The New Blackmore Vale Magazine

Edition 14

w e n he

T

Friday, April 2, 2021

Blackmore Vale

Fortnightly

FREE

Star to sponsor the G&S Show

Rosie Cunningham from Purse Caundle captured this image as she was driving through Milborne Port on Wick Road. She said: “Somebody has put so much love and care into this beautiful design of bunny rabbits and eggs and should be applauded. It completely made my day.” Happy Easter everyone!

Gritchie Brewing Company in Ashmore will be taking a starring role at the Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show this summer, as legendary film director and writer Guy Ritchie has stepped up as a main sponsor.

While Guy may already be a household name, his beer, brewed using the barley and water drawn from the aquifer at his Ashgrove Farm home, is making a name for itself in its own right.

Guy said: “When we heard the show was going ahead we wanted to do something to support as it’s a local event. We are delighted Gritchie Brewing Company will be sponsoring one of the areas at the show and we’ll be bringing our Gritchie Bar too.”

For the first time in its 161 history, Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show will be held over two days on August 18 and 19.

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What’s inside this week Announcements Arts & Entertainments Antiques & Collectibles Business Church Education Equestrian Farming Field And Stream Food & Drink Health & Wellbeing Home & Gardens Items For Sale Letters Local Services Motoring MPs’ Round-Up Pets

28-31 60-61 43-45 72-74 66-67 79 80-82 86-91 84-85 36-42 56-59 44-49 26 & 46 32-33 49-55 n Poppy’s walking challenge: P7 n Sport emerging from lockdown and making a welcome return: P76-78 n Camera club’s horses for courses: P80-81 68-69 64-65 Property 91-95 Recruitment 72-75 62-63, 84-85 Sport 76-78 83 Puzzles

Meet the Team Miranda Robertson

Lloyd Armishaw

Lorraine Drake

Editor

Publisher

Distributor

newsdesk@ blackmorevale.net Tel: 01963 400186

newsdesk@ blackmorevale.net Tel: 01963 400186

lorraine_drake @icloud.com Tel: 07850 529937

Debi Thorne

Ad sales manager debi.thorne@ icloud.com Tel: 07876 563683

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

Karen Bate

Sharon Evans

News editor

Classified adverts

karen.bate@ blackmorevale.net

classified@ blackmorevale.net Tel: 01963 400186

Classified and private ads: classified@blackmorevale.net, 01963 400186 or online at blackmorevale.net Letters: newsdesk@blackmorevale.net News stories: newsdesk@blackmorevale.net Sport stories: sport@blackmorevale.net

DEADLINES The deadlines for advertising and editorial is the Friday before publication.However every effort will be made to include death announcements until the Tuesday.

Steve Keenan

Reporter sport@blackmorevale.net Tel: 07940 143223 Ruth Armishaw

Commercial manager newsdesk@ blackmorevale.net

Colonel in planning wrangle dies aged 51

By Steve Keenan newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

The Army officer trying to build a permanent home for his family while fighting stage 4 cancer has lost his battle.

Col Nick Carrell, 51, died on March 8, with his wife and two young daughters still living in rented accommodation.

But little work has been carried out on the Grade II listed house he bought in Iwerne Minster, as Dorset Council continues to look at his retrospective planning application to renovate the property.

It was back in the autumn that Col Carrell’s condition worsened when the cancer spread to his brain, and Army colleagues rallied round to try and make the dilapidated house a home before Christmas.

The property had been lived in by the same person for 60 years and was in desperate need of modernisation.

Col Nick Carrell with wife Jilly

But work halted in November when it became clear that no formal planning application had been made, although building control officers had visited four times.

Col Carrell admitted he was in the wrong. “My understanding was that I was talking to the totality of the planning office.

“But I made a mistake and we have now been told exactly what we needed to do.”

A full planning application was lodged on November 30.

However, apart from permitting plumbing and heating work,

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Dorset Council has yet to approve any further restoration.

A third site meeting was held on March 11, three days after Col Carrell’s death. But planning enforcement and conservation officers subsequently requested more details. It is now approaching five months since the first meeting.

Col Carrell’s wife Jilly and two children Scarlett, 15, and Beatrice, 13, now face having to find new rented accommodation as their tenancy expires in June.

Builder Kennedy Gaffney, who is co-ordinating the project, said one council request was for plaster and lathe to be re-instated – although it is thought it was removed 50 years ago. “I’ve never heard of lathe and plaster being asked to be put back,” he said.

Dorset Council did not comment on that specific point or respond to a query over the length of time the application is taking. In a statement, the

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“It is important to recognise that listed buildings are protected in the national interest for their architectural or historic importance and local planning authorities have a statutory duty to ensure development does not harm such assets.

“At the same time, development must be compliant with building regulations in the interests of safety – this is not a discretionary consideration. To date we are aware of a number of matters that require further detail or remedy, including outstanding works that require building regulations approval.

“While we are unable to offer any guarantees of the outcome or timing of any decisions, officers will continue to advise the applicant to secure a resolution as soon as possible.”

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SUPPORTING ROLE: Julie and Alan on their wedding day, right, and members of the cast in various panto roles We’re coming back

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Devastated panto team collect £2,000 for ICU

By Karen Bate newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

Cast members of the cherished Ansty Pantomime, Madcaps, have raised thousands of pounds for the ICU at Dorset County Hospital in memory of the much-loved Julie Rice.

Julie, who was well-known in Ansty, died suddenly but peacefully in Dorset County Hospital on January 24, 2020 aged just 40, leaving behind her beloved husband Alan and daughter Victoria.

Alan starred in the panto as the terrifying baddie for many years and Julie was one of the panto’s biggest cheerleaders.

When the coronavirus pandemic struck in March 2020, and the Ansty Christmas Panto was unable take place in its usual Brewery Hall venue, the group decided to perform Cinderella on Zoom to raise money for the intensive care unit in memory of Julie.

And some 300 people spanning from Dorset to Dubai and Hampshire to Hong Kong, were captivated as 15 cast members performed Cinderella, written by Debbie Calver, online and smashed

the initial target of £500, raising well over £2,000, which has been presented to the hospital unit.

Jenny Norman, who has been a Madcap member for 20 years and wrote the Pinocchio script for the 2019 panto, said: “Covid meant 2019 was the last stage production, but we decided to perform a Zoom Panto, which certainly had its limitations, as you cannot talk at the same time! We raised £2,000 for Dorchester Hospital ICU. “Julie lived in Ansty all her life and was well-known and well-loved by everyone who knew her. Our performance was in Julie’s memory and raised money for the ICU, particularly with the pressure being placed upon it during the covid pandemic.”

The Ansty Panto has been a cherished highlight in the village for four decades, with up to 18 villagers taking a role, after the former vicar, the Reverend Stan Royal and Penny Mears formed the Madcap Society in 1981.

Penny wrote all of the scripts up until 2018, Jenny wrote the script for 2019 and Debbie Calver wrote the script for the Zoom panto this year.

Yes please! Scores reply to our appeal for explorer Blashers

By Karen Bate newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

Scores of exceptional trailblazers swooped on an appeal by legendary explorer Colonel John BlashfordSnell CBE in the New Blackmore Vale for a horseriding wingman to join him on his next mission to Mongolia in August.

Doctors, nurses, landscape painters, botanists, arborists, students, retired Army personnel and fellow adventurers from as far as Zimbabwe, have applied for the much-coveted place to travel into the wilds with the world-famous trailblazer from Motcombe.

Colonel Blashford-Snell will lead the Mongolian Khan Khentil Expedition in the Hentii mountain range for community aid and archaeological, biological and zoological tasks with Mongolian scientists.

A statement read: “Colonel Blashford-Snell and the Scientific Exploration Society wish to thank The New Blackmore Vale Magazine for their tremendous support by placing him and the golden eagle friend on the cover of their last issue (March 19).

“The accompanying words have attracted at least 30 highly suitable applicants to join his summer expedition

WINGMAN WANTED: Colonel John BlashfordSnell is looking for adventurers to join him in Mongolia

to Mongolia.”

But the good news doesn’t stop there. Colonel Blashford-Snell will be writing a regular column for us about exploration, three or four times a year starting

from April 30.

And there is still room for a couple of non-riding participants to travel by 4WD. n johnblashfordsnell.org.uk n ses-explore.org

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Call for improvement in restoration

By Nicci Brown newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

Consultants advising on the restoration and remodelling of Blandford’s Grade 1 listed Corn Exchange and Town Hall in the Market Place say it should carry on doing what it is doing... but could do it a lot better.

Ingham Pinnock Associates has been appointed by Blandford Town Council to progress the long-running hopes and plans to carry out repairs and make the building better serve the community. The firm says there is no case for fundamental repurposing of the complex.

They say it plays an important role as a midrange flexible venue, which will become more important with less retail

and more leisure in the town centre.

Councillors met Ross Ingham and Kate Pinnock virtually in February, when they were told that representatives of Historic England and Dorset Council’s conservation team had been really positive and supportive of their ideas for a masterplan to be completed in phases.

They described some of the research and consultation they had done to draw up options and presented initial sketches from architect Malcolm Simmonds.

An online survey had provided a good crosssection of age groups and of the amount of usage of the building, the majority visiting less than once a month.

They found indoor market was the biggest draw,

together with events in the Corn Exchange, whose popularity was driven by accessibility and satisfaction levels.

“It should carry on with what it is doing, but do it a lot better, and needs to be sustainable and affordable for a wide range of users, as well as flexible, usable and still beautiful,” said Ross. He and Kate outlined some of their plans to provide better access to the roof, improve the acoustics and staircase and install a lift to open up the town hall and council chamber on the first floor to new users.

Questions were asked about the provision of a fully disabled toilet and making the stage accessible for the disabled, which the design team agreed to look at. They will be meeting councillors again next month.

Homes appeal is dismissed An appeal against Dorset Council’s failure to determine an application for the demolition of existing buildings and construction of 48 homes at Pleydells Farm in Higher Street, Okeford Fitzpaine, has been dismissed.

The outline application by P&J and Mr C Norton was submitted in July 2019, and almost doubled the number of homes to be provided through an approved application for 27 homes.

In the absence of a decision by the local authority, inspector Matthew Jones was appointed to decide, and found that while the 21 extra homes would be acceptable in terms of meeting housing supply, the impact on biodiversity across improved grassland would be harmful.

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By Karen Bate newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

For little Poppy Bond from Henstridge, every day is the equivalent of running a marathon as she is an intermittent toe walker and has non-verbal autism.

Yet there is no stopping her from completing the Super 7 Challenge for the National Autistic Society this week.

There will be huge cheers from Poppy’s family and friends as the happy four-year-old tot reaches the finishing line of her remarkable challenge – walking 1km every day for seven days, raising hundreds of pounds during Autism Awareness Week.

Poppy’s mum Amber, dad Leighton, grandmother Sue and teachers at Explorers’ Pre-school are her biggest fans, and have been cheering her on during her walks in Henstridge Park.

Amber said: “Poppy enjoys going out for walks and is happiest when she is outside. We are walking 1k each day, which is massive for Poppy because she is an intermittent toe walker, which means she spends 90 per cent of her time walking or running on her tip toes.

“Her therapist says the feeling in her legs at the end of the day is the equivalent to running a marathon.

Her legs often shake and flinch of an evening as the muscles relax, and she can experience pain which stops her sleeping, but Poppy is the happiest little girl despite being non-verbal and having autism. She doesn’t let anything stop her.”

The National Autistic Society is inviting people to take part in the

WALK FOR AUTISM: Poppy Bond is aiming to raise money for the National Autistic Society

There’s no stopping Poppy!

Tot to tackle major challenge Super 7 Challenge, a seven-themed challenge for World Autism Awareness Week, which ends on April 4.

Amber said: “We really wanted to do something to raise awareness.

The National Autistic Society has been a great help with any information I have needed to help Poppy and they have lots of useful

Charlton Marshall plans appeal rejected Another appeal against Dorset Council's failure to decide on plans for housing development has been rejected by a planning inspector.

The outline application by Hallam Land Management was for up to 70 dwellings on land off Bournemouth Road, Charlton Marshall. The appeal was considered by planning inspector Janet Wilson at a virtual hearing in December.

She concluded that the scheme would conflict with the spatial strategy for the area, would result in unsustainable travel patterns and a reliance on the use of the private car, would be harmful to the

character and appearance of the area, the character and appearance of the CA and the setting of a nearby Grade II listed property, Old Dairy Cottage.

In her decision announced on March 29, she said: “Whilst the scheme would provide notable public benefits, including the provision of much needed market and affordable housing, the other material considerations in this case do not justify taking a decision other than in accordance with adopted development plan policy.”

She refused an application for costs on behalf of the applicants.

links for a variety of things.”

Already Poppy has raised £750.

If anyone would like to sponsor Poppy, please go to justgiving.com and search for ‘Amb and Poppys 7 challenge’.

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Plan for 55 extra care flats gets go-ahead

By Nicci Brown and Steve Keenan newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

A plan to provide 55 extra care flats in Gillingham on the site of the demolished St Martin’s House could help bring the town ‘back together’ after a bitter stand-off two years ago.

St Martin’s, an imposing red brick building, was listed as a Heritage Asset in the Town Plan but North Dorset District Council used ‘permitted development’ to allow it to be knocked down, and pushed through the demolition in 2019 without public consultation.

David Walsh, a Dorset councillor for Gillingham, admitted the move has been divisive. “I lost friends over that,” he told a meeting of the council’s Northern Area Planning Committee.

Opponents to the plan included fellow Dorset Councillor Val Pothecary, who lives opposite

the site and led the campaign to save St Martin’s. She declared an interest in last week’s committee meeting and did not take part.

Cllr Walsh said: “I wish I could say the whole of the town has been behind this development.

They haven’t. But I hope that if we could do something good with this site, it might bring the town back together.”

Architect Daniel Knight said that following the objections to the original scheme for 60 units in 2018, there had been significant revisions and the new smaller scheme for 55 units was commissioned in May 2019, working with an historic buildings consultant to address the issues.

Committee members satisfied themselves on various issues, including the adequacy of parking provision, and the eligibility of occupants.

They were reminded that as Gillingham’s first extra care

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29/01/2021 13:12

facility in a very sustainable location close to the town centre, the expected car ownership would be low.

They were also told that the 100 per cent affordable rented scheme promised, despite on 25 per cent being required in accordance with policy, was at the ‘margin of viability’, and while electric charging points would be provided for mobility scooters, there would only be provision of infrastructure for later installation of points for cars.

The only objectors to address the meeting were Jim and Kate White of the neighbouring Lime Tree House, who were concerned at the proximity of a proposed electricity substation to their listed property and the impact of the two and threestorey building on their garden and the town centre.

They were told that there was nowhere else for the substation to go, but its brick construction with slate roof would prevent any noise impact and result in a visually acceptable building.

Councillor Belinda Ridout suggested that landscaping between the substation and Lime Tree House should be ‘robust’, and it was agreed that a condition seeking landscape

maintenance for at least five years be extended to 15 years.

Proposing acceptance, she said: “Any scheme on this site has to be right, and visually I think it is sensitive both to the site’s past and its present.”

Her proposal was seconded by Councillor Tim Cook and agreed unanimously, after chairman Councillor Sherry Jespersen asked that it be minuted, reference the ‘marginal viability’ of the scheme, that on the key site next to the conservation area, they would not wish to see the quality of design, materials and detailing watered down at a later stage.

“It is important that it is built as approved,” she said. n The debate was paused by Councillor Jespersen just before the vote so that members could observe the national one minute silence reflecting on the full year of lockdown the country had experienced since the same date last year.

“It has been a difficult year for many of our residents, and very demanding for Dorset Council,” she said. “It is appropriate that we join the rest of the country in marking this moment, and give our thanks to all the council staff, members and volunteers,” she said.

Volunteers wanted at Abbey Shaftesbury Abbey Museum is looking for volunteer outdoor stewards to welcome visitors to the museum and gardens. They are hoping to open the gardens daily from April 12, and the museum in the middle of May. The museum aims to foster understanding and appreciation of the Abbey’s history, and the site also acts as an important local venue for the arts and education within the community.

The museum would not survive without its valued team of volunteers. They are looking for friendly people aged 18 plus who enjoy meeting people.

While you would not be expected to become an expert in medieval history, most

volunteers find it interesting to learn about the Abbey’s story to be able to engage with visitors and answer questions.

Outdoor stewards’ tasks include meeting and greeting visitors, answering queries, recording any comments or feedback, and generally ensuring people enjoy their visit. The time you could give is up to you, from a couple of hours to a half or full day.

The venue is fully compliant with Visit Britain’s ‘Good to Go’ covid-19 scheme and has social distancing and hygiene measures in place. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer email manager@shaftesburyabbey.org.uk or call Penny-Jane Swift on 07988 908841.

WE TRIED: Nordon, the former HQ of North Dorset District Council and above, councillor Roger Carter

Outcry over demolition bid for former council building

By Nicci Brown newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

News that work would be starting this week at Nordon in Salisbury road, Blandford, the former headquarters of North Dorset District Council, prompted an outcry on social media from local people expressing their dismay, and asking whether anything could be done to prevent the development.

Outline planning permission was granted to Aster Homes by the district council in its last week of existence for the demolition in 2019 of the Edwardian villa originally built as the home of Blandford St Mary brewery boss George Woodhouse at the turn of the last century, and redevelopment of the wooded site with an estate of 50 properties.

The application followed years of discussion on the future of the site which had been held in secret.

Bids to have the building listed by Historic England, who had opposed the application and to have the decision reversed by the Secretary of State failed, and the continued objection from Blandford Town Council and a petition signed by nearly 2500 people failed to prevent the grant of detailed permission by Dorset

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Dorset Council Building Control of We can also help with Wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney. work by C G Comley & Sons starting Fixed Fees and Free initial enquiry, on March 30, which in the first so you don’t have to worry. instance will include preparatory work Get in touch on 01308 424 808 Email: christine@winterbornelegal.co.uk before the demolition can begin. www.winterbornelegal.com Nearly 130 people engaged in a debate on Blandford Public Forum Facebook page with comments ranging from their disgust at the decision and the way it had been made to appealing to Aster to revise their proposals.

Town councillor Roger Carter, who fought the application with the town’s two county GILLINGHAM TOWN COUNCIL councillors Byron Quayle and Nocturin Lacey Grant Applications invited Clarke and others, said: for FY 2021/22 “Believe me, we tried and fought tooth and nail.

Gillingham Town Council awards grants annually Dorset Council wouldn’t to charitable and voluntary organisations change their minds.” that benefit the Gillingham community.

“It would be great for We welcome applications for grants that will improve the quality of life for Gillingham residents, someone to create an support the viability of small local organisations and almighty stink about it groups and clearly demonstrate financial need. but, apart from DC planning having their How to apply: collective feet held to the 1. Download the Grants Policy and Application Form: fire, the end result would www.gillinghamdorset-tc.gov.uk/policy-admin/grants/ be the same. It rates as the 2. Complete and return the application form along worst planning decision with a set of accounts and project details to: that the old NDDC took.

Gillingham Town Council, The Town Hall, I would love to think that School Road, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 4QR we could put a stop to it but, very sadly, apart from Tel: 01747 823588 expressing our anger, Email: GTC@gillinghamdorset-tc.gov.uk outrage and frustration, I The closing date for applications is 31st July 2021 don’t think there’s Grants are awarded at the end of October 2021 anything else we can do.”

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Mum’s cancer unit fund tops £3,225

By Karen Bate newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

A Gillingham mum’s campaign to raise funds for the mobile cancer care unit has reached £3,225 and the figure is still rising.

Alison Day receives chemotherapy for breast cancer and monthly

immunoglobulin therapy for Waldenstrom’s Macroglobulinemia from the Mobile Cancer Care Unit, which treats patients in the car park at Peacemarsh Surgery twice a week.

Alison was so grateful to be treated in Gillingham without the need to travel to

Salisbury, she decided to raise much-needed funds for the service, which runs ten buses across the country.

Thanks to the very generous readers of the New Blackmore Vale, which highlighted Alison’s fundraising commitment in our last edition, a further £550 was raised through her Just Giving page.

Alison said: “Thanks to the piece in the New Blackmore

Vale we have received over £550 in new donations since publication, taking the total to £3,225. The donations keep coming in steadily.

There are some very generous people out there!” n If you would like to donate for Hope for Tomorrow, please visit Alison’s Just Giving page at justgiving.com/fundraising/ alison-day27

GILLINGHAM TOWN COUNCIL

Annual Town Assembly Members of the public are invited to join The Annual Town Assembly on Wednesday 21 st April 2021 at 7.30pm.

The meeting will take place via MS Teams.

This is an opportunity to hear about the achievements of the Town Council and other organisations that benefit the town and to ask any questions.

For joining instructions telephone: 01747 823588 or email: GTC@gillinghamdorset-tc.gov.uk

THANKS SO MUCH: Alison Day and her mum Gail Jose outside the mobile unit

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In 2001 Landpower sold its 昀rst Timberwolf Wood Chipper, with the aim of supplying equipment and servicing to the key arboricultural and forestry markets, from commercial woodland, to arborical and forestry management professionals.

After expanding their product range over the years, they also offer the local area all thing’s garden machinery. They have recently been appointed Husqvarna main dealers.

Based near Wincanton and not far from the Dorset border, the showroom at Common Lane, Yenston, is ideally placed to serve the whole of the South West.

Offering their full range of arboriculture, forestry and horticultural machinery they are always pleased to discuss any customer’s requirements to guide them to the correct machine. No matter if a professional user or 12

domestic user looking for advice on chainsaws, hedge trimmers, lawnmowers etc. the knowledgeable the team are always happy to help and to make sure to get the correct product for your needs.

Landpower have an experienced team to help with sales, service and repair. A recent addition to the team is Luke, formerly at Rochford Garden Machinery he has a wealth of knowledge across the garden machinery sector and specialises in Husqvarna robotic mowers. He said “We have a position here to support the local area with all things Garden Machinery and Arboricultural. One of the biggest growing markets in the industry is the robotic mowers,

something I have worked with for the last 6 years.

I have installed hundreds in the local area and aim to continue growing this.

We offer everything from installation, service and repair here at Landpower. If you are after a machine, be it a ride on mower, chainsaw or hedgetrimmer we are here to help, to make sure you get the best machine for your needs.

I would urge people when safe to do so, to pop in and see us and in the meantime do give us a call, we would be more than happy to help.”

Landpower’s showroom carries a good range of Husqvarna, Timberwolf, FSI and Balfor machinery in stock, offering a full range of arboriculture, forestry and horticultural machinery they are always pleased to welcome new and existing customers.

Call: 01963 370654

A big blanket? We’ve got it covered

By Karen Bate newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

There was plenty of Hanky Blanky on Gillingham Town Meadow after townsfolk joined together to make the biggest blanket ever made in Dorset.

The town came together in spectacular fashion as folk joined forces and knitted individual six-inch wool squares to create the whopping 70-metre blanket.

The event came about after Gillingham Community Kindness, a volunteer group recently set up by social prescriber Liz Rose, held a Commuknitty Kindnose Day – to bring the town together while keeping apart.

Liz said: “The aim to ‘Bring Gillingham together while keeping apart’ for Red Nose Day was a huge success as the community joined forces and individually knitted six inch wool squares to create the biggest blanket ever made in Dorset.

“The knitted squares were delivered to the meadow in a socially distanced manner and by the end of a wonderful day the blanket measured over 70m square.

“The next step is for volunteers to help sew the squares into smaller blankets, which will be donated to Comic Relief projects.

“A heart shape was also made from 710 donated

pompoms to show that Love is at the heart of our Gillingham Community – these will be saved and used to decorate the town Christmas Tree in December.”

The town came together, with four Gillingham kindergartens producing lovely banners, residents of nursing homes making squares and pompoms and 149 individuals and families giving their time to knitting and making pompoms.

And £136 was raised through the sale of red noses and donations.

A spokesperson from Gillingham Community Kindness said: “Gillingham Community Kindness and Gillingham Medical Practice would like to thank Liz Rose, Rosie Thompson, all the community health champions and all the wonderful, kind people of Gillingham who made it happen.”

Liz has worked with Gillingham Medical Practice and the wider Blackmore Vale Partnership to set up and co-ordinate practical, emotional and social support for the people of Gillingham, often involving volunteers from the first lockdown.

ALL JOINED UP: The 70-metre blanket on Gillingham Town Meadow

Beavers, Cubs and Scouts group looking for volunteers The 1st Wincanton Scout Group is appealing for volunteers to join this happy band and help the group continue to flourish.

The organisation is run by volunteers who work with young people aged between six and 14 in the Beavers, Cubs and Scouts from Wincanton and the surrounding villages.

Over the past few years a number of key volunteers have stepped away and now the group needs new helpers to

come forward.

There are a number of roles available depending on time commitments, which will allow volunteers to step in and become involved in the running of the group.

A spokesperson said: “Whether you join us to directly support young people, or behind the scenes, as a volunteer manager, chairperson or fundraiser, we’ll match you with a role that suits the skills you have to share

and those you’d like to gain.

“Training is provided for all the roles by the Scout Association and the good news is you shape what you do and decide how much time you give.

Scouting is incredibly rewarding, and you don’t need to be Bear Grylls to volunteer or have been a Scout yourself, just a few hours will make such a difference to our young people.”

For more information go to wincantonscouts@gmail.com 13

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£50k seating area artwork defended The final unveiling of the new canopied seating area at Badbury Heights, Blandford, commissioned as a public artwork which tells the history of Blandford, prompted quite an outcry on social media on why over £50,000 had been spent on a bench when the money could have been used for many other purposes.

Councillor Pat Osborne, who chairs the town council’s public art group, said: “The money for the bench was money from the developers Persimmon specifically for ‘public art’.

“It would have gone back to Persimmon if it hadn’t been spent.

“There was an extensive public consultation on what it should be spent on and where it should go.

By Nicci Brown newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

A decorative bench was one of the few ideas to fit the bill of being ‘public art’ while also being of some practical use.”

He said the costs had been fully disclosed in the public domain throughout the planning process and the public art consultation, through which the site had been chosen.

“Personally, I’d have preferred to have spent the money on something else – it was not a non-trivial amount – but we weren’t legally allowed to. That’s why councillors were keen to ensure that the installation could be used by residents for practical purposes as well as being aesthetic.”

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14

Goods Vehicle Operator's Licence HTQ Limited trading as "Exclusive" of Unit9a, Butts Pond Ind Est, Sturminster Newton, DT10 1AZ is applying for a licence to use Unit9a, Butts Pond Ind Est, Sturminster Newton, DT10 1AZ and Unit9b, Butts Pond Ind Est, Sturminster Newton, DT10 1AZ as an operating centre for 2 goods vehicles and 0 trailers.

Owners or occupiers of land (including buildings) near the operating centre(s) who believe that their use or enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner at Hillcrest House, 386 Harehills Lane, Leeds, LS9 6NF, stating their reasons, within 21 days of this notice. Representors must at the same time send a copy of their representations to the applicant at the address given at the top of this notice. A Guide to Making Representations is available from the Traffic Commissioner's office.

Scanner boosts jail’s security A new X-ray body scanner is already stopping illegal items entering HMP Guys Marsh.

Items including drugs and mobile phones have been detected thanks to the technology, developed specifically for the Prison Service, which allows staff to see instantly whether prisoners are attempting to smuggle in illegal contraband. The illegal items detected would have been destined for the prison wings, fuelling the illicit economy and potential violence.

A total of 51 prisons across England and Wales now have the technology, which has collectively already stopped more than 3,500 illegal items from getting into the hands of prisoners.

HMP Guys Marsh Governor Ian Walters said: “The scanner will reduce the

RUMBLED: The X-ray scanner has detected scores of smuggled items at Guys Marsh

availability of mobile phones and drugs, making HMP Guys Marsh safer for all who live and work here.”

The cutting-edge technology is being installed at prisons identified as most at risk of smuggling. The equipment was funded by the Government’s £2.75 billion commitment to transform the prison estate. This includes: n £100 million to bolster prison security, clamping down on the weapons, drugs

Platinum Award-Winning Care 2020 We have recently been awarded this much sought after accolade for our work with Gold Standards Framework

and mobile phones that fuel violence, self-harm and crime behind bars. n £2.5 billion to provide 10,000 additional prison places and create modern, efficient jails that rehabilitate offenders, reduce reoffending and keep the public safe. n £156 million to tackle the most pressing maintenance issues to create safe and decent conditions for offender rehabilitation.

Patients’ patience

The Blandford Group Practice is making patients aware that in the coming few weeks, starting next week, the surgery is going to be under immense pressure to carry on day-to-day care of patients as well as rolling out vaccine clinics to the most vulnerable patients.

The practice is asking that patients only contact them for urgent issues.

For anything non-urgent, please contact them from mid-April.

ReadEasy on radio ReadEasy Blackmore Vale North are thrilled that Read Easy UK is the subject of a forthcoming BBC Radio 4 Appeal and even more excited that TV legend Richard Madeley is going to present it.

The broadcasts are Sunday, April 4 at 7.54am and 9.25pm and Thursday, April 8 at 3.27pm.

“The staff here are quite simply wonderful, they can’t do enough for you. The food is excellent with plenty of variety and my quality of life has improved since moving here.

I only wish I made the decision sooner.” Current resident

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Here to help you on your learning curve The Sturminster Newton Community Learning Centre is re-opening on April 12 with volunteers at the ready to help on all matters computer, smartphone and tablet.

