The New Blackmore Vale Magazine by The Blackmore Vale Limited

Edition 9

w e n he

Friday, January 22, 2021

Blackmore Vale

Fortnightly

FREE

SEND A CARD? WILCO! Keen radio ham Rowland with his daughters Sue and Pippa

Cards flood in for villager’s big day By Karen Bate newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

Villagers have inundated a ‘wonderful Motcombe man’ with no fewer than 125 cards to celebrate his centenary, after friends erected a special postbox outside his home.

Rowland Stellig turned 100 on Tuesday and to mark the occasion James Saumarez fixed a birthday postbox outside for people to post cards. The amateur radio enthusiast and artist not only made significant contributions in

the Second World War but has been pivotal in many village activities. Rowland and his wife Joyce moved to Motcombe in 1987. Sadly Joyce died just six years later and, with his children scattered around the world, Rowland threw

himself into village life. Rowland joined the AD2000 Committee and along with several villagers (including Don Fudge, Liz Deacon, Peggy Roberts and Liz Biles), created the Motcombe Millennium embroidery. n CONTINUED ON P20-21

What’s inside this week Announcements 34-39 Arts & Entertainments 52 Antiques & Collectibles 32-33 Business 53-59 Church 74 Education 71 Equestrian 78-79 Farming 82-87 Field And Stream 80-81 Food & Drink 39-43 Health & Wellbeing 49-51 Home & Gardens 27-31 Items For Sale 26-27 Letters 71, 72-73 Local Services 44-48 Motoring 68-70 MPs’ Round-Up 64-65 Obituaries 38-39 Pets 66-67

n Kelly is top groomer in TV’s Pooch Perfect...P7 n Down Memory Lane with old garages and roadside sights P16-17... n Tribute to Bryan ‘Badger’ Goss P76-77

Property Puzzles

88-95 62-63, 66-67

Recruitment Sport

60-61 75-77

Meet the Team Miranda Robertson

Lloyd Armishaw

Lorraine Drake

Editor

Publisher

Distributor

newsdesk@ blackmorevale.net Tel: 01963 400186

lorraine_drake @icloud.com Tel: 07850 529937

Debi Thorne

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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

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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 We’ve seen a massive increase in both ads and news,and we love to receive these early... All ads and copy to reach us by close of play on the Friday before publication, please!

Steve Keenan

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Commercial manager newsdesk@ blackmorevale.net

MP’s tweet fury at actor’s mask stance By Steve Keenan news@blackmorevale.net

When North Dorset MP Simon Hoare tweeted about actor Laurence Fox’s refusal to wear a face mask, he didn’t pull any punches. On a quiet Saturday morning, possibly after a second coffee, the MP publicly opined: “I hadn’t realised that being a first class, ocean going, chateau bottled, nuclear powered p***k was an exemption from wearing a mask. What a selfish loathsome tool this man is.” Coming from a Twitter feed normally full of constituency matters and positive Conservative comments, it was a surprise to many. Left of left-winger and Guardian columnist Owen Jones (1m followers) said: “Lol, this is a good tweet.” And Sky News political

***

FOR FOX SAKE: MP Simon Hoare’s robust tweet in reponse to actor Laurence Fox’s claim to have bought a mask exemption lanyard on Amazon

correspondent Rob Powell added: “But what do you really think, Simon?” Another 11.2k people liked the tweet and 2,700 retweeted his comments. By now, Simon was enjoying the response so much that he

even re-tweeted himself. “Why thank you!” he replied breezily to one commentator who said: “I have never knowingly agreed with what a Conservative MP has said, but on this one occasion...” Inevitably, on Twitter, there

were those who harangued the MP, not so much for his opinion but for the force of language used. “Oh dear me,” said @LisaLeese5. “There comes a certain professional expectation that you shouldn’t always write down what you’re thinking... bad move and cannot be undone.” And closer to home, farmer’s wife Jenny Lee Kendall lamented: “Shameful behaviour by a serving MP. Unfortunately, my MP.”

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Village unrest over castle owner’s plan By Steve Keenan

Somerset has caused disquiet in the village with plans to The multi-millionaire owner build a garage. of Compton Castle in south Bill Hopkins, 72, made a fortune in concrete 01258 450019 before selling his 14 East Street, Blandford Forum WincantonDT11 7DR based business to Quality Care Guaranteed Tarmac in Now Accepting New Patients 2018. But Google Reviews he also has 0% 昀nance & monthly payment options available a property and www.national.dental development company and owns homes in Compton Pauncefoot Family Law Advice where he We realise talking about divorce or separation is very personal and so we are offering virtual bought the appointments by Zoom. As an alternative, we castle for offer a one off FREE telephone appointment for £6.5m in initial advice on Wednesdays 9am – 1pm 2015. To book an appointment please call us on Hopkins 01747 852377 Estates has

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applied to build a new access, garage, workshop and ‘ancillary’ works on land adjacent to a cottage at 18 New Road recently purchased by Hopkins. The cottage is opposite School House, another Hopkins property. The project would give better access to a septic tank in the field, said to be connected to eight properties, as well as creating off-road parking for two cars at the cottage. At present, cars have to park on the narrow road. But the land is in a conservation area and is classed as agricultural, which would require a change of planning use. It is also overlooked by other houses in the village, including that of Angela Shaw’s home at Martha’s House. She has objected to South Somerset District Council saying the proposed change of use from agricultural is “an uncomfortable precedent

for a small country village like Compton Pauncefoot.” She also questions what ancillary works means, and whether it is an active septic tank. “I believe it is a cess pit that does not require servicing,” she writes, “which would not justify building an access road from the already narrow single file road.” Another neighbour said: “We as a village are troubled. If Hopkins gets this road, we fear he will build more houses off the road in the field.” There is no suggestion in the planning application that it will include houses. It is proposed to build a double height car port with a homeworking office space above, designed from an oak timber frame structure with red tile pitched roof. The New Blackmore Vale emailed Hopkins Estates for a comment but has not received a reply.

Grants for lockdown aid Businesses in South Somerset are now able to apply for grant funding to support them through the current restrictions. The council has already paid more than £2.5m lockdown grants. Emails have been sent to 750 other businesses who will need to reply confirming their details are correct and anyone who hasn’t applied for a grant

since spring 2020 will need to apply online. Business rate payers previously been paid a grant for Tier 2 have automatically received a grant for the December restrictions and January lockdown periods. Apply online at southsomerset.gov.uk/covidb usinesssupport Or go to southsomerset.gov.uk/ coronavirus for information.

Urgent appeal to help children with tech for online lessons An urgent Laptop Appeal has been launched by the Rotary Club of Sherborne Castles to give disadvantaged primary school pupils a computer to fully access remote learning in lockdown. Sherborne Primary School has distributed a significant number of devices but headteacher Ian Bartle says about 40

more are needed for his school alone. Mr Bartle said: “Many of the families at our school do not have computers or tablets. The children are therefore unable to engage with the school’s provision for learning at home.” The Sherborne Area Primary Schools Laptop Appeal is raising funds so schools can purchase

additional laptops – a laptop can be purchased for less than £200, so any amount of funds raised will make a difference. The appeal will benefit all children in Sherborne, Buckland Newton, Shillingstone, Yetminster, Bradford Abbas, Thornford, Gillingham and others. To donate go to rcsc.org.uk/laptop

HELP TO STUDY: Rotarians are launching an appeal to help children learn at home

St Mary’s to become a special school “We want to have Dorset children stay local rather than be sent to schools all over the country.” Stuart Jones of Savills, who led the sale on behalf of the administrators, said: “2020 was a challenging year for the private school sector and

By Steve Keenan newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

St Mary’s School near Shaftesbury is to remain in use as a teaching establishment, serving Dorset children with special educational needs. The Catholic girls’ school has been sold for £10.05m to Dorset Council, six months after it went into administration after sustained losses. A steering group appointed by the council will examine various uses for the whole of St Mary’s buildings and 55 acres and welcomes input from the community and local interests. But council leader Spencer Flower made it clear that schooling is one subject that St Mary’s would be ideal for. “We have got issues in Dorset where we need to deal with the provision of

schooling for special needs children, and this is a great opportunity,” he told Shaftesbury radio station This is Alfred. “The demand for looking after young people has grown in the last few years. I want to bring kids back into Dorset – a lot of families have to travel some way to visit. “We are very ambitious for the site. St Mary’s School comprises 165,000 sq ft of accommodation within grounds of 55 acres. It is suitable for a broad range of service and community uses, which could also include provision for Dorset care leavers, adults with disabilities, as well as a possible site for businesses to boost our local economy and more besides.” Dorset councillor Belinda Ridout, who represents the Gillingham ward, added:

a number came to the market having been unable to continue trading. “St Mary’s Shaftesbury is undoubtedly one of the most prestigious schools to become available in this way, and we are pleased it will become a community asset.”

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Vaccine joy as jabs start By Nicci Brown Here is Dr Madeleine Ford administering the jab to the first two Blandford residents receiving their vaccinations at Whitecliff Surgery last week. Doreen Wort is 83 and her husband Anthony 85, living at Ryan Court, Blandford. Their son farms at Sixpenny Handley, and Doreen was proudly telling me that she is still working, and they are busy lambing at the moment! The team at Whitecliff swung into action very quickly after the vaccine arrived at around 3.30pm, and these first jabs for members of the public was just after 4.30pm - they were also vaccinating their team during what was described as a ‘trial run’ before the first patient vaccinations day, for which they had 384 people booked in. Whitecliff (part of the Blandford Primary Care Network) is one of three GP

surgeries which are administering vaccinations – the other two being the Sturminster Newton Medical Centre (Vale Primary Care) and The Digby Hall, Sherborne (Sherborne Area Network).

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TV star Kelly’s groom at the top By Steve Keenan newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

Six million people watched Wincanton dog groomer Kelly Davis sweep the floor with the competition in the opening round of a hairy TV challenge. The BBC1 show Pooch Perfect challenges four groomers to wash and cut two types of canines – in Kelly’s round, a shih tzu and bichon frise. Her style and finish bow wowed the judges and saw Kelly become the first to qualify for the next round as ‘Best in Class.’ “Her handling was impeccable. Kelly is a top contender,” said judge Colin Taylor. A total of 16 groomers were selected from 1,000 around the country to take part in the show. It runs for eight episodes, with Kelly next appearing in the quarterfinal on February 4. She has been a groomer for 18 years, the last eight of which has been running her studio and training centre, KD Grooming on Common Road. She also has a rescue centre in Wincanton, mainly for horses. “If it’s got scales, feathers or hair, I am all over it. I LEADING ROLE: Dog groomer Kelly Davis in the BBC1 programme Pooch Perfect love it so much,” she says. Earning a place on the show gets the best out of me.” was asked to groom Midge, Undoubtedly, many of her wasn’t easy, said Kelly. The contestants had just the bichon frise, in two-and- owners tuned into the show “There was very tough over two hours to wash, half-hours. itself (including Susan questioning about my blowdry and trim the shih “This dog wants to make me Moore, who tipped us off!) background, experience and tzu (called Princess, in smile,” said second judge “I have had a huge amount qualifications.” Kelly’s case). In this Amber Lewin. Added of reaction from clients and And the show itself wasn’t challenge, Kelly came Taylor: “She’s very cute. students,” said Kelly. “It has any easier. “I feel privileged second. “You winged it. It’s That face, the sticky out been a little bit to have got in but this is the on the natural showy side ears…. Kelly really has hit overwhelming. hardest thing I have ever but flattering to the dog’s the brief on that one.” “Dog grooming hasn’t done. body,” said Taylor. Speaking to The New slowed down during “You have a lot of pressure The second challenge Blackmore Vale after the coronavirus. People have to groom in a certain required the contestants to show, Kelly said she had been walking their dogs amount of time – then there groom the dogs as a “teddy groomed “a fair few” shih more, they get matted and are the questions and the bear.” tzus around Wincanton, have to be groomed. It’s cameras. They could choose the good training for the show booming and is a career “But I like to be pushed: it breed but not the dog. Kelly itself. that’s here to stay. I love it.” 7

Big plans afoot for Wincanton town By Karen Bate A year after it was first established, work on the Wincanton Town Regeneration Scheme is progressing well and stepping up a gear in 2021. South Somerset District Council’s (SSDC) Wincanton Town Centre Strategy aims to boost footfall and help create a more vibrant town centre, in which Wincanton’s businesses can flourish. The strategy sets out four locations for improvements to the town’s public realm which include improving the pavements, roads and seating areas which people use. A review of town centre properties has been undertaken, which could see several empty buildings being brought back into use and improving other buildings in the town. The review will provide the basis for discussions with

owners and funders about possible enhancements. In November, Phil Jones Associates were appointed as the lead contractor for the design phase and are now developing outline designs for schemes in the Market Place, Carrington Way central and eastern High Street. Ideas shared in an engagement session with key stakeholders in early will help inform the current design work and will be published for consultation in early February. The design process will continue to June, with further consultation with the public and statutory agencies including the highway authority. Councillor Henry Hobhouse, portfolio holder for Wincanton Town Centre Regeneration Programme, said: “It has been a challenging 12 months for town centres and

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independent retailers across the country but the regeneration proposals for Wincanton will help to improve the town centre environment and encourage people to visit, helping boost footfall and dwell time as we ease out of the pandemic. Do also keep an eye out for more information about the Public Realm consultation coming soon.” Chairman of Wincanton Town Council Sue Shelbourn Barrow said: “This is an exciting time for the town of Wincanton, its residents and businesses. “The joint appointment of Susi, our project and development co-ordinator, in December 2020 continues to strengthen the partnership between South Somerset District Council Regeneration Programme and Wincanton Town Council’s plan Wincanton for the Future. The year 2021/22 is the continuation of the

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collaboration to enable our town to thrive.” The Events and Activities Funding Programme will help community organisations and local businesses put on a range of events to encourage visitors with two levels of grants are available, up to £5k for an individual business or up to £10k for collaborations involving three or more businesses or organisations. Since its launch, funding approval of up to £42k has been given towards projects for events in 2021 including pop-up panto performances by The Charming Rat doorstep panto and the illuminated Wincanton Carnival, which is due to be held in October. Find out more about the Regeneration of Wincanton town centre on the South Somerset District Council website at southsomerset.gov.uk

Help during lockdown The Covid-19 Action Group in Sturminster Newton received more than 1,000 requests for shopping and prescription collection during the first lockdown last year, all delivered by 40 volunteers. The group, which was initiated by Cllr Carole Jones in March 2020 and supported by the Friends of Stour Connect, is still active and continues to provide help or support with the following: n Hot food deliveries direct to your door n Helping young people cope n Health and wellbeing - e.g. mental health, loneliness, physical health n Dealing with utilities n Information about help with debt n Prescription and shopping collection n Benefits advice n Housing issues n Help with costs of shopping – Vale Pantry, food vouchers (local shops, Co-op, Steeptonbill Farm Shop), boxes of essential non-food items Email the group at covid19stur@gmail.com or call Andy (07849) 618522, Chris (07771) 517913 or Carole (07968) 348481.

MP opposes third lockdown By Karen Bate newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

A little over three weeks ago, The House of Commons overwhelmingly approved retrospectively, by 524 votes to 16, a third national lockdown for England, regulations of which could last until March 31. Boris Johnson said he had ‘no choice’ but to impose the draconian measures in a bid to control the new variant of SARS-CoV-2, which is rampant in many parts of the country. But in a somewhat surprise move, Somerton and Frome MP David Warburton voted against the third national lockdown, saying he was “deeply uncomfortable in supporting restrictions which will in themselves directly cause such personal, economic and social harm for their constituents and for our country.” As each day passes, we are informed of cases rising, the new and more transmissible variant of SARS-CoV-2, increasing hospitalisations and predictions of appalling death rates. “Given all this, I fully appreciate that my vote against the current lockdown may seem unexpected,” said Mr Warburton. “I very much understand the enormous pressure under which the Government is operating, and applaud many of the mitigation measures that have been implemented so far. But, knowing that the vote and the regulations would pass, I felt strongly that the Government needed to know that there are still, small voices who have serious concerns, who would advocate a different approach, and who are deeply uncomfortable in supporting restrictions which will in themselves directly cause such personal, economic and social harm for their constituents and for

LOCKDOWN OPPOSITION: David Warburton

our country.” In a letter to the New Blackmore Vale, Mr Warburton said the crucial question is what cost restrictions would have on lives, livelihoods, businesses, mental health and to all noncovid related health issues. “It’s imperative that these factors are weighed in the balance against the likely lives saved from those same restrictions.” Mr Warburton said: “Everyone who attends hospital is now tested – itself, of course, a terrifically important step. Those who test positive are reported statistically as hospital covid patients, whether they were asymptomatic; whether they attended hospital for a broken ankle or regular cancer treatment. Naturally, when we then hear of hospitals managing thousands of covid patients, such reporting will concern us all and lead the Government to seek to act. “Every death, for whatever reason, is tragic and shocking. Even to write about it – and especially to do so in terms of data and numbers – belittles and minimises the personal loss which we all feel. “We should allow the vulnerable to isolate and protect themselves, as with

any other virus – no one suffering from flu goes to visit and then embrace elderly relatives. These are the people at risk. They must be protected. But those not at risk have, I believe, little reason not to resume a normal existence, however much adapted to ensure safety and minimise risk. “Above all, we must now do everything possible to ensure that those most vulnerable receive both their doses of the vaccine as quickly as possible. We have led the world on this front, and we must now light the way out of this pandemic. And, once the vaccine has been provided to those most vulnerable, there is no reason for us to continue with the restrictions.” The New Blackmore Vale contacted NHS England but had not received a comment at the time of going to press.

Zoom in for u3a talk about Naples Blandford & District U3A invites you to join them for a talk on Zoom on January 29 at 14.30. No charge. Rosemary Legrand will be speaking on the gardens in the Bay of Naples area. For details, phone 01258 455081.

Help community and join Rotary If you live in Sturminster Newton and would like to help your community, why not join the Rotary Club? The friendly group is inviting people to get involved in projects and activities. sturminsternewtonrotary.org

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Villagers are exploring their past in online group Taking a virtual trip down memory lane is proving a popular pastime for villagers in Stalbridge who have joined the history society during lockdown. The Stalbridge History Society launched a new website and Facebook page this month and already it has attracted 120 members. The enthusiasm for sharing and engaging others in discussions about village history is remarkably strong despite coronavirus restrictions leaving Stalbridge History Society unable to hold its popular, regular meetings for almost a year. The first post from Dave Hucker caused quite a flurry when he asked for information about the New

VILLAGE PEOPLE: The Stalbridge History Group now has 120 members

Inn at Stalbridge Weston. His father, Henry George Hucker, had been the pub landlord between 1944 and 1951. As word quickly spread and new members signed up, various snippets of history emerged and were shared on the new forum, including a list of landlords and even a photograph from Dee Judd, whose father Vic King had been the landlord at the New Inn between

1959 and 1975. School photos are becoming a hit with the group at the moment. Stalbridge Historical Group was formed in 2012 by Jane Dagett as a small informal team. When Jane stepped down The Stalbridge History Society was re-formed in 2016 and now works alongside The Stalbridge Archive Society. Stalbridge History Society

committee member Jacqui Wragg said: “As faces of long ago are recognised and names added, we are able to record and store this valuable information for the benefit of all. Take a look. Join the group. Become a member of the Stalbridge History Society.” To find out more go to stalbridgehistory.co.uk and Facebook at facebook.com/groups /stalbridgehistory

Volunteers wanted for reading help Many people in North Dorset struggle to read and write with school life experiences described as ‘painful’ and for many people, their entire lives are blighted by the shame they say they feel. The Read Easy charity estimate that five million people in the UK struggle to read and write. Using a simple, proven system based on phonics, Read Easy volunteer coaches help anyone over 18 to ‘crack the code’ of reading thus changing the lives of so many people. Read Easy Blackmore Vale North is calling for volunteers for Sherborne who can help change people lives and close the literacy gap by teaching a skill so many of us take for granted. Jenny from Read Easy said: 10

SIMPLE SYSTEM: You’re reading this, but not everyone can

“In order to help more adults improve their reading, we need additional reading coaches in Sherborne. Be part of something lifechanging. Anyone who enjoys reading can apply to become a volunteer reading coach on the scheme. After an initial selection procedure, volunteers will be given training and then matched up with those who want to learn.

“Helping to give the gift of reading to others is very rewarding as well as enjoyable. As one of the Read Easy students says, ‘I was winging it and people didn’t realise I couldn’t read. Where I grew up, none of us could read. I wouldn’t have done this by any other course’.” And a Read Easy Coordinator is needed in Sherborne to meet and

introduce new coaches and readers, to arrange training and keep simple records and link with the volunteers who manage the group. Jenny said: “No special experience is needed as full training can be given – instead we are looking for a friendly person who is able to be flexible with their time, comfortable with emails and phone calls and happy to be part of a team. Travel expenses are reimbursed so it is not necessary to live in Sherborne for this volunteer role.” Read Easy work is still continuing during the covid19 emergency with distance learning until one to one coaching can resume. Call Jenny on 07748 977330 or email jenny@ readeasy.org.uk.

Save our Fields bid to thwart homes By Karen Bate newsdesk@ blackmorevale.net

With its panoramic views, woodland streams and many Rights of Way, including the Stour Valley Way, it is little surprise a campaign to save a much-loved field in Gillingham from being lost under housing is gaining momentum. The 3.8-hectare site behind the Mellowes care home, off Common Mead Lane on the southern edge of town, is subject of an outline plan to determine access for 85 houses submitted by developers Fairfax. Some 80 householders in the town have so far joined the growing campaign to Save Our Fields, which was instigated by Robert Cockell late last year to object to the scheme, and many more people are joining the group each day. Under the Gillingham Neighbourhood Plan the field was earmarked for recreational use and residents

n A 10-day public consultation was delivered by Fairfax last year. The Fairfax leaflet stated: “The plan demonstrates how a wide range of dwellings, from one to four bedroom, including a number of affordable homes can be successfully accommodated and integrated seamlessly into the local area without adverse impacts. “It creates a high-quality development that brings a range of benefits to the local community and its residents. These benefits include the creation of jobs during construction and support for local services once the development is completed.” are increasingly worried the town’s infrastructure, including schools, GP surgeries and green space, cannot support further development. Robert said: “Work has yet to start on the major Southern Extension development to build vital infrastructure required for the town. You need only look at the present map of Gillingham, to see that further continuous housing will give no benefit to Gillingham’s residents. “The scheme would destroy an important area for walking, recreation, place an

extra burden on local services and raises concerns over the impact of additional traffic.” Robert added: “The importance of biodiversity and its beneficial effect on people was made clear during 2020, when so many people, nationally, found solace in the recreational value of green fields. The addition of more housing and extra human presence can only damage the delicate balance with nature.” Objector Jo Jones said: “In my role as a community mental health nurse serving the population of Gillingham

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– in my two years in post I have seen increasing pressure, on the GP services, chemists, dentists, Home Treatment Team and Early Intervention in Psychosis team and substance misuse services. The proposed development will exacerbate this and compromise the wellbeing and health of the population, due to delays in accessing essential help due to demand outstripping resources. Therefore, further development should be halted.” Francesca Mattei added: “These fields are the lungs of this part of Gillingham. They have provided a much needed environment for the neighbourhood, which has been our salvation in recent times. It would have been unthinkable to have had nowhere to walk and exercise.” Formal application P/OUT/2020/00472 has been submitted to Dorset Council and can be viewed at dorsetcouncil.gov.uk.

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Town Trefoil members get knitting to comfort the bereaved Trefoil members from Shaftesbury have been busy knitting comforting items for the bereaved. Member Diane Traves, whose knitting is pictured, has been making teddies for people who have lost babies and hearts for people who have lost loved ones to covid. Dorset Trefoil chairman Judy Thompson said: “As members of Girlguiding, our members love to do things in and for the community, so during the first lockdown guilds looked for things they could do while shielding themselves (most of our members, but not all, are

retired) and crafted things were the answer. And we have continued throughout the pandemic. Trefoil is part of Girlguiding with the same national/regional/county/indi vidual groups organisation.” Trefoil is a part of Girlguiding UK. Its members usually meet at Bell Street United Church Hall on the second Tuesday of the month from 7pm till 9pm. Shaftesbury chairman Margaret Kent can be reached on 01258 268738 or signalbox3@talktalk.net. For more information go to girlguidingdorset.org.uk/expl ore/trefoil-guild

Packed week planned for stargazers By Miranda Robertson Stargazers are being invited to a special week-long celebration of everything celestial. Cranborne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) International Dark Sky Reserve will host an online Dark Skies Festival from February 15-20. Cranborne Chase is hosting the event over the February 2021 half-term to celebrate its designation as an International Dark Sky Reserve. StarFest is open to everyone and there is something for all ages. The events, most of which will be held online range from basic astronomy, through star tales for children and adults, to light pollution reduction. Steve Tonkin, an astronomer and the Dark Sky Advisor to Cranborne Chase, said: “If you’ve wanted to know more about our dark skies but were too afraid to ask, this is the festival for you. “I’ll be hosting an introduction to astronomy, there are children’s art activities, astrophotography and a specialist workshop on dark sky tourism for local businesses. “We have experts across all areas of dark skies and 12

astronomy ready and waiting to welcome you to this event. They are here to help support local business to make the most of our dark sky status, discuss how you can help make our dark skies even darker, and inspirational art and space workshops for children.” The week kicks off with an Introduction to Stargazing with Steve Tonkin on Monday, February 15 at 7.30pm. This is a beginner’s guide to stargazing with tips on good apps to use as well as how to use a simple ‘planisphere’ to help you understand the night sky. Tickets are free. The second event will be ‘Grow your business with Dark Sky Tourism’ with Richard Darn on Tuesday, February 16 at 7.30pm. Astro tourism is booming. Since Cranborne Chase became an International Dark Sky Reserve in 2019 there is a real opportunity for businesses in the area to make the most of new markets thanks to this prestigious new status. This is a free session for businesses. Next up will

be a chance to ‘Sketch the moon and make your own star constellation’ with Mary McIntyre on Wednesday, February 17 at 4pm. This is a fun, online art activity, suitable for ages 7+. Mary is an amateur astronomer and is a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society. The same day, at 7.30pm there’s a session on Astrophotography, in which you can create your own star trails with Mary McIntyre. An ‘Ask an Astronomer’ Q&A Session will be held with Steve Tonkin on Thursday, February 18 at 4pm. Steve will be on Facebook Live @cranbornechaseaonb for this. Ask questions in advance and tune in live to find out why the moon shines, what is a constellation, why comets have tails… Also on Thursday is a ‘What Future for Dark Skies?’ session at 7.30pm. Bob Mizon MBE will be discussing our dark skies and how he has spent his life trying to turn back the tide on light pollution. Bob is co-ordinator of the British Astronomical Association’s

Commission for Dark Skies. On Saturday, February 20 at 10.30am Jo Richardson will lead Make me an Astronaut Live. This event is just £5 and promises to be great fun for all those budding astronauts out there. Suitable for ages 4-11. Jo Richardson is one of 10 UK Space Ambassadors and represents the South West, working on behalf of ESEROUK (European Space Education Office) which is part of the National STEM Learning Centre and funded by the European Space Agency and other partners. In 2018, Jo was awarded a BIS Sir Arthur Clarke Space Achievement Award for working within the Tim Peake Primary Project Outreach and Education Team. Jo is a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society, London. The last event will be Storytelling - Star Walk Stories with Lizzie Bryant on Saturday, February 20 at 7.30pm. Lizzie digs into her treasure trove of stories to bring you her adventures in the night sky. For further details on all the events and how to book, visit cranbornechase.org.uk or email info@cranbornechase.org.uk

Concern as hospital unit stays closed By Karen Bate newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

Discussions about the future of the Minor Injuries Unit (MIU) at The Yeatman Hospital in Sherborne are still ongoing after it closed ‘temporarily’ during the early weeks of the first lockdown last year. Many residents have written to the New Blackmore Vale speaking of their dismay at the continued closure of what they describe as an ‘essential facility’ which serves Sherborne and the surrounding villages. The Yeatman Hospital closed on April 6 during the early weeks of lockdown, a decision taken by Dorset Health Care Trust to manage the impact of covid-19. But Shirley Fooks, who is part of the Yeatman Bereavement Group which met weekly at the hospital before it closed, is worried that the MIU might ‘never re-open’. “I was very seriously concerned when, under the cover of the first coronavirus lockdown, it was announced that Minor Injuries Unit was moving to Shaftesbury, but would be returning,” said Shirley. “At this time clinics were also closed with patients moved out of the hospital. Eventually, The Yeatman Hospital was used for the nursing of stroke patients but we don’t know what is happening to the MIU. “I was treated at the MIU

DISCUSSIONS: The Minor Injuries Unit at Yeatman Hospital

for a rather nasty gash to the top of my head after a fall into rusty wire in the garden. On arrival I was treated immediately, the wonderful nurse calling on extra help from the Yeatman nursing staff to glue me back together again! A brilliant response.” She added: “Sherborne is unique in that it is a small town, but we have nine schools and a large percentage of elderly people living here, all of whom would benefit from the return of the full use of The Yeatman Hospital.” The Yeatman Bereavement Group met at the hospital each week, as a valuable

support mechanism for people who had lost loved ones. Shirley added: “I understand we were unable to meet when the first lockdown was introduced, but the hospital remained closed even when restrictions were lifted in the summer, despite the Government encouraging small support groups of up to six to reconvene. “I am worried that our bereavement group being unable to meet is part of a much larger problem and that we could lose our hospital altogether. I fear that at the end of the year, the NHS will look at the statistics at The Yeatman

and say it is not been used to full capacity and an expense that they can do without. “Very, very worrying.” The MIU at the Yeatman Hospital served people in Sherborne, which has a growing population of some 22,500 who need medical treatment for minor injuries, including burns, injuries to the back, shoulder and chest and eye and head injuries. People who need medical treatment for minor injuries are being advised to ring the Weymouth Urgent Care Centre for assessment. Chairman of the Friends of the Yeatman Hospital David Hayes has engaged in discussions with the Chief Executive of Dorset Healthcare Trust, North West Dorset MP Chris Loder, Lead of North Dorset Local Primary Care Network Dr Rob Childs, Sherborne Town Council and representatives of the town’s Patient Groups to take concerted action to ensure the MIU is reopened. Mr Hayes said he has been told by executives of DHCT that there are no plans to close the Yeatman Hospital, evidenced by the re-opening of the stroke clinic, and said that discussions around the MIU are ongoing. In November 2020, Mr Hayes said the impact of the decision to close the MIU would be an increase in emergency visits to local GP practices and to the A&E at Yeovil District Hospital.

