The New Blackmore Vale Magazine by The Blackmore Vale Limited

Edition 21

Friday, July 9, 2021

The New Blackmore Vale

FREE

Fortnightly

FULL STORY: Pages 16-17

‘LIKE AN OPEN PRISON’: Covid-hit Gypsies say ambulance was unable to access their camp for two emergencies – and the council site is ‘being left to rot’

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New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

What’s inside this week Announcements 37-39 Arts & Entertainments 72-77 Antiques & Collectibles 48-50 Business 86-89 Church 68 Education 69 Equestrian 47 Farming 95-103 Field And Stream 94 Food & Drink 42-45 Health & Wellbeing 62-65 Home & Gardens 51-55 Items For Sale 34-35 Letters 40-41 Local Services 55-61 Motoring 81-85 Pets 46-47 Property 104-112 Puzzles 66-67, 96-97 Recruitment 90-93 Sport 78-80

n School’s head Jane taking on Channel challenge: P12-13 n Farm school making a real difference: P22-23 n Up the Congo with Blashers and the Bonobo: P29

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 debi.thorne@ icloud.com Tel: 07714 289409

Contact Us Advertising: adverts@blackmorevale.net Editorial: newsdesk@blackmorevale.net Postal enquiries to: 3 Alfred’s Way, Wincanton, BA9 9RU Classified ads: classified@blackmorevale.net,

Karen Bate

Ellie Rose

News editor

Classified adverts

karen.bate@ blackmorevale.net

classified@ blackmorevale.net Tel: 01963 400186

01963 400186 or online at blackmorevale.net Sport stories: sport@blackmorevale.net

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

Steve Keenan

Reporter sport@blackmorevale.net Tel: 07940 143223 Sue Kennington

Account manager sue.kennington@ blackmorevale.net Tel: 07714 289403

Ruth Armishaw

Commercial manager newsdesk@ blackmorevale.net

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Rose and Crowned Pub of the Year By Steve Keenan newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

A pub that defied trends to open a shop during a pandemic has been rewarded with the accolade of West Dorset Pub of the Year. The Rose and Crown in Longburton sold takeaway food and beer when lockdown hit in March, 2020, and many people asked for deliveries. The importance of a community pub at such a time quickly became evident, and landlords John and Becky Gibbons decided to take their support a step further. Not-for-profit foundation The Pub is the Hub gave a £3,000 grant for a wood-clad shipping container, power was installed and shelving made from apple crates. The shop was in action within just six months, with suppliers including

WE’RE THRILLED: John and Becky Gibbons

Stalbridge butcher Roger Else, Oxford’s Bakery, dairy from Crook & Churn in Blandford and eggs from Stoney Farm, Sherborne. The Larder was officially

opened last October by Longburton’s oldest resident, 86-year-old Sheila Sharman. “I’ve had to go to Sherborne to shop for the past 25 years. “This is very handy,” she said. The initiative did not go unnoticed by the Campaign for Real Ale (Camra), which normally judges pubs on the quality of beer, the atmosphere and cleanliness. This year, Camra members were also asked to consider how a pub had stepped up a gear to help its local community during the pandemic. The Rose and Crown fitted that bill. West Dorset Camra spokesman Rich Gabe described the pub as “a superb example” and added: “The Rose and Crown is a fantastic example of how important a village pub can be to the local community and the diverse roles it can play in modern times.

“Covid-19 changed the way we think and live and it is highly commendable that licensees like John and Becky Gibbons have assisted the local population in this way, amongst other publicans.” And since lockdown began 16 months ago, John and Becky have also arranged for a mobile Post Office to visit weekly and have erected a marquee to host functions and charity events. The couple have lived in Longburton for 17 years and moved to buy the ailing Rose and Crown in 2016 after seven owners/managers left within a year. Becky said: “The pub has returned to being the hub of the community once more with the icing on the cake being given this award from Camra; we are thrilled and thank the members – it means so much.”

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New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

MISSING CAT R E W A R D

Sex – Female Neutered Markings – Pale blue eyes. Stripy tail. Went missing from South Brewham, Bruton on Saturday 19th June at 1pm. Was 昀琀ed with a GPS tracker. Tracker was removed from collar and discarded without collar.

R E W A R D

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New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Pair’s dogged hunt to find Mouse the cat By Karen Bate newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

A distraught couple from South Brewham are putting out a desperate plea for sightings of their beloved Bengal cat Mouse, who has been missing since June 19. Mouse wore a GPS tracker on her collar at all times and Ben Carey would check it frequently throughout the day before collecting the timid, three-year-old from wherever she was when he finished work. Mouse would never stray too far from home and would only ever allow Ben or his girlfriend Bernie to pick her up. On Saturday, June 19, Ben headed towards the ‘swamp’ close to his house, which was where Mouse’s GPS tracker led him. But Mouse wasn’t there. Ben rang his girlfriend Bernie, and the pair searched high and low,

MORE THAN JUST A PET: Mouse with Bernie

walking for miles and calling for their precious pet, but to no avail. “Our four cats are like kids to us,” said Ben. “We don’t have children nor will we, so Mouse and her brothers and sisters are like our kids. “Everyone knows how much Mouse means to me. She had a terrible infection when we bought her home as a kitten and we spent £14,000 on making her well. We love her

so much and cannot bear to think of her suffering.” Ben and Bernie have placed an advert in this magazine, (see opposite) with a special phone number so if anyone knows what has happened to Mouse, or think they know where she maybe or have seen a sighting of her, they can ring the number anonymously. Ben and Bernie moved to South Brewham to give their

cats peace and tranquillity in the countryside, away from cars and faster roads. Ben said: “Please, if anyone knows anything as to her whereabouts, please ring the number on our advert anonymously. Even if the news is terribly sad, we just want to bring her body home and have her cremated.” Bernie added: “It has been so heart-warming that so many people have been out looking for Mouse. Ben has walked literally miles and miles in a desperate search for her and our friends even came out with a drone to see if we could locate her. “Our other cats miss her dreadfully and her two sisters are sleeping in her bed. We are grieving because Mouse is no longer with us, but we cannot bear the thought of her suffering in any way. We just want to bring her or her body home, so she can be at peace.”

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New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Do you Cook, Craft or Grow? If so Gillingham Country Market wants you! Come & join our friendly team. Make at home - sell with us. More Information from June Whalley 01747 852983

Affordable Art

Exhibition 30th July – 7th August 10am -4pm

Friends of Blandford Hospital Shop Barnack Walk, Blandford Charity no: 800482

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Pump restoration plan By Nicci Brown

Listed building consent is being sought by Sturminster Newton Town Council for the restoration and refurbishment of the town pump and trough at the entrance to the Market Square which was severely damaged in a road traffic accident two years ago. In a detailed report, Ian Ring of Newton Forge describes the history of the pump and trough, which he says is not a pump housing but a decorative covering for the water connections. The impact from the southern side smashed the cast iron and brick support structure, causing many breaks in the cast work and bricks, first driving through the brick support and trough then knocking the pump housing to the ground against a parked vehicle. He says parts were missing which had either been caught up in the vehicle causing the damage or swept away by first responding attendants. “I believe all possible parts remaining were collected by the council’s team. There is some rust on the metal but not enough to cause damage. The metalwork was generally well covered and protected by paint, although the most recent paint layer has reacted with the paint beneath and is peeling.” The trough is thought to have been constructed to

commemorate J Comyns Leach MD JP who died 1907 and his son E Comyns Leach BA who died in 1902. The pump maker’s name, Coalbrookdale, is on what would have been the north side of the stand, and it appear to have been supplied by Mitchell and Son of Bristol. It replaced another on the same site which was hand operated to draw up water for horses. “This pump housing appears to have been constructed to allow mains water to feed the trough, with an opening which appeared to accommodate a push button for the water operation. The cast construction is decorated with lion heads on all four faces, surrounded by a wreath of apparent bull rushes and applied four petal flowers. The top is adorned by a pair of dolphins with entwined tails around a trident. It is inscribed on the west side with the commemoration and on the east side with words from Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s The Ancient Mariner. Comments are open until July 19 on the Dorset Council website for application P/LBC/2021/01125.

EVENTS GUIDE To advertise: 01963 400186 ARUNDEL CASTLE* ........................................................................................... 8 Aug £75 BOWOOD HOUSE & GARDEN’S ................................................................ 14 Aug £69 AUGUST SUNDAY LUNCH ............................................................................ 22 Aug £45 PAIGNTON & DARTMOUTH RAILWAY* .................................................. 25 Aug £79 HIGHGROVE GARDENS GUIDED TOUR + 1 ½ HOURS IN TETBURY .......................................................................... 11 Sept £89 MALVERN AUTUMN FLOWER SHOW* ................................ 25 Sept £75 ADULTS ........................................................................................................................ UNDER 16’s £50 SEPTEMBER SUNDAY LUNCH IN LOOE, CORNWALL ...................... 26 Sept £45 BRYAN’S MYSTERY TRIP* ............................................................................ 30 Sept £60 BISHOP’S PALACE & GARDEN’S* ............................................................... 23 Oct £55 OCTOBER SUNDAY LUNCH ........................................................................... 24 Oct £45 GREASE AT THE MAYFLOWER THEATRE .................................................... 13 Nov £107

TOURS/HOLIDAYS LOOE, CORNWALL .................................................................................13–16 Aug £525 ISLE OF WIGHT ....................................................................................... 20–24 Aug £395 BLACKPOOL ILLUMINATIONS .......................................................... 25–29 Oct £485 TURKEY AND TINSEL ................................................................................ 1–5 Nov £399 CHATSWORTH HOUSE AT CHRISTMAS ....................................... 13–15 Nov £269 CHRISTMAS IN BEAMISH ................................................................... 19–21 Nov £255 THURSFORD CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR + £50 supplement charge ................................................................. 13–15 Dec £325 CHRISTMAS IN LYNTON, NORTH DEVON ................................... 23–27 Dec £549 NEW YEAR IN DERBY 2022 .......................................... 30th Dec 21–2nd Jan 22 £445

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CAR BOOT SALE Sunday 18th July. Turnpike Showground, Motcombe SP7 9PN. Sellers from 9am - £6 per Car, £10 van/trailer Buyers from 10am £1 parking. Details 07435 975266 SOMERSET SIGHT COUNTRY HOUSE & TREASURE TROVE SALE, Sunday 12th September, Yarlington House, Wincanton. Pitches starting at £35. Details can be found at somersetsight.org.uk/country-house-fair. Classic Cars welcomed to exhibit for £10 minimum donation. For more information, contact Holly on 01823 366147/ holly.sutton@somersetsight.org.uk Come and Have “Tea in the Garden!” Saturday 7 August 2-5pm The Old Rectory Stock Gaylard,DT10 2BG Fabulous Teas, various stalls including produce and bric a brac. Admission including tea £5 / children £1 All proceeds to the Churchyard Fund, Lydlinch Church SILTON COFFEE MORNING AND SALE A summer coffee morning and sale will be held at Silton Village Hall on Saturday, July 31 from 10am-noon. On sale will be all the popular baked goodies usually found on the stall outside Bagmore Farm in Silton, plus good quality bric a brac, plants, preserves, produce, books and there will also be a raffle. If the weather is fine, coffee will be served outside and the cake stall will be under the shelter of the Woodhouse. Do come along and bring your friends. All proceeds (as with the stall) will be donated to various, mainly local, charities.

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

We’re star fundraisers! The villagers of Motcombe have dug deep in their pockets and collected more than £5,000 for the Salisbury Hospital Stars Appeal. The project, organised by Motcombe Community Shop, began with a series of four Saturday coffee mornings, at which hampers of local produce donated by the shop and made up by manager Kay Francis, were raffled off. The takings for coffee on those days were also donated to the appeal. The chairman of the shop committee, ex-Royal Marine Graham Dunlop, walked to Salisbury Hospital accompanied by his daughter Stephanie, a major in the Army, to deliver the takings. A number of other villagers from Motcombe joined for parts of the route to encourage them along and ensure they didn’t cheat by catching the bus! Donations are still coming in at justgiving.com/fundraising/motcombe-comunity-shop.

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Objections pour in on plans for village homes By Nicci Brown newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

Numerous representations have been submitted to Dorset Council objecting to detailed proposals for 26 homes off Haywards Lane, Child Okeford, which were controversially accepted in outline by the Northern Planning committee in July last year and finally approved in April this year. Comments are open until July 17 on the application P/RES/2021/01582 by ELT Bournemouth submitted by agents Chapman Lily Planning. At the time of the outline application, the Child Okeford community, parish council and county councillor Sherry Jespersen – chairman of the northern planning committee – failed to persuade the committee to reject the proposal on agricultural land outside the village settlement boundary. The committee voted in support by eight votes to two, with two abstentions, after being told it merely ‘rounded off’ the settlement boundary, was 8

sustainable and acceptable in the light of Dorset Council’s lack of a five-year housing supply, and promised 40 per cent affordable housing and other S106 contributions. The numerous grounds for objection were the impact on the character of the village of the number of homes in addition to another 130 then under consideration. Two of those have since been refused, one on appeal for 68 homes at the self-storage facility on Gold Hill, and the other for another 65 dwellings opposite the business park in Lower Common Road under officer delegated powers in June this year, but further plans for 28 homes on the self-storage site which were submitted in March last year remain undetermined. Objectors were then and continue to be concerned that the access is close to that for St Nicholas CE primary school on the opposite side of the busy road, and that too little on-site parking is proposed. They are also concerned at the impact on local services and the design.

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Good burgers celebrate cow’s unveiling By Nicci Brown

newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

A magnificently sculptured cow’s head commissioned through voluntary donations from the community of Sturminster Newton was officially unveiled in the town’s Railway Gardens. When locals saw that a horse’s head sculpture loaned by Councillor Carole Jones and her husband Martin had replaced the Elisabeth Frink artwork which for many years had stood on the plinth outside The Exchange, they asked why it was not something more appropriate and representative of the town, made famous by its 700-year-old cattle market. Mrs Jones launched a Justgiving appeal, challenging people to put their money behind the idea, and within weeks £1,500 was raised, together with a pledge of match funding from a generous anonymous local donor. The resulting £3,000 was used to

Councillor Carole Jones and supporters toast the new cow’s head overlooking the town centre from the Sturminster Newton Railway Gardens

commission and purchase the cow’s head fashioned out of recycled nuts, screws, pliers, scissors, spanners and springs by Mark Galbavy of the Dorset Forge & Fabrication in North Wootton. The town council agreed that it should be sited on

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

land in their ownership in the Railway Gardens, rather than on the plinth which is owned by The Exchange, and supporters gathered to toast the new arrival in the raised bed sensory garden, which has been replanted with lavender plants by Stour Connect.

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New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

If you have a liking for things Viking By Lorraine Gibson

newsdesk@stourandavon.net

It’s not every day you see a job ad looking for builders to work on a Viking longhouse, but that’s exactly what Colin Alborough stumbled upon by accident one day. “I was at a loose end, walking around Wimborne,” he says, “when I spotted an advert that said: ‘Would you like to help to build a Viking long house?’” “I thought, ‘yes, I would’, so I applied for the job, went down to the site at Cranborne and have stayed for more than 15 years. “I’ve only been back home for the odd weekend ever since.” The longhouse project evolved into what is now a fascinating educational building complex called the Ancient Technology Centre. Colin is just one of a prehistory technology-obsessed band of volunteers who helped construct the original building and five further full-size homes that amount to what has to be the most remarkable housing estate you’ll ever come across. The concept came about 30 years ago, when Jake Keen, a teacher at Cranborne Middle School, decided that the best way to teach his pupils how Iron Age dwellings were made was to get them to actually build one. Based on archaeological evidence, the children made a traditional roundhouse, harvesting local materials from nearby woodlands and reed beds. That founding principle of encouraging people to get hands on with history has remained the ethos of the centre. In 2002, Luke Winter took over from Jake; he felt the longhouse needed a next10

HANDY MAN: Colin Alborough at work at the Ancient Technology Centre and, below, sweet chesnut shingles on the longhouse

door neighbour, so, he went to Denmark, found out how they built houses in 900AD and used his research to add the now magnificent Viking Longhouse, designed specifically for school residential visits, which are now the mainstay of the centre. The site’s prime residence, the sweet-chestnut timber-framed house took four years, a bunch of colossal, half-ton planks and 26,000 hand-made chestnut shingles over larch boards,

to complete. “The shingles were interesting,” says Colin. “We spent weeks fitting them, starting at either end of the roof so they could meet in the centre.” Except they didn’t. “When we got there, they didn’t line up, so we had to do it all again.” Colin insists that no expletives were used nor implements hurled during this unfortunate incident. With the hazel and sweet

chestnut walls wattled, daubed and whitewashed and the floor - local chalk and earth mixed with unpasteurised milk – laid, it was time to open the doors to eager schoolchildren. It was an immediate success and each of the buildings that followed represent a different period of time, ranging from Stone Age, Bronze and Iron Age, Roman, Anglo Saxon and Viking. ancienttechnologycentre.com

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

you’ll love this ancient housing estate relied on common sense and timber knowledge. Remains of Sunken Feature Buildings from the Saxon period were the evidence for the Saxon Workshop that is basically a pit measuring between 30cm and a

The Iron Age Earthhouse has shades of Bilbo Baggins’ Hobbit hole and is based on evidence from excavations on the Isle of Man in the 1960s. The Cranborne version is remarkable. Almost monumental in style, it’s inspired as much by henge monuments as roundhouses. It has an extremely heavy earth roof, supported by twenty-one oak trees and its chalk floor is terraced inside, giving tiered rows that equate to 250 bums on seats, so the building is used daily for teaching and as a truly enchanting storytelling and music venue.

One could mistake the Neolithic Cabin for an American Western pioneer’s lodge, but it’s based on ancient building evidence of interlocking beams and corner blocks. The Iron Age Roundhouse, Jake Keen’s original house is based on those from around 200 AD and since evidence is scant, limited to post and stake holes, burned hearth and collapsed oven remains and pottery shards, it

metre deep. The explanation for the pit is still a matter for debate but you can ask the volunteers for their takes on it. The Museum Of London donated its famous reconstruction of a Roman Water Lifting Machine that caught the public’s imagination when it featured on a Time Team Special to the ATC. Water runoff from the Viking Longhouse’s roof is stored in a lined pit beneath the machine and volunteers are working on a series of chutes to take it to the top of their small field system and animal pens, allowing them to gather data on water moved by the device and garner information and insight into the efficiency of water systems in Roman London. So far, the awesome machine has completed 5404 rotations, moving 340 tons of water and many a ‘slave’ has now experienced moving water

the Roman way. Based on evidence from urban Londinium, the Roman Forge grew as a project for 14- and 15-year-old students from Dorset Learning Centres. They worked with the volunteers for 18 months to build what’s now the centre’s most accurate reconstruction. Using only hand tools, they made the 250 joints in the timbers and after six months joined together to raise the frame in a single day. It’s split into two rooms, one being the forge, the other a general work/living space with a hob and potter’s wheel and the garden is planted with introduced herbs and plants from the Roman period, making it a natural lab for smallscale experimenting with new seeds and species. Teens being teens, the forge’s walls are daubed with Latin graffiti from Pompeii, giving either a thumbs up, or thumbs down to those ultimate Roman celebrities, the gladiators. As well as traditional materials, the foundation of all these structures is the commitment of the volunteers, without whom the site would just be a field. Teaching children is their mission and doing big, chunky engineering and tech stuff is their method. “We come from a wide range of backgrounds,” says Colin, “but what we really need are people who can do stuff, blacksmiths, woodworkers, rope makers, that kind of thing.” And it’s not just ropes that get tied at the ATC, it’s knots, too. If getting married in a mystical, wildflower-surrounded, completely plastic-free venue in a wedding ceremony that uses the very romantic ancient tradition of handfasting sounds up your aisle, get in touch. The rest, as they say, could be (ancient) history.

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Boots are made for walking... The Gillingham Walking Festival will be taking place between September 4 and 11, with a host of walks of various lengths around the town. For details on the walks and to book, go to: gillwalkersarewelcome. btck.co.uk/WalkingFestival We are back

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Jane and the Soggy By Karen Bate

newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

To swim the English Channel is an ambition headteacher at Shillingstone CE Primary School Jane WhitehouseSharpe has held throughout her life. And finally, during the week of August 16, Jane will be braving busy shipping lanes, stinging jellyfish, chilly conditions and abrasive salt water on her way to fulfil this lifelong dream while raising vital funds for the coach costs for her pupils’ swimming lessons. It sounds to many people like a nightmare, but for this wild loving swimmer, her excitement is palpable. “I am brimming with excitement,” said Jane. “I have spent a lifetime dreaming of this. I love being out in the elements, in the middle IN TRAINING: Jane Whitehouse-Sharpe of the ocean, heart attacks are among the out of my depth and just to risks posed to those taking be in the moment. on the crossing between “And now I can share my England and France. An excitement with the average of just 300 people children.” a year attempt the 22-mile Jane along with her challenge, with many teammates, Tom Ungi, needing up to two years to Mark Dixon and Elizabeth prepare. Rowden, who form the Because of the tides, Soggy Bottoms, will be Channel swimmers make swimming the 22 miles the crossing in an S shape, from Dover to the north which means they clock up coast of France, in onefar more than 22 miles, hour relays. To be recognised officially, with the average crossing time taking about 15 hours. Channel swims must be And then there are the unassisted, so wetsuits are jellyfish. Jane will be not permitted. So, the dodging the swarms of Soggy Bottoms will be jellyfish which habitat the swimming in ‘skin’, and with the water temperature English Channel. And all swimmers can expect to averaging 16C this is a get stung several times challenge in itself. during the distance. Changeable tides, hypothermia and even Jane said: “I am a little

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Bottoms up to the Channel challenge nervous about the jellyfish. The English Channel is renowned for jellyfish, so I will try and avoid them, but we are all prepared to be stung.” Optimist will escort the team across the Channel from Dover. Where they will land however, remains something of a mystery. Jane said: “It is quite difficult to pinpoint exactly where we will land. It may be the sandy beach of Wissent or it could be the rocky cliffs of Cap GrisNez, it all depends upon the tides.” As a young girl, Jane was a competitive swimmer and represented the county but as time passed and her school responsibilities grew, so did the frequency of her outdoor swimming.

BOTTOM’S UP: It’s the Soggy Bottoms Channel swimmers

However when she saw Tom and Mark’s advert for outdoor swimmers wanting a challenge, she dived straight in. The Soggy Bottoms was born and the team have been training for 18-months, swimming longdistances in all-weathers

around the Poole coastline, and of course, become firm friends. Jane gives swimming lessons in the pool at Bryanston School, however, with mounting transport costs, getting the children to and from the school is

becoming increasingly costly. Jane said: “We would like to raise money for Shillingstone CE Primary School. In particular, we would like to raise money to help pay for transport to take our children to swimming lessons. It is really important that children learn to swim and have the opportunity to enjoy being in the water. We would really like to organise a special sporting day, where we can inspire the children to take up a sporting activity. It would be lovely to invite a sports coach into school to share their sporting passion with the children.” n If you would like to sponsor Jane, go to gofund.me/773c131a

A diamond and South Sea pearl necklace and ear pendants by Kutchinsky Estimate: £7,000-£9,000 to be included in the 14th September sale

LONDON SPECIALIST AUCTIONEERS

JEWELLERY, WATCHES & COINS VALUATION DAY at SHAFTESBURY ARTS CENTRE 13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury SP7 8AR

Thursday 22nd July at 10am-2pm Our experienced specialists, Laura Smith and Tim Wilkes will be available to offer confidential valuations, free of charge and without obligation, with a view to possible sale in our Mayfair auction rooms

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY To book an appointment please ring 020 7016 1700 or email jewellery@dnw.co.uk

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Roman Imperial Coinage, Nero and Agrippina II, Aureus Sold in June 2021 for £12,400

Rolex, A stainless steel automatic chronograph wristwatch, ‘Zenith’ Daytona, circa 2000 Sold in June 2021 for £19,840

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Advice at hand when making a will

You’ve saved Mike’s life...

Older people needing advice about making a will are being invited to make a free telephone appointment with a solicitor from Nantes, Blanchards Bailey and Humphries Kirk, in a scheme run by Age UK North, South & West Dorset. Richard Bristow from Age UK North, South & West Dorset said: “We are happy to work with local solicitors to provide this much needed and valuable service to local older people. “Issues around making a will or power of attorney can be confusing and being able to talk things through with a solicitor can make all the difference.” To book a telephone appointment, ring 01305 269444 or email enquiries@ ageuknswd.org.uk

newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

By Miranda Robertson A Shillingstone couple have thanked people who rallied round to raise money for a lifesaving op. Sue Evans and Mike King have been trying to raise £60,000 for an op to remove deadly blood clots from Mike’s lungs. Papworth Hospital in Cambridge is just one of four in the world to perform the eight-hour surgery to remove the clots from the pulmonary artery, without which Mike’s heart would have failed. An Auction of Promises raised £2,076 to add to the £5,000 the couple had already raised and children with autism at Springfield School in Salisbury walked

the distance to Barbados to raise more. Mike had the operation a couple of months ago. However he suffered a setback afterwards, resulting in a 23-day stay in critical care. Sue said: “The operation went very well, but the following day he had a massive bleed from his lung resulting in a further trip to theatre, nine days on ECMO (Extra Corporeal Membrane Oxygenation) which is like a heart and lung bypass machine, and over a month’s stay in hospital. “It was a scary time but he’s home now and is recovering well. “I just wanted to say a huge thank you to readers of the New Blackmore Vale for their kindness and support. “Following the article on

Mike’s heart and lung operation, we had an incredible response to our Auction of promises. Strangers offered their time, skills or goods including a full day of odd jobs, the local Avon lady offered a basket of products and others bid on promises or kindly donated. “A local artist, Julie Brunn, offered a pet portrait and four animal prints, which went down extremely well and Sundown Studio offered a new logo design for a business. I can’t thank the community enough for coming together to help us when we needed it most.” Despite the setbacks afterwards, Mike’s operation was very successful in clearing the scar tissue from his pulmonary artery enabling

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Thank you all so much more oxygen to reach his lungs. Sue said: “After critical care Mike then spent a further eight days on the ward, working hard with physiotherapists to learn to walk again, eating real food and generally begin his recovery. “He is home now and things have improved dramatically. The most striking difference is that Mike is able to walk without getting breathless. GOOD TO BE ALIVE: Sue Evans and Mike King This means we Mike is due to head back to can go for short walks – he walks Barbados in October and back to 1.5 miles almost every day now work showing tourists around the compared to four or five steps island in his taxi. and then having to rest. He still Sue said: “We can’t quite believe cannot lift anything heavy and the lengths people have gone to can’t vacuum yet unfortunately help us. due to the breast bone having to “We’re extremely grateful to bond together.” every single one of them.”

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New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Behind the wire: Padlocked inside By Karen Bate

newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

A covid outbreak at Piddlehinton Gypsy and Traveller site has highlighted worrying difficulties for its residents. Health issues, poverty and isolation are nothing new for many of the residents living at the camp. But these inequalities nearly became a matter of life and death when covid hit. On June 19, Gary was badly affected by the virus and left gasping for breath. His wife called 999, but the ambulance was unable to gain entry into the padlocked Dorset Council site because neither residents nor ambulance crew knew the entry code. The ambulance was parked at the gates while two paramedics walked through the site to reach Gary. The locks were eventually cut to allow the ambulance access. And when long-standing resident Morris collapsed on June 27, unable to breathe due to covid coupled with chronic COPD, South Western Ambulance Service was called again. But once again the ambulance was unable to gain entry. The residents phoned Vickey Stevens, their advocate who lives in Piddlehinton, as they feared possible

LOCKED: The padlocked gates at Piddlehinton Gypsy and Traveller site which had to be cut open twice recently so ambulance crews could attend residents suffering from covid-19

prosecution for cutting the locks. Vickey arrived on the scene, cut the chain and the ambulance followed Vickey, who escorted them in her car to reach Morris. “I was very ill,” said Morris, who works full-time filling and repairing boats with fibreglass and has lived on the camp for 31 years. “I didn’t really know what was happening.” Morris is recovering at home now, being

cared for by his three children Shaun, Valerie and Luke, who also live on site. “Family is everything,” said Morris. Vickey, who is a community volunteer and formerly a project manager and school governor, said: “On two occasions in the past two weeks, the locks had to be cut off the gates to allow the ambulance through to treat people with covid who were struggling for breath. “Dorset Council has assured us that the ambulance and emergency services now

have the correct codes for the locks. Access through the barriers is one of the many complex issues needing to be addressed here.” What struck me first, when I visited Dorset Council’s Piddlehinton Gypsy and Traveller Site, was the entrance gate, locked with a metal chain and padlock, with three CCTV cameras in operation 24/7. “It is like an open prison,” said resident Keith.

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

travellers’ camp in covid-19 outbreak

MOTHER’S PRIDE: Mary and her daughter Kate, left, and above, the crumbling community centre. Below, part of the site which collapsed onto a parked car

“Decades ago we were rounded up in our horse-drawn wagons and touring caravans and told to live at the site. If we didn’t want to, we were told to leave Dorset.” Keith is intelligent and softly spoken. He left his travelling days long ago but the longing to travel remains. “If I could leave here now, I would,” he said. “We used to have a warden here and the camp was run really well. It’s not good now, it is being left to rot.” Most of the 28 adults who live there have been double vaccinated and take this coronavirus pandemic with utmost seriousness. There are no anti-vaxxers here. Vickey said: “The residents managed to contain the spread in family groups but unfortunately those families without the space or room to quarantine were all infected.

“One family who live on a bigger plot, were able to contain the spread by quarantining the infected family member in a separate caravan. “Those people living here on the camp during this outbreak showed responsibility, resourcefulness and resilience.” There are 28 adults and 20 children living in 15 caravans at the site, in small rows on pitches originally designed for a horse and cart or a small touring caravan. To quarantine here is not easy, space is limited and there is little escape from your neighbours. Most of the caravans have one or two bedrooms to house families of up to six. Living here is not cheap. Residents pay council tax, a monthly service bill and pitch fees. Residents pay for and obtain their own caravans. And

an upfront pitch fee deposit of £500 is required to move here. There is a community building at the entrance, in which the children sometimes have informal classes. It is in very poor condition. A structure the children used to play on collapsed on to a car – fortunately no one was nearby at the time. Many adults here have contracted work, others are on zero hours contracts, most cannot read or write. On July 16, members of Dorset Council are set to attend a meeting at the camp. Vickey said: “We want to talk to the council about how to make the lives of residents at the camp better. We have begun, as a group to address and tackle some of the often complex issues within and surrounding this community.” Vickey has been friends with Mary Margaret, a Romany

traveller who has lived in Piddlehinton camp for 18 years, for a decade. Mary’s daughter Kate is getting married and when I meet them, they are planning a trip to Bournemouth to find a dress. Mary cannot read or write so finding work is hard, but she insisted her children were all schooled. Mary said: “It is hard to find a job. I have been to interviews but when I have to fill out a form, I can’t do it. I don’t get the job. I have never wanted my children to feel this way so they all went to school. “Things here are not good any more. I pay a lot to live here and everywhere is run down. Vickey has been so helpful. More has been done in the last six months with Vickey than in the last 18 years.” She added: “The terrible thing is that people will say why don’t you travel like the old days, but we have to move with the times and no one can stay on the road now, you just get moved on immediately. “There’s a Section 32 so if you are on private land it’s an immediate move. My old way of life is impossible.” The High Sheriff of Dorset Michael Dooley is set to visit the Piddlehinton Gypsy and Traveller Site on Wednesday. The New Blackmore Vale has seen film footage of the ambulance at the gates and paramedics entering the site on foot. The ambulance service is now believed to have the code. And a member of staff from the council is due to visit the site next week. However the difficulty accessing the camp doesn’t appear to gave been officially recorded. A spokesman from South Western Ambulance Service said: “There’s no indication we had difficulty reaching patients at this location because we had the necessary access details.” Dorset Council had not responded as we went to press. 17

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

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New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Pupils’ tree-mendous rainforest project A ‘Lockdown Rainforest Project devised by children at Sherborne’s Leweston Prep School has seen them named regional champions in the Better Energy School Awards. Year 4 children spent half a term learning from home about rainforests during the winter lockdown of 2021. They started by finding out about the location of rainforests around the world, their climate, and the plants, animals and people that live in them. They went on to create an ‘amazing’ collection of writing, drawings and paintings, all of which were inspired by their learning about the rainforests, said the school. Children also wrote and performed their own TV news reports on either a species under threat or the discovery of a new rainforest

YIPPEE: Leweston Prep School pupils celebrate their success

species. The Better Energy School Awards is a nationwide competition for five to 11 year olds, run by the Young People’s Trust for the Environment (YPTE) in partnership with TotalEnergies. The competition, which aims to generate interest in the environment and raise

awareness of the need for sustainable energy sources, has received entries from almost 400,000 children since it began in 2007. Leweston’s project not only took top spot in the 2021 awards’ ‘Totally Clued Up’ category, but was also declared the best project in all categories from schools in Wales and western England.

The school received its trophy at a virtual Awards Ceremony and were given a cheque for £1,000 to put towards school funds. YPTE director Peter Littlewood, said: “The 202021 academic year has been an exceptionally challenging one for schools, with multiple lockdowns and all kinds of restrictions on class mixing to deal with. Despite this, environmental education has clearly remained extremely important to many schools and young people’s enthusiasm for learning about the natural world has remained undiminished.” A spokesman for the school said: “The children learnt a huge amount from this project. They are all now extremely passionate about the importance of saving the rainforests.”

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New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

By Steve Keenan newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

The promotion of tourism to North Dorset could be set for a boost just as Sherborne’s Tourist Information Office closes. The TiC shut down completely this week as part of a cost-cutting measure by Dorset Council. The council argues that fewer than one per cent of visitors to Dorset used the TiC and has instead granted the town £20k to fund a new online microsite promoting Sherborne. At the same time, Dorset Council is considering ways to spread visitor numbers away from the Jurassic Coast and instead encourage rural tourism. “It is one of the conversations we had at cabinet last week,” says Cllr Jill Haynes, whose portfolio is customer and community services. “We were saying that we don’t need any more tourists at the coast – it’s jam packed, so what could we do to promote the area beyond the coast? “Rural tourism is something we want to encourage and we are starting to think about what we can do.” One of the things being

COME AND SEE: Sherborne Castle attracts visitors

Picture: Paul DIBDEN

New hopes for tourism as budget cuts shut town TiC considered is a phone app to promote North Dorset as a walking destination, given the number of established routes including the Wessex Ridgeway, White Hart Link and North Dorset Trailway. Meanwhile, Sherborne is ploughing ahead with work on the microsite designed to showcase the town online. It will be hosted on the Visit Dorset website, with

potential for other towns to piggyback the county’s promotion. The TiCs in Dorchester and Wareham as well as Sherborne were shut down on Monday. Dorset Council says it will save £200,000 a year in running costs. It leaves the council with no publicly funded TiCs in Dorset, although there are offices in Blandford,

Shaftesbury, Wimborne, Bridport and Swanage run by other organisations. Research shows that it is mostly local people who visit the TiCs, to buy tickets for local events, for information and to buy retail goods. Now the three towns affected are being encouraged to provide such a service elsewhere. n See Letters, P40

Businesses and attractions encouraged to help with promotion Steve Shield, clerk to Sherborne Town Council, said the council offices would provide ticketing but is encouraging local businesses and attractions to get involved. “We have a Tourism Forum of about 12-15 people who meet quarterly, and that will be an important mechanism for the town in future,” he said. “Maybe shops could help with stocking leaflets, giving information or even ticketing. We would welcome ideas from the town and will do our best to move forward.” Work has begun on the microsite, which will 20

include mapping and information in differing languages. “We are investing quite heavily in that and it should be ready for early autumn,” said Shield. Cllr Haynes, pictured left, added: “We are looking at these three towns to look at how they might promote themselves and are supporting each with £20k for the transition. “It’s always a difficult decision to reduce services we have historically provided but we

cannot afford to fund tourism support activity at a local level across communities in Dorset. “The council’s role is to promote Dorset as a destination, so we will continue to develop the Visit Dorset brand to support the visitor economy and promote sustainable tourism as part of our Economic Growth Strategy. “The consultation has demonstrated that TiC services are still considered to be important by local people, visitors and businesses. “It’s important that Dorset Council investigates all potential options for how these services could be provided in the future.”

