The New Blackmore Vale Magazine

Edition 20

Friday, June 25, 2021

The New Blackmore Vale

FREE

Fortnightly

COME BUY

Londoner outbids shepherd for rotten old hut

n FULL STORY: P24-25 n Living van sells for £2,200: P22 n The rise and rise of shepherds’ huts: P22-23

heating and plumbing services

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What’s inside this week Announcements 87-89 Arts & Entertainments 72-77 Antiques & Collectibles 62-63 Business 78-80 Church 66 Education 67 Equestrain 93 Farming 95-101 Field And Stream 94 Food & Drink 34-39 Health & Wellbeing 57-61 Home & Gardens 41-49 Items For Sale 30-31 Letters 33 Local Services 50-56 Motoring 68-71 Pets 40-41 Property 102-111 Puzzles 64-65, 96-97 Recruitment 81-86 Sport 90-92

n Simon says... MP Simon Hoare spills the beans: P10-11 n MAMILS on their bikes in school pool fundraiser: P26-27 n Windrose archive film festival: P72-73

Meet the Team Miranda Robertson

Lloyd Armishaw

Lorraine Drake

Editor

Publisher

Distributor

newsdesk@ blackmorevale.net Tel: 01963 400186

newsdesk@ blackmorevale.net Tel: 01963 400186

lorraine_drake @icloud.com Tel: 07850 529937

Debi Thorne

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

Shout out for new town crier for Stur

By Nicci Brown newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

Councillors in Sturminster Newton have agreed to begin a search for a town crier to succeed Kevin Knapp, who died, aged just 53, in October 2018 after almost 20 years in the honorary role he created.

At a meeting of the town council in June, members considered a request from the county councillor for the Blackmore Vale Pauline Batstone, who lives in Sturminster Newton, that the subject be considered.

She said: “I appreciate that Kevin was pretty much irreplaceable as our town crier, but I cannot believe that he would have wished the role of Stur town crier to die with him.

“He was a brilliant representative for our town, supported by his lovely wife

IRREPLACABLE: Town Crier Kevin Knapp who passed away in 2018

and family. The pandemic may have made such things of minor importance, however, I have been watching the Dorchester town crier, the redoubtable Councillor Alistair Chisholm, showing on national television how town criers have continue to perform their role.

“Alistair has continued

‘crying’ at open air events in Dorchester, and the town criers have held their national competition by being judged on their written cry – i.e. their message – and then performing it virtually. I reminded me of our loss and the hole that it has left in our civic life.”

She asked that the town council begin the process of

recruiting a successor as part of their emergence from covid restrictions: “We have grieved for long enough in Kevin’s memory. Let’s get going with finding ourselves a new town crier and get back on the town crier map.

“Providing they obey social distancing, at present they can cry their hearts out in the middle of the Railway Gardens, and I feel sure Kevin would have wished to have a successor.”

Members agreed to request their town clerk Kate Squire to first write to Mrs Knapp to advise her of the proposal, to contact the Town Criers’ Association for advice, and to advertise the opportunity online to recruit possible candidates. She was also asked to liaise with Rotary to see if a competition could be included in their community event in August.

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Funding boost for projects to feature electrical points Funding has been allocated to a number of projects in Sturminster Newton by town councillors, who agreed to seek quotations from three groundwork companies for enhancements to the entrance to the trailway.

They also agreed to the placing of

planters at the Market Cross to enhance the area, but to monitor usage over the summer before allocating £1,500 towards seating in the area since its use had decreased since the partial lifting of covid restrictions.

The cost of electrical points in the

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Railway Gardens had originally been estimated as £7,000, and it was agreed to obtain a new quotation from SSE. The installation of electrical points at the War Memorial Recreation Ground to benefit both the Cheese Festival and the grounds team has been approved.

Recycling’s in the bag

Bright Blue Bags have been appearing on South Somerset doorsteps ahead of the launch of Quality Care Guaranteed Recycle More.

Now Accepting New Patients The eye-catching new recycling Google Reviews containers are a pivotal part of the 0% 昀nance & monthly payment options available expanded service being introduced www.national.dental

by Somerset Waste Partnership (SWP) at the end of the month.

With a 60-litre capacity, they will hold some of the extra recycling collected every week.

The bags are already working well Family Law Advice in Mendip where the service was We realise talking about divorce or separation launched in October and is is very personal and so we are offering virtual collecting around 100 tonnes of appointments by Zoom. As an alternative, we extra recycling every week. offer a one off FREE telephone appointment for initial advice on Wednesdays 9am – 1pm Key features of the bag include: n A weighted base so they will not To book an appointment please call us on blow away in wind 01747 852377 n A Velcro-fastened lid so contents will not blow away n Easy to fold-down and store when not in ARUNDEL CASTLE* ...................................................................................... 8 Aug £75 use BOWOOD HOUSE & GARDEN’S ........................................................... 14 Aug £69 AUGUST SUNDAY LUNCH ....................................................................... 22 Aug £45 n Tough, durable and PAIGNTON & DARTMOUTH RAILWAY* ............................................. 25 Aug £79 waterproof HIGHGROVE GARDENS GUIDED TOUR The bags will be used + 1 ½ HOURS IN TETBURY ..................................................................... 11 Sept £89 to hold: SEPTEMBER SUNDAY LUNCH IN LOOE, CORNWALL .................. 26 Sept £45 BRYAN’S MYSTERY TRIP* ....................................................................... 30 Sept £60 n Plastic bottles,

BISHOP’S PALACE & GARDEN’S* ......................................................... 23 Oct £55 OCTOBER SUNDAY LUNCH ...................................................................... 24 Oct £45 GREASE AT THE MAYFLOWER THEATRE .............................................. 13 Nov £107 NOVEMBER SUNDAY LUNCH ................................................................ 21 Nov £45

TOURS/HOLIDAYS LOOE, CORNWALL ...........................................................................13–16 Aug £630 ISLE OF WIGHT .................................................................................. 20–24 Aug £535 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 ............................................................. 13–15 Dec £325 SPECTACULAR + £25 supplement charge 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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pots, tubs and trays (rinsed and squashed/nested) n Tins and cans (rinsed and crushed if possible) n Aerosols (empty) n Foil (rinsed) Recycle More adds extra materials to weekly collections, helps protect the environment and saves taxpayers’ money. With much more recycling, what little rubbish remains will be collected every three weeks instead of every two.

What goes into each recycling container is changing so the leaflet includes a simple colour-coded “what goes where” diagram to keep for future reference: n Green box – glass bottles and jars, cartons, including Tetra Pak n Black box – paper and card n Brown food waste bin – all food waste n Carrier bags – small household batteries, small electrical items (crews will return bags) Anyone with questions or concerns about Recycle More can find more information online somersetwaste. gov.uk/recycle-more or call 01935 462462.

Pop-up cafe to aid church funds A pop-up café will be held in the sheltered garden at Zeals Village Hall on Friday and Saturday, June 25 and 26 from 11am-2pm. There will be homemade cakes, quiche, soup and cream teas in aid of St Martin’s Church.

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Tree felling condemned as ‘vandalism’

By Nicci Brown newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

The loss of so many of the trees surrounding Sherborne House as part of its now approved conversion and extension as an arts centre has been condemned as an act of “appalling environmental vandalism” by one resident, who fears it does not bode well for the subsequent developments.

Dean Carter has asked what justification there could be for the felling, particularly of the limes and holm oak which once framed the building.

He says it has deprived the town and house itself one of the most beautiful aspects of the site, and future visitors of their shade and beauty, birds of their nests, and everybody in the vicinity of the improved air quality they produced.

He estimated that about 50

CONVERSION: Sherborne House

per cent of the trees gracing the town centre which had so impressed him when he moved to Sherborne 20 years ago had subsequently been felled.

He said: “Other towns in Dorset appreciate and guard their greenery. Shaftesbury, for example, promotes walks around the town that take people to the most outstanding examples. What a pity Sherborne has no regard for its own assets in this way.”

The report to the planning committee which approved the new arts centre stated that the arboricultural

schedule and methodology was acceptable, the loss of trees was justified and a comprehensive planting and landscaping plan accompanying the application ensured suitable replacements and enhancements.

The council’s tree officer was satisfied that the reports gave a fair assessment of the trees on site, and that the significant structural compromising of the large holm oak to the front of the property justified its removal. But the impact assessment survey reported that it was impossible to fully survey a number of limes preliminarily judged as fair and subsequently listed for removal because they were covered in ivy.

Proposals for landscaping and substantial new planting in plans produced by Marshall-James Garden Development Ltd and

accompanied by detailed methodology and maintenance schedules, and adherence to them has been made a condition of approval.

The town council questioned whether a contribution could be made to secure replacement planting for lost trees on the site in the wider area, but the conclusion was that sufficient was proposed on site to adequately compensate for losses.

But arboricultural team leader Graham Cox commented that the new planting proposed was rather minimal, and a comprehensive landscape design was required, saying: “A well thought-out scheme would play a key part in providing the right setting for this grand old building.”

He was concerned that there should be greater variety in the structural planting of trees and larger shrubs.

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EVENTS GUIDE

To advertise here call 01963 400186 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 MARNHULL ROYAL BRITISH LEGION CHARITY NIGHT in aid of Marie Curie presents 2 Foot Moose on Saturday, June 26th at 8pm. £5 entry plus raffle SHILLINGSTONE GARDENS OPEN SUNDAY 27TH JUNE 10am-5pm last entry 4.30pm. Adults £5, Children free. Tickets & refreshments purchased from Shillingstone Church Centre.

KINGTON MAGNA OPEN GARDENS: 14 gardens July 4, 2pm-6pm. Pick up map from the Village Hall: £8 includes afternoon tea. Plants, jam, cake stalls.

CAR BOOT AND TABLE TOP SALE Jubilee Hall Batcombe on SEPTEMBER 11 2021 9am 12.30. BOOK EARLY to secure a car-space at £5 or a table top in the hall at £10. Please contact Annie Biddle 01749 850 307. Refreshments available.

COFFEE MORNING in aid of Woolland Church. SATURDAY 24th JULY, 10.30am-12pm at Marsh Farm, Ibberton, DT11 0EJ. Bring & buy, cakes, raffle, pony rides etc. Children welcome!

Picnic event is called off A Great Get Together Picnic to be held in Gillingham this Sunday, (June 27) on the Town Meadow has been postponed indefinitely after the Government’s announcement on covid restrictions.

Organisers reluctantly decided the event was no longer viable.

Using trusts in wills Many people could benefit from using trusts in their wills.

In particular, couples who have children from previous relationships and wish to provide for a new spouse or partner but without compromising on leaving assets for their own children.

Incorporating trusts in their wills can help couples achieve this balance.

There are also advantages for those who are seeking to preserve assets for the next generation in the event of future long-term care needs.

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with MacLachlan Solicitors Trusts are a complicated area of law.

The inclusion of trusts in a will can affect the inheritance tax treatment of an estate so readers should ensure they take advice before changing their wills.

At MacLachlan we regularly help clients with the use of trusts to achieve their objectives, as well as wider tax and estate planning.

Please contact Joe Edwards for further information and to arrange a consultation. joe@maclachlansolicitors.co .uk 01747 822103.

Councillors stick to their guns on Glue Hill housing Concerns were raised at Sturminster Newton Town Council’s meeting in June by two members of the public on a planning application for the development of eight homes on a site at Orchard House, Glue Hill.

They were worried if in the future the site were sold to another developer and number of dwellings increased.

Council chairman Councillor Charles Fraser acknowledged their concerns but advised the council could

Gardens open Kington Magna Open Gardens will be held on July 4 from 2pm-6pm. Pick up map from the Village Hall: £8 includes afternoon tea.

only make a comment on the present application. He also said that, while he had no financial interests, as chairman of the Newton Residents’ Association, he had an indirect conflict of interest and would make no comment and abstain from the voting on the application

by Ms C Ressenaar-Parsons.

The proposal included alteration to the existing access and re-routing drive to The Orchard, and the council objected on the grounds that the service road did not meet the criteria for adoption. Members asked that recommendations from highways were followed, and that the application be decided by the planning committee rather than by officer delegation.

Prop making a piece of cake Students at Blandfords’s new performing arts workshop enjoyed a session with Megan Harrison, a scenic artist who has worked on Star Wars, Disney, Les Miserables and Hamilton. Youngsters at the Artori Academy learned about prop making, and they made artificial cupcakes out of expanding foam and lightweight filler.

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Gold Hill Festival is going ahead!

The event on July 4 will be run within covid guidelines.

There will be a full line up on stage, stalls and catering outlets and the added attraction of two steam engines. The event will be free but entry will be limited and people checked in.

Any funds raised will go into Shaftesbury Rotary Club’s charity account for donating to local charities.

The MC is Dan Evans and

performing will be: 11am Tom Clements 11.50am Can’t Make Mondays 12.40pm Fleur Lindsay 1.50pm talent show 3pm The Rebecca Chambers Jazz Trio 4.10pm Splinter The Silence 5.30pm approx finish n The garden of Burton Grange Mere opened to the public as part of the National Garden Scheme, raising more than £1,500.

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Pupils learning their A, Bee and Cs Bryanston School has reintroduced honeybee colonies to provide pupils with a fascinating insight into the world of beekeeping.

The move has been overseen

by Ben Pullan, resident teacher of classics at the school and an experienced apiarist, helped by a special grant provided by the Bryanston Parents’ Association.

“When I joined the school last year, I quickly discovered that Bryanston had a long history of beekeeping,” said Ben. “However, established colonies that were lost a few years ago weren’t replaced and our hives fell into disuse.

As this has been a personal passion of mine since I was a youngster, there was an opportunity for me to use my skills to reintroduce beekeeping into our co-curricular programme.

“I am delighted the move has

ALL KEEPERS: Bryanston pupils at the apiary

prompted a very enthusiastic response from so many pupils who are keen to see for themselves the fascinating and extraordinary lives of honeybees.

“Indeed, they know from their studies that these amazing insects play such an important role in local ecosystems but are under immense threat from pesticides, loss of habitat, parasites and fungal diseases.”

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Two new and locally sourced bee colonies are now in hives positioned on a peaceful site in the school’s grounds near the river. Fifteen pupils are already taking part in the beekeeping activity on Friday afternoons as part of the Pioneering section of Bryanston’s broad co-curricular programme.

Pupil Alexander LloydElliott said: “Beekeeping is a completely new experience for me and it’s great to have

the opportunity to see these miraculous little creatures up close as they go about their busy lives. It’s certainly a real eye-opener.”

Sixth former Josie Leach said handling bees is unlike anything she has ever done before: “It’s a wonderful experience and I’m so pleased to have the opportunity to take some time off my screen and away from my studies to gain a truly fascinating insight into such an important part of the natural world. Learning the skills of beekeeping also carries a real sense of responsibility and, of course, there is always the reward of honey, which is pretty hard to beat!”

The school now hopes to revive a number of spin-off activities for pupils as a result of the reintroduction of honeybee colonies including candle-making and using honey in baking projects.

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

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

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Boris? He’s like a covid Vera Lynn...

Rishi? He’s the Coming Man... He New Blackmore Vale magazine editor MIRANDA ROBERTSON chats to North Dorset MP SIMON HOARE North Dorset MP Simon Hoare is making his way through a slice of a magnificent chocolate orange cake served up at The Green Man in King’s Stag, as am I. I’ve come here to aim a few questions at him, get the interview and skedaddle home in my usual rush, but nearly three hours later we’re still sitting there and it’s hard to break off, there is still so much to talk about.

We sit on opposite sides of the political fence (I’m a bit of a Commie), but that makes the discussion if anything more absorbing.

Simon, who is 52 in three days’ time (28th), is great

FRONT BENCH: Tories are colourblind and class-blind, says North Dorset MP Simon Hoare

company. Full of wisecracks, anecdotes, heartfelt opinions and warmth.

Have you ever voted Labour? ‘No’. Have you ever voted for anyone but the Tories? ‘No’.

It’s time to play Simon Says, in just three words Simon’s legendary tweet, pictured right,where he called actor Laurence Fox a ‘first class, ocean going, chateau bottled, nuclear powered pr***’ for refusing to wear a mask earned him thousands of fans including me – I do so love a decent turn of phrase.

You may think he might have had a couple of sherbets before tweeting but no – he doesn’t drink.

So I thought I’d challenge him to describe a few people in three words.

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‘Oh’, he says wryly, cake halfway to his lips… ‘OK’… n Boris Johnson: Interesting, contentious, popular.

He’s like a covid version of Vera Lynn.

Aged about ten, little Simon was appalled his family could not give his paternal grandmother the send-off

Don’t ask him for too much detail but he’s kept people’s spirits up and been a great front-of-house man.

He has the hutzpah and confidence which has made the Conservative party the party for working class people.

He says to people, what do you want, what can we do for you rather than what can we do to you.

He reaches parts of the country we’ve never been able to reach before.

He encourages people to have a go. I think we’ve become very sober as a country and he’s been an antidote to that. n Dominic Cummings: Flawed, foul, arrogant.

He thought everybody else was stupid.

Some of the stories I heard, of the way he spoke to people – he was a bully and would have been out on his ear if he’d been in private practice. n Jeremy Corbyn: Principled,

Rees-Mogg? Oh, he’s my best mate... may well be our first leader of colour they wanted to give her because of a gravedigger’s strike. “It was very cruel and sad,” he says.

“I thought there was something wrong with a country where this was allowed to happen.”

From then on Simon was a committed Tory. Over the years the party’s popularity has waxed and waned. A series of crushing defeats in the late 90s made him ‘so sad’ but lately, with the acquisition of Hartlepool and with the Tories in the ascendant in former Labour strongholds, he believes people are now seeing what he’s always seen – that the Tories, rather than being an ‘us and them’ outfit, are the party of the people.

“We appointed the first Jewish leader, (Disraeli) the first two women leaders,” he said. “Labour could have

LET THERE BE CAKE: New Blackmore Vale magazine editor Miranda Robertson with Simon Hoare

done that, but they haven’t.

They have yet to appoint any woman as leader. I think we will be the first to appoint a person of colour (Rishi Sunak) as leader.”

stubborn, committed. In a weird way I admired him. He sat on the wrong side of the argument for 30 years and didn’t waver.

However I wouldn’t trust him to run a whelk stall. n Keir Starmer: Has a very difficult job. Hartlepool was a major blow to his party and of course it’s a long time until the next election.

I’m a great admirer of Keir – he is serious, thoughtful, a very kind man. n Maggie Thatcher: Principled, brave, pioneering. I think we forget just how groundbreaking her even thinking of standing for Parliament in ’59 was.

She accepted people may not like her and carried on. I was at a weekend house party aged about 12,

An ardent unionist, “A onenation Tory”, Simon is horrified the UK could be picked apart. He has long been absorbed in the history of the Troubles, and chairs

where she and Denis were guests and when the grown-ups went into another room us children were playing Trivial Pursuit when she walked by, just as I got a tricky chemistry question for a yellow cheese.

I knew she’d know the answer and she did, but she asked me what we were playing and on being told she bashed her fist on to the board, sending all the pieces of cheese flying and said: “If it’s trivial, then why pursue it?” n Jacob Rees-Mogg: My, best, friend. We are godfather to each other’s children, fellow Catholics. We disagree on most things but respect each other’s opinions. He is compassionate, supportive… What you see is what you get. I remember going on holiday with him when we were 18 and we were

the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee. He grew up in Cardiff, with Irish and Scottish family roots – it’s clear a potential break-up weighs heavily on his mind.

He’s had to suck Brexit up, however the word still visibly makes him wince.

But what makes him proud to be a Tory is that – although there are still some fairly stiff, toffee-nosed types in the party – he believes they are the only party to truly want to enable everyone to succeed. “We are the only party who are flexible, democratic and kind,” he says. “We are colourblind and class-blind.

Are there some bigoted Tories? Of course there are.

But for the most part the Tory Party I know is one of democratic pragmatists.”

He almost has me convinced.

all larking about, splashing around while he sat under an umbrella in a shirt and tie. That’s just him. He’d be fantastically uncomfortable doing anything else. He’s a bit like Marmite, you love him or hate him. I love him. n Donald Trump: Vile, vile, unspeakable. Totally unsuited to public life. No sense of grace. No sense of duty. Everything had to be a row and a punch-up. n Matt Hancock: Hardworking, deserving of more praise than he’s getting. n Rishi Sunak: The Coming Man. I think there’s something very interesting about Rishi.

He’s got a bit of the John Major about him, quietly making his way, rising without a trace. I’ve yet to hear anyone say ‘I hate Rishi Sunak’.

He’s a practical pragmatist.

11

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Cheers for the beers!

Residents at Beerchester – sorry, Barchester’s Trinity Manor care home in Sherborne celebrated National Beer Day in style.

They learned a little about this centuries old drink, with researchers saying that it was possibly being brewed as early as 8000 BC. Trinity Manor were thrilled to receive some amazing samples of locally brewed beer courtesy of Hall & Woodhouse, and even erected a beer tent with lots of nibbles for the residents to enjoy and which also showcased Badger Beer’s Dorset Dozen, including local favourites: The Golden Champion, The Fursty Ferret, The Hopping Hare and The Legendary

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GET THEM IN: National Beer Day at Trinity Manor

Tanglefoot. The residents really enjoyed sampling them, especially on such a gloriously sunny day.

Acting as waiter for the afternoon, deputy manager Paul was

certainly game for a laugh, donning his finest lederhosen.

The icing on the cake was a visit from John Hill, whose accordion playing attracted many of from the home to join in with the fun.

Guardianship company is nominated for an international award Pippa’s Guardians look after international students who are studying at boarding school in the UK. They have recently been named as a finalist in the PIEoneer awards – a worldwide award which celebrates innovation and achievement in the global education industry, recognising organisations who are pushing professional standards in the international student experience.

Pippa’s Guardians has been shortlisted in the Student Support category, in recognition of their Christmas Camp which was organised to provide a solution for international students across the UK who could not return home to their families following due to travel restrictions caused by the covid-19 pandemic.

The Christmas Camp was held at Westonbirt School in Gloucestershire for the

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The camp organised by Pippa’s Guardians offered students the opportunity to relax and revise, but their main objective was to keep students safe. The camp formed a covid bubble, which meant staff and students could not leave for the duration of the camp.

Staff therefore sacrificed Christmas with their own families.

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Friendship garden’s official opening Months of work by dedicated volunteers have gone into Fontmell Magna’s new friendship garden – and this weekend it will be officially opened with a guest of honour.

The garden was started as a project on the theme of ‘love, friendship and remembrance’ – a resource villagers could enjoy to boost their health and provide cut flowers to cheer up vulnerable villagers.

The project was backed by the social prescribing team at The Blackmore Vale Partnership.

Now the garden is starting to grow and bloom, and there will be a gathering for around 200 guests this Saturday, who will enjoy tea and cake, burgers and live entertainment.

The latest contribution came from Bryanston School, in the form of a very glam roadside sign.

14

SIGNS ARE GOOD: Martin Bolton and Sian Highnam and, inset, the sunflowers planted by children

Martin Bolton from the DT department and his pupils designed and made the sign to match the team’s logos and features the forget-menot, which villagers chose as their emblem.

Bryanston are also bringing a band to the garden open day.

The day promises to be great fun, with the Lord Lieutenant

as special guest.

Project coordinator Sian Highnam said: “Our event is outdoors and the only change we will be making is to have teas and cakes outside.”

An appeal in January for volunteers to turn the garden behind the surgery in Fontmell Magna into a flower garden as a green

prescription for the community received an overwhelming response, with some 110 villagers of all ages growing seeds, digging beds, sewing bunting and planting wild areas.

The cut flower garden will offer a place for the community to gather and collect flowers, a place to make posies to deliver to vulnerable villagers and a space for people to gather and enjoy nature.

Sian added: “I am so very, very proud of our very small village and what all the stakeholders are doing.”

Organisers are trying to keep the numbers to 200 for the open day to help with covid restrictions, and they have a pretty full guest list.

Anyone who would really love to go though, can email Sian at garden.fmvh @mail.com.

Dorset Wildlife Trust has acquired a large area of land south-east of Bere Regis the size of around 230 football pitches.

The site will showcase sustainable change in land use. The 170hectare site will be restored so that wildlife can flourish and people can connect with nature. Healthy ecosystems will provide homes for wildlife that is in critical decline in the UK and help battle the climate crisis by storing carbon in wetlands, soils and plants.

The trust wants to involve the local community with planning for the site to ensure their voices are heard and they are able to benefit from regular contact with nature.

Trust chief executive Brian Bleese said: “Given a chance, nature can play a key role in addressing

Trust buys up land in bid to boost wildlife climate change and environmental degradation. Our wildlife is also declining in both diversity and abundance and we need to make more space for nature.

“The acquisition of this land gives us a huge opportunity to bring back nature on a large scale and we look forward to working with the local community to involve people of all backgrounds and abilities in learning about and enjoying wildlife, while helping it to prosper.”

The acquisition was made possible with help from We Have The POWER founder

Julia Davies, who led on the purchase, giving DWT time to secure funds from several legacies left by dedicated trust members and supporters, as well as significant investments from BCP Council and Dorset Council.

The councils’ contributions came from the Community Infrastructure Levy, to mitigate the effect of additional nitrates entering Poole Harbour as a result of new housing and tourism developments.

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Sylvia’s in the market for items to sell to help air ambulance A Blandford market stallholder is appealing for items to sell in aid of the air ambulance.

Sylvia Gray, 69, sells her homemade cards and knitted items at the market every week.

But she wants to use her stall twice a year to raise money

for the vital lifesaving service after observing them rescue people three times in her old village, Edmondsham, near Cranborne.

She said: “It’s a tiny little village and we could never get the internet. So to see the air ambulance there three

times made me feel it was such an important service – it’s truly there for everyone, young and old.”

Sylvia needs good condition items to sell and to put in a tombola. She will run her first charity stall since 2019 in July.

She already has a few things

including knitted children’s garments. She would be happy to collect within a reasonable distance of Blandford, or people can bring it to Blandford market on Thursdays, where Sylvia has her stall in the Corn Exchange.

Call her on 01258 458279.

Trust us to take care of your church Fans of historic buildings are being invited to join the Dorset Historic Churches Trust.

The trust has been helping parishes to maintain and develop the fabric of their cherished churches for future generations for more than 60 years.

It has been a tough year for many charities, but DHCT ran its most successful Ride + Stride event ever last September.

Riders and striders from more than 170 churches across the county took part on bicycles, horses and on foot, raising an amazing £112,500 on a single day.

In the past five years the trust has awarded grants totalling £615,000 to 101 churches and hopes to build upon this achievement by strengthening its network of local volunteers during 2021.

If you have an interest in Dorset’s stock of ancient and beautiful churches, which are often listed as of historical and architectural importance, you could be just who they need.

The trust aims to extend its team of parish organisers to

PUT THE ROOF ON: Scaffolding going up at Enmore Green Church and, inset, the finished result

have one in every village or community where there is an active Christian church of any denomination.

It also wants to build up its team of area representatives, whose main work is to organise the annual sponsored event, Ride + Stride each September and to help churches apply for grants for repair and restoration schemes. If you might be

interested in joining an interesting group of likeminded enthusiasts, head to dhct.org.uk and see what goes on. There are many different ways of helping the trust and you need not be an active church-goer to join in.

There is as little formal paperwork as they can get away with. If you have an interest in the heritage of the county, they would love

to hear from you.

An example of DHCT’s recent work is the grant awarded to the church at Enmore Green, near Shaftesbury.

The trust was able to give £3,500 towards their £7,000 project to re-roof the tower and keep rain out of the beautiful little church for another hundred years.

Email: postbox@mg1.dhct.org.uk

Maintaining historic buildings with grants for 61 years Dorset Historic Churches Trust (DHCT) has for the past 61 years grant-aided maintenance work for churches and chapels of all Christian denominations in Dorset.

Total grants awarded over 16

the last five years have averaged over £110,000 per annum.

The priority has always been to assist with weatherproofing (roofs and stonework).

In recent years significant

funds have been granted to assist communities to adapt their cherished church buildings for wider use.

Further details of the work of the trust can be found on its website dhct.org.uk.

DHCT’s principal source of

funds is the annual sponsored Ride+ Stride (R+S) for churches around Dorset – more than 300 churches and chapels. In 2020, over 170 parishes took part raising more than £112,000.

Can you keep a secret story?

There are secret stories in Wincanton!

If you look carefully, you can find 10 tales, hidden in Wincanton Town Centre shop windows.

Scan the code on your phone and you can hear a story told by local schoolchildren, with the help of storyteller Sarah Lloyd-Winder.

Sarah and the children of Year 4 at Wincanton Primary School are part of the Secret Storyteller. Sarah said: “We are very excited and hope many people will find and enjoy the stories. No need to listen all at once. Listen to one and then do some shopping, or have a coffee, and come back to listen to more later. They will be there for a while so there is no need to rush. We have had a great time making these stories and we hope you have a great time listening.”

SECRET: Sarah Lloyd-Winder

The stories were released in a small but lively event on Saturday, June 12 next to Wincanton Library. Sue Shelbourn-Barrow, Mayor of Wincanton, opened the event and welcomed everyone: “The Secret Storyteller trail is an amazing project that showcases our secret writers who were present and a key part of the launch,” she said.

“This is a brilliant project for

all to enjoy!”

Sarah received grants from both the Arts Council and The Wincanton Town Centre Regeneration Events and Activity Grant (South Somerset District Council), to create the project: The Secret Storytellers of Wincanton.

Wincanton is looking for innovative and creative ideas to help create a more vibrant town centre as part of their regeneration programme. If you have an idea you would like to make happen, there is more information at southsomerset.gov.uk/ wincantonregeneration or please get in touch with Susi Calder on 07395 056661 or future@wincantontown council.gov.uk.

Future events funded by SSDC include the Bath Opera performance of The Barber of Seville on July 8.

Signs are good If you have old, broken or faded Farm or Horse watch signs and you would like to replace them or you would like a sign, please email RuralCrimeTeam@dorset. pnn.police.uk with your name, full address including postcode and the quantity of signs required and whether you’d like Farm or Horse watch signs. A member of the team will send these out via the post to you. n Maximum of four signs per address.

Staycation prize Dorset people have until July 16 to enter a free competition to win a fab staycation.

Neighbourhood Watch is giving away a ‘fun-filled treehouse adventure staycation’ to mark the end of a very successful Neighbourhood Watch Week.

Visit facebook.com/ourwatch to enter the prize draw.

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By Miranda Robertson newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

A new charity providing therapeutic education for children and young people with special educational needs is holding its first fundraiser.

Luccombe Hub is a PTAstyle charity supporting the work of The Luccombe Hub in Milton Abbas (luccombehub.com).

The Luccombe Hub is an alternative provision for youngsters with autism spectrum disorders, attachment conditions, ADHD, and an array of social, emotional, and mental health difficulties which mean they do not thrive in mainstream education.

The hub provides a gentler solution, with the help of animals and dedicated staff providing a ‘therapeutic and nurturing approach to learning which plays to strengths rather than

SPECIAL EDUCATION: The Luccombe Hub in Milton Abbas

Fundraising date to boost children’s therapy centre difficulties’.