Neighbours and ramblers opposing scheme for 30 homes A significant number of objections had been received by the closing date on January 3 to proposals for 30 houses and flat and a 250 sqm convenience store at Southbank Farm in Cann. The application (number 2/2020/1144/OUT) is for demolition of the existing

agricultural buildings and dwellings and construction of a new access onto the B3081. Both Melbury & Cann Parish Council and Shaftesbury Town Council have raised no objection to the proposal by Mr A Read, but neighbouring farm occupiers and villagers

as well as the Ramblers Association and Campaign for the Protection of Rural England have criticised it strongly, with particular concerns about countryside development close to 55 homes allowed at appeal in 2019 off the Higher Blandford Road at Cann, and

the inclusion of a new convenience store so close to shops and the Tesco supermarket in Shaftesbury. The application has been listed for delegation to planning officers, but some have asked that it go to the planning committee for a decision. 13

Former NatWest building designated By Steve Keenan newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

Buried remains of deer park keeper’s house are now a scheduled monument The buried remains of East Haimes House, once home to the park keeper of Gillingham Royal Deer Park, have been listed as a scheduled monument by Historic England. The site is 150m south-east of Windyridge Farm on Bay Road, Gillingham and is believed to be of archaeological importance, along with an adjoining section of the ‘park pale’ – a fence or hedged bank. Historic England says the listing is for a number of reasons: historic interest, rarity, available documentation, group value, survival of the pale and potential to learn more. It adds: “Deer parks were areas of land, usually enclosed, set aside and equipped for the management and hunting of deer and other animals. They were generally located in open countryside and enclosed by a pale. “It was the Norman aristocracy’s taste for hunting that led to the 14

PARK LIFE: Above, Gillingham Royal Deer Park and, left, the park has royal connections with the visit of King John in 1204 Pictures: Dorset camera.co.uk

majority being constructed. The peak period for the laying-out of parks was between 1200 and 1350. “By the end of the 17th century, the deer park in its original form had largely disappeared.” Gillingham Royal Deer Park is known to have been in existence by 1228, and the town is notable for King’s Court Palace, a royal residence and hunting lodge dating from the early 13th century. King John visited in 1204. At Gillingham, the park keeper post came with accommodation, land, rents, timber and the left

shoulder of each deer taken from the park. East Haimes House was first mentioned by name in 1431 and is depicted on a 1624 map – by the following year the park had been deforested and the deer removed. The house was demolished at some stage before 1765, leaving rectilinear earthworks of 60 x 80m. The earthworks are adjacent to the park pale, which has a shallow ditch along the inner edge and a hedgerow upon it. The scheduling by Historic England includes the ground beneath the earthworks and pale.

The old NatWest building in Gillingham has been designated as a listed building by Historic England despite lying empty for nearly seven years. The bank moved out of the landmark property at the junction of the High Street and Station Road in February 2014. The ground floor remains empty although the upper floors have been converted into seven bedsits. It is one of two places in the Gillingham area to be listed in 2020, the other being the remains of East Haimes House as a scheduled monument (See separate story). Historic England moved to designate the 120-year-old former NatWest bank as a Listed Grade II building citing a number of reasons. The building has “a wellproportioned composition and eye-catching design that achieves an assured street presence,” says a report. It also “successfully combines classical styling which convey tradition, solidity and Baroque elements that lend it an air of grandeur.” But despite its grand design, there has been no commercial taker to occupy the building, whose lease is due to expire in 2027. The lease permits the building to be used as a shop or retail outlet, to serve food and drink or for professional services. It is available to let through Avison Young, which says the current rent on the property is £19,887.50 per annum, an eye-watering amount given the number of empty shops on the High Street. The bank was built in 19001902 to the design of Bristol architect Sir George Oatley for the Stuckey Banking

a listed building by Historic England

TAKE THAT TO THE BANK: The former NatWest building in Gillingham has now been listed by Historic England Picture: Dorsetcamera.co.uk

Company, which had been established in 1812. Sir George built a number of banks for Stuckey’s as it expanded from Bristol into Somerset, including branches in Minehead and Bridgwater, which are also listed as Grade II. The Gillingham building is understood to have cost £4,449 although this did not include office fittings. The bank manager then lived in, occupying the southern end of the building and upper floors. Stuckey’s had 70 branches when it amalgamated with Parr’s Bank in 1909. This was followed by a merger with the London County and Westminster Bank. A further merger in 1970 resulted in the National Westminster Bank. Despite lying empty since February 2014, internal

photographs taken by Historic England show some original panelled doors, brass fittings, architrave and moulded cornices. The old bank becomes the fourth building in the centre of Gillingham to be listed. There are now 15 listed properties in the SP8 postcode area, which includes Gillingham and surrounding villages. Historic England listed a total of 371 properties in 2020, including Selfridges in Oxford Street, London and the Radio City Tower in Liverpool. Rebecca Barrett, regional director at Historic England in the South West, said: “Every year, Historic

England works to protect the most significant historic sites across the country. Despite the challenges that the

heritage sector has faced, 2020 has seen many brilliant additions and revisions to the list.”

n Fowards garage, top of Babylon Hill. One of the last to have self service. No central barriers in dual carriageway

n Young’s garage on the Yeovil Road in Sherborne. The garage and house were all demolished to create the forecourt and shop there now

n Camkin Motors, Greenhill Sherborne when owned by Saunders (Digby Road garage) The present hairdressers still has both doors at the same angle but without the petrol pump

n Crackmore Garage Milborne Port in 1954 when Harold Clarke sold to John Knight, with Harold’s Morris 10 /6 car pictured just off the forecourt

n Henstridge petrol station in the 1930s, one of the first petrol pumps beside the road on the A30 between Salisbury and Exeter. Previously petrol was sold in two gallon cans

Fill up with four-star, pump up your By Miranda Robertson garages and landmarks of the newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

A fascinating trip down memory lane (also known as the A30) has been provided by reader John House from Milborne Port. Sadly his book on all the old 16

A30 is out of print now, but sparked by our front page story last edition – about the Blackmore Vale petrol station ceasing to sell petrol and the loss of petrol stations over the years – John has kindly supplied some great photos he

used in it. He said: “A few years ago I wrote a book called the Sherborne Motorist, now all sold, when I collected these photos and other info. “Back in the 1960s/70s there were 18 filling stations on the A30 between Yeovil and

Shaftesbury. Starting from Yeovil they were: l BP site at Yeovil bridge, now Co-op petrol and shop. l Tommy Penfold’s, bottom of Babylon Hill, now car sales. l Les Guppy’s garage opposite, now Peel centre shops, l Fowards Garage, top of

nSeagers garage, at Coldharbour sold in the 1950s to Bere Regis Coaches. In the Seagers photo the pumps have an extra high extension arm on the petrol outlet pipe to enable them to serve cars in the A30 road and not block pedestrians on the pavement

n Nothing to do with petrol outlets but still of great interest. The old AA box at Blackmarsh Farm at the junction of the lower road from Sherborne, Oborne Road with the A30. John said: “The AA man in picture is Jack Voss from Milborne Port, who kept the very smart flower garden around the box. “The other AA man from Sherborne was the ever- smilling Ivor Hoskins. “When they redesigned the junction and planted the silver birch trees, the A A box was moved up the hill to the layby outside the old Coldharbour Hospital.”

tyres and drive down Memory Lane Babylon Hill, now car sales l Shell filling station, Compton side, now a Chinese restaurant. l Young’s garage Sherborne – still an active BP site. l Camkin Motors, Greenhill, now a hairdressers. l Bere Regis coaches, Coldharbour, now a car park

(Sherborne Town had in previous years eight garages with petrol pumps). l Crackmore garage, Milborne Port, still active now. l Cross’s garage Henstridge, now Precision Clutch Co. l Loveless’s petrol station, just before bridge in Henstridge.

(This was the first site with petrol pumps beside the road between Salisbury and Exeter). l Bazeland Hill garage, still a garage but no petrol. l Five Bridges, now commercial units. l West Stour garage, still active now.

l Arnold’s Filling station, Sherborne causeway, canopy frame still there. l Blackmore Vale Filling station. l Gaunt’s garage, now a Morgan Sports Cars garage. l Ivy Cross at Roundabout garage, Shaftesbury. 17

Stage skills classes set to launch soon By Karen Bate Youngsters will be able to immerse themselves regularly in a mix of performance and backstage skills at The Corn Exchange in Blandford. The Artori Academy held a great open day to launch their new classes after winning a £50,000 Culture Recovery Scheme grant. Some 40 children took part in a series of workshops hosted by West End stars and industry professionals, who performed a medley of showtunes and Christmas hits at the Winter Spectacular Showcase. Taught by stage and screen stars who have performed in or worked on Les Miserables, Hamilton, Everyone’s Talking About Jamie and Star Wars, the children learned techniques used on stage and behind the scenes along with skills including hand-casting, special effects make-up and a song and dance routine plus a drama-filled exploration of the range of

emotions, from joy to exhaustion, Christmas Day can bring. Bertie and Kelly Hunter, who own Stagecore Productions, were responsible for the audio production for Glastonbury’s South East Corner, and worked with artists such as Liam Gallagher, Echo and the Bunnymen, Spandau Ballet and many more. After the pandemic struck, the pair diversified and secured the grant for The Artori Academy,

of which Kelly is the director. The academy is offering courses and training in all sorts of arts disciplines, from acting to scenic artistry, singing to sound engineering, or even dance to puppetry. The open day was broken down into three sessions, to adhere to covid guidelines. And rather than hindering progress, the guidance enabled Kelly to tailor teaching and give extra support for those who needed it. Following its success, Saturday

classes will be held at The Town Hall, Corn Exchange with a different area of performance and backstage skills taught each week. Classes will culminate in an end-of-year spectacular, complete with professional level sound, lights and music, along with the chance for children to perform on stage or backstage, helping to run the show. Director and acting teacher Kelly said: “The open day was a fantastic chance to meet local children interested in performance and production, and it was a real pleasure to share our knowledge with them. “Whatever path your child chooses, The Artori Academy is there to support them every step of the way.” Classes are available for children aged between 7-10 and 11-16-year-olds. For more information and to sign up, The Artori Academy can be contacted at info@theartoriacademy.com or by phone on 01258 920355.

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Shaftesbury TiC in the running for annual tourism award By Steve Keenan The community-run tourist information centre in Shaftesbury is one of several Blackmore Vale enterprises that are contenders in the Dorset Tourism Awards. The Shaftesbury TiC is up against its counterpart in Bridport in the Visitor Information Service of the Year category, and manager David Taylor put the recognition down to his team of volunteers. “I’m really pleased for them. They have kept Shaftesbury TiC open throughout the year, even during the lockdown periods. “This is because, apart from welcoming visitors to the area, we provide an essential service to residents who need to top up electricity and gas payment cards, as well as paying TV licences and

TiCKETY BOO: David Taylor

collecting recycling containers. “Whatever the query, our team of volunteers have stepped up to the mark and provided an incredibly high standard service, six days a week without fail. They thoroughly deserve to be recognised by these awards.” The sales of British Legion poppies topped £1,250 last November, and Christmas card sales raised £13,000 in aid of charities including Salisbury Hospice, Julia’s House and Shaftesbury

Hospital. A “large number” of visitors to Shaftesbury outside lockdown have been taking walking holidays, said David, who added: “Another large group has been people looking to relocate to the countryside who see the Blackmore Vale as an attractive option.” A list of 60 finalists in 21 categories was published this week, with the winners to be unveiled in an online event on February 4. Four Blackmore Vale tourism businesses are

finalists in two categories. The finalists include: Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Award and Glamping Business Farmstead Glamping, Sturminster Newton Hotel of the Year and Tourism Innovation Award The Grange at Oborne, Sherborne New Tourism Business and Self-catering Accommodation Hammoon Manor ‘Far From the Madding Crowd’ Retreat, Sturminster Newton New Tourism Business and Pub of the Year The Cross Keys, Sherborne Accessible and Inclusive Award Ellwood Cottages, Blandford Pub of the Year The Milton Arms, Winterborne Whitechurch

Laptops donations welcomed by schools By Miranda Robertson newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

More than 30 laptops have been donated to schools in the Bruton area after the community banded together to help youngsters who need help accessing lessons during lockdown. The drive was organised by staff at On the Brook, which offers a cafe and accommodation in normal times. The laptops have now been donated and delivered to a team of IT specialists at Brue Computing Limited to wipe data and software before being sent to Sexey’s School and Bruton Primary. Sophie Blanpain-Forder from On The Brook said: “We’ve been overwhelmed by everyone’s generosity and are delighted to be able to help the local school children at this difficult time.

THANKS: Some of the laptops donated to Bruton schools

“We have been collecting money via a currency coin exchange and are glad to be using the £400 raised to help shred the laptops of data before being passed on. “A further £400 has been raised by Nicky MendozaWilson of Rose & Lyons through donations made for kids’ face masks, and will go towards the effort. “We are also looking at getting them PAT tested and health and safety secure before being donated. Thank

you to everyone who has already given laptops – we are still taking local donations and you can get in touch by emailing info@onthebrook.co.uk.” Sexey’s School headteacher Helen Cullen said: “Home learning can be incredibly tough on students and parents, especially when multiple siblings need to have access to devices. “We have yet to receive the Department for Education laptops that have been

allocated to our school. “Our students are being offered a robust remote learning programme which includes online daily live lessons and therefore a device to access these lessons is key. “We are aware that some families are struggling to find laptops, consoles or tablets to allow this to happen. “We’re incredibly supportive of the fabulous work being done by the team at On The Brook to source additional laptops for our students who need them. “We would like to thank them and the members of the Bruton community who have made donations for their time and generosity. Details of how parents can apply to secure a donated laptop to enable their son or daughter to access online live lessons will be sent out in our end of week email.” 19

Villagers celebrate the full & fascinating n CONTINUED FROM P1

Some 80 people, from tiny tots to nonagenarians, all picked up a needle and thread in the two years it took to complete. Rowland stitched the title. Rowland painted the Map of Motcombe, which stands opposite the embroidery in the village hall, aided by Bennie Streeter, and he made walking sticks in aid of the church. His talent for drawing is breathtaking, and every year since retiring from the Foreign Office, Rowland turns his pencil sketches into printed greetings cards. His daughter Pippa said: “Rowland switched from PC to Mac when he was 92! He loved learning bridge every Friday night at the Bridge Club and he hopes to play some more very soon.” Rowland, the son of a Lancastrian journeyman joiner and Yorkshire housewife, grew up in North Wales with his brothers Max and Reg and sister Betty, and spent happy family holidays in the 30s at the seaside in Prestatyn. A keen boy scout, Rowland was just one of three boys from Flintshire to join 28,750 scouts from across the globe to attend The Jamboree in Bloemendaal, opened in 1937 by Queen Wilhelmina of the Netherlands – a trip which fostered a love of travel. At secondary school Rowland’s physics master sparked a love of ham radio. The teenager was granted a pre-war transmitting license and given a rare Welsh callsign GW4CK, from which he can still

HAPPY COUPLE: Rowland and Joyce in London in the 1950s and some of his pencil sketches which he turned into Christmas cards

transmit today. Rowland, with many enthusiastic ‘hams’ joined the Civilian Wireless Reserve. But when war broke out the General Post Office (GPO) banned and impounded Rowland’s amateur equipment – (it was returned after the war). In 1941, as war raged, Rowland served in the RAF, training electronic engineers before becoming a lecturer. He was posted to the Beam Approach Tactical Training

School (BATTS) at RAF Watchfield, where agents were dropped on enemy soil in Europe by stealthy Airspeed Oxford twin engine aircraft. He received news that his dearly-loved brother, Max, a Beaufighter pilot, had perished on a training flight and returned home to Wales. While based at RAF Llandwrog, Caernarvonshire he applied for a commission in sigs/radar and his first posting he remembers Lancaster bombers bringing back servicemen from war zones laden with rare fruit – oranges, lemons and bananas. Rowland said: “These were exciting times and there were plenty of hijinks in the mess at the time as we celebrated the end of the war.” About this time, some out of date American radar gear provided the chance to receive amateur signals from the USA and across the world. Rowland said: “Once

the BBC started to broadcast again after the seven-year hiatus, I could tune in to Test Match cricket and other short viewings which made me extremely popular – until my CO had a word!” His radio hobby made him friends in 110 countries. Pippa said: “Back then with his ‘Home Brew’ radio kit, his rare Welsh callsign and his 30 words per minute skills – the world was at his feet. “Nowadays of course it’s all very different as social media seems to have taken over.” Rowland married Joyce on 8th July 1950. They had two daughters, Susan and Philippa, and Rowland joined the Royal Naval Scientific Service in the Admiralty Surface Research Establishment (ASRE) at Portsdown working on guided missiles for the first experimental ship, HMS Girdle Ness. At Hanslope Park, near

life of the remarkable Rowland Stellig

CENTURY MAN: Rowland and Joyce on their wedding day. They were together for 43 years. Right: Rowland in his RAF days and, above, jam recipes

Villagers were invited to post cards in a specially erected postbox outside Rowland’s home

Bletchley, he carried out very interesting work visiting embassies and high commissions all over the world – alas the Official Secrets Act does not allow him to say more. Rowland retired in 1981 and nurtured his many interests, including evening art classes. He and Joyce also made quantities of ‘above average’ jams, chutneys and bottled home-grown fruits with

carefully recorded tasting notes. Rowland says his daughters are his ‘pillars of strength’. He has five grandsons who contact him often wherever they are in the world, and three ‘wonderful great grandchildren’. He says he has many close friends and very kind neighbours in the village and added: “Thank you Motcombe.“

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New hospital units in £3.7bn scheme Five new hospital units are set to be built in Dorset, and two in Somerset as part of a £3.7 billion project. The government say they will build ‘40 new hospitals’ nationwide by 2030, including 11 in the south west. However it appears these ‘new hospitals’ are actually new units at existing hospitals.

Somerset can look forward to a new cancer hospital at Royal United Hospital in Bath and a rebuild of Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton. Dorset will see a new community hospital, emergency department and intensive care unit at Dorset County Hospital in Dorchester, new community hospital hubs in

Bournemouth and Christchurch, a rebuild of Poole Community Hospital and a new mental health centre at St Ann’s Hospital in Poole. Natalie Forrest – a registered nurse who has worked in the NHS for over 30 years – has been appointed to oversee the construction programme. Ms Forrest led the

construction and set-up of the NHS Nightingale Hospital in London in response to the pandemic. She did this alongside her role as chief executive of Chase Farm Hospital in North London, where she led operational and clinical teams to design an ‘innovative and groundbreaking new hospital’.

Army’s thanks with hand-over of hampers Army families whose loved ones are serving on Operation Cabrit in Poland received luxury food hampers from The Regimental Associations from 1st The Queen’s Dragoon Guards, The Welsh Cavalry and The Royal Yeomanry. Some 140 troops deployed in Poland received the hampers along with their families who are in the UK. Retired Officer Mark AshleyMiller, from the QDG’s Regimental Comrade’s Association, who helped organise the initiative, said: “It is a privilege to hand out a small thank you from the Army to the families who will be missing sitting down with their loved one this Christmas.” THANKS VERY MUCH: Mrs GarrardPylat in Blandford is just one of the many army families to receive a luxury food hamper

Car Link appeals for volunteer drivers

It’s for your benefit

Extra drivers are urgently needed to take on vital volunteer work in Shaftesbury and Gillingham – including ferrying people for their covid jabs. Shaftesbury Car Link are now down to only half a dozen drivers, which includes both Martin and June Hull who run the scheme. They continue to take people to their medical appointments and now are 22

Age Concern in Sturminster Newton is offering a benefits advice service for anyone aged over 50. The service can advise and support people navigating Attendance Allowance, Carer’s Allowance and Personal Independence Payment (PIP). If you have a welfare enquiry please call the office on 01258 475582 on Monday, Wednesday or Friday between 10am and 2pm.

ferrying people to their very important covid vaccination appointments while still also supporting the residents of Gillingham. Martin says they undertook 13 trips on Saturday, January 9 for the first lot of vaccinations. He added: “We feel very proud to be part of the programme of support keeping us all safe. One of the drivers told me: ‘I would just like to thank you for

allowing me to be a volunteer driver, as today I have felt very proud to be a volunteer driver for Shaftesbury Car Link and being part of the huge effort by the NHS to roll out the vaccine so we can all be safe one day and get life to near normal’.” Shaftesbury Car Link can be contacted on 07763 426664 or at shaftesburycarlink@ gmail.com.

A record £110k for churches from Ride+Stride Dorset Historic Churches Trust raised an amazing £110,000 – a record amount – with its annual Ride+Stride. A spokesman said: “There was some considerable doubt about asking the charity’s members and friends to take part in a sponsored walk, cycle or canter in this challenging year with all its restrictions. But in the end the outcome has surpassed every previous year with this wonderful total raised. “The beautiful and historic church buildings of the county are in greater need of support than ever with incomes sharply down because of the pandemic. This heartening result means that more grants can be made to churches to repair leaking roofs, to prop up sagging walls and install better community facilities.” The trust’s chairman John Stokoe said he is delighted:. “There was a point in the year when we considered calling off the whole event. “But we have been blessed with great supporters all over the county and I thank them all wholeheartedly.”

RIDING HIGH: Sarah Mitchell and the Lampson family set off from Corscombe for the Ride +Stride 2020

The trust hopes to encourage the move to make church buildings the centres of their communities – especially in rural areas where churches are often the oldest and largest structure in each town or village. Over 160 parishes all round Dorset took part in the 2020 event, helped by a team of local organisers. Each parish is able to have 50% of the money raised by its efforts returned directly to its home church for its own use.

PEDAL POWER: Chairman of DHCT John Stokoe with enthusiastic participant Chris Loder, MP for West Dorset, at Sherborne Abbey on Ride+Stride Day 2020

Club gearing up for cycle fundraiser Shaftesbury Rotary Club’s North Dorset Cycle Ride is gearing up for May 16 following careful planning to meet covid regulations after the event was cancelled last year. The event will start at Castle Hill, which will allow more space for a socially-distanced start. Riders will be given a staggered start time, with all cyclists having registered online prior to the event. Riders will cycle up Gold Hill for the finish. Cyclists can choose from three routes, a family friendly 12-mile route, a

tougher 25-mile route and a serious 50-mile ride. The club is pleased to announce that the main sponsor of the charity event is BV Dairy. BV Dairy’s commercial director Harry Cowan said: “We are both excited and privileged to be involved as sponsors of this important event. It was disappointing that due to covid restrictions the 2020 event had to be postponed, but we are certain that the excellent work carried out by Shaftesbury Rotary Club and its volunteers will result in an

even bigger, better and well supported event for 2021 – and with that raise vital funds for Prostate Cancer UK research. “As a local company we wish the organisers a successful event and look forward to entering our own competitive team which, no doubt, will be headed up by our managing director Jim Highnam, who himself is a keen cyclist.” With many charities suffering financial hardship due to covid-19, the event is more important than ever and Rotarians are urging

everyone to get on their bikes to raise much-needed funds for this year’s charity, Prostate Cancer UK. Registration will be online and will cost £25 for the 25mile and 50-mile rides and £20 for the 12-mile route. Young people aged between 10-16 are half price and children under 10 are free. Should the event be cancelled, entry fees will be refunded or held over to the following year. Register at cycleride. shaftesburyrotaryclub.org or ring Martin on 07341 866941. 23

show Robotic Pet Therapy brings smiles and reconnects with loved ones and carers. Happy feelings flowed when Anne Kings, a dementia friends champion from the residents of North Dorset Dementia Friendly living with dementia were Gillingham committee, said: presented with battery“This had been one of the operated companion pets. most wonderful things that Dementia Friendly we have done to help just a Gillingham presented these few of the people who are robotic cats and dogs which living in their own homes look, feel and behave like with this disease. real-life four-legged friends, “If it hadn’t been for covid to dementia suffererers in this would never have Shaftesbury, Stalbridge and happened; normally our hard Marnhull. earned funds are spent Initially ten pets were providing all the necessary allocated homes, but after activities for people with donations flooded in from dementia and their carers or kind-hearted residents, more loved ones, such as Singing pets are now available. for the Brain or Music & Multiple studies prove pets provide a joyful, calming and Movement, neither of which mood-boosting lift to people have been possible during the past lockdowns. living with dementia-related “However because the two illnesses, including supermarkets, Waitrose and Alzheimer’s, and studies Asda, continued to support the community, we were able to find another way to help those who needed it most during this long period of isolation.” Now Anne is urging people in GillingContemporary or traditional and kitchens manufactured to order ham the surroundGillingham Showroom ing villages to 01747 833 789 nominate someone Unit 21,

By Karen Bate

newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

Kingsmead Business Park, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 5JG Opening Hours Monday-Friday: 9am to 5pm Saturday: Appointment only www.solsticekitchens.co.uk 24

BEST FRIENDS: Tom and Anne Lockyer with a companion pet

Companion pets take the lead with dementia patients with dementia or a related illness to receive a companion pet. Anne said: “We have been so fortunate that due to the kindness of people, clubs and organisations, we are able to extend the area to which we can offer people who are living with dementia or related illness, a beautiful cat or puppy.” These Joy for All companion pets feel and behave real. When the owner is asleep, their pet sleeps softly with a gentle cat or puppy sound and their body moves gently with the rise and fall of each breath. With a soft stroke, the

pet will wake, look at the owner, lick their paws and will even roll over for a tummy tickle. Needless to say the puppy or cat is a bundle of fun, but can be put on mute if the meow or the gentle woof irritates. Each pet is perfectly weighted to ground the person they are sleeping on. Grounding is the technique of adding weight or pressure to the body to increase feelings of security and safety and lower the production of cortisol – the hormone produced when we are faced with a ‘fight or flight’ situation.

Here’s how you can have one... To nominate a person or yourself, please write a letter to: Anne Kings, Dementia Friendly Gillingham, 62 Church View, SP8 4XE with the name and details about the person you are nominating, and tell her why your

nominee would like one of these furry babies. Please state your preference of animal. Nominations must be in by February 28. Pets will be presented just before Easter. Winners will be notified by letter.

Railway group’s new platform just the ticket for a first-class return To help with income next year, North Dorset Railway has launched its own online station shop selling Shillingstone & Railway memorabilia including second hand railway books and will be adding more stock with the old S&D in mind in the new year. The railway’s media officer and web desinger John Collington said: “Station shop sales have dropped enormously this year due to the pandemic, as our shop has been closed for most of the year and has been boosted with the lead-up to Christmas last year. So we are relying on this new sales platform to help keep income coming in. Sales have been good since we opened the online shop and has attracted loyal supporters from far and wide.” Check out their current diversified range at shillingstonestationonline.co.uk

A Jolly good idea A new ‘Jolly Postal Service’ has been launched to help people finding lockdown a dull and lonely place. ‘In Jolly Good Company’ has set up the service to provide people with the chance to make new friends from the comfort of their own home. If you think you would enjoy writing and receiving colourful, beautiful, handwritten, personal letters through the post, this could be for you. The Jolly Postal Service is free and collaborates with local artists and children to cheer people up with artwork and cards. Audio postcards are also on offer if the written word is not your thing. The service is already receiving rave reviews. One woman, Mel, said: “Mum is very isolated and this has really made a difference to her and it cheers her up.” Eleanor said: “I have kept your letter, I read it now and then and a warm feeling flows over me.” Call Sarah Rampton on 07884 333117 for more information or go to injollygoodcompany.com. To listen to some example postcards visit soundcloud.com/megan-dunford

Funding boost for barn owls & bats By Karen Bate

newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

Funding to help conserve the iconic barn owl and horseshoe bat in Dorset has been granted as part of the government’s Green Recovery Challenge Fund. The Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT) has received a grant of £123,700 to help conserve barn owls through the Owl Box Initiative. GWCT will expand to new sites in Dorset, Wiltshire and Hampshire, installing and monitoring 64 barn owl nest boxes during the breeding season and feedback will be provided to farmers. Adult barn owls will be GPStracked to better understand their use of arable habitats for foraging and enable farmers to see the effects of their conservation efforts,

WHAT A HOOT: Funding will help conservation work with barn owls

while a brood will be livestreamed on the GWCT website to engage the wider public. In Dorset, GWCT is working with farmers in and Cranborne Chase from the Tarrant Valley to the east of Blandford Forum and the Avon Valley. Dr Niamh McHugh, project leader at GWCT, said: “Barn owls are among the most iconic and instantly

recognisable of farmland birds. As a recovering flagship species, they serve as a reminder of what farmland conservation measures can achieve. “Through The Owl Box Initiative we will provide recognition for the work that farmers do for wildlife. We aim to inspire a greater appreciation of farmland conservation among local communities, through

volunteering and community events, and will encourage farmers to continue to make further positive changes.” The Vincent Wildlife Trust (VWT) has been granted £179,900 to future-proof horseshoe bat roosts against climate change. The funding will help protect the rare species in Dorset, Somerset, Wiltshire, Devon and Gloucestershire. Dr Anita Glover, bat programme manager, said: “By enhancing roosts using proven techniques such as the installation of hot and cool boxes to provide a range of stable microclimates, we can significantly reduce the negative impacts of climate change. “This funding could not have come at a better time to help us ensure the current recovery of our horseshoe bats is sustained.” 25

Public Notices Goods Vehicle Operator’s Licence Dorset County Council of Charminster Depot, Wanchard Lane, Charminster, Dorchester, DT1 9RP is applying to change an existing licence to keep an extra 6 goods vehicles and 0 trailers at the operating centre at Transport Workshop / Long Mead Depot, Shaftesbury, SP7 8PL. 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, LS0 6NF, stating their reasons, within 21 days of this notice. Representators 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.

Goods Vehicle Operator’s Licence Dorset County Council of Charminster Depot, Wanchard Lane, Charminster, Dorchester, Dorset DT2 9RP is applying to change an existing licence to keep an extra 5 goods vehicles and 0 trailers at the operating centre at DCC, Blandford Forum, DT11 6PH. 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, LS0 6NF, stating their reasons, within 21 days of this notice. Representators 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.

Items for Sale Stack-A-Bed converts to 2 x single or double, Hardly used, £75 ono. 01458 241771. 36 piece Draper Socket Set. Unused. £25. 01258451507. Dollshouse. Early Learning wooden dolls house and furniture. Excellent condition, £15 Photo Tel: 01935 863954. Kia Sportage Alloy Wheel 2005 model with unused budget tyre 235/60x16 Perfect spare £30 07749 716650 Mere. Delonghi, free standing oil filled radiator, £30 and white hand basin and pedestal, 550ml, £30. 07974 907094. Glyde mobility scooter 8mph, spares or repair, free to collector, 01258 820641/ 07545 065503 Large grandad chair. Sturdy, in good order, 1970s £50. 01258 861615. Car roof rack £35 fold up single bed £25 01747 840835. Hedge trimmer £65 01747 840835. Vintage terracotta land drains garden decor £3 each. 01460 55105. Large vintage industrial storage bin Photos/measurements £45 01460 55105. 8 table cloths and napkins £56

each. 01258 473474. Poultry House Nest Box and Perches on legs with ramp £55, 01258 268810. Aviary 6ftx3ft enclosed back and roof £95 - 01258 268810 Reebok X Trainer, 1 series, GB50, Hardly used £100 07813 852614. Sideboard, 3 drawers, 2 doors, gc, - 07813 852614 for photo Record Player 33/45 RPM, Built-in speakers, as new £15 01258 628324 Single divan bed, base only. 2 drawers, grey upholstered, good cond £25 07923 905403 Tommy Tippee closer to natural microwave steam steriliser £10 07843 725938 Puzzles, various sizes, still boxed: offers 07843 725938 Raleigh Gents, 10 gears, racing bike, old but in good condition, £120ono. Belmont Gents, 21 gears, 1 year old, £120. 07850 429058 Electric Recliner Armchair, only 3m use £450 01935 813970

Angels all around.. if you look for them Our Loose Canon... with Canon Eric Woods DL Do you believe in angels? I do, and I have been remembering, during this quiet latest lockdown, exactly why. I need to go back over 25 years. I was still a newish vicar of Sherborne and, unlike my usual self, was feeling rather ill. My biologist wife thought it was appendicitis. I protested, but eventually did what I was 26

told and went to see my GP. Dr David Townsend greeted me with the words: “Ah, a walking appendix.” “How do you know?” I replied. “Trust me”, he said, “I’m a doctor.” (David has a dry sense of humour, which is probably why we are good friends to this day). David ordered me to go home, pack a bag and get someone to take me to Yeovil Hospital – while he made some telephone calls. I obeyed, and later that day I was operated on for a bursting appendix. I don’t remember anything more until I came round in the middle of the night with a hideous pain in my right arm where a drip had been inserted. Coming from a

‘stiff upper lip’ tradition I determined to put up with it. But then my angel appeared. She was blonde and beautiful (yes, I know what you are thinking. Poor old chap!) She also had a sort of Dutch accent. “You are in pain”, she said. “The drip has been put in wrong. I will transfer it to the other arm.” And so she did, and the relief was instantaneous. Next morning the staff nurse came to see me. (She was lovely too, and I subsequently married her – that is, conducted her wedding – and baptised her children in due course). My right arm was now black and blue from fingers to shoulder, but the drip was

resting easily in my left arm. “What’s been going on here?” she asked. I told her about my late-night visitor. “But we have no night nurse of that description”, she said. “That’s a real mystery.” There could be a number of explanations, of course. I prefer to think that I was visited by an angel. The word ‘angel’ comes from the Greek, ‘angelos’, meaning messenger. In the New Testament, ‘messenger of God’. To me, that nurse was indeed a messenger of God. I now see angels everywhere. Keep all your senses open to their possibility, and I promise you that you too will see ‘angels, angels, all around’.

