The New Blackmore Vale Magazine by The Blackmore Vale Limited

Edition 8

w e n he

Friday, January 8, 2021

Blackmore Vale

Fortnightly

FREE

TANKS FOR THE MEMORIES: Michael Farrow at the Blackmore Vale Filling Station and inset, the garage in the 90s

It’s been a gas – but we can’t carry on By Steve Keenan sport@blackmorevale.net

The Farrow family have hung up their fuel hoses at the legendary Blackmore Vale Filling Station after 55 years in charge. In an age of DIY and selfservice, BVFS customers

always found attendants on hand to help fill the tank, check the oil, water and tyres and wash the windscreen. But with costs rising and customer numbers declining, owner Michael Farrow has turned off the pumps and shut up shop. “The volume of passengers

recently has just made it uneconomic for us to open,” he said. “Our customers were primarily elderly or disabled people. It was a big thing for us and it has been a pleasure to serve them – but the throughput was just not making sense. I had to make

a decision because of the wages.” His four staff have been paid off but Michael is not leaving the Sherborne Causeway site, which his parents Fred and Joan bought in 1966 as a filling station and adjoining café. n Turn to pages 72 and 73

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

79 32-35 60-61 33 49-53 72 64-65 76-77 80-83 79 36-41 46-48 28-32 19 62-63 42-45 68-71 58-59 66-67

n Lucy’s remarkable century: Page 4... n Marking history in a roundabout way: Page 13... n Blessed are the cheesemakers: Pages 36-37

Property Puzzles

85-87 56-57, 66-67

Recruitment Sport

54-55 73-75

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

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

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

Karen Bate

Sharon Evans

News editor

Classified adverts

karen.bate@ blackmorevale.net

classified@ blackmorevale.net Tel: 01963 400186

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

DEADLINES 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

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

Commercial manager newsdesk@ blackmorevale.net

Dad thanks detectorist who rushed to help By Karen Bate newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

A dad from Milborne Port was distraught after losing his wedding ring during a cycle ride on a cold and rainy afternoon just after Christmas. James Bennett thought his precious wedding ring was lost forever when he couldn’t find the ring. But remembering the gentle BBC 3 television show, The Detectorists, he enjoyed in the summer, he decided to do a quick Google search to find his nearest metal detector club – and Yeovil Metal Detecting Club member Roger Evans came up trumps. James said: “A few days after Christmas I went for a cycle ride. I was a couple of miles from home in Mapperton when I had a puncture so I stopped at a gateway to a muddy field. “The weather was terrible. It was cold, raining and very

muddy. I was wet and cold when I fixed the puncture and my hands were cold and gritty. “I fixed the puncture and carried on, stopping about three times to look at my map before heading home. “The next day I was with my two-year-old son in a shop and was just about to pay when I realised my wedding ring was missing from my finger. I had that horrible sinking feeling when I realised I had probably lost it during my cycle ride the day

before, most likely when I had been fixing the puncture. “My heart sank. “I knew where I had changed the tyre so spent about 45 minutes looking, but the grass was very long and it was so muddy, I couldn’t find it. I searched at the places where I had stopped to look at the map, but nothing. I felt it was a lost cause.” He added: “My wife Claire and I enjoyed The Detectorists and I just wondered if there was a local club who may be able to help. I stumbled upon the Yeovil Metal Detecting Club and much to my surprise, the website states it can do wedding ring retrieval. “I rang Roger and asked if he could help me find my wedding ring. I couldn’t believe it when he said he would meet me at the gateway in Clacton Lane in half an hour. “I met Roger but the weather

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was atrocious, lashing down with icy sleet, but he was not at all worried about the weather. “And amazingly, within five minutes of his search beginning, he located my wedding ring. “The relief I felt was overwhelming. I cannot say how extremely grateful I am to him for his kindness. He would not accept any money, and I would just like to express my thanks to him and the club.” Roger has been a member of the Yeovil Metal Detector Club for some 35 years and said club members very occasionally get asked to find a missing ring. “I was working when James rang, but I had about an hour to spare while I was waiting, so I headed straight over to Mapperton,” said Roger. “It didn’t take long to find the ring and I was more than happy to help.”

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Lucy reflects on a remarkable century

Lucy with a card from the Queen

A former nurse who celebrated her 100th birthday just before Christmas and who still keeps in touch with a school friend has reflected on her fascinating life. Lucy Beaver Thomas, who lives in Lydlinch, was surprised by The Stalbridge Singers, who sang her favourite songs in her daughter’s garden on her special day – Lucy has often attended Stalbridge Singers choir practice with her daughter. Her grandchildren also bought her a tree, which Lucy planted, and her neighbours decorated her lane with bunting, balloons and banners while she was out. Lucy was the youngest of five children of two missionaries. She was born in Lahore, then in the Punjab, India, now the capital of Pakistan’s Punjab province. When she was 18 months old

her mother took the children to England on a P&O ship. She remembers sailing through the Suez Canal and her excitement at seeing camels. In England they spent time with family before leaving Lucy’s elder sisters and brother at boarding school. She and her brother David returned to India, where Lucy remained until she was seven. She has fond memories of sleeping on the flat roof of their bungalow and being taken up to a hill station in the foothills of the Himalayas when the weather was too hot. Her father had to remain behind and he wrote rhymes and drew pictures for each day until they could be together again. When she joined her siblings at boarding school aged seven she was Will Writing & Legacy Planning most surprised Protect Your Assets from Care Costs to find & Inheritance Tax stairs on the inside Will writing of houses. Lasting Power of Attorneys She has Asset Protection Trusts known her Property Protection Trusts friend Pre-paid funeral plans Heather Inheritance Tax solutions & probate since she FREE home visits/Zoom meetings was two. Protect your family & your assets The pair FREE Consultations were at Fixed Prices on ALL products. boarding No hidden extras or expensive hourly billing school together and are amazingly Save on the expensive cost of High Street Solicitors still in Call us today on 07832 331594 touch.

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When she was 12 her parents returned to England and her father was minister of the parish in Haddlesey, Yorkshire. The children had a wonderful time Lucy with her siblings, below, and above, there during the with brother David. Top, the family school holidays. At 18, Lucy began her nurse’s training in Bournemouth but left after six months and went to Blandford Cottage Hospital. The war had just started and her brothers joined up. Her eldest on duty that night to help with brother was killed in North all the casualties from the Africa and the younger bombing. brother interned in a PoW Lucy returned to Blandford camp. Blandford Camp was Cottage hospital as a staff bombed and two German nurse and it was at a farewell planes shot down by Spitfires, party for the airmen at Tarrant the casualties sent to Rushton to which Lucy was Blandford Hospital. sent to look after the younger Lucy became an SRN and nurses that she met her went on to do midwifery at husband. She spent the the West Middlesex hospital evening drinking gin and in Isleworth. orange, sitting on Bill’s lap. V2 rockets were dropping on They married in 1949 and had London, demolishing whole two daughters. streets at a time. When the girls started school One fell on a factory near the Lucy continued working part hospital and blew in the time in the caring profession. labour ward window where Bill died in 1991 soon after he Lucy was with a mother about retired from the bank. to have her baby. Lucy said: “The war brought us The baby arrived in double all together but the pandemic is quick time and Lucy stayed keeping us all apart.”

Action call after car ploughs into garden By Karen Bate newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

Members of Child Okeford Parish Council are worried a ‘tragedy will happen sooner or later’ unless traffic calming measures are put in place after a car ploughed into a village garden. The accident is just one of four which have happened in Child Okeford over the last two months with villagers and parish councillors becoming increasingly concerned for the safety and welfare of residents in the busy village, with lots of pedestrians and no pavements. The parish council has approached Dorset Highways over many years, urging the organisation to introduce measures to slow cars down and keep the village safer. But to no avail.

SHOCK: The car in the garden in Haywards Lane

In the most recent car accident, the vehicle crashed in Haywards Lane, ploughing into the garden of resident Amy Church. “It’s a very worrying time now as you would never expect a car coming into the garden,” said Amy. “I have had to change my front room around because I

am so anxious. My door gets locked all the time. I walk as fast as I can to the car and from the car to the house. “People say it wouldn’t happen again, but what were the chances of it happening the first time?” Parish councillor Tim Cotton said: “We are concerned about the impact this accident has had on Amy and her family. I think anyone would be upset by a car veering off the road and into their front garden. “Unfortunately, this was the second such incident in the centre of the village in the last month and we are worried that without some changes to the management of traffic in Child Okeford, there could be an even more

tragic event in future. “The roads through Child Okeford are heavily used, especially in the morning by people taking school children to St Nicholas Primary School in Child Okeford and to Clayesmore School in Iwerne Minster. “There is a 20mph speed limit through the village but few drivers take any notice of it. “The parish council and other residents have for many years asked the Highways Agency for traffic calming measures but we haven’t been successful yet.” Cllr Cotton added: “Our fear is that it will take a tragedy before they agree to do anything about it.” No one from the Highways Agency was able to comment at the time of going to press.

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Lockdown III – time to explore lovely The NBV’s Steve Keenan describes the top ten shorter walks in the Vale. n The original piece included details of cafes and pubs en route, but sadly you will have to take a Thermos now. And ensure walks are only a short drive from your home... The Blackmore Vale is blessed with a number of Big Walks including the North Dorset Trailway, Stour Valley Way, The White Hart Link and Wessex Ridgeway. Which we very grateful for. But in January, the weather is more conducive to a shorter walk. Two or three miles maybe, and back to a warm place within an hour. Last year certainly saw us getting outside more, walking the dog more and being grateful for living in such a gloriously rural part of

the world. ViewRanger is an app and website that hosts hundreds of walking routes posted by individuals, and a spokesman said that activity on its sites shot up spectacularly in the spring. “We looked at 300 of our most popular walking routes over the spring and summer 2020, then compared to a similar period before spring. “We found a stunning 151% increase in activity overall. “This is partly explained by seasonal factors but it also shows that taking our exercise in the fresh air, socially distanced, formed a vital part of our physical and mental wellbeing.” So we asked ViewRanger to dig out which were the 10 most popular short walks in our area in 2020, by order of popularity – and here they are. More details and maps of the 10 walks at:

my.viewranger.com/route/cur ations/1349 Chard reservoir, Somerset: Length, 2.44 miles. Surface, smooth. Difficulty, easy. A lovely walk around the reservoir, mostly on paved paths including the old Taunton to Chard railway line, so it’s great for winter walks. Look out for the bird hide and the ruined boathouse. Horton Tower, Dorset: Length, 2.29 miles. Surface, moderate. Difficulty, medium. Park in Drusilla’s Inn, a closed pub now up for sale. The first and last parts of the walk are on the road, the rest across fields to the fivestorey Gothic red brick tower. Glorious views. Oborne, Dorset: Length, 2.03 miles. Surface, moderate. Difficulty, medium.

Between Sherborne and Milborne Port, this circular walk takes you along Vartenham Hill escarpment. You can park near the railway bridge, at the end of Donkey Lane, or in Milborne Port. Gold Hill, Shaftesbury: Length, 2.9 miles. Surface, moderate. Difficulty, medium. A walk that takes you through the town with views over the Vale, down Pine Walk to St James and French Mill Lane before climbing up the hill. Stourpaine to Hod Hill, Dorset: Length, 2.03 miles. Surface, moderate. Difficulty, medium. Park at The White Horse pub on the A350 then take a 400ft ascent to the old Roman Fort before heading back to the pub.

walks around the Blackmore Vale Charlton Horethorne Length: 2.2 miles (3.5km) Total ascent: 197ft This is an easy walk up a metalled track, around a field and back down through a coombe called The Cleeve, an undulating valley leading to the village pub. Take the road opposite St Peter and St Paul’s church. This is Cowpath Road, a clue as to where it leads. Just past Primrose Lodge on the left is a small car park next to the football pitch. Head past Centenary Cottages and up the gently rising track. The high sided hedges prevent views but pass by two sentinel trees either side the track and gaps and gates in the hedge begin to afford a better outlook. At its high point, the walk is 175m above sea level and the views are huge, to the

Wessex Ridgeway in the south and Alfred’s Tower 12 miles away to the north. The village lies below your feet to the east but the slope up to the west prevents a view bar an expanse of sky. An S-bend in the track reveals two five-bar gates ahead and it’s at this point that you are most exposed to

wind – a westerly on the day I walked it and I was glad of a hat. The gate to the left leads up to farm buildings. Take the other gate and walk the perimeter of the field keeping the hedge to your left in a dog leg shape. After a leisurely right, left, right, you’ll see the coombe

down below. You can descend from here and follow it around to the right. It’s a lovely walk back down the valley to the village through sheep and cattle pastures. There are two rickety stiles to contend with and on my winter walk, the mud at the second was knee deep. Another walker sensibly suggested walking up the slope to the left and climbing over a gate: small dogs can slither under the barbed wire. You can peel off to the right towards the first house you see which will take you back to Cowpath Road and your car. Or, when it is alowed to reopen, you can carry on down the coombe to the village and The Kings Arms, a very traditional country inn on the green, where in normal times you can enjoy a warming meal and a pint.

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By Nicci Brown newsdesk@ blackmorevale.net

Final touches were being made last month to the canopied and sculptured seats forming a public art installation at Badbury Heights, the housing estate built by Persimmon on the northern edge of Blandford. The canopied benches have been designed and created by Tim Ward of Circling the Square following his research amongst various local people into the history of Blandford and the site on which the estate has been constructed. There are references in the artwork not only to the rebuilding of the town after the fire of 1731, but also to the Pimperne maze and use of the area by Sir Alan Cobham. The installation has been made possible through a developer contribution of £52,000 from Persimmon, which needed to be spent by the end of 2020 or returned to the developers. The contribution to public art on the estate was a condition of planning approval for the development when it was given many years ago. Together with five benches provided on the estate the installation has cost £51,000, and the balance of the S106 contribution has been allocated by Blandford Town Council towards any future public art improvement and maintenance works at Badbury Heights. Work originally scheduled for earlier this year was

TAKE A SEAT: Town Mayor Lynn Lindsay with, standing behind, artist Tim Ward, and his contractors and, below, close-ups of the benches showing the Blandford Races, the livestock market, the Saxon and Roman eras, lace making and the Great Fire

Final touches are applied to town’s seats of learning

delayed by pandemic restrictions, but should by now be complete. Initial proposals for it to be sited on

a grassed area in the middle of the estate were resisted by residents, and the location changed to between

Shaftesbury Lane and Warrington Walk, where it can also be seen by the wider public.

Pupils’ gingerbread rainbow pays tribute to NHS workers Rainbow loving little ones at Buckland Newton Primary School put on their creative baking hats and made a gingerbread rainbow for their Christmas theme. Each year, Beech Class (reception and Year 1) make a gingerbread creation with a different theme, and this year 8

the children chose the NHS as their theme. Headteacher Nicola Ralph said: “This year the children chose to make a rainbow to thank the NHS for all they have done in the last year. “The children loved making it and also enjoyed eating it at their Christmas party.”

Thousands lost in heartless phone scam By Karen Bate newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

An elderly woman from Sherborne has been scammed out of thousands of pounds after being repeatedly targeted by a conman. Detectives investigating the incident are appealing for anyone with information to come forward and urging the public to remain vigilant. The woman, who lives in Lenthay Road, received a phone call on Monday, December 7 from a man claiming to be a police officer, who told her £11,000 had been taken from her account. The victim was asked to withdraw £7,000 but she was only able to withdraw £2,000. He said he was arranging for a plain clothes officer in an unmarked car to come and collect the cash.

Between 3pm and 4pm a man arrived in a white van and the victim handed over the money. The man is described as being in his early 20s, of slim build and clean shaven. On Tuesday, December 8, she received another call telling her to withdraw money and she again went to the bank and handed over another £2,000. The scammers also tried to get her to move £17,500 into an account but her bank stopped the transaction. On Friday, December 11 the

bogus officer phoned her to get her to withdraw £7,000. She went to the bank, who called police. Officers spoke to her and she realised she had been scammed. Weymouth CID Detective Constable Holly Spillman said: “We are investigating this series of scam calls and I am appealing to anyone who was in the area of Lenthay Road in Sherborne on the afternoon of Monday, December 7 or Tuesday, December 8 2020 and witnessed any suspicious activity, the man or vehicle

described, to please contact us. I would also urge anyone with dashcam who was driving in the area or residents with home CCTV systems to check their footage for anything relevant. “This victim was repeatedly targeted by these heartless scammers, she lost a significant amount of money and it could have been even more. We would like to remind everyone that neither police officers or your bank will ask you to withdraw money to be collected. They will also not ask for your PIN number. If you are in any doubt, hang up and call your bank directly.” Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at dorset.police.uk, email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or ring 101 quoting occurrence number 55200186260. Or phone Crimestoppers anonymously: 0800 555 111.

Spetisbury Station project manager Dean Cockwell with Santa’s post box

At Shillingstone Station, Santa welcomes Mary and family

Railway stations lent some festive magic as volunteers pulled out all the stops. The Spetisbury Station Project Group decorated the former station and installed a special post box for local children’s letters to Santa. A total of 76 letters, mainly from the Acorn, Ash and Elm classes at Spetisbury Primary

North Dorset Railway (NDR) also offered a signal box experience for children to ring the commutator bell and pull signal lever No. 14 (the ‘up’ starter signal). A ceremony officially opening the new disabled access ramp to the Mark 1 heritage carriage took place, with its designer and builder, trustee and

School, were individually replied to by Santa and his Little Helper. At Shillingstone station Santa and his elves welcomed children to ‘A magical experience’, with a grotto in the museum. More than 70 children collected their presents from Santa, and chief Elf, Peter Clark, was very popular!

volunteer Geoff Baker cutting the tape. NDRT would like to thank everyone for their donations during the year and the continual help from all their volunteers. Look out soon for more events during 2021 either at northdorsetrailway.co.uk or on their Facebook page S&DJRShillingstone. 9

Stalbridge homes go on the market Discover your new home at Blackmore Meadows. This exciting new development is located in pretty Stalbridge and enjoys a quiet setting with easy access to the A303, the perfect place to escape to the country. With its delightful range of three and four-bedroom homes, Blackmore Meadows offers spacious internal layouts and open plan living areas all designed around modern family living. The development is thoughtfully laid out, with homes scattered amongst green space and adjoining an area of existing woodland, your very own rural reality. Situated in the Blackmore Vale, Stalbridge enjoys the best of the Dorset countryside with an abundance of walks, far reaching views and charming country pubs just a stone’s throw away. Its thriving community makes Stalbridge the perfect place for all types

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A chance to listen to sounds of the Wessex Ridgeway By Steve Keenan newsdesk@ blackmorevale.net

A hoard of long-lost CDs with audio commentary recorded along Dorset’s stunning Wessex Ridgeway has been discovered hidden in a box. A lockdown clearout at Hardy’s Visitor Centre in Thorncombe Wood unearthed the box containing around 80 copies of the original CD – and they are being offered to anyone for free. The audio contains stories, anecdotes and history recorded along the 62 miles of the trail. At Shillingstone, for example, the sound of a steam train and a driver telling stories of 70mph railway speed limits through the village. Poems and songs feature along with stories including the Gaggle of Geese poultry auction. There’s talk of tractors and fayres and the views on offer across the Blackmore Vale. In all the commentary lasts 53 minutes. The box was found by Dorset ranger Claire Platten, who is based at the visitor centre and remembers the recording project about 15 years ago. “In lockdown, we had time to clear up the workshop and found this box at the back of the room. There used to be an old Ranger base at Thorncombe which was demolished to make way for the visitor centre and I knew the CDs had come over. They’ve just been buried for a while.” The Ridgeway starts at Ashmore, the highest village in Dorset a few miles from Shaftesbury. The trail then

tracks southwest to Lyme Regis, mostly along the great chalk ridge formed 100 million years ago. Dorset Council commissioned the audio journey “from the highest village to the sea” and split the 53-minute soundtrack into five sections of the route, each of 10-11 minutes duration. The first covers Ashmore to Shillingtone, then Shillingstone-Dorset Gap; Dorset Gap-Maiden Newton; Maiden Newton-Beaminster and finally, BeaminsterLyme Regis. The five recordings are still available at: tinyurl.com/y8epc2kj The discovery of 80 full length versions has encouraged Claire to offer them to anyone who is interested, particularly those who may be isolated, in care or is no longer able to walk the route. “A lot of people can’t get outside or have a friend or family member isolating at home who would love to be in the countryside, meeting people and listening to their stories. This is bringing the outside to those inside,” she said. About 20 of the CDs have already been snapped up after the story was mentioned on a Stepping into Nature project run by the Dorset AoNB. If you would like to receive a copy, then send a stamped, self-addressed A5 envelope to: Dorset Council Rangers’ Office, Hardy’s Birthplace Visitor Centre, Thorncombe Wood, Higher Bockhampton, Dorset DT2 8QH. There are still 60 CDs available on a first come, first served basis.

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Rosemary’s Naples talk BLANDFORD & District U3A will be holding a ‘virtual’ Open Meeting on January 29 at 2.30pm, when Rosemary Legrand will be giving a presentation on the gardens in the Bay of Naples. There is no charge to attend, and further information to secure an invitation to the meeting on Zoom is available by calling 01258 455081.

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Community support is welcomed by foodbank A toy appeal, a donation of more than £1,600 of fresh meat vouchers and the support of a local care home has helped the Blandford Foodbank provide for those in desperate need over the Christmas period. Following the success of the meat voucher appeal over the last two years, the Lions club and Stour Rotary kicked off this year’s appeal with donations of £300 each. A further £1,000 was raised on Facebook. Matos butchers added vouchers for £50. Blandford Foodbank manager Gail del Pinto said: “This is an amazing gift to the foodbank and we ensured that all our vulnerable families received a meat voucher alongside their Christmas Food parcel this Christmas. “Our very grateful thanks to the all those who have donated so generously and wonderfully. “Toys have also been donated to the foodbank from our recent Toy Appeal and from local benefactors and schools. Any family in need for toys needed to be referred to the foodbank.” The Foodbank has thanked a multitude of businesses, organisations and individuals which have donated to the funds, toys and food and acted as drop-off points for donations from the public, including The Computer Shop, Sandroyd School, HSBC Blandford, Diplomat House dental practice, Bryanston and Blandford Schools, villagers in

Sixpenny Handley, House of Sarrunds chocolates, Morrisons, Chaffers estate agents, the Langton Arms and Justine Templeman from Spoons of Dorset. Colten Care, with a number of homes in Dorset including Whitecliffe House in Blandford, almost next door to the foodbank, invited donors to drop off food in collection boxes at the sites or its head office in Ringwood, and donations in Blandford were taken round on days the foodbank was open. Colten Care also donated food directly and invited its regular suppliers to do the same. Mrs del Pinto said: “We have seen an upsurge of people needing help with food parcels and we are happy to report that the community has been hugely supportive of the work we are doing with our local vulnerable families. “But we have seen an increase in the number of people seeking help from our Community Money Advice scheme. “Appointments are available with our debt advisors, it’s all FREE and confidential and importantly there is no waiting list.” The Trussell Trust, another of the food bank networks being supported by Colten Care, has forecast a 61 per cent increase in demand this winter, and recently released a report about the impact of coronavirus on the use of food banks nationally.

A roundabout way to mark history The ancient history of Gillingham, once a Royal Forest, has been encapsulated with the stunning sculptures of a white stag and two red deer placed on the roundabout to the gateway of the town. Sculpture artist Pauline Dawkins has created the sculptures of a white stag and two red deer from recycled chicken wire following a commission from the former North Dorset District Council and Gillingham Town Council. The original idea came from local artist Janet Swiss, a former member of Gillingham’s Town Team, to represent Gillingham as a former Royal Forest favoured in Medieval times by King John and King Henry III. The forest was used to supply the Royal larder with meat and timbers

GATEWAY TO GILLINGHAM: The stag and deer on the roundabout

for Royal buildings. Janet said: “I am absolutely thrilled with the result.” Pauline said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed making this fabulous commission for Gillingham. The comments and support from the local

people of Gillingham have been amazing. I feel that everyone’s hard work has come together successfully.” Mayor of Gillingham, Barry von Clemens, said: “It’s fabulous to see the completion of this first part

of the Gateway Project, giving a positive image of our town to people as they enter Gillingham.” The White Hart appears in the town’s crest and is also used by Gillingham School and other organisations in the town. A stag is planned for the smaller roundabout at Peacemarsh and landscaping work will continue this year. However, a shortage of flower bulbs mean the spring bulbs planned for 2021 will be finished in autumn and ready for a gorgeous display in 2022. The works have been made possible thanks to a grant, which was received two years ago from the former North Dorset District Council and Gillingham Town Council to fund the refurbishment of the town’s roundabouts.

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Work to start on 90-home scheme By Nicci Brown newsdesk@ blackmorevale.net

The construction of the first 90 homes of Taylor Wimpey’s Gillingham Lakes development will start this month. The developer has also announced an outline application will be submitted shortly for 115 homes in phase two to the south. The first phase was approved in outline in May 2015 and granted detailed planning

permission, subject to conditions, in February 2019. A spokesman from Taylor Wimpey Southern Counties said: “We can confirm that Taylor Wimpey Southern Counties has now completed contracts on Gillingham Lakes Phase 1 and this has detailed planning permission for 90 homes, of which 20% is affordable. We will be starting on site in January 2021 with a sales information centre and show homes scheduled to open n The Shaftesbury Branch of Save the Children raised an impressive £1,300 during Christmas Jumper Week, with a number of hampers, goody bags and prizes donated by local residents and businesses won by local supporters at the Grand Draw at Wren’s Shop.