The charity formed last year just before the pandemic, so organisers were thwarted in their fundraising efforts.

However on July 3 they are set to hold an open day and family fundraiser.

The day will include a summer Pimm’s bar, Arctic Cow ice cream, a smoothie and juice bar, a food van serving breakfast and lunch, massage tasters, freshly made cakes and animals from Luccombe Hub Farm.

There will be a class timetable to live DJ sets, gym tours, fitness testing, fun challenges and a raffle.

There will be live music from Echohead Band.

Visitors are asked to bring lots of spare change!

Founder Henri’s background is not only schools and horses Henri Monier-Williams, inset, launched EAQ Luccombe in 2017 after retraining in equine assisted learning.

She has 20 years of experience working with children, working in Asia for 10 years with underprivileged children. She taught riding, as well as riding for the disabled in Hong Kong, and still supports the Milton Abbas Group of the RDA at Luccombe Riding Centre.

She has been a therapeutic foster carer

for many years and Henri has a wealth of experience with children who have experienced trauma, insecure attachments, addiction, high anxiety, abuse, challenging behaviours and have been permanently excluded from school.

Henri is a qualified paediatric first aider, has her qualifications in safeguarding and has attended a 12week course run by CAMHS (Children and Adolescent Mental Health Services) in therapeutic

parenting and managing challenging behaviours.

She specialises in children with insecure or disorganised attachments and those who have experienced trauma. She works alongside Social Services, Dorset County Council Special Educational Needs Department, IFAs, schools and parents.

£16m funding award for groups helping to rehabilitate offenders Charities and companies which help rehabilitate offenders in the south west have been awarded almost £16m of Government funding to help cut crime in the new probation system.

In the South West, funding has been awarded to Women’s Services including the Nelson’s Trust, the 18

accommodation organisation, Seetec and Catch-22, a support service for mental health and family issues.

The investment will provide vital support services to help reduce reoffending.

By tackling the drivers of crime and getting offenders’ lives back on track, these

services will help to prevent thousands of people becoming victims each year and save some of the £18 billion annual cost of repeat offending.

Prisons and Probation Minister Alex Chalk said: “Tackling things like homelessness, unemployment and illiteracy

is vital to our drive to cut crime but these issues cannot be solved by our brilliant probation staff alone. The expertise and support of charities and companies like those we are funding today plays a crucial role in helping offenders to rehabilitate and lead a crimefree life.”

Roger chuffed with his two new roles Probus Club of Gillingham has a new chairman – and it’s new role number two for him.

Roger Ellis took over as club chairman at the AGM on May 11, but also as station master at Bishops Lydeard on the heritage West Somerset Railway at the beginning of this year.

Both these positions have meant a busy start to the year for Roger, especially on the railway, getting everything ready for the re-opening of services from the end of May. Railway enthusiasts and local residents are pleased to see trains running again, although through services to Minehead are unlikely to resume until September.

Nevertheless trains are running to Watchet, Blue Anchor or Dunster.

The past 18 months have also been difficult for the Probus Club as meetings

ALL ABOARD: Roger Ellis is Gillingham Probus Club’s new chairman and is also station master at Bishops Lydeard

ceased in March 2020 due to the pandemic. The committee have kept in touch with members through phone calls, popular weekly Zoom meetings, and since the easing of restrictions, coffee sessions on the Gillingham Town Meadow on a Wednesday and Friday morning. The club is hoping to celebrate a member’s 101st birthday in July, and there is a barbecue planned

for August.

The club hopes to start meetings at the North Dorset Rugby Club from September 7 and the vice chairman and speaker secretary Roger Lester is already looking to arrange suitable presentations for members from that date.

Roger said: “Both my new roles are very different, but the nicest part is the interaction I have with the

Probus Club members and my platform staff at Bishops Lydeard. I enjoy meeting people, and the club and the railway are people organisations. You have got to have fun, and it is so nice when you can make others smile even if it is at your expense!

“When friends learned that I was to become station master it was assumed that I like steam trains which is very far from the truth. I am currently chairman of the Swiss Railways Society if that gives a clue to my railway preference. I also enjoy attempting to play golf and have developed an affection for wearing colourful footwear.”

If you are retired, enjoy meeting others in a similar position then the Probus Club of Gillingham might be what you are looking for. Go to probus-gillinghamdorset.org.uk.

Highfield House Residential Care Home High Street, Castle Cary, Nr Yeovil, Somerset, BA7 7AN We are an Award-Winning Care Home For Elderly People, with Beacon Status in the Gold Standards Framework providing permanent and respite care for elderly people.

Our Vision is to be a leader in providing a responsive care service where the standard of care and calibre of staff are second to none, appreciating the unique qualities and needs of each individual.

People are pleasantly surprised by the social benefits they gain from moving to Highfield House which is close to all local amenities and has easy access to public transport.

Visitors are welcome in our Safe Covid Free Environment.

“We are all very friendly at Highfield House and would welcome any new comers.

There are such benefits from being amongst people and there is an excellent choice of activities and trips out. The staff are so kind and helpful.” Pat Bowman (Resident)

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email: manager@highfieldhouse.net Website: www.highfieldhousecastlecary.com 19

Head’s up for new wellbeing support

By Miranda Robertson

Dorset Mind is launching a new wellbeing support for young people affected by the pandemic.

The charity’s children and young people’s division Dorset Mind Your Head

(DMYH) has collaborated with local animation company, Little Blue Hut, to showcase the importance of support groups through visual storytelling.

This campaign, and their new activity-led wellbeing groups are launching in response to the rapid increase in demand for mental health support due to the knock-on effects from the pandemic.

In 2020, NHS Digital found that one in six children

identified themselves as having a probable mental health disorder, with around 40% of all children and young people reporting that the pandemic had made their mental health worse.

The wellbeing groups provide a key early intervention, improving the mood of 96% of young people.

Not knowing what to expect from groups, or not liking the thought of sharing with others can be a barrier to young people accessing support offered in this format. The new video aims to demystify this. It explores the anxieties of talking about thoughts and feelings to friends or family through relatable scenes of home working and school. The film also highlights the experience

of joining DMYH Wellbeing groups that provide safe nonjudgmental spaces for young people to express themselves with others like them – and a trained facilitator. It visually shows how expressing themselves with like-minded peers can make a huge difference. This can help young people understand what is going on for them.

Dorset Mind Your Head offers a range of groups for young people from ages 1118 across Dorset. They are delivered in two age brackets. The first new group ‘Craft n’ chat,’ was being held at Create @ Upton, this week, with the others following shortly after.

View the full animation at: bit.ly/DMYHWellbeingGroups or go to dorsetmindyourhead.co.uk.

The Summer Auction Jewellery, Watches and Cigar Memorabilia Thursday, 1st July at 10.30am Fine Art and Antiques Friday 2nd July at 10.30am Viewing: Monday, 28th June, 9.30am – 5pm Tuesday, 29th June, 9.30am – 5pm Wednesday, 30th June , 9.30am – 5pm From 9am on the morning of the auction day

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Plenty to see and do at town markets

By Miranda Robertson newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

I dunno… you wait a whole covid pandemic for a market and then two turn up at once!

Wincanton is set to play host to two markets this Saturday, June 26, keeping you entertained and fed right the way through from 8am until 9pm.

The first starts at 8am at Wincanton Sports Ground and will feature a range of stallholders from woodcraft, jewellery, candles, cakes, cheese, apple juice / cider, books, fabric and handmade items and hair accessories.

The market’s selection is growing regularly with more stallholders signing up since the first event was held in April.

The sports ground is run by

volunteers and held in a charitable trust (Wincanton Recreational Trust).

The volunteers have been hosting the market on the last Saturday of the month for two months and it has been steadily gaining momentum.

To enquire about having a stall head to the sports ground’s website or Facebook page (fb.me/e/1r0YmfXQo), where there are details of upcoming markets and the Christmas

How to prevent your house being sold to pay for care costs... by Maplebrook Wills Nobody likes to think about getting old, but it is certainly worth thinking about if you value your home. That is because your house could very well be sold by the local council to pay for your care fees. As an example, let’s say you own a home jointly with your partner and you live there until one of you dies.

The surviving partner continues to live in the house until they must go into a care home run by the local authority.

At that point, the local authority will assess the surviving partner for care fees. If their capital and savings are worth more than £23,250, they will have to fund their own care.

Councils place a charge on the property, which is paid when the house is sold.

Alternativly you may be required to sell the house immediately to raise the cash.

Money raised from the sale

of the house will fund your care until your savings get down to £23,250. That won’t leave much of an inheritance for your family and loved ones. There are two solutions to the problem available to you. One is a will trust which protects 50% of the value of your home from care costs.

The second is a living trust which shields 100% of the property.

Both are relatively inexpensive to put into place.

Every trust is administered by trustees, the trustees can be the partners or surviving partner and children.

The situation won’t get better over time. The UK’s fastestgrowing age group comprises those aged over 85. Councils will face even more pressure on budgets, leaving them with little choice but to continue to sell people’s homes.

To protect your home, contact Maplebrook Wills on 07832 331594.

Special in November.

When that market finishes at noon, the Wincanton Town Festival mARkeT takes over, running at 7 High Street, Wincanton, BA9 9JN, at the Greening The Earth Gallery, formerly Clementinas until 9pm.

This event aims to be more than just a market, say organisers. It aims to be a full body experience...

This one-off event is set in and around the grounds of a

truly captivating 17th century manor house located in the centre of Wincanton.

This historic venue will play host to a wide variety of ‘experiences’ that are sure to stimulate all the senses.

Artists from all disciplines will play, display, demonstrate and sell their special talents in and around this unique and picturesque setting.

In the walled garden and lower orchard, families will be invited to take part in woodland crafts, forager walks, learn about no dig gardening, or simply to pet the goats.

For more information email: wincantontownfestival@ gmail.com, follow on Facebook and Instagram @wincantontownfestival

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Business is booming for hut pioneer

By Steve Keenan newsdesk@ blackmorevale.net

The Dorset pioneer of contemporary shepherd huts says he is taking on more staff as his company is “flat out” with new orders.

Demand for holiday homes and garden offices has rocketed in lockdown, says Richard Lee, owner of Plankbridge.

Such is the interest that a century-old hut recently sold for £16k at auction when it was estimated to be worth £800 (New Blackmore Vale, June 11).

New Plankbridge orders have increased by 50% BOOM TIME: Richard and Jane in one of their Plankbridge huts since last autumn, which furloughed the team,” said we were up and running. I means that the company Richard. knew we were going to get workshop in Piddlehinton is “Then the number of very busy and we are. now quoting a nine-month inquiries started growing “We’re just flat out now lead time for delivery. and when we came back, and we are employing more “In the first lockdown we

people. We’ve an awful lot to do.”

A new furniture maker and project manager have joined this month to help

Steam tractor’s ‘living van’ sells for £2,200 A ‘living van’ historically pulled behind a steam tractor has sold at auction for £2,200 as interest in old huts continues to grow.

The van was owned by Richard Lee of Plankbridge and sold at Charterhouse auctioneers in Sherborne – the firm that sold an ancient decrepit shepherd’s hut for £16k recently.

The living van sold a little under the £2.5k-£3.5k estimate.

“It wasn’t a bidding frenzy by any means but it is what I would say it is worth, so it’s a sensible price,” said GOOD RESULT: The living van which sold for £2,200 Richard.

“I know what an enormous comes from Shropshire and Bromell. amount of time and expense who also has to collect it The 7ft x 12ft van is would be involved in the thought to have been built from Dorchester. by the Eddison Steam renovation so it’s a fair “Whilst it did not reach the Rolling company in price for the state it’s in.” stratospheric levels of the When VAT and commission last shepherd’s hut we sold, Dorchester.

Richard bought it from are added, the total bill was it is another good result,” Martinstown cricket club a £3,400 to the buyer, who said auctioneer Richard 22

decade ago.

It was used as an office but has recently been empty.

“I have always said I wanted to see it restored. I am hoping some enthusiast has bought it – and perhaps it could go back behind a steam engine.”

Despite the interest in old huts/vans with cast metal wheels, it’s not a market Plankbridge will be pursuing, said Richard.

“We used to restore a lot of huts. We had one chap and that was all he did – but we could easily build a new one in the same time. We are too busy to do it.”

However, he said the company does put people in touch, most recently a seller in Yorkshire and a buyer in Norfolk. “Yes, we will do that as long as it is not a distraction to the core business.”

as firm grows to keep up with demand plan and cope with the growth in demand.

“The root of what we do is still the Victorian hut – 95% of what we do is based on that, clad in corrugated iron,” said Richard.

“But huts are getting bigger and more complicated.

“And once you break out of that model a little bit, you get out your sketch book and you have the potential to go down all sorts of avenues.

“There is a lot of potential growth and that opens up a lot more creative ideas that we have. It is very exciting and it is led by the customer.”

New orders include one from a Dorset glamping company for a Tiny House, a concept in home downsizing now being adapted for the holiday rental market.

Other first-time recent projects have included a

HOME SWEET HOMES: One of the Plankbridge huts at their showrooms in Piddlehinton, near Dorchester

circular hut, plus a hut with a pitched roof and fully glazed end wall.

“The staycation market is there to be had for tourism businesses, and a lot of people are fully booked,” said Richard, whose company has been building

huts for 20 years.

“We design for the limitations of delivering by road – if they get any bigger, they would have to be module builds on site.”

Back in 2007, it was just Richard, his partner Jane and a part-timer building a

hut. Now his growing team is building up to 40 huts a year.

More than 500 have been delivered in total.

“The answer is to have the right staff,” he said, these days commonly hired via word-of-mouth recommendation or social media.

But Richard recalls the days when workers were hired through adverts in The Blackmore Vale Magazine.

“The business was practically built off The Blackmore Vale,” he said.

“We sold our first hut through the magazine and had loads of calls. Then a lady from Wells rang to ask if it was still available.

“I said no but I that I would be able to build her one…” n The sheep farmer who missed out on £16k shepherd’s hut: Pages 24-25

23

I wanted it for my wife: Sheep farmer

By Steve Keenan newsdesk@ blackmorevale.net

The sheep farmer who finally lost a £16k auction battle for a derelict shepherd’s hut has said he only wanted to buy it for his wife.

Bo Dacombe, 71, often spent nights during lambing season in a remote, open field shelter with no bed, electricity or water. “I had so many layers on, a flask of chocolate and a deck chair to sleep in,” she said.

But this April was the frostiest in the UK for 60 years as clear skies kept temperatures low overnight.

So when husband Graeme, 69, read about the auction in The New Blackmore Vale he set out to buy the hut for Bo – even though Charterhouse auctioneers in Sherborne had warned it was 120 years old, with rot, worm, damp and decay.

It also hadn’t been moved from a private garden on the outskirts of Shaftesbury for 50 years or more.

“I jokingly said I would be happy to start with a tent,” said Bo. But Graeme, an electrician by trade, set his heart on the original shepherd’s hut with a view to restoring it as a project.

The trouble was he was up against a Londoner who lives in a flat, probably has a second home for the hut, and was equally determined to buy.

“I went in with the view that the £5k mark would be OK,” said Graeme. “I came in at £5k and again at £8k. It was me and the Londoner. But at £10k, the bids go up by £500. I went to £12.5k and he got it at £13k.”

Telling me the story in a sunlit sheep pasture shaded by oaks at Sutton Row, near 24

FEEDING TIME: Bo Dacombe at the sheep pasture near Tisbury and, below, with husband Graeme and, inset, the £16k hut which was sold at auction to a bidder from London

Tisbury, he recognises he maybe went a bit too far.

“I have been to auctions. I am old school and like to be there. I knew there would be interest in the hut – but my head loses out to my heart on occasion. This was such an occasion.

“I have a love of older things and this hut was different. It had an original felt roof, it didn’t have galvanised sides. The fact that it had just a single door and window appealed – it was a proper shepherd’s hut.”

Having land and a flock of 60 purebred Shetland sheep was not high on the couple’s radar when they moved to Sutton Row 20 years ago and retired a decade later.

They had country

connections: Graeme’s grandfather bred cattle on a farm at Bockhampton, and Bo had lived around horses although neither had worked a farm. But walking and exploring the landscapes around Sutton Row brought them into contact with sheep farmers, and their interest grew.

“Every day without fail we would walk into Tisbury, three miles each way,” said Graeme. “We met a farmer who just had sheep there to

outbid in battle for £16k shepherd’s hut

keep his grass down. We started helping him, then we spent a year learning all about them.”

Their increasing interest led the couple to eventually buying 12 acres of parkland from another nearby farmer two years ago. Now the couple have 35 sheep on their own land, newly fenced into six fields, and another 23 in Tisbury.

This April, they brought all the pregnant ewes onto their own land to make it easier to

watch over – 11 lambs were born, the last one hanging on for three weeks.

“I would go down to the shelter at silly o’clock at night,” said Bo. “I sat there listening to Radio 2 and that last ewe finally came into the pen at 2am. Her lamb was born at 10am.”

So devoted have the couple become to the flock that only young rams go to slaughter, at Clarke’s butchery in Sixpenny Handley. The meat is sold to

near neighbours.

Any lambs sold are for breeding or grass cutting only. “We are very particular as to who takes the lambs.

“We won’t take them to market and won’t sell them for meat.”

The land generates some hay for feed, and the little income from meat is supplemented by Bo’s cake making. The sheep wool is worthless.

In essence, the sheep, land and fencing has taken their

life savings, says Graeme, and they now live largely off pensions – the money that nearly went to a shepherd’s hut was earmarked for more sheep shelters.

“We are only a smallholding but the sheep keep us more than busy. The ewes and lambs are all hand reared, so we spend a lot of time sitting with them. We have been fortunate to keep safe and well during these uncertain times. A few years back, I would have said that sheep were just white things in a field that ran away. But these are affectionate, real creatures and we are doing this for the love of the animals. It’s not a hobby, it has become our life.”

The couple clearly love being outdoors with the sheep, which all have names. The flock gives them purpose and they are just a few minutes’ walk from their cottage.

Bo is also very pleased with her new blue hair tint and they have a bouncy young labrador.

Looking back on the hut that got away, Graeme is philosophical. “We do not live in London or have a second home in Dorset! That said, we wish the anonymous London purchaser well, and hope they put the shepherd’s hut to good use. We just did not have enough money on the day.”

But he hasn’t given up hope.

“I am not desperate and I am not stupid – but if somebody genuinely has an older shepherd’s hut lying around in the back garden, I would be interested. But if it’s got LED, fitted units and laminated flooring, don’t bother!” n Do you have an old shepherd’s hut you no longer want? Let Graeme know via an email to newsdesk@ blackmorevale.net 25

On your bikes! Marnhull’s MAMILS

By Miranda Robertson newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

A group of Marnhull MAMILS (middle-aged men in Lycra) took to the Isle of Wight to raise much-needed cash for their kids’ school.

Members of St Greg’s PTFA poured themselves into the tight-fitting, brightlycoloured leisurewear for a special Tour de Isle of Wight – a 100km cycle around the island.

Their aim was to make as much money as possible for St Greg’s School’s swimming pool – and they weren’t disappointed.

Donations currently stand at around the £5,000 mark.

And organisers are delighted.

Barry Shea, who is taking over as chairman of the PTFA, said: “We felt there was a lot of pent-up goodwill in the village following the trials of covid, the community wanted to share some positivity and what better way than to support the local children.

“The fundraisers came from every walk of life, local shopkeepers, local business owners, farmers, a builder, a teacher, all coming together to show their support for good local causes.

“Some have taken to cycling, some have rediscovered their love of cycling, all have enjoyed the

craic. The school is blessed with this great asset (outdoor pool) but it is not cheap to run and it is thanks to the PTFA that we can each year bring the pool into use and help the children learn to swim and of have a bit of fun.”

He added: “What we had repressed was that we are all

now in fact Mamils. Many of the participants had not ridden for many years.

“So squeezing into Lycra and reacquainting ourselves with razorblade width saddles represented some of the less glamorous elements of the training…”

In total, 14 riders took up the challenge.

The day started at 5.30am with a ferry trip from Lymington on a glorious sunny morning before the riders set off on the epic voyage around the island.

Barry said: “As cyclists it is a genuine treat, enough hills to keep you honest and in turn providing epic vistas.

“Nearly all the roads are in

MP critical of government decision to delay Freedom Day West Dorset’s MP Chris Loder has criticised the government’s decision to delay Freedom Day by four weeks.

Following the statement from the Health Secretary to the House of Commons, Chris said: “Without some significant evidence to support the extension of lockdown restrictions, it is not in Dorset’s interests to continue these restrictions any further and I therefore cannot vote in support of this 26

extension if it comes to the House for a vote. We are going to have to live with this virus. We cannot go on penalising sensible and responsible people here in Dorset, especially those who are older and vaccinated and when the case rate is only 3.6 cases per hundred thousand in the over 60s.

“The week before this announcement, throughout Dorset, we had just one person who was poorly in hospital with

covid. It has almost been two months since anyone has died from covid in Dorset.

“Public Health England are not talking about the real health issues that we experience such as making sure that older people can see their doctor in person if they need to, get access to dentists, get progress with routine operations and make sure we get people make to daily life.”

are a bit of all Wight in pool fundraiser

excellent condition, considerate drivers, coffee stops galore, fish and chips, the list goes on and on.

“A ride through Ryde was a highlight of the day as we promenaded along the sea front, admiring the view across to the spinnaker at Portsmouth, all feeling rather surreal it must be

noted in the wake of this long period of lockdown, finding ourselves weaving between holidaymakers and day trippers enjoying the full ice cream experience on the beach.

“Our brief sojourn with the masses over we headed for the chain ferry at Cowes and the final leg of our ride.”

Special mentions go to Debbie, Julian, Alice and Imogen for their support on the route, Chris for his navigation and calming influence at the front of the peloton, Dan B for three punctures, Dan B, Dan W, Atul, Tom H & Gia for each tumbling off their steeds with good grace and Dan V

for giving up smoking.

Barry said: “All our sponsors, thank you all so very, very much.

“You have helped make memories that will last a lifetime for us riders and the children of St Greg’s.” n stgregorymarnhull.dorset .sch.uk/ptfa-parentsteachers-friends-association

Church hosting special market to beat the covid blues Shillingstone Church Centre is holding a special market to try to combat the covid blues.

Organiser Pam Glanville said: “We have all been feeling rather ‘fed up’ and isolated due to the covid restrictions during the last year or so.

“As a result, we are holding a village market on the first Saturday in each month, combining this with the usual monthly coffee morning from 10.30am-

12pm. Many of you have spent the lockdown days growing fruit and vegetables in your gardens and allotments and maybe have surplus produce that you wish to sell.

“Our market will be the ideal venue to bring along any produce, preserves, cakes, etc (in fact anything home produced) to earn yourselves a little extra cash.

“Alternatively, if you just wish to buy,

have a coffee and chat with friends, please join us!”

There’s no charge for a table for you to lay out your wares, but organisers would appreciate a donation to help with the cost of management of the Church Centre.

There is no need to pre-book a table but you can do so, if you wish, by calling Pam Glanville on 01258 860370.

The first market is on Saturday, July 3.

27

Volunteers offer bags of help to clean up

Wincanton-based voluntary river group Catch carried out a litter pick on Saturday, June 13.

Sadly they were unable to open the event up to the general public due to the current covid restrictions, but they look forward to inviting everyone to future picks when restrictions are lifted.

The group split in to two groups, one group headed downstream from the weir at the bottom of Race Course Hill in Wincanton and the second group downstream from the town’s Recreation Ground.

The pick was very successful and a significant amount of litter was removed.

For more information on the work of the group or if you’d like to get involved see rivercale.org. Longer term the group are investigating plans to remove and bypass two significant WE’VE BIN BUSY: Catch members gather with their haul impoundments on the river. of rubbish and inset, trawling the River Cale for trash

No mowing for Somerset’s verge teams

South Somerset District Council left space to go wild in support of Plantlife’s ‘No Mow May’ project.

SSDC implemented a No Mow Trial, by letting the flowers bloom and species prosper across certain SSDC-owned spaces, ensuring the areas provide a vital source of sustenance for our pollinators and new habitat for all species.

The mowing routine was changed in Castle Cary, Ansford, Milborne Port, Cucklington and Ilminster to allow wild plants to flower and then set seed, hopefully creating enough nectar for ten times more bees and other pollinators.

You’re also more likely to spot a greater variety of flowers popping up in your community over the seasons now that these areas are not being cut five times a year.

This No Mow conservation project has been developed in collaboration with South 28

Somerset communities, parish and town councils and the council’s skilled grass cutting crews.

The council is inviting people to join in too. Anyone with a patch of land, however small, can do this. Mark out your area and leave it to thrive through the summer and beyond. Find out more at plantlife.org.uk/ uk/about-us/news/how-to-mowyour-lawn-for-wildlife.

Councillor Sarah Dyke, SSDC’s portfolio holder for Environment, said: “This past year has made us all realise the importance and benefits of nature more than ever. During lockdown we saw how the natural world thrived when not interfered with by humans. The SSDC No Mow trials are a way we can reassess how and where we mow SSDC land, it will inspire us to look at marginal spaces in a different way, and break the habitual cycle of mowing for mowing’s sake, by

NO TO THE MOW: Councillor Sarah Dyke

allowing them to become biodiverse havens for wildlife.”

SSDC horticulture specialist Stephen Fox said: “Our team is looking forward to altering the cutting regimes and monitoring how the verges and open spaces respond to this new approach.

“We do appreciate that this change might generate some interest as residents start to see our green areas looking different, we are always happy

to answer questions on our approach and we will use all our learning from this year to inform even wider programmes for next year. Thanks to all the parishes and groups who have stepped forward to be part of the trials, by demonstrating how valuable this approach will be for wildlife, linking up spaces for nature, we hope many more areas will be on board for next year.”

Grub’s up: Community larder is set to be officially opened The Millbrook Hub Community Larder will be officially opened on June 29.

Castle Cary Town Council will open the Community Larder at Millbrook Hub by the car park, in collaboration with Churches Together and Cary Cares.

This is a food sharing venture which

means people of the community can both bring surplus larder food and produce for the advantage of others, and take home others’ tasty items for themselves.

It is totally free, staffed by volunteers and supported by local businesses.

The aim is to reduce food waste and benefit the community – helping top up pantries and sharing good harvests.

It will be open Tuesdays and Thursdays 8.30am-10.30am and 3pm to 5pm, Contact Castle Cary Town Council on 01963 359631

Dolls’ fundraiser

Staff stride out in Wrong Trousers Staff at a Gillingham care home wore their silliest Wrong Trousers in aid of Bristol Children’s Hospital.

Care South’s Fern Brook Lodge care home took part in Wallace and Gromit’s Wrong Trousers Day to support the hospital’s many critically ill children, babies and their families.

Activities lead Jan Howell said: “Everyone had a fantastic time getting involved and it certainly put a smile on our residents’ faces too, especially when they saw chef Darren in his clown trousers.

“Wrong Trouser Day is officially on Friday, July 2, but anyone can take part earlier if they wish to do so.”

There will be live music with The Sturminstrels, a DJ, a draw, tombola, white elephant and new to you clothes stalls in the garden at the Fiddleford Inn on Saturday, July 10 in aid of the Teenage Cancer Trust.

Organisers the Dorset Dolls are a group of five friends who like having fun, but try to raise funds for a charity every year.

Their event will be held from 11am to 3pm. Entrance is free, but donations are invited. They would love any donations for the tombola and raffle prizes.

Call Linda Wilton on 07922 506765 or email lynjean48@gmail.com.

Plant fair for hall Poyntington is holding a plant fair to raise money for the maintenance of the village amenities.

The fair will be held on Sunday, July 4 from 2pm onwards.

Museum’s new display on cyber war

By Steve Keenan newsdesk@ blackmorevale.net

Reflecting the changing nature of warfare, the reopened Royal Signals Museum has introduced a new display on the threat and danger of cyber attacks.

The museum at Blandford Army Camp, home of the Royal Corps of Signals is moving with the times while retaining a wide range of displays.

They include Women at War, Spies Codes and Secret Agents, wartime SAS and

SOE and Animals at War – including the famed VC pigeon.

The museum receives more than 20,000 visitors a year, both civilian and military, and runs an active education and outreach programme.

The cyber exhibit features the military cyber warfare role of the Army – with tips on how to keep your laptop safe.

“This is a museum for families and anyone interested in history, science or technology as well as for military and radio

enthusiasts,” said the museum’s deputy director Adam Forty.

“Our mission is to entertain, educate and demystify the world of communications science and history.

“With many hands on interactive displays, the museum depicts the crucial role of command and control on the battlefield – which can mean the difference between victory and defeat.”

Collections include military vehicles and DR Motorcycles from the First World War to date.

And later this year, a new storytelling exhibition will open featuring the stories of soldiers as told in their own words in an immersive display illustrated by wall sized videos, photographs and artefacts. n The museum is currently open on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

Bookings must be made by phone (01258 482248) and lines are open on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, 10am-1pm. More information at royalsignalsmuseum.co.uk.

29

Our Loose Canon...

with Canon Eric Woods DL

This cancel culture is a slippery slope In August 1949, Winston Churchill addressed the first reunion of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe with these famous words: “Prenez garde, je vais parler français.

I am going to borrow his warning for this article: “Prenez garde, je vais parler à propos de pleurnicherie” which, being translated, means “Take care, I’m going to talk about whingeing.”

A whinge about whingeing? It sounds contradictory. But everywhere you turn these days, there is far too much whingeing going on. Some famous and notable people have turned it into their stockin-trade. Although claiming to be in search of a quiet and private life, they seem to thrive

on whingeing at every opportunity.

But, like the covid pandemic, it’s everywhere. In Kenton, a village outside Exeter, the chiming of the church clock in the tower of the fine 15th century parish church has been silenced by Teignbridge Council following receipt of a complaint from just one parishioner. As a village bellringer put it, “Remember, the complainant has moved to be near the church. The church hasn’t moved to them!”

Meanwhile at my old Oxford college, Magdalen, a photograph of The Queen has been removed from the Middle Common Room at the instigation of just one of the graduate members of the MCR – an American. And also in

Oxford, there is a campaign to boycott the lectures of all the Fellows of Oriel College because they have voted to retain the statue of Cecil Rhodes. Some academics in other colleges are even refusing to teach Oriel undergraduates.

And who is running this pathetic and puerile campaign?

None other than the Provost (Head) of Worcester College, Professor Kate Tunstall – known in her own college as “Red Kate” (she steps down from her interim position at the end of this month).

Now I do not dispute for a minute the right of anyone to have views about anything – from bells to statues. But I do dispute their right to attempt to impose their views on others or, to use the modern parlance,

to attempt to “cancel the culture” of those with whom they do not agree.

Where is all this intolerance coming from? It is far too simplistic to blame the lockdown, though that has undoubtedly given some people a shorter fuse than is good for them. No, something deeper and more profound is going on. When people try to silence, overrule, or “cancel” others (who may well be in the majority) simply because they have different opinions, then we need to be very much on the alert. That way danger lies.