Items for Sale FREE - Well rotted horse manure. 07543 679877 East Brook Carrohite Bath, 1600mm x 700mm with chrome grips and anti slip, front panel & shower unit, all as new £98 01935 475762 Nathan retro display units with lights, 1 x double glass, 1 corner unit, overall size W145 x H194 cms. good condition £35 07813 476299

LES BENHAM GARDEN PROPERTY MAINTENANCE All hedge/tree work, rubbish clearance, gravel driveways, pressure washing, patio and fencing work. Fully insured. Free quotes 01258 458849/ 07788 907343 lesbenham@yahoo.co.uk

/ check a trade

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

Home & Garden SEASONED HARDWOOD LOGS £145 double load £85 half load 01258 880892 07980 036250

DANNY'S GARDEN & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE All trees, hedges, fencing, gravel paths/ driveways, pressure cleaning, concrete bases, free quotations, fully insured, 07545 619735 / 01258721376

TREE AND LANDSCAPING SERVICES all aspects of garden work undertaken, no job too big or small. All types of driveways and patios, fencing, tree surgery, and much more.... Fully insured. Quality service. Call for a free quote today 07435220238 01258858888

WONDERWOOD LOGS All Seasoned Hard Woods, Oak, Ash, Beech, £75 for 1 cubic sq metre or £140 for 2 cubic sq metres, 07990 511340 or 07847 659881

Nattuzzi red leather sofa £595, chair £295 EXCELLENT CONDITION 07588 053555

GUTTERS CLEARED Windows, fascias, soffits, gutters cleaned, repairs, free estimates 07788 376752

WELL ROTTED MANURE £50.00 per transit load, phone Roger on 01202 826502 or 07885826396

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

Season Barn Dry Logs 20 miles radius of Sherborne

Tel: 01935 815534

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

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Family run business since 1946

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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...

Your local Husqvarna Specialists Landpower Machinery,

Common Lane, Yenston, Templecombe Somerset BA8 0NB

01963 370 654 email: info@landpower.co.uk www.landpoweruk.com

SALES

SERVICE

REPAIRS 27

Home & Garden

Gardening... with botanist Dr Dave Aplin

HEDGING PLANTS

40-60cm Green Beech £128/100 Hornbeam £134/100 Quickthorn £126/100 & Blackthorn £143/100 For list and availability Call WILLIAMS GARDEN CENTRE

01963 362355 williams-florist.co.uk Station Rd, Stalbridge, Dorset DT10 2RQ

Curtain Circuit We turn your unwanted top quality Curtains, Rugs, Small Chairs into CASH. Our stock changes daily so come to see us soon. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 10.00am to 1.00pm The Old Cycle Shop, Long Street, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3BS 01935 815155 info@curtaincircuit.co.uk Instagram curtaincircuitsherborne

FOREVER GREEN LANDSCAPES for all your landscaping, garden maintenance and fencing please contact Matt 01747 825134/ 07885 586716

Serving all your interior & exterior maintenance needs

01747 826656 franksgroup.co.uk

BUILDING MAINTENANCE

LTD

FRANKS MAINTENANCE GROUP

•Alterations •Renovations •Carpentry •Kitchen Fitting •Bathroom Fitting •Wall/Floor Tiling •Plastering •Hard Landscaping •Painting & Decorating •Plumbing •Electrical

Whenever I grow sweet peas I am transported to one of my earliest gardening memories, at the age of ten, helping dad tie up his sweet peas to long bamboo canes, but more of that later. About a week ago I sowed my sweet peas. Sweet peas are rewarding cut flowers, with a beautiful scent. Their cut flower life is not long but plants produce blooms continuously for months. If you have not grown them before then give them a try. Seeds can be sown at any time from October to April, but the sooner you start the earlier they bloom, so now is perfect. Their seeds are as hard as lead shot and because of this there are numerous methods to tempt them to germinate. The method I find successful is simply placing them in a shallow dish of moist tissue in the kitchen. After three days the seeds would have doubled in size as they absorb water, and their emerging roots should be visible. Then place the germinating seeds into pots as per the sowing instructions on the packet. When plants are large enough to handle pot them individually. During the winter months seeds and plants benefit from protection either on a cool, light windowsill, cold

glasshouse or coldframe. Importantly, a light and cool environment is best to avoid plants becoming spindly. When they reach two pairs of leaves, remove their growing tips allowing them to branch. From mid-March plants can be transferred into their final positions when sufficiently large enough. They can then be planted alongside a structure for them to scramble up, or if you want better flowers, positioned individually beside bamboo canes. I learnt from dad how to achieve the best blooms with the longest stems. After planting out, let them establish for a few weeks, then select the strongest side shoot and tie it to the cane. Remove all other side shoots and all tendrils (the twining structures that support the climber). As the plant grows tie to the cane and continue removing tendrils, side shoots and blooms that have passed their best. Once plants reach the top of the cane carefully untie the entire plant, lay it along the ground and position the growing tip at the base of another cane. The plant should then be trained as described previously and bloom continuously. The method described above is more time consuming but rewarding. A wealth of information about growing sweet peas can be viewed from the website of the National Sweet Pea Society All services include: Professional soil testing service sweetpeas.org.uk. ✓ l aboratory analysis of nutrients, pH Next time we will For gardeners, landscapers, farmers & small holders explore the botany of ✓ bespoke, detailed report seeds. Visit: www.soilvalues.com soilvalues.com

Home & Garden ASBESTOS REMOVAL Garages sheds lean tos roofing and cladding, collection and dismantling by registered hazardous waste carrier Call 07973 444620 or 01722 414478 Garden Rescue 01747 821 726 Seed Potatoes and Onion Sets now available. Also stockists of Kings, Franchi and Fothergill Budget Seeds. 01258 452513 Langton Nurseries Blandford. Environmentally friendly hedge cutting, pruning, coppicing and land clearance using Stihls electric equipment causing less noise and pollution. Call David 07786 658708 LOGS R US 1 ton pickup load of logs £90, double load £150 dumpy bag £60 All hardwood 07790 404593 01258 818081 CARAVAN REMOVAL SERVICE, old, unwanted caravans, cars, vans etc. Metal, yard, garden, garage removal clearances undertaken. Please call 01935 873169

Kindling Wood, £30.00 for 25 nets free local delivery. Phone 07971298562

ADVICE SOUGHT FOR RECONDITIONING AGA OVEN. Happy to pay consultancy fee. Please call 07979 958162.

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

WANTED dead or fallen trees, NOT rotted, ash, oak or beech - anything considered. Taken away and cleared. Tree felling service also available. Call 01935 873169

GRASS & BRUSH CUTTING, Orchards, Pad docks, Planta tions, etc Call 01963 237890 24/7 ROTAVATING Rough ground to see the bed, Call 01963 237890 24/7 MINI DIGGERS/ SLEW and high lift DUMPER Call 01963 237890 24/7 MOSS PROBLEM Scarifying, Spiking & Coring, Call 01963 237890 24/7 PATIO & PATH CLEANING ETC, Call 01963 237890 24/7

ADVERTISE HERE 01963 400186 MAN WITH MICRO-DIGGER Garden clearance, patios, fencing, decking, landscaping, driveways 30+ years’ experience Contact Ken - 07882 441873 01963 32034

SEASONED LOGS FOR SALE Barn stored ash, beech and oak, dmpy bags delivered £70. 01963 23733/07967 929055/07903 535745

££££££ CASH PAID FOR

WASHING MACHINES

DEAD OR ALIVE

07761 578482

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

KEVIN MITCHELL PROPERTY SERVICES Property maintenance, refurbishments, brickwork, stonework,carpentry, ceramic tiling, painting, decorating, bathrooms, kitchens, City & Guilds qualified. Free estimates, no VAT, Gillingham 01747 824664 or 07957882003 kevin.mitchell63@yahoo.co.uk DORSET RURAL GARDENING MAINTENANCE Hedge trimming, strimming, leaf clearance, lawn work etc. Please call or text 07787544626

SEASONED HARDWOOD LOGS Barn stored, delivery up to 20 mile radius, Sherborne. Call 01935 815534 BARE ROOT HEDGING now available, 01258 452513 Langton Nurseries, Blandford

Home & Garden

Timber firm to branch out A couple who launched a timber firm, despite being in lockdown and having a new baby, found themselves besieged with orders from people using the time at home to embark on projects. Dominic Ellis and Anna Maria initially started felling trees at a friend’s woodland near Shillingstone for customers’ garden joinery projects. When a project was put on hold due to lockdown, and with Anna Maria about to give birth, they offered the timber for sale. They were inundated with enquiries. Okely was born, while the phone rang off the hook. The pair incorporated the Conygar Timber Company and are now offering sawn Douglas fir and larch, with local delivery available.

Timber can be milled to any dimensions and up to five metres long. Dominic said: “We plugged a gap that we didn’t really realise was there. There was a restriction on the supply of timber and we had people coming from all over to buy it. “An ancient woodland was felled here in the 50s and then conifers were planted. Our friend is restoring the ancient woodland. Bear, a local forester, is doing the felling. I obtained a Bounce Back loan to buy a tractor and found a miller called Will Miller (his real name!) to mill the timber.” Dominic hopes to be opening a timber yard in the near future – watch this space. In the meantime he is open for orders. See his advertisement, left, for details.

Milton on Stour Gillingham SP8 5QA

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

Seed potatoes and onion sets now in Lots of beautiful hellebores Snowdrops in the green 32

Summer bulbs have just arrived Bare root and rootballed hedging Soft fruits and fruit trees

Home & Garden

Top cold weather tips for your home Our advertiser Total Energy Services shares some top tips to get you through the winter. A spokesman says: “We have noticed that after a series of cold snaps during the winter there is a marked increase of customer’s experiencing boiler breakdowns and plumbing issues. “To help reduce your chances of needing a repair or experiencing a plumbing issue this winter, here are our five top tips for getting your home ready for cold weather.” 1. Service your boiler The best way to ensure your home is winter ready is to ensure your boiler has had its annual service by a trained heating engineer. Gas Safe for gas and LPG boilers and

OFTEC for oil boilers. A boiler service will help to keep your boiler in the best possible condition and keep it running as reliably and efficiently as possible. Your engineer will be able to ensure any worn or damaged parts are replaced before they become a risk and result in a costly breakdown. This will optimise the performance and safety of your boiler.

2. Lagging all exposed pipework and tanks in your loft will go a long way to help prevent them from freezing, which can result in a burst pipe and damage to your property. Lagging can easily be picked up from your local DIY store or online. 3. If you have a tank or pipes in the loft space open loft hatch slightly during severe cold spells. This will help in

preventing them from freezing by letting in some of the warm air to circulate in your loft. 4. In severe weather If you are vulnerable then it is always advisable to have the heating on low at night instead of on all day and off for a period at night. This is so that the heating can reach the desired morning temperature much quicker. 5. Remember to turn off internal valves to outside garden taps and drain water from tap. If you need any heating or plumbing advice this winter. Total Energy Services are here to help. We offer FREE, no obligation home or video call surveys. To book call 01258 472132 or email info@totalenergy.co.uk

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Your local kitchen and appliance specialists... 31

Antiques & Collectibles

Fierce online bidding for treasures Clarke’s Auctions at Semley saw some strong results from their bumper two-day sale held between Christmas and New Year with over 90% of lots selling far above estimate. They have found that holding their sale between Christmas and New Year attracts a lot of interest with fierce online bidding from all corners of the world. An extensive collection of Great Britain and World stamps sold collectively for a shade under £7,500, a Victorian four-piece embossed silver tea & coffee set sold for £2,100, a Chinese pierced jade plaque and stand sold for

£2,200 and an unmarked white gold three-stone diamond ring sold for £1,580. Following Government guidelines, they are able to hold their February 13th sale as an online only sale which means that there will be no viewing available for this sale. They already have more than 300 lots consigned including fine period furniture, jewellery, paintings, militaria and rugs to include a very large club fender estimated at £400 to £600, a set of Victorian mahogany balloon back dining chairs with an estimate of £200 to £400, two matching

CLARKE’S AUCTIONS Auctioneers & Valuers NEXT SALE Saturday 13th February

Viewing by appointment Sale at 10am

An Art Nouveau Arts & Crafts enamel plaque depicting a 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 32

An extensive collection of Great Britain and World stamps sold for a shade under £7,500

Habitat brown leather sofas, each estimated at £100 to £200 and a pair of Brazilian 1950s chairs by Paris-born designer Michel Arnoult for Mobilia Contemporanea estimated at £40 to £80. There is also a large selection of period gilt framed wall mirrors and Pier mirrors ranging from

A Victorian embossed silver tea and coffee set sold for £2,100

£50 to £250 and the usual selection of ceramics, glass, Oriental items and collectables. To arrange any home visits or to arrange valuations to value items for consignment into any of their future sales, or for any other queries, please phone either Richard Clarke or Karen Marshall on

01747 855109 at the main offices on Kingsettle Business Park, Station Road, Semley, Shaftesbury. For information regarding consigning items to their upcoming Classic Cars, Motorbikes & Automobilia sale please contact Matt Whitney on the main office number.

Sales of vintage cars to An auction house which trades in vintage vehicles say they are confident they can keep trading in lockdown. Dorset Vintage & Classic Auctions (DVCA), based in Stalbridge, held a successful online sale recently. They are also offering a private treaty sale service, so owners can continue to sell vehicles – though the first planned sale of the year has been called off, to allow them more time to inspect the vehicles while adhering to restrictions. Brian Chant from DVCA said: “We have learnt much from the vagaries of 2020 and have gained confidence we can still operate effectively despite restrictions. Our first online only sale was a great success, with vehicles sold within the UK and Europe, and we have developed a private treaty system for those wishing to dispose of their classic vehicles without having to await the next actual auction.” He added: “Long-term movement restrictions suddenly imposed at the New Year mean our team will have

A 1937 SS Jaguar 2.5 Litre Sports Saloon. Sold for: £50,600

difficulty in viewing entries for an auction on March 11. We are adamant that each vehicle must be properly inspected and photographed so that we are fully conversant with each one and are able to discuss them in detail. “Relying solely on vendors’ descriptions and photographs lacks the professionalism we try to maintain. “For this reason we are cancelling our sale on March 11 and are bringing forward our June date to May 20 in the fervent hope that by then we can return to our much loved site at Henstridge Airfield, where vendors and purchasers

Antiques & Collectibles

Items boosting breast cancer unit among exciting catalogue At Acreman St Antiques Auction Sherborne, it’s business as usual albeit with social distancing, masks and click and collect. Online sales are becoming the norm. With good photos and descriptions, selling is going from strength to strength with very good prices achieved. Items have been coming in thick and fast for our Fine Art, Collectors and General Antiques on January 29. The catalogue is available

at easyliveauction.com. Live bidding through easyliveauction.com only, commission bids can be accepted by phone or email before 6pm on the 28th. Thanks to generous donations, we have 35 lots of jewellery for the Breast Cancer Unit Appeal at Yeovil Hospital. In our ceramics section we have a large-scale Berlin K.P.M. oval panel 16 ¾” by 13 ½” depicting Madonna and child with an

2021 SALES 2021 AUCTION AUCTION SALES SPRING: 0March 2 SPRING: Thursday Thursday11 11 Marc ay SUMMER: Thursday 10 June AUTUMN: Thursday 9 September AUTUMN: Thursday 9 September EARLY WINTER: WINTER: Thursday Thursday25 25November November EARLY Vintage and Classic Motor Cars, Motorcycles, Historic Commercials and Automobilia For further information contact Brian R. Chant: Station Road, Stalbridge, Dorset, DT10 2RH T: 01963 363353. F: 01963 363626 E: info@dvca.co.uk W: www.dvca.co.uk

interesting inscription; Est. £400-600. Also on offer are 11 lots of Clarice Cliff including a large Fragrance pattern jug and a large petunia pattern jug, both est. £350-450. An R. Lalique opalescent glass Ondines bowl depicting six nymphs, 8” diameter is est. £800-1,000. In furniture we have a C18 oak three panel front coffer with beautiful patina Est. £300500 alongside other pieces of early oak furniture. In paintings we have a large pastel of two unknown highborn children dated 1790 to the verso by miniaturist Charles Hayter Est. £200-300. In our oriental section is a small collection of early Korean celadon bowls, an antique Korean Silla Kingdom censer est. £200250, and two pieces of

museum quality Japanese early 20th C Satsuma ware Est. £400-600. Also being auctioned are many lots of general antiques and collector’s items. We will be offering a low-cost delivery service within a 30mile radius for our upcoming sale as well as click and collect. We are now taking in for our 26th February

auction by appointment. Call Gill Norman on 07903 33577 or 01935 508764 or by email auction@acremanstre etantiques.co.uk

BOER WAR Tracing medals awarded to my grandfather. William Victor Lloyd, Gordon Highlanders. India Service medal 1895/1902, Queens South Africa 1899/1902 Kings South Africa 1899/1902 Sold in Dorset. 01747 850 898.

continue despite covid

1934 Singer 9 Le Mans 2 Seater Sold to Czechoslovakia for: £26,400

1962 Beardmore Mk 7 Taxi Sold to Germany for: £7,150

can once again enjoy our very special normal way. If you are thinking of selling brand of auction sale in appropriate your historic vehicle do please contact surroundings in safety.” our team for advice and assistance.” DVCA’s private treaty sale service can be Tel: 01963 363353 or email booked by appointment, allowing classic info@ WE BUY vehicles to be sold at any time from their dvca.co.uk RECORDS premises at Station Road, Stalbridge, COLLECTIONS with the option of entering the May LARGE and auction sale if required. ANTIQUE SMALL. Brian said: “This means that FURNITURE AND Call BILL even if we cannot visit a client, COLLECTABLES 07967 816506 or we can arrange to have their WANTED 01747 811100 vehicle professionally Tel: 01935 891681 Email bill@reborn transported to our premises for 0r 07826 612819 records.co.uk evaluation and processing in the 33

Announcements Acknowledgements BOB HOARE Bob’s family wish to express their sincere thanks for all the cards and kind messages of sympathy. Also for the donations amounting to £680. Please accept this as our personal acknowledgement.

RODGERS MARGARET (MARY) of Wincanton. Iris Bryant and family would like to thank friends and neighbours for all their messages and support at our loss of sister Mary. For attending her farewell journey on the 30th December 2020. All the doctors, nurses and staff at Yeovil District Hospital for all their care and all at Harold F Miles, Funeral Director for their kindness to us. A further thank you to all who kindly gave donations for Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance in her memory.

In Memoriam IRENE VERYARD (RENE) 27-01-2014 Treasured memories, always loved and sadly missed from Les, Anne, Linda, Barry and Chris

CHRIS CHEESEMAN 1901 – 2019 Much loved, still sadly missed, always in our hearts. Love Phillip, Michelle, all the grandchildren and great-grandchildren x

RIGGS, CHARLES 05.04.34-22.01.14 In loving memory of a dear husband, always in my thoughts. Miss you so much. Love Margaret xx

JAMIE GUY 22 January. Happy Birthday Darling Wish we could celebrate with you today Love and miss you always Mum Dad & Shaun xxx

PHILIP RICHARD HARRINGTON (HOTTY) Of Shaftesbury (formerly of Tisbury). On 9th January 2021, peacefully at home after a short illness aged 74 years. A loving husband to Vera, much loved dad to Tracey and Richard, father-in-law to Lee and Nicky, grandad to Tom, Dylan, Millie and Mazey, who will be sadly missed by all family and friends. Private family service but donations if desired to Weldmar Hospicecare Trust may be sent to Merefield & Henstridge Funeral Directors, Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset. SP7 0BU. Tel: 01747 853532

MARIAN CUSTARD NEE HUNT On 31st December 2020 peacefully but unexpectedly in Yeovil District Hospital aged 88 years of Stalbridge. Much loved mum to Angela, Susan, Adrian, Nigel, Kate, Julia, Sharon and Tim, widow of Ray. A loving nan, great nan, sister, aunt, great aunt and friend, who will be sadly missed by all who knew her. Private family service. A memorial service to celebrate her life will be arranged when it is safe to do so. Donations if desired to the Air Ambulance online at dsairambulance.org.uk or at DSAA, Landacre House, Castle Road, Chelston Business Park, Wellington, Somerset TA21 9JQ or to Julia’s House online at juliashouse.org/donate or at Barclays House, 1 Wimborne Rd Poole Dorset BH15 2BB

BROCK TERENCE MORGAN (TERRY) Aged 73 years of Wincanton. On 10th January 2021, peacefully at his home. A beloved husband, father and pops. Private cremation. Donations in memory of Terry are being invited for Yeovil Hospital Charity, Ward 9B, c/o Harold F Miles, Funeral Director, South Cadbury, BA22 7ES, Telephone (01963) 440367.

Announcements should reach us by 1pm on the Monday before publication. However every effort will be made to accommodate them until we go to press.

HILL CLIVE (BUZZY) Buzzy sadly passed away on the 29th December 2020 aged 75 years. Clive will be missed by so many. Private funeral service to be held at Yeovil Crematorium on Monday, 25th January 2021 at 11.20am. No flowers please but donations if desired for The Royal British Legion, c/o Grassby and Close Funeral Service, 4 Innes Court, Sturminster Newton, Dorset, DT10 1BB, telephone 01258 471024 or made online by visiting grassbyclose-funeral.co.uk

TERENCE WHITE of Thornford passed away on 8th January 2021 aged 84 years. Dearly loved father to Gary and Tracy, Father-in-law to Dave, grandfather, great grandfather, brother and uncle. Sadly missed by family and friends. Special thanks to Dr Parsons, Apples Surgery, district nurses, Emma and Yeatman Hospital and also Marie Curie Nurses for all the care and support provided during his illness.

Announcements ROBINSON ANTHONY STAPYLTON (TONY) of Manor Farm, Thornford. Passed away peacefully on 3rd January 2021. Beloved father, friend and farmer. Donations in memory of Tony for Yeovil Hospital Charity may be sent c/o A J Wakely & Sons, 16 Newland, Sherborne, DT9 3JQ

HOUSE GORDON “LOGGER” Passed away peacefully on 9th January 2021 aged 90 years. Husband to Ruby, father to Lorna and Valerie, grandfather to Diana, family to many more. Service held at St Peter and St Paul’s Church, Mappowder. Donations if desired to Stroke Association. C/O Lesley Shand Funeral Service 28 East Street, Blandford. DT11 7DR Online at funeraldirector.co.uk/gordon-house

EDSALL – ELAINE KIRSCH Elaine passed away on 5th January 2021 after a 30-year battle with cancer. She fought with courage, an ever-ready smile and wry sense of humour. Due to covid restrictions Elaine’s funeral attendance will be limited to close family and friends but if anyone would like to donate in her memory then please make this to Macmillan Cancer Support via elaineedsall.muchloved.com.

FOLLETT, NORMAN JAMES The family wish to announce that the Interment of ashes of the late Norman Follett of Easton Farm has now taken place in Berwick St John churchyard. Donations to Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity in memory of Norman can be made via Merefield & Henstridge Funeral Directors, Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury SP7 0BU. Tel: 01747 853532

STOCKWELL BETTY Passed away peacefully, in Sherborne, aged 91 years. Retired teacher, and formerly chairman of Sherborne’s U3A (2004 – 2007). Much loved wife to the late Air Commodore E.A. Stockwell, and mother to Richard, step-mother to Christopher and Robert.

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Announcements ASTON ANGELA Passed away peacefully at home on 8th January, surrounded by her family. Adored wife of Ted, much loved mum to Deb and Rob, wonderful grandma to Harry, Joseph and Zara, she will be sadly missed by all her family and many friends. Private funeral service to be held, donations in Angie’s memory if desired to ‘Weldmar Hospicecare’ c/o Lesley Shand Funeral Service, 28 East Street, Blandford Forum DT11 7DR Tel: 01258 453425 or online at funeraldirector.co.uk/angela-aston

ROSEMARY STARR (NEE SNOOK) Rose, of Gillingham, previously of Charlton-All-Saints, passed away peacefully on the 9th January 2021 aged 90. Wife to the late Leonard, much loved sister of Bill, beloved mother of Ruth, Eddie, Caryl and Robert, and adored grandmother and great grandmother who will be greatly missed by all her family and friends alike. Fondly remembered for her gardening, birdwatching and artistic hand. Private cremation. Interment service to be held later in the year. Enquiries to Will Case and Partners Funeral Service, 1 Stephenson Road, Salisbury, SP2 7NP, 01722 414521.

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MARGE GRAY We apologise for the delay in being able to share this message due to Covid and there being no Blackmore Vale Magazine until recently. It was such shock to lose Marge so suddenly last July and we would like to thank everyone for their kind messages of sympathy, love and support given to us all at such a sad and difficult time, it really meant so much to our family. Secondly, thank you to Merefield and Henstridge and Reverend Kevin Martin for giving Marge a wonderful funeral service at a time when restrictions made it very difficult. Thank you also for your kind donations of £900, which was split between Donhead Sports Club and The Macular Society, two things close to Marge’s heart.

Much loved daughter, sister, niece, cousin and friend. After a long battle with cancer she passed away January 2021. Private funeral service at Templecombe United Reforrmed Church. Family flowers only, donations if desired for St. Margaret’s Hospice or Marie Curie. C/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, Mons, High Street, Henstridge, BA8 0RB.

SELLEY JOAN KATHLEEN Peacefully on 12th January, aged 98 years. A dearly loved mum, sister, nan, great nan, auntie and friend to many. She will be greatly missed.

Richard, Tracey, Paula and Families

TULK KENNETH RONALD

PERRY JOHN EDWARD

Peacefully on 10th January, aged 91 years. A dearly loved father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend to many. He will be greatly missed.

On 14th January 2021, passed away peacefully aged 86 years. Loving husband of Caryll and Father of Serena, Philip, Dorian and James. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. Private family funeral due to the current Covid-19 restrictions. Donations if desired in memory of John for Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance Trust. Cheques should be made payable to the charity. C/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, Mons, High St, Henstridge, Somerset, BA8 0RB. Tel: 01963 362570.

ELIZABETH CUSS

The family hope to arrange a memorial service when the restrictions are lifted.

Announcements LOIS CHRISTINE ANN WIGGLESWORTH (née Vaughan-Phillips)

MICHAEL LAWRENCE ROSS 25.12.1930 – 08.01.2021

died peacefully at home on January 1st aged 98. Much loved mother to Christopher, proud grandmother to Victoria, Richard and Pippa and special step mother to Helen, Peter and Chris. Family service and private cremation. Donations if desired to Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance may be sent to Merefield & Henstridge, Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury SP7 0BU. Tel: 01747 853532

of Kington Magna Wonderful husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather Grateful thanks for the kindness and dedicated care from all at St Denis Lodge, Shaftesbury May he rest in peace

STENHOUSE Mary On the 6th of January 2021 aged 89 years, wife of the late Bob and formerly of Francombe Farm, Cerne Abbas, died peacefully after a long illness at the home of her daughter Gillian. A much loved mother, grandmother and great grandmother. Due to covid regulations a private funeral service will take place. Donations in memory of Mary are being received for Age UK may be sent c/o Irish & Denman, Palmer Street, South Petherton TA13 5DB

JENNIFER NINA PRIDEAUX On 31st December 2020 peacefully in Salisbury District Hospital aged 80 years of Shaftesbury. A much loved wife to Peter, mum to Sarah and Vicky and nan to Stephanie, who will be sorely missed by all who knew her. Private family service, but donations if desired to the Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance may be sent to Merefield & Henstridge Funeral Directors, Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset. SP7 0BU. Tel: 01747 853532

THOMAS JOHN AVERY BUTTLING (TOM) On 22nd December 2020 peacefully at Shelburne Lodge Care Home, High Wycombe aged 90 years (formerly of Ludwell). Husband of the late Betty. A much loved dad to Paul and Sarah, loving grandad to Megan, Tom, Jack, Millie and Lizzie, who will be sadly missed by all family and friends. Private family service but donations if desired to Alzheimer's Society may be sent to Merefield & Henstridge Funeral Directors, Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset. SP7 0BU. Tel: 01747 853532

HOPE HARRIS of Bowridge Hill, Gillingham. Passed away peacefully in Salisbury District Hospital on Tuesday, 11th January aged 80 years. Much loved by her family and so many friends. She will be sorely missed and never forgotten. Donations to Stars Appeal (Salisbury Hospital Charity). C/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, Harwood House, Newbury, Gillingham, SP8 4QJ. Tel: 01747 833757.

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WENDY DANIELS (NEE CASE) Died suddenly on 23rd November 2020. Mourned by Michael, immediate family, extended family, neighbours and numerous friends. The support and care Michael has received has been wonderful. Any contributions to the Actors’ Benevolent Fund.

ROY GODDARD Peacefully on the 10th January 2021 at Chestnut House Nursing Home. Roy, aged 75 years of Fifehead Neville. Much loved husband of Irene, dad of Vanda & Kevin and father-in-Law of Jackie. Dearly loved grandad and great grandad. Private funeral service, donations if desired for Dementia UK, C/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, Mons, High Street, Henstridge, BA8 0RB.

ROY GODDARD Passed on 10/01/21 Will be truly missed by friends and family. Was a great dad and grandad. Lots of love Vanda, Kenneth, Victor, Skye

Announcements BAKER RITA Peacefully at home on Friday 8th January 2021, aged 85 years. Beloved wife of the late Osmond, dearly loved mum to Kevin, Clifford, Tina and Wayne. Devoted grandmother, great grandmother and great, great-grandmother. Treasured mother-in-law, sister-in-law, auntie and friend. Will be sadly missed by all the family and many friends. Private cremation. Donations in Rita’s memory for St Margaret’s Somerset Hospice may be sent c/o Harold F. Miles, Funeral Director, South Cadbury, BA22 7ES. Telephone (01963) 440367.