September/October 2021. “Additionally, we will be submitting our outline application for 115 homes (25% affordable) on the Phase 2 land imminently and this will be to the south of the Phase 1 site. We have also exchanged contracts on Phase 2 and will complete on this land in June 2022.” At the time of the initial application there was concern that the access off Addison Close onto an already congested “This has been a very difficult year for everyone,” said chairman Katie Page, pictured left on the stall, on behalf of the Shaftesbury branch committee. She added: “We are delighted to report that the Shaftesbury Branch of Save the Children has managed to raise £8,100 for the charity this year.” Left, Janet Howard receives her prize from Jenny Brockway, as does Emma Wareham and John, below, and Phil and Shirley Singer, below left.

Jewellery needed for breast cancer unit appeal

Yeovil Hospital Charity is staging a last push towards its £2million target for a breast cancer unit. Despite having been hit hard by the pandemic, the charity has still managed to raise more than £1.6million since n Text and photos launching the appeal in March 2019. by George Jeans The dedicated Breast Cancer Unit is on hold until the full sum is raised – building work will only start when they have enough money for the whole project. Maggie Hague, Breast Cancer Appeal volunteer, said: “During this current time, as like many charities, our fundraising events have had to be postponed or cancelled, making fundraising quite challenging. With that in mind, to help the appeal raise the much needed funds, we are asking people if they might like to look in their jewellery boxes for any unwanted jewellery, broken pieces of jewellery and watches, which they may like to donate.” council chairman Jinny Brockway, who Contact Maggie on 01963 250108. organised and presented the prizes. First To find out more about the appeal, go to went to Janet Howard at Dulifou. Joint yeovilhospital.co.uk/yeovil-hospitalsecond was Emma Wareham and John charity or call Sarah Cherry, community and Phil and Shirley Singer. and events fundraiser, on 01935 383020.

Villagers scoop prizes with their lights displays West Knoyle Parish Council organised a Christmas lights competition with a volunteer judge and donated prizes. This year even more houses in the village joined in. The judge was picked by parish

Gillingham road would lead to further problems for drivers and pedestrians, and that services would fail to keep pace with development, but they were overruled by North Dorset District Council’s planning committee, which was told that the intention was to continue the road south to New Road south of Lodden Lakes when the Gillingham extension went ahead. The land east of Lodden Lakes and north of the Gillingham extension had already been designated for housing in the then local plan, and planning officer Robert Lennis said the concerns raised at the outline stage would demonstrate to the developers, who also own the extension site to the south, how ‘steadfast’ the authority would be in requiring services to be provided.

Firms give to disadvantaged families Pictures: Anders Mattsson

Families of 73 disadvantaged children received food hampers thanks to the generosity of Sherborne businesses. Firms and shopkeepers banded together to produce hampers for disadvantaged children in the local community for Christmas. The hampers included a selection of food and other items to help ensure the children had an enjoyable Christmas this year despite any financial difficulties their families may be facing. Former Mayor David Birley, Ian Bartle, headteacher of Sherborne Primary School, and deputy head Phil Sales came up with the idea in November and were overwhelmed by the support they received. Twenty local businesses and organisations donated food, money, vouchers and festive treats to provide 73 hampers for families identified by Sherborne Primary as needing an extra helping hand this Christmas. Ian said: “During these challenging times of a sustained global pandemic, our lovely

town including all of the people and businesses within it, have worked together to support our most needy families and children. This is despite huge pressures on our local economy and their own businesses and livelihoods. I am truly humbled by their response and wish to thank each and every one of them for kindly and generously contributing to this worthy cause.” David said: “In Sherborne we are so lucky to have such a caring and generous community. We all know Christmas can be a difficult time for some families, particularly in this covid year. It has been an extremely hard year for businesses but everyone I approached was keen to help. It has been a privilege to help Ian with this project and work

with our community to have made this a special Christmas for these families.” n The local businesses which supported the project are: Reeve the Baker, J & M Parsons Butchers, Sherborne Market Store, Hunts Foodservice, Waitrose, Sainsbury’s, Kafe Fontana, Porter

Dodson Solicitors, Boots, Ecco Gelato, Lanham & Francis Chartered Accountants, Austyn’s Antiques, Remous Print, Old Barn Framing Gallery, The Cross Keys Pub, Winstone’s Books, Sherborne Girls’ School, Abacus Financial Options, local charity Stop the Rumble, and South West Signs.

All a board, for your information By Nicci Brown newsdesk@ blackmorevale.net

A new information board has been installed in Station Court at the entrance to the North Dorset Trailway detailing the history of the site which from 1863 to 1970 was home to Blandford Railway Station. The board shows a layout of the station describing its role as the main conduit for more than 100 years for freight including mail, coal, military equipment, household goods, brewery and agricultural equipment and products. There are pictures of the goods yard in operation, with photographs of railway workers in the 1940s, Winston Churchill’s visit with the King during the Second World War, the goods shed, and the view down onto the platform from

ON THE RIGHT TRACK: Alan Cross of Blandford Railway Club with David Rose, centre, and Graham Colls of Blandford Stour Rotary at the information board in Station Court. Inset: The information board detailing the layout of the former railway station site

the Alexandra Street iron bridge. The board has been commissioned by the Blandford Stour Rotary Club in association with the Blandford Railway Club as

one in a series of boards along the route of the former railway, and is part of a project launched by the Rotarians who from 2013 onwards established a fund to celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2018 by contributing to a worthwhile project. One of the projects chosen was to provide enhancements to the North Dorset Trailway to better present its past on

the route of the Somerset & Dorset Railway, and last year another information board was sited at the Milldown, site of the Second World War PoW camp, and the buffers at the end of the Trailway, originally put in place as a reminder of the ‘end of the line’ after the closure of the railway, were restored with the help of the Railway Club, Dorset Rangers and contractors Mark Farwell.

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Dorset Council is looking for feedback on its plans for a modern waste management centre for Blandford. The facility, to be built to the south of Sunrise Business Park, will replace the existing tip at Blandford Heights Industrial Estate. The current site is difficult for some residents to use and unable to meet the demands of the expanding service. The waste transfer barn – where waste collected at the kerbside is taken before it is transported to recycling and treatment facilities – is currently an adapted grain store and in poor condition. The HRC and barn share an access and can’t accommodate vehicles

delivering waste material, the bulkers who take this away for treatment, and traffic queuing to use the household recycling centre. This causes site closures and disruption to neighbouring businesses by blocking access during the busiest periods each day. The HRC will be split level, removing the need to climb steps and be easily accessible to large vehicles. The plan is similar to the award-winning Bridport site opened in 2015. Go to dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/ blandford-wmc by Monday, January 18. There will also be virtual meetings with residents on Wednesday (13th, at 10am and 6.30pm) where officers will answer any questions.

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Quilters make placemats for lone diners Members of two quilting groups, the Quarter Quilters and the Gillingham & Shaftesbury U3A Quilters have been busy despite the coronavirus pandemic. The creative crafters made more than 50 gorgeous Christmas placemats to go out with Christmas lunches served to those living alone on Christmas Day. The groups usually meet regularly in Sturminster

Newton, but restrictions have meant they have been unable to meet this year and their planned exhibition for September was cancelled. However, as well as working independently on projects, members of both groups made the placemats to go out with the lunch provided by charity, the Friends of Stour Connect in Sturminster Newton, Gillingham, Shaftesbury and outlying villages.

New number for town covid group Anyone needing help due to covid restrictions in Sturminster Newton now has a new number to call. The town’s Covid Action Group is still active and there to help. The number has been changed to 01258 471359. Please leave a message if no one is on duty. You can also email them at covid19stur@gmail.com.

Councillors welcome parking U-turn 01258 450019 14 East Street, Blandford Forum DT11 7DR

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By Nicci Brown A U-turn by Dorset Council on its plan to introduce parking charges until 8pm in the evening in its car parks has been welcomed by town councils across the Vale. But they are disappointed there has been no change to the decision to charge on Sundays. Amended proposals were agreed by Cabinet after concerns were expressed by many to the announcement, without consultation, of the extra evening and Sunday charges together with increases in some towns on the coast. Cllr Ray Bryan, portfolio holder for highways, travel and environment, worked with officers to consider the feedback and change the proposal by withdrawing the evening charges but retaining the Sunday charging, allowing town and parish councils to ask for free days for special events. The changes will now come into effect on February 1, and further amendments to car parking including permits, which have been the subject of a public consultation, will be discussed in the new year. Cllr Bryan said: “The new changes strike a balance between supporting our town centres and high streets, as well as ensuring charging is fair and can sustain our car parks across the county.” He thanked councillors and officers who had provided feedback and worked hard to get a result with which he was very pleased.

Gillingham Mayor Barry St Clemens said: “Although we welcome the fact Dorset Council has listened... we are dismayed they will be going ahead with plans to extend charges to Sunday parking. “Our town’s businesses are doing all they can to recover and grow and we are not asking for a handout from Dorset Council but we are looking to be given a fair playing field. Free parking is always a good attraction to people when they are thinking of coming to a town. The addition of Sunday parking charges is definitely not any help to our attempts to rebuild our local economy.” Blandford town councillors were pleased people who lived and worked in town centres would not be penalised in the evenings, but regretted they would continue to be affected by the Sunday charges. Sherborne Mayor Jon Andrews, also a Dorset councillor, said Sunday charges was an executive and cabinet decision and though he was not happy with it he understands why: “Highways budgets are currently under extreme pressure due to huge deficits that would normally come from parking revenue. “The proposal to charge for parking until 8pm was overturned due to pressure from opposition groups.”

ALL OFFERS SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY. SAVINGS BASED ON RECOMMENDED RETAILERS PRICES

Public Notices Notice is hereby given that the

46th Annual General Meeting of the Ramblers Association, Dorset Area will be held by Zoom on January 16th 2021, at 2pm. Details can be found on the Members Information page of http://www.dorset-ramblers.org.uk/ (Registered Charity no. 1093577

Dog-friendly hotel is best in show! A hotel in Sherborne has scooped best in show in PetsPyjamas’ 2020 Dog-Friendly Travel Awards. The Eastbury Hotel and Spa won the award due to walks straight from the doorstep, a walled garden for dogs, a dine

with your dog option in a special part of the hotel’s 2AA Rosette Seasons Restaurant and doggie meals expertly prepared and delivered to the room. Peter and Lana de Savary, Owners of The Eastbury Hotel and Spa told Dorset Biz

Goods Vehicle Operator’s Licence

Wessex Internet Ltd of The Old Laundry, Ranston, Blandford, Dorset, DT11 8PU is applying for a licence to use Ranston Farm, Ranston, Blandford, Dorset, DT11 8PU as an operating centre for 3 goods vehicles and 0 trailers. Owners or occupiers of land (including buildings) near the operating centre(s) who believe that their use or enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner at Hillcrest House, 386 Harehills Lane, Leeds, 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.

Autoworx Recovery Ltd of Valley Road, Tarrant Gunville, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 8JN is applying for a license to use, Hammetts Farm, Pimperne, Blandford Forum, Dorset DT11 8BU as an operating centre for 1x Goods vehicle and 1x Trailer. Owners or occupiers of land (including buildings) near the operating centre who believe that their use or enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner at Hillcrest House, 386 Harehills Lane, Leeds, LS9 6NF, stating their reasons, within 21 days of this notice. Representors must at the same time send a copy of their representations to the applicant at the address given at the top of this notice. A guide to making representations is available from the traffic commissioners office.

News: “We would not dream of staying in a hotel that would not welcome us with Monty; our chihuahua.”

Lockdown activities? FRENCH & GERMAN ONLINE CONVERSATION GROUPS Improve your language skills from home. Contact Marilyn Morris MBS Language Training 01747 228416 I KNOW NOTHING ABOUT THE FIRST WORLD WAR! eventbrite.co.uk/e/iknow-nothing-aboutthe-first-world-war-ti ckets-32103853181

Items for sale Various vintage wooden step ladders. Ideal for displaying plants either inside or out. From £12. Photos 01460 55105. Vintage steamer trunks which are ideal for storing logs, blankets or toys. Can also be used as garden planters. From £45. Photos 01460 55105 Skyliner 300P Flextube Dobsonian Telescope 07580 510021. Unused Kia Sport Ace Spare Wheel, Continental 136/90/R17 £75 - 07711 256313. Bricks, stone, tiles, slabs, staple stones and much more for sale 01747 840835. Two wood fire surrounds £5 each, small table with shelf £8, corner unit £8 20

01935 813967. 2 bed never used, still in cover, cost £138 Selling £65 - 01963 364361. Pink Mothercare high chair, good condition £10 - 01935 812982 Lakeland electric clothes drier airer, stores flat, hardly used, was £145 now £45 01300 34339. LG monitor 22" flat screen £15, Logitech remote keyboard and remote mouse £5 01963 33160. Double mattress. Myers sprung mattress. Good condition, only used on a spare bed. £30. 01935 813097. 900W generator, as new, £50 - 01258 880404. Rempho Foot Massager RF-

AM1059R cost £124.99, unsuitable for diabetics (reason for sale) accept £60 - 01258 880972. Jet bench top mortiser, good working order 01963 220464 £50 10" Mitre Saw, good working order 01963 220464 £25

Static caravan, 2 bedrooms, recently refurbished shower room. Lounge with gas fire. Kitchen and dining area. 30’ x 10’. near Shaftesbury. £2,950. 07798 644773.

BOOK YOUR FREE AD! Freeads will be accepted for items for sale by private sellers on items up to the value of £100. For anything outside these terms please contact our booking line on 01963 400186 or email classified@blakmorevale.net

Please post your advertisements to The New Blackmore Vale, 3 Alfred’s Way, Wincanton, BA9 9RU. Ads will go in the next edition if received by the Friday before publication.

VW Polo 1.9 sdi 2004. Full service history. Well maintained. It was a driving school car for about 10 years but it is an excellent car. 65 mpg diesel. £850 ono. Tel: 01963 362216 Kindling Wood £30 for 25 nets free local delivery.Phone 07971298562 Nattuzzi red leather sofa £595, chair £295. EXCELLENT CONDITION 07588 053555 ROGER BLACK TREADMILL Good working condition, folds up, bought for £400. Will accept £200. 01935 816898

Friends’ counselling boost for school Children at Sherborne Primary School who may be affected by bereavement, trauma and emotional challenges will have the support from a counsellor thanks to the Friends of Yeatman Hospital. Sherborne Primary School headteacher Ian Bartle wrote to thank the Friends of Yeatman Hospital for their support in helping the most vulnerable children at the 320-strong school, during this most challenging time. He said: “As part of the Rendezvous Emotionally Committed Sherborne (ECS) project, which is supported by the Friends of the Yeatman Hospital, we were able to engage a counsellor last year to work closely with children dealing with bereavement, trauma and other emotional challenges. “This is not a quick fix and not an easy role. We are

FRIENDS SUPPORT: Children at Sherborne Primary School

tackling high level triggers, negative experiences for the children over a long period of time, which are embedded in their minds, behaviour and presentation. The beneficial results can be identified by

key factors such as improved attendance, minimising exclusions/serious incidents and most importantly for the children to talk about their issues; which will help them now and in their future.

“Now, during this national and global covid-19 pandemic, many studies show children becoming vulnerable and in need, and for those most vulnerable, this is even more true. It is vital that we support our youngest members of society to ensure their positive futures. Within the ECS project we also able to support those children in transition from primary to secondary school.” David Hayes, chairman of the Friends group, said: “FOYH committed to this project earlier this year, and I am pleased to confirm we shall continue to support Emotionally Connected Sherborne (ECS) in 2021. “This is another example of our commitment to support suitable health initiatives to benefit the wider Sherborne Community.”

St Johns’ House

Half Moon Street, Sherborne St Johns’ House stands at the entrance to Sherborne Abbey Close, set within the courtyard and gardens of the original Almshouse. St. Johns’ offers one of the most historically interesting and comfortable independent living homes in the area, with a chance to live close to shops, facilities and places of interest. We offer an opportunity to enjoy new friendships in a safe, warm and manageable home. All of our rooms are ensuite and unfurnished for residents to make them their own home. Within the Monthly Maintenance Contribution are all meals, housekeeping, laundry and other essentials. With some current room availability, we are able to invite prospective residents to view the facilities and chat to a member of our management team. There may also be the potential for short term respite stays as well. Just give us a call or email for more information.

Tel: 01935 813245 Email: info@stjohnshouse.org 21

Mystery as Badger Banksy strikes again By Karen Bate newsdesk@ blackmorevale.net

The phantom badger dresser who clothes the three stunning badger sculptures on the Tesco roundabout in Blandford struck again before Christmas. Early morning passers-by noticed the badgers were dressed as an elf, a reindeer and Santa – spreading a sleigh-full of Christmas cheer to residents and visitors. However the identity of this elusive seamstress remains a mystery, despite striking with peculiar regularity, dressing the badgers in clothes to mirror current affairs or community events. And despite Badger Banksy having his or her own Facebook page with more than 1,327 followers, the phantom badger dresser remains anonymous. In March as the nation went into lockdown, one of the badgers was stolen. The Badger Banksy said: “The Badger Banksy is heartbroken that one of the badgers has been stolen. “They are bolted down to prevent them going walkabout (the Badger Banksy knows they’re very adventurous!). They hope this was a silly practical joke that won’t happen

STYLISH: The decorated badgers on the Tesco roundabout in Blandford

again, because they love those badgers, and put days of work into creating new themes and designs for people to enjoy. “A rescue mission has been launched and the badger will be home soon.” And in September the missing badger returned to his rightful place on the roundabout. Badger Banksy said: “Our missing badger has finally returned! He’s had to selfisolate during lockdown, but he assured us he was ready to go back onto the roundabout, providing his fellow badgers remain two metres away of course.

“They’re all wearing rainbow face coverings specially made in badger size.” But in another blow for the badgers and the community, the Christmas tree and lights on the roundabout were stolen, as well as an attempted badger-napping. The Badger Banksy of course was very upset and said: “They work exceptionally hard year round to make this town feature a success, and hope whoever took the tree will do the right thing and return it. “We’ve had so much positive feedback from

people saying they’ve really been cheered up by the badgers, let’s not ruin it now.” The three badgers, created from galvanised chicken wire, were created by local artist Helen Godfrey in 2013 to mark the anniversary of the founding of Hall and Woodhouse in 1977. The sculpture captures the essence of Hall and Woodhouse Badger beers brand, which has been used as a logo for more than 100 years. The roundabout was sown with native chalkland wild flowers and grass seeds to complement the badgers.

Last chance for farmers to sign up for pesticide amnesty Farmers in North Dorset can still sign up to participate in a Dorset Pesticide Amnesty, which is being held by the Catchment Sensitive Farming team in Natural England, Wessex Water and Bournemouth Water. Farmers have until January 16 to register their interest to take part. Each farm can confidentially dispose of up to 75 litres or kilograms of pesticides or herbicides that have been banned or are passed their expiry date, through our waste disposal partner, 22

Peake (GB) Ltd for free on a first come, first served basis,. Tom Hicks from Dorset’s Catchment Sensitive Farming team, says out-ofdate or banned pesticides and other chemicals can pose a significant risk to the environment and to water resources if they are stored or disposed of incorrectly. He added: “That’s why through this pesticide amnesty scheme they aim to facilitate the safe disposal of pesticides from farmers and land managers.”

To be eligible you must farm inside a high priority area of a Dorset river catchment. Most of North Dorset lies in the high priority area of the Dorset Stour catchment. To participate you must contact the Dorset Catchment Sensitive Farming team by January 16. Collections will be organised throughout January and February. Contact Tom Hicks at Thomas.hicks@ naturalengland.org.uk or phone 07920 708280.

Filling yourself up with a takeaway

Festive lights and service provide much-needed joy Toby the donkey led Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus through the twisting lanes of Mere in the Walking Crib Service on Christmas Eve. Families with children dressed as characters from the Nativity, stood on their doorsteps to watch the procession. On the same night, the winners of the Christmas lights competition were announced, with a collection for the Footpath Group. Brian and Deborah Cammack of Halfway, North Road came first, winning the Shield and two bottles of wine. Geoff and Pat Sams were awarded second place, winning a bottle of wine for their lights at 38 Lynch Close. Richard and Rose Adams at 8 Denes Avenue came third, also winning a bottle of wine. Mr and Mrs Overton of Oaktree House, Limpers Hill came fourth and Dick and Brenda Morris, who have raised £120 for the Link Scheme, came fifth for their lights at 47 Downside Close.

The Filling Station in Mere will be offering takeaways from Friday January 8. Alongside the original takeaway menu a host of tasty lunches and dinners will be available, including gourmet steak burgers, lasagne, jacket potatoes and freshly-baked pasties and turnovers all served with fries or salad. For further information or to order, ring 01747 826289. George Jeans said: “Social spacing helped by masking enabled Mere Parish Council chairman Clive Hazzard present the annual Christmas Lights Shield and a prize to Brian and Deborah Cammack on behalf of Mere Town Council, thanking them for helping to cheer up this Christmas period with a great display. “The young and the old enjoyed the occasion.”

Town’s pavements & roads improved By Nicci Brown Funding secured by Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership through the Government’s Local Growth Fund is being invested in Gillingham town centre to support economic growth by enhancing the town centre environment. Dorset Council’s successful bid for money from the LEP will improve pavements and resurface the road between South Street and Newbury Roundabout. Uneven block-paving in the ‘raised table’ areas and the pavement between Lloyds Bank and Newbury will be replaced with an imprinting technique recently used in Station Road. This modern technique – where hot asphalt material is laid and imprinted with a paving effect, reduces trip hazards and is easier to

maintain compared to traditional paving. Some heritage features in the historic part of the town will also be enhanced. Cllr Ray Bryan, Portfolio Holder for Highways, Travel and Environment, said: “Renewing this street scene with improved, modern materials will complement the new and ongoing sustainable transport improvements in the town.” And together, these enhancements will make walking and cycling a safer and more attractive option for many people.” Dorset LEP Director Lorna Carver said: “Gillingham is a busy and growing market town. This urban realm enhancement will help revitalise the High Street.” Work will start in February 2021 and take around eight weeks to complete.

First vaccinations at medical practice Gillingham Medical Practice has announced that its first vaccination clinics are set to take place on Saturday, January 9 at Sturminster Newton Medical Centre. Vaccinations against covid19 are by appointment only.

Group raise £1,000 in hours Volunteers from Riding for the Disabled, Hanford Group and local supporters raised £1,000 in December from the sales of Christmas wreaths and decorations. This year’s Christmas fair, normally run by volunteers from the Shroton-based group, had to be abandoned due to covid restrictions. Undeterred, chairman Stella Hayward set up a workshop in her carport to make Christmas wreaths and decorations. Having collected foliage and berries from friends’ gardens, she spent a few hours every morning in November and created 36 wreaths. RDA volunteer Helen Coleman also joined Stella in her carport and made some lovely Christmas decorations as well as wreaths. The challenge of selling the decorations was resolved when Sue Adam, another volunteer from RDA Hanford, offered her garage

in Shroton as an outdoor shop. Word spread around Shroton and on December 5 all the wreaths and decoration were sold in just two hours and £480 was raised. A further £120 was raised by supporter Crissie Jones in Fiddleford from her homemade Christmas decorations which she sold to friends locally, and Stella raised a further impressive £400 from selling wreaths to her neighbours in Fiddleford. All monies raised will go towards new tack for the RDA ponies kept at Hanford School and for ensuring their wellbeing during the course of the year. In normal times RDA Hanford welcome up to 10 children from Yewstock school once a week for a couple of hours providing therapy, lots of fun and a wonderful riding experience. Hopefully RDA Hanford will be able to resume normal practice and welcome the children back in the spring. 23

Here comes the bride... from 1928 A ‘hugely important addition’ has been made to Blandford Fashion Museum. When Miss Violet Blewden married Walter Sadler on July 2, 1928, she wore a ‘coffee-blush coloured, silk chiffon wedding costume’. The stunning knee length dress boasted long sleeves and two layers, an integral plain weave sewn in silk foundation or ‘underdress’, with a shaped camisole strapped top, and a silk chiffon outer dress trimmed with looped ribbon at the collar, cuffs and hem. The outer dress has a dropped waistline, covered by a band and metal and diamante trimmed bow, below which are six rows of gathering stitches. This beautiful dress was donated to Blandford Fashion Museum by one of Violet’s friends.

DEARLY BELOVED: Violet Blewden and Walter Sadler on their wedding day in 1927 with the bridal dress and accessories and bridesmaid’s headdress

Blandford Fashion Museum prides itself on ‘telling the story’, as Stella Walker, the museum’s curator explained in a letter to the textile conservator in support of a

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grant application after the dress, which was in need of some repair, was generously donated. Along with the dress, the donor added a photograph of the bride on her wedding day together with a picture of a cake decoration, card and box and a blue ribbon bow and colourful feathers, which were believed to have been worn by a bridesmaid. At present the museum is unable to display this costume, due to its delicate nature. So, conservation is essential to allow it to be briefly on show and for its preservation.