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Funding boost for rail station projects By Steve Keenan

contributing to the sustainable development of Gillingham. Its funding will be spent to improve walking routes linked to the station and provide multi format information, including leaflets, signage and interpretation plus a series of educational events. Meanwhile, another exciting project is also under consideration by the BVCRP – to provide electric bicycles at each of its stations. “We are talking to a company in Exeter to provide these bikes. They are really quite excited,” said Cllr Beer. Several walking and cycling routes already exist in North Dorset, including the White Hart Link, a 50-mile circular walk which connects the six towns in the area. National Cycling Routes N25 and N253 also run through Gillingham, the latter including Motcombe, where cyclists have been welcome at its shop.

newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

Gillingham rail station is to benefit from a series of projects to enhance its role as a gateway to the Blackmore Vale. Dorset Council has been given £26,000 to spend on initiatives to establish the station as a ‘multi-modal hub’ and encourage walking and cycling visitors. The money comes from South West Railways’ customer and communities improvement fund, which is also backing other projects. Dorset Wildlife Trust has been granted £27,000 to also improve walking routes linked to the station as part of the Gillingham Royal Forest project. And Gillingham Town Council has won £6,000 to install six self-watering herbetums to complement planting at the

‘MULTI-MODAL HUB’: Gillingham railway station

station and protect pollinators. “It is all good healthy stuff to stop people driving,” said Dorset councillor Derek Beer, who is also chair of the Blackmore Vale Community Rail Partnership (BVCRP). “Anything that can be done to encourage non-car travel is sensible.” The Partnership represents the six rail stations between Tisbury and Crewkerne, which has already benefitted from a SWR grant to provide

wayfinding information boards at each station. Now Dorset Council is to start work on its project, which will include additional cycle parking and “high quality” information on onward travel including walking, cycling, buses and taxis. Simultaneously, Dorset Wildlife Trust continues its Royal Forest project, which aims to work with the town to restore, recreate and reconnect an historic landscape while

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Bin collection changes ‘saving money’ More than 34,000 North Dorset households had their bin collections changed in June, saving money and improving efficiency, says Dorset Council. The changes were made possible by the council’s state-of-the-art vehicle

tracking system, which provided live data on the original bin collection system, said a spokesman. An administrative team crunched the numbers and was able to see how the historic bin rounds could be changed or improved. The authority also tapped into the local knowledge of the waste collection crews and staff, to help identify households that would be most affected.

A spokesman said: “To ensure residents had clear information on what was happening, around 34,000 households were written to directly and provided with instructions on what they needed to do. For most, it simply meant putting their bins out on a different day, but some had additional collections scheduled to cover any extended gaps in service. “People were also informed that food waste would now be collected by a separate crew, rather than picked up at the same time as their rubbish or recycling. Making this clear helped prevent instances of mistaken missed bin reports, saving valuable time and resources for administrative employees.” Despite this, the council’s

team received around 50-70 additional contacts each day from residents with enquiries about the new collection rounds. The new rounds were rolled out from Monday, June 7, using new 7.5 tonne food waste collection vehicles and 26 tonne refuse freighters, with crews based at the Shaftesbury and Blandford depots. Portfolio Holder for Customer and Community Services Jill Haynes praised the rollout. “The huge amount of work required to pull off such an impressive feat cannot be understated,” she said. She also thanked North Dorset residents for their cooperation in introducing the new rounds.

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New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021 By Lorraine Gibson Fancy helping to run a museum? Volunteers at Blandford’s Fashion Museum, who describe themselves as ‘one, big, happy family’, say that working with them is great fun and they want you to be part of it. They’re looking for more volunteers to help run the museum, shop, tea room and garden, so whether you’re green-fingered, love history or want to release your inner fashionista, they want to hear from you. As well as the satisfaction you’ll get from giving something back to the community, they reckon there’s every chance make good friends, too. It’s the volunteers who keep the museum going and got out of their way to welcome the visitors, ensuring that they have an enjoyable experience and they say that the working atmosphere is “happy and lively”. One only visited to donate a pair of lace gloves and is still there two years later. Others have been there since the museum opened 25 years ago. Friendship is not the only benefit, the volunteers say they have also found good company, a purpose to their days and a supportive group in their fellow volunteers. The museum itself is a

JOLLY GOOD COMPANY: Blandford Fashion Museum is looking for volunteers

Volunteer at museum: It’s the fashionable thing to do beautiful place to work, with showing fascinating exhibitions that reveal how fashion has shaped society over the years and how what people wore offers a deep insight into the changes that have swept through the country over the centuries. If this sounds up your catwalk, they need help in the tea room - be warned, you’ll be surrounded by delicious, locally-baked cakes and scones. Or, if you’re a people person, how about manning reception as the face of the museum to those who visit? And if gardening’s your thing, you could help tend their lovely patio garden and

Church hosts day of activity Holnest Church is holding a Countryside Activity Day on Sunday, July 18 from 10am4pm. There’s free admission and activities including: nA scything demonstration and an opportunity to have a go, led by Chris Riley of Scythesman – see his website pratensis.net nA mobile bell ringing tower nAn exhibition of rural bygones and artefacts with quiz

nAssembling wildlife boxes with Dorset Wildlife Trust nSkittles and pony rides with Pogles Wood Natural Crafts There will be an informal Country Church Service at 4pm. The event is organised by Holnest Church PCC in partnership with Friends of Holnest Church & Dorset Wildlife Trust with support from the Heritage Lottery Fund. Further details from: 01963 210562 / 07974 590927.

flower beds. If you can help, there are lots of ways to get in touch: Visit the museum on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays form 10-4pm and

chat to the volunteers Call 01258 453006; Email volunteer@ blandfordfashionmuseum.co. uk or leave a message on their Facebook page.

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New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Farm school making a real difference By Miranda Robertson newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

More than 1,000 youngsters aged eight to 18 have found solace and understanding at a very special place in the Vale. Future Roots, an alternative educational provision based at Rylands Farm in Holnest, near Sherborne, has been welcoming children since 2008. Farming is believed to be the key to helping young people most at risk reach their potential. Where more conventional schooling environments can prove tough to handle for youngsters with additional needs, Future Roots can offer space, and specialist knowledge. Julie Plumley owner and founder of Future Roots, says farming ‘has the potential to be one of the greatest learning environments that can be offered to young people. She’s passionate about farming and helping young people in equal measure and says Future Roots is successfully demonstrating the need for “other” learning opportunities to enable young people to reach their potential. Registered social worker Julie grew up on a farm and 13 years ago she saw the potential of the farming environment for helping young people who were not coping in a mainstream school environment. She said: “The young people here are not the issue – it is society’s inability to cope with their particular needs.” The organisation aims to provide stability and direction through any tough

PRIME EXAMPLE: Jordan now has a positive outlook on life

times for young people and their families. Julie said: “Young people

because they need a safe and secure learning environment, where they feel they can

reasons for behaviours (not excuses) and that there is always a solution.” Three-quarters of the young people who come to the farm are boys in their early teens who have been referred by their school or local authority. Julie believes that farming is a gateway which offers an alternative learning opportunity and prepares young people for future life. Some of the youngsters who have attended Future Roots have themselves become farmers. Jordan, 19, is a prime example. He attended Future Roots from the age of 13, initially coming to the farm just one day a week after he had been excluded from school. The Future Roots team worked with Jordan and gradually saw his negative attitude change as he moved away from the allure of gangs and the influence of county lines towards a life that gave him the skills to cope with his personal situation and opened up a new and exciting future working as an apprentice at a nearby farm. Julie said: “It was wonderful seeing Jordan getting a fulltime job following a Future Roots plan of improving confidence and self-belief, together with functional skills qualifications and completing an apprenticeship.” Part of the reason Future Roots has been so successful is the freedom the farm gives to young people, Julie said, adding: “There is an open space; they are not confined in a class room and always have that feeling of being valued because they are always doing something useful, whether that is helping to clean out the cows

‘The young people here are not the issue – it is society’s inability to cope with their particular needs.’

don’t come to Future Roots because they are naughty or bad. They are referred

achieve, in order to reach their potential. “We believe there are always

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

to prospects of thousands of children or bottle feeding lambs or fixing a fence.” The farming environment offers even the most anxious or uncommunicative child the opportunity to have affinity with another living thing. Everything is focused on learning by experience. By learning how to care for animals, the children and young people learn how to form relationships and, during the pandemic, have benefitted in particular from being able to touch and hug the animals. Animal therapy helps them to build a relationship of trust which has a knock-on effect with their human relationships too, Julie says. She added: “Young people respond to being needed, wanted and valued.” The farm offers sheep, cows, and an old rescued horse called Alice, plus donkeys, goats, pigs, chickens, ducks, rabbits and guinea pigs. Some young people attend Future Roots for three days a week, up to a maximum of 15 hours a week. For the first six weeks there is an assessment by a team which concentrates on the pupil’s strengths and, using the organisation’s specially developed Resilience Model, the team will work to create a feeling of safety and belonging for the child. These services, together with the opportunity to study Functional Skills, Levels 1 and 11 in maths and English and take a City & Guilds in Land Based Operations, means youngsters leave Future Roots ready for work or more education. Future Roots also runs 13week short break courses, for pupils from local schools. n futureroots.net 01963 210703 info@futureroots.net n See our feature on Tokes Farm, P97-98

DEVELOPING SKILLS: Jack has thrived since coming to Future Roots

Jack’s all right now after change in education path

Jack came to the farm when he was struggling to cope in school and struggling with friendship groups. He found it difficult to make friends who had similar interests to himself. He loved the outdoors, making and fixing things with his dad and grandad. Jack became the target for some young people because of his different interests and he felt bullied and anxious all of the time. Jack was referred to Future Roots by the school to attend in a small group and get his land-based operations qualification. He quickly felt that he belonged in this environment and could see a use for his

skills and develop his interests further. He grew to especially love cows. He was well liked, helpful and really kind to the animals. Jack’s confidence has developed and grown in all areas and he passed his English functional skills and the landbased qualification. He has a job on a farm a few days a week and still attends the farm to get his maths qualification one day a week. “Jack has been an ambassador for us on many occasions and it still amazes me how his anxiety and depression has dissipated and he is able to feel that he can express himself so well publicly,” says Julie.

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Fascinating exhibition Artifacts that continue to captivate and reveal the fascinating history of Castle Cary will be on display in a special summer event, Cary through Time in 21 Objects from July 24. The joint venture between Cary History Society, Castle Cary Town Council and the Castle Cary and District Museum, supported by The Newt in Somerset, will be staged at the top of the Market House in the newly acquired Victorian Assembly and Billiard Rooms. A scale model of Castle Cary, a 4,000-year-old flint axe-head and a specially painted Glastonbury Festival recycling bin, will be among the collection along with the story of how Castle Cary has grown over time from the Stone Age through the Roman and Norman

invasions, the Civil War and right up to becoming the gateway to the Glastonbury Festival. Visitors will be able to explore the special contribution Cary made to farming and industry in Somerset, including its textile industry and the Horsehair Factory, one of just two left in operation in the world. And the lives of people born in Cary, many of whom have risen to national prominence, will be celebrated, including 18th diarist, Parson James Woodforde. There will be a ground floor presentation of the display by appointment for those unable to manage the stairs. The show will run from July 24 to September 5, Monday to Saturday between 10am and 4pm and Sunday between 3pm and 5pm.

MP wins fight to ban live animal exports By Karen Bate newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

Following his tireless recommendations, West Dorset MP Chris Loder has convinced the Government to ban live animal exports as part of the Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill. The UK is now the first to end live exports as the Government sets out new powers to boost animal welfare and the new bill seeks to improve welfare standards through a wide range of measures, including new powers to clamp down on livestock worrying and a live export ban. Mr Loder said: “I am delighted that the Government heard my numerous calls in the House of Commons and in my

consultation submission to finally ban this horrendous practice. EU rules meant we couldn’t ban these before but I have been pressing the Government to make the change now that we can. “No decent, caring farmer wants to load their animals on to lorries knowing that they might travel thousands of miles by land or sea. I know how much care my parents put into looking after their cows, so I know how concerned farmers are about the welfare of their animals. “Live animal exports need to stop, and I am so pleased they will be banned.” The ban follows his successful Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Bill which increases maximum sentences for the worst offenders to five years in

LIVE EXPORT BAN: MP Chris Loder

prison and received Royal Assent earlier this year. In February 2021, Mr Loder submitted the following to DEFRA’s consultation on animal welfare in transport, and said: “Live animal exports are an unnecessary cruelty to our farm animals. I

urge the Government to fulfil our manifesto pledge to ban live animal exports as I outlined in the House of Commons of Friday, October 23 2020. “Farmers do not want to see their animals exported by land and sea only to be slaughtered appallingly abroad, subjecting living animals to extremely long journeys in cramped conditions. “Animals are sentient. Where we have the means to improve welfare for animals, we should do so. “This is a matter of humanity, and I look forward to the banning of live animals being exported as soon as possible.” Next, the MP wants to stop the inhumane practice of non-stunned slaughter.

... and news of National Park decision is welcomed West Dorset MP Chris Loder has welcomed news that Dorset was not considered for National Park designation in the latest announcement from Natural England. He said: “The Government has clearly listened to our feedback and think we are better off as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty rather than a National Park. “I have campaigned in the interested of local people for some time. While I understand there are benefits and weaknesses with a National Park, I 26

believe the weaknesses outweigh the benefits with so much evidence pointing towards a lesser quality of life, less employment income and tougher business operating conditions. “And with the coronavirus recovery taking place, this is the right thing for West Dorset.” Announcing proposals to ‘create and improve protected landscapes across England’, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) said the Yorkshire Wolds and Cheshire Sandstone Ridge will be

considered for status as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), as well as extensions to the existing Surrey Hills and Chilterns protected areas. The proposals follow an independent review led by writer Julian Glover who had recognised Dorset’s outstanding case for National Park status and considered it as a strong candidate along with the Cotswolds and the Chilterns. However this status for Dorset is not being progressed by the Government.

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

It’s fantastic! We’re going without plastic By Miranda Robertson newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

People across the Vale are signing up to Plastic Free July – hoping to make a bit of difference to a growing problem for the environment. The village of Leigh has recently formed a climate emergency group, which is encouraging villagers to do what they can. The group has used recycled cotton to make shopping bags which they have filled with useful products, including toilet paper, plastic-free cleaning samples and bags for loose fruit and veg, as well as information leaflets and suggestions. They handed them out at the village market to everyone who signed up to their cause. Lucy Barfoot, who runs Coconut & Cotton in Shaftesbury, is also promoting the initiative. She said: “The pandemic has

IT’S IN THE BAG: Leigh villagers have used recycled cotton to make shopping bags

been a trying time in the effort to reduce single use plastic. “Understandably taking care of human health is critical, but at the same there is an opportunity to reduce plastic waste and increase reuse and recycling efforts. “Most supermarkets have

Free PPE for Dorset’s carers Are you a carer? If the answer’s yes, did you know you can now get free Personal Protective Equipment as part of a scheme which has been extended until March next year? The government initiative is being run by Dorset Council and applies to people in this area who provide care and support for others including personal assistants and unpaid carers. It was first introduced in February and expected to last until June 30 but the provision has now been extended until March 2022. You can apply for free PPE from Dorset Council if you are: n An extra-resident unpaid carer, meaning that you do not live with the person you care for n A co-resident unpaid

carer, meaning that you live with the person you care for n An unpaid carer and you are caring for a clinically vulnerable person n You’re directly employed by an individual (or self-employed) to provide care and support to enable them to live as independently as possible n You provide care that requires you to come within two metres of an adult over the age of 18 who you support – this care could include support in the home, or to go out into the community The PPE available includes visors, aprons, masks, IIR masks, sanitiser and nonlatex gloves and you can request supplies when you need them. n For more details contact the Dorset Together helpline on 01305 221000.

options for loose fruit and vegetables which is an easy way to avoid the plastic wrap. Or even better, support a small local greengrocer or zero waste shop! “According to the World Health Organisation there is no evidence of viruses that cause respiratory illnesses OMIC OTSWOLD DRAPERS ANAT C

being transmitted via food or food packaging. The best advice is to thoroughly wash hands with soap when preparing fruit and vegetables and to rinse fresh produce with water just before you eat it.” n Find out more at plasticfreejuly.org

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New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Bookworms to go wild for summer reading challenge Little bookworms should get down to Shaftesbury Library where they can register for the 2021 Summer Reading Challenge which will be based on nature this year.

The Wild World Heroes challenge will see all participants given a sticker poster and the chance to choose six boks for reading during the summer holiday.

Entrepreneurs coining it in on enterprise task

For each book they read and tell the library about, they will receive a sticker for their poster. When all six books have been read and recorded, the children will receive a

Young entrepreneurs at Marnhull’s St Gregory’s Primary made £135 on the first day of their enterprise project, to make £5 or more from the £5 investment they each received from Virgin Media. Foxes class decided to make and set up their own stall outside in the

medal, and a certificate will be sent to their school for presentation. More information on the library’s Facebook page or at the library building.

school car park and planned and produced their own items to sell. Parents were admitted from 2pm to browse and buy from a number of products, including seed bombs, large wooden jam spoons, jam, a rainbow cake, oat and raspberry bars, plants and key-rings.

Pedestrianisation ‘could be for good’ By Faith Eckersall

newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

Should Shaftesbury’s temporary pedestrianisation of its High Street become permanent? That’s the question being asked by the town council, as the pedestrianisation brought in to comply with the twometre social distancing due to covid is due to expire on July 19. The town council has announced that it’s supporting a request which has been submitted to Dorset Council, to look at the feasibility of a more permanent pedestrianisation priority scheme. “This scheme, if approved, would need to be managed 28

via an entirely separate project as a Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) has clear legislative conditions that need to be considered,” said the council. “TRO consultations, combined with statutory processes can mean a typical TRO can take between 12 and 18 months to deliver as there are many factors to take into consideration hence why the process can take many months.” It has also applied to continue the High Street closure until 2pm on Thursdays to allow the weekly market to flourish in the summer. Pedestrianisation of the area was brought in during June

2020 because Shaftesbury’s narrow pavements made it impossible to deliver the government guidelines around social distancing. However, said the council, as the weeks evolved, it received positive and negative feedback on the shopping experience. A shopper survey was held in August 2020 with a further survey in May this year. Business surveys were also undertaken during this time, with 83 per cent of shop owners or representatives reporting that the temporary pedestrianisation was having a positive effect on their business. Shaftesbury Town Council says it will continue to seek

the public’s views and will keep the community informed as the next steps for a more permanent scheme are developed over the coming weeks and months. The council’s lead for economic development, Piers Brown, said the temporary pedestrianisation had been ‘a great success’, helping shops through a difficult trading year. “With 86 per cent of shoppers and 84 per cent of businesses supporting the pedestrianisation becoming permanent, I hope Dorset Council will accept our application so the High Street can continue to buck the national trend and flourish,” he said.

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021 WHITE WATER: Giant Inflatable David Gestetner in the Kinsuka cataract on the Congo river, piloted by the late Captain Mike Gambier, Royal Marines, of Kingston St Mary, Taunton

Up the Congo, looking for the Bonobo The renowned international explorer Colonel JOHN BLASHFORD-SNELL writes for the New Blackmore Vale magazine During the Scientific Exploration Society’s navigation and research studies along the length of the Congo River in 1974-5 we undertook wildlife studies and tried to locate a rare type of Pygmy chimpanzee. The Bonobo as it was known, was believed to inhabit a remote area on a tributary of the main river. Thus a zoologist and some stalwart Royal Marines were despatched to find the creature. As they penetrated deeper and deeper into the dense forests, their radio messages grew fainter, reporting the problems of movement and alas, no sign of the elusive animal. Our fleet of giant inflatable boats was moored at a riverside town whilst the scientific work was in progress and here I was approached by two local ladies, whose only English was “Buckingham Palace” which they kept repeating. Through my assistant, who fortunately spoke Lingala, I learnt one of the ladies had been a lady-in-waiting to Madame Mobutu, wife of

SOPHIE’S CHOICE: John Blashford-Snell with Sophie, the Bonobo and her owner and, inset, the 400lb silverback mountain gorilla ‘Casimer’, photographed by the late Jeremy Mallinson of Jersey

the President and she had indeed been to Buckingham Palace and was now inviting us to dinner. Dressing as smartly as we could, three of us duly went along and were met by the ladies, attired in dresses

bearing the face of the President, worn upside down. The bungalow had clearly been abandoned by Belgian colonists and still housed a large jukebox, which rendered a series of ear-splitting tunes in various languages. Copious glasses of palm wine were dished out and eventually a dinner of roast bush meat was served. There was no indication of the type of mammal or reptile that had been cooked but with the

addition of some strong curry powder, it was reasonably edible. Conversation with the ladies was somewhat limited but the palm wine and some whisky that we provided enabled us to toast Queen Elizabeth and President Mobutu. After the remains of a sticky cake had been cleared, the evening was drawing to a close when, to my surprise, I felt a hand on my leg. I noticed that the lady opposite me had both hands folded in front of her. To make matters worse, the mysterious fingers began to move up inside my trousers. When they reached my knee they had gone far enough and bending down, I seized the hand and heaved out a small monkey. “Oh! You have found Sophie,” said our hostess. “It’s a young chimpanzee,” I replied. “No, no,” she said “Sophie is very old”. To our amazement we had found a Bonobo. The next day our intrepid search party returned from its quest, empty handed after a pretty arduous journey. Fortunately I had discovered the only Bonobo we ever found. 29

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

How Great Aunt Gladys inspired a By Andrew Diprose of Dorset Biz News

The love and care of a great aunt inspired retired finance worker Stephen Uden to set up a fund that aims to help disadvantaged young people reach their potential. He and his wife Ingrid established The Gladys Watson Fund with Dorset Community Foundation three years ago. It has already awarded more than £10,000 to groups across the county making life better for young people. Stephen, a former senior manager at Microsoft and Nationwide Building Society, and Ingrid, an exteacher, became involved with the voluntary sector in Dorset when they moved to Shaftesbury. But the roots of the fund stretch back to the 1960s when he was born out of wedlock. His mother gave birth to him at a unit for unmarried mums in Croydon and then returned to a specialist hostel in Oxfordshire. “In those days if you gave birth in that situation you weren’t expected to keep the baby,” said Stephen. “But my mother wanted to keep me so I went to live with my Great Aunt Gladys who lived nearby in Abingdon.” He stayed with Great Aunt Glad for three years.

HELPING HANDS: Stephen and Ingrid Uden and, right, Gladys Watson

“I have got a lot of really happy memories there – as well as a life-long love of Ambrosia creamed rice pudding which she used to give me. “My happy place is sitting in front of the telly watching Pinky and Perky with a bowl of Ambrosia,” he said. It was his memories of the way she helped and influenced him that shaped the couple’s thinking about

the fund he wanted to set up in Dorset. “Ingrid and I developed this shared conviction that there are a lot of young people who need a nudge in the right direction. “We were always there for our children as they became teenagers because there is so much to learn in life. “But there are some young people who don’t have that and they find life very

difficult. Our children are very grateful but they have been very fortunate and so we developed this idea about ‘the extra child’. “What about the child that isn’t our child? “Can we help them in a way that is similar to the way in which we help our own? “Great Aunt Glad devoted her whole life to caring for other people. “It was that sense of

Shock and upset reverberates through the community after ‘Our beleaguered Dorset wildlife is once again being destroyed by the hands of humans.’ Susy Varndell, Hedgehog Leader of the Dorset Mammal Group, has spoken out after an unkempt grass verge, a safe haven for resident hedgehogs, was razed to ground level by a tractor in Hazelbury Bryan – killing four adult hedgehogs and 30

many hoglets. She said: “Up until Friday, June 25, this unkempt grass verge provided a number of hedgehogs with a safe, perfect habitat. An undisturbed place where they could rest and sleep during the day, raise their young in spring and summer, and hibernate during the winter. “Last Friday this grass verge was cut to ground level by a large

tractor and flail attachment. The tractor and flail very quickly and efficiently cut and shredded the grass. But, it wasn’t just grass that had been cut and shredded. Among the newly cut grass, clearly visible, there were body parts remains of four or more adult hedgehogs. Also, there were many hoglet casualties, no doubt from a female hedgehog nest with her young. Clearly no

checks were made before mowing commenced and as the verge in question is not on a roadside causing any danger to the public, it begs the question as to why it was necessary to be mown at all?” Now a set of ‘ghost hedgehogs’ made of white-painted wood have been placed at the spot by Dorset Mammal Group, usually to highlight the plight of

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

fund to help disadvantaged

Plans in for 55 homes

stepping in to care for a young person when they needed it that made us decide to name the fund after her.” They decided to work with Dorset Community Foundation after Stephen had a good experience working with Wiltshire Community Foundation while at Nationwide. He had built up a charitable fund via a company scheme with Charitable Giving. Stephen said: “I had created the fund through employee giving because the idea of not paying 40 per cent tax on it was quite nice. “I built it up a with the idea that when we gave up work full-time we could do something useful with it.” Ingrid added: “Having moved down to north Dorset we didn’t really know who the groups were in the charity sector so setting up a fund with Dorset Community Foundation and leveraging its local knowledge was really useful in helping us get to know charities in our area. “The thing we like about it is that, as a donor-led fund, we have still got control over it. “Yes, we are paying the community foundation to help manage it but they will identify a series of charities that meet the criteria that you’ve established, which in our case is helping

Detailed plans have been submitted by Persimmon Homes for 55 dwellings with associated open space and infrastructure on land off Higher Blandford Road, Cann. Outline approval was granted on appeal to Shaftesbury LVA LLP in December 2019 after the initial plans for up to 55 dwelling were refused by North Dorset District Council in February that year, two months before it went out of existence and became part of Dorset Council. The planning inspector found that although the development conflicted with policy in its impact on the character and appearance of the area and the AONB and the loss of best and most versatile agricultural land, its contribution, with 30 per cent affordable housing, would make a significant contribution to the shortfall in housing supply. The agent’s covering letter states that of the 55 units proposed, 51 will be dwelling houses together with a block of 4 flats. It is proposed that 38 units are to be open market with 17 being affordable in a 70:30 mix of shared ownership and rented units. All the buildings will be two storeys in height, and there will be one access from the already approved point on the eastern side of the site. Comments on the application P/RES/2021/01690 are open until August 2.

disadvantaged young people realise their full potential. “Then we sit down and look at the requests and decide which ones we are going to fund each year.” Among the recipients of grants is The Rendezvous in Sherborne, which received £2,000 towards educational and mental health services for disadvantaged children and young people and Acts Fast in Poole, which was awarded £1,500 towards its support for parents and carers of children who have disclosed abuse. Stephen said: “We try to make the grants a different mix between the groups we know and also try some new ones and use that as a way of getting to know people.” Stephen has become Chairman of Trustees at The Rendezvous and Ingrid is a volunteer tutor.

He said: “The more we did with them, the more we liked them and now I we are helping them expand from the Sherborne area across the whole of North Dorset to Gillingham and Shaftsbury.” Great Aunt Glad died when Stephen was in his early twenties. “I’m not sure she would be pleased about the fund being named after her but the thing that she would be happiest about is that I am in a happy place and she would get pleasure about other people being happy,” he said. Stephen wishes to encourage others to give to their communities in a similar way. “I’ve had a few conversations with people who are pretty comfortable and are also wondering about putting something back. They are often quite generous about giving money to charity but do it in response to things rather than in a considered way. “The reason they don’t do something is that they don’t realise it is possible and there’s an easy mechanism to do so. “If you are keen on helping then it is definitely worth a conversation with a community foundation.” n dorsetcommunity foundation.org

hedgehogs and their young are slaughtered by grass cutters

hedgehogs killed by fast-moving motorists but here they indicate the carnage caused by this machine. It is unknown as to who caused the damage, but Dorset Council did not cut the verge. A communications manager from Dorset Council posted Facebook: “The council and our greenspace teams are passionate about Dorset’s verges and our work on letting them flourish where we can

(safety of road users must come first), gets national recognition – and we get lots of flack about it too, because some people would rather they looked like croquet lawns. We are also very fond of our native wildlife and our policy is to encourage it, through managing the verges, as much as we can. “This post upset many of us and goes against what lots of us try to achieve.”

Pictures: Colin Varndell

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Author thanks our generous readers after boost in book sales Author and former soldier Shaun Leavey has expressed his thanks to our generous New Blackmore Vale readers for their multiple purchases of his novel The Camel Killer, which not only raised £500 for Yemen Relief in just one month but has also resulted in a reprint! Shaun said: “The piece written of the

novel in the Blackmore Vale Magazine resulted in such good sales that a reprint is now needed, and a very useful sum has been paid to MSF (Doctors Without Borders) for their splendid work in the Yemen. “It came as a surprise to me how many BMV readers either served in Arabia,

worked in the Yemen, or had relatives who did so.” Copies can still be ordered once reprinting finishes. The sale price of the book including postage is £12, of which £5 will continue to go to Yemen relief. Email Shaun Leavey at s.leavey@btinternet.com

New site for extension hub By Nicci Brown

Planners have accepted a revised location for the compound to be used as the hub for the development of the main street to serve the Gillingham southern extension, on which work is due to start next month. Members of Dorset Council’s Northern Planning Committee were told by a planning officer that the land, partially outside the boundary of the development site, would be a better fit for farming practices, and would use an existing access onto Cole Street Lane, which highways officer Steve Savage said provided better visibility than that for the originally approved location. It also meant conditioned archaeological works would no longer be necessary, as there were no constraints at the new site. Permission was granted using permitted development rights allowing the provision on land of buildings, works, plant or machinery required temporarily in connection with the approved development, requiring the land to be

reinstated on completion to its condition before the development was carried out. The southern extension will provide a total of 1,800 homes, a local centre, sports pitches, a primary school and associated facilities. Councillor David Walsh, one of three local Gillingham members, said: “We have been working on this for the last ten years. It’s great when you ask communities to do the masterplan, but you have to get on with it. The community have planned it, they control it, let’s deliver it. The variation should be approved without any further delay. There are speculative developers trying to come in through the back door.” Fellow Gillingham member Councillor Belinda Ridout agreed they needed to get things moving, proposing approval which was seconded by the third Gillingham member Councillor Val Pothecary and agreed unanimously. Head of planning Mike Garrity confirmed that he endorsed their minded approval at the meeting which was held virtually.

Garden celebration Around 200 guests enjoyed tea and cake and entertainment to celebrte the formal opening of their community garden. Scores of people aged two to 80s helped create a green paradise in Fontmell Magna, aided by local businesses who supplied materials. The opening marks the start of lots of community ventures, starting with a weekly pop up cafe in the garden. Future events include a flower talk, a flower demonstration, National Play day, wreath making workshops, seed collecting in addition to starting to plant again for next year.

Support for 20mph limit slowing down By Nicci Brown

newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

Support for a campaign seeking a Dorset-wide 20mph speed limit received less than unanimous support from Blandford town councillors in May, when it was approved with six votes in favour, but seven abstentions. 20sPlenty Dorset coordinator Dily Gartside spoke about the campaign currently active in Dorset in which decision makers – councillors and highway officers, MPs and the new Police & Crime Commissioner David Sidwick – were lobbied to support the key call in this 32

year’s UN Road Safety Week for 30km/h or 20mph speed limits in places where pedestrians cyclists and motor traffic mix. 20sPlenty campaigners have asked Dorset Highways, which is currently reviewing its traffic street management policy, to update its speed management policy in accordance with DfT Government guidelines and best practice, thus enabling all towns and parishes who want 20mph to be supported. She said one in three people in the UK live where 20mph is agreed as normal, and is what is wanted for Dorset towns and villages to result in fewer casualties, healthier

and more sustainable lifestyle through people willing to cycle and walk, the halving of traffic noise and reduction in pollution. “Our aims are supported by a Dorset County Hospital A&E Consultant who names Dorset’s roadkill as ‘motorcide’, the biggest killer of healthy people,” she said. “In 2019, Dorset Police reported 988 road casualties of which 343 occurred on 30mph roads where 47 were killed or suffered life changing injuries, The DfT estimates the costs of these casualties was £101.5million. Cllr Lacey-Clarke advised town councillors that since

Dorset Council was already looking at this, he did not believe Town Council support was required at this stage. He abstained from the vote as a request for a 20mph limit in the whole of Blandford is going to a committee he is working with. But Councillor Hugo Mieville’s proposal of town council support for the Dorset wide campaign as well as a limit for Blandford was seconded by Councillor Rosemary Holmes, and less than half those present agreed. For more information on the campaign, see www. 20splenty.org.uk, call Dilys on 01258 860157.

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

New standard for Armed Forces Day By Nicci Brown

newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

The Blandford branch of the Royal British Legion gathered at Legion House in Church Lane on Armed Forces Day for a Drumhead service and dedication of a new standard for the Royal Signals Association, which meets in the building. Plans for displays and exhibitions on the day had to be cancelled in view of the continued restrictions announced on June 14, but the service and raising of the Armed Forces Day flag went ahead in front of a large but social distanced audience in the garden and on the roadside. The service was conducted by Dorset county RBL Chaplain the Rev Dennis Mould, and those attending were welcomed by Blandford branch president Gyan Tamang. They include Mayor of Blandford Councillor Lee Hitchings, who said that on Monday June 21, Blandford Town Council – in addition to raising the Armed Forces Day flag – had signed the Armed Forces Covenant, further strengthening the town’s already strong connections between the town and military at Blandford Camp. He said: “This day is so important to so many people, and I am pleased we have been able to meet, despite the restrictions, to give thanks for what the Armed Forces do for this country.”

POIGNANT: Penny Howard Bates with the members of the Blandford Armed Forces Veterans Breakfast Club at Rushton airfield on the anniversary of D-Day and, left, the dedication of the new Royal Signals Association standard on Armed Forces Day

Taking part in the ceremony were branch chairman Terry Clarkson, Tony Lucas, Branch Standard and Marie Parsons, RBL Women’s Section Standard and other standard bearers from across the county, the Royal Signals Army Cadet Force detachment based in Blandford whose members were presented with Poppy Badges by Mr Tamang, trumpeter Geordie Thomson, who played the Last Post and Reveille, and

piper Lyndon Wall. Following its dedication, the Royal Signals Association standard was raised by branch poppy appeal organiser Robert Taylor. The ceremony followed a small memorial service at the Cross of Sacrifice in Blandford Cemetery on Sunday, June 13 for the late Prince Philip on the closest date possible to what would have been his 100th birthday, and on June 6 a sponsored walk on the

Milldown for the Poppy Appeal. The date coincided with the anniversary of D-Day, when members of the Blandford Armed Forces Veterans Breakfast Club walked to Tarrant Rushton airfield to lay a wreath, and were delighted to find there Penny Howard Bates, the daughter of Major John Howard, who led the gliderborne assault that captured the Caen canal and Orne river bridges.