Star dies of covid-19 A star of the circus circuit who launched his show in Sturminster Newton half a century ago has died. Father of four Gerry Cottle died aged 75 after catching covid. Gerry launched his circus in Stur in 1970, but after eight weeks of shows he closed, having failed to make a profit. However he went on to achieve great things. By the mid 70s he was touring three shows, and he eventually bought Somerset tourist attraction Wookey Hole, having auctioned off masses of circus memorabilia. His agent Mark Borkowski tweeted: “RIP Gerry Cottle the last of the great circus showmen. “In a fraction of a second the b****** virus ripped your life away. I shall never forget all the mad adventures we shared.” Cottle’s first show had just five performers and was staged inside a second-hand tent that used to be used to sell flowers. He was also a pioneer in stopping the use of animals in circuses.

Obituary

Former Aquabelle a well known artist By Nicci Brown Many people will be familiar with the Ringrose Pottery sign across the doorway of one of the cottages in Blandford St Mary opposite the gates of Bryanston School. Joyce Ringrose, a wellknown Dorset artist, lived and worked there for almost 40 years until she passed away in December aged 90. Joyce was a pupil at Bournemouth School for Girls followed by a Bournemouth College of Art qualification in Fine Art. Her other passion was swimming and she spent a few years after college as a professional synchronised swimmer, otherwise known as an “aquabelle”, in the Pier Approach Bournemouth Aqua shows. 38

FINE ART: Joyce Ringrose

Before settling down to have a family, she toured with the European Aqua Show of Buster Crabb, who won the 1932 Olympic gold medal for America in the 400metre freestyle swimming event, which launched his film career portraying the top three comic strip heroes

of the 1930s – Tarzan, Flash Gordon and Buck Rogers. Joyce continued to paint whilst bringing up a family. She returned to her art education as a mature student and gained a B.Ed. (Hons) degree at La Sainte Union College, Southampton in Art and Ceramics followed by five years’ fulltime teaching at Portchester Boys School, Bournemouth during the late 1970s. Whilst at Portchester School she competed in the staff versus pupils swimming gala, becoming the first ever female to take part. Joyce gave up teaching to establish the popular Ringrose Pottery in the mid1980s. In 1995 she returned to painting and began exhibiting locally as well as selling her artwork in galleries around Dorset and

the South West. She was a regular member of Dorset Art Weeks, opening her studio and garden to visitors. The cliffs, quarries, beaches and harbours of Dorset, Devon and Cornwall were a constant source of inspiration to her. Although registered blind for some years, failing sight and did not hinder her until quite recently. Her bold use of colour continued to create joyful paintings from our beautiful surroundings. She was a popular artist with galleries across the South West and had many artist friends across the region. She was also a Greenpeace member, CND supporter, Greenham Common peace campaigner and a member of a local choral society.

Obituary

‘Basil’ stood tall to win his dream job By Karen Bate A policeman who served in Gillingham, Blandford and Shaftesbury for 36 years has died, aged 70. Alan Refson, affectionately known as Basil Butcher to his friends and colleagues, died suddenly in the garden of his Gillingham home in August. His widow Fiona said: “Alan loved his job with the police force and he touched the hearts and lives of so many people. “He will be sorely missed. This photograph is my Alan on Gold Hill whilst he was serving in Shaftesbury. Alan was often seen on his bicycle while talking to his community, which he felt was such an

AWARDS: Alan Refson

honour and his great pleasure.” Born in Aldershot in 1950, Alan grew up wanting to be a policeman. He joined Hampshire Police as a cadet at 16, and went on to join Dorset Police in 1967. Fiona said: “Alan sailed through his interview with Dorset Police, but they said he was unable to serve because he was too short. Alan was bereft and sat on

the wooden bench outside the interview room and wept. A kind gentleman ushered Alan into the medical room, and, after much shuffling through drawers, handed Alan something. ‘Put these in your shoes, stand tall and I will call you in again to be measured.’ “Alan passed!” Alan met Fiona when she was nursing at Blandford Hospital. Fiona fell for this dark-haired police officer with his dry sense of humour and charm. Alan proposed outside the Bastard Pump in Blandford in 1992 and the pair married at Blandford Church a year later. Fiona said: “My memories of Alan are of a funny, loving and caring husband. I was a very lucky girl that he chose

me to marry.” Over the years of policing, Alan received many commendations for bravery and courage. He was involved in policing the Miners’ Strike for 14 weeks and attended many notorious football matches, most notably the Bournemouth v Leeds match in 1990, which saw 104 arrests and 12 police officers suffering serious injuries. Alan served in Blandford Forum as a community beat officer and taught school pupils Stranger Danger before being posted to Gillingham, which he loved. He retired from the force in 2004. Alan is buried at St Mary’s Church in Motcombe.

Food & Drink

Great way to refuel offered

We are open for takeaway or Dial & Deliver!

Fresh bread locally baked each morning, with your choice of flavoursome fillings, including home-cooked roast meats and vegetarian options, made to order every time. Some examples: Breakfast Box Jacket Potatos Toasties/Paninis 2 bacon, 2 sausages, Cheese & beans Cheese & red onion 2 eggs, beans/tomato, Coronation Chicken Tuna melt mushrooms & toast Chicken mayo & bacon Bacon Brie Cranberry Tomato Mozzarella & Pesto

The Filling Station on page 23 last edition is in Gillingham, not Mere! The café is now offering takeaways, including a host of tasty lunches and dinners, including gourmet steak burgers, lasagne, jacket potatoes and freshly-baked pasties and turnovers all served with fries or salad. Owner Carole Jennings said: “We took over from the Cure Coffee Works in August 2020, totally revamped the place and put in a commercial kitchen.

“We sell every kind of fresh bread and patisserie you can think of, handmade pasties, turnovers and such like. Preordering is essential for the bread. We have a fully loaded sandwich bar, breakfast bar, the most inviting sit in area when allowed and a full takeaway menu, we also have milkshakes and smoothies.” The Filling Station is open Mon-Thurs 5.45am-3pm and 5.45am-8pm Fri-Sat. For information or to order, ring 01747 826289.

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2 Lower Station Road, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 4QA Orderline: 01747 826289 Line 1: 07767844824 Line 2: 07875711772 39

Food & Drink Farming in a natural and enriching environment and shopping locally is the ethos of the Happy Meat Co in Shaftesbury. First generation farmers Dan and Bethan, together with their two little helpers Arlo and Mila and grandad Ken, put a lifelong passion into reality just two years ago, when the couple bought two 12-week-old pigs (gilts) for their newly-acquired 1.5 acres. The gilts grew up and gave the family lots of lovely piglets and the little farm grew. The family now farm Dexter cattle, lamb, poultry and pigs along with Christmas turkeys in 10 acres in the Old Valley, south of Goldhill. Dan said: “The dream started for us about two years ago. “We were living regular lives, had stressful jobs and we just wanted a better way of life for our family and our future. “We have grown a bit since then and now farm 10 acres of beautiful pasture and woodland scrub in Shaftesbury. Our animals include grass-fed Dexter cattle and various breeds of pigs. We also rear free-range turkeys for Christmas. Our lamb and poultry is sourced from like-minded local farming friends. “We are passionate about farming in a way that enables our animals and nature to work together to create a natural and enriching environment. Our animals are housed outdoors all year round, which enables them to forage for different food that is available through the seasons. “We rotate the areas to enable them to grow back naturally and regenerate. Our animals are grown slowly to enrich the flavour and quality of the meat and also to give them a better, longer life.” The Happy Meat Co uses a 40

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Be Happy, and keep it local local abattoir to reduce the stress to the animals and keep the food miles to a minimum. Dan said: “We freeze our meat as soon as possible to ensure we lock in all that delicious flavour. Our sausages are handmade and flavoured with natural ingredients.” Customers wanting to taste this ethical, local and delicious meat can buy it locally and The Happy Meat Company offers a delivery service. And this spring, the couple are planning to convert an old racehorse trailer into a mobile farm shop to attend local markets and serve a

delicious takeaway hog roast. Dan added: “The pandemic has bought a range of new challenges to growing the food people depend on. We very much appreciate our customers and have enjoyed providing them with regular, reliable, quality meat during this difficult time.” Indeed, the company’s Facebook page is full of wonderful reviews, including: l “That was truly the best piece of steak I have eaten – it just melted in my mouth, in fact it was handsome and delicious.” l“Your bacon is ABSOLUTELY DELICIOUS

and has a taste all of its own. It is not a forced false taste that we get with shop-bought bacon.” Before the pandemic struck last year, the Happy Meat Co attended several small events, serving meat, sausage rolls, hog roast, burgers, cheese and eggs. Dan added: “We cater for events such as weddings, birthdays and social parties. “We are looking forward to a time when this will all be possible again. “Stay safe and support local.” n Facebook: thehappymeat company nEmail: thehappymeatco @outlook.com

Food & Drink

Feed a cold with this simple, tasty cure We love to write about food! If you’d like your business featured in our Food & Drink pages, email newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

FARM FRESH MILK

Cold Cure Soup This comforting, soothing and appetising soup might be just what you fancy if you are feeling cold and miserable and generally under the weather. Hot drinks and soups are recommended for easing cold and flu symptoms as are onions and garlic. And for those of you in the pink of condition, why not make it anyway? It tastes delicious and is economical and easy on the budget. Serves 2-4 500g onions, diced or thinly sliced 6-8 spring onions, sliced, including some of the more tender green leaves, optional 25g butter 2 cloves garlic, peeled and finely chopped (or a squeeze of garlic puree) 900ml semi-skimmed milk Freshly ground black pepper, ground white and cayenne pepper 25g plain flour Salt to taste Method Cook the onions in butter over a low heat for 30 minutes in a large pan,

stirring occasionally, until soft but not coloured. Add the garlic for the last five minutes of cooking. Season with the pepper selection. Make a paste with the flour and 3-4 tablespoons of cold milk from the measured amount in a cup. Produced from our award Heat the remaining milk almost to boiling winning herd. in a heavy bottomed milk saucepan. Pour over the onions. Freshly pasteurised and Take a little of the hot milk from the soup non-homogenised, pan and stir gradually into the cold milk Whole Milk available in our and flour paste, until smooth. Whisk or stir gradually into the soup pan. Milk Vending Machine Cook for another 30 minutes over a low Direct from our cows to you! heat or until the soup is thickened and smooth. Stir frequently and make sure it No Food Miles – No Plastic doesn’t boil or catch on the bottom. A soup boiled is a soup spoiled as they Castle Farm, Oborne Road, say! Sherborne. DT9 3RY Blitz or blend it with a stick blender, liquidiser, or food processor, until smooth: facebook@castlefarmdairy if using a blender or food processor, return to the pan, to bring it back up to temperature: it should be piping hot. Test for seasoning before serving, adding salt to taste if Home reared Lamb, along with locally produced required. meat, veg, fruit, deli & game Follow us on Facebook for all of our latest deals Tip & offers including weekly meat pack deals For a plainer version make with half milk and half Half lamb £65 vegetable or chicken stock. Open All day, everyday outside shop n Check out Mrs Simkins’ Fri, Sat Farm Shop Open 8.30am-5pm website for more winter also Arts & display recipes: Durweston, near Blandford MrsSimkins.co.uk twitter.com/mrssimkinscooks 41

ENFORD FARM SHOP

01258 450050

Food & Drink

How we can eat & drink sustainably By Katharine Wright thehungrygiraffe2020@gmail.com

With the rise of takeaways, convenience and fad diets it’s easy for the plastic and packaging to mount up. It is quite scary how much we all accumulate over a week or two. When you read figures like ‘the equivalent of 15 million plastic bottles a day are thrown away’ it is quite alarming. So, if we all do our bit we can make a make the planet a better place. The New Year is always an opportunity to start new habits and that is what this is. It is not for people like me telling what you should and should not be doing but a mindset change and adapting what you already do to and to make it part of our daily routine. Many infographics can assist us with the hierarchy of waste, starting with the ‘do I need it at all’ option, to the worst, where something can

only go to landfill. Today food and drink make up a large amount of single-use plastic and waste but with a few slight alterations, we can reduce this dramatically. You may have already made some changes, but I just wanted to pass on a selection of changes that I have made over the past year or so. Straws – We all know that these are now all paper which is great news, but do you need a straw at all? Having no straw with your drink means no waste. Water bottles – Millions of these are thrown away every day but remember to have your water bottle with you at all times as many venues now have a free refill service available.

Home baking – shop-bought cakes are some of the worst offenders of single-use plastic. Simply bake your own and significantly reduce your waste. Travel cups – What was once a real treat, takeaway coffee and tea has become standard for many of us. So if like me you enjoy a coffee on the go then remember to have your travel cup. Cling film – A bugbear of mine! as I always got in a pickle with it so when I came across wax wraps as an alternative to cover my food I was over the moon. No more messing with the sticky stuff. Takeaways – Over the past year takeaways have seen a rise as cafes and restaurants have adapted to the pandemic. Always make sure

that the venue you are ordering from is serving it up in either compostable or recyclable dishes. Tea bags – Some tea bags contain plastic. The seal used is a manmade seal containing plastic which does not break down in your food waste. Check before you buy. Buy fresh – Shop at your local butcher, fishmonger, or greengrocer and your meat and fish is not served in polystyrene dishes which can only be sent to landfill, and visit a greengrocer and you’ll be able to pop your fruit and vegetables in a good old fashioned paper bag. Milk bottles – Going back to the old days. Look out for the many milk stations and farm shops which have milk refills. Simply reuse your washed container and refill it with fresh, locally sourced wholesome milk. Zero waste shops – Most towns now have one of these within the high street. Take your containers, select your dried goods that you need, go home and use them and repeat when required. Go greener this year and together we can all make a difference to the planet.

Call to support your local farm shop during third lockdown As we move into our third lockdown, the North Dorset Group, Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) chairman Rupert Hardy is urging villagers to “spare a thought” for all our artisan food and drink producers in the county. Mr Hardy is asking us to visit our local village or farm shop, most of which stock delicious food such as artisan cheese and mouth-watering meat straight from the farm, along with craft beers and wines, and if we don’t feel like cooking, take advantage 42

of the takeaway services many of our rural pubs are offering people during lockdown. He said: “You may think that with the supermarkets in overdrive supplying us with food and booze that local food and drink producers are doing well. If they are supplying the supermarkets that may be true, but many small-scale specialist producers in Dorset do not, and they are being hit hard by the renewed closure of pubs and restaurants. “You can visit your local

village or farm shop who usually stock a good range of delicious local food, or you can find a good list of most artisanal food producers, who can deliver, on the Dorset AONB website: dorsetfoodanddrink.org. “We would also encourage you to take advantage of the takeaway services now being run by many of the local pubs, whose doors are otherwise closed. “Please help Dorset’s food and drink entrepreneurs survive these difficult times!”

CHEERS; Vic Irvine stirs the hops at Cerne Abbas Brewery

Food & Drink

Making the most of January’s seasonal produce Rebecca Vincent is our new columnist. She is a nutritionist based in Wincanton

Through these articles I hope to show you how to make the most of the seasonal produce you can find from the wonderful suppliers on our doorstep, and to inspire you to enjoy colourful and varied produce in ways you may not have tried before. Eating seasonally has many benefits. Not only are fruits and vegetables usually cheaper in their natural growing season due to their abundance, but they typically don’t travel so far to reach us and are fresher. January, being dark and cold, can seem somewhat bleak but when it comes to produce there’s lots to look forward to. Both kale and carrots are at their best right now and they make a great combination. Kale contains a myriad of nutrients from vitamin C and

B vitamins, to iron, calcium, and many more. Carrots are also nutritional powerhouses with vitamins

Mum’s Kitchen... Best Ever Bolognaise Ingredients 275g (10oz) onions 75g (3oz) each carrot and celery 125g (4oz) chestnut mushrooms 225g (8oz) smoked bacon lardons 10g packet dried porcini mushrooms (optional) 15ml (1 tablespoon) olive oil 2 fat garlic cloves 450g (1lb) lean minced beef 300ml (1/2 pint dry white wine 300ml (1/2 pint) chicken stock

15ml (1 level tablespoon) tomato paste 10ml (2 level teaspoons) dried oregano 90ml (6 tablespoons) double cream 30ml (2 level tablespoons) chopped parsley Salt and freshly ground black pepper Method Finely chop onions carrot and celery. Roughly chop the mushrooms. Soak dried mushrooms, if using, in 100ml (4fl oz) water for 30 minutes. Fry the onion, carrot and celery in the oil until soft.

A, C, B6 and potassium. Fruits and vegetables are quite literally nature’s multivitamins, but with the added bonus of fibre and flavour. Sautéed kale and carrots (serves 2) 100g kale (large stems removed) 1 medium carrot (cut into half circles) ½ medium white onion (diced) 1 garlic clove (crushed or grated) 1 tbsp olive oil Salt and pepper to taste Optional: dried chilli flakes or lemon zest Heat the oil in a lidded

frying pan or wok on a medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until tender. Add the garlic and carrot, covering with the lid to trap the steam and cook the carrots. When the carrots are almost tender add the kale, stir in your desired seasonings, and cover again for a couple of minutes until the kale is wilted. Then enjoy! While this dish is incredibly simple it is full of flavour and a lovely accompaniment to chicken, fish or as part of a veggie-packed main. I’m not suggesting only eating seasonal produce, sometimes you have a specific craving and nothing else will do! However, little changes can have a big impact on your health, local businesses, and even the environment due to a smaller carbon footprint. Rebecca Vincent BANT Registered Nutritionist rebeccavincentnutrition.co.uk

with Diana Holman Add the fresh mushrooms and crushed garlic and fry for 1 minute. Add beef and bacon lardons and stir until browned. Stir in the wine, stock, tomato paste and oregano. Bring to the boil; cover and simmer for 45 minutes. Uncover the meat mixture, stir in the dried mushrooms and their soaking liquor and simmer for 7-10 minutes. (If not using dried mushrooms add

an extra 100ml (4fl oz) stock at this stage. Add the cream and parsley and bubble for 1 minute. Serve with spaghetti or pasta of choice. 43

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Bryan G Paulley Ltd OIL TANK SERVICES DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL • REPLACETANKSMENTS • INSTALLATIONS • RE-SITING •TEMPORARY TANKS • EMERGENCY PUMP OUTS • BUNDED/SINGLE-SKIN METAL TANKS/FUEL STATIONS ABOVE GROUND OR BELOW • MOULDING SERVICE ....ALSO COMMERCIAL BOILER REMOVAL.... New bunded tank installed for between £1,300 - £1,900 + VAT depending on size of tank. All areas. OFTEC Registered

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VALE COMPUTERS Repairs, Servicing, Upgrades If we can't fix it, we don't charge. New & used computers for sale. Broadband installations, Microsoft Qualified Staff, Call 01258 880442 or valecomputers.2006@btinternet.com 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 -

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Local services

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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

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

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

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

Tel 01935 592461 Mob 07875 272401 www.shinystoves.com

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

Email: info@quantumlocksmiths.co.uk Follow us on

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

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

HEATING AND PLUMBING

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.

•Boiler Replacement •Boiler Servicing •Gas, Oil & LPG MAINTENANCE GROUP •General Plumbing •Bathrooms Installations, •Landlord Certification servicing and •Solid Fuel Stove maintenance Installation and

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• Felt Roofing Specialist • Tiling, Slating and UPVC • Velux Windows • No Job Too Small • Insurance Work • Leadwork Friendly Service Free Estimates Mobile 07973 248319 scott@scottmilesroofing.co.uk

A A FRAMPTON, seasoned hardwood logs, full load, 2.2cu metres, £135, half load, £80. dumpy bags £55,Call 07860 242485, 01747 826408

SW BUILDING & RENOVATIONS All aspects of building and plumbing catered for. Tel: 07970 437786 swbuildandrenovati on@gmail.com

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PROBATE SOLICITOR able to provide help and support if you need advice following a death. I can talk you through the steps you need to take and visit you at home when this is possible. I can also help with Wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney. Fixed fees and free initial enquiry, so you don’t have to worry. Call me on: 01308 424 808. Email: christine@winterborn elegal.co.uk winterbornelegal.com

G B ROLLER GARAGE DOORS Remote control garage doors from £795 07802 681939

PATIO & PATH CLEANING etc Call 01963 237890 24/7

D KING & SON Tree and Garden Services 25 years’ experience, registered waste carrier, free estimates, all areas covered, no job too small, 07831 091239 david.king63@ aol.co.uk

JPA CARPENTRY specialised in garage conversions and refurbs, all aspects of building work undertaken, call 07425844134, email: jpacarp@hotmail.com COMPUTER MOBILE REPAIR: Windows Mac etc. SturComputers 01258 817537 sturcom@mail.com

For all your fencing and decking needs Closeboard, panels & sheds supplied and fitted. Gates made to measure.

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KEVIN MITCHELL PROPERTY SERVICES Property maintenance, refurbishments, brickwork, stonework, carpentry, ceramic tiling, painting, decorating, bathrooms, kitchens City & Guilds qualified. free estimates, no VAT, Gillingham 01747 824664 or 07957882003 kevin.mitchell63@yahoo.co.uk

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COLIN THE CHIMNEY SWEEP Call anytime for a quote. Certificates available upon request. Fully insured. 01963 458199 / 07889 597741.

WANTED DEAD OR FALLEN TREES, NOT rotted, ash, oak or beech – anything considered. Taken away and cleared. Tree felling service also available. Call 01935 873169

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Property Service REFRESHING Bathrooms & Kitchens

Upgrades and Carpentry Decorating services Refreshing sale and rental upgrades Handyman projects Plumbing repairs Tiling services Contact: John Banham

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

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House and Rubbish Clearance Houses, lofts, gardens, garages & sheds all cleared. Registered waste carrier working with the Environment Agency. W.A.M.I.T.AB qualified Cash paid for some items Some items collected for free More than reasonable charges

Call Steve on 07749 208 451 or leave a message on 01202 855349

Domestic and commercial Shops, Restaurants, Outdoor Venues quoted for. Always a quote, never an estimate given All of Dorset and parts of Hampshire covered. Dorset Trading Standards Buy with Confidence Scheme

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Paul’s Oil and Gas Services

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 47

Local Services COMPUTER MAINTENANCE & REPAIRS Purchase advice, Virus Removal, New PC Setup/Installation, Internet Connection, Upgrades, Computer/ Software Tuition Call Gregg on 01963 370713 COLIN LEA Carpenter / Builder No VAT - call 01747 590117 07708 467601

D J B PLUMBING All plumbing work undertaken No job too small 24-hour emergency service. 36 years’ experience no callout charge Call Dave on 07973121984

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ALL IRONWORK Handrails, gates, railings, repairs., restoration. 01258 880301 COMPUTER REPAIR SERVICE SturComputers 01258 817537/ sturcom@mail.com CARAVAN REMOVAL SERVICE old unwanted caravans, cars, vans etc. Metal, yard, garden, garage removal clearances undertaken. Please call 01935 873169

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Health & Wellbeing

The value of being flexible and agile What do I mean by flexibility? I’m not banging a drum for Pilates and the like – well, I am a bit. It does wonders for body and mind. But really, I‘m talking about flexibility of expectations. Expectations of others and of ourselves. Since March 2020, we have had to adapt and change our ways of living and working beyond our wildest dreams. I think all of us have learned a lot about each other and ourselves. And we have learned to operate in different ways. For children, in particular, that has created an urgent need to pick up some really essential life skills so 48

whilst it has felt pretty gruesome at times, such add-ons will have been just some of the positives picked up along the way. Amongst all this adapting and working from home, how aware of your own need to change have you been? Have you allowed yourself to move into the new mould we must all fit? How forgiving have you been of yourself when the plan has gone wrong? As humans, we thrive on structure and routine. Both things support us and usually are the necessary environment in which we can be at our most productive and happiest. But as with all such

things, they are only helpful if we remain the master of them, not the other way round. If you get to a point where you are a slave to your routine and your timetable, something has gone wrong. That’s when taking a step back and acknowledging something is not working and something needs to change is so important. It could be you need to adopt one of my three Ds (followers of my Instagram posts will recognise this) – Delay, Delete or Delegate. Or maybe just go about things in a different way – there is no fixed route. The key is accepting that we, none of us, get

everything right first time and it’s ok to change course. A flexible outlook allows us to adjust and re-evaluate as we go through the day and as such we arrive at the end of our shift having achieved just as much, possibly more, but with considerably less stress. Becoming flexible is an active learning process and requires an open mind but if adopted with a responsible and realistic outlook it can bring about long term benefits to our whole lives. Alice Johnsen is a life coach based just outside Sherborne. 07961 080513 alicejohnsen.co.uk

Health & Wellbeing

Powerful parsley is your weapon against sludge Taking responsibility for your own health, particularly in this present climate, is very empowering. Many enzymes in our body which, very simply, are proteins that do all the hard work by creating energy, breaking down food, sorting nutrients from toxins, making these safe and getting rid of them, are shaped to attract a particular ‘substrate’ or particle that, with the help of co-factors such as the B vitamins, which act like little helpers, bring the particle in to fit snuggly into the shape of the enzyme where it can be broken down and sent on it’s way. It is called a lock and key mechanism. So if the the lock (enzyme) has been damaged, or the key (particle) is the wrong shape the breaking down of substances is not so efficient. Plants have been on this planet long before us. By eating them, they have

helped make us what we are now. Our bodies use every part of the plant in a synergistic way, so it makes complete sense to eat these plants as whole structures and to accept that they have the power to keep us or even make us well. It is since the Second World War with factory and intensive farming and processed foods, that what we put into our bodies has fundamentally changed. We are not made for many of the chemicals that have been put in our food and water. Our hard working enzymes will do what they can to process these foreign substances, but in some cases they don’t recognise them or are overwhelmed and so a sludge of toxic material builds up in our bodies that will make us ill. If we clear this and give our body what it needs: lots of organic fresh, green and

A walk around... FIFEHEAD MAGDALEN Park near the church, which is at the upper, eastern end of the village near the Manor. Visit the church if it’s open, then walk south down the road for a quarter of a mile as far as a left hand bend. You carry on south along a footpath across meadows until you meet the parish boundary, the bendy river Stour. Here you join another footpath that takes you back up to the road about a furlong west of your car. That path can get a bit muddy at times so it might

be wise to wear wellies if there’s been rain recently. Turn left and head west along the road through the village down Fifehead Hill until the road turns left. Join a footpath that takes you west across a couple of fields then join a path that takes you south to re-join the road near Factory Farm. Turn left and head north east along the road for a mile or so until you’re back at the car. You’ll have walked about four miles If you have time, you might like to walk a furlong north up the road past the village hall and, on your left, enter and explore the 50-acre wood owned by the Woodland Trust. It is an

coloured vegetables, herbs and fruit, good protein and some complex carbohydrates we can be healthy. gives you a good boost of Combine this with exercise iron and vitamins and which is absolutely vital to freshens the breath, but in keeping us well; it gets the this instance it is used as a blood moving which diuretic, helping to expel oxygenates all our cells and toxins from your body helps balance us mentally through the urinary system. and you can take charge of It is also good for clearing yourself and your life. the kidneys of gravel and To start, simmer a bunch of stopping stones from fresh, organic parsley in two forming. litres of filtered water for 10 minutes. Strain and keep in the fridge. Drink a glass each morning. Parsley was a revered and is a very powerful Fiona Chapman is herb, now studying naturopathy rather and herbal medicine at overlooked. the College of Just eating it Naturopathic Medicine

with retired Dorset rights of way officer Chris Slade The Stour at Fifehead Magdalen

important site for nature conservation and has bats, birds and butterflies as well as broadleaved trees and flowers. It’s a very popular walking spot for the local villagers. Halfway through the wood, you could join a footpath that

takes you south to join the road near Manor Farm which will take you up Fifehead Hill and back to your car If you’re into geocaching, a popular pastime, you’ll find an easy one, a ‘Church Micro’ not far from the church. 49

Health & Wellbeing

Garden project to boost wellbeing By Karen Bate Fontmell Magna Village Hall is to turn the garden behind the surgery in West Street into a cut flower garden as a green prescription for the benefit of the community. Six large raised beds will be built to plant flowers, including rudbeckia, cosmos, salvia and sweet peas along with perennials such as alchemilla and dahlias, to bloom between May until the first frosts. The seeds have been donated by Keyneston Mill, Cranborne Garden Centre and Orchard Park. Now the team are appealing to villagers to lend a hand and build the raised beds, plant seeds and seedlings so later, the flowers can be cut for their own enjoyment. Village hall trustee Sian Highnam said: “The village hall linked up very recently with the social prescribing team in the Blackmore Vale Partnership to discuss the viability of a community cut flower garden. “The flowers are there to be enjoyed by the community and we are encouraging villagers to plant seeds, plant seedlings out, and to cut flowers for their own enjoyment. I have chosen varieties which are easy to grow and easy to tend. We all recognise the benefits of being outdoors and the aim of the cut flower garden is to bring

Picture: Sian Highnam

people together and bring a bit of joy and colour to our days.” “The social prescribing team within our wonderful partnership are always looking for opportunities to support the health and wellbeing of their patients in creative ways. Gardens provide opportunities for socialising, exercise and enjoyment, which will help loneliness and isolation. It is crucial in these times that we establish these important links to look after ourselves and each other.” A number of organisations are supporting the project, including The Men’s Shed in

CALENDAR OF EVENTS January 30 or February 6: The assembling of raised beds February 13: Filling the beds with topsoil, manure and compost March: Volunteer to help plant the seeds. Willing seed growers required for a selection of cut flower seeds to grow on windowsills or greenhouses. April: Continuation of seed growing and planting the perennial cut flowers promised from Keyneston Mill April 20, 1.30pm-4.30pm: Flower arranging demonstration at Fontmell Magna Village

Sturminster Newton, In Jolly Company, Springhead and Dorset Mind. Sian added: “It would be lovely to have as many villagers from the local community to get involved to help build and maintain an area to benefit all.” Sian says the response from businesses has been “incredible”, with donations of an irrigation system, planters and perennial plants, benches, wheelbarrows and water butts. She said: “The garden club and some extra volunteers are already growing some seeds and will be growing seeds from the garden from March. If

Hall. Students from Kingston Maurward College under the direction of Head of Floristry, Tracey Nadin, will complete several flower arrangements which will be raffled to boost garden funds for 2022 May 22: 10am-4pm: Mass Plant Out The aim is to plant out all the seeds grown from filling the raised beds to filling the containers made by The Men’s Shed with the plants from Cranborne Garden Centre The village hall will be open for refreshments with entertainment from The Pipers, who are musicians from Clayesmore School, The Horn Group and The May Madrigal Singers

anyone will be able to spare dahlias, that would be marvellous. We will need volunteers to dead head the garden from time to time. This might be half an hour every two weeks on a rota during the peak growing season from June-September. “Do you have any special cut flower arranging skills you might like to share with the group? Do you know any speakers with expertise on cut flowers in particular who might like to come and give some talks?” n Email Sian at sianhighnam@gmail.com

June: Enjoy the flowers and start cutting June 19 2pm- 4pm: Grand Opening of the Garden – Tea Party July, August and September: Enjoy the garden. Flower demonstration workshops are in the planning stages along with some wellness sessions, including yoga and Pilates in the garden. Collect seeds from this year’s plants and grow seeds for next year October: Make an Autumn wreath November: Clear up . Say goodbye to our annuals, put our dahlias and perennials to bed and grow seeds for next year December: Christmas wreath making

Health & Wellbeing

Meditations in Nature: Close encounters lift spirits What I love the most about being out in nature is its unpredictability. You might know the route you are walking, but you can never quite be sure what you might encounter. John Muir, the famous environmental philosopher proposed that, “in every walk with nature, one finds far more than he seeks”. Now mid afternoon, the mist that has shrouded the landscape for days has lifted to reveal a pale cloud cover interspersed with tiny glimpses of blue. It is still bitterly cold, but I am glad to be out in the clean, fresh air. Thoughts of the week ahead sit heavily on my shoulders as I trudge through the mud. But then, as I round the corner and look up, I am suddenly greeted by a barn owl in full flight heading towards me and dipping away over the hedgerow. Spellbound by this silent, graceful being, I follow in her wake in the hope that she will return. She does, as Barn owls hunt by methodically quartering the rough grassland. I crouch just a few metres away, watching as she flies back and forth over her territory, tilting her magnificent buff-colour wings and revealing a dazzling white underside. Her piercing black eyes ignore me in her intent to find small rodents that will nourish her through this cold spell and supplement her nightly hunt. After five minutes or so, she glides away over the fields and is gone. With their heart-shaped face that is designed to collect the sound of small mammals, barn owls are one of our most loved and distinctive birds of prey. Culturally they symbolise both wisdom and darkness; the latter represented in the nicknames they have been given over the years; names Low mood? Feeling Stuck? Angry? Dramatherapy could help. Rebecca Peacock HCPC registered 07388110895 peacocktherapy.co.uk

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Health & Wellbeing

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Arts & Entertainment

Jazz at the Allendale cancelled due to restriction concerns Wimborne Rotary has had to decide to cancel its forthcoming annual Jazz at the Allendale charity concert on February 8 due to uncertainty over covid restrictions. Organiser Darryl Reach said:

“We much regret having to abandon the event. “With current restrictions likely to continue for the foreseeable future and, with the prospect of limited audience numbers being permitted, the event would

simply not be viable for us. “We have run these popular charity concerts successfully for the past eight years, during which time we have raised a total well in excess of £10,000. “We will continue to keep

the situation under review in the hope that Jazz at the Allendale can return in 2022. “Meanwhile our regular fundraising activities continue to be severely curtailed but we remain optimistic.”