And for those who need more detailed learning, maybe you are changing jobs or need a boost with on-line services such as banking, shopping or NHS appointments, help is on hand for these things too.

In the past, the free service has helped some 500 people each year.

In the first few weeks of opening, people are invited to make an appointment by email at snclc@btconnect.com and include your contact details and what you would like to learn.

Appointments are available on Monday and Wednesday mornings. Coin donations are welcome to help cover the cost of the room.

The Learning Centre is on the ground floor of the Exchange in Sturminster Newton next to the Co-op. All are welcome from Dorset and beyond.

Contemporary or traditional kitchens manufactured to order Gillingham Showroom

01747 833 789 Unit 21, Kingsmead Business Park, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 5JG Opening Hours Monday-Friday: 9am to 5pm Saturday: Appointment only www.solsticekitchens.co.uk 16

12pc of brewery site to be ‘affordable’ homes The first homes to be built on the site of the former Hall & Woodhouse brewery will be affordable housing provided by developers Drew Smith, who have teamed up with housing provider Stonewater to build the 21 units.

They will include two one-bedroom flats and 12 two-bedroom flats for social rent, plus seven threebedroom houses for shared ownership.

They are part of the Brewery Place development on the site of the former brewery in Bournemouth Road, which will also include another 42 open-market properties, due to be completed between May 2022 and January 2023.

Homes England, who bought the site from Hall & Woodhouse in 2017, is now part-funding the development of the affordable homes as part of the wider 180home development of houses and apartments, which will be a mix of converted Victorian former brewery buildings and new-build properties.

Leanne Smith, new business

director at Drew Smith, said: “We’re delighted to be facilitating the delivery of affordable homes on this important heritage site in Blandford, alongside housing association partner Stonewater.

“Despite the lack of formal obligation to provide affordable housing on the site, we’re fulfilling our partnerships’ commitment and will be providing 21 affordable homes for the local community.”

Matt Crucefix, director of development at Stonewater, said: “Dorset Council has been very supportive, and we’re pleased the number of affordable homes being built will be more than had been originally planned.

“Not only will the scheme transform this brownfield site, creating an attractive development, but it will help meet the need for affordable homes in this highly desirable area.”

Cllr David Walsh, Dorset Council’s portfolio holder for planning, said: “I’m very pleased that this development is utilising a brownfield site and will provide much needed affordable housing.”

Storyteller Sarah Lloyd-Winder is looking for readers of the New Blackmore Vale to share their stories of myth, legend and folklore.

Sarah has scooped a grant from the Arts Council and South Somerset District Council for her project, which is part of the Wincanton

Town Centre Regeneration Project, called The Secret Storytellers of Wincanton and is planning a storytelling trail in the centre of the town. If anyone has any stories up their sleeves, please share them with Sarah or get in touch with her at secretstoryteller@aol.com.

By Nicci Brown newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

You can tell Sarah your secret stories

£60,000 needed for lifesaving op

By Karen Bate Shillingstone’s Sue Evans has launched a campaign to raise £60,000 for a life-saving op to remove deadly blood clots from her beloved partner’s lungs.

Papworth Hospital in Cambridge is just one of four in the world that can perform the eight-hour surgery to remove clots from the pulmonary artery.

And without the operation, Mike King’s heart will fail.

Sue has launched an auction of promises to raise funds.

She said: “Mike is my partner and is from Barbados and so he isn’t eligible for treatment on the NHS (and rightly so). Without the operation, Mike’s heart will fail as the clots are stopping the blood getting through to the lungs.”

Mike is now receiving oxygen at home, which is helping him breathe and speak to family and friends on the phone, however he is unable to move around without becoming breathless.

Already the couple have raised £5,000 on their Go FundMe page, but time is short and precious.

Sue said: “A huge thank you to everyone who has shared and donated to Mike’s GoFundMe page. We’ve had a tremendous response. This is an incredible achievement in less than three weeks and we are in awe of people’s kindness and generosity.”

To donate towards Mike’s operation, go to gofund.me/2d2dcb8f To bid on the auctions, go to auctionofpromises.com/2021Aucti PLEASE HELP: Sue Evans with her desperately ill partner Mike King onForMikesLungOp

Food bank supporting families at Easter

By Nicci Brown newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

The Blandford Food Bank continues to support families in need with food parcels from its base at the United Reformed Church, and at school half term was able to send out 102 bedtime story bags to pre-school and primary age children in the Blandford area, and socks donated by brewers Hall & Woodhouse.

At Easter it was expecting to distribute around 120 food parcels to vulnerable families in the area to help with their children’s lunches over the holiday period, and hope to include a family card game that families could keep, enjoy and play together.

Food Bank manager Gail del Pinto said: “We were given 80 card games but needed packs of Uno for the older children to play.”

There were collection points in the town and at the food bank itself.

Blandford’s Community Kitchen, the brainchild of Joanne Triffitt, supported by Blandford and Langton Long churches to provide

occasional community meals and events in the Parish Centre, ceased to operate when the departure of the Rector, Jonathan Triffitt, and his family coincided with pandemic restrictions.

But leading members from the Food Bank, Blandford Cares,and the churches who had all worked with the kitchen, formed a project group to see what could be possible under the restrictions.

An ‘Afternoon Tea in a Bag’ surprise delivery to as many of the families and individuals they could identify as having attended community meals at the Parish Centre was distributed, and volunteers considered what they could do over Easter and in the future when restrictions ease further.

The Community Kitchen existed to meet a social and

welfare need and was open to anyone who wished to attend, expanding to include craft events, games evenings and a clothes bank.

You can email community kitchen@bfpc.org.uk Meanwhile work is continuing, with grant support from Blandford Town Council and Dorset

Council, to establish a Community Fridge for Blandford at Blandford Youth and Community Centre to allow all to benefit from free food and reduce food waste.

A Facebook page has been set up. Email blandford communityfridge@outlook. com for details.

17

Plot thickens in allotments move bid Allotment holders in Blandford are unanimous in their opposition to the proposal to relocate their plots as part of the Wyatt Homes’ development proposal north and east of Blandford in their outline application P-OUT-202000026.

Chairman Ian Ricketts said: “It is only 20 years since we were moved from the previous site to Lamperds Field and at that time we were told we would never have to be moved again.

“A number of plot holders remember that move and the hard work, time and expense it took to get their plots up to full production.

“The site we have been offered is to be sandwiched between the new recycling plant and a sports field so we will have rodents and unpleasant smells on one

By Nicci Brown newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

side and balls coming over damaging plants and breaking greenhouses on the other.

“The access to the site will be via the road that leads to the new school, resulting in difficulties at drop-off and pickup times and making access to the site almost impossible.”

Initial illustrative plans for the development produced for Savills in 2016 indicated that the allotments would be relocated to one side of the new access road rather than at the end of it.

He said that he had been told by the National Allotment Society that provided they were offered like-for-like in replacement, there was nothing that could be done to prevent the loss of the existing plots.

“But they really need to reconsider their plan. They have never had any discussions with us about it and we have only ever discussed things with the town council.”

In response to their concerns expressed at the time of a community consultation by Wyatts, the developers consistently replied that many would be addressed at the detailed application stage.

Allotment Society representatives listened to town councillors when they discussed, at their planning committee in March, whether allotment holders could have exclusive use of part of the car park between the plots and the sports field, what the sports field might be used for, and who would be responsible for the new access road leading to them

both.

Councillors agreed they were matters to be discussed at their next meeting with Wyatts and stressed that negotiations were at a very early stage, but that the town council would retain control of the allotments.

They agreed unanimously that a section of parking alongside the proposed allotment building should be kept apart with fencing and a lockable gate, to include an area, as currently exists, for the tractor, deliveries and council compound, and the community pitch - too small for a full-sized pitch - should be made available for a variety of casual uses.

They also agreed to request that the access road alongside the school leading to the allotments should be adopted and maintained by Dorset Council.

We are delighted to welcome you back for a busy season ahead

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NATURAL BEAUTY: The NT woods on Fontmell Down is set to host a Forest School this summer

If you go down to the woods today...

By Steve Keenan newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

A Forest School hopes to open this summer for children to get close to nature in the National Trust wood on Fontmell Down.

The Trust owns the down and private wood and NT ranger Chris Whitbourn is behind the Wild about Woodlands plan, which aims to encourage knowledge and confidence among kids from pre-school BACK TO NATURE: NT ranger Chris Whitbourn is behind the through to teens.

Wild about Woodlands plan and, inset, a Forest School cake “The basic principles of Forest School is of children originally a Scandinavian going to be,” said Chris. learning outside, learning concept, from the Bath “We also have permission about themselves by doing Skyline, a three-mile to build a woodman’s hut artistic or craft things and National Trust trail. There on site but we’ll see how it learning ways of connecting are around 50 such schools takes off.” with each other,” says in England under the The children will have the Chris. forestschoolassociation.org run of the wood, which is An example might be umbrella. fenced with padlocked putting up a tarpaulin cover, The site is the first of its gates, and surrounding he says. “Some kids might type on Cranborne Chase downs. The site also has an do it instantly, some might and in the Blackmore Vale enclosed composting loo, struggle a bit. If they don’t and will be available for up standpipe for water and fire manage, it’s not to 40 days a year. circles. failing, it’s about Chris thinks a As it is part of the learning about group of 20 Cranborne Chase Area of how to do it children from Outstanding Natural Beauty, and going schools or the AoNB is also involved, back another community having partnered with the day and groups National Trust on a trying would be an Wonderful Woodlands again.” ideal size. project.

Chris got his “We don’t The project was due to open inspiration for know how last year but plans were Forest School, successful it is scuppered by covid.

Bookings still cannot be taken but Chris hopes that the NT will be able to open the site to groups from June.

It costs £60 a day to hire, and the children need to be accompanied by a Forest School Practitioner to Level 3 qualification, which may be a teacher or a qualified freelance.

More than 70 people registered for an online AoNB talk last week, in which Chris unveiled plans for the project which promises “wild art, bug hunts and woodland games.”

He added: “Kids will be dropped off at the Spread Eagle Hill car park and have to walk in, bringing their own food, wipes and anything else they need for the day. We provide the water, loo and any utensils they will need.

“There are elements of bushcraft but imagine kids aged six using a bow drill to make a fire. Then they could make unleavened bread by twirling the dough on a stick. Imagine the buzz they get from that and boiling water for a hot drink.”

For more information, email Clive at Clive.Whitbourn @nationaltrust.org.uk or call him on 07788 480686.

19

Handy tips to cut down on food waste Reduce your food waste, help combat climate change and save money!

At a time when we’re all trying to play our part in tackling climate change, there’s one easy action we can take – and it will also save us money!

The edible food we throw away contributes to climate change. We are wasting not only the food but the valuable resources that have gone into creating it too - from fertilisers and water that was used for growing it, to the greenhouse gases created from its production and transportation.

Here are some handy tips on how to reduce your food waste: n Get your portions right – It’s very easy to cook too much pasta and rice.

Obviously appetites differ, but a quarter of a standard

20

mug of uncooked rice or two generous handfuls of uncooked pasta per person are a good rule of thumb when estimating quantities required. n Store food correctly – Food lasts longer if stored in the right places. Bread is best stored in its original packaging in a cupboard or in a bread bin, not the fridge.

Potatoes should be kept in a breathable bag/sack (not plastic packaging) and stored in a cool, dark place. n Get the best use out of Fridge/Freezer – Setting your fridge down to 5 degrees will keep food fresher for longer. Freezing what you won’t eat is like pressing the pause button. All kinds of foods can be frozen, right up to the “use-by” date, including milk and bread. n For more hints and tips visit lovefoodhatewaste.com

Friends say NHS thanks A small initiative started by a

group of friends determined to show appreciation for NHS staff working on the frontline in has taken off across Dorset and South Somerset.

In consultation with Dorchester Community Hospital and Yeovil District Hospital, the Nurturing Hospital Staff (NHS Rainbow) campaign has taken off across more than 50 local villages and towns.

Weekly collections of specific items, designed to give staff a treat and a bit of a pamper, have soared and The campaign has so far collected nearly 1,000 individual donations of hand cream, lip balm, shower and bath gels/soaks, scented candles, eye masks and sleep treats.

A spokesperson from Yeovil District Hospital said: “Thank you for all of this hard work, it really is appreciated. Being able to support our staff with these items will bring a much needed morale boost.”

Care home marks a year of lockdown Residents and staff at Colten Care’s Abbey daffodils arrived from Castle Gardens View in Sherborne marked a year since the start of the first covid lockdown with flowers, heartfelt messages and a oneminute silence in honour of those who have lost their lives during the pandemic.

Abbey View turned into a ‘sea of yellow’ with hundreds of daffodils, the symbol of reflection, after a large delivery of

garden centre.

And, in an emotional moment, residents applauded staff members for all the care given to them over the past year.

Home Manager Sarah Harper said: “It was very touching to have a round of applause for how we have all got through the year together.”

REFLECTING: Bridget Jackson, a resident at Colten Care’s Abbey View home in Sherborne, with daffodils, the symbol of the Day of Reflection.

Parish pledges to preserve atmosphere

By Karen Bate newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

Motcombe Parish Council has issued its response during the consultation period of the Dorset Council Local Plan, which sets out its vision for the development of the area until 2038.

In a full and detailed response, Councillor Peter Mouncey highlighted the parish council’s views, most notably to protect the rural village atmosphere of Motcombe.

The Local Plan has allowed eight new homes to be built each year in Motcombe over 17 years, almost double the allowance made in the village’s own Neighbourhood Plan.

Cllr Mouncey said: “This is a

substantial increase in an area hoping to continue functioning as a separate rural village squeezed between two rapidly growing neighbouring towns.”

From housing development to infrastructure and from outdoor spaces to traveller sites, Cllr Mouncey has collated the concerns from parish councillors and indeed, the villagers about the Local Plan in a comprehensive document.

Cllr Mouncey said: “In many of the villages, a key issue is the lack of smaller open market properties and one bedroom affordable homes.

“There is also the potential need and benefit of flexible accommodation to enable live-in care/annex options as

part of any housing mix.

“The policies in the adopted plans fail to secure the delivery of these most needed house types, with delivery generally focusing on larger (and presumably more profitable) traditional house types that do not provide any real flexibility.”

The Local Plan has made provision identified provision for Travellers and Gypsy sites near Hawkers Hill Farm and off Calves Lane in Shaftesbury and at Plant World Nursery in Milton on Stour.

Cllr Mouncey added: “Where is the evidence to demonstrate a need at this level for three sites in such close proximity?

“Also, with substantial house growth within the Gillingham

and Shaftesbury area, surely any proposal to reduce the number of garden centres is short-sighted”.

“It is very surprising to see a proposal for a wind farm near Kingscourt Wood in Motcombe.

“This is within the heritage area of the old Gillingham Royal Forest, the subject of substantial funding from the National Lottery following a successful bid by the Dorset Wildlife Trust.”

Cllr Mouncey added: “With large increases in the population forecast for North Dorset, there should be considerations in the plan to create large-scale recreation areas to help alleviate the increasing pressure on the few current sites.

21

By Karen Bate newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

It was at Watford Gap services in 1959 when the first motorway meal was born and since then, pit stops for fuel have undergone some radical changes.

With the advent of increasingly busier lives, higher demand for grab-andgo eating coupled with vast technological change and a shift in the energy mix, Gillingham Service Station is providing fuel for the future.

Gillingham Service Station, owned by Falcon Retail with John Mason at the helm, stands on Kings Mead Business Park and offers not just fuel, which is, incidentally, priced extremely competitively, but a modern retail experience at their newest Budgens store.

The service station is home not only to Budgens, but a Greggs, three Costa Coffee machines, Tango Ice Blast, a colourful array of fruit and vegetables along with chilled food, six chest freezers chock full of Cook ready meals. Customers can also pick up a decent bottle of wine from the Laithwaite collection. The forecourt is home to a jet wash and valeting service and has two HGV pumps to boot.

“Everyone loves a Costa,” said senior store manager Kevin Knight. “And Greggs speaks for itself!”

Forget any notion of fuel stations of the past, with grubby shelving and a limited stock of crisps and nuts. Gillingham Service Station is a clean and contemporary space full of good food and drink and all served by the friendly and warm team of staff, each possessing a top class customer service pedigree.

It is little wonder then, that after just a few weeks since opening, Kevin is already securing a long and loyal following.

He said: “I live in Trowbridge and it is such a joy to drive through the 22

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Everything you need to refuel at Gillingham’s new Budgens

fields and farmland each day to work. Gillingham is extremely picturesque and the people here are so warm and friendly.”

Falcon Retail has four fuel retail outlets in Frome, North Bradley, Wembdon and now Gillingham and plan to open another on Portland in August.

“I love the fact that we are not a massive global concern, but we are like a family unit,”

said Kevin.

“We are dedicated to building not just good relationships with our team, but with our customers and this is vital for success. We pride ourselves on our customer service and I think this is why already we are building up a good number of regular customers.

“If you have a strong team of staff you are onto a winner.”

Kevin added: “We have regular promotions, which

change each month. At the moment you can buy ten cans of Thatcher’s or Carling for just £8. We do have some cracking deals here.

“At the weekend our car wash is half-price for the top wash at £5.”

John said: “We felt there were not enough fuel facilities here and the area needed more competition.

Gillingham is a huge growth area with 2,000 new houses planned along with commercial development.”

So if you haven’t filled up at Gillingham Service Station, it is worth a trip – you could wash your car while sipping a Costa, fill-up, grab a bite, stock up on a few essentials and buy supper before heading out on the road.

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TERMS & CONDITIONS: Hot sandwich deal includes any hot sandwich, wedges and any regular hot or cold drink. Chicken goujons deal includes chicken goujons, wedges and any regular hot or cold drink. Red Bull 7p extra, Coca-Cola Classic 330ml 10p extra and Coca-Cola Classic 500ml 14p extra. All deals exclude soup. Regular speciality latte 30p extra. Upgrade to a large hot drink for 30p extra. Subject to availability. Images show serving suggestions. Sit in prices may vary. Coca-Cola Zero Sugar is a registered trademark of The Coca-Cola Company. LUCOZADE, LUCOZADE ENERGY and the Arc Device are registered trademarks of Lucozade Ribena Suntory Ltd. All of our allergen information is available in our allergen guide. Or visit greggs.co.uk

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5. See greggs.co.uk/terms-conditions for full terms and conditions.

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Tel: 01747 859771 Gillingham Service Station, Kingsmead Business Park, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 5FB

£5 OFF WHEN YOU SPEND £20 IN THE SHOP

23

Bags of praise for rural litter pickers

By Steve Keenan newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

IT’S IN THE BAG: Cllr Pauline Batstone

24

The extra exercise that people do during lockdown has meant that Blackmore Vale roads are less blighted by litter, suggests one Dorset councillor.

Cllr Pauline Batstone believes that people out walking are also helping clear litter, especially now with spring cleaning in mind.

Certainly, there has been plenty of Facebook activity with volunteer pickers being praised in East Stour, Shaftesbury, Henstridge and the Wombles group in Okeford Fitzpaine.

“I think people are even more aware and like to do something about the litter because people are walking more and driving less,” said Cllr Batstone, who represents the Blackmore Vale Ward.

She is a regular volunteer near her home in Sturminster Newton and recently posted on Facebook: “Another Sunday, another litter pick...... We cleared from Plumber Manor to almost Fifehead Neville, where some other kind souls have already cleared.”

And she told The New Blackmore Vale: “Most of what we have been dragging out of hedges and ditches around here is old rubbish.

“Now we are on top of it round here, hopefully we will be able to keep it under control by people taking a carrier bag when they go for walks. I also hope the publicity on social media and seeing us around may cause people to think.”

The upsurge in local picking comes as Dorset Council last week began a collaborative project with community campaigners Litter Free Dorset, which involves installing roadside signs saying #loveyourverge and encouraging drivers to take rubbish home.

Dorset is dependent on volunteer pickers to keep rural B roads clear, says Cllr Jill Haynes, Portfolio Holder for Customer and Community Services.

She added: “We simply don’t have the resources to litter pick every verge in the council area, so we focus our attention on the busiest A roads. It’s the continued efforts of volunteers and community groups that keep our rural verges litter free.”

The council has programmed pick-ups across the county, including the Blandford bypass, but staff sickness or self-isolation has recently hampered efforts.

“We haven’t been able to do as much litter picking as usual up until now, especially given the vital road closures that take time and planning to make sure our employees can work safely,” said Cllr Haynes.

The council advises that anyone who wants to set up their own rural litter pick group should visit dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/litterpicks.

Cllr Batstone also recently helped Chapper Burden, a volunteer who cleared bags of litter in Manston but wondered what to do with it.

Cllr Batstone advised him to ring the council (01305 225408) and arrange collection, which was done.

She praised the volunteers who help keep rural roads clear.

But she added: “There are still the idiots who throw the remains of their fish and chips out of the window of their car, or those munching crisps and drinking from cans and throwing those down and out.

“My bête noir is whoever it is who buys scratch cards in Stur at £30 at a time and throws each down when s/he has scratched it, so every 10 or so yards you find one.

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The real story of Easter is not really for children “Easter is not really for the children unless accompanied by a cream-filled egg. It has whips, blood, nails, a spear and allegations of body snatching. It involves politics, God and the sins of the world. It is not good for people of a nervous disposition. They would do better to think on rabbits, chickens and the first snowdrops of spring. Or they’d do better to wait for a re-run of Christmas without asking too many questions about what Jesus did when he grew up or whether there’s any connection.”

So wrote the poet Steve Turner. He was right.

Most people like to jump from hot-cross buns (always available these days) to Easter eggs without pondering for a moment on what these things are meant to symbolise. Meanwhile, Christians have been trying during Lent and Passiontide

Our Loose Canon...

with Canon Eric Woods DL

to enter imaginatively into the sufferings of Christ during the final days of his earthly ministry, in order to understand what Good Friday and Easter are all about.

Christians know that we can only properly approach Easter by way of the cross, by way of a death. Unless on Good Friday we are in heart and mind at Calvary, we are unlikely on Easter Day to know the true joy of the empty tomb. Rabbits and chickens and chocolate eggs have nothing to do with it.

Even the image of springtime can be misleading, although it is a very ancient metaphor.

“Easter”, after all, was the old name of the Saxon

goddess of spring. But spring is followed by summer, and summer by autumn, and autumn by winter.

New life is succeeded by a further dying.

But as St Paul insists in his letter to the Romans, “Christ being raised from the dead dies no more”, and whilst spring is something general and natural and familiar, the resurrection of Jesus is the miracle that turns the world upside-down.

And it is a once-for-all event.

“Christ being raised from the dead dies no more.” Or, as Sydney Carter puts it in his hymn, the risen Christ calls us to follow him: “I’ll live in you if you’ll live in me: I am the Lord of the Dance, said he.”

So we need have no fear about our journey through life if we are prepared to dance with Jesus through death into eternal life.

That doughty old atheist, Bertrand Russell, thought he

knew where the journey ends: “when I die, I rot.” But because of the first Easter Day, because of the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, Christians dare to believe and proclaim something different.

We know where we came from and where we’re going to.

As one Christian writer puts it, “I came from God. I belong to God. I’m going to God.” We believe Jesus when he told his disciples, “Because I live, you too will live.”

We discover that Easter is not the end of anything, but only the beginning. “I am the dance and I still go on.”

Have a very happy, and joyous, Easter.

ITEMS FOR SALE Skateboard, wooden, 27 * 7 in, weight 4lb. £17. Tel 01258 861032 Dog/cat pet carrier atlas 40 ferplast size 27" Lx19" Wx18"H good condition £20 01747 835680 Solid medium oak dining suite.4 chairs 2 carvers. Table 66"x42" plus extender. VGC. Gillingham. £100. 0774 778 4783 Trailer 8ft x 4ft, with light board and brake, made from caravan chassis, needs tidying £55 01935 425220 Grass & Brush Strimmer. 2 in 1, 2 stroke, brand new. £60 ono 01258 86087 Bedhead antique style iron black and brass for double bed vgc £50 01963 225538 Model military vehicles x 4 with radio. Suitable for enthusiasts £80 01747 228845 Evolution Rage 14 " Chop Saw good condition £45 Electric welder Weldmate 100 and rods £20 01747 825501 Wheelchair for disabled adult.

26

Folds down for car boot. As new £50 could deliver local 07901 063859 Useful solid wooden desk only £20, selling due to downsizing.

01747 855546 A pair of pine interior heavy 15 panel bevel glazed doors all fittings. £100 Kia Sportage roof bars and pair of mats, both brand new £50 Tel 01747861941 Silkie Bantam Cockerel for sale.

8 months old. Contact Julia 07711 715435.

Cardboard boxes for moving house. 32 new unused, small, medium and large. £20 North Cadbury. Tel: 07940 298046 Indesit washing machine free to collector, good working order but some rust on the bottom. 07871 368808 2 X full-size orthopaedic support pillows zipped washable cotton covers perfect, only used briefly £4 01935 872217 2 X full-size orthopaedic support pillows £4 Tel: 01935 872217

Mamas & Papas moses basket, mattress, stand, new Tommee Tippee bottle warmer & 125 ml bottle £8 01935 872217

2 X full-size orthopaedic support pillows 01935 872217 Circular cat/dog wicker basket, 18inch £14 01258 861032

RASCAL WHEELCHAIR: lightweight, foldable, good condition, £45. Homcom Inversion Table, for back stretching and alignment, new still boxed, £65ono. A Wondercore 2 exerciser as new, £40. 07766 223843 BEAUTIFUL MAHOGANY REGENCY REPRODUCTION DINING SUITE. Extendable table, six chairs & sideboard, Excellent condition. Open to offers – call 01258 860370 STRIDER MOBILITY SCOOTER, 3rd class, no tax required, estimate 12 miles. £600ono. Ray 01963 824184 KITCHEN WORKTOPS German origin, brand new.

2900x900 £180. 3500x650 £80. Both ash grain.

2490x600 £100. 3086x600 £110. Both grey.

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Boughton 10 ton 2 speed TIMBER WINCH. 3 point linkage, ground anchors, PTO powered hydraulic brake, engage & lifting anchors. Good condition. £4,500 ONO 07831 626083 or 01747 853512 LEATHER CREAM RECLINING CHAIR + ADJUSTABLE TABLE. £250. 01258471126

Traders so keen as markets looking ahead to reopening Market manager Andy Reynolds says he hopes to reopen the markets in Blandford on April 15 unless there are any changes to the legislation, but there is a possibility that outdoor markets may be allowed to open earlier as they were after the previous lockdown.

In his report to the town council in March, he said the street market on Thursdays has only had the fishmonger since the start of the national lockdown, but Saturday’s market has continued to improve, and in the week of February 27 five pitches were expected.

“Enquiries continue to come in and reduced rates continue to be a great help in attracting new traders,” he said.

He said most of the traders

By Nicci Brown newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

for all the markets have said they intend to return after the current lockdown.

The café in the Corn Exchange will continue to comply with track and trace, with increased signage and a one-way system, together with encouragement of social distancing.

He said he had dealt with a few complaints or concerns from members of the public who had seen the Saturday market and asked for it to be closed.

“It was evident that those people were unaware of the rules in place – one person thinking we were holding a full market and ignoring the restrictions. We have been visited by covid marshalls and they raised no concerns.”

Group’s year of tree planting The planting of an oak tree at Castle Hill in Shaftesbury marks the end of the first year of Shaftesbury tree Group’s tree planting programme.

Karen Wimhurst and Robin Walter planted the English Oak, completing the first year of the five year planting programme to help give the town a greener future.

With backing and support from Shaftesbury Town Council, 97 trees and 750 hedgerow saplings have been planted in five of the town’s open spaces to provide shade, a buffer from wind and road pollution, wildlife habitats and visual amenity.

Just a handful of people got planting this year because of the Covid-19 restrictions.

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Although it wasn’t the community process the group had hoped, local people still have the opportunity to get involved with the aftercare of the trees along with watering during dry spells. A new phase of planting has been planned for autumn.

For information about the Town Tree Plan and getting involved see Planet Shaftesbury’s at planetshaftesbury. org/ treegroup

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Offer may not be used with any other incentive or purchase assistance scheme. For full details speak to a sales consultant.

27

Announcements ANNIVERSARY JIGGY & HEATHER BURCH 10-04-21 Celebrating 50 happy years together!

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS MARILYN WEBB and family and all the Turner family thank everyone for all the kind words, Love and support after the sad loss of Sheelah Turner. Thank you also to Merefield & Henstridge and the Rev Pam Rink. There will be a celebration of her life at Melbury Abbas church, date to be announced later in the year.

JACKIE LAWS - DECEASED

IN MEMORIAM RONALD R. 29th March 2017 Another year has passed, still miss your company & love you but you have never been forgotten.

Love Pat & family xx

GORDON BUTT 07/04/2011 Missing you still so very much today and always. Forever in our thoughts.

With all our love, from your loving wife Doreen and daughters Pamela, Donna and their families.

CHARLES RIGGS 05-04-34 Special birthday memories. Always in my thoughts.

Love Margaret xx

28

Sending many thanks to all the family and friends who attended the funeral, also the support of those who could not come due to restrictions, finally my appreciation to Leslie Shand Funeral Directors who carried out a wonderful & compassionate job. Stuart Laws

DEATHS DEBRA ANN ROBERTS (DEBBIE) On 15th March 2021 peacefully after a short illness aged 58 years of Shaftesbury.