The donor wishes the costume to be ‘made safe’ for temporary display on a suitably sized mannequin with careful handling remaining vital to preserve the ‘extremely fragile’ fabric. Blandford Fashion Museum has no other surviving example of this type of 1920s costume. Once a grant has been obtained and the dress has been returned to the museum, there will be a brief window of opportunity for the public to come and view another fascinating piece of social history complete with its social context. Carole Fornachon

Cash boost for local causes Law firm Porter Dodson would normally host Christmas drinks for all their offices in December. Like many others they have been unable to celebrate Christmas in their usual way and instead have donated £6,000 to local charities. They have chosen charities who have been hard hit this year, with their fundraising events being cancelled and for many, their services

being needed more than ever. Among beneficiaries are Julia’s House, Sherborne Primary School food drive and The Yeovil Community Meals Service. Ian Sankey, head of the Sherborne office, was happy to support Sherborne Primary School’s Christmas food drive. He says as a father, he believes no child should go hungry any day, let alone at Christmas.

Here at Red Panda Trading we are very excited about the year to come as we look to expand our ranges of ecofriendly products. For the garden, our awardwinning Seedballs are full of UK native wildflower seeds cleverly mixed with a hint of chilli to stop the birds snacking on them after spreading. We have ready made mixes such as bee, hedgehog or bird mix to help attract pollinators, or poppies, cornflowers or oxeye daisies for individual flowers. Why not get your wildflowers started in some of our vibrant bamboo pots from Green Tones? While youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re creating your meadow, do it in a pair of our Evercreatures wellies or Backdoorshoes garden clogs. Our wellies come in many funky designs and are handmade entirely from natural rubber and are fully sustainable. Our boots come in ankle, short or tall lengths

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in an array of gorgeous styles that will give a pop of colour to your day. Their unique moulded design and beautifully padded inner make them ultra-comfy too. Not forgetting our organic bamboo welly socks from Bonsai to wear in them. Our clogs are lightweight, machine-washable and with designs such as Chillies, Daisy, Meadow, Sunflowers,

Dogs and Grass, there are plenty to choose from. For the kitchen we have the full range of organic beeswax and plant-based vegan food wraps from BeeBee & LEAF. Made in Cambridge, the packs include different sizes from keeping your loaf fresh to capping off the end of a cucumber to keep it crunchy for longer. Say goodbye to clingfilm, sweaty cheese and food waste. We are especially proud of our range of organic bamboo plates, bowls, cups, spoons and straws for little ones (and some bigger ones too!) These make every snack or mealtime an adventure and allow adults to present food in an exciting and appetising

way, effortlessly. Choose from Elephant, Duck, Car or Owl plates and beautiful bowl and spoon sets all with a removable colourful suction base to keep them secure. We also have sipper cups, or larger ones with straws for older children. Start your 2021 sustainably and plastic-free with beautiful products that are built to last. Happy New Year from all at Red Panda! www.redpandatrading.com

Our Loose Canon... with Canon Eric Woods DL

Comfort in faith as we face challenges I am writing this on Christmas Eve, well aware that it will not be published until January 8. Such is the discipline of deadlines! As I write, my iPhone tells me that a Brexit deal has at last been reached and that the Prime Minister will soon be holding a press conference. But I am listening on the radio to the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols from King’s College, Cambridge, and that is far more important. Boris’s pronouncements can wait. We have waited for them long enough. Of course I understand that upon this ‘deal’ the futures of so many people and families, companies and industries, will depend. The devil, as always, will be in the detail. But I still want to insist that the baby in the manger, who has been the source of hope for King the whole human George race for two VI thousand years, is infinitely more important. In Christ Jesus, the ‘hopes and fears of all the years’ are met – not least at this time of deep uncertainty and pandemic. Someone who understood these things better than most was the deeply Christian King George VI. In his Christmas broadcast in 1939, as the Second World War threatened to engulf his realm, he said: “A new year is at hand. We cannot tell what it will bring. If it brings peace, how thankful we shall all be. If it brings us continued struggle, we shall remain undaunted.” Toward the end of his broadcast, he said: “I feel that we may all find a message of encouragement in the lines which, in my closing words, I would like to say to you.” He then read from a passage by M. L. Haskins given to him by his 13-year-old daughter, Princess Elizabeth: “I said to the man who stood at the Gate of the Year, ‘Give me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown.’ And he replied,‘Go out into the darkness, and put your hand into the Hand of God. That shall be better than light, and safer than a known way.’ So I went forth, and finding the Hand of God, trod gladly into the night. And He led me towards the hills and the breaking of day in the lone East.” The King finished by saying: “May that Almighty Hand guide and uphold us all.” That is my New Year’s prayer for you all. 26

ON THE RUN: Child Okeford Primary School youngsters in their virtual race

Children run a Lap of honour Children at Child Okeford Primary School ran from the capital of Lapland, Rovaniemi to Santa’s home in Korvatunturi in the Lakeland Lapland Virtual Ultra Run Schools Challenge. All 131 school children helped each other to cover 145 miles over two days in the event, which was based on the story The Fox and the Reindeer who made the journey across Lapland, overcoming adversity to save Christmas. The children and staff dressed as reindeer for the virtual run, in which at various times over the two days ran as far as they could,

helping to reach the total of 145 miles Deputy headteacher Belinda Bolar said: “After two days of very enthusiastic reindeer running, the school reached the collective distance of 145 miles in 1 hour and 45 minutes. Some children and staff wanted to keep on running and our final running total was 200 miles.” All children and staff wore their own race bib and were given a certificate after the event. Coronavirus restrictions this year meant The Montane Lakeland Lapland Festive Ultra Run was held virtually.

Churches face shake-up Reorganisation is in the pipeline for the churches in the Milton and Blandford Deanery following the retirement of the Rev Dr Michael Foster in the Chase Benefice in May and the appointment of the Rector of Blandford and Langton Long, the Rev Canon Jonathan Triffitt, to a new role within the Salisbury Diocese. An advertisement in the Church Times offers a three-year appointment to a minister for the Chase Benefice who can help reshape how the church works in the benefice and wider Deanery and develop lay ministry as it evolves. Chase Benefice Administrator Gill Baverstock in the Tarrant Times magazine says that in common with a number of dioceses, the Diocese of Salisbury needs to cut down on its spending, and the vacancies in the Chase and Blandford Forum Benefices should help the process. The Benefice currently consists of the

12 churches in the nine parishes of Chettle, Farnham, Tollard Royal, Gussage All Saints, Gussage St Michael, Tarrant Gunville, Tarrant Hinton, Tarrant Keynston, and Tarrant Monkton with Launceston and Rushton. Parochial church councils are being consulted on a Deanery Pastoral Plan which could result in the Gussages becoming part of the Cranborne Benefice and the remainder of the benefice being split up. The Tarrant Valley parishes would become part of a team ministry of 13 parishes served by three priests including the benefices of Blandford and Langton Long, Lower Stour (Blandford St Mary, Charlton Marshall and Spetisbury) and Pimperne (Stourpaine, Durweston, Bryanston and Pimperne). Tollard Royal, Chettle and Farnham will join the Sixpenny Handley Benefice.

Teddy Rocks ready to go this year By Nicci Brown newsdesk@ blackmorevale.net

Blandford festival Teddy Rocks, which raises funds for children’s cancer charity Teddy 20 and was forced to cancel its 2020 event, has secured a new sponsorship READY TO ROCK: Teddy Rocks Festival is lined up for 2021 deal which will hopefully ensure that it can go ahead with the incredible work of The annual festival was from Friday, April 30 to the Teddy20 charity. launched by Tom Newton in Sunday, May 2 2021 at “The pandemic has had an 2012 as a way of raising Charisworth Farm, immense impact on not-formoney for the charity set up Thornicombe. profit organisations and and run by his parents, Owen Dorset-based online charities, meaning many are and Kim Newton, after their marketplace OnBuy has unable to continue providing younger son Ted was sponsored the festival since the services and care they diagnosed with a rare form 2018, and the new deal have done for so many years. of bone cancer and died at offering further sponsorship “I wanted to ensure that the age of ten. will mean that it will in total Teddy Rocks Festival had Tom said: “2020 has been have donated £120,000. the funds to operate for the incredibly hard for us. Cas Paton, founder and CEO next couple of years to “Having to postpone the of OnBuy, said: “Knowing continue the great work it festival this year was the impact cancer has on a does for many years to devastating, but we are family, I feel a strong affinity come.” buoyed up and raring to go

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for 2021 and OnBuy’s donation has set us in good stead for it to be an epic weekend. “Cas and the OnBuy team always go above and beyond to help the festival in any way they can. “So far, that help has ranged from helping with design and sourcing event supplies, to standing in the crowd and singing along to the bands. “Without the support of sponsors, financial or otherwise, we simply couldn’t put the festival on. The money that OnBuy has donated has helped us get to where we are now and helped us raise hundreds of thousands of pounds for Teddy20.” To find out more about the event or book tickets, see teddyrocks.co.uk.

Business already struggling in the wake of covid-19 face another invisible threat in the form of under-insurance. The latest data reveals a massive shortfall in cover among UK commercial properties. The insurance valuation providers estimate that buildings occupied by businesses in Britain are under-insured by a massive £325 billion.* What this means is that hotels, shops, factories, warehouses, and many other types of commercial buildings across the country may be woefully underprotected in the event of damage. With businesses already struggling financially, many would not currently survive the consequences of under-insurance, which unfortunately many property owners and small firms in particular are unaware of. Subject to average… When insuring a property, it is most important to understand the insurers’ subject to average clause included in most policies. If the sums insured declared on

01/12/2020 13:06

an insurance schedule is subject to average, and the insured value is less than this at the time of a loss, the claim will be subject to average. Example of average applying to a claim… In this example we have a scenario where a building is insured for a declared value of £1,000,000. At the time a major fire caused £250,000 of damage to the property, the insurers surveyor calculated that the rebuild value of the building was £1,100,000. The result was an amount of under-insurance at the time of the loss, in this case 10%. The average condition would therefore apply, so the amount of the settlement would be reduced by the same percentage – again 10%, making the payment £225,000 less any policy excess. To ensure our clients are correctly insured we work closely with rebuildcostassess ment.com, who prepare professional rebuild valuations. *Source: rebuildcostassess ment.com November 2020 27

Home & Garden

Tales from a half-wild garden... ...with Carrie Triffet

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

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January is the quietest time in the half-wild garden. Although the never-ending list of chores remains, the land itself seems hunkered down for the winter. Crops grow slowly in these low light days; and most of the wilderness maintenance chores are on hold til spring. It’s a good time to pause and reflect. Next season will mark our fourth year as stewards of this land. In year one, we tried strawbale gardening, as we were unsure about the health or cleanliness of the soil, and didn’t want to grow food in it. The bales worked a treat: Pre-rot them for a month or so, then top with a generous layer of potting compost. Plant or sow directly into each bale for a wellnourished harvest. The slugs were ever so grateful for the bed and breakfast opportunity. Looking back, maybe it wasn’t the most

appropriate gardening technique for damp, rainy England. But we were (quite literally) babes in the woods back then. You know how it is, when you’re so unlearned on a vast new subject, that you have no idea what questions to ask...because you don’t know what you don’t know? In the second year, having scrapped the bales, we embarked on a nosebleed-steep learning curve about the soil food web, and how to give plants what they actually need to survive in it. We made every possible mistake along the way, but just as in the previous year, we were rewarded with fairly generous harvests in spite of ourselves. But by year three we were tired of the ‘learn by screwing up’ method. That’s when we found Charles Dowding and his eminently practical teaching methods. (No we’re not

affiliated, we’re just unabashed fans of his work.) Two courses and many helpful videos later, we’re now modestly capable gardeners and still learning all the time, and the land provides significant year-round harvests. There’s so much to be grateful for here. Along with the food garden there’s the half-wild land itself. The exuberant life-force energy of this place is palpable even in the depths of winter, with brambles and hedges sporting sturdy buds from every naked branch. Nature has things well in hand, it seems, as it prepares confidently for spring. A great role model for us all, as we head into 2021. Carrie Triffet is an award winning author of four books, none of which are about gardening.

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

Man with micro-digger Garden clearance, patios, fencing, decking, landscaping, driveways 30+ years’ experience Contact Ken 07882 441873 01963 32034 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

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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

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

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Home & Garden

Did you know Venus fly traps have a 30-second memory? A friend gave me a Venus flytrap the other day. They are a real delight and can especially captivate young children with their rapid movements as the traps close on their unwitting prey. Flytraps make popular houseplants but are known for being short-lived, often due to a misunderstanding of their needs. Understanding their cultivation requirements takes us into a fascinating world of carnivorous plants, that in their native habitat need to eat animals to survive. In some very hostile habitats, the soils are so impoverished plants have difficulty extracting sufficient nutrients, especially nitrogen, to survive. Some plants in this habitat type

have evolved a range of devious methods enabling them to supplement their diets with nutrients from the bodies of insects and spiders, which are lured, entrapped and digested. The best-known carnivorous species is the Venus flytrap, a native to boggy areas in North and South Carolina in the USA. These plants have an ingenious strategy, look closely at the inner surface of the folding traps (modified leaves) and you will notice three fine hairs on each half. These act as triggers – if a single hair is brushed once, the trap remains open, if within 30 seconds a second hair (either the same hair or a different hair) is knocked the trap closes. If after 30

seconds a second hair is knocked, the leaf remains open. Therefore, this plant knows the difference between 0, 1 and 2, has a 30 second memory and can communicate between the different hairs on the trap all within a split second. The plant has evolved this strategy to maximise its chances of catching prey, the knocking of a single hair could be by accident but waiting for the second hair movement increases its chances of capturing an insect because when the trap is closed there is no prospect of a meal. This ability means plants have evolved to living in nutrient-poor, acid soils, and for them to be potted into

anything different will kill them. It may also surprise you to realise that they do not need to be kept mollycoddled indoors. Temperatures in North and South Carolina dip well below freezing in winter and during these periods the plants are dormant. I’ve managed to keep my flytraps alive for over five years, planted outside on the margins of my pond. Despite their name, Venus flytraps in nature are more likely to capture spiders than flies. In summary, don’t give your flytraps chemical nutrients, keep them in acidic compost, sit them in a shallow tray of rainwater and try them outside.

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Antiques & Collectibles with botanist Dr Dave Aplin

A novelty silver pepper caster by Wm Comyns & Son sold for £460 Professional soil testing service For gardeners, landscapers, farmers & small holders

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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

Auction a huge success & more on way in 2021 Good Condition Vinyl Records wanted Larger collections preferred No classical please, cash paid 07831266478

We Buy RECORDS, COLLECTIONS LARGE and SMALL. Call BILL 07967 816506 or 01747 811100. Email bill@rebornrecords.co.uk OLD BOOKS BOUGHT also autographs, diaries, photos & postcards. £10 per volume paid for decorative leather bindings. We call by appointment entirely without obligation. We have been buying in Dorset for over 50 years. Bristow & Garland 01747 855666 ANTIQUE FURNITURE AND COLLECTABLES WANTED Tel: 01935891681 0r 07826612819

Clarke’s auctions at Semley would like to wish their customers a happy and safe 2021. In view of the new lockdown restrictions they are still able to offer their professional services for probate valuations and valuations for consignment into auction whilst following safety guidelines so please telephone the office to arrange an appointment. Their sale held on December 30 and 31 was a huge success with an amazing 90% of lots selling for well over their estimates. Some of the star lots were the Guild of Handicrafts Arts & Crafts silver cream jug fetching £4,500, a Persian gold coin bracelet fetching £4,100 and a Chinese Ducai shallow bowl selling for £3,600. They are already taking in items for their next sale to be held on February 13 and it is likely that this sale will be held as an online auction only. To arrange any home visits or to arrange valuations to value items for consignment into any of their sales please phone either Richard Clarke or Karen Marshall on 01747 855109 at the main offices on Kingsettle Business Park, Station Road, Semley, Shaftesbury. 31

Announcements Acknowledgements BERYL STONE Would like to thank everyone who made her 100th Birthday so memorable. Xxx

SUSAN STEWART Thank you for the kind messages in memory of my daughter Susan (nee Cull) from Margaret, Dave and Families.

Birthdays NORMAN Kathleen Congratulations on your 100th Birthday, 10th January 2021. Lots of Love From Eileen, Michael, Helen and Francois

Deaths

EVELYN MASKELL NĐ&#x20AC;E HARE On 27th December 2020 peacefully in Salisbury District Hospital aged 96 years of Shaftesbury. Much loved mum to Linda also to the late John, Ann, Sheila and Bridget. A loving granny, great granny and great great granny who will be sadly missed by all who knew her. Private family service. Donations if desired to The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association may be sent to Merefield & Henstridge Funeral Directors, Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset. SP7 0BU.

ALFRED ROBERTS of Gillingham, passed away peacefully on 13th December 2020 aged 95 years. A much loved husband to Marjorie, dad to Linda and brother to Don. Funeral service was held at Salisbury Crematorium on 5th January at 11am. To make an online donation to the RAF Benevolent Fund in memory of Alf, please visit his tribute site at funeralcare.co.uk/ tributes-and-donations. For any further enquiries please contact Co-Operative Funeralcare, 2 High Street, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4QT, Tel: 01747 824738.

WHEELER Theresa Eleanor Bessie Peacefully at home in Shaftesbury on the 19th December 2020, aged 100 years. A dearly loved Mother, sadly missed by all her family and friends. Private funeral service. Celebration of life to be arranged. Enquiries to Peter Jackson Funeral Services. Tel: 01963 362570.

Bernard Edward Jeanes On 4th December 2020, suddenly at home in Fontmell Magna aged 78 years. Brother of the late Michael, also uncle and great uncle, who will be sadly missed by all family and friends. Funeral service has taken place. Donations if desired to Fontmell Magna PCC may be sent to Merefield & Henstridge Funeral Directors, Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset. SP7 0BU. Tel: 01747 853532

RANSOME JIM (ARTHUR JAMES) In loving memory of Jim Ransome who passed away peacefully on Dec 16th, aged 97, at Salisbury District Hospital. Due to the Covid-19 situation there will not be a service at this time, but there will be a memorial gathering in 2021 when conditions permit. Donations can be made, if desired, to the Macular Disease Society at www.macularsociety.org (please mark as In Memory of Jim Ransome) or via Mereć&#x2DC;&#x20AC;eld & Henstridge, Ridge Mount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Dorset SP7 0BU (01747 853532)

BERYL JUDD On the 11th December 2020, at home in Stalbridge aged 87 years. Dearly loved Mum of Jenny, Mikey, Kevin, Elaine (Bab), Angela (Pooch), Sandy & Debra (Lilly). Much loved Nan & Great Nan. Private Funeral Service. Enquiries to Peter Jackson Funeral Services. Tel: 01963 362570.

DAVID IAN GAWLER Sadly passed away on Monday 28th December 2020 at Yeovil District Hospital aged 87 years of Stour Row. Dearly beloved husband of Eunice. A very much loved father to Karen, Barbara and Lynda, much loved father-inlaw to Mark and Andy, loving grandad to Lisa, Russell, Adam, David, Louise, Lucy and Zoe and proud great grandfather to Logan, Zac, Zara and Harrison. Private family funeral, but donations if desired to the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance may be sent to Merefield & Henstridge Funeral Directors, Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset. SP7 0BU. Tel: 01747 853532

Announcements POWER Charley

CLEMENTS Leonard Benjamin (Len) aged 91 years of Wincanton. On 13th December 2020 peacefully at Yeovil District Hospital. A dearly beloved father of Wendy, Keith and Barry. Private funeral. Donations in memory of Len are being invited for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, c/o Harold. F. Miles, Funeral Director, South Cadbury, BA22 7ES. Telephone (01963) 440367

BIDGOOD Alan Francis Formerly of Lloyds Bank Gillingham, Shaftesbury and Mere. Passed away peacefully 23.12.2020 aged 97 years. Much loved father of Alison, Stephen, Nigel and Neil and sadly missed by all who knew him. Enquiries A H Griffin Funeral Care, 01202 693275.

of Bayford, Wincanton. Passed away peacefully at home on the 14th December 2020, aged 71 years. Much cherished and loved by all his family and friends. A truly larger than life character to the end. The private service has taken place. Donations in memory of Charley for ‘Love Musgrove’ ~ The Vascular Unit at Musgrove Park Hospital, Taunton may be sent c/o Clive Wakely, A. J. Wakely & Sons, The Old Police Station, Carrington Way, Wincanton, BA9 9JS. Tel: 01963 31310. Please make cheques payable to ‘Love Musgrove’.

STOCKWELL Betty 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 on Wednesday morning.

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 Deaths

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PARSONS Jeanne Margaret (nee Downton)

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Mother of Lynn, Kevin and Jacqueline, grandmother to Martin, David, Lucy and Oliver. Now at rest and reunited with her beloved husband Ronald. Donations if you wish to Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance c/o Clive Wakely, A.J. Wakely & Sons, 16 Newland, Sherborne, Dorset, DT9 3JQ.

MATTHEW JULIAN VINING (JULIAN) For many years a resident of Tisbury, passed away on 22nd December 2020 in Salisbury Hospital after a short illness, aged 89 years. Much loved husband of Isobel and father of Matthew and Alistair, he will be greatly missed. Private funeral due to current covid restrictions. Donations if desired in Julian’s memory may be sent c/o Chris White Funeral Directors, 12 South Street, Wilton, SP2 0JS, payable to The Fishermen’s Mission.

SHAVE Robert Alan aged 92 years of Wincanton. On 17th December 2020 peacefully at Yeovil District Hospital. A much loved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, uncle and friend.

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Private Funeral. Donations in memory of Robert are being invited for Wincanton Town Band, c/o Harold F Miles, Funeral Director, South Cadbury, BA22 7ES, Telephone (01963) 440367.

Announcements Michael Frederick Thomas Price (Fred) On 28th December 2020 in Salisbury District Hospital aged 85 years of Tisbury, (formerly of Winterslow and Donhead St Mary). Much loved husband to Barbara, dad to Martin, Justine and the late Michael, also a loving Amps to seven. Private family service. Donations if desired to The Stars Appeal, Salisbury District Hospital may be sent to Merefield & Henstridge Funeral Directors, Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset. SP7 0BU. Tel: 01747 853532

Mary Anne ILIOPOULOU Mary Anne (aka Jane), peacefully at Hays House Nursing Home, on 16th December 2020. Was cremated at Salisbury on Black Tuesday 6th January 2021. A Great Lady! Her husband Nicholaos, the Families.

HEATHER ROSEMARY GOODFIELD Peacefully on 23 December 2020 at Dorset County Hospital. Much loved mum, nanna and great nanna. Donations for Juliaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s House and Weldmar Trust to Harbour View Woodland Grounds, Lytchett Minster

SHAVE Michael George Passed away peacefully on the 14th of December after a 16-year battle with Alzheimer's. Formally from Brightwell cum Sotwell, Michael proudly served in the Royal Navy. He will be greatly missed by his loving wife Marion, daughters Helen and Susan, sons-in-Law Iain and Jerome, and grandchildren Hariette, Elizabeth and Arabella. Donations with thanks, to the Alzheimer's Society c/o L C Hill & Son, Mere.

BARBARA JEAN KELLY On 30th December 2020 peacefully in St Denis Lodge Residential Home aged 89 years of Shaftesbury.

DEVERILL ANN Ann, Aged 82 years of Wincanton. On 29th December 2020, suddenly but peacefully at her home. A much loved mother, grandmother and friend. Private Cremation. Donations in memory of Ann are being invited for The Royal British Legion, Wincanton Branch, c/o Harold F. Miles, Funeral Director, South Cadbury, BA22 7ES. Telephone (01963) 440367.

Wife of the late Arthur. A much loved mum to Geoff and Jan, also a loving grandmother and great grandmother who will be sorely missed and never forgotten. Private family service but donations if desired to Cancer Research UK may be sent to Merefield & Henstridge Funeral Directors, Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset. SP7 0BU. Tel: 01747 853532

Quiz legal experts about wills on phone for free Age UK North, South & West Dorset, in partnership with local solicitors from Nantes, Blanchards Bailey and Humphries Kirk, is holding a free over the phone service for anyone aged over 50 to ask an expert questions about wills and power of attorney. Due to the covid-19 situation, these surgeries will go ahead on pre-planned dates by telephone and will be by appointment only.