A standing ovation for theatre plans By Miranda Robertson Councillors have agreed in principle to proceed with plans to invest £23 million in arts and entertainment in South Somerset. Members of South Somerset’s District Executive committee voted unanimously in favour of an agreement in principle to proceed with the project that will transform and see major improvements at The Octagon Theatre. The Octagon currently plays to 83% capacity throughout the year with an average of 250 performances staged annually, well above the national averages for theatres. Over the last ten years audiences have increased dramatically (from 78,546 in 2009/10 to 125,331 in 2019/20) and so the current facilities have been outgrown. The project, set to cost in the region of £23 million excluding VAT, would see the theatre add a fly tower and circle that would take the seating from 622 to 900. This would mean big advances in productions that could attend the venue including touring plays and musicals. Work would also see the venue become fully accessible throughout, add two additional boutique spaces which could potentially be a cinema/studio plus and 52

An artist’s impression of how the new theatre will look and, right, Councillor Mike Best

additional cinema. The venue would also see purpose-built studios created with an improved community Café Hub and separate restaurants areas. Arts and entertainment venues manager Adam Burgan said: “This was a very important day in the history of The Octagon Theatre and a momentous decision along the way to transforming the theatre. All the staff, volunteers and I are incredibly excited about the potential to build on our success and improve the experience of visiting the theatre for all our visitors. Many of our team are currently redeployed to support the rollout of the vaccine so this has been very welcome news that when they return there is much to look forward to.” The Octagon Theatre has been entertaining audiences

since 1974 and attracts many visitors from far and wide with a diverse range of artists and events from big name comedians, classical music and opera to rock and folk music, the very best in variety alongside superb plays and ballet, and not forgetting the blockbuster pantomime. The theatre is also the home to many local community groups where local talent is regularly celebrated. Last year 125,000 people bought a ticket for an event at The Octagon Theatre whilst thousands more took part in one of the weekly classes as part of our Octagon Academy participatory programme. Councillor Mike Best, portfolio holder for Health & Well-Being, said: “I am delighted these proposals were agreed in principle, which would see major investment into our local

economy and huge benefits to the health and well-being of our residents. We have more important steps to take in the coming months and the feedback and support from our residents has been very encouraging.” Although an initial agreement in principle is in place, this is a long-term project that requires sign-off from councillors at further stages of the process, with the business plan, finance plans and planning permission needing to be approved before building work can start. Planning and construction could take about three years. Staff will now start applying to potential funding bodies, which would reduce the amount of initial capital required from the council and the amount loaned for the project that would be repaid by the theatre.

Business

Wessex in double data deal for lockdown By Karen Bate Blandford-based internet provider Wessex Internet, is doubling its data to customers on limited data tariffs for free during lockdown 2021. Thousands of residents, schools and businesses across Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire are being given a helping hand during the third lockdown with double data availability, free of charge in January and February. Hector Gibson Fleming,

managing director at Wessex Internet said: “This is a tough time of year for everybody, and due to the increasing number of people working from home, children who are home schooling, people who are shielding and businesses that are operating under difficult conditions it is anticipated that more data will be used during this period. We want to take the pressure off and – and give something back.”

The company, which provided the same offer during last year’s lockdown and is contacting its existing customers on limited data tariffs individually to inform them of the good news. Wessex is an independent ISP that uses its proprietary fibre network to deliver ultrafast broadband to Dorset, Wiltshire, Somerset and beyond. Wessex delivers community fibre schemes designed for villages, hamlets and areas

where traditional copper cables perform poorly and where the upgrade from copper to fibre was deemed uncommercial by the rest of the telecoms industry. The network consists of more than 150 wireless masts and over 1,500km of fibre delivering ultrafast fibre and wireless coverage to more than 3,500 customers. n Wessex Internet customer support: 0333 240 7997 wessexinternet.com

Hold their feet to fire over broadband

In our international design business, we save massively by not exhibiting at trade shows each year in North America, Europe and the Far East. We used to meet face-to-face to make excellent personal contacts. Conference meetings using Skype, Zoom, Microsoft Teams and Google Meets are now universally accepted. Face-to-face meetings still have a vital role, but more sparingly. In normal years half our clients pass through London, the undisputed world financial centre. We can be Dorset to London and back in a day, and conduct all meetings in English. Productive hours have increased. Each meeting starts on the dot, and ends promptly. Documents, images and video clips are shared on screen. Much less time before and after is involved. We write up each meeting on computer immediately, before the next appointment. By ‘meeting’ with more people, we sift opportunities to concentrate on those where we can provide

greatest added value. During the covid crisis many of these ‘meetings’ are prospective sales meetings, but soon more will be live project meetings. Now is the time to speak with suppliers, contractors, professional associates in related disciplines, and contacts worldwide. At present they have more time to talk. We are using this time to know them better, learning what excites them most, and where we share values and aspirations. We want to stand out from our competitors, and rival purchasers when supply becomes limited. Despite no physical handshakes, we are getting to know each other sometimes better than snatched minutes on a trade booth. Once business resumes full-on, we expect to have more committed business relationships than ever. Exporting globally, a conference call costs the same anywhere in the world – no cost at all! The UK government has disgracefully retreated from its 100% Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) broadband commitment by 2025, to a soft ‘target’ of merely 85% – in practice typically much less than 85% in rural areas. The cost of fibre cable to every premises in North Dorset is the same as 700 metres of HS2 railway track. How dare they delay? Hold their

feet to the fire! We must lobby for 100% fibre broadband by 2025 across our rural economy, and then we shall be glad to report record profits to the tax authorities in the years ahead. We have to pay the same taxes as anyone else, and today

broadband is an essential utility! David Warburton MP, Andrew Murrison MP, Simon Hoare MP and Chris Loder MP, that means each of you! n Adrian Fisher is an award-winning maze designer in Durweston

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Business

How to ensure you don’t leave your family with an avoidable tax bill... ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE Taking the right steps now can shield your loved ones from tax and help ensure your money goes where you want it to go after you die. In the last tax year (2019/20), bereaved families paid some £5.2 billion in Inheritance Tax (IHT)1. However, while many people are aware of strategies that can reduce their IHT liability, such as gifting, they may be less aware of how some employee perks – including workplace pensions and death-inservice benefits (whereby a nominated beneficiary receives a lump sum if you die while in service with your employer) – could be storing up problems for their families in the future. Death-in-service benefits or pensions that are paid as a lump sum to a beneficiary after the death of the benefit holder will form part of that beneficiary’s estate – and IHT may become payable. Currently, IHT is charged at a rate of 40% on the portion of the estate over a £325,000 threshold, or up to £500,000 if it includes a family home that is being passed on to children or grandchildren. However, transfers between spouses and civil partners are tax-free. Preserving your assets The problem can, however, be avoided with the use of an asset preservation trust (APT). APTs are designed for the purpose of holding death-in-service and pension death benefits in such a way as to have the funds accessible to your beneficiaries while keeping them outside their estate for 54

IHT purposes. The trust can be set up easily by a financial adviser, but you will also have to appoint two trustees who will be responsible for the distribution of your money after you have died. You will also need to inform your employer of your arrangements with an ‘expression of wishes’ form. This will ensure that money is paid into the APT rather than to the estate. Greater control The benefits of an APT go far beyond IHT mitigation and need not be the preserve of wealthier families. If, for example, you have children from a previous relationship/marriage and are worried about what will happen to your wealth if one of your beneficiaries divorces, or you are concerned about their ability to manage their finances, an APT provides more control over how and when your money is distributed, and to whom. Holding money in an APT can also be helpful if your beneficiary needs care later in life. As the funds in the APT are held outside their

estate, they won’t affect eligibility for any meanstested local authority care. With an APT, the distribution of your estate is controlled by your chosen trustees, who will make decisions based on your instructions. Reviews would be recommended following events such as marriage, divorce or the birth of grandchildren. Getting set up Peter Harding Wealth Management will be able to help you throughout the process. As a form of discretionary trust, an ATP may be subject to certain tax charges – but these can often be offset by the benefits. They will also be able to advise you if the trust becomes unnecessary – for example, when you have retired and death-in-service benefits are no longer relevant, or when your tax position has changed. If you are interested in how an APT can save your family tax or help you control your wealth, please just ask and we can walk you through the process. Contact Peter Harding Wealth Management today for a no obligation meeting

on 01747 855554 or email peterhardingwm.co.uk. We are here to help. The levels and bases of taxation, and reliefs from taxation, can change at any time and are generally dependent on individual circumstances. Trusts are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. 1HMRC, Inheritance Tax Statistics 2019-20, July 2020 Peter Harding Wealth Management 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 sjp.co.uk/products. Peter Harding Wealth Management is a trading name of Peter Harding Practice Ltd.

Business

FINANCIAL ADVICE MADE PERSONAL We recognise that talking about money and finances is personal – sometimes sensitive. So it’s reassuring to know that there’s someone on hand who can help you address your needs, understand your goals and realise your dreams. We offer a friendly and approachable service, backed by the strength and security of FTSE 100 company, St. James’s Place Wealth Management; and being local means we’re here to help whenever you need us. We can help you with investment, retirement, tax and estate planning – but more importantly, we’re here to support you for the long-term, guide you through life’s challenges, to be your trusted adviser and conﬁdante. Let’s start a conversation.

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.

Business

Battens Solicitors

COVID-19 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Family Matters, how have things changed?

COVID19 and the lockdowns have left many people feeling adrift in their relationships and have sadly led to an increase of incidents of domestic violence. The good news is that we are still able to help you with any and all family matters during this time and have dedicated practitioners working within the team. You may wish to undertake mediation in the first instance to see if matters can be agreed between you and your spouse or partner. Mediators are still working and this can be done remotely via Zoom. Thanks to the technology we now have, the same benefits of mediation such as separate rooms, individual or joint mediation, or family mediation can be accessed without putting yourself at risk. There are some circumstances in which mediation is not suitable; however, attending mediation can help keep the relationship more amicable. A less contentious divorce or separation can be much easier in situations where there are children, for example. Mediation is a voluntary process and neither party can be forced to attend. However, mediation is usually a mandatory step before any Court proceedings can be issued. We can advise you fully in respect of mediation and its appropriateness.

The main difference to how proceedings are now managed is the use of remote Court hearings. The Court is providing both telephone and video link hearings. Usually you would have to attend court in person alongside your solicitor and the other parties. However, during the pandemic, Courts are now using the BT MeetMe telephone conference service, Microsoft Teams, Skype and other video conferencing software. These new methods of conducting Hearings are easy to use and do not require additional software aside from a smart phone for video conferences or any phone number for BT MeetMe. At the outset of the Court Hearing you will be reminded that recording the Hearing is a criminal offence and that it is essential you are alone in a private location for the duration of the call. Once this formality has been covered, the process is the same as in pre-COVID times, and your solicitor can represent you.

If mediation is not suitable, or fails, we are now taking instruction mainly via telephone or remotely for example via Zoom. We can arrange a telephone call or virtual meeting whenever is convenient for you and give you the necessary advice.

There is currently a backlog in Court cases due to the increased demand and staff absence. However, Courts are still running and dealing with as much as they can manage but there are delays in getting Court Hearings and paperwork being dealt with by the Court. Whilst this may mean any proceedings take a little longer than usual, we are still able to offer the full range of assistance and services as we could at any other time.

All documents and bundles for filing with the Court are now often being filed electronically. This prevents multiple people handling documents. We may therefore be sending you more emails with documents to be electronically approved. We will take your email address at the outset to ensure we can send everything we need to you promptly and safely.

If you need any assistance in relation to any family matter please be confident that our team can assist you fully â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the processes may be slightly different in these difficult times â&#x20AC;&#x201C; however we can still progress matters on your behalf. Contact Hollie Knapman on 01935 846255 or hollie.knapman@battens.co.uk

enquiries@battens.co.uk www.battens.co.uk Offices in: Yeovil, Sherborne, Castle Cary, Dorchester, Wareham, Bath and London

0800 652 8373

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www.battens.co.uk Offices in Yeovil, Sherborne, Castle Cary, Dorchester, Wareham, Bath and London

Business By Karen Bate

newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

Family businesses are economic powerhouses and the bedrock of our communities yet only three per cent make it to the fourth generation. Statistically, family firms who trade for 200 years amount to one in a billion. Blandford-based Hall & Woodhouse has been brewing in the heart of the Dorset countryside since 1777, trading for a staggering 244 years. Now in its eighth generation, Hall & Woodhouse is one of the oldest independent family brewers in the country. Surviving the Industrial Revolution, two world wars, The Great Depression, 14 recessions and a pandemic, nine monarchs later, Hall & Woodhouse is not just surviving, it is thriving. Leading the UK market in brewing and hospitality, the company owns 180 pubs and turns over £100m in a normal year – a testament to its entrepreneurship, innovation and vision. Well-known for its range of award-winning ales brewed under the Badger brand, a logo launched in 1977, Hall & Woodhouse sells 12 million bottles of Badger Beer globally each year and live by its ethos to “make people’s day”. “Purpose and strong values are at the heart of Hall & Woodhouse,” said chairman Anthony Woodhouse. “We want to make people’s day and enrich our communities from generation to generation and this is what drives us to get out of bed. “Our goal is to build on the success for generations to come.” Hall & Woodhouse has created a lasting legacy not just for their families, but for the people employed who form part of the Hall &

FAMILY BUSINESS: The Hall & Woodhouse directors pictured in 1899, inset, Charles Hall and Frank Woodhouse and, bottom picture, workers with a dray outside the original brewery

Brewing, innovating, investing and raising a glass for 244 years Woodhouse ‘family’ and for the communities the firm serves. Since launching the Community Chest in 2002, the company has distributed more than £600,000 to local causes. Anthony said: “Our ethos is that we are stewards of Hall & Woodhouse and allow subsequent generations to become stewards. The thread of entrepreneurship has

remained a constant throughout each generation.” This entrepreneurship and innovation can be traced back through the generations when Charles Hall, a gentleman farmer, opened a brewery in the village of Ansty in 1977 for Dorset’s hard-working and thirsty farmers. By 1793 the Napoleonic wars had begun and the British government

gave their troops a daily allowance of five pints of beer. Charles, spotting an opportunity, won the licence to supply Wellington’s troops quartered in Weymouth. Mark Woodhouse, who has been working for the family firm since 1979 and is family director, said: “All the profits were reinvested in the business, a tradition that continues today. You will never see a Woodhouse driving a Ferrari.” Some 60 years later, Charles’ son Robert, who inherited the brewery, brought Edward Woodhouse into the business as his commercial partner, a move he knew would propel the business forward. What he did not foresee was Edward falling in love with Charles Hall’s granddaughter, Hannah Dodge. Thus, when Edward and Hannah married Hall & Woodhouse was born. Today 95 per cent of shareholders are able to trace their lineage back to Edward and Hannah and thus to Charles. Mark said: “Hall & Woodhouse was fortunate that Charles and Robert were alive to the fact that the troops at Weymouth would not be there forever and realised that they needed to guarantee the output of the brewery at Ansty. They reinvested the profits and started to buy pubs. The first recorded purchase in 1856 was the Ship on the Quay at Weymouth. “This sense of entrepreneurialism and reinvesting for the future is a key feature of our longevity.” Edward Woodhouse died in 1875. His sons George, Alfred and later Frank formed a partnership and took on the running of the company. In the same year the Badger logo was officially recorded as the trademark. n CONTINUED ON PAGE 58

Business

Family firm securing its legacy to the n CONTINUED FROM PAGE 53

In 1882, the trio bought Hector’s Brewery in Blandford, together with more pubs. Over the years it became apparent a new brewery was needed and they opened Blandford Brewery in 1900. After the deaths of Alfred and George, Frank held the fort while the fifth generations were fighting in the First World War. Harold and Charles joined, navigating the Great Depression and Second World War, and the pair increased their portfolio to 150 pubs during this time. Mark said: “The Crown in Blandford joined the family in 1932 – for the price of what we sometimes take in a day now.” Edward and John joined in 1949 after war service and Sunparlour Soft Drinks was set up in 1957. “This was the forerunner to Panda Pops, which Jock Woodhouse, ex-SAS and founding father, ran very successfully from 1968,” said Mark. “At one time Sunparlour commanded over 25 per cent of the children’s drinks market. This business was eventually sold and the proceeds reinvested in Hall & Woodhouse in Bath.” To invest and to innovate are key strengths of the firm. In 1963 Matthews & Co Brewery, Gillingham, merged with Hall & Woodhouse. In the same year the Badger Steak House concept was launched – one of the first pub food offerings in the country. Success followed with the launch of Brock Lager followed by Skona, both leading supermarket brands, and in 1987 Tangle Foot secured a double gold in the World Beer Awards. 58

n Edward Woodhouse at The Ship Inn in Weymouth and, right, Ansty Brewery

n The fire at Hector’s Brewery in 1900 and, right, a print of the original brewery in 1899

n The new brewery in 2012, left, and the old building, right

John died in 1987 and David and Mark joined the board in 1990. David died in 2009 and Anthony took over as managing director and Mark as chairman. The eighth generation sees Lucinda Gray, Lucy Woodhouse and Matt Woodhouse heading the team. While steeped in tradition, it is clear Hall & Woodhouse are ahead of their game. Mark said: “Our first brewery in Ansty is just 10 miles down the road from our current site today. This was not like the micro-

breweries of today based in people’s garages. This stayed in operation until 1900, and part of it is still standing today as the Ansty Village Hall. This showed great ambition.” Securing a long and loyal following of its ‘guests’ and staff, who all form part of the Hall & Woodhouse ‘family’, it is little surprise the company have a low staff turnover and remain strong in tough economic times with its sustainable approach to investment and a forward thinking edge.

Anthony said: “Hall & Woodhouse is a values-led business where the team is part of the family and the family is part of the team. We own 180 pubs, from the traditional to state-of-the-art and we continue to invest and innovate. “By making people’s day it is vital that we employ the very best talent. We are known to be a great place to work. Our staff turnover is low, many have worked with us for more than 50 years. “Many people develop longterm careers with us while

Business

community after 244 years of brewing

n Current directors Mark Woodhouse, Anthony Woodhouse and Lucinda Gray

for many young people, working in one of our pubs might be their first job and first step into the adult world of work.

“All our careers are richlyrewarding and social mobility is excellent. “From apprentices to operations management,

Four Sins to Avoid Directors’ Responsibilities at Insolvency Clive Fortis, a director of Antony Batty & Co, Insolvency Practitioners & business turnaround specialists, warns that directors must ensure they carry out their responsibilities, especially right now. “It will only get harder for many 昀nancially distressed companies to survive, despite government support. End of January tax bills are coming, and with the 昀rst CBIL repayments under 3 months away, many businesses will be teetering on the edge of insolvency, so directors need to be vigilant. The 昀duciary duties of directors at insolvency are unchanged by Covid-19. They must tread very carefully to avoid personal liability to creditors and the possibility of misfeasance claims, director disquali昀cation, or even prison. Also, if CBILs are mis-used and the company becomes insolvent, a likely outcome is that the directors will be personally liable for the outstanding loan.

administration to accounting, transport to retail, marketing and brewing, we have many wonderful opportunities – each challenging and

rewarding – offered with all of the support you need to succeed.” Hall & Woodhouse built its third brewery in 2012, to the tune of £5m, with flexibility to produce Badger’s widely recognised range of 12 beers in a lowenergy, sustainable way and allowing for future growth to take the company well into the next century. Anthony added: “We are a much-loved and cherished tradition, yet we adapt with a forward-thinking edge and are a step ahead in anticipating consumer trends.” What is certain is that Hall & Woodhouse has secured its legacy to make people’s day for at least the next century. n hall-woodhouse.co.uk

For when it isn’t business as usual.

The four sins for directors to avoid if insolvency strikes are: Wrongful Trading. A civil offence that occurs when a company continues to trade whilst insolvent. Fraudulent Trading. A criminal offence where a director knows their company is insolvent and deliberately attempts to deny creditors what they are owed. Creditor Preferences. Directors must not show preference to one creditor over any other. Transactions at an Undervalue. Any transaction for asset disposal must be at arms-length and full value.

Directors must always be aware of their company’s 昀nancial position. Ignorance is no excuse. Failure to recognise that a company is 昀nancially stressed is likely to be seen as irresponsible, negligent and proof of ‘un昀t conduct’ by the directors.”

Advice for Directors “The sooner under pressure directors act, the better the chance of survival. Figures from R3 (the Association of Business Recovery Professionals), show that over 40% of insolvent businesses are rescued by Insolvency Practitioners. From access to 昀nance to the breathing space that insolvency procedures such as Company Voluntary Arrangements and Administrations provide, liquidation is not inevitable. In addition, the earlier directors talk to an Insolvency Practitioner the quicker they can be advised on what measures to take to avoid breaching their responsibilities.” Clive Fortis, clive@antonybatty.com https://www.antonybatty.com/about-our-insolvency-practitioners/salisbury-of昀ce/

CALL 01722 685101 OR CONTACT US AT HTTPS://ANTONYBATTY.COM/CONTACT-US

Cash Flow dif昀culties? Creditor pressure? Large tax bills? Uncertain turnover? Concerned about your responsibilities as an employer? We have over 20 years of experience in helping and advising business owners with 昀nancial dif昀culties. Our aim is to help directors save their businesses and livelihoods. If a formal insolvency solution is needed, we are Licenced and Regulated by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales to give insolvency advice. We have dealt with over 2,000 companies and individuals. If worrying about your business is weighing heavily on you and keeping you up at night, it’s time to speak to one of our specialists. An initial consultation is FREE*. *In the event of a formal instruction we will issue a letter of engagement which will outline our costs.

SALISBURY

I N S O LV E N C Y • R E C O V E R Y • T U R N A R O U N D

Unit F10, Mills House, 1a Mills Way, Boscombe Down Business Park, Amesbury Salisbury. SP4 7RX Clive Fortis: 07720 983 668

Recruitment SITUATIONS OFFERED CARER REQUIRED in Sherborne, so if you live in or in the locality it could be ideal? DBS, a reference and business insurance requested. It would be 0730-0830 am and 21.1522.00pm. Contact Caroline 07890 329203

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

GENERAL FARM WORKER REQUIRED for a varied role on our busy dairy farm near Shaftesbury, relief milking, yard work, young stock rearing and some tractor work, regular time off, mobile home available, 07970 925507 or email gilestrowbridge@hotmail.co.uk

SUPPORT ASSISTANT required to join a dedicated team to care for an intellectual lady who has multiple physical challenges Good rates of pay. 12hr shifts. Applicant must be fit, resourceful and responsible. Dbs and references required. Training will be given. Contact Sallyann/Kate on 07903 005218

Kingfisher Landscapes LABOURER REQUIRED Must be hardworking, reliable & be able to work some Saturdays. Experience in hard landscaping would be an advantage. Please contact Mark on 01963 364396. RELIEF MILKER WANTED Three days per week, regularly, as second person in Herringbone parlour. Near Puddletown. Ring Will or Carol on 07891 477360 / 07974 369396 QUALIFIED BUTCHER REQUIRED to join our happy team at our retail/wholesale butcher’s shop. Good rates of pay. Tel: Andrew 01963 34880

EXPERIENCED LAMBING STAFF REQUIRED (TEMP) from mid-March to help lamb 300 indoor ewes. Must be able to work some nights. Other farm staff and accommodation on site. Friendly family farm, nr Mere. 01747 832280 / 07540 633125 SHEET METALWORKER REQUIRED to join a growing team. Engineering experience not essential, full training given. Position for someone keen to learn various metalworking processes. Full time position at small friendly company near Shaftesbury. 01747 851060

SITUATIONS WANTED

Site Carpenters This is a fantastic opportunity for skilled carpenters to join our small team in creating lovely Oak framed buildings in the local area. To work with others or to be left alone to undertake a wide range of quality carpentry projects mainly on Oak framed buildings. All carpentry skills essential from cutting roofs to laying 昀oors, cladding, stud work etc. Your own tools are required but we have any specialist equipment. Check out our website for the range of work you will be involved in, www.dorsettimberframing.co.uk Salary: £25,000 - £38,000 per year depending on experience. Email CV – enquiries@dorsettimberframing.co.uk 60

CARE WORKER AVAILABLE, experienced in dementia, parkinson's, palliative care. Good cook & housekeeper, DBS & references available, live in or out call 07775 211891

EXPERIENCED LIVE IN CARER, well presented, cheerful and outgoing. Up to date training and certificates. DBS, Business Insurance, excellent references, No agencies. 07706 671766 EXPERIENCED SELF EMPLOYED CARER WITH AVAILABILITY. Very flexible, days/nights. Level 3 qualified, Insured, dbs and references Please contact 07898 609405

SELF EMPLOYED PROFESSIONAL Looking for part time work in sales and management / HR / office. Ex-Corporate Banker, with experience in manufacturing & production, construction. Flexible and very can do attitude. 07760995633

FREELANCE VIRTUAL ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT offering support. Professional, reliable and excellent attention to detail. 07590 045174.

LOOKING FOR WORK? ADVERTISE YOURSELF! CALL 01963 400186

Recruitment 360 EXCAVATOR OPERATOR Full time (ongoing) position on a brand new machine in the Dorset area. Experience (min four years) and the ability to work to a high, professional standard is essential. CPCS or NPORS ticket is required. Excellent rates of pay to the right candidate. Please call 07903 273735 to discuss the role further.

New head of commercial law A Yeovil headquartered law firm with branches in Sherborne, Castle Cary and beyond has appointed a new chief for its commercial property department in Bath. Commercial law expert Patrick Mears has joined Battens after many years of working in Bath. Patrick’s appointment comes in response to the growing

CASTLE CARY ALLOTMENT ASSOCIATION is inviting tenders for the annual grass cutting contract. Work specification from Anna Hales castlecaryallotments@gmail.com Applications to be received by 8th Feb

number of Bath businesses needing post-covid support with legal matters. Battens chairman David Stephens said: “We are delighted Patrick has joined the Battens team to head up our commercial proposition in Bath. The pandemic created an extremely challenging year for business owners and those involved in

commercial property during 2020, so being able to call upon an experienced, handson legal team at competitive prices is crucial. With the team we have in place and the mix of skills and experience they bring, we’re confident our Bath office can plug this gap and help provide some muchneeded support for local business and property owners.”

GILLINGHAM SCHOOL, DORSET Hardings Lane, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4QP https://www.gillingham-dorset.co.uk 11-19 Mixed Comprehensive – 1,760 on roll including 370 in the Sixth Form

I.T. TECHNICIAN (full-time) £19648 – £25481 per annum

Sandroyd

Co-ed Boarding and Day Prep and Pre-Prep School

Part Time Domestic Assistant Required March A cheerful, energetic and hardworking individual is required to be part of the School’s cleaning team. Term time only. Weekdays late afternoon/early evening. Meals provided during working hours.

For further details, please contact: Chris Stewart, Sandroyd, Rushmore, Tollard Royal, Nr Salisbury, SP5 5QD Tel: 01725 516329 bursar@sandroyd.com www.sandroyd.org Closing date Friday 12 February Interviews the following week

depending upon experience Required to start as soon as possible, an IT Technician to join the team providing crucial IT support, maintenance and development planning across our large, vibrant and supportive school. We are seeking an enthusiastic, experienced person who has plenty of IT knowledge and is comfortable with a variety of hardware and software to ensure the smooth running of our IT systems and services. The successful candidate will also understand the need to continually develop and update their knowledge and skills. Gillingham is an ambitious and happy school which offers excellent resources, outstanding facilities and a special ethos amongst both students and staff.

Closing date 2 February 2021 Please apply on line via the school web-site (https://www.gillingham-dorset.co.uk) We are committed to safeguarding the welfare of children and will require the disclosure of any criminal convictions. We look forward to receiving an application form from you.

Sandroyd is committed to safeguarding the welfare of children. Applicants must be willing to undergo the appropriate child protection screening before appointment.