Care home launches appeal for pandemic memorial garden An appeal has been launched at Castleman House, the Tricuro-run residential care home in Fairfield Bungalows, Blandford, to improve the residents’ garden area in memory of those lost during the pandemic. The home currently has 30 residents, all with family in and around the

Blandford area, but over the last 12 months has sadly lost 11 of their residents. They have appealed on social media for seeds, plants or anything else they could use to turn the garden into a memorial garden as a mark of respect for those they had to say goodbye to.

They have also applied to Blandford Town Council for a grant, and say in their application, which was considered by councillors at their June 21 meeting: “Now we are able to have families too visit again, we also thought it would be nice for residents to take them into the garden for a cup of tea.” 33

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Our Loose Canon...

with Canon Eric Woods DL

Be encouraged by gift of encouragement In my last column, I had a whinge about whingers – and acknowledged the contradiction in that. So it seems only right to ask today if there is an antidote to our current preoccupation with whingeing about, well, everything. I think there is, and I find it in what we know of the Apostle Barnabas – one of the second wave of apostles, and great supporter of St Paul. We know from the Acts of the Apostles that he was born on Cyprus, and died there. His parents had named him Joseph. But Barnabas was the name the other apostles gave him, and in Acts [4.36] we learn that it means “son of encouragement”. How lovely that they gave him that name because

“encouraging” was what he did, and did often. So it is good to be reminded today that encouragement is one of the most precious things we can give to one another. When the coronavirus reached the UK, I was hugely encouraged by the fact that our politicians, of all parties, seemed to be pulling together. Now they have dissolved back into their old habits of carping and criticising. The best – perhaps the only – antidote to that is a loving word, an affirming word, a word of encouragement. It costs nothing. It is an act of love. Yet how seldom we encourage one another as we should. You see, when Jesus told his disciples to love one another, he did not mean that they should love in a

vague, generalised sort of way. He meant that they should use their imaginations actively to love and care for one another. Christian love must be expressed in thoroughly practical, concrete, tangible terms, or else it is not love at all. It must be expressed in real and positive ways, in and through things we can touch and see and smell and taste and hear. I am writing this on the first rainy day we have had for weeks – which for farmers and gardeners is itself a great encouragement. My wife, who volunteers regularly at the Vale Pantry and the Community Chest Boutique in Sturminster Newton, tells me of the great generosity of those who donate food and comestibles to the former, and

clothing, shoes and jewellery to the latter. And I hear of small acts of kindness and encouragement nearly every day, not least from our many good friends in Sherborne who keep in touch (it’s amazing to think I have now been retired for over a year!). A long time ago the English poet and painter William Blake – immortalised in the hymn known today as Jerusalem – wrote that “He who would do good to another must do it in Minute Particulars: General Good is the plea of the scoundrel, hypocrite and flatterer.” Exactly. So why not aim to be a “Barnabas” to those around you – and give them the gift of encouragement in these difficult times?

boxed £5 01258 473715. Pair of 2 piece wood corner cabinets, c/w glass shelves. Painted light grey. VGC. £50. 01963 202931. Yamaha PSR6000 keyboard, c/w manual. Home use only, immaculate condition. Collector’s item. £99. 01963 202931. Panasonic Viera 42” Plasma TV TH42PX60B Built in stand 2 glass shelves Freeview. Excellent condition. Good working order £70 01935 851076. Bosch Aquatak1500 pressure washer trigger gun. Serial no. FO16 FO3 211 Brand new. Sealed packaging £65. Bosch Aquatak 1500 pressure washer jet nozzle +cable holder. FO16 FO3 211 Brand new sealed packaging £35. Srixon Men’s all weather golf glove (left hand) M/L White. New. £10. 01935 851076. Royal Doulton Shire Horse £25. Various China Shires from £10. 01202 696603. Playmobil sets includes pirates

boat & raft, pirate island, Egyptian camel tomb raiders, chariot, soldiers, plus lots of accessories £40 lot 01747 835680. 8x6 wooden sun room dismantled and needs repairs, buyer to collect. Donations to Penny Llamas & Alpaca rescue £50 01725 552061. Playmobil sets includes stables, paddock, petting & hamster sets wedding & fairy sets lots of figure & accessories £40 lot 01747 835680. Callaway Razr Hawk golf driver 10.5 degrees carbon shaft Callaway head cover Good condition £50 01935 851076. Odyssey golf putter white steel (2 ball SRT) with Odyssey head cover. Good condition £60 01935 851076. Mizuno golf recovery wedges 20, 23, 26 degrees with Mizuno head covers. Good condition £30 each. Men’s black leather golf shoes. Brogue style fringe flap Cotswold brand Size 41/7 Almost new £35 01935 851076.

Pole cat and ferret kits, £20. 01258 817161. Galvanised water tank, 36inches long x 15inches wide x 16inches high. Ideal for plants, £50. 01258 817161. Two 33" televisions in working order £20 each, Shower seat, padded swivel top, blue £10. 01963 440741 Red deer antlers 10 points £80 01963 440741. 6.4 mtr width 3 sliding door system complete with steel frame doors & tracking - £1,000. Linde E.18P Forklift Truck, super machine, selling due to retirement - £4.000. Tel 01258 860725 or 07968 315719. Overordered off white undercoat paint 15 litres plus 10 litres of top coat. Make is Johnsons Paid £190. Offers to 01747 840772. Electric riser recliner tip up armchair double motor hardly used cost new £1249 free delivery and set up £390 ono 01202 571839. Forest marble (Long burton) walling stone for sale, 5 1/2

Items for Sale IKEA Poäng chair black leather VGC, £40. Belfast sink £35. 01935 812233. Quantity of jam, honey and chutney jars available. 01747 823410. 2x record sash cramps 72" excellent condition £55 the pair phone 01722 711456. Gramophone records, 33s, 45s and 78s x 150. £25. 01935 423088.. Yamaha Portatone electronic keyboard with stand. Full working condition. £50. Tel. 01747 823168. Milenco towing mirrors £30 awning mat 2.3x2.5m box screw pegs £10 vango clothes drier £20 01747 821538.. Pale green 3 piece suite. 3 seater settee. 2 arm chairs. Very good condition. £50. 07731 580011. Fridgemaster counter top freezer. VGC. £30. Russell Hobbs 3tier food steamer. Unused, boxed £10. Pirate boots, men’s 10/11 boxed black £10. 01258 473715. Rhinos fan heater, unused, 34

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Have your say on car parking Dorset Council wants to change the way it charges for parking in an attempt to standardise car park prices across the council area. Its Parking Transformation Project is seeking views on a number of issues, including the introduction of a new car park permit to ensure local residents and businesspeople are not left ‘out of pocket’ by the proposed new pricing. Currently there are 76 such permits. The council says its proposed three tier pricing structure for car parks differentiates between rural, coastal and town parks, as well as the seasonal nature of car parks at popular visitor destinations. It wants to bring consistency to charging across Dorset Council car parks – where charges currently range from free, to £9 a day.

NEW PRICES: Parking fees in Dorset are to be standardised

These are the new proposals: n Level one pricing, in smaller more rural car parks, is proposed to start at 50p for 30 minutes and rise

incrementally to £4 for all day. n Level two pricing, in our market towns and shopping destination car parks, is proposed to start at 50p for 30 minutes and will have slightly higher incremental rises up to £6 for all day. n Level three pricing, in our visitor destination car parks, is proposed to have the same pricing as Level Two car parks in the low season. In the high season (April 1 to October 31), prices are proposed to start at £1 for 30 minutes and rise incrementally up to £10 for all day. If agreed any new charges would come into force in January 2022 – six months’ time. n To register your view go to wh1.snapsurveys.com/ s.asp?k=162392591003 before July 11

Car Link’s thanks

Shaftesbury Car Link owners Martin and June Hull are paying tribute to all their volunteer drivers who have helped those in need during the pandemic. The scheme has provided transport so people have been able to get their covid vaccinations among other medical and hospital appointments. And last month the scheme covered 300 trips. Martin and June have been overwhelmed with supportive messages, not only from users but also their relatives who have supported the group financially to keep drivers in PPE.

Coffee morning

SILTON Village Hall is holding a summer coffee morning and sale on Saturday, July 31 from 10.00 am until noon. All proceeds will be donated to charity.

Items for Sale tonnes, £75 per tonne. Wadkin bursgreen, 10inch circular saw, single phase, £550 01963 210664. Sealy Posturepedic double divan bed and mattress . 135cms. 4 storage drawers As new condition £335. Buyer collects 01258 628324 Bird aviary 6' x 4' section, screws together as new £135 Tel 01258 268810. China items of Royal Stafford, rose Wedgwood of Worcester, Doulton and others. Offers. 01935 423088. Sea Kayak P&H Dawntreader with paddles and transport cradle. Excellent condition, £400. 01747 828621. Pair of John Lewis oatmeal 2seat sofas. Excellent condition. £300 each, £500 pair. 07341 318926. Vintage ATCO petrol lawnmower, 26" cut with roller. Needs service, £100. 01747 828621. Ladies Giant Yukon MTB. 24 speed, immac cond, £175. 01963 202931.

Mountain bike 18 gears just serviced. £100ono, phone 01747 840772. Wheelchair. Lightweight, attendant controlled. £40. 01747 822167. Jam jars £7 Per 12. Pickling jars £9 Per 12 Gillingham 07854 966770. Baby car seat and base. Maxi cosi pebble plus. No accidents, pet & smoke free. reduced. £75. 01747 840641. Revlon magnifying makeup mirror. Illuminated. less than half price.£25 01747 840641. 5 china horses, 2 large, 3 small £15. Canvas picture 39"x20" "Brixham Harbour £10. Horsey Vase with Rabbits £8. 01963 350118 Garden Swing Seat, 2-seater, green metal frame, c/w cushions and canopy. £75. 01963 362109 PlayStation PS one console with 2 controllers, memory card, working order & 14 retro games cased with instructions £45 01747 835680.

RED DE'LONGHI MICROWAVE, plus 2 burner ceramic hob, any reasonable offer. 07985 902397

AGATHA CHRISTIE BOOK COLLECTION, 85 like-new hardback books. £200. 07842852424. LISTER ENGINES, chaff cutter, various vintage tools etc. Phone 01747 854561 20 NEW CLEAR 500ML FOOD GRADE PLASTIC BOTTLES with gold caps. Ideal for cordials or home brew. £12.80, discount for larger quantities 07714 289400 RALEIGH STOWAWAY FOLDING BIKE. Immaculate condition, hardly used. £250. Contact: 07739 697777

BED SETTEE 2 SEATER WANTED - good condition Corfe Castle area Tel 01929 480069

ST MARGARET'S HOSPICE urgently require good quality furniture for our shop in Wincanton.Please call 01963 31470 to arrange a collection. Thank you for your support.

JOHN DEERE WALK BEHIND ROTARY MOWER, cutting width 53cm, additional mulching kit included, 1 private owner from new - £250 Tel 01747 824331

3 seater £100, 2 seater £250 CREAM LAURA ASHLEY SOFAS. As new/excellent condition. £300 for both Contact Bev 01258 817647

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Run hailed a success

The first Communifit Charity run of 2021, sponsored by Greenslade Taylor Hunt, was a great success. Craig Hardaker, who organised the run in support of the Friends of the Yeatman Hospital, said: “To attract 142 runners from age 6 to 80 and raise £380 for the Friends in such awful weather is a great success. It was our first Sherborne run in 20 months and is a truly remarkable achievement. I have to thank all of our runners, their supporters who

After 16 months of lockdown Shaftesbury Rotary Club wanted to give something back to the community, and Gold Hill Fair was relaunched as Gold Hill Festival. The weather was a big concern with an unsettled day forecast, but the public still turned up and were entertained by live bands lined the route to encourage them at on stage, Morris dancers, every step, and the team from our two steam engines and a sponsors, for their promotion and life-sized Lego caravan. presence on the day.” David Hayes, chairman of the Friends The site had the look of a of the Yeatman Hospital, who ran the festival site with stall holders and caterers spread five-mile route said: “On behalf of around the perimeter of the my fellow trustees I thank all of the runners who took part. Thanks also to site, giving them a view of the stage, where local Craig and his staff for selecting the bands played. Friends of the Yeatman Hospital as Traders and caterers had a the charity for Sunday’s run, and for very successful day and organising the event.”

William Williams for an Educational Grant. Last year some 37 students from Shaftesbury received more than £50,000 in financial support.

n Students from Shaftesbury, Blandford or Sturminster Newton and need a little financial help are being invited to apply to The Charity of

Club’s thanks for support

The grants of up to £2,000 per year are for students who are going on to further their studies in a sixth form college, university, take an

despite the odd shower the sun did come out. The club would like to thank the main sponsors Western Marquees, Rutters Solicitors, who paid for the banners and Signrite for providing some free signage. They would also like to thank the Berwick St John Steam Fair for supplying the steam engines to the event and Blackmore Vale Leisure for bringing the Lego Caravan. The club would also like to thank all the volunteers who gave up their time helping, including Shaftesbury Lions Club who manned one of the gates, and Shaftesbury Town Council, which provided a grant.

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New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Youngsters raise £3,000 North Cadbury Primary School children excelled themselves by raising an amazing £3,000 for Cancer Research UK and Macmillan Cancer Support, a feat described as ‘inspirational’. They boosted funds for the charities by taking part in a sponsored run that turned out to be a huge success, impressing everyone. Singing their praises, headteacher Mrs Thompson said: “For a school of just 100 pupils, which includes the preschool, the sum raised has been heart-warming. “Everyone ran for a purpose, including myself, and we know it will make a difference. “I am so proud of the children. All of them went above and beyond. Even when they were tired, they pushed on knowing how much money they had raised. The resilience of

everyone, including the staff, has been inspirational. She added: “For a small village school, the support

has been fabulous and one family in particular were touched by the generosity of the sponsors. The father

underwent a Brave the Shave in support of his wife who is currently undergoing treatment.”

Announcements NOTICES

ANNE LEACH BRAIN (Deceased) Pursuant to the Trustee Act 1925 any persons having a claim against or an interest in the Estate of the above named, late of Newstone Nursing Home Stourcastle Sturminster Newton Dorset DT10 1FF, who died on 29/03/2021, are required to send written particulars thereof to the undersigned on or before 26/08/2021, after which date the Estate will be distributed having regard only to the claims and interests of which they have had notice. Rutters Solicitors, Spring Corner High Street Gillingham Dorset SP8 4AW.

BIRTHDAYS

DEATHS

DOREEN HASKETT

RICHARD NICHOLAS MILLER

Happy 90th birthday, 10th July. Lots of love Robert, Jenette, Grant, Kay, grandchildren and great-grandchildren

Farmer and horseman On 1st July aged 87 peacefully at home. Much loved husband, father and grandfather. Private family funeral, donations if desired to The Injured Jockeys Fund c/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services Tel: 01747 8335757

LOADER, DAVID RAYMOND Died peacefully at Yeovil District after a short illness on Tuesday 29th June aged 74 Years. A much loved husband, dad, grandad, great grandad, brother and friend to many. Private funeral service to take place. Donations kindly accepted in David’s memory for The British Heart Foundation C/O David Rivett Funeral Directors, 30 Lyde Road Yeovil BA21 5AT, 01935 433737.

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Announcements DEATHS

Friends of the late

IN MEMORIAM

KEN TILLBROOK GILLIAN GUNNER MBE died peacefully at Abbey View Care Home Sherborne on 26 June following a long illness. She was known locally for her popular website designs and her significant contribution to Sherborne in Bloom. Gillian wished her body to be used for medical research and there will be no funeral at her request. If you wish to make a donation in her memory then Friends of the Yeatman Hospital would be appropriate.

COLIN GRAHAM (ERN/BADGE) On 17th June 2021, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by love with his family, aged 71 years of East Stour. A much loved husband to Sally, dad to Samantha and Marc, father-in-law to Emma and Granfer to Martha and Jasper and friend to many. Graveside service. No flowers please but donations if desired to The Stars Appeal, Salisbury District Hospital or Weldmar Hospicecare Trust may be sent to Merefield & Henstridge Funeral Directors, Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset. SP7 0BU. Tel: 01747 853532

DOUGLAS GIBERSON Peacefully at the Westminster Memorial Hospital on the 19th June 2021. Doug aged 67 years of Shaftesbury. Dearly loved husband, dad, grandad and friend. Private funeral service. Donations if desired for Prostate Cancer UK, C/O Peter Jackson Funeral Services. Harwood House, Newbury, Gillingham, SP8 4QJ. A special thank you to all of the staff at the Westminster Memorial Hospital for their care and kindness shown to Doug.

DOUGLAS ANDREWS Peacefully at home on the 17th June 2021. Doug aged 96 years of Stalbridge. A dearly loved dad, grandad and great grandad. Private funeral service. Donations if desired for the Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance Trust. C/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services. Mons, High St, Henstridge, BA8 0RB. Tel: 01963 362570.

Martin (his son) would like to invite you to the White Lion in Bourton on Sat 24th July from 2pm for a gathering to remember Ken and have one last beer on him!

MILEHAM DAVID CHARLES Passed away peacefully at home on 13th June, 2021 aged 61 years. Beloved husband of Jennette, father to Tom and Lauren and grandfather. Donations in memory of David for Weldmar Hospicecare may be sent c/o A.J. Wakely & Sons, 16 Newland, Sherborne, DT9 3JQ.

MCGRAIL PROFESSOR SEAN FRANCIS Died peacefully on 28th June 2021, aged 93 at home in Chilmark RIP. Memorial service in the Autumn. Donations for CAFOD via chriswhitefuneral.co.uk

ERIC "TONY" HAYWARD 14-07-2020 Always in our thoughts. Sadly missed by family and friends.

NORMAN ROBERT (NODDY) Sadly passed away 19/07/20. One year has passed, Rob. We couldn't put it in the paper a year ago due to covid. Sleep tight, bro. Love Kev, Sue and family.

MIKE TURNER 09/07/2015 Six long years since you left us. Always in our thoughts, miss you so much. All our love, Janet and family

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New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Announcements THANK YOU

PETER JACKSON FUNERAL SERVICES Independent Family Owned and Run Funeral Directors Private Chapels of Rest • 24 Hour Service • Golden Charter Pre Paid Funeral Plans

RODNEY ADAMS 1938 – 2021

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Our grateful thanks for the kindness and professionalism of the doctors and nurses at Sturminster Surgery, Debbie & Kay (Blandford Community Rehab Team), Peter Jackson Funeral Services, Vickie Macintosh (Celebrant) and Blanchards Bailey Solicitors of Blandford. You were with us all the way. Thank you so much from Rod’s family.

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New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Letters

Commercial beekeeping practices may Your last three issues have featured items on honeybees and this is to be welcomed, but the biggest threat to them has gone largely unreported, but if continued may see the end of them as a viable species. Queens are increasingly failing without obvious explanation, but the likeliest is commercial breeding which tends to in-breed them. The system honeybees have evolved to perpetrate their species naturally is one where every queen is superseded by a daughter, or by several daughters, if by swarming. Many beekeepers purchase and breed from queens raised by professional breeders in isolated apiaries which are themselves conducive to in-breeding. They may take their “best” mother queen and make (say) 100 daughter queens from her. These daughters are then distributed worldwide to local breeders who may make a further (say) 100 granddaughters from each of those daughters for local distribution. This means that 10,000 grand daughters of minimum genetic variation are loose on the planet. These “best” queens are selected for such qualities as temper, brood pattern, honey gathering and reluctance to swarm, not for genetic diversity. There is a tendency for all creatures to breed ‘out’ rather than ‘in’, to achieve hybrid vigour or Heterosis. This deepens the gene pool, but is confounded by commercial bee breeding practise. Worker bees cannot select the best eggs to make new queens. (There is a royal line present in the hive which is bypassed). The best drones do not get to mate with the queens due to commercial use of artificial insemination. The best queens do not get the opportunity to select the best drones to mate with nor to fight and win over other queens for possession of the hive. This would all not be so bad if (as in beef cattle) the end of the “line” was Sunday lunch, but 40

excellence in education which was the hallmark of St Mary’s. Mrs Corinne Gibbons Chairman. Shaftesbury Old Girls Association

Cartoon by Lyndon Wall justso caricatures .co.uk

these (almost) cloned queens are then allowed to breed in the wild themselves, reinforcing the inbreeding tendency. The genetic pool shrinks whenever selection for our needs takes precedents over the bees for theirs, which is to out breed. Fewer and fewer queen lines produce more and more of the queens on the planet, reducing the size of the gene pool. There are reasonable grounds to assume a reduction in genetic diversity will compromise the viability and survival of the honeybee We have an international industry tirelessly churning out queens from a decreasing genetic base that have been selected for qualities such as a quiet temperament, but are always in danger of in-breeding and indeed could be a sign of it. A British Standard Code of Practise (BSCP) needs to be drafted by government for the breeding of honeybee queens so that the commercial tendency to inbreed is curtailed Bill Summers (46 years a beekeeper), Sturminster Newton n Many former pupils and staff who attended St Mary’s school were saddened to have it referred to as the ‘Marie Celeste’

n I should like to express my gratitude to whoever it was who found the purse which I had dropped in the car park in Gillingham on Thursday, June 8 and handed it in to the Waitrose store. Your kindness and honesty is much appreciated. Thank you! Una Moore, Motcombe

(New Blackmore Vale, May 28) after considerable efforts have been made to remove items of personal and historical importance. This was always going to be a difficult and emotional task for all of us in the school community and we have all made a special effort to undertake this difficult part of saying ‘farewell’ to a beloved institution with tact and sensitivity. There is a generous offer from Vik Verma, education officer for Dorset Council, to take advantage of the hire of a marquee for an educational conference planned for special education professionals on the site in July, in order to hold a service of thanksgiving in the school chapel. This event is not a reunion and because Dorset are limiting the numbers of participants, it will be held by invitation only for those staff and former pupils in the top years most affected by the sudden closure of the school last summer. If all goes well, we very much hope to re-start school reunions in the proper sense again in the future provided these can be accommodated in the new SEND school that we are so pleased to know will continue the 75-year tradition of

n I do hope the council is giving serious thought to where and how a tourist information centre could be re-established. It is an absolute disgrace that this facility has been allowed to disappear from such an interesting and historic town. The absence of a TIC is surely also hugely detrimental to Sherborne’s high street, which is already struggling after the lockdowns and many town and local events which it publicised and for which it also sold tickets. Last week I was stopped by a couple in a campervan with cycles attached, asking where they could find the TIC. They had been recommended to visit the town and had a few hours to spare. They also wished to cycle around the area. They were amazed to hear the TIC no longer existed and I felt ashamed to be telling them this. This is a decision that has not been thought through and it needs addressing urgently. Face to face service is irreplaceable. I am sure volunteers to help staff a TIC could easily be found among Sherborne’s very active and motivated residents. Mrs AV Oliver Stourton Caundle n I feel compelled to reply to Mr Hoare MP ref the gravediggers’ strike comment he made. Here are the facts of the matter. I do wonder if Mr Hoare would have dug graves for £35 a week when the national average was over £80. Easy to condemn

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Letters

be to blame for loss of healthy swarms from an ivory tower. A Liverpool gravedigger speaking at the time said: ‘When you dig a new grave, you are covered in mud and slime. I have lost count of the times when the earth around me has caved in while I’ve been digging. Just when you think you’ve finished, you find yourself up to your neck again in mud. Every day of your life, you run the risk of being trapped and smothered.’ For £35 a week, Liverpool’s gravediggers had worked in all weathers without protective clothing and were forbidden from entering the canteen. Instead, tea was brought to them on a dump truck and they ate around an open hole. Gravediggers have long been defined by their profession in the public’s eye, tasked with assisting the grief-stricken, but dismissed in the process. James Mayo, Blandford Forum n Thanks to the splendid interest shown by the local media, our Dorset Online Archive Film Festival has been a great success. It was a simple idea: just a selection of films from our collection dating from the 1910s to the 1990s made available via the internet for a week, with the support of Dorset Council. Yet, as simple concepts sometimes do, it really seems to have delighted a great many people. Quite a few have been in touch with us to say how, after all the restrictions of covid, this opportunity to look at local life in the past through the window of moving image has really meant something to them. Many have seen echoes of their own lives and even relatives who are no longer with us. Covid has prevented us from presenting archive film shows to live audiences. There have been 259 such shows so far, reaching tens of thousands of people. The Online Film Festival has helped to fill that gap. The festival is now over but I am glad to say that it is still possible to see films and hear sound

Crowds mark the Coronation in Blandford in 1936. Image courtesy of Windrose Rural Media, whose director has written in, below

recordings from the Windrose archive. Our website windroseruralmedia.org provides a lot of information about our work which, as well as the archive, uses the media in all sorts of community-based projects. If you visit the Windrose Shop on the website you will find a wide range of DVDs and CDs available featuring material from the archive. Windrose is, of course, a registered charity and all proceeds from the sale of DVDs and CDs is used to help fund the archive and our other work. The website also includes Close Encounters, a map through which you can find locally relevant excerpts from some of our films and recordings. We did not know that an online film festival would work. It is only because you and other local media were able to provide the vital link to communities around the county that it has. Thank you. Trevor Bailey, director, Windrose Rural Media Trust, Bourton, Gillingham n First let me make it clear the front-line staff are doing a wonderful job under trying circumstances. But GPs’ surgeries seem to be using covid as an excuse all the time. Oh I dropped my pencil... must be covid. The Blandford Clinic has two internet sites they tell you to use. theblandfordgrouppractice.co.uk and systmonline.tpp-uk.com.

My recent problem, and there have been many before, is that there is now no information available on future appointments. If you go to the first site to look for a future appointment it sends you to the second site where everything about appointments is now inaccessible. What really is the point in having the sites if they don’t do anything and everyone puts everything with a problem down to covid. When I did track my appointment, using an app that cannot be used on a desktop, it said appointment White Cliffe surgery and did not mention anything about it being a phone appointment. I have a breathing problem at the moment and don’t need to be rushing here, there and everywhere. It would be interesting to see if other people see the covid being used for everything. Name and address supplied n Thank you for highlighting the tree felling at Sherborne House. At a time when one of the government’s major policies for the environment is to increase equality of access to nature it is disappointing that the council would approve the felling of these magnificent (irreplaceable within a generation) trees which were such a visible asset to the town’s green infrastructure. On another note, I was shocked at the timing of the felling. It is an offence to disturb nesting birds and bat roosts, the peak sensitivity of

these species to disturbance is during the breeding season which this felling coincided with. Given many trees were ivy covered full assessment of the potential for these trees to host bats and birds would have been compromised, increasing the risk of an offence taking place by not delaying felling until the autumn when the breeding has been completed. We are also facing a pollinator crises in this country and ivy is a fantastic late season source of nectar. I feel strongly that the council acted recklessly in allowing felling to take place during the bird and bird breeding season, and that by permitting the feeling at all they are showing a disregard for the environment and for the health and well-being benefits enjoyed by local communities from easy access to nature. I have also been disappointed by DCCs approach to road verge management – scraping soil and grit from the edge of the road and dumping it on the soft verge instead of disposing of the material responsibly (which later in the year has attracted flytipping), and in the summer mowing verges to a very short height and leaving thick arisings to lie on the verge smothering the vegetation – again timed at the most sensitive period for wildlife (when birds are busy foraging for insects to support their chicks.). I’m concerned that by setting the mowing to such a low height there is a risk of killing or injuring protected species like slow worms which take refuge in long grass – again reckless and places DCC at risk of committing an offence under the W&C Act. Natural Capital is one of this county’s greatest assets and it is concerning DCC do not seem to posses the ability or motivation to protect and enhance it. Verges and hedgerows are particularly important for wildlife in a landscape where space for nature is becoming squeezed into smaller and smaller places. Gemma Worswick 41

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Food & Drink

Cooking...

with Mrs Simkins

Meringues There’s something so glamorous about meringues: they belong in a fancy box from a high-class patisserie, all tied up with ribbon. As for fresh cream meringues, well, who can forget the naughty but nice! adverts from the 70s? Go on! Treat yourself! Incidentally, guess who, as a humble advertising copy writer, coined this slogan? Answer at the bottom of the page. Despite the glamour, meringues are easy and economical to make; all you need are an electric handwhisk, a scrupulously clean bowl, a couple of egg whites and some sugar. Two whites make a mass of meringue: and they keep for up to six weeks in an airtight container. And they are gluten-free, and relatively light on calories! Eat as they are or sandwiched with whipped cream and scattered with sprinkles: serve with

strawberries on the side for real summer luxury. Crisp and Dry Or Squidgy And Chewy? For explosively crisp and dry meringues, flatten and spread the blobs of mixture on the baking tray. For dangerously more-ish meringues with delectable squidgy centres, mound them up higher. Leave the meringues white, colour them pink or divide

Mum’s Kitchen... Apricot and Coconut Tart Ingredients: Ready-rolled shortcrust pastry, or sweet dessert pastry if you prefer, enough to line a greased and floured 23cm (9in) flan dish. 125g (4oz) softened butter 125g (4oz) golden caster sugar 2 medium eggs 75g (3oz) ground almonds 25g (1oz) desiccated coconut, plus extra to sprinkle Zest and juice of half a small orange 400g can apricot halves in juice, drained 1 tablespoon icing sugar for glazing, plus a little for dusting 42

Method: Preheat the oven to 190C (170 fan oven) Line the flan dish with the pastry. Prick the base of the pastry with a fork, and then line with greaseproof paper and baking beans. Cook for 16 minutes, then remove paper and baking beans and cook for a further 6 minutes. Remove from the oven and leave to cool whilst you prepare the filling. Beat the butter and sugar together until creamy, then gradually beat in the eggs. Stir in ground almonds, coconut and orange zest. Spoon the filling into the pastry case then top with the drained apricot halves, skin side up. Replace tart in oven and

the mixture in two and make both. The amount of pink colouring seems rather startling: and it does look a bit violent when you first put it in, but the colour soon fades in the oven. Makes approximately 24 small meringues Ingredients 2 very fresh egg whites 110g (4oz) white caster sugar 1½ tablespoons pink (or red) food colouring, optional

You will need an electric hand whisk plus 2 baking sheets, lined with greaseproof paper Preheat oven to 120C (100C fan oven) gas mark ½ or equivalent In a clean, dry bowl, whisk the egg whites into ‘soft peaks’- that is the peaks should still fall over slightly and not be completely rigid. Add a tablespoonful of sugar, whisk it in and continue whisking in a spoonful at a time until all the sugar is incorporated. Add food colouring just before the final whisking. Space teaspoon-size blobs of meringue onto the prepared trays. Bake for an hour or until they peel off the paper easily. Leave them in the turned-off oven with the door ajar to finish drying out. Answer: Salman Rushdie wrote the naughty but nice fresh cream cakes slogan. MrsSimkins.co.uk witter.com/MrsSimkinsCooks info@MrsSimkins.co.uk

with Diana Holman

bake for 40-45 minutes until golden. (Cover with foil if the top gets too dark). The filling will not be totally set, but will firm up as it cools. Mix icing sugar and orange

juice together and spoon evenly over tart and sprinkle with coconut. Return to the oven for 5-10 minutes to glaze top. Dust with icing sugar and a little coconut.

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Food & Drink

Spice up your summer barbecues with this lovely slaw

Rebecca Vincent is a Wincanton nutritionist

Ever hopeful for more warm weather I’ve opted for a light and refreshing recipe this time, showcasing fennel and kohlrabi in a crunchy and slightly different slaw that would be a welcome addition to any barbeque, if the weather allows! Fennel has a strong aniseed flavour and is part of the carrot family, so those allergic to carrot (and celery) may also react to fennel. It is a great source of vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and manganese,

SO GOOD TOGETHER: Fennell and kohlrabi make a perfect slaw for summer barbecues

and a good source of fibre with approximately 7g per bulb. Kohlrabi may look like something from outer space, but it is in fact part of the cabbage family and its milder flavour, similar to broccoli, compliments fennel well. It has good levels of similar nutrients to fennel as well as folate, phosphorus, iron, carotenoids and both soluble and insoluble fibre. Fennel and kohlrabi slaw (serves approx. 4) 1 fennel bulb ½ a medium kohlrabi

½ a red onion 1/8 a medium white cabbage 8-10 mint leaves 1-2 tbsp good quality mayonnaise pinch of black pepper Cut the delicate herby fronds off the fennel and keep to the side. Cut the bulb in half through the root so it stays together, then finely slice (or run it through a mandolin) from the top to the root. Remove the leaves and stems from

It’s edam shame, but cheese awards won’t brie happening It is with a heavy heart that the Royal Bath & West Society have cancelled the British Cheese Awards, one of the key events at the annual show to be held this year on August 27 and 29. With growing concern among the Bath & West team, it was felt that they would not be able to deliver the standard of Awards that the exhibitors, judges and public are used to experiencing. Therefore, the most sensible decision was to cancel the Awards for 2021, for the second year running. Head of Shows at the Royal Bath & West Society, Alan Lyons said: “The Team are hugely disappointed

to be taking this decision for the second year running. Having to cancel one of the key awards events in the UK is a great shame. “We have already started having discussions about next year and are really looking forward to welcoming everyone back to what will be an even bigger and better British Cheese Awards.” Previous exhibitors will be contacted early next year with details on how to enter the prestigious awards in 2022. The Bath & West Country Festival takes place this year between August 27 and 29 and the Dairy Show to be held on October 6.

the kohlrabi (but keep for adding to soups) and cut the bulb in half, set aside one half for another day. Carefully peel the other half, then slice thinly and cut the slices into matchsticks (this can be done with the slices piled on top of each other to save time but mind your fingers!). Finely slice the red onion and white cabbage, either with a knife or run them through a mandolin. Finely slice the mint leaves and herby fronds from the fennel. Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl with the mayonnaise and a good pinch of black pepper. Enjoy alongside barbequed goodies of your choice (it works particularly well with something spicey) and a big green salad, lovely! Rebecca Vincent BSc BANT registered nutritionist rebeccavincentnutrition.co.uk

Enford

Farm Shop Durweston DT11 0QW

Home reared and locally produced meats, game, deli, fruit, veg, free range eggs and lots more. Follow us on Facebook for all our latest meat pack deals and what’s in fresh that week. Fresh 昀sh van in the car park Wednesdays 9.30am-2pm Half a pig approx £100 Chicken feeds etc available Open Wednesdays to Saturday 8.30am-4pm. Outside shop with self service for essentials 8am-8pm open daily

01258 450050 43

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Food & Drink

Award-winning butchers taking pride By Karen Bate

award-winning Blackmore

newsdesk@blackmorevale.net Vale Butchery comes in.