It is a slippery slope to the loss of our hard-won freedoms, and to the rule of those I call the “Thought Police”.

Think about it, whilst you still can.

Golf trolley with battery, charger & instruction book. £100 cash only 01935 872269 Garden spreader for seeds/ fertiliser, rotary £35.00 07523 564678 Kings Stag.

Injured jockey fund calendars (35) from 1980 in good condition with envelopes plus 11 others including 2007 wi £35 01722 711456.

Galv. feed bin with hinged lid 5cwt size vermin proof £30. 01722 711456.

Cast iron wheels x 2 size 12" x2" 5 spokes with stub axles £40 01722 711456.

Hotpoint tumble dryer 8kg model tom580 b energy Aquarius £45 01722 711456.

Ladies Raleigh Chiltern Cycle with stand. In good condition £50. 07817 853224.

JBL bar/studio sound bar with Bluetooth, width 614mm x height 58mm x depth 86mm, brand new,

sealed £40. 01963 362561.

RST TracTech motorbike all-in-one leather race suit.

Blue, white and black. UK size 44. Little used, £100.

01963 362561.

One year old Jacob Sheep Ram very handsome. Hand reared and easy to handle. £75. Bishopstone Please ring Olivia 07903 314523.

54 med & lg strong packing boxes. VGC. £20 01963 23922.

Free-standing and wall fitting unused bird tables POA. Tel 01747 820392 7 lengths of 12 foot timber 4x2 treated - £40 01258 268810.

Run with house attached for Bantams or Rabbits £40 01258 268810.

Small duck house suitable for 4-5 ducks - £45 01258 268810 Baby Weaver wooden highchair, excellent condition, hardly used £50.

01747 854983.

Pelham puppet witch + frog puppet, good condition. £30 for both.

01747 852408.

Constantine bone buttons, steel reeds, no wrist straps, in original case. Good condition, £70. 01747 852408.

Florabest electric, long reach hedge cutter, excellent condition. £30 cash, buyer collects. 01747 822772.

Almost new walking aid including shopping bag £35 ono. 01935 412892.

Grundig radio/tape deck/6 auto CD changer plus users manual £45ono 01935 412892 Flymo glider mower like new still have box and instructions, electric £40. 07523 564668.

2 pairs men’s jeans (New) straight leg 342 waist, 302 leg £7.50 each. Shaftesbury 07773 657363.

Two quality 2 drawer 52(W)x52(D)x58(H)cm

Items for Sale Pop up gazebo with side panels 300cm x 300cm x 270cm £30 Tel 01963 363660.

Singer sewing machine model 2263 new £55 Tel 01963 363660 Bestway Comfort Camp bed £19cmm x 64cm x 42cm, easy fold aluminium frame £20 01963 363660.

Beauclaire Gas BBQ in carrying bag with burner legs, cast iron griddle ideal for home/camping £20 01963 363660.

Metal filing cabinet 2 draw £15 Tel 01963 363660.

Hexagonal Gazebo 2mx2mx 2m, windows & zip door - to be collected.

Tel 01963 364632.

Small dog cage, £10. Two single blow up beds and pump, £15ono.

01747861044 1 electric strimmer, 2 electric hedge cutters, 1 electric chainsaw £10 each 01747 861044.

Motocaddy S1 Electric 30

Defeated Liz stepping down The former Liberal Democrat nominee for Wiltshire and Swindon Police and Crime Commissioner Liz Webster is stepping down ahead of the re-run election on August 19 for personal and family reasons.

She said: “Having had some time to reflect since the botched Wiltshire & Swindon PCC election, I am sorry to disappoint supporters and announce I will not be putting my name forward to be the Liberal Democrat candidate.

“Like everyone else outside the leadership of the Conservative Party, I was shocked to discover the news of their disgraceful actions in not telling voters that their candidate, Jonathon Seed had been convicted of a drink driving offence and so was ineligible to stand for

STEPPING DOWN: Liz Webster

election as PCC. “The delay in making that statement until after the polls had closed was cynical and disgraceful. Had voters known about it before they voted, I believe I would have been elected and would now be hard at work as the new Police and Crime Commissioner. That action

means a new election costing taxpayers around £1.5m and today I renew my call on the Conservative Party to pay this bill as they are the cause of it.

“When I learned there would have to be a by-election, I assumed that just like when an MP or councillor resigns or dies, that election would take place promptly, only to discover it will not happen for three months. This was an exhausting election campaign and the prospect of another three months of campaigning simply does not work for me for personal and family reasons.

“So I am disappointed to say that I am stepping away from the candidacy, but I will still be working with the campaign team and I am delighted my good friend Cllr Dr Brian Mathew is stepping up.”

n Outline plans to build up to 65 homes on land east of Gold Hill Business Park in Lower Common Road, Child Okeford, have been refused by Dorset Council.

The outline application by Leaper Land Promotion for the 2.9 hectare agricultural field, opposite a site where plans for 68 homes were refused on appeal last August, where a new application for 28 homes is now being considered, was turned down on June 3.

Grounds for refusal included the site’s lack of sustainability, being some distance from the village centre, and the development’s unacceptable impact on the character of the village and Hambledon Hill.

In addition to objections from some statutory consultees, there had been over 200 neighbour objections, together with those of the parish council and CPRE, and only four representations in favour highlighting the economic benefits of the proposal.

Items for Sale modern light wooden bedside tables with chrome handles: £35. Bargain. Call 01963 251884.

Decking oil by Mann’s, 5 litres,clear, £12, less than half price. 01747 840641.

Revlon magnifying makeup mirror as new.

Illuminated with adjustable stem. Less than half price. £25. 01747 840641.

Baby car seat and base. 2 way fix Pebble Plus,no accidents. Grandparents selling. Cost c.£350. Now £80 01747 840641.

Cobra Rotary Mower 18" cut, 7 different cutting heights, 35cc engine, little used in excellent condition £50ono. 01258 453301.

Wall plates by Lena Lou tulip ensemble 217 issue 1991 plus 5 other plates new £10 each 01722 711456.

EP racing boat radio controlled transmitter 380 high speed motor twin props length 700mm width

252mm £45 01722 711456.

Bertram Mills Circus Olympia 1952 programme, 35 answers Britain’s national journals 1952, poular garden mags 1967, offers 01722 711456.

Old Belling electric metal bed warmer working order £10 01722 711456.

Our Dogs magazine 1950 320 pages £5 01722 711456.

Launch brochure rms Mauritania july 28th 1938 £25 01722 711456.

Hunter chasers ptpt books 1961 to 1988 by hh geoffrey sale mackenzie selby offers 01722 711456.

One gallon plnk paraffin can good condition £25 01722 711456.

Vintage Stewart Turner pump No10 (not tested). £10. Pet basket 18”dia. £10 01258 861032.

Men’s Hybrid touring bike with panniers.

Shogun 18 gears £125 ono.

01747 811238.

Ride on mulching mower 42" cut Craftsman £325 ono Tel 01747 811238.

1970s Portmeirion coffee set £40. Metal double bed headboard £20. Wooden display cabinet - sliding glass doors £45. Tel: 07884 102777.

Chaff Cutter, Saw Bench, Stationary engines etc. All offers considered call 01747 854561.

Folding treadmill. Horizon omega 2, VGC, £150ono, collection only. 01747 840355.

One free rider, Westminster mobility scooter, silver.

VGC, 2 speed with hood. £950. 01747 860241 White motocaddy golf trolley, complete with charger, VGC £70 01747 860241.

Four garden compost bins, £5 each. Buyer collects.

01963 351639 / 07971 973308.

7 SAT NAVS FOR SALE never used various makes plus charger £300 for all 7 Tel 01258 472341 BODYFIT ELECTRIC MINI TREADMILL - 500 watts - never been used £120ono 01258 454102 BALED SHREDDED PAPER. Ideal for animal bedding or packing.

50 kilo bales £10 each 07714 289400.

20G LINCOLN PREMIER GOLD, O/U, mint condition, £475.

Anschutz 1517 rifle, with telescopics (offers). 01747 822540 / 07974034439 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

31

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

Please phone with any sigh琀ngs or informa琀on.

She is very 琀mid but very loved and greatly missed.

Call 07717 853895 or 07963 509120

32

Letters

Thank you for all the railway features I had to write and tell you how much I enjoy reading all of the rail-related articles that you include in your excellent magazine, especially those concerning the much-missed Somerset & Dorset Railway. It is good that you help to keep the memory of this wonderful line very much alive and oh how useful it would be, now, in providing us with a direct link between Bournemouth and Bath and onwards to the midlands and the north.

Admittedly, you can of course still travel by rail direct to Bath from Castle Cary and Bruton but, if you want to go by train to Bournemouth you must, again, go to Bruton or Castle Cary and then change at either Upwey or Dorchester West where, at the latter, you then have to walk to Dorchester South, to catch another train towards Bournemouth. The station at Bournemouth Central is also not very central and is a long way from the beach, whereas Bournemouth West was much closer and I speak as one who went to Bournemouth by train many times with my parents when I was a child. Nowadays I need to travel, quite often, to Radstock, Shepton Mallet and Blandford and it would be so nice to be able to do these journeys by train rather than by car. If the S&D was indeed uneconomical in the 1960s and had to be closed, why did the powers that be not at least preserve the infrastructure so that it could be reopened in the future because, to quote Sir John Betjeman in his programme ‘Let’s Imagine a Branch Line Railway’: “Road traffic is becoming increasingly hellish on this overcrowded island!”

Well, he said that in 1963 and it has become ever more hellish since then.

To close it was one thing but to literally set about obliterating it not long after it was closed was nothing short of institutional vandalism. Once viaducts have

their greenery. Shaftesbury, for example, promotes walks around the town that take people to the most outstanding examples. What a pity Sherborne has no regard for its own assets in this way.

Dean Carter Sherborne

Cartoon by Lyndon Wall

justsocaricatures.co.uk

been blown up, stations knocked down and built over and cuttings filled in, it is a near impossibility to reopen a railway. Although they did manage to do that with the Borders Railway – but that is in Scotland!

Surely it would have been much better to have converted the entire route to a Trailway, as has happened on sections of the line since closure, so that at least the trackbed, buildings and viaducts could be largely preserved.

It is often Dr Beeching who is blamed for the line’s demise and, certainly, it was he, together with the help of the awful Ernest Marples and the Conservative Government, who earmarked it for closure. However, it was actually Tom Fraser and the Labour Government, under Harold Wilson, who consented to its demise. So, in a way, we have both the Conservatives and Labour to thank for not having the railway any more and for its hasty destruction. Therefore, I say, all power to the likes of the North Dorset Railway at Shillingstone and to the Somerset & Dorset Railway Heritage Trust at Midsomer Norton for trying to restore at least a part of the wonderful S&D. Long may all of their efforts

continue and be fully supported and encouraged by the New Blackmore Vale Magazine and, more especially, by the good people of Somerset & Dorset.

Marc Stowell Wincanton n While applauding the scheme afoot for the re-opening and use of Sherborne House as an arts centre, the fact that the first step towards it has been an act of appalling environmental vandalism does not bode well to subsequent developments.

I refer, of course, to the senseless felling of most of the beautiful limes which had hitherto so artfully framed the building.

What possible justification can there be by those in charge for depriving the town and house of itself one of the most beautiful aspects of the site, depriving future visitors of their shade and beauty, birds of their nests, and everybody in the vicinity of the improved air quality that their exhalation of oxygen produces?

I moved to this town 20 years ago and was most impressed by how green a town it was, with so many trees gracing its centre. I would estimate that about 50% of them have subsequently been felled in that time. Other towns in Dorset appreciate and guard

n I am writing to say a big Thank You to Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service. Having called them in the morning, as one of my smoke detectors had stopped working properly, I had a visit from them early afternoon with two new smoke detectors fitted.

So very well done, a quick and efficient service, and free! I was very impressed.

M Buckingham Sherborne n Last weekend my daughter and her husband visited me from the Forest of Dean for just a few hours to check up on how this Old Biddy was coping throughout the covid pandemic, and having a morning to spare we decided to check up on some little hidden treasures of Dorset – visiting Olives et al at Sturminster Newton and were so pleased at the very warm welcome we received, they really are an excellent example of a good family outlet. After stocking up our larders, decided on the way home, to call in at the Shillingstone Railway Project to rest a while, enjoying the fantastic views across the valley to Hambledon Hill, and partake of hot homemade pasties for lunch.

I felt so privileged that I was able to enjoy such wonderful Dorset treasures just a few miles from my home. Everywhere I felt was covid safe, so how fantastic is that. The weather was hot, so please don’t despair at not going abroad for your holiday there is so much to see, explore and enjoy right here on your doorstep.

Della Jones MBE Winterborne Zelston 33

Food & Drink

Cooking...

with Mrs Simkins

Broccoli Bake Actually, that’s not quite right! As any gardener knows, the large round green heads sold as broccoli in the shops, are a fair-weather cousin of true broccoli, known as calabrese.

True broccoli is the slow maturing purple (or white) sprouting version with loose florets, harvested from November to March.

Calabrese has a large, round, deep green head, a slightly milder taste, and is harvested from mid-summer to midautumn.

Cook calabrese briefly: break into florets and steam or stirfry for around three minutes or until just tender, bright green, sweet and nutty.

This lovely way with broccoli (I mean calabrese!) makes a delicious light dish for summer on its own with crusty bread. It’s also a wonderful accompaniment for roast chicken: roast a few potatoes, cut into chunks and scattered with herbs, while

Handful of herbs such as thyme, parsley, and oregano, finely chopped

you’re at it, and you’re all set for a perfect summer Sunday roast.

Serves 2 as a light lunch or 4 as a side dish 1 small-medium onion, diced 125g closed cap or button mushrooms, sliced 1-2 tablespoons oil 300g calabrese, broken into florets Plus 300g tub full-fat crème

Mum’s Kitchen...

Apricot and Coconut Bars Ingredients: 175g (6oz) dried apricots 3 tablespoons orange juice 175g (6oz) butter 2 tablespoons golden syrup 80g (3oz) plain flour 1 ¼ teaspoons bicarb 80g (3oz) desiccated coconut 115g (4oz) jumbo oats 175 (6oz) demerara sugar Grated zest of 1 orange Method: Preheat the oven to 190C/fan oven 170C. Grease and line a 20cm (8in) square tin.

Place apricots and orange juice in a saucepan and bring to the boil. Remove from the heat 34

and leave to cool.

Puree the apricots in a blender or processor.

In a saucepan, melt the butter and syrup together. Remove from the heat and stir in the flour, bicarbonate of soda, coconut, oats, sugar and orange zest, mixing well.

Spoon half the mixture onto the prepared tin. Spread the apricot puree over and smooth with a palette knife, then top with the remaining coconut mixture. Smooth the top with a palette knife.

Bake for 30-40 minutes until set and golden brown. Mark into bars, and cut and lift from the tin when cold. Store in an airtight tin.

fraiche 2 rounded tablespoons mayonnaise 1 generous teaspoon Dijon mustard Garlic puree to taste Generous pinch of chilli flakes (optional) Freshly ground black and ground white pepper to taste Plus 25g dry breadcrumbs Around 15g mature Cheddar cheese, grated

Steam the calabrese for around three minutes or until bright green and just tender.

Set aside.

Fry the onion gently in the oil until soft but barely covered. Add the mushrooms halfway.

Spread the onions and mushrooms over the bottom of the dish and arrange the calabrese on top.

Blend the crème fraiche, mayonnaise, mustard, garlic puree black pepper, and chilli flakes (if using) in the empty pan, heat gently and pour over the vegetables in the dish.

Combine the breadcrumbs, cheese and herbs and scatter thickly on top.

Bake for 10-15 minutes until piping hot and bubbling.

MrsSimkins.co.uk twitter.com/MrsSimkinsCooks email: info@MrsSimkins.co.uk

with Diana Holman

Food & Drink

Feel in the pink with nourishing chard and radish dish

Rebecca Vincent is a Wincanton nutritionist

Rainbow (Swiss) chard is coming to the peak of its summer season, and not only does it look beautiful on a plate with its multicolour stalks, but it offers a wide variety of beneficial nutrients.

Chard is a great source of carotenes, vitamins B6, C, E and K, thiamine, folic acid, niacin, potassium, magnesium, iron, calcium, manganese, and selenium.

Radishes are an incredibly versatile, colourful perk of the season that is great for more than just salads. They

are an excellent source of vitamin c, folate, potassium, and manganese and even contain coenzyme Q10 a fatsoluble antioxidant coenzyme.

Radishes are very low in carbohydrates and low on the glycemic index, making them a great option for those watching their carbohydrate intake.

Whilst both chard and radishes can be eaten raw, in this recipe we will be cooking both. Cooking radishes

mellows their peppery flavour and adds a slight sweetness that compliments the bitter greens beautifully.

The recipe, and the vegetables, offer a wide variety of colours and therefore an abundance of polyphenols, chard alone is thought to contain as many as 13 different polyphenol antioxidants.

Sautéed Swiss chard and radishes (Serves 2) 1 big handful or 150g

rainbow chard 6 large or 8 small radishes 1 garlic clove (finely grated) small knob of butter or glug of extra virgin olive oil black pepper Optional toppings: a sprinkling of feta, parsley, and /or mixed seeds Wash the chard and radishes.

Separate the stalks from the leaves of the chard and set both aside, top and tail, then quarter the radishes lengthways.

Heat a frying pan on a medium-high heat, add the butter and radishes, sauté for around three minutes, stirring occasionally until they are just starting to colour. Add the stalks from the chard and the garlic and sauté for a further two minutes, continuing to stir so the garlic doesn’t catch.

Finally, add the leaves from the chard and mix in until wilted. Serve with toppings of your choice.

Lovely with poached fish or piled on a slice of sourdough toast.

Rebecca Vincent BSc BANT registered nutritionist rebeccavincentnutrition.co.uk

Ideas sought for ‘hidden’ foodie places

By Steve Keenan newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

Hidden places across the Blackmore Vale with a foodie history are being invited to throw open their doors in September.

Heritage Open Days is an annual event whereby free access is given to buildings and places not normally open to the public.

And this year’s tasty theme is Edible England, so organisers are looking for a food-related twist to hidden places and are inviting venues to take part.

One idea has already come

from The Landmark Trust, which is opening up the Clavell Tower above Kimmeridge Bay – where staff will tell visitors what dinosaurs on the coast used to eat.

Other ideas from around the country include Picnic like a Victorian in Hertfordshire and Funeral Feasts in Barnsley – food traditions that took place in graveyards.

With the Blackmore Vale’s dairy history, there will be plenty of opportunities for milk and cheese-related buildings to open up plus perhaps special openings of flour mills and breweries?

The event runs from September 10-19 and Heritage Open Days is now inviting ideas.

“We are increasingly becoming a nation of foodies and what we eat and drink is at the heart of much of our history and culture, our communities and daily lives,” said programme manager Sarah Holloway.

“The theme will inspire a broad spectrum of events and activities, from revealing culinary tastes of the past, to going behind-the-scenes of modern production methods, exploring the customs and quirks that have developed

around what we eat and drink, as well as the fascinating history of some of our regional and national specialities.

“Through a mix of in-person and digital events, communities will celebrate the stories of the places, plates and produce that are important to them, both locally and further afield.”

For more information and to register an event, go to heritageopendays.org.uk.

All events are free but most will need to be booked in advance. Sadly, the access to Clavell Tower is already sold out.

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Food & Drink

This thoroughbred Greyhound is a

By Toby Hartwell newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

I am sitting outside the Greyhound, which lies pretty much in the heart of the picturesque village of Sydling St Nicholas.

Set amongst chalk hills and far from the madding crowd this is true Hardy Country.

My drive through the beautiful rolling hills and picture-perfect thatched cottages was to meet Ed Cracknell, who runs The Greyhound with his partner Eniko.

Ed is passionate about the pub and the village, and his enthusiasm is infectious as he talks about his time here and how he overcame last year’s challenges; more of which later.

The origin of the Greyhound name seems unclear but apparently a stone shield with a coat of arms found under the flooring featured a greyhound, so there is definitely a heraldic connection.

One of four pubs owned by Janette and Rod Lamont, this has a good ‘foodie’ appeal.

Ed has been a chef throughout his career. Dorset born, initially living in the Poole area, his career has included working on the QE2, at The St Pierre Park Hotel on Guernsey and then at The Close in Tetbury where he cooked for many celebrities and royalty, and I suspect he has some good stories to share!

He clearly loves running The Greyhound and whilst not a thatched building in the style of much of Sydling St Nicholas it has real personality and Ed clearly wants all his customers and guests to have a great experience. His delightful 36

WARM WELCOME: The grape vine which covers the entrance at The Greyhound at Sydling St Nicholas and, below, enjoying a drink in the lovely gardens

partner Eniko and helpful staff play a big part in making you both very welcome.

They serve the most delicious food and if the mood takes you and you aren’t driving anywhere, they will make you some very enjoyable cocktails.

There are six rooms, decorated in different and distinctive styles and all dog friendly as you would expect at a pub called The Greyhound!

In fact, the rooms are named after Janette’s (the owner)

puppies. This is definitely a great spot for walkers and cyclists who want to stay over and enjoy the facilities or just pop in for a refreshing pint.

If you are a runner the village hosts 800 or so competitors in the Giant’s Head marathon; with all the surrounding hills, not one for the light-hearted!

Given Ed’s past experience, it is not surprising that there is a varied and lip-smacking menu and Ed is keen to make the most of local ingredients. Menus change

daily and showcase the region’s freshest produce, from Dorset beef to seasonal game like venison and wild boar as well as fish from the Jurassic Coast, just 20 minutes away.

The Sydling Water that flows through the village has long sustained local watercress farming.

During the Second World War German and Italian PoWs repaired two farms and apparently watercress was used as a dye for camouflage.

The Greyhound has twice

Food & Drink

thoroughly enjoyable place to visit

been named Dorset’s best pub for food, and featured in both The Good Pub Guide and CAMRA’s Good Beer Guide.

You won’t be disappointed by the choice of drinks at the Greyhound.

Whilst about two thirds of their turnover is food sales the drinks menu is carefully chosen and includes local beers such as Copper Street, Piddle, Fine Tuned Brewery and Exmoor Ales.

Not surprisingly given Ed’s background the wine list is very well chosen and

includes features nearby Bride Valley wines.

Behind the bar there are spirits for all tastes including some interesting gins including Mermaid and Conker.

For the connoisseur or that special celebration there is Beluga Vodka from Kazakhstan at £22 a shot as well as more recognisable and affordable favourites.

Sitting outside I enquired about the grape vine that covers the entrance.

Ed’s eyes lit up, as this is his pride and joy and has a

name, Esmerelda.

This 35-year-old vine produces 90 kilos of grapes a year and in full leaf has about half a ton of foliage, transforming the patio into a continental style courtyard in the summer months.

Its produce is used to make some wine but also crab apple and grape jelly and an enterprising villager also makes grape chutney.

Reflecting on the last 12 months, it is clear that The Greyhound has been an indispensable part of pandemic-struck village life.

Quickly turning the covered conservatory into a pop-up shop Ed and Eniko were amazed by the ‘unprecedented support’ that the village provided; but clearly they were much appreciated, serving over 100 takeaways a week during lockdown and providing fresh bakery items.

This led to the establishment of a regular Thursday Coffee Shop, regularly attended by 40 or some grateful villagers The village produced a very impressive printed book of memories of the lockdown period last year and it has pictures of the village turning out to thank Ed and Eniko and staff for all they did during an unsettling period.

It was interesting to read that between March and June last year they sold 1,008 portions of chocolate brownies, 740 scotch eggs and amongst other things, sold 2,638 litres of milk and cream, 305 kilograms of tomatoes and 750 kilograms of potatoes and carrots!

The Greyhound is a great asset for this lovely village of just over 400 people.

The pub is a real hub and there is no end of new ideas from Ed and Eniko.

Last Easter, a 10 kilo, threeand-a-half-foot high chocolate egg they made was raffled and raised £1,500 for the Air Ambulance charity and also helped pay for repairs to the village’s faceless clock.

I would recommend you plan a day out to Sydling St Nicholas, take in a walk of the environs and then head for The Greyhound for a delicious meal and I can recommend starting the evening with Ed’s favourite cocktail, a Pinatini.

37

Food & Drink

By Miranda Robertson newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

Tom Beattie seems like a fun guy, (sorry) despite liking to spend much of his time in darkened rooms.

It isn’t often you come across a mycologist – that’s a fungi expert to you and I. Tom set up Fruit Bodhi Organics about two years ago, fresh out of university, after becoming fascinated by fungi years before.

Mum Winky has long been used to Tom’s bedroom being crammed with species as young Tom experimented with growing multitudes of mushrooms.

But when he returned from uni and moved back in to their home in East Coker he decided to turn his passion for mycology into a business.

Since then, his business has quite literally mushroomed. He’s gone from simply selling the fruits for eating to producing kits for people to grow their own – a move he made coincidentally at the start of the first lockdown, luckily harnessing all that desire among us to grow our own food.

His business, Fruit Bodhi Organics, is a small-scale, family run farm growing and nurturing mushrooms from spore to fork in an eco-friendly and sustainable manner.

Once a small scale hobby in Tom’s bedroom, it gradually took over the bathroom and garden shed and most of his family home until Winky could stand it no more.

Tom moved out and set up his farm in the old West of England Twineworks in West Coker, where he is today. He is a selftaught mycologist and there isn’t a mushroom-related book he hasn’t read, or a mushroom related website he hasn’t devoured.

It is the crucial role that the fungal kingdom plays in ecosystems which Tom finds fascinating, and which has prompted him to widen his mycology knowledge further.

Tom loves the earth and makes sure that his approach to the business is eco-friendly and kind to the planet.

Winky said: “He’s been 38

Mycologist’s growing success fascinated by mushrooms for a long time – he’s quite geeky about them.

“So when he finished his degree in countryside management in Brighton he came home and then I had mushrooms in various stages all over the place. It’s taken a lot of time and investment, but thankfully he now has a proper laboratory at the new place, though I still do the packing at home.”

Fruit Bodhi Organics is a real family affair, with everyone pitching in to help Tom make it a success. Tom’s sister Eleanor heads up marketing and PR, and his dad Toffer is general dogsbody and market trader.

Their main products are oyster mushroom grow kits, which come in a range of colours – pink, grey, yellow, blue, and white. They are aimed at any age, allowing people to grow their very own delicious gourmet mushrooms.

Fruit Bodhi Organics also sell

dried oyster mushrooms and a ‘unique and magical’ mushroom seasoning (a blend of powdered dry mushrooms, Himalayan salt and herbs).

Tom is also beginning to cultivate medicinal mushrooms including reishi, lions’ mane, shiitaki, and enoki and soon hopes to have these available.

He is also developing a range of spore-based soil and mulch enhancers for gardeners.

Creamy Oyster Mushroom Spaghetti Ingredients 150 g spaghetti 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil Fresh Oyster Mushrooms from your Fruit Bodhi Organics grow kit (a flush is usually about 250g) or a packet of Fruit Bodhi Organics Dried Oyster Mushrooms 3 cloves of garlic, crushed Small bunch of fresh parsley, chopped and leave a little to sprinkle over the top to serve 4 tbsp white wine

2 tsp Fruit Bodhi Organics mushroom seasoning 200 ml tub of half fat crème fraiche Method If you are using dried mushrooms make sure they are properly rehydrated by soaking them in cold water overnight or very hot/just boiled water for about an hour. Bring a saucepan of salted water to the boil. Add the pasta and cook per instructions on the packet. Heat the oil in a frying pan and add the mushrooms and fry for about 3 minutes until beginning to brown. Add garlic and cook for a further minute.

Add the parsley, wine, mushroom seasoning and crème fraiche and season with salt and pepper. Heat through for 1 minute.

Drain pasta and return to pan and add the contents of the frying pan.

Stir through. Serve with the extra parsley.

Serves 2 n fruitbodhi.co.uk

Food & Drink

Farm shop adding all sorts after boom wanes

By Steve Keenan newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

A farm shop near Blandford is bringing in several new lines of produce after a slump in business in the gradual return to shopping normality.

Enford Farmshop in Durweston was “really busy” in the first phase of lockdown 15 months ago, says farmer Christina Marks.

“Unfortunately, now everyone is going back to the supermarket. We have been so quiet – so we have to bite the bullet and get more things in.”

Flowers, cakes, sauces, soups, more deli, bread and flour are among new lines. Milk from Middle Farm, Manston, is being added to a range of grass-fed meats, fruit, vegetables and game.

A fish van calls by on Wednesdays, and Christina is also spending a lot of time broadening Enford’s range with ‘hardware’ products.

A pet corner with raw food and a garden section with seeds, bulbs and tools are also lined up, with an alcohol licence on the long list.

The changes are not just because shoppers are going back to old habits, said Christina. “Another reason is that we are finding more and more farm shops opening up, so you want to stay ahead.

“We are starting to get a bit more variety of stuff in and hopefully more inspiration.

“I keep trying to come up with something different. We are now permanently changing things to keep up

but our prices are not high. We are not charging a lot for our meat and we have really good and different stuff.”

The third-generation Marks farming family took over Enford Farm 11 years ago and have sheep, a beef suckler herd and chickens. They also inherited the farm shop and a café – but the sale of food and hot drinks has finished.

“It was so hard to do as well as serve customers,” said Christina. “If we had a full-on café it would be the size of the shop. It wasn’t worth playing around with it.”

The farm has diversified with a caravan park on site with a shop, open from 8am-8pm daily with tinned foods, wood and other essentials.

It’s hard work, with a sense of rebuild and purpose after the extraordinary period last spring when communities became so much more reliant on local shops and produce.

Christina posted on the farm’s Facebook page last Christmas: “It’s been a challenging year for us all! I would like to thank all of you for buying local, supporting your local farmers, and helping us small businesses in these hard times stay afloat.”

Now farm and community shops across The Blackmore Vale will be hoping that some residual goodwill and appreciation for the range of quality homegrown and locally reared produce isn’t over yet.

Enford Farm Shop (DT11 0QW) is open Weds – Sat from 8.30am-4pm.

Tel: 01258 450050.

Thatchers steps up as title sponsor Thatchers Cider will be the title sponsor of the Bath & West Country Festival.

Held at the Bath & West Showground on the August Bank Holiday weekend the festival replaces the usual Royal Bath & West Show for one year only, with live music and onsite camping.

Alan Lyons, head of shows at the Bath & West said: “There is a big emphasis on Food & Drink, so we are really grateful to have the support of one of the country’s leading cider producers

based here in Somerset.”

Martin Thatcher, fourth-generation cider maker at Thatchers cider said: “We can’t wait to get back to the events and shows that we love and are looking forward to celebrating the best food and drink the county has on offer.

“It promises to be a fantastic event.”

Tickets are £15 per adult, which includes two free child tickets. Visit bathandwest.com/tickets to book or call 0333 242 7912.

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 39

Pets

Ask the vet...

Do pets have allergies ?

Animals can have allergies to various substances and these allergies can present in various ways. Significant distress can be caused to pets with allergies when left uncontrolled.