Puzzles Arrow words

Crossword

Canon SLR camera system (inits)

Powdery residue

Missiles, eg (inits)

Badges of office

Defamatory publication

Relating to meaning

Dec’s partner

Output quality (inits)

Big cup

Atheistic

14 Reversing

Pointed

Booted

Pretty good

Swig

17 18

Accounts inspection

22 US emissions watchdog (inits)

Cuddly toy (abbr)

Rest in bed

Rush

Walks softly

Become brighter (5,2)

25 Early computing pioneer, Lovelace

Entrails

US listening agency (inits)

Across 1 Measures of length (5) 4 Main Japanese island (6) 10 Most constricted (9) 11 Solid water (3) 12 Core beliefs (5) 13 Italian sandwich (6) 14 Dissimilarities (11) 18 Formal man’s headwear (3,3) 20 Permit (5) 23 UK advertising regulator (inits) (3) 24 Comprehends (9) 25 Farewell (3-3) 26 Store in a secret place (5)

Spanish hero, El ___

Dampens

Wordsearch Fonts

D L E R W D R W B V L I I T R

H E N E C I I T C N S O P E D

N S M B T I N O N T W I A E E

T N W P N P A G E I R R T U C

BOLD HELVETICA IMPACT ITALIC LUCIDA MONOSPACED PALATINO SERIF

S I I L A B I N D C T A M D A

Y T D T O L C R S I H G L D P

M A E N C I A R C E N O O E S

B L L S L A E T L S B G A N O

O I A D E P P V I N B D S I N

L C T P U R E M I N I U E L O

M L I S D T I D I C O L S R M

S T N B I R D F U I N L T E E

T T I C S R P L A L A U S D T

STENCIL SUBSCRIPT SUPERSCRIPT SYMBOL TIMES NEW ROMAN UNDERLINE WIDE LATIN WINGDINGS

I E A L U O L O T N M E P N E

T I M E S N E W R O M A N U C

Down 2 Concur (5) 3 Fall asleep (4,3) 5 A lot (5) 6 Knowledge obtained by experiment (7) 7 Operator (4) 8 Tap on a door (5) 9 Sickness symptom, when high (11) 15 Seclude (7) 16 Closest (7) 17 Turnabout (5) 19 Cheerful (5) 21 Exists (5) 22 Deliberately hurtful remark (4)

Sudoku

4 6

9 8 2 5 9 5 1 8 7 4 9 7 1 6 2 5 3

8 1

4 3

For the solutions turn to page 66-67

2 2

4 8

Brain chain RESULT

÷6

+12

×2

-5

+21

Puzzles (for cleverclogs)

Jumbo 3D Sudoku

Cryptic Crossword 1

1 9 5 3

7 6 3

9 2 5 1 4

5 7

4 2 6

5 1 7

8 4 5 5

4 2 6 9

4 3 1

9 5 7

4 7 7 3 1

6 2 4 9

1 7

5 7

15 16

6 2

Brain chain (Hard version) RESULT

-36

+161

8 5

Killer Sudoku Pro:

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. 6

4 2

-75%

×7/8

+50%

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 1 Material for guns in merchant navy providing riches (6) 4 Duke mistook route in circuitous journey (6) 9 Latvian capital restricted equipment (3) 10 EU veal’s at ground for judges (9) 11 Additional person on the fringe of set? (5) 12 Undergoes withdrawal of official amid wild fuss (7) 14 Library art I altered in a random way (11) 17 A new figure not available for aerial (7) 18 Old British company no good for cake decoration (5) 20 Chinese philosophy is beginning to excite a Chinese premier (9) 22 Anger shown in shires (3) 23 River followed by American group in reddish colour (6) 24 Put right exotic diet in Spain and Germany (6)

Down 1 Almost only German corporate move (6) 2 Power in very small amount, we’re told (5) 3 Speech about exercise, military exercise (9) 5 French coin partly recurrent (3) 6 Duck, a freshwater one concealing tail in swim that’s pale brown (7) 7 Breaks, features of snooker? (5) 8 Arcades alas ruined special cold dish (6,5) 13 Provided characteristic of some rental properties? (9) 15 Restricts the supply of surgeries without leading trio (7) 16 A form of acquisitiveness that’s alright (6) 17 Part of church in Malta restored (5) 19 I had very small amount virtually as a fool (5) 21 Cast almost complete in famous novel (3)

MPs’ round-up

Light at the end of a long, dark tunnel of restrictions The vaccination programme that’s currently underway has seen a mobilisation of the state’s resources that is unprecedented in peacetime. In the time that it usually takes a government proposal to migrate from one Whitehall desk to another, we’ve seen over 2.5 million people receive vaccines, two-fifths of the over 80s receive their jabs, 150 teams of our soldiers deliver crucial supplies to vaccination sites and over a thousand vaccination sites mushroom into existence, seemingly overnight. Mario Cuomo once defined the difference between politics and government as

Somerton & Frome MP David Warburton analogous to that between poetry and prose. And that distinction is being given a new resonance as the new year starts.

Having been in touch to offer my support to those tasked with delivering the vaccine in Wincanton, Bruton and beyond, I know the very real challenges they face in delivering those vaccinations that, it seems, offer our only way out of the restrictions we currently face. And as someone with a background in establishing and running small businesses, I find this renewed focus on action rather than rhetoric both refreshing and sobering. It is in the aggregate of thousands of individual efforts (from NHS workers, the human myriad links in the supply chain and the

individual responsibility of the public) that deliverance from this latest iteration of lockdown will be found. Over the next two weeks, we will see hundreds more vaccination sites established. This will ensure that by the end of the month, no-one will be more than ten miles away from one – and, if they are, they have access to a mobile team. Unlike the first lockdown, this period of restrictions can be plotted against a parallel track that offers not just a hope, but the certainty of release. And as these critical weeks progress, I’ll continue to offer all those engaged in this heroic effort my full support.

Half-cocked Commons & Cancel Culture Parliament isn’t working as it should and the sooner we get back to some sort of normal the better. Meanwhile we have to largely take part virtually, a sterile experience that I hope we will see the back of just as soon as vaccination numbers allow. I have been pressing ministers on what level of vaccination it thinks would be sufficient to ease restrictions. Once the truly vulnerable have been jabbed there can be little justification for keeping society bottled up. At this time with liberty under pressure, we should be very wary of those who would curtail freedom of speech. There have been a couple of troubling examples recently. First, YouTube’s decision to suspend the radio channel TalkRadio. Its offence was criticism of lockdowns. YouTube’s programmers apparently decided that respected scientists, such as Professor Carl Heneghan, should not be allowed to 64

MP for South West Wiltshire Dr Andrew Murrison speak out against “Covid-19 content that explicitly contradict expert consensus from local health authorities or the World Health Organization.” Possibly when reminded that WHO itself has questioned the desirability of lockdowns, YouTube recanted but the damage was done. The second, now infamous, episode was the ‘cancelling’ of President Donald Trump, not only from social media sites Twitter and Facebook,

but from Apple and Google who removed the platform Parler from their services altogether. Scenes from Washington have been appalling in the dying days of the Trump presidency - the sort of thing you expect in a banana republic, not the US. I for one can’t possibly respect a man who has done so much to diminish his office, the standing of the US and political discourse in general. So, this is by no means a defence of Trump and I did vote for lockdown in the Commons. However, I am deeply worried about the high priests of social media who seem so ready to restrict freedom of speech and mute voices other than those subscribing to their own world view. These social media moguls have shown themselves to be what we might see as a new clerisy. Can it be right that half a dozen Californian

billionaires should decide what can be said and heard? Some might say that they operate private companies; they can censor what they like. The problem is, the US Supreme Court has previously ruled that cyberspace represents a public forum. Thus Trump was not allowed to block people from his account because it breached the US First Amendment. Talk of media being free or independent generally implies independent of government. But the censorship recently applied to President Trump shows that independence is a quality that needs to be qualified. Are we really extolling the independence of a tiny cabal of eye-wateringly rich Americans against whose name nobody has ever scratched a cross? Say what you like about the wretched Donald Trump but at least he was voted into office.

MPs’ round-up

We all have a role to play with education Back in the day when I was thinking about what career to choose, one of my teachers asked me what my plans were. I wanted to be a priest or a teacher. He told me that he did not feel equipped to advise on a religious vocation, but his hunch was that I should not be a teacher. When I asked why he replied (even then he was a bit of an IT disciple) that he felt the days of in-class teaching were numbered and that it would all be done by computer. Given today’s educational challenges of lockdown, I feel he must have had a crystal ball. Many of you will know that I attended local state schools in my home city of Cardiff and was the first of my family to attend university. Likewise, many will know that I have three daughters attending local schools here in North Dorset. Our local education provision is

MP for North Dorset Simon Hoare excellent. My political mantra has always been that education provides the keys to unlock all of life’s doors. Without it, opportunities are barred. It is for that reason that I was delighted when our schools reopened in September and really determined to see them remain so. Well, the continuance of covid put

paid to that and we are back to only a limited number of identified children being in school with all others being home schooled. I liaise regularly with the heads across the constituency. I know they are fully committed to educating our children and to support them as best they can during this period of lockdown. I can say that the scope of home learning has increased and improved dramatically since the spring. As good as it is getting, we must all work to ensure that schools can reopen fully as quickly as possible. That means us all playing our part and following lockdown rules to the letter. It means, if called, getting vaccinated. R rate reduction and vaccine uptake will be among the key criteria in determining the resumption of normal schooling. Getting teachers and support staff vaccinated

early is also important in providing a huge amount of comfort or peace of mind to those on the front line of schooling. That is why I continue to make the case to ministers on this point. As a parent I know that home schooling is a daily challenge. As your MP I hear of the issues from parents. Access to IT equipment is being addressed through provision by the Department for Education. Many broadband providers are offering free data upgrades to help families deliver learning. All of this is to be welcomed. However, in areas where it is speed and reliability of broadband that remains the hurdle I am raising cases with the providers. If your children are in such a position please email me simon.hoare.mp @parliament.uk or call 01258 452585.

repercussions of the virus. To find out more, and to hear my speech in full, please visit chrisloder.co.uk/longcovid Schools remain open across West Dorset for the education of children of critical workers and those in particular need; as the Government works towards an assessment process, using teacher-assessed grades, for students whose A level, AS level and GCSE exams have been cancelled. I’m pleased that students and staff who have worked so hard to prepare for BTEC and vocational exams in January have discretion to continue with assessments where schools judge it appropriate and safe to do so. This will be a great help to those students who need practical qualifications to continue on to work or further training.

In other news from Westminster, the Environment Bill comes to the House of Commons on 26th January and I’ve put forward an amendment to this Bill that looks to further get a grip on the excessive use of single-use plastics; of the type widely used in particular for pre-packaged food and drink. I feel so strongly that it is completely wrong that we generate so much single-use plastic here in the UK that it has to be shipped abroad. Therefore, I’ve put forward this additional legislation to the Environment Bill proposing that the Government sets targets not only to reduce plastic pollution but also to reduce the volume of non-essential single-use plastic products sold. You can read more on my website at chrisloder.co.uk/plastic

Mum offers support for kids with long covid The focus of our national effort against covid-19 has, understandably, been on stemming the spread of the virus, protecting the NHS and saving lives. However, I am aware there are a number of those who survive the virus but who do not fully recover, or who take a very long time to recover, in a condition known as long covid. In the House of Commons on 14th January we held a debate on this subject and during my speech I highlighted in particular the children who experience long covid and those who care for them. I was grateful for the insight on this from Sammie McFarland, a West Dorset mum, who contacted me about the organisation she set up after she and her daughter became

MP for West Dorset Chris Loder covid positive last March; following which they both went on to struggle with long covid. Her support group Long Covid Kids helps children and their parents who are contending with some of the most difficult

Pets

Ask the vet... What to Consider When Choosing a Small Furry Pet Rabbits and small rodents are popular pets, particularly with children because they are often cheap to buy, don’t take up much space and are often assumed to be easy to look after. Giving them the correct care they need is often much more involved. Rabbits require lots of space to exercise and explore, a balanced diet, vaccinations and regular handling. Many cages sold as suitable for rabbits are not big enough. A rabbit needs, as a minimum, a space to move around in including separate areas for eating and for toileting. This space needs to allow it to stand up fully on its back legs without being restricted. In addition to this they need an extra area for exercise. Bunnies choose to live in family groups so it is not advisable to keep a rabbit on its own – we are not a good enough substitute for the company of another rabbit. Bunnies are designed to eat

with Lynn Broom

low-calorie, high-fibre foods such as grass and weeds. If we do not provide them with enough fibre they will develop tooth and gut problems. Feeding a mix feed allows them to ‘cherry pick’ the sweeter parts and leave the important vitamins and minerals – feeding a complete pellet food along with mixed vegetables and hay/grass avoids this issue. Giving too much commercial food can lead to obesity, dental issues and gut problems. There are two fatal viruses of rabbits present in this area. Both can be vaccinated against and can save your bunny’s life. We, sadly, regularly see rabbits that

are ill or have died due to these diseases. Vet Picking your Lynn rabbit up Broom frequently allows you to check for signs of illness and you will pick up on problems more quickly. Fly strike is a common problem in rabbits and fly eggs can mature in to maggots within a few hours in warm weather, causing life-threatening injuries. Guinea pigs are popular because they are interactive and relatively easy to handle. They need to be kept in groups of two or more because they are very social animals and get depressed when kept alone. Again they need space to exercise and a complete diet ideally of pellets, vegetables and hay/grass. It is essential that they are

supplemented with vitamin C – through the pellet diet and/or fresh vegetables. Subtle changes in behaviour or eating can be a sign of ill health so you should monitor them carefully. Rats make very interactive pets. They are intelligent and easily trained. Keeping them in pairs or small groups is necessary to keep them happy. They are usually easy to handle and feed. Hamsters are popular as children’s pets although not as suitable because they are nocturnal and are prone to biting. Syrian hamsters are solitary whereas Russian hamsters live in family groups. Good quality commercial diets supplemented with fresh food is ideal for them. Other small furries such as chinchillas, mice and degus are generally less popular as pets. They all have their own specific requirements and it is important to properly research your pets requirements before getting them so that you can keep them healthy and happy.

Puzzle solutions (From pages 60-61) Crossword

Sudoku

2 9 3 4 6 8 1 7 5

5 7 6 9 1 3 8 4 2

4 1 8 5 7 2 6 3 9

6 4 7 1 5 9 2 8 3

9 8 2 6 3 4 5 1 7

1 3 5 8 2 7 9 6 4

7 6 9 2 4 1 3 5 8

3 2 1 7 8 5 4 9 6

8 5 4 3 9 6 7 2 1

K N O C K

Brain chain 42

B A R B

Y A R D S H G R T A R R O W E S E P M R E D O P A F E D I F F E R E S A T O P H A T L A U S A P E R C T P E Y E B Y E S

O N S H U F C S T I C E E E R N I N I C N C E S E T A L L O W R I I E I V E S S E T T A S H

Any problems with these puzzles? Email newsdesk@blackmorevale.net Arrow words A W S E M S H O D S A G U N D O T E D C L S L E E N S G U T S

A A I E P A

I N S I G N I A

L T I C B M E D U L P G I A R U P A D A C I D W E T S

Pets

Complicated Lolly needs quiet home FOR HOMING: Lolly (2) tabby white girl, complicated potential garden cat, currently an indoor cat looking for understanding, quiet home with no children or other pets. Missy (11) is a calico tortie/tabby. She’s a sweet gentle lady looking for a quiet home with a secure garden as she may have hearing issues. LOST & FOUND CATS These are the most recent cats that have been lost or found. Please check out the Blandford Cats Protection Facebook page or give them a call if you have lost or found a cat so they can reunite cats with their owners:

Lolly the cat needs a quiet home, left, while Missy, right, may have hearing issues

Lost Cats: Berwick St John – outside cat tabby and white boy, new to area and just started exploring. Missing since the beginning of December Corfe Mullen – tabby white

boy since Christmas Elizabeth Rd, Blandford – b/w boy Stourcastle, Sturminster Newton – tabby white boy since mid-Dec Downside Close, Blandford – calico tortie since 5/1 Winterborne Kingston – stocky tabby boy missing since 2016

Found Cats: Hinton St Mary – fluffy tabby boy been about for a couple of months Shaftesbury – older black unneutered boy been around since 12/12 Shapwick – friendly black boy since Nov 20 The charity is still offering neutering and microchipping

for £5 in postcode areas DT10, DT11, SP5, SP7 and BH21 call 01258 268695 Tel 01258 858644 blandford.cats.org.uk BLUE ROAN SPROCKER PUPPIES ready for Valentine’s Day, Call for details, 01258 472182

Puzzle solutions Jumbo 3D Sudoku

Killer Sudoku Pro 11

9 12

7 11

5 5

1 10

9 13

8 7

3 5

2 14

2 17

5 13

Brain chain (Hard) 67

192

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Cryptic Crossword M A M M O E I P R I G E G H R E X T R A R T A R B I A O A N T E N L I T A O I S A N H R U S S E

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Motoring

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A network of new charge points for electric vehicles is due to go live across North Dorset next month. A total of 44 chargers will be unveiled in Dorset Councilowned car parks, including those in Shaftesbury, Blandford, Gillingham and Sherborne. Work has already begun in providing power to the new sites, carried out by SSE and Western Power Distribution. The charge points will then be installed in mid-February by Joju Charging, which manages similar projects for councils across southern central England. The sites will be live by the end of February, in a move which will greatly extend existing coverage across North Dorset. Contentiously, motorists will be charged both for the car MERCEDES VITO parking and use 111cdi, 2004 (54), of the charge green, MoT until points. A twoOctober 21, 64,000 miles, full service hour charge will history. £2,000 ono. cost from £4 to 01935 471814 £13, depending 07724 720398 on the type of car being charged. The move comes as figures show a leap in EV car Mobile Caravan sales in 2020. Servicing & Repairs The total share of Please call the new-car market taken by or pure-electric cars was 6.6%, while plug-in hybrids Keeping you on the move... had a further 4.1% market INDEPENDENT LAND share. ROVER SPECIALISTS A number of Parts, repairs, electric models servicing, MOT preparation, 42 years’ made the list of top sellers in experience, December 2020, 01749 880817, nicholaspaxton.co.uk with the Tesla

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Model 3 the best-selling car in December, followed by the Volkswagen ID.3 in fourth place. The Dorset project is being paid for by Joju and funding partner Gronn Kontakt, a subsidiary of Statkraft, a Norwegian renewables firm. In return for providing the sites, Dorset Council will take a slice of the charging revenue for the next 15 years. It’s thought that the charge points will most likely be used by visitors who need a top-up and Dorset Council is now on the lookout for other sites which may include car parks owned by town councils, businesses or leisure interests. Chris Jardine, technical director at Joju Charging, said: “The Government has sent a clear signal with the ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles from 2030 – the future of transport is electric. That means installing millions of EV chargers in homes, businesses and public places.” Urban areas with suitable power supplies are inevitably going to better served, with the costs of laying low voltage cables to outlying sites driving prices up by tens of thousands. The number of electric vehicle users in any given area is another factor, said Chad Warlow, account manager at JoJu Charging. He added: “At the moment our clients are installing to encourage the uptake of EVs in a given area.” There will have to be moves by Dorset Council to better supply the Blackmore Vale. At present, there is a charge point desert across a large swathe of The Vale and

Motoring

charge points to be installed in the Vale

Cranborne Chase south of A30, from Salisbury to the A37. But Mr Warlow added that

his company would work with Dorset Council to try and identify more sites. “It is a rolling programme over the

next few years that aims to ensure geographical coverage, to ensure that no area is left out.” Dorset Council declared a climate emergency in 2019 and is committed to becoming carbon-neutral by 2040. It is also committed to helping work towards the whole of Dorset becoming carbon-neutral by 2050. Councillor Ray Bryan said: “Providing drivers with more charge points for their electric vehicles is a step towards carbon-neutral. It also helps make life easier for motorists seeking more environmentally friendly methods of travel. With Government plans to phase out sales of new petrol and

diesel cars and vans by 2030, and more people seeking to go electric, now is the time to offer Dorset’s residents, businesses and visitors sustainable travel options.” The car parks hosting the new charge points in North Dorset are: Langton Road, Blandford; Gas Lane, Gillingham; Bell Street, Shaftesbury; Old Market Yard, Sherborne and Coldharbour, Sherborne. Residents and businesses are encouraged to provide suggestions for locations of further charging points by completing the online form at dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/parki ng/charging-your-electricvehicle.aspx

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Motoring & Mobility

Legal bid to halt Stonehenge tunnel By Karen Bate Campaigners have issued a legal claim in their fight to halt the project that would create a tunnel within the Stonehenge World Heritage Site (WHS). Save Stonehenge World Heritage Site (SSWHS) have issued a legal claim after reaching their fundraising target of £50,000 to apply for judicial review of the government’s decision to grant permission. Transport Secretary Grant Shapps approved the scheme in November despite planning officials’ recommendations to refuse the scheme, claiming the project would permanently harm the integrity of the WHS. The SSWHS website stated: “We are overwhelmed by the generosity of over 2,000 donors who have met our stretch target of £50,000 within a month.

TUNNEL VISION: Stonehenge is a World Heritage Site

“Thank you all so much for your wonderful support, which means we now have funding to go forward to the next stage.” Tom Holland, president of the Stonehenge Alliance whose supporters set up SSWHS, said: “Let us hope the law can come to the rescue of a landscape that ranks as our most precious and sacred, and which the Government – to its eternal shame – is set on handing over to the bulldozers.” Leigh Day solicitor Rowan

Smith said: “Our client strongly believes the Secretary of State’s approach to assessing the harm caused by this road scheme to the heritage assets in the Stonehenge area was unlawful, because he underestimated the overall impact by averaging it out and offsetting the purported benefits before appreciating the true extent of the damage. Our client will argue that, in doing so, the Secretary of State failed to follow national policy and breached international law under

the World Heritage Convention.” The tunnel is part of a £1.7bn investment in the A303 between Amesbury and Berwick Down. Work to build the two-mile tunnel is set to start in 2023. Highways England said it remains confident the scheme is the best solution for tackling a long-standing traffic bottleneck. It stated: “We will improve the A303 past Stonehenge between Amesbury and Berwick by creating a new dual carriageway with a tunnel, removing traffic from much of this iconic setting.” English Heritage have also approved the scheme, and said by placing the noisy and intrusive A303 within a tunnel will reunite Stonehenge with the surrounding prehistoric landscape. A judge is due to decide whether SSWHS have a case this month.

Education

Ofsted ‘virtually’ inspect primaries By Nicci Brown Two primary schools in North Dorset are among the first in the area to have undergone a ‘remote’ autumn inspection by Ofsted on how they have coped during the covid restrictions since the summer. Durweston Primary and Stower Provost, which both had a full inspection in 2019 and were found to require improvement, were ‘visited’ on December 1 and November 26 respectively by Ofsted inspectors, who spoke with staff about their experience. Headteachers Nicola Brooke at Durweston and James Stanford at Stower Provost were told the inspection contributed to important national work on how the education system was managing the return to education following the extended break in formal

schooling last spring. Around 1,200 schools across all Ofsted grades, types and locations are being visited so that their shared views and experiences shared can be shared with government and the education sector to help to inform future policy. In both cases it was noted that since September 2020 a number of pupils had had to spend some time working at home. No significant concerns were found at Durweston, where teachers had focused at the start of term on the personal and social aspects of the curriculum to enable pupils to settle back into school. Since then, pupils had been studying all the subjects they usually would, but with modifications in some areas. Some in Years 1 and 2 had gaps in their early reading skills, and were given extra

help, spending more time reading in class. In mathematics, teachers emphasised those areas of the curriculum that pupils are not as confident in, such as shape, space and geometry, and some part of other subjects were modified, for example by replacing rugby with orienteering in physical education. Leaders had drawn up plans to provide remote education for a number of individual pupils – a sixth of the total – who needed to work from home. No class ‘bubbles’ had been sent home, but if they were, teachers would set work online as close as possible to what they would have been doing in class. At Stower Provost, pupils studied the full curriculum and staff watched for gaps in pupils’ knowledge. Some, particularly in Year 2, had

forgotten certain elements of phonic knowledge that they had previously grasped, and greater emphasis was placed on developing pupils’ reading skills. In mathematics some younger pupils had lost confidence in their understanding of place value and addition and subtraction methods, so were given extra support, and in subjects such as history, as each unit was taught, staff used quizzes to identify what pupils had remembered, and continued to check as the planned curriculum was covered. The inspectors were told that a system was being developed to provide remote education in the future. Staff were receiving training and those studying at home would be set work as close as possible to usual school activities.

Letters

Jabs joy Someone should be complimented on the planning and superb organisation that went on for the covid-19 jabs at Digby Hall in Sherborne. The attention, consideration and kindness given by everyone is once again the hallmark of the NHS. Well done and thank you. Mr and Mrs Dick Berry Sherborne n I write to thank all involved with the vaccination programme in Sherborne. As one of the lucky ones I received my first jab today at the Digby Hall. From start to finish the procedure was efficient, friendly and fast. All eventualities were covered. I

left having been given a date for the second vaccination and with a magic sticker! My sincere thanks to all involved in this mammoth task. Stay well and safe. Happy 2021 to all. Elaine Edmonds, Sherborne n Yesterday our vaccination day arrived. We had to go to the medical centre in Sturminster Newton. The experience was professional, efficient, caring in every way. What I find difficult to understand is that considering the population of Gillingham and environs a similar state of the art facility cannot be built here. There seems to be ample room for more supermarkets and even a petrol station complex. Yvonne Phillips Gillingham

n I would like to say WELL DONE to The Blandford Group Practice. I attended the surgery for my first covid vaccination. It was so well organised. There were marshalls in the car park, someone inside to show you where to go. The injection was painless and we were looked after safely distanced in the waiting room for 15 minutes by a nurse then shown the way out by another marshall. I felt very safe and everyone was very helpful and friendly. THANK YOU all very much. Jenny Seare Mapperton n Through your pages, may I congratulate the entire team at the Wilton (Michael Herbert) covid vaccination centre for its incredibly well

organised operation. After taking two elderly people the 26 miles to the site, I was directed off the street into the car park entrance by wardens. Two greeters then explained the pedestrian access and advised immediate entry was fine, even though we were 15 minutes ahead of the booked appointment time. Another helper guided me to an available parking space. The vaccination process was just as efficient, the pair returned to the car both relaxed and cheerful. Finally, as we were belting up to leave, another helper came to the car and checked we were OK. Very well done to you all, and, thanks for making it so straightforward. Alan Webber Penselwood 71

Letters

Sincere thanks to staff at hospitals for my n I wish to write publicly to express a recent personal experience with the NHS during the current Covid Pandemic. I was sent to Yeovil District Hospital A&E department on November 12 by my GP and was told to take an overnight bag. I had heard of hospital departments being under pressure, but I have to say the service I received was second to none. The team were waiting for my arrival and within 10 minutes of handing my doctor’s letter to reception I was greeted by a very friendly and courteous nurse who listened and dealt with my situation in a delicate way. The next few hours seemed a blur – so much happened. So many medical people, who all were friendly and not showing the stress of the pandemic, assisted my needs which led to me being admitted to a ward. I stayed in Yeovil District Hospital for 12 nights and my daughter had to add to the overnight bag as I had literally just packed for one night. Throughout this duration the staff on the three wards were all courteous, polite, friendly and nothing was too much bother. I spent my 74th birthday in hospital and the staff tried to make it as best they could by singing Happy Birthday and enjoyed cake with me that my daughter had dropped to the hospital reception to be delivered to me. I cannot fault any of the staff during this stay and all medical staff found the time to discuss my medical needs with my daughter as restrictions were in place for visiting. Unfortunately I was readmitted three days after my discharge and again the service received was first class throughout, even to the extent that staff recognised me and once again nothing was too much bother. I had one young lady who knew I would be awake at 6am and she would 72

Cartoon by Lyndon Wall justsocaricatures.co.uk

bring me a cup of tea without me asking. I was discharged again 10 days later after numerous investigations. I was advised that I needed specialist consultation at Southmead Hospital in Bristol. I attended appointments on December 9 and 15 in Bristol. The hospital had cleared my daughter to attend with me and found yet again the hospital to be welcoming, friendly and understanding. We experienced a small issue on our first visit which my daughter brought to the attention of PALS, who were extremely sympathetic. They listened and did everything they physically could to resolve the issue but unfortunately because of protocol during the pandemic it could not be resolved on the day. I have to say by the time we had got on the outskirts of the city I received a call and a new appointment was made for

me the following week. During this visit I was advised I required major surgery as a matter of urgency and I cannot fault the consultants’ team, with their prompt and efficient communication with my daughter of the requirements and steps to be followed in preparation for my surgery, which was scheduled for Christmas Eve. Following my appointment on December 15 my admission date and surgery was brought forward and I was admitted to Southmead Hospital on December 22. Upon arrival I experienced a delay in my admission due to the wards changing covid alert levels and them having to find me another suitable bed for my admission. Because of the distance we had travelled my daughter was allowed to stay with me until everything was sorted and I was taken to a ward, this was approximately

2.5 hours after my scheduled admission time. I was finally admitted and underwent a blood transfusion that evening and had my surgery the next morning, which was a success. Yet again friendliness, courteous and politeness of all staff was first class, especially as it was apparent that pressures of this pandemic was higher in this hospital. Yet again staff made the time to speak with my daughter and discuss my progress, even the surgeon called her. I spent six nights in Southmead Hospital. I was given a small gift on Christmas Day and provided with a superb Christmas dinner – it was just unfortunate that the appetite wasn’t there to enjoy it. I was made to feel comfortable and nothing was too much bother. People knock the NHS but within seven weeks I was accessed, diagnosed and had surgery and am now on the road to recovery. Therefore I personally thank all at Yeovil District Hospital and the urology department of Southmead Hospital for their prompt and courteous support and attention throughout what seemed to be a whirlwind few weeks. I would also like to thank Macmillan, who have been a great support to both myself and daughter to ensure everything financially was in place for my recovery. The NHS are under pressure but they met their target in ensuring my health was dealt with efficiently and effectively under such unprecedented times. Again, a personal thanks to all involved. Harry Lawes Bourton Gillingham n I’m just writing to express my dismay at the cartoon (?) by Lyndon Hall that was printed in the Blackmore Vale magazine on Friday. Why it had to be drawn with

Letters

superb treatment during such difficult times someone’s trousers pulled down was a complete mystery. Did the trousers being down make it more humorous? Perhaps it was the bottom turned towards the man? Perhaps the humour was in the fact that the injection was being administered to the arse? I know some of the Just So Caricature work is good – this was not. Shame on you BMV for publishing it. You both can do better. Phil Buksh n We read Blackmore Vale every week. Just seen page 62 of Edition 8. What on earth possessed you to publish the crude cartoon by Lyndon Wall? It’s utterly hideous, not in the least bit funny, and in dreadful taste in the midst of a pandemic which has killed 100,000 UK citizens and caused incalculable economic pain and suffering. Such an editorial mistake and misjudgement, in my opinion. You should be ashamed. Michael McGhie n I have been selling plants from our garden during the summer of 2020 in aid of a coronavirus charity. I am happy to announce that we acquired a total of £200. This has been sent on to the Tom Moore Charity. I would just like to say a very big thank you to everyone who bought plants from the garden and also the only car boot I attended in Sturminster Newton. Liz Walters Sturminster Newton n On Boxing Day South Somerset was moved into Tier 4, a disaster for the many small businesses in the area and a serious restriction on the lives of the inhabitants. This

n This stunning photograph of the lake at Old Wardour Castle, on the boundary of Tisbury and Donhead St Andrew, was taken by Tisbury resident Philadelphia Whittaker in September

happened because of a rise in the number of infections. There was no obvious change in the behaviour of those living in the area. Indeed, the reason that infections and deaths in south Somerset have been relatively low is the adherence to the rules and consideration for others shown by the local population. What has happened is that we have suffered a huge influx of second homeowners from London and the east who have brought the disease with them. These people seem to think that they are above the law. I took a picture of the rubbish put outside a second home, owned by people from London, below Cucklington for collection on Monday 4th January. The sheer quantity is clear evidence that a major party took place. This

sort of behaviour must be stamped on before things get even worse and more people die. Peter Munro Stoke Trister n We hear so much complaining about our chemists and surgeries. We consider we are very lucky and would like to express our gratitude and thanks to them all. We had our covid jabs at White Cliff Surgery in Blandford and it was a completely brilliantly organised operation. No waiting, no queuing. Just calm, pleasant operation from start to finish. The dorctors and nurses were wonderful, as was everyone involved. Very well done indeed and thank you. Margaret Neill Blandford

n News from the coop: Hey, don’t think you're the only ones on lockdown – we’re with you; we know what it feels like too. We really are in it together. Some readers may not know that Defra imposed an AIPZ (that’s Avian Influenza Prevention Zone to you and our keeper) in the UK from the 14th December last year. Imagine that; there we were, strolling around the garden free range one day and then waking up the next to full lockdown! We’ve got enough space and plenty of perches and our keeper gives us some extra greens every day – mmmmmm those sprout tops are pretty tasty! But a bit like you with the covid lockdown we can’t go anywhere, we’re fenced in and netted so we can’t mix with any wild birds and they can’t mix with us. Phew – it’s hard work but we’re surviving so far and know that our keeper will do his best to keep us safe. Which makes it all the more disappointing when he reported back after his daily walk for exercise that he’d seen groups of chickens and ducks on a farm where the farmer hasn’t done anything to keep his birds safe and healthy. We couldn't believe it! That’s not on, is it? But hey, we suppose you always get some who just don’t give a fig. We can’t understand why he’s putting his birds and other keepers’ birds at risk too. Wish us luck with our lockdown and we hope that the vaccine for your covid gets rolled out quickly. We’ll see you on the other side! From Reg, Gertie, Speckly, Red and Titch (Keeper’s name and address supplied) NUGGETS OF TRUTH: Reg and his coopmates can’t believe other chooks are flouting the AIPZ lockdown

Church

Light at the end of the tunnel The Sad Story of Henry Once an engine attached to a train Was afraid of a few drops of rain. It went into a tunnel And squeaked through its funnel And wouldn't come out again.