Much loved sister, auntie and great auntie who will be sorely missed by all amily and friends.

Private family service but donations if desired to Breast Cancer UK or The Stars Appeal, Salisbury District Hospital, may be sent to Merefield & Henstridge Funeral Directors, Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset. SP7 0BU. Tel: 01747 853532

WHITE CHRISTOPHER ROBIN “CHRIS” aged 77 years of Sherborne. Late of Bruton, Christopher’s Hair Stylist. On 13th March 2021, peacefully at his home. A much loved husband, father, grandfather, brother-in-law, uncle and friend. Private funeral. Donations in memory of Chris are being invited for St Peter’s and St Paul’s Church, Charlton Horethorne. C/O Harold F.Miles, Funeral Director, South Cadbury, BA22 7ES. Telephone. (01963) 440367.

MACDONALD JOYCE Of Iwerne Minster. Passed away peacefully at Dorset County Hospital on 19th March, aged 97 years.

Dearly loved aunt to Graham and Marion.

Joyce will be fondly remembered and very sadly missed by all her friends and neighbours in Iwerne Minster and Clayesmore School.

Private funeral to take place.

Donations in memory of Joyce, for Margaret Green Animal Rescue, may be made online by visiting close-funeral.co.uk or cheques payable to the charity c/o Colin J Close Funeral Service, Peel Close, Salisbury Road, Blandford DT11 7JU. Tel: 01258 453133

EVA ‘BETTY’ TITE Passed away at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital on 21st March 2021 aged 92 years. Wife of the late Mac and Granny of the late Emma. Dearly loved and greatly missed by her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, friends and neighbours.

Private funeral service due to covid restrictions. Donations if desired for Lydlinch Church. C/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, Mons, High St, Henstridge, BA8 0RB. Tel: 01963 362570.

PAMELA MARY HARRIES NÉE BROWN Passed away peacefully on 22nd March 2021 at Salisbury District Hospital aged 89 years of Shaftesbury. Beloved wife of the late Trevor.

Much loved by her son John, daughter in law Anita and grandsons Ben and Leon. Loving sister to brother John and sister in law Louise. She will be sadly missed by her friends and all those who knew her from her many years living on Gold Hill and those from the church at St James. Private funeral service but donations if desired to The Friends of St. James or The Royal British Legion, Shaftesbury Branch, may be sent to Merefield & Henstridge, Funeral Directors, Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset. SP7 0BU. Tel: 01747 853532.

Announcements LINDA MARJORY HOPKINS On 13th March 2021 peacefully in St Denis Lodge Residential Home, aged 69 years of Shaftesbury. Much loved wife to the late Robert, loving mum to Sarah, a doting nanny to George and Edison and a much loved sister to Paul, who will be much missed by all family and friends. Private family service, but donations if desired to Parkinson's UK may be sent to Merefield & Henstridge Funeral Directors, Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset. SP7 0BU. Tel: 01747 853532

DESMOND AUSTIN Peacefully on the 15th March 2021 at home in Stourton Caundle, aged 81 years. Much loved and missed by his wife Beverley and all his family and friends. Private funeral service due to covid restrictions. Donations if desired for Marie Curie. C/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services. Mons, High St, Henstridge, BA8 0RB. Tel: 01963 362570.

SQUIRE COLIN RAYMOND Aged 92 years of Galhampton. On 15th March 2021, peacefully at Highfield House, Castle Cary.

Colin will be sadly missed by his family and friends.

Private funeral.

All enquires to Harold F. Miles, Funeral Director, South Cadbury.

Telephone (01963) 440367.

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29

Announcements JOHN DENNIS MAIDMENT Passed away peacefully on 5th March 2021 at Dorset County Hospital, aged 94.

Dearly beloved husband to Moira, and Dad to Sarah, Caroline and the late Jane. Much loved and sadly missed by sons-in-law, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Private service to be held at Salisbury Crematorium.

Family flowers only with donations, if wished, to the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance Charity, via Colin J Close, Peel Close, Salisbury Road, Blandford Forum DT11 7JU

A J Wakely& Sons Independent Family Funeral Directors Choice of Hearses available including our Land Rover Hearse

ANGELA (ANGIE) MILES, nee PAMPHILION After a short illness Angie quietly passed away at home on 14th Mar 2021 with her husband Peter and daughter Debbie at her side. Angie was just 75.

Born in Zeals, schooled in Zeals and Gillingham, she married Naval Officer Peter in 1968 and lived, worked and socialised in the Shaftesbury area until 1981, when the family moved to Lee-on-the-Solent to be nearer Peter’s RN postings.

Angie was a talented artist and craftswomen with a joyful character, an engaging smile, always ready for fun and laughter. She will be sorely missed, leaving a massive gap in the lives of her husband, daughter and grandchildren, Harry, Evie and Grace. Rest in peace my love.

YEATMAN SUSAN ANNE (née HOLE)

– 24 Hour Service –

Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817 Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310 Pre-payment plans available

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

PETER JACKSON FUNERAL SERVICES

Passed away on 6th March 2021 at Yeovil District Hospital, after a long illness, aged 80 years. Much loved sister to Simon, mum to Paul and Tracy, mum-in-Law to Tweka and Dave and gran to Oliver, April, Cameron, Sebastian and Harry.

Private funeral only due to restrictions.

Donations in Sue's memory, if desired, to Yeovil Hospital Charity at justgiving.com/fundraising/susanyeatman

GARY BERNARD LAWRENCE BROWN Passed away in Poole Hospital on 16th March, 2021, aged 74.

Beloved husband of Chris, Dad to Kevin and Darren, and "Grumpy" to Jed and Bruce.

Will be sadly missed by all who knew him.

Family funeral only, due to current restrictions.

Family flowers only.

Donations if you wish, to Poole Hospital Charity – Children's Wards.

WALTER MOORE “WALLY” 16-02-21 Funeral to take place on 9th April 2021 at 4pm, at Poole Crematorium. Rest in peace, from your old friend, Ian.

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30

Announcements Funeral directors’ Q&A

ALBERT HOWARD ROBINSON

Richard Wakely: A.J. Wakely & Sons On 23rd March 2021 peacefully at home aged 73 years of Shaftesbury. Beloved husband, dad and grandad "Always loved".

Private family service.

Enquiries to Merefield & Henstridge Funeral Directors, Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset. SP7 0BU. Tel: 01747 853532

NORRIS Carol Winifred Of Gillingham, Dorset. Passed away peacefully on 10th March 2021 aged 75 years. A dearly much loved and missed wife, mum, grandma and sister.

Funeral service to be held at Yeovil Crematorium on Wednesday 7th April at 10am. Family flowers only please.

To make an online donation to the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance in memory of Carol, please visit her tribute site at funeralcare.co.uk/tributes-and-donations or post to Co-Operative Funeralcare, 2 High St, Gillingham, Dorset. SP8 4QT. Tel: 01747 824738

Why did you become a funeral director?

For me it was twofold, firstly it is an opportunity to help the community I live in, by providing a personal and professional service to grieving families.

Secondly, it allows me to continue the Wakely name and uphold the longstanding traditions and values which have been established over 100 years.

How long have you been a funeral director?

I have been involved within the Family Business for most of my adult life, however, I started my full-time position 7 years ago.

What is the best part of your job?

For me, it is being able to help and guide a family through what is potentially the most difficult and painful season of their lives, it is a real honour to be trusted to do this.

What’s the hardest part of your job?

Admin…. who likes admin.?

What is the most unusual request you have had?

I was once asked if it was possible to keep the skeleton of their loved one, to be turned into an anatomical skeleton for

their home office.

If you were not a funeral director, what would you be?

Good question – I spent three years working in the Philippines for a charity looking after street children, so I would either still be there or train to be a paramedic.

How has the pandemic affected funerals?

This question probably warrants its own article, however, very simply, it has prevented some family and friends being able to say goodbye to their loved ones in the way they would have wanted. On the other hand, it has provided an opportunity for relatives to have a more intimate farewell.

What would your epitaph be?

‘Earth has no sorrow that heaven cannot heal’.

Favourite reading or music?

Reading: Revelation 21 vs 1-5, Song: Amazing Grace sung acapella.

Here’s our announcement! The New Stour & Avon is due to launch soon The New Stour & Avon – a sister magazine for the New Blackmore Vale – will hit the streets from Friday, April 23.

We have decided to launch the new magazine in response to a huge demand from the Wimborne area.

The New Stour & Avon will be printed every two weeks (every other week to the NBV), and dropped off at distribution points in Wimborne, Blandford Forum, Ferndown and Verwood, as well as villages dotted throughout the area.

As we throw off the shackles of covid and return to something resembling normality, the New Stour &

By Dean Mortlock newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

Avon will deliver all the news from the area, including a comprehensive guide to things to do and community events to support.

There will be a range of local contributors and columnists, some very familiar faces and some new features, too. One of the original magazine's favourite sections, the Letters to the Editor, will return and will hopefully once again be a lively area for debate and discussion.

I have worked in magazines and newspapers for around 30 years now, and for the last five years published a hugely

popular community magazine for Glastonbury and Street.

The response so far to our plan to bring out The New Stour & Avon has been incredibly positive. The closure of the original Stour & Avon back in 2018 left a massive hole in the community, as it was a fantastic source of news and information for the area. The New Stour and Avon will have everything that people loved about the original, plus a few new features, too.

For information about advertising in the New Stour and Avon, call advertising manager Debi Thorne on 07876 563683, or Jane

Toomer, senior account manager, at jane.toomer@blackmorevale. net. For any editorial enquiries, get in touch with me on 07809 121434.

31

Letters

Colin the Sherborne railway station man: For the first time in over a year I went to Sherborne station to find out train times for a trip to London.

I never use the internet for information and purchase of tickets for Colin, at Sherborne station, was always there, issuing tickets and advice... the font of all train knowledge! Disaster – no Colin, he has retired! I know I am not the only person who will be missing him – there must be hundreds of people who will feel the same. Wherever you are, Colin, may I say a big Thank You for all your help over the years, you will be sadly missed.

Any chance you could come out of retirement?

Maggie Forbes-Buckingham Sherborne n I was very impressed by the well worded letters sent by year 4 pupils of Gillingham Primary School written on the subject of balloons.

Congratulations to them and their teacher, Julie Scammell, on raising the subject of the dangers these present to not only to sea life but land animals also. This applies everywhere, not just Gillingham.

Well Done year 4.

June Maitland Milborne St Andrew n Mike Keatinge’s response (March 19) to Andrew Morrison, highlights the need to focus on solutions that are economically viable, achievable and based on proven technology.

Instead of posing a massive disposal problem, nonrecyclable municipal waste could be viewed as a continuous, never-ending source of fuel for conversion to electricity in MWE incinerators.

High temperature incineration in autoclaves (pyrology) has already been introduced, with the advantage of minimising emissions and ash residue.

Preferred locations would be on 32

Cartoon by Lyndon Wall justsocaricatures.co.uk

brown field sites eg redundant coal-fired fired power stations, with relevant infrastructure still in place.

Landfill sites and exporting UK waste could (and should) soon become things of the past.

In an ideal world, our PM will task the wonderful Kate Bingham, to devise and speedily implement a strategy , as she did so successfully to give us a covid-19 vaccine.

Greenies and Nimbys, please climb out of your trenches! Get up in your helicopters and look down on the whole battlefield!

There is no time to lose.

Gordon Ratcliffe Chetnole n I had my second vaccine this morning at the Blackmore Vale Partnership Surgery and wish to thank all the doctors and nurses and staff involved.

It was so well organised. A very big Thank You. Eve Eyres Sturminster Newton

n Regarding Pip Taylor’s concerns (Letters, March 19th) about speeding traffic in Bath Road, I can assure him that since the summer of 2014, efforts have been made to monitor speeds and report car and registration details of those offending to Dorset Police. This is carried out by volunteers, currently eight, who make up Sturminster Newton’s Community Speedwatch team.

The team operates in five other town locations, all sites vetted by the police in 2014. Although parked vehicles can be an obstruction to those exiting drives and side roads, it is evident from monitoring sessions in Bath Road and our other locations, that they actually help to reduce traffic speed, as indeed do our high-viz jackets!

Regrettably, in line with Government restrictions, CSW activities have been mainly curtailed since the first lockdown. We will be allowed to resume when restrictions are

eased. However, the data the team has submitted over the years has helped to bring speeding issues around the town to the attention of the police. As a result, during lockdowns, the police Trucam van with its enforcement laser has monitored speed at three of our sites, including Bath Road, the last time there on March 8. All offending drivers have been issued with a ticket. The Trucam operator has also worked alongside team members at their monitoring sessions.

In addition, although not a camera, Bath Road is to have a SID (Speed Indicator Device).

Poles will be erected at three of our sites so that the SID can be moved around. At each selected location speed was monitored by the police to establish the need for a SID. Thanks go to Carole Jones, our county councillor, who has campaigned for this.

With a bigger team, speed monitoring sessions would be more frequent. CSW is a country-wide initiative so if speeding vehicles concern you then step forward as a volunteer.

In Sturminster’s case the town council is your point of contact.

Annie Adkins, CSW Coordinator n Stuart Jones completely misses the point of my letter, which is primarily pointed at local democracy, accountability and professionalism.

Few people would question the need for SEND provision but as was made clear in the recently received Dorset Council News, this newly acquired expensive facility COULD be used for this purpose. As I said in my first letter, this expenditure was made in advance of any proposal of use being identified specifically and correctly costed on that basis. I also made the point that with the implied economies of scale on which the merger of the councils was justified, there

Letters

come back! We’re lost without you there must be redundant buildings scattered through the council areas that would lend themselves to such a facility. Indeed these could offer beneficial advantages in more local areas ,avoiding unnecessary travel and cost to one dedicated site, probably extremely inconvenient to some of those with this need.

Following my letter, I find it surprising and inexplicable that no one from DCC saw fit to justify their position to the open forum of BV; neither from regional councillors. Perhaps Mr Jones is involved in some council activity and becomes the stalking horse in this situation.

What exactly is Mr Jones saying? St Mary’s will still be running the school? No doubt for reasons beyond their control, it clearly went bankrupt and I cannot see how we can be proud of a school that no longer exists.

Unless Mr Jones or DCC know something that we don’t.

Some one needs to answer the question as to why our local councillor representatives were not allowed a vote on this very significant expenditure of our money.

Surely DCC should have asked for use proposals before the acquisition, not after the monies had been spent.

Jeremy Bloomfield Gillingham n This Dorset Council News, a 16-page document arrived in the mail, Apart from it being an opportunity for the Leader of the Council to have the better part of a page to express his views does any other reader, think this addition to our already rising council tax, think this worth the costs involved? Would we not rather have up to date information that affects our lives?

As just one example this Tuesday we had a dental appointment in Sturminster

Cartoon by Lyndon Wall justsocaricatures.co.uk

Newton, a seven-mile trip.

Leaving in good time we found the road beyond Hazelbury Bryan to Sturminster Newton closed, with no explanation.

Fortunately we know the lanes via Fifehead Neville to the Common above Sturminster Newton, still as ever housing Gypsies and Travellers in profusion. Nevertheless we arrived for our appointment ten minutes late and were refused treatment.

We have yet to find out what the cause of this road closure was.

If North Dorset wants to relate to those who fund the Council Tax could they not better keep us informed of the serious issues that affect our lives? We still have to learn why this road had to be closed!

Bill Woodhouse Mappowder n I write to say that I thoroughly endorse the comments made by Jeremy Bloomfield with regard to DCC

purchase of St Mary’s School.

An additional and in my opinion unnecessary cost which contributes to the fact that DCC have the second highest council tax rate in the country!

T.D. Ball Stour Provost n The recent anti-police violence in Bristol has underlined the importance of “order” in the phrase “law and order”. We all rely on our police to prevent and deter crime, but also to keep good order in our communities. This is as important in the high-rise centre of Bristol as in the country lanes and villages of rural Somerset.

We need to be able to go about our lives free from fear and arbitrary disruption or threat from a mob.

It’s why the election for Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) on Thursday 6 May is so important. The PCC is the key democratic link between the public and the police. It’s a big

job. It matters who does it. The PCC sets the priorities for the police locally, sets the budget and holds the force to account on behalf of the public.

In my 30 years as a soldier I worked with police around the world helping to fight crime and keep good order. Key to this is working with communities, actively and honestly. I want to see our police well-equipped with the latest technology, even better trained and with the people and resources in the right places to prevent crime. I will work with government to ensure Avon and Somerset crime levels stop rising, as is sadly the case at present, and start falling.

The key measure of good policing is not how many arrests are made, but how low are levels of crime. And when we need them to protect us and our property, I want to reassure everyone that the police will be there for them.

Mark Shelford Conservative candidate to be Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner n News from the Coop: YIPPEE! We’re just waiting for 23.59 on Wednesday the 31st March; this is the precise time announced by Defra for the end of our lockdown which came into force on December 15th as a result of Avian Flu outbreaks.

Defra, for the moment, you are top of the pops! Since the last report we’ve been doing pretty much er... what we were doing before. We just can’t wait to get out and about in the garden again. We’re dreaming of getting our beaks into one of those tasty little slugs and having a proper bath. We haven’t had a really good dust bath for weeks now.

Let’s hope you guys get an end to your lockdown in the not too distant future as well – just stick to the rules like us!

From Speckly, Reg, Red, Gertie and Titch 33

Food & Drink

Warm salad dish is bursting with Vitamin Sea April – Part 1 The first of the new potatoes are starting to be harvested and appear in our local greengrocers.

This fortnight’s recipe showcases them with a slightly unusual coastal partner which is also currently in season, samphire.

Potatoes (a member of the nightshade family including tomatoes, aubergine, and bell peppers) are a good source of potassium, B vitamins, vitamin C, and fibre, and a moderate source of protein. Most of the nutrients, fibre, and protein are found in the skin so it is always best to keep the skins on!

Samphire is rich in vitamin C, A and B vitamins, iodine, calcium, and magnesium. Samphire also contains fucoidans, bioactive compounds found in sea vegetables shown to have antiinflammatory and antioxidant effects. Samphire can be quite salty, so it is worth washing it lightly before cooking and not

34

Rebecca Vincent is a BANT registered nutritionist from Wincanton

adding any other salt to the dish.

Samphire and new potato salad (serves 4) 450g new potatoes (washed and cut to be similar sizes) 30g samphire (washed) 2 eggs (hard boiled)

Couple of tablespoons extra virgin olive oil Pinch of black pepper Optional extras: pinch of smoked paprika, finely sliced spring onions.

Cook the potatoes on the hob starting with cold water, not

boiling. This is supposed to ensure an even cook all the way through the potato (something I picked up from my grandad, and when it came to potatoes he was always right).

Boil until just soft when tested with a knife. Add the samphire and continue to simmer for 2-3 minutes. Drain well and set aside to cool for a few minutes.

Instead of using mayonnaise I like to use diced hard-boiled eggs and a good quality olive oil to ‘coat’ the potato salad.

This increases the protein content of the dish and helps slow the release of sugars from carbohydrates into the bloodstream.

Dice the eggs quite finely and mix with the potatoes, samphire, olive oil, and pepper so everything is evenly coated and serve still warm, or chilled with leftovers the next day.

A lovely addition to a salad or fish dish. rebeccavincentnutrition.co.uk

Food & Drink

Cooking...

with Mrs Simkins

Easter Saffron Cake Saffron has always been one of the most precious spices for either sweet or savoury dishes and is perfect to celebrate the festival of Easter. Easter saffron cakes are traditional across Eastern Europe and Russia and equally traditional in Cornwall: since saffron arrived there centuries ago, through the Spanish tin trade.

It was once also a thriving crop in Saffron Walden, Essex (the name’s a bit of a giveaway!) where it has recently returned after a gap of 200 years.

Here’s a lovely version: serve in slices or wedges, plain or buttered - or with jam and clotted cream.

Here at Warrens Bakery, we only use the finest Spanish Saffron in our Saffron Cakes.The making of the legendary Saffron Cake is said to date back to the days when Phoenician traders exchanged spices and other goods for tin from the Cornish mines. The luxurious saffron spice, made from the dried stigmas

of crocus flowers, was added to give exotic flavour to bread and cakes.

Makes 12 250ml milk 60g salted butter, diced Generous pinch of saffron threads 500g strong white bread flour 1 teaspoon crushed sea salt 150g mixed dried fruit and peel 1½ tablespoons golden caster sugar 1 teaspoon ‘easy-bake’ dried yeast

1 large egg, beaten Plus: Icing sugar to finish, sugar coated mini eggs and edible flowers You will need a buttered 20cm loose bottomed cake tin Warm the milk. Add the butter and saffron. Steep for

Mum’s Kitchen...

Banana, Ginger and Caramel Pudding Ingredients Serves 6 For the Pudding 125g (4 ½ oz) plain flour 1 tablespoon baking powder 1 teaspoon ground ginger 125g (4 ½ oz) light muscovado sugar 2 ripe bananas, mashed 1 large egg, beaten 200 ml (7fl oz) milk 75g (2 ½ oz) butter, melted For the caramel sauce 4 tablespoons golden syrup 125g (4 ½ oz) light muscovado sugar 250 ml (9fl oz) water

20 minutes.

Combine the flour, salt, fruit, sugar, and yeast and make a central well. Whisk the egg into the saffron milk and gradually incorporate into the dry mix.

Knead together and transfer to a sparingly floured board.

Knead until smooth and elastic: be steady, there’s no need to over-work enriched dough.

Prove for 1-2 hours or until virtually doubled in size.

Knock back and fit into the tin. Prove for another hour or again until virtually doubled in size.

Bake in a preheated oven 200C 180C (fan oven) gas mark 6 or equivalent for 25 minutes or until risen and golden brown.

Dust with sieved icing sugar before serving and decorate with mini eggs and edible flowers. n MrsSimkins. co.uk n twitter.com/MrsSimkins Cooks n email: info@ MrsSimkins. co.uk

with Diana Holman Method Preheat the oven to 180C/160C fan. Sift the flour, baking powder and ground ginger into a bowl, then beat in the sugar, mashed bananas, egg, milk and butter until well combined. Pour into a buttered 1.5 to 2ltr (2 ½ pint-3 ½ pint) ovenproof dish. (It is important to heed the size recommended as this pudding bubbles up during cooking).

For the sauce, put the syrup, sugar and 250ml (9fl oz) water) in a pan over a medium heat.

Stir until dissolved and bring to the boil.

Pour immediately over the top of the pudding and place in the oven for 30 to 40 minutes until golden and just firm in the centre when lightly pressed. Cool for a few minutes and serve with ice-cream, cream or crème fraiche.

35

Food & Drink

Traditional pub with historic past

By Toby Hartwell tobyhartwell@gmail.com

I recently had the opportunity to chat to owner Alasdair Warren, the owner of the Antelope Inn at Hazelbury Bryan, whose family have lived in Dorset for over 200 years.

Alasdair is a lover of great local pubs. Having lived in London for some years he has now returned his roots, to live near Bridport and is on something of a mission that we should all applaud.

He is determined to save or bring back to life some classic Dorset pubs.

His enthusiasm and passion for the project is infectious as he talks about restoring pubs to their former glory at the heart of local villages.

In May 2019 he started on this personal by purchasing a pub he knew well from his youth, The Pyemore Inn in Bridport, which had fallen into disrepair and embarked on a project to bring it back to life.

He has since bought three other premises across the county, amongst which is his ‘absolute favourite; I would be in there every night if I could!’

Built in the 1700s, The Antelope was originally a combined dairy farm, brewery and ale house.

By the mid-1900s the farming had ceased but the main buildings remained as a brewery and public house.

The origins of the pub’s name are not completely clear but was most probably prompted by its location near the Blackmore Forest and the wildlife that made frequent visits to the village.

This is a beautiful spot to visit for a pint.

The pub’s location in Hazelbury Bryan is in the 36

heart of the Blackmore Vale.

It’s real Hardy country and the Antelope is surrounded by our beautiful Dorset countryside and not surprisingly in more normal times attracts many walkers and cyclists alike.

Whilst welcoming all passers by who drop in, the pub is very much a hub of the local community, a true village pub where you can pop in at the end of the

working day for a restorative pint or two.

It has been traditionally very much a ‘wet’ pub where you come in for a natter and catch up on what’s what rather than for gastro meals.

Alasdair is very aware of the important social role a pub plays in the workings of a village community and is a great fan of pub games and keen to see the pub’s skittle alley in regular action.

The pub is managed by Greg and Rhiannon Chauncey, who grew up in South Africa, although originally from the UK. They were in the process of taking a couple of years off to travel and see the world and found themselves in Hazelbury Bryan. Loving the place and the people, they stayed.

Traditionally, The Antelope hasn’t served food although

Food & Drink

and now facing a successful future

YOU’RE WELCOME: Greg and Rhiannon Chauncey and daughter Hannah at The Antelope

a light menu was introduced last year and covid allowing, you can arrange to have food prepared for shooting parties and other special occasions. In buying the pub just over a year ago, Alasdair wanted to ensure that The Antelope was in good shape for the future and has invested in restoring its traditional feel to revive the original character and make it a comfortable place

If your pub is oozing with history, or you have a great story to tell about it, get in touch with Toby at tobyhartwell @gmail.com

to spend time. Too often changes are made to pubs that alienate their customers that it will depend on. Initially cautious, it seems clear that from the comments received that the residents of Hazelbury Bryan approve feels as if the changes have always been there.

Covid and resulting

restrictions haven’t helped but it was the constraints of the first lockdown presented an opportunity to finish work on external decorations and get the garden looking terrific.

Recent TripAdvisor comments confirm the appeal of The Antelope – ‘wonderful clean, warm,

traditional friendly pub. A+ Food’.

Alasdair is quick to praise Greg and Rhiannon for their enthusiasm and creativity.

It has been a turbulent year for them, to say the least, and now with the help of their daughter, Hannah, it is very much a family affair.

They clearly love running this beautifully renovated pub and are excited that food will play a bigger role in future.

They managed to hold a socially distanced Christmas market and plan to introduce a regular monthly fresh local market.

You will find a good selection of local real ales and ciders with carefully chosen guest ales at The Antelope. I asked Alasdair about his plans for the future. The focus like so many pubs is now about keeping ‘our heads above water’ during continued coronavirus restrictions but there are plans to extend the kitchen and expand the range of food offered. He also hopes to refurbish an area above the pub to provide accommodation to add to the barn and stables which are already for holiday lets.

As we all endure this gloomy period and miss the warmth and welcome of our local pub, it’s comforting to hear an owner and staff talk so enthusiastically about a more optimistic future. With the effects of the pandemic threatening the future of a quintessential part of village life, it is great to know that we have Alasdair doing his best to prevent this.

When we return to some sort of normality, I suggest you make a beeline for The Antelope!

37

Food & Drink

A scrumptious way to spend a day! eat:Festivals are hosting three markets in our area this spring – including a new one in Lyme Regis. eat:Lyme Regis on Saturday, April 24 joins eat:Castle Cary on May 1 and eat:Yeovil on May 22 as daylong celebrations of local and regional food and drink, organised by multi-award winning eat:Festivals. eat:Festivals are led by Bev and Sarah Milner Simonds – two women on a mission to reconnect residents with the productive landscape that surrounds them. The social enterprise started in 2012 in their hometown of Burnhamon-Sea and has grown steadily, now hosting 23 events in Somerset, Devon, South Gloucestershire and

Dorset each year.

Bev said: “We know that weekend shindigs, days out and socialising have all been turned on their heads over the past year with plans disrupted and many regular events cancelled.

“In 2021 we are hoping for the best, but ensuring our plans include a worst-case scenario. We managed to deliver six socially-distanced and covid-secure events between lockdowns in 2020 and we are thrilled with the support from local council officers and support services in planning a fresh series of 38

adapted markets in 2021.”

Sarah said: “The three towns we are working in are so different: Castle Cary with its honey-coloured market house, the churchyard of St John’s in Yeovil and the seafront at Lyme Regis are all magnificent backdrops to showcase the micro and small producers from across the region – many of whom have not been to a live market for over a year.

“Covid restrictions meant many event organisers weren’t able to adapt their model to enable them to continue trading and this cut off a vital revenue stream for these family businesses. We have changed how we work and are thrilled to be back curating great food and drink markets.”

Each event is free to attend and will have about 60 regional food and drink producers well-spaced, with some socially distanced entertainment. They are all open air and will have measures in place to minimise the risk of covid transmission. Visitors are being asked to keep local, plan their visit and abide by the latest government advice.

Bev said: “New towns, like Lyme Regis, are really important to our aims. We

focus on producers who are based within 30 miles of our host towns, so when we see applications coming in from small businesses based outside our area, we want to create routes to market for them close to where they are.

“Traders who had only just

started out when the pandemic restrictions hit were some of the hardest hit by the lack of events, so we are launching a new support initiative, Start Out Strong [SOS], to help them.”

For more information go to eatfestivals.org

Food & Drink

Cycling through seasonal produce at café The Yellow Bicycle Cafe in Blandford Forum has become the first café or restaurant in the country to join Seasonarians, a national organisation promoting local, seasonal produce.

Owner and chef Steve Bell said: “We are absolutely thrilled to have joined their ever increasing list of growers, dairies, farms and producers who believe in the benefits of this approach to the environment, animal welfare and the local economy.