Skin allergies are common especially in dogs. Certain breeds such as West Highland White Terriers, German Shepherd Dogs and the bull breeds (e.g. French bulldog) are much more likely to have skin allergies, but individuals of any breed can be affected.

Most dogs develop skin allergies between the ages of 1 to 2 years of age. Common symptoms are increased licking of feet and recurrent ear infections but will vary between individuals.

Common causes of allergies are fleas, house dust mites and pollens.

Cats can also be allergic to fleas and this produces a condition called flea allergic dermatitis.

Typical symptoms are overgrooming, hair loss and scabs on the back. It is not unusual for only one cat in a household to be affected and it can take only one or two flea bites to cause symptoms in an allergic cat.

Food allergies are much less

common. Only 10-20% of allergies in dogs are due to foods.

Food allergies can present as gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhoea or as skin symptoms. Determining what food your pet is allergic to can be difficult because symptoms can be intermittent and can occur up to 6-12 weeks after the food item has been removed from the diet.

Food intolerances typically present as bloating or diarrhoea.

Allergies require previous sensitisation to an allergen to produce an adverse immune response whereas food intolerances do not involve the immune system. It can be difficult to differentiate between the two.

Feeding a diet made up of very few ingredients and using novel foods (not typically present in common diets) such as venison or salmon can resolve symptoms but may take 6 to 8 weeks (and sometimes 12 weeks) to be effective. An alternative is to use a hydrolysed protein food which reduces the size of the proteins to below the size that the body’s immune system can recognise so that it does not react to them.

with Lynn Broom Skin allergies can be diagnosed using blood tests or skin tests.

Once identified then any allergens which can be removed, such as fleas, will stop the allergic response. Secondary bacterial and fungal infections are often present so must be eliminated b efore symptoms resolve. Chronic changes such as hair loss, skin thickening and increased pigmentation will take a while to resolve.

Many allergens cannot be eliminated and so control is aimed at reducing the body’s response to them. This can sometimes be achieved using an immunotherapy injection which aims to give the body a regular tiny dose of the allergen reducing the body’s response to it. Other options include daily tablets to reduce the allergic response or a monthly injection to block the allergy receptors.

Recognising allergies is important to allow treatment and control. By controlling symptoms you will reduce discomfort to your pet, long term permanent changes and save money by BORDER X JACK RUSSELL PUPPIES, good temperament, fully vaccinated, ready to go.

07969 869774 LAVENDER PEKIN BANTAMS 12 weeks old pullets and cockerels available now Show quality birds 07772 418752 PETS ONLY. Bengal kittens available. Mum and dad can be seen. Enquiries 01722 714552 BALED SHREDDED PAPER. Ideal for animal bedding or packing. 50 kilo bales £10 each 07714 289400 WHIPPET PUPPIES 1 blue boy, 1 blue fawn boy 5 weeks old, ready first week July. £1,600 each E/ steph.rennie@gmail.com

40

For sale KC REGISTERED COCKER DOG PUP available, health checked and had first vaccination.

Ready to collect - £2,000.

07503 905659 PETS ONLY. BIRMAN KITTENS AVAILABLE. Mum and dad can be seen.

Enquiries 01722 714552 WHIPPET PUPPIES beautiful home bred. Brindle and white. Strong healthy puppies. Four dogs.

Wonderful temperaments with children. We have had the line from great great great grandmother.

Championship bloodlines.

Ready 3rd July. To vetted homes only.

Tel 07980 744551 SPROCKERS: 2 Black Boys £2,000 each. 1 Liver Girl £3,000 from litter of 5, tails docked, microchipped & vaccinated. Mother Springer, Dad Cocker both KC registered and health tested.

Ready to go 1st July Tel: 07572 965381 2 BEAUTIFUL VERY SMALL POOCHONS. One red the other apricot. DNA clear. I own mum and dad.

Ready end of June 07856 765131 LURCHER PUPS 1 dog 1 bitch, beddy x whipgrey x whip x beddy.

Fully vaccinated, Vet checked, Wormed, Microchipped. Ready to go 12 weeks. 07900 891159 LABRADOR PUPPIES. 3 yellow dogs remaining.

Parents health tested.

Well handled, reared in family environment.

Suitable for working or pet. Will be KC registered, vet checked, with 5 weeks' insurance. Ready from 17th July. Please contact 07786 961300.

Home & Garden LOST AND FOUND AND REHOMING Lost Cats: Oakwood area of Gillingham – white & tabby girl missing since 7/6 Hunts Rd Blandford – black boy missing since 26/5 Cloverfield area Gillingham – fluffy b/w boy white tip to tail missing since 20/5 Highfields, Blandford – Burmese boy missing since 20/5 Shaftesbury – black boy with a blue collar missing since 6/5 Found cat 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.

Cats looking for new homes: Willow (6) white & tabby boy experienced owner: Morris (7) black & white loving but unpredictable boy no children 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

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 Tel 01258 858644 blandford.cats.org.uk

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

I’m feeling chipper with my new career A number of us have had to adapt our careers during the pandemic. Here, Martyn Johnson tells his story of new beginnings after he was made redundant due to covid-19.

I have lived in the Blackmore Vale area almost all my life. I was born and lived in Gillingham for my first 20 years, and then subsequently lived in Wincanton, Templecombe and am currently enjoying living in the Stalbridge area. I only left our lovely part of the country for a shortish period when I followed a job prospect halfway around the world to New Zealand for just under a year.

I returned and picked up where I left off with my previous employer, in the same industry I’ve been in for just over 40 years, until I found myself, like so many others, a casualty of covid and made redundant.

With job prospects for getting back into the same industry very remote I decided to follow my lifelong passion for the outdoors and working with wood.

Previously I have, in my spare time and when taking “holiday”, created timber constructions for myself, friends and family, including decking, pagodas and other wooden garden structures.

I’m now focusing on the more natural aspects of woodwork having set up Blackmore Vale Log Splitting and Chipping, a mobile splitting and chipper service covering the Blackmore Vale area.

I offer a professional, safe and affordable

service for fallen trees or professionally felled trees already cut to size to split, and if required I can cut small/medium felled trees to size. I have invested in machinery suitable for narrow access, with both machines fitting through a 5ft opening allowing access to the back of most homes. So the log splitting and/or chipping can take place where the tree was felled, saving time and stress.

I’m hopeful this business venture will not only fill the void of my lost job but prove enjoyable and provide a better life after lockdown and covid.

Martyn Johnson Blackmore Vale Log Splitting and Chipping 07760 469411

PROTECT YOUR BIGGEST ASSET and SAVE 20% COUNTRY

See our page 44 WIDE advertisement WALL LOFT SURVEYS

41

Home & Garden

Frank and Sam shape a growing family business

A large range of items from bird baths, statues, dog, cats, badgers, character mushrooms, water features, buddhas, mythical, the list goes on, some are hand painted and our mould and paint Kid Kits are big sellers for parties and presents!

With great affordable prices on offer, come and have a browse, or see us on Facebook, Instagram or our website.

07535 790983 Open Monday/Tuesday/ Friday/Saturday & Sunday 10.30am to 3.30pm Henstridge Airfield, Somerset BA8 0TN Br wh ing t en his – o you adv ne sp ert pe end an rh £ dg ou 50 et se or £5 ho m o ld ore ff

What started as a hobby for Frank and Sam has taken off quickly to be a thriving family business today, based at Henstridge Air昀eld in Somerset.

Dairy Stone Ornaments now make and stock a large range of garden ornaments from bird baths, statues of dogs, cats and badgers, to water features, Buddhas, mythical 昀gures and more.

Items can be plain or hand painted, and special pieces can be commissioned – to recreate an item as a garden ornament made out of stone.

An unusual order was recently taken from a customer with a broken 昀gure at home, and Dairy Stone Garden Ornaments created and supplied two brand new gargoyles!

Children can also get involved too, with Kid Kits of plaster moulds, with paints and a brush – big sellers for parties and presents.

We welcome visitors to come and have a browse, and you can follow us on Facebook and Instagram or browse our website.

We would love to see you at Henstridge Air昀eld, Somerset, BA8 0TN.

Dairy Stone Garden Features

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...

42

GARDEN SERVICES

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

(see also Local Services)

Gardens open to public

MALCOLM KELLY Grass cutting and hedge cutting. All garden maintenance.

01258 817541/ 07717 368134

The garden of Burton Grange Mere opened to the public as part of the National Garden Scheme, raising more than £1,500.

GARDEN RESCUE TEL 01747 821 726

Pic: George Jeans

OLD BYGONES & COLLECTIBLES

GA WHILE GARDEN SERVICES Grass & hedge cutting, strimming, all rubbish taken away.

Call Glenn 07773 794119

Rural, garden & agricultural items bought & sold

Tim, 01725 517268 or 07311 478301 Landscaping, Groundworks and Garden Maintenance, Specialists in Patios, Fencing, Driveways, Walling, Ponds, Turfing Free Quotations

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

Treecare Co. Tree Specialists

TREE STUMP REMOVAL

TREEWISE

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.

Experts in all aspects of TREE SURGERY, HEDGECUTTING & STUMP REMOVAL

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

At TreeCare we care...

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

GREENHOUSES SUPPLIED/ERECTED Alloy/Ten Colours Spares-Repairs-Glass Chris Abrams 01258 452632 LAWN SCARIFYING Moss and thatch removal.

01747 821 726 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

Soil Testing Service Professional laboratory soil tests

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

MAN WITH MICRO-DIGGER: Garden clearance, patios, fencing, decking, landscaping, driveways. 30+ years’ experience. Ken: 07882 441873/01963 32034 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

SCREENED TOP SOIL for sale.

Delivered.

Tel no 01258 861046

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

• 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

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

DANNY'S GARDEN & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE. All trees, hedges, fencing, gravel paths/driveways, pressure cleaning, concrete bases, free quotations, fully insured, 07545 619735 01258 721376

Experienced

Reliable

(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

43

Home & Garden ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Never paint your exterior walls again!

Imagine having your exterior walls and roof painted and never having to paint them again.

That’s the promise from a westcountry company, Countrywide, which uses a German paint backed by the Energy Saving Trust.

The properties of the paint they use, Properla, are quite incredible. Not only has it been tested to last more than 25 years, it also cuts moisture absorption, and even cuts your energy bills.

Managing director Colin Butler has been in the business for 14 years. He said: “I was in insulation and went into exterior home insulation with this product. There are so many benefits to it – it is very good with solid stone homes, as they tend to constantly draw up moisture and have very low thermal qualities.

“Properla chemically bonds to the brick which reduces the heat

passing through the walls and has strong thermal energy qualities. The Energy Saving Trust advocate it and it conforms to British Standards, providing a fully breathable insulation barrier which reduces water absorption by 93%. It’s been tested for durability, thermal insulating properties, breathability and water repellent qualities.

“As you might expect it costs a bit more than other exterior wall treatments, but you don’t have to have it done again and that makes it very reasonable.”

Countrywide is an approved installer for Properla, which comes in ten pastel shades.

Countrywide offers a finance option on request and has fitters dotted around the westcountry.

Colin added: “We have a lot of happy customers – check out our reviews. We’re on Checkatrade.”

You can book a no obligation survey using thermal imagery to highlight damp or cold spots.

Colin said: “At Countrywide we pride ourselves on exceeding customers’ expectations. We offer high quality exterior wall

and roof coatings that will make your home exterior look beautiful, protect your exterior walls and roof from the elements and also comes with a minimum of 10 years’ guarantee.

“We are currently offering all New Blackmore Vale readers a fantastic discount of 20% off exterior wall and roof coatings.” n Book a free home survey and estimate at Countrywide-surveys.co.uk or call 0800 246 5145.

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

with this special New Blackmore Vale reader offer COUNTRY 44

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.

For more information go to www.countrywide-surveys.co.uk Follow us at countrywide-surveys.co.uk

Call 0800 2465145, quote code ‘2021’

to SAVE 20%

off your PROPERLA® exterior wall coating

Background photo by Raychel Sanner on Unsplash

...and save

PROPERLA® Facade Coating

Home & Garden LOGS LOGS LOGS WELL SEASONED HARDWOOD

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

Season Barn Dry Logs 20 miles radius of Sherborne

Tel: 01935 815534

FREE DESIGN SERVICE FOR DISPLAY ADS: CALL 07714 289409

LOGS R US: 1 ton pickup load of logs £90.

Double load £150, dumpy bag £60. All hardwood. 07790 404593/01258 818081 SEASONED HARDWOOD LOGS: £145 double load, £85 half load. 01258 880892 07980 036250

We have lots of gorgeous new pots and colourful perennial plants to brighten your summer garden!

Come and visit us, Monday - Saturday 9am - 5:30pm and Sunday 10am - 4pm Milton on Stour, Gillingham SP8 5QA 01747 824015

45

Home & Garden

Gardening...

...with botanist Dr Dave Aplin

Did you know there is a carrot museum?

My February sowing of carrots in the greenhouse are almost ready to pull, whereas those sown outside have done decidedly less well due to the challenging spring weather.

Carrots are one of the nation’s favorite vegetables, but many people do not know that they are native to Britain, inhabiting soils over chalk and limestone, such as Fontmell Down. They are also a frequent plant of coastlines, where you will also find wild parsnip, asparagus, cabbage, and the origins of beetroot. If you were to dig up wild carrots (which would be illegal) and inspect the roots they would be white or very pale yellow, certainly not the vivid orange

we immediately visualise.

The orange colour of carrots were bred into the vegetable during the 16th century in the Netherlands. It is said, orange carrots were specifically bred to honour the Dutch monarch William of Orange because the orange variety was developed during his reign.

This is considered a myth, repeated so often many believe it true. According to the Carrot Museum – yes there is such a place – the truth is that the Dutch adopted orange as its national colour and added orange carrots to items ‘dedicated’ to the royal family. Today, seed companies sell varieties of various shades including white, purple and yellow, although these rarely hit the

supermarkets as vegetables, as their novelty vary greatly from the consumers’ accepted orange rooted types.

Carrots are biennials. This means that they produce most of their growth in the first year of sowing, then in the second put all their energy into flowering before they die. Therefore, if you grow carrots and ever wondered where the flowers are, you will need to wait until the following June and July.

The root of a carrot, from the plant’s perspective, is a storage organ. It allows the plant to remain dormant overwinter.

It is then used to fuel the FITTED WARDROBES MADE TO MEASURE (in white, other door colours available), From £200, free quotes.

Bob Humphries 07885 286508 46

growth of umbrella-like flowers the following summer.

The roots of carrots are not worth eating in their second year, as they are often fibrous. Quality roots are needed for those who enter village horticultural shows.

To stand a chance of success, dedicated exhibitors prepare large containers with sifted soil, so that their roots grow straight and long. Seeds are often sown early in the year, allowing the roots to reach maturity in time for the shows. The only problem then is getting the root out of the container without snapping it!

Do you have a burning gardening or plant-related question needing an answer?

If so, submit it via the contact page of soilvalues.com. If chosen it will feature in a future column.

Home & Garden

FR

When placEinE GIFT gy mention ‘1o9ur order for your fre 64’ e gift!

YOUR PROJECT, LARGE OR SMALL, NEEDS THE BEST MATERIALS We offer a huge range of fantastic building supplies at competitive prices to Trade and Public:

SMALL LOADS AND BULK BAG DELIVERIES Building Materials Driveway Gravel Landscape Supplies Drainage Supplies Affordable Grab Away & Muck Away Services Silica Arena Sand Decorative Stones Paving Slabs Soils and Topsoils Indian Sandstone Sports Sand Sleepers Paving Recycled Products Grabs Loads - 4, 6 & 8 Wheeler Loads Available

Open for Trade and Public: Monday to Friday, 7.00am - 4.30pm Saturday 7.00am - 11.45am

01258 857465 info@mbwilkes.com www.mbwilkes.com Old Market Road, Corfe Mullen, Wimborne BH21 3QZ

47

Home & Garden

CANFORD MAGNA GARDEN CENTRE | | | | | Heaters

Wooden Benches

Arbours Gazebos

Parasols

Hammocks

Loungers

Bring the outdoors in with the largest range from Daro indoor cane furniture with more than 70 floor models on display, various colours and fabrics.

ALL READY FOR IMMEDIATE DELIVERY

In stock: FIREPITS&CHIMINEAS

OUTDOOR LIVING Largest on ‘LIFE’ FURNITURE thecollection South Coast, All weather cushions Aluminium frames Containers arriving weekly Instant stock availability

30,000 sq ft Showroom

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for our latest offers Open Mon-Sat 9am-5.30pm, Sun 10am-4pm

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

Home & Garden

CANFORD MAGNA GARDEN CENTRE Over 25,000 different outdoor plants pots | Compost | Paving | Aggregates

AMAZING PLANTS NOW IN...

WEEKLY DELIVERIES OVER 400 OLIVE TREES, VARIOUS SIZES FROM ITALY AND SPAIN Exotic Plants, Palms, Delicate Acers, Specimens and Spikeys!

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for our latest offers Open Mon-Sat 9am-5.30pm, Sun 10am-4pm

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

Local Services ARCHITECTURAL, BUILDING & ELECTRICAL

Planning & Building Applications for New Build, Extensions and Conversions

01747 822162

Our advice is always free

enquiries@bell-architectural.co.uk

Quantity Surveying Estimating Surveying Building Dispute Resolution

01749 813625

Robert Chalke Associates www.rca-qs.com

ECR Services All types of building and electrical work undertaken Fully qualified New builds Extensions Maintenance Attic conversions including rendering, plastering, paving and tiling Free on site estimates No VAT No job too big or too small

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

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

50

TRADITIONAL BUILDING SPECIALISING IN STRUCTURAL WORKS AND FINE FINISHING

• • • • • • • • • •

Lime Works Masonry and Cob 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

CONSERVATION AND REPAIR OF HISTORIC BUILDINGS

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

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

Architectural Services

Local Services WASTE & HOUSE CLEARANCE

EE

TI

LL

DY

STI K

PIN

AI G BRIT

N

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

PH

IR E

T F PLANT

Trade and DIY welcome Ring for enquiries

Gillingham 01747 826107 Trusted family run business

20FT SELF STORE CONTAINERS AVAILABLE. £100 per month, minimum 3 months. Situated 11/2 miles from Podimore, off A303. Andrew 07932 657140

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

or

51

Local Services CLEANING

PLUMBING, HEATING & DRAINAGE

SHINY STOVES OVEN CLEANING

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

Tel 01935 592461 Mob 07875 272401 www.shinystoves.com

PEST CONTROL SPECTRUM PEST CONTROL 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

solidfuel3@aol.com solidfuelinstallations ltd.co.uk

enquiries@spectrumpestcontrol.co.uk

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

D&T Plumbing and Heating Oil servicing and repairs, plus all other aspects of plumbing and heating carried out

t:01747 854887 m:07525 755 696

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

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

01749 813625 Robert Chalke www.robertchalke.co.uk 52

01258 446186 07973 183658

www.quinnsheating.com

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/DAWGTired-100820242231763 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

mandy4phoenixchimneys@gmail.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

TRUMPET TUITION based in Cranborne, Dorset: Classical & Jazz for all ages, by ear & by notation. Trial sessions at discounted rate. Lessons also available via Zoom.

Contact: johnnystirling1@gmail.com Tel: 07785555650

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.

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

MUSIC

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.

HEATING AND PLUMBING

TRAILER HIRE

Problems with your septic tank, soakaway or sewage system?

Worried about the new domestic sewage legislation issued Jan 2020?

LTD

K.SANSOM CHIMNEY SWEEP Brush & vacuum.

APICS registered 01963 370038

T: 01258 721462 M: 07379 405080

Septic Tank, Treatment Plant, Soakaways

DOG WALKING

Ovens,Ranges, Aga’s, etc.

Independent Family Run Business Covering The Blackmore Vale Area

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

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

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

Machine or Hand-Lay Local Authority Approved

Concrete & Floor Screed Mixed On site Any Quantity Delivered

ESTABLISHED 1988

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

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

Good Quality Top Soil in Stock

Now available... Rockery Stone

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

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 Mullins Garden Services

Call for a free quote 01747 820234

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

The Depot, Longcross, Warminster BA12 6LJ

info@cgtarmac.co.uk

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

01747 835278 07825006013.

www.cgtarmac.co.uk

GARDENING SERVICES: Regular maintenance, pruning, herbaceous borders, wildlife gardens, RHS quals, insured, ref. available. Tel. 07877 413676

LAWN MOWING SERVICE Tel 01747 821726 R&W FENCING SERVICES All types of fencing, agriculture and domestic 01258 880892 07980 036250 DRYSTONE WALLING AND LANDSCAPING yenstonewalling.co.uk 01963 371123 HARGRAVES LANDSCAPE AND DEMOLITION. Call us now for a free quotation on 07871 327962.

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

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

01258 880301 FENCING GATES DECKING PERGOLAS LANDWORX 01747 822655 SELF DRIVE DIGGER AND DUMPER HIRE, 01258 861647 TREE & GARDEN SERVICES 07435220238 01258858888 Fully insured quality service provided 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

53

Local Services HANDYMAN & GENERAL SERVICES

TAXIS

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

COMPUTERS AND TECH

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.

54

Local Services ROOFING

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 O U Q TESATES IM EST

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

01258-450879 | 07855-402799

t:01747 854887 m:07525 755 696

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

FREE DESIGN SERVICE FOR DISPLAY ADVERTS: 07714 289409

Based in Wincanton

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

WINDOWS & DOORS

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Health & Wellbeing

We must talk about death in order to process loss One thing the pandemic has made many of us think about is our mortality. Death is never very far from people’s minds anyway.

As we all know, it’s an experience we’re all going to have and it’s something we don’t talk about nearly enough. Thanatophobia is commonly known as ‘death anxiety’ and although not defined as a distinct mental health disorder; is often linked to depression or other anxiety disorders. For some, it can become an overwhelming preoccupation or even an obsession. It’s certainly something that is often in the thoughts of my clients; whether it manifests in such scenarios as suicide ideation, or fear of getting sick or old. Understandably, most of us want to die peacefully and without pain – which is why this pandemic has been so frightening; not only is the virus very contagious but we’ve all heard of or seen the terrifying symptoms such as breathlessness which can lead to a very scary and unpleasant death. It’s often said that none of us know when our time is up –

however working in mental health I’ve met many who not only would welcome death, but actively plan (and sometimes succeed) in achieving it. Death can sometimes seem like the ultimate peace – an ending of mental torment, physical pain or both. If we’re honest, at some point in many of our lives, we’ve been low enough to think about being dead, if not to actually wish it on ourselves. It’s always an ‘option’ in the background.

Living is not generally easy for most. Things like incapacity, loneliness, a lack of meaning and purpose, poverty, injustice, inequality, violence, fear or pain can all lead to thoughts of death and dying.

Old people often comment that they’re exhausted and tired of living.

We also hear of people dying after suffering terribly from illness, and we feel they’ve at last found peace. Death, in whatever form, is a very personal event – sometimes abrupt or at the end of a long emotional journey. It’s something we all have to endure alone; even if we’re surrounded by others at the time. Having worked in hospitals, hospices, with the elderly and in bereavement counselling; I’m a firm believer in death/dying being talked about, discussed and processed – by both those experiencing it and those

witnessing it. Grief and loss can have a huge detrimental effect on our mental health, which if left untreated, can often manifest itself in poor physical health too. Dying should not be something we fear but something we’re prepared for as much as possible; whenever it comes.

It doesn’t have to be a taboo or uncomfortable subject; as we can all share our fears, hopes and dreams. Death is not just about sadness and loss, but also about reflecting on the experiences of life.

Dying is part of life. It’s far too important to be ignored or not talked about. n David Stanton is a psychologist based in the Blackmore Vale. tatvacenter.com edas-addictionservices.com

WOULD LIKE TO MEET MARTIN 63, meet lady 50-70. Gillingham, Shaftesbury, Sturminster Newton, Wincanton, Sherborne & Yeovil.

01258 472910

Call 111 first, urges Dorset HealthCare Dorset’s network of minor injuries units has re-opened – sparking a plea for people to direct their health worries towards the 111 service.

Think NHS 111 first if you need urgent care, says Dorset HealthCare.

They say: “NHS 111 is the way you can access the right treatment, in the right place, at the right time and will now be the gateway to the county’s minor injuries units (MIUs), along with a range of other services.

“Rather than having to look up different MIU phone

numbers, you can now go to 111.nhs.com online or call 111 – and if you need to go to an MIU, the 111 service will book you in.”

With national restrictions now gradually being eased, all of the MIUs run by Dorset HealthCare – including Sherborne, Blandford, Shaftesbury and Wimborne – will revert to their pre-covid opening hours. People are asked not to just turn up, but to call for a telephone assessment first.

This will ensure people won’t have unnecessary

waits and will help to avoid crowded waiting rooms. It will also mean some patients can be treated remotely and will not need to make an unnecessary journey.

The Dorchester ED will still be available 24/7 as usual for serious and life threatening injuries and conditions, but will not be able to accommodate less serious cases while refurbishment work takes place.

Jane Elson, Dorset HealthCare’s service director for integrated community services, said: “We’re

delighted not only to re-open all our MIU services, but also to provide them in a more targeted, efficient way.

We had to change things over the past year, and prebooked appointments worked extremely well.”

Full details of all Dorset HealthCare’s MIUs, including opening times, are available at dorsethealthcare.nhs.uk/pati ents-and-visitors/ourservices-hospitals/physical-h ealth/minor-injuries-unitsmius 57

Health & Wellbeing

Setting some boundaries can be a really useful tool for stress Boundaries feature regularly in my coaching. They define a period of time, an action or a relationship and are a really useful way of creating balance in your life. Not only that, they aid clearer communication. With clear and well thought out boundaries, we can increase our own productivity and focus as well as live or work in happier

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harmony with others. Using boundaries increases your confidence, productivity and clarity and reduces stress. Sounds good?

Personal boundaries: Try putting a boundary around a set time when you are unavailable because that is your time to practise a musical instrument or go to a pilates class. Something that needs protecting from other commitments. Or it could be a boundary in a relationship, such as arranging to ring an elderly dependent at a specific time so they know you are going to call but they must let you work etc at other times. Set this up carefully and with kindness.

Personal boundaries can be just that – personal. Use them as a way of achieving your personal goals – anything from “I’m only going to drink wine at the weekend” to “I’m only going to book that holiday once I have completed my diploma’. Use them to support yourself as you feel best.

At work: By setting boundaries around tasks, you are creating an environment where you can focus on that task entirely. Everything else is pushed to one side for the time being. You can set a time limit for yourself. This is compartmentalising which is a brilliant stress management tool that boosts productivity and focus therefore decreasing stress.

At home: Collaborative boundaries, set by parents but in discussion with children. During lockdown parents have had to be flexible in new ways but maybe now is the time to start redefining these boundaries. Of course, these are not static boundaries but must develop as our children grow.

This could be setting times when work chat or screens are not allowed. A set time when the family unit spends time together. Something set pretty much in stone that doesn’t get shoved out of the way by other ‘better’ plans.

Whatever the boundary, this tool is a way of protecting ourselves or others as well as reducing stress and increasing productivity. Start small and don’t be afraid to adapt your boundaries accordingly. n Alice Johnsen is a life coach based near Sherborne.

07961 080513 alicejohnsen.co.uk

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Health & Wellbeing

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Health & Wellbeing

Elder is a statesman when it comes to health and wellbeing Elder is one of our ancient and most useful of herbs. We use the flowers in early summer and then the berries in autumn.

It does however have a mixed reputation. Early Christians believed that Judas hanged himself in an elder tree and that Christ’s cross was made from the wood, so it was seen as “the tree of death”, which I think is extremely sad for the lovely elder tree. It was perhaps so reviled as it was steeped in pagan history and very much a magical, fairy, witchy tree. If you found yourself sitting under it on Midsummer’s Eve, you would see the fairy king and you must never fall asleep as you may 20 NEW CLEAR 500ML FOOD GRADE PLASTIC BOTTLES with gold caps.

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Elder amulets were used to ward off thieves, rheumatism and epilepsy and to protect livestock. You should never cut an elder tree without asking permission from the tree and the wood “screams with pain” as it is burned and the boiling sap was the devil, spitting down the chimney. Rather later, if you planted an elder tree near the “privies” it helped keep insects at bay as the foliage contains a natural insect repellent and it likes rich, damp soil!

We all now know elder flowers as a delicious cordial which sadly I cannot make as I am appalled by how much sugar goes into it and being a

combined with yarrow and peppermint) if you have a cold or flu and if the flowers are dried, it makes them more sedative so they will help the patient sleep through their fever. The flowers open our tubes and pores by stimulating circulation which then lubricates the skin and are indicated for children, adults and old people who have blue marbling or hard, dry red skin.

They also help with digestion and clearing oedema (swollen ankles) and water retention either through the skin or the kidneys. n If interested in herbal medicine, I am taking consultations via Zoom through my college. Please contact me on 07742 453285 or pellyfiona@gmail.com.

naturopath see sugar as the next tobacco. It is so bad for us and contributes to so many avoidable illnesses like obesity and diabetes type 2.

The flowers are powerful herbs, and we should be harvesting them now on a dry morning. It is possible to use them fresh in a really quite good tea and combining them with nettle tops will help with hayfever symptoms as they are very good bronchodilators for the upper respiratory tract.

They are powerful diaphoretics (making you Fiona Chapman is sweat) so are studying naturopathy useful in promoting a and herbal medicine at fever the College of (particularly Naturopathic Medicine

In search of the eagle, who represents spiritual expansion As I write this, I am sitting on a cushion of moss and heather above the Findhorn Valley. I have left the soft gentle rolling hills of North Dorset for the Monadhliath Mountains in the Highlands in search of the eagles that soar above the crags and call these mountains home.

I have also come here for the remoteness. I relish the feeling of being truly ‘away’ and for that nothing compares to the Highlands. Here the air is clean and cool, and the only sounds are wind, water and birdsong.

Any negative thoughts are cast away by the sheer expanse and beauty of the landscape before me. It is a place of perspective and contemplation; a place to reconnect with all that is important.

The Findhorn Valley, known as the ‘Valley of Raptors’, is a 60

hidden, secret glen surrounded by steep cliffs. It attracts all sorts of birds such as ring ouzel, dipper and curlew, but its biggest attraction are the birds of prey that the valley attracts such as merlins, kestrels, ospreys, peregrines, buzzards and eagles.

There is much more besides, however. Clouds of wild pansies, marsh orchids, forgetme-nots, bilberry bushes, marsh marigolds and bird’s-foot trefoil

colour my route, herds of red deer gather on the hilltops, and stunted, aged and gnarled birch trees provide habitat for migrant warblers. As I climb higher, hugging the banks of the stream, tiny froglets scramble awkwardly over the moss and accompany me until I find my favoured viewpoint.

The best way to see an eagle is indeed to sit and wait and hope that the rising thermals bring

him or her into view. It is the perfect excuse to stop and soak up the atmosphere. There are no guarantees of a sighting but after only a short while, I strike lucky.