Things can change in a very short time and some are finding it increasingly difficult in the new lockdown. However we do now have reason to look forward with great anticipation. There are two versions of anti-virus being administered and, so far, over 3 million people have been vaccinated. This means that within weeks, if not days, many of us will have immunity to Covid-19. So we should not despair. Thinking of being in a tunnel reminds me of a lovely story from Rev W. Awdry in his Thomas the tank engine books. Henry, the green engine, had just been painted and he was very proud of his

new paint. However he did not want to get dirty so when it rained he went into a tunnel and stopped inside. Despite all the encouragement from the fat controller he refused to move and so a wall was built blocking him in. His fire went out and he got very dirty and became despondent. Probably how many of us feel at the moment and yet just like Henry there was a time when he was needed and he realised that there was more to life that a new coat of paint. We too may feel that we are locked in a tunnel but if we look carefully we can see the glimmer of light that is giving us a reason to hope for a better future. We have just

with the Rev Richard Priest, of Stour Vale Benefice

Vicar in the Vale

wall our fire will also go out, but if we take the great leap of faith then, also like Henry, we may be able to take on a task of great importance and do something beyond our wildest dreams. celebrated the season of Christmas, the birth of a new Where will you stay when you see the light at the end of life and light that has spread throughout the world. This is the tunnel? Will you hide behind the wall or will you our light at the end of the follow the light to a new tunnel and, just like Henry, beginning. I hope and pray we are being given the opportunity to break down the that it will be the latter walls that surround us. When because being locked in a Henry was released it was to tunnel is of no use to anyone, including ourselves. help Edward to haul the May God bless you and keep express after Gordon had broken down. It was a job of you safe and secure during great responsibility and a task this pandemic as we pray for neither could do on their own. all those on the front line who are risking their lives for Are we too being called to a others. job with responsibility? To If you have never read the help look after those around Thomas the tank engine us who are isolating or are books then you really should. housebound with other They can teach us a lot, no problems. If we stay like matter what our age. Henry behind that invisible

n Mass times for Catholic churches in Marnhull on Sundays and Thursdays, 9.30am; in Gillingham on Sundays at 11am and Wednesdays at 10am. Lockdown has had a huge impact of Church Services in North Dorset. Here is the latest information on worship in the Blackmore Vale nSt John’s Church, Yeovil Church Services on Sunday and Tuesday will be going ahead, but only attend if you feel it is safe to do so. Sunday 10:30am – booking is required to attend or watch on the live stream. Please book online at sjyeovil.org.uk Tuesday, Communion – You are able to attend in person, there is no need to book nSt Mary’s the Virgin, Gillingham The government have given permission for public worship to continue during this lockdown. We worship together using the government and Church of England’s guidelines, remembering the hands, face and

space guidance. Sunday at 10am – Sunday Service For more details go online at achurchnearyou.com or ring Carole Blackmore on 01747 821598 nSt John’s Church, Shaftesbury Church Services are returning online during the lockdown and more details to join the service or find more can be found online at facebook.com/ShaftesburyCofE nBlandford Parish Church Church Services have been suspended at both churches during January 2021. There is an online service each Sunday at 10am on the Blandford Parish Church Facebook Page followed by Zoom Coffee from 11am. View our Thought for The Day here on Monday, Wednesdays and Fridays on

our Facebook Page led by members of our congregation. If you require any assistance during this new period of lockdown or would like someone to pray with you, please contact us or email pastoral care@bfpc.org.uk or prayer@bfpc.org.uk nSt Mary’s Church, Sturminster Newton The church remains open for individual prayer from 2pm until 4pm on Wednesdays. We are also open for Sunday services. Some services may vary from our usual pattern and these decisions are being made at fairly short, so please check our latest information online at stmaryssturminsternewton.org.uk nWincanton Parish Church It is with regret that Sunday Communal

worship has been suspended during lockdown. The church is open for private prayer on Sundays between 9am and 11am and on Wednesdays between 12noon and 2pm. You are very welcome to come inside the church for private prayer and contemplation, safely distancing and wearing a face covering, Rev Alison Way, our Rector, can be contacted on 01963 33151 or 07515 958988 or rector@wincantonparishchurch.co.uk nSherborne Abbey Worship in the five churches of the Sherborne Benefice has been temporarily suspended during lockdown. The Parish Office is closed but the parish secretary can be contacted on 01935 812452 between Monday and Friday, 9am - 4.30pm.

Sport

Here’s to good old Chinwag!

Ah, the mince pie and port evening before lockdown

January 2 was the next big thing after Christmas and New Year – and that was the Port and Mince Pie game at Gillingham Hockey Club. Originally there were 45 plus people wanting to play and consume substantial pies afterwards in the Social Club, so four teams were organised with goalkeepers. Weather looked good and everything organised, until Boris had his input and restricted travel. Even though WINNERS’ ENCLOSURE: Owners Ruth and Ron Turner with Chinwag. Below: The Boot at Tisbury most were in Tier 3, no crossing of county borders The veteran landlords of a was encouraged. Tisbury pub are celebrating Undeterred, the club’s in lockdown after their horse Stephen Way put another won consecutive races within message on Facebook saying four days. only Dorset-based players Ruth and Ron Turner have could turn up: 39 did, so that run The Boot Inn for 44 was three teams plus subs: years and have always thanks to Jess Hussey and owned horses themselves, or Lauryn Burch for playing in as part of a pub syndicate. goal for all three games. Their latest is Chinwag, a and been placed twice, 14-1. The horse is trained by Great fun was had, port and six-year-old hurdler who earning a total of £13,309, Neil Mulholland near Bath beer was drunk and mince won at Wincanton on Boxing possibly a tad more than the and was ridden at Wincanton pies eaten all sociably Day – Ruth’s birthday – then couple paid for him. by Harry Reed. distanced, a very social followed up with another “We had a great day at Millie Wonnacot was in the beginning to 2021. Well win at Taunton. Wincanton. He’s a big horse saddle at Taunton. Ron and again Boris got involved and The pub locals may not have but very easy to ride,” said Lockdown 3 happened, end Ruth bought Chinwag as a been able to toast their Ruth, who still rides out semi-retirement present with of hockey for the foreseeable success but as owners, Ruth future. Sworn-In, the first horse they sons James and Oliver now and Ron were able to attend GHC is going from strength bought in 2005 with regulars, taking more of a role at The both meetings and see their to strength. If interested in and which won its debut race Boot. playing, contact Stephen horse win by three lengths at odds of 100-1. As with all pubs, a big Way on 07786 894586 or each time. Chinwag’s starting price at celebration is on hold until visit the Facebook page GHC Chinwag was first raced in Wincanton was 11/2 – but after lockdown: in the Players and Members and November 2019 and in his Ron managed to back him a meantime they are serving ask to join. 10 races he has won three couple of days beforehand at takeaway food at The Boot.

Help needed to shape and develop youth football in Dorset The Dorset FA Youth Council is looking for volunteers aged between 16 and 25 from all over the county to represent children and young people and to help shape and develop football in Dorset. “Our current vision is to support and empower a diverse workforce of young

people to influence change through football,” says a council statement. “The Dorset FA Youth Council projects will impact on The FA National Game Strategy; provide a platform for young people to support the development of grassroots football and build a network of children and

young people in Dorset. “The Youth Council not only looks to develop and represent football within the county but to also develop its members’ professional skills and offer a unique opportunity to be a part of Dorset FA, create and deliver projects and gain support from those already working

within the game.” Successful candidates will need to be committed to attending and actively participating in all Youth Council meetings and work of the group. The application deadline is February 15: dorsetfa.com/ volunteers/young-volunteers 75

Sport

Farewell to a legend: ‘All I ever really Celebrated scrambling and motocross writer IAN BERRY pays tribute to the motorcycle racing legend Bryan Winston Goss, who passed away earlier this month at the age of 80 ‘Badger’ Goss, now there’s a name to conjure with. Always making headlines, always super-competitive and always with a smile on his face. Before I first met him (I would have seen him race for the first time in about 1967, though his name was already well known to me from his stellar performances in the BBC Grandstand Trophy series), I assumed that his nickname had come from the determined way in which he rode – badgering his opponents and ‘nipping’ at their rear tyres – but he soon put me straight. ‘I was always badgering Lew Coffin (the grasstrack legend who also lived in the Dorset village of Yetminster) for a ride on his bike and one day one of the boys in the village called me ‘Badger’ and it just stuck after that...’ Winston, for the curious, came from Churchill, as Badger was born in 1940, during the Battle of Britain. Early mentors included Lew, who built him an LCS (Lew Coffin Special) a 197 Villiers-

RACE STAR: Riding number 46, Badger’s number of choice

engined grasstrack bike, and ‘Pops’ Sharp, the father of Bryan and Triss, who was an ace tuner and prepared a 197 Greeves for him. His first factory ride came in 1960 with Cotton, when he was still just a teenager, a partnership which enjoyed many successes, though ultimately he felt that the Gloucestershire factory had underestimated his ability,

Badger’s Racing Timeline l1956 Started grasstrack racing under the guidance of Lew Coffin on a 197cc LCS l1957 Broke a leg at a grasstrack at Whitton Down, near Exeter. Switched to scrambling starting on a 197cc Greeves prepared by ace turner ‘Pops’ Sharp, from Poole l1960 Gained support from the Gloucester based Cotton factory with a 250 l1961 Wins his first ACU Star (British championship) race at Tirley, Glos l1962 Paid a £25 retainer by Greeves to ride their 250 machine

especially after he had defeated BSA’s GP star Arthur Lampkin, at Tirley in May 1961, to take his first win in the ACU Star competition. Disgruntled when Cotton signed former European champion John Draper in 1962, Badger, who always had the gift of the gab, let Greeves’ sales manager, Derry Preston Cobb know that he would like to ride for the Essex-based factory.

l1963 Runner-up in the 250 cc ACU Star competition (national championship) to teammate Dave Bickers 1964 Goes into business opening a motorcycle shop in Yeovil.Also tried his hand at speedway competing for Exeter on a number of occasions l1965 Switches to a Swedish 250 Husqvarna machine riding as a privateer – finishes as runner-up in the 250cc ACU Star, again to Dave Bickers l1966 Wins both races of the 250cc Trophee des Nations at Brands Hatch, Kent – a team event held on the occasion of his

To his surprise Cobb soon offered him a £25 retainer to race for Greeves. ‘It was a dream come true, it was everyone’s ambition to race for Greeves at that time,’ he said. Derry Preston Cobb would also show his support for his young charge when he decided to venture into business a couple of years later, travelling down from Southend to cut the ribbons and open his motorcycle shop. This was the beginning of a great venture for Badger and up until his dying days he could still be found in the family shop, some 56 years later. Badger had a couple of spells riding for Greeves, though for many he will be best remembered riding the Swedish Husqvarna, on which he would win the 250 Grandstand Trophy in the winter of 1969-70 and his British championship, on the 400, later the same year. After a poor season, by his standards, on the Greeves Challenger in 1964, Badger looked around at other options and decided to go private for 1965. ‘Jeff Smith had bought himself a 250 Husqvarna (at a time when the future for all the BSA

26th birthday l1969 Narrowly misses out on the 250cc British championship eventually finishing third behind Bryan Wade and Malcom Davis, the result only being decided at the final round l1970 Wins the 500cc British championship on a 400 Husqvarna owned by Bridport garage owner John Coombes and prepared by Triss Sharp l1971 Moves to the German Maico and earns the position of importer l1974 wins the biggest trophy in motocross – The Patchquick for a record fourth time

Sport

wanted was to be everybody’s mate’

LEGEND: Opening his first shop with wife Jenny, right. Left: Winning Des Nations at Brands Hatch. Right: With children Debbie and Jeff and the Patchquick trophy. Below: With grandchildren Jack and Toby

factory riders was in doubt) and when I was at the factory one day I asked Jeff if he would sell it. When I saw it I just had to have it, even though he wanted a small fortune for it!’ Badger was very successful on the 250. His greatest achievement without doubt was his outright win in the 1966 Trophee des Nations, held that year at Brands Hatch, Kent. Racing on his 26th birthday, nothing would deny him. Spurred on by team manager Harold Taylor’s apparent lack of belief – ‘He put me on the second row of the grid and told me I was the weakest link in the team.’ – Badger set off like a scalded cat. He was also the cat that got the cream, giving the best riders in the world at the time a good licking, to win both races. The Swedes, with world champion Torsten Hallman on their team, couldn’t believe that Badger could lap so fast

on a 250; he won the first leg ahead of Hallman by 12 seconds and in the second beat 1964 world champion Joel Robert. But it was in 1970, as he approached the age of 30, that Badger finally won the British championship he so richly deserved. By this time he was sponsored by local garage owner John Coombes, with his Huskies being tuned by Triss Sharp. But he had to fight for the championship following a poor day at Elsworth in the first round, when he failed to score a single point. A double-win at Wakes Colne put him on the scoreboard, a feat he repeated at both the Cotswold Scramble and at Tirley in August.

With such a fine run of form, Badger was champion before turning a wheel in the final round at Builth Wells in October. After winning the title on Husqvarna, Badger confounded all by switching to Maico for 1971. However, it was a shrewd move as he would gain the right to import the German motorcycles and it was the beginning of a very successful time for Bryan Goss Motorcycles. By February Badger had put Maico on the map in the UK, winning the Charrington Trophy at Somerton and with riders such as Rob Taylor going well the Maico momentum started to build. In September 1972, racing at my local track at Wakes Colne, Badger dominated the solo races to win the Ivy Downing Motocross, winning all three legs ahead of Bryan Wade, Jimmy Aird, also on a Maico and Malcolm Davis. But when Badger enlisted teenage sensations Graham

Noyce and Neil Hudson in the mid-seventies, sales were through the roof. ‘We sold over a thousand bikes for three straight years. ‘Everyone had or wanted a Maico back then. You could buy a standard bike, take it straight out of the crate and win on it. It was a wonderful machine.’ In June 2012, Badger lost his beloved wife Jenny, an event which rocked his life, but he was helped through this by his daughter Debbie and son Jeff, and their families. After first meeting him back in the late 1990s I stayed in touch with Badger fairly regularly, but I was always amazed by his sunny disposition and the interest he showed in whatever I was up to. When phoning I was always greeted in the same manner; ‘Ian Berry. Well I never! How the hell are you?’ Badger was a tenacious competitor on the track, but he was also one of the great characters on the scrambling scene, known all across Europe for his high jinks. He was part of the rich tapestry of the sport and over the years he achieved what was arguably his greatest goal: ‘All I ever really wanted was to be everybody’s mate.’ If you ever had the pleasure to see him at the annual Telford Off-Road Show, an event he regularly attended and where last year he was guest of honour, then you will know just how successful he was in realising that ambition. Badger has gone, but his memory will live on for many years with people recalling just how good a rider he was and regaling others with stories about the many outlandish practical jokes he played. The word gets mercilessly overused these days, but he truly was a legend. n Bryan Winston Goss: September 11 1940 – January 6 2021 77

Equestrian An eventer with a real passion for promoting local brands By Jade Leahy Gemma Gilbert is a 23-yearold local eventer from Yeovil. Gemma started riding aged six at a local riding school and began showing at Bath and West showground aged ten, riding a lovely Mountain Moorland pony in shows and championships around the country. She progressed to her own loan horse aged 15, which was the start of her love for eventing. Gemma bought her first horse Connor, or Apache Blue, a skewbald tabiona gelding tb/cob when she was 18 and as an apprentice engineer, she

was able to fund his upkeep herself. She found him via a local Facebook page, after a successful vetting and trial, their partnership was formed, Con is now 12 and their partnership has gone from strength to strength – 17 years on Gemma’s love of riding and eventing endures although they

are yet to have a full season due to Con sustaining an injury and now the restrictions of covid-19. Gemma and Con also ride for Taunton District Riding Club. Although Gemma says their favourite and strongest phase is cross country, he skewbald has a bold and brave heart and also loves show jumping, and their dressage is really improving. Between lockdowns Gemma and Con competed at the BRC Arena Eventing National Qualifiers at Bicton Arena and Novice winter dressage at KSEC achieving a first and national qualification, 5 and a team 6th in big competitive

dressage classes. Gemma and Con display team spirit both on and off the competition field, championing local brands that she truly believes in and that have helped her, and Con. Gemma and Con are known for their support of local brands as much as for their obsession with the colour purple and are brand ambassadors for several local brands including HiHo Silver, Vinyl Vision, Fruitbat Textiles, 3 Donkeys Clothing and Touch of Tweed. You can follow their journey and their product recommendations via social media and their blog at gemeventing.com

Road safety and manners important By our equestrian columnist Charlotte Williams 2020 was certainly a very different year in the horse world. Although there have been few opportunities to compete or train, I do realise how lucky I am to be able to hack out in the beautiful countryside, which is a privilege and a pleasure. Where Flek and I are stabled, the hacking is fairly good and most of the bridleways are well sign-posted with good access. However there are plenty of bridleways which are neglected and a number of gates which have seen better days. Serious gymnastic skills and a very well-behaved steed are a must in order to open and close them. Flek and I ventured out the 78

other day, following a path across a field. I was about halfway across – at the point of no return – when we were confronted by a herd of inquisitive young cattle. Now I think I can speak for most horse riders when I say this is absolutely no fun at all! I understand riders, ramblers and dog walkers cannot expect to roam these paths uninterrupted, however a sign on a gate would be a

huge help – forewarned is forearmed. Most horse riders have to cross roads to reach the bridleways these days, as development has resulted in a loss of land. Most drivers in Dorset are courteous and kind, however there are a few drivers who show no consideration and I cannot understand why they don’t slow down and give the horse plenty of room when they pass. Horses can spook easily and

their reactions cannot always be judged. I always try to avoid busy roads, particularly on a young or nervous horse, however some of the fastest drivers I have encountered have been on rural lanes. In this situation it is vital to remain calm and acknowledge any driver who shows consideration – even if your horse is doing the Highland Fling! Riders can play their part too. A nod of the head or grimace that passes as a smile can usually be managed. Riders must also take their own safety precautions – high visibility clothing and a hat are a must, along with insurance, which is readily available through several organisations. And there are plenty of BHS Ride and Road Safety courses. I know we live in a densely populated and busy world, but dare I say it? Kindness costs nothing.

Equestrian

Farming’s loss is cross country’s gain By Jade Leahy The farming industry faces many challenges and British farmers are among the most resilient and innovative businessmen. Stour Cross County training course is an example of rural innovation. Kevin and Paul Maitland were North Dorset farmers who made the decision to diversify from a dairy and arable farming to equestrian services 20 years ago. Stour XC is set in 12 acres and complements their livery and storage business. The cross-country course was the innovation of owner Paul Maitland’s late mother, with winter grazing earning limited income, it created a more viable purpose for the site. Planning permission obtained, course development could begin in earnest. The course was designed by leading course builder Adrian Ditchman of DHS equestrian, who also designed the course layout for London 2012. In the same year, Paul and a team of dedicated course builders laid the foundations for their new cross country training course, arduously laying the first sleepers in thick snow, two months on, the first version of Stour XC training course was open to riders. Today, Stour comprises of 50 jumps and eight permanent features including the new chair fence, skinny brush, a training bank, wooden steps and two ditches. The course layout changes annually and added. The course allows a for a maximum of six riders on the course and six riders in the warm-up area, with six sessions offered per day to avoid overcrowding; and riders can ride for up to 1.5

hours per session. Four years ago, the former grazing land underwent another innovative development, and once again a family member was the driving force. Paul’s young niece wanted to take part in cross country but was deterred by the height of the jumps. This led the family to ensure that Stour was able to offer XC fun for riders of all ages and abilities, in the form of the ‘Mini Stour’. The Mini-Stour runs alongside the main course and offers replica 30 CMS fences, even a fake ditch for young riders, beginners or those who are nervous. Stour ensures that it offers riders an enhanced experience, providing high standard WC facilities, refreshment facilities, a course

map. The online booking service, enables riders to book at short notice. Stour XC is currently closed due to covid19 restrictions, but they will be ready to welcome you back on the other side of lockdown. Stour is the course for you if you want to get your horse competition fit, introduce pony clubbers to the exhilaration of XC, show your youngster the ropes, or if you’re nervous rider or or a beginner who wants to give cross county a try. Sessions are available from 8.30am to 6pm at £25 per 90minute session, or £20 per session for those aged 16 and under. Clubs/instructors should contact Stour XC directly, for availability and prices for group bookings.

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Field & Stream

Support wildlife and learn for pennies By Miranda Robertson newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

Dorset’s wildlife is also at great risk from the devastating effects of climate Wildlife enthusiasts can change, the ecological crisis, brush up on their nature and the pandemic, which has knowledge and help charity prevented volunteer work for about a ha’penny a day from taking place for most of this year. 2020. Dorset Wildlife Trust is Support care officer Nancy offering half price Taylor said: “In 2021 the membership this month, importance of nature in our which starts from just £1.75 lives has never been clearer. a month for a year (direct People have reconnected debit only). with the natural world on Throughout the pandemic, their doorstep, appreciating Dorset Wildlife Trust’s the positive impact of nature nature reserves have on their wellbeing. But our wildlife is disappearing at an alarming rate. Some of our mostloved species are threatened, with 26 per cent of UK mammals in danger of disappearing altogether and hedgehogs, red squirrels, bats, turtle doves, THE BIG SLEEP: Dormouse © Terry Whittaker cuckoo, water voles and 2020VISION basking sharks provided essential green all at risk. But there is hope. space for local residents to “By becoming a member, enjoy, while providing a safe you directly contribute to place for Dorset’s huge protecting the habitats of variety of wildlife. Despite the year’s challenges, conservation work continued throughout to maintain nature reserves that many of Dorset’s best-loved species call home. However, much of the summer and autumn was also spent addressing vandalism, heath fires and fly-tipping on nature reserves. While work to tackle these problems has begun, rehabilitation of these spaces takes time and there is still plenty to do. Beyond these threats, 80

endangered species in Dorset. Dorset Wildlife Trust’s work to care for these places is only possible through the generosity of our members and without them we wouldn’t be able to achieve all that we do for wildlife in Dorset.” This offer is valid until the ned of January. A year’s membership starts at £1.75 a month for an individual, £2 a month for joint membership, and £2.25 a month for a family membership. Individual and joint

members receive an exclusive membership magazine, Dorset Wildlife, 3 times a year, and a guide to all 42 DWT nature reserves. Family memberships include four issues of the magazine a year, as well as the individual membership benefits. To sign up go to dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/bec ome-member

Field & Stream

So, why DO we keep sheep anyway? THE FIELD with Tria Stebbing “Why have you got sheep?” Last Sunday, having just moved the sheep back to their paddock, a resident out walking stopped to watch and asked the question. I had never thought about it much before... we just have sheep – doesn’t everyone? We started our sheep journey some years ago, initially to keep the grass down in the field. We saw an advertisement in the predecessor of this very publication and went to buy a couple and came back with eight. Fast forward a few years and we are busy breeding to maintain this special breed by meeting the required standard as set by the association. Zwartbles

originated in the Friesland region of Holland and are a rare breed traditionally used for meat and milk. Their name simply means black with a white blaze. They were first introduced in the UK in 1986 – interestingly in 1978 there were only about 250 purebred Zwartbles left in Holland. A pedigree Zwartbles will have an uninterrupted blaze (white stripe) which is reasonably straight, it can go under the chin but not on the wool. Running from the

crown of the head and down to the muzzle. What began as lawn mowers quickly became a hobby that is mildly addictive. The sheep have an amazing temperament, individual personalities and are easy lambers. For those spinners out there, the fleece is medium to fine with an excellent crimp along the length of the fibre. The colours range from dense black to chocolate brown with silver fleck through. It is a sturdy wool

and can be used for blankets as well as outerwear as well as felting projects. We use ours to keep the mud down as the fleece also makes good mud mats. They have provided focus for us through lockdown, company in times of despair and joyous moments as well as occasional heartbreak. So good are they at mowing grass that we now send them out by request to other people’s paddocks to keep their grass down whilst we grow and bale our own for their winter feed. They provide entertainment for the local people in their home village and cuddles for precious grandchildren… and that is why we keep sheep. At the end of this week Alex the sheep scanner is coming out to check the ewes over to see how many lambs we are expecting… watch this space!

A wild winter on Fontmell Down, home to a hidden multitude of species By Alex Hennessy of Dorset Wildlife Trust On a crisp winter’s morning at Fontmell Down, long shadows sprawl across a veil of bright white frost covering the grass. The icy dusting extends to hedgerows and spent seed heads on and around this steep sloping grassland in the peaceful Blackmore Vale. The wildflowers, some very rare, that burst up from underfoot in summer are a distant dream. Despite the chill in the air, there is still plenty of wildlife at home on this beautiful nature reserve. A quiet, still dormouse hibernates through the winter months, curled up tightly underneath logs or leaves, at the base of a tree, or even just slightly under the ground where the temperature

A woodcock - Photo: Mark Hamblin 2020VISION

is more constant. Dormice are very small, measuring between 6 and 9 centimetres in length with a fluffy tail of around 6 centimetres, and are nocturnal, so even when they awake from hibernation in warmer weather, they are a very rare sight. Shy wintering woodcocks hide out in the wooded areas, superbly camouflaged by their brown mottled plumage. Some woodcocks live and breed in Britain, while others migrate from Europe and Russia for winter, seeking damp

woodlands and heathlands with earthworms and beetles for sustenance. If woodcocks are disturbed, they will fly off in a zig-zag pattern between the trees before dropping back to the ground and the safe, dense cover of the undergrowth. More commonly seen residents of Fontmell Down are ravens. These large black crows – the biggest of the crow family, Corvidae – are a striking sight, soaring above the valley with their strong, heavy bills and long, diamond-shaped tails. They can be seen throughout the year, surveying the landscape from the skies and searching for their preferred diets of mammals, carrion, birds and eggs, insects and other invertebrates. When spring and summer come around, the expanse of

unspoilt grassland supports nine orchid species and the rare endemic early gentian. These and many other scarce wildflowers teem with butterflies, bees and other bugs. Until then, rest assured that a hidden multitude of species continues to enjoy the haven that Fontmell Down provides. Plan your visit and find out more about our other nature reserves on the Dorset Wildlife Trust website, dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/natur e-reserves. EXPERIENCED, MATURE SHOOTER AVAILABLE for pest and vermin control. CV & references available. Reliable & trustworthy, BASC member with comprehensive Public Liability Insurance. 07837 307553

Farming

We’ve been wild about raising and A family in Stourpaine have been farming red deer on their land for nearly 40 years, producing top quality venison – so it is little wonder customers are going wild for their meat. Venison meat at Ash Farm Venison is quite different from most wild shot venison.

We are Adam, Ali and Eden Russell. We run Ash Farm Venison, raising and selling our beautiful venison meat directly from our little farm shop just outside Stourpaine. Adam began farming at Ash Farm Dorset, when he took over from his father in 1982. He quickly turned the farm organic and shortly after, started to raise red deer for venison. The first 20 hinds arrived from Scotland on New Year’s Day 1984. Our first stag arrived shortly after from Sussex. Over the next few years we built up numbers by retaining young hinds and selective breeding to increase the size of our animals. In the late 80s we added some stags from Furzeland Park in Devon, which is known for breeding excellent pure British stags. We are now improving the blood line by adding some stags from Woburn Abbey – world famous for the quality of its deer.

The hinds give birth each year about May, out in large paddocks. We don’t take part in this, our herd live very naturally in family groups. The grass in our paddocks is left long,

The strong, gamey taste often associated with wild venison, especially if it has been hung for a long period of time, is not found in farmed red deer. The meat is taken only from animals in their prime and has a sweet, gentle flavour, high in protein, low in fat, lower in cholesterol than chicken, high in

Omega 3 and 6 and most importantly, free from steroids and antibiotics. All the red deer at Ash Farm Venison live in natural family groups. We talk to Ali Russell who tells us a little about farming life and gives us an insight into the lives of these majestic animals at Ash Farm Venison.