MEAT TO PLEASE YOU: Blackmore Vale Butchery has been supplying locally reared meat since 2007

The reality for many farmers today, is far from the free-range, greenpasture idyll many might imagine. Forced into levels of efficiency to produce the cheap meat to fill our supermarket shelves, animals are often kept in small spaces and fed grain to fatten them up before herded onto lorries to travel long-distances, often in cramped and supremely stressful conditions, to reach their end. However, after the various food scandals, from meat labelled with fictional farms to the horse-meat debacle, many meat eaters are having a rethink and turning to ethically produced, locally sourced food where animals have enough space to roam free, eat a grass-fed diet, and are taken to small local abattoirs for slaughter. Like us,

Animal welfare and husbandry is not something new for this family-owned business in Bowbridge, which has been celebrating excellent services to the farming industry and supplying locally reared meat since it was established in 2007. With a supply chain of local Pedigree Dexter, Red Devon and Short Horn Beef, all of which is dry aged in state of the art maturation chillers, it is little wonder this butchery is being recognised for its standards and animal welfare. The Blackmore Vale Butchery uses several local abattoirs including AC Hopkins in Taunton, C&S Meats in Sherborne, Strap Orchard in Wincanton, C Snell in Chard and WS Clarke and Sons in Sixpenny Handley. Manager Gavin said: “We started the

animals are sentient beings, aware of their feelings and emotions with the same capacity to feel joy and pleasure, as well as pain and suffering. Animals deserve a good life and a good death. And this is where the

butchery business back in 2007 and within three years we had to expend our team and premises to cope with the demand. We are now being nominated for awards and won The Best Butcher of the UK award.

“Some artists have a voice that can stop you in your tracks. Hannah is one – smoky, full of colour, addressing you from the early hours.” THE MUSICIAN

The

HANNAH ROBINSON BAND FRIDAY 23rd JULY, 7.30pm

Tickets £12 44

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Food & Drink

in highest standards of animal welfare

JOINT EFFORT: Our team has grown from just three of us to now having nine full-time members of staff, says Gavin of Blackmore Vale Butchery

“Over the years our team has grown from just three of us to now having nine full-time members of staff. Our services include offering a bespoke butchery service to small holders and farmers that wish to have our livestock butchered for the freezer, to sell from the farm gate, farmers markets, farm shops or online. “We offer a range of packaging, labelling options to suit most needs as well as third option to have meat processed into our award-winning sausage and burgers. We also cure meat for bacon, gammons with the option to naturally smoke meats. “Other services include supplying top quality meat to the catering industry

from cafes and restaurants to farm shops and convenient stores.” Using local abattoirs takes away the need for stressful long journeys for the animals. How livestock is fed and then killed affects the quality of meat served up later, and as any farmer, butcher, chef or food-lover will testify, the higher standard of animal husbandry, the bettertasting the meat. Gavin added: “We pride ourselves in offering the best products available at a price that’s hard to match. We’re confident that the meat we supply will always satisfy the most discerning customer.” n bmv-butchery.co.uk 01747 838881 45

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Pets

Ask the vet... My neighbours tell me my dog howls for some time after I leave the house. What can I do? Dogs can suffer from separation anxiety and this can lead them to be noisy or destructive when left alone. Ideally we prevent this behaviour developing by ensuring our dog is used to being left as a puppy. Once the behaviour has developed it is more difficult to resolve. Puppies are very open to new experiences from the age of three weeks to 12 weeks. Getting a puppy from a family home ensures they have had lots varied experiences and then continuing this when they come to you at eight weeks sets them up well for life. This includes being left alone for short periods so that this becomes a normal part of their life. Ensuring that your puppy has been fed, has been outside and has a comfy secure bed with treats and toys will maximise its acceptance of being left. Most puppies will quickly adapt if we are consistent

with this routine and will often choose this safe space when they are feeling tired. The same routine should continue once they are adults. It is important that your puppy learns to feel confident in its own company because it will be more settled when left alone at any future time. It will also be less reliant on its owner for reassurance when faced with new or frightening experiences. Adult dogs which are not used to be being left can get anxious. Getting them used to being left is a slow process. Whilst it is endearing when our dog follows us in to every room when we are at home, this is a sign that they are not confident enough to enjoy their own space. We need to encourage them to want to spend some time on their own. Getting a dog used to being in a cage (large enough for free movement) can help with being left because it gives them a secure space which is theirs and prevents damage to the house.

with Lynn Broom It is essential that your dog is happy being left when you start getting them used to it. This may mean that you leave them initially for only a minute after they have had a walk, eaten a meal and have a toy or treat to occupy them, then slowly increase the time once they are relaxed with the previous step. If they become anxious when left, this will reinforce their anxiety and you must go back a step until they are happy again. In some cases behaviour modifying drugs may be needed to break the cycle of anxiety whilst retraining is underway. A dog behaviourist can help with formulating a plan. Some dogs like to have a radio left on so that they can hear human voices and this can also help drown out external noises. Some dogs may howl for a few minutes after their owner leaves but then settle down so, either use a camera to record their behaviour or ask a neighbour how long they howl for to see how quickly they settle down. Separation anxiety issues can affect the quality of life of your dog, you and your neighbours so it is important to try to resolve the issues involved. 2 KITTENS needing a home call 01747 828736 FERRET KITS Polecat and Silver Jill's £50 microchipped 07484 679645 PEKIN BANTAMS available Tel 01963 363659 dorsethens.co.uk 2 KITTENS, make great pets or farm cats from long established family. 01747 823242

LOST A

DORSET DISTRICT VET NURSE Have your pets treated in their own homes – For all services from Nail Trims to holiday visits dorsetdistrictvetnurse.co.uk 07487 782362

STUNNING COCKAPOO PUPPIES FOR SALE. Ready for their forever home 07th August. Contact: 07545 770408 for more details. HENS FOR SALE Somerset, Dorset, Hampshire inc. blue, white, dark eggers. Fully vaccinated. HamStreetHens.com 01458 850388 SPROCKERS: ready to go, both parents KC registered & health tested Tel: 07572 965381 COCKAPOO PUPPIES, chocolate boys, ready now. £1,200 ONO Tel 07989 815960 PET HOMES NEEDED for free range, ex-laying hens. Happy pets/gardeners. Donations. Tel: 01258 817398 I have a FIRST LITTER of beautiful DEERHOUND SALUKI/WHEATEN PUPPIES. Mother and sister of father can be seen, both family pets. Very well socialised with children and other dogs. Rough coated, broken coated and smooth, boys and girls, various colours Regularly wormed, vet checked, micro chipped and first vaccination. Ready for forever homes. £950. Tel 01884 881306.

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Equestrian

AND FOUND AND REHOMING

Trailway’s offering another view of Vale

Cats looking for new homes, from left, kittens Tilly, Tessa and Titch 10 weeks old lovely and friendly, all girls.Camalot (10+) black boy lots of war wounds needs tlc: Mia (4) brindle tortie girl , looking for a home in the country: Muffin (7) fluffy tabby boy in need of tlc

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 Lost Cats: Heddington Drive, Blandford – older black nm last seen 2/7 Stour Rd Blandford – fluffy brindle tortie & white 28/6 Crookhays/Laneside area of Shaftesbury – ginger white boy missing since 25/6 Blandford – tabby boy blue collar missing since 19/6 Oakwood area of Gillingham – white & tabby girl missing since 7/6 Hunts Rd Blandford – black boy missing since 26/5

Found cat Milldown Rd, Blandford – black nm Shaftesbury – Ragdoll cream with points is chipped but not to this area info not up to date 1/7 Station Road Gillingham – calico tortie about since around the 7/5 If you are regularly seeing a cat in your garden or down your street that you don’t think has an owner please give us a call it might be a lost cat that could be reunited with its owner. n We are still offering neutering and microchipping for £5 in postcode areas DT10, DT11, SP5, SP7, BH21 and now also in SP8 call 01258 268695

Companions at Peace Pet Cremation Independent family run business offering a very personal, caring pet cremation service to bereaved pet owners. Collection Service Farewell Room Out of Hours Service provided Located in a rural countryside setting on the Somerset Dorset border Contact us on: 07900 654 440 www.companionsatpeace.co.uk

By Karen Bate Horse lovers have been riding along the North Dorset Trailway for decades, taking in the stunning scenery which links together the picturesque villages of the Blackmore Vale. The Trailway runs along and close to the course of the old Somerset and Dorset Railway, which closed in 1966, from Sturminster Newton along the Stour Valley through Blandford to Spetisbury with some sections restricted just for horse riders. The largest section is a none mile stretch between Blandford and Sturminster Newton which takes riders through some of North Dorset’s spectacular countryside, towns and villages with views of Hambledon Hill and the Horse pony donkeys FEET TRIMMING farrier 40+ years’ experience Kenpilbrow@gmail.com 07976 836329

meandering River Stour. The Trailway is managed by Dorset Council and offers traffic-free routes not only for horse-riders but for cyclists and walkers and it is hoped all the sections will join up to provide public access along the whole length of the old Somerset and Dorset Railway line. PADDOCKS For all your Paddock & Field maintenance, call Mark on 07810 540725

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Antiques & Collectibles

Auction to go from 0-60 at warp speed There is a great selection of classic cars going under the Charterhouse gavel in their auction on July 15. “This will be our first classic car auction since the lockdown where buyers will be able to not only view all the vehicles, but also attend the auction subject to any restrictions,” said Richard Bromell. “With a great line up and the sale being held at the prestigious Haynes International Motor Museum it looks to be a great auction.” Included in the auction are classic cars in all shapes, sizes, conditions and values. Estimated at £65,000-75,000 is a 1962 Jaguar E-type Series I 3.8 fixed head coupe. From long term ownership this matching numbers E-Type is an early car from just the second year of production. From the 1980s there is a Porsche 911 Sport Targa in Grand Prix white with a blue

A 1962 Jaguar E-Type, est £65,000-75,000

leather interior and excellent service history valued at £38,000-42,000. For just £2,000 less, there is a 2003 Noble M12 GTO 3R. With just two owners and under 20,000 miles, this supercar has a 0-60mph time of 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 185mph. At the other end of the spectrum are a group of cars looking to be recommissioned or restored. Here,

there is a 1960 MG A 1600 Roadster being sold without reserve and estimated at £8,00012,000. It has previously been restored but the engine is now partially dismantled. From a deceased estate in Somerset and also being sold without reserve, are a brace of 1950s black Citroen Traction

Avants. Both were imported from France some 30 years ago. Viewing for this auction is at Haynes International Motor Museum, Sparkford BA22 7LH on Wednesday, July 14 and on the auction day, with the first lot being sold at noon. All lots can also be seen at charterhouseauction.com where live internet bidding is also available. Charterhouse are now accepting entries for their summer programme of auctions with silver, jewellery & watches on August 5, wine, port & whisky on August 6 and automobilia & enamel signs on August 18. Richard Bromell and the team can be contacted for entries on 01935 812277, info@charter house-auction.com or via charterhouse-auction.com A 1989 Porsche 911 Sport Targa est £38,000-42,000

CLARKE’S AUCTIONS Auctioneers & Valuers Antiques & Collectibles

Friday and Saturday July 9 and 10: 10am start Viewing Thursday, July 8 9am - 4.30pm View lots at the-saleroom.com & easyliveauction.com

Antique & Classic Clock Repairs & Restoration Longcase Clocks a speciality Antique Clock sales

Clocks Unlimited

A 19th century twotier wirework garden planter. Estimate £60 - £100 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

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

OLD BOOKS BOUGHT. Will call by appointment entirely without obligation. Bristow & Garland 01747 855666 40+ LP'S FOR SALE, very good condition, Cricket & horse racing books, offers welcome 01963 362186

WANTED deactivated or obsolete calibre military weapons also unusual medals ect Crimea war to 1945. Private collectors cash paid. Tel 01305 751618

GOOD CONDITION VINYL RECORDS WANTED: Larger collections preferred. No classical please, cash paid. 07831 266478

1950's IVORY/ CREAM BAKELITE TELEPHONE with pull out drawer, lovely example. 01258 473017 - £435

ANTIQUE AND MODERN CLOCK REPAIRS. Free pickup and delivery, 45 years’ experience. 01935 477582

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Antiques & Collectibles

More than 850 lots in bumper sale this weekend Clarke’s Auctions at Semley are holding their July sale this weekend and are offering over 850 lots of Antiques & Collectables over Friday 9th and Saturday 10th July. There is a collection of enamelled butterfly brooches by the Norwegian firm David Andersen which are expected to fly with estimates from £50 - £80 and a gentleman’s Rolex Submariner Perpetual Date watch with an estimate of £7,000 - £10,000 and in their furniture section you will find a choice of traditional Georgian and Victorian furniture along with a 20th century Italian design sofa and matching chairs and an Italian glass & yew wood dining table with matching set of six chairs. To arrange any home visits or to

Gerald Festus Kelly PRA (1879-1972) - Consuela No.6 oil on canvas.

value items for consignment into any of their future sales please phone either Richard Clarke or Karen Marshall on 01747 855109 at the main offices on Kingsettle Business Park, Station Road, Semley, Shaftesbury.

Free valuations every Friday, Wimborne office

A large diamond brooch, approximately 14.5 carats

SOLD for £13,500

A rare early 18th Century Chinese reverse decorated bowl, 17cms in diameter

SOLD for £84,000 8 West Borough, Wimborne Minster BH21 1NF 01202 842 900 www.semleyauctioneers.com Offices in Dorset, Wiltshire and London

5th August

15th July

18th August

Classic Car Auction Thursday 15th July at Haynes Motor Museum BA22 7LH Viewing Wednesday 14th 9am-5pm All lots on charterhouse-auction.com Free July Valuation Days Pictures, Books, Maps & Postcards 12th Doulton, Beswick & other Ceramics 13th Silver, Jewellery & Watches 14th Model Cars, Trains, Dolls & Toys 15th Chinese & Japanese Items 16th Specialist Automobilia & Enamel Sign Auction 18th August Further entries now being accepted The Long Street Salerooms Sherborne DT9 3BS 01935 812277 • www.charterhouse-auction.com 49

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Antiques & Collectibles

Bargains old and new at auction house Wincanton Auctions is gearing up to celebrate its first birthday and has already built up a reputation for fun, friendly and professional sales with lots of humour and banter. Last August, husband and wife team Duncan and Amanda Wills launched one of the only general auctions in the area – where you can buy a TV or power tools next to an antique Symphonion, a William de Morgan bowl or silver teapot. The eclectic mix of items are all auctioned from a Victorian church pulpit at their premises in Bennetts Mead. Duncan and Amanda have many years of experience in the industry and are co-owners of Castle Auctions in Cyprus, where they held the largest auction in the country’s history with a €3m liquidation sale on behalf of the Bank of Cyprus. “We moved back to the UK for family health reasons but love what we do, and love Wincanton

PREACHER MAN: Duncan takes to the pulpit during a sale

so when we saw there was an opportunity to provide a general saleroom service in the area we couldn’t resist,” said Duncan. “We’ve already made some great friends and customers and look forward to making more.” He added: “The pleasure of running a general saleroom is the range of items customers bring. There is always something exciting, unusual, rare, valuable or useful and you never know what will come through the door next – we recently had some fabulous

items brought in by a couple which ranged from a carved wooden banana all the way up to a pair of French Empire, Winged Victory candelabra.” They are looking forward to welcoming bidders back into the saleroom for their July auctions but also live stream their sales on the internet so buyers can watch and listen to the auctions and bid live on their smartphones, tablets or PCs, attracting clients from around the globe. In their June sale alone they had buyers from countries including the Russian

Federation, South Korea, Denmark, the USA and Italy. Special sales are held regularly such as their sale of Cigarette and Collectors Cards on Friday, July 30 and a Toy and Model sale in September already includes over 600 die cast metal model aeroplanes with a big jewellery sale to take place in November. The next general sale is on Saturday, July 31 and features an amazing collection of 5ft remote controlled submarines and boats and even a motorised shark’s fin, all to be sold with no reserves. There’s top quality audio equipment, some beautiful Columbian emerald jewellery, paintings by listed artists and much much more! For more information or to enter your items contact the team on 01963 361611, by email at info@ wincantonauctions.com, on their Facebook page or website wincantonauctions.com

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Home & Garden GARDEN SERVICES

(see also Local Services)

Treecare Co. Tree Specialists

TREE STUMP REMOVAL

Tree Tree Surgery. Surgery. Reductions. Reductions. Felling. Felling. Hedge Trimming. Stump Grinding. Hedge Trimming. Stump Grinding. Woodchip Woodchip supplies. supplies. Family Family run run business business since since 1946 1946 Tel: 01963 250005 Tel: 01963 250005 Mobile: Mobile: 07976 07976 934 934 252 252 www.bandgdown.co.uk

Garden Design Est 20 Years

01258 881112 07900 431701

WANTED - Dave buys all types of tools Call 01935 428975 TOPSOIL always available. Barn stored, screened or as-dug. Small or large amounts. Tel: 01963 363208/07836 747895

WELL ROTTED MANURE: £50 per transit load. Phone Roger on 01202 826502 or 07885 826396

Pruning, bracing, shaping. Preservation of mature trees. Hedge cutting. Trees supplied & planted. Landscaping & maintenance. Heavy duty winch hire available. Tree Surgery BS.3998 Contractors to local authorities.

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

North Dorset Tree Surgeons We carry out all aspects of tree surgery, hedge cutting and stump grinding. Fully insured and NPTC quali昀ed.

Call Will today on 01747 854517 or 07872 970741 Professional

Experienced

Reliable

Established in 1976

At TreeCare we care...

MR AYRES TREE CARE pruning, shaping, hedge cutting, stump grinding, fully insured, waste carrying licence, free quote & advice. Tel 01747 850129 or 07951 284639 GARDEN RESCUE TEL 01747 821 726

(Established 1997)

Tree Surgeons

Professional and experienced tree surgery and landscaping services to residential and commercial customers. We also offer a range of equipment for hire. Available 24/7 Free quotations Fully qualified team Full public liability insurance Safe Contractor Approved

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

MAN WITH MICRO-DIGGER & 1.5ton digger. Garden clearance, patios, fencing, decking, landscaping, driveways 30+ years’ experience Contact Ken on 07882 441873 or 01963 32034

Design service for gardens Greg Whale has been running Blue Tulips Landscape Design and Build for the past 20 years He has now closed the landscaping side of my business but is concentrating purely on his passion for garden design His process includes a free site visit, he will take measurements and levels, draw an outline plan, work on ideas both linear and organic or a mix. He then draws up two scaled concepts for discussion and then a final concept which comes with guidance notes for you to build yourselves

or for a landscaper to estimate. These are not CAD or Watercolour drawings but good old fashion hand drawn concepts that are easy to read for build and cost purposes The cost of this service is normally £396. Some larger or more complicated gardens may be charged at £498. Greg covers the hard landscaping design aspect and works seamlessly with a local lady for any soft planting design work if required for an additional cost of £150/£200 n bluetulips.co.uk

OLD BYGONES & COLLECTABLES. Rural, garden & agricultural items bought & sold. Tim 01725 517268 / 07311 478301

WOOD CHIP, high bark content in dumpy bags or loose. £40 + VAT per M3. 01258 860781

GARDEN RESTORATION, maintenance and design. 20+ years’ experience. Please contact 07795 417572 HARGRAVES LANDSCAPE AND DEMOLITION. Call us now for a free quotation on 07871 327962. GREENHOUSES SUPPLIED/ERECTED Alloy/ten colours Spares-Repairs-Glass Chris Abrams 01258 452632 MR AYRES - all types of gravelling, forest bark, less weeds, less work, free quote & advice. Tel 01747 850129 or 07951 284639

WANTED - Garden ornaments, garage clearance and also old tools wanted. Good prices paid, Mere 01747 860637

SCREENED TOP SOIL for sale. Delivered. Tel no 01258 861046 LAWN SCARIFYING Moss and thatch removal. 01747 821 726 MR AYRES - all types of gravelling, forest bark, less weeds, less work, free quote & advice. Tel 01747 850129 or 07951 284639 LES BENHAM: Garden property maintenance. All hedge/tree work/ rubbish clearance, gravel driveways/ pressure washing, patio and fencing work. Fully insuranced/ free quotes. 01258 458849/07788 907343 lesbenham@yahoo.co.uk / check a trade L DAVIS AND SONS Garden clearance and garden design. Concrete bases, patios, gravel, fencing and much more. We also deliver compost, pots, bark, logs and other gardening products. 01458 241230 or 07950 261510

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Home & Garden

Create your perfect kitchen with our designers in store Personal service – we know not everybody wants the same, we’re here to help you choose.

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

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

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

A kitchen that is beautiful not just to look at, but to be in.

www.myhomemaker.co.uk

Your local kitchen and appliance specialists...

PROTECT YOUR HOME FROM THE ELEMENTS 20% OFF PROTECTION FOR YOUR BIGGEST ASSET

with this special New Blackmore Vale reader offer COUNTRY 52

WIDE WALL LOFT SURVEYS

The ultimate weather protection When applied to the exterior of your home PROPERLA® gives a Super Hydrophobic protective coating that water cannot stick to. Instead it forms beads that simply run off the treated surfaces, taking particles and dirt with it. At the same time Properla® allows the masonry and brickwork to ‘breathe’, so moisture and water can escape. Walls coated with Properla® see a massive 93% reduction in water absorption, and dry walls mean less heat loss from your home.

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New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Home & Garden

TRADITIONAL BUILDING SPECIALISING IN STRUCTURAL WORKS AND FINE FINISHING

• Lime Works • Masonry and Cob

CONSERVATION AND REPAIR OF HISTORIC BUILDINGS

• Plastering and Brickworks • Façade Cleaning and Paint Removal - Thermatech • Oak Framing • Roo昀ng including Thatching and Stone Roof Tiling • Sash Refurbishment and Joinery Workshop • Stone and Wood Flooring • Decorating and Interior Finishing • Kitchen, Bathroom and Bespoke Fittings

Tel: 01747 832386 enquiry@stswithun.com www.stswithun.com

We have a whole host of hydrangeas and colourful border plants to make your summer garden fabulous! Come and visit us, Monday – Saturday 9am – 5.30pm and Sunday 10am – 4pm Milton on Stour, Gillingham SP8 5QA 01747 824015

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Home & Garden

Gardening...

...with botanist Dr Dave Aplin

Achooo! How different plants cause hay fever Relaxing and enjoying your garden in summer sounds the perfect way to reap the rewards of your horticultural efforts. For those who suffer from hay fever, however, simply being outside can be blighted with itchy eyes, sneezing and a runny nose. As somebody who prefers to be more outside than indoors,

I am fortunate not to have this affliction, although I know many gardeners who do! Exactly what is hay fever? Most know it is caused by pollen, but let’s investigate further. Pollen grains are the plants’ equivalent to sperm. To fertilise an egg, in the female flower, and produce a seed a pollen grain

needs to disperse from the male floral organ called the anther. This is either achieved passively on the wind or by tempting animals, usually insects, to the flower. Showy flowers attract mini beasts that unwittingly taxi pollen from one flower to another. This is a great strategy for the plant, fostering loyalty with a particular taxi service and increasing the probability of pollen from the anthers of one species going to the female flower of the same plant type. This loyalty means plants need to produce less pollen for success, although it does mean plants need to manufacture the taxi fare: petals and nectar. Grasses, and some springflowering trees, do things a little differently. They don’t much care for using taxis, instead their strategy is to produce masses of pollen in the expectation some will

successfully fall on the female flower part (the stigma) of the same species. This results in lots more pollen in the air from grasses, although it is not in itself the cause of hay fever. Hay fever is the body’s reaction to pollen grains germinating in your nose and eyes. As the grains find these moist places, they start to grow, releasing specific chemicals that allow them to recognise they have landed on the right target. Unfortunately for some, chemicals released by these germinating grains cause an allegic reaction. The body identifies them as a foreign body, produces histamine, and attempts to flush the irritant away by stimulating your nose to run or your eyes to water. Fortunately, not all pollen has the same effect, so people will experience worse symptoms when different types of flower or tree are in bloom. To stop the grains reaching your nose you can apply a thin layer of petroleum gel (Vaseline) to your nostrils to trap them. But for most, antihistamines are vital for a few weeks a year. soilvalues.com

Soil Testing Service Professional laboratory soil tests

• gardeners • landscapers • small holders

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

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

www.soilvalues.com 07598 714 082

TREEWISE Experts in all aspects of TREE SURGERY, HEDGECUTTING & STUMP REMOVAL NPTC qualified & fully insured No job too small, Friendly, personal advice and free quotations. Make a wise choice and call David Merefield today on 01747 850906 / 07966 522361

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Local Services LOGS

ROOFING

Season Barn Dry Logs 20 miles radius of Sherborne

Tel: 01935 815534

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

LOGS R US: 1 ton pickup load of logs £90. Double load £150, dumpy bag £60. All hardwood. 07790 404593/ 01258 818081

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

FREE D AN QUOTESATES ESTIM

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

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

STRIP AND RETILE, LEAD WORK AND REPAIRS. Call Simon 01747 835138 mobile 07745 625617

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

t:01747 854887 m:07525 755 696

Based in Wincanton

Tel: 07931 583614 valesideroofing@hotmail.com Find us on

WINDOWS & DOORS

PEST REMOVAL

WASPS NESTS DESTROYED WITHIN 24 HOURS

01747 822832 07947 839068

Quantum Locksmiths Wasps, moles, rats, mice, squirrels etc. BPCA qualified Insured

Call Jim 07854 395112 01963 362292

Sectional Doors / Roller Doors / Up and Over Side Hinged / Personnel Doors Spares & Accessories Installation / Servicing Automation / 2 into 1 Conversions Insulated Garage Doors Call 01963 363782 or 01258 472830 www.dorsetgaragedoors.co.uk

•24 Hour Call Out •UPVC Repairs •Key Cutting •Lock Changes •DBS Checked •No VAT Call: 07900-196427 01258 721236 Email: info@quantumlocksmiths.co.uk Follow us on

UPHOLSTERY EMAIL: JAK.KIFF@HOTMAIL.COM

THE WHITE HOUSE STATION ROAD, SEMLEY, SHAFTESBURY, DORSET, SP7 9AH

TRADITIONAL & MODERN

UPHOLSTERY TEL: 07968 983176

TOOLS & DIY

We offer a wide range of tools and equipment for the trade and DIY including

Makita, Jasic, Holemaker HMT, Sealey, Bosch & many more

Expert advice on the best tool for your job. Tel: 01258 451222

4c Sunrise Business Park, Blandford Forum DT11 8ST

sales@blandfordtools.co.uk www.blandfordtools.co.uk 55

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Local Services ARCHITECTURAL, BUILDING & ELECTRICAL

Architectural Services

Quantity Surveying

Planning & Building Applications for New Build, Extensions and Conversions

Estimating Surveying Building Dispute Resolution

01747 822162

01749 813625

Our advice is always free

Robert Chalke Associates www.rca-qs.com

LTD

Serving all your interior & exterior maintenance needs

01747 826656 franksgroup.co.uk

COUNTRY

See our page 52 WIDE advertisement

BUILDING MAINTENANCE

FRANKS MAINTENANCE GROUP

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

www.stswithun.com enquiry@stswithun.com

Tel: 01747 832386

ECR Services All types of building and electrical work undertaken Fully qualified New builds Extensions Maintenance Attic conversions including rendering, plastering, paving and tiling

REPOINTING HOUSES, garden walls, rebuilding brick, natural stone, in limestone mortar contact Simon 01747 835138 mobile 07745 625617

01963 364553 07966 496299 www.ecrservices.co.uk

ELECTRICIAN: Small jobs to full rewires. Fusebox Upgrades. Testing & Certification. Prompt, quality service at reasonable rates (no VAT). Call Alan 8am-8pm 07388696147. Email alanaac@me.com

FREE DESIGN SERVICE FOR DISPLAY ADVERTISING: 07714 289409

Free on site estimates No VAT No job too big or too small

WALL LOFT SURVEYS

KBB KITCHEN FITTER, all aspects of kitchen fitting undertaken. 30 years’ experience, free estimates given. Tel 01963 364550 or 07890 841827

Building trust with quality workmanship We provide end-to-end communication, budgeting, staffing, organisation and project management to produce a solid, high quality building, every time. Our commercial projects include new construction and repairs or restorations.

Maple Building & Developments We’ll get the job done 56

DEMOLITION ANDDISPOSAL OFANYTHING All enquiries welcome large or small

KING

DEMOLITION & SALVAGE Please ring 01202 287635 or 07850 684282 ANYTIME for more information and a free no-obligation quotation

Photo by Jason Jarrach on Unsplash

enquiries@bell-architectural.co.uk

PROTECT YOUR BIGGEST ASSET and SAVE 20%

Period and listed Property Specialists See our main advertisement in the Home & Garden section

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Local Services WASTE & HOUSE CLEARANCE

STI K

AI G BRIT

Serving the West Country for 40 years

HOUSE CLEARANCE PROFESSIONALS

SEPTIC TANK EMPTYING SERVICE

- Discounts for saleable items -

Including sheds, Lofts and Garages.

01202 855 349

The same team are still providing Pete White’s friendly service

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

All Size Skips Available Full muckaway service available, small or large loads inc grab lorries Tipping facilities at our premises Sand, gravel & top soil supplied Loose or in Bulk Bags

01963 370924 email: orders@wessexwaste.co.uk

SK I

IR E

T F PLANT

Trade and DIY welcome Ring for enquiries

Gillingham 01747 826107 Trusted family run business

CLASSIFIED ADS: 01963 4000186

Clive Smith Ltd. SKIP HIRE

SKIP HIRE

ARCHITECTURAL & BUILDING

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

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

Steve Guppy Home Maintenance & Improvements

Fully Insured Tel: 01747 590584 Mob: 07812 106 513

DORSET WOOD TRADITIONAL BUILDINGS

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

ALL AREAS COVERED ALL SIZE OF SKIP AVAILABLE PLEASE RING

CLIVE SMITH ANYTIME

01258 860 166 or 07974 822 243

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

djwelsh@btinternet.com

B.LUCAS General builder

25 Years Experience, City & Guilds Qualified Extensions, Renovations, Alterations, New Build, Plastering, Floor and Wall Tiling, Brickwork, Blockwork, Stonework and Patios, Fencing and Decorating.

FREE estimates, No VAT 01747 228827 07809 362919

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

Davies & Sons – Builders All aspects of building works undertaken Over 20 years of experience FMB Registered since 2002 For a free no obligation quote Call Mark on 07525834551 or Email: davies.mark66@yahoo.com Find us at fmb.org.uk Search for Davies and Sons or our postcode BA10 0DZ

Rob’s Clearance

House, shed, and site clearance Rubbish removed Recycling carried out Good/interesting items bought for cash Friendly and reliable

01747 839751 07956 414896

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Local Services PLUMBING, HEATING & DRAINAGE SOLID FUEL INSTALLATIONS accredited installers from the competent persons scheme for wood burners, multi fuel stoves, chimney liners and twin walled flues. Sweeping chimneys, birdguards & cowls. Fireplace alterations to your needs, chimney works including pointing. 01749 677440, 07921 074602

CLEANING

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

Tel 01935 592461 Mob 07875 272401 www.shinystoves.com

solidfuel3@aol.com solidfuelinstallations ltd.co.uk

D&T Plumbing and Heating

t:01747 854887 m:07525 755 696

PEST CONTROL SPECTRUM PEST CONTROL

CLASSIFIED ADS: 01963 4000186

Rodents, insects and all other pests humanely dealt with. Bees re-homed if possible. Quali昀ed and Experienced Technician. Member of the British Pest Control Association

TRAILER HIRE CHILLOUT SOMERSET refrigerated trailer hire, all out side catering, events, emergency breakdown coverage, covered. Call Martyn on 07973 433586 or email chilloutsomerset@ yahoo.com

Ex-Professional plays as Soloist and Busker for Weddings and Special Events

01749 813625 Robert Chalke www.robertchalke.co.uk 58

Why not call us on 01747 823731 / 07970 484890 Newhouse Farm Partnership, Colestreet Lane, Gillingham, Dorset

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

Phoenix Chimneys

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

'DAWG TIRED' Proper country dog walks Insured/CRB checked 1/2 hour £10/1 hour £15 Flexible availability https://www.facebook.com/DAWG-Tired100820242231763 Call Liz: 07725 883647

FRANKS MAINTENANCE GROUP Installations, servicing and maintenance

01747 826656 franksgroup.co.uk

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

Call 01258 455947

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

enquiries@spectrumpestcontrol.co.uk

Clarinet & Saxophone

Perhaps we can help... Established over 30 years we have the skill and know-how to cope with any job large or small, from repairs to full installation.

mandy4phoenixchimneys@gmail.com

T: 01258 721462 M: 07379 405080

MUSIC

Problems with your septic tank, soakaway or sewage system? Worried about the new domestic sewage legislation issued Jan 2020?

HEATING AND PLUMBING

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

Septic Tank, Treatment Plant, Soakaways

LTD

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

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

DOG WALKING

K.SANSOM CHIMNEY SWEEP Brush & vacuum. APICS registered 01963 370038

01258 446186 07973 183658 www.quinnsheating.com

Flushing • Condensing and Combination Boilers • Landlord’s Certificates • Bathrooms, Kitchens and Tiling • All of the Blackmore Vale area covered

Smokin Nicely Chimney Sweeps Chimneys and Flues professionally swept. Extremely clean service. Keeping Dorset’s chimneys smokin’ nicely.

Tel: 01258 455251 Email: smokin.nicely@hotmail.co.uk smokinnicely.co.uk

SHERBORNE GUITAR TUITION 01935 389655 ahiahel@live.com PIANO TUNING, Repairs, sales of reconditioned pianos Julian Phillips BA CGLI 01258 471194

Bryan G Paulley Ltd Oil Tank Services Domestic & Commercial

REPLACEMENT TANKS INSTALLATIONS RE-SITING TEMPORARY TANKS EMERGENCY PUMP OUTS BUNDED /SINGLE SKIN METAL TANKS/FUEL STATIONS ABOVE GROUND OR BELOW MOLING SERVICE FOR BELOW GROUND UTILITIES COMMERCIAL BOILER REMOVAL

New bunded tank installed for between £1300 and £1900 +VAT depending on size of tank. All areas. OFTEC Registered

Tel: 01963 363870 24hr Emergency, Leaking Tanks or Oil Spills 07836 502683 E: office@bgp-oiltanks.co.uk www.bgp-oiltanks.co.uk

ABBEY DRAINAGE UNBLOCKING DRAINS Sinks

Toilets Rodding High pressure jetting CCTV Surveys No dig relining Septic tank and water treatment plant installation All repairs and renewals No call out charge

01747 640188 07587 238563

We cover all of the Blackmore Vale area

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Local Services GARDENING & LANDSCAPING (see also Home & Garden)

Machine or Hand-Lay Local Authority Approved ESTABLISHED 1988

All aspects of Surfacing Roads Drives Footpaths Drop Kerbs Resin Bond Drives

Concrete & Floor Screed Mixed On site Any Quantity Delivered Sand Gravel Stone Cement Blocks etc Supplied Loose or in Big Bags Good Quality Top Soil in Stock

Now available... Rockery Stone

Competitive Rates 01747 853687 or 01747 855630 www.hardimanconcrete.co.uk

WOOD CHIP, high bark content in dumpy bags or loose. £40 + VAT per M3. 01258 860781

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

Sherborne Fencing Ltd Tel: 01935 814272 Mobile: 07814246332

Call for a free quote 01747 820234 The Depot, Longcross, Warminster BA12 6LJ

info@cgtarmac.co.uk

ALL IRONWORK Handrails, gates, railings, repairs., restoration. 01258 880301

www.cgtarmac.co.uk

FOR SALE: Working Honda V Twin 2417HTE Hydrostatic ride on lawn tractor. 1 owner from new. Body & engine in good condition. £590. Deck needs attention hence lower price. Tel. Day only 07809 422 409 NR Shaftesbury LAWN MOWING SERVICE: Tel 01747 821726 DRYSTONE WALLING AND LANDSCAPING yenstonewalling.co.uk 01963 371123 FENCING GATES DECKING PERGOLAS LANDWORX 01747 822655 TREE & GARDEN SERVICES 07435 220238/ 01258 858888 Fully insured quality service provided

R&W FENCING SERVICES All types of fencing, agriculture and domestic 01258 880892 07980 036250

Soil Testing Service Professional laboratory soil tests

• gardeners • landscapers • small holders

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

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

www.soilvalues.com 07598 714 082

White Hart

Garden & Property Maintenance Call Marcus Smith M: 07762 798 473 T: 01963 236 92 59

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Local Services TAXIS

COMPUTERS AND TECH

Vale Computers Your local computer specialist Any computer related problem fixed: Blank screen, slow computer, upgrades, virus removal, broadband setup and data recovery. Fixed charge repairs – no call out charge. New and second-hand computers for sale. MS CompTIA+ certified engineers.