There are various dates for the surgeries which are held in various areas of Dorset. n To book a telephone appointment, call Age UK North, South & West Dorset on 01305 269444 or email enquiries@ageuknswd.org.uk For further details of other ways in which Age UK North, South & West Dorset can help you at this time,

please telephone 01305 269444 or visit the website ageuk.org.uk/northsouthwestdorset/ 35

Food & Drink

Blessed are the cheesemakers who By Steve Keenan

newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

Britain’s champion cheesemakers are planning a post-covid comeback in 2021, with new cheeses and plans to throw open the doors of their Blackmore Vale cheese farm to visitors. Marcus Fergusson and Penny Nagle gained international recognition when their Renegade Monk cheese was crowned Supreme Champion at the 2020 Virtual Cheese Awards in July. But it came in the middle of a rollercoaster year. The couple had completed a new cheesemaking shed in February and getting the taste right in its new home was a struggle. Also, unlike cheddars which last for 12 months or more, Renegade Monk takes a month to mature – then has a shelf life of just eight weeks. So when two lockdowns decimated business in March and November, the couple ended up feeding hundreds of the cheeses to their Oxford and Sandy pigs. “In the first lockdown, we had 2,000 cheeses in storage. We reduced prices and we cut down on production but we still had 300 left over which went to the pigs,” said Marcus. “The award in July was a lifesaver because we had a new audience. We started making as much as we could,

SAY CHEESE: Marcus Ferguson and Penny Nagle and, inset, their award-winning Renegade Monk

up to 600 cheeses a week. Then came the second lockdown, we had 1,500 cheeses on the shelves and our wholesalers weren’t ordering.” The couple stopped production in early November but thanks to a late Christmas flurry, managed to shift their last cheese on December 10. The pigs also had an early Christmas present. Now they are carefully planning for 2021, in what is a traditionally quiet time for cheese. “People don’t buy cheese in January, so we’ve never made cheese in December. We normally start again about now – but this year, we’ll wait a bit to find out what’s happening in lockdown.”

Meanwhile, a cheese visitor centre is being finished at home in Feltham’s Farm, Horsington, which is planned to host Cheese Experience tours from April. (See below.) There will be the chance to taste Renegade Monk, which is made from organic pasteurised cow’s milk from Gould’s Farm, just two fields away. As the cheese matures the set curd is also washed in Hop Drop pale ale from Stroud Brewery. “We are surrounded by some of the best cheddar makers, so there was no point in making a traditional cheese,” said Marcus, who began making cheese in 2016. “I am a lover of French cheese, the stinking, dirty cheese you get in markets. I wanted a

washed rind cheese, in beer. And then throw some blue in it. A blue washed rind hadn’t been done before.” Described as Britain’s strongest cheese, three Michelin-starred restaurants in Europe began ordering it after the award, and wholesalers now account for 70 per cent of national and international sales. The name of the cheese is a nod to nearby Templecombe, where Knights Templar monks once held court. A sister cheese, Rebel Nun, is also made, a much bluer and milder cheese, like a Rocquefort. The latest addition is La Fresca Margarita, described by Marcus as “a savoury icecream.” It’s a lemony, light cheese, best eaten in the first

Make a date in your diary to take tour of the dairy The Cheese Experience tours of Feltham’s Farm & Cheese facility are available from April 1, subject to covid-19. Dates will usually be midweek, with a Saturday subject to demand. There are three tour options, from one hour to a full threeand-a-half hours. All start at 36

11am. From delivery of raw milk to moulding is explained, with the basics of cheese making from Marcus, a tour of the animals and organic veg systems and an option to buy cheese. The longer tours include cheese tastings and cheese goodie bags (worth £20),

with the full tour adding a ham, cheese tart and salad lunch with local ale, wine or cider. Prices range from £15 - £50 per person, with a maximum of four people in each group. Full PPE gear is provided. Fairtrade, organic Feltham’s Farm T shirts are on sale for

£20 (£15 if you buy any Cheese Experience tours). Blackmore Vale Magazine readers receive £5 off a tour if booked before April 1. Call 01963 370857 or email penny@felthamsfarm.com and quote Blackmore Vale, or book online at felthamsfarm.com.

Food & Drink

are planning a comeback in 2021 week or two. This one is a joint project with Durslade Farm Shop at Hauser & Wirth and is only made to order. Now Marcus plans two more cheeses in 2021, including a hard variety – with a longer shelf life. They will be Alpine in style, said Marcus, influenced by the couple’s love of travelling round Europe. The burgeoning cheese empire is a far cry from their previous careers. Both studied history then Marcus got into music while Penny became a criminal barrister and moved into the field of music and copyright law. With the first of three children born, they moved to Somerset and bought 22-acre Feltham’s Farm with a vision of organically reviving the marsh meadows. They also wanted to be close to Horsington Primary School. “Cheese wasn’t on the horizon when we moved down here,” said Penny. “We had an idea of pigs – back then, it wasn’t about produce. We were trying to help the land and we planted trees first.” In fact, they planted 1,500 trees, built raised asparagus beds and added chickens, sheep and pigs. When Marcus was made redundant in 2015, they relied on their holiday cottage for income. “I thought of making wild garlic pesto. It was Penny who said: ‘How about cheese?’ She kept on at me so I did a one-day course at River Cottage, a mix of geekery and flair. I loved it.” He learned his craft at Bath

BIG CHEESE: Penny and Marcus with their awards and, inset below, their Rebel Nun cheese

Soft Cheese and began selling Renegade Monk at market and to a few farm shops. But for coronavirus, the business was strong and achieved organic status last February, which also opened the door to being included in Abel & Cole’s organic veg boxes and organic food shops. The operation is completely carbon neutral. Ground source heating and solar panels provide all the power the cheese shed and its four fridges need, with excess stored in large Tesla batteries or sent to the National Grid. Supplies for around 20 farm shops locally are delivered by electric van. The veg they grow goes to Wincanton Wholefoods and all the whey, a bye product of the cheesemaking process, is fed to the pigs. To help cope with the workload, the couple have hired their first full-time employee, a cheesemaker from Shropshire, who starts in February.

But Penny plays down their achievements since launch less than five years ago. In an interview with the excellent podcast series @Somersetstories.com, she

said: “We are organic and independent. “We are such small fry, we are tiny babies in cheese. We are not competition for anyone.”

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Food & Drink

New community food shop leading the By Karen Bate

newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

A different and dignified community food shop in Sturminster Newton has fed some 470 hungry people, of which 225 are children in North Dorset since it opened just seven weeks ago. Struck with the number of people going hungry in the district, which was exacerbated during the first lockdown, Dorset Council and Sturminster Newton county councillor Carole Jones, together with the Blackmore Vale Surgery Group, launched The Vale Pantry. The initiative is part of Your Local Pantry, a national charity aimed at tackling food poverty. Pantry co-ordinator Carole said: “During this time it really hit home how people were struggling to make ends meet and put food on the table for the family. “Once the worst of the first phase of covid-19 was over, I worked closely with the Blackmore Vale Surgery Group to get the Pantry open and available to any family or person struggling to make ends meet.” The Vale Pantry is the first rural and only pantry in the South of England and opened on November 5 at 35a Market Place, Sturminster Newton. And since then it has served more than 4,000 people. Carole said: “Some of the stories we have heard have literally brought us to tears. “Food poverty is very real and often missed but living amongst us all. “People think that we are in a fairly well-heeled area, but the stories we have heard over the weeks have been heart-breaking. 38

FEEDING THE 4,000: The Vale Pantry has served a huge number of people in its first seven weeks, exposing a real need in the area

“One young mum told us that following lockdown, when her partner lost his hours, they would go without breakfast and lunch just so that the children could eat. Another mum allowed herself one small meal a day – invariably an omelette, but when her son came home from university, through the pantry she was able to provide cooked meals for the both of them. “In the early days it was quite common for someone to break down in tears because they could take food home with them that they could afford and choose themselves. “It truly is the most heartwarming and wonderful project.” The Vale Pantry is a twist on the traditional food bank as members pay £4.50 to secure a regular, weekly shop including fresh and frozen food, the basic staples, fresh meat, fish and eggs plus tinned foods and cereal.

Membership is open to individuals, couples and young families in North Dorset who might struggle to pay bills or run out of money before the end of the month. The Vale Pantry also works closely with the local food banks to help people before crisis hits or indeed, as they come out of crisis. Some 25 volunteers help on a regular basis, from collecting some foods, such as milk and household supplies, to organising the Fare Share food deliveries, rotating and sorting stock, working in the shop to taking cardboard to the dump. On New Year’s Eve, The Grosvenor Hotel in Shaftesbury donated a car full of food, which they were unable to use because of the latest coronavirus restrictions which meant they had to close that night. Carole said: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank our community wholeheartedly for the

support and generosity given since we opened the doors to The Vale Pantry. “Our community food shop is feeding around 470 people each week, of which some 225 are children. “Whilst we are based in Sturminster Newton, we serve anyone within the North Dorset area that needs help with food. “Our pantry is a place full of good quality food, but laughter and joy, indeed many of our members tell us their trip in to us is their highlight of the week. “None of this would be possible without the wonderful volunteers who help us and the community who give so generously – both companies, individuals and our lovely members who we have come to know, and finally, of course the Blackmore Vale Partnership Surgery Group, who have enabled this project to get off the ground. “We always desperately need

Food & Drink

way in the battle to feed hungry children

FILLING A GAP: Sturminster Newton county councillor Carole Jones at The Vale Pantry

household goods, sanitary products and babies’ nappies, which we don’t get from Fare Share and all donations of these, foods and indeed money, would be most welcome and allow us to continue the work we do. We have been assured of our premises until Christmas 2021 by kind agreement of John Roman who owns the property, and it is our hope that we can be

sustainable beyond that time. “All help gratefully received!” The Vale Pantry opens twice a week on Thursday evenings between 5pm and 8pm and on Saturday morning between 9am and noon. Anyone who needs help with food can apply online at: your-local-pantry.force.com/ s/membersign-up and choose Dorset The Vale in

Mum’s Kitchen... Cheese and Chorizo Pastry Puffs These little pastries are delicious and easy to make. Ingredients 225g/8oz puff pastry, either a block or ready-rolled 115g/4oz Spicy chorizo sausage, finely chopped 50g/2oz grated cheese. Any hard cheese can be used. Cheddar works well. 1 small egg, beaten Method Roll out pastry thinly, or

unroll if ready-rolled. Using a 7.5cm/3in round cutter, cut out as many as possible, re-rolling the trimmings to make 16 in all. Preheat the oven to 230C/210 fan. Mix together cheese and chorizo. Place one of the pastry rounds in the palm of your hand, brush around the edges with beaten egg to help them to stick together, and place a little of the chorizo mixture across the centre.

the drop down box. If anyone needs help joining, Carole is available for support over the telephone. You can sign up as a member or as a volunteer at yourlocalpantry.co.uk/thevale The Vale Pantry is at 35a Market Place, Sturminster Newton DT10 1AR 07968 348481 thevalepantry@gmail.com

with Diana Holman Using your other hand, pinch the edges of the pastry together to make a tiny pasty shape. Repeat the process to make 16. Line a baking sheet with nonstick paper and place the pastries on it. Brush them lightly with

the beaten egg and bake for 10-12 minutes until puffed and golden brown. Serve warm. 39

Food & Drink

Cooking...

with Mrs Simkins

Cream of Mushroom Soup Keep out the winter chill with this utterly delicious soup: simple enough for every day, the cream, and a little garnish of fresh thyme or snipped chives, make it special enough for modest entertaining within your bubble or once restrictions lift. It’s economical too, if made with one of those big bargain boxes of ‘wonky’ mushrooms you can find in the supermarkets now. And it lasts for 3-4 days in the fridge and reheats beautifully! Serves 4 2½ tablespoons oil 1 medium large onion, cut in small dice 1 plump garlic clove, finely chopped Around 650g mushrooms, sliced or chopped Freshly ground black and ground white pepper Generous pinch dried thyme 1 litre hot beef or vegetable stock 2 tablespoons medium sherry, optional Good grating of nutmeg 100-120ml double cream Fresh thyme or snipped chives for garnish, optional Cook the onions slowly, over a low heat, in 2 tablespoons of the oil, adding the garlic towards the end. In a lidded pan, cook the mushrooms in the remaining ½ tables spoon of oil, slowly so they half fry, half steam. Once cooked, transfer the mushrooms to the food processor, tipping any juices into the onion pan. Add the pepper and thyme to the mushrooms and blitz in a food processor or blender. Add the blitzed mushrooms to the onion pan and stir to combine. Stir in the hot stock slowly followed by the sherry and nutmeg. Simmer for 20-30 minutes, but don’t boil. Stir in the cream, check for seasoning and heat until piping hot but not boiling. Garnish with a sprig or two of fresh thyme or snipped chives if you are feeling fancy. Tip When making any soup, remember the old adage: ‘a soup boiled is a soup spoiled!’ Check out Mrs Simkins’ website for more winter recipes: MrsSimkins.co.uk twitter.com/mrssimkinscooks 40

Welcome to ‘a ray of By Karen Bate

newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

As you sit at position 3,094 in your online supermarket queue or stand in position 23 outside the supermarket in the cold rain, you may wonder if there is an alternative. Well, there is. A new ‘eco-destination’ farm shop has just opened at the North/South Cadbury junction of the A303 offering shoppers a “ray of sunshine in a bleak world”. Enter Teals and a new world of shopping awaits. Founders Ash and Nick Sinfield built Teals during lockdown and opened this lofty food hall before Christmas. It is a super-sustainable food market, boasting an abundance of local and responsibly sourced fresh produce whilst caring for the planet in an uplifting environment. As an alternative to larger and busier supermarkets, with sustainability at its heart, Teals ticks many of the boxes. A host of vibrant vegetables picked from verdant fields, responsibly sourced meat from livestock grazed on nearby hillsides, oven baked bread, delicious delicatessen favourites and specialist goodies from further afield are inviting and a cheesemonger is on hand to cut you the finest offerings. Delicious take-away food and gifts are also for sale and all under one roof. And as you browse, you can pour yourself a coffee as you shop, making for an enjoyable and safe experience. Ash said: “We think of Teals as the canvas on which to celebrate localness, where the producers and makers are the stars that add the colour. We take time to ensure there’s as much Somerset goodness as possible on our plates and in our food market and lifestyle store. We avoid mass food production that travels further and removes taste, instead joining the many brilliant farm shops around the country focusing their energies on finding local products that make the most of our tastebuds.

“We have a fantastic in-house butcher and cheesemonger who offer a very personal service and we have daily fresh bread, cake and vegetable deliveries so the shelves are always well stocked with the basics. “We also have a milk machine that vends Jersey milk, and our customers love this service as the milk is coming in fresh from the farm each day and you can bring your own bottles to fill up or buy glass bottles in store that you bring

Food & Drink

sunshine’ in a new world of shopping

ECO-DESTINATION: Nick and Ash Sinfield at Teals farm shop at South Cadbury

back on each visit. “Working with experts we admire and like, also means we can share their stories with our guests and build the very strong link between nourishing food and well-being, which is so relevant in the current climate.” Ash and Nick are steadfast in their commitment to sustainability. The shop and eatery is supersustainable, powered by renewable energy. The build itself used innovative techniques from local businesses and suppliers and the result is a highly

energy efficient, attractive building, which blends seamlessly into the landscape and provides a shopping space which complies with new social distancing regulations. And by Easter there will be eight electric car charging points. Nick said: “It’s our mission to make a positive contribution to the region and this begins with the building itself. “We have invested in high quality solar panels and technology to meet their energy requirements and taken care to preserve wildlife corridors, re-used soil

from foundations to create new habitats, planted hundreds of trees and sown metres of meadow as well as fields and grass.” The pair aim to minimise single use plastic, both in store and in their supply chain. The packaging they do use is almost all fully recyclable and Ash and Nick are early adopters of next generation materials. But it isn’t just what is used on the outside, the pair carefully choose their produce and work with carefully chosen farmers and suppliers, with strong ethics who care for the planet and are equally invested into what we put inside our bodies. Ash said: “We are lucky down here in the West Country as there is an abundance of tasty seasonal produce to fill our food market. Everywhere you look something is growing. “We especially try to seek out the people who grow their food that little bit more carefully, slowly and responsibly, often on a smaller scale. We love giving them a platform to celebrate their hard work, co-creating tales together.” Ash added: “This is a great alternative to shopping in the supermarkets during lockdown as customers can shop local and support smaller suppliers and the store offers a super safe environment with lots of space. “Talking to customers we have found that many people are having a tough time right now. Lockdown is really affecting people’s mental health, but the great news is that we can offer a lovely space for people to spend time and escape to. We are on a number of cycle routes so you can stop off for a coffee and cake or take away lunch enroute. “We are also welcoming lots of walkers and are seeing older customers who want a change of scene. The store is a warm and welcoming distraction for many in an otherwise locked down world.” Teals is the first low plastic, fuel-free stop on the route and is pending B Corp status. Pre-prepared “kitchen suppers” are available and the shop is open seven days a week. Visit the team and explore for yourself: 1 Orchard Lane, South Cadbury, BA22 7FS 01963 361755 Teals.co.uk 41

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North Dorset & Somerset Property Care 45

Health & Wellbeing

Treat your poor old liver to some milk thistle Your liver is an incredibly hard working organ and takes a lot of stick, particularly over Christmas and New Year. Its main role is to sort toxins and prepare them for expulsion. But the poor liver can become very congested. Alcohol, sugar, fats, chemicals, pesticides, heavy metals, drugs, all things we consume have to be sorted by the liver. The term liverish when you are feeling full, fat, red, hot and angry, is very apt. If you are someone twho wakes between 1am and 3am in the night, it could be because your liver is struggling to detoxify all the food and drink you are putting into your body. There are lots of foods and herbs to take to help the liver but the best thing is to detox completely, give it a good flush out and allow it to regenerate with healthy cells (which takes about six

weeks). To do this you need to come off caffeine, alcohol, processed foods, dairy, red meat and if possible wheat products. You should make sure your bowel and kidneys are working properly and have had a bit of a clean out so that while detoxing, all the expulsion channels are working well. This is quite hard core. I would also advise finding a professional naturopath or herbalist to plan the detox and just support you though it. We should all detox once a year to maximise our health but does take commitment. I am putting myself and my

A walk around... CHARLTON MARSHALL This is an undulating walk of about seven miles, giving wide views over the Vale and visiting interesting features. Start at the church, taking time to look at the massive box tombs and the stocks, then cross the main road and head south west along Church Lane, which branches left and continues gently uphill, passing under a railway bridge. Until the railway is reinstated the line is used as a trailway by walkers, riders and cyclists. Church Lane passes the cemetery, which you might 46

like to visit. It’s uncanny how often I see names I recognise on gravestones. The Tarmac now runs out and the lane becomes a bridleway between trees and hedges and a monument to Fred Flintstone. Continue for another couple of miles, passing Gorcombe Farm, which has an adventure activities centre, which looks fun. When you get to Charisworth at the brow of the hill, pause to look at the view over the Vale, then turn left and head eastwards alongside the parish boundary, which follows Combs Ditch, an Iron Age earthwork that was revived after the Romans left to help

phytochemicals found in the plant have been shown to regenerate the liver and to stop toxins getting into the cells. It can lower fatty build up and helps the body to synthesis glutathione which is a very important antioxidant vital to liver health. It has been used to improve brain function and also for osteoporosis and in some studies it has been shown to kill cancer cells. There are also claims it can lower blood sugar levels for people with diabetes although care should be taken taking if combined with diabetes medication with regular monitoring of blood sugar levels.

husband through this, so I expect a rather grumpy start to the year! It is however quite wonderful, after the first couple of weeks of hell, to feel healthy, full of energy and of course thin! But if you want to just help the liver along then milk thistle is an excellent herb to take. Milk thistle seed has been used for 2,000 years and has been studied quite extensively. The active silymarin which is Fiona Chapman is actually four studying naturopathy and herbal medicine at the College of Naturopathic Medicine

with retired Dorset rights of way officer Chris Slade

Charisworth Farm’s campsite in sunnier times

keep the Saxons out. Much of it is a bank and ditch alongside a bridleway. Many of our boundaries follow ancient lines. The Dorset County Boundary Group is currently researching the Shire Rack, our boundary with Wiltshire through Cranborne Chase. Our route soon branches left, NE, then veers East across Charlton Down then heads

NE along a track downhill for about three miles. You’ll see a solar farm to your left which, I learn from the BVM, is the subject of a planning application to enlarge it. Continue past North Farm and eventually you’ll reach the main road, where you turn left and walk a mile back to where you started.

Health & Wellbeing

Set resolutions wisely this New Year New Year’s resolutions - a party trick or a useful tool? There is no doubt last year is one we will all be looking forward to moving on from. As I write, it is becoming clear that 2021 will be no pushover, but we enter it perhaps a little more prepared and a little more used to adapting and overcoming. So, can we use the age old tradition of New Year’s resolutions to help us? If made at 11.50pm on New Year’s Eve, the chances of success might be a bit small but with a bit of thought and planning at this stage, New Year’s resolutions can be the

tool and support we need to make significant changes or to move a project forward. We all know resolutions can range from “I’m going to run the Bath-Half” or “I’m going to only drink at weekends ” to “I’m going to set up that new business I have been dreaming about for years”. These are all great plans, but their chances of success are improved if you follow these tips: Make it personal - relevant to YOUR life and something you really care about. Break it down. Yes, set yourself a challenge – but then break it down into small,

accessible steps that all feed that end goal then plan how you are going to pace yourself throughout the year. Be realistic. Can you really find time to run four times a week before work when it’s still dark until 7.30am? Bring in support. If you really want to achieve something – increased exercise, weight loss, starting a new business, tell people about it. Ask for and accept help! We don’t have to achieve our goals on our own. Is it worth it? If not, why waste time on it? If it is, then make it a priority, which may mean dropping something

Make your own... By Vicky Brunton of Naturally Kunewyk This three ingredient recipe couldn’t be simpler. Pop one in your bag so radiance is never far away! You will need: 1 heaped tbsp shea butter, 1 tsp kaolin clay powder, 2 level tsp mica powder to suit your colouring – you can mix shades if needed, mortar and pestle, 15ml tin Directions: Mix the kaolin clay

and mica powder in a small bowl. Then, place the shea butter into the mortar and with the pestle, mash it well into a paste. Slowly add the powder to the mortar, mashing it until all the ingredients are blended together without any lumps. Then transfer the ingredients to the tin, pressing it down into the tin with the back of a teaspoon. If you don’t have a mortar and pestle like me (our Labrador ate the pestle handle…), simply use the back of

else. There are only 24 hours in each day and if we want to fit in something new, something old may have to make room. How will you know when you have achieved your goal? Identify markers for success points. Finally, if it does go wrong, can you adapt it and give it another go, even half way through the year? Success is not a fixed mark. Good luck and a very happy new year! Alice Johnsen is a life coach based just outside Sherborne. 07961 080513 alicejohnsen.co.uk

Lip and cheek tint a spoon. To use, lightly swipe your finger on your new tint, dabbing it onto your lips and smooth some into your cheeks. I tend to purchase my ingredients from Naissance (naissance.co.uk) which has a fantastic variety of cosmetic ingredients. Gent, 60s, slim, educated, seeks similar lady. Privacy important. Please text 07999 424227

The mica powder and kaolin clay can also be purchased from Amazon, with prices Low mood? Feeling Stuck? Angry? Dramatherapy could help. Rebecca Peacock HCPC registered 07388110895 peacocktherapy.co.uk

starting from £1.99 for 3g of the mica and £3.95 for 100g of the clay.

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| www.acnorthdorset.org.uk 47

Health & Wellbeing

Meditations in Nature: Looking to catkins for optimism January, at last. One of my favourite months. Named after Janus, the Roman God with two heads; one looking towards the past and the other towards the future, he represents transition and a doorway into a new beginning. 2020, the jinxed year, is behind us now and our hopes are pinned on the promise 2021 will be better. Walking out on this January morning along the banks of the River Stour, the cool air and the brittle winter sunshine lift my spirits as I look to nature for new inspiration. My eyes fall on the purple catkins of the swampdwelling, water-loving alder trees that bind the banks of this stealthy, overflowing waterway. Intricate symbols

of renewal, catkins remind us of the determination of nature, and how during the depths of winter, and the dark and the cold, these tightly furled decorations are ready and waiting for March winds to cast their pollen. Preoccupied, I think once more of the pandemic and the lockdown, and how, just like the catkins, we must hunker down to survive the pits and troughs of the storm to emerge again safe and sound in the light at the end

of winterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tunnel. It feels a long time, but with nature as our steadfast companion we can draw comfort from watching the small changes around us. The sun is still rising, the world is still turning, and natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s miraculous clock is still ticking. Already the days are beginning to lengthen and there is a hint of late afternoon light. Over the stile and up towards the ploughed fields, clouds of rooks play on the updraft; looping, rolling and tipping the air from their wings to swirl over the muddy field. In amongst the tree-lined hedgerows, the chattering redwings and fieldfares speak of when they can return to their homelands. I wonder, too, if the swallows

in Africa are already planning their summer vacations. I venture through the small sheltered copse where the very first signs of snowdrop, primrose and bluebell stems are starting to emerge. All this to come. January is a month of hope and optimism. In between the storms, there is calm and promise, and small changes that herald sweeter times. As I make my way homewards, I feel better for my walk; more positive and grateful that we live in such beautiful countryside. Dr Susie Curtin Nature writer and qualitative researcher rewildingjourneys.com

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Business

£354k invested in creative learning By Miranda Robertson Dorset’s Arts University is set to offer students – particularly those in rural areas – vastly improved resources in such subjects as clothing design, film and video game production, and the manufacturing, product design, engineering and health technology after scooping a £354,400 grant. Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) has invested £354,400 in the creation of pioneering accessible digital resources and new research and development space for the creative industries at Arts University Bournemouth. The cash comes from the

Local Growth Fund and is in addition to £1.5 million of Dorset LEP investment in the arts university’s new entrepreneurial space, the Innovation Studio. The new accessible digital Innovation Resources project, the only one of its kind in the south west, will provide remote access to a suite of digital and physical fabrication equipment. Funding will also be used to refurbish an existing administrative space to create a 280m2 Innovation Suite for collaborative work/social space and specialist digital fabrication equipment. Lorna Carver, Director Dorset LEP says: “Building

on an innovation studio to support local businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs, remote access to specialist resources addresses the challenge of supporting rural businesses in Dorset and those in our more deprived areas. It will also support students and businesses during covid-19 which restricts physical gathering.” Minister for Regional Growth and Local Government, Luke Hall MP said: “Dorset is one the fastest growing creative and digital hubs in Europe and a destination of choice for digital entrepreneurs. “This funding will support local businesses to get back on their feet, while also

SUPPORTING BUSINESS: MP Luke Hall

helping to harness local creative talent and translate this into high quality jobs.” The Innovation Suite is expected to open in June. Go to the Dorset LEP website’s Innovation Resources and Innovation Suite project pages for more information.