“Their aims fit exactly with ours, to make sure our customers know exactly where their food comes from and to help them eat more seasonal, local produce. Throughout the pandemic, so many people have appreciated the availability of local foods from Dorset’s wonderful farmers, farm shops and

producers. We are delighted to work with Seasonarians to help continue to grow this link between local producers and people’s plates.”

All the café’s meat and dairy ingredients and deli items come from local, named farms and producers. This spring they will be increasing their focus on

local fruit, vegetables and seasonings.

Steve added: “We shall also be adopting the Seasonarians’ ‘Traffic Light System’ on the menu and in the deli, helping customers know exactly where their food came from.”

Yellow Bicycle won the South West England Tourism Awards Cafe of the Year in

2020 and the Dorset Tourism Awards Cafe of the Year in 2019.

Steve won National Breakfast Chef of the Year in 2018 and now serves on the judging panel.

You can find out more about Seasonarians by following them on Facebook and Instagram, or at seasonarians.co.uk.

Crowdfunder launched for organic community gardening enterprise

By Miranda Robertson newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

A community project launched in 2009 to provide people with the chance to grow organic produce is appealing for help to fund a new polytunnel and compost loo.

Shaftesbury Homegrown Community Farm was founded with the vision of people joining others to grow and have access to wholesome, healthy locallygrown food, without the use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides or other artificial chemicals.

They used to keep sheep and pigs, but now they mostly grow fruit, vegetables,

flowers and herbs, keep bees for pollination, and freerange hens for eggs.

For more than ten years, they have shared farm tasks, learned new skills and enjoyed good company.

Volunteers at Shaftesbury Homegrown are helping to build a stronger local community, promoting increased physical and mental health for the benefit of all.

Work sessions are held on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday mornings, from 10am to 1pm, with safety measures in place and there are limited people on site at any one time. Their numbers are growing, and Shaftesbury

Homegrown is ready to scale up its activities, grow more food and extend its growing season. Plans for the future include opening up opportunities for other community groups, opening the site for therapeutic gardening, and making the farm even more familyfriendly.

Now they need to raise £7,000 to provide more facilities, and a crowdfunder has now been launched at: crowdfunder.co.uk/shaftesbur y-homegrown-communityfarm.

To join them, or just to visit, contact Helen on 07789 845498 or email englishhv49@gmail.com

ENFORD FARM SHOP Home reared Lamb along with locally produced meat, veg, fruit, deli and game.

Follow us on Facebook for all of our latest deals and offers including weekly meat pack deals

HALF PIG APPROXIMATELY £100 (depending on weight) Open all day, everyday outside shop Fri, Sat Farm shop open 8.30am-5pm Also Arts disiplay Durweston, near Blandford.

01258 450050 39

Food & Drink

Chef to hit the road after voluntary stint

By Karen Bate Chef Carl Thomson has spent a decade creating fabulous feasts for guests in five star chalets in the Alps, feeding hundreds of partygoers at events scattered over the fields of Dorset and creating foodie delights in gastro pubs across Wiltshire.

It followed a natural progression when he launched his own Blandford-based catering company, The Dorset Food Co in 2019 to provide catering solutions to weddings and events using food and drink produced, grown, reared and made right here in Dorset. And of course, being based in Blandford, Carl is able to spend more time with his other passions – his wife Vicki and children, Theo and Matilda.

Carl said: “I love the ability to make people happy with food, bringing people together with food while also meeting the

largest most eclectic group of people in and around our community. Our aim and our only goal is to supply the people of Dorset with fantastic, tasty, wholesome food directly from their own doorstep!

“I’m completely flexible when it comes to menus and meal choices and actively encourage brides, grooms and clients to create their own bespoke menus.

“Currently we offer a brilliant selection of fantastic food options, some of our most

popular options are our Dorset beef burger, our vegan cauliflower and pepper Keralan curry and of course our skin on rosemary and garlic fries!”

During the latest lockdown, Carl decided put down his apron at The Dorset Food Co and volunteered at his local surgery.

He said: “I had a lot more free time to keep myself busy so I’ve been volunteering my time at the local GP surgery providing patient transport, picking up prescriptions for Volunteer

Dorset as well as being an NHS steward at the mass vaccine clinic in Salisbury.”

Now, as restrictions have started to ease, Carl will be bringing his food truck to Dorset’s myriad of villages for takeaways.

“I hope over the next few weeks or so as lockdown measures continue to ease that I will be able to get out on the truck and offer limited takeaway food to our local villages. Over the next 12-18 months, small businesses like mine and many others in Dorset, especially those in the catering and hospitality sector will need as much continued support as they can from their local community. If we all continue to shop and support local, this will in turn enable us all to survive and thrive.”

Follow The Dorset Food Co on Facebook & Instagram at @thedorsetfoodco or find out more at thedorsetfoodco.co.uk

FITTED

OF WESSEX

KITCHENS & BATHROOMS CALL

01258 480621 FOR A FREE DESIGN CONSULTATION

DESIGN SUPPLY INSTALLATION Visit our showroom at 10 Glenmore Business Park, Blandford DT11 7FP

www.kingshotts.net 40

Antiques & Collectibles

Bidders are sure to snap these up!

Smile, you’re on camera!

A vast array of cameras and accessories from a Somerset collector is estimated to sell for between £20,000-30,000 in the Charterhouse two-day April 8 and 9 auction.

Richard Bromell from the auction house said: “It is a lifetime collection which took the owner, who lives near Crewkerne, several decades to amass.

“Although we live in a digital age, and have done so for the past 20 years or so, there continues to be a huge demand for traditional film photography with collectors and photographers constantly looking for unusual cameras, lenses and accessories.”

Photography has never been more popular. With smart phones incorporating super sharp cameras it is estimated over 1.4 trillion images were

taken in 2020, and today nearly 100 million photos are loaded onto Instagram daily.

Cameras in the collection date from the 1920s through to the late 20th century. Household names including Kodak, Leica, Canon, Nikon, Kodak, Olympus, Pentax, Yashica, Rollei and Voigtlander feature throughout the collection along with many other less known

I SPY: Richard Bromell with the Coronet Midget camera £50-80

manufacturers.

They come in all shapes and sizes including Minolta sub miniature spy type cameras and Coronet Midget miniature cameras in colourful Art Deco Bakelite cases.

The owner, who recently went into a care home, was brought up in Portsmouth during World War II while his father served in the Royal Navy. As a young man, he followed in his father’s footsteps in the Royal Navy with postings across the world, ending up working for Westland Helicopters in Yeovil.

Fascinated with photography and cameras it is estimated he bought, on average, a camera once a month for 50 years.

All are being sold without reserve, estimates vary from a Coronet Midget at £50-80 to a Leica I camera circa 1926/27 at £300-500. Overall the collection is expected to sell for £20,00030,000.

Charterhouse is now accepting entries for its busy programme of auctions including this auction

dedicated to cameras and accessories on Thursday April 8, along with sporting items with pictures and books also on April 8. On Friday April 9, it’s watches, Asian art, antiques & interiors. Silver, jewellery and watches will be in in May and their next specialist sales of classic & vintage cars and

Leica I £300-500 Thursday 8th

classic & vintage motorcycles.

Items for these auctions can be delivered directly to Charterhouse at The Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne 01935 812277 or click and deliver by contacting them on 01935 812277. Or email photos of your lots for valuation on info@charterhouse-auction.com

1967 Rolex £9,000-12,000 Friday 9th

Antoine Blanchard £1,500-2,500 Thursday 8th

April Two Day Online Auction Collection of Cameras Thursday 8th Pictures, Prints & Books Thursday 8th Sporting Items Thursday 8th Asian Art, Antiques & Interiors Friday 9th Full details on www.charterhouse-auction.com Classic & Vintage Cars Wednesday 14th July Classic & Vintage Motorcycles Wednesday 30th June Further entries now being accepted Email images to rb@charterhouse-auction.com The Long Street Salerooms Sherborne DT9 3BS 01935 812277 • www.charterhouse-auction.com 41

Antiques & Collectibles

Going through hoops to keep up with fashion

By Carole Fornachon of the Blandford Fashion Museum With the current spotlight on “lockdown loungewear” and haute couture producing elastic waisted fashions it is GOOD CONDITION VINYL RECORDS WANTED Larger collections preferred. No classical please, cash paid 07831 266478 THE BEAT AND TRACK. We buy your old vinyl records. Best prices paid.

Home collection available. email p.j.maskell@icloud.com LOOKING FOR THE 50P MAN at Wimborne Market, last Sunday of November before lockdown. Please call Graham on 01258 881219

interesting to consider the weight Victorian women had to bear every day. Changing fashions in the 1840s reflected the rejection of all forms of work if you were a ‘lady’. A court dress might cost £300 when an average man’s wages was less than £1 a week.

Sleeve openings grew larger and larger, making hands appear tiny, symbols of helplessness and gentility. Up to 14 petticoats would create a domed skirt.

Walking, climbing stairs and sitting became difficult, like wading through water. Hems became dirty as raising the skirt too far above the ankle was impolite. Skirts became bigger and bigger. People first used the word ‘crinoline’ to describe petticoats lined with horsehair cloth in the 1840s. Women often wore them with up to eight petticoats. By 1856, Henry Bessemer perfected a method of

CLARKE’S AUCTIONS Auctioneers & Valuers NEXT SALE: Saturday 10th April Antiques & Collectables Online, commission and telephone bidding only Colour catalogue available the week before at the.saleroom.com A Rene Lalique Coquilles & easylive An Art Nouveau Artsplate. & Crafts opalescent glass enamel Sold forplaque £400depicting a auction.com lady. Sold for £1,350 Please contact Richard Clarke or Karen Marshall on 01747 855109 Station Road, Semley, Shaftesbury, SP7 9BU enquiries@clarkesauctions.co.uk clarkesauctions.co.uk

42

making sprung steel on a large scale and they became a mass fashion – much lighter than petticoats. Other designs attempted to solve this problem, including petticoats made from inflatable rubber tubes. These were a failure owing to unexpected punctures.

Devices were invented to make sitting down easy. Sometimes the hoops even had hinges to make it easier for women to go through doorways and upstairs.

It went suddenly out of fashion in 1868 not least because of the dangers to the wearers. Reports of death by burning and charges of infanticide for those who had attempted to conceal pregnancies under their hoops, tight laced corsets and wide skirts. Corset ‘moulding’ began

at an early age.

Girls of ten and eleven were put into them, often wearing them at night.

Whilst a 15 or 18-inch waist was often claimed, most ordinary people had waists of 20 inches upwards. The “health corset” (on display in the Fashion Museum) was claimed to prevent downward pressure on the abdomen. It threw the bust forward and the hips back which created the impossible shapes for women of the time that we so often see in films, magazines and journals.

Come and see all these fashions in the museum. We hope to open on May 17 two days a week – fingers crossed.

Watch our Facebook page for details.

Make ’shroom for these lovely funghi Clarke’s Auctions March sale was held related volumes from a local deceased over two days with the Antiques & motoring journalist’s estate, with values Collectables sale on the Saturday and ranging from 10s to 100s of pounds, the first of their 2021 Classic Vehicles including a signed copy of The Prince and Automobilia sale held on the and I - Life with the motor racing Sunday. Both days saw fierce bidding Prince of Siam by Princess Birabongse, across the board with a 1957 BSA A7 his wife. The Prince mentioned in the Gold Flash motorbike selling for title is more commonly known as £5,600, a 1958 Ariel Prince Bira, the famous Red Hunter selling for Brooklands racing driver. £4,500 and a vintage Items for their Antiques & sign written grocer’s Collectables sale to be held on bike selling for Saturday, 10 April are coming £600. Within the in thick and fast, with antique furniture section instruction to sell items from a a Victorian figured large Dorset country house, walnut bookcase on deceased estates and stand sold for £460, an A set of three hand solicitor’s referrals. To arrange carved root wood 18th century French any home visits or to arrange garden mushrooms. walnut chest of drawers Estimate £100 - £150 valuations call Richard Clarke fetched £380, an 18th or Karen Marshall on 01747 century mahogany writing table sold for 855109 at the main offices on £380 and a 19th century Chinese Export Kingsettle Business Park, Station Road, camphorwood iron bound chest sold for Semley, Shaftesbury. £340.

For information about consigning to Their next Classic Vehicle & their Classic Cars, Motorbikes & Automobilia auction will be held on Automobilia sale in June please contact Sunday 13th of June and already Matt Whitney on the main office consigned is a collection of motoring number.

Antiques & Collectibles

House collection under the hammer The Dewlish House Auction will be offered by Duke’s Auctioneers on April 15.

Considered one of Dorset’s most striking houses it was built in 1702, on a site previously occupied by a large Roman villa, by Thomas Skinner.

A beautiful example of Georgian period home with the main front in Purbeck stone, and the south-west front in brick. In the eighteen to nineteenth centuries the Michels family and Montmerency family made Dewlish their home.

The house was leased to titled owners in the early 1900s then commandeered as a base for first wave of American Marines in preparation for the D-Day landings.

Dewlish was bought by Anthony and Caroline

Viewing at the house By appointment only

WORTH A LOOK: The collection of Port and, right, the painting of Mrs Nicholas Pierce by John Joseph Zoffany

Boyden in 1962, who lovingly restored the country house through extensive renovation works.

Anthony Boyden was a successful financier and a keen yachtsman.

The auction includes

furniture and works of art collected by the Boydens over the years.

An impressive portrait of Mrs Nicholas Pierce wearing a Circassion Dress, attributed to John Joseph Zoffany (1733-1810).

DEWLISH HOUSE Auction: 15th April

The painting is believed to have been commissioned by Thomas Pellam-Holles (1963-1768), 1st Duke of Newcastle and Prime Minister of Great Britain between 1757 and 1762.

Garry Batt of Dukes said: “Just like every good country house sale, there’s lots of interest for everyone, from a hall lantern to a billiards table to collections of port.”

Auction viewing at Dewlish House will be by catalogue entry (£30 - admits two people) and by appointment, Monday April 12 to Wednesday 14th April 14 (subject to the latest Government guidance).

Bidding on auction day, Thursday April 15, is available by telephone, by commission bid and online via the-saleroom.com and easyliveauciton.com

william.batt@dukes-auctions.com www.dukes-auctions.com +44(0)1305 265080 43

CANFORD MAGNA Cane Furniture | Exotic Plants | Landscaping | Garden Furniture

Bring the outdoors in with the largest range from Daro indoor cane furniture with more than 70 floor models on display, various colours and fabrics. ALL READY FOR IMMEDIATE DELIVERY Launching our new range of Olive Trees, direct from our Spanish/Italian growers, exotic plants, palms, specimens and spikeys!

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and Instagram

EASTER WEEKEND OPENING TIMES GOOD FRIDAY – 9AM – 5.30PM SATURDAY – 9AM – 5.30PM SUNDAY – CLOSED BANK HOLIDAY MONDAY – 9AM – 5.30PM 44

GARDEN CENTRE

Paving | Aggregates | Over 25,000 different outdoor plant pots

Largest collection on the South Coast, 30,000 sq ft Showroom OUTDOOR LIVING ‘LIFE’ FURNITURE All weather cushions Aluminium frames Containers arriving weekly, instant stock availability

To find out all our latest offers and deals

01202 579571 canfordmagna.com enquiries@canfordmagna.com Canford Magna Garden Centre, 170 Magna Road, Wimborne, Dorset BH21 3AP 45

Home & Garden JACK'S HOUSE CLEARANCE Often without charge.

Books also wanted for cash. 07542 389447 And website jackshouseclearance.co.uk

OLD BYGONES & COLLECTABLES Rural garden agricultural items bought & sold. Tim 01725 517268 /07311 478301 WANTED: Garden ornaments, garage clearance and also old tools wanted. Good prices paid, Mere 01747 860637 MALCOLM KELLY. Grass cutting and hedge cutting.

All garden maintenance.

01258817541.

07717368134.

SEASONED HARDWOOD LOGS £145 double load, £85 half load. 01258 880892 07980 036250

JOHN DEERE MULCHING MOWER £200 Mitox long reach h/cutter £120 Echo 20" H/cutter £180 Husqvarna leaf blower £100 Phone for details Offers 01747 825501

BESPOKE GARDEN BENCHES, planters, raised garden beds. Any size full details 07736790595

HOWARD 350 ROTAVOTOR B&S Engine GWO £400 01305 851958 or 07814 131324

GARDENING maintenance, references gladly provided. 07731 646505

FOR SALE LAWN KING SELFPROPELLED ROLLER MOWER, electric start, recent new battery, good condition, £85ono. Lawn flight strimmer, good condition, recent service, £65ono. 07977763309 or 01300341183

ELECTRIC RISER RECLINER armchair.pale green, immaculate condition.

Cost £1,100.bargain £250.could deliver locally.

07901 063859 WELL ROTTED MANURE, £50 per load within 20 miles of Sherborne, 01963 210269 LAWNFLITE, 12HP. 30INCH RIDE ON. Mulch or collect £230 07860 200300

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 850906 / 07966 522361

AYRES TREE CARE Specialising in all kinds of tree work from pruning to hedge trimming, areas gravelled or forest barked.

Waste carrying licence, fully insured FREE ESTIMATES

01747 850 129 or 07951 284 639

Milton on Stour Gillingham SP8 5QA

01747 824015 Monday - Saturday 9am - 5.30pm Sunday 10am - 4pm

Vegetable seedling packs Spring bedding Summer perennials 46

Pots More pots And even more pots!

Home & Garden FLORAMOUR GARDENERS: Gardening, landscaping & aquatics. Experienced team for regular maintenance or one-off projects – call us 07718496566.

GC GARDEN CARE Tree work, pruning, hedge shaping, pollarding, stump grinding, hedge trimming rubbish clearances, gravelling, shingling, turfing, fencing, power washing, rotavating, landscape gardening.

01747 850643/850149 07852 457230 DORSET RURAL GARDENING – Regular lawnmowing, maintenance or single tidy ups. Please contact 07787544626 TOPSOIL ALWAYS AVAILABLE Barn stored, screened or asdug. Small or large amounts.

Tel: 01963 363208 07836 747895

LAWN MOWING service, Tel 01747 821 726 GARDEN RESCUE TEL 01747 821 726

Treecare Co. Tree Specialists

TREE STUMP REMOVAL Pruning, bracing, shaping.

Preservation of mature trees.

Hedge cutting. Trees supplied & planted.

Landscaping & maintenance.

Heavy duty winch hire available.

Tree Surgery BS.3998 Contractors to local authorities.

WOOD CHIPPINGS FOR SALE Free Quotes & Advice Tel/Fax: Shafts 853512 Mobile: 07831 262083 Established in 1976

At TreeCare we care...

HONDA RIDE-ON VTwin 2007 lawn Ttactor.

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Shaftesbury: 01747 851 476 Longmead Industrial Estate, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8PL

Specialists who will work with you to design a kitchen that covers practicality, functionality and more.

Warminster: 01985 219 200 5-6 George Street, Warminster, Wiltshire BA12 8QA

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www.myhomemaker.co.uk

Your local kitchen and appliance specialists...

47

Home & Garden

Gardening...

...with botanist Dr Dave Aplin

Surprising species you can grow even in cold weather (Established 1997)

Tree Surgeons

Professional and experienced tree surgery and landscaping services to residential and commercial customers. We also offer a range of equipment for hire.

Available 24/7 Free quotations Fully qualified team Full public liability insurance Safe Contractor Approved

Tel: 01747 228484 Mob: 07770 833734 www.valetreesurgeons.com Vale Tree Surgeons Limited, Gillingham SP8 4LX

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

amralphlandscaping@gmail.com Tel: 01747 850544 www.ralphlandscaping.co.uk Mobile: 07921 637227

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01747 826656 franksgroup.co.uk

48

BUILDING MAINTENANCE

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FRANKS MAINTENANCE GROUP

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You would reasonably think desertloving cacti should be confined to windowsills and heated greenhouses.

Yet, with careful selection of types, excellent drainage and a sunny position, cacti can grace your garden in all seasons, standing up robustly to whatever the weather brings.

While most cacti would succumb to our cool climate, a select few that normally experience sub-zero temperatures in their native habitats can be made welcome and add a touch of the exotic to your garden.

Cacti belong to a large and successful plant family native to North and South America. Although most enjoy hot and dry environments, a few are found under snow in winter in Canada and on the mountains of Argentina. These select locations provide more accommodating conditions where species can be found that withstand our climate. While temperatures in a British winter will not limit success, wet weather will. Superb drainage is therefore essential along with careful selection of species.

The eastern prickly pear (Opuntia humifusa), grows as far north as Ontaria in Canada. Out of all cacti capable of doing well in Britain this is the most reliable, tolerating winter rainfall, heavy frost and even deep snowfall. Given well-drained conditions and a sunny aspect they quickly form small, flat clumps that trail over a container’s edge should you wish to heighlight them in one.

Although obviously a cactus, this plant lacks spines. If weaponised cacti are for you then the prickly pear, Opuntia polyacantha, would be a good choice. Plants are covered in numerous spines that leave you in no doubt about its parched origins.

They naturally occur at high elevations up to 2,200m, where winter temperatures plummet well below zero. My specimen has grown in a clay pot for many years and has just out-lived the container. The

peanut cactus (Echinopsis chamaecereus) sits beside it, a slender cactus with bright, showy, red flowers, this one from Argentina and capable of tolerating -7˚C. Importantly, ensure the planting site is very free draining, mix sharp sand or grit into your compost. If planting direct into the garden, place a layer of broken hardcore well beneath the plant and add your planting mix on top to ensure drainage is superb.

Selecting the correct cactus species is key and it is unlikely that you will find them in a local garden centre.

The Cactus Shop (cactusshop.co.uk) is run by specialist growers in Devon.They provide reliably named plants and invaluable advice on how to get the best from them. Although available from mail order, I recommend visiting and defy anybody to come away without armfuls.

Soil Testing Service Professional laboratory soil tests

• gardeners • landscapers • small holders

Wild昀ower meadows, veg, fruit, 昀ower, new & established gardens.

Fast, accurate & easy to interpret soil report within 7 days

www.soilvalues.com 07598 714 082

Home & Garden

Season Barn Dry Logs 20 miles radius of Sherborne

Tel: 01935 815534

LES BENHAM GARDEN PROPERTY MAINTENANCE All hedge/tree work, rubbish clearance, gravel driveways, pressure washing, patio and fencing work. Fully insured.

Free quotes 01258 458849/ 07788 907343 lesbenham@yahoo.co.uk / checkatrade GARDENING MAINTENANCE, over 8 years’ experience.

Can do painting & some handyman jobs.

07526 529234

TJ Allard Tree Surgery

Professional tree care, 15 years experience NPTC qualified & Fully insured

t Felling and removal t Crown reductions & thinning t Specialists in large trees t Tree dismantling & pollarding t Site clearance & mulching t Stump grinding t Fencing t Ground work Tel: 01747 838342 Mob: 07825786449

CONSERVATORY OWNERS: IS YOUR CONSERVATORY TOO COLD IN WINTER & TOO HOT IN SUMMER? We turn conservatories into really comfortable rooms you can use every day of the year, whatever the weather, guaranteed For a free quote call 0333 242 3870 conservatoryinsulationspecialists.co.uk

North Dorset Tree Surgeons We carry out all aspects of tree surgery, hedge cutting and stump grinding.

Fully insured and NPTC quali昀ed.

Call Will today on 01747 854517 or 07872 970741 Professional

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GRASS & BRUSH CUTTING Orchards, paddocks, plantations etc.

ROTAVATING

Rough ground to seed bed

MINI DIGGER/SLEW and high lift DUMPER MOSS PROBLEM Scarifying, spiking & coring

PATIO & PATH CLEANING etc.

Call 01963 237890 24/7

D KING & SON TREE & GARDEN SERVICES 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE Treework, hedge cutting, fencing, gravelling, paths & patios laid Pressure washing, all waste taken to a licensed tip.

Fully quali昀ed & insured.

ALL AREAS COVERED 07831 091239 E: david.king63@aol.co.uk

GUTTERS CLEARED Windows, fascias, soffits, gutters cleaned, repairs, free estimates 07788 376752 LAWN SCARIFYING, Moss and thatch removal Tel 01747 821 726 GREENHOUSES supplied/erected alloy/ten colours spares-repairsglass. Chris Abrams 01258 452632

GARDEN/OFFICE ROOMS DIY kits from sip panels.

Telephone 07585910976 ASBESTOS REMOVAL Garages, sheds, lean tos, roofing & cladding, collection and dismantling by registered hazardous waste carrier. Call 07973 444620 or 01722 414478

Tree Tree Surgery.

Surgery. Reductions.

Reductions. Felling.

Felling.

Hedge Trimming.

Stump Grinding.

Hedge Trimming. Stump Grinding.

Woodchip Woodchip supplies. supplies.

Family Family run run business business since since 1946 1946 Tel: 01963 250005 Tel: 01963 250005 Mobile: Mobile: 07976 07976 934 934 252 252 www.bandgdown.co.uk JEWELLERY, items of silver, designer clothes & cashmere wanted. also handbags, accessories etc. . . modern or vintage. 07702 254779

ADVERTISE HERE: CALL 01963 400186

LOGS LOGS WELL SEASONED HARDWOOD HARDWOOD WELL SEASOND Cut & split to your requirement Various size loads delivered from £140.00 1.6m³ Tel: 01258 857 824 | 07741 463 605 Card payment accepted

49

Local Services GREENLIGHT DRIVING SCHOOL April 12th onwards Hourly lessons or block booking Qualified Instructors Choice of Test Centres Call or Text 07898936467 07510558720 AN EXPERIENCED & RELIABLE HANDYMAN, call Chris 01258 860826 07413 678076 ELECTRICIAN Small jobs to full rewires.

Testing and certification.

Fusebox upgrades.Prompt, quality service at reasonable rates (no VAT). Call Alan 8am8pm 07388696147. Email alanaac@me.com PIANO TUNING, REPAIRS, Sales of reconditioned pianos. Julian Phillips BA CGLI. 01258 471194 WANTED: garden ornaments, garage, clearance and also old tools wanted. good prices paid, Mere 01747 860637

Rob’s Clearance

House, shed, and site clearance.

Rubbish removed.

Recycling carried out.

Good or interesting items bought for cash.

Friendly and reliable.

01747 839751 or 07956 414896 COASTAL BRICKWORK LTD we do Brickwork & Stonework, see our website for more information. coastalbrickwork.co.uk Simon Webb 07944582214 SELF DRIVE DIGGER AND DUMPER HIRE: 01258 861647

Advertisers get an amazing response from the New Blackmore Vale!

To book your ad, call Debi on 07876 563683 or email debi.thorne@icloud.com n Discounts available for series bookings. n Free design service and professional advice. n Reach 60,000-90,000 readers 50

Local Services Quantity Surveying Estimating Surveying Dispute Resolution

01749 813625

Robert Chalke Associates www.rca-qs.com

REFURBISH YOUR STAIRS AND JOINERY NO OBLIGATIOND SURVEY AN PRICING

INSTALLATION

BY OUR OWN TEAM

Architectural Services

New of refurbished stairs using our contemporary glass or quality stop chamfered/ traditional turned newels, spindles, handrails and mouldings.

WE ALSO MANUFACTURE BESPOKE DOORS AND WINDOWS

01202 825 555

Planning & Building Applications for New Build, Extensions and Conversions

21 Black Moor Rd, Ebblake Ind Est, Verwood, BH31 6AX

01747 822162

JASMINE CARS TAXI SERVICE 07495 922821

www.bell-associates.co.uk

Comfortable, spacious and clean estate cars.

For hospitals, airports, seaports and local work.

Distance no object, day trips and special occasions.

Lady driver available. For safe Covid-aware transport.

Our advice is always free NEW FOREST FASCIAS. UPVC, Fascias, soffits and guttering. replacement and repairs, established since 2001, Contact 07843 800839

www.briggs-products.co.uk

5 star Google rating. JUST ASK! www.jasminecarsdorset.co.uk jasmine.cars@btinternet.com

FENCING AND REPAIRS No VAT. Call Dave Whitehand on 07549 151799 To book your ad, call Debi on 07876 563683 or email debi.thorne@icloud.com

FOOTINGS, driveways, drains, bulk excavation and farm tracks. Call 07955 808983

FITTED WARDROBES MADE TO MEASURE (in white, other door colours available), from £200, free quotes. Bob Humphries 07885 286508

Car Key Programming & Repairs

4 Salisbury Street, Shaftesbury SP7 8EJ

01747 826311 07747 488587

SOLID FUEL INSTALLATIONS LTD accredited installers from the competent persons scheme for wood burners, multi fuel stoves, chimney liners and twin walled flues.

Sweeping chimneys, birdguards & cowls.

Fireplace alterations to your needs, chimney works including pointing. 01749 677440 - 07921 074602 - solidfuel3@aol.com solidfuelinstallationsltd.co.uk

Damp Control Timber Treatments Dry Rot Condensation Control 30-Year Bonded Guarantee

Tel: Wincanton 01963 202382 Mobile: 07881 504426 Email: maplepres@aol.com www.maplepreservation.co.uk

Serving the West Country for 40 years SEPTIC TANK EMPTYING SERVICE The same team are still providing Pete White’s friendly service

Building trust with quality workmanship We provide end-to-end communication, budgeting, staffing, organisation and project management to produce a solid, high quality building, every time.