Ring 01258 880442 Email: Valecomputers.2006@btinternet.com Open Hours: Mon to Fri: 8.30am to 4.30pm Sat: 9.00am to 1.00pm

Get connected. Stay connected. WiFi • Email • FaceTime • WhatsApp Skype • Google • eBay • Amazon Facebook • Twitter • Instagram Laptop Tablet Smartphone desktop PC

• Friendly, patient, and knowledgeable help • Keep in touch with family, friends and colleagues for free over the Internet • Sell online easily, quickly and reliably

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

Call me now on 07805 783147 COMPUTER MAINTENANCE &

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

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

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

A & O Taxi

Gillingham | Mere | Shaftesbury

AOT... Always On Time Your local taxi service for Gillingham, Mere, Shaftesbury, Marnhull, Motcombe and surrounding areas. Short or long distance, airport transfers, school runs and more. Friendly, Punctual & Professional. Our taxi will be on time at the requested pickup point!

Call us on 07882 712431 www.aotaxi.com JASMINE CARS TAXI SERVICE 07495 922821 Comfortable, spacious and clean estate cars. For hospitals, airports, seaports and local work. Distance no object, day trips and special occasions. Lady driver available. For safe Covid-aware transport.

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

BEAUTY MOBILE HAIRDRESSER covering Shaftesbury and surrounding area. Call Angela on 01747 854188

DISPLAY ADVERTISING: 07714 289409

AERIALS & Satellite Direct Repairs & Installations - 7 days per week No VAT - Prompt & Friendly Service TOM MOSS Mob: 07931 727 961 Email: tommoss50@aol.com

DEADLINES: Advertisements must be booked before 5pm on the Friday before publication. Ads booked later may be moved into an alternative section of the paper and/or resized to fit the space available.

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Local Services DECORATION, FLOORING & CARPENTRY

DORSET LIME Specialists in all external and internal lime work. Lime crete flooring. All aspects of traditional building.

Call Dave or Dan 07492 181788

PAINTER & DECORATOR All internal and external work undertaken. For a local, friendly and reliable service call Adam Ditch: Mobile: 07941 642208/ Home: 01935 872894. adamditch@btinternet.com

PAINTING & DECORATING

LES BENHAM Painting services, property maintenance, domestic/ commercial. Inside or out Fully Insured/free quotes. 01258 458849/ 07788 907343 lesbenham@yahoo.co.uk /check a trade

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

COLIN LEA CARPENTER from floor to roof. No VAT. 01747 590117 / 07708 467601

CLAIRVOYANCY EMMA HOWE CLAIRVOYANT. Call 01458 830276 / 07881 088664

APPLIANCES

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

CLASSIFIED ADS: 01963 400186 HANDYMAN & GENERAL SERVICES

Jeans Electrical

www.jeanselectrical.co.uk

Jeans of Mere, offer appliance repairs on most brands with fixed labour repair charges (parts on top)

Call 01747 860215

J & C Handyman Services Plumbing Painting & decorating Shed erecting & repairs Flat pack furniture Shelves & curtain rails

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

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

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

AN EXPERIENCED & RELIABLE HANDYMAN call Chris 01258 860826 / 07413 678076

PROPER DOMESTICS APPLIANCE REPAIRS & INSTALLATION

01747 416059

www.properdomestics.com

John Banham’s

Property Service REFRESHING Bathrooms & Kitchens

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

Of昀ce: 01747 838 087 Mobile: 07768 190 131 email: refreshingrenovations@gmail.com

General building Extensions/Renovations Loft conversions Oak frame buildings Groundwork/Landscaping All your property needs Tel: 01747 851149 Mobile: 07979 527379 email: alanlewisaml@aol.com

ASBESTOS REMOVAL: Garages, sheds, lean tos,roofing and cladding. Collection and dismantling by registered hazardous waste carrier. Call 07973 444620 or 01722 414478

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Health & Wellbeing

Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help: We all need it We all have strengths and weaknesses. There are things you can do easily that someone else would chew over for days and there are tasks you watch others perform seemingly in their sleep that would leave you cold. That’s why it’s a good idea to pool resources or, to put it another way, outsource

FREE COUNSELLING SERVICE We have received funding from the National Community Fund to enable us to offer a telephone support line for anybody having trouble coping with these weird times that we are going through. What ever your problem, give us a call and our friendly counsellor will try to help.

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

Telephone: 07714 550969 It’s good to share

David Stanton IAC ICPT ISOCS ISSUP

Psychotherapist and counsellor l Individual and group sessions l ANY issue sensitively and thoughtfully covered by consultant and trainer with more than 40 years’ experience l Confidentiality assured Go to edas-addictionservices.com or tatvacenter.com or call me on 07584 711488

But that is what we bring in when the situation has got too stressful. Outsourcing applies earlier in the planning. It’s prevention rather than cure. This can be applied to work or home. It’s time well spent considering what you could outsource in your life. If your immediate reaction is it’s a waste of money or bad use of your when you need to. budget, consider what you could be Consider this. doing whilst that outsourced task is I enjoy researching, I love writing. happening. What I don’t enjoy or do well at all – in fact, I wouldn’t even attempt it – is Can you be focussing on the things you do really well and therefore building a website. It would be making back the money you’ve spent appalling and probably crash the on the outsourcing? world’s internet. The answer will almost certainly be So, I outsource it. yes. Of course it’s not just about the It’s a better use of my time and money. It’s also about the balance. money and gets better results. The quality of your working life. If Yes, on paper that’s obvious but if you can free up headspace by passing you’re running your own business on responsibility for something you and you’re in the early days, that would struggle with, you will outlay of cash can seem daunting or produce better work, whatever that is. unjustified. You will be more focussed and less The other advantage of outsourcing distracted, therefore more productive projects or tasks is bringing in new and less stressed. energy and ideas. Right now it is essential we support It means the result hasn’t just come local businesses so this is a great time from one source so it has a fresher, to consider what you could outsource more up to date feel. locally. It’s similar to the stress management n Alice Johnsen is a life coach based tool I use; Delay, Delete or Delegate. near Sherborne. 07961 080513 alicejohnsen.co.uk OSTEOPATHIC CLINIC IN

WINCANTON HIGH STREET

PODIATRY CLINIC ST EDMUNDS Burton Street, Marnhull DT10 1PS NEW CLINIC

Julie Anne Smith DPodM MCPod hcpc registered Podiatrist T. 01258 821297 E. stedmundspodiatry@gmail.com

Age Concern North Dorset (Sturminster Newton) Your local charity for all age-related information and advice

01258 475582

Office open 10am - 2pm Monday, Wednesday and Friday info@acnorthdorset.org.uk

| www.acnorthdorset.org.uk

Offering specialist osteopathic treatment for Headaches Back Pain Arthritic Pain Muscular Spasm Sports Injuries Neck pain Sciatica Call now for professional advice and to arrange an appointment or visit our website brueosteopathy.co.uk info@brueosteopathy.co.uk 07421 100144

NATURAL PAIN RELIEF therapist in Gillingham Bio resonance scan & treatments, Clinical reflexology & baby/toddler reflexology

T: 01747 826931

yvonne@intelligenthealthclinic.co.uk Making Life More Comfortable!

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Health & Wellbeing

Communicating well can improve our relationships’ health Good communication is essential for healthy relationships. A lot of my work as a therapist is with people who are struggling with relationships – whether they be romantic, family, friends or professional. I often find that a breakdown in communication is part of the problem. Many people don’t talk to each other enough, let alone really listen to each other. With our lives being so fast, we tend not to make time for meaningful conversation, selfreflection or to properly process our thoughts, feelings and behaviours. Often, we are just impulsive or react without thinking. Things can be left unsaid for fear of upsetting the other person; or we feel we shouldn’t burden them. False pride often gets in the way and

some think it shows weakness to ask for help. Many people don’t speak their truth for fear of rejection or conflict, causing resentments to build up; then the relationship can become like a pressure cooker and will often ‘blow,’ manifesting in criticism or blame. Avoidance and denial are other ways people don’t deal with problems in relationships. Rather than address and confront issues; some seek solace in work, exercise, drink, affairs etc. Others refuse to talk about certain topics because they feel awkward, embarrassed or uncomfortable. When we do share, we can often say or do things in the wrong way and are misunderstood. Sometimes we’re not assertive enough; other times we can be too pushy. Empathy and sensitivity can often be missing. It’s not

just about what we say or don’t say; as we often express ourselves in gestures and behaviours. Poor or no communication can cause anxiety, isolation, loneliness, sadness, depression and even loss. However, with some insight, techniques and guidance; communication can be transformed and relationships can be mended and healed. Whether it’s parents and children, wives and husbands, partners, business colleagues or just friends; it’s important that we all feel seen and heard. Helping people to raise their self-esteem, become more assertive and maintain good boundaries; enables them to get their needs met. We can only really know how we come across to others by asking for and listening to feedback. It’s

important to accept constructive criticism without getting defensive. Acceptance, tolerance and humility are all important traits needed for good relationships. If we’re not open minded or don’t listen to other’s opinions, we’ll just remain stuck and have a very rigid frame of reference. A lot of my work is supporting people to change from unhelpful coping strategies to new healthier ways – often beginning with how to communicate in an appropriate, constructive and beneficial manner. Communication is a skill that we can all learn and that can rapidly improve the quality of every part of our lives. n David Stanton is a psychotherapist who lives near Sherborne tatvacenter.com

Medieval herbs at Shaftesbury Abbey By Steve Keenan Medieval herbs cultivated by the nuns of Shaftesbury Abbey 1,000 years ago are still present today and the subject of a talk by herbalist Julie Wood on July 15. The herbs had dozens of uses, from medicinal doses to making compresses, oils and salves. They were dried and blended with honey to make plasters and pills, placed on hot stones to create herbal steam baths or simply added to foods. The cures, called leechdoms, were blends of up to 46 herbs in one ointment. The most commonly used herbs included: sage, plantain, nettle, wild celery, costmary, pennyroyal and mugwort. Betony was also commonly used for headaches, neuralgias, nervous tension, and for ‘pain of the loins’. It was also worn as an amulet against ‘terrible nightgoers,

Medical herbalist Julie Wood

against frightening visions and dreams and the herb is very holy’. The medicinal herb bed is one of four at the Abbey: the others being a culinary and

utility beds, alongside The Mary Bed, dedicated to the Virgin Mary. “Medieval folk would have relied on their spiritual beliefs and the plants to heal

themselves,” said the Abbey’s Annabel Turner. “The nuns of Shaftesbury Abbey had a specific duty of care for the sick and they would have known how to cultivate and make medicines from the herbs for the people.” The Abbey was founded by King Alfred in 888 and became England’s foremost Benedectine nunnery before it was dissolved in The Reformation of 1539. An evening walk of the medicinal herb bed is the subject of the talk by Julie Wood, who is based in East Stour, looking at how they were used historically and how they are still used today. The talk starts at 6.30pm on July 15. Tickets £6 (Friends of Shaftesbury Abbey, £3) and includes herbal teas and snacks. Call 01747 852910 to book, or email office@ shaftesburyabbey.org.uk – numbers are limited. 63

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Health & Wellbeing

So many health benefits to this sunny-looking yellow flower St John’s Wort or hypericum perforatum is one of our most studied and probably wellknown herbs. It has come to prominence as being extremely effective for low mood and depression. This does not surprise me as the wonderful yellow flowers usually come out around midsummer’s day which suggest vitality and happiness. St John’s Wort is taken internally for mild to moderate depression, anxiety and nervous tension. It is said to help with pre-menstrual syndrome and depression and anxiety caused by the menopause. It can also be used for alcoholic depression and over stimulation so is useful for people with OCD and children who are still bed wetting, as it stimulates the nerves so stops the heavy sleeping that does not wake them up in time. It is also antiviral and is particularly good for envelope viruses such as shingles, chicken pox and

herpes which sit in your system waiting for you to be run down to be able to take a hold and manifest themselves. It is a nerve restorative, not only emotionally but also physically. The herb’s surname, perforatum, comes from the tiny little holes in the leaves that look like the pores of the skin. (You need a good pair of glasses and to hold the leaf up to the sun – no holes and it is not the medicinal St John’s wort!) It is a herb with an affinity to the skin. You can make an oil infusion

and shingles. What is not to like about the wonderful St John’s wort? But a word of warning, taking it internally, stimulates the liver’s detoxification pathways which means that drugs such as immunosuppressants, anti-viral, anti-coagulant and cardiac drugs are all processed quicker in your body so are less effective. This is also true with the oral contraceptive pill. If thinking of taking it, discuss it with a herbalist who will be able to tell you if St John’s Wort is safe with your prescriptions. If you are interested in having a herbal medicine consultation, please do contact me. pellyfiona@gmail.com. 07742 453285

of the flowers by picking them as they come out and putting them in a good quality olive oil. Pop it on the windowsill in the sun for a couple of weeks, where it should turn red. Using this topically will help with pain from trauma and nerve damage, back pain and sciatica, wounds and inflammation, burns, bruises and sores as Fiona Chapman is well as studying naturopathy cramps, and herbal medicine at strains, the College of various veins Naturopathic Medicine

Meditations in Nature: Fraternising with the fritillaries Today, I am out wandering around a national nature reserve on the Dorset border, looking for the dark green fritillaries that I know to be abundant here this time of year. A light breeze and ample cloud cover, thankfully, defuse the intensity of the midsummer heat. Alongside the paths, the ancient chalk grasslands are awash with the colours of common rock rose, birds-foot trefoil, hawkweed, thyme and thousands of orchids; pyramidal, common spotted, greater butterfly and fragrant. I have never seen so many orchids in one place; a lavishness only found on land that has never been under the plough. Several species of butterfly flit down the rides. There are brimstones, red admirals, holly blues, meadow browns, small heath browns and small 64

tortoiseshells, all jostling for territories, honeydew, and nectar. Two fritillaries catch my eye, but they are flying so fast and furiously that they are gone in a flash, their bright orange upper wings catching the light as they go. Early afternoon soon turns to late afternoon and as the temperature increases so do they. Suddenly they are everywhere, rising from the vegetation like delicate flames. Dark green fritillaries are a

grassland species that are on the wing in the height of summer. They are recognisable by the green hues found on the underside of the hind wings, visible only when they feed upon their favourite flowers. We have eight species of fritillary in the UK, most of which favour woodland or chalk downland. I haven’t met all of them yet but I hope to in time. My earliest memories of butterflies are chasing them

around the fields at the back of our house as children; hands poised to capture their beauty in our tiny palms. These wonders, brimming with colour and movement, lit up grasslands and inspired wild imaginings. Now I pursue them with binoculars and camera, rather than a leaf filled jam-jar: they are not as abundant as they once were. Butterflies are universally upheld with reverence and adopted as symbols for many life concepts. For us, they represent rebirth, transformation, endurance, hope, peace, and resurrection. As I walk back to my car, I wonder what butterflies had meant to the Saxons who once lived here. I hope they admired them as much as we do for they bring so much joy. n Dr Susie Curtin curtin.susanna@gmail.com

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Health & Wellbeing

A walk around...

with retired Dorset rights of way officer Chris Slade

MARGARET MARSH The parish has few footpaths, so this will be a short walk of about three miles, straying beyond the boundary partly. Start at the church. The churchyard has lots of lovely yews. Then continue down the lane which turns left and leads you south-eastwards up the only hill in the area following, on your left hand side, the parish boundary with Fontmell Magna marked by ditch and hedge with a scattering of ash trees. Ash trees have been traditional boundary markers since Saxon times. At the top of the hill is the boundary with East Orchard

where, at a stile, the footpath becomes a bridleway. We won’t go there, but look at the pond, enjoy the views over the vale and return past the church, continuing up the road to a T-junction where you turn right, east. After nearly 100 yards you’ll see a footpath that takes

you north for about five furlongs, crossing several fields being strip grazed by cattle so there are numerous electric fences to negotiate, some easier than others. You cross the boundary again into Stour Provost. At a meeting of paths you might like to venture a few

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yards into a patch of parkland to look at the lake with ducks, swans and dozens of swallows, then return to the previous field and head west along the hedge, south west through the next field, south for a short way down a farm track, south-west again until you see a gateway to your left which takes you southeast along a field edge to some farm buildings and then onto the road. Turn right, south-west, along the road for a short distance then enter a footpath that takes you back to the village where you turn right back to the church. WOULD LIKE TO MEET Hi I’m Richard (70’s), have lost my umph. Seeking lady to help me find it. 07811 589712

HOME ALONE? My friendly Social Enrichment Service provides: n Home visits to share hobbies and interests. n Accompanied trips out to local places of interest. Regular or ‘one off’ visits available.Please contact Angie on 07795 106622 or email: angelahenshall1959@gmail.com for an information leaflet.

Mental health talks... from a shed near you A series of talks on mental health recorded by a Wincanton man in his garden shed have gone online. Jeremy Thomas’s Shed Talks is a good humoured show about mental health and coping with life – what happens when things go wrong, and what you can do to get better and stay well. Jeremy is a funny guy with experience of serious mental illness, and an advocate of good mental health. Jeremy is going to be in conversation with interesting people drawn from the world of film, TV, music, books, crime, gardening, and business. Interesting people who have achieved something in their lives but who also have had direct or indirect

experience of poor mental ill health. By sharing their inside stories with Jeremy, guests will also reflect on personal survival techniques, demonstrating how they recovered from poor mental health and how they now stay sane. Jeremy worked in the music business for 22 years during the 70s, 80s and 90s. He worked with artists such as John Williams, Al Green, Camel, Caravan, U2, The Levellers, James Brown and Rupert Hine to name a few. He wrote his first novel Taking Leave in 2007, a former BBC Radio 5 Book of the Month, going on to co-produce the Emmy Awardwinning BBC documentary Stephen Fry – The Secret Life of a Manic Depressive and co-

write the popular- A-Z Guide to Good Mental Health with Dr Tony Hughes. His last novel was the crime thriller The Santa Monica Suicide Club published in 2016. Jeremy is now a leading speaker to schools and businesses, delivering talks on How to Stay Sane in an Insane World. An authentic, brutally honest and often humorous talk which draws on his own battle with bipolar disorder and addiction, providing coping skills and strategies based around a mental health tool kit. Shed Talks is six episodes strong and here are the guests so far: n Tim Clark OBE - manager of Robbie Williams n Charlie Mortimer – subject

of acclaimed memoir ‘Dear Lupin’ n Roma Hooper OBE pioneer of prison radio Mike Fisher – brains behind Bristish Association of Anger Management (BAAM) n Karen Cowan – extraordinary story of growing up with aristrocratic heroin and alcohol-addicted parents and how her marriage to film producer Paul Cowan – The Krays, Dance with a Stranger, The Crying Game saved her life. n Dick Moore – acclaimed mental health speaker, former headmaster of over 22 years who lost his 21-year-old son to suicide. Go to audioboom.com/ channels/5031372 to listen. 65

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Puzzles Arrow words

Crossword

Defence excuse

Office record keeper

Digger brand (inits)

Frost

Citrus fruit preserve

Teapot cover

Title for a young man (abbr)

Compel

Scottish council area

Spike

Bug

Enemy

Ascends

Member of Cooked a Biblical pig’s meat Jewish sect

US Republicans (inits)

Reorganize

Brussels politician (inits)

Open grill (inits)

Freezes over

23 Beers

‘Not yet public’ (inits)

Utter

Kind

Splendid

Online photo, perhaps (inits)

8 9 10 11 12 14 15 16 19 21 23 24

Handicap

Waffles

Wordsearch Four Consecutive Vowels

D M A O G O O I E S T I O A H

R C M I R P G I R I O T I E O

C L M U E A S E I U T E P I M

O A C I O O L G E U O Y T U O

AQUEOUS COOEE EUOI GIAOUR GOOIEST GUAIAC HOMOIOUSIAN MAIEUTIC

E T I R N I P S I P A E C H I

D N P A Q O E O O A N A A O O

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

U A I E U G A I I A U U H C S

A A A O O M E O T E M C R A I

E I I U O O U A O U S R E M A

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

A Q O U E S S E U I O I O H M

L S I Y A U A D S T R O A T P

MYTHOPOEIA ONOMATOPOEIA PHARMACOPOEIA PLATEAUED QUEUING RELIQUIAE SEQUOIA TENUIOUS

P G G N I U E U Q A E I I M I

A I S A I E O P O H T Y M R A

Across Pivotal (5) Causes harm (7) Dwell in (7) Soup spoon (5) Make instant coffee, eg (6-3) Elongated fish (3) One of seven deadly things (3) Bank account deficit (9) To any degree (2,3) At the front (7) Deep-seated (7) Get ready to propose, maybe (5)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 13 14 15 17 18 20 22

Down Import duty (6) Age of consent (8) Group or society (4) Amended (6) In a job (8) Got older (4) Also (2,4) Telephoto camera component (4,4) Test reviewer (8) Quest (6) Tangle up (6) Two-way switch (6) Land measure (4) Ancient symbol of life (4)

Sudoku

9 1 6 3 3

5 3

6 4

2 1

5 4 5

9 4

1 2

For the solutions turn to page 96-97

9 3 9

5 1 4 8

Brain chain RESULT

+50%

×1/2

÷3

+46

-17

New Blackmore Vale,

Puzzles (for cleverclogs)

Jumbo 3D Sudoku

4 8 3

1 7 5

3 2 9 4 8 7 2

9 5 6

5 1

Cryptic Crossword

6 8

3 2 8 4 6 1

4 8 5 7

3 6

5 3 2

7 12

1 2

1 3 6

8÷

13+

1 5 8 9 10

11 12

Killer Sudoku Pro: 18+

12+

11+

504×

189×

810×

144×

12×

336×

84×

8÷

18+

4÷

12×

45×

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.

14 16 18 20 21 22 23

RESULT

142

-191

+167

-171

Across Writer with deceit largely regarding lines? (6) Bachelor correct and intelligent (6) Horse afar about houses (4) Busy state in training exercise (8) Two parts of the body in reddish-brown horse (8) Party by hot area in Middle Eastern capital (4) Pair of bridge players by centre giving a repeat performance (6) Distinctive flag eg inn’s unfurled (6) Brood about source of penury and talk with scorn? (4) Impudence about small dwelling by last character with disgusted expression (8) Posh director in charge in dubious jail regarding the process of law (8) Conservative noted athlete at college (4) Recent way of operating by the Royal Navy (6) Promotes in advance courses in the jungle? (6)

Down 2 Attention at that time regarding pottery (7) 3 Puzzle about public transport (5) 4 Engineer or a technician in consecutive process? (5,8) 5 Grip the little ball and face up to unpalatable situation (4,3,6) 6 Enters aggressively home Dave’s refurbished (7) 7 Husband longing for a lift (5) 13 Disclosed set of players in the open? (7) 15 Gentle Greek, a young man sent up to tour university (7) 17 Quiet place in Bedfordshire restricted animated dog (5) 19 Animal in middle of mazes, wild bear (5)

Brain chain (Hard version) +50%

Place 1 to 9 once each into every black-bordered 3×3 area as well as each of the 54 rows indicated by the coloured lines. Rows don’t cross the thick black lines. 1

4 2 6 8

9 9 6

8 6 1 2

4 5

+10

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. )

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Church Church services Sunday, July 11 10.30 am Mappowder Morning Praise 10.30 am Fifehead Neville Holy Communion 6.30 pm Hazelbury Bryan Evening Prayer 9.30am: St Peter’s Shaftesbury Parish Communion 9.30am: Motcombe Parish Communion 11.15am: Melbury Abbas Matins 11.15am West Orchard Parish Communion 6pm: St James’ Shaftesbury Pilgrim service Sunday, July 18

10.30 am Hazelbury Bryan Family Worship 10.30 am Belchalwell Holy Communion 6.30 pm Ibberton Evening Prayer 9.30am: St Peter’s Parish communion 9.30am: St James’ Shaftesbury Parish Communion 11.15am: Enmore Green Parish communion 11.15am: Compton Abbas Parish Communion 6pm: Motcombe Evening Worship St. Mary's, Stalbridge Our regular services are as follows: 1st Sunday - Holy Communion at 10am, 2nd

Sunday - Evensong at 4pm, 3rd Sunday - Morning Worship at 10 am, 4th Thursday - Holy Communion at 10 am. Everyone is most welcome to attend any service in the church. facebook.com/ StalbridgeChurch Blandford Methodist Church You are warmly invited to our Sunday services that start at 10.45 am with Covid-19 practices in place. Please pre-book your seat(s) by phoning 01258 577 030. We will return you call to confirm whether your seat(s) has been reserved.

Please wear a face-mask and stay 2-metres apart from those not in your bubble. No singing for the time being. We are anxious to offer you help. Please leave your message on our answer phone 01258 577 030 and we will return your call within 24 hours. May God bless you all. John Cornish Steward at Blandford Methodist Church.

Big difference between what you want and what you need Vicar in the Vale with the Rev Richard Priest, of Stour Vale Benefice

You may have not heard but a few months ago it was my birthday. As usual, some members of the family had asked me the most difficult question in the world: “What do you want for a present? “ Well, what do I want? To be taller, slimmer, less grey-haired in my beard? To be good at sport, to get a new car, to own an apartment in Venice, to have an unlimited supply of chocolate…. Rationally, I know none of that is going to happen. I may want those things, but they are unlikely, and in fact they are truly not things that I need. We have lots of wants, don’t we? But “want” is different than “need.” And maybe we spend too much time thinking about our wants and not enough thinking about what we really need. That is the case in John’s Gospel. Once again, he says, 68

“I am the bread of life.” And once again, they don’t get it. He is promising them eternal life, eternal sustenance, and they don’t buy it. These are people who have lived under the thumb of the Roman Empire for several generations. Life is hard. Imagine living at that time: we have been taxed until we have nothing left. We know we are God’s chosen people, but it certainly doesn’t feel like it. We know we have been promised someone sent from God to save us. We hear about Jesus and what he can do (Miracles! Healings! Great preaching!) and wonder if he is the promised one who is going to make our lives different. Someone who can lead us in conquering the Romans. So we go to hear him preach and teach, and in the midst of his powerful preaching and healing, he feeds us with the most marvelous bread and fish. A miracle, to be sure. But we want someone who will be our king, a powerful conqueror who will take the nation of Israel and make it the most feared and mighty nation on earth. No more Roman taxes. No more being treated as second class citizens. No more Roman

soldiers being garrisoned in our towns and taking all the good food, so that we have barely enough bread to feed the children. No, Jesus cannot be the promised one. He’s just a neighbour’s child, not a conqueror. Bread of heaven? We think not. He is not what we want. But as the old Rolling Stones song says: “You can’t always get what you want, but if you try sometimes, you get what you need.” Those people who dismissed Jesus as a magic trickster, a riddle-maker whom they could not understand were so focused on what they wanted – a conquering king – that they missed that he was in fact what they really needed. They wanted a king, but what they needed was someone who would repair their broken relationship with their God, who would feed them and sustain them and give them eternal life. Yes, it is a beautiful world that our Creator has given us, but it is not a perfect world. That is why, in John’s version of the story, Jesus keeps saying over and over again “I am the bread of life.” Because with this humble metaphor, he is trying to get the people who are stuck in

a sea of wants to look at what they really need. Not a meal. Not a conquering king. No, what they need is what really endures forever. And they can get it simply by believing that they are the beloved of the one who created them. And the one who created them will make sure that they always get what they truly need. What do you want? What do you need? For my birthday, I might have listed all the wants I mentioned at the beginning of this column. But what do I really need? Just like the miracle of loaves and fishes, I have what I really need: my family around me, celebrating our love for each other, my work in this place that means so much to me, my creator who names me beloved and gives me what I truly need. That is what endures. That is my bread of life. Not wants hoped for, wants that do not truly satisfy, but the needs that matter and last. So let us give thanks to God who gives us the bread of life, the sustenance that never fails, the promise of eternal life, and who doesn’t always give us what we want, but most certainly always gives us what we need.

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Education

Bryanston merging with neighbours Bryanston is to merge with Knighton House from September, after it bought the land and buildings of the neighbouring prep and preprep campus last year. A spokesman said the merger of the two schools, covering provision from age three to 18, will help to ensure both are ‘well placed to rise to the new challenges and constantly evolving priorities within the world of education with confidence’. A new headmaster has been appointed at Knighton House and arrangements are being made for an experienced figure from the prep school sector to join the governing body of Bryanston. “This is an exciting and significant development for both schools,” said Julian Greenhill, chairman of Bryanston governors. “As next door neighbours, Bryanston and Knighton House have enjoyed a close and productive relationship over many decades. “The decision to proceed with a merger is a logical and forward-looking step that will enrich the experience and deliver significant benefits for all pupils.” Knighton House will be renamed Bryanston Knighton House and Will Lockett, a former

Italian Courses Classes and private tuition

throughout the year CONTACT CHRISTINE JEWELS MERGER: Mark Mortimer, headmaster of Bryanston, and Will Lockett, the new headmaster of Bryanston Knighton House

housemaster at Bryanston, has been appointed its new headmaster. He has been head at Abberley Hall prep in Worcestershire for the past six years, where he played an instrumental role in forging a new strategic relationship with Malvern College. “Will’s knowledge and experience of running a highly regarded prep school and his deep familiarity with Bryanston will provide Bryanston Knighton House with exactly the right insight and leadership as it enters an exciting new era,” says Iain Weatherby, current cochairman of governors at Knighton House. “The merger with Bryanston

will give added impetus to the school’s move to a coeducation structure and provide the level of agility and resource that a progressive prep school requires in an increasingly demanding education environment.” Knighton House has recently celebrated its 70th anniversary and its 30-acre site in Durweston lies next to Bryanston’s 400-acre campus. Iain Weatherby and Paul Slight, the current cochairs of the Knighton House governing body, will continue to be involved as part of the Transition Team to support the new merger. In due course, Bryanston’s

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governors will assume responsibility for the school and a new governor will be appointed to ensure the specific requirements of a pre-prep and prep school are taken into full account. Dayto-day management of the prep school will then be the responsibility of Will Lockett and his senior staff who will report to Bryanston Headmaster, Mark Mortimer. Mr Mortimer said: “We are equally determined to consolidate our close and long-standing relationships with other prep schools across the region as part of a supportive and mutually beneficial network of private and state schools.”

MP’s turn-up for the book Local MP Dr Andrew Murrison visited Chilmark Fonthill Bishop CofE Primary – and was treated to a tour by members of the school council. Pupils showed him the school’s new library, which was refurbished last year. Dr Murrison told them he likes historical fiction and also enjoys JK Rowling’s books. They asked him about his

career as a surgeon in the Royal Navy and were interested to hear about his deployment during the 2003 Gulf War, and his work during the pandemic. As a reward, the council gave Dr Murrison a ‘golden coin’ to spend in the school’s new book vending machine. Spoilt for choice he chose a copy of Enid Blyton’s New Class at Malory Towers.

GUIDED TOUR: MP Andrew Murrison visits Chilmark Fonthill Bishop School

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

MPs’ round-up

I’m so proud of our courageous armed forces I’m proud to support the courageous people of our armed forces, who work year-round to keep us safe and, over the past year, have also provided vital support to frontline healthcare teams against the threat of the pandemic. In peacetime, it’s all too easy to forget just how big a debt of gratitude we owe to our service personnel and veterans and Armed Forces Day serves as a fitting reminder. I’m particularly proud that so many Yeoviltonbased personnel are able to call Wincanton home. Of course, Rome wasn’t built in a day and the professionalism and skill of our military personnel is the culmination of years of training, much of which takes place in nearby Warminster. Achieving resilience is an iterative, slow-

Somerton & Frome MP David Warburton burn project that requires foresight, planning and vision. As with the military, this is certainly true when it comes to the local economy and the future prosperity of Somerset. Without connectivity investments now, we cannot pass on economic resilience and prosperity to

future generations in Somerset. This is why I spoke in Parliament the other day, making the case for levelling-up support in Somerton and Frome to sort out our broadband, dual the A303 and improve rail connectivity. It’s vital that Somerset’s economic priorities are vocalised, so I met with the Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, a couple of weeks ago. I made the case for those who have been excluded from coronavirus support and the self-employed, as well as highlighting the importance of the Universal Credit uplift. I also discussed the foreign aid cut and music festival insurance. All in all, it was a very helpful meeting and one which I hope will prove productive in the coming weeks. The wedding industry has also

been occupying my thoughts and efforts recently. I’m glad that since 21st June there has been greater scope for couples wishing to tie the knot, but the industry is still being held back and so many couples have been in touch to say how anxious and frustrated they are that their wedding has been delayed or cancelled. We have some wonderful wedding venues here in Somerton and Frome – like Holbrook Manor near Wincanton – and I remain acutely aware that many of the things that couples would expect to do at their weddings are still not allowed. I will continue to push for greater freedoms here. The Blackmore Vale has so much promise and potential to unleash. But we must have the tools we need. The South West mustn’t be left behind.

pandemic levels within 12 months, much sooner than seemed possible until recently. In developing my approach, I’ve reflected on the opposition to our aid budget that I often get on the doorstep and on recent polling that suggests 77% of the public agree on the need to temporarily cut the aid budget given the circumstances. Aid means different things to different people. The British Foreign Policy Group’s most recent survey shows this, with some calling it a moral duty and others highlighting the diplomatic benefits of aid. For me what matters is what works. There is no virtue in disbursing aid if it does no good or is wasted. I note the effectiveness of UK aid has improved substantially over the past decade, there is no doubt about that. However, I’m dismayed by the occasional story of UK funds being used for projects that can be presented by the media as trivial or wasteful. Sadly they tarnish the whole international development

programme. I made this point on Wednesday. Ronald Regan’s Secretary of State George Schultz was an exponent of aid as a means of inculcating values and cementing international relations. US aid programmes in Uganda, Ethiopia/Tigray, and Mozambique were highly successful, exemplars in the importance of values-based foreign policy. In the Cold War era of great power politics, they distinguished America from the Soviets and helped to keep jurisdictions from the Kremlin’s maw. The government’s Integrated Security, Defence, Development and Foreign Policy Review spoke of promoting prosperity, values, and influence. The merging of the FCO with DFID was also designed to connect humanitarian assistance with the UK’s wider interests. If you’re confident about your values that should not be a problem and it helps convince a sceptical public that aid is well spent and in their interests.

