

having increased by 53 per cent or by 160,000 homes. The volume of sales agreed has already surpassed the level achieved in 2019 and the number of new instructions is currently at 92 per cent of last year’s total despite an effective market shutdown during lockdown. Exchanges are currently down 40 per cent as a result of lockdown, but a rush of completions is expected over the coming months. The surge in the property market since July has resulted in an

increase of people that say they ‘want to move’ up by 76 per cent from the last quarter of 2019. Data from TwentyCi’s Homemover Wave reveals that this category now stands at over 523,000 people suggesting that the property market will remain buoyant well into 2021. Those in the ‘moving soon’ category have also increased by 57 per cent over the same time frame, equating to 407,389 homemovers. 87

Property

DORSET DEVON HAMPSHIRE SOMERSET WILTSHIRE LONDON

Guide £450,000 A spacious detached bungalow in 1.24 acres. 3 bedrooms, 3 recep ons, kitchen diner, garage, mber sheds, gardens and paddock with 360 view. Subject to Agricultural Tie. EPC=D.

Sturminster Newton

Sturminster 01258 472244

Sturminster 01258 474265

Langton Long

Guide £515,000 A Grade II listed 3 bedroom individual home oﬀering a clever combina on of contemporary living within a period building, set in parkland with countryside views, garage and parking. EPC=Exempt.

Milborne Port

Blandford 01258 452670

Sherborne 01935 814488

£1500 pcm

A Spacious and wellpresented 4 bedroom family home, with large open lawn gardens and far reaching views towards Sha esbury. Available for a long term let. EPC=E.

Guide £650,000 A spacious and very stylish new detached house set in a quiet posi on within the village, with 4 bedrooms (2 ensuite), double garage and goodsized enclosed garden. EPC=B.

20 A NOUCT V E IO M N BE R

Fifehead Neville

Milborne Port

Guide £295,000 A beau fully presented 3 bedroom family home with 2 recep ons, an enclosed driveway and a lovely sized, landscaped garden, all within walking distance of local ameni es. EPC=D.

Stra onontheFosse

Guide £110,000 A single development plot extending to approximately 0.08 acres situated on a no through road. Full planning permission for a detached 3 bedroom dwelling.

Sherborne 01935 814488

Wimborne 01202 843190

PLANNING

VALUATIONS

BUILDING SURVEY

Property

QUALIFIED EXPERIENCED PROFESSIONAL

Swallowcliﬀe

Guide £1,500,000 A substan al barn with versa le accommoda on and scope to update or divide into separate units, with a par ally converted former stables (let on as AST). In all 4.83 acres. EPC=F.

20 A NOUCT V E IO M N BE R

Sturminster 01258 473766

Thornford

Guide £295,000 An a rac ve and wellpresented 3 bedroom, 2 recep on room, 2 bathroom house situated on a peaceful no through road in this soughta er village. EPC=D.

Creech, Wareham

Sherborne 01935 814488

Wimborne 01202 843190

Sixpenny Handley

Guide £395,000 A lovely parcel of development land situated in a quiet and peaceful culdesac loca on with beau ful countryside views. Planning permission for 4 semidetached houses.

Broad Oak, Sturminster

Blandford 01258 452670

Sturminster 01258 473766

SALES

LETTINGS

AUCTIONS

Guide £200,000 9.62 acres (approx.) of gently sloping equestrian land with 2 stables and three field shelters, situated in the Purbeck countryside providing excellent outriding.

Guide £699,950 A substan al house of approx 2500 sq with flexible accommoda on in a peaceful loca on with ﬁne farreaching views and large south facing garden of 0.75 acres. EPC=C.

Property

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Head Office: 01963 34065 email: enquiries@armishaws.com www.armishaws.com 90

Property National National Country Country & Equestrian & Eques Property Property Specialists Specialists Fox Grant have experienced unprecedented sales since lockdown eased, and now have an urgent requirement for properties in Wiltshire, Dorset and Somerset. SSTC

Buckland Newton, Dorset Inspiring Country Home Situated in Highly Regarded Dorset Village with Private Paddock and Adjoining Accommodation 3.3 Acres Similar Required

NEW

Ansty Coombe, Wiltshire Three Bedroom Country House with Adjoining Paddocks and Stables Situated in Highly Desired Nadder Valley 2 Acres Guide £850,000

NEW

Donhead St Andrew, Dorset Wolfester Terrace, Somerset Four Bedroom Family Home set in Idyllic Rural Location TExceptional Family Home with Stunning Rear Views and 10.6 acres Available by Separate Negotiation, see advert below Excellent Communication Links via A303 Garden Guide £765,0000 Garden Guide £750,000

NEW

Fovant, Wiltshire Building Plot in Highly Desired Nadder Valley Location For sale by informal tender, unless sold prior 1 Acre Guide £425,000

NEW

Donhead St Andrew, Dorset Attractive Paddocks Situated in A Highly Sought After Edge of Village Location 10.6 Acres Guide £195,000+

Call the countryand andVillage villageSpecialists specialists youare areLooking lookingtotoBuy, buy,Sell sellor orRent rent in Call the Country if ifyou in 2020/21 2020/2021 01722 782 727oror email maddie@foxgrant.com 01722 782727 email maddie@foxgrant.com

Property lodestoneproperty.co.uk

Where home happens WE’RE HERE TO MAKE YOUR NEXT HOME HAPPEN With over a 90% increase in demand from house-hunters for country and quiet town locations*, over 50% more sales year on year than the recorded national average** and a 268% rise in unique visitors to our new website in September 2020, our team have been busy ensuring that our properties and new buyers are perfectly matched. Have a property to sell or let? Or looking for your next property? Contact Simon and Ali (Shaftesbury) today and we’ll ensure that we make your next home happen. *The Sunday Telegraph, June 2020. **According to statistics taken from Estate Agent Today, October 2020.