Shop goes online Need a mentor? Paula de Reucke, who has traded as Moonfleet in Salisbury Street, Blandford, for 15 years, has announced that on January 25 she will be moving her business online as Paula de Reucke Designs, and has been holding a closing down sale with plenty of bargains in the run up to Christmas. Thanking all her customers for their support and friendship over the years, she said: “With the massive changes over the years to high street trading, the time has finally come to step down from the traditional high street shop-keeper role and take my creative business online. But I’m not going anywhere, I’ll be a click away online.”

Dorset Business Mentors are holding an online taster session on Thursday, January 14 at 8.30am. The session offers a chance to discover how a funded mentor can help you achieve your business goals. Limited places are available at dorsetbusinessmentors.uk/ read-insights/webinardiscover-the-benefits-of-busi ness-mentoring Dorset Business Mentors is an established programme funded by Dorset’s councils and sponsored by Investec. With over 130 trained, veteran businesspeople volunteering their time, business owners are linked to a mentor whose particular experience offers valuable insights.

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Business

The 50km Kid puts down new routes By Karen Bate newsdesk@blackmorevale.net In the age of the coronavirus, starting a new business venture has never been riskier, but for Blandford bus driver Jamie Burrows, the pandemic was the driving force behind the launch of Burrows Coaches – Dorset’s newest bus and coach operator. Jamie, 30, operates a 35-seat, low floor bus, which he lovingly named Lou. Lou is available for driver hire and bus hire for school transport, park and ride, company transport, railway replacement, community transport, special events and for summer specials and shopping trips to places which may not feature on Dorset’s bus network when the coronavirus restrictions eventually come to an end. As a child growing up in Child Okeford, Jamie dreamt of driving a bus. He shunned the idea of university, much to the surprise of his teachers at Sturminster Newton High School. At the tender age of 19, Jamie gained his Public Service Vehicle (PSV) licence, which he funded himself, and was dubbed The 50km Kid by his family and friends. He started work at Damory Coaches, driving the local Blandford routes. Jamie said: “When I turned 21, my colleagues placed an announcement in the former BVM stating – ‘The 50km Kid comes of age’. My driving restrictions were relaxed and I could travel further afield.” When Jamie was 23, he started driving for North Dorset Travel, a family business based in Hazelbury Bryan dating back to 1921 50

TICKETS PLEASE: Jamie Burrows with his bus, ‘Lou’

owned by Sue and Richard Green. Jamie said: “North Dorset Travel run a fleet of executive coaches and with their expertise and tuition, I soon covered many miles across the UK and the continent. By 24 years of age, I had successfully passed my Operators CPC, a transport workers’ equivalent to a degree.” At 24, Jamie became the transport manager, a job he loved and remained in, that is until the pandemic struck. North Dorset Travel, like all travel operators, lost bookings while beautiful coaches worth as much as

£250,000 were parked, idle. “It was during my time on furlough that I suppose I ‘came of age’,” said Jamie. “For months on end I sat at home without work until October, when I made the

bold decision to ‘just apply for a bank loan’. The application was accepted so I thought I would just see if can get my own operator’s licence, and the application was granted by the Traffic Commissioner. “Amazed at the success of my progress, I went to view a bus which needed a lot of work to get it presentable for an MOT. Luckily I had lots of time on furlough to spend my time on my hands and knees scrubbing the coach with a toothbrush and help from Ian and Jay Hobbs and their team at Agri-Comm Ltd, who helped prepare the mechanics for MOT, some great friends who travelled down from Farnborough who donned their overalls and scrubbed the barnacles off and to Cliff at the test centre, who calmed my nerves during my first solo MOT test on a bus!” Jamie added: “I named the coach Lou, after the driver at Damory Coaches who encouraged me to follow my dreams. “Hopefully my sapling company that has emerged amongst the troubles of the coronavirus pandemic may one day flourish into a strong and well known company well rooted in Dorset.” Socials: @Burrowscoaches Jamie Burrows 07951 373089

Business

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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

Retirement village builders enjoy a distanced hog roast By Karen Bate A socially-distanced hog roast was held by The Affordable Housing and Healthcare Group (AHH) in Sherborne to lift the spirits of the construction team who have worked throughout lockdown. Builders constructing the new Platinum Skies Sherborne retirement living village at the top of Horsecastles Road and the A30 have been working safely during the pandemic. Oliver Hunter, head of construction for AHH, said: “It’s a gesture of our gratitude that we were able to safely host this Christmas event. We’re proud and excited to be in Sherborne. Alongside our

partners, Homes England, we are delivering the multimillion pound provision of affordable housing with our retirement living development. “This is a huge investment into the local economy. Our team have worked hard to maintain construction progress, despite the challenges of lockdown and covid-driven operating constraints.” Platinum Skies Sherborne is aimed at the over 55s. The first phase of Georgian-style two and three-bedroom detached, semi-detached and terraced houses were released onto the market earlier this year. The site will offer 37

AHH workers enjoy the hog roast

detached, semi-detached and terraced houses and 82 apartments. Its facilities include a bistro and bar, residents’ lounge and activity and treatment rooms. A boutique hotel will also be on-site, with treatment rooms and restaurant that residents are able to enjoy.

David Hines, COO at Platinum Skies, said: “We will create an environment that feels less like retirement and more of a lifestyle choice.” For more information and to book a place at the open week from January 22 to 31, visit platinumskies.co.uk or call 01202 088051.

Time to unleash your human spirit G K Chesterton once quipped: “If a thing’s worth doing, it’s worth doing badly.” This was memorably quoted by a headmaster of Oundle School, after a diabolical choral performance of Handel’s Messiah sung by every pupil in the school. Often we need to judge things by more than one criteria. Ice dancing is judged on technical merit and artistic impression, each carrying a maximum of six points; you need high scores in both to win Olympic Gold. Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean did this most memorably with their dances to Barnum and Bolero, achieving the world’s first perfect double-sixes. Why do we still remember them? They went so much further than mere ice-skating perfection. They created imaginative experiences, each with a compelling storyline, conveyed with an exquisite choice of music and costumes. They brought 52

in related expertise, most notably Michael Crawford who ‘taught them how to act’, and said of them: “I found them to be delightful young people, the kind you want to help if you can.” That’s why we fell in love with them. So perhaps we should add a third criteria for ice skating: Unleashing the human spirit, thus resulting in making our spirits soar. You need the first to achieve the second. When the Beatles went to the Star-Club in Hamburg, their spirit was unleashed. By the time they had done their

‘10,000 hours’ as Malcolm Gladwell puts it, they came back, making our spirits soar. So which of these three criteria mattered most in that school performance of the Messiah? Not technical merit, not artistic impression, but unleashing the human spirit. “If a thing’s worth doing, it’s worth doing badly... than not at all”. What mattered was that every pupil took part. When we unleash such spirits, we have to let go, as every parent knows. The first faltering attempts at unfettered freedom is messy,

chaotic and not the way the old order tends to do things. But unless the spirit is unleashed, we will find spirits take off less often, let alone soar. Dorset produces superb cheeses, olives, film and games animation, and worldclass aircraft hangers. It is the narrative and storyline that excites our customers to buy – from the Henshaw’s collecting of olive recipes whilst honeymooning by motorbike, to Bournemouth University graduates creating the special effects for the film Avatar. By inspiring our customers, let Dorset export to the world! n Adrian Fisher is an awardwinning maze designer in Durweston, who was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the Queen’s 2020 Birthday Honours, for services to International Trade and the Creative Industries.

Recruitment

Recruitment starts for 32 new roles By Karen Bate A family dairy in Shaftesbury which has been selling cream and cheese since the 1930s is starting the search for candidates for more than 32 high-skilled jobs as part of its £2million expansion. As reported in the NBV previously, BV Dairies has secured £750,000 in funding from the Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE) which will create a major new facility at its Wincombe Lane site with work expected to start this month. Managing director Jim Highnam said: “We need a wide range of skills across the varied functions and want to recruit people with the potential to learn, develop and ultimately progress within the business. There have been challenges for everyone during 2020, but we hope that we will be able to support the local community by offering longerterm skilled jobs. “The apprenticeship scheme has been a great success for us – we have recruited some top notch people into these roles and it’s been great to see them flourish.” BV Dairy was founded in 1958 by father-and-son team Jack and Christopher Highnam but the Highnam family had been producing and selling farmhouse cream and cheese for many decades prior to this at the family’s Old Rectory Farm in Kington Magna. It now employs 130 people. Mr Highnam said: “BV Dairy’s highly skilled people take pride in making top quality specialist dairy products for our customers, using top quality, local raw materials in a beautiful part of the world. “We’re a manufacturing company, so most people are employed in the production and logistics areas, closely assisted by the engineering and technical teams. The other functions that make the business work are finance, HR, sales, customer

service and IT/planning. The ever-increasing demands from customers for better quality at lower prices mean that we need to be innovative and agile. Everyone in the business needs to understand their contribution and we need to ensure that they have the right skills and equipment to fulfil their role. “Sometimes that means external qualifications, but more often than not, it means in-house training and have a dedicated training co-ordinator, as part of the HR team, who assists with this. Many people have been able to move between departments in the business, building their skill base along the way.” BV Dairy buys £10million of milk every year from 30 farmers from small family farms or larger tenanted farms in the Blackmore Vale, all within a 30mile radius of Shaftesbury. “We aim to be a respected and trusted trading partner,” said Jim. “It’s one of our core values. This means that we liaise closely with customers and work closely with our direct milk suppliers to ensure that the day-to-day runs smoothly and also that we are supporting the longer term progression of dairy farms – this could be investment on the farm, reducing the use of antibiotics or continuing to improve animal welfare. “The 30 farms produce, collectively, 40-45M litres of milk per year. We contract Wincanton Transport to collect the milk and it is processed within hours of reaching the dairy. All the farms are certified to the Red Tractor Assurance Dairy Scheme, which covers food safety, animal welfare, hygiene and environmental protection through every part of the food chain. We know each of the farms and their families and employees personally and we always make ourselves available to them.” n bvdairy.co.uk 01747 851855

SCIENCE TECHNOLOGISTS

Established in Yeovil in 1826, Pittards is a market-leader in the manufacture of high performance leather for some of the world’s biggest brands. We are now recruiting for a number of technologist positions to work as part of our fast-paced operations team within the speci昀c sectors of innovation and product development, environmental, compliance, plus laboratory testing and research. It’s a great opportunity to begin a rewarding career in the leather industry with a company that has been manufacturing in England since 1826 and is a world leader in the development of performance leathers. Skill & Qualities A science-based quali昀cation at A-Level, (or equivalent) or degree. Chemistry, chemical engineering and environmental science are particularly relevant. An enquiring mind and a real enthusiasm to make a difference in an innovation-led manufacturing company that has environmental responsibility and sustainable practice at its core. A willingness to take a hands-on approach as part of a small team. Hours and Location Full-time, permanent positions based at Pittards Yeovil tannery Closing Date & Application Closing date: 31st January 2021 To apply please send a CV together with a covering letter to Mike Fear, HR Manager Email: MFear@pittards.com Pittards PLC, Sherborne Road, Yeovil BA21 5BA

Recruitment SITUATIONS OFFERED EXPERIENCED CLEANER WANTED for 1 day a week. Stour Provost 07831 645 490 Sheet metalworker required for small engineering business near Shaftesbury. Engineering experience is essential. Full time position. 01747 851060 Experienced Milker/Dairyperson required for 4 days a week on 200 cow family farm. Flexible days, relief team already in place. Competitive rate of pay. 07944392177

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 07903005218 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

Skilled cabinet makers required To join our growing successful team, all applications will be treated with discretion. APT Interiors specialise in the manufacture of luxury bespoke 昀tted and freestanding furniture, our projects are wide ranging and interesting. Applicants must have: 5 years bench experience Ability to use modern wood working machines Ability to produce furniture from drawings Ability to work on sole projects or as part of a team 45 hours per week, overtime available Excellent rates of pay depending on experience Job Type: Full-time, Permanent Salary: £35,000.00 - £50,000.00 per year Apply via email to: andy@aptinteriors.co.uk with details of your experience and enclosing a CV if possible

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 54

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

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

SITUATIONS WANTED A PRISTINE CLEAN. All your cleaning and gardening needs in North Dorset catered for. Call Tim on 01747 835278 / 07825 006013 Freelance virtual administrative assistant offering support. Professional, reliable and excellent attention to detail. 07590 045174. FRENCH/ ITALIAN TUITION, Experienced GCSE/A'Level teacher, telephone 07895 720975

Recruitment

The UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading Sports Turf & Golf Construction Company requires a

FINANCE ADMINISTRATOR We require a motivated, confident and pro-active person to join our busy finance team. You will work with the Billing Manager and Management Accountant to support the sales invoicing function. If you can demonstrate the following skills and experience, we would like to hear from you: t Proficient systems user with experience of Microsoft Office and accounting software t Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a pleasant telephone manner t The ability to organise and prioritise tasks with attention to detail t An enthusiastic team worker t Hold a full UK driving licence This is a full-time position based at our pleasant offices in Dinton. Competitive salary dependent on skills and experience. For an application pack please contact: Mrs Jules Simmons M J ABBOTT LTD Bratch Lane, Dinton, Salisbury SP3 5EB email: jules.simmons@mjabbott.co.uk Closing date for applications is 18th January 2021 Interviews will be held week commencing 25th January 2021 M J Abbott Ltd is an Equal Opportunities employer

Requires a

AGRICULTURAL / PLANT MECHANIC Experience of repair and maintenance of plant, agricultural and construction equipment. Willing to respond to emergency breakdowns, travel, stay away and make on site repairs. Have good communication and organisational skills, be conscientious and have a willingness to meet deadlines. You must hold a full UK driving licence. This is an exciting opportunity leading to a rewarding career with a well established yet dynamic company. Excellent pay and benefits package for this permanent position. Application packs can be downloaded from our website at www.mjabbott.co.uk Or alternatively you can contact Mrs Jules Simmons M J ABBOTT LTD Bratch Lane, Dinton, Salisbury SP3 5EB email: jules.simmons@mjabbott.co.uk Closing date for applications Friday: 29th January 2021 M J Abbott Ltd is an Equal Opportunities employer

Puzzles (for you or I)

Arrow words

Crossword

Windowshop

Unprepared theatre

Saint’s aura

Assembler

Cocktail

Tightly curled hairstyle

A smaller number

Got into debt

‘Full house’, on Broadway (inits)

And so proved (inits)

Summit

Vigour

Vehicle for British roads (inits)

TV duck

Furrow

Has sight organs

Coupled

Expire

23 Red jewel

Ancient Chinese dynasty

Camera image

Plead

Banned insecticide (inits)

Combat

Not able to be lessened

Lens-based metering system (inits)

Across 1 Vigour (4) 4 Kept out (8) 8 Small plug for a cask (6) 9 Acts as monarch (6) 10 Feathers (4) 11 Investigation (8) 13 Capabilities of software (13) 16 Remembered (8) 19 Measure of area for land (4) 20 Husband or wife (6) 22 Desire a drink (6) 23 Ill (8) 24 Exclamation of surprise (4)

Beer

Lost blood

Wordsearch

Down 2 Duplicate (9) 3 Naturally grown (7) 4 Additional (5) 5 Sure (7) 6 Unite (5) 7 Major division of geological time (3) 12 Concerns (9) 14 Disease (7) 15 Directing (7) 17 Tickle (5) 18 Unfashionable (5) 21 Twenty-first Greek letter (3)

Epicurean Philosophers

N A D S T S R L P O L A A U A

C O L U O T P Y T H O C L E S

S R C B C I R S H M I B S U R

C L N A A T I E I T S A C S U

S O C S L U L A E S D S D I E

U G A I U S A M A F I N I U S

APOLLODORUS BASILIDES CARNEISCUS CATIUS DEMETRIUS LACON EPICURUS GAIUS AMAFINIUS HERMARCHUS

R U L L C A U L I E I E S L L

O A I I R L O I N L P I A P E

D O C D E B S R R I P A H O O

O M A E T U A O C T H A I T N

L S S S I C R U T C E O T E T

L I U T U I R O E D O M U R I

LEONTION LUCRETIUS PATRO PHAEDRUS PYTHOCLES SIRO THESPIS TITUS ALBUCIUS

O T A A S U H C R A M R E H O

P C C A S S A U L P H E P D N

A O C L H P S I P S E H T T O

Sudoku

3 6 4 6

5 3 9

1 8 6 8 4

8 1 7

For the solutions turn to page 70-71

6 5

6 2 7 5 8 4

Brain chain RESULT

29 56

+37

÷2

×1/3

+26

-17

Puzzles (for cleverclogs)

Jumbo 3D Sudoku

Cryptic Crossword 1

9 1 3 1

2 4

7 6

7 2

4 1

2 4 9 3

6 7 8

4 9

9 5

1 9 2

15 16

1 7

17 18

6 3

Jumbo 3D Sudoku instructions 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.

Killer Sudoku Pro 21

6 3

4 5 9 8 4

5 5 8

7 3

1 3 4

7 5

Across 6 Colonnade in shop or church (5) 7 Medical tablet that hurts? It’s restful for a head (6) 9 Independent bout after trouble is undecided (2,5) 10 Mind sister (5) 11 Extreme pain is grating (4) 13 Longs for stretches of time around North (6) 15 Quick criticism shown by papers (5) 16 Large dish that’s refined among small wooden articles (6) 17 By the sound of it, escape quickly from airborne pest (4) 20 Keen athlete’s last to get on river (5) 22 Pipe in throat (7) 23 Take a meal in backward bar that’s dilapidated (4-2) 24 Departs ignoring line in projecting element of roof (5)

Down 1 TV professional supporting duke over unorthodox cure (8) 2 Brush off plant (5) 3 Hatred from pressure in location (5) 4 Good liberal before wild dance gave a furtive look (7) 5 Useless opening, it’s said (4) 6 Appeal retained in religious institutions as key choices (10) 8 Participants in the organ trade? (10) 12 Cool enthusiast (3) 13 Some deny incredible principle in Chinese philosophy (3) 14 Important queen turns up with English cousin, say (8) 15 Put on paper again Eastern and Western rule in observance (7) 18 Steal second piece of tissue (5) 19 Piece of offal I’ve put in confines of larder (5) 21 Information about lake and valley in Scotland (4)

Killer Sudoku Pro instructions

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.

Brain chain (Hard version) RESULT

-34

+104

-42

×1/4

+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. 57

MPs’ round-up

This time next year we’ll be in a very different place Without political point scoring, what are your new year wishes for Somerset for 2021? As time’s winged chariot navigates its usual course and 2020 shades into 2021, I’ve found myself – like, I suspect, many of you – reflecting on the year that’s passed. Of course, uppermost in everyone’s mind is the ongoing battle with – and tragic consequences of – the pandemic: an invisible enemy that’s paralysed large parts of our economy, caused us to second-guess the most basic (and best) of our human instincts and wrought havoc across Europe, the US and beyond. Yet I’m also keen to remember the way it has provided room for another virulent infection to grow, too: the incivility, suspicion and loss of trust that’s characterised our political discourse over the last five or so years. There’s no doubt debates on Brexit have provided space for previously marginalised groups – those

Somerton & Frome MP David Warburton who’d thought themselves forgotten – to participate in politics and have their voices heard. But it’s also given room to those (on both sides) who have used the question of whether or not we remain in the EU as a symbol of something different – a shorthand for a world-view that accepts no compromise and regards opposition as a moral failing. Now the Prime Minister has done what many said was impossible – negotiated a deal and had it

approved by Parliament – one hope is that we can return to a more civilised and respectful brand of politics. For me, politics is where aspiration and policy-making meets real life. A process in which the overriding concern is what is desirable and possible. It’s not theology, in which the best outcome is to detect your opponents in some type of ideological heresy. For my own part, I’ll be continuing to argue robustly, but without assuming that those who think differently are malevolently motivated. And that reciprocal civility will be crucial if my other two hopes are to be realised. Firstly, a concerted effort to roll out the two vaccines which have now been approved and, as a consequence, a return to the normality for which we all yearn. Over the last nine months, my team and I have been helping an unprecedented number – tens of thousands – of individuals, organisations and businesses.

The opportunity to help and serve those in our part of Somerset is something for which I’m hugely grateful. But the volume of correspondence is also an index of the damage done to our communities and economy. So as the vaccine finds its way to the most vulnerable and life begins to return to normal, my priority will be to unleash the dynamism of our area. We’ve seen progress on the A303, improved broadband, and my campaign for a new station in the Somerton/Langport area was given initial funding in the Chancellor’s last Spending Review. But the key to rebuilding in our area lies in the bubbling entrepreneurial zeal of our communities: the human capital that constitutes our most precious resource. It’s that unsquashable energy that gives me the greatest optimism that this time next year will see us in a very different place, with Brexit behind us, the economy gathering pace and the virus tamed.

Rejoice! 2020 is gone. Good riddance! Signs for a better 2021 are positive. We’ve got Brexit done and secured a good trade deal. It looks like we will have most of the very vulnerable vaccinated by the end of February. That’s bound to be followed by falling hospital admissions and deaths and the ability of everyone else to get back to something approaching normal. Parliament was recalled from recess primarily to debate and vote on the Prime Minister’s UK-EU trade deal. I welcomed the deal when it was announced on Christmas Eve and I voted for it – alongside 520 of my Conservative and Labour 58

MP for South West Wiltshire Dr Andrew Murrison colleagues. At the very least, this avoids a highly challenging No Deal scenario – something which the SNP and the Lib Dems

would seemingly have preferred, having failed to support the deal. They won’t be allowed to forget that and the businesses that now have certainty, no tariffs and no quotas will carefully note their detachment from the real world. The deal offers the UK an opportunity to trade with the EU on a zero tariff and zero quota basis (the first deal of its kind ever agreed by the EU) while delivering promises to take back control of our money, borders and laws, thus ending jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice. It offers us a new beginning of cordial and productive relations with the EU and the

chance to heal domestic wounds and move on from the divisive referendum of 2016. So divisive in fact that nobody in their right mind should be entertaining one on Scottish separatism. It would likely be far worse, more rancorous if the SNP’s preferred way of working is any guide and technically far more difficult. Entering the New Year as a fully sovereign nation, we will have the freedom to forge our own future as a Global Britain. As a trade envoy, I am particularly excited to play my part in this new chapter. I’d like to wish everyone a much happier New Year.