Ensuring aid is affordable and well-spent Last week the Commons debated the UK’s international aid policy and the temporary drop in our Overseas Development Assistance (ODA) proposed by ministers. As a former joint minister for DFID and the Foreign Office, I understand what potential damage this drop in funding will do to UK-funded NGOs and people living unimaginably tough lives who rely on assistance and development aid. However, the UK economy that makes our generous aid budget possible has just taken its biggest hit for 300 years. Government has been compelled to shell out vast sums it does not have to deal with the crisis. As a former minister I know that government is about trade-offs and hard choices that have real life consequences. One Labour MP who seemingly hadn’t been listening intervened on my speech on Wednesday to ask whether I took my share of responsibility for those consequences. Yes, of course, but the corollary to her point is 70

MP for South West Wiltshire Dr Andrew Murrison that we might also take responsibility for a commitment to UK aid, high by any international standards, that has meant we have met our aid 0.7% of GNI target in every year since 2013. Given that spending money we don’t have simply isn’t sustainable, I will support the temporary cut in aid from 0.7 to 0.5% but only for one year as promised by ministers particularly as it seems the economy will return to pre

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

MPs’ round-up

So many good things around my constituency Let me deal with the ‘elephant in the room’ first. I know, because constituents have told me how let down they felt and feel by Matt Hancock’s behaviour. They make no comment on his private life per se but are annoyed that whereas they constrained their private lives in order to meet the requirements of covid restrictions, he did not. He realised that and resigned. It has always been clear to me that while politicians cannot and should not be replica saints; those who make the rules cannot then go on to break them without paying a price. All I want to say to those who have followed the rules regardless of personal and family inconvenience: you did, and are doing, the right thing. One of the great joys of being an MP is to visit interesting things in your constituency. Covid meant

MP for North Dorset Simon Hoare the pause button had to be pressed but things are now getting back to normal. I had a really uplifting visit to Wyke Primary School in Gillingham where I, as always and much to the tolerance of the teachers, took over several lessons to have a chat with the children and answer their excellent, impromptu questions. I had my first face-to-face meeting with the NFU and local farmers to discuss agricultural, environmental and trade policies. It was

great to be back ‘on farm’ and to meet and chat properly again. North Dorset is overrun with wonderful businesses doing great things. They lurk in out of the way business parks or in converted farm buildings. Small operators doing big things and doing them well. I’ve enjoyed helping local charcoal producer The Dorset Charcoal Company (excellent product by the way) make the case to Ministers regarding the need for greater sustainability information on charcoal products – do please check yours this barbecue season. Likewise, a wonderful firm in Stalbridge making fish bait which they export to a growing market but needing advice to meet new Brexit trading requirements. Again, a meeting with the minister was arranged and a good session held. Or take the Real Cure, based near Shaftesbury, which has recently expanded

and producing locally sourced and top quality charcuterie serving many leading eateries and a growing client base. A fascinating visit to a developing solar farm near Spetisbury which has presold all the electricity it will generate to the City of London to ensure its energy use is entirely renewable. North Dorset providing to the City! Or take my visit to Guarantee Laundries based in Stalbridge where an enthusiastic and skilled workforce provide the world benchmarking linen services to leading hotels such as Cliveden and Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons owned by Raymond Blanc superseded only by the company also serving our own and very excellent Plumber Manor near Sturminster Newton. It has been great to hear the stories of these business women and men, and be excited by their future plans.

So proud of the progress made, but still a way to go One of the most important parts of our history in West Dorset, of which we should be very proud, is that Alan Turing, the genius behind the enigma solving computer during the second world war was educated here. Two weeks ago, a bust of Alan Turing was unveiled at Sherborne School to mark what would have been his 109th birthday. Alan Turing was one of those people who pushed the boundaries: he was unconventional, he challenged theories, wrote his own and cracked the enigma code, enabling us to thwart the enemy in the Second World War. But it is less well known that he was gay when being so was a criminal offence. To avoid prison, he accepted the

MP for West Dorset Chris Loder punishment of chemical castration with hormone therapy. But the trauma led him to take his own life shortly after. It is of great shame that one of our war heroes was treated in this way, simply because he was gay – especially considering that

it took until 2013 for his name to be cleared after The Queen gave him a posthumous pardon. My partner and I were very proud to be part of the event to mark Alan Turing’s life. It was a very powerful statement as to how the country has evolved so much since then. In other news, the Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Act came into force at the end of last month: a momentous day for all of us who care so deeply about animals and their wellbeing. But there is still much more work to do in Parliament to progress my Animal Welfare Plan. The Government’s programme legislation is forthcoming to the House of Commons and I am pleased once more, that the Government has committed to a ban on live animal exports,

recognising animal sentience in law and to review non-stunned slaughter. The Government has also listened to my concerns over the prospect of a national park for Dorset and has removed it from its agenda this year. National parks have shown time and time again to increase house prices, decrease full time unemployment, and drive young people away. As we recover from coronavirus, it is my firm belief that a national park is not in our best interests at the moment. I do understand why some supported the idea, but while I disagree with such arguments, I will continue working to ensure the care of the Dorset countryside and securing investment especially for our Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. 71

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Arts & Entertainment The arts and entertainment industry has been hit hard over the past 15 months, but there is still plenty to celebrate in South Somerset with The Octagon Theatre, Westlands Entertainment Venue and our Arts Engagement and Outreach Programme presenting work across the district. South Somerset District Council’s entertainment venues in Yeovil have been forced to close their doors to patrons under government national and regional lockdown measure restrictions. Gradual reopening in summer / autumn last year lasted a short period of time before the venues were forced to close again, but that’s not stopped arts and entertainment thriving in South Somerset. SSDC’s Arts and Entertainment Service annual review (2020/21) has recently been published and it highlights some of the key achievements for a service that has endured a rollercoaster of a year. In a year where the doors mainly remained closed and with a total of 9,835 tickets sold for both The Octagon Theatre and Westlands Entertainment Venue, a record number of 363 screenings were shown that bought patrons together to enjoy film and live performance. Patrons enjoyed the comfort of the big sofas at Westlands Entertainment Venue and joined us for the best of Hollywood and mainstream cinema. After six months of constant closure and no live performances at the venues, staff were delighted that Paul Zerdin brought live performances back in October with his 72

THAT’S SHOWBUSINESS: Ventriloquist Paul Zerdin and, inset below, Nurse Nellie Saves Panto

The show DOES go on even with latest covid restrictions ‘mini Yeovil residency’ of six performances. Paul kicked off a total of 42 performances across both venues. The Yeovil Literary Festival was also held at Westlands Entertainment Venue that offered enlightening, inspiring and entertaining talks from writers such as Lucy Worsley, Carrie Hope Fletcher and Jonathan Coe. For two weeks in December, life almost seemed

normal with 3,617 people enjoying the Octagon’s special panto performance of Nurse Nellie Saves Panto. The specially written ‘bitesized’ panto was a love letter to live theatre and the magic of panto with all the ‘best bits’ crammed into a 70minute show performed by a socially distanced cast of five. Throughout the pandemic staff in the arts and entertainment service have worked to continue delivering activities online with many Octagon Academy classes, talks with film industry professionals, online tutorials plus much more being streamed to offer residents the chance to get their much needed arts and entertainment buzz. Once we were able to return to inperson classes we continued to support access to participation, offering the first class back free to

participants, and subsidising the cost of room hire whilst capacity remained limited. With income reduced due to closure, the council has sought alternative sources of income to protect and maintain its venues. In total, over £400,000 of external funding has been secured which has helped to protect jobs, maintain our building and deliver activities online and in person. Councillor Mike Best, portfolio holder for Health and Wellbeing, said: “In a year that has changed our world and brought so much turmoil it can be painful to consider looking back. However, there remains much to celebrate and to be proud of.” You can view the full Arts and Entertainment Service Annual review (2020/21) for yourself online and read all about the successes of the past year.

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Arts & Entertainment

Joan’s lockdown paintings go on show Fine art needn’t break the bank and it can even break the monotony, too, as Friends of Blandford Hospital volunteer Joan Capron discovered. After being instructed to shield due to covid and to avoid it getting her down, the talented Blandford artist created a variety of new and unique artworks that will now go on show in her upcoming Affordable Art Exhibition at the charity’s Blandford shop. All funds from the sales of Joan’s work go straight to the Friends of Blandford Hospital, so as well as some seriously good-value art, you get that feelgood factor into the bargain. This will be Joan’s fourth exhibition for the Friends and she admits that it

IN THE FRAME: Joan Capron will be exhibiting the paintings she did during lockdown at the Friends of Blandford Hospital shop

wasn’t easy to prepare in what has been a difficult year. She found herself shut away from sources of inspiration and art materials. Undeterred, she

challenged herself by experimenting with painting on whatever came to hand, including slate, silk, stones, canvas, textured wallpaper and even cotton sheeting!

Trying out the effects of pastels, inks, acrylic paints and powder, oils, pencil and collage wound up being fun and to add to the variety of original art in the exhibition, other volunteers offered to donate examples of their work. Lockdown not only affected the subject matter and style but also the cost, so while Joan’s exhibits have always been priced to bring art within everyone’s reach, it’s now even more so; alongside framed, original paintings and mounted, signed prints at a fraction of the cost of originals, there will also be a range of greetings cards. n The exhibition runs from Friday, July 30 to Saturday, August 7 10am-4pm at the in Barnack Walk shop.

It’s on! Make a date in your diary for Leigh Art Show After a year of uncertainty, the Leigh Art Show 2021 is on. The biennial event will take place in Leigh Village Hall in October and will showcase a range of work, including paintings, sculpture and ceramics from

professional and amateur artists. Run entirely by volunteers, Leigh Art Show raises money for local charities through sales of artwork as well as fresh coffee, tea, soft drinks and cakes for visitors to buy throughout the

exhibition. The show opens with a Preview on Friday, October 22 from 6 to 8pm and the main show runs on Saturday and Sunday, October 23 and 24 from 10am to 4pm both days at the Chetnole Road venue. 73

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Arts & Entertainment Somerton and Frome MP David Warburton has backed a campaign to help the UK music industry get back on its feet. Warburton, a composer himself, was the founder, chief executive and chairman of Pitch Entertainment Group before entering politics and has a keen interest in the entertainment industry. He joined a crossparty group of 22 MPs to call on PM Boris Johnson and the Government to back a motion outlining the vital support needed by the music industry, which contributed £5.8 billion a year to the economy pre-covid. The MPs say many freelancers and selfemployed workers – who make up around threequarters of the 200,000 in the music industry – have been without work since March 2020.

MP’s backing for music industry

KEEPING IT LIVE; MP David Warburton, inset, is backing a campaign to support the music industry

The MPs say the workers and businesses that make up the music industry’s ecosystem “are a national asset who will be critical to the recovery”. In their motion, MPs are calling on Prime Minister Boris Johnson to: n Establish a Government-

backed insurance scheme to pave the way for live music events to proceed n Extend existing Government support to match the extension of covid-19 restrictions n Ensure parity across UK nations and regions regarding extension of the

100% business rate relief n Continue the VAT freeze at 5% for cultural tickets beyond September n Give additional support to freelancers Mr Warburton, who is AllParty Parliamentary Group on Music chairman, said: “I’m acutely aware of how challenging this pandemic has been for musicians and the broader music industry – and this situation has only been made worse by the delay to the covid roadmap. “I’m delighted that the Government has listed and extended the ban on commercial evictions and supported many music venues, but more support is urgently needed to match the extension of restrictions. “Our excellent music industry is national asset and it needs our support, now more than ever.”

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Arts & Entertainment

Author’s book has the accent on dialects A Somerset author has delved into dialects – and insults – for his new book. The county’s unique insults feature large in The Cornfield Critics by Simon Davies a children’s story about a group of scarecrows on a Somerset farm who form a book club…. however they have a big problem as they have never seen a book and they cannot read. This difficulty is overcome when they enlist Will, the farmer’s son, to be their Reader in Residence. Various adventures follow, and the scarecrows and the boy spend most of the book trying, and failing, to understand each other. Gradually and tragically, they learn what really matters in life. “They say everyone has a book in them,” said Davies, 64. “And this is very much the book that was in me. It started off as a story my youngest daughter wrote when she was about 10. It brings together my love of books, poetry, Somerset and dialect. The scarecrows

ZUM EFFORT: Simon Davies with his book the Cornfield Critics

speak in the broad old Somerset accents you hardly ever hear these days.” Originally from Yorkshire, Davies moved to Somerset in 1980 and spent most of his working life as a social worker for the county council. He realised there was something singular about the accent when, soon after he arrived, he was greeted by a burly workman with the words ‘All right, my lover?’ In researching the book he

All set fair to celebrate summer at Swans Yard A summer fair is being held this Saturday, July 10 at Swans Yard, in the centre of Shaftesbury. The one-off event is aimed at celebrating the joys of summer. There will be local artists and crafts people selling their work, a chance to see how wool is spun, to have a massage and purchase beautiful hand made woodwork, embroidery, cushions and much more. The Cygnet Gallery will be open with the resident artists showing their new work and

there will be a presentation of prizes for the Young Person’s Art Competition at 2.30pm. Swans Yard will be hosting a day of music, with talented local musicians playing in the yard. The Ugly Duckling café will be open selling delicious cakes, cream teas, snacks and drinks, as will the Potting Shed selling beautiful plants, pots and all sorts of accessories for your garden. Also open is Coconut and Cotton, an Eco friendly, zero waste and plastic free shop.

delved into the archaic words and phrases that have passed out of common use. “They seemed to love the letter Z,” he said. “Somerset itself was pronounced ‘Zummerzet’ and my favourite is ‘zowerzapped’ which means

sour-tempered. “Above all I learned that Somerset is the spiritual home of the insult. There are dozens of them and no letter of the alphabet seems to be left out, from ‘addlehead’ to ‘zahty-poll’, which both mean ‘stupid idiot’. Some of them are magnificent: chuckle-head, doak, dodipol, grizzle-de-mundy, knaw-nor, ninny-hammer, nug-head, stun-pole and toby-trot, to name a very few. And the scarecrows use these insults freely in the book.” Fortunately, there is a helpful glossary of terms. The book is a family effort. Simon’s wife Julie proofread it, daughter Abigail is the illustrator and Bethany, the daughter who had the original idea, arranged the publication. It is available on Amazon.

Batcombe Jamboree Open Gardens Weekend Saturday & Sunday 17th and 18th July 2021 2.00 pm-5.30 pm £7.00 per person

a ticket covers both days

Teas and ice creams Under 12 s free

In aid of Batcombe Church

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Arts & Entertainment By Susie Carver The Wimborne cast of Project Play’s latest production Dad’s Army is remaining staunch in the face of adversity. Despite having to reschedule performances twice since the beginning of the first lockdown, the production is now scheduled to go ahead at the town’s Tivoli Theatre from August 5-7. Project Play is a communitybased project offering theatre enthusiasts the opportunity to be involved in a professional staging of a popular play in their local theatre. The outcome is a touring production that travels around various theatres in the south west, recruiting actors and stage crew from that locality. “Project Play brings communities together through a shared passion for theatre,” explains its producer, Matthew Rock.

DON’T PANIC! “Essentially it is a touring play with a different cast at each venue. “They have rehearsed together, formed friendships and connections and been part of an amazing theatrical experience. “In addition, there are four other people in towns across the south who are playing

exactly the same role as them and having the same experience in their own community. It offers a unique opportunity to compare notes and go on a shared journey.” Just as the cast of Dad’s Army was preparing to return to rehearsal from 21 June, a delay to the relaxing of

lockdown restrictions was announced by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, causing yet more challenges. “Whilst covid is the underlying cause of this disruption I feel it’s more a case of poor decisions by the government that have left us where we are now,” Matthew explains. “I’m therefore not going to reschedule our performances again. They will go on and all our Dad’s Army casts are ready to think outside the box to make this happen, whatever it takes. We are even using outside spaces to rehearse the play safely!” Other Project Play locations for Dad’s Army include Yeovil, Weymouth, Burnham-on-Sea, Chippenham and Frome. n To book tickets for the Wimborne production visit. tivoliwimborne.co.uk or the box office on 01202 885566. PLEA S KE E CHEC EP KI OUR NG WEBS ITE

TE SE NO PL E A

S MASTK BE S MU RN WO

SUPERNOVA (15)

5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 12th & 13th July 7.30pm Matinee 8th July 2.30pm (13th July 2.30pm TBC)

Tickets £8, Matinee £7, U16s £6

(Box Office bookings over £20 incur £1 booking fee)

London Repertory Players present

DEATHTRAP by Ira Levin

Wed 28th July 7.30pm to Fri 30th July 7.30pm Matinee Thur 29th July 2.30pm Tickets £16.50, Matinee £14 1 in 10 tickets FREE! Via Box Office only

(Box Office bookings over £20 incur £1 booking fee)

LOS ENDOS

Ultimate Genesis

Sat 10th July, 7:30pm Tickets £21

TOM WATERS

Rhythm & Blues Review

Thur 15th July, 7.30pm Tickets £25

The Blandford School presents

RENT (PG13)

Dorset Blues

HANNAH ROBINSON

Wednesday 21st July and Thursday 22nd July 7:30pm Tickets £15 (Concs £12)

Fri 23rd July 7.30pm Tickets £12

(Box Office bookings over £20 incur £1 booking fee)

(Box Office bookings incur £1 fee per transaction)

KOSSOFF

DAD’S ARMY

THE BOHEMIANS

BARRY STEELE & FRIENDS

Fri 13th August, 7.30pm Tickets £20.50

Sat 14th Aug 7.30pm Tickets £24.50

...The Band Plays On

Sat 31st July 7.30pm Tickets £18 (Box Office bookings over £20 incur £1 booking fee)

Thur 5th to Sat 7th August 7.30pm Tickets £16 Matinees Fri 6th & Sat 7th August, 2.30pm Tickets £16 1 in 10 tickets FREE! Via Box Office only (Box Office bookings over £20 incur £1 booking fee)

(Box Office bookings over £20 incur £1 booking fee)

The Roy Orbison Story

(Box Office bookings incur £1 fee per transaction)

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Arts & Entertainment

Somewhere in England, a long time ago, a very, very, very long time ago. So long ago that nobody quite knows whether it happened or not. Or where it happened or not. A boy pulled a sword from a stone and became King…. The Last Baguette make entertaining, accessible, and eccentric work for family audiences, and are resident artists at Pound Arts, Corsham. The company was formed from a shared love of theatre, bakery, and humour in Paris by graduates of the Philippe Gaulier and Jacques Lecoq schools. King Arthur is a brand new, fun, and farcical adventure from this internationally acclaimed company, which brings to life the well-known and much-loved Arthurian Legend. Packed with live music, physical comedy, and lo-fi acrobatics, expect a story of the old world with knights, wizards, mist, and magic.

THE

King Arthur’s tales of Sir Laugh-a-Lot Friday 26th August, 7.30pm

Totally Tina

A spectacular tribute to Tina Turner Tickets £19.50/£18.50 Thurs 9th Sept, 7.30pm Lucy Worsley presents

A Very British Murder Tickets £22

Tuesday 14th Sept, 2pm Neil Sands Productions

Bringing Back the Good Times Tickets £13, £11, £9

Sat 18th Sept, 7.30pm Rob Kingsley is

A Vision of Elvis Elvis’ Greatest Hits Tickets £22

Sat 25th Sept, 7.30pm The quintessential tribute band. The ultimate 1985 Dire Straits experience

dS:uK Dire Straits Tickets £18

Friday 8th Oct, 7.30pm

Dorset’s rural touring arts charity Artsreach is delighted to present King Arthur for one special performance in the open air at Stalbridge Village Hall on Saturday, July 31 at 2pm. Tickets must be booked in advance and full details about the event are available online. Find out more by visiting artsreach.co.uk.

Enjoying the great outdoors with PaddleBoat Theatre Co An open-air theatrical adventure for families is being staged in Dorset this summer and promises to deliver a truly spellbinding performance. PaddleBoat Theatre Company is on a tour with Artsreach and will be setting up camp in Winterbourne and Buckland Newton in August for their theatre production Rustle, which is jam-packed with puppets, songs and outdoor surprises. The story of four adventurous children on an expedition into the forest as they try to survive alone in the great outdoors will unfold by the Devon-based

theatre company. Sleeping bags become monsters, rucksacks become friends and torches illuminate the forest’s darkest secrets. Artreach co-director Yvonne Gallimore said: “It’s exciting to be welcoming this young, dynamic company with a really exciting outdoor performance for children and their families to enjoy in the open-air this summer.” Two performances will take place on Sunday, August 1 Winterbourne Valley First School at 11am Gaggle of Geese, Buckland Newton at 4pm Tickets must be booked in advance at artsreach.co.uk

nSaturday July 31, 2pm. Stalbridge Village Hall. 01963 362978 artsreach.co.uk

Lawrence: After Arabia (12A)

Tickets £10, (1 £8 ) 01258 475137 info@stur-exchange.co.uk Find us on Facebook www.stur-exchange.co.uk

Art plan for Yeovil Yeovil’s past and future will be celebrated and integrated into the town centre through art concepts in collaboration with community groups. The council carried out an open procurement exercise earlier in the year and following – interviews with a range of artists appointed YOU&ME Architecture and Beth Calverley, a poet who specialises in collaborating with community members to co-create poetry, to develop concepts for art to integrate with the planned changes to the streets. Work has been underway through 2021 to develop concepts and engage the community to inform the design process. Due to the pandemic this has been done remotely with local primary schools in the town, key employers such as Leonardo, the Yeovil arts community supported by Yeovil District Hospital’s arts coordinator and some traditionally hard to reach groups. The aim of this work was to help animate the town centre through artwork

and celebrate Yeovil’s past and future. Groups and stakeholders have explored various opportunities to celebrate the town’s past and future through art and have come up with a series of key themes. Some of the ideas will be displayed at an exhibition in July at the Yeovil Art Space venue in the Quedam Shopping Centre. Other ideas that could be explored across the town centre include illuminating public buildings with colours and poems associated with Yeovil and looking at street furniture and directional signs that could incorporate some of the artwork. Visit yeovilartspace.uk to find out more. 77

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Sport Dorset Cricket League Premier League July 3 Sherborne 242-7 Broadstone 194-4 Sherborne (17pts) bt Broadstone (7) by 49 runs Skipper Josh Lawrence hit his fifth century in eight innings to lead Sherborne to victory. He scored 140, averages 121 for the season and is comfortably the leading run scorer in Dorset league cricket. Lawrence shared a partnership of 123 with Shane Pulling (48) as Sherborne posted a big total. In response, opener Pete Russell carried his bat with 91 not out but Broadstone were never anywhere near the run rate. While Charlie Groves scored 50no, tight bowling from Andy Nurton (5-2-10-1) and teammates saw Sherborne home. June 26 Sherborne 197 all out Wimborne 207-6 Wimborne (20pts) bt Sherborne (10) by 10 runs Emlyn Kuhn took 3-52 and more tight bowling by Josh Lawrence (9-2-20-2) put the brakes on Wimborne. In response, Sherborne were 157-0 with when Mark Roca was caught behind for 57. It was the start of a spectacular collapse that saw Sherborne lose all 10 wickets for 40. Lawrence scored his customary century (114) but no other player made double figures. Lewis Freak took 4-36 and Sam Prince 4-26. Division One July 3 Compton H Puddletown 78

206-8 229-7

Compton (8pts) lost to Puddletown by 23 runs Compton put the unbeaten league leaders into bat and possibly regretted the decision when the score hit 97-0. Seven bowlers were used to stem the flow but opener Rob Snow (94) led the way as Puddletown posted a decent target. In response, Compton slipped to 75-6 but Joe Watts (45) and Alfie Reynolds (42) put on an 81run stand to boost interest. A ninth wicket stand of 39 took Compton past the 200 mark but a first defeat for the visitors was never really threatened. Marnhull 156-5 Hamworthy 155 all out Marnhull (20pts) beat Hamworthy (6) by five wickets After last week’s thrilling tie with high-flying Weymouth, Marnhull put another top half team to the sword with Ed Clements (4-25), Will Primrose (3-17) and Cameron Cudlipp (2-19) running through the visitors. Marnhull opening bat Arthur Dimmack went for a golden but then Ashley Young (34) and Clements (42) put on 56 for the second wicket and Danny Harkin (41no) saw Marnhull home for a comfortable win. Swanage 171-7 Stalbridge 236-5 Swanage (6pts) lost to Stalbridge (18) by 65 runs A thumping win saw Stalbridge cement second place in the division. Stuart Sweatman was again the batting hero, the opener hitting 132 to follow a century against Beaminster three weeks previously. Josh York scored 62 as Stalbridge set Swanage 237

to win. The visitors were at 41-0 but that turned to 95-5 as Simon Sweatman set to work, recording superb figures of 8-3-10-3 to leave Swanage dangling. A stand of 63 made the scoreline respectable. June 26 Marnhull 223-7 Weymouth 223-5 Marnhull (12pts) tied with Weymouth (13) Needing 14 off the last over to win, Marnhull hit a four and six but fell just one run short. Weymouth batted first and half centuries for John Wilson and Lloyds Beals saw a solid 223 posted off 40 overs. Ed Clements took 2-28 and went on to hit 47 as Marnhull took up the chase. They needed 95 off the last ten overs and were in with a chance thanks to a quickfire 28 off 13 balls from Angus Brown. Edwin Ralph hit the two boundaries but could only run two off the final ball. Hamworthy 112 all out Stalbridge 113-5 Hamworthy (4pts) lost to Stalbridge (20) by five wickets Compton House 217-6 Portland 216-5 Compton H (17pts) beat Portland (8) by four wickets Division Two July 3 Shaftesbury 124 all out Blandford 125-6 Shaftesbury (5pts) lost to Blandford (20) by four wickets League leaders Blandford recorded a routine win over rock bottom Shaftesbury with early 10 overs to spare.

It was Blandford’s third win on the trot, putting Shaftesbury into bat first and seeing Thomas Waters take four wickets with three for Arron Day. Only three batsmen made double figures as the home side collapsed – scoring just 99 runs with 25 extras, including a generous 20 wides. Blandford lost six wickets in reply but the result was never in doubt. Broadstone 2 189 all out Shillingstone 226-9 Broadstone (9ts) lost to Shillingstone (20) by 37 runs

June 26 Cerne Valley 194-5 Shillingstone 192 Cerne (20pts) bt Shillingstone (7) by five wickets Captain George Chubb (54no) and Sam Downey (38no), both pictured above, saw Cerne home with 2.2 overs to spare having bowled Shillingstone out for 192. The game was in the balance with Cerne five down but Downey eased the pressure with five boundaries and a six. Wimborne 2 220-5 Shaftesbury 165 all out Wimborne (20pts) beat Shaftesbury (6) by 55 runs Broadstone 2 250-9 Blandford 252-5 Broadstone (7pts) lost to Blandford (19) by five wickets

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Sport

Barton seals senior title

LEARNING CURVE: Brad Jones in action at Oulton Park

Mixed fortunes for Brad in first round of Superbikes Stalbridge racer Brad Jones began his second round in British Superbikes today having had a mixed start on his debut in the competition. Brad, 23, ended the first race weekend on a high but admits that stepping up from a 600cc machine to a 1000cc entails a lot of learning and adapting. The first of 11 rounds was at Oulton Park in Cheshire, one of his favourite circuits. But in the first of three races across the weekend, his BMW suffered an electrical failure forcing him to retire. In a warm-up session on Sunday morning, Brad matched his personal best lap time of the weekend and things were looking promising for his Liverpoolbased iForce BMW team. But after a great start in the second race, which saw him overtake five riders in the first corner, a collision sustained damage to his BMW which forced him out the race.

In the final race, Brad made a storming start and moved through the field to 14th place. There was a battle for positions during the 18-lap race on a 2.7-mile circuit, with Brad finally crossing the line in 16th after losing grip with his rear tyre. “The opening weekend of the season has been challenging but ultimately, we’ve made good progress with myself and the bike despite the electrical issue,” said Brad.

“It’s all part of the learning curve. After not being able to finish the first two races, the aim was to finish well in the third and gain a full 18 laps worth of race data, so in doing that we ended the weekend on a high. “Now we can go to Scotland for Round 2 with some confidence and aim to further improve and learn.’’ The second round started today at Knockhill Racing Circuit in Fife, Scotland's national Motorsport centre.

The entire Old Course of Yeovil Golf Club is in Dorset – which is why the club is a member of the Dorset County Golf Union and qualified to host the Union’s Senior Championship. (Incidentally, Yeovil’s ninehole Newton Course also has a claim to fame as the first tee is in Dorset but the green is in Somerset). Over two days, 57 golfers competed in the Senior Championship and David Barton, pictured, of Moors Valley GC took the title with a gross score of 147. Christopher Holmes of Broadstone GC took the handicap championship with a nett total 131. Yeovil’s Colin Leach continued his good home form by winning the prize for the best gross score in the over 70’s category. Union Secretary Ian Hulse thanked Yeovil GC for making competitors so welcome and Ringwood Brewery for supplying the beer. n For more information about the Championship, contact Ian Hulse (01202 861185, email: iansecretary@dcgu.org.uk. WINCANTON GOLF CLUB RESULTS Monthly medal June 20 1:Trevor Mills nett 69 2: Steve Owens 71 3: John Burns 71 Seniors’ Monthly Medal June 22 1: Brian White nett 70 2: Malcolm Faulkner 71 3: Harry Eden 71 Rider Cup June 26 OLDIES: Trevor Mills (Capt), Ray Hirst, Jim Stephen, Andrew Mainstone, David Cartwright, Brian White, Phil Francis, Steve Owens, Richard Czemerda, Jim Phillips, Nigel Orr. YOUNGSTERS: Rab Clyde (Capt), Ross Chandler, Ian Chandler, Peter Williams, Peter Anyan, Richard Ward, Kevin Francis, Rob Pearce, Maxine Portnell, Steven Ashfield, John Burns The Oldies won 13.5 to 8.5

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Sport More than 100 swimmers have set personal bests in two days of time trial swimming at RiversMeet centre in Gillingham. It was the first licenced swimming competition at the centre, staged by North Dorset Turbos Swimming Club. The meet was granted a Level 4 licence by Swim England, meaning any personal bests (or first times) achieved go into the British Rankings system and potentially enable them to qualify for county championships. More than 40 NDTSC youngsters, aged from nine to 16, competed in heats in all four 50-metre events: butterfly, backstroke, breaststroke and freestyle during Tuesday training. Then on Friday evening, they raced again in five 100-metre events. Club chair Alex Wynter told The New Blackmore Vale: “Of nearly 140 event personal-bests in the rankings system before our first session, no fewer than 107 were bettered over the two days. “Even allowing for about a year-and-a-half of physical growth, I believe this proves that neither our swimmers’ fitness nor their competitive spirit has been eroded by the disruption of the pandemic. “Aside from the blizzard of PBs, we were all so impressed in the 100-metre events by many of the younger swimmers who could only just complete the distance at pace, battling their way up to the finish at the deep end, and the way in which those who ‘lost’ their

DIVING IN: Action from the North Dorset Turbos meeting at RiversMeet

Blizzard of PBs as Turbos take on time trial events heats by the widest margin got the loudest cheers. “As a swimming club, we’re well aware that we face stiff competition from football, rugby, cricket. But I defy anyone to come to an event like our time trials and say that wasn’t fun. “We’re extremely grateful to RiversMeet and its staff, and to our own volunteer coaches, for helping us make this happen.” Competition hardware in the form of starting blocks at the deep end and anti-wave lane ropes was installed at RiversMeet in December by engineering firm, Brookforge. The equipment was purchased by the club itself, which says it’s the first in Dorset and one of the first in

the South-West to hold fully licenced time-trials since last March. “We were all thrilled to see the Turbos racing off against each other,” said RiversMeet general manager Alan Waistell. “This is a small but important milestone in our commitment to the club and to aquatics in general. The next step is to fund-raise for touch pads and electronic timing. We’re always going to be somewhat limited in terms of the number of spectators we can accommodate for swimming events, but there’s no reason now why we can’t hold interclub ‘friendlies’, involving perhaps three or four local clubs, after covid-19 restrictions end.”

Wynter said that NDTSC hopes to send some Performance Squad swimmers to the South-West Festival of Swimming at Millfield School’s 50-metre Olympic-size pool on July 24-25. And he added: “We lost about a third of our members during the pandemic, and although numbers are creeping back up again, we need the support of school PE departments to send any children interested in competitive swimming our way. Come along to RiversMeet any Tuesday, Wednesday or Friday evening to see what it’s all about.” See northdorsetturbos.co.uk or email: secretaryndt@ gmail.com.

Skinner the winner as Wheelers host first race for two years Gillingham and District Wheelers hosted its first road race for two years on June 27 and the event was fully booked. The 55 riders took a circular route which began at Shaftesbury Cricket 80

Club in Cherry Orchard. It took the riders through Margaret Marsh to West Orchard before turning north to Todber and East Stour and back along Sherborne Causeway. The race was four laps of the 12.5-mile

course, some 50 miles in total, and was the first of two road races being hosted by GDW. It was won by Simon Skinner of Paceline RT, a cycling team based in southwest London.

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Motoring

Broadpeak’s first event draws stunning cars Despite summer drizzle the inaugural Cars and Coffee at the Hillbrush factory in Mere drew an eclectic mix of classics and supercars on Sunday, June 20, from a stunning 1931 4 ¼ Derby Bentley to a 456 Ferrari and the latest Aston Martin Vantage. Organised by Broadpeak Car storage, the event is the first in a series planned throughout the summer months. “We’ve had a great turnout this morning” said organiser Johnnie Gallop. “All the more extraordinary in this typically British weather.” Local F1 and Le Mans racer Mike Wilds brought his gorgeous blue series I Jaguar E Type, the only one delivered in that colour and was parked alongside the classic swept lines of a long wheel base Bentley touring

limousine with body by James Young and a beautifully cared for Morris Minor Traveller owned by detailer Robert Browning. Peter Campbell from restorer Spencer Lane Jones brought his 1952 Bristol 401 joined in the car park by a later Maroon Bristol 411. David Roper’s 1950 FHC Jaguar XK120 , the first coupe built by the company and once owned by Jaguar racer Peter Whitehead sat alongside a fantastically original looking SI Land Rover, Volvo P1800 and low mileage TR7 owned by local councillor George Jeans.

Still time to express interest in EV hire A survey to find out the potential for an electric car and bike sharing scheme in south Somerset attracted 192 responses. South Somerset District Council is committed to be carbon neutral by 2030, and during the last financial year, the council delivered over 40 green projects which included the roll out of three Rapid Chargers in three of the SSDC car parks closest to the A303 and the roll out of the DfT e-scooter trials in Yeovil, Crewkerne and Chard. Existing electric car and bike sharing initiatives across the UK are already proving successful, and the council wanted to find out if a shared electric car and bike scheme would be welcomed.

Of the 192 people who responded 172 were residents, 17 were businesses and the remainder were residents with a business. Of these, 88% owned petrol or diesel cars with 8.3% owning an electric car or hybrid. The survey results showed the following views: On a scale of one to ten (one being not interested, 10 being extremely interested) the average score was 7.7 where respondents said they would be interested in joining such a scheme, with a score of 6.6 agreeing with the vision that the electric car club should be locally owned and communitysupported. Overall, 60% said they would use the scheme for shopping, running errands and day trips. Over 20% said they

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could see themselves using the service several times a week and almost 30% thought they’d book an electric-car or electricbike at least once a week. 81 people said they thought this scheme could enable them to not buy or own a car and 70 people were interested in an electricbike scheme with another 48 saying they might be. Based on these results, there may be viability for an electric car and bike share scheme trial to happen in South Somerset which may be dependent on onstreet charging coming in to the residential areas. Some electriccar share schemes include the charging infrastructure, and hopefully the next step of the County EV Charging Strategy will start to identify suitable on

street charging installations to support community access to EVs. If you missed taking part in the survey but are interested in an electric car and bike share scheme please email ssdcenvironment@southsomers et.gov.uk Councillor Sarah Dyke, South Somerset District Council portfolio holder for Environment, said: “The results of the electric vehicle sharing survey are very encouraging, and will be invaluable for opportunities to create local electric vehicle sharing schemes. We are committed to be carbon neutral by 2030, and finding solutions to accessible, sustainable transport will play a big part in achieving this.”