Our commercial projects include new construction and repairs or restorations.

Maple Building & Developments We’ll get the job done

01963 370924 email: orders@wessexwaste.co.uk 51

Local Services GRAHAM'S WINDOWS & DOORS More than 15 years’ experience installing high quality UPVC windows and doors, conservatories, warm roofs & aluminium. We provide the very best products with a wide range of colours and designs.

See our reviews on Facebook: facebook.com/GrahamsWindows We are a Yeovil-based, family-run business, covering Dorset, Somerset and the South West. Reasonable prices and friendly service!

grahamswindowsanddoors.co.uk

Phoenix Chimneys

& Property Maintenance Clive Young carries out Chimney Sweeping Solid Fuel Stove Servicing & Repairs All Chimney Work Birdguards & Cowls Repointing & Leadwork

Call 01258 455947

mandy4phoenixchimneys@gmail.com

DOMESTIC APPLIANCE REPAIRS, Washing machines, dishwashers, ovens etc, Call Darren or Jason 07979 976514

Based in Wincanton

Tel: 07931 583614

valesideroofing@hotmail.com Find us on

SHERBORNE GUITAR TUITION 01935 389655 ahiahel@live.com LOCAL LOCKSMITH 2 Counties Locksmith Covering Shaftesbury & Gillingham Tel 07747 488587 Member of the master Locksmith’s Association HARGRAVES LANDSCAPE AND DEMOLITION. Call us now for a free quotation on 07871 327962.

WANTED - Dave buys all types of tools. Call 01935 428975

Good Quality Top Soil in Stock

Local, Quality Painter & Decorator 35 Years Experience Free Quotes • No VAT Call Richard on

Home: 01258 880670 Mob: 07825 512 627 ‘Your home in safe and capable hands’

LES BENHAM Painting Services Property maintenance domestic/ commercial Inside or Out. Fully Insured/Free Quotes 01258 458849/ 07788 907343 lesbenham@yahoo.co.uk

/ checkatrade ALL IRONWORK Handrails, gates, railings, repairs., restoration. 01258 880301 K.SANSOM CHIMNEY SWEEP Brush & Vacuum A.P.I.C.S Registered 01963 370038

Now available... Rockery Stone

D&T Plumbing and Heating

Competitive Rates

Oil servicing and repairs, plus all other aspects of plumbing and heating carried out

01747 853687 or 01747 855630 www.hardimanconcrete.co.uk 52

t:01747 854887 m:07525 755 696

DORSET LIME Specialists in all external & internal lime work.

Lime crete flooring.

All aspects of traditional building Call Dave or Dan 07492 181788

Mullins Garden Services

Lawn Mowing Hedge Cutting Strimming Clearances Please enquire on (M) 07585334780 or (H) 01258473502 for a free quote Covering Sturminster Newton and surrounding areas.

Tom the Roofer I cover all aspects of roofing work, gutter replacement, cleaning and repair work

t:01747 854887 m:07525 755 696

Davies & Sons – Builders All aspects of building works undertaken Over 20 years of experience FMB Registered since 2002 For a free no obligation quote Call Mark on 07525834551 or Email: davies.mark66@yahoo.com Find us at fmb.org.uk

Search for Davies and Sons or our postcode BA10 0DZ

FRANKS MAINTENANCE 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

CHRIS LANGLEY FLAT ROOFING BLANDFORD Specialist in Hi-performance felt & GRP. All of our work is GUARANTEED. All types of roofing professionally carried out.

PERSONAL SUPERVISION OF ALL ORDERS.

HEATING AND PLUMBING

Sand Gravel Stone Cement Blocks etc Supplied Loose or in Big Bags

PAINTING & DECORATING

LTD

Concrete & Floor Screed Mixed On site Any Quantity Delivered

( 07530 693187

FREE D AN QUOTESATES IM T S E

01258-450879 | 07855-402799 Clangley12@aol.com

Local services

ADVERTISE HERE: CALL 01963 400186

Quantum Locksmiths

MJ HPPS LTD Plumbing and Heating Contractors

•24 Hour Call Out •UPVC Repairs •Key Cutting •Lock Changes •DBS Checked •No VAT

Oil/Natural Gas/LPG Installations Bathroom and Kitchen Installations New Boilers and Cylinders Underfloor Heating & Renewables Landlord Safety Certificates All workmanship guaranteed, along with manufacturers’ warranties.

Flushing

• Condensing and

Combination Boilers

Call: 07900-196427 01258 721236 Email: info@quantumlocksmiths.co.uk Follow us on

• Natural Gas, LPG and Oil • Central Heating and Power

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01258 446186 07973 183658

www.quinnsheating.com

Office: 01747 829222 Mobile: 07900916810 Email: mike@mjheat.co.uk

• Landlord’s Certificates • Bathrooms, Kitchens and Tiling

• All of the Blackmore Vale area covered

Clive Smith Ltd. SKIP HIRE

SKIP HIRE

General building Extensions/Renovations Loft conversions Oak frame buildings Groundwork/Landscaping All your property needs

ALL AREAS COVERED ALL SIZE OF SKIP AVAILABLE PLEASE RING

CLIVE SMITH

Tel: 01747 851149 Mobile: 07979 527379 email: alanlewisaml@aol.com

Over 30 years experience

ANYTIME

01258 860 166 or 07974 822 243

Best prices paid please call:

www.kpcleisure.co.uk

53

53

Local Services For all your fencing and decking needs Closeboard, panels & sheds supplied and fitted.

Gates made to measure.

Sherborne Fencing Ltd Tel: 01935 814272 Mobile: 07814246332

• Felt Roofing Specialist • Tiling, Slating and UPVC • Velux Windows • No Job Too Small • Insurance Work • Leadwork

SHINY STOVES OVEN CLEANING Ovens,Ranges, Aga’s, etc.

Independent Family Run Business Covering The Blackmore Vale Area

Friendly Service Free Estimates Mobile 07973 248319 scott@scottmilesroofing.co.uk

Tel 01935 592461 Mob 07875 272401 www.shinystoves.com

SW BUILDING & RENOVATIONS All aspects of building and plumbing catered for. Tel: 07970 437786 swbuildandrenovation@gmail.com FRENCH/ITALIAN TUITION Experienced CE, GCSE, A Level tutor.

Alison 07895720975

Get connected. Stay connected.

WiFi • Email • FaceTime • WhatsApp Skype • Google • eBay • Amazon Facebook • Twitter • Instagram

If we can’t beat your quote, we’ll match it on...

Laptop Tablet Smartphone desktop PC

• Buying advice, setup and installation I’m Phil Hudson, your local tech expert and trouble-shooter. I’ll come to you and sort things out, at a time that suits you. Or you can drop off your machine at my workshop for quick, efficient care and maintenance.

Covering Dorset and surrounding areas

Elite Glass & Home Improvements

Call me now on 07805 783147

07933 521 675 STI

LL

Paul’s Oil and Gas Services

Sales@eliteglasscompany.co.uk

K

DY

colleagues for free over the Internet • Sell online easily, quickly and reliably

EE

TI

• Friendly, patient, and knowledgeable help • Keep in touch with family, friends and

Replacement double glazing Shower screens Bespoke mirrors As cut bits of glass Polishing for mirrors and glass Toughened glass Balustrades Secondary units Horticultural glass Splashbacks for kitchens Covid screens UPVC windows and doors E E FQUROTATION ...and much, much more

PIN

AI G BRIT

N

HOUSE CLEARANCE PROFESSIONALS Including sheds, Lofts and Garages.

01202 855 349 - Discounts for saleable items -

Servicing, maintenance and call outs for domestic, commercial & catering natural gas, LPG and oil appliances.

Very competitive rates 40 years experience 01747 850395 or 07502 044896 email: stuartchardstuartchard@live.co.uk 54

www.allcleanwaste.co.uk Registered with Dorset County Councils Trading Standards, licences with The Environment Agency.

Crown Garden Care Lawn Service, Fencing, Hedges, Tree Work etc.

All Garden Maintenance Services Domestic & Commercial.

Fully Insured & Reliable.

Tel: 01747 821726 07904 355 921

Steve Guppy Home Maintenance & Improvements

Fully Insured Tel: 01747 590584 Mob: 07812 106 513

Local Services PROPER DOMESTICS • APPLIANCE REPAIRS

& INSTALLATION

01747 416059

Need help with your holiday home?

www.properdomestics.com

J & C Handyman Services

Plumbing Painting & decorating Shed erecting & repairs Flat pack furniture Shelves & curtain rails

Door hanging & skirting boards Guttering and facia clearing and replacement Fencing Pointing etc...

No job too small Please call with your requirements 01963 364457 07368 516658 dorsethandyman26@gmail.com www.jchandymanservices.com

NEED HELP WITH YOUR GARDEN? Call Tim for a friendly and reliable service.

01747 835278 07825006013.

COMPUTER MAINTENANCE & REPAIRS Purchase advice, virus removal, new PC setup/installation,internet connection, upgrades, computer/ software tuition. Call Gregg on 01963 370713

DRYSTONE WALLING AND LANDSCAPING yenstonewalling.co.uk 01963 371123

A bespoke and unique changeover property management experience for those wanting to take the ‘hassle’ out of letting their holiday homes

SK I

PH

IR E

T F PLANT

DEAD OR ALIVE

07761 578482

HOUSE CLEAR CL ARAN ANCE CE HOU Plus; Sheds, Attics, Garages & Gardens Quality Items Offset Registered Waste Carrier

Joseph Crocker Computers Custom built gaming & office PCs Desktop, laptop and mobile device diagnosis and repair General computer and IT advice

Tel: 01258 440838 Or: 07853 275379 enquiries@back2market.com

NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL 01963 23669 or 07484 690824 josephcrockercomputers.co.uk

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55

ZEN HOUSE HOLISTIC THERAPIES AND TRAINING

Health & Wellbeing

Meditations in nature:

Offering:

Reiki and Massage Massage and Reiki Training Life Coaching Treatment menu: Reiki £45 Indian head massage £35 Thai Foot massage £35 Natural Face Lift Facial Massage £40 Therapeutic massage £45 (one hour) Back, neck and shoulder massage £30 Hot stones massage £50 (one hour 15 minutes) Warm bamboo massage £50 (one hour 15 minutes) Lava shells massage £50 Aromatherapy massage £50 Myofascial release £50 per hour (typically £60 per session) Shamanic healing £60 Life coaching from £45 per session For more information, or to book a session, please visit www.zenhouseholistictherapiesandtraining.co.uk Contact: Sarah on 01258 458340/07743 418233 Email: sarah@sarahjeustance.plus.com

ZEN HOUSE Life Coaching The key to personal happiness isn’t fame, money, freedom, or even love. It’s growth. It’s progress.

Happiness comes from setting a goal, and moving towards it, step by step, until you finally achieve it. Happiness is being able to unlock your potential and manifest the very best that you can be. Happiness is living life to the fullest.

To find out more, contact Sarah on 01258 458340/07743 418233 or email: sarah@sarahjeustance.plus.com Visit: www.lifecoachingsolutionsdorset.co.uk

Life is for Living

Connect to Employment re starts on 29th March 2021 for people with additional needs who would benefit from employ– ability skills and life skills coaching, supported voluntary work placements, job searches and more.

Bath Road, Sturminster Newton, DT10 1JF, 01258 471359 admin@friendsofstourconnect.org

Our café and gardening based specialist Memory Loss/ Demen琀a project will be re—opening soon with safe Social distancing , PPE etc Providing a service for; * people with memory loss * people pre/post diagnosis of demen琀a * people with early onset demen琀a including those with Downs Syndrome Contact 01258471359 or admin@friendsofstourconnect.org •

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56

Health & Wellbeing

Haring around in the springtime Foot clinics The sun is sinking towards the horizon casting a pale feathery light over the open, rolling chalk lands. Cheerful yellowhammers and chaffinch chase me down the drove where each spring I come on an annual pilgrimage to see the family of brown hares that I have come to know.

Eagerly, I scan the contours of the hills to look for the distinct long black-tipped ears that protrude above the skyline. Hares like to lie flat against the ground in a hollow scrape, making them difficult to spot, but once my eyes pick up those familiar tufty ears and reddish fur, I begin to see more and more of them. Once they see me, the field full of ‘nothingness’ suddenly has four or five hares chasing over its surface; the females punching their front paws to ward off the over-zealous males. They particularly like arable fields, befitting their old English name of ‘stag of the stubble’.

Brown hares are not the prettiest of creatures with their piercing amber eyes, but they run like the wind.

Their long, rangy back legs make them Britain’s fastest land mammal, reaching speeds of 45 mph. Unlike rabbits, they live entirely

Age Concern are running foot clinics and have appointments available on April 12.

Please ring their office on 01258 475582 for more information.

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above ground. It is a wonder that they exist at all given that they are very inattentive parents. Their leverets are born in a scrape in a field and have no protection as their mother goes off and returns only once a day to feed them.

Yet, if they do thrive, they can live for up to 12 years.

Sadly, hares have declined by more than 80% in the past 100 years due to hunting, intensive farming, the reduction of hedgerows and the use of pesticides. They are now a priority conservation species.

Being mysterious, timid, cunning and lithe, the brown hare appears in folklore and is often associated with

devilry and witchcraft because, apart from in the spring, they are solitary and mostly active at night.

They are credited with sinister magic powers giving harelips to unborn babies, going mad in March, ‘shapeshifting’ and being a bad omen if seen.

Satisfied that I have seen them, I make my way home under a dusky sky that is crisscrossed with pink trails.

Tiny pipistrelle bats dip and scoop around my head and roe deer skulk out of the undergrowth to join the evening party. I bid them all fare ye well. n Dr Susie Curtin curtin.susanna@gmail.com

NATURAL PAIN RELIEF therapist in Gillingham.

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| www.acnorthdorset.org.uk 57

Health & Wellbeing

Drink this for nine weeks to be irresistable – and cleansed!

Clivers, goosegrass, sticky willy are all names for an important and easily accessible herb that appears in the spring. They are known for their spreading and sticky nature and, later in the season, the little green balls that stick to clothes and animal fur… an ingenious way of procreation.

These fresh green herbs are just what we need after the long winter. Their principle action is as a lymphatic cleanser.

The lymphatic system runs alongside our veins. It cleans up all the toxins in our cells.

It is a very important part of our immune system and includes lymph nodes which are areas of highly concentrated white blood cells which protect us from disease.

Lymph nodes are spread throughout the body, but they are in abundance near our orifices (where anything bad might get into the body) so our throat, neck and groin as

well as, of course, our gut.

The lymphatic system also maintains the fluid levels in our body and absorbs digestive tract fats so it is an incredibly important system to keep healthy. Keeping our lymph moving is vital both for specific and general immunity but there is nothing in our body that actually pumps the lymph fluid, so we need to be active to force it to travel around our body. Breathing and walking help and our calves are very important for this, so walking up hill and

fat metabolism (so could be useful for losing weight).

Pick a big handful, wash them and put them in a jug of filtered water with some lemon, mint, lemon balm, rosemary or sage (according to your tastes) and leave in the fridge overnight. Drink throughout the next day – at least three glasses. Clivers contain lots of silica, which strengthens hair, skin and nails and it has been said that those who drink clivers for nine weeks will be so beautiful, everyone will love them. Drinking this will also help to alkaline the system but you need to make a fresh batch daily and keep it in the fridge.

bouncing on a trampoline are great ways of moving lymph.

So too is dry skin brushing and lymph massage.

Clivers enhance circulation and helps the lymph to clear toxins out of the body through our kidneys as they act as a diuretic. This is also helpful for urinary tract infections, kidney stones and could also lower blood pressure. They are Fiona Chapman is purportedly studying naturopathy good for cleansing the and herbal medicine at the College of blood and aid Naturopathic Medicine

It’s not just you – we have all struggled Is It Just Me? No one wants to think they are the only one finding something difficult or unsettling. Even worse, no one wants to think they are the only one not getting it and not able to move on. So, here is a list covering the range of emotions I have discussed with clients, friends and colleagues just this week. I’m sharing this list to reassure you, it’s Not Just You. n Exhaustion – it’s been an emotional year for many of us n Guilt – have we done enough? Or too much? n Inability to settle and focus n Relief the children are back at school but... n Worrying about the children going back to school n Irritability with family n Reticence to go back to old life 58

n Fear about the future – how will my business survive, how will my marriage feel in the future, how will my children catch up and how will their plans be affected? n Loneliness – just getting deeper and dragging people down further n Excitement to be getting back to life as it should be n Frustration with self and the whole situation n Excitement and gratitude to get called up for the vaccine So, you are not alone. Everyone

is finding their way as we continue through lockdown and, in many ways, this final sprint is going to be the most challenging. I was talking to a mother of three, on an Instagram Live the other day. (I’m @alicejohnsenlifecoach.) We were focussing on what had been learnt during lockdown and what good things we should all try to hold on to, such as: n Children of all ages may have learnt to think ahead, to manage their time and their day. n They may have learnt to

negotiate, to work as a team and about conflict and resolution. n They had to self-motivate.

As parents, we have learnt about our children – how they learn, how they cope, how they grow.

We know so much more about their life than we did a year ago.

Everyone’s resilience has been tested – and, largely, we have coped amazingly well. This resilience can be applied to our recovery and moving forward – let’s not forget that.

Gratitude for what we have and a greater kindness to each other A greater awareness of our community and those within it who are struggling.

Hmm, this is pretty big stuff, right? But it’s there, right in front of us. n Alice Johnsen is a life coach based just outside Sherborne. 07961 080513 alicejohnsen.co.uk

Health & Wellbeing

A walk around...

HOLWELL As I’ve learned the hard way that walking on Blackmore Vale clay isn’t easy after rainfall, this route is almost all on Tarmac, although there are plenty of linking footpaths that should be good when dry.

Start at the village and walk north-west along the road for a mile, passing Barnes Cross and continuing down the hill to the ancient and narrow Cornford Bridge over the Caundle Brook, the parish

boundary. Returning to Barnes Cross you’ll pass on your right, a pillar box. Take a look as it’s the oldest one in the country!

At the Cross turn left, east, and walk half a mile down the road to the church, set in a hamlet named The Borough. This suggests that this was once the important part of the parish and the current village is relatively new. There are some lovely old houses to be seen near the church, which has the village stocks outside. The river is next to the

with retired Dorset rights of way officer Chris Slade churchyard.

Returning, once again, to Barnes Cross, continue southwest, then south for a mile until you get to Sandhills where you turn left and head east along the old straight Holwell Drove with very wide verges which must, once upon a time, have provided grazing for the cattle being driven. You’ll pass a couple of very stately homes, the Manor having a haha next to the road to keep them out. If you’re not familiar with the term, a haha is a moat or walled

What I do, and why: The life of a therapist In my early life I was a farmer. The youngest of four children and the only boy, it was expected I take over the family farm.

This was in the late 1970s; when there was no internet or mobile phones etc! I sussed early on farming can be lonely and I enjoyed the company of people.

I’d also experienced mental health problems in my family (both my parents had fairly horrific times in WW2; and suffered from depression and PTSD during my childhood.) I had a privileged and mostly good upbringing; although we weren’t a family that shared feelings or emotions much. ‘Difficult‘ topics were swept under the carpet; as we kept up our image of respectability and normality – many families did the same; and sadly still do. Due to traumatic life events, I struggled with my own mental health; always feeling a bit lost, misunderstood, unheard and unseen.

Aged 18, I volunteered with the Samaritans; answering the ‘crisis phone hotline’ and occasionally doing face to face counselling. At 22, I helped set up one of the first community drug and alcohol services in the UK. In my early 30s I gave up farming. I returned to university to train as a psychotherapist. As part of my training I had psychotherapy myself; something I still dip in and out of, as I feel my exploration of self and others is important and I enjoy it. In the USA, and increasingly so here, it’s

become normal to have a psychotherapist when you’re fit and well. Personal development has become popular because it’s fascinating, liberating and even exciting. Exploring the existential questions of ‘why are we here’ and ‘what’s the meaning and purpose of life’ is important to many.

Therapy is about self-exploration.

What makes us tick and why we are as we are. Becoming emotionally intelligent, aware and mindful. It’s about what triggers our thoughts, feelings and behaviour. What pitfalls to avoid. What turns us on and off. What we like and dislike in ourselves and others. It’s about self-care, healing, self-love, tolerance, relationships, sex, acceptance, intimacy, reflection, integrity, honesty, respect, understanding, wisdom, evolving, empowerment and so much more! It’s about changing and growing into the person you’d really like to be. Therapy can be hard work: but it can also be a real buzz! We often fear change because of the unknown; but you’re not in therapy alone. It needn’t just be for when things go wrong, and prevention is certainly better than cure.

Why not try it – it might open up a whole new fascinating, fulfilling and rewarding life. If you’re struggling and/or just want to reach your potential – good therapy is worth investing in. n Psychotherapist David Stanton lives near Sherborne.

ditch to act as a fence without impairing the view.

Back at the village, if you’ve time and energy for another three miles, go along the road, east, to Pleck and turn left north east to Woodbridge, right, south-east to the main road then right, west, back to your car.

MASSAGE AND REIKI TRAINING with Zen House

For Massage Training please visit www.massagetrainingsolutionsdorset.co.uk For Reiki Training please visit www.sarahreikitraining.co.uk Or contact Sarah for further information on 01258 458340/07743 418233; email: sarah@sarahjeustance.plus.com

David Stanton IAC ICPT ISOCS ISSUP

Senior Psychotherapist/Counsellor.

Trainer and Mental Health Consultant.

Individual and Group face to face sessions; also via video on WhatsApp, Skype, Messenger and Zoom.

Clinical Supervisor to other Health Care workers.

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FREE COUNSELLING SERVICE We have received funding from the National Community Fund to enable us to offer a telephone support line for anybody having trouble coping with these weird times that we are going through.

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The help line is available: Tuesdays Daytime 1 - 4 pm Wednesdays Evening 6 - 8 pm Thursday Daytime 12 - 3 pm

Telephone: 07714 550969 It’s good to share

59

Arts & Entertainment

Story of the Noah’s Ark told through the eyes of his missus Mrs Noah is April De Angelis’s riotous retelling of the biblical flood story – with a feminist twist performed on Zoom and available at £5 per screen in aid of Avon Needs Trees.

A desire to place women’s lives at the heart of her stories, De Angelis is a force of nature and Mrs Noah is no

exception. Noah builds his ark to save mankind (and by that he means himself), but his story is outdated and Mrs Noah demands a rewrite.

An online chat gets interrupted by a rather angry God, played by Lauren Alexandra, (yes, God is a woman in this production – cue Ariana Grande).

In a world obsessed with hyper-consumerism, instant gratification and social media, the play, which was originally as a piece of street theatre at the 2019 XR rally in London, poses the question: does the selfindulgent way we are living our lives impact our carbon footprint?

With original music, virtual backgrounds and endless puns, Mrs Noah brings a burst of enjoyment in this new age of digital theatre on April 16 at 7pm, April 17 at 5pm and 7.30pm and Sunday April 18 at 5pm.

Tickets and information are available online at untamed community.com/productions/

Keep your Spies open for Zoom theatre

By Karen Bate newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

Calling all families and observant young people in Gillingham, Stalbridge and Lytchett Matravers - the Super-Spies are heading to your community, and they need your help!

Marvellous leader Mirabel Merryweather, newly initiated Claude Pringle, and all the Super-Spies are under lockdown like everyone else.

Unfortunately, they’ve had worrying reports that agents from The Vortex, their rival spy gang, are active and have started luring new spies to the dark side from your towns.

Now the Super-Spies need a team of young sleuths to brush up on their espionage skills and help solve some vital clues in the fight to stamp out The Vortex.

Devised by Dorset-based Angel Exit Theatre, SuperSpies In Lockdown is an interactive performance game that plays out across two short sessions on a private, secure Zoom chat,

SPIES LIKE US: The first Super-Spies in Lockdown meeting takes place on April 11

with each community having their very own Zoom.

Tamsin Fessey, co-artistic director of Angel Exit said: “We are delighted to offer family audiences in three Dorset communities an exclusive theatrical experience, which we hope will start online with our Zoom meeting but expand into a clue trail around the

town or village and a series of fun, madcap spy activities around the home.”

Presented by Artsreach, this experience is aimed at families with children aged between five and 11 in Gillingham, Stalbridge and Lytchett Matravers. Each community will have their very own session with the super spies, but capacity is

strictly limited to 25 households. The first spy meeting takes place online on Sunday, April 11.

Super-Spies meet together on April 18, with Gillingham families meeting at 10:30am, families in Lytchett Matravers at 12pm and Stalbridge families at 2pm.

Find out more and book at artsreach.co.uk

Railway theme for artists in museum’s new competition As part of the ongoing Art at the Museum programme at Blandford Town Museum, local artists have been invited to enter an original work for a competition entitled ‘The Railway in Blandford’.

Pictures must reflect the presence and 60

influence of the railway on Blandford and will be exhibited at the museum in September. The competition is being held in association with the Blandford Forum Railway Club, who will provide a trophy for a work chosen by public vote as the best. Entry forms giving full

details are available to download from the museum website blandfordtown museum.org.uk or, as soon as it is open, picked up from the Town Museum in Bere’s Yard.

Email contact@blandfordtown museum.org.uk.

Arts & Entertainment

Exchange turns on the lights to remember lost loved ones The Exchange joined many iconic buildings across our nation and lit up in yellow to remember loved one’s lost to coronavirus over the past year. Their thoughts are with all those on this National Day of Reflection who have been affected by this pandemic.

As a local vaccination hub the team are constantly reminded of the tireless work key workers and volunteers provide for us locally and across the country.

Thank you Tim Lacey and Andrew Marsh, who took this picture, at The Exchange for lighting the building up as a visual reminder of Sturminster Newton’s thoughts and sympathy.

Band all keyed up to start playing again

By Nicci Brown newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

After 12 months in isolation, members of the popular Blandford Stour Valley Band (BSVB) are looking forward to being able to get together again and play in public when lockdown eases.

They have missed their regular band practices just as much as their supporters have missed their concerts and appearances.

During the first lockdown in 2020, the players were restricted to home practice,

joining in musical quizzes organised by members and a weekly update from musical director, Tim Stankus.

The band investigated the possibility of recommencing rehearsals in covid-safe locations during August to September, but the ongoing increase in infections across the country prevented this.

Rehearsals and engagements were cancelled or postponed.

However, prior to Christmas, groups of musicians from the same families managed to perform carols outside for Christmas shoppers in

Blandford, and during the current lockdown, the band made a virtual video performance with 25 members performing the hymn tune Deep Harmony.

Individual music and backing tracks were produced, members recorded their own playing, and the videos were then collated and edited to produce the final performance.

For many, using the technology presented a new challenge, but recording music virtually has proved a positive experience overall,

Memories of National Service Arts charity Same but Different are searching for National Service veterans from Dorset to share their stories and experiences for a special exhibition.

Through interviews and photography, the exhibition hopes to capture the experience of the men who served our country, with photos, stories and videos.

A spokesman said: “Due to the ongoing restrictions we will of course work creatively to capture these stories, starting with a phone call or if preferred, emails. Once safe to do so we would arrange for portrait photographs or videos to be taken if appropriate.”

For details call 07971 983028 or email: enquiries@samebutdifferentcic.org.uk

with players suggesting further pieces for future videos.

Band member Sue Griffin said: “Even though the whole band has not been able to perform together, virtually recording music has illustrated how being part of BSVB has had a positive impact on members of different ages and abilities.

“We are now monitoring the advice from Brass Bands England to ascertain when we will be able to return to normal rehearsals.”

BISHOP FARTHING Celebrate a whole year of lockdown by reading this hilarious account of how one Dorset village coped with it all!

This funny and touching love story will bring cheer in these troubled times! In this book, Paul Cosway brings back memories of queueing for shops, forming bubbles and searching for phone slots and finds humour even in the loneliest of times!

Get your own back on the virus - read this book and laugh out loud!

Available from Amazon: Paperback £6.99 post free Ebook only £1.42 or free if you join Kindle unlimited

61

Puzzles Arrow words

Crossword

The study of weather

Cover

Unit of power

Thick mass of hair

Scares

Revoke a law

1

Talk endlessly

Spoken

US travelscreening bureau (inits)

A foot, in zoology

Dells, eg (abbr)

Glimpse

2

3

4

5

8

9

10

11

12

6

7

13 14

Movie disc (inits)

16

15

17

Continues

18 19

Actress, Gardner

Slips up

21

20

22 Aged

Troika

Yield

Winter bug

‘Eureka!’