DOWN ON OUR FARM: Ali, Eden and Adam Russell at Ash Farm near Stourpaine

allowing the mothers to look after their young, hiding them in the tussocks of long grass. Once the babies are born they live at their mother’s heel, taking her milk for three months, and after that they congregate in crèches and run together in the herd, grazing and mixing. In the autumn we divide the herd into about three small groups in three fields, each group with a lead stag, some young

stags and many hinds ready for the rut. October is a very noisy time on the farm. The stags roar like lions and fight to be the boss, rattling their antlers together in mock battles. The stags also take their passion out on the fencing, which can be quite frustrating as we rush around mending fence posts. After the big stags have shown that they are boss, they mate with all the hinds in their group and we can expect to have some 60 babies born each year. Each stag grows a full set of antlers every year. The antler is not horn, bone, nail or tooth but made from keratin – its own unique material. Fed by the blood supply that runs in a covering called

velvet, the antler begins to grow in spring, until the following spring when it is shed. We hunt the fields to find the antlers, mindful not to run over them in the Land Rover. In the wild, a good red stag is called a royal and will grow 12 points a year. Our main stags will have 32. This is entirely due to the breeding, the abundance of beautiful herb pasture and good winter haylage, meaning they are never without all the nutrients they require. The animals we take for meat have been born on the farm, they have lived in family groups for 18 months. Our animals are never tame, they are a wild creatures and while they can be approached, the stags are

Farming

selling venison for nearly 40 years

IT’S A WILD LIFE: Deer live in family groups at Ash Farm. Right; Ali and Siobhan at the shop. Below: Farming venison is a skilled job

flighty and dangerous and farming venison is a skilled and specialist job. We love our farm. We treasure each and every acre of organic trees, herbs and grass. During our time as custodians, we have planted thousands of trees and kilometres of hedges and this coming winter we plan to plant for 1,300 more. Living in Dorset among the abundant wildlife and raising these magnificent animals is what keeps us farming. Life as a farmer is hard. The weather always seems to be against you, the hours are long and in winter the days are short. Adam is definitely the boss of the deer, Ali and Siobhan run the shop and shepherd’s hut glamping and our daughter, Eden, drives the

tractor, runs her own saddlery business and looks after five horses of her own (but don’t tell Adam, he said we could only have two.) The last year during covid has been awful in so many ways, but if there were a silver lining for Dorset, then I think it is that people have begun to buy so much more locally. Shopping for a meal has become a welcome ritual and we thank each and every person who has taken the time to visit a small supplier and to buy locally grown food. We do a happy dance every time we make a sale. We open our little farm shop from Wednesday to Friday 10am to 2pm so that our customers can buy directly from our farm, knowing the animals were ethically raised

without antibiotics and in a way that allows them to live in natural family groups. In our Dorset shop we sell all the cuts of venison, from our delicious sausages, to mince for Bolognese, diced for stews, loin for a treat. Not to mention our burgers and beautiful saucisson, and just this week we added our own chorizo. We don’t have any intention of becoming a huge farm shop and our aim has always been to get our amazing meat direct from the Dorset land to our local customers, reducing food miles and allowing absolute provenance for the customer. We do stock one or two other products, all from small Dorset businesses that we know and love. Bill’s Beans produce fresh small batch coffee, Dorset Sea Salt from Portland, Local Hod Hill Honey and our latest is with Hari Hari, another Dorset business who makes sublime Thai curry kits especially for venison. Ali has written The Ash Farm Venison Cook Book. Her recipe for Stroganoff, right, is simple and delicious. n For the New Blackmore Vale readers, Ali is offering a 10 per cent discount if you call in with a copy! nAsh Farm Venison, Stourpaine, DT11 8PW Wednesday to Friday, 10am to 2pm. The shop is on Ash Farm, directly on the A350 just north of Stourpaine. If you head towards Shaftesbury, the farm is the on the right hand side, half a mile outside Stourpaine village. For more details ring Ali on 07770 827594 or follow them on Instagram: ash_farm_dorset

ASH FARM VENISON COOK BOOK Stroganoff Although I can happily spend hours cooking a meal, there are times when I need to produce supper quickly. Stroganoff has always been one of my favourite quick dishes. Venison loin or steak lends itself beautifully to this dish, soft tender meat that is rich enough not to be overpowered by the cream and deep musky mushrooms. This will serve 4 for a main course or 6 to 8 for a starter. Ingredients 600/800 g minute steak 2 medium onions, chopped 2 cloves of garlic, chopped 250 g of various mushrooms, Shiitake, Oyster, Chanterelle are all good, but experiment with your own mixtures A large bunch of flat leaf parsley, chopped A couple of wine glasses of sherry Large knob of butter 300 ml of double cream, sour cream or half and half! Method Gently fry the onion and garlic in half the butter until transparent, don’t hurry this, the onion must not burn but just gently colour to bring out the sweetness. Add the sliced mushroom and fry for a few more minutes. Cut the venison into thin strips, you are looking for pieces that are about the thickness of a pencil. Move the pan to a hot hob, add the meat to the rest of the butter add a dash of oil and cook for just one minute Add the sherry, it should bubble furiously for a couple of minutes to burn off the alcohol, remove the pan from the heat and then pour in the cream, stir in the parsley, put back on a low heat and bubble gently until it is a pleasing thick consistency. I suggest you serve this with plain boiled rice and a green salad, dressed with lemon juice and olive oil.

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A plea to dog owners near livestock By Alice Miller Friars Moor Livestock Health On the whole lambing season is a very rewarding time of year, both at work and at home since my husband is also currently lambing on his family farm. I see every day how very hard farmers work, day and night, rain, and shine, to do the very best for their livestock. And there is nothing better than seeing the hard work pay off, with lots of healthy lambs being nurtured by their mothers. However, all too often, I am reminded how the idyllic scenes of sheep grazing in fields can be

cruelly disrupted and destroyed when dogs worry, chase, and injure livestock. In recent weeks, again both at work and at home, separate dog attacks have taken place. We were lucky this time and the ewe lamb thankfully has been nursed back to health. But a client was not so fortunate when they had to have several of their flock humanely euthanased. The ewes were stressed and exhausted, and the damage done to their necks, heads and legs by the dog’s teeth and strong jaw was painful and sadly too severe to repair. As you can imagine, when a dog attacks sheep the scenes

A lamb attacked by a dog

are very distressing for everyone involved and probably most shocking of all is the fact that these are not rare occurrences. We luckily live in an area of the country where we are treated to several beautiful walks, but most of these footpaths run on farmland

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www.friarsmoorvets.co.uk 84

where livestock are kept, which is why dogs inevitably meet sheep so often. However, we can all do something positive to reduce the risk of these encounters turning nasty. Farmers can help warn dog walkers that fields contain livestock by putting up signs alerting them to the fact. Owners can help by always keeping to footpaths and putting their dogs on a lead when they see livestock or a warning sign. As a vet, farmer’s wife and dog owner I want to encourage everyone to help protect our animals, and this includes the dogs. Even if you have the sweetest of pet dogs, remember that all breeds of dogs have an innate instinct, and it is not their fault that they see a ‘prey’ animal and have the natural urge to chase and kill it. It is instead an owner’s fault if they let the dog get into a situation where they test this instinct. Once dogs know they can chase and attack they will do it again, even if in every other circumstance they are a loving, obedient pet. So please do not give them the option in the first place! If we keep our dogs on leads and stick to footpaths, we can ensure the safety of livestock, our dogs and protect the wellbeing and livelihoods of the farmers who let us enjoy their beautiful land. Stay safe everyone. Best wishes. Alice Miller.

Farming

Not the start to 2021 we were hoping for Ruth Kimber’s Farmer’s Diary What a start! Covid-19, horrid for everyone. We really must do our utmost to squash this dreadful virus. Our shop has stepped up procedures to limit the risk to customers, staff and our families. We also offer an ordering system, click and collect or telephone in for your order, then you can collect from the car park – we will put it in your car. Paul and I are lying low again, but are being kept busy with various jobs from the farm, farm shop and family. I’m also doing a spot of upholstery, reseating a couple of old foot stools, that belonged to my father’s family. When I took them apart, I found they had been stuffed with hay! I have left the hay, added a note and continued to refurbish them using horse hair etc. I have finished one except the top cover, now must tackle the other. The Christmas period was successful both on the farm and in the shop. As I said before, our band of pluckers and dressers largely comprising of family (son, daughter, nephew, daughter-inlaw and her sister, husband and daughter, granddaughter, son in laws,) and friends and acquaintances, did a great job and got us through on time to

deliver Christmas. However we did miss our friends from Poland, who have been coming for approximately 15 years. We were particularly pleased, we only had three cancellations for turkeys, no more than normal. We were really heartened that people recognised they had placed an order, and honoured it. Heaven knows what we would have done with 1,100 turkeys! We did have customers wanting to add things and make changes, which is time consuming but all part of the job, and again no more than in a ‘normal’ year. The barn where the turkeys spent their nights has been cleaned out and sterilised, and now is home to the first of the weaned calves. We still have 80 cows to calve, Alan does a grand job with the calves before they go on to our rearer, they stay with Giles until they are weaned, then return home. The fields remain green and if anything, a little too much grass for this time of year, but with the frosts it will stop growing, frost is so important to kill off some of the bugs, disease etc. and open up the soil structure. Paul and I take the rainfall figures using the gauge Jack had before us – it’s in imperial. We had 40.27 inches in 2020, and over a decade the average is 40.49 on our farm. We planted broad beans back in late October, they are now up

and about three inches tall, planting them in the autumn avoids black fly later on. We have had a few mornings when the water troughs were frozen and Tom had a spot of bother in the milking parlour, but nothing too terrible. The children were all hoping for snow, which

would have been nice for them, but the farm, may be not! n Kimbers Farm Shop. BA9 8HD on the B3081 Bruton to Wincanton road. Open: Tuesday – Friday 9.30am – 5pm Saturday 10am – 4pm (winter opening times)

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

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

WESSEX METALS STURMINSTER NEWTON & BLANDFORD AREA WANTED

SCRAP METAL RECYCLING

Scrap Metal, Cars, Heavy and Light Iron Farm And Factory Clearance Weighbridge

TOP PRICES PAID Skips/HAIB lorry available for onsite collection Tel 01258 860 166 or 07974 822 243 85

Farming Free transition Q&A sessions WEDNESDAY 27th JANUARY SALE OF DAIRY 12 In Calf Friesian Holstein Heifers 3 Fleckvieh In Calf Heifers 1 Montbeliarde x In Calf Heifer 8 Jersey In Calf Heifers ALL DUE FEB/MARCH TO PEDIGREE HEREFORD BULL LOWESMOOR 1 PEDRO Surplus to Requirements Grass Silage Cake in Parlour system Big emphasis on Grazing System housed since December Herd Ave 7,500 Litres 4.5% BF 3.4% PRO More entries expected FRIDAY 29TH JANUARY Breeding Sheep Sale to be held the last Friday in the month FRIDAY FEBRUARY 5TH & 12TH CANDLEMAS SALES !!!! Large numbers expected Entries now being taken Strict Social Distancing rules apply. Everyone to provide their own face masks and gloves. Face masks to be worn at all times Website: www.fromelivestock.com 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!

The Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group (FWAG) is holding two free Q&A sessions on the Agricultural Transition Period Policy Update next week. The 90-minute sessions (you only need to attend one) are free for members, and will offer an insight into Defra’s Agricultural Transition Plan 2021-2024,

published late last year. The update includes details of may of the changes to farm payments and grants expected over the next three years. In each session there will be a presentation covering issues of reducing direct payments and how environmental concerns, productivity and animal health will be addressed after Brexit. Members will also be able to put their opinions on policy to Defra Country Outfitters via the group. (Justin J Frampton) R.F.D.13D FWAG has supported farmers to New or Secondhand Shot & Air Guns, Rifles be sustainable and Repairs. Game, Coarse & and profitable Sea Angling Equipment for 50 years and hopes to inform the We provide a friendly, local service government at competitive prices. Based at Redlynch near Bruton, we supply Car, Est in policy Commercial, Agricultural, Plant & 4x4 1886 tyres and offer a 24hr breakdown service. making We won’t be beaten on price. which affects 3 West Street, Blandford Forum, Call us on its members. Dorset DT11 7AW 01749 813957 or jay@conyers.biz The two 07971 012628 www.conyers.biz sessions will at us find or Tel: 01258 452307 www.southwestyreservices.co.uk Mob: 07973 642278 be held this Tuesday (26th) at 7.30pm and Mobile Service Thursday Agricultural Specialist (28th) at Over 35 year’s Experience noon. NIGEL MARTIN Go to 07921 929891 fwagsw.org.u k for more WANTED! details, to Quads, ATVs, farm & plant machinery, compact tractors, mini diggers, book, and to dumpers, trailers, commercial mowers, join the Landcruiser 80s,fishingboats, caravans, forklifts, workshop clearances group.

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Farming G R E E N S L A D E TAY L O R H U N T Forthcoming Fodder Sale

Telephone: 01278 410250. Email: livestock@gth.net SEDGEMOOR AUCTION CENTRE, NORTH PETHERTON, SOMERSET, TA6 6DF (M5, J24) Saturday 23rd January at 1.00pm Collective Fodder Auction Entries to include: Hay................................. 25 Round at Axbridge; 25 Round at Bridgwater; 100 Conv at Chard; 30 Square at Highbridge; 55 Quad at Honiton; 70 Round & 25 Quad at Langport; 300 Conv, 100 Round & 15 Square at Taunton; 150 Round at Wedmore. Silage............................. 25 Round Bridgwater; 655 Tonnes at Crewkerne; 30 Square at Cullompton; 60 Square at Dulverton; 50 Round at Hemyock; 100 Round at Highbridge; 70 Round at Langport; 132 Round at Taunton; 200 Round at Wells; 25 Round at Williton. Straw............................. 60 Round at Dulverton; 36 Quad at Taunton.

Plus trailer/lorry loads of Straw and Hay to be delivered ** Further entries invited **

Forthcoming Deadstock Sales

SEDGEMOOR AUCTION CENTRE, NORTH PETHERTON, SOMERSET, TA6 6DF (M5, J24)

WEDNESDAY 3rd FEBRUARY at 10.30am

(Items to be delivered Tuesday 2nd February between 9:30am-4:30pm)

WANTED

TRACTORS, MACHINERY, HORTICULTURAL EQUIPMENT ETC ** To be sold from the rostrum in the hall to adhere to social distancing ** Live bidding on Marteye, please register in advance.

FEBRUARY Wed 17th............... ** ONLINE MACHINERY AUCTION ** at https://gth.auctionmarts.com.

The Dispersal Sale of 3 Tractors, Truck, ATV, Farm Machinery, Fodder, Dairy & Livestock Equipment & Effects for DJ & WM Warren (South Molton, North Devon). Viewing available by appointment only.

Forthcoming Dairy Sale

FEBRUARY Thurs 11th............. SEDGEMOOR AUCTION CENTRE. The February Collective Dairy Sale of Freshly Calved Cows, Heifers, Youngstock & Bulls. ** Further Entries Invited **

Land for Sale

A single block of enclosed amenity land extending to approximately 0.141 acres (0.057 ha) at Odcombe, Somerset. For sale by Informal Tender. Tender deadline Tuesday 26th January 2021 at 12 noon. GUIDE PRICE: In Excess of £15,000. Contact Sedgemoor Of昀ce: 01278 410250

Sedgemoor Auction Centre

North Petherton, Somerset, TA6 6DF (M5, Junction 24). Telephone: 01278 410278 www.gth.net TOTAL STOCK FOR THE WEEK 6555 Stock from across the West Country, sold to buyers from throughout the Nation Returns for Saturday 16th January 2021

DAIRY CATTLE (68) Heifers to £2220. Others £2020. Cows to £1900. Others £1880. (1404) STORE CATTLE & STIRKS - FORWARD STORES (963) Steers to £1440 (BRBX). Others £1400 (CHX) £1375 (AA) & £1360 (LIMX). Heifers to £1280 (AA). Others £1235 (2x CHX) £1225 (BRBX) £1220 (CHX) & £1215 (LIMX). GRAZING COWS (10) to £1115 (HF). SUCKLERS (192) to £2190. Bulls to £2400. STIRKS (250) Steers to £1000 (LIMX). Others £990 (CHX) £910 (LIMX) & £900 (CHX). Heifers to £892 (LIMX). Others £810 (CHX) & £805 (HEX). CALVES (225) - Beef Bulls to £375 (LIMX). Others £368 (BRB) £365 (3x BRB) & £362 (BRB). Heifers to £355 (SIMX). Others £290 (BRB) & £280 (LIMX). Black & Whites to £125. Others £118. (3391) SHEEP STORE LAMBS – Friday (2163) to £131 (2x). Others £129, £119 & £118. Overall Ave £97.80. CULL EWES & RAMS (1077) Ewes to £143. Others £137 & £132. Rams to £147. Others £128 & £121. Overall Ave £80.17. COUPLES (32E & 41L) Doubles to £240 (£80/life). Singles to £175 (£87.50/life). Overall Ave £80.90/life. GOATS (33) to £130. Overall Ave £93.68. ORPHAN LAMBS (45) to £27. Overall Ave £20.73. (218) PIGS – WEANERS (80) to £50. CULL SOWS & BOARS (16) to £32. FORWARD STORES (122) to £118.

The West Country’s Gateway to National Abattoirs Returns for Monday 18th January 2021

PRIME CATTLE (133) Steers UTM av 201.1ppk to 225.0ppk & £1,551.55. Others 221.0ppk (2x) 217.0ppk & 215.0ppk. Others £1,532.65, £1,530.90, £1,516.90, £1,493.26, £1,487.20. Heifers UTM av 195.2ppk to 224.5ppk and £1,369.90. Others 219.0ppk, 214.0ppk & 212.5ppk. Others £1,341.96, £1,324.55, £1,302.08, £1,294.44 & £1,287.90. BARREN COWS (87) Continental av 149.8ppk to 180.5ppk and £1,507.18. Others 179.5ppk. Others £1,355.23. Native Beef av 106.2ppk to 128.5ppk and £1,103.82. Others 126.5ppk. Others £972.70. Dairy av 115.2ppk to 145.5ppk and £1,201.09. Others 134.5ppk. Others £1,187.28. FINISHED SHEEP (1026) Hogg ave 259.35ppk to 272.0ppk (3x) and £135.00. Others 270.0ppk, 268.0ppk & 267.0ppk (4x). Others £129.00, £128.00 & £127.00 (6x). Lamb ave 257.62ppk to 259.0ppk & £106.00.

FORTHCOMING SPECIAL SALES

For full rules on market attendance and up to date sales list please refer to our website https://www.gth.net/sedgemoor-auction-centre and/or Saturday market report https://www.gth.net/market-reports. Please note with immediate effect and until further notice we are having to reintroduce a Drop & Go system.

JANUARY

Fri 22nd................. Store Lambs Gates Open 12 Sale 4pm Sat 23rd................ Monthly Sale of Native Store Cattle 10am Ring 2 Sat 23rd................ Collective Fodder Auction 1pm Wed 27th............... Orange Market Dedicated Sale for bTB Restricted Cattle. Store Cattle – 15 Months & Over, Prime Cattle & Barren Cows. Sale commences 4.30pm Fri 29th.................. Store Lambs Gates Open 12 Sale 4pm Sat 30th................. Fortnightly Sale of Pigs 11am

FEBRUARY

Fri 5th.................... Store Lambs Gates Open 12 Sale 4pm Sat 6th................... Monthly Catalogued Sale of Organic Store Stock 10am Ring 2 Fri 12th.................. Store Lambs Gates Open 12 Sale 4pm Sat 13th................. Monthly Seasonal Catalogued Sale of In Lamb Ewes 12pm Sat 13th................. Monthly Catalogued Sale of Suckler Cows, Calves, Heifers & Bulls 12.30pm Ring 1 Sat 13th................. Special Sale of Busk Calves 11am Ring 3 87

Property

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Head Office: 01963 34065 email: enquiries@armishaws.com www.armishaws.com 88

Property

LIVE ONLINE SALE OF FODDER TUESDAY 26TH JANUARY 2021 IMPORTANT: • The Sale will commence at 12.00 noon on Tuesday 26th January 2021 • Viewing strictly by prior arrangement with vendors - no exceptions • We are happy to assist any prospective purchasers with commission bids these must be received no later than 9.30am on the day of Sale • Lots will be split into smaller numbers for load purposes • Please use Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge as your web browser when viewing or to bid • Bale sizes given are for guidance only

Silage/Haylage East Farm, Winterborne Whitechurch, Blandford, DT11 9AW 300 Tons 1st & 2nd cut grass Silage, unopened clamp. Awaiting analysis Oaks Farm, Stalbridge Lane, Sturminster Newton, DT10 2JQ 135 Tons Clamp 2017 1st cut Organic grass Silage, made May 2017 Analysis: DM: 30.6% D Val: 72% ME: 11.6mj CP: 16.1% Removal by end of April 2021, purchaser to load

Straw

Hook Valley Farm, Wincanton, BA9 8AD 375 Tons 2020 Clamp grass Silage, unopened clamp, purchaser to load Analysis: DM: 41.9% DVal: 68.3% ME: 10.9mj CP: 11.6% 104 x 80 x 90 by 5’6” Bales Silage, not spiked, stacked on concrete, purchaser to load

Caswell Farm, Ryme Intrinseca, Sherborne, DT9 6JP 50 x 80 x 70 Bales winter Wheat Straw, barn stored 150 x 80 x 70 Bales spring Barley Straw, barn stored

Hunthay Farm, Axminster, EX13 5RJ 195 x Round Bales 1st cut chopped Silage, not Spiked purchaser to load 227 x Round Bales 2nd cut chopped Silage, not spiked purchaser to load

Beaulieu Wood Farm, Buckland Newton, DT2 7DG 140 x 80 x 70 Bales winter Wheat Straw, barn stored

Colecroft Farm, Membury, Axminster, EX13 7AF 137 x Round Bales 1st cut chopped Silage, not spiked 138 x Round Bales 2nd cut chopped Silage, not spiked

The Silage Barns, Charlton Lane, Ludwell, Shaftesbury, SP7 0EW 50 x 80 x 70 Bales Oat Straw, barn stored 100 x 80 x 70 Bales spring Barley Straw, barn stored

Caswell Farm, Ryme Intrinseca, Sherborne, DT9 6JP 80 x 80 x 70 x 4’ Bales Silage/Haylage, not spiked

PLEASE VISIT symondsandsampson.auctionmarts.com TO VIEW THE ONLINE CATALOGUE AND REGISTER PRIOR TO THE AUCTION

East Farm, Winterborne Whitechurch, Blandford, DT11 9AW 75 x Quadrant Bales winter Wheat Straw, barn stored Gorecombe Farm, Thornicombe, Blandford, DT11 9AG 75 x Quadrant Bales spring Barley Straw, barn stored Dullar Farm, Dullar Lane, Sturminster Marshall, BH21 4AB 75 x Quadrant Bales spring Barley Straw, barn stored Peaton Farm, Lytchett Matravers, Poole, BH16 6HP 100 x wrapped Round Bales winter Wheat Straw, not spiked

Duntish Farm, Duntish, Buckland Newton, DT2 7DS 100 x Round Bales 2nd & 3rd cut Silage, not spiked Lower Farm, Mundens Lane, Alweston, Sherborne, DT9 5HU 70 x 120 x 90 Bales 2nd cut Haylage, not spiked Glebe Farm, Charlton Marshall, Blandford, DT11 9DE 150 x 80 x 70 x 4’6” Bales rye grass Haylage, not spiked East Farm, Hammoon, Sturminster Newton, DT10 2DB 200 x Round Bales Red Clover mix Certificated Organic Haylage, not spiked

Littleton Dairy Farm, Blandford St Mary, DT11 9NB 70 x Quadrant Bales spring Barley Straw, barn stored

Crab Dairy, Park Lane, Shapwick, Blandford, DT11 9JL 50 x Round Bales Haylage, not spiked 50 x 120 x 90 x 5’ Bales Haylage, not spiked

Manor Farm, Birch Close, Blandford, DT11 9AJ 100 x Quadrant Bales winter Wheat Straw, barn stored

An Online buyer’s surcharge of 1.5% of the total lot value is applicable All Lots to be paid for immediately on receipt of invoice Removal within 4 weeks and loading available unless stated otherwise

Bainley Hill Farm, Gillingham, SP8 5PD 195 x 120 x 70 (5 String) Bales winter Barley Straw, barn stored

FARM DISPERSAL SALE

Hay Grenville Farm, Corscombe, Dorchester, DT2 0NP 230 x Quadrant Bales 2020 Certificated Organic Hay, barn stored Berkley Farm, Boys Hill, Holnest, Sherborne, DT9 5PJ 40 x 80 x 70 Bales 2019 Hay, barn stored, purchaser to load Moor Court Farm, Sturminster Marshall, BH21 4AH 40 x 80 x 70 Bales May 2020 Hay, barn stored, can deliver locally East Farm, Hammoon, Sturminster Newton, DT10 2DB 24 x Round Bales Certificated Organic Hay, barn stored

Friday 12th February LOWER LANGDON FARM, BEAMINSTER, DORSET DT8 3NN Live Online Sale of Genuine Farm Dispersal on behalf of TR & LC Ford (surrendering the tenancy) John Deere 6430 with Quicke Loader, McCormick CX95 & International 784 Tractors, Ford Ranger Pick Up, Kuhn 15.1DL Mixer Wagon (3yrs old), Krone Swadro 800/26 Twin Rotor Rake, Portequip 26’ Bale Trailer, Kverneland Fertiliser Spreader with Crane, KRM 6m Grass Harrows with Seeder, AG150 Sand/Sawdust Dispenser, Major 2400gln Vacuum Tanker, Storth 20’ Lagoon Mixer, IAE Cattle Crush, 3 x 20’ John Shepherd TMR Feeders, Fencing Stakes, Silage Pit Secure Covers, Livestock Equipment and Miscellaneous. Mark Northcott 07798 645274, Greg Ridout 07817 517467 Rachael Holder 07772 310482

VALUATIONS | AMC AGENTS | PLANNING | RURAL GRANTS

Property LIVESTREAM AUCTION 12 February 2021 DORSET DEVON HAMPSHIRE SOMERSET WILTSHIRE LONDON

Ludwell Hill

Guide £25,000 A parcel of undeveloped scrubland extending to 0.13 acres (0.05 hectares) adjoining the Grove Arms on the A30.

Nr Stalbridge

Guide £230,000 A 3 bedroom former school house for modernisa on, set in 0.35 acre, surrounded by open countryside. EPC=G.

Wimborne

Yeovil 01935 423526

Sturminster 01258 473766

Wimborne 01202 843190

Sherborne

Guide £300,000 A Grade II Listed former brewery, converted in the 1990’s to form an impressive 5 bedroom town house. EPC Exempt.

W’bourne S ckland Guide£275,000

Spe sbury

A decep vely spacious 3 bedroom picture postcard co age with garden of approx.230’. EPC=F.

Guide £225,000 A character 23 bedroom co age with poten al, and a garden of 0.27 of an acre fron ng the River Stour. EPC=E.

Sherborne 01935 814488

Wimborne 01202 843190

Blandford 01258 452670

Bishops Caundle

Guide £195,000 A semidetached 3 bedroom house for modernisa on, with garden and stunning country views. EPC=E.

Bishops Caundle.

Guide £95,000 A building plot with planning for a detached, 3 bedroom house with car port, garden and open views.

Silton

Sturminster 01258 473766

Sturminster 01258 472244

PLANNING

Guide £350,000 A detached 3 bedroom co age in 0.36 of an acre, in an secluded posi on on the edge of the town. EPC=G.

Guide £440,000 (Whole) A detached 3 bedroom Woolaway bungalow with poten al, and 23.50 acres. Available in 4 lots. EPC=E.

VALUATIONS

BUILDING SURVEY

Property

U OF ND FE ER R

QUALIFIED EXPERIENCED PROFESSIONAL

Guide £600,000 A spacious, detached 4 bedroom bungalow with scope to modernise, set in a ﬁne loca on approached by a private driveway and with a generous sized garden. EPC=E.

Bagber

Guide £875,000 A spacious detached house and fantas c home studio / annexe in wonderful rural loca on with ﬁne far reaching views and about 5 acres. EPC=D.

Dorchester 01305 261008

Sturminster 01258 473766 U OF NDE FE R R

Godmanstone

Broadoak

Oﬀer in Excess £550,000 A detached 3 bedroom bungalow with considerable poten al to modernise, set in appox 0.5 acre gardens in a sought a er rural hamlet. EPC=D.

Caundle Marsh

Sturminster 01258 473766

Sherborne 01935 814488

Winterborne Kingston

Guide £975,000 Two 3 bedroom bungalows and a 1 bedroom annexe, situated on the outskirts of the village backing onto farmland, with good sized gardens, workshops and 2 small paddocks. EPC=C.

Buckhorn Weston

Blandford 01258 452670

Sturminster 01258 473766

SALES

LETTINGS

AUCTIONS

Guide £750,000 A beau fully presented 3 bedroom detached house, surrounded by open countryside with a triple car port and a rac ve gardens of approx. 0.34 of an acre. EPC=C.

Guide £475,000 A wellposi oned, detached 4bedroom house in this sought a er village, with garage, parking, conservatory and gardens. EPC=D.

Property

A productive poultry farm with two sheds in an attractive area of Somerset Two poultry sheds (circa. 40,600 sq. ft. Gross External Area in total) • Two 199kW biomass boilers • Private rural setting • Additional buildings • Freehold for sale by private treaty as a whole. Guide £500,000

About 2.27 acres

Talk to us today David Cross Savills Salisbury 01722 426820 salisbury@savills.com

Stacey Hone Rural Agency Assistant 01722 426839 stacey.hone@savills.com

savills.co.uk what can we do for you?

Property

EW N

N EW

National Country & Equestrian Property Specialists

Chilmark, Wiltshire Unique four bedroom character home with paddocks, stables, detached annexe and swimming pool situated in the highly desired Nadder Valley 4.9 Acres £1,000,000

EW N

ST old C

Tidworth, Wiltshire Stunning contemporary detached barn conversion in a private gated setting with paddocks, woodland & stables 2.6 Acres £1,250,000

Woodford Valley, Wiltshire Charming detached three bedroom family home with a private garden set in the heart of the Woodford Valley Garden £790,000

EW N

N EW

Mere, Wiltshire A truly immaculate and individual three bedroom property in rural location with paddocks and stabling 1.75 Acres £825,000

Wylye, Wiltshire An utterly charming Grade II listed country home which has been greatly enhanced, situated in the highly desired village of Wylye Garden £750,000

Codford, Wiltshire Period three bedroom family home with workshop and garaging in the Wylye Valley, close to good facilities and great communication links Garden £495,000

Call the Country and Village Specialists if you are Looking to Sell in 2021 01722 782 727 or email maddie@foxgrant.com

foxgrant.com COUNTRY & VILLAGE

FARMS, LAND & SMALLHOLDINGS

EQUESTRIAN SPECIALISTS

TOURISM & LEISURE

Property

hapman

oore

For the Complete Property Package. Agents for Residential, Commercial, Property Investment & Management. Sold

Close to Town Centre

No Forward Chain

ZEALS

GILLINGHAM

More Properties Required Contact Andrew Bonnet or Sue Moore

Det 3 Bed Gdn Gge Pkg

Mid Terr 2 Bed Gdn Pkg

D 3 Bed Conservatory Gdn Gge

Viewing Recommended

Price Reduction

Price £275,000

Price £170,000

Price £245,000

Age Restriction

Viewing Recommended

GILLINGHAM

STALBRIDGE

Modern 4 Bed En Clk Gdn Gge

Semi Det 3 Bed Garden

FF 2 Bed 2 Rec Car Space

SD 3 Bed Clk Cons Gdn Gge

Price £280,000

Price £195,000

Wyke

Age Restriction

Price £125,000

Price £235,000

Viewing Recommended

GILLINGHAM

D 5 Bed En 2 Rec Clk Ut Gdn Gge

Mid Ter 2 Bed Clk Gdn Pkg

FF 1 Bed Com Gdn Pkg

Viewing Recommended

Guide Price £380,000 D

Sold

Price £187,500

Viewing Recommended

2nd Fl 1 Bed 2 Rec Com Garden

Price £118,000

Price Reduction

Price £99,950

N/A

Price Reduction

GILLINGHAM

SD 3 Bed En Clk Gdn Pkg

More Properties Required Contact Andrew Bonnet or Sue Moore

End Ter 2 Bed Garden Pkg

SD 3 Bed Con Gdn Gge Pkg

Price £222,500

No Forward Chain

Price £250,000

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

Price £219,000

Property

Super opportunities for development The bungalow at Silton

Symonds & Sampsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first auction of 2021 offers some superb properties and projects, providing tremendous opportunities for those ready and able to complete their purchase before the stamp duty holiday ends in March. On offer there are stylish town houses in Wareham

Little Stickland

and Sherborne, character cottages in Winterborne Stickland and South Perrott, parcels of land at St Leonards and Ludwell, a building plot at Bishops Caundle, a bungalow with potential with 23.50 acres at Silton, a cottage with land at Netherbury and no fewer than six renovation/

modernisation projects across the county. Agents use their professional knowledge and experience to guide vendors to the most appropriate method Contact Mark Lewis on 01258 473766 or Meredith Holmes on 01202 843190. Go to symondsandsampson.co.uk/ auctions/search

WANTED to Purchase within 15 miles Dorchester Approx. an acre of land as an allotment , safe area for grandson with cerebral palsey and bolthole. 01305 264285 BLANDFORD TOWN CENTRE, studio flat, self contained. separate kitchen, separate shower and wc, central heating, Rent ÂŁ450 pcm. 07916 310432 ELDERLY COUPLE WISH TO RENT HOUSE OR BUNGALOW, radius of 10 miles of Castle Cary (country), 01373 813091

ALL THIS IS AVAILABLE AT

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