Stour & Avon - Edition 85

What’s inside this issue...

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Meet the team

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Faith Eckersall Reporter newsdesk@ stourandavon.net

Lorraine Gibson Reporter newsdesk@ stourandavon.net

Abba-cadabra p33

Cover: White Mill bridge, Sturminster Marshall

Police appeal after supermarket booze theft

Hampshire Police have issued a CCTV image of a woman they would like to question after more than £400 of spirits were stolen from Ringwood’s Waitrose store.

“The incident, which involved the theft of £429.50 worth of spirits, occurred around 5:15pm on Saturday June 1,” said a spokesman.

“We believe the woman in these images may be able to help us with our investigation and would urge them, or anyone who knows their identity, to get in touch with us.”

Police can be contacted on 101, or by reporting online via the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary website, quoting incident number 44240235820.

Green light for new homes development

Plans for a rural-style development of 20 new homes near Canford, on land next to Knighton House in Knighton Lane, have received planning permission from BCP Council. Ken Parke Planning Consultants (KPPC) secured approval for the outline plans as part of its ongoing support for the landowner, which has included initial feasibility and design advice, pre-application negotiations with the council and handling of the application submission through to decision. In a rural setting close to Bearwood and Canford Magna, the development comprises 16 houses and four apartments including eight properties – 40% of the total – for affordable

housing.

KPPC says the development features flats, terraced, semidetached and detached houses with one to four bedrooms to provide much-needed and good quality, family homes.

Its design includes a terrace of farm worker style cottages and other properties in a courtyard setting.

Road improvements, parking, garages, cycle storage, electric vehicle charging points and a

pond are also planned. Contributions will be made towards vital local services and infrastructure, including schools, GP provision, offsite open space and sustainable transport.

Biodiversity enhancements, such as landscaping, bat and bird boxes, bee bricks and native tree planting, are due to be included in a more detailed reserved matters application as well as renewable energy features.

The rectangular-shaped strip of land falls within the northern part of an area zoned for at least 800 homes in the Poole Local Plan, under allocation PP10 UE2. The land was not promoted by the landowner but was included as a logical part of the wider allocation.

How to avoid forest fires

With a number of wildfires having already taken place in Dorset this year, the county’s fire service is reminding people to bring picnics not barbecues when they come out for the day.

Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service says it has seen a steady increase in fires over the past three years. In 2021, 494 fires were dealt with, there were 912 in 2022 and 510 in 2023.

The Wareham Forest fire in May 2020, which is believed to have been started by a disposable barbecue, was one of the most devastating of its kind in living memory.

Firefighters and others were on the scene for more than three weeks to bring the major incident to a conclusion.

Head of prevention at DWFRS Marc House said: “The idea is to remind those enjoying our countryside that bringing a picnic is a much safer option than having a barbecue.”

More information can be found at www.dwfire.org.uk/heath-firesand-countryside-safety.

Children excel in competitons

Wimborne Minster Town Council is delighted to announce the success of local schoolchildren in two recent competitions, one centered on D-Day and a poster competition focused on recycling and waste management.

The poetry competition, which invited entries on the theme of D-Day, received more than 200 submissions. The poems were noted for their emotional depth, reflective nature, and sometimes hard-hitting content, showcasing the impressive creative abilities of the participants.

The winners were Esme JamesDavis with her poem A Soldier Lies; William Grant with War Night; Henry Humphrey with Operation Overlord; and Enzo Wilson with Our Time.

All the winners attend Lockyer’s

Middle School and read their poems on stage at Willow Walk as part of the D-Day commemoration event.

In collaboration with Planet Wimborne, the poster competition aimed to raise awareness about recycling and waste management and saw more than 20 entries. The creativity and enthusiasm demonstrated by the young artists in conveying important environmental messages were commendable.

The image above is from Jude

Burton Y2 St John’s First School Wimborne.

The winners were: Allenbourn Middle School: Milly Roscola and Gabi Chiole Abigail Hartley and Poppy McIntosh (5B) Olivia Hamill and Ellie Rosa (7D).

St John’s First School: Austin Dancey (Year 4) Jude Burton (Year 2).

Colehill First School: Rex Pincroft (Year 3).

Sculpture is load of rubbish

The Anthropogenic Nest is the name of a new sculpture commissioned by New Forest District Council.

And if you thought it sounds like rubbish, you’d be right.

Because the new artwork will be constructed entirely from rubbish and recycled materials as part of a fresh an anti-litter message.

The sculpture aims to promote litter responsibility and a sense of pride and is called The Anthropogenic Nest to signify the effect of human littering.

Part of the council’s Look Out

For Our Forest project, local artists Stephanie James and Vanessa Collingridge, from SPUDworks, have shown the artwork’s progress to council representatives and Litter Pickers of the New Forest.

“The idea behind the nest is really that it represents home,” said Stephanie.

“It’s meant to be protective

and nurturing with the idea that the Forest is our home, it’s all the animals, all the wildlife it’s their home too and actually we need to look after it.

“We don’t want to litter our own home so we shouldn’t be littering anyone else’s.”

The artists are hoping people who see the artwork will examine their own behaviour, how they consider home and to think twice about what they do with litter and the choices they make.

Volunteers are collecting materials to be used for the sculpture, whose willow frame construction is being layered with crisp packets and bottle tops, which have been painstakingly disinfected.

Locals can catch their first glimpse of Anthropogenic Nest at this year’s New Forest Show, which takes place from July 30 to August 1 in Brockenhurst.

Shop worker threatened with crowbar

A man with a crowbar told a member of staff to lock the door in an aggravated burglary incident in Wimborne.

The incident unfolded at One Stop, in Dales Drive, Colehill, at around 9.50pm on Thursday, June 13.