Chest muscle

23

24

Director, Mendes

25 Brazilian port

Small bouquet

Church recess

Across 1 Mass books (7) 5 Fifteen millilitres (abbr) (4) 10 Competently (7) 11 Code word for ‘O’ (5) 12 Form of oxygen (5) 13 Pester (6) 15 The countryside in general (6) 17 Screenplay (6) 19 Fashionable (6) 20 More senior (5) 23 Australian marsupial (5) 24 Clothing (7) 25 Succulent tropical plant (4) 26 Large, flightless bird (7)

Intellectual

Summit

Wordsearch Sherlock Holmes

A L S I R S N I K P O H I M E

M S T J S E T E I C N A R M H

O L M D A Y Y T I J O S P E E

R R R Y T B N K O W H S O K R

I I E T C A T H G U L R N I N

BAYNES BRADSTREET HOPKINS IRENE ADLER JOHNSON JONES LANGDALE PIKE LESTRADE

62

A S E L R R N A D O B M W P R

R B R O D S O S T R G A S E K

T A M I O A O F A P T M W L C

Y Y S N N N E D T S E O N A O

S N L D J A S N O S S M A D L

26

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

J S N O R O R E H R T B T N E

MARY MORAN MORIARTY MRS HUDSON MYCROFT SHERLOCK WATSON WIGGINS

H E S E O R K C Y D I N M A H

S D E D A R T S E L W S P L S

A T S N I G G I W M M Y Y N A

Down 2 Unrehearsed theatre performance (5) 3 Underground (12) 4 Putting down (6) 6 Rod-shaped bacteria (7) 7 Not mixed with any other substance (4) 8 Narrative (7) 9 Suffer a defeat (4,1,7) 14 Antiseptic (7) 16 Whirlwind (7) 18 Circumvent (6) 21 Order of architecture (5) 22 Lady’s fingers plant (4)

Sudoku

7

1

4 3 2 9 1 7 1 3 2 9 7 6 2 8 3 7 9 5 6 1 9 4 5 8 5 1

For the solutions turn to page 84-85

Brain chain RESULT

11

+5

×1/2

+50%

+25

Puzzles (for cleverclogs)

Jumbo 3D Sudoku

Cryptic Crossword 1

4

9 6

5

6

8 2

4 5

7

7

5

8 3 1 7 8

3

4 9 2 7

5 3 6

6 7

8 1

9

9

3

8

5

2

8

6

3

9

10

1

6

11

12 13

8

14

9 6 5

18

20

1

1

105×

Killer Sudoku Pro: 18+

20×

2÷

756×

6+

40×

2÷

20+

4

21+

27×

1

1

1

8+

2÷

336×

3÷

22+

12×

12+

5

6

2

Brain chain (Hard version) RESULT

92

×1/2

+50%

19

9 8

12+

8÷

16

21

8

0

2÷

15

17

Place 1 to 9 once each into every black-bordered 3×3 area as well as each of the 54 rows indicated by the coloured lines.

Rows don’t cross the thick black lines.

1

6

8

6

5 3 8

4

5

8

9

3

7

2

5 7

4

5

4

2

1 6

9 1

3

2 3

3

7

1

3

2

+94

-134

+98

Can you solve these brain chains entirely in your head? Start with the bold value on the left of a chain, then follow the arrows and apply each operation in turn. Write the result in the box.

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

No digit may be repeated in any dashed-line cage, and each dashed-line cage must result in the given value when the stated operation is applied between all of the digits in that cage. For subtraction and division operations, start with the highest number in the cage and then subtract or divide by the other numbers in that cage.

Across 7 A stay cut short in hot island or Pacific islands (6) 8 Rebellious group first off in court case (6) 9 Fellow with insolence showing disrespectful levity (4) 10 Management spoils ad that’s been recreated (8) 11 Admit awareness of account with learning (11) 14 Stock poster yet to be reviewed by senior journalist (11) 18 Wayward salesperson returns with set of lines (8) 19 Job contract as kept internally (4) 20 Beginnings, we’re told, in maritime quarters (6) 21 Probable liberal US President lately disheartened (6)

Down 1 Decline shown by area on Cyprus? It’s misguided notion (7) 2 Find fault in freshwater fish (4) 3 Opening is down sadly after West Indies (6) 4 Ship enters sound in trouble (6) 5 Southern ancient city containing no good leader initially in forceful style (8) ) 6 Current cheat held up in Scottish river (5) 12 Four I found engaged by smart Christian festival (8) 13 Horrible stable revamped by yard (7) 15 Most excellent artist is seen before others (6) 16 Singular difficulty in US playwright (6) 17 Fighter always getting contagion (5) 19 Steal shop’s revenue? (4)

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MPs’ round-up

Tough decisions ahead in review of defence vision Since my last column, we’ve seen a little more detail emerge around the Government’s Integrated Review of our defence capabilities.

On Monday, the Defence Secretary spoke to the House of Commons, outlining the strategic vision that will inform our military decisions over the next five years.

It’s worth saying – as I emphasised last week – that the Government renewed our commitment to the NATO recommended level of defence spending – an annual 2% of GDP. But they’ve gone further, pledging an additional 0.5% above inflation for every year of the current Parliament – an additional £24.1 billion over the next four years.

But alongside retrenchment, we’ve also seen signals of reform.

And one of the

Somerton & Frome MP David Warburton announcements that’s caused anxiety is the decision to trim the operational manpower of the army from 76,500 to 72,500 by 2025. I understand the consternation that’s caused in some quarters (and will be questioning Ministers as to how this reduction will be managed), but know, too, how important it is that this Defence Command Paper

equips us to confront a range of metamorphosing threats.

A pivotal moment in the 2012 US Presidential debates came when Governor Romney asked why the US Navy had fewer ships than in 1917.

President Obama replied that the military also had “fewer horses and bayonets” as a function of technological development – and a shifting calculus of risk.

And though the enormous bravery and sacrifice of our front-line soldiers will continue to be indispensable in protecting the UK, we also need to anticipate future threats. This is particularly vital given the long lead

times on defence procurement.

We are already seeing upgrades to our airborne capability (with a planned expansion to our F-35 fleet and unmanned drone capability among other areas) as well as a new National Cyber Force designed to meet the new reality in which digital warfare offers a constant threat.

It’s about staying one step ahead of those who wish to do us harm. And at a time when the world we see looks more uncertain than ever, such forward-thinking is not merely desirable – it’s a grave necessity.

No place in society for violent protest

Voltaire apparently said: “I disagree with what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it.”

The same enlightenment principle applies to protesting, and this is enshrined within the Human Rights Act. However, just as freedom of speech isn’t absolute, government may legitimately restrict freedom of assembly in instances where the freedoms and safety of others are under threat. An assembly would be a charitable description of the violent mob that attacked police in Bristol last week. That disgusting performance will have strengthened the resolve of anyone wavering in their support for the government’s Police, Crime Sentencing and Courts Bill. I certainly voted to buttress the freedom and security of 64

MP for South West Wiltshire Dr Andrew Murrison those potentially at the whip end of mob rule.

It’s not for the first time I’ve called out mob rule in a city I know well, In June I criticised policemen who ‘took the knee’ or did nothing in the face of BLM protesters hauling down a

statue in the town centre. You can dress that up however you like but there’s no disguising it as a wanton criminal act.

Now the Avon and Somerset constabulary that largely stood by that day has itself come under the most appalling attack.

I suspect most of the violent protestors we saw in Bristol last week are numbered among ‘the usual suspects;’ political extremists, anarchists and angry, marginalised young men looking for a cause to justify their aggression. They are certainly not freedom-loving campaigners since what they were up to is the antithesis of freedom and the rules-based system that underpins it.

I do not think Voltaire had in mind the likes of the Bristol thugs when he spoke of defending to the death the right

of people to express views which he did not himself hold.

Those people need to feel the rule of law.

I have been mobilised to help vaccinate and I am reminded daily that we are by no means out of this pandemic. I did support last week the extension of the powers granted to ministers by parliament last year to deal with the crisis, However, we have to ensure that those powers are revoked at the earliest opportunity.

I’m thinking big firms will be thinking twice about a future in an EU that threatens to seize assets and block exports. Those companies may find a better fit in an enlightened, liberal jurisdiction like the UK whose government has met the EU’s belligerence with commendable maturity and balance.

MPs’ round-up

Never give up: Persistence does pay off Back in 2015 shortly after I had been selected to contest North Dorset, one of our councillors, Graham Carr-Jones approached me and asked, if I was elected would I support those who have Thalidomide. Graham is a Thalidomider. His mother was prescribed the then ‘wonder drug’ which would put an end to morning sickness for expectant mothers. What is less well known is that Thalidomide as a drug has its dark history in the formulation of ‘medical research’ in the Nazi concentration camps. To confirm my ‘it’s a small world’ my late father in law, William, had been a pioneering Ear Nose and Throat surgeon, implanting tiny bones into the ears of many Thalidomiders who suffered from poor aural development.

Well, I was elected, and the first All Party Parliamentary Group I joined was Thalidomide. I was elected to serve as Vice Chairman under the lovely, proper old Durham Labour exminer Dave Anderson. We quickly became partners in

MP for North Dorset Simon Hoare crime. Making the case in Parliament and with the German Embassy to try to secure compensation for the victims.

When Dave joined the Labour Front Bench I was elected Chairman. We enlisted the support of then Foreign Office Minister Sir Alan Duncan to make the case to the German Government. This he did with relish, totally on side, having been at school with a Thalidomide victim.

Simultaneously the Campaign Group beavered away in the European Parliament. Success has emerged on the European

scene but our leaving the EU meant that UK Thalidomiders were ineligible.

The previous Government had established a Health Grant to provide funding to meet the additional costs of care and living incurred by those with Thalidomide. The grant expires in 2023.

We had considerable anxiety that, given the huge Covid pressures on the public purse, the grant might not be renewed. We saw Matt Hancock and enlisted his help and support. I then had an unrelated call from the Chancellor’s office asking me to join a ‘speed dating session’ where I had five minutes to make a pitch for Budget inclusion. Armed with stats and a compelling moral case I advocated for a renewal of the grant. The Chancellor instantly became engaged and the next thing I knew was a long meeting with Treasury and Health officials to go through further details. The Thalidomide Trust provided invaluable support.

Two days before the Budget I

received a Delphic message: ‘you will like the Budget’. It was with a tear of relief and gratitude in my eye when I heard the Chancellor say in his Budget speech: “So not only will I extend this funding with an additional down payment of around £40million; I am today announcing a lifetime commitment, guaranteeing funding forever. And let me thank the Thalidomide Trust and the Honourable Member for North Dorset for their leadership on this important issue”. The relief, comfort and certainty that those few words meant to those with Thalidomide is incalculable.

Their campaigning, and never allowing themselves to be forgotten, has paid off.

They have the security from the State that they deserve.

So, what are the lessons from the above? First, if you want something done it does pay to speak to your MP; second political persistence can pay off – it had taken us six years to arrive at this announcement; third politics can be a force for good.

We’re top of the list for improved broadband My persistent campaign to improve our broadband is beginning to pay off. Almost on a weekly basis, I have pressed the Government in the House of Commons to make Dorset broadband a priority.

The Digital Minister told the House of Commons a couple of weeks ago that I leave “no stone unturned” when it comes to advocating for West Dorset constituents to get better broadband – and the following day the Government announced that we are at the top of the list for the £5 billion Project Gigabit program to sort out our poor broadband connectivity.

The Police, Courts and Sentencing Bill was debated in the House of Commons the week before last. I support this

MP for West Dorset Chris Loder Bill. We need a fair justice system – one that stands for the law-abiding majority, not the criminal minority. At the General Election, I pledged safer communities and our Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill delivers on that

commitment. But I know that some are concerned about public order laws. A few weeks ago, I walked to Clapham Common to pay my respects to Sarah Everard. This should have been a moment of remembrance and a sombre demonstration of support for Sarah and for women’s safety.

But instead, it was hijacked by extreme left protestors, with placards from the Socialist Workers Party and others. I’m not saying the police were right in how they dealt with it, but we need the full facts before jumping to conclusions.

The Police, Courts and Sentencing Bill takes direct action to improve public safety: halting the automatic early release of offenders who pose a danger to the public and

ending the halfway release of offenders sentenced for serious violent and sexual offences.

Since I became an MP, I have seen some appalling behaviour from extremist protesters in Westminster, such as Extinction Rebellion. Much of what I have seen is not civil protest – it is criminal behaviour. As we saw again in Bristol a couple of weeks ago, too often the important concerns of well-intentioned people are hijacked by anarchists seeking violence and disruption. I’ve had enough of it and I think it needs to be put right. Protests and demonstrations will continue to be permitted within the law, and anyone that says otherwise is being disingenuous.

65

Church As anyone who knows me will testify, computers, technology and I do not work well together.

Yet it is now twelve months since I broadcast my first Facebook service at the start of Holy Week 2020 and despite many technical problems, all overcome by my wife with very little help from me, I continue to do so.

We are back in church for Easter but still broadcasting most of the Holy Week services.

Is this the new normal?

The vast majority of people have had at least one vaccination to overcome covid, we are well on the Road Map to ending the lockdown restrictions, but will we ever go back to what was normal?

Shops are about to open, but will we ever go back in the numbers seen before

God’s love is the only constant as we face a new normal

with the Rev Richard Priest, of Stour Vale Benefice

Vicar in the Vale

lockdown? We are all wandering around with hair two to three inches longer that in the past. I quite fancy a pony tail but have been warned that if I do it will be cropped while I am asleep.

As a lover of good food and usually paying a visit to my local on special occasions, we are reduced to a take away or fish and chips to mark that special event.

However I am told that some food outlets have done more trade during lockdown than they ever did before and may delay opening their doors for

casual drinkers until later in the year.

What is the normal we are returning to?

The only thing that is constant is the love of God. He sent his only Son, Jesus Christ, to become part of the human race.

To die upon the cross and after three days to rise again.

This is what we are celebrating at Easter.

As Christians we treat this as normal and yet this is the only time in history that this event occurred.

So what is normal?

Many things have changed in the last twelve months and may never be the same again.

I wish we did not have to live-broadcast and yet, now it is here, have realised that it is a way of reaching out to people who could not go to church and maybe never even wanted to cross that doorway.

I suspect that we may never return to what was normal and indeed may not want to, but be assured that the love of God is endless and is open to each and every one of us.

That is the true normal.

Shaftesbury office@ShaftesburyCofE.org.uk / 01747 853060 facebook.com/ShaftesburyCofE Mon 29th March: 5.30pm, Motcombe Evening Prayer 6.30pm St Peter’s Sacred Space: Evening Worship 7.30pm Enmore Green Reflections on the women of Holy Week 8pm St James’ Compline Tue 30th March 5.30pm Motcombe Evening Prayer 6.30pm St Peter’s Sacred Space: Evening Communion 8pm St James’ Compline Wed 31st March 5.30pm Motcombe Evening Prayer 6.30pm St Peter’s Sacred Space: Stations of the Cross 8pm St James’ Compline Thu 1st April 7pm St James’ Maundy Thursday Eucharist 7pm Motcombe Maundy Thursday Eucharist

Fri 2nd April 9.45am Enmore Green Meditation at the Foot of the Cross 10am Compton Abbas Meditation & Quiet Prayer Noon Melbury Abbas Meditation 1.30pm St James’ Good Friday Liturgy 2pm Motcombe Meditation at the Foot of the Cross 6.30pm St Peter’s At the Foot of the Cross 6.30pm Margaret Marsh At the Foot of the Cross Easter Day, Sunday 4th April: 9.30am St Peter’s Easter Communion 9.30am St James’ Easter Communion 9.30am Motcombe Easter Communion 11.15am Melbury Abbas Easter Communion 11.15am Compton Abbas Easter Morning Worship 11.15am Margaret Marsh Easter Communion Sunday 11th April: 9.30am St Peter’s Parish

Communion 9.30am Motcombe Parish Communion 11.15am West Orchard Parish Communion 11.15am Melbury Abbas Matins 6pm St James’ Pilgrim Service

Church services Gillingham Social distancing restricts the number who can join church services, and so we must take bookings for the Easter Triduum service. Please contact us advising which services you wish to attend and the total number of people in your group. carrivick79@gmail.com, 07887 988123.

Maundy Thursday – 1st April – 6pm, Mass of the Lord’s Supper, at St Benedict’s, Gillingham; Good Friday – 2nd April – 11am, Stations of the Cross, at Our Lady’s Marnhull; 3pm, The Passion of the Lord, at St Benedict’s, Gillingham; Easter Vigil – 3rd April – 8pm, The Easter Vigil Mass, at St Benedict’s, Gillingham; Easter Sunday – 4th April – 9.30am, Easter Sunday Mass of the Resurrection, at Our Lady’s, Marnhull; 11am, Easter Sunday Mass of the Resurrection, at St Benedict’s, Gillingham.

66

Blandford Methodist Church Good News. We will be open for Easter Sunday service on the 4th April starting at 10.45am with ocovid-19 practices in place, eg. seat-bookings, face masks, 2metres apart and no singing for the time being.

And then remain open for Sunday services from then on.

To book your seat please ring our answerphone 01258 577 030. We will get back to you to confirm whether or not your seat has been reserved.

Church

By Miranda Robertson newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

St Peter and St Paul’s Church in Blandford Forum has scooped £10,000 from the Dorset Historic Churches Trust (DHCT) towards its £1.1m roof repairs.

The trust has announced grants to help repair eight of the county’s beautiful church buildings totalling over £40,000, in the first of three batches of grants to be made this year – all made possible by the great success of the annual sponsored Ride and Stride for Churches last September.

St Peter and St Paul’s, a major landmark in the middle of the town, is five years into a major restoration project.

Applications are in to 14 different funders, with more yet to be approached, but the DHCT’s contribution of £10,000 has been agreed quickly and can be used as leverage with larger national funds and trusts.

Anne Shire and Sara Loch,

What is under the lead on the roof. Picture: Blandford Church

who are leading the planning of the work, said: “We are very grateful for the generosity of DHCT in providing a grant towards the latest phase of our church restoration, namely the repair of the roof and restoration of the original Georgian internal plasterwork. We have an application to the National Lottery Heritage

DHCT Blandford by Mark Jacques, taken by drone in February 2021

Landmark church scoops £10k from the Ride+Stride Fund pending for which we will hear the result in June, but meanwhile we will need additional funds and the grant from DHCT is a great contribution towards our goal.”

The Archdeacon of Sherborne, the Venerable Penny Sayer, said: “Those responsible for maintaining Dorset’s historically important church buildings need to know that there are sources of financial help when they have to carry out repairs. We know that working on listed buildings is expensive, and the support of the DHCT in helping to cover these costs can be vital.”

DHCT chairman John Stokoe said: “All the churches we support have great need and they all play a vital role in Dorset towns and villages, not just as places of worship, but also as community hubs. We are very grateful to all who took part in last year’s Ride and Stride, and those who

The damp inside the church. Picture: Tim Connor

sponsored them.

“They made this possible.”

DHCT has grant-aided maintenance work for churches and chapels of all Christian denominations in Dorset for the past 60 years.

Total grants awarded over the last 5 years have averaged over £110,000 per annum. The priority has

always been to assist with weatherproofing (roofs and stonework). In recent years significant funds have been granted to assist communities to adapt their cherished church buildings for wider use. Further details of the work of the trust can be found on its website: dhct.org.uk.

67

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68

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Chance to join 20’s Plenty group A 20mph speed limit campaign for Dorset is inviting people to join up.

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or mix with motor traffic.

They are keen for most 30mph roads to go 20mph through signage and public engagement, rather than humps or engineering.

Anna Semlyen from the campaign group said: “20mph is safer, healthier and more sustainable than 30mph, with 20% fewer road casualties as a direct result. Noise is almost halved.”

She added: “Dorset Council is responsible for speed limit schemes and its officers are currently drawing up recommendations for a review of its speed management policy. I encourage everyone to write NOW to their

county councillor to express support for an area wide 20 limit. This overall limit (as opposed to 20mph zones which cover just a few streets at a time) has advantages of not requiring costly traffic calming engineering, less confusing for road users than frequent limit changes and costs a fraction of doing it village by village, town by town.”

For information, email Dorset@20splentyforus. org.uk or go to 20splenty.org To join the “20’s plenty for us” national campaign (free) contact Anna Semlyen 07572 120439 email Anna.s@20splenty.org

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2014 (64) Mini 1.5TD Cooper D 3dr. 114bhp, diesel, climate control, bluetooth, hill start assist, Free road tax, upto 74mpg, 57,700 miles £7450 2018 (68) Renault Clio 0.9TCe GT-Line 5dr. 89bhp, petrol, GT Line exterior styling & wheels, sat nav, touch screen, partial leather, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, bluetooth, parking sensors, hill start assist, 14,400 miles £9975 2015 (65) Toyota Yaris 1.4D-4D Icon 5dr. 90bhp, diesel, reverse camera, touch screen, bluetooth, great economy & performance, Free road tax & upto 74mpg, 46,100 miles £6450 2005 (05) Toyota Alphard G 3.0 V6 Automatic 8 Seat MPV Estate 5dr. 220bhp, petrol, large utility vehicle / day van, sliding side doors, 6 rear seats can be led flat to form a bed & sleep 2 people, front or rear facing seating, parking sensors, reverse camera, touch screen, bluetooth, auto lights, climate control, rear heating, leather seat facings that can be removed, recent cambelt change, 76,600 miles £7000 2004 (54) Toyota Land Cruiser 3.0D-4D LC5 4x4 Station Wagon 5dr. 161bhp, diesel, 4 wheel drive, heated leather, 8 seats, sat nav, touch screen, climate control, sat nav, cruise control, adjustable suspension, hill descent, sunroof, parking sensors, 132,500 miles £7450 2013 (13) Vauxhall Corsa 1.4 SE 5dr. 100bhp, petrol, partial leather, heated seats, heated steering wheel, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, 45,800 miles £4750 2017 (67) Vauxhall Astra 1.6CDTi Elite Nav 5dr. 136bhp, diesel, sat nav, touch screen, heated leather seats front & rear, heated steering wheel, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, bluetooth, hill start assist, upto 58mpg, 82,500 miles £7650 2018 (68) Vauxhall Grandland X 1.2 Turbo SE Automatic SUV 5dr. 130bhp, petrol, 8 speed automatic, high seating, large boot, touch screen, sign recognition, hill start assist, lane keeping aid, auto lights & wipers, main beam assist, cruise control, parking sensors, 28,400 miles £13250 2012 (62) Volkswagen Transporter Shuttle 2.0TD SE T30 9 Seat LWB Minibus. 140bhp, diesel, 8 seats plus driver, massive boot, air con, rear heating, sliding side doors, recent cambelt change, 136,500 miles £10833+VAT = £13000

69

Business Accountants celebrating winning a national award CBA Services Ltd, in East Street, Blandford, have been awarded Sole Practitioner of the Year by Xero Accounting Software.

They have thanked their clients, contacts, friends and family for their support since Catherine Chapman took the huge step to leave a large, top ten accountancy firm and set up on her own in 2013.

CBA Services has now grown into a team of ten with a varied client base and are entering their fifth year in Blandford.

Xero said their proactive approach to supporting clients, whether in tackling the challenges of the past 12 months or preparing for future changes, was what had helped the firm grow their client base and take home the award.

Judge Emma Jones, founder of Enterprise Nation, said: “In this past year small

businesses have really needed their trusted advisor and I was looking for how bookkeepers and accountants have stepped up and helped their clients.

CBA Services are a really good example of that.”

The firm is planning for the introduction of Making Tax Digital for income tax in two years’ time, something judge John Coldicutt, Xero marketing director (UK & EMEA), was impressed with.

“It shows how forward thinking they are,” he said.

For more information see cba-services.co.uk or call 01258 840306.

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New trade deal opens India market Adrian Fisher MBE is the Founder of Adrian Fisher Design Ltd, the world’s number one maze company, which has created over 700 mazes across 42 countries since 1979. The company is based in Durweston.

Over the years our company has tried to export mirror mazes from southern England into Brazil (46% import duty) and India (37% import duty).

Unsurprisingly, we sometimes could not compete on price in India, even though we have succeeded a few times. This is what makes the forthcoming trade deal with India negotiated

by Liz Truss, our brilliant Minister for International Trade, so significant. For the past 45 years, there has never been a trade deal between India and the EU because of the French veto.

Since January 2021 the way is 70

clear to achieve a trade deal between India and the UK (population 68m) with protectionist tariffs removed.

The Indian population is 1,366 million, of which about 300 million have as high a standard of living as the EU (population 380 million). India has been building typically 50 new airport runways a year, though perhaps not during the pandemic. It’s a nation on the move! We share many common values, of democracy, the English language, basis of English law, similar business approach, the principles of Free Speech and Habeus Corpus, railways, and longstanding historic, educational and cultural ties.

The Pacific Rim contains many of the world’s fast-growing economies, with countries such as Singapore having a higher

standard of living than the UK. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) has 11 member countries, representing 13.4% of world trade. Over the years, our maze company has exported to 9 of these: Australia, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Singapore, and Vietnam (but not yet Brunei and Peru). All the better once the UK has joined the CPTPP. In December 2020, the Taiwanese government stated that it would submit an application to join the CPTTP following the conclusion of informal consultations with its existing members. Under President Biden, it is likely that the USA will resume its membership. There is a real desire and enthusiasm in these countries to trade with the UK.

Our exports in this region have ranged from projects at the Singapore Science Centre and Singapore Airport; at Tobu Zoo, Huis Ten Bosch Theme Park and the Tokyo Dome in Japan; a hedge maze in Mexico; landscape mazes in Australia and Canada; mirror mazes in Vietnam and Chile; two hedge mazes in South Korea; and puzzle exhibitions in New Zealand. Typically, the first sale in a new country triggers off further enquiries, and this is how we achieved seven mirror mazes in Japan and four in Mexico.

With Zoom, it costs nothing to do business anywhere in the world. The UK Department for International Trade (UK DIT) is one of the finest organisations of its kind in the world. Contact them, and then start exporting worldwide!

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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.

71

Recruitment JOIN OUR GREAT COMMUNITY CARE TEAM AND MAKE THE SILVERSTARS HOMECARE DIFFERENCE. We offer great rates of pay, paid mileage and traveling time.

Find out more at silverstarscare.com or call our Sherborne office 01935 507792 THE PLOUGH INN, MANSTON After a fabulous twelve month renovation and expansion The Plough is ready to reopen in mid May. The new owners, Peter and Karlene Kellond, are now excited to be building a Team to fill the following positions: Head Chef; Bar Manager; Bar, Restaurant and kitchen staff both full time and casual; Cleaner.

The Plough offers a rewarding opportunity to be part of a team committed to providing a memorable experience to customers who visit this remarkable country pub.

Please e.mail Peterkellond@gmail.com with a copy of your CV or simply telephone him on 07542 646 237 for a chat about the Plough and the opportunities available.

ST.GREGORY'S CHURCH MARNHULL seek to appoint an experienced and enthusiastic organist and choir director to develop our church music and small SATB choir for the next generation.The focus is on church worship with opportunities for community-wide recitals.RSCM rates are given.For further information please contact Revd Gaenor Hockey gaenor@protonmail.com 01258821605

72

SITUATIONS WANTED CARE WORKER AVAILABLE, experienced in dementia, Parkinson's, palliative care.

Good cook & housekeeper, DBS & references available, live in or out call 07775 211891 EXPERIENCED SELF EMPLOYED CARER has availability for days/nights Insured, DBS and references, please contact 07578 891657

EXPERIENCED self employed private carer, available night/ days. DBS, insured and references.

07898609405 MATURE GIRL FRIDAY available for work, anything considered.

01747811909 PRIVATE CARER, in Dorset, has some hours available to help care for elderly. Contact Louise 01300 348015.

WORLD TRAVELLED, practical, conscientious, polite and positive, I am a 50's single man with experience in caretaking/security, grounds and property maintenance. Full clean driving licence, I seek work with accommodation.

Please email for CV hungrymind@yahoo.com

Join our ‘Outstanding’ team Now recruiting for a variety of roles in healthcare and nursing at Newstone House, Sturminster Newton.

For more experienced candidates, we are recruiting for a Clinical Lead (RGN) and a Dementia

Care Lead (non-nurse).

Call us to find out more!

• Competitive pay & enhancements • Paid breaks • Access to gain professional qualifications • Free uniform • Excellent career development • Choice of ‘on duty’ meals

Call 01258 470695 | ColtenCareers.com

We have vacancies for:

Experienced GRP Fiberglass Laminators/Finishers and

Trainee Laminator/Finishers Full on site training will be given.

For further information apply in writing or phone 01747 871232 Wessex Building Products Station Works Tisbury, Wiltshire SP3 6JT Manufactures of GRP Building Products

(Search ‘Newstone’)

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: HRServices@uksupportedliving.co.uk or telephone 01202 038 005

HGV CLASS 2 DRIVER / RECYCLING OPERATIVE required for busy family run skip hire company.

Duties will involve driving skip lorries and yard duties.

Please email your CV and covering letter to: tfplant@tfplant.plus.com Tel: 01747 826107 TF Plant skips – Gillingham Dorset

Recruitment

Expanding Local Civil Engineering and Sports Construction Company

Gillingham Medical Practice

requires a

Patient Services Administrator

Workshop Administrator and Co-Ordinator

The opportunity has arisen for two Patient Service Administrator’s to join our friendly team.

A hard working, flexible, organised and conscientious Full Time Workshop Administrator is required for this interesting and varied role.

If you have strong administration and organisational skills, are self motivated and possess the following skills, we would like to hear from you: Computer literate preferably with experience of Microsoft Office and Excel Excellent at planning and organisation A strong communicator Confident with a pleasant telephone manner Hold a full driving licence Working at our head office in Dinton, this is an exciting opportunity for an individual looking for a career with an excellent and well-established company.

Vacancies

Hours varying from 8.00am to 6.30pm Monday – Fridays, with some early morning (6.45am) holiday cover.

Each post is between 21 and 25 hours a week.