MPs’ round-up

Happy Groundhog Day – I mean, New Year ‘Groundhog Day’ was never a film I enjoyed and Covid Groundhog Day still less. So! Here we go again a New Year (a belated happy one to you all) and a new Lockdown. As I write, the words of the PM from last night, making the Lockdown order are still being analysed and discussed. While another lockdown is regrettable, even a cursory glance of the data, even here in Dorset, tells any right thinking person it was the correct thing to do. The NHS is on the point of implosion. Staff, particularly the specialist ICU staff, are running on empty – they have been witnessing the hand of covid death since March. Ward sizes, and therefore bed capacity, have had to be dramatically reduced in order to achieve safe social distancing. No government (and this is why I welcome the constructive tone of Kier Starmer last night) worth its salt could stand by and do nothing. We’ve tried tiers and firebreaks with some effect but it

MP for North Dorset Simon Hoare is now lockdown or bust. Some somewhat dislocated points: n Now is NOT the time for being selfish. Dorset did so well in keeping the R rate low in spring-summer as we viewed this as a community effort. Covid IS a thing. It does kill. Its long-term effects are unknown. Play your part. Follow the rules in full (they are not akin to a Woolworths Pick & Mix) with

care and diligence. They DO apply to you. Stay home. When you do have to go out wear a mask etc. I know it’s a pain and a nuisance. It is for all of us but we must just ‘get on with it’; If you can, volunteer to help people with shopping, picking up a prescription or merely calling for a chat. Contact Dorset Council or me (contact details below) if you feel you can help. GPs will need help marshalling those waiting for vaccines. I have volunteered to help out and urge you to as well. n If you are called for a vaccine please get the jab. It is the numbers of the vaccinated that will help shape the timetable for getting out of lockdown. Anti vaxxers and other conspiracy theorists can, and I say this politely, frankly keep their baseless views to themselves and stop muddying the waters. n I will continue to press for (as has Dorset Council Leader Spencer Flower), an urgent review of the order of those who

receive the vaccine. Those who put themselves on the ‘frontline’ include teachers, school staff, the emergency services, pharmacists. We must get our schools back asap and vaccinating those who work in them is important in doing so; I am urging the Treasury to make support packages available. Lockdown or not I am here 24/7 to help residents of North Dorset however I can. I will continue to provide advice surgeries either over the telephone or digitally. Please email me: simon.hoare.mp@parliament.uk or call 01258 452585. You can also write to me: Simon Hoare MP, The Stables, Whitecliff Gardens, Blandford Forum, DT11 7BU. I will be posting Lockdown information on simonhoare.org.uk and you can visit gov.uk/coronavirus for Government announcements. If you need to contact Dorset Council it’s dorsetcouncil.gov.uk Let’s all keep safe! Best wishes, Simon

Great honour to be there at Brexit deal vote I returned to the House of Commons last week where we ended the year with a momentous day, as the EU (Future Relationship) Act 2020 became enshrined in law; and I followed every stage of the debate, both in the House of Commons and in the House of Lords. I voted to deliver the democratic will, and the very good trade agreement that the Prime Minister and the Government’s negotiating team have achieved; and MPs finally passed the UK/EU trade deal by 521 to 73 votes. Determined to see this historic process through to its final conclusion; it was my great honour to be in the Chamber, representing West Dorset, as Royal Assent was received and the Bill became law in the early hours of

MP for West Dorset Chris Loder December 31; and I hope this will now really allow us to move on from Brexit. I was also in the House of Commons on 30th December, as the Health Secretary shared the latest coronavirus tier review;

and, after months of sustained challenge, the Government has now uncoupled rural Dorset from the BCP Council area. However, despite all we have done to maintain Tier 3 here, rates of infection have continued to rise across the country and we are now in a third national lockdown; which is a tough but very necessary measure. On December 15 I challenged the Business Secretary in the House of Commons on what support would be available to West Dorset’s small and micro-sized businesses should sustained restrictions be necessary. In response the Chancellor announced new financial support on Tuesday which will help protect jobs – in particular for our hardest-hit retail, hospitality and leisure sectors. This has also been a difficult

time for schools and I engaged with most headteachers over Christmas to ensure the views and concerns of our local primary and secondary schools were well understood by the Government. I am grateful to parents and others who have also shared their views but especially thankful to teachers for doing all they can to work with the latest challenges and restrictions. We now need to work together and push down our local infection rate again; as we did so successfully just a few weeks ago. Personal responsibility remains key and, with vaccines offering us a light at the end of the tunnel, I am sure we can do this. For advice or support in coming weeks please visit my website at chrisloder.co.uk/coronavirus 59

Arts & Entertainment

Fiona pushes the envelope with moving stationery tale Nursery assistant Fiona Allen at Sunny Hill Nursery at Bruton School for Girls has become a published author, with her children’s book, The Stationery Drawer. To make do and mend is the message behind the story, which tells the tale of an assortment of useless stationery items that have a life of their own and work together to foil a dastardly plan. The story teaches young readers that just because something is a little bent or broken it can still be useful. Mrs Allen, who also has a

daughter in Year 8 at Bruton School for Girls school was delighted to share one of the first copies of the book with the children she cares for in the nursery. She said: “The importance of being introduced to books at an early age cannot be underestimated. Children’s imagination, creativity and their grasp of vocabulary and language are hugely enabled by reading. It is an absolute joy to watch a child enjoying a book.” The Stationery Drawer by Fiona Allen is available to purchase on Amazon.

TELLING A STORY: Fiona Allen shares her book The Stationery Drawer, with nursery children India and Hector

Lion production roaring onto stage Having soldiered on through lockdowns, Shaftesbury Arts Centre’s Music and Drama Group have refused to ditch their annual January show, so their latest production, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is a truly ‘must see’ performance and proof that well-loved tradition shines through in the toughest of times. Performances for The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe are being held on: nThu 28 Jan and Fri 29 Jan at 7.30pm. nSat 30 Jan and Sun 31 Jan at 2.30pm nThu 4 Feb and Fri 5 Feb at 7.30pm nSat 6 Feb and Sun 7 Feb at 2.30pm Rehearsals had been in progress for just one week when the second lockdown was announced, but undaunted and refusing to ‘throw in the towel’ the two casts (because of covid precautions, there are two separate teams in place) decided they were willing to 60

give Zoom rehearsals a try. Both casts have worked independently in separate bubbles to ensure that if anyone should fall ill with the virus, another cast member would be ready and willing to take over. And when live performances begin, the teams will be in place for a week each. This is the much-loved C S Lewis story of the Pevensey children. Evacuated during the Second World War, they move to an old house, with a professor and his terrifyingly strict housekeeper. There they discover a wardrobe, through which they journey to the land of Narnia where a magical ageold tale of good versus evil

unfolds. This production is quite a family affair, with two children in each bubble being siblings, and one bubble having an entire family involved, all of which has made the social distancing very much easier to deal with. Directed by Rosie King and with set design by Kim Pragnell, this is Shaftesbury Art Centre’s very own quest for the status quo to prevail, despite the ongoing threat of covid. The Cast The Professor/Aslan: Sam Skey/Alex Chase Mrs. Mcready/The White Witch: Marie Stubbs/Susan Grant

Peter: Callum Long/Max McCall Susan: Holly PottsSkey/Charlotte Berry Edmund: Seth Collis/Noa McCall Lucy: Daisy Potts-Skey/Isla Bower Mr. Tumnus: Sam Stubbs/Robert Kennett Mr. Beaver: Peter Morris/Phil Ellsworth Mrs Beaver: Sam Merry/Katie Darragh Father Christmas: Sam Skey/Alex Chase Maugrim: Jon Corry/Robert Kennett Dwarf: Katy Merry/Callum Long Leopard: Anne Louise Richards/ Stephanie Prideaux-Aspinall Leopard: Lanayha Glasson/Aimee Brawn There will be two four-day runs performed by different casts. Tickets: Thursday Adults £8, Under 18s £5 Friday- Sunday Adults £12.50, Under 18s £8, Members £10 shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk

Arts & Entertainment

New £23m Octagon theatre planned Councillors were set to debate a potential £23 million investment for arts and entertainment in South Somerset – including a new building for Yeovil’s Octagon – yesterday (7th). South Somerset councillors were hoped to agree in principle to progress the development of a substantial project that will transform The Octagon Theatre and see major improvements at the venue. Councillors say this sort of investment could secure thee future of the venue and potentially make it selfsustaining, without the need for regular council funding. The venue would be able to host many of the bigger shows, drawing in a wider audience and become an exemplar for arts venues. 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 an additional cinema. The venue would also see purpose-built studios created, with an improved community ‘café hub’ and separate restaurant areas. The Executive Committee were due to discuss whether to agree in principle to progress the development of the project and the underwriting of the total net project costs, up to £23.01m. If councillors agree the plan it will go to the Executive Committee for approval, and then the Octagon can apply to

funders that would reduce the amount required from the council. The theatre has been entertaining audiences since 1974 and attracts many visitors from far and wide – last year 125,000 tickets were sold, while thousands more took part in one of the weekly classes held there. Councillor Mike Best, portfolio holder for health and wellbeing, said: “Potentially, this could be a massive investment within South Somerset, making this premier venue even more attractive to visitors and also performers; so we really could open up the market for attracting bigger and better performances here in the South West. “This is a key decision for my fellow councillors to make because of the large investment, but a project plan and the finances involved have been scrutinised by everyone so far involved in the project. The project has the potential to pay for itself over time and not cost the taxpayer a penny. This really could mark a major investment for the local area, with wide-reaching benefits for our communities across the region.” Councillor Peter Seib,

EXTRA SEATS: An artist’s impression of the proposed new theatre interior, above, and exterior, main picture

portfolio holder for finance, added: “The Octagon is a fantastic draw, bringing visitors in from across the region whilst delivering huge social value by supporting many local performance groups. However, the theatre urgently needs a significant amount of money spending on repairs just to stay open and it is reliant on council taxpayer subsidy. “What is proposed is a stepchange investment to transform the offer, bringing national touring shows and competing with major centres like Bristol whilst still keeping its local arts scene focus. An enlarged Octagon would be highly sustainable and would

operate free of council subsidy even at pricing appropriate to local residents and user groups. “We are fighting town centre decline across the district caused by the collapse of shop-based retail, and the long-term effects of covid. A new, distinctive and defining cultural offer would counter that, bringing more visitors in, and enhancing the area’s attractiveness to inward investors looking to re-locate their business, and their family, to South Somerset. “In many ways, this type of investment defines the placemaking role of a district council, responding creatively to local economic needs.” 61

Letters

Please save Sherborne’s minor injuries unit A few days before Christmas a couple of years ago, I was in the shower when, without warning, the toughened glass door exploded. I was left naked, wet, bleeding from a dozen places and surrounded by shattered glass. I was deeply thankful that it happened when I had family in the house. While daughter mopped up the blood and water, I was patched up by granddaughter who is firstaid trained. However, she insisted that I get a professional check. So the following morning I went down to the Yeatman’s Minor Injuries Unit (MIU) where I was seen after a modest wait. The nurse was concerned about possible embedded glass, so I went round the corner to X-ray, and returned shortly afterwards with a clean report. The nurse tidied me up with better dressings than I have at home and sent me away with warnings of the signs of possible sepsis, and a request to return for a checkup after Christmas. I greatly appreciated this excellent service. The MIU provides a muchvalued service to Sherborne. Sadly but understandably it was closed during the pandemic. But we are now told that it may never reopen. That would be a very sad loss to the town. It would also be counter-productive for the NHS, as the additional load would be thrown to the GP surgeries and Yeovil A&E, who are already overloaded. Councillor Jill Warburton and the Friends of the Yeatman Hospital are trying hard to ensure this does not happen. So this is an appeal to the medical authorities: Please save our MIU. Mike Keatinge Sherborne 62

provided to her and she replied: “We trust our Government”. Dona Evans East Knoyle

Cartoon by Lyndon Wall justsocaricatures.co.uk

n I would like to thank Gillingham Community Christmas meal very much for delivering a Christmas meal with all the goodies to me on Christmas day, It was very much appreciated. Thank you. Ann Whitmee n In 2018 I visited the Amager Blake heat and power waste plant in Copenhagen with my daughter, a landscape architect, to review the structure and environmental impact on the landscape. The project includes a sports complex consisting of a ski slope, climbing wall, picnic area and parkland. It produces 0-63MW electricity and 157-247 MW district heating. It provides more

clean water than it uses. Sulphur emissions are reduced by 95.5% and NO by 95%. This beautiful complex is on the edge of Copenhagen, we approached it on foot but unable to find the entrance we enquired directions from a young mother with two small children. She invited us to walk with her as she was going home just near the entrance to the plant. We asked her if she had concerns about living so near to a waste plant with young children. She replied that it was a beautiful place to live surrounded by parks and sport facilities. Her housing was superior and provided with clean heat and energy from the plant. I asked, if she felt happy with the sciences

n I am not going to enter into a ping-pong correspondence with Chris Loder, MP, about wreath placing and removal at the Cenotaph. Quite simply, I believe that the decision to remove Extinction Rebellion’s wreath was one for the police, not for Chris. After all, controversial things happen when private citizens take matters into their own hands – for example, statues are pulled down. However, in his reply to my letter, Chris wrongly assumed (BVM, 18/12/2020) that I do not believe there is a time and place for protest. I do. In fact, I seem to have spent much of the last decade protesting; for example against Andrew Lansley’s NHS reforms, and the austerity policies largely responsible for the growth in food bank numbers from virtually zero in 2010, to approximately 2000 today. I willingly accept that Chris did what he thought was right. Personally, I think his time would be better spent urging his government to ensure that jobs are secure and appropriately paid, that benefits, during and beyond the pandemic, are adequate, and that much more effort is put into building genuinely affordable social housing. Only if steps such as these are taken will the need for food banks reduce (it is worth noting that many people who use food banks are not unemployed, but are in work). Gordon Morris Leigh

Letters New Year's eve 2020. Walkers enjoying a cold, crisp morning on Hod Hill (taken on iPhone) Mark Thistlewood

Readers’ photos My friendly robin waiting for his breakfast on New Year’s Eve. From Caroline Francis, Blandford Forum.

Corrections and clarifications The crib scene at the Conduit in Sherborne was actually installed by Sherborne Rotary, not Sherborne Castles Rotary (NBV Dec 18). The Castles group was formed as a separate evening group in the 90s, whereas the crib scene was first placed at the Conduit in 1952.

Education

Virtual taster evening at Yeovil College By Miranda Robertson Yeovil College is offering pioneering virtual taster sessions to prospective students during the coronavirus pandemic. These sessions form part of a second information event, to enable young people to make informed choices about their futures. The event is being held on Tuesday, January 19, between 4pm and 8pm. CEO and principal Mark Bolton said: “Yeovil College is the springboard to your future career, and despite the difficult circumstances, we are determined to showcase our wonderful campus, teaching experts and offer. “First and foremost, we will keep our community safe, enabling and supporting our partnership schools to maintain a positive learning environment and rhythm. “This is a fantastic time to be

a student at Yeovil College. “We are implementing significant campus improvements to revolutionise the way we teach and how students learn. “We will have a 21st century teaching and learning space to support the future workforce of our community, rivalling the very best college facilities in the country.” A varied range of subjects

across every curriculum area relevant to local industry and business opportunities, are available at the college, including A-levels, vocational qualifications, apprenticeships, university qualifications, professional and technical qualifications and the new T-level. Yeovil College is among the first in the country to offer T-levels in the second wave from September.

Senior marketing officer Sarah Gorman said: “There is no need for fancy technology to join this event. “All you will need is a phone, laptop or PC with an internet connection. “The virtual experience will enable you to immerse yourself into the world of Yeovil College, with more than 400 documents and videos available for you to watch, so you can truly understand what all the courses involve.” The event will showcase lessons, tasks and activities and lecturers and teaching staff will be on hand throughout the night via the live chat function, allowing visitors to engage and ask questions. Careers teachers will also be present throughout the evening. Register your place at the event at yeoviljanopen house.vfairs.com. 63

Education

100% scholarship and other discounted awards for local children from September For the third year in a row, Knighton House School is launching their 100% scholarship and other discounted awards for local children. In a recent announcement, the school made the decision to move progressively towards coeducation. Consequently, for the 昀rst time Knighton House is now extending this wonderful opportunity of a 100% scholarship to boys aswell. The Booker Scholarships – named after the school’s founders John and Peggy Booker – will give local children the bene昀ts of a Knighton House education throughout their prep school years. Knighton House is looking to offer these scholarships to children showing potential either academically, in music, sport, riding or in art. Talented all-rounders

will also be considered. The 100% Scholarship award is fully funded and will be awarded to a boy or girl between Years 3 and 8 and will cover the entirety of their Knighton House fees. Additional discounted awards will be available to local children. Knighton House’s mission is to be a leader in the education for young children. We believe that the 昀rst experience of education is the critical opportunity to inculcate the attitudes and skills that help children realise their potential. Our new bespoke KED curriculum (Knowledge, Enlightenment and Discovery) is designed

to teach skills, build con昀dence and instil a lifelong love of learning. The aim is to prepare them to succeed in the 21st century. Knighton House pupils go on to a range of senior schools including the best private, grammar and state maintained schools. Every year children secure scholarships to their next schools. The con昀dence boys and girls gain at Knighton House enables them to thrive at their secondary schools and beyond — and sets them on the path of achievement and success. Old Knightonians go on to achieve distinction in all walks of life. These scholarships will be

awarded after interviews and assessments with Knighton House teachers and 昀nal decisions will be based on a child’s potential and motivation. The Head at Knighton House commented: “Knighton House is about the very best educational outcomes and life skills for children. These awards are true to Knighton’s charitable mission and are a great way to broaden our contribution and reach to the local community. All of the girls who were given awards over the past two years have already contributed so much to the school, we’re absolutely delighted with how well they have settled in and made such a positive impact already. We are thrilled to now be able to offer these opportunities to boys in the local community as well.”

Closing date for applications is Friday 19th February, 2021 To 昀nd out more and to register your interest for your child or children please email our Admissions Registrar, Megan Draga: admissions@knightonhouse .co.uk

Education

Knighton House School 100% Booker Scholarship and other Awards For local boys and girls in Years 3 to 8 from September 2021 100% Scholarship award for:

• Academic • Music • Sport • All-rounder • Art • Riding The award will cover the entirety of their Knighton House Day fees Closing date for applications is Friday 19th February, 2021. Register your interest now by visiting our website: www.knightonhouse.co.uk 01258 452 065 admissions@knightonhouse.co.uk 65

Pets

Ask the vet... My pet needs treatment but I am struggling financially. Where can I go for help ? Owning a pet involves costs. We need to feed them and provide preventative treatment such as regular parasite control, vaccinations and neutering. Our pets are likely to need veterinary care at some point during their life. Ideally you should research the likely costs involved before you get your pet and budget for them. If you cannot afford those costs then it is best, either not to get one, or to get a cheaper pet to keep, e.g. a Jack Russell rather than a Great Dane or a hamster rather than a cat. Getting insurance will give you financial back-up if your pet becomes seriously unwell or has a major injury. When buying insurance check the limit of cover, the excess and any exclusions. It is also important not to change insurance companies if your

with Lynn Broom

pet has an ongoing condition because new companies will exclude pre-existing conditions. Our financial situation can change, especially over the lifetime of our pet. This may mean that we are no longer able to pay for veterinary treatment. Vets have to charge for their services but are always willing to discuss options. Your vet will be much more likely to discuss a payment plan if you are a regular

client and have previously Vet paid your Lynn account on Broom time. It is much better to discuss your financial situation with your vet before you build up a large bill. You will be expected to make some payment at the time even if further costs can be spread over a longer period. Ensure you make your vet aware of your financial limits so that they can keep you updated with ongoing costs. For instance you will be offered a number of options of variable costs so you can choose which is most

appropriate to your current situation. Just because expensive treatment options are available does not mean you have to choose them as they may not be appropriate for you or your pet. The RSPCA and Cats Protection may provide some assistance with veterinary costs in certain circumstances. The PDSA only covers people within the area around one of their branches, although some other vets may be part of an assistance scheme. If you cannot afford your petâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vetâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fees then you may need to consider whether it would be better for your pet to be signed over to an animal charity so they can receive the care they need. We cannot always plan for the future but we can be realistic about options. Being open and upfront with your vet allows them to discuss all the options available and this will help you come to an informed decision.

Puzzle solutions (From pages 60-61) Crossword

Sudoku

5 1 3 2 9 7 8 4 6

9 7 4 6 8 5 1 2 3

8 6 2 1 4 3 7 9 5

2 4 8 3 1 6 5 7 9

3 5 6 7 2 9 4 1 8

1 9 7 4 5 8 3 6 2

7 8 9 5 6 4 2 3 1

6 3 1 8 7 2 9 5 4

B R E S P R D O D F U C R E

4 2 5 9 3 1 6 8 7

Brain chain 29

I O E X C R X E I G O T R A R T W N A N A I I N C T I O N L C A L L E D M N A S P O U S E T H S S E D I S E A S E D

L U D E D N O E I G N S F L Y S I S N A L I T Y E E A C R E D E H I R S T N T G O S H

Any problems with these puzzles? Email newsdesk@blackmorevale.net Arrow words B R C O W S B E

I H M A F M P I L E A R O W R O E G Q R A P E X R H D D B R I O R U T T L A L I A O B L

I R R E D U C I B L E

O D D T E Y E D

Pets

Six puddytats looking for new homes Cats Needing New Homes: Donald (4) b/w boy, needs an indoor home as he has an immune deficiency and needs to be protected. He’s a young, playful cat so needs a bit of space and someone that will be happy to entertain him. Lucy (2) is a b/w girl who needs a home where she has someone about a lot of the time and will be diligent about her diet. Missy (6) b/w girl, very overweight needs someone that will be diligent with her diet, needs a quite home maybe a single person for one to one attention (homes need to be within 20 miles of Blandford Forum at the moment and in the same covid tier). Outside cat – George (2) tabby white boy is looking for a new home, stables, farms, small holdings where you live on site. Indie & Oscar (9) l/h blue grey & white brother & sister looking for a home together

Our lost & found cats: These are the most recent cats that have been lost or found – please check out our Facebook page or give us a call if you have lost or found a cat so we can reunite cats with their owners: Lost Cats: Berwick St John – outside cat tabby and white boy new to area just started exploring missing since the beginning of December. Corfe Mullen – tabby & white boy Found Cats: Shapwick – large black unneutered boy: Shaftesbury – older black unneutered boy. Hinton St Mary – fluffy tabby boy been about for a couple of months. Tel 01258 858644

From left, Lucy, George and Missy. Below, Oscar and Indie

blandford.cats.org.uk We are still offering neutering and microchipping for £5 in postcode areas DT10, DT11, SP5, SP7

and BH21 call 01258 268695 n Looking for a rescue horse? Check out our equestrian pages on P78-79.

Puzzle solutions Jumbo 3D Sudoku

Killer Sudoku Pro 21

5 22

4 24

5 10

Brain chain (Hard) 60

130

5 2 1 9 6 8 4 9 2 7 5 7 3 8 1 1 8 6 9 6 2 9 7 4 6 9 3 1 5 2 4 4 7 8 3 6 3 7 5 2 7 4 2 5 3 6 8 7 3 4 8 6 1 4 7 3 4 5 9 4 8 8 1 6 1 2 3 1 5 9 2 5 9 4 2 17 5 9 5 5 26 2 8 3 4 8 1 3 6 6 7 5 3 4 8 9 1 4 9 1 7 5 7 6 9 2 7 8 6 1 7 5 9 8 4 6 8 3 1 9 1 5 2 9 3 4 8 1 8 9 6 2 2 3 5 7 2 5 2 1 3 4 6 3 4 6 9 8 3 6 6 2 5 7 3 5 8 1 7 2 7 9 4 7 4 7 1 8 9 5 9 2 4 9 2 7 4 8 6 8 2 9 1 3 7 8 1 5 6 7 9 3 3 4 7 4 6 5 1 8 5 3 2 5 4 8 18 1 9 6 9 19 6 1 3 6 2 6 7 4 5 3 4 3 5 8 2 8 2 3 6 7 1 4 5 7 2 9 3

Any problems with these puzzles? Email newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

Cryptic Crossword P R I O R I T I E S

P O R O N D U A C E U R A G L B E N

S C H R O U B K R E E W E R I A T E

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

P O W O N R S E W R N S E P L E A A P T L E I R V E S E

Motoring

End of an era for driveway DIY bibles By Miranda Robertson newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

In the 25 years my husband and I have been together, we must have owned well over 100 cars. I totted them up about 10 years ago and reached 70 and age has not dimmed my little grease monkey’s passion for chopping and changing motors. This drives my dad up the wall, him being the type of

GET YOUR MOTOR RUNNIN’: John Haynes with one of his many manuals and inset, in his RAF uniform

of YouTube videos out there, the Haynes manual is still the bible. It feels odd there won’t be any more. However with vehicles getting ever more complex the company, which was bought in 2019 following founder John Haynes’ death, FONDANT MEMORY: Miranda’s has taken the reluctant wedding cake decision to stop producing new printed guides for chap who cannot be doing driveway enthusiasts. with change for change’s You’ll still be able to order a sake. manual for anything built But husband loves messing pre-2020 and newer guides about under the will be bonnet. He’s rebuilt published engines, changed online, but it is more ball joints the beginning of and drop links than the end for I could count and those wellreplaced a zillion thumbed turbos, aided by a handbooks, trusty Haynes often to be manual. Our found with wedding cake even black, oily featured a classic marks around car bought from the SPECIAL DELIVERY: the turbo chapter John Haynes’ first Haynes Motor in our house. ever manual Museum, with a The first Haynes fondant me sitting Workshop looking brassed off while a Manual was published in fondant, be-kilted Pete could 1965, aimed at owners of the be seen lying underneath the Austin Healey Sprite. It was an instant hit, and chassis. Haynes has since published So the news that Haynes, more than 200 million based at Sparkford, will no longer be publishing any new manuals on 300 cars. The amazingly detailed cutaway printed guides feels like the drawings by Terry Davey end of an era – if you’ll were featured from 1972. excuse the pun, a real Haynes has also printed wrench. Despite the enormous number books on 130 motorbikes and 68

you can even pick up manuals on vehicles from literature and films, such as the Doc’s DeLorean time machine from Back to The Future. Other manuals cover caring for a baby, a Bluffer’s

booklet about the project, drawing all the illustrations himself. The 250 copies he produced on a stencil duplicator sold out in 10 days at five shillings a pop. Later, he helped to fix an Austin Healey Sprite while doing his National Service in the RAF and realised the official manual wasn’t a lot of use to the layman. He founded the company in 1960, but it wasn’t until 1965 that first Sprite manual was produced. No wonder – it took time to perfect the format of the pistonheads’ ‘bible’. These days Haynes manuals are written by two authors and take between 20 and 30

MANUAL TRANSMISSION: The Haynes publishing HQ

Guide to Brexit, and pocket manuals for kids for anything from sharks to dinosaurs. The company is now creating an ‘exciting and comprehensive new automotive maintenance and repair product that will cover around 95 per cent of car makes and models – an increase of around 40 per cent over our current Workshop Manual coverage.’ Haynes re-built an old Austin 7 into a new special while still at school in 1956, having persuaded his headmaster to allow him to miss his rugby lessons so that he could rebuild his £15 saloon. The 17-year-old sold the finished car at a profit and wrote a

man-weeks. A car or motorcycle is bought at the beginning of the project and sold at the end. The vehicle is usually retained for a couple of months to ensure it is functioning correctly after the rebuild. The beauty of the guides is that they show people how to strip a car completely and reassemble it – and people loved them from the outset. The first run of 3,000 copies sold out in less than three months. By the time he launched the Haynes International Motor Museum in 1985 Haynes had sold millions of the guides and branched out into a number of sideline series

Motoring

as Haynes stops printing new guides based on that success. There’s now a manual to suit almost everyone, with cooking, history and almost everything else under the sun covered. The manuals are printed in 15 languages – the Haynes Manual is a global phenomenon. The museum was created in the remains of a Second World War American munitions dump in Sparkford. It initially featured 29 of John Haynes’ own vehicles, as he had limited storage of his own, and was ‘beginning to lose track of where they all were’. It now houses nearly 400 vehicles from around the world, from classic, historic and vintage to supercars. For me, there’s nothing so evocative as the smell of an old car, and this is not just a random collection of

gleaming steeds standing about for posterity – the vehicles are all driven to ensure they are in fine fettle mechanically as well as cosmetically. Sadly, the museum had to close when Somerset went into Tier 3, but when it reopens visitors are assured of a safe visit. Keep an eye on the museum’s Facebook page or haynesmotormuseum.com for news of reopening and to book. Motorbikes Wanted Non runners and unwanted, Phone Keith on 07966 213344 Independent land rover specialists, parts, repairs, servicing, mot preparation, 42 years experience, 01749 880817, www.nicholaspaxton.co.uk

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

New Skoda citygo, black alloy, sports wheel with bridgestone, 185.55.15, £70. Kia Nero, new spare wheel kit, 205.16 with wheel jack etc, £75 - 01747 870765

John’s Caravans

Toyota Rav4 Reebok, 2000, 4x4, 135k miles, MOT October 2021, FSH, Silver, Yokahamas, tow bar, excellent condition mark 1 classic, very reliable well maintained £1,200 ono. 07747 014102

Toyota Hilux Double cab 2011 132k miles ,New MOT, clutch, tyres etc .Recent valet £7,200 (inc vat) 2 owners, AC , alarm etc 01985 845063 07880 983593 WANTED - Car Trailers, Horse Trailers and Cattle Trailers, all types - Call 07736 871092

Mobile Caravan Servicing & Repairs Please call

01747 853114 07546 548017 Keeping you on the move...