Detectives said a a staff member was approached by a man in possession of a crow bar who told him to lock the door.

A police spokesman said: “The staff member managed to walk to the back of the shop into a private office area and locked himself in the room.

“The offender followed the victim and attempted to push open the door, before leaving the shop.”

Detective Inspector Rhys Griffiths, of Dorset CID, said: “Thankfully, nobody was injured during the incident and nothing was stolen.

“I am carrying out enquiries to identify the person responsible and would ask anyone who saw or heard suspicious activity in the area, or may have captured any relevant CCTV or dashcam footage, to please come forward.

“I am particularly keen to speak to the driver of a pale blue Hyundai Kona – with a 73 registration plate – that stopped outside the shop immediately before the incident as they may have information to help my enquiries.

“Officers from the local neighbourhood policing team are aware and can be approached by anyone with information or concerns.”

Anyone with information should contact Dorset Police via dorset.police.uk, by calling 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Sarah is town’s top volunteer

Sarah Wise, leader of volunteer group Wimborne War On Waste, was honoured with the Volunteer Of The Year award at the town’s mayor-making ceremony.

This was in recognition of her outstanding contributions to organising litter picks and her waste reduction efforts.

Sarah began each morning by walking through Redcotts Recreation Ground in Wimborne, picking up litter.

This small act eventually led to the creation of Planet Wimborne, the Repair Café, and more.

Without Sarah’s initial litterpicking, many of these initiatives might not exist today.

Thwe town council acknowledges the incredible volunteer efforts within the community.

The annual awards are designed to recognise and celebrate volunteers who have made exceptional contributions to Wimborne Minster and its residents.

Award Nominations are now open for 2025.

Nominations must be submitted via an official application by two parish residents and are not limited to one submission per nominator. Full contact details must be provided.

Nominations must be received by March 31, 2025.

The following nominations are not allowed: previous winners from the last five years, selfnominations, town councillors, or town council staff.

The volunteer work must be conducted within Wimborne Minster.

Nominees must consent to being nominated and provide their contact details.

All nominees will be notified.

Twinners enjoy visit to town

Three members of the Ochsenfurt-Wimborne Twinning Association recently paid a visit to Wimborne and enjoyed a week of meeting up with friends and sightseeing.

They attended the Wimborne Minster Folk Festival, visited Lyme Regis, the Sculpture by the Lakes and spent time on the beach.

They met up with the Rector of Wimborne Minster, Andrew Rowland, and the parish priest from St Catherine’s Roman Catholic Church, Father Joseph Darline and had dinner at the Stocks Inn at Furzehill with members of the twinning association.

The leader of the trio from the Bavarian town Burkard Bahr said: “I note that it marks the 35th anniversary of the twinning”.

The twinning document was signed in November 1989, however the link with Wimborne goes back to AD 740 when a number of nuns left Wimborne to evangelise Germany with St. Boniface.

Teachers graduate from network

Five newly-qualified teachers are excited to be establishing their own classrooms in local schools and beyond.

They are graduates from the Castleman Learning Network, part of Dorset’s Castleman Academy Trust of schools.

The training centre was set up to offer first-class teacher training to graduates.

More than 60 teachers have trained with CLN – completing PGCE and QTS qualifications – since it was granted teaching school status in 2010.

Lou Evans, director of the network, said: “We have great relationships with schools from Ferndown to Swanage, where our students can train.

“And the trust has five schools and many of our graduates have joined them over the last few years.

“We are expanding our training programmes by launching a part-time route in January 2025.

“This is designed to provide opportunities for trainees who are balancing teaching aspirations with family and working life.

“We are currently working closely with our university colleagues to develop a number of apprenticeship routes into teaching.

“We are partnered with the University of Worcester and we have a lot of experience to draw on and which the students benefit from.”

CEO Rhonda Moore added:

“As well as wanting the best education for the children in our schools I also want to encourage people into teaching and give them the best start.

“Our network brings a new cohort of teachers through each year and the intention is to grow it and bring more people into the profession.”

The network has been based in Bournemouth but from next term is moving to new facilities in Poole.

Castleman Academy Trust’s schools are: Broadstone First and Middle schools, Ferndown First and Middle schools and Parley First School.

Lou Evans is pictured left, with colleagues and graduates.

Have you seen Harvey?

We regularly read in the press or social media about missing cats and lost dogs and it is so lovely when there is a happy re-uniting of pet and owner.

My cat Harvey, normally happy in his back garden and the house, snuck out of my house June 2. There have been no sightings and although nearly 90 posters are displayed in the Verwood area, leaflets put through doors within 100 yards of my house, and we’re out most days early morning and late evening speaking to people and checking verges and hedgerows, there has been no sign of him. Someone may be feeding him and keeping him

indoors - he wouldn’t be able to fend for himself, so may have found someone quiet to ask for help.

Recently, a cat was reunited with its owner five years after he went missing!

It is heartbreaking not knowing where my cat is and I know there are many people in my situation.

My cat is 12 years old, has a heart murmur and should be on a special diet. Anyone feeding him may not know this.

Vets in the area are aware he is missing.

Diane

Lee

Verwood 07946 671896

Learn about history of cinema

With a new owner having purchased the old cinema in Ringwood and their plans currently being drawn up, the Ringwood Society felt this would be the perfect time for another look at the history of thing important building in the town’s market place.

Local historian Mary Baldwin will be presenting a talk looking back at the life and times of this imposing building in her forthcoming talk entitled ‘From Corn To Popcorn’.

The talk, held on behalf of the society, will take place at Greyfriars Community Centre in Ringwood on Tuesday, July 16, at 7.30pm.

It will trace the history of the building from its construction in 1868 as the Town Hall and Corn Exchange, through its period as a cinema during the

20th century and subsequent life as a shopping centre and then nightclub.