This is a very demanding role and we do require a flexible and proactive attitude with the ability to cover for additional hours that will arise during particularly busy periods or to allow for holiday cover.

The role is a key position, being first point of call to all patients and visitors.

You will be working as part of a small team ensuring that the reception runs smoothly.

If you are interested in applying or would like further information, please email your CV with a covering letter to

sue.gray@dorsetgp.nhs.uk Closing Date Friday 9th April 2021

Please contact for an application pack and Job Description Closing date: 9th April 2021 Jules Simmons M J ABBOTT LTD Bratch Lane, Dinton, Salisbury SP3 5EB Email: jules.simmons@mjabbott.co.uk www.mjabbott.co.uk M J Abbott is an equal opportunities employer.

C H A R T E R E D A C C O U N TA N T S

Accounts assistant An excellent opportunity has arisen to join the team at our Gillingham office. The role involves accounts preparation for a diverse range of client businesses, including some in the agricultural sector. At least 2 years practice firm experience is essential and the ability to confidently deal with a variety of different accounts software packages is an advantage.

Please email your CV in confidence to

chris@andpal.co.uk Andrews and Palmer Chartered Accountants, Gillingham

JIM FROUD BUILDING CONTRACTOR LIMITED Experienced builder on a self-employed basis required to join a small team on a variety of projects in Dorset & Somerset. Must have own transport and tools and be experienced in brick and stone work.

Immediate start available. Please contact with history of experience – jimfroudbuilder@gmail.com or tel. 01258 817929 after 6pm.

GARDENER REQUIRED One day/week Contact 01258 817 110 EXPERIENCED CLEANER needed for busy family home near Child Okeford, 6/7 hours per week. References essential.

Contact: 07770 536 009

BUILDER HANDYMAN NEEDED for 2/3 months To build shed etc.South of Sherborne.References required. 07977 298834.

73

Recruitment

Require an EXPERIENCED UPHOLSTERER

Wessex Internet is recrui琀ng Exci琀ng opportunity to join an innova琀ve business set in rural North Dorset.

We are looking for opera琀ves to join our civils team, building our network across Dorset, South Somerset and the surrounding area with innova琀ve trenchless equipment.

We require hands on, can do people with relevant agricultural or civils experience who are keen to develop their skills and start a career with us.

For more informa琀on, please visit our website www.wessexinternet.com/careers Or send a CV and covering le琀er to careers@wessexinternet.com

Shaftesbury based company is looking for a part-time applicant to cover wooden framed products, using hand clamps and staple gun.

Working in an industrial environment.

See the Unidome website for further information.

www.unidome.co.uk Contact: 07710 490599

CAREERS & SEASONAL STAFF We are looking for an experienced Manager used to a high volume of covers while maintaining excellent standards. We also require a strong Kitchen Manager to work with our existing team of chefs organising the kitchen during busy services.

We are also recruiting for chefs, seasonal bar & waiting staff and housekeepers to join our established team for the busy summer months.

apply to rob wallis : office@foxinnansty.co.uk

general manager | kitchen manager | chefs seasonal bar/waiting staff & housekeeping

THE FOX INN, ANSTY, DORCHESTER, DT2 7PN | 01258 881660 | OFFICE@FOXINNANSTY.CO.UK

GREAT STAFF READ THE NBV! CALL DEBI TO ADVERTISE A VACANCY: 07876 563683 74

Recruitment

Free training for chalk stream volunteers Free training is on offer to volunteers and River Wardens who would like to help make a chalk stream sparkle again – and pick up new skills.

The River Ebble in Wiltshire, one of only around 200 chalk streams in the world, will be improved thanks to a £50,000 grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund as part of the Chase &

Chalke Landscape Partnership Scheme.

Working with land managers and communities, a series of surveys and educational projects will be launched encouraging volunteers, land managers and children to improve the quality of this special little waterway through the Chalke Valley.

The Crystal Clear Ebble project aims to improve the

WANTED GFW on a family dairy, beef and sheep farm at Queen Camel, experience essential. Relief milking and tractor driving work, along with all other stock duties.

No accommodation available. Call Dan on 07976787636

FREELANCE COMMITTEE SECRETARY WANTED Caryford Community Hall Association, Castle Cary is seeking a Freelance Committee Secretary to help with the association’s administration and to do its book keeping.

Anticipated hours 20-25 per month. Indicative annual fee for these services £5000.

Closing date 9 April 2021. Interview by arrangement between 16 and 23 April 2021.

There are exciting plans for the hall as we come out of Lockdown, to progress our ambitious scheme to extend the building to better meet the needs of our growing Community.

For further details of the services required and how to apply please visit: www.caryfordhall.co.uk/recruitment A Charitable Incorporated Organisation Registered Charity number 1192922

ELDERLY LADY in Mere requires extra cover for occasional hours. Please telephone 01747 860548

Woodworking Assistant Shaftesbury based. www.unidome.co.uk Contact:

07710 490599

DOMESTIC CLEANER. One 2 hour session every 2 weeks.

Phone 01747 855617.

health of this unique 22km chalk stream and the wildlife dependent on it.

Work will include improving the banks along a 15km stretch, conserve 12 key chalk stream flora and fauna, including wild brown trout and water crowfoot, and the chance for the local community, farmers and land managers to be trained in survey techniques and advised on best practice river management.

Wessex Rivers Trust, Farming and Wildlife

Advisory Group (FWAG) South West and Wiltshire Wildlife Trust will manage the project with the Chase & Chalke Landscape Partnership Scheme team at Cranborne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Project officer for the Avon and Stour catchments at Wessex Rivers Trust Matt Irvine said: “There are only about 200 chalk streams in the world, and the Ebble is a beautiful example.”

Email rolandhughes@ cranbornechase.org.uk

Creative opportunities at Mathew Bray & Matthew Collins Ltd. Decorative Arts and Furniture

SENIOR CABINET MAKER Mathew Bray & Matthew Collins Ltd is looking for an experienced cabinet maker with a good working knowledge of making free-standing and fitted furniture, to work in our SOMERSET STUDIOS. We are a specialist decoration company working for the high-end interior design industry.

We design and manufacture bespoke pieces of furniture and decorate them to an excellent standard.

The work is interesting and different due to the unusual projects we are commissioned to do.

Pay rate £15-£18 p/h depending on experience.

SPRAYER/FINISHER Mathew Bray & Matthew Collins Ltd is looking for an experienced finisher with experience using the various finishes and techniques available.

Individuals with experience in spray finishing would also be of great interest.

Pay rate £15-£18 p/h depending on experience.

JUNIOR CABINET MAKER WORKSHOP TEAM MEMBER REQUIRED. Will suit someone with an interest in electrical and mechanical assembly, needs a good eye for detail. Full time position at small friendly company near Shaftesbury.

01747 851060

Mathew Bray & Matthew Collins Ltd is looking for a junior cabinet maker with a passion for making free-standing and fitted furniture, to work in our SOMERSET STUDIOS. 2 years of experience working in a joinery/furniture manufacture role required.

Pay rate £10-£12 Email alistair@mathewbray.co.uk for more details Instagram @mathewbrayandmatthewcollins

75

Sport Wait for it: Brad’s superbike debut delayed until late June The debut of Stalbridgebased rider Brad Jones in British Superbikes has been delayed until late June.

The Government’s roadmap applies capacity limits for fans at non-seated venues until June 21 at the earliest.

But with organisers wanting the maximum number of spectators to enjoy the competition’s 25th anniversary, the 11 race rounds will now start at

Oulton Park on June 25-27.

Brad, 22, is riding for the recently renamed iForce Lloyd & Jones BMW team, which is based in Liverpool.

He will ride alongside team mate Joe Francis, who is competing in his third consecutive campaign with the team, following a successful 2020 season which saw him secure two top 10 finishes.

Last season Brad finished

runner-up in the British Supersport category, with one victory and six further podiums.

He competed at that level for four years on board a 600cc bike: now he will be on a 1,000cc machine producing 225bhp compared with the 140bhp he has been used to.

In his first season of stepping up to the premier Superbikes class, Brad said: “I don’t have any expectations. There

is a lot of learning and adapting to do.

The style of riding is different and that’s something that will take time to get the hang of.”

The official test programme begins at Silverstone on April 28-29. The race season proper will now be truncated to run all 11 rounds within 17 weekends, ending up at Brands Hatch on October 1517.

Sprit pair gearing up for GP2 Cup

By Steve Keenan sport@blackmorevale.net

Dorset team Spirit Moto Corsa’s 2021 line-up for the British GP2 Cup has been confirmed, with Jamie Perrin joining the outfit alongside reigning champion Mason Law. Perrin, 27, has impressed in British Supersport over the last few years, challenging at the sharp end of the field despite entering on a privately-run bike.

He has previous experience in the GP2 class, picking up nine podiums across the first six events of the 2019 season.

Law, 25, is continuing with the team for a second season, having picked up the 2020 title in fine fashion with a double victory in the Brands Hatch season finale. He picked up four wins and seven podiums in a hotlycontested campaign, eventually winning the championship by 22 points.

Following on from last year’s success, the team’s target is for both riders to compete for the GP2 title, as well as fighting at the top of the overall classification with British Supersport.

The Shaftesbury-based Spirit Motorcycle team is bolstered by a continued title 76

Castle Cary

DYNAMIC DUO: Mason Law and Jamie Perrin

sponsorship deal Gillingham-based motorcycle dealership Moto Corsa.

There is also increased backing from Chedington Estate in Beaminster, whose branding features heavily on the team’s striking new-look livery.

Perrin said: “I’m looking forward to being back in the GP2 class for 2021 after a

successful stint in the class in 2019. To be joining the team that’s come straight off the back of winning the championship is great.

“Obviously the aim for the season is to win the GP2 championship, but I imagine everyone has the same idea. I also want to be in a position to run competitively in the overall standings.”

Law said: “I’m really

pleased to rejoin the team for the 2021 British GP2 season.

Last season we were very much developing and racing the bike at each and every round, so to win the championship over a much shorter distance, for me, was a great achievement.

“There’s still plenty of work and improvement that can come from the package for this season. Obviously, the next couple of months are very important in terms of development, then hopefully we can kick-on and use the recently announced official tests as the platform for a strong and successful defence of the championship.” n Ahead of the new season, Spirit Motorcycles has bought Talon Engineering, a Yeovil-based company which specialises in motorcycle parts including wheels, brakes and sprockets.

Spirit plans to expand the business and diversify its product range. Talon’s products have been used at highest level of Motocross and Speedway, as well as the Dakar Rally. In its 50-year history, more than 100 world champions have used Talon components. Talon exports to 35 different countries around the world.

Sport

North Dorset staggering restart of rugby training Rugby made a tentative return at North Dorset RFC this week – but all teams are not coming back to training at the same time.

It was hoped Mini and Youth squad training could resume from Sunday – but all players are asked to check with team managers for exact dates and times for the start of their training sessions.

As with football and other outdoor sports allowed to resume this week, changing rooms and showers are shut and no spectators allowed bar one adult or guardian per child.

Club chairman Greg Pearce said: “Planning is going on

Competitive football makes welcome return to the Vale

By Steve Keenan sport@blackmorevale.net

Competitive football returns to The Blackmore Vale this weekend for the first time in three months.

The move is allowed as part of the Government’s roadmap out of lockdown, which allows the resumption of sports including organised outdoor football.

The rules state that changing rooms cannot be used although toilets will be allowed to open, 30 minutes before and after matches.

No spectators are allowed but one parent or guardian per child is permitted.

Most non-league football has been abandoned for the season, leaving the senior teams at Shaftesbury, Wincanton and Sherborne with no competitive games.

But the Dorset Premier Football League is running

an optional League Cup competition for members, and 11 teams have chosen to enter including Gillingham Town, Shaftesbury Reserves and Sturminster Newton United.

The teams have been split into two leagues, of six and five teams: the teams will play each other home and away.

The first games are on Saturday and there are likely to be midweek games throughout the competition.

The top two in each group play the semi-finals on May 15, with the final a week later.

The Dorset Football League, one step down from the Premier Football League, is also running a mini-cup competition for members: 13 of its Senior League clubs have joined, including Wincanton Town Reserves,

Stalbridge and Tisbury United. The remaining fixtures in the Dorset Senior Trophy will also begin on April 10, with Tisbury taking on Shaftesbury Reserves in an outstanding second round match for a place in the quarter finals.

Meanwhile, the community Blackmore Vale League resumes on Sunday with nine teams, Hazelbury Hornets having dropped out.

Unbeaten leaders Wincanton United Wasps take on South Cheriton Comets before meeting their closest challengers, Donhead Barbarians on April 11.

The demanding schedule means the league may not end until June 27 but a spokesman said: “We are determined to complete the schedule and with everyone’s support, we believe we can achieve this together.”

to get the highly popular Friday Touch rugby competition going again from April 16, and we expect to link this with a restart of the World’s Biggest Beer Garden which was so popular last year.

“Planning is already underway for our annual ND7s event, subject to restrictions being lifted, it is proposed for Saturday July 24.” nNorth Dorset RFC is hosting Bath Rugby for one of its mixed half-term camps on April 7 for 6 to 14-yearolds. The day camp costs £30 and limited spaces are available. Book at rugbycamps.co.uk/bath.

FOOTBALL FIXTURES APRIL 3 Dorset Premier League Cup 3pm Gillingham Town v Holt Shaftesbury Reserves v Bournemouth Sports Sturminster Newton v Merley Cobham Sports Dorset Senior League Cup 3pm Poole Borough v Tisbury United Stalbridge FC v Hamworthy Recreation Reserves APRIL 4 Blackmore Vale Football League 10.30am AFC Blandford v Donhead Barbarians Sturminster Rovers v Team Gryphon TGR v Bradford Abbas Wincanton United v South Cheriton Comets APRIL 5 Dorset Senior League Cup 2pm Broadstone FC v Stalbridge FC Tisbury United v Merley Cobham Sports Reserves Wincanton Town reserves v Sturminster Marshall APRIL 6/7 Dorset Premier League Cup Sturminster Newton v Gillingham Town Shaftesbury Reserves v Holt APRIL 10 Dorset Senior Trophy 2.30pm (2nd round) Shaftesbury Reserves v Tisbury United Quarter finals Blandford United v Sturminster Marshall Gillingham Town v Hamworthy Recreation Dorset Premier League Cup Merley Cobham Sport v Sturminster Newton APRIL 11 Blackmore Vale Football League 10.30am Bruton United Colts v TGR South Cheriton Comets v Team Gryphon Sturminster Rovers v Bradford Abbas Wincanton United v Donhead Barbarians APRIL 13/14 Dorset Premier League Cup Gillingham Town v Shaftesbury Reserves Bournemouth Sports v Sturminster Newton

77

Sport RUNNING The Dorset Doddlers running group this week resumed its Tuesday evening training sessions in Shaftesbury and Thursday sessions in Sturminster Newton last night. The summer runs begin on May 18. There is currently no Beginners Group but the main training groups are welcoming and support new runners of all abilities, from beginners to those returning to running after a break or longer layoff.

More at dorsetdoddlers.co.uk.

By Steve Keenan sport@blackmorevale.net

It felt like the first day of school holidays: let’s all run outside and play! It was last Monday that the shackles came off and organised outdoor sports for both adults and children was allowed once more.

Golf courses were packed as members played their first round since January 4.

Running clubs were allowed to meet for organised training sessions and tennis players unzipped their rackets. Football and rugby will resume this weekend: competitive cricket will also be allowed.

The next stage in the government roadmap will be Monday week (April 12) when indoor gyms and leisure centres are allowed to re-open, for use individually or with household groups.

Here’s a round-up of resumed or new sports activities in the Blackmore Vale. If we’ve inadvertently missed your club off, do let us know your news: sport@blackmorevale.net.

GOLF Tee-off times were available on both courses at Yeovil Golf Club on Monday, although some courses weren’t taking visitor bookings, reserving the links for members for the first few days. Wincanton took bookings from Tuesday as there was a race meeting the previous day.

The first few lucky golfers found the courses in pristine condition, having had no play on them or divots gouged out for the last three months. Pro shops and clubhouses were closed but can open from April 12 and May 17 respectively.

TENNIS Sherborne Tennis Club reopened its courts on Monday, 78

HOWZAT? Shaftesbury Cricket Club is running All Star sessions for youngsters

At last! Sport can start up again and here’s where to go including singles and doubles social play, one-toone coaching and organised activity for groups. It also has Easter tennis camps for under 10s and juniors, with three-hour morning and afternoon sessions on weekdays between April 616. Call Matt (07403 025881) or Stu (07825 660781).

Donhead Community Tennis Club is to restart Fitness for Tennis classes on Mondays, 9.30-10.30am. It’s a cardio tennis session with trainer Rachel Carter and coach Ian Griffin. No need to be able to play tennis, just run about to music and hit some balls. It’s five sessions for £30 from April 19. Call Ian: 07930 569342, info@Live4Tennis.co.uk CRICKET Shaftesbury Cricket Club is running the hugely popular

All Star sessions for children aged 5-8 on Friday evenings (5.15pm-6.15pm) from May 28 through to July 16. There are also All Star courses at Marnhull, Stalbridge, Blandford, Mere and Sherborne CCs on differing days. New ECB courses for children aged 8-11, called Dynamos Cricket, are also available at Stour Provost, Sherborne, Blandford and Compton House CCs. Sign up for all at ecb.co.uk/play.

CYCLING Gillingham Wheelers began its 2021 Time Trial Series on Wednesday with the first event on the Milton on Stour six-mile course.

The club has more than 100 members and considers itself to be a social and sporting cycling club with a primary focus on road cycling. There are regular social rides. New members welcome. Go to gdw.org.uk

WOMEN’S RUGBY Yeovil Rugby women’s mixed ability team relaunches on April 9 and welcomes new players. The team is supported by Bath Rugby Foundation. More at twitter.com/YeovilRugbyGirl.

SWIMMING Sherborne Storm swim club is appealing for volunteers as it gears up for re-opening on April 12.

“We are a small volunteer run club providing all types of swim disciplines to children based in Sherborne,” said swimming director Wendy Flack. “We are desperate for more volunteers: coaches, team members, supporting competitions, committee members, fund raising – we need you all, of all ages!”

The club trains at Leweston School on weekdays with occasional training at Millfield. Previous knowledge not required, said Wendy, with training on the job. Contact Wendy at flack.wendy@gmail.com or text 07545 306883.

FOOTBALL Sherborne Town FC is looking for a new volunteer club secretary, working with the First and Reserves sides.

Contact chairman John Bowers: chairman@ sherbornetownfc.com.

Education New headteacher for Port Regis invites you on virtual tour The new headteacher at Port Regis in Motcombe has issued an invitation to parents to step inside – virtually – and see what they have to offer.

Titus Mills and his wife Jemima say they love it at the private prep.

Mr Mills said: “An educational journey such as this should not only be purposeful and stretching, but also great fun! The best schools should be joyful schools. Joy and wonder are integral

parts of childhood and, I believe, these happy hallmarks should be clearly visible, and audible, in every corridor, classroom and playground.

“We would love you to come and visit Port Regis. It is a special place. You will find a community in a stunning location, with a distinctive ethos and a tremendous spirit!”

He added: “It is a tremendous honour to be the new head of this wonderful school. Port

Regis is steeped in history, founded as it was in 1881, and yet it remains a community that is, at its core, forward thinking and determinedly innovative in its approach to educating and nurturing young children.”

Contact Claire Gates at cg1@portregis.com or on 01747 856318 to arrange a video call and virtual tour with Titus. portregis.com/ Instagram: NEW HEAD: Titus Mills @portregisschool

Plea to open outdoor education centres

By Miranda Robertson newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

A director of an outdoor education centre in Bruton says she feels let down by the government after being forced to stay closed for a year.

Tricia Rawlingson Plant, who started Mill on the Brue with her late husband Tony in 1982, says outdoor education is safe and hugely beneficial – yet because of ongoing covid restrictions she has been unable to open at all since last March.

She says 40 per cent of outdoor education centres have closed permanently as a result, and another third are in ‘imminent danger’ of collapse.

She said: “Government guidelines state that schools cannot go on residential trips and as yet have not reversed this decision.

“Thousands of jobs have gone, centres have lost 95 per cent of their annual income. The situation is dire.

We are not even mentioned in the ‘road map to recovery’

(along with strip clubs)! It is ridiculous that night clubs know when they can open but we do not.”

Tricia is part of the Save Outdoor Education campaign, which argues the sector is safer than most. She said: “All our activities are outdoors and we risk assess automatically as it comes with the business of running an outdoor centre.

“As for the accommodation, boarding schools are open and running. The

Department of Education argues that boarding schools were part of the plan to reopen along with all other schools on March 8. So where’s the logic?”

She added: “In spite of the government encouraging people to get outdoors and millions feeling the benefits we feel that the DofE does not value outdoor education.

“It’s not about canoeing or climbing or hiking – it’s about children getting outdoors, appreciating nature

and the environment, learning to share, communicate, become more independent, facing their challenges, getting to know different people, recognising their own and others’ abilities, feelings of selfworth and achievement – the list is endless. The impact of a residential trip on most children is life affirming, one that they remember for the rest of their lives.”

Tricia says outdoor education should form ‘part of the recovery from the pandemic, particularly for children’.

She said: “At the moment they have been confined to home, often with limited circumstances, their mental and physical health has deteriorated significantly. We can help, but only if we can reopen. Once centres have closed they are lost forever.

Scotland has taken the bold step of recognising the value of outdoor education - surely the rest of the UK can do the same?”

79

Equestrian

n Alex Hua Tian at Nunney International Horse Trials by Brian Stubbs

Stubbs captures classic equine beauty It is little wonder this stunning photograph of event horse Alex Hua Tian at Nunney International Horse Trials taken by photographer Brian Stubbs achieved the maximum mark in Wincanton Camera Club’s very own competition.

And the photograph has been accepted into the Royal Photographic Society’s Digital Imaging Group’s annual print exhibition.

Judge John Tilsley, who cast his expert eye over the competition picures, said the standard of the club’s internal open 80

themed competition was particularly high, with Paul Dyer with Mist Coming In, James Eastaugh with January Bloom and Kit Williams with Racehorse Waiting scoring 19 of the 20 marks available. Continuing the success story, photographs by Meyrick Griffith-Jones and Brian Stubbs have been accepted into International Salon exhibitions.

Wincanton Camera Club host a number of talks every month. German animal portrait photographer, Elke Vogelsang will share her wonderful dog

photography with members on March 24 at 7.30pm.

In May, South African wildlife photographer, Will Goodlett will attend and Paul Mitchell FRPS will talk about woodland photography.

For more information about the club, please visit wincantoncameraclub. co.uk. The talks can be booked by contacting treasurer Meyrick GriffithJones at Treasurer@WincantonCamera Club.co.uk. For information about the club email secretary@wincanton cameraclub.co.uk or 01747 840018.

Equestrian

n Racehourse waiting by Kit Williams

n Blonde and her Bay by Brian Stubbs

n Hodge Close Quarry by Meyrick Griffith-Jones

n January Bloom by Jim Eastaugh

n Mist coming in by Paul Dyer

81

Equestrian

Lockdown project raising cash for RDA

By Karen Bate newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

A disabled rider from Dorset is raising funds for the Riding for the Disabled Association through the sales from her first children’s book, Horses can Roll but they can’t Roller Skate – a tale about her golden horse with a golden heart.

First- time author Jade Leahy is spreading joy and raising

EQUINE CLASSIFIEDS funds after writing her PADDOCKS inclusive children’s For all your paddockstory & field about her belovedcall Fjord maintenance, Mark Horse, Odin.

01747 821271 or 07810 “I have always had a great 540725 love of horses, but riding has HORSE PADDOCK SERVICES Chain harrowing, rolling, aerating, over seeding, spraying & topping with ATV Call Nick 07495 090101 Bedrap, Bedmax, white shavings, wood pellets, chopped wheat, hay and straw. Ring Val - 07889 064294 HORSE HAYLAGE, 6ft and 3ft Bales, Mark Needham, 07860 759996

82

always been challenging due to balance, pain and muscle weakness,” said Jade.

“Having struggled to find the right horse who was understanding of my needs, I was lucky enough to find Odin. We were together for 16 years and I wrote our inclusive story during that time and set it aside, questioning: who was I to write a book?”

Odin was Jade’s soul horse and her love for him lives on as she is giving 10 per cent of the profits from every copy sold to The Riding for The Disabled Association to give something back after receiving support from Dorset RDA instructor Sarah Lloyd Harris, who helped her to begin a new chapter with

her cob, Rosie.

Jade’s new book ‘Horses Can Roll but They Can’t Roller Skate’ tells the story of Molly, a little girl challenged by physical disability who yearns to roller skate with her peers.

Molly meets Odin, a cheeky Fjord horse who longs to fit in with the rest of the herd and dreams of taking part in Pony Club games. Together they find fun, friendship and self-acceptance.

DORSET SHOWGROUND WE LOOK FORWARD TO WELCOMING YOU BACK! Fri 2nd April – Unaffiliated Show Jumping (horses & ponies) Sat 3rd April – Senior British Showjumping Thur 8th April – Show Jumping Clinic with Sam Griffiths Sat 10th April - Unaffiliated Dressage Sun 11th April – Assisted Gridwork with Level 2 UKCC Coach Sunday 11th April - Clear Round Show Jumping Weds 14th April - Evening Unaffiliated, BS Club & Just for Schools Showjumping Fri 16th April – Portman Hunt PC Arena Eventing Sun 18th April - Blackmore & Sparkford Vale PC Show Jumping Show Jump Course Hire (built by Level 4 BS Course Designer) www.dorsetshowground.co.uk for info, entries & Covid protocols Tel: 01747 838 888

Jade said: “I really hope my story will spread a little joy and create a positive attitude towards perceived limitations and a ‘can do’ attitude in children facing all sorts of challenges, as well as helping the RDA.” Soft toy ponies and rugs featuring the logo for the book are also available via Jade’s website and are also raising funds for the RDA. Jade is also developing activity sheets to accompany the book. She added: “During lockdown, I also wanted to find out about other inspiring equestrians and small businesses, so I developed my ‘Off The Lead Rein’ podcast and have been fortunate enough to chat to fellow equestrians, from stunt riders to Paralympians.”

You can follow Jade’s journey via and purchase a copy of the book via website jadeleahy.co.uk or Amazon Instagram @jadeleahy_ book @adventures_molly_Odin.

Pets

Ask the vet...

What’s it like being a vet?

Would you recommend it as a career?

Being a vet is a privilege. If you love animals and want to help them, often in their times of greatest need, this is the job for you. But it is important that you understand all the job entails.

It is not all about cuddling puppies (although clearly that is the best part !) and difficult decisions have to be made every day. Much of the job is mundane such as emptying anal glands, TB testing cows or vaccinating horses and there is a lot of problem solving using the information you obtain from the owner and from examining the animal.

To get there you have to work hard academically. Learning lots of information and passing exams is essential. If you are considering being a vet it is

with Lynn Broom

essential that you get lots of experience in veterinary practices. Until you have seen what is involved you will not be able to make an informed decision.

Dealing with people is a very important part of the job.

Owners are usually very attached to their animal and at times of stress it can be difficult to manage expectations. It is essential to involve owners in decision making so that the best course of action is taken based on all the relevant circumstances.

Many people believe that euthanizing animals is the hardest part of the job. On occasion this is true but often euthanasia is preventing a very sick or injured animal from further suffering. If, following discussion with the owner and assessment of the animal, it is

agreed that euthanasia is the most appropriate course of action then this can be a rewarding part of the job knowing that you have released that animal from ongoing distress.

The feeling of saving a critically injured animals life is indescribable. Pets are often as important to people as the human members of their family and we take the responsibility of doing the best for much loved family members very seriously.

Long hours, including working nights, and stress are a large component of this job. We become vets to help animals.

Unfortunately we are not always able to save every one despite our best efforts and, sometimes, owners expectations can be unrealistic. Suicide rates are high in this profession and it is essential to get the right balance

between caring for your patients and their owners and distancing yourself when you are not at work to maintain your own health.

Do not become a vet if you want to earn lots of money ! A survey of average salaries published in 2020 showed that vets earn less than doctors (almost 50% less), pharmacists, paramedics, teachers, solicitors, electrical engineers, accountants, architects and many other careers. On the upside there is a shortage of vets so you are likely to have a guaranteed job !

So, if you want a rewarding job using your love of animals and science, but are aware of all the pitfalls, then being a vet is the job for you. There is no better feeling than when you have made a positive impact on the life and health of an animal and their owner.

stimulated. For the puppies, I took the classes online with fully interactive live classes meaning they could provide their new puppies with the best possible start in life under exceedingly difficult circumstances.

“I held a fortnightly Zoom Tea Party for clients to show what their dogs have been up to or chat about dogs or life in general as people have felt so isolated.”

Natasja says she’s looking forward to training people face to face again but has used her time in lockdown to focus on building an online business for

the long term.

Hoopers and Rally Obedience.”