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New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

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CAR SALES

Motoring

Classic vehicles sale a real barn-stormer Car enthusiasts from across the whole country were drawn to the dispersal sale of an entire private collection of modern, classic and vintage cars, motorcycles, land rovers, tractors and lorries held by Symonds & Sampson on behalf of the late Kelvin Pike in Dorset in June. The wonderful collection included wonderful barnstored gems from across the decades – many of which could have come straight from classic film sets and are fabulous restoration projects for enthusiasts. The collection of Land Rovers, tractors and lorries along with an eclectic mix of parts and accessories sold

01747 854789 www.crewscars.co.uk

CAR OF THE WEEK 2017 (67) Vauxhall Astra 1.6 CDTi Elite Nav 5dr. 136bhp, diesel, sat nav, touch screen system, bluetooth, heated leather seats in front & rear, heated steering wheel, cruise control & adjustable speed limiter, automatic lights & rain sensing wipers, climate control, upto 58mpg economy, above average mileage but very low price, 82,500 miles £7650

well, however it was the classic cars attracted interest from as far as Scotland. Notable Sales include: n A MG MGA 1500cc with only 10,000 on the clock sold for £9,500 n Two Ford Zodiacs, A Mk 3 sold for £5,700; A Mk 4 sold for £6,400 n A Yamaha DT175 sold for £1,870 Prices include buyer’s premium. Partner and head of agricultural sales Greg Ridout said it had been a great privilege to conduct the sale of such a prestigious collection of vehicles on behalf of long-standing clients of the firm. See symondsandsampson.

Five Square Motors (Bosch Garage) Salisbury Road (A30) Shaftesbury SP7 8BU

2017 (67) Ford C-Max 1.5TDCi Titanium X MPV 5dr. 120bhp, diesel, partial leather, heated seats, auto lights & wipers, xenon lights, cruise control, sunroof, parking sensors, upto 68mpg, 22,800 miles £12000 2014 (14) Ford Kuga 2.0TDCi Titanium X Sport AWD 4x4 SUV 5dr. 160bhp, diesel, all wheel drive, sat nav, parking sensors & auto park, reverse camera, heated leather seats, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, electric sunroof, electric tailgate, factory body styling kit & 19 inch wheels, hill start assist, xenons, 92,500 miles £10650 2004 (54) Mini Hatch 1.6 One Pepper Pack 3dr. 90bhp, petrol, partial leather seats, air con, alloy wheels, cd player, serice history, a well maintained sporty looking Mini hatch with chequered roof, 89,000 miles £2250

2013 (63) BMW 1 Series 1.6 116i M Sport Automatic 5dr. 136bhp, petrol, 8 speed automatic, great performance, M Sport body styling wheels & seats, parking sensors, bluetooth, climate control, auto lights & wipers, 67,500 miles £9850

2013 (62) Nissan Note 1.6 N-Tec+ Automatic Estate 5dr. 108bhp, petrol, automatic, large boot, sat nav, touch screen, partial leather, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, parking sensors, only 39,300 miles £5750

2019 (19) Dacia Sandero Stepway 0.9TCe Essential 5dr. 90bhp, petrol, bluetooth, hill start assist, outstanding value car with warranty until July 2022, only 8,500 miles £8350

2014 (14) Renault Scenic 1.5TD Dynamique Tom Tom MPV 5dr. 110bhp, diesel, sat nav, partial leather, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, bluetooth, hill start assist, only 34,000 miles £5950

2018 (18) Ford Fiesta 1.1 Zetec B&O Play Navigation 3dr. petrol, sat nav, touch screen, Bang & Olufsen sound, hill start assist, lane aid, sign recognition, auto lights, adjustable speed limiter, upto 64mpg economy, 12,800 miles £8950

2015 (65) Toyota Aygo 1.0 X-Play Automatic X-Shift 5dr. Petrol, automatic, Free road tax, upto 67mpg economy, air conditioning, hill start assist, lovely small automatic with only 25,000 miles. £6950

2017 (67) Ford Fiesta 1.0 EcoBoost Titanium Navigation 5dr. 100bhp, petrol, sat nav, reverse camera, parking sensors, lane keeping aid, sign recognition, cruise control, climate control, auto lights & wipers, only 8,900 miles £10650

2017 (67) Vauxhall Astra 1.6CDTi Elite Nav 5dr. 136bhp, diesel, sat nav, heated leather front & rear, heated steering wheel, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, upto 58mpg, 82,500 miles £7650

2017 (67) Ford Fiesta 1.0 EcoBoost Zetec 5dr. 100bhp, petrol, touch screen, reverse camera, lane keeping aid, hill start assist, automatic lights, adjustable speed limiter, bluetooth, 26,100 miles £9450

2011 (11) Volkswagen Polo 1.4 SE 3dr. Petrol, lovely low mileage example, air con, alloys, full service history, just had cambelt replaced, only 43,800 miles £5650

2017 (67) Ford Fiesta 1.0 EcoBoost Zetec Navigation 5dr. 100bhp, petrol, touch screen, sat nav, sign recognition, lane keeping aid, automatic lights, hill start assist, adjustable speed limiter, bluetooth, parking sensors, 73,500 miles £7650

WANTED We are looking for 1970's, 80's & 90's Ford's that we can bring back to life, please call with any information.

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Motoring

You need your trucks and vans on the road We’re here to keep them there

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WHAT A FIND: One of the Ford Zodiacs and, right, the MG MGA in the barn

co.uk to receive notification of upcoming sales of collections, machinery, equipment and livestock, and

Commercial vehicle repair and maintenance MOT preparation and presentation On-site tachograph centre to install and calibrate Servicing for all makes and models of commercial vehicles contact Greg on 01935 423526 if you have items you’d like to include in forthcoming sales.

MOTORBIKE FOR SALE KSR Moto Worx, 125cc, 2014, £650ono. For more info, telephone 07950 450825

ETS TRUCK&VAN Shaftesbury Lane, Blandford, Dorset DT11 7FB Tel: 01258 480404 Email: blandford@etstrucks.co.uk 6 Witney Rd, Nuffield Industrial Estate, Poole BH17 0GH Tel: 01202 669339 Email: service@etstrucks.co.uk

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Motoring

New Kia on show Electric car fans are being given the first chance to see the Kia EV6 first-hand at FJ Chalke in Mere on Wednesday, July 21. Kia’s latest electric car is the first of several electric Kia due for launch over the coming years. The Kia EV6 is based on the EGMP platform that was developed for EVs and supports dual 400/800-volt charging for astonishing charging times as low as 18 minutes from 10-80 per cent battery. Along with its next-generation charging capabilities, EV6 is able to travel up to 316 miles* per charge of its 77.4kWh battery pack. Available in four grades; EV6, GT-Line, GT-Line S, and GT,

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MOTORBIKES WANTED Non runners and unwanted. Call Keith on 07966 213344

WANTED: Car trailers, all types bought and sold. TRAILER HIRE: works Dorset area. Call 07736 871092

53 REG CITROEN BERLINGO FORTE. Wheel Chair access, winch, new cambelt & water pump. 95K miles MOT to 03/03/22, £1,750 ONO. 01749 850643

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New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

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Motoring

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New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Business By Andrew Diprose Of Dorset Biz News Around ten jobs have been created with the launch of a new outdoor adventure game concept in Piddletrenthide. Redlands Coppice has partnered with The Escape Games Company in the venture. The adventure game, played in and around Redlands, sees participants collaborate together in small groups to solve puzzles and crack clues to safely diffuse an active ‘bomb’ and strive to become agents of a new secret army brigade. During the games, teams also have to throw Bluetooth ‘grenades,’ dodge mines on the ground and try and avoid a tracked remote-controlled vehicle driving around the site. Actors in full army costume bring the games to life, engaging and interacting with players and further enhancing the experience. Organisers say covid-safety is “Our problem-solving games will bring the feel-good factor and plenty of active fun and excitement in an amazing location.” Ian Cox, owner and founder of The Escape Games Company

paramount, with all activities outside and all clues and props cleaned and sanitised after every game. The sizes of groups, and the number of households allowed to mix, are adhered to depending on covid restrictions. The new partnership between Redlands Coppice and The Escape Games Company follows a successful pilot last summer at Berkhamsted Castle in Hertfordshire. More than 95 per cent of players said they would recommend the experience. 86

Andrew Diprose is the founder and editor of dorsetbiznews.co.uk, the No.1 business website in the county with more than 27,000 unique users. Andrew will be supplying the NBV with business news each fortnight, as well as our sister publication the New Stour & Avon.

Game on! New venture uses coppice for adventurous fun The game at Redlands – and other new games being operated by The Escape Games Company – will be delivered under the company’s ‘Adventure Out! Games’ brand. This focuses on outdoor, escape style themed games in sites around England. The games are expected to appeal to a broad audience including families and friends of all ages, along with school groups and those looking for corporate team-building activities. Ian Cox, owner and founder of The Escape Games Company, said: “We are really excited about our new partnership with Redlands Coppice. “Our objective is to capitalise on the fantastic surroundings of the site with fun, energising games. “After months of lockdown and inordinate amounts of time spent in front of screens, we wanted to provide activities that support people’s physical and mental health. “Our problem-solving games will bring the feel-good factor and plenty of active fun and

excitement in an amazing location.” Cameron Farquharson, owner and director of Redlands Coppice, pictured, said: “We are excited to be working with The Escape Games Company on this new venture here at Redlands Coppice. “After what has been a very difficult year for everyone, this offers a great opportunity to people of all ages to get out and enjoy our beautiful countryside.” Adventure Out! is operated by The Escape Games Company on behalf of Thevirezone Ltd which has more than three years’ experience in running traditional escape rooms along with virtual reality games at centres in Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire. Adventure Out! Games are around one hour in duration and can be booked in advance at adventureoutgames.co.uk The Redlands Coppice. Prices start at £14 per person in a family group. Games will be available at weekends and throughout the school holidays.

Cameron Farquharson, owner and director of Redlands Coppice

PLUMBING AND HEATING BUSINESS FOR SALE Would suit young engineer starting up Citroen Belingo Van Website Customer contacts Plumbing Heating tools Equipment Stock Sold as one lot £8,000 07798 692798 / 07747840163 for further details

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

with dorsetbiznews.co.uk

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

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

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

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

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Business

Lasting Powers of Attorney and Will Planning The times that we are currently living in have shown that life can change completely overnight and the future can look uncertain. The best way of dealing with this uncertainty is to ensure that all your personal planning is in place. There are two pillars to this planning – the 昀rst is executing a Lasting Power of Attorney so that your family can help you if you become ill or mentally incapacitated and the second is making your Will to ensure your estate passes to those who you wish to bene昀t on your death. A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) allows you (the donor) to make a choice now, when you are 昀t and healthy, about who you would trust (the attorney) to make 昀nancial and personal decisions on your behalf if, in the future, you lose the mental capacity to make them for yourself. There are two types of LPA. One type is a Property and Financial Affairs LPA which allows the attorney, to make decisions about your 昀nances and property. A Property and Finance LPA is very 昀exible in that it can be used whilst someone is incapacitated, but as soon as they have returned to health the attorney will step aside – it is not a permanent arrangement unless it needs to be. The other type is a Health and Welfare

LPA which gives the attorney authority to make decisions for you in respect of giving or refusing consent to healthcare, staying at home and receiving support, or moving into care. A Health and Welfare LPA can only be used when a person has lost capacity. All LPAs have to be registered at the Of昀ce of the Public Guardian (OPG), before they can be used. If it appears that the attorney is abusing their position, then anyone can raise a concern with the OPG or Social Services, who will investigate. If you have an accident or become ill, it may be too late to make an LPA and then an application will have to be made to court to appoint somebody, called a Deputy, to look after you affairs. This person may not be your choice, and appointing a deputy through the court it is also a longer and more expensive process. This can take at least three months and there are costs which include application fees, medical assessments, solicitor’s fees, deputy appointment, annual management fee and a security bond. Your Will is used to appoint a person (your executor) who will deal with the administration of your estate after you have died. The Executor is responsible for valuing

your estate, closing bank accounts, dealing with your house, paying any tax that is due as well any debts and making sure that the balance of the estate passes to your chosen bene昀ciaries. If there is no Will, the Law of Intestacy sets out who can inherit your estate and how much they can inherit. This may not be what you want. Making sure your Will is up to date will provide you with the comfort of knowing that your family is provided for how you want them to be even if times are uncertain. Your solicitor will help you make a Lasting Power of Attorney and Will that gives effect to your wishes. You can then rest assured knowing that your family will bene昀t from your planning.

Battens Solicitors For more information, please contact Naomi Dyer on 01935 811307 email at naomi.dyer@battens.co.uk

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New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

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Back of the net! More than £32,000 in grants to encourage and inspire youths More than £32,000 has been awarded to groups in Dorset to encourage and inspire young people through sport. Dorset Community Foundation teamed up with Made By Sport to distribute grants to clubs and groups working with young people to develop life skills, improve job prospects or reduce anti-social behaviour and crime. Made by Sport is a national charity which raises awareness of the power of playing and competing. Among the recipients was SturYouth Club in Sturminster Newton, which will use the cash to coach older members to become junior leaders and then get them to organise outdoor activities at Dorset Forest School over the summer holidays. Youth worker Dawn Ball said the club has not been able to meet for a year because its

base is on Sturminster Newton High School’s site. She said: “We want to introduce something new and exciting to the young people of Sturminster Newton. and something that will not necessarily confine us to a building. “We want to promote physical activities in the fresh air and the positive benefits to mental health activities outside can have. “This grant will help us do that, which is great.” Ms Ball is being trained in leading outdoor activites at The Dorset Forest School and plans to get the junior members of the club outdoors

making dens and climbing trees. Buckhorn Weston Cricket Club near Gillingham will use a £2,021 grant to launch two new junior teams for ages four to eight and eight to 11 as part of an England and Wales Cricket Board initiative. Treasurer Chris Sledge said the grant will cover the cost of equipment and maintenance after the club lost a year of fundraising. “The funding will make us properly equipped to coach and encourage young players to learn, enjoy and become proficient at playing cricket and to benefit from their interactions with each

other and with their coach,” he added. Grant Robson, director of Dorset Community Foundation, said: “We are very proud that Made By Sport has chosen to work with us because it appreciates that we have the in-depth knowledge of the voluntary sector in Dorset that allows its money to go exactly where it is needed. “These grants will help these brilliant groups use sport and physical activity as a force for good, encouraging and engaging young people and giving them a focus for their energy. “The great thing about these activities is that they give youth workers an opportunity to build up trust and respect with young people and that allows them to make a real difference in their lives. “We are very pleased to be able to play a part in that.”

What’s better? Square peg/round hole or square hole/round peg? When someone is described as being a round peg in a square hole, it usually means a mismatch between what they can do, and what is required of them. But actually, let’s examine how efficient or inefficient they are. Diagram A shows a round peg in a square hole. Diagram B shows a square peg in a round hole. They both look fairly wasteful. At first glance, each looks roughly as wasteful as the other. But once we start to use pie charts (Diagrams C and D), the contrast is dramatic and obvious. The square peg in a round hole (D) is vastly more inefficient. I used to work in the Sellotape factory in

Hertfordshire, in the days before computerised stock control and automated warehouses. The guiding principle was to keep the number of pallets below 85 per cent of the maximum capacity of the warehouse. Even going up to 86 per cent or 87 per cent began to involve double-handling, and slower retrieval times for factory production. Incoming deliveries were hastily put in the wrong places, and had to be moved twice. Diagrams E and F show what 85 per cent of full capacity looks like. In many situations 85 per cent is an excellent yardstick; if you run a road system below 85 per cent maximum capacity, traffic will tend to flow smoothly

most of the time. What if we wanted to achieve a higher level of capacity? This is what is known in work study parlance as a change of method. One way is to change the shape of the peg. How about a hexagon? Again, having the circle inside the shape with straight edges (G) is more efficient than having the circle on the outside (H). Whenever you have a complex management decision to make, it’s often worth using the humble pie chart. In diagrams I and J, the angles catch the eye and jump out at you! n Adrian Fisher MBE is an award-winning maze designer from Durweston. 89

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Recruitment Are you looking for work in the Food Manufacturing sector?

Window & Door Installers/Fabricators

Join us for our

RECRUITMENT

OPEN DAY SAT 17th JULY Register to book your place: E: jobs@bvdairy.co.uk T: 01747 857323 BV Dairy, Wincombe Lane, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8QD

Due to further expansion full-time permanent positions have arisen for experienced Window & Door Fitters/Fabricators. Self-motivated, enthusiastic and professional in your approach you will be responsible for the installation of PVC-u and aluminium windows, doors and conservatories for existing and new customers. You must be organized, methodical and proactive with the ability to problem solve and think on your feet, with a commitment to completing work to a high standard. Experience to include: Installation or fabrication of replacement and new work windows, doors and conservatories Installation of new and replacement fascia, soffit and guttering Dealing with customers in a polite and courteous manner A full, clean driving license is required. Working hours: Monday – Friday, 8am – 5pm. About Bill Butters Windows Ltd Established for over 30 years and boasting over 100 years combined experience we are a reputable, family-run business based in Sherborne, Dorset. We specialise in the design, manufacture, supply and install of high quality, affordable PVC-u and aluminium products for our own installation teams as well as our established base of trade customers across the Southwest. We are fully health & safety compliant, FENSA registered and members of the GGF (Glass & Glazing Federation).

email your CV to matt@billbutterswindows.co.uk

Tel: 01935 816168

TRAINEE & EXPERIENCED MIG WELDERS WANTED FOR DAY SHIFT & NIGHT SHIFT We have been manufacturing and supplying a wide range of steel tubular products to blue-chip companies in the specialist vehicle and equipment companies since 1972 and are proud of our reputation for high quality and service. We have been successful in winning new business and have some exciting growth and development planned. We now have permanent vacancies for motivated and committed individuals, in particular for experienced mig welders, working on a wide range of steel tube assemblies. We also welcome applicants who have basic mig welding skills, perhaps within a hobbyist or educational environment. We will support your training and development. Hours of work Day Shift We work a 4 day week, Monday 7am to 5.30pm,Tuesday to Thursday 7am to 5pm. Hours of work Night Shift This is over 4 nights, Monday to Wednesday 6.30pm to 6.30am & Thursday 6.30pm to 10.30pm. In addition to a good pay rate, we have a great company pension scheme with life assurance, 33 days holiday, and a medical insurance scheme. We have many overtime opportunities too. For an application form please contact Christine Cowell, HR Manager on 01258 486343 or email c.cowell@iracroft.co.uk Iracroft Ltd, Blandford Heights Industrial Estate, Blandford Forum, Dorset DT11 7TE 90

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Recruitment

Water, Civil & Waste Water Engineers require an

Shaftesbury Town Council Supporting the community of Shaftesbury

Of昀ce Administrator

(maternity cover position, excellent terms, salary circa £18,000) Responsible for the smooth operation of the Shaftesbury Town Council reception, the successful candidate should have excellent communication skills, be highly organised and an accurate typist. As the 昀rst point of contact, work on own initiative, dealing with general enquiries from the public, via email, telephone and face-to-face. As a member of a small team support colleagues in a range of administrative tasks. Provide secretarial support to the Town Clerk, including taking minutes at council meetings and assisting in the production of committee and council papers and reports. To apply, send your CV and covering letter to Mrs Claire Commons, Shaftesbury Town Council, Town Hall, High Street, Shaftesbury SP7 8LY or email townclerk@shaftesbury-tc.gov.uk To download a job description go to www.shaftesbury-tc.gov.uk Closing date: 16th July 2021

GREAT STAFF READ THE NBV! Call Debi to advertise your job vacancy on 07714 289409

Apprentice Water Engineer We are recruiting for an Apprentice Water Engineer to serve an apprenticeship working with our Installation Teams on water & drainage projects. Our work covers both the public and private water sectors. We would be interested in hearing from applicants who have obtained GCSE’s or A Level’s prepared to attend further education to gain the relevant qualifications. You will need to hold a full UK driving licence or be working towards one. You will be based at our Company Head Office in Dinton, Wiltshire Closing date for applications: 6th August 2021 Please return your fully completed application form with a CV to: Jules Simmons M J ABBOTT LTD, Bratch Lane, Dinton, Salisbury SP3 5EB Email: jules.simmons@mjabbott.co.uk www.mjabbott.co.uk M J Abbott Ltd is an Equal Opportunities employer

PERRY & SON BUILDING CONTRACTORS, Fontmell Magna are looking for a labourer/driver for immediate start. Call 01747 811285 or email perryandsonltd@aol.com SECURITY INSTALLATION & MAINTENANCE Engineers Required. Looking for a fresh challenge? We are looking for experienced Fire & Security Engineers to join our team. Local family run business, great rates of pay. Please email your CV to enquiries@partnershipsecurity.co .uk or call 01747 858888.

We are recruiting for full and part time staff to join our team maintaining the grounds of the Rushmore Estate including Rushmore Golf Club, The Larmer Tree Gardens & King John House.

Do you enjoy being outdoors? Do you have great attention to detail? This could be the perfect job for you! We will be happy to provide full training if you are not yet qualified. Please email Jaime Acton on greenkeeper@rushmoreuk.com for more information on this exciting role.

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Recruitment The Ark Child Okeford is looking for a FULL-TIME CHILDCARE PRACTITIONER to join our thriving setting. We are looking for an enthusiastic, positive and friendly individual with excellent communication skills. NVQ III essential. This is a full time post 8am-6pm Monday to Friday year-round. For an application pack please contact Sarah or Chloe on 01258861007 or email thearkchildokeford@ hotmail.co.uk. Closing date 21st July 2021 Looking for an ENTHUSIASTIC GARDENER 1 or 2 days a week. 6hr day. Pay between £14 & £17 depending on skill and equipment. Required to manage a large challenging garden... Mowing, strip, hedge cutting, pruning, edgings, leaf collection, beds, and all that is needed to keep the garden looking good. Please call 07831 239789. FRONT OF HOUSE STAFF REQUIRED to join our team at The Kitchen at Kimbers. To include taking orders, waiting, table clearance and barista. A cheery, efficient disposition required. Previous experience preferred. Tues to Sat 9am to 3.30pm Some evening pop-ups. Start ASAP. Apply by email to info@thekitchenatkimbers.co.uk

Vacancies for TWO EVENING CLEANERS. 5:30pm to 7:30pm, Monday to Friday. Pay £8.91 per hour, for more information contact Mark Smith on 07468 693240 EGG PACKERS, warehouse cleaners and warehouse operatives required. Either part or full time to suit. Manual work so must be physically fit. Please contact Paul for details – 07967 388895

THE PLOUGH IN MANSTON EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES The Plough Inn re-opened on 18 May after a major renovation and expansion and now requires additional staff to join the friendly and energetic team that make it all work. There are vacancies for staff in the following areas: kitchen, bar, restaurant and cleaning. Please send a CV to email@ploughmanston.com PERRY & SON BUILDING CONTRACTORS, Fontmell Magna are looking for a brick layer/general builder for immediate start. Call 01747 811285 or email perryandsonltd@aol.com PART TIME HELP WANTED Repairing lawn mowers etc, ability to weld 01935 822032 07881 816867 HERDSPERSON We are looking for a capable and enthusiastic person to milk and help manage our 230 cows. Must be able to work to high hygiene and welfare standards. Competitive rates of pay with regular time off. Wilts Dorset border near Mere. Three-bed cottage available on site. apply in first instance to 07977 266382 Due to retirement we are looking for a TRACTOR DRIVER/STOCK PERSON on an arable/ dairy/beef farm near Blandford. Contact james.cossins@myfwi.co.uk Tel 07836 729475 SELF-EMPLOYED LADY to cook a simple meal for lady with M.E. 3-5 days a week at 12:30 for one hour in Gillingham. Extra hours negotiable. annetteleat@live.co.uk

DRIVER REQUIRED, parttime and full-time. Details of requirement 01725 516334 or 07976 648545 COUPLE FOR MAINTENANCE/ HOUSEKEEPING, near Gillingham. Two bedroom cottage, for parttime help with house, garden and dog care. Ideal for semiretired, non-smokers please. Own car essential. Not suitable for children. Good references required. 07887 525471

RUSHMORE ESTATE General estate and building maintenance worker required on a large mixed rural estate, near Tollard Royal. Responsibilities will include minor plumbing, carpentry, basic trade knowledge, fencing, general rural estate maintenance. Enthusiasm, and ability to multi-task within a small team is vital, all necessary training will be provided. Salary commensurate with experience. Please send CVs to Hugh@Rushmoreuk.com

Fantastic Warehouse Job

We are looking for a hardworking, passionate staff member to join our small dynamic warehouse team. The candidate must be physically fit, comfortable operating a pallet stacker, reliable & committed. Please email: jobs@bramleyproducts.co.uk Salary £19.5K – Immediate Start

PARTS DEPARTMENT ASSISTANT

We are looking for an enthusias琀c person to join our Plant Machinery Parts Department, must have good IT Skills, and be adaptable for this varied role.

PLANT ENGINEER

We are looking for a Plant Engineer for repairs and servicing of heavy plant machinery including dozers, excavators and loaders. The candidate would be joining our knowledgeable team, ini琀ally workshop based with some site work. Experience is an advantage but we would consider a capable enthusias琀c applicant from the Automo琀ve, HGV and Agricultural sectors.

TRAINEE PLANT ENGINEER

to assist in repair and overhaul of heavy plant moving equipment. Would suit an enthusias琀c person with an interest in Plant Machinery. No previous experience necessary as training will be given. Please contact 01963 363653 or send your CV to Mail@kedgeworth.com

Kedgeworth 2000 Ltd, Henstridge Air昀eld, Henstridge, Somerset BA8 0TN Web: www.kedgeworth.com

MOTHER'S HELP NEEDED for two boys 9 years and 11 years. 3:30-6:30, Monday to Friday (flexible). Start mid-August. General duties, tea, homework etc. Near Dorchester. Phone 07879 624948 CLASS 2 HGV TIPPER DRIVER, full-time quarry work, based in Wincanton. 07850 429058 CLEANER - Shaftesbury 5 hours per week required for holiday cover. email bdics13@gmail.com

DOG WALKER AND HOUSEWORK required 1.5 hours a day. Reference required. 07515 053977

SITUATIONS WANTED

RELIABLE COMPANION/ COOK/ DRIVER/ PERSONAL ASSISTANT. Excellent references, contact Elizabeth on 01963 370906

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Recruitment BLANDFORD FORUM ALMSHOUSE CHARITY (Registered Charity 230853) Barnes Homes, Salisbury Road, Blandford Forum DT11 7HU Tel: 01258 451810 clerkbfc@googlemail.com CLERK TO THE TRUSTEES/OFFICE MANAGER Hours: 30hrs pw. Salary subject to skills and experience. We are looking for an experienced and enthusiastic person for the role of Clerk to the Trustees to manage our office and become an integral part of our charity. The successful candidate will be required to manage the charity’s affairs as well as the day-to-day running of the office, including the financial aspects of that role. Local knowledge and living either in or within a reasonable distance of Blandford Forum would be an advantage. The trustees will be looking for a person with excellent people skills. To request a job description and apply for this role, please email clerkbfc@googlemail.com with your CV and a covering letter addressed to the Chairman of Trustees telling Trustees about yourself and your reasons for applying. If you wish to discuss aspects of the role in the first instance, then please contact the Chairman of Trustees who would be happy to hear from you on 01258 454717. Employment in this post requires a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Closing date: Tuesday 20th July 2021

DCT is a not-for-profit organisation providing minibus services throughout Dorset. Following a staff retirement, we are now recruiting for an

OPERATIONS ASSISTANT

Joining a small operations team of 3 - 4, providing vital support to our operation in a busy, fast changing environment. Applicants should have first rate IT skills, the ability to effectively communicate at all levels with excellent telephone manner and level of customer care. Previous office-based experience essential. Full-time, permanent role. Annual Salary >£20,000 Based in Blandford Forum, Dorset. For more information and an Application Form, please visit www.ectcharity.co.uk/jobs Interviews scheduled for week commencing 26 July.

Careers in the countryside. Come and join our friendly team.

Fancy a career where every day you help rural communities get connected to brilliant broadband? We’re a friendly, progressive business, where everyone’s contribution is valued. We’re committed to our mission of connecting the countryside and building a great place to work. We’re growing fast, and we need the best people to join us.

Network construction and civils

Other opportunities

Our network construction and civils teams work in the great outdoors crossing farmland and ﬁelds to build our full ﬁbre network. From the mighty mole plough to directional drills, you’ll be using specialist machinery to install ultrafast broadband across the countryside. These teams are growing rapidly, so we’re looking for both Team Leaders and Operatives for roles based in both Blandford, Dorset or near Yeovil, Somerset.

We have lots of rewarding and exciting career opportunities based at our ofﬁces near Blandford in the beautiful North Dorset countryside. From sales, marketing and customer services to technology, network planning and more. We’re always on the look out for like-minded and motivated people to join us – check out our careers site for current vacancies.

Find out more

wessexinternet.com/careers

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Field & Stream

Shoals too hot to prove very catchable ANGLING Gillingham AA 1st Summer Championship at Lodden lakes. (27 pegs) The first round of this popular summer series kicked off in style on the Dave Hillier lake at Loddon, with 27 hopefuls trying to catch some of the vast but sometimes uncatchable shoals of bream and skimmers in bright, hot and unforgiving conditions!. Winner on the day from unfancied peg 21 was Steve Trevett who caught hybrids, skimmers and roach well short in the first two hours on casters before going on his long line and catching bream to 3lb and eventually weighing an impressive 6000 on worms. Runner up was Bob Gullick who caught skimmers and bream alternating betwee

n 11-14.5m on the pole with worms on the hook over groundbait to weigh 37-08 from weedy peg 14. 3rd: Adie West: 28-02 4th:= Jack Stamp & Martin Tizzard with 24-08 6th: Jason Mills- 23-03. The next match is on Hillview in 2 weeks, Book in with Dave on 01747 823159. Gillingham AA 2nd Summer Shield at Todber Manor’s Hillview Lake. 27.06.21. 22 hardy souls fished and weighed in on average 131lb. Luckily the rain stayed off and the fish were obliging with mainly carp being caught. Winner was Jack Stamp who drew on peg 38 and caught on Top 3 of his pole all day on maggots and pellets to weigh an impressive 329-06. Runner up was Jason Mills, who drew on 41 and started

on the method and pellets for a few fish before switching to the short pole in the margins fishing groundbait and meat to weigh 257-04. 3rd: Steve Trevett- 239-04 4th: Joe Sheppherd- 225-11 5th: Rich Fripp- 168-07 6th: Jason Randall- 147-04. Next match is at Witherington Farm on Sunday, July 11. Book in with Dave on 01747 823159. 1st Evening match at Lodden big lake. 23.06.21. (21 pegs) 1st Nick Chedzoy 48lb 12oz (peg 1). 2nd Steve Trevett 41lb 2oz (peg 14). 3rd Rob Randall 33lb 3oz (peg 18). Sec A . Daimon Townsend 32lb 6oz Sec B. Mark Harper 17lb 0oz Sec C. Guy Manton 25lb 15oz. All the weights were made up of skimmers, bream and roach. Sturminster & Hinton AA The first club match was

held on the Upper Stour at Colber Farm and 26 anglers fished. The rain failed to materialise, much to the relief of those fishing but the river was clear and slow and it was hard work for everyone to put together a weight of fish. There were many pegs that had difficulty because of marauding pike. The top weight was Simon Dennis with 8lbs12ozs of roach and perch, alternating between chopped worm and maggot. Nigel Bartlett was second with 8lbs of mainly roach, some rudd and Mike Cullen had 7lbs14ozs for third, narrowly beating Steve Harvey on 7lbs 13ozs. There were a number of 5 and 6lb weights and the most successful tactic was fishing maggot and pinkie over groundbait. The next match is on Sunday, July 11 on the same stretch of river. Any change to this will be published on the website.

Dear little deer almost hidden in the long grass THE FIELD with Tria Stebbing A busy couple of weeks in the field. The grass is growing well and last week we made an exciting discovery in it. We have a knee length meadow of good mixed grass, buttercups and native wildflowers. Upon closer inspection we also discovered a baby deer fast asleep in the middle of it. The dapple of the fawn’s coat hid it so well we almost trod on it. Mum returns late in the day to feed it, as it is not yet up to keeping up with her. She will also lead predators away whilst keeping a watchful eye 94

leaving it to bask in the sun all day. This is a first for us, luckily, we were not ready to cut yet. The sheep have been shorn and true to my prediction look like large black goats. Most were in good condition, but my mis-marked Disney princess had made such a good job of feeding the

triplets that she was in poor condition under all that wool. It made taking the lambs away much easier as she clearly needed them to fend for themselves. The castrated ram and the boys have been shipped over to our neighbouring village to eat down some small paddocks and the ewes are on the hill enjoying the peace and quiet. The ewes need to eat well now ready for the autumn, when the whole process starts again. Joe the shearer was a joy to watch. Shearing when done properly is good to watch. The ewes literally just lie into him, letting him twist and turn them to ensure an even cut. Ours seem to enjoy the attention and never struggle. After shearing the sheep

fight for a while as believe it or not, they do not recognise each other any more and must establish a new hierarchy. Watching very skinny black sheep headbutting each other because they do not know each other any more sums up sheep keeping. The lambs are not shorn yet, we wait until they are a year old. The hedge laid in autumn has grown well and will provide a good shelter for the sheep as well as great habitat for nesting birds. Haymaking is imminent and watching for the best time is an art that I leave to him outdoors. A minimum of three clear dry days are needed to cut, turn and bale, however three clear dry days almost seems out of reach this summer!

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Farming

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

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

MONDAY 12TH JULY Genuine Dairy Organic Herd Dispersal To Include: 120 Holstein Friesian Heifers & Cows Plus 130 Dairy Youngstock Herd Average 7600 ltrs Sale through Frome Livestock Please Contact: Greg Ridout 07818 517 467 Or Charlie Coleman 07494 588 013 WEDNESDAY 14TH JULY Fortnightly Sale of Pigs WEDNESDAY 21ST JULY Fortnightly Sale of Stirks FRIDAY 23RD JULY Sale of Store Cattle To Include Organic FRIDAY 30TH JULY Special Monthly Sheep Sale To Include: Breeding Ewes & Rams, Store Lambs & Grazing Ewes SATURDAY 7TH AUGUST Sale of Traditional & Rare Breeds of Poultry

BARREN COWS, PRIME CATTLE & SHEEP WANTED Recent Prices Include: Barren Cows to 210.50p/kg & £1730 Prime Cattle to 235.50p/kg & £1650 Prime Lambs to 298p/kg & £155 Cull Ewes to £170 For any free advice or on farm visit Please Contact Charlie Coleman 07494 588 013 Ross Whitcombe 07815 985 737 Tom Rogers 07384 462 288 Mark Ferrett 07702 264 502

We provide a friendly, local service at competitive prices. Based at Redlynch near Bruton, we supply Car, Commercial, Agricultural, Plant & 4x4 tyres and offer a 24hr breakdown service. We won’t be beaten on price.