A white-tailed eagle, our largest bird of prey, leaves its craggy perch and glides like a flying plank effortlessly into the air with broad wings and outstretched finger-like feathers. Its 2.5 metre wingspan is astonishing. I watch in awe as he flies up and over the escarpment. So much emotion packed into a single moment: the joy of seeing an eagle.

Apparently, such a sighting represents spiritual expansion, inspiration and achieving your dreams. I make my way down the hillside hoping these predictions are true. n Dr Susie Curtin curtin.susanna@gmail.com

Health & Wellbeing

A walk around...

MAPPOWDER This walk is a little over five miles.

Start at the church, which is worth a look, then go round the corner and head south down the road for about 600 yards. Then take a bridleway to your right, heading west then southwest crossing several fields and Thurnwood Farm, which has plenty of cows grazing. Soon after passing the farm there is a crossing of ways. Take the bridleway that takes you down a sunken wooded track, then, at another crossways, take the footpath that leads you north-eastwards across a field and around a farmyard until you meet a road which takes you north for five furlongs to a T-junction.

Turn right, eastwards, then, after about 100 yards, turn left along a footpath that takes you north northeast across several fields, which may

with retired Dorset rights of way officer Chris Slade

have cattle, for over a mile. There’s a problem about halfway as the footpath is obstructed by a hedge and ditch.

This has been reported to Dorset Council, who may have sorted the problem by the time you visit. If not, the easy way round is to head east towards Parsonage Farm where you’ll soon find a gate to your left that gets you through the hedge and back on track.

When the path gets to Boywood Farm turn right and follow the hedge eastnorth-east and after a furlong it will lead you through a garden onto a road.

Cross the road and take a path that leads you south eastwards across several fields, then south following a hedge as far as a bridge, much loved by birds, which takes you onto the Hardy Way down to the road where you turn right, south west, for half a mile back to the village, where you’ll soon find your car.

A beautiful smile starts with healthy teeth Outstanding quality dental care for the whole family.

Whatever your needs, the team at Sturminster Dental Care can help.

Contact us today on 01258 473397 or visit www.sturminsterdentalcare.co.uk

We are open for all routine dental services If you have had appointments cancelled as a result of the pandemic, and we have not yet been in touch with you, we would invite you to contact the reception team on 01258 473397 to re-schedule.

We have been working extremely hard prioritising patients with dental pain and dental problems, and we apologise if we have not yet contacted you for your routine appointments.

We want to reassure you that the whole team at Sturminster Dental Care have always maintained the highest standards of infection control, and we have implemented additional measures to protect you during your visit.

61

Antiques & Collectibles

CLARKE’S AUCTIONS Auctioneers & Valuers Antiques & Collectibles

Friday and Saturday, June 11 and 12: 10am start

Classic Vehicles & Automobilia Sale

Sunday, June 13 at 10am Viewing Thursday 9am - 4.30pm and Sunday 9am - 1pm.

An Art Nouveau Arts && Crafts View lots at the.saleroom.com enamel plaque depicting a lady. Sold for £1,350 easyliveauction.com

Ding dong! A £35k bell Dore & Rees held their inaugural Asian Art auction on May 27-28 making some standout prices for Asian ceramics, works of art, furniture and more. Leading the way was a bronze ‘dragon’ bell raised on a huanghuali wood stand, with sides decorated with a band of dragons chasing a flowing pearl through mist clouds. The bell sold for £35,000.

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

Free Valuations, Shaftesbury 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 Station Road, Semley, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 9AN 01747 855 122 www.semleyauctioneers.com Offices in Dorset, Wiltshire and London

62

A massive blue and white charger, with a striking coiled scaly five claw dragon, writhing amidst clouds

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sold for £22,500. The Chuxiu Gong Zhi mark on the charger read ‘made for the Palace of Gathered Elegance’. Built in the year of Ming Emperor Yongle in 1420, the Palace was residence of concubines during the Ming and Qing Dynasty’s. The Palace was renovated to celebrate Cixi’s 50th birthday in 1884 and it is likely that this charger was made around that time. Its Imperial heritage was an important point of interest for bidders, competing from around the world.

The auction total reached over £320,000.

Card table comes up trumps Clarke’s Auctions at Semley saw some strong bidding from around the world in their recent auction with a very distressed 18th century mahogany concertina fold-over card table selling on the phone for £4,500 and a 2016 Breitling Navitimer gentleman’s chronograph watch selling for £2,800 hammer.

A small Chinese jade figure in the form of a monkey sold for £1,700 and a collection of

18th and 19th century ivory boxes, fans and objet de vertu sold for a shade under £12,500.

Their classic vehicles and automobilia sale was another roaring success with the motorcycle section achieving an 80% sale rate, with two BSAs from a Hampshire collector selling above estimate. A charming Austin A90 Westminster which has been in the westcountry since its first registration in 1957 found a new Devonian custodian for £3,800.

Entries invited for the July 9 and 10 sale.

Call 01747 855109.

GOOD CONDITION VINYL RECORDS WANTED: Larger collections preferred. No classical please, cash paid. 07831 266478 WANTED deactivated or obsolete calibre military weapons also unusual medals ect Crimea war to 1945. Private collectors cash paid. Tel 01305 751618

Antiques & Collectibles

A century of motorcycles The Charterhouse auction on Wednesday, June 30 covers 100 years of motorcycles in 100 lots.

“The market for classic and vintage motorcycles continues to remain strong,” said George Beale. “They also have great appeal from collectors in Europe and other countries as unlike cars there is no steering wheel on the wrong side!”

From the 1920s there is the Wadkin-Snaith Brooklands Sprint Special, pictured. Created and constructed by specialist engineer Carl Wadkin-Snaith along the lines of a 1920s Brooklands racer, this is estimated at £18,000-22,000.

From the 1930s there is a 1936 Velocette KTS. Owned by a collector in Devon and beautifully restored it is estimated at £9,000-10,000 After the war in the 1940s, the fastest bike you could buy in England was a Vincent.

In the auction there is a 1947 Vincent Rapide. Bought by the vendor 54 years ago, and now

fitted with a Watsonian sidecar, this 1,000cc matching numbers bike is est £30,000-35,000.

In the 1950s and 1960s there is a great choice of classic British bikes with Triumphs and BSA including a 1962 BSA Rocket Gold Star for £18,000-22,000.

Moving into the 1970s and we start to see the dominance of Japanese motorcycles. There are several big Kawasaki, Honda and Yamaha bikes in the auction, including an iconic and fully restored 1974 Kawasaki Z1A at £15,000-16,000. Into the 1980s and 1990s Sports and Touring motorcycles start to appear.

Viewing at The Haynes International Motor Museum, Sparkford, Somerset, is on Tuesday, June 29.

Vintage, antique, retro, upcycled, artisan & tearoom OPEN Tuesday - Saturday 10am to 5pm & 1st Sunday of month 10am to 4pm

Shaftesbury Lane, Blandford DT11 7EG Tel: 07745 477 795 theoldgrainstoreemporium@outlook.com

The return of Grandma’s Attic After the huge success of their first fair at Salisbury in early March last year, Grandma’s Attic return to the Five Rivers Leisure Centre, Hulse Road, Salisbury on Sunday, July 4.

With already over 100 stalls booked in it is planning to be a very successful fair.

The fair in March 2020 saw over 800 people though the doors.

Items can be found from a few pounds up to thousands.

Open from 10am till 4pm admission is only £2.00 (early trade admission 9am £3.00) free parking is available on site, and refreshments are available.

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

Asian Art – November 2021 Lee Young, Head of Sale and Managing Director Following their successful inaugural Asian Art auction in May, Dore & Rees are now open for consignments for their next Asian Art auction in November 2021. With over 30 years’ auction experience, Lee is a leading specialist in Asian Art and a familiar face from the BBC Antiques Roadshow. To receive an auction estimate, please send photographs and descriptions of items you may be considering selling to enquiries@doreandrees.com or contact us on 01373 462 257 to arrange an appointment.

Dore & Rees Auction Salerooms, Vicarage Street, Frome BA11 1PU. doreandrees.com

30th June

8th July

15th July

Classic Motorcycle Auction Wednesday 30th June at Haynes Motor Museum Viewing Tuesday 29th 9am-5pm All lots on charterhouse-auction.com Specialist Free June Valuation Days Pictures, Books, Maps & Postcards 28th Doulton, Beswick & other Ceramics 29th Chinese & Japanese Items 30th Model Cars, Trains, Dolls & Toys 1st Silver, Jewellery & Watches 2nd July 15th Classic & Vintage Car Auction Further entries now being accepted The Long Street Salerooms Sherborne DT9 3BS 01935 812277 • www.charterhouse-auction.com 63

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E R A H N W O R B R G Z O L L

S S E C T S P C U U P L S L S

LION NEEDLETAIL SWIFT OSTRICH PRONGHORN SAIL FISH SPRINGBOK SPUR-WINGED GOOSE THOMSON’S GAZELLE

T F I W S L I A T E L D E E N

Down 1 A name formed from a name (6) 2 Occurred (8) 3 Mashed soya-bean curd (4) 4 Dinner jacket (6) 5 Statement of deep affection (1,4,3) 6 Genuine; authentic (4) 7 Bikes (6) 13 Blessing (8) 14 Annoying person (8) 15 Glean (6) 17 Gained (6) 18 Fairly (6) 20 Large edible fish (4) 22 Tall green vegetable of the onion family (4)

Sudoku

9 2 1 3

5

6

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

8

3 4 8

For the solutions turn to page 96-97

3

Brain chain RESULT

8

×1/2

÷2

×8

-6

+50%

Puzzles (for cleverclogs)

Jumbo 3D Sudoku

Cryptic Crossword

1 9

7 2

1

7 6 5 3

8 3

4

1

2

8

1

2

2

9

7

11

432×

60×

14+

56×

7+

3×

320×

4

13+

7

15+

13+

12+

12×

28×

40×

108×

2÷

27×

0

0

1

19+

144×

Brain chain (Hard version) RESULT

40

+183

-95

+75%

-25%

÷4

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.

13

16

17

18

19 20

21

23

22

24

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.

10+

14×

10

15

12+

10+

7

14

Killer Sudoku Pro: 336×

6

12

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.

40×

5

5

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

1

4

3

25

1 4 8 9 11 12 15 18 19 21 23 24 25

Across Organized campaign by liberal is nonsense (6) Eats if diverted in carnival (6) Take in section of treatise (3) Expenses concerning sources (9) Street is wide first off (4) Divides equally military lodgings (8) Newspaper employee with opinion showing weight (9) Conventional characteristic of the Eastern church? (8) Silver shown by artist in Indian city (4) Groups of friends beginning half-heartedly but infused by a spirit? (9) Decline in energy shown by pair of bachelors (3) Device for projecting on screen a type of book (6) Priest favoured by Anglicans for a royal (6)

Down 1 Cheerless doctor with year in turmoil (6) 2 International put on varied trains is being transported (2,7) 3 Statue in London is tender when erected (4) 5 Favoured man with payment? That’s natural (8) 6 Reportedly, catch sight of body of water (3) 7 Help guitar player lacking breadth (6) 10 Likenesses in Spain unusually so quaint (9) 13 Person that retains popularity always with environmentalist (9) t 14 Old-fashioned Bootle’s requiring development close to Merseyside (8) 16 Small amount of change in a policeman (6) 17 Take a risk in leap, we hear (6) 20 Love shown by German article for European river (4) 22 Second old man in health establishment (3)

65

Church Church services Sunday, June 27 9.30am: St Peter’s Shaftesbury Parish Communion 9.30am: Motcombe Parish Communion 11.15am: Melbury Abbas Parish Communion 6pm: St James’ Shaftesbury Reflective Evening Communion 9am:Fifehead Neville Morning Prayer 11.15am: Hazelbury Bryan Parish Communion 6.30 pm: Woolland Evening Prayer 10am Holy Communion at St Mary’s, Gillingham

10:30am Holy Communion at St Simon & St Jude, Milton on Stour Sunday, July 4 9.30am: St Peter’s Shaftesbury Family Service 9.30am: St James’ Shaftesbury Parish Communion 11.15am: Enmore Green Family Service 11.15am: Margaret Marsh Matins 6pm: Motcombe Reflective Evening Communion 9am Mappowder Holy Communion 10.30am Hazelbury Bryan Morning Prayer 11am Ibberton Holy Communion

6.30pm Belchalwell Evening Prayer St. Mary's, Stalbridge Regular services: 1st Sunday Holy Communion at 10am, 2nd Sunday Evensong at 4pm, 3rd Sunday Morning Worship at 10am. Everyone welcome facebook.com/StalbridgeChu rch Blandford Methodist Church You are warmly invited to our Sunday services that start at 10.45am with Covid-19 restrictions of mask wearing, no singing and sitting two metres apart, in place. Please pre-book your seat on 01258 577 030.

HOLNEST CHURCH DT9 5PU: Open Air ‘Thanksgiving Songs of Praise’ in the churchyard to celebrate the completion of repair & conservation work and launch of summer programme of events & activities. Please join us at 4pm on Sunday, 27 June You may bring a chair for you own comfort. Covid restrictions at the prevailing time will be adhered to

If we want to be great, we must be servants of everyone Vicar in the Vale with the Rev Richard Priest, of Stour Vale Benefice

How often have you wished you could be someone else?

Maybe someone who has influence or is in a position of power, how about someone who is in the news and seems to be respected by others?

Could it be that you want to be a politician or a celebrity, or do you want to reflect in the glory of another? This is just what was wanted for James and John as they asked to be at either side of Jesus in heaven. We are told that this was the desire of their mother but it could also be their wish as well. They wanted to stand at the right and left hand of Jesus in his kingdom. They wanted to share in the glory that they believed was due to Jesus. They believed He was about to enter into Jerusalem and be crowned king and they wanted some of that power.

I wonder is this reminds you 66

of anyone today? Certainly there are those who are in the limelight that believe they should rule over everyone without thought of the responsibilities that power brings. There are the pop stars and sportsmen and women who behave as if they were above anyone else and fail to remember that they are only in that position because of the people who are prepared to pay to watch them. There are the politicians who milk the system for every penny they can get and forget that they are there to serve their constituents and not just themselves, or how about the business tycoons or bosses who prosper at the expense of the workers on whom they rely? This self-centeredness occurs in every walk of life and seems to be part of the culture in which we live and yet one has to ask must it be like this?

Jesus tells James and John and of course us that this is not the way to live. He says, “Whoever wishes to be great among you must also be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first must be your slave.”

At my ordination a few weeks ago the Bishop told me: “Deacons are called to work with the Bishop and the priests with whom they serve.” He also said: “You are to serve the community in which you are set.” The church has obviously remembered those words of Jesus from today’s Gospel but the implication is that all of us here today, whether ordained or lay, must also act upon those ideas. Although Jesus said this to his disciples the words were meant for all who were to follow him. If we are to be great among our neighbours then we must be their servants and if we wish to be first then we must be their slaves.

This is a huge change that Jesus is asking of us and yet he believes that we are capable of doing it. As usual with the sayings of Jesus he wishes us to turn on its head the norms of humanity.

Human nature is to remember self and to try to improve self at the expense of others but what Christ wants from us is to improve others at the expense of ourselves. He is asking us to give away our

own possessions so that others may benefit, he is telling us that we must always put others first and to think before we act. We have to contemplate carefully before we undertake actions than can affect others. If we constantly buy new things because we can afford them what are the consequences to those who have little or nothing? If we continue to use the resources of the planet at a greater rate than they can be replenished, who are we condemning to a life of poverty because of climate change or the rise in sea levels? If we continue to strive to be richer or more powerful, to have more influence or to get our own way then who is going to suffer so that we may be great in our own eyes or even the eyes of others. Yet if we truly want to be great, and as Christians that can only mean being great in the eyes of God, then we must be the servant, or indeed the slave of all others and only then can we truly be great. Jesus believes we can do it and if we truly believe in him then we can!

Education

Champion Lingling takes a bow

By Miranda Robertson High-achieving former pupils returned to support the next generation of musicians at Bryanston.

Robert Saxton, an acclaimed composer who is currently Professor of Composition and a Tutorial Fellow in Music at Worcester College at the University of Oxford returned to his alma mater as judge for the school’s first annual recital competition named in his honour.

Another former pupil, the highly respected cellist Evie Coplan is also returning to Bryanston in the near future to deliver a concert and the latest in a series of music masterclasses.

After a series of heats involving 36 applicants, 11 pupils secured their place in the final of the Robert Saxton Recital Competition.

This was the first socially distanced public event to be held in the school’s Sir Mark Elder concert hall since the partial relaxation of covid restrictions.

The winner of the competition was sixth former violinist Lingling Bao-Smith, who provided the audience with an

Italian Courses Classes and private tuition

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01935 425958 www.italianlanguageservices.co.uk

The winner of the Robert Saxton Recital Competition Lingling Bao-Smith, left, and right, the acclaimed composer himself

inspiring performance of Pièce en forme de Habañera by Ravel and Danse Macabre by SaintSaëns.

Other finalists included vocalists and musical performances on the piano and violin as well as woodwind and brass instruments, with one pupil performing over a video link from his home in South Korea having been unable to return to the school due to current travel restrictions.

Mr Saxton said: “It was a real honour to be invited to Bryanston to adjudicate a competition

carrying my name.

“My wife and I were both thrilled by the standard of the performances and the commitment, energy and technical/musical skill that was in evidence. The whole evening was joy to be part of and, as all of the participants were accompanied by members of staff, there was a true sense of community and a really positive spirit all round.”

Winner Lingling said: “It was great for all of us to be performing in front of a live

public audience for the first time in more than a year, and it really was a privilege to have the opportunity to discuss our musical ambitions and future opportunities with such a respected figure from the world of music.”

Three runners-up Tennyson Tunstall-Behrens, Will St JohnBacon and Jungwoo H were praised for their excellent performances and for showing great potential to become professional musicians.

Charity recruits new staff to cope with youngsters’ anxiety

By Miranda Robertson New roles have been created at a Dorset and Somerset charity in response to growing levels of anxiety among young people.

The Rendezvous has announced paid and unpaid roles in order to help meet the need for support for young people post pandemic.

The increase of young people suffering from post-pandemic anxiety has been concerning – the charity’s recent survey found many 13-25-year-olds are anxious about restrictions lifting.

Its chief executive Helen Da Silva Wood said: “It’s imperative we continue to adapt and do our best to support the increased demand for services.

“Having easy and quick access

to services for young people prevents situations escalating and we do everything we can to avoid lengthy wait times to find the support they need. Our new appointments will help us provide more individual support and manage the increased number of referrals.”

Board members: Firstly, with the departure of much-loved board member Pempy Wallington and the exciting appointment of Martin Singer, there are two additional available seats on the board of trustees – a role for someone with HR and/or mental health knowledge and for someone with strong links in the community to help shape community fundraising.

Those interested should contact Stephen Uden. the chair of trustees, who said: “Great trustees bring so much experience and insight. We have been fortunate to have had so much support from Pempy over the years, but as she steps down I am delighted Martin Singer has joined the trustee board given his extensive experience of working with young people.”

Singer has had a long, respected career in Children’s Services as a youth worker and staff trainer and first got to know the work of The Rendezvous when he was working as early intervention project manager at Dorset Council.

To apply contact Stephen Uden at s_uden@hotmail.com.

Centre administrator: Based in Sherborne, a job directly funded by The Rendezvous.

This is a key part-time role ensuring the smooth running of the Rendezvous’ HUB and learning project across many projects over four sites in Dorset and Somerset.

Emotional wellbeing support worker and project coordinator: A part-time role working with young people in 1:1 sessions plus project support for mental health work. This role is funded by The Friends of the Yeatman Hospital.

To apply for either of the above positions and find out more, please go to The Rendevous website therendezvous.org.uk/news.

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Motoring

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Visitors flocking to Dorset: Go careful

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With many people holidaying at home and the beautiful Dorset countryside attracting more visitors this summer, motorists are being asked to be mindful of all road users to reduce the number of accidents.

Dorset Police and partner agencies are reminding everyone to take extra time to look for vulnerable road users, like motorcyclists after launching a campaign in April, which identified key locations where motorcyclists have been injured in road traffic collisions and unique road signs were placed in these areas to serve as a reminder to drivers.

Inspector Craig Tatton said: “Motorcyclists don’t have a roll cage, seat belts or airbags,

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so when they are involved in a collision they are sadly often seriously injured or killed.

“Everyone can play a part in reducing the risk and the number of incidents on the roads. Queues and delays can be stressful and frustrating, which can cause road users to take risks and make mistakes.

“We want everyone to respect each other while using our roads and urge all road users to do the same by taking that extra time to look for vulnerable road users and make sure they have been seen.”

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said: “The next few weeks are likely to remain extremely busy on our roads as residents

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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

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 2008 (08) Nissan Note 1.6 Tekna Automatic Estate 5dr. 109bhp, petrol, automatic, partial leather, air con, bluetooth, auto lights & wipers, large boot, MOT - April 2022, clearance vehicle, 134,500 miles £1500 2015 (65) Renault Captur 1.5DCi Dynamique S Nav Automatic SUV 5dr. 90bhp, diesel, automatic, Free road tax & upto 72mpg economy, sat nav, touch screen, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, parking sensors, 35,500 miles £8750

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68

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Motoring

and tourists alike take advantage of the good weather.

“I’d like to ask everyone who will be out and about to please take care, slow down and look out for other road users.”

Christine Sharma, road safety manager at Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Biker Down, which is a National Fire Chiefs Council initiative, is delivered in Dorset by our partners at Doc Bike.

By exploring scene

management, first aid and the science of being seen, this intervention encourages all road users to be accountable for the safety of motorcyclists.

Whether or not you’re a biker, please consider booking onto a Biker Down course by contacting them at bikerdown@docbike.org.”

Advice to all road users about how they can be safe on the roads can be found atdorsetroadsafe.org.uk

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69

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Motoring

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71

Arts & Entertainment

Travel back through time with online

By Miranda Robertson newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

A fascinating archive of footage from across the Vale is set to go online in a free festival this week.

Rural media charity Windrose is set to stage an online archive film festival from Thursday, June 24 to Wednesday, June 30.

Archive films not seen before will be part of the free festival. They will include footage of Blandford to Sturminster Newton – including Blandford’s Coronation celebrations 1937, Blandford and Shaftesbury in the 1930s, Sturminster Newton Market in the 1930s and 1990s, the Somerset & Dorset Railway in 1960s, Fontmell Magna in 1980s plus Iwerne Minster in 1918.

There will also be footage from Buckland Newton to Sherborne – Buckland Newton people make one of the first parish maps 1990s, the King’s visit to Sherborne in the 1940s, Sherborne streets and fete 1950s, Sherborne School 1930s, an historical pageant at the Larmer Tree gardens 1960s, well known Sherborne farmer Jack Dimond and his old binder 1950s and 1990s, Cerne Abbas 1960s and 1990s. Plus Mother Of All Pageants (also available on DVD), the story of the great Sherborne Pageant with the original 1905 film and music,

GAP IN THE MARKET: The battle to save Sturminster Newton market in the 1990s

GIANT STEPS: Cerne Abbas back in the 1960s

presented by the late Gerald Pitman.

Four shows will be available thanks to support from Dorset Council.

Windrose director Trevor Bailey said: “One of our greatest joys is to take film shows to live audiences in village halls, theatres, cinemas, arts centres and museums. It is amazing how

many people are drawn by these moving images of their county. The atmosphere is often electric.

“Because of the pandemic, outreach shows have been impossible for a year. That’s been very sad. So we thought that, as restrictions begin to lift, we would remind Dorset people of just what a wonderful resource these

films of truly local life really are. When you have a film archive like ours, you are really custodian of the nearest thing to living history that exists. The last thing you want is to let it gather dust. It needs to be seen by local communities. It is their story.”

James Harrison, who has been putting the online shows together for Windrose, said

Amateur artists keen to show their work during lockdown The Yeovil Art Group’s Summer Exhibition will be held from Monday, June 28 until Monday, September 6 at the Yeovil Innovation Centre on Copse Road, Yeovil, open to the public from 9am until 4pm Monday to Friday in July (8.30-5pm in August).

72

The exhibition will be the first opportunity for local amateur artists to show their creativity after a long period of lockdown and will be held in the ‘Meet and Eat’ lounge area at the centre.

Showcasing their work in a variety of

media, most of the paintings will have been produced during the lockdown, when regular painting sessions together were unavailable.

The group usually exhibits around 45 paintings, with most available for sale. There is no admission charge.

Arts & Entertainment

film festival featuring amazing archives

IT’S OUR HISTORY: Footage of Sherborne Pageant

IT’S SHOWTIME: The Larmer Tree Pageant and, right, Sherborne farmer Jack Diamond

the film festival was completely different from Windrose’s usual shows.

“Just for one week, anyone who is on the internet can sit at home and enjoy a whole range of wonderful films. Just go to our website – windroseruralmedia.org and all the information will be there. We wanted to give Dorset communities a special

present to help clear the gloom a bit. We’ve enjoyed ourselves hugely putting these online shows together. We’ve tried to relate them to specific areas of the county to make the most of local relevance but they will all be fascinating for anyone who is interested in Dorset.

“People will find some old favourites from our shows but

all the work we’ve been doing recently to digitise the archive means that we have been able to give an outing to a number of films that have not been seen before.”

Windrose is famous for its extraordinary film archive of local life. Over the last 36 years, with the vital help of local communities, Windrose has saved a very large number

of films dating from the 1910s onwards and enabled them to be seen again. Over the last three-and-a-half years the charity, which also works in Somerset and Wiltshire collecting archive film and running community projects, has been working steadily to digitise much of the archive and to prepare more of it for public viewing.

Gerry bringing his friends to night at the Corn Exchange Wessex Acoustic are back in Blandford with live music at The Corn Exchange tonight (Friday 25th) A night of great music is planned featuring Gerry Colvin and Friends, supported by Simply Symons.

Gerry is a masterful singer, songwriter

and all round entertainer, writing songs across many genres, from emotional ballads, through rhythmical, gentle, Latin American, to bouncy rock and roll. His friends, Patricia and Jerome, supply subtle, and not so subtle, accompaniment.

Providing a mid-evening break for Gerry, in place of an interval, husband and wife duo Simply Simons will play more traditional style folk music with a light touch.

Seats at £15 each may be booked by contacting Kathy on 01202 732239.

73

Arts & Entertainment

Reach for the stars Artsreach is inviting you to Starcrazy – a one night only, open-air cosmic comedy by Miracle Theatre on Friday, July 16 at 8pm.

Winterborne Stickland Sports Club will be hosting the open air show (01258 880920), which features the much loved, award-winning Cornish Miracle Theatre.

October 1957: the world lives in fear of nuclear war, Russia has launched Sputnik 1, UFOs are cropping up everywhere, MI5 is on high alert and Stanley is building something in his garden shed. Stanley is a quiet, reclusive individual, who spends a lot of time in his potting shed, tinkering with a very powerful radio transmitter; he may live in suburbia but, in his mind,

Stanley is voyaging through outer space, and he hopes to make contact with other life forms. His new neighbour, Gwen, thinks he should be exploring the unknown much closer to home…

There will be a barbecue and bar from 6pm. Tickets must be booked in advance. Please bring a chair/rug and dress for all weather. Find out more at artsreach.co.uk.

SATURDAY 24th JULY 2021 - 7.00pm THE DEER PARK, STOCK GAYLARD, STURMINSTER NEWTON DT10 2BG FROM LLOYD WEBBER TO PUCCINI, STING TO MANCINI AND SONGS FROM MUSICALS & FILMS THERE WILL BE SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

Tickets £40 per person For further information please contact blakeconcert@outlook.com BRING A PICNIC AND ENJOY A WONDERFUL EVENING OF LIVE MUSIC 74

Arts & Entertainment A family-friendly circus will be rolling into north Dorset next month, thanks to Artsreach.

Tilly Lee-Kronick & Pirates of the Carabina will be performed at 6pm on Friday, July 16 at Yetminster Sports Club (01935 873546), on Friday, July 23 at 6.30pm at Broadmayne Recreation Ground (07443 659912) and on Thursday August 26, 6.30pm at Litton Cheney Hall Field (01308 482661).

Simple Cypher & Pirates of the Carabina will be on Thursday, August 19, 7pm at Halstock Village Hall Field (01935 891744) and on Friday, August 20, 6pm at Blandford School Field (01963 480698).

Circus Around & About is a pilot rural touring project aimed at bringing high quality, small-scale, family friendly circus to rural

Roll up, roll up...

Pirates circus on its way to county communities. Funded by Arts Council England, the project is being delivered by a partnership between Somerset-based Take Art and London-based Crying Out Loud; events in Dorset will be presented by Artsreach, the counties touring arts charity.

Each outdoor event will feature two shows by extraordinary national and international touring companies.

Tilly Lee-Kronick is a Bristol-trained singer, dancer and physical theatre performer. She is an

outstanding aerialist who performs static trapeze. She has worked for renowned circus company Cirque Bijou and performed at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Her solo show Ripe is packed with fun and fresh ideas. Through humour, music and circus skills, she will unpeel your assumptions about the effortless grace of aerial acrobatics.

Simple Cypher fuse hip hop and circus to create dynamic, uplifting experiences. In Roll Up, Roll Up Simple Cypher perform explosive tricks with effortless agility within a

large, spinning steel ring known as a Cyr Wheel. This skilled duo combines freestyle Hip Hop and acrobatics with juggling in an innovative and original way in this playful production.

Based in the South West, Pirates of the Carabina are an award-winning company of acrobats and musicians offering ingenious, trailblazing theatrical circus shows with live music. They have performed at festivals and venues across the world.

Their brand-new show Pirate Taxi tells their own tale of running away to the circus, with humour, original music and an ingenious set.

Tickets for all circus events must be booked in advance and full details about the event, including covid guidance is available online.

See artsreach.co.uk.

Live music at last

Two Harps in Wardour Chapel What could be more heavenly?

ON SHOW: Bright Divide by Felicity House

View from the Ridge is looking good at gallery An art exhibition by Bournemouth Arts Club Southern Contemporaries entitled View from the Ridge is coming to Shaftesbury Arts Centre from July 22 until August 3.

The pieces have been selected by Frances Hatch, and feature works created from a high point in the landscape or a personal watershed.

Southern Contemporaries

stems from the proud tradition and history of Bournemouth Arts Club which celebrates its centenary at the Russell Cotes Gallery this autumn.

Venue address: Shaftesbury Arts Centre, 13 Bell Street, Shaftesbury SP7 8AR Opening times: 10am-4pm Admission fee: Free Website: shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk bournemouthartsclub.co.uk

Saturday 3 July 5pm Tickets £12-33. Advance sales only Social distance seating

http://cherubimtrust.org/tkts 75

Arts & Entertainment

Farm arts CIC needs likes A Stalbridge community interest company is hoping to extend the months it can offer arty crafty activities with a sizeable grant.

The Guggleton Farm Arts Project has been around for 25 years. It was founded to offer the opportunity for all local people to get involved in diverse artistic disciplines such as painting, sculpture, stone carving, textile design, music and performance, ceramics and associated crafts.