She’s specialising in supporting To find out more about Natasja Belgian Shepherd Dogs and has visit funfocusplay.com or email natasja@nightsabredogtraining.co.uk created The Positive Belgian podcast and online and HD DOG GROOMING SEMLEY training Professional grooming and teeth cleaning programme. services based in Semley, offering a calm, She said: “It’s safe and friendly environment for all your been an four legged friends. extremely challenging 07912 983839 / www.hddoggrooming.com year as a small business owner so it’s lovely to have this recognition. I can’t wait to return to face Independent family run business offering to face class a very personal, caring pet cremation service and have lots to bereaved pet owners. of exciting Collection Service Farewell Room things coming Out of Hours Service provided up like a new Located in a rural countryside setting Rogue Puppy on the Somerset Dorset border Class, and the Contact us on: 07900 654 440 chance to learn www.companionsatpeace.co.uk Canine

Dorset dog trainer wins a global award A Dog Trainer from Dorset has scooped a LUXlife Global Excellence Award.

Natasja Lewis of Nightsabre Dog Training in Milborne St Andrew, was voted Best Dog Training Support Provider for South West England.

Natasja has been working in the area for over 10 years and moved her classes online in lockdown. With an influx of new dogs and puppies, she also set up a support group for local dog owners when she couldn’t train face to face.

Natasja said: “It’s lovely to have this recognition after all that has happened in lockdown. The last year has seen so many people welcome puppies and dogs into their lives which is great, but there’s also been a lot of worry for new owners.

“I’ve supported the local dog owning community online via a Facebook group particularly in the first lockdown when they were struggling to keep them

Companions at Peace Pet Cremation

83

Field & Stream

They think lambing’s all over... it is now!

THE FIELD with Tria Stebbing As the saying goes “They think it’s all over... it is now!” Lambing 2021 is over for us and has bought 11 new lives to the flock.

The first few days are critical for the lambs, we watch for sucked in tummies which indicates not enough milk, we also watch for mums rejecting their own and for other ewes butting the other young.

Two days after the last twins were born our hearts sank when we spotted a limp lamb lying in the middle of the field. The poor thing was clearly very poorly, which in turn led to a dash down to Friars Moor, where he was promptly seen by a vet. It was not clear what his issue was, but bless him he looked very forlorn and a bit sunken in around the tummy area.

We made the decision to take him home with us for some

bottle feeding, along with his sister for company.

My poor Jack Russell was evicted from her crate and the two lambs were fed and settled down for the night

under the kitchen table.

It is a tough decision to make, to take a lamb home as the risk is that the ewe will now reject it and it will need bottle feeding for at least six

weeks, every few hours.

By morning, the little chap had clearly turned a corner and was very vocally making us aware of his presence.

Although it was nice having two lambs under the kitchen table, it was not practical, so we decided to take them back to the field to see if Mum was a bit more interested in caring for them.

Unlikely as it was, she was waiting for us when we got there, and she welcomed them back with a nudge towards her freshly rested teats. The twins have gone from strength to strength and are integrated back into the fold as if nothing happened.

Our other dog, a Pyranean, reverted to his stock guardian ancestry whilst the lambs were here, and we can tell he misses them dearly.

Everything is crossed now for a dry couple of weeks to allow the lambs to grow and thrive on the fresh grass so that we can move them onto summer grazing, to preserve the field for growing some sweet hay for the next batch of lambs.

Puzzle solutions (From pages 64-65) Sudoku

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T E R R I F R I E P O S

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L T S A C E D E

Field & Stream

Spring’s crowd of colourful insects The spring and summer garden just wouldn’t look or sound quite right without the host of insects flitting, buzzing and crawling around the plants. Here are three colourful species to look out for in the garden or while you’re out and about in Dorset.

Early bumblebees (which are the Dorset Wildlife Trust species of the month for March, so if you spot one before the end of the month, head online to record your sighting). These small bees are one of the first bees to emerge in spring. The early bumblebee looks ‘fluffy’, has lemon-yellow bands on its thorax and abdomen, and an orange tail. They play an important role in pollinating raspberries and blackberries and build nests in a wide range of places including abandoned mouse burrows, dense vegetation, bird boxes, roofs and trees.

The ladybird is often welcomed by gardeners for its appetite for aphids

with

(greenfly). There are several species of ladybird, with one of the most common in Dorset (and the UK) being the seven-spot ladybird, identified by seven black spots on its red wing casing.

Ladybirds can eat a staggering 5,000 aphids in their year-long lives and have a helpful defence against getting eaten

themselves. Ladybirds will emit a pungent yellow substance from their joints if handled which, along with their bright ‘warning’ colours, deters predators.

A familiar sight among the wildflowers is the butterfly meandering from plant to plant. Species commonly seen early in the year include the brimstone and peacock

butterflies. The brimstone, a relatively large, pale yellowgreen butterfly, is often seen in ones or twos. They inhabit mature hedgerows, woodlands and large gardens where they seek out the foodplants of their larvae, buckthorn and alder buckthorn. The peacock butterfly is somewhat flashier, with its wings in hues of red, blue and yellow.

Their underwings are brown, providing camouflage against dead leaves. One of this butterfly’s favourite plants is the buddleia, so popular with these insects that it is also known as ‘butterfly bush’.

We hope that you see these species this spring, but insects are dying out up to eight times faster than larger animals and 41% of insect species face extinction. Visit dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/act ion-insects to sign up and find out what action you can take in your garden or local community spaces to help stop this decline.

Puzzle solutions Jumbo 3D Sudoku

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29

127

Cryptic Crossword F C H A W A I L R F L I P A A C K N O Y A S T E F I P E R V E V I B E R T H R Y

W H I A C N S D I S P O L W L E D

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85

Farming

Welcome return of spring’s chiff-chaffs Country Diary With AJ Selby April brings the primrose sweet; scatters daisies at our feet.

You never stop learning, or seeing something new in nature. Recently, during a walk across the downs, I had pause to watch some hares at play. Two males were sparring – boxing as it’s known – and not having lived in hare country, I had never seen this behaviour before. It’s usually one male claiming dominance over another at the start of the mating season although it’s also thought that sometimes it’s the females resisting the attention of the males. Was life ever thus! Old countrymen still call them

jack rabbits and that name was carried over the pond to the States by the earlier settlers there. They are a most interesting animal that is naturally shy but able to run at speeds up to 35mph.

We’re in it together

Baby hares, called leverets, are born furred and with their eyes open unlike rabbits, so they can fend for themselves soon after birth. They don’t burrow underground like rabbits do but lie down and give birth in depressions in the grass called a form.

Richard Jeffries, the prolific country writer from the second half of the 19th century, was adept at finding the flat, matted grass that was their home and he was said to have caught hares for the pot by creeping within a few feet of one resting, placing his hat on the ground in front of it and while it kept its attention on the hat, he would walk round the back of the animal and grab it.

Apocryphal in all probability but they can lie still for a long time before setting off when disturbed. Jeffries was a remarkable naturalist and

writer who died of TB aged just 38. He lived near Swindon, where he learnt to study nature on the Wiltshire downs with a keen eye and then put his observations into elegant prose.

A contemporary writer at the time on first reading Jeffries wrote: “Why, we must have been blind all our lives; here were the most wonderful things possible going on under our very noses, but we saw them not.”

Taking my early morning stroll on March 19 along the riverbank, I heard that familiar and welcoming sound. I looked up towards the top branches of a gnarled old oak and there, silhouetted against a cloudy sky, I saw him. Just the one. Singing his heart out. Chiff-chaff-chaffchiff-chiff-chaff. Yes, the chiff-chaffs are back and spring has arrived.

Through our insurance products and services, we are here to protect you and your farming business against a range of risks.

For generations we’ve been putting farmers across the South West at the heart of what we do. To our Members, we’re the local specialists that understand the challenges you face and are here to help.

From your very first conversation with us, to the moment a claim is paid out, We’ll always do the right thing by you. But don’t just take our word for it – ask your neighbours about us.

Want to speak to us direct?

Call us on 01872 277151. cornishmutual.co.uk

86

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Farming Symonds & Sampson teams up with Heards in new merger Symonds & Sampson LLP have amalgamated with Heards RPS, a merger which brings two established firms together to enhance the range of services offered to farmers and land owners in Devon and Somerset.

Both firms have a wealth of knowledge and experience, and offer an extensive range of skills and services including planning, agency, valuation, farm business management and landlord and tenant matters.

The two firms’ agricultural sales departments are both

From left, Toby Cleave, Ross Willmington, Heather Burrough, Angela Heard, Paul Heard

highly regarded for their online, on-site and private treaty sales of livestock, machinery, fodder, standing crops and grass keep.

Symonds & Sampson partner

Ross Willmington said: “Symonds & Sampson and Heards RPS have worked closely together for three or four years, and this merger is a perfect opportunity to

establish a stronghold in the heart of Devon at Tiverton, as the firm expand our business further west.”

Paul Heard will become a partner with Symonds & Sampson from 1 April. He said: “Having built up a successful business serving clients across Devon & Somerset, we are very excited at the opportunity to join forces with the wellrespected team at Symonds & Sampson to further enhance and develop the range of services we offer.”

Wanted: An apiary fit for a queen

By Karen Bate Few occupations are as soothingly pastoral as beekeeping, and this is certainly true for Philip Morgan, a former Metropolitan police officer who fell in love with bees at the tender age of 12.

But it wasn’t until Philip transferred to serve in Dorset and start a family in 1978, that he was able to fulfil a lifelong passion and become a beekeeper.

“My first encounter with bees was when I was about 12 and living in a small town in Devon.

We had a swarm arrive and settle on a blackberry plant on my father’s allotment. He knew a beekeeper friend who collected the swarm by putting a cardboard box underneath and banged the branch, all the bees fell into the box.

“Before the bees went into the box, he said if I was not nervous, to put my hand into the swarm. I have always had a great fascination with nature and slowly put my hand in. It was the most amazing feeling looking at my wrist and not being able to see the rest of my hand as it was covered in bees.

“I wouldn’t recommend this and would never encourage anyone, let alone a child to do it,

however, this started my love of bees.”

A member of Dorchester & Weymouth Bee Keeper Association and an official Swarm Collector, Philip is often being called upon to collect bee swarms and now he is searching for another site to house an apiary and is appealing to our readers to help him find one.

He said: “When you collect a swarm, you don’t know where they are from or whom they belong to. You don’t know if they may have a disease, so it is important to quarantine them until you have had chance to inspect them. I also want to start breeding my own queens so will need an apiary to do this.

“If at all possible I would like an apiary site within an eight-mile radius of Bere Regis however any location would be

considered. All it needs is a reasonably quiet area preferably away from humans and livestock that would be accessible by vehicle or garden/camping trolley.”

In the UK we have 270 species of bees of which 250 are solitary,

but there is only one type of honeybee.

Philip added: “Bees are fascinating creatures and can be described as a superorganism as thousands of bees work for each other in a 40 litre box, in perfect harmony, with no fighting, no bullying, no domestic disputes. I get immense pleasure just watching them go about their business and trying to make their lives as pleasurable as possible.

“If only people could follow their example the world would be a much better place.” n If anyone has a possible site for an apiary, please get in touch with Philip on 07870 957036 or 01929 472283.

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Farming

Farm vets and internal specialist referrals

By Alice Miller BVSC DBR MRCVS Friars Moor Livestock Health If you have been unfortunate enough to have a pet with a complicated or unknown condition, then your small animal or equine veterinary surgeon may have given you the choice of referral to a specialist hospital for further investigation or surgery.

However, those of you with farm animals are probably aware that this is not an option, because the first opinion and referral structure does not exist within farm practices.

Farm clients tend to be running commercial businesses and referral would not be a viable option in many cases, largely because farmers have several hundred animals in their flock or herd, and unlike on the pet side, insurance for each individual animal on farm would be impossible. Also, often the individuals we treat are part of a productive flock or herd and removal from this, for any

length of time would be stressful and detrimental for the animal as well as impractical, for example where dairy cows need milking twice daily in a parlour. This difference in set up however does not mean that our patients receive a substandard level of care, it just means that whilst offering the first opinion we also offer the expertise to investigate further, and we do this at Friars Moor Livestock Health by offering internal referrals, since all our clinical vets have their own specialist areas of interest as well as a broad knowledge across all farm species.

For example, Helen Rogers, John Walsh, and I all have a further degree in the Diploma

of Bovine Reproduction (DBR) so have further knowledge in dairy and beef cattle fertility management.

Whilst Yoav Alony-Gilboa holds the RCVS certificate in Sheep Health and Production and is a recognised Israeli specialist in Small Ruminant Health and Production.

Eleanor Livingstone is currently studying for the DBR whilst Jo Childs is studying for the RCVS Sheep certificate.

Our further interests are as follows. Lucy Hepworth’s are beef and small ruminant health & production, as well as dairy youngstock and nutrition. Paul Doran’s is pathology and post-mortem investigation. Katie Harrower’s is youngstock and

mastitis control. Bogdan Butnaru’s is cattle lameness and dairy goat management.

Eleanor’s is mastitis, dynamic parlour testing and antibiotic reduction. Helen’s is dairy and beef health and production.

Yoav’s is sheep and goat health and production. John’s is cattle lameness, dairy youngstock and pig health and production. Jo’s is parasitology, diagnostic ultrasound lung scanning, sheep lameness and herd and flock health planning. Mine are dairy and beef heifer breeding, bull fertility testing, AI training and infectious disease control.

For further information on any of our services please visit: friarsmoorvets.co.uk or call: 01258 472314.

FARMING JOBS

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 88

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Email. sales@tractorsandplant.com Tel. 01747 855327 WANTED GFW on a family dairy, beef and sheep farm at Queen Camel, experience essential. Relief milking and tractor driving work, along with all other stock duties. No accommodation available. Call Dan on 07976 787636

Farming

It’s a bumper year for twins Ruth Kimber’s Farmer’s Diary Happy Easter, and hopefully we will soon be able to catch up in person with our families and friends. Spring has officially started and as I write it’s showing great promise.

The low yielding cows are happy to go out to pasture, but have feed available to them after milking before heading to the fields. Calving till the autumn is all but done. We had a good calving, with only a few hiccups.

Seven sets of twins were born, which in cattle is fairly unusual, oddly if a female and male make up the twin, the heifer/female is most often infertile. Over the years we have noticed all but one heifer twin proved to be infertile, none as a free martin in farming terms. If two heifers, fertility is not affected.

Lambing is now well underway, lambs everywhere, with a few coming up for a little supplementary milk from a bottle.

Please keep your dogs under control and take away their poos.

Farmers across the land dread the fallout of sheep worrying and disease introduction via dog faeces.

The land is looking in good heart, the grass growing and springtime jobs are underway.

Farming life is all about being ready for the next season, which

really helps to keep things running smoothly.

After my rant about litter on the roadside verges, I was delighted to see I was not alone. Many people in our area have been picking up rubbish, putting it in black bags to be collected. In one of our gateways Paul spotted two bin bags and firstly suspected someone of fly tipping; however, he went back with our gator to collect them, finding one was full of roadside rubbish, the other roadside recyclables, cans, bottles etc. he then realized it was the work of our friends and neighbours Jean and Jeremy! After this he saw litter picking in progress on the Frome bypass, and several conspicuously clean roadsides on his way to the slaughter house in Dorset. Godminster Vintage took advantage of Dropping Lane, near Bruton being closed and set about doing a massive clean-up, removing a trailer load of full bin bags. I heard on the early Radio 4 programme a man in Kent, Mr Ted Graham, asking for 21st March to become an annual Spring Clean day – what a good idea, I hope it catches on.

What’s all this to do with a farmer’s diary you may ask?

Well, its just a general care of our environment, wildlife, and farm animals, discarded litter is often found in the stomachs of farm animals, wildlife can be ensnared and causes damage and

death. Plastics end up in water courses and the ocean.

Kimbers Farm Shop, BA9 8HD Wincanton Racecourse road B3081. Opening times Tues-Fri 8.30am -5pm, Sat 10am-4pm. kimbersfarmshop.co.uk Tel 01963 33177

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Farming

Sheep worrying cases WEDNESDAY 14th APRIL Pedigree Breeding Bull Sale Commencing 2pm Entries Invited FROME MARKETS 1ST INAUGRAL SPRING STIRK FAIR Wednesday 28th April Show & Sale Kindly Sponsored by Barbers 1833 To Be Judged in The Pens Prior To Sale Best Pen Of 2 Or More Native Bred Dairy x Steers Up To 7mo Best Pen Of 2 Or More Native Bred Dairy x Heifers Up To 7mo Best Pen Of 2 Or More Continental Bred Dairy x Steers Up To 7mo Best Pen Of 2 Or More Continental Bred Dairy x Heifers Up To 7mo Best Pen Of 2 Or More Dairy Bred Steers Or Heifers Up To 7mo Overall Champion £30 Prize Money & Rosettes For The Winner Of Each Class Overall Champion Receiving A £70 Prize & The Spring Stirk Fair Cup FOR ALL INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT Auctioneer- Charlie Coleman 07494 588013 Fieldsmen- Tom Rogers 07384 462 288 Mark Ferrett 07702 264 502 Market Office 01373 830 033 NOTE CHANGE OF DATE!!!

SATURDAY 22ND MAY

Poultry Sale (Entries Close 7th May) Subject to Covid & Avian Flu Restrictions

Auctioneers

Trevor Rowland: 07968 480 401 Lester Williams: 07778 646 031 Ross Whitcombe: 07815 985 737 Charlie Coleman: 07494 588 013

Fieldsmen

Mark Ferrett: 07702 264 502 Tom Rogers: 07384 462 288 Frome Livestock Market, Standerwick, Frome, Somerset BA11 2QB

Tel: 01373 830033 Email: info@fromelivestock.com Website: www.fromelivestock.com

For those whose TV volume is now at 50!

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1886 3 West Street, Blandford Forum, Dorset DT11 7AW jay@conyers.biz www.conyers.biz Tel: 01258 452307 Mob: 07973 642278

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01749 813957 or 07971 012628 or find us at www.southwestyreservices.co.uk

TYRES AROUND LTD

Mobile Service Agricultural Specialist Over 35 year’s Experience NIGEL MARTIN 07921 929891 YOUNG PEACOCKS & HENS available £100 a pair. 01725 517268 07311 478301 QUALITY HAYLAGE, D1010 Bales, 6ft, 4 strings with 8 wraps, a large quantity, Mark Needham 07860 759996 WANTED old trailer mower/mower conditioner, anything considered. 07740 663925

38 The High Street, Wimborne BH21 1HT Tel: 07514 417556 8.30am – 4.30pm

COME FOR A FREE 1 HOUR HEARING TEST!

Sheep farmers in North Dorset are urging dog owners to keep to the countryside code as they enter lambing season, with pregnant ewes and newborn lambs particularly vulnerable to attacks from out-ofcontrol pets.

The numbers of livestock worrying

FARMING CLASSIFIEDS Variety of POL HYBRID PULLETS now available.

07545468700 LOOKING FOR FARM BUILDING/ FIELD TO RENT. 15 mile radius os Sturminster Newton.

074960 33069

OLD TOOLS WANTED FOR CASH. BEST PRICE IN UK. VINTAGE,COLLEC TABLE & GOOD USED TOOLS, boyshilltoolsandtree n.co.uk Tel 07977 298834 danletts51@gmail.c om MUSCOVY DUCKS. 07968121857 CONCRETE RAILWAY SLEEPERS For cow tracks / retaining walls.

Contact Ricky or Robert at Liquiline Limited. 01258 830324 / liquiline.co.uk

For those farmers who drove tractors in the 70s!

0% interest payment plans available for hearing aids

We will welcome you all with open ears!

90

Farming

rise by ten per cent

Already entered to date including 2 part dispersal sales: Valtra T214 (68), Valtra T203 (14), Valtra N121 (57), Massey Ferguson 6475 (59), Massey Ferguson 6180, New Holland T7.200, McCormick X7.460 with loader (17), CAT 357D Telehandler (69), Iseki TG 6490, Iseki Scraper Tractor, John Deere 1630, Claas Senator 60 Combine 10’ Header, Grasstech GT120 Zero-Grazer (19), Shelbourne Cubicle Bedder 300 (14), Major 2050gln Vacuum Tanker, Ca琀le Handling Equipment, Feeders, 150 Lots of Tools & Bygones, etc

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Contact Greg Ridout 07817 517467 or Rachael Holder 07772 310482 for entries and further informa琀on.

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countryside code or how their dog will behave around farm animals.

“We want people to enjoy the countryside as it’s so important for people’s wellbeing. It’s vital that dog owners act responsibly and keep dogs on a lead whenever there is a possibility livestock are nearby.”

She added: “Even if a dog doesn’t make physical contact, the distress and exhaustion of the chase can cause sheep to die or miscarry their lambs.

“It’s important that owners realise that all dog breeds, not just the big, fierce-looking ones, are capable of attacking livestock, or chasing them.

“Although we had seen some encouraging decreases in the overall UK cost of livestock attacks over the last two years, sadly 2020 has seen an upward trend.”

APRIL ON FARM FODDER SALE TUESDAY 20TH APRIL – ENTRIES WELCOME APRIL TIMED ONLINE COLLECTIVE AUCTION THURSDAY 29TH APRIL – ENTRIES WELCOME

Horsington Tender 12 April

A range of Tradi琀onal and Modern Farm Buildings and 109.19 acres (44.19 ha.) Available to let by tender in 2 Lots on a 6 year FBT. Edward Dyke, Sturminster Newton 01258 472244.

SAFOR LE

incidents have risen in the last year, which have been linked to an increase in countryside visitors and a surge in dog ownership during the covid-19 pandemic, with many people unaware of how their dogs will behave around livestock.

NFU Mutual statistics reveal the cost of dog attacks on farm animals increased by over 10 per cent in 2020, with 64 per cent of owners walking their dog off-lead with half admitting their dog doesn’t always come back when called.

“With millions more people walking in the countryside as covid restrictions continue and an increase in dog ownership, we have seen many more horrific attacks resulting in large numbers of sheep being killed and a trail of horrific injuries,” said Rebecca Davidson, rural affairs specialist at NFU Mutual.

“These attacks cause unbearable suffering to farm animals as well as huge anxiety for farmers and their families as they deal with the aftermath. It’s a critical time in the farming calendar and there is widespread concern as we enter the peak lambing season, that there will be a surge in new visitors who are simply unaware of the

PROPERTY CLASSIFIEDS WANTED Elderly couple wish to rent house or bungalow, radius of 15 miles of Castle Cary (country), Excellent refrences 01373 813091 GROUND FLOOR TWO BED HOLIDAY FLAT. West Bay, telephone 01963 23456 CHUBBS HOUSE Shaftesbury is a sheltered accommodation of 21 Flats and is a registered Almshouse run by Shaftesbury Municipal Charities. The House is for independent living and situated close to the town centre, owing to extensive refurbishing Chubbs have vacancies for 1 bedroom flats, applications are invited from persons 55+ years. For further details and an application form ring 01747853374 or email clerk@chubbshouse.org.uk RURAL 1 BED STUDIO offered in return for dog walking and light gardening, would suit semi-retired. 07711671044 or email joecurtis1412@icloud.com

Holnest Guide £10,000

0.57 acres of mixed broadleaf woodland with road frontage.

Andrew Tu n, Sturminster Newton 01258 472244

Looking for Farm Finance?

We are proud to work with AMC the leading supplier of long-term funding for the agricultural sector.

As AMC Agents, we can provide you with tailored funding to support most rural business ac琀vi琀es.

You’ll bene昀t from simple, 昀exible and a昀ordable lending to support your consolida琀on, growth or diversi昀ca琀on plans.

Contact Edward Dyke: 01258 472244

symondsandsampson.co.uk 91

Property

A 23 UCT AP I O RI N L

A 23 UCT AP I O RI N L

DORSET DEVON HAMPSHIRE SOMERSET WILTSHIRE LONDON

Guide £295,000 An intriguing, par ally renovated Grade II Listed co age, offering considerable poten al for a buyer. EPC Exempt.

Hilton

Guide £540,000 A Grade II Listed 3 bedroom co age in a peaceful village loca on, a charming garden, stream, parking and garage. ECP Exempt.

Sturminster Newton Guide £275,000 A substan al detached 4 bedroom house requiring complete modernisa on set in grounds of about 0.23 acres. EPC=C.

Wimborne 01202 843190

Blandford 01258 452670

Sturminster 01258 473766

A 23 UCT AP I O RI N L

Wool

Templecombe

Guide £279,950 A modern and well­presented 3 bedroom semi­detached house with off road parking and front and rear gardens.EPC=B.

St Leonards

Guide £170,000 A unique opportunity to acquire an interes ng site with possible development poten al (STPP). In all approx. 1.9 acres.

Tincleton

Sherborne 01935 814488

Wimborne 01202 843190

Dorchester 01305 261008

Wimborne

Guide £425,000 A charming Grade II Listed 3/4 bedroom town house with many original features, garden and off road parking for 2 cars. EPC exempt.

Templecombe

Guide £395,000 A detached 3 bedroom bungalow with scope to modernise, a good sized south facing garden and far reaching views. EPC=D.

Sturminster Newton Guide £100,000

Wimborne 01202 843190

Sturminster 01258 473766

Sturminster 01258 473766

A 23 UCT AP I O RI N L

Guide £295,000 A stylish 2 bedroom top floor apartment in this Grade II Listed house with communal gardens and views. EPC Exempt.

PLANNING

A 2/3 bedroom co age for renova on, with yard and outbuildings and within walking distance of the town. EPC=G.

VALUATIONS

BUILDING SURVEY

Property

BUY YOUR NEW HOME WITH

SYMONDS & SAMPSON

O昀ering a wide variety of quality new homes throughout the region, Symonds & Sampson are proud to act on behalf of reputable builders and developers to o昀er quality, energy e cient homes, all available with no onward chain. Get in touch to start your property search, you could move sooner than you an琀cipated.

01935 814488 | sherborne@symondsandsampson.co.uk

A selec琀on of 3 & 4 bedroom new homes built by Bovis Homes • Viewing weekend 2th to 5th April - contact us to book • Outskirts of this bustling town • Character style • NHBC Buildmark

Stalbridge

From £353,500

West Stour

Guide £697,950 Bishops Caundle

A pair of high quality detached 4 bedroom village houses built

by R E Pearce Proper琀es Ltd. • Open plan living • O ce • Enclosed gardens • Garage & private parking

From £525,000

An exclusive development of 19 tradi琀onal style family homes built by Acorn Developments (SW) Ltd. • Show Home opening in April • Heart of village community • 4 bedrooms • Garage/car ports

SALES | LETTINGS | AUCTIONS | COMMERCIAL | FARMS & LAND

Property National Country & Equestrian Property Specialists ld So TC

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Penselwood, Somerset Equestrian property with pro昀table holiday cottage and planning for further development, set in highly desired location 6.6 Acres

POA

West Knighton, Dorset Superb generous four/昀ve bedroom house plus further two bed bungalow, stables, paddock and outbuildings 1.9 Acres

£875,000

East Knoyle, Wiltshire Stunning traditional barns with full planning to convert to two contemporary dwellings 0.5 Acre

£625,000

Blandford, Dorset Thriving and pro昀table holiday cottage business with residential property and potential for further growth in rural farmland setting Tourism

£925,000

Motcombe, Dorset Immaculately presented smallholding with four bedroom home, outbuildings and an amphitheatre situated in a village location 2.1Acres

POA

Donhead St Andrew, Dorset Incredible parcel of grassland paddocks situated within AONB with vehicular access and spring fed water troughs 10.6 Acres

£195,000

If you are thinking of selling please contact us for an initial discussion on 01722 782727 or email admin@foxgrant.com

foxgrant.com COUNTRY & VILLAGE

FARMS, LAND & SMALLHOLDINGS

EQUESTRIAN SPECIALISTS

TOURISM & LEISURE

Property

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For the Complete Property Package. Agents for Residential, Commercial, Property Investment & Management.

Sold

No Forward Chain

New Instruction

Sale Agreed

MERE

GILLINGHAM

MERE

GILLINGHAM

More Properties Required Contact Andrew Bonnet or Sue Moore

Det 3 Bed Ens Gdn Garage

Terr 2 Bed Clk Garden Pkg

More Properties Required Contact Andrew Bonnet or Sue Moore

Retirement Apartment

Sold

Price £250,000

D

Price £279,950

C

Sale Agreed

Price Reduction

GILLINGHAM

MERE

GILLINGHAM

GILLINGHAM

2nd Fl 1 Bed 2 Rec Com Gdn

More Properties Required Contact Andrew Bonnet or Sue Moore

More Properties Required Contact Andrew Bonnet or Sue Moore

FF 1 Bed Com Gdn Pkg

Sold

Sold

View

Price £112,500

C

Retirement Residence

Price £96,750

N/A

GILLINGHAM

GILLINGHAM

MERE

MILTON ON STOUR

SS 1 Bed 1 Rec Com Gdn Pkg

More Properties Required Contact Andrew Bonnet or Sue Moore

More Properties Required Contact Andrew Bonnet or Sue Moore

Det 2 Bed Garden Garage Pkg

Price Reduction

New Instruction

To Be Let

To Be Let

GILLINGHAM

GILLINGHAM

GILLINGHAM

GILLINGHAM

Freehold Office Investment

Freehold Investment

Self Contained GF Office/Shop

Industrial Building with Yard

Price £180,000

C

Price £152,500 Plus VAT C

Price £190,000 TBA

Price £350,000

D

Rent £3,000 pa FRI Terms E Rent £7,750 pa FRI Terms

Townbridge House, High Street, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 4AA Telephone/Fax: (01747) 822244 E-mail: chapmanmoore@btconnect.com See all our properties on www.rightmove.co.uk & www.zoopla.co.uk