Tickets are £5 from Greyfriars Community Centre or online. Visit ringwoodsociety.org. uk/events or contact info@ ringwoodsociety.org.uk.

Joe Moorhouse

The Ringwood Society

OF TWO TICKETS TO ‘ONE NIGHT IN DUBLIN’ AT BOURNEMOUTH PAVILION

Library open gardens raise £400

Oakdale Library gardens held two open events for the National Garden Scheme in May and June raising more than £400 for the scheme’s charities.

It was the second year that the gardens were open for the NGS and in total nearly £800 has been raised over the two years.

At the events visitors were able to purchase plants and enjoy refreshments in the gardens.

Tesco Fleetsbridge donated supplies for the May event and Asda Poole donated cakes for the June event.

Huge thanks to everyone who made cakes, helped at the open events and attended.

Oakdale Library Gardens are entirely volunteer led and selffunded.

The main garden, the Bookerie, is open during library opening hours. Many wildlife friendly features have been added and there is also a commemorative garden, herb garden, coastal garden and a children’s adventure trail open at all times.

Ray Alderton

Lead Volunteer

Bloom event a great success

Wimborne in Bloom Open Gardens Day in June has been deemed another success story. Twenty gardens were open from 11.00am until 5.00pm. Although the final figures are yet to be confirmed nearly £5,000 will have been raised for Wimborne in Bloom Funds with the total rising to over £8,000 when the May event and associated donations are taken into account.

All this will go towards the provision of plants for the flower towers, planters and hanging baskets around the centre of town and their watering until the end of summer.

Wimborne in Bloom’s next event is the Duck Race on August Bank Holiday Saturday, August 24. Tickets will be on sale in the

town in the days running up to the Race.

n There will be no meeting of Wimborne Gardening Club in August, but the late summer show will be on Saturday, August 31, in the Allendale Centre Quarterjack Room. The September meeting moves to the new venue of St Catherine’s Church Hall at Rodways Corner on Monday, September 2, at 7.30pm when Neil Lucas from Knoll Gardens will provide an informative talk on ‘Using Perennials In The Modern Garden’.

Knoll Gardens are renown for being the UK’s Ornamental Grass specialist so we are sure to gain an insight into a plethora of knowledge!

Anthony Oliver, MBE Wimborne

WIN 2 x PAIRS

Free guided walks around town

Wimborne Minster Town Council says it is excited to introduce a new initiative - monthly Mayoral Walks!

They will be monthly on Sunday mornings, starting at 11 am.

Starting point is the Town Square, Wimborne Minster and the duration will be approximately one hour.

The pace is leisurely and will be suitable for all ages.

Dates for 2024-25:

21 July 24

18 August 24

22 September 24

20 October 24

24 November 24

8 December 24

26 January 25

16 February 25

23 March 25

20 April 25

The walks will be an informative journey through the history and culture of our beautiful town, led by local experts.

It’s a wonderful opportunity to learn more about Wimborne Minster, meet new people, and enjoy a relaxed morning stroll. The walks are free of charge, however donations to the mayor’s

charities (Planet Wimborne & Friends of Victoria Hospital) would be greatly received. There is no need to book - just turn up and join in.

They are looking forward to seeing you there so do go along and be a part of what is sure to be an enriching community experience.

Police mount up to protect Forest animals

Hampshire Police’s Operation Mountie – to prevent animal deaths in the New Forest – saw three sessions in and around Burley in June.

Along with Pound Lane and Forest Road, officers kept watch on other 40mph routes in and out of the village and on June 13 stopped a number of vehicles, with two drivers receiving

We have been awarded this much sought after accolade for our work with Gold Standards Framework

tickets for speeding at 50mph on the 40mph road at Goatspen.

A spokesman said: “The team is committed to reducing speed, animal deaths and injuries, so if you know of a road that we should visit for a future Op Mountie session please let us know.”

“Your staff are exemplary in every way. They care for my every need, showing genuine kindness and always go above and beyond the call of duty. The excellent chef caters for my special diet - all cooked to perfection. I couldn’t ask for anything more.” Current resident

Popular bridge to be replaced

Wimborne’s popular River Allen footbridge - which is used by pupils of Allenbourn Middle School - is to be removed and replaced during the school summer holidays.

Routine inspections of the footbridge, north of Allenview car park found corrosion on its underside. Although not a risk to stability, it does require attention said Dorset Council.

“Due to limited access, it is not possible to undertake the required works in situ so the bridge will be removed and a new, more easily maintained, footbridge put in its place,” the council said.

The old bridge will be refurbished offsite to be reused elsewhere.

Vegetation will be cut back to enable removal of the bridge, with the council’s ecologist checking all nesting birds have left by the time the work starts.

The new steel bridge, over the River Allen off Elizabeth Road, will be assembled in sections and the slope on its approach will be adjusted before it is installed in time for the start of the new school term.

Citizens advice bus celebrates birthday

Citizens Advice East Dorset & Purbeck is celebrating the first anniversary of its Advice Bus, having helped more than 1,000 residents with free advice and support with more than 300 of these being brand new to the service.

The service is provided five days a week by two advisers. Common issues include debt, benefits and housing.

Katrina Ford, business development manager, said: “In these challenging times, local communities are really welcoming of the bus service. It has given much-needed support to those who live in rurally-isolated communities and who may not necessarily have been able to access existing services. “In some cases, it’s been a lifeline to people, as shown in our example case study.”

Katrina adds: “As an independent charity, we rely upon grants and donations to fund our service. It costs £40,000 to run the Advice Bus for a year and we would love

to hear from any business, organisation or individuals who would be willing to support us.”

Help was given to a resident because the Advice Bus visited his community.