WANTED CAR TRAILERS, HORSE TRAILERS AND CATTLE TRAILERS, ALL TYPES Call 07736 871092

CAR SALES

2013 (63) BMW 1 Series 1.6 116i M Sport Automatic 5dr. 136bhp, 8 speed automatic, great performance, M Sport body styling wheels & seats, parking sensors, bluetooth, climate control, auto lights & wipers, 67,500 miles £10450 2015 (64) BMW 3 Series 330D M Sport 3.0TD Automatic 4dr. 258bhp, diesel, 8 speed automatic, great performance, M Sport body styling & wheels, sat nav, M Sport leather seats, parking sensors, adaptive suspension, Harman Kardon audio, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, stunning car that has been exceptionally well cared for, 48,800 miles £15750 2018 (68) Ford Fiesta 1.0 EcoBoost Active X 5dr. 140bhp, petrol, exclusive exterior styling, partial leather, heated seats, touch screen, sat nav, parking sensors, reversing camera, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, main beam assist, traffic sign recognition, hill start assist, lane keeping aid, heated front screen, upto 55mpg economy, 6,900 miles £14500 2017 (67) Ford Fiesta 1.0 EcoBoost Zetec 5dr. 100bhp, petrol, reversing camera, touch screen, automatic lights, hill start assist, lane keeping aid, bluetooth, heated front screen, award winning engine, upto 65mpg, 22,800 miles £9950 2017 (17) Ford Fiesta 1.0 EcoBoost Titanium Automatic 5dr. 100bhp, petrol, exceptional engine with the smooth automatic, parking sensors, heated front screen, multi award winning engine, auto lights & wipers, climate control, cruise control, bluetooth, upto 65mpg, 33,700 miles £9500

2017 (67) Honda Jazz 1.3 i-VTEC SE Navi Automatic 5dr. 102bhp, petrol, automatic, sat nav, parking sensors, touch screen, automatic lights & wipers, main beam assist, cruise control, traffic sign recognition, lane keeping aid, hill start assist, bluetooth, compact car with a spacious interior & large boot, 13,500 miles £11350 2015 (65) Honda HR-V 1.6i-DTEC EX SUV 5dr. 120bhp, diesel, high seating position, large boot, heated leather, sat nav, touch screen, parking sensors, reverse camera, lane keeping aid, sign recognition, auto lights & wipers, main beam assist, cruise control, sunroof & electric blind, £20 a year road tax & upto 68mpg economy, 46,000 miles £11850 2007 (07) Peugeot 207 1.6HDi Sport 5dr. 90bhp, diesel, bargain clearance car with a great specification & low running costs, £30 tax, upto 62mpg, recent cambelt change, MOT unti Jan 2022, 117,000 miles £1250 2018 (68) Renault Clio 0.9TCe GT-Line 5dr. 89bhp, petrol, lovely looking car finished in the best colour with the GT Line exterior styling & GT Line wheels, sat nav, touch screen, partial leather seats, cruise control & speed limiter, automatic lights & wipers, bluetooth, parking sensors, hill start assist, keyless entry system, 14,400 miles £9975 2012 (12) Skoda Octavia 1.6TDi Elegance Estate. 105bhp, diesel, spacious estate with a great specification & low running costs, large boot with a low loading edge & flat folding rear seats for large load carrying, parking sensors, only £30 a year road tax, upto 62mpg economy, only 49,500 miles £6250

2016 (65) Ford Fiesta 1.0 EcoBoost Titanium X 5dr. 100bhp, petrol, multi award winning engine, partial leather, heated seats, parking sensors, reverse camera, hill start assist, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, heated front screen, Free road tax, keyless entry system, bluetooth, upto 65mpg, 49,900 miles £8250

2017 (67) Vauxhall Corsa 1.4 SRi 5dr. Petrol, air con, alloys, cruise control, touch screen audio, automatic lights & wipers, hill start assist, 29,500 miles £7950

2019 (19) Ford Focus 1.0 EcoBoost ST Line X 5dr. 125bhp, petrol, ST exterior body styling pack & wheels, partial leather, heated seats, heated front screen, touch screen, sat nav, parking sensors, auto lights & wipers, main beam assist, cruise control, lane keeping aid, traffic sign recognition, bluetooth, multi award winning engine, 12,800 miles £16500

2017 (67) Vauxhall Astra 1.6CDTi Elite Nav 5dr. 136bhp, diesel, sat nav, touch screen system, variable heated front seats, heated rear seats, heated steering wheel, leather seats, cruise control, automatic lights & wipers, bluetooth, hill start assist, 58mpg economy, above average mileage but a real bargain, 82,500 miles £8250

2017 (67) Ford C-Max 1.5TDCi Titanium X MPV 5dr. 120bhp, diesel, high seating position for easy access & great visibility, large boot, partial leather, heated seats, heated front screen, touch screen, automatic lights & wipers, xenon headlights, cruise control, glass roof with electric blind, parking sensors, upto 68mpg, 22,800 miles £12450

2012 (12) Vauxhall Astra 1.6 SE 5dr. 115bhp, petrol, only 26,500 miles from new, partial leather, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, lovely genuine low mileage example, only 26,500 miles £5250

2017 (17) Ford Kuga 2.0TDCi Titanium X AWD 4x4 SUV 5dr. 180bhp, diesel, all wheel drive, high seating position for easy access & great visibility, large boot, sat nav, touch screen, heated leather seats, automatic lights & wipers, xenon headlights, cruise control, parking sensors, reversing camera, electric sunroof, electric tailgate, 32,100 miles £15950

2018 (68) Vauxhall Grandland X 1.2 Turbo SE Automatic SUV 5dr. 130bhp, petrol, 8 speed automatic, high seating position, large internal space & big boot, touch screen, sign recognition, hill start assist, lane keeping aid, auto lights & wipers, main beam assist, cruise control, parking sensors, 28,000 miles £13250

Motoring

Farewell to much-loved attended pumps n From front page The café is long gone but over the years the family have added an MoT tyre and exhaust garage, car and caravan sales, a glamping/ holiday cottage site and a gym. Michael’s two sons, sister and nephew own or run these distinct businesses which will all remain open, although the garage will close at the end of February. He believes the filling station could be revitalised with a Spartype mini-market in the existing shop and says he has already had an expression of interest in leasing the forecourt. He added that he would give “serious thought” to the business in the coming months when the future is easier to predict. He cites profit margins on fuel of 3p a litre and insurance premiums leaping to £33k this

Gaunts filling station in 1927

year as examples of increased costs and greatly reduced business due to coronavirus. Michael is ready to hand over the pumps: “I’ve been here 55 years and I don’t want to open a shop or run (the filling station) anymore. I have done my time.” Once upon a time, there were eight filling stations between Shaftesbury and Sherborne. Then came the supermarkets and

now there are two. The Blackmore Vale station opened in the 1950s and when Fred and Joan Farrow bought it in 1966, there was no A303 or M5 through Somerset. If Londoners went to the West Country, they took the A30 through Basingstoke, Salisbury and onto Shaftesbury and Sherborne. It was boom time for the Farrows.

“We were exactly halfway between London and the Cornish border. It took five hours to drive here, the families would need something to eat and small cars would be just about out of fuel.” The café was also recognised as the first AA Rest Stop on the trunk road, the forerunner of the service stations, and stayed open 24 hours on Friday nights. The family stayed up home cooking throughout the night for Londoners, coach loads of tourists and motor bikers. The café also attracted night hawks from surrounding towns and musicians returning from gigs. Paul McCartney was among those who stopped by to order ham, egg and chips and Leo Sayer put his record on the jukebox so people would know who he was. Mike Farrow still has the jukebox as a reminder of

Honest pricing Quality work Exceptional customer service

Motoring & Mobility Arnolds service station in the 70s

the good times. There were two other stations on the Causeway back then: Gaunts and Arnolds, which both opened in the 1920s. The 1927 photo of Gaunts show a cigarette vending machine right by the pumps. But the independent stations began to wane when Tesco began selling petrol in 1974, just as the small stations were recovering from the 1973 oil crisis, which had trebled petrol prices. Arnolds spotted the change and diversified by opening a shop,

which won an award from Shell in 1974. But the supermarket price cutting took its toll. Arnolds and Gaunts stopped selling petrol in 1989 and 1994 respectively, by which time Tescoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s had become the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest fuel retailer. On the A30, Arnoldsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; second station at Five Bridges and two in Henstridge also closed. Today, only Riverside at West Stour and the Milborne Port station still survive as independents on the road between Shaftesbury and Sherborne.

Church

So much kindness being shown Pause for Thought! For all our hopes for the New Year ahead, the famous words of Minnie Louis Haskins: And I said to the man who stood at the gate of the year: “Give me a light, that I may tread safely into the unknown!” And he replied: “Go out into the darkness and put your hand into the Hand of God. That shall be to you better than light and safer than a known way.” So, I went forth, and finding the Hand of God, trod gladly into the night. And He led me toward the hills and the breaking of day in the lone East. It seems strange to be typing this

on a dull day when Christmas is still to come and we do not know what covid-19 restrictions are yet to be put in place after the Christmas Day relaxations. Yet there are still some wonderful stories being heard about how people are thinking of others, when meals are to be shared with neighbours who are housebound and lonely, or the lovely young lady who has been shopping for her elderly next-door companion and now refuses to accept any money towards the cost. Another story mentions the mechanic asked to recover a broken down car late on a Friday evening. This he did with a huge smile and at no cost. I could go on and on about the love that is being

n Public worship is suspended in the Shaftesbury Team for the duration of the lockdown. We will resume online worship on Sunday 17th January via our

Facebook page. Details will be given there when confirmed. Visit shaftesbury cofe.org.uk for up to date news or callhe Team Office on 01747 853060.

shared this Christmastide and, as a Christian, I truly believe that this is the love of Christ that is being spread around our community. So by the time you read this we will have entered another New Year that initially will be one of uncertainty but, I believe, one that will be filled with hope. A vaccine is already being administered across our nations and more will be available in the next few weeks. I pray that the future will be one that promises we will be able to get together with family and friends and make up for the trials we have faced over the last nine months, when the economy will start to return to the norm we are used Blandford Methodist Church It has been decided to stop Sunday services until further notice. If you have a prayer request,

with the Rev Richard Priest, of Stour Vale Benefice

Vicar in the Vale to, but one where we will continue to think of others before ourselves. The birth of Jesus Christ, the miracle of Christmas, is celebrated among many religions and should be a sign of coming together rather that tearing us apart, so let us all pray for peace in this troubled world and a wonderful year ahead for all of us. May God bless you and be with you for the year ahead. Rev Richard are feeling lonely and need to chat, leave your message on 01258 577 030: we will keep your information confidential and observe data protection regulations.

Project to look at BAME in history By Nicci Brown Blandford Parish Church is researching the ‘hidden’ stories of people associated with the church over the centuries. Organisers are hoping to start by visiting the Dorset History Centre for pointers and anyone who would like to help is invited to get in touch. The Big Church Project, launched in 2018, focuses on the future use and development of the church, with a central aim of the project to engage with diverse communities and record their contribution to the history of the church and its area. Judith Ford has used parish registers and other records such as censuses and legal documents to begin the story of black, asian and minority ethnic people in the Blandford district. Her article written for the Dorset 72

History Centre says: “Some of these records reflect the dehumanising brutality of the slave trade that saw an estimated 3.1 million slaves transported across the Atlantic by British merchants between 1640 and 1807. For example, on the 25 February 1701, the burial took place at Winterbourne Stickland of ‘an unbaptised negro slave (belonging to Mr Vine)’. Since she had no ‘Christian’ name, she was recorded anonymously. It is the identity of the man to whom she ‘belonged’ that is provided. “For BAME people who were baptised, the information provided in parish registers can also be brief and difficult to interpret. ‘Hannah’, who was baptised at Blandford Forum on 5 June 1770 is described in parish records as ‘a Black Woman Servant of Mrs Holder’. “Was Hannah the name given to

this woman at birth or at baptism? Unlike most other records of baptism, no reference is made to her parentage. Hannah’s status remains unclear. Was she ‘free’, or was her baptism considered to be a step towards establishing her freedom? “The description ‘Black’ does not necessarily mean that she was of African heritage, since that term could be used to describe anyone of non-white ethnicity. The over-riding question prompted by this record is: who was Hannah?” Mrs Ford added: “Most visual representations of BAME people in the 18th century are of individuals in European dress. A wax seal attached to a Blandford deed, dated 1733, provides a welcome and possibly rare exception. The seal image is of the head and shoulders of an

(unidentified) African man in tribal attire. It is a portrait that appears to celebrate African culture. But was it a possession of someone of African heritage, or an item that reflects the 18th century European fashion for ‘Blackamoor’ jewellery and artifacts? The owner of the seal is impossible to identify with certainty, but was probably either the signatory to the deed, Robert Weston, a barber of Blandford Forum, or one of the witnesses, Thomas Waters ‘gentleman’ and Charles Day. “The records so far found are, without exception, thoughtprovoking. They indicate the long history of black, asian and minority ethnic people in northern Dorset. The project continues, and will include similar research into other minority groups, including the traveller community.”

Sport

Doddler duo recognised for help in running a run club There hasn’t been too much for the Dorset Doddlers to celebrate this year, with the majority of races being cancelled due to the ongoing covid-19 situation. That all changed at the club’s virtual annual general meeting when two of the longest serving members were awarded lifetime membership. First to receive the award was John Cowley, who has been a member for more than 24 years. John has taken on many of the club roles over the years, spending more than 15 years as treasurer and three years as chairman, as well as standing in as a session leader. John is always first to help out at any of the Dorset Doddlers’ events, especially organising water stations at the Stur Half and marshalling at other races. Ian Pollard also received lifetime membership in recognition of his commitment as the club coach. Ian has been a

DODDLERS Ian Pollard (left) and John Cowley

member of the Doddlers since 2003 and has been club coach for more than eight years. Ian can always be seen leading the Thursday training sessions come rain or shine. With a wideranging knowledge of all aspects of running he has inspired many of the Dorset Doddlers to achieve their running goals.

Ian has also been the chief marshal at both the Stur Half and the Stickler for many years. The committee would like to thank them both for their tireless dedication, and offer thanks and appreciation for everything they do for the club. If you would like more information on the Dorset Doddlers please visit: dorsetdoddlers.co.uk.

Eagle eye Ian in the spotlight at Yeovil GC On the first Saturday following Lockdown II, Ian McVeigh of Yetminster hit his first shot down the fairway of the 287-yard, 9th hole of The Old Course at Yeovil Golf Club. His second shot disappeared down the hole on the green. The eagle on the par-four hole was not Ian’s first. Playing off a handicap of two, he has had a number of on par five holes but very few on the par fours. Achieving one on his return to competitive golf on a tricky dog-leg par four certainly added to his pleasure of being allowed

out on the course once again. Ian was one of 55 competitors in a stableford competition, which saw four players return scores in

excess of 36 points. The First Division winner was Steve Gibbons (41) followed by Marc Harris (38), while Richard Poulson (40) won Division Two and Duane Rendell (37) took Division Three. On the following Monday, 83 seniors took part in their own stableford competition. Terry Higley returned the best score of the day and won the Division Three category with 42 points. Phil Osmond won Division One (36) and Martin Thomas Division Two (40).

Sport scrapped across the Vale until February The latest lockdown has effectively put all sport on hold until February 15 at the earliest. Outdoor team sports is not permitted including grassroots football, hockey and rugby while leisure centres and gyms have also closed. So too have other indoor and outdoor leisure facilities such as tennis courts, swimming pools, golf courses, archery and shooting galleries, bowling alleys, riding arenas at riding centres, climbing walls and climbing centres. Organised outdoor sport for disabled people such as walking football is allowed to continue. Most people’s activity will be restricted to cycling, running or walking outdoors, which is allowed with one other person. You can also exercise with one other person outside of your household. The Government also says outdoor exercise ‘should be done locally wherever possible, but you can travel a short distance within your area’.

WINCANTON GOLF CLUB RESULTS Seniors Monthly stableford October 27 1 Kevin George 34 2 Pete Anyan 32 ocb Seniors 9-hole qualifier October 30 1 Phil Francis 20 2 Phillip Welch 19 ocb Monthly medal November 1 Chris Chapman nett 71 2 Ed Gale nett 72 ocb Seniors Monthly stableford December 8 1 Jon Reed 36 2 Ray Phillips 35 Monthly medal December 1 John Atkins nett 70 2 Pete Anyan nett 77 3 Ed Gale nett 78 73

Sport Fixture pile-up threatens another football season

NO GO GILLS: Gillingham haven’t played a match since December 5

Dorset Premier League pulls plug before forced lockdown DORSET PREMIER LEAGUE On Monday, Dorset Premier Football League suspended all games until further notice. Later that day, the government banned all nonelite outdoor team sport until mid-February. The move followed the cancellation of all games over the holiday period when the 16 league clubs voted 9-7 on Christmas Eve in favour of suspending games. At the time, there was some dissent with Tom Robins, manager of Poole Rovers arguing that Dorset was in a lower tier. “I get that a couple of the teams are in higher tier areas, but they can catch up. Dorset have vowed to finish this season, so why delay it any longer?” The move affected 16 games over Christmas including those involving Blandford, Sturminster Newton, Gillingham and Shaftesbury Reserves. However, with the DPL only suspending league games, Blandford United chairman Steve Powell had hoped on Monday that his club could 74

play Sturminster Marshall in the quarter final of the Dorset County FA Senior Trophy this Saturday – although he (correctly) expected the goverment to ban all non-elite football by then. Gillingham’s quarter final at home to Hamworthy Recreation is also off. Portland United Reserves 0 Sherborne Town Reserves 3 Dorset Premier League December 19 The Zebras leapt four places in the table to third with goals from Nick Jacobs, Dec Cornish and Steve Burton. The team has played all nine league games away from

GOAL! Nick Jacobs

home this season. “It’s just the luck of the draw we guess,” said the club’s Twitter feed. “The DPL has to fit reserve games in with the first team home games.” To which one fan pointed out that when all gets back to normal, it will mean a series of Reserves’ home games in lovely spring weather with a cider. Ironically, the team were due to play the next two games at home but all has now been suspended. Merley Cobham Sports 5 Sturminster Newton 1 Dorset Premier League December 19 The Cherries soon found out why Merley were top of the league when they were on the wrong end of a rout. Stur were 1-1 at the break but Merley pulled away in the second half. Last season’s Dorset League and County Senior cup champions have won every game in the league this season. Leading scorer Matt Groves added two more to make it 16 in nine games.

Non-league football across the region is in real danger of being unable to complete fixtures this season after the latest lockdown, set to last until February 15 at the earliest. The government has banned all non-elite and grassroots football. With games also likely to be lost to the weather, abandoning the leagues or deciding to award points based on fixtures completed are the only two options. Both Sherborne and Wincanton play in the Toolstation Western League Division One. The League has previously said that points per game (PPG) will come into play if 75 per cent of fixtures had managed to be completed. But only 27 per cent of games have been played and we’re halfway through the season. Wincanton currently lie fifth in the table and are pushing for promotion – but on PPG are seventh with 1.57 points. Another issue is that if one league doesn’t manage to finish, it will affect promotion and relegation across all lower leagues. One comment on Twitter read: “It’s not just about one League finishing. Whatever percentage the FA come up with, it will need to apply across the whole football pyramid. The key is to look at the teams who have played the least and how many games can they realistically achieve.” Dorset Premier Football League’s lockdown and waterlogged pitches meant 16 games involving local sides were scrapped up to and during the Christmas period. It too will struggle to finish its season, as will the Wessex League featuring Shaftesbury.

Sport

Shaftesbury goalfest before lockdown THE WESSEX LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION Shaftesbury have not played since thrashing Portland in mid-December. All league and cup games were put on hold three days before Christmas and Town will now not play until midFebruary at least following the government’s decision. Earlier, Wessex League officials said: “With three clubs, a number of players and match officials in Tier 4, there are concerns with the welfare of everyone involved. The majority of clubs were in favour of postponing with six wishing to continue.” Shaftesbury chairman Steve Coffen said: “Why was any competitive football even started?” Shaftesbury have missed games against Bournemouth Poppies and Lymington Town and were due to play Baffin Rovers and Fleet over the next two weekends.

RED ALERT: Shaftesbury attack the Portland goal

Shaftesbury 5 Portland United 1 December 15 Shaftesbury found their scoring boots to thrash relegation rivals Portland in a vital basement battle. The win lifted Town above Portland and up four places and was a triumph for manager Danny Holmes,

who has drafted in seven new players. One is his nephew, Luke Holmes, who scored in the first minute and later rounded off the scoring. The new boy scored all five goals with Luke Burbridge netting two and Kameron Andrews heading home. It was a busy night for Portland manager Franklyn Clarke, who only took charge two

Pic: @DorsetDom

months ago. He started the game, then went in goal with 15 minutes left when keeper Josh Lucas suffered a broken hand. The score was 4-1 and Clarke conceded a second goal for Holmes. He later admitted he had never played in goal before. In a Twitter post from Shaftesbury, the club wished Lucas a speedy recovery.