Its founder and owner Isabel de Pelet, pictured, is still a director and heavily involved.

Now the CIC has been approved for entry into the Calor Rural Community Fund, making it eligible to crowdfund with the aim of raising £10,000.

Deanne Tremlett,

Guggleton’s artistic director, said: “Our Dutch Barn is a really great venue space but we desperately need livestock blinds to provide shelter and protection from the elements which will extend the season considerably and enable us to use the barn for more events for longer in the year. This will cost in the region of £8,000 plus VAT. We are competing with projects all over the country and will be judged on impact and

sustainability, such as how likely are we to achieve our goals and do we have clear volunteer support?”

People only need to ‘like’ their page to help them win the funding. Go to lnkd.in/gUqckdV. For every ‘like’ they win one point and for every donation they receive 10 points. The project with the most points by the closing date on July 7 will be in with a chance of winning a slice of Calor’s £85,000 funding pot in addition to what they raise during the competition. The winners will be announced on August 11.

For more information go to guggletonfarmarts.com. It is open Tuesday to Saturday 11-3. There are galleries, a garden, a shop and a coffee shop.

Everyone is welcome.

Enjoy mediaeval mayhem Following popular tours with his adaptations of Great Expectations, Dracula and The Odyssey, Cornish actor and co-founder of Kneehigh Theatre David Mynne returns to Dorset this summer with his brilliantly vibrant take on Geoffrey Chaucer’s bawdy classic, The Canterbury Tales, touring to three rural venues with Artsreach.

Bawdy, funny, serious and sometimes shocking, short stories.

Join veteran actor David Mynne and experience a journey down the foul and fetid footpaths of 14th century England, told with irreverence, wit and silliness!

Expect archaic naughtiness and nonsense... possibly tights and a codpiece! Definitely medieval swearing. Let’s party like it’s 1387!

This is Chaucer... but not as you know it!

7.30pm in Cerne Abbas Vicarage Garden on Friday, 23 July, at Powerstock Hut Terrace at 2pm and 6pm on Saturday 24 July and at Morden Village Hall Field at 2pm on Sunday 25 July.

Tickets from artsreach.co.uk.

PLEA S KE E CHEC EP KI OU NG WEBSR ITE

TE SE NO PLEA

S MASTK BE MUS RN WO

THE KING & I (U)

(Recorded screening)

Filmed live at the London Palladium

Sat 26th June 7.30pm Tickets £13 (Concs £11)

NOMADLAND (12a) Tues 29th & Wed 30th June 7.30pm Matinee Wed 30th June 2pm Tickets £8 £7 Matinee £6 U16s

THE FATHER (12A)

(Recorded screening)

Thur 1st July 2pm to Sat 3rd July 7:30pm Tickets £8, Matinee £7, U16s £6

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

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

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

LOS ENDOS

DAD’S ARMY

THE BOHEMIANS

Ultimate Genesis

Thur 5th to Sat 7th August 7.30pm Tickets £16 Matinees Fri 6th & Sat 7th August, 2.30pm Tickets £16

Sat 10th July, 7:30pm Tickets £21

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)

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MICHAEL BALL & ALFIE BOE: BACK TOGETHER

Fri 13th August, 7.30pm Tickets £20.50 (Box Office bookings over £20 incur £1 booking fee)

Thur 1st July 7.30pm Tickets £15

(Concs £13.50)

SUPERNOVA (15) Mon 5th July 7:30pm to Tues 13th July 7:30pm Tickets £8, Matinee £7, U16s £6

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

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

TOM WATERS

The Blandford School presents

Rythm & Blues Review

Thur 15th July, at 7.30pm Tickets £25 (Box Office bookings over £20 incur £1 booking fee)

RENT

Wed 21st July 7.30pm to Thur 22nd July 7:30pm Tickets £15 (Concs £12) (Box Office bookings over £20 incur £1 booking fee)

Arts & Entertainment

Welcome return of theatre REVIEW: Flea the Pandemic Stour Hall

By Sophie Revell It’s been 17 months since the Exchange hosted their last performance, so theatre fans were thrilled to be back. Director Craig White and the Taboo team have worked hard around covid precautions. To avoid physical contact between actors, movement and physicality came first in the early stages of devising the play and characterisation easily followed.

The cast of eight never left the stage once the performance started, sitting around the edge when not in character.

Moments that stood out particularly were the hauntingly beautiful vocal performance by Holly Fripp, and the inclusion of a larger-than-life Flea which was designed and created by Ann

and Graham Baseden and comically operated by Tania White. Joe Watson’s portrayal of the High Sheriff was morbidly humorous as a medieval parody of Boris Johnson.Writer Sue Ashby used elements of Boris Johnson’s speeches during the pandemic to write the High Sheriff’s character. Other parallels between the plague in Dorset in 1348 and 2021 were found in Ashby’s research for the play. This made Flea the Pandemic the perfect blend of humour and history, with a lot of ironic humour, particularly in history repeating itself. Funding from Stour Management allowed Taboo to donate 100% of ticket sales to the Exchange.

Flea the Pandemic was a highly enjoyable return to live theatre, and an exciting glimpse at what lies ahead.

TO IVY CROSS ROUNDABOUT

TOURIST INFORMATION

CAR PARK BELL STREET

THE GARDENS OF CHETTLE OPEN WEEKEND In aid of church funds

Village gardens, including Chettle House garden Sunday 4th July 2021, 2 pm - 4.30 pm

THE POTTING SHED COCONUT & COTTON

THE UGLY DUCKLING CAFE

Cream teas & cake Adults £10, children free

THE DRESSMAKER’S STUDIO

Pre-booking not required Please no dogs, no shade in car park

TH

THE CYGNET GALLERY

TO PARK WALL

SHAFTESBURY HIGH STREET Swans Yard is opposite Boots the Chemist.

77

Business

Social enterprise is giving ladies much-needed quality clothing

By Andrew Diprose The idea is simple but brilliant.

Work closely with women’s charities and local community organisations to provide garments to women in need of clothing support.

But not any old item stuffed into a black plastic sack. Instead clothing is laundered, folded and beautifully presented in drawstring bags, lovingly handmade on the premises in Cranborne using upcycled fabric.

Each gift bag personally tailored to the recipient’s size, style preference and clothing need.

And containing 15-18 items together with a lavender heart and an inspirational message.

The Wardrobe Foundation was launched as a not for profit social enterprise by Eloise Grant, 24, and her mum, Lisa, last year.

Stuart Grant, Eloise’s dad, looks after the finances and admin.

Originally operating out of the attic of the family home in Cranborne it soon became apparent that they were fulfilling a clear need. Now, 12 months later, the Wardrobe Foundation has ten committed volunteers, provided 180 gift bags containing 4,500 items of clothing and is using a dedicated work unit in Cranborne.

It has worked with 25 charities and organisations, to date.

The whole ethos is on sustainability and recycling.

Eloise, who graduated with a distinction after completing a Master’s degree in strategic sustainable business at the University of Stirling, said the response to the Wardrobe Foundation had far exceeded expectations.

She said: “I really didn’t expect things to take off in the way they have but it’s been absolutely brilliant. Our idea to provide clothing support in a way that is both dignified and sustainable 78

“Our idea to provide clothing support in a way that’s dignified & sustainable has blossomed..” Eloise Grant, right, and her mum Lisa of the Wardrobe Foundation.

has blossomed into a wonderful organisation that we are very, very proud of. But we could not have achieved what we have in such a short amount of time without the brilliant support, encouragement, donations and response that have come from the community that we are so lucky to live and work in.

“At Wardrobe Foundation we make it our mission to use every item of clothing that arrives through our doors.

“Clothing that is unsuitable for gifting or resale we love turning into something special.

“Our clothing gift bags and lavender hearts are two items that we make regularly.”

The latest initiative is an outreach project called the Golden Rail.

A clothes rail of laundered garments suitable for older women living in care homes.

The first recipient of a Golden

Rail was Ferndown Manor Care Home.

Volunteer Amanda Reuben made the initial connection with the Wardrobe Foundation team selecting clothing, scarves and shoes for the rail.

They were then ironed, steamed and thoroughly checked over to make sure each item was delivered in perfect condition.

A total of six ‘Golden Rails’ have now been delivered to care homes across the area.

Eloise said: “The average age of the women receiving our clothes is between 25 and 45. It means we are left with beautiful clothes that are more suited to women in their 70s and above.

“We thought there must be a need for such garments in care homes where the residents may be reliant on family and friends to afford them.

“No matter how old, we know that women love shopping and

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. looking for clothes. But this time, they are free. The response has been incredible.”

The Wardrobe Foundation is now working with up to 13 care homes. It has also provided a ‘Summer Dress Rail’ allowing women supported by the organisation involved to choose their own dresses and highsummer items.

Eloise said the social enterprise was now concentrating on building awareness and reaching more charities and organisations.

She added: “I am proud of what we’ve done and how far we’ve come. It’s been fascinating and I’ve learned so much, especially with the website and social media. From the donations of clothing we’ve received to the response from the charities and organisations and the women who’ve received clothes, it’s been quite overwhelming.

“I’d like to say a huge thank you to our exceptional team of volunteers.

“Also, all the charities that have gone above and beyond in supporting the women they work with as well as everyone who has donated clothing.

“It’s been absolutely amazing.”

Wardrobe Foundation accepts women’s clothing in every size.

However, in line with current Covid-19 guidelines, it has paused donation collections for now. All donations are left for 72 hours before processing. wardrobefoundation.co.uk

with dorsetbiznews.co.uk

Are your retirement plans on course?

Contact us for a pension review today.

Whatever’s on your mind, just ask.

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

79

Business

with dorsetbiznews.co.uk

Awards double for campsite Hallelujah! Ultrafast on way It’s been a big week for Alan and Pamela Walton, pictured in their awards gladrags, at Long Hazel Park in Sparkford.

The couple collected their Bristol, Bath and Somerset Tourism Award Gold trophy for Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park in the region for 2021.

“We’ll be proudly displaying our new trophy alongside our Silver award in the same category for 2020,” said Pamela.

They continued their awardwinning last Monday as Theo Paphitis’ Small Business of the Week, securing the accolade on their first ever attempt.

“We are overjoyed that the Dragons’ Den star has seen such promise in our familyrun business, as he hand-picks the winners

himself,” said Alan. “We hope to attend the winners ceremony later this year.”

He added: “It’s been a great start to the season and we’re really enjoying welcoming our guests back this summer.” n longhazelpark.co.uk 01963 440002

Openreach has outlined plans to bring ultrafast, ultra-reliable Full Fibre broadband to a further 45,000 homes and businesses in Dorset – including Sherborne and Sturminster Newton.

In total at least 3m more homes and businesses – including 440,000 across the South West – will benefit in some of the UK’s hardest to serve communities.

It means fewer homes and businesses will require taxpayer subsidies to upgrade.

A total of 14 exchanges across Dorset are being upgraded, with the majority of homes and businesses in places such as Bere Regis, Blandford, Charmouth, Lyme Regis, Sherborne, Sturminster Newton, Swanage and Wareham set to gain from what’s described as a massive nationwide, five-year feat of civil engineering.

The company’s updated build plan is fundamental to the government achieving its target of delivering ‘gigabit-capable

broadband’ to 85 per cent of the UK by 2025.

It follows an extended investment commitment by its parent, BT Group, which means Openreach will now build Full Fibre technology to a total of 25m premises, including more than 6m in the hardest-to-serve parts of the country.

Openreach’s £15bn commercial investment in upgrading the UK to faster, more reliable, futureproof broadband has been upped from £12bn.

The plans also include an extension to the company’s biggest ever recruitment drive, with a further 1,000 new roles being created this year on top of the jobs which were announced in December 2020 – of which around 200 were in the South West.

This means that by the end of 2021, Openreach will have created and filled more than 9,000 apprenticeship roles since 2017/18.

Recruitment Base: Sherborne Post: Cook Hours: 14 hours per week Salary: £6,721-£7,219 We are seeking an enthusiastic and hardworking Band 2 Cook to join our friendly dedicated catering team in Sherborne Community Hospital. As Cook you will prepare meals for ward patients and provide a food service for staff and the general public Cooks within the hospital have a key role in maintaining a high standard of meal provision to patients, and make a valuable contribution in the wider care team that supports patients during their time in hospital.

Candidates should have good organizational and communication skills, be flexible in their approach to work whilst demonstrating an ability to work using their own initiative and as part of a team.

This post may require working weekends, evenings until 18.00. Weekends are paid at enhanced rates.

Employment in this post requires a Standard Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

For further information and to apply, please visit https://www.jobs.nhs.uk/ and search for the vacancy reference 152S007.21B The Yeatman Hospital is currently looking for bank workers to join the dedicated hotel service teams to work on an as and when basis. This includes domestics, catering assistants and porters. Various hours available including weekends.

For further information please contact Alison Lee 07775027961 alison.lee1@nhs.net 80

Recruitment

New roles created in children’s team

Diverse Abilities, Dorset’s disability charity, is expanding its Children’s Team after demand in its respite services has increased and the charity has announced five new roles.

Demand for its services at Lily’s Place, Lawford Lodge, and Shapes domiciliary care has increased with almost double the amount of interest compared year on year. The charity is looking for two people to work full time, and several to work part time.

Claire Stacey, Children’s Team Manager, said: “We’re looking for a selection of new faces to join our amazing staff working together to meet the needs of the young people we support.

“It’s so rewarding to be able to come to work every day and make a difference to

young people’s lives, no two days are ever the same, but there’s always lots of fun to be had.”

Dawn Cross, one of the child support workers at Lily’s Place, added: “I was attracted to the Children’s Team because I was looking for a role where I can enjoy helping people.

“I’ve had great opportunities for growth and have been recently promoted to a full time Child Support Worker since joining as part of the Short Breaks Crew.”

Training is provided on the job, with progression towards a relevant level three diploma, and applicants must apply before the deadline on Wednesday, June 30.

Visit diverseabilities.org.uk/ jobs to find out more about the roles available and apply

The UK’s leading Sports Turf & Golf Construction Company requires a

Finance Administrator We require a motivated, confident and pro-active person to join our busy finance team.

You will work with the Billing Manager to support the sales invoicing function.

If you can demonstrate the following skills and experience, we would like to hear from you: Proficient systems user with experience of Microsoft Office and accounting software Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a pleasant telephone manner The ability to organise and prioritise tasks with attention to detail An enthusiastic team worker Hold a full driving licence This is a full-time position based at our pleasant offices in Dinton.

Competitive salary dependent on skills and experience.

For an application pack please contact: Mrs Jules Simmons M J ABBOTT LTD, Bratch Lane, Dinton, Salisbury SP3 5EB Email: jules.simmons@mjabbott.co.uk www.mjabbott.co.uk The closing date for applications is 5th July 2021 Interviews will be held week commencing 12th July 2021 M J Abbott Ltd is an Equal Opportunities employer

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Recruitment 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.

We are also looking for a

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 Independent Co-educational Boarding and Day School

NurseryBoarding Prep Senior Sixth Form Day School Independent and IAPS/GSA/CISC for Pupils aged 4 -18 GSA/CISC

HIGHER LEVEL TEACHING ASSISTANT

Driver FULLRequired TIME

PART TIME, TERM TIME ONLY (September 2021 start for a period of one year, then subject to review) Leweston School is seeking an enthusiastic and experienced teaching assistant to join our thriving community. The successful candidate will join our existing SEND team and will be working to support a pupil with a variety of SEND needs.

You will be working largely on a 1-1 basis, supporting a child who is going into Year 7, working to tailor lesson content to suit their needs.

The hours of work will be 8am – 4.30pm daily. Experience in working with children with SEND would be highly advantageous. We offer a competitive salary and a range of benefits, including leisure club membership.

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

SALES ADVISOR IN OUR WELLS OFFICE Lodestone Property, a multi-award-winning property agency based in Bruton, Shaftesbury and Wells, is looking for an enthusiastic, energetic, forward-thinking and organised individual to be part of the sales team in their Wells office.

Negotiating skills, the ability to work as part of our motivated friendly team, as well as being able to communicate articulately with the public and our clients, are essential. Experience of working in estate agency is important.

If you think you are the right person for this full-time role, you can be part of this young, dynamic, growing business.

For further information and to download an application pack, please visit our website https://www.leweston.co.uk/information/work-with-us

Salary will commensurate with experience.

Please send your CV with a covering letter to:

Closing date for Applications: 30th June 2021 Interviews: 5th July 2021

Sue Macey, Managing Partner at: sue@lodestoneproperty.co.uk

Leweston is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment.

An enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check will be required.

A Catholic Foundation which welcomes pupils of all Denominations Leweston School Trust is a registered charity number 295175

bruton@lodestoneproperty.co.uk 01749 605099

shaftesbury@lodestoneproperty.co.uk 01747 442577

wells@lodestoneproperty.co.uk 01749 605088

Warehouse Operative Quill Productions - Pulham, Dorset.

A hardworking, friendly person required to join our busy warehouse team.

Duties include receiving stock, assembling products, picking & dispatching customer orders.

For further information please email tc@quillproductions.co.uk

STORE PERSON required.

Duties include; goods in-out, order processing, packing, etc.

Needs a good eye for detail.

Forklift experience desirable.

Full time position at small friendly company near Shaftesbury. 01747 851060

82

WORKSHOP TEAM MEMBER required. Will suit someone with an interest in electrical and mechanical assembly, needs a good eye for detail. Full time position at small friendly company near Shaftesbury. 01747 851060

Millbrook House RESIDENTIAL CA RE HOME

in Child Okeford is recruiting for staff in a variety of positions:

NIGHT CARE ASSISTANT 48 hours over 2 weeks

CARE ASSISTANT

Full time and Part time Excellent rates of pay and bene昀ts.

Please call us on 01258-860330 for further information or email gini@millbrookhouse.co.uk to request an application form.

Recruitment

GILLINGHAM TOWN COUNCIL An exciting opportunity has arisen to join our award winning friendly team

HORTICULTURAL GROUNDS PERSON We are looking for a highly motivated full time Horticultural Grounds Person to work on a variety of sites throughout the town.

Experience of working in a similar environment is essential.

A full UK driving licence is required.

Previous applicants need not apply.

Further information and application details can be found on our website: www.gillinghamdorset-tc.gov.uk/recruitment telephone: 01747 823588 email: gtc@gillinghamdorset-tc.gov.uk Closing date for applications: Friday 9th July 2021

We are now accepting applications from enthusiastic people for the following roles:

Customer Service Team Assistant x1 Wholesale Team Assistant x1 •

•

•

These 2 full-time positions both involve dealing with customers/wholesale customers on the phone, face-to-face and by email, as well as general office duties.

Applicants MUST be switched on, disciplined, have a high attention to detail, and enjoy contributing within a small, focused team.

A great customer-facing attitude and a pleasant phone manner are essential.

Office Manager •

•

In addition to the requirements listed above, applicants for this role should be prepared to manage a small, busy team.

Gardening knowledge is highly desirable.

About Niwaki Independent day and boarding school for girls aged 2–18 years (and boys to the age of 7) in Bruton, Somerset

BOARDING HOUSE PARENT Full Time – Accommodation provided MATHEMATICS TEACHER Full Time – Maternity Cover LIBRARY & RESOURCES ADMINISTRATOR Part Time GRADUATE ASSISTANTS Full Time – Accommodation Provided Applications are invited for the above posts.

The details of the posts and an application form can be downloaded from the Job Vacancies page at https://www.brutonschool.co.uk/our-community/join-us-vacancies Bruton School for Girls is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children; applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure & Barring Service. Bruton School for Girls is an educational charity and equal opportunities employer.

We bring the very best in Japanese design and craftsmanship, inspiring gardeners, chefs and craftsmen to do the stuff they love, even better.

We source and manufacture an extraordinary range of fine garden and woodworking tools, kitchen knives and outdoor gear, priding ourselves not only in the pleasure it brings our customers, but also the knowledge and enthusiasm we share with them.

Apply Please send your CV and a short cover letter to careers@niwaki.com and be prepared to come in for a chat.

All positions will be based in Semley, near Shaftesbury

NIWAKI LTD. Chaldicott Barns Semley Shaftesbury SP7 9AW

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Recruitment Milborne Port Surgery is looking for a RECEPTIONIST/ ADMINISTRATION ASSISTANT to join our friendly team to work a minimum of 20 -37 hours per week. Prior knowledge of EMIS Web would be desirable but not necessary as full training will be provided. Please send your CV and covering letter to the Reception Lead anita.guppy@nhs.net by no later than the 19th July 2021 FULL TIME/ PART TIME MILKER/YARD TRACTOR DRIVER. We are currently looking for a capable and enthusiastic person to cover milking 230 cows on an organic dairy farm in North Dorset.

Daily duties will include milking twice per day, bedding cubicles and scraping twice per day.

General herd management tasks such as drying off protocols and treatments under instruction from the vet and owner. Daily hours of work – 4 hours am, 3 hours pm and 1-hour general duties during the day.

This role would suit a local person who is selfemployed or who would be willing to go selfemployed though our Labour Company.

Competitive rates of pay and regular time off.

Milking and tractor driving experience preferred but training will be given for the right candidate.

If interested please contact Mark Yearsley: Phone 07984 785190 Email markyearsley@fcgagric.com OWNER CAR & SMALL VAN DRIVERS NEEDED. Local or nationwide deliveries. Part time or full time. Email: enquiries@ sprintercouriers.co.uk or Call: 01747 850276

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HIGHFIELD HOUSE AWARD WINNING RESIDENTIAL CARE HOME Positions Vacant - Part Time Waking Night Care Assistant - 2 nights p/w minimum 8pm-7am Catering Assistant - 20.5 hours p/w minimum Domestic Assistant - 12 hours p/w minimum Please contact our office on 01963 350697 or email manager@highfieldhouse. net for further information.

EQUALITY CARE LIMITED LONGBRIDGE DEVERILL NURSING HOME We are looking to recruit Care Assistants to join our friendly team. Full or parttime (to include alternate weekend hours). Apply to Deb Wiltshire, Manager, Longbridge Deverill Nursing Home, Tel: 01985 211511 or via email deb.wiltshire@equalitycare.co.uk CLEANER REQUIRED. Wanted 4/5 hours weekly, must be reliable, trustworthy and an exceptional cleaner.

Shaftesbury area. 07946 396912 COTTAGE AVAILABLE FOR RENT AND WORK. Help required with Hunters and around garden and yard. Also require help with maintenance of classic cars. May suit couple.

Hours and rent open to negotiation. Even if you don’t require accommodation please phone about work.

Kelvin and Jessica 07798 800789, 01963 23130, 07880 518725 Holebrooks of Sturminster Newton are looking for a part time TRADITIONAL BUTCHER. Phone for details 01258 472077

DAILY HELP required for retired lady in the Gillingham area. Duties to include light housework and meal preparation.

Other domestic help in place. A caring, can-do, flexible attitude is essential. Non-smoker and driver preferred. Daily hours by mutual agreement. For an informal chat please telephone 07788536890 or 01749 343335 RAYFORD LTD OF DORCHESTER have vacancies for: SCHOOLS TERM TIME TAXI DRIVERS EMPLOYED 20 hours a week. Full time & part time taxi drivers to include evenings and weekends (Self Employed) Contact 01305 269500 Email: andrew.rayfordgroup @yahoo.com EXPERIENCED CLEANER/S WANTED Whitebridge Farm Holiday Cottages, near Semley Friday 10am-1pm Saturday 10am-1pm Good pay Reference required Please contact: Annabelle: 07813 305271 PART TIME CLEANER wanted for private house in Cucklington. 01747 841265.

‘The Parishes of Pimperne, Stourpaine and Durweston with Bryanston are looking to appoint a TEAM ADMINISTRATOR to provide administrative support to the Vicar and Church Wardens.

The appointment is for 8 hours a week, over two days, working from home.

For further information and a job description please contact Revd Belinda Marflitt on 0333 0118088 or email Closing date Friday 9th July.

Short listing Monday 12th July.

James Colmer Hair & Beauty, FULL TIME/PART TIME EXPERIENCED STYLIST vacancy, rent a chair basis, excellent earning potential in a busy established salon.

Experienced in all colour and cutting techniques, please email for further details, Jam8uk86@googlemail.com FULL TIME EXPERIENCED GARDENER for small garden maintenance company Blandford area.

Must have reasonable horticultural knowledge and garden machinery skills for work in private gardens. 01258 459582 Looking for a BRICK/ BLOCK LAYER to block up a barn, would fit in between other projects. located between Mere and Shaftesbury. 07540 633126 EX-ECHO REPORTER SEEKS EDITOR NEW BLACKMORE VALE to fulfil wedding duties in the role of Best Woman. To apply for this role, please contact your son’s godmother.

I AM HONOURED! Application sent. Ed. TEMPORARY MILKING STAFF required for large dairy farm near Gillingham.

Starting in early August, we require staff to assist milking 400 cows as part of a team of two. Start times are 6am and 3pm, milking duration 2.5 hours. Other work may be available during the day.

Experience preferred but not required. Must be punctual and reliable. Could lead to full time position including calf rearing. Email tmalleson@btinternet.com KNOWLEDGEABLE GARDENER required for beautiful cottage garden in Bishopstone. One day/week to start early July. Please ring 07903 314523.

Recruitment HANFORD SCHOOL CHILD OKEFORD BLANDFORD DORSET DT11 8HN PART TIME NIGHT / EVENING MATRON An energetic and flexible matron is required to help look after our boarders (ages 7-13).

Previous relevant experience would be an advantage and good organisational skills, kindness, enthusiasm and a cheerful disposition are essential.

This a part time, term-time only role with a flexible roster.

Closing date for applications: Friday 2nd July, 6pm.

To apply or to find out more about the role, please email Laura Stout at office@hanfordschool.co.uk www.hanfordschool.co.uk Hanford is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment.

This post is subject to an enhanced DBS disclosure.

Registered charity number 01001751

MOT Tester FJ Chalke Kia, Mere We are looking to complete our Workshop Team in Mere by appointing an MOT Tester. The ideal candidate would be joining a great team who very much look forward to welcoming a new colleague on board.

Kickstart a career

By Miranda Robertson South Somerset District Council (SSDC) will offer up to 30 employment opportunities to young people with the Government’s Kickstart Scheme.

The Kickstart Scheme is available to help young people aged 16-24, who are currently in receipt of Universal Credit, get jobs and gain experience to help them advance and kick start their career.

The Kickstart Scheme supports the Government’s Plan for Jobs campaign. SSDC is planning to employ 30 young people on sixmonth contacts through the scheme. It’s a chance for young people at threat of unemployment to get local jobs while gaining insight and practical experience which will help them advance in the working world.

In order to support the long term employability, SSDC will run a comprehensive learning and development programme that will complement supportive workplace opportunities and mentoring.

The Kickstart Scheme will also provide a stepping stone to permanent jobs and potential future employment by SSDC and other organisations.

Positions are currently being advertised for the Kickstart Scheme at local Jobcentre Plus offices.

Councillor John Clark, South Somerset District Council’s portfolio holder for economic development, said: “It’s a great opportunity with a variety of roles available.”

Go to gov.uk/government/ collections/kickstart-scheme or visit your local Job Centre Plus office.

SHEET METAL WORKER required to join a growing team. Engineering experience not essential, full training given. Position for someone keen to learn various metal working processes. Full time position at small friendly company near Shaftesbury.

01747 851060

Equality Care Limited Longbridge Deverill Nursing Home

MOT Tester The duties of the role will include MOT preparation on a range of vehicles, fault finding and repairs, plus, servicing and repairs on vehicles when required.

You will have a relevant formal qualification (City & Guilds / NVQ Level 3) Live MOT Testing licence Class 4/7 and previous experience of completing MOT testing.

Your current UK driving licence must be clean.

For further information please visit www.fjchalke.co.uk or use the contact details below.

Apply with a current CV to George Chalke, Branch Director, FJ Chalke, Talbot Garage, Salisbury Street, Mere, BA12 6HE or email george.chalke@fjchalke.co.uk

We are looking to recruit the following staff to join our friendly team Maintenance Person - 25 hours per week Monday-Friday Kitchen Assistant - from 14 hours per week including alternate weekends Housekeeping/Laundry Team member - 20 hours per week including alternate weekends

t t t

Apply to Deb Wiltshire, Manager, Longbridge Deverill Nursing Home Tel: 01985 211511 or via email deb.wiltshire@equality-care.co.uk

FJ Chalke SITUATIONS WANTED WANTED Cleaning work in Tisbury area, excellent references call 07482 743483 EXPERIENCED CARER NVQ3. Qualified in all aspects of care, insured, DBS, references available.

Please contact 07584 247233

PRIVATE CARER available day and night availability, small team available for cover and multiple hours. Dbs insurance and references.

Contact 07898 609405

LIVE IN / OUT CARER Experienced in all aspects of caring, etc. DBS, insured, excellent references contact Lesley 07884 058248 or Steph 07723 999043.

ADVERTISE A JOB: 01963 400186 SELF EMPLOYED CARER available for NIGHT care.

Clean DBS, insured, references available.15 years of experience.

Please call if you need help 07809 206782

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Recruitment HANFORD SCHOOL CHILD OKEFORD BLANDFORD DORSET DT11 8HN TEACHER OF EAL Part-Time Teacher of English as an Additional Language.

An ability to teach learning support desirable.

Start September 2021 Closing date for applications: Friday 2nd July To find out more about the role, please email Carrie Lewis lewisc@hanfordschool .co.uk hanfordschool.co.uk Hanford is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment.

This post is subject to an enhanced DBS disclosure.

Registered charity number 01001751

HANFORD SCHOOL CHILD OKEFORD BLANDFORD DORSET DT11 8HN CLEANER Required to start 6th September 2021, to work on a part-time basis during term time only. Shifts are Monday – Friday (7am – midday). However, for the right applicant, there may be a little flexibility on timings.

Salary: living wage – pro rata. The appointment is subject to a DBS check.

Closing date for applications: Monday 5th July 2021 To apply email Laura Stout for an application form office@hanfordschool .co.uk hanfordschool.co.uk Hanford is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment.

This post is subject to an enhanced DBS disclosure.

Registered charity number 01001751

DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES… To be a Trustee?

The Friends of the Yeatman Hospital is a much loved and well-respected local charity and wants to appoint new Trustees to take it through to the end of this decade.

The role, and the responsibility, of a Trustee is to ensure the charity ful昀ls its objectives and complies with Charity Commission guidelines. Although a challenging role it is a satisfying and engaging one which can make a signi昀cant contribution to the health and welfare of individuals and the local community.

Trustee Executive meetings are limited to 4 per year with sub-committee meetings as required.

The Friends of the Yeatman Hospital was founded in Sherborne 70 years ago to support the staff, patients and community who depend on the hospital and its services – in the hospital and in the community.

During the past 10 years, it has worked to achieve these objectives by committing funds in excess of £800,000 to a range of different health and health-related projects.