Call us on

01749 813957 or 07971 012628 or find us at www.southwestyreservices.co.uk

Conyers

Country Outfitters

(Justin J Frampton) R.F.D.13D

New or Secondhand Shot & Air Guns, Rifles and Repairs. Game, Coarse & Sea Angling Equipment

SELL LIVE AND THRIVE SALE STARTS AT 9.00AM Entries Close Friday 16th July Contact Nick Hill 07741 591 575 or 01373 830033 Frome Livestock Market, Standerwick, Frome, Somerset, BA11 2QB Tel 01373 830033 Email: info@fromelivestock.com Website: www.fromelivestock.com

All types and condition can be handled through FLA either Liveweight or Straight to Slaughter Including: Foreign/Import & TB Restricted Frome Livestock Market, Standerwick, Frome, Somerset, BA11 2QB Tel 01373 830033 Email: info@fromelivestock.com Website: www.fromelivestock.com

Est

1886 3 West Street, Blandford Forum, Dorset DT11 7AW jay@conyers.biz www.conyers.biz Tel: 01258 452307 Mob: 07973 642278

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Farming

Growing together and learning together By Steve Keenan newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

When doing her teacher training, Lily MacClelland dreamed of a farm where children could experience first-hand the benefits of working with animals, growing food and observing nature. And in 10 years of teaching, she became even more convinced that what children and young people need is a place where, in an age of social media and screens, they could connect to nature. Inspired by her own childhood on a dairy farm, Lily decided to move back home and work with her parents near Semley to fulfil her dream. Tokes Farm Education was born, a school room built in January 2020 within 86 acres of organic pasture farm, surrounded by 200-year-old oaks and a strip of ancient woodland. Between lockdowns, more than 600 children aged between 5-12 have already visited, including pupils from Semley Primary School.

FARM SCHOOL: Lily MacClelland at Tokes Farm Education

Lily, 34, has been praised for bringing humour, imagination and creativity to her teaching and is clearly enjoying her return to the farm. “It has been a lifelong dream to bring farming and teaching together,” says Lily. “Growing up, my playground was the farm –

and when I got into teaching, I was able to reflect on what a gift that was.” The school room was set to open at Easter 2020, just as everything shut down. So it was this time a year ago that the room was finally put to use and Lily began to realise her dream: children working with animals and in the

market garden, adventuring into the woods and cooking and eating together. She describes Tokes as ‘a land-based learning centre’ for children without access to outdoor space. There is no internet and Lily discourages mobiles. “It is important to bring kids back to the land,” she says. The school offers elements of Forest School, learning skills, mental health and animal welfare: parents Rob and Annie rear organic calves and there is a flock of 17 sheep. The children fall into three groups – school visits in term time; parents bringing their children in school half-terms and holidays for activity days and courses, and parents who home educate their children. The latter group meet on Tuesday during term time for the five-to-sevens age group, and Wednesday for the 8-12s from 9.30am-3pm. Learning to socialise with other children is as important as experiential learning, says Lily.

Puzzle solutions (from pages 64-65) Sudoku

4 9 8 5 3 2 6 7 1

2 1 3 6 7 9 4 8 5

Crossword

5 6 7 8 1 4 3 2 9

8 3 6 1 2 5 7 9 4

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1 7 4 9 6 8 2 5 3

3 4 9 2 5 6 8 1 7

7 2 5 4 8 1 9 3 6

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Any problems with these puzzles? Email newsdesk@blackmorevale.net Arrow words A C L L R I M E B A R I R K M P H A R A L E M A J D I J P E G

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Y M E P I C E S

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Farming

is all part of the Tokes Farm experience “Coming out of lockdown, parents wondered whether it was right to send kids back to school. There are a number who are now home educating.” In August, there will be two weeks of activity days and courses. The school has already run a Fleece to Felt three-day course and an All Things Wood workshop – this summer will see a Clay to Pot course. Lily will also host her first residential course in September, with 26 children from London spending five days under canvas. “I don’t want to be labelled as having one specialism,” she says. “In fact, I am still trying to find out what we really are!” It really is a lot of juggling, supported by other teachers and specialists teaching crafts. As if there wasn’t enough on Lily’s plate, she sells her salads and vegetables from the market garden to The Compasses Inn at Chicksgrove and Provenance Field to Fork Food in Tisbury.

Yoga sessions are also held at the farm on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, there is a market on Friday mornings and she is after volunteers to help in the market garden. “I would like it to be a community place,” says Lily. “It’s my form of farm diversification.” It’s a long To Do List – but top is setting up a charity to support Tokes’ work. “Schools don’t have the money to get children here – it can cost £600 to hire a minibus for a day and it’s hard for schools to justify experiences like this,” said Lily. “In practical terms, the money raised will subsidise school visits, help with school’s travel costs and support families that wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford an experience like this for their children in the holidays.” There will be activity days at Tokes Farm on weekdays between August 2-13, price £30 a day. n For more information: tokesfarm.org.

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6 Witney Rd, Nuffield Industrial Estate, Poole BH17 0GH Tel: 01202 669339 Email: service@etstrucks.co.uk

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

189

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Shaftesbury Lane, Blandford, Dorset DT11 7FB

Tel: 01258 480404 Email: blandford@etstrucks.co.uk

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ETS TRUCK&VAN

Jumbo 3D Sudoku

Killer Sudoku Pro 1

ETS Truck & Van are pleased to announce their appointment as a Mercedes-Benz Unimog Dealer at their Blandford Branch. Extensive parts stock and full tool and equipment inventory to ensure that we can provide a first class service for the No 1 all-terrain vehicle available today.

Cryptic Crossword M E A A R T C H E E N S P L J U T M O

T R I C B E H I A B A C T U I E E S T N U T R H C O R E E U A B I T C H U S T L D I C I A L D O E D E R N T

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G H T I I T Y C O H A

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E S

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

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

Forthcoming Dairy Sales Telephone: 01278 410278. Email: livestock@gth.net

JULY Thurs 15th SEDGEMOOR AUCTON CENTRE. The Spotlight Sale of Pedigree Ayrshire, Brown Swiss, Guernsey, Holstein, & Jersey Cows, Youngstock and Embryos with outstanding potential. ** Live bidding on MartEye, please register in advance at gth.marteye.ie **

Forthcoming Deadstock Sales

JULY Mon 19th

BARN PARK FARM, COTLEIGH, HONITON, DEVON, EX14 9AJ. The Dispersal Sale of 2 Tractors, 2 Telehandlers, Land Rover, Farm Machinery and Effects for The Estate of the Late Mr DJ Boyland.

HIGHER DENHAY FARM BROADOAK, BRIDPORT, DORSET, DT6 5NP

Tuesday 20th July at 12noon The Dispersal Sale of 3 Tractors, Forage Harvester, Cultivation Equipment, Farm Machinery & Effects

VEHICLES: 16) MF 7718 Dyna 6 TRACTOR; (19) Krone Optimaize x 530 Self Propelled Forage HARVESTER; (16) MF 7718 Dyna 6 TRACTOR; (19) NH T6.175 TRACTOR; MF 565 TRACTOR; (19) JCB TM320s T4FIV Pivot A Steer TELEHANDLER; Boss CL25C FORKLIFT; (15) Honda TRX420 Fourtrax QUAD BIKE; TGB Blade 425SL 4x4 QUAD BIKE; (10) Isuzu Rodeo Denver 2.5TD Double Cab PICK-UP; MACHINERY: Bateson Flatbed TRAILER; Strautmann Verti-Mix 3101 Double Mixer WAGON; Joskin Modulo 2 11,000L Slurry TANKER; Shelbourne 2300 Dual SPREADER; 12’ IW Cattle TRAILER; 3T Low Loader TRAILER; Kv DFI DRILL c/w Kv 4m Power HARROW; KvNG-H101 F30 4m Power HARROW; Dowdeswell 105MA F Rev PLOUGH; Simba XP/30/R PRESS; Kuhn HR004 Hydraulic Folding 5m Power HARROW; Dal-Bo Ring Packer Rev PRESS; (18) Ovlac SH-5-30/95-XL 5F Rev PLOUGH; (13) Amazone UG 300 Super 24m Trailed SPRAYER; 2x Hertell LG35 Umbilical Slurry PUMP; Ground Hog Systems Front Mounted Slurry REEL; (18) Kuhn Axis 40.2 M-EMC Fert SPINNER; Ground Hog Systems Slurry REELER; Slurry Kat 6m Trailing SHOE; (13) Kuhn GMD66 Select MOWER; (15) KW 8.80 Folding ROLLERS; (17) Claas 3200 Disco Front MOWER; (17) Class 8500C Disco Contour Rear MOWERS; NH EZ Guide 250 GPS SYSTEM; McHale Square Bale SQUEEZE; Albutt 1.7m BUCKET; Albutt 4m Push Off BUCKRAKE; (18) 4.3T SILAPACTOR; Sila PUSH; (19) Albutt 1m Shear GRAB; Albutt Dung GRAB; MISC: Large Qty of TOOLS; Draper 50L COMPRESSOR; 20’ CONTAINER; Qty of GATES; 3 Phase GENERATOR; 10x Calf HUTCHES; etc. Full listing on www.gth.net For Denhay Farms Ltd A 10% Buyers Premium will be charged on all lots except Tractors & Agricultural Machinery. Buyers not known to the Auctioneers are required to provide photographic ID to obtain a buyers number. Payment by cash and debit card only. Government guidance on social distancing must be adhered to at all times.

Sedgemoor Auction Centre

North Petherton, Somerset, TA6 6DF (M5, Junction 24) Telephone: 01278 410278 www.gth.net TOTAL STOCK FOR THE WEEK 4679 Stock from across the West Country, sold to buyers from throughout the Nation

Returns for Saturday 3rd July 2021

DAIRY CATTLE (57) Heifers to £2120. Others £2100. Cows to £2080. Others £1700. (885) STORE CATTLE & STIRKS - FORWARD STORES (597) Steers to £1605 (BB). Others £1565 (Lim) £1505 (Ch) & £1500 (Sim). Heifers to £1335 (BB). Others £1300 (Sim) £1295

(Lim) & £1275 (Ch). GRAZING COWS (15) to £1470. Others £1385. STIRKS (281) Steers to £1025 (Lim). Others £1050 (Her) £955 (BB) & £890 (AA). Heifers to £995 (Lim). Others £8902 (Blo) £815 (Lui) & £785 (BB). CALVES (305) - Beef Bulls to £610 (BB). Others £475 (Ch) £380 (Sim) & £380 (Her). Heifers to £650 (BB). Others £570 (Lim) £345 (Ch) & £330 (Her). Black &amp; Whites to £328. (1917) SHEEP - STORE LAMBS (722) to £122. Others £117 & £114. Overall Ave £79.27. CULL EWES & RAMS (968) Ewes to £186. Others £150 & £139. Rams to £180. Others £171 & £146. Overall Ave £92.85. GOATS (20) to £108. Overall Ave £92.80. COUPLES (38E & 49L) Doubles to £198 (£66/life). Singles to £190 (£95/life). Overall Ave £45.19/life. BREEDING EWES (120) to £131. Overall average £127.43. The West Country’s Gateway to National Abattoirs

Returns for Monday 5th July 2021

PRIME CATTLE (102) Steers UTM av 207.33ppk to 227.5ppk & £1578.50. Others 226ppk, 225.5ppk & 224ppk. Others £1519.70, £1516.46 & £1500.75. Heifers UTM av 209.21ppk to 230.0ppk and £1497.45. Others 229.5ppk, 229ppk, & 228.5ppk. Others £1430.45, £1422.90 & £1409.37. BARREN COWS (62) Continental av 155.3ppk to 188.5ppk and £1496.99. Others 172.5ppk. Others £1496.28. Native Beef av 146.6ppk to 169.5ppk and £1401.92. Others 168.5ppk. Others £1159.38. Dairy av 136.8ppk to 177.5ppk and £1174.88. Others 160.5ppk. Others £1106.74. FINISHED SHEEP (1331) Lamb ave 254.00ppk to 281ppk and £144.00. Others 280ppk, 276ppk & 273ppk. Others £143.50, £140 & £139.

Forthcoming Special Sales For full COVID-19 rules on market attendance and up to date sales list please refer to our website https://www.gth.net/sedgemoor-auction-centre

Saturday 10th July

Monthly Catalogued Sale of

210

Suckler Cows, Calves, Heifers & Bulls Sale commences at approx. 12.30pm in Ring 1 ** Live bidding on MartEye, please register in advance at gth.marteye.ie ** Entries to date include: * The 昀rst consignment of 102 cows and calves in the genuine commercial dispersal sale for SG Ellis, Cornwall. To include 2 British Blue Bulls, 16 Pedigree Limousin, 17 Limousin and 12 British Blue x. * 16 Bulls – 6 Aberdeen Angus, 2 Charolais, 2 Hereford, 6 Limousin * 18 Continental Cows & Calves – 2 Pedigree Limousins * 24 Native Cows & Calves * 39 Incalf Cows & Heifers * 8 Cows – 8 English Longhorns * 5 Bulling Heifers – 4 Pedigree Herefords JULY Sat 17th Sat 24th Sat 24th Wed 28th

Fortnightly Sale of Pigs 10am Collective Catalogued Sale of Purebred Poultry 12 Noon Monthly Sale of Native Store Cattle 10am Ring 2 Orange Market Dedicated Sale for bTB Restricted Cattle. Store Cattle – 15 Months & Over, Prime Cattle & Barren Cows. Stock to be booked in with the market of昀ce by 21st July. Licences to be obtained from Truro Trading Standards on 03000 200301 or CSC.TBlicensing@apha.gsi.gov. uk. Sale commences 4.30pm

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Farming

Book now for upcoming training courses By Alice EJ Miller BVSC MRCVS DBR Friars Moor Livestock Health Our team of vets at Friars Moor Livestock Health continue to offer a wide range of training courses to support local farmers and small holders. These include artificial insemination training, foot trimming, practical lambing, and calving courses, “Responsible use of Medicines” course for beef and sheep, and “MilkSure” for dairy farmers. We are proud to have been able to still carry out this important teaching, safely, through-out the pandemic, albeit online. Which has meant sometimes having to devise creative strategies to demonstrate the practical aspects of the courses, for example delivering a toy calf

through a resin cow pelvis with a calving jack and ropes, in my living room, over Zoom! Or live dissection of the bovine reproductive tract for the theory part of the AI course. We also had videos from the lambing shed, showing everything from how to stomach tube lambs, to live demonstration of use of the resuscitator pump. One of the advantages of online courses

has meant it has been easier for attendees to join from further afield. Whilst we service a large rural area across Dorset, Somerset, and Wiltshire we have had attendees joining our popular courses from much further afield, including Yorkshire! Our next two courses will be a calving course on Friday 30th July and the first part of the AI training course on Tuesday 24th August. Please contact the farm office on 01258 472314 to register your interest and to Independent veterinary book a place. services for livestock in Further updates and Dorset, Somerset and details will be available on our Wiltshire website and social Collection points for livestock media pages. We medicines and supplies at Sherborne, intend to hold faceSturminster Newton, Blandford and to-face meetings Shaftesbury again as soon as we Please call the office can. on 01258 472314 One of the most www.friarsmoorvets.co.uk popular aspects of

our calving course is the opportunity for open discussion, and we aim to be able to answer everyone’s questions, so attendees leave feeling confident and prepared for the calving season. One of the most common questions I get asked is; When should I intervene? Essentially, intervention should occur with any indication of abnormality, maternal ill health, fetal or maternal distress, abnormal contractions, unproductive straining, premature placental separation, or failure of the calf to advance. An understanding of the normal stages of labour also helps. Stage 1 starts with relaxation of the pelvic ligament, followed by abdominal contractions and straining, lasting on average, 6 hours, with some heifers taking 24. Stage 2 commences with the emergence of the “water-bag” and the calf’s feet and concludes with the calf delivery, taking between 0.5-2 hours, with some heifers taking up to 4. Stage 3 marks the expulsion of the fetal membranes and occurs within 12 hours from birth. Many people now install CCTV cameras in their calving facilities to be able to monitor this process more easily, without disturbing the cow. We would also encourage anyone unsure to give us a call as we operate a 24/7 service.

WESSEX METALS STURMINSTER NEWTON & BLANDFORD AREA WANTED

SCRAP METAL RECYCLING

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

TOP PRICES PAID Skips/HAIB lorry available for onsite collection Tel 01258 860 166 or 07974 822 243 99

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Farming

Hay bale heat poses a serious 昀re risk Hay bale 昀res can spread rapidly, putting barns, machinery and life at risk, as well as causing signi昀cant 昀nancial loss. The internal temperature of hay bales increases due to fermentation, in a similar way to compost, manure or other fermentable materials during storage. And it can happen surprisingly quickly, rising to dangerous levels in less than 24 hours in some cases. To help Members recognise temperature changes in their hay bales, Cornish Mutual has recently launched a trial using Quanturi’s HAYTECH wireless monitoring system. “We understand hay 昀res pose a substantial risk to our Members, so we want to help them 昀nd ways of managing this problem,” explains Dominic Jones, Loss Prevention Leader at Cornish Mutual. “Members trialling the wireless probes are able to see in real-time the temperature changes in their hay bales. They are noti昀ed if the temperature increases beyond a certain level, giving

them chance to act and reduce the 昀re risk.” A rise in internal temperature also impacts hay quality. Quality begins to decline when the temperature reaches about 45°C-55°C, potentially reducing livestock performance when fed out or the price it attracts if sold. The temperature probes help Members prevent this degradation. “Although we only launched the trial recently, we are really excited to be hearing positive feedback from Members already. They’ve reported being alerted to rising temperatures in their bales and have been able to act quickly to prevent further problems.”

Insurance with a difference

‘The internal temperature of hay bales increases due to fermentation... and it can happen surprisingly quickly...’ To find out more about how Cornish Mutual can help you manage risks on your farm, contact Dominic Jones on 01872 246175 or DJones@cornishmutual.co.uk, or speak to your Cornish Mutual Field Insurance Advisor.

When it comes to protecting what’s important, Cornish Mutual is different. Different because our sole focus is on you, your farming business and your community. Different in the fact that our local advisors don’t work on commission, and all of our teams are experts in the protection you need. We’re the local specialists that understand the challenges you face and are here to help. But don’t just take our word for it – ask your neighbours about us.

Want to speak to us direct? Call us on 01872 277151 or visit cornishmutual.co.uk

Farming Insurance Experts

100

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Farming Air Ri昀es & Air Pistols wanted Any make or model Any condition

FARMING CLASSIFIEDS: 01963 400186

Call 07970 742471

TYRES AROUND LTD

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

COWS COWS COWS

5 SHETLAND EWE LAMBS (born 2020) for sale. SSS registered. Call 07798 704805 Variety of POL HYBRID PULLETS now available. 07545 468700 FENCING, TOPPING, HAYMAKING AND HAULAGE. Please phone Andrew 01747 855198

TRADITIONAL HEREFORD BULLS, pedigree proven, ideal native breeds, not Holsteins or Continental. 01747 830335

ATV SPRAYING, agricultural & paddock services. Call 07711 980871

CARAVAN REMOVAL SERVICE, old, unwanted caravans, cars, trailers, vans etc. Garden machinery, tractors, scrap metal. Yard, garden, garage removal clearances undertaken, dismantling and gas cutting service. Please call 01935 873169 or 07368 380477

HAY OFF FIELD, large and round hay bales. 01258 880892 / 07980 036250

To receive top price for all barren cows. Brookﬁeld Livestock Marketing Limited. Payment on the day of purchase.

WOOD CHIP, high bark content in dumpy bags or loose. £40 + VAT per M3. 01258 860781

Haulage arranged

RAGWORT PROBLEM? Solution call 07929 995 747, pullers available

07811 381 159

GILLIES AGRICULTURAL CONTRACTING 07903 972905 Slurry tanking now available, competitive rates!

Hay trailer 6 FOOT BY 16 FOOT. low level, good tyres £400 . 07811 473775

PEARCE CONTRACTING. Tractor and driver. 2000g high spec slurry tanker, 18tonne silage trailer, muck spreader, all for hire. Hourly rate. 07854117590.

Bath & West bringing Festival fun to Somerset this summer! NEW for 2021, the Royal Bath & West Society presents, the Bath & West Country Festival. Held at the Bath & West Showground on the August Bank Holiday weekend (27 – 29 th August), the Bath & West Country Festival replaces the Society’s usual Royal Bath & West Show for one year only. With a newly created layout, an exciting festival feel and brand-NEW areas, this is a best way to end the summer holidays with all of the family! As always, the Main Ring will be offering fast paced entertainment, including the Pony Club Games, Showing Jumping, Pawsability Canine Display Team & The Paul Hannam Stunt Show. The NEW Lakeside Farm will offer plenty of fun and interactive farming activities for children and will be located next to Bath & West Lake. Conveniently, this is just a stone’s throw from Orchards & Cider, allowing you to refresh with a cool pint of local cider, or apple juice for the little ones! The British Cider Championships will also be joining the Festival fun, so be sure to drop by & see who manages to scoop the Supreme Champion Award! The Showering Pavilion will be the home of the Festivals Food Hall, 昀lled to the brim with delicious West Country Food & Drink. With plenty of picnic benches dotted across the festival, it will be too easy to grab yourself a deliciously local lunch and relax in the sun. The open-air Showground will also allow visitors to enjoy their day in a COVID19 secure environment.

27 - 29 AUGUST 2021

SAVER TICKETS: £15 PER ADULT 2 CHILDREN ADMITTED FREE WITH ADVANCE ADULT TICKETS

WWW.BATHANDWEST.COM/TICKETS

Tickets are on sale now for just £15 per adult, which includes 2 free children. Visit www.bathandwest.com/tickets to book.

101

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Farming

Monday 12th July at 11am Frome Livestock Market

(removed from Manor Farm, Yarlington, Wincanton for convenience of sale) 245 Organic Dairy Ca琀le Consis琀ng of: 118 Dairy Cows 17 In Calf Heifers 48 Bulling Heifers 44 6-12mnth Heifers 18 0-6mnth Heifers On behalf of R J House & Son

Saturday 17th July

Waterhouse Farm, Withypool, Minehead, Somerset TA24 7RD

Genuine dispersal of John Deere 6110SE with MX 80.5 Loader (00), New Holland 4135 4wd (99), Takeuchi TB135 Excavator (08), Land Rover Defender 90 Hardtop (11), Kawasaki KLF 300 Quad (05), Kawasaki 3010 Mule (07), 19’ Sovereign Boat c/w Trailer, 6t & 4.5t Trailers, Ifor Williams 12’ Livestock Trailer, 18’ Bale Trailer, Tarrup 4 Rotor Tedder, 8’ Twose Ballast Roller, John Deere 456A Conven琀onal Baler, Farm Machinery, Livestock Equipment, Workshop e昀ects, Equestrian Items and Furniture On behalf of Mr & Mrs M Po琀er (having sold the farm)

Lopcombe, Hampshire 125 acres (50.58 ha)

Guide £2,450,000 (Whole)

A wonderfully spacious 4 bedroom property complete with a self-contained 1 bedroom annexe all set in 125 acres of ring fenced produc琀ve grassland with a range of modern farm buildings. For sale by private treaty as a whole or in two lots. EPC=C

Jack Edwards 01722 334323

Thursday 22nd July at 5.30pm

For琀ield Farm, Hawkchurch, Axminster, Devon EX13 7AT

Dispersal of Ford 6610 2wd (6450hrs), Massey Ferguson 6130 with Chilton Loader (5532hrs), Zetor 8541 Proxima Plus (2376hrs), Ifor Williams TA510G Livestock Box, McConnel Rhino 9 Topper, HiSpec 1000 Rotor Spreader, Taarup Drum Mower, Orsi CR420/460 Hedgetrimmer, Fosters Ditcher (with 3 buckets), Ransomes 3f Conv Plough, Marshall S6 Dropside Trailer, Teagle Titan Trailer, Einbock 3m Grass Harrows, Vicon Haybob 300, Farm Machinery, Livestock Equipment, etc.

ONLINE MACHINERY AUCTIONS:

Vintage, Classic & Collectable Online Timed Auc琀on Opens 5th July and closes from 7pm on 13th July

Entries include: MF, David Brown, Nu eld, Massey Harris, Allis Chalmers, Universal & County Tractors, Land Rovers, Farm machinery and wide range of General E昀ects.

Online Timed Collec琀ve Auc琀on of Farm Machinery & E昀ects Opens Monday 12th July & closing from 7pm on 20th July

Case IH & John Deere tractors already entered and further entries invited.

Contact Greg Ridout 07817 517467 or Rachael Holder 07772 310482

symondsandsampson.co.uk 102

Melbury Bubb, Dorset 84.93 acres (34.37 ha)

Guide £1,660,000 (Whole)

A well situated West Dorset residen琀al/equestrian farm. A琀rac琀ve period 5 bedroom farmhouse, range of tradi琀onal barns, stabling and modern farm buildings and about 85 acres of pastureland with a stream and small lake. For sale by private treaty as a whole or in two lots.

Ross Willmington 01297 33122

PLANNING | VALUATIONS | BUILDING SURVEY

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Farming

QUALIFIED | EXPERIENCED | PROFESSIONAL

Tin琀nhull, Somerset 608 acres (246 ha)

Guide £7,750,000

A produc琀ve and highly diversi昀ed dairy farm. A substan琀al period farmhouse currently divided into the owners 4 bed residence and 4 昀ats, a 4 bedroom modern farmhouse (AOC), extensive range of mainly dairy farm buildings (69,000 sq.昀, 6,400 sq.m), carp 昀shing lakes and level and gently sloping pasture and arable land in a ring fence. For sale by private treaty as a whole or in two lots (lot 2 - 57 acres o昀-lying).

AU 23 CT JU ION LY

Andrew Tu n 01258 472244

Corfe Mullen, Dorset Guide £695,000

Woodgreen, Hampshire Guide £650,000 (whole)

Harbridge, Hampshire Guide £50,000

Wimborne 01202 882103

Salisbury 01722 334323

Wimborne 01202 882103

An equestrian holding comprising approximately 28.46 acres of level lying pasture land on the outskirts of the village with stabling and equestrian school.

A rare opportunity to purchase 28.22 acres of land adjoining open forest in a peaceful se ng within the New Forest Na琀onal Park. Available as a whole or in four lots.

An extremely a琀rac琀ve parcel of amenity woodland extending to approximately 4.78 acres bene昀琀ng from a shepherds hut and compost W/C.

SALES | LETTINGS | AUCTIONS 103

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Property

LIVESTREAM AUCTION 23 JULY 2021 DORSET DEVON HAMPSHIRE SOMERSET WILTSHIRE LONDON

Nr Wareham

Loders

Wimborne 01202 882103

Axminster 01297 33122

4.40 acres of woodland with a seasonal watercourse and views towards the coast.

Nr Gillingham

A 52 acre farm in a glorious posi琀on, with a 昀ne 3 bedroom house (AOC), chalet, and consent to convert a building into 2 stylish dwellings. Outbuildings and stables.

Sturminster 01258 472244

Minchington

6.99 acres of pastureland with a pole barn and small area of woodland.

Wimborne 01202 882103

North Cheriton

7.99 acres of pastureland with a small barn, pond, mature and fruit trees.

Sturminster 01258 472244

2 small parcels of land ((0.60 and 0.23 acres) adjoining the River Asker.

Maiden Newton

Upton

Dorchester 01305 236237

Wimborne 01202 882103

A 0.51 acre paddock adjoining the River Frome on the outskirts of the village.

0.58 acres of land currently a hobby farm with a lovely open outlook.

Frome Vauchurch

Weymouth

Fifehead St Quin琀n

Dorchester 01305 236237

Wimborne 01202 843190

Sturminster 01258 472244

A level site extending to 0.38 acres with views over the River Frome.

A single building plot with PP for a detached 2 bedroom dwelling.

Shepton Beauchamp

Templecombe

Ilminster 01460 200790

Sturminster 01258 473766

The opportunity to complete the build of a detached house in a popular village.

A 3 bedroom house for upda琀ng, with stable block and paddocks, in all 2.21 acres.

PLANNING

VALUATIONS

A rural site with PP for two single storey 3 bedroom detached houses.

Maiden Newton

18.51 acres of woodland and water meadow adjoining the River Frome.

Dorchester 01305 236237

BUILDING SURVEY

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Property

symondsandsampson.co.uk/auc琀ons QUALIFIED EXPERIENCED PROFESSIONAL

Zeals

Ilminster

Sturminster 01258 473766

Ilminster 01460 200790

A 2 bedroom co琀age for renova琀on with PP for a terrace of 3 houses in the garden.

A 3 bedroom house for modernisation within walking distance of the town and with superb views.

Blandford

Winterbourne Houghton

Swallowcli昀e

Dorchester 01305 261008

Blandford 01258 452670

Sturminster 01258 472244

A retail/residen琀al property for refurbishment, with development poten琀al to the rear.

Wembley

Investment Opportunity. A 2 bedroom house with occupier in occupa琀on

Sturminster 01258 473766

Poole

A single garage within a popular residen琀al area of the town, suitable for a number of uses.

Wimborne 01202 843190

SALES

LETTINGS

A charming 4/5 bedroom co琀age for improvement with pre琀y garden and garage.

A charming Grade II Listed house for improvement with pre琀y garden, range of tradi琀onal and modern outbuildings and 0.95 acres, in the heart of a sought a昀er village.

Wool

Poole

Wembley

Wimborne 01202 843190

Wimborne 01202 882103

Sturminster 01258 473766

A par琀ally updated Grade II Listed house with pre琀y garden and open views.

A Grade II Listed 2 bedroom apartment close to the Old Town and Quay.

Investment Opportunity. A 3 bedroom house with a occupier in occupa琀on.

Blandford

Merrio琀

Wembley

Dorchester 01305 261008

Ilminster 01460 200790

Sturminster 01258 473766

A Grade II Listed retail / 3 bedroom residen琀al property for refurbishment.

AUCTIONS

A substan琀al three storey 5 bedroom village character house, perfect for modernisa琀on.

Investment Opportunity. A 2 bedroom house with occupier in occupa琀on.

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Property

DORSET DEVON HAMPSHIRE SOMERSET

East Stour

Guide £725,000

WILTSHIRE LONDON

S琀nsford

Guide £1,350,000

An extremely spacious a琀ached farmhouse with 昀exible accommoda琀on of 2915 sq 昀 and gardens and grounds of 1.20 acres and adjoining farmland. EPC=E.

An impressive 6 bedroom detached house in just under 3 acres with garden, tennis court, stabling, paddock, set in a deligh琀ul loca琀on with open views. EPC=D.

Sturminster Marshall

Hazelbury Bryan

Sturminster 01258 473766

Guide £475,000

Dorchester 01305 261008

Guide £675,000

A charming Grade II listed 18 century detached co琀age in the heart of this sought a昀er village with an a琀rac琀ve garden backing onto 昀elds. EPC=Exempt.

A substan琀al and impressive 4 bedroom detached house on a no through lane in a deligh琀ully peaceful loca琀on with west facing garden. EPC=C.

Sherborne Causeway

Okeford Fitzpaine

Blandford 01258 452670

OIEO £798,000

A charming former dairy with extremely spacious and 昀exible 4-6 bedroom accommoda琀on, stables, outbuildings and paddock, in total approx. 2.60 acres. EPC=D.

Sturminster 01258 473766

Sturminster 01258 472244

A deligh琀ul Grade II listed 3 bedroom period village co琀age with a striking modern extension to the rear, overlooking mature and enclosed gardens. EPC=Exempt.

Blandford 01258 452670

PLANNING 106

Guide £450,000

VALUATIONS

BUILDING SURVEY

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Property

hapman

oore

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

New Instruction Sale Agreed stc

GILLINGHAM

Sale Agreed stc

Sold

More Properties Required Contact Andrew Bonnet or Sue Moore

GILLINGHAM

More Properties Required Contact Andrew Bonnet or Sue Moore

Sale Agreed stc

Sold

New Instruction Sale Agreed stc

GILLINGHAM

KILMINGTON

GILLINGHAM

More Properties Required Contact Andrew Bonnet or Sue Moore

New Instruction Sale Agreed stc

Sold

GILLINGHAM

More Properties Required Contact Andrew Bonnet or Sue Moore

Sold

New Instruction

Close to Town Centre

Sold

MERE

STOFORD

GILLINGHAM

More Properties Required Contact Andrew Bonnet or Sue Moore

House & Outbuildings 0.39 Acres

Det 3 Bed Sun Rm Gdn Pkg Gge

More Properties Required Contact Andrew Bonnet or Sue Moore

Price OIEO £695,000

Price OIEO £275,000

Townbridge House, High Street, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 4AA Telephone/Fax: (01747) 822244 E-mail: chapmanmoore@btconnect.com See all our properties on www.rightmove.co.uk & www.zoopla.co.uk

107

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Property

R E M O VA L S

Memb No: A101

S T O R A G E

We are a family run business since 1973, providing a service locally, nationally and internationally including a Eurpean service for full and part loads

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Gillingham (01747) 828680

Shaftesbury (01747) 828680

Sherborne (01935) 433341

Warminster (01985) 215991

Wincanton (01963) 34065

Yeovil (01935) 433341

Head Office: 01963 34065

email: enquiries@armishaws.com

Local couple from Blandford

WORK UNIT approx 1250 sqft,

SEEKING A BUILDING PLOT

£62 per week. Office/storage

in the Dorset / Somerset area for

unit to let £27 per week. CARAVAN

a Self Build project.

STORAGE/PARKING from

Please call Justin 07515 538705

£30 per month. 07811 837061

108

SELF-CONTAINED ACCOMMODATION on quiet farm near Yeovil 01935 891817

Classifieds: 01963 40018

www.armishaws.com

URGENTLY WANTED Quiet living mature lady looking to rent a room or selfcontained flat in Gillingham Dorset. Please call 07563893570

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Property PROPERTY & LAND LIVESTREAM AUCTION THURSDAY 22ND JULY 2021 AT 3PM Scan code for further details

WEST COTTAGE, BURTON ROAD, CURRY RIVEL, LANGPORT

ASHTON, NR WEDMORE

3 bedroom, semi-detached cottage set in a superb plot, requiring modernisation, offering super potential to create a generous family home with attractive views.

3.68 acres (1.49 ha) of agricultural pasture land comprising a single parcel of land, with direct road access and mains water connected. Suitable for alternative uses, subject to statutory consents.

Auction Guide: £250,000 Langport Office: 01458 250589 residential.langport@gth.net

Auction Guide: £65,000 Burnham on Sea Office: 01278 765588 farms.burnham-on-sea@gth.net

LAND & STABLING AT MILL LANE, CORSLEY, WARMINSTER

DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY AT OAKLEIGH, STONE, EAST PENNARD, SHEPTON MALLETT

Stabling and pasture land in a secluded location on the edge of the sought after South Wiltshire village of Corsley Heath. In total extending to 7.94 acres (3.21 Ha) or thereabouts.

Auction Guide: £160,000 Yeovil Office: 01935 423474 farms.yeovil@gth.net

An exciting development opportunity in the heart of the parish of West Bradley, with outline planning permission for a two storey, 4 bedroom detached dwelling with double garage, store and adjoining pasture land extending to 7.53 acres (3.04 ha). Auction Guide: £350,000 Yeovil Office: 01935 423474 farms.yeovil@gth.net

FURTHER ENTRIES INVITED For a free market appraisal or further information about selling by auction please contact: Justin.lowe@gth.net 01935 423474 at our Yeovil office or jeremy.bell@gth.net 01278 765588 at our Burnham On Sear office. G R E E N S L A D E TA Y L O R H U N T

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New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Property

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New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

Property

New Blackmore Vale, July 9, 2021

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