For Sale: Contemporary Home, Blackford, Nr Sherborne. bruton@lodestoneproperty.co.uk 01749 605099

shaftesbury@lodestoneproperty.co.uk 01747 442577

wells@lodestoneproperty.co.uk 01749 605088

Phones ringing off hook for Dorset homes By Simon Neville-Jones, Branch manager of Lodestone Dorset Seen the headlines saying how young professionals are flooding out of cities to the country? Well, here at Lodestone Property we can confirm it’s all true! And we say this with total confidence, not only based on our own anecdotal evidence (our phones are ringing off the hook), but also on respected industry data. For example, leading property research company, TwentyCI, recently reported that the number of sales agreed in the last three months are up 47 per cent in rural areas, while Rightmove reports that searches for 92

Shaftesbury have more than doubled. Which means this lovely Dorset town is now in the top ten of most desirable countryside places to live, alongside Sturminster Newton which also made the list. So if you’re thinking about putting your house on the market, but unsure if the time is right – we can

reassure you it most definitely is! With our new office now open in Shaftesbury and over 50 years’ experience between the team, we pride ourselves on being different; ensuring our clients are always in the know and that we achieve the best rates of sale. Not that we like to brag, but last month we saw a 150 per

cent increase in sales agreed, year-on-year – more than double the 70 per cent average in the UK reported by Estate Agent Today. We currently have excellent buyers in all price ranges looking to purchase. So please do call us to find out why we’re different, because we’re here to make homes happen.

Property

t. 01749 684198 e. bruton@hunterfrench.co.uk w. www.hunterfrench.co.uk

llowing us? s?! Are you follo

The Lamb, Upton Noble

£ 1,100,000

Situated in the heart of the delightful village Upton Noble, this converted pub is 昀lled with the perfect mix of character and contemporary style • Spacious si琀ing room and kitchen • Four bedrooms • Large garden with beautiful countryside views • Separate annex

T he Blue Ball, Bruton

£ 725,000

An incredible commercial opportunity, this operating B&B is located in the centre of Bruton, just o昀 the High Street • • • •

Five ensuite bedrooms Generous accommodation for owners Separate o ce space, with private kitchen O ce space

T he Clockhouse, Redlynch Park

A charming 昀rst floor apartment, set within beautiful parkland, • Communal swimming pool and tennis court • Two bedrooms • Spacious si琀ing room • Private garage

T he Forge, Shepton Montague

£235,000

£ 700,000

Large family home, with incredible renovation possibilities • • • •

Five bedrooms Multiple reception rooms Spacious garden, parking and outbuildings Large double garage/workshop

Tetbury

Bath

Cosham

Bruton

Devizes

Frome

Property

t. 01749 684198 e. bruton@hunterfrench.co.uk w. www.hunterfrench.co.uk

Are you follo llowing us? s?!

£ 400,000

Brue Close, Bruton A large detached bungalow, in excellent condition • Four bedrooms • Spacious kitchen, as well as private dining room • Garden to the front and back • Driveway parking and garage

O ffers over

N orthview, South Brewham

£400,000

Detached family home, in village location • • • •

Views! Three double bedrooms Large kitchen Gorgeous garden with beautiful countryside outlook

Proper琀es needed urgently within the BA10 and BA9 postcode area

P lease contact us if you are considering selling your property, or would like us to carry out a free valuation 1% no VAT

£ 875,000

T he Meadows, Cucklington A detached property, situated in an idyllic village • Four bedrooms • Spacious kitchen and si琀ing room • Wonderful garden, including a barn, stables and menage

Tetbury

Bath

Cosham

Bruton

Devizes

Frome

Property

t. 01749 684198 e. bruton@hunterfrench.co.uk w. www.hunterfrench.co.uk

llowing us? s?! Are you follo

P atwell Street, Bruton

£ 225,000

Incredible investment property, situated in the centre of Bruton • Open plan ground floor • Two bedrooms • Family bathroom • Walking distance from the High Street

Pen Gale, Castle Cary

£ 399,950

Semi-detached property in the centre of Castle Cary • • • •

Four bedrooms Family bathroom Spacious si琀ing room and dining room Garage and garden

F airways, Bruton

£700,000

Wonderful family home in excellent condition, walking distance from the centre of Bruton • Five bedrooms • Modern kitchen with separate dining room and utility room • Spacious gardens to the front and back • Double garage and o昀-street parking

F orestry Cottages, North Brewham

£ 425,000

A semi-detached secluded home, surrounded by stunning countryside • Three bedrooms • Spacious kitchen, with open plan dining and si琀ing room • Large beautiful garden, with two outbuildings • O昀-street parking

Tetbury

Bath

Cosham

Bruton

Devizes

Frome

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