He couldn’t access existing office and outreach services due to mental health issues. Initially, it took a number of weeks for the client to visit the bus although he had been in the vicinity several weeks prior to this.

Over four months he developed a trusting relationship with the advisers so is able to attend without fear or judgement. He is able to openly describe the difficulties he is facing. The client does not answer his phone so a weekly bus service means he can retain contact and remain engaged with Citizens Advice.

This has also meant that the actions placed on the client can be broken down into small manageable steps.

The Advice Bus stops at locations across East Dorset & Purbeck including: East Dorset: Colehill, Corfe Mullen, Sixpenny Handley, St Leonards & St Ives, Sturminster Marshall, Three Legged Cross, Verwood and West Moors

Purbeck: Bovington, Corfe Castle, Lytchett Matravers, Swanage, Winfrith and Wool

Visit the website for Advice Bus days, times and addresses: edpcitizensadvice.org.uk/getadvice/advice-bus.

Community larder secure

Castleman Community

Larder in West Moors has secured another year of operation, after receiving a grant from the National Lottery Community Fund.

The £20,000 grant will help ensure the facility, which is based at 136 Station Road can keep operating.

The larder was started up by Michelle Bennett and runs as a membership-based, social supermarket to support low-income families and struggling households in East Dorset.

Open every day of the

week apart from Fridays and Sundays, the venture, which is run as a Community Interest Company, is staffed by volunteers, and currently supports 737 households.

Members pay £7 per weekly visit, which buys them 10-15 items with a retail value of up to £50.

The Larder is open to people living in West Moors, Three Legged Cross, Verwood, St Ives, St Leonards and Ferndown.

More details are available at castlemancommunity. wixsite.com/larder.

SP8 4QF 01747 685592 enquiries@clarkesauctions.co.uk

Antiques & Collectibles

A butterfly flutters into auctioneers

This divine little brooch, in the form of a butterfly, is estimated to sell for £1,500 to £2,500 in the Charterhouse specialist auction of jewellery, silver and watches on Thursday, August 1.

Richard Bromell of CHarterhouse said: “It is a sweet-looking brooch which has survived more than 100 years in wonderful condition, complete with antennae.”

Naturalistically modelled, the butterfly has a thorax made from a single diamond weighing more than 1.5ct, an abdomen made from a large sapphire and diamond wings set with little rubies.

Charterhouse is now accepting further entries for their busy programme of specialist auctions including jewellery, silver and watches in August followed by coins, medals, stamps, model cars, trains and other toys also in August and for their next specialist classic car and classic motorcycle auctions.

n Richard Bromell and the Charterhouse team can be contacted for specialist advice and valuations at the Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne, 01935 812277 or via rb@charterhouseauction.com

Thursday 1st August, 10am to 2pm

It’s a great opportunity to visit this stunning retirement development, view our high quality apartments available to buy or rent, and meet the vibrant community at the heart of Clarendon House.

• Two-bedroom apartments available

• Exclusively for the over 60s

• Close to town centre, and beaches

• Dedicated on-site House Manager

• Social communal lounge

• Stunning landscaped gardens

• 24-Hour emergency call system

• Guest Suite for when family & friends visit

(includes service charge)

*Ts&Cs apply. Subject to availability, while stocks last. Visit must be booked in advance. Visit mccarthyandstone.co.uk/retir ementproperties-for-sale/clarendon-house -branksome-park/ for full details. #Subject to availability. Imagery is representative and fa cilities vary by location. RS0523

Food & Drink

Cooking... with Martha Legg

Chicken Biryani

We are getting homesick for India, the warmth, the laid-back attitude of the people, no rush with anything (not to mention the wild dogs and free-roaming pigs!)

Because of Covid, we haven’t been to India for five years, and we miss it. This recipe is something that we used to have at lunchtime, sitting on the beach, with a few beers.

Although we have the internet, it always amazes me that each beach shack has a small library!

(One of my friends, used to take nearly a suitcase full of books whenever she travelled, she would leave them there and bring a new set home!)

My stepdaughter, who is an avid reader, says that there is nothing like reading a book, she says that a brand-new book has a certain smell to it, when it is first opened. I use it as an opportunity to try a new author, usually someone I have never heard of before.

CHILD OKEFO RD BLANDFORD FORUM DORS www hanfordschool co uk

Come and join our staff body at our vibrant and happy prep school for girls (aged 7-13) set in the beautiful Dorset countryside:

HOUSEPARENT

Now, I don’t like scary books or series, but I happened across the American author Stephenie Meyer’s series of Twilight.

Ingredients

The role of Houseparent at Hanford holds a uniquely important position of trust and influence in the Boarding House. The successful candidate will have the ability to lead, motivate, support and understand the pupils in their care and will have overall responsibility for the functioning and orderly running of the House. They will be the first point of contact for boarders’ parents and guardians and will have excellent communication skills.

I was lucky in that three of her books were in the library, and I was hooked.

300g basmati rice

25g butter

1 large onion, finely sliced

1 bay leaf

3 cardamom pods

The successful applicant will be required to work weekends and evenings as required and have significant overnight responsibility. Accommodation will be provided.

To start in January 2024.

Much to the surprise of my husband, I then got the fourth book and he found the TV

RESIDENT M ATRON

small cinnamon stick

1 tsp turmeric

4 skinless chicken breasts, cut into large chunks

4 tbsp balti curry paste

85g raisins

850ml chicken stock

30g coriander, ½ chopped, ½ leaves picked and 2 tbsp toasted flaked almonds, to serve

Method

Soak 300g basmati rice in warm water, then wash in cold until the water runs clear.

Heat 25g butter in a saucepan and cook 1 finely sliced large onion with 1 bay leaf, 3 cardamom pods and 1 small cinnamon stick for 10 mins.

Sprinkle in 1 tsp turmeric, then add 4 chicken breasts, cut into large chunks, and 4 tbsp curry paste.

Cook until aromatic.

Stir the rice into the pan with 85g raisins, then pour over 850ml chicken stock.

Place a tight-fitting lid on the pan and bring to a hard boil, then lower the heat to a minimum and cook the rice for another 5 mins.

Turn off the heat and leave for 10 mins.

Stir well, mixing through 15g chopped coriander.

To serve, scatter over the leaves of the remaining 15g coriander and 2 tbsp toasted almonds.

Cheers! Residents celebrate cocktail day

Hyacinth House care home in Stapehill, Wimborne, celebrated World Cocktail Day in May with a fun and interactive evening of Cocktails & Canapes.

We are seeking a caring and empathetic resident Matron with strong inter-personal skills and a can-do attitude, who will be an excellent role model for our pupils. The successful candidate will make a significant contribution to the pastoral welfare of the pupils and will have the capacity to support and understand young people in all aspects of their development, especially their emotional, academic and pastoral needs. They will expect and embody high standards of behaviour, courtesy and care.

The successful applicant will be required to work weekends and evenings as required and have significant overnight responsibility. Accommodation will be provided. To start as soon as possible.

Residents, relatives and community gathered for a charming night filled with tasty drinks, delicious canapes and live music.

TEACHER O F FRENCH

Adding to the ambiance was Richard Carpenter, general manager of the Libertine in Westbourne, who shared his mixology expertise with us for the night. Guests enjoyed a variety of cocktails and mocktails, including the classic Cosmopolitan, refreshing Mojito, Strawberry Bellini, Pimm’s and more, they even had a chance to try their hand at making a couple under Richard’s guidance, adding a fun interactive element to the evening. One highlight was Hyacinth House’s own signature cocktail named ‘Hyacinths’ Bouquet’ a refreshing summer drink made with gin, elderflower, ginger ale, lemon thyme and apple.

We are seeking an exceptional candidate to teach French to our girls (aged 7 Hanford School has an excellent academic record, and the girls sit and scholarships to top independent senior schools.

To start in April 2024 or sooner

CLE ANER

To work as part of our team, carrying out a variety of cleaning functions. A great opportunity for an enthusiastic and helpful person, training will be given. Core hours are approximately 25 hours per week (by arrangement) term time only, to weekdays plus Saturday mornings.

To start January 2024.

To learn more about these opportunities please call the School Office on 01258 860219 or visit our website: www.hanfordschool.co.uk

Application deadline: Monday, 6 h November 2023 office@hanfordschool co uk

talents and song choices.

Hanford is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment.

The culinary experience was equally enjoyable, with a variety of delectable savoury and sweet canapes prepared by the Hospitality team. The evening was accompanied by guitarist and singer, Nigel Revill, who created the perfect atmosphere with his musical

These posts are all subject to enhanced DBS checks

Kamila Gagala, general manager at Hyacinth House, said: “We want to extend our thanks to Richard for sharing his time with us.

Hanford School is part of Sherborne Girls’ School Charity Number 307427 & Company Number 00306828

“Our guests had a wonderful time and it wouldn’t have been possible without Richard’s knowledge and skill of mixology.

“The evening was a success, with guests

enjoying good company, delicious food and drinks, we look forward to hosting more memorable events to bring the community together.”

One resident added: “We had lots of fun trying the cocktails and making them - my favourite was definitely the Hyacinths’ Bouquet, it was delicious!”

A guest from the community wrote: ‘The cocktail man was inspiring, not that we needed any inspiration to drink!

‘You and all your team, including the chefs, did a first-class job and it was obvious that a lot of thought, time and effort had been put into the evening to make is so successful.

Thank you so much.’

series of Twilight that we could watch. So, biryani reminds me of the beach in India and books!

Some sweet and tempting recipes for you

Delicious cool Ice-Cream Step 2+. Serves 1

Recipe Instructions

Blend 12 ice cubes until slushy in a smoothie maker

Add the shake powder Blend until it forms into ice cream

Double Choccy Cheesecake Step 2+. Serves 1

Recipe Instructions

Chop up half a Chocolate Chewy Bar into tiny pieces into a glass and

pat it down. Make up half your Chocolate Flavour Shake with water and Mix-aMousse (for best results use a hand blender). Pour your shake mousse mix over your chopped Chocolate Chewy Bar. Set in the fridge for 10 minutes. Chocs away!

n If you’re ready to start your weight-loss journey with unique one-to-one support and want to get your hands on these scrummy chocolate meal replacement products, contact Nicki Edwards, The Cambridge Lady for super help and support 07904 331589.

East Dorset towns in author’s war book

by Lorraine Gibson

A new book giving a first-hand account of life in Poole at the time of the Second World War air raids also talks about Broadstone and Corfe Mullen.

Called Fred Sturgeon’s Poole War Diary & Other Writings, it is by Dorset author Ed Perkins.

Frederick Oliver Sturgeon moved to Poole with his family when he landed a job as the Poole reporter for the Bournemouth Daily Echo in 1922 and remained with the paper for 26 years before becoming assistant curator at Poole Museum.

During the Second World War, Sturgeon wrote monthly accounts of what was happening across the town and suggested that there were as many as 48 German air raids in the area.

They devastated buildings and resulted in the deaths of 68 civilians.

Among the incidents Sturgeon records was the death of a Broadstone man who was a victim of the raid on the Branksome Gasworks when his

wife was expecting their fourth child.

He also reports on a couple who died when a land mine landed by York Road, Broadstone in April 1941. That month a long and mysterious ‘well-directed’ Luftwaffe raid targeted heathland between Broadstone and Corfe Mullen, causing considerable damage to - tomato plants in greenhouses.

“I came across what Fred called

his Poole War Diary when volunteering at Dorset History Centre, helping catalogue the Poole Borough Archives,” said Ed who also worked for many years as a journalist for the Bournemouth Echo.

“Reading Sturgeon’s partly typed and partly hand-written record brought home the shadow that hung over life in Poole during the war years,” added Ed, who lives with his novelist wife, Frances and whose daughter also lives in the town with her family.

The book, which includes many fascinating images of bomb damage in Poole, also looks at the life and other writings of Sturgeon, who was born in London, went to sea at 14, fought a Zulu uprising, and served as a soldier in the First World War.

He wrote about everything from his experience on the Western Front to volunteering as a Special Constable in Poole during the General Strike of 1926.

“The monthly summaries, however, from the Second World War are at the heart of the book

and are a stark reminder of what was arguably the biggest story in Poole’s history,” said Ed, who became deputy editor of the Echo, before working at Monkey World and then retiring.

He is also the author of Britain’s Forgotten Traitor, about a 58-year-old man who came into Britain on a flying boat to Poole to spy for the Nazis.

n Fred Sturgeon’s Poole War Diary & Other Writings by Ed Perkins, Independent Publishing Network, £13.

Fun way to learn of home town’s history

Residents at Barchester’s Kings Park Care Home in Ferndown were treated to an evening learning all about the history of the local area from their local U3A group.

Invited guests, including Ferndown’s current mayor, Terry Cordery and residents of the home were first treated to a ploughman’s-style supper, courtesy of the home’s chef, coupled with a glass of wine or two, before then settling down to listen to the talk from the two knowledgeable ladies.

Everyone was very surprised by some of the things they learned, including that the local heathland has various snakes living there, as well as ancient burial mounds.

They also explained that there are the remnants of an old Second World War bunker in Ferndown, used by top secret operatives in the area, who’s own families didn’t even know who were selected as such.

The most interesting thing was the fact that Ferndown was home to a zoo from 1947 –

1954, which was a real surprise to many. Home services adviser at Kings Park, Rebekah Goddard, explained: “The zoo was something we had heard rumours about before, but Val and Kay gave us a little more insight into this.

Apparently Ajax, the male lion, became a noise nuisance, roaring at all hours of the day, hence when the licence was up for renewal of the site, it was sadly closed due to the sheer number of complaints from local residents

who also feared possible escapes. Eventually the animals were re-homed.

“The zoo also homed silver foxes, monkeys and bears”.

Senior general manager, Jenna May added:

“We are so grateful to our new mayor, Terry, who came along to support this event and we’d like to thank Val and Kay for their wonderful talk and for giving up their time.

“Our residents and guests very much enjoyed the evening.”

Leisure centre petition attracts 7,000 signatures

by Lorraine Gibson

An alliance of Queen Elizabeth Leisure Centre users called QELC Action and made up of associations, clubs and individuals, is seeking to represent users’ interests and to be consulted on arrangements related to a recent change of administration.

Their petition, which calls for the reopening of the centre to the public and has been handed to Dorset Council, was started shortly after announcements by the council and Initio Learning Trust that the centre would close to public use.

It was accepted by Cllr Will Chakawhata of Stour and Allen Vale ward where the centre is situated, along with colleagues Duncan Sowry-House and Jindy Atwal representing neighbouring wards and Vikki Slade, Liberal Democrat candidate for Mid

Dorset and North Poole in support. A debate on the issue is expected at a forthcoming meeting of the full council.

The closure of the centre, also a life-line to many disabled people, came about after the previous Dorset Council administration withdrew from a Dual Use Agreement dating back to 1987; the agreement allowed the facility to be shared between

Queen Elizabeth’s School and the community under local authority management.

In the local government reorganisation of 2019, management passed to Dorset Council. A decline in revenue followed, aggravated by the Pandemic.

QELC Action argues that with appropriate promotion and price adjustment to market rates, the

need for subsidy - cited by Dorset Council as a fundamental reason for its withdrawal - could be eliminated.

Petition co-organiser Rebecca Il Ghany said: “This may be the highest signature total ever collected for a petition addressed to Dorset Council. The huge number demonstrates the scale of public support for the cause.

“The permanent loss of such a key health facility in the growing community would be devastating. QELC has played an essential part in keeping our community fit, active and improving mental health across all age groups, has catered for many NHS referrals and boasted the only accessible hydrotherapy facility in the area.”

Pictured are, from left, Cllrs Jindy Atwal, Will Chakawhata, petition organisers Felicity Frost, Steve Parlour, Rebecca Il Ghany and Cllr Duncan Sowry-House.

Ferndown Manor care home, Ferndown

The Big Care UK Sports Day

Tuesday 23rd July, 2pm - 4pm

We’re welcoming the local community to join us for fun and games at our Olympics-themed open day.

Healthy eating and managing diabetes

Tuesday 20th August, 2pm - 4pm

In our interactive workshop learn how to eat healthily with diabetes with interesting insights, practical tips, and simple food swaps.

To attend please call 01202 618793 or email robin.hill@careuk.com

Charity celebrates launch of the Treehouse

Diverse Abilities, Dorset’s Disability Charity hosted the launch of the Treehouse, the new centre for children with special educational needs on the site of Adventure Wonderland near Bournemouth Airport.

The launch was an opportunity to thank local businesses and individuals who have made the project possible by making donations or volunteering their time.

Volunteers got stuck in, helping with jobs such as painting, clearing, gardening and cleaning, offering more than 1,000 hours of their time to make sure the centre could open in time for Easter.

The grand opening included a chance for attendees to look around the centre, which includes a giant soft play, a sensory room, gaming room and cinema room, as well as a kitchen area where the children can learn important food preparation skills.

It was also a chance to hear about plans for the large outside areas including a play park, sensory garden, water play area and a kart and scooter track.

The centre will now be home to Diverse Abilities Children’s Team and host services for children with a range of needs and their families, including:

Coping with CHAOS – for the whole family to attend, supporting children with additional needs from birth to 18 years old.

The whole family is welcome to stay for play sessions, including siblings, and meet other families in similar situations.

Project – for children with additional needs aged eight to 18 to stay and play without the family in order to help grow their independence and take part in all sorts of activities, the children and young people also play a part in picking which activities

they’ll do over the holidays.

STARs – for siblings of children with additional needs, this is split into two different age groups and gives the siblings a chance to be themselves and relax, while also meeting other siblings in similar situations and creating a support network.

Awesome Nights – for teenagers with additional needs, this weekday evening youth club allows everyone to build their social skills and get out in the community, as well as learning new skills.

Family Support – one just for the parents, where sessions could be an activity (afternoon tea, laser quest, etc), or an ask-the-expert session where any questions can be asked.

Find out more about The Treehouse, and the services available at diverseabilities.org.uk/ children.

Residents get rocking to beat of the belles

Residents and guests at Moors Manor Care Home

in St Leonards enjoyed an afternoon of grins with a live music performance that took place at the home.

Local group the Ashley Belles from Ashley Heath WI performed a selection of songs from pop to musicals that they regularly perform in the community.

The Ashley Belles were formed last year after the ladies at the Women’s Institute decided that they wanted to start their very own choir so that they could perform to the other

members and also people in the local community.

The hospitality team at the home provided a spread of

sweet treats for guests to enjoy during the show.

Sue, leader of the Ashley Belles said: “It has been a

great pleasure to meet so many people, having an opportunity to chat with the residents following our singing performance; our group always look forward to coming to the home.”

General manager Gemma Chalkley said: “Our residents and guests had a wonderful day singing along with the performers.

“We do our best to provide a wide range of activities and entertainment as part of the lifestyle enrichment programme for residents, and this was one was one of our favourites.”

Make massage a regular part of your life

In our fast-paced world, taking time to relax and rejuvenate is essential for maintaining a healthy body and mind.

One of the most effective ways to achieve this balance is through massage therapy. Whether you’re looking to alleviate physical pain, reduce stress, or simply indulge in some self-care, massage offers a multitude of benefits.

Let’s explore why incorporating regular massage sessions into your routine can be a game-changer for your overall well-being.

Stress Reduction

One of the most immediate and noticeable benefits.

Massage therapy promotes relaxation by lowering cortisol levels - the stress hormonein your body.

As a result, you feel calmer and more centered.

Pain Relief

Massage is an effective way to alleviate pain, whether it’s from a chronic condition like arthritis or an acute injury.

Techniques such as deep tissue massage and trigger point therapy target specific areas of discomfort, releasing tension and improving blood flow to the affected areas.

Improved Circulation

By stimulating blood flow, massage helps to deliver oxygen and nutrients to your cells more efficiently, promoting faster recovery and overall health.

Enhanced Flexibility and Range of Motion

Massage therapy can improve your flexibility and range of motion by working on your muscles, tendons, and ligaments. This is particularly beneficial for athletes and individuals who engage in regular physical activity.

Boosted Immune System

Regular massage can strengthen your immune system by increasing the activity level of the

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body’s natural killer cells, which help fight off bacteria and viruses. This makes massage a valuable tool for maintaining your overall health and preventing illnesses.

Better Sleep Quality

By promoting relaxation and reducing stress, massage helps regulate your sleep patterns and improves the overall quality of your rest.

Mental Clarity and Focus

In addition to its physical benefits, massage therapy can enhance your mental clarity and focus. By reducing stress and promoting relaxation, massage helps clear your mind and improve your concentration.

Conclusion

Regular massage can have profound effects on both your physical and mental health. From reducing stress and pain to improving circulation and boosting your immune system, the benefits of massage are extensive. Whether you’re seeking relief from a specific condition or simply looking to enhance your overall well-being, massage therapy offers a holistic approach to health and relaxation. So, why not treat yourself to the healing power of touch and experience the myriad benefits of massage today?

Opening Times: Monday – Thursday 8am – 7pm Friday 8am – 6.30 pm Arrowsmith Road, Wimborne BH21 3BD 01202 604707 / admin@wimbornewellnesscentre.co.uk / www.wimbornewellnesscentre.co.uk

Health & Wellbeing

Leap of faith: Take a dive for a nurse!

Registrations have opened for the LewisManning Hospice Care Skydive, which takes place on Saturday, September 21, at Old Sarum Airfield in Salisbury.

Participants will be taking an adrenalinepumping 10,000ft leap into the skies to raise essential funds and awareness of the hospice nurses and the vital services they provide in the community at LewisManning.

This unique event not only promises an unforgettable experience but also offers participants a chance to learn more about the incredible work that the hospice nurses do supporting patients and their families impacted by life limiting illnesses across Poole, East Dorset, Purbeck and West Hampshire.

Skydivers will be paired up with a hospice nurse and will support the vital work they do in our communities every day in hospice hubs and in patient’s homes.

The nurses are proudly supporting the campaign, and many have signed up to skydive themselves.

Staff nurse Hannah Quick said: “I’ve seen first-hand some of the amazing

people this money will support.

“My patients show me every day how brave and courageous they are, so I feel it’s only right for me to do something out of my comfort zone!”

Among the brave individuals taking part

is Ian Girling, CEO of Dorset Chamber of Commerce.

With a life-long fear of heights, Ian is facing the challenge head-on.

Ian said: “I can’t wait to skydive for Lewis-Manning!

I’ve been absolutely terrified of heights my whole life and even experience vertigo when looking up at the sky.

“When I was asked to take part, I realised it would be a great opportunity to face my biggest fears, as well as raise money for a vital cause.

“The nurses at Lewis-Manning need our help, and I’m proud to support them as much as I can, to allow them to continue delivering extraordinary hospice care.”

Area fundraiser India Turner said: “We are super-proud of our amazing team of skydivers signed up so far.

“Their bravery will have such a positive impact for our nurses and allow them to continue delivering extraordinary hospice care.

“We’d urge anyone interested in joining in, to register on our website.”

Visit lewis-manning.org.uk/skydive.

Saturday 21st September 2024 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury

To register, please visit: www.lewis-manning.org.uk/challenges

Simone Gosden, the CEO of the Dorset charity ACTS FAST, has just returned from an international symposium in Taiwan where she spoke about the pioneering work of the charity.

Speakers from across the globe gathered to share their best practice for trauma-informed support for families.

ACTS FAST is a Dorset based charity that works nationally supporting families impacted by Child Sexual Abuse.

The 2024 symposium, Exploring Family Support And Parenting Policies From A Well-being Perspective, was hosted by the Taiwan Fund for Children and Families. The event took place in Taipei, Taiwan, earlier this month. Eighteen speakers from six countries shared research and best practice from their area of expertise. From exploring how individual countries meet their pledges to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child to

Nicki Edwards: The Cambridge Lady 07904 331589 www.one2onediet.com/NickiE

how judicial interviews impact child protection work and family rehabilitation. Experts shared their views on how to implement policy and deliver best practice.

Simone delivered a presentation to the conference where she shared the work of ACTS FAST and how the charity’s therapeutic approach and new model of working is supporting parents to lead in their children’s recovery from abuse. Simone also joined a panel

discussion with Professor ShuYun Wu from Taiwan Fund for Children and Families, Prof. Soar Ching-Yu Huang from Keele University and Assistant Prof. An-Ti Shih of Taipei University where they took questions from other delegates and discussed how best to support families impacted by abuse.

Simone said: “I was honoured to be invited to speak at such a prestigious event bringing together academics and

Hundreds unite to remember loved ones County charity chief addresses world summit

Hundreds of people braved the elements and gathered in Poole Park at the weekend to write a dedication in memory of a loved one at Forest Holme Hospice’s Tie A Yellow Ribbon event. The free event, which was sponsored by MSP Capital, took place to give the community across Wimborne, Poole and the Isle of Purbeck the opportunity to come together to remember their loved ones and write a dedication and tie a yellow ribbon.

The event was open to everyone and featured many local craft stalls, special performances by the Citrus Singers choir, pictured right, the Academy Singers from Poole Academy of Dance and free craft activities for children. Claire Cooper from the charity team at Forest Holme, said: “Despite the unpredictable weather, it was fantastic to welcome so many people from our community in the lovely surroundings of Poole Park who came to reflect and celebrate the lives of their loved ones.

“Last year was the first time we had taken Tie A Yellow Ribbon out of the hospice to the park and this year’s event

practitioners from around the world.

“I’m really proud of the work of ACTS FAST. With so many support services in the UK stretched beyond capacity children and their families do not always receive the support they deserve. ACTS FAST supports parents to help them lead in the care and recovery of their children.”

has proved to be another huge success.”

For those who were unable to attend but would still like to make a dedication, the hospice will happily make one on

their behalf, which will be displayed at the garden at Forest Holme over the summer. Visit forestholmehospice. enthuse.com/tayr24.

Choral concert collects cash

Verwood Choral Society held a charity concert, featuring songs from Phantom Of The Opera, Abba, Les Misables and other popular music, for McMillan Caring at Home which supports the Macmillan Unit at Christchurch Hospital, writes Kim Vine

The charity was chosen by members of the choir and a total of £750 was raised. If you love singing and are interested in joining our friendly group, while raising money for local causes, why not try our choir. It is a great way of meeting new people of all ages, making friends and there are no auditions. We rehearse on Monday evenings from 7.00pm - 8.30pm at St Michael’s Church, Verwood. Please e-mail casampson@ tiscali.co.uk or simply come along from September 9, which is when we start to prepare for our Christmas Concert in aid of another worthy charity.

A cruise with stunning views

Join Diverse Abilities this summer on a cruise around Europe’s largest natural harbour on August 22, setting sail at 7.30pm.

This is an opportunity to experience panoramic views of Studland Bay, Sandbanks Peninsula, and Poole Harbour’s islands, including Brownsea, returning to Poole Quay to enjoy the spectacular firework finale at 10pm. You’ll be greeted aboard the Purbeck Princess with a glass of prosecco, and have the opportunity to purchase drinks from the on-board bar, and enter a raffle to win an epic hamper.

Mariana Swain, events executive at Diverse Abilities, said: “We are really looking forward to our fireworks cruise again this August, particularly after the success over the last couple of years. “We can’t wait to welcome our supporters on board for a relaxing evening cruise and

firework finale, all in aid of Diverse Abilities.”

This is a great chance to get together with friends and family to enjoy a summer evening in style, as well as raising money for Diverse Abilities, Dorset’s Disability Charity.

The money raised from the evening will go directly to support more than 1,000 adults

and children with disabilities, with more than 200,000 hours of care delivered across Dorset.

Tickets for the three-hour cruise are available at diverseabilities.org.uk/ fireworks for £25 per adult and £15 per child, with an option to add on a delicious fish and chip supper (or one of our other options) for £8.50.

Residents mount up for a worthy cause

Staff and residents at Barchester’s Kings Park Care Home in Ferndown recently supported a charity very close their hearts and raised money for this worthwhile cause.

The Barchester Charitable Foundation is a charity which supports older people and adults with a disabilities across England, Scotland, Wales and Jersey, focusing on