Sherborne takes a unilateral stance and halts all football TOOLSTATION WESTERN LEAGUE DIVISION ONE Even before the government’s decision, matches for Sherborne and Wincanton had been cancelled until January 22. “The League Board had worked with clubs that wanted to continue playing. However, with Somerset put into Tier 4 on December 30, the board felt it not appropriate to continue playing until the coronavirus situation across the leagues area improved.” The league has told clubs

whatever happens in future, they will have a reasonable notice period in which to resume games, if indeed that is possible and practical. Wincanton manager Chris Wise said: “It will obviously mean Saturday/Tuesday games for the foreseeable, but we’re all here to play games, as long as it’s safe to do so.” Wincanton Town Sherborne Town December 26

P P

The much-anticipated Boxing Day derby clash was called off when Sherborne took a

BLANK DIARY: No fixtures planned

unilateral decision on December 23 to postpone all games. A statement read: “It is with regret that Sherborne Town FC has taken the unhappy decision to suspend all football at the club until the pandemic situation improves.” A spokesman for Wincanton said on Twitter:

“Very disappointed. We were prepared and happy to play. Unfortunately our opponents decided to stop playing football.” Sherborne chair John Bowers responded: “As disappointing as it is, the safety and wellbeing of our players and management must always come first.” 75

Equestrian

Boosting riders’ confidence key to success I’m Allison Barfoot – a creative, dreamer, inspirer, adventurer and horse riding coach amongst many other hats/identities/masks. Today I am wearing my riding coach hat and have something to share with you. There is a new drug I’ve found out about that enhances the performance of athletes. I was drawn in as I find the word ‘drug’ conjures up images in my mind of elite cyclists taking faster drugs and then being banned from the sport. I was

intrigued and curious to find out more. This drug, if administered in the correct way, increases self-esteem, boosts confidence and pushes boundaries of potential and outcome. However, if this drug is used in the wrong hands it can destroy children, adults, men, women, athletes, any one of us... crushing dreams and beliefs. In the wrong hands it can destroy lives and often is so damaging the person doesn’t recover long into adulthood or even on their death bed

from its misuse. This drug has been around since the start of time, it is in abundance and it is unbelievably FREE. Have you worked out what the drug is? It’s language. Always putting people down and giving negative comments or sarcasm doesn’t build self-esteem or confidence. Build people up, give them hope, be kind, be an encourager. We are in a world of constant evolution and we need more builders of confidence and kindness right now.

So perhaps this year you can think before you speak and ask yourself, is it kind? Is it helpful? Am I building someone up or am I crushing them? Is it time to change your vibe and start using this free drug? Allison is a Centre10 Advanced Coach and won the Centre10 Coaches Impact Award 2020. Allison trained with Charlie Unwin, Elite Sports Psychologist and Sarah Huntley, psychologist at Centre10, Training Elite Minds.

Why not try indoor carriage driving? By Jade Leahy Indoor carriage driving was developed by Dick Carey in the 1980s. As a lover of traditional driving, he sought to spread enthusiasm for the sport by creating a discipline that was accessible, since traditional driving competitions involved threeday events with strict turnout, and a significant investment of time and money that made it prohibitive to many wouldbe competitors. Dick founded an indoor winter league that required warm layers and commitment of a single day. The first event at Blue Barn EC, Ashford, Kent, for the Shepway Harness Club and the discipline is going from strength to strength, with 20 regions in the UK governed by the umbrella body the ICD UK. Competitions have three phases, precision and paces, cones and obstacles. Classes are judged by a points system and drivers must qualify in each class with the national championships taking place at Keysoe in Milton Keynes. In the first phase, one judge 76

marks the precision of each movement and the other marks the pace. In the second phase competitors navigate a cone course, of no more than 10 gates, incurring five penalty points for every ball dislodged from a cone and one mark for each second above or below the optimum time. The third and most exciting phase is the obstacles. These are posts and rails which make ‘gates’ which have to be negotiated in order – A, B, C, D, E. Two obstacles

are built in the ring with a common start/finish gate between them in the centre of the ring. This section is scored one mark per second that the competitor is in the obstacle zone. There is usually one knockdown for each movable element, and they are scored at five marks each. All other penalties are as per the ICD/BHDTA rules. Any penalty marks are added to the times taken for the obstacle to produce the final score for this section.

Dorset’s indoor driving league is now run from Motcombe’s Half Moon Stud, and there are three competition levels: novice, intermediate and open. The novice class is just as much fun, but without the pressure to beat the clock. One of Dorset’s best-known competitors and founder of Wessex Driving is Julia Liles. Julia began carriage driving in the late 1980s and started off with a team of small but mighty Shetlands. She went on to develop a team of Welsh Ponies and has a lot of success over the years. She’s a regular competitor and Motcombe and her team ranges from age seven to 15. Julia also lets her expert ponies have a whizz around the course, teaching novice drivers the ropes, so if you fancy giving indoor driving a go pop along to their next event. The club is seeking to grow and develop the sport and is in the process of developing and outdoor summer league, combining the thrills of competitive driving with the beautiful backdrop of the North Dorset countryside.

Equestrian

Consider this before buying a horse Lacey is an energetic 20 yearold Arab cross currently living at Margaret Green Animal Rescue in Church Knowle and is looking for her forever home. Sadly Lacey is just one of the thousands of horses and ponies currently being cared for by equine welfare charities across the UK. A spokesman for the charity said: “There is an equine welfare crisis in the UK and few people are aware of how bad things are for our lovely equine companions.” Why is the problem so bad? Most people are unaware of how many horses there are needing homes. This makes finding a new home for a horse or pony very difficult, especially if it is older or has health or behavioural issues. A lot of people take on ponies thinking they will be able to sell or rehome them if things don’t work out, but this is often not the case. These horses and ponies frequently end up being left in a field with basic care but without work on their health and behaviour these problems can escalate from minor issues to serious problems relatively quickly. Most equines being admitted to rescue centres have outstanding health and/or behavioural issues and these take a huge amount of resources to resolve. How can you help? Educate! Talk to anyone that will listen about the problem of unwanted equines. Make people aware that giving a pony up is much more difficult than acquiring one. Thinking of getting a horse or pony? Be prepared! Horses and ponies take a lot of looking after, so making sure you have the knowledge to provide appropriate care is vital. If you are unsure what is involved or if you are ready

contact any equine rescue centre and they will be happy to discuss this with you. What do I need to pay for? The purchase price, livery (if you don’t own your own land and stables and need somewhere to keep your pony). Insurance for vet bills and public liability, vet fees (not everything is covered by insurance), shoeing, feeding, bedding , tuition, rugs, tack (saddle & bridle), yard equipment, riding equipment. How much time does it take to care for a pony? You will need to visit your pony at least twice a day, 365 days a year. You need to make sure your pony is healthy and has everything it needs including clean water, feed, hay, grazing. Even if you are planning to keep a pony that can live out all year you still need to clear the field of droppings and check your pony over. If you are planning on your pony living out, what will happen if your pony becomes poorly and needs to be kept in a stable? Will you have access to anywhere suitable? Could you afford the cost of renting a stable and will you have the time to care for your pony if it needs to be kept in for a recovery period? What is the life expectancy of a horse or pony? It is not unusual for horses to live until their late 20s and

ponies can often live longer than this. Do you know what you will be doing in 20 years’ time? Will you still be fit and well enough to care for your pony? What do you want your pony for? If you are specifically looking for a pony to ride what would happen if through illness or injury it could no longer be ridden? This is a very common scenario, a pony that cannot be ridden can live a very happy and fulfilling life without being ridden but would this suit you and your lifestyle? If you wanted to continue riding what would you do with your original pony? Could you afford to keep your first pony and buy another to ride? If not what would you do with your original pony? What happens if the pony I buy is not suitable for me? Buyer beware! Unfortunately we are hearing more and more stories of people who bought a pony and it turned out that is wasn’t suitable for the purpose it was purchased for. One of the most common examples is a pony is sold as suitable for a beginner/ child to ride and once home it becomes clear that this is not the case. Quite often behavioural issues can cause a new owner to become nervous of their new pony so

do less with it and as the pony does less the behavioural problem worsens. What happens if my situation changes and I can no longer keep my pony? This is a very difficult situation to be in. If your pony is fit, healthy, well behaved and able to be ridden you should be able to find another home. If your pony is older, has health or behavioural issues this can be a serious problem. There are huge numbers of unwanted ponies and horses looking for new homes all the time. The majority have some health or behavioural issues. There are so many ponies available all the time: ones with even minor issues are often overlooked. Buying a pony is easy, finding a new home for it if things don’t work out is not! If you are interested in giving Lacey a loving, forever home, ring Margaret Green Animal Rescue on 01929 480474 or go to margaretgreen animalrescue.org.uk

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Field & Stream

Relentless mud means lots of moving THE FIELD with Tria Stebbing Happy 2021 to you all. Christmas passed very quietly at the field. The ewes enjoyed a treat of brussels sprouts, and moved to a new paddock. Not as easy as it sounds, the mud has been relentless. As they are currently grazing on a steep hill, we needed to move the electric fence. I opted to carry the posts down the muddy hill, which could have been mistaken for a heat in Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a Knockout. The ewes took one look at the new paddock and legged it to the new grass. We will move them back to our field if the weather remains this bad, as

ANGLING Gillingham AA Club match. River Stour from Trill to Catholics. (20 pegs) 20 hardy souls braved the cold weather and fished on a fast but not too coloured river. Winner on the day was Neil Kerley who drew peg 42 at Trill and caught 6 chub on bread to weigh 17-15. Runner up was Danny McCoy, who drew peg 45, big hole at Catholics and fished bread feeder to catch 5 chub for 10-01. 3rd: James Kiernan- 9-04 4th: Andrew Hillier- 7-08 5th: Adie West- 7-00 6th: Simon Hebrditch- 6-13 Most of the weights were made of chub but there were odd pockets of Roach and dace to be caught. Dave Sealey is running another match next week so book in with him on

we need to ensure they are eating well. The field shelter is ready with hay and a dry floor, with much needed respite from the elements. They are starting to fill out, and we are sure that all are pregnant. We will book a scan for the end of January. The scanner chap comes to the field via the vet. He has an amazing bit of kit; it folds out of a trailer. It can scan the ewe and tell us immediately if they are pregnant and most importantly for us, he can tell us how many lambs they are carrying, also how far along the pregnancy is. All of this is great for planning ahead. The pregnant ewe will be fed according to how many lambs she is carrying. Lambs gain three-quarters of their birth weight during the last

four to six weeks of pregnancy, so it is crucial that the ewe is not underfed at this time to avoid loss of condition and twin lamb disease. When the ewe does not get enough nutrition her condition drops, leading to her breaking down her own body fat and producing ketones which build up in the blood stream, causing the ewe to feel dull and generally unwell. Equally, we need to be careful not to overfeed as half our flock are shearlings or yearlings, overfeeding can cause large lambs and possibly a difficult birth. Lots of planning and exciting times ahead for us, if they are all pregnant with multiples the flock will double in size. Animals have a knack of getting you to constantly look forward not back and in

these times of uncertainty even though we are literally wading through mud, we do it gladly, because we are looking forward to the spring and watching those lambs gambolling around the field. We have everything crossed!

Anglers brave the chill to vie for river fishing honours (01747)823159 if you want to fish. With the river at last fining down several hardy souls braved the cold weather and held a match on the Steart length of the river, down from the Bull car park, on Sunday. Lots of small roach and perch were caught and Ian Paulley, pegged half way along the first field, had a good winning weight of small fish weighing in at 8lbs 6oz. Ian alternated between pole and running-line rigs to tempt lots of fish on red maggot and pinkie baits; a very good weight on the day. In second place Mick Haskell, pegged on the downstream end peg, used bread punch and red maggot hookbaits to weigh in 5lbs 7ozs. Mick used a stick float

Kev Bennett made up the frame with a third-placed bag of small roach and perch caught on maggot or small worm hookbait. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s it for now folks. Hopefully the weather (and THE virus) will not be too unkind before the river season ends on March 14th.

Golden Buff, Orpington cock bird Ian Paulley with small fish weighing 8lb 6oz

running line rig throughout and started the match with a few small chub in the first half-hour. After this good start the action tailed off and he spent the rest of the (5-hour) match catching tiny roach using single maggot on a size 20 hook.

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Farming

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AJ Selby enjoys following animal tracks in the snow. Picture: Alain Audet

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Country Diary with AJ Selby

“If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant: if we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome.” Anne Bradstreet I have to confess that I enjoy a winter snowfall and revel in its purity and cleanliness. When I was growing up it was almost unheard of to have a winter without snow and I remember the years of excessive snowfall and cold. My first was the prolonged freeze of 1962/63 (I am sure older readers will recall 1947 too) as a lad who was only too happy to go sledging with his father. I was working on the farm for the next two bad ones in 1978/79 and the bitterly cold 1981/82. In December 1981, when the freeze started, we saw the record low temperatures for

that month in the UK with a record-beating -25.2 degrees C (-13.4 degrees F) in Shropshire. January topped that with -26.1 C (-15 F) also in Shropshire, a record English low for any month in any year, with Braemar in Scotland taking the record for the UK of -27.2 C (-17 F). I enjoy a cold day but those nights were extreme in my little cottage with just an open fire and no central heating. I love the first flakes of winter when the temperature stabilises, the wind drops and whiteness envelops the land. Pristine snow has a magical quality that brings everyone out to enjoy it. Walking into the woods the snow is thinner there but still covers the woodland carpet. It’s a great place to follow animal tracks, something I used to do a lot with my copy of Mammals of Britain: Their Tracks, Trails and Signs, first published by the Blandford Press in 1967. It helped differentiate between the footprints of a fox or badger, roe or fallow deer and, from the stride length, if an animal was walking or running for its life! The trees too, are seen in a different light with thick layers of snow on bare branches and conifers bent over with the weight of their burden. There is an overriding stillness and quiet after fresh snow, with everything deadened by the blanket of whiteness all around. The occasional robin will venture out and shiver atop a branch and trill his weak winter ditty. Birds need a lot of feed to survive so don’t forget to put some out along with some fresh water too. A.J. Selby

Farming

We need to tackle waste after Brexit Ruth Kimber’s Farmer’s Diary Happy New Year – what will it bring? The vaccine promises a return to some sort of normality. Let’s hope some positive lessons will also be learnt. The importance of family and friends has never been more pointed, so many key workers have really stepped up to help. Hospital workers, but also those who care for the vulnerable, keep food on shelves, remove waste and keep services going. A big thank you to you all. Our own shop staff and suppliers have worked really hard to keep our shop going and safe. Thanks to our customers for their support and loyalty. Farmers have just kept going and produced high quality food. As we go into Brexit our farmers will continue as ever. In the early days of consultation, food production wasn’t even mentioned! However recent events have pointed to the importance of food security based on home production. No one will have the nation’s food supply more at heart than the nation’s farmers and growers. Food production, animal and environment welfare, with improved soil, water and air quality should be key. These are all our responsibility, not just farmers and land owners.

For those whose TV volume is now at 50!

Reducing waste, currently at 3040% would be the easiest way to help deliver the above. In my life, all of which I spent on farms, the value of food has continually decreased, driving farmers to produce more to stand still. We have been directed by governments of all colours to rip out hedges, drain land, increase production and produce ‘affordable food’. And we have done. The trouble is everything has been measured and driven by money. Now we are being accused of polluting the land, water and air! Not congratulated for producing high quality, high welfare value food while looking after nature to the best we can. Yes, improvements can be made, but can only be achieved by realistic food prices, or a grant scheme to make up the shortfall. Grants for waste management or nutrient capture of general farmyard manure would be one big hit. Enabling farmers to store valuable manure, then use it more effectively to grow crops, reducing the use of chemicals. Politicians, advisors and civil servants need not only to speak with industry representatives, but also get onto farms and see the real situations on the ground, before they decide our futures. We all can make a difference, waste is the biggest in my view, whether it be food, fuel, water or any other ingredient to our lives. In the meantime farm life during winter can offer challenges: frozen water pipes, slippery

yards, engines that don’t want to start and winter animal ailments, just like us, they too have health problems in the winter! On a more cheerful note, we had a flock of fieldfares visit the farm. I just love to see these annual migrant visitors. Our farm shop was extremely busy ever since March,

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Christmas was particularly hectic. As last year we have closed the shop for a week to give our staff a well-earned break. We reopen on January 8. Winter opening times at Kimbers’ Farm Shop. Charlton Musgrove BA98HD Tues-Fri 9.30am-5pm, Saturday 10am-4pm, Sun-Mon closed.

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Farming

Agricultural shows to be held in 2021 Conyers

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By Karen Bate After a tumultuous year, rural life will once again be celebrated as the Royal Bath & West of England Society has announced it will be hosting five shows in 2021.

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This year, the society has managed the covid-19 and financial risk, so the events will be aimed at specific target markets with some of the competition being held behind closed doors. But, the shows will go on. Thursday 6th May Grassland UK This show is aimed at farmers and contractors who are passionate about growing and feeding grass with a focus on seed choice, grazing techniques and demonstrations of silage making equipment with demonstration plots positioned right across the showground’s 240 acres. May 21st and 22nd: The new Bath & West Equine Showing Show. Staying covid secure, this behind-closed-doors show will attract the usual high standard of show horses and ponies including qualifiers to HOYS Thursday 3rd to Saturday 5th June: The Bath & West Great British Country Festival. The show that everyone knows and loves will be refined to recognise the likely continuation of social distancing regulations, but the show,

as always, will feature an exciting array of activities, demonstrations and entertainment. The main ring will be packed with show jumping, the speed of the pony scurry, the ever-popular Pony Club Games and the majestic Heavy Horses with further excitement

provided by Paul Hannam’s Quad Bike Stunt Show. Sheep, pigs, cattle and milking demonstrations will be showcased while the popular Farming for The Family section will provide interactive experiences for all the family. Other favourites will include a food hall experience with a strong focus on cider and honey. The Wurzels will be making a welcome return to complement the array of performers around the Main Lawn and Woodland & Countryside Conservation area. Plans for a livestock showing event to be held later in the summer will be confirmed in the next

few weeks. This event will feature the competitive showing which would normally take place at the Royal Bath & West Show, but due to covid-19, will be better suited behind closed doors this year. October 6th – 40th: Annual Dairy Show. This popular farmers’ trade event brings together livestock farmers and professionals from over the UK to explore new technologies to support and increase productivity in farming. The society’s chief executive Rupert Cox said: “2020 has been such a disappointment for everyone in the agricultural show sector. “It is a great fillip to be able to announce a programme of events that we believe, subject to further covid-19 regulations, will provide all our supporters and stakeholders with some positive news to take into next year. “While our new festival will feel slightly different to the usual Royal Bath & West Show, we know that the entertainment and diverse interests at the ‘Great British Country Festival’ will provide a great day out for all the family, in a covid-19 secure environment. “We are also excited to host three specialist shows in summer and autumn for our farming community as we recognise that even in difficult times, the agricultural sector is the core of our charitable objectives.”

Farming

Animal and product export changes By Alice Miller

HEDGE LAYING & PLANTING, experienced team available, 07929 995747

Friars Moor Livestock Health

I hope all the readers have been able to enjoy this seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s festivities despite the restrictions and continued concerns surrounding the pandemic. As with many businesses the veterinary and farming industries are also having to prepare for the legislative changes that will be implemented on January 1 once the Brexit transition period ends. I thought it important to reiterate these changes and have included useful reference links for further detailed guidance. The new rules with regards to the export of live animals and animal products come into effect immediately on January 1, 2020. This means an Export Health Certificate (EHC) will be required when moving both live animals and animal products to the EU and Northern Ireland. The new EHC must be issued and signed by an Official Veterinarian (OV). At Friars Moor Livestock Health, we have been preparing for these changes and have ensured that our large team of OVs are ready. OVs must have received specific training to be qualified to issue EHCs. When first announced there was a predicted shortfall in the number of qualified OVs trained to issue the required certificates. But, with the help of government funding, several of our farm vets have taken the time to train in this area and are qualified to meet this increased demand. We are more than happy to assist with all aspects related to live animal, product, and germ plasm exports for your business. If you are unsure how your business may be affected by Brexit visit: gov.uk/transition If you are a business preparing for these changes, certain actions need to be completed, and these can be found via the following link: gov.uk/prepare-toexport-from-great-britain-from-january2021 For further guidance on exporting goods to Northern Ireland use this link: gov.uk/government/collections/movinggoods-into-out-of-or-through-northern-i reland-from-1-january-2021

As well as the certification changes, farmers exporting live animals must identify them with a GB country code on their ear tag. You can order these tags from your usual tag supplier. For cattle or sheep with two existing ear tags a further GB tag must be added if your existing UK double tags do not state GB. For further guidance on this and other information with regards to live animal and product export use this link: gov.uk/guidance/exporting-animals-andanimal-products-to-the-eu-from-1-januar y-2021 We are more than happy to answer any further questions you may have, so please contact us via the office on telephone: 01258 472314 or email: farmoffice@friars moorlivestockhealth.co.uk. I would like to wish everyone a happy new year and all the very best despite the inevitable challenges that we face at this time. Twitter: @AliceMillerVet Email: alicemiller@friars moorlivestockhealth.co.uk

WEDNESDAY 13th JANUARY Sale of Dairy 10 Freshly calved Friesian/Holstein Heifers & Cows Quality Stock Genuine reason for sale (Herd Reduction) More entries expected

WEDNESDAY 13th JANUARY Sale of Pigs Sale of Sheep to Include: 47 In-Lamb Ewes due Feb/March 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

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

www.friarsmoorvets.co.uk 83

Farming Our farm agents were busy in 2020 dominating sales in our region

209 acres

North Dorset

121 acres

Somerset

43 acres

66 acres

East Devon

51 acres

East Devon

65 acres

South Dorset

483 acres

Isle of Wight

100 acres

SO LD

87 acres

Mid Devon

SO LD

SO LD Mid Dorset

LONDON

SO LD

North Dorset

SO LD

197 acres

WILTSHIRE

SO LD Somerset

SOMERSET

SO LD

HAMPSHIRE SO LD

DEVON

SO LD

DORSET

Wiltshire

35 acres

Hampshire

84 acres

The Farm Agency Team

Jack Edwards 01722 334323

Wiltshire & Hampshire

Ross Willmington 01297 33122 Devon & Somerset

Andrew Tuffin 01258 472244

Head of Farm Agency

Will Wallis 01305 236572 Dorset

VALUATIONS AMC AGENTS PLANNING DISPERSAL SALES GRANTS WAYLEAVES TENANCIES

Property

QUALIFIED EXPERIENCED PROFESSIONAL

Bryanston

Guide £385,000 A modern 4bedroom semidetached family house with gardens, double garage and parking set within a hamlet within walking distance of Blandford town. EPC=C.

Hartgrove

Blandford 01258 452670

Sturminster 01258 473766

Marnhull

Guide £425,000 A completely modernised detached house with stunning contemporary accommoda on in a tucked away loca on close to the heart of the village. EPC=C.

Sherborne

Sturminster 01248 473766

Sherborne 01935 814488

Sherborne

Guide £315,000 A wellpresented 2 bedroom detached bungalow, in a tucked away spot with a south facing garden and driveway parking. EPC =C.

Kington Magna

Sherborne 01935 814488

Sturminster 01258 473766

SALES

LETTINGS

AUCTIONS

Guide £465,000 A charming and generous 4bedroom property set in a soughta er hamlet loca on with fabulous countryside views and oﬀroad parking. EPC=C.

Guide £310,000 A 3 bedroom semidetached Victorian house, situated on one of Sherborne’s most sought a er roads, beneﬁ ng from a garage and courtyard garden.EPC=F.

Guide £500,000 A wellposi oned 3bedroom chalet bungalow with large gated driveway, garage and generous rear garden, all in this popular village. EPC=D.

Property

H ◆A ◆M ◆B ◆L ◆E ◆D ◆O ◆N Iwerne Minster £250,000 An elegant three bedroom apartment with its own private entrance and the majority of the accommodation on the ground floor. Dining hall, lounge with large bay window, stylish kitchen, bathroom, shower room, parking, outside seating area and long lease. EPC Rating: F.

Bayford £650,000 A substantial four bedroom detached house set within a large secluded garden. Sitting/dining room, snug, large kitchen/family room, huge master bedroom with walk-in wardrobe, en-suite and balcony, impressive garden room, double garage and parking for many cars. EPC Rating: D.

Zeals £400,000

Wincanton £285,000

A deceptively spacious three bedroom detached bungalow situated in an elevated position with far reaching views. Large entrance hall, light and airy sitting room with patio doors to a paved terrace, kitchen/ breakfast room, master bedroom with en-suite and garage. EPC Rating: E.

An outstanding three/four bedroom detached house presented in excellent order throughout. Stunning kitchen/diner, sitting room with wood burner, solid roof conservatory, delightful garden, cloakroom, utility room, GCH, double glazing. EPC Rating: C.

Wincanton £250,000

Lattiford £268,000

An exceptional three bedroom semi-detached house situated in a small sought after close within easy reach of local amenities. Modern shaker style kitchen, stylish bathroom, spacious lounge/diner, cloakroom, garage, enclosed garden and GCH. EPC Rating: C.

WINC ANTON 01963 34000

An elegant first floor apartment forming part of an imposing Grade II Listed building. Bright and airy sitting room, fitted kitchen/breakfast room, huge master bedroom with en-suite, double second bedroom, garage and nine acres of delightful communal grounds. EPC Rating: D.

Shaftesbury 01747 851151

HA MLET LETTINGS 01963 34006

WWW.HA MBLEDON.NET

Property

H ◆A ◆M ◆B ◆L ◆E ◆D ◆O ◆N £255,000 Wincanton £750,000 Bruton

Thinking of moving home in 2021?

£260,000 Templecombe

Due to continued sales success we urgently require more properties to meet the demand from buyers looking for a home in Wincanton and the surrounding villages. If you are considering bringing your property to the market we would be delighted to provide you with a free market assessment and valuation. Please call 01963 34000 to arrange an appointment or email wincanton@hambledon.net

£299,950 Mere

£265,000 Wincanton £395,000 Henstridge WINC ANTON 01963 34000

Shaftesbury 01747 851151

HA MLET LETTINGS 01963 34006

WWW.HA MBLEDON.NET

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