If you are interested in learning more about the charity, the role of the Friends and its work with the Yeatman Hospital and in Sherborne, request an information pack, including an application form, at admin@friendsoftheyeatman.org.uk

The Friends of The Yeatman Hospital – Registered Charity Number 1031326

TAKE CARE – BE CORONAVIRUS AWARE https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/

If Carlsberg did adverts... they’d do New Blackmore Vale adverts.

Book yours on 07714 289409 (display) or 01963 400186 (classifieds) 86

Announcements BIRTHDAYS

PUBLIC NOTICES

IN MEMORIAM SYLVIA HARDIMAN

The Friends of Blandford Community Hospital

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING CANCELLED ROBERT ROBERTSON Look out world!

Official new teenager on the loose.

A very happy 13th birthday to our darling, very special grandson, Robert, who is 13 on 26th INJune.

MEMORIAM Lots of love from Nanny and Grampy Holman xxx

Following current government guidelines for coronavirus, we have now made the decision to cancel our AGM this year – previously advertised as 7 July 2021.

Apologies to all.

Members wishing to vote for the usual AGM business can do so by downloading or printing out a form at our web site at friendsofblandford.org.uk Forms must be received in the Friends’ office by 4pm on 16 July 2021.

This can be by post – Friends of Blandford Hospital, Milldown Road, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 7DD. Or by email – dhc.friends.blandford@nhs.net Charity No. 800482

ENGAGEMENT MRS JANE STACEY of Shaftesbury is thrilled to announce the engagement of her son Tom Stacey to Emma Ford daughter of Stuart & Pauline Ford of Holt, Wimborne Tom is the son of the late Peter Stacey.

RETIREMENT After decades working in the milking industry,

TERRY CURTIS is hanging up his overalls at the end of June. We’re sure he’ll miss everyone but that he’ll thoroughly enjoy his full time role of Grampha. Love Becky & James, Nick & Angie and all the family.

GERALDINE ANITA ALEXANDER (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 5 Barn Close, Todber, Sturminster Newton, Dorset DT10 1HU, who died on 09/05/2021, 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.

FARNFIELDS LLP, 4 Church Lane Shaftesbury Dorset SP7 8JT.

YASMIN MARY TAYLOR (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 11 Stalbridge Close, Stalbridge, Sturminster Newton, Dorset DT10 2ND, who died on 11/05/2021, are required to send written particulars thereof to the undersigned on or before 02/09/2021, after which date the Estate will be distributed having regard only to the claims and interests of which they have had notice.

Farnfields Solicitors, 4 Church Lane, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8JT. Attn: Natasha Evans Ref: NEE 81935-1

In loving memory of a dear wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who sadly left us on 20th June 2020.

Forever in our hearts and greatly missed by all her family and friends.

DEATHS GILES MORGAN WALTER Aged 77 years of Yeovil, on 12th June 2021, peacefully at Wincanton Community Hospital.

A much loved, husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle & friend.

Private cremation. Donations in memory of Morgan are being invited for Cancer Research UK. c/o Harold F. Miles, Funeral Director, South Cadbury BA22 7ES Telephone (01963) 440367

WAREHAM CAROL PAMELA Aged 74 years of Sherborne. On 15th June 2021, peacefully at Yeovil District Hospital. A dearly beloved sister and friend. Private funeral. Donations in memory of Carol are being invited for The Dog’s Trust. C/O Harold F. Miles, Funeral Director, South Cadbury, BA22 7ES. Telephone. (01963) 440367.

A Memorial to celebrate the life of

MALCOLM DUNNING

IN MEMORIAM

Will be held on Monday August 2nd at 1pm.

St. Mary`s Church, Hermitage. DT2 7BB. All Welcome (Bright Clothing please!). Flowers or Donations to Weldmar Hospice, Dorchester, DT1 2SL

GEMMA PALMER

GORDON COX

a much loved Mum and missed every day, you are always in our thoughts, Lilia, Macey and Evie xxx

GEMMA PALMER It’s 10 years since you were taken from us.

Thinking of you every day, love Mum & Dad xxx

of Blandford Passed away peacefully on 4th June 2021, aged 85. Loving husband of the late Patricia Cox, dearly loved father to Adrian, Dorinda and Nicholas, father-in-law to Barbara, Nigel and Barbara, much loved grandad and greatgrandad. Private funeral. Donations, if desired for Prostate Cancer UK, may be made online by visiting www.close-funeral.co.uk or cheques payable to the charity c/o Colin J Close Funeral Service, Peel Close, Salisbury Road, Blandford DT11 7JU. Tel: 01258 453133

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Announcements DEATHS PHILIP RHODES Former Sturminster Newton Town Councillor Philip Rhodes passed away peacefully in his sleep on 30 May 2021 at Larks Leas Rest Home in Blandford Forum. The 84-year-old died fourteen and a half months after his beloved wife, Mary.

Philip was a grocer, a chef on the first Queen Elizabeth transatlantic cruise ship, a wine merchant, a councillor in Yorkshire, Buckinghamshire and Dorset, and a loving son, brother, husband, father, uncle, and grandfather. Philip was a proud Yorkshireman who supported Huddersfield Town and Yorkshire cricket, but fell in love with Dorset. Born in Huddersfield in 1936, Philip opened the town's first supermarket with his parents. He married Mary in October 1960, before moving south with their two sons. Philip and Mary retired to Sturminster Newton in 2004.

The funeral will take place at Poole Crematorium on 28th June 2021. Any donations to Prostate Cancer UK via Colin J Close Funeral Service: 01258 453133, info@close-funeral.co.uk.

DIANA ALLARD From Sherborne, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday 15th June, 2021 aged 89 years. Much loved wife of the late George Allard. Diana will be sadly missed by all who knew her. Donations in memory of Diana, for Friends of the Yeatman Hospital, may be sent c/o A.J. Wakely & Sons, 16 Newland, Sherborne, DT9 3JQ.

GOSCHEN GILLY Gilly Goschen of Sturminster Newton died peacefully with her daughters Jessie and Rilly at her side on the 24th May 2021, aged 81 years. She leaves her loving partner Pete, sister Janice and brother Peter. A warm and generous woman, Gilly is an inspiration to so many. Donations welcomed for The Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance and The Injured Jockeys Fund, c/o Grassby and Close Funeral Service, 4 Innes Way Court, Sturminster Newton, Dorset DT10 1BB. Telephone 01258 471024 or made online by visiting grassbyclose-funeral.co.uk

WATT ELSIE Aged 90 years of Wincanton. On 3rd June 2021, peacefully at Cooksons Court, Yeovil.

A much loved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend.

Private cremation.

Donations in memory of Elsie are being invited for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. C/O Harold F. Miles Funeral Director, South Cadbury, BA22 7ES. Telephone. (01963) 440367.

BARBARA PAUL Passed away suddenly on 31st May 2021 aged 87 years. Beloved mum to Bernard, Richard and Teresa. Mother in law to Sarah, Carole and Mick. Grandmother and greatgrandmother. Now reunited with her much loved Bill. Special thanks for all the love and care given by all the staff at Fir Villa Residential Home.

Private funeral service due to covid restrictions. If you wish to make a donation to Cancer Research in Barbara's memory you may do so using this link: dignityfunerals.co.uk/funeral-notices/31-052021-barbara-joyce-paul/

DAVID JOHN GREEN Passed away at home in Australia on 28th May 2021. Formally of Christy's Lane, Shaftesbury.

GIBBONS BRIAN Passed away peacefully at home, after battling a long illness, aged 71 years. He will be sadly missed by all his family and many friends. A private Funeral Service to be held.

Donations, if desired, for ‘Blandford Disability Action Group’ or ‘RBL Poppy Appeal’, c/o Lesley Shand Funeral Service, 28 East Street, Blandford Forum DT11 7DR Tel: 01258 453425 or online www.funeraldirector.co.uk/brian-gibbons

88

Family Run Caring & E cient • Private Chapels of Rest Personal Day & Night Service “Golden Charter” Pre-paid Funeral Plans available Memorials in Stone Marble & Granite, etc.

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Announcements PETER JACKSON FUNERAL SERVICES WHITMARSH ANDREW COLIN (ANDY)

Independent Family Owned and Run Funeral Directors

Aged 45 years of Charlton Musgrove.

On 6th June 2021.

A much loved father, son, brother, uncle, partner and friend.

Private cremation.

Donations in memory of Andy are being invited for Somerset and Dorset Animal Rescue. C/O Harold F. Miles, Funeral Director, South Cadbury, BA22 7ES. Telephone. (01963) 440367

Mons, High Street, Henstridge, Somerset BA8 0RB

Private Chapels of Rest • 24 Hour Service • Golden Charter Pre Paid Funeral Plans

Henstridge (01963) 362570

Gillingham (01747) 833757 Harwood House, Newbury, Gillingham SP8 4QJ

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

– 24 Hour Service –

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

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

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SHAFTESBURY BRACHER BROTHERS FUNERAL DIRECTORS Newbury, Gillingham SP8 4QL Tel: 01747 822494

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Newell, Sherborne DT9 4EZ Tel: 01935 813479

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89

Sport Dorset Cricket League Premier League June 19 Poole Town 223-5 Sherborne 181-8 Poole (19pts) bt Sherborne (6) by 42 runs Sherborne won the toss and put Poole into bat and were rewarded with two quick wickets.

A third fell with the score on 88 but Sherborne were then punished by a stand of 107.

Three late wickets helped but no bowling figures stood out, bar the economical Shane Pulling who conceded 19 off nine overs.

Josh Lawrence made a strong start to the Sherborne innings, scoring 32 of 39 when Mark Roca fell for six.

Lawrence was third out with the score on 60, after which the visitors collapsed to 1298.

Rob Wigley (22o) and Richard Carter (36no) battled but Poole bowled tightly and ran out comfortable winners.

June 12 Sherborne 285-1 Christchurch 224-7 Sherborne (18pts) beat Christchurch by 61 runs Skipper Josh Lawrence continued his remarkable form with his third century of the season to see Sherborne through in a highscoring contest.

He carried his bat for 158no including 20 boundaries and now averages 97.8 this season.

Only one wicket fell, that of Mark Roca (37) with the score on 94.

Marc Lock then joined Lawrence in a 191-run partnership of which Lock scored 70 not out.

The last five overs yielded 80 runs, with Lawrence scoring three consecutive sixes.

The strong finish put the game beyond Christchurch.

90

STALBRIDGE CC: Flying high in Division One with only one defeat this season

Div1: Stalbridge go second after four consecutive wins An opening stand of 80 in 18 overs laid a base but wickets fell steadily. With no fireworks to come the game petered out.

Dorset Cricket League Division One June 19 Stalbridge 128-2 Witchampton 126-9 Stalbridge (19pts) bt Witchampton (4) by 8 wickets Stalbridge continued an impressive winning streak with four wins in a row since narrowly losing to league leaders Puddletown a month ago – their only defeat of the season.

Witchampton elected to bat but lost two wickets quickly to Stuart Sweatman who conceded just 14 runs from his eight overs.

The visitors recovered to 552 but then collapsed to 98-9 before their last pairing scratched another 27 runs.

Howard Batten fiished with 4-39.

A total of 126 from 40 overs was never going to worry a

confident Stalbridge team, who moved into second 30 points behind Puddletown and one ahead of Hamworthy, who they play tomorrow.

Portland 216-9 Marnhull 135 all out Portland (20pts) bt Marnhull (7) by 81 runs Ashley Young took 5-39 as Marnhull restricted Portland to a moderate total, skipper Matthew Randall the only batsman to trouble scorers, with 77 off 70.

But from 51-2, Marnhull collapsed to 90-8. No 8 bat Spencer Pearce top-scored with 38 as Marnhull subsided in 23 overs.

Weymouth 244-5 Compton House 184 Weymouth (20pts) bt Compton (7) by 60 runs Weymouth won the toss and Wilson (65) and Beals (63) led the home team to 244 aided by 39 extras.

Wickets fell as Compton

tried to build a response, with Sapsworth the pick of the bowlers (3-14). Michael Harper (41) top scored for Compton.

June 12 Beaminster 53 Stalbridge 266-8 Stalbridge (20pts) bt Beaminster (4) by 213 runs A century from Stuart Sweatman (103) set Stalbridge on the way to an impressive total, with James Lewis also contributing a quickfire 62.

Sweatman then ripped Beaminster apart with 3-6 off eight overs.

Andy Dike also took 3-13 as the visitors were scuttled in 22 overs.

Marnhull 93 Puddletown 97-1 Puddletown (20pts) bt Marnhull (1) by 9 wickets Swanage 256-7 Compton House 93 Swanage (20pts) bt Compton (4) by 163 runs

Sport Dorset Cricket League Division Two June 19

In brief

Holmes on the move to join Gillingham

Blandford 226-3 Wimborne 2nds 224-7 Blandford (18pts) bt Wimborne (6) by 7 wickets Wimborne scored well after a shaky start left them at 48-3.

Dan Hilder (52no) steadied the ship and the lower order posted a respectable 224.

But Blandford skipper Luke Carter was in imperious form, sharing a century opening stand with Alex Mitchell and carried his bat with 113no.

Wayward bowling cost 35 extras and victory was reached with three overs to spare. Blandford are seven points clear top of the table.

Shillingstone 86 Poole Town 2nds 164-7 Poole (19pts) bt Shillingstone (4) by 78 runs Put into bat, Poole were reined in by tight bowling, Stuart Antell conceding just nine runs from six overs.

But Shillingstone had no answer to opening bowlers Abel (2-23) and Rochford (5-15) and fell to 39-7 before skipper Harry Paulley (30) made the score somewhat respectable.

Shaftesbury 264-4 Broadstone 2nd 129 Shaftesbury (20pts) bt Broadstone (5) by 135 runs Aled Williams (70) and Kevin Monaghan (73no) helped Shaftesbury to 178-1 before Sam Harris smashed three sixes in a score of 42.

Despite a knock of 70no by Broadstone skipper Gary Smith, the visitors subsided as Kris Martin (3-35) and Harris (2-14) secured their second win of the season.

Kids’ cricket a winner with clubs across Dorset More than 1,000 children have signed up to play All Stars’ Cricket at clubs across Dorset. The England Cricket Board initiative is aimed at 5-8 year-olds and has been embraced by nearly half the 60 clubs in Dorset.

There are also 420 taking part in Dynamos cricket, aimed at 8-11 year olds.

James Mitchell, youth participation manager for Dorset Cricket Board, said: “It's fantastic that so many clubs buy into what All Stars is all about.

“I'm particularly pleased we have a lot of new junior

clubs starting up, thanks to All Stars primarily.

“The community coach team headed by Rob Newton and Sean Fitzgerald have worked tirelessly in schools promoting All Stars and Dynamos and it's rewarding to see hard work pay off.

“I think with lockdown parents have realised the importance of team sports.

I hope to see a move away from individual sports as team sports are so beneficial to children's development and mental health.”

CRICKET FIXTURES Dorset Premier League

Compton H v Portland

June 26 Sherborne v Wimborne July 3 Sherborne v Broadstone Division One June 26 Hamworthy v Stalbridge Marnhull v Weymouth

July 3 Compton v Puddletown Marnhull v Hamworthy Swanage v Stalbridge Division Two June 26 Wimborne 2 v Shaftesbury Broadstone 2 v Blandford Cerne V v Shillingstone

n Former Wincanton Town player Andy Holmes has joined Gillingham Town FC as a player/assistant manager. n Sherborne Town FC “urgently” need a reserve team manager for next season. n Shaftesbury FC anticipates its 3G football pitch will be ready, and available for hire, by midJuly. n Sturminster Newton United FC begin pre-season training on July 6 and say new players are welcome.

The club is looking for preseason friendlies on July 24 and August 7. n Entries to join the Blackmore Vale Football League must be in by August 1. n Blandford United began pre-season training on Monday with new manager Andy Savage in charge.

BOSS: Andy Savage

RUGBY: Sherborne School is looking for a qualified sports coach to teach pupils aged 13-18 in major and other sports. n North Dorset RFC has confirmed its rugby 7s and 10s festival is taking place this year on July 23-25.

91

Sport

Senior sucess for Colin two years running Six handicapper Colin Leach fought off a field of 90 rivals to defend his title as Senior Champion at Yeovil Golf Club.

Colin returned scores of 79 and 77 in two rounds of scratch golf on the par-71 Old Course to regain the trophy ahead of Bruce Bailey, who won the championship in 2019.

A parallel handicapped competition for the Nett Champion Trophy was won

by Richard Polson, who plays off 12.

His nett score of 141 was two shots ahead of Timothy Gilbert.

WINNER: Colin Leach WINCANTON GOLF CLUB RESULTS Camelot Shield May 29 1 Kevin Francis nett 66 2 Chris Chapman, 71 3 Ross Chandler, 72 Monthly Stableford Jun 6 1 Ian Chandler, 41.

2 Andrew Mainstone, 40 3 Richard Czemerda, 36 Seniors Stableford Jun 8 1 Alan Rogers 39.

2 Brian White 38.

3 Phil Francis 36 Captain’s Cup, Jun 12 1 Ian Chandler 41.

2 Jim Phillips 38.

3 Robert Ley 36

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Sammie hot to trot in final A little Welsh cob from Sturminster Newton has qualified for the prestigious British Dressage championship finals.

Sammie, a 10-year-old Palomino, is owned by Barbie Hooper, a retired musician and dressage judge who bought the pony as an unbroken three-year-old gelding.

His calm temperament saw Sammie being used as part of an equine therapy and healing group. And his calmness led to him showing well in competitions, including the Hickstead Masters and the British Dressage Associated Native Championships, where he finished third.

Arthritis meant that Barbie had to give up riding Sammie, who is now trained and competed by tri-athlete Katie Edwards at Sturminster. And this year they decided that Sammie was ready for the flagship BD Winter Dressage Championships at Hartpury, Gloucestershire, the largest gathering of dressage combinations under one roof for all levels of competitor.

He will compete in the Elementary Freestyle Silver Championship on July 2, which involves a walk, trot and canter to music in 4mins 45 secs. “It is the first time we have had a go at it,” says Barbie. “We felt he was now right. It is very different at these national events with flags and banners. Horses have to learn not to react to the noise – it’s about the temperament of the horse.”

To qualify, Sammie had to record three scores of a standard at regular dressage events, then be in the first two at a regional qualifying event. “He was one of thousands that tried to get to the finals,” says a very proud

BAREFOOT IN THE RING: Sammie and rider Katie Edwards’

Barbie. “His talent is remarkable and for a little Welsh cob, it is quite a coup.”

Sammie has never worn shoes and competes barefoot.

In the finals, he will be up against much bigger Dutch Warmbloods, the most common dressage breed. But his looks and temperament have attracted fans on Facebook and, said Barbie: “When he performs, the judges love him.” He will walk to The Stripper by David Rose (1958), trot to Keep Young and Beautiful (1934) and canter to Benny Goodman’s Sing, Sing, Sing (1936).

Says Barbie: “We were midtable in qualifying results but different judges give different percentages.

“We’re hoping for Top Ten but whatever happens, we’re going to have a ball.”

Equestrian

Grazing and livery ‘Tinder’ launched

By Andrew Diprose of Dorset Biz News A new service has been launched bringing together horse owners looking for grazing and livery owners with space to rent.

Amazingrazing is expected to shake up the equestrian industry.

It is the brainchild of Felix Newall-Smith and is using a similar format to an online dating site.

Born out of lockdown the professionally managed service makes it easy for reliable and trustworthy horse and livery owners to connect.

The interface and a search and filter system allows users to create profiles and get matched instantly to nearby owners in their area.

The site will be review-based to ensure all members meet high standards.

Ewan Hills, an up-and-coming dressage rider from East Yorkshire, has become the first Brand Ambassador for Amazingrazing.

Felix said: “This is the moment horse and livery owners have been waiting for.

“After speaking with hundreds of owners crying out for this,

we can’t wait to give everyone access to this essential service.

“This new and refreshing way of connecting owners in the equestrian industry will ensure that only the most trustworthy and reliable partnerships are formed, leading to happy healthy horses.

“The service will be totally free as an introductory offer, so make sure you log on to create your account and get searching for the perfect match for you and your horse.”

The concept for Amazingrazing came to Felix, 34, when he owned a horse and would often struggle to

find livery.

He said: “I thought it was mad that, in this day and age, the main way people find livery is by word of mouth and Facebook groups.

“I knew there must be a better way.

“Amazingrazing modernises the way horse and livery owners connect, giving everyone a long-awaited place necessary to build great relationships before even meeting.

“No more stressed-out horse or livery owners will mean happier healthier horses – and humans.”

Owners urged to join the Horse Watch scheme

Horse lovers are being encouraged to join Dorset Horse Watch to help protect themselves, their horses, tack and trailers and vehicles.

Members receive information on equine related incidents across the county.

A Horse Watch spokesperson said: “Equine crime can be soul destroying and it is not just about the financial loss there is also the emotional distress, and it is a sad fact that horses, trailers, lorries and tack can occasionally disappear without trace.

“Being a member of Dorset Horse Watch can help to

horse or a competition yard.

“Everyone is a potential target for thieves, but membership of Dorset Horse Watch allows us to pass on to you the advice and help that you need to help you prevent crime.”

Go to dorsetalert.co.uk.

protect you from crime as you can access security advice and information, which will help you to keep your equine and tack safe. We offer security advice on all aspects of horse ownership and yard security, whether you own a single

PADDOCKS For all your Paddock & Field maintenance, call Mark on 07810 540725 PADDOCK FOR RENT, Shaftesbury. Horse shelter, 01747 850773 / 07834871548

The Amazingrazing website allows users to: n Create a profile n View search results n View livery or equine owner’s profile n Wave hello (like) n Favourite other user n Send a message n Use the chat forum n Leave reviews when a partnership ends In the last year, Felix, a design engineer who studied at Bournemouth University, has conducted surveys with horse and livery owners and created a Facebook page which has so far amassed more than 1,600 followers.

A limited company – Amazingrazing Ltd – was incorporated in February this year.

Felix worked closely with Dorset Growth Hub on his new venture.

To get the word out about Amazingrazing and raise the business profile, he employed guerrilla marketing techniques.

Social media, online influencers as well as targeting equestrian business networking events were all utilised. n Amazingrazing.co.uk Banbury Hill EAQ EQUINE CAR BOOT SALE. Sunday 27th June 2pm - 4pm. £5 per stall. To book please call Janet Matthews on 07979 217522 BALED SHREDDED PAPER. Ideal for animal bedding or packing.

50 kilo bales £10 each 07714 289400.

STABLES, Wooden 8 block with large tack room area for sale, buyer to dismantle. Call for more details, sensible offers welcome. 07540633126

93

Field & Stream

Saving our skylarks at Ham Hill Country Park The beautiful song of the skylark is becoming a rare sound in the countryside these days with the species in decline nationally in the UK, but there are ways that you can help protect them when visiting South Somerset District Council’s Ham Hill Country Park site.

When we think of nesting birds it’s generally assumed that birds only nest in trees and hedges, and not raising chicks tucked away down in the grass.

Skylarks are ground nesting birds and a grassy meadow full of insects, grass tussocks and wildflowers is a perfect home for the species. That makes Ham Hill Country Park ideal for them to raise a family and continue to be part of our countryside. Rangers are working hard to protect and provide the perfect habitat for them.

However, nesting on the ground in meadows means they are vulnerable to disturbance from dogs running

eggs or squashing young chicks. Parent birds can feel threatened by dogs as they see them as a predator in close proximity leading to abandonment, or nest failure.

At Ham Hill, the plateau fields tend to be the best place to see and hear these birds during the summer months from April to July. It is only during these couple of months in the summer that the rangers ask members of the public walking dogs in these meadows to put their dog on a lead. The meadows with skylarks nesting have clear signs on the entry points into the meadows.

Meanwhile the woodland areas and Northern Spur remain open

for dogs to be allowed off the lead but kept under close control.

Rachael Whaites, the council’s countryside manager, said: “We were really lucky to secure a second grant from the Cultural Recovery Fund for Heritage, which has meant that we have been able to extend the contracts of our rangers, Izzi and Edd. This has really helped the team to protect the wildlife at Ham Hill this spring and has enabled a lot more engagement with our visitors about responsible behaviour whilst visiting Ham Hill.”

Councillor Sarah Dyke, portfolio holder for environment, added: “We want to preserve nature and the environment as much as we can and even the smallest action we take as humans to help will go a long way in the future. Please follow the advice if you are walking your dog at the plateau fields at Ham Hill at the moment and remember to keep your dog on a lead.”

when being shorn almost as if they are ready to lose that heavy coat, it must be a relief. The ginger biscuits help of course.

I am off to harvest the elderflower in the next few days, best harvested before the sun gets too hot when the buds are freshly open. I am making cordial. The surplus flowers can be added to fruit when cooking, adding a taste of summer to crumbles, and also fried to make elderflower fritters. Elderflower gin is becoming popular and looks easy so I might diversify this year and try that too.

Him outdoors is busy on other people’s fields now, baling hay and dodging the rain. We have just acquired a new bit of kit which will make cutting our own field much easier. The old baler always managed to miss tying the string in the sixth bale and I would end up running after it, scooping it up to put back in the row for the tractor to pick up again. Walking behind the baler is a thankless task, usually baking hot, dusty and hard graft.

The thought of some of that elderflower cordial chilled and waiting for me will keep me going, I am sure.

The ewe lambs are off to a new home next week having been bought locally, halving the size of the flock again to a more manageable size for winter, nice too that they are all going together to form a new starter flock of their own.

NO LARKING ABOUT: Dog owners are being asked to keep their pets on a lead to prevent them disturbing skylarks

off the lead. As skylarks are camouflaged and their nests are well hidden in the long grass, people don’t often realise they are there.

Assistant ranger Izzi said: “Sadly, this year we are seeing high numbers of people walking their dogs off leads in our meadows where skylarks nest at Ham Hill. “With dogs dashing across meadows, our skylark’s nests are under threat of being trampled and with this disturbance the parent birds are more likely to abandon the nest altogether.”

Dogs running loose in the areas where the birds nest can lead to their nests being accidently run through, breaking the skylark’s

Flock are in sheep paradise in knee-deep grass THE FIELD with Tria Stebbing The flock are thoroughly being spoilt with a selection of summer grazing paddocks now being offered. The recent weather has kickstarted the field and it looks as though we will be able to cut and bale in July.

We held off shearing not by choice, but because we were moving house and the flock had to temporarily take a back seat.

The recent hot weather was managed as they are currently in sheep paradise, a paddock with knee-deep grass and a lot of shade-giving trees. It is now booked and due to happen next week. We have a mixture of ewes and yearlings to shear, which when done makes them 94

look like skinny goats. The weather changing again will cause us a headache as the summer grazing has no field shelter and the fleece needs to be dry to be cut. These days we use the fleece for matting and weed control as it is difficult to sell as there is not much demand, a sign of the times in which we live.

Rounding them up will require the rails to be moved to make a race to feed them through, it is a good time to check them underneath for any injuries, ticks and abnormalities. The sheep become remarkably compliant

Farming

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Air Ri昀es & Air Pistols wanted FRIDAY 25TH JUNE Sale of Breeding Sheep WEDNESDAY 30th JUNE Next Sale of Pigs FRIDAY 2ND JULY SALE OF STORE CATTLE TO INCLUDE: Suckler Sale of 29 Angus x Cows & Calves Pedigree Stock Sire Rodmead Moscow (2018) TB Tested 07.06.21 Routinely tested negative for Ibr, Bvd & Lepto From Big Strong Cows 2nd to 4th Calvers All Running with Pedigree Stock Bull Since Calving 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 and Marteye Please Contact: Greg Ridout 07818 517 467 Or Charlie Coleman 07494 588 013 SATURDAY 7TH August Sale of Traditional & Rare Breeds of Poultry

SALE STARTS AT 9.00AM 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

Any make or model Any condition Call 07970 742471

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95

Farming

We must create special places for wildlife Country Diary

by AJ Selby Hot July brings cooling showers, apricots and gillyflowers.

Every summer I go walking with an old school friend of nearly 50 years’ standing, experiencing other parts of the country with different views and habitats. During the hottest week of June we walked part of the South Downs Way from north of Brighton to Eastbourne (the walk runs from Winchester to Eastbourne). The scenery and far-reaching views were outstanding, especially the Seven Sisters, those iconic undulating chalk cliffs that run from Cuckmere Haven to Beachy Head.

We don’t really hike, it’s more of a leisurely ramble to take in the views, enjoy the flora and fauna, and have some excellent conversation.

It was lovely to stop at lunch-time and sit on the close cropped downland sward with its wild thyme, trefoils and vetches. The

SEED OF AN IDEA: Sowing wildflowers is one way to do our bit

flowers and grassland combine to make a soft carpet on top of the chalk and you can rest and watch the amazing cloud formations and enjoy the endless quest of swallows, house martins and swifts as they search for flies; their aerial acrobatics are mesmerising.

It’s a treat to get out and walk in a different area with other type of birds and

flowers to that seen regularly in the Blackmore Vale. It just shows the huge diversity of wildlife that we are lucky to have in this country. When we visit protected areas – National Parks, nature reserves and SSSI’s (Sites of Special Scientific Interest), we can understand the work done to preserve the habitat and everything that lives in it. The contrast between protected areas and

unprotected is often startling, proving that if we have the will and the finances to create special places for our wildlife we can save something really special for future generations.

Everyone can do their bit, from encouraging children to make a bug house, to planting butterfly-friendly shrubs in the garden, or even perennial plants in the borders (our purple-flowered salvia plants are the number one target for bees). We can, if our garden is large enough, make a small pond, or even just a damp area for aquatic creatures. We can leave a corner of the garden untouched and scatter some wildflower seeds (we use award-winning Seedball mixes) over it to grow our own ‘wildflower meadow’.

We can put up a bird-box or two if we have a tree in our garden and we can certainly feed the birds (don’t forget the water). In short, we can all do a little to help protect and preserve the increasingly fragile ecosystems that give us oxygen, food and pleasure.

Puzzle solutions (from pages 64-65) Sudoku

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E C C K Y H C T A L E N H S U I C E S V A S E N N C E L E Y

Any problems with these puzzles? Email newsdesk@blackmorevale.net Arrow words C O U M P L A G I N S L

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

D A D A M P R O

Farming

Tree sparrow breeding hit by cold, wet May

BALED SHREDDED PAPER. Ideal for animal bedding or packing.

50 kilo bales £10 each 07714 289400

A wet and cold May could be perilous to the tree sparrow breeding season, says Kevin Sayer from the Wessex Tree Sparrow Recovery Project, which has farms in Dorset and

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

Wiltshire. Kevin said: “Many experts have commented on how wet the last winter has been and how it has affected our resident birds. We know that tree sparrows do not like the wet at

PART-TIME POSITION on dairy farm feeding calves.

Stour Provost. 07889 142988 FENCING, TOPPING, HAYMAKING AND HAULAGE. Please phone Andrew 01747 855198 ATV SPRAYING, AGRICULTURAL & PADDOCK SERVICES. CALL 07711 980871

We’re in it together

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From your very first conversation with us, to the moment a claim is paid out, We’ll always do the right thing by you. But don’t just take our word for it – ask your neighbours about us.

Want to speak to us direct?

Call us on 01872 277151. cornishmutual.co.uk

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2 3 7 9 6 8 6 48 4 5 9 3 1 7 5 7 4 5 9 4 8 6 9 3 2 6 8 1 3 8 7 3 2 1 1 6 8 2 1 2 5 9 5 9 2 3 7 4 4 5 2 1 5 1 8 3 7 9 7 6 4 5 6 8 6 3 7 4 5 3 8 2 2 5 31 9 7 4 9 62 9 6 5 7 8 4 9 8 4 1 5 8 2 7 6 1 2 5 1 3 7 3 4 2 6 9 9 4 8 1 1 4 7 3 6 8 7 2 6 3 9 9 6 2 3 7 3 1 4 5 9 4 2 5 7 8 2 4 9 9 6 7 1 6 1 5 5 6 3 7 8 3 5 9 4 2 4 8 2 1 1 7 8 6 1 5 8 2 8 6 3 2 3 5 4 7 9 7 9 3 8 4 5 8 2 9 1 7 2 1 6 1 6 8 4 3 4 5 1 3 6 7 6 8 4 58 5 6 9 3 93 6 4 5 2 7 9 4 7 7 5 1 3 1 8 9 2 2 2 1 8 5 3 4 7 9 6

all so any prolonged wet period is going to harm their chances of a successful breeding season. On top of that we had a very dry and cold April with hardly any rain.

May came along and it seemed to rain continuously – what a contrast to last year.”

Kevin says tree sparrows are between two and three weeks behind their normal schedule “The wet and cold have meant chicks have starved in the nest or just perished because of the cold, however, the weather has now quickly got warmer and drier which should mean nests will prosper. Only time will tell.” n The Immobilise team are offering a FREE rural item marking service for farmers and smallholders across Dorset.

One of our team can visit your farm or rural premises and mark your items in various ways.

They can mark cattle crushes and races, sheep handling systems, gates, feeders, troughs, battery’s, fencers, trailers, petrol power tools, tractor and digger attachments.

To book an appointment with one of the team email ruralcrimeteam@ dorset.pnn.police.uk and one of the team will be in contact.

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

1

42

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

L V E Q Q U A S T I D O N S S R

F I N R H E A R E A N T X O E D E P R

E S T A E S E A D S I T E R S V T C E R G A G R A R M E B B E L I N C E

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

Standing Straw Auctions

Telephone: 01278 410250. Email: livestock@gth.net SEDGEMOOR AUCTION CENTRE, NORTH PETHERTON, BRIDGWATER Monday 28th June at 7.00pm West of Taunton Area

Spring Barley: 6 Ac at Taunton; 70 Ac at Wellington. Spring Beans: 40 Ac at Taunton. Spring Oats: 38 Ac at Taunton. Spring Wheat: 39 Ac at Taunton; 31 Ac Wellington. Winter Barley: 275 Ac at Taunton; 34 Ac at Wellington.

Winter Oats: 46 Ac at Honiton; 106 Ac at Taunton. Winter Wheat: 99 Ac at Honiton; 1035 Ac at Taunton; 321 Ac at Wellington.

Approx. 2,143 Acres Entered

SEDGEMOOR AUCTION CENTRE, NORTH PETHERTON, BRIDGWATER Tuesday 29th June at 7.00pm East of Taunton Area

Spring Barley: 19 Ac at Ilminster; 24 Ac at Langport; 46 Ac at North Petherton.

Spring Beans: 54 Ac at Ilminster. Spring Linseed: 47 Ac at Ilminster. Winter Barley: 243 Ac at Bridgwater; 98 Ac at Ilminster. Winter Oats: 47 Ac at Ilminster. Winter Wheat: 333 Ac at Bridgwater; 180 Ac at Ilminster; 19 Ac at Langport; 81 Ac at Taunton. Oilseed Rape: 64 Ac at Bridgwater; 36 Ac at Taunton.

Approx. 1,294 Acres Entered ** Live bidding on MartEye, please register in advance at gth.marteye.ie **

For further details please contact Tom Mellor on 01278 410250/ 07929 649195

Online Timed Auction

ONLINE TIMED MACHINERY AUCTION - at https://gth.auctionmarts.com Thursday 1st July 昀nishing from 6.30pm onwards

The Dispersal Sale of 2 Tractors, Combine, Farm Machinery & Effects

(1994) FORD 7740 TRACTOR; (1996) NH 4835 TRACTOR 3643 Hours; (1978/1979) NH 1530 COMBINE HARVESTER; 2x (2008 & 2004) 8T Marshall GRAIN TRAILER; (2011) Marshall 22’ BALE TRAILER; (2015) Bateson 2.6T 3.6m FLATBED TRAILER; NH 945 CONV BALER; Metal-Technik BALE SQUEEZE; Kongslide 13 point 3m Vibrotine CULTIVATOR; PZ 300 HAYBOB; 8’ Bateson LIVESTOCK TRAILER; KRM DZ Fert SPREADER; Teagle Thermoblast Corn DRYER; Hardi SPRAYER; Hydraulic Log SPLITTER; King Zig Zag HARROWS (3 in set); Sip Roto 165 Twin Drum MOWER; plus MISC ITEMS. INC BY KIND PERM BY MS B WEAR: Butcombe: Abbey 2070 5.35 Manure SPREADER; Watson Calf Creep FEEDER; IAE 8’ Calf Creep FEEDER; IAE TROUGHS, Ring FEEDERS; HURDLES; FOOT BATH; HAYRACKS; etc. Full listing at gth.auctionmarts.com For Mr J Vowles & Sons (Barrow Gurney, Bristol).

Viewing available by appointment on Monday 28th & Wednesday 30th June in allocated timeslots. Everyone to strictly adhere to social distancing regulations. Please contact 01278 410250 to register your interest and book a time slot. **ALL BIDDERS MUST BE PRE-REGISTERED ONCE THE BIDDING SITE HAS OPENED. NEW BIDDERS ARE REGISTERED WITH A STANDARD BIDDING LIMIT OF £500. PLEASE CONTACT US TO INCREASE IT. A BUYERS PREMIUM OF 5% + VAT WILL BE PAYABLE ON ALL LOTS**

Forthcoming Dairy Sales

SEDGEMOOR AUCTION CENTRE, NORTH PETHERTON, SOMERSET, TA6 6DF (M5, J24) Thursday 8th July at 11.00am The Golden Opportunity Dairy Sale of

270 DAIRY CATTLE

* 30 Freshly Calved Cows & Heifers from Ashlea, Rookhaye & Leading South West Breeders * To include The Dispersal Sale of 70 Holstein Friesian & Shorthorn Dairy Cows for BS Newth & Sons (Removed from Manor Farm, Prestleigh, Shepton Mallet) * 1 Holstein Bull from Clevian * 86 Incalf Heifers from G & R Bailey, A & P Bradford, DB Dunford & Sons (Crossbreds) * 96 Yearling Heifers from DB Dunford & Sons (Crossbreds), MP & PM Perrett & Wrackleford

98

JULY Thurs 15th SEDGEMOOR AUCTON CENTRE. The Spotlight Sale of Pedigree Ayrshire, Brown Swiss, Guernsey, Holstein, & Jersey Cows, Youngstock and Embryos with outstanding potential.

Sedgemoor Auction Centre North Petherton, Somerset, TA6 6DF (M5, J24) Telephone: 01278 410278 www.gth.net

TOTAL STOCK FOR THE WEEK 4930 Stock from across the West Country, sold to buyers from throughout the Nation

Returns for Saturday 19th June 2021 DAIRY CATTLE (113) Heifers to £2050. Others £2000. Cows to £1400.

Others £1300. (684) STORE CATTLE & STIRKS - FORWARD STORES (505) Steers to £1520 (LIMX). Others £1485 (CHX) £1445 (CHX) & £1440 (LIMX). Heifers to £1355 (CHX). Others £1330 (CHX) £1300 (CHX) & £1290 (CHX). GRAZING COWS (29) to £1300 (HEX). Others £1295 (PA) & £1190 (AA). SUCKLERS (17) Cows & Calves to £1500 Chx Cow & her Chx str calf.

STIRKS (162) Steers to £1065 (CHX). Others £1060 (CHX) £1040 (BRBX) & £1010 (BRBX). Heifers to £955 (BRBX). Others £885 (BRBX) £855 (SIMX) & £850 (BAX). CALVES (295) - Beef Bulls to £625 (BRBX). Others £485 (3x BRBX) £480 (BRBX) & £475 (LIMX). Heifers to £705 (BRBX). Others £682 (BRBX) £430 (BRBX) & £395 (BRBX). Black & Whites to £240 (2x).

(1748) SHEEP - STORE LAMBS (538) to £130. Others £129 & £116. Overall Ave £85.11. CULL EWES & RAMS (1029) Ewes to £141. Others £134 & £133. Rams to £151. Others £147 & £138. Overall Ave £91.28. GOATS (4) to £129.50. Overall Ave £94.50. ORPHAN LAMBS (3) to £16. COUPLES (43E & 58L) Doubles to £260 (£86.67/life). Singles to £182 (£91/life). Overall Ave £71.69/life. BREEDING EWES (73) to £155. Overall average £127.26.

(137) PIGS – WEANERS (8) to £22. CULL SOWS & BOARS (14) to £138.

FORWARD STORES & STORES (113) to £92. BREEDERS (8) to £202 for a sow with 6 piglets.

The West Country’s Gateway to National Abattoirs

Returns for Monday 21st June 2021

PRIME CATTLE (86) Steers UTM av 209.3ppk to 225.5ppk & £1,630.95.

Others 224.5ppk (3x) 222.5ppk & 219.5ppk. Others £1,579.05, £1,553.48 & £1,551.35. Heifers UTM av 206.0ppk to 249.5ppk and £1,551.10. Others 243.5ppk, 237.5ppk (2x) & 229.5ppk. Others £1,508.13, £1,479.62 & £1,473.39. BARREN COWS (53) Continental av 150.2ppk to 189.5ppk and £1,524.93. Others 173.5ppk. Others £1,448.73. Native Beef av 142.8ppk to 159.5ppk and £1,181.58. Others 158.5ppk. Others £1,094.17. Dairy av 128.9ppk to 146.5ppk and £1,169.53. Others 143.5ppk (3x). Others £1,126.48.

FINISHED SHEEP (1811) Lamb ave 255.37ppk to 289.0ppk and £148.00.

Others 280.0ppk, 279.0ppk & 273.0ppk. Others £145.00, £138.00 & £137.00.

Forthcoming Special Sales JUNE Sat 26th...... Monthly Sale of Native Store Cattle 10am Ring 2 Sat 26th...... Dorset Down Sheep Breeders’ Association Annual Breed Sale of 96 Registered Dorset Down Sheep (Breeding Females & Rams) from Registered Flocks within the Flock Book at 12.30pm Sat 26th...... Special Catalogued Sale of Haltered & Unhaltered Show Potential Cattle 11am Ring 3 Wed 30th.... Orange Market Dedicated Sale for bTB Restricted Cattle.

JULY Sat 3rd........ Monthly Catalogued Sale of Organic Store Stock 10am Ring 2 Sat 3rd........ Fortnightly Sale of Pigs 10am Thurs 8th.... Annual Catalogued Sale of Breeding Ewes & Rams Ewes 10.30am/Rams 1pm Sat 10th...... Monthly Catalogued Sale of Suckler Cows, Calves, Heifers & Bulls 12.30pm Ring 1 Sat 24th...... Collective Catalogued Sale of Purebred Poultry 12 Noon Wed 28th.... 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

Farming

How to prepare cows for autumn calving

By Alice EJ Miller BVSC MRCVS DBR Friars Moor Livestock Health For many beef and dairy farmers, preparation will already be underway for the autumn calving season. The cow and unborn calf welfare is always at the forefront of these management plans, which at this stage will focus on increasing the chance of producing a healthy calf and a cow that produces good quality colostrum.

In autumn block calving dairy herds, the cows will be approaching “dry-off”. This is a period when the cows are not milked for approximately 60 days, to allow the udder to prepare for the next lactation. It is important to protect the udder

from exposure to any possible infections in this time, so we recommend drying all cows off using a teat sealant. This time also allows a recovery period for a cow who may have been fighting an udder infection in her lactation. These cows can be given a long-acting antibiotic tube before using the teat sealant.

Overall, we recommend selective dry cow therapy,

whereby antibiotics are only given to high-risk cows, to reduce often unnecessary blanket antibiotic use. This is something that should be discussed with your vet as selective dry cow therapy will be different on every farm. We will consider the overall herd somatic cell count level, individual somatic cell counts from the last three recordings, any cases of clinical mastitis within the last three months and the teat end quality before making the decision.

The other critical Independent veterinary consideration at this services for livestock in stage is how we can Dorset, Somerset and best protect the calf, from lifeWiltshire threatening diseases Collection points for livestock when it is born. medicines and supplies at Sherborne, Cattle are born Sturminster Newton, Blandford and without any Shaftesbury immunity and so Please call the office rely on ingesting on 01258 472314 enough antibodies www.friarsmoorvets.co.uk from their mother’s

first milk to be able to fight infection. These antibodies must be ingested and absorbed through the gut wall into the blood stream within the first few hours of life before the gut wall becomes impenetrable. If the calf, then becomes exposed to bacteria or viruses, it can mount an immune response to fight the infection.

It is possible to go one step further and where known diseases are present on farm you can vaccinate the mothers in their last weeks of pregnancy, they will then produce antibodies specific to certain diseases. These antibodies will be produced in high levels in their colostrum. If the calf receives enough of this colostrum, within the first few hours of life it will have an even better chance of survival.

“Bovigen scour” given to cows 12-3 weeks prior to calving will protect calves against E.Coli, Rotavirus and Coronavirus.

Covexin or Bravoxin given 8-2 weeks prior to calving, following a primary vaccination course, will protect against a broad spectrum of several fatal clostridial diseases including tetanus and blackleg.

Please call our office on 01258 472314 to talk to a vet about your pre-calving requirements and to place your orders for products such as dry cow therapy and vaccinations.

WESSEX METALS STURMINSTER NEWTON & BLANDFORD AREA WANTED

SCRAP METAL RECYCLING

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Farming

Silage cut and stored ready for winter Farmer’s Diary

by Ruth Kimber The first cut silage is all safely in the barn.

It turned out to be a bumper crop and Tom got it made before the seed heads had formed, thus keeping all the quality in the plant, important for winter feed for dairy cows. The silagemaking process begins with growing the crop, specific varieties of grasses are grown for different purposes, then the judgment as to when to cut, giving enough dry days to allow the grass to wilt, which sometimes means spreading the grass out, this process helps to improve the quality and reduces the moisture content.

The grass is then raked up

into lines ready for the forage harvester to collect, chop and blow into a waiting trailer. The trailer is taken to the barn or clamp and tipped up ready for a large shovel on the front of a four-wheeldrive tractor or JCB type machine to push it into place.

As the heap grows the crop is rolled down tight to expel air and once all the crop is safely in the barn, evenly spread and rolled down, it is covered with an airtight sheet and something heavy put on top to prevent it moving – often bales or old tyres are used. After about six weeks the grass has turned into silage, and is in a stable form and will keep for months, even longer until it is needed. The dirty water from the yards etc and a top dressing of fertiliser has been spread to feed the plants,

Y E IR N A IE D YG H Teat Dips and Sprays

Ground dry sanitising powder Circulation Cleaning Powder Caustic-based detergents

Ear

tags

We're based in Pulham, Dorset

Everything your herd needs

01258 818239 www.quillproductions.co.uk 100

enabling a second crop to grow.

Still no news or detail of how the new government regulations and payment scheme will affect the working farmer. Just the unknown, with all its fears for the future for family farms, coupled with the trade deals being done with nations as far away as Australia, hoping to export their beef and lamb to our shores. I am all for free trade, however it must be a fair trade, products produced under the same or higher standards as our own. What other nations will want to use agriculture goods to bargain with the goods and services we want to export?

Brazil, USA, and many more. How this sits with climate change baffles me, transporting meat and dairy

halfway across the world when we can produce what we need here. The forests and plains of Brazil and USA are being destroyed to enable beef to be produced at cheaper prices than we can match, but at what environmental cost?

I think the English countryside looks at its best this time of year, the hedges and trees are all out, wild flowers along the banks and herds and flocks grazing in the fields. Lovely.

Kimbers Farm Shop, The Kitchen at Kimbers and The Somerset Trading Barn. kimbersfarmshop.co.uk Linley Farm, Charlton Musgrove, BA9 8HD. B3081 (Wincanton Race Course Road) Open Tuesday-Friday 9am5pm, Saturday 9.30am-4.30pm.

New whisky distillery plans

By Karen Bate Lord Margadale has given approval for the Wiltshire Whisky Distillery Company to develop a ‘world-class’ singleestate spirits distillery on the Fonthill Estate in Wiltshire.

The Wiltshire Whisky Distillery Company is aiming to secure £3million to create one of the largest distilleries in England, producing 3 million bottles of the finest malts within seven years, becoming an important player on the global stage.

Lord Margadale, owner of Fonthill and a sister estate on the world-renowned whisky isle of Islay, is no stranger to the importance of provenance in whisky.

He said: “We look generations ahead with all our plans for the Fonthill Estate and could immediately see that our longterm ambitions and values fit perfectly with those of The Wiltshire Whisky team.”

Sustainability is a key focus for the business and the distillery

intends to be producing at carbon neutral and soon thereafter, carbon negative.

CEO Alistair Munro said: “It is a dream realised to be building our distillery within such a culturally significant estate as Fonthill. Not only does it provide a rich backdrop for the development of our uniquely British brand, but it also enables us to achieve our ambition of creating a highly sustainable, single-estate offering. We will assess every business, brewing and distilling decision in terms of environmental impact, local provenance and sustainability.”

Wiltshire has long been famed for its excellent ales, and cofounder Alasdair ‘Eddie’ Large, an award-winning brewer, will produce the beer wash that forms the basis of the whiskies.

“Fonthill sits in the heart of the premium barley growing and malting region of England,” said Alasdair.

The distillery will also produce a range of gins and botanical spirits.

Farming

MACHINERY AUCTIONS DORSET | DEVON | HAMPSHIRE | SOMERSET | WILTSHIRE | LONDON ON-FARM DISPERSAL AUCTIONS: Tuesday 29th June at 11am Lower Clockhouse Farm, Burley Road, Christchurch, Dorset BH23 7AL Machinery including:

Merlo 32.6 Plus Telehandler (66), 2 x Fendt 313 with loaders (16 & 13), John Deere 6130M with loader (16), John Deere 6220 SE (04), Massey Ferguson 250, 230 & 135 Tractors, JPM 14t Dump Trailer (16), John Deere 1365 Mower Condi琀oner (10), McConnel 3m Shakerator (15), 2 x AS Marston 10t Silage Trailers, Marston 15’6” Bale Trailer, Kuhn HR3002 Power Harrow, Vicon CM2400 Disc Mower, Storth SM200 Lagoon S琀rrer (13), Enduramaxx 26 Teat Milk Feeder, etc.

On behalf of D Dalton & Son Ltd (change of farming policy)

Monday 12th July at 11am Frome Livestock Market

(removed from Manor Farm, Yarlington, Wincanton for convenience of sale) 251 Organic Dairy Ca琀le Consis琀ng of:

121 Dairy Cows 17 In-Calf Heifers 48 Bulling Heifers 43 7-12mnth Heifers 22 0-6mnth Heifers On behalf of R J House & Son (auc琀oneers selling the farm)

2021 STANDING STRAW SALES Annual sale of 946ac. at Rousdon, Lyme Regis – 30th June Consis琀ng of: Winter Barley – 204ac Winter Wheat – 536ac Oats – 206ac

ntact Greg Ridout 07817 517467 or Rachael Holder 07772 310482

Annual sale of 5,260ac. at Durweston, Blandford – 2nd July Consis琀ng of: Winter Barley – 1,100ac Winter Wheat – 2,000ac Spring Barley – 1,600ac Spring Wheat – 50ac Oats – 150ac Peas – 60ac Linseed – 300ac Annual sale of 1,244ac. at Wynford Eagle, Dorchester - 9th July Consis琀ng of: Winter Barley – 180ac Winter Wheat – 577ac Spring Barley – 130ac Linseed – 304ac Wintery Rye – 53ac

ONLINE MACHINERY AUCTIONS:

June Online Collec琀ve Timed Auc琀on of Tractors, Plant, Farm Machinery & Miscellaneous.

Commences 21st June 昀nishing from 7pm Tuesday 29th June Online Collec琀ve Timed Auc琀on of Vintage, Classic & Collectable Tractors, Vehicles, Machinery & E昀ects.

From 5th July 昀nishing from 7pm on Tuesday 13th July – Entries Welcome

Contact Greg Ridout 07817 517467 or Rachael Holder 07772 310482

VALUATIONS | AMC AGENTS | PLANNING | RURAL AGENTS 101

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

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 102

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

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

Property

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

Zeals

Ilminster

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

Sturminster 01258 473766

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

Ilminster 01460 200790

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

Wembley

Wool

Sturminster 01258 473766

Wimborne 01202 843190

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.

Poole

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.

Poole

Blandford

Merrio琀

Wimborne 01202 843190

Dorchester 01305 261008

Ilminster 01460 200790

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

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

SALES

LETTINGS

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

Wimborne 01202 882103

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

Wembley

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

Sturminster 01258 473766

Wembley

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

Sturminster 01258 473766

AUCTIONS 103

Property

DORSET DEVON HAMPSHIRE SOMERSET

Sherborne

Guide £550,000

A unique 4 bedroom detached bungalow with a lovely garden and detached garage, situated within walking distance of the town centre. EPC=E.

Sherborne 01935 814488

Sturminster Marshall

Guide £475,000

A Grade II listed 18 century detached 3/4 bedroom tradi琀onal village co琀age with garden and o昀-road parking situated in a highly sought a昀er village loca琀on. EPC Exempt.

Blandford 01258 452670

Hazelbury Bryan

OIEO £875,000

A substan琀al south facing 5 bedroomhouse with annexe poten琀al and scope to update in a lovely rural loca琀on with gardens and adjoining 昀eld. In all 2.27 acres. EPC=E.

Sturminster 01258 473766

Fontmell Magna

Guide £875,000

A 4 bedroom house with 2 bedroom annexe, tremendous range of outbuildings and grounds at the end of a no-through lane. In all 2.20 acres. House EPC=F Annexe EPC=E.

Sturminster 01258 473766

Shepton Montague

Guide £675,000

A spacious 4 bedroom detached house with a double garage/ workshop and further outbuildings in a peaceful village se ng. EPC=E.

Sherborne 01935 814488

Blandford

Guide £395,000

A well-presented 4 bedroom modern house with garage and parking, quietly situated in a private cul-de-sac loca琀on within a popular area of the town. EPC=B.

Blandford 01258 452670

PLANNING 104

WILTSHIRE LONDON

VALUATIONS

BUILDING SURVEY

Property

Control the uncontrollables

Savills Salisbury Rolfes House 60 Milford Street Salisbury SP1 2BP 01722 426800

Selling your farm in today’s scarce and unpredictable market • Many farm sales are won or lost by first impressions, so it pays to do the basics.

• Continue farming as though you were staying: sow arable crops as normal – you can be compensated later or add a holdover clause to the farm sale agreement – and allow grass to flourish, adding nitrogen and reducing livestock numbers.

• If your property has issues with rights of way, private water supplies or local developments, be open and upfront from the start.

Selling your farm is often a once in a lifetime decision, so it is understandable that some sellers are cautious about doing so, particularly in today’s unpredictable market. There are always a number of uncontrollables when it comes to a sale, hence proactive planning, preparation and a targeted sales and marketing strategy are vital.

The good news for would-be sellers is that we are seeing pent-up demand for farmland of all types across Britain – and from three distinct groups of buyers.

The first includes lifestyle farmers in search of the good life and residential, amenity properties at all scales.

The second is the environmentally driven buyer exploring natural capital opportunities. And the third is the traditional farmer looking for good quality commercial farms to expand or for relocation.

While private sales were on the up last year (increasing by 71 per cent across Britain compared with 2019), the lion’s share of farmland continues to be advertised on the open market. Only around 15,000 acres of farmland were

publicly advertised for sale during the first quarter of the year.

Such record levels of low supply are limiting choice for motivated buyers and creating competition for good farms for sale in the short to medium term.

Farmers considering selling may wish to take advantage of the current demand and supply imbalance. Sellers can give themselves the best chance of success by doing the following in order to ‘control the controllables’.

• Find out who is in the market for your type of farm and the best way of reaching them. Points to discuss with potential agents include: do they have sufficient market knowledge and the local, national and even international reach to ensure that your farm is seen by all prospective buyers?

• The importance of gathering paperwork early should not be underestimated. Ensuring that legal and compliance matters are addressed early will highlight any potential stumbling blocks, giving you the opportunity to mitigate these in order to avoid a price chip down the line, or a buyer simply walking away.

• Depending on your holding, useful documents could include: five years of cropping records, three years of yield records, soil testing documents to show your land remains fertile and fresh, lambing percentages, calving rates, milk yields average per cow and drainage improvement records.

Effectively, what could be done is an endless list: you could spend thousands of pounds on re-fencing, drainage, road re-surfacing and property upgrades. Will this make the farm easier to sell? Maybe.

Will you recuperate the investment in the final sale price? Unlikely. Therefore look at what you can control – in other words, what should be done to ensure your property reaches the widest audience, makes an immediate impression on viewers and allows a sale to proceed as smoothly as possible.

Things are getting better and restrictions are easing, so if you would like to discuss the property market and the potential sale of your farm, please call or email Fred Cook on 07967 555773 or fred.cook@savills.com

Talk to us today Fred Cook Savills Salisbury 07967 555773 salisbury@savills.com

105

Property

R E M O V A L S

Memb No: A101

&

S T O R A G E

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” “Moving at the highest standard no job too big or too small Branches throughout the UK Blandford (01258) 453898

Dorchester (01305) 783795

Gillingham (01747) 828680

Shaftesbury (01747) 828680

Sherborne (01935) 433341

Warminster (01985) 215991

Wincanton (01963) 34065

Yeovil (01935) 433341

Head Office: 01963 34065

OFFICE SPACE IN SHOP at top of George street Sherborne, sharing office/ shop area as a office With large window looking out at traffic lights. After this 18months of working from home, if you want a purpose to get up and improve your mental health come and share a office./shop.

Will suit a IT / bookkeeper/ small business who wants a nice place to work. Tel 01935 413056.

106

email: enquiries@armishaws.com

WORKSHOP TO LET, mid Dorset.

07973142254

SELF-CONTAINED ACCOMMODATION on quiet farm, near Yeovil.

01935 891817

WORK UNIT approx 1250 sqft, £62 per week.

OFFICE/STORAGE unit to let £27 per week.

CARAVAN/STORAGE /parking from £30 per month. 07811 837061

COMPLETELY SELF CONTAINED STUDIO FLAT, private sunny courtyard on the edge of Sixpenny Handley village.

Available from the 1st of August. Contact 01725 552492

www.armishaws.com WANTED TO RENT. 2/3bed house/bungalow (long-term). Unfurnished.

C.£800pcm.

Spetisbury/Charlton Marshall. 07527 181627/ zmk1@live.co.uk Local couple from Blandford SEEKING A BUILDING PLOT in the Dorset / Somerset area for a Self Build project. Please call Justin 07515 538705

Property lodestoneproperty.co.uk lodestoneproperty.co.uk

Making H es Ha en r gh t e Blackmore Vale We may stay true to traditional values when it comes to high quality personal service, but our unique modern sales and marketing methods put us on the map with buyers looking to purchase in Dorset, South Somerset and Wiltshire.

With a dedicated sales progressor, local specialist viewing team and an online global reach of over 100,000 a month, we are well-placed to help make your next home happen.

Call our Bruton or Dorset Office for a free market appraisal.

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

SOLD STC

Goldsborough Farmhouse

The Nurseries

The Old Rectory

Large family house set in approx. 6 acres near Bruton

A modern hide-away in the centre of the market town of Castle Cary

Spacious period property located in Glanvilles Wootton

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

Cubis Bruton

6 Lyons Walk

Pound Cottage

Contemporary 3 & 4 bedroom homes, designed to offer rural living at its best

Grade II listed townhouse in the centre of Shaftesbury

Idyllic period family home near Sherborne

bruton@lodestoneproperty.co.uk 01749 605099

shaftesbury@lodestoneproperty.co.uk 01747 442577

wells@lodestoneproperty.co.uk 01749 605088

107

Property The Loft Tisbury 01747 442500 www.ruralview.co.uk

Sutton Mandeville, Wiltshire Guide Price £675,000 An exciting and rare opportunity to build a stunning Georgian style country house in this lovely rural location within the Nadder Valley.

EPC F

Ludwell, Dorset Guide Price £695,000 An extended Georgian house with very good accommodation, pretty garden and studio outbuilding, set in a lovely tucked away spot on the edge of the village.

EPC E

Donhead St Mary, Wiltshire Guide Price £525,000

Berwick St John, Wiltshire Guide Price £435,000

A most attractive extended period cottage with a spectacular family kitchen/living space, set on the edge of the popular Donheads.

EPC E

An enchanting and superbly renovated detached cottage with bags of charm, set in this delightful country village with mlies of walking on the doorstep.

EPC pending

www.ruralview.co.uk 108

Property The Loft Tisbury 01747 442500 www.ruralview.co.uk

Bedchester, Dorset Guide Price oieo £2,450,000 A newly extended and refurbished farmhouse with extensive accommodation, in a superb position with lovely views, annexe, garaging, stable block about 8.2 acres.

JSA Knight Frank, Sherborne

EPC D

Fontmell Magna, Dorset Guide Price £995,000

A rare opportunity to restore a rustic farm cottage, together with two development opportunities, set in a wonderful location with views of Fontmell Down.

Available as a whole or in three lots.

www.ruralview.co.uk

EPC 54

Property

M E L B U RY A B B A S , D O R S E T

EPC Band E

An outstanding Arts and Crafts house centrally situated in about 35 acres of gardens and grounds with wonderful views.

Indoor swimming pool, tennis court, gym, lakes and a three bedroom cottage.

Shaftesbury 01747 850858 Guide price £5,000,000

SHAFTESBURY 01747 850858

110

jackson-stops.co.uk jackson-stops.co.uk

Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional of昀ces PROPERTY EXPERTS SINCE 1910

Property

S T J A M E S , S H A F T E S B U RY

EPC Exempt

A charming south facing Grade II listed Georgian house with adjoining 2 bedroom cottage.

Delightful garden and grounds of 1.5 acres Shaftesbury 01747 850858 Guide Price £1,550,000

CHILD OKEFORD, DORSET

EPC: tbc

An attractive village house with a pretty façade and delightful garden in the centre of this popular village.

Shaftesbury 01747 850858 Guide price £750,000

SHAFTESBURY 01747 850858

jackson-stops.co.uk jackson-stops.co.uk

Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional of昀ces PROPERTY EXPERTS SINCE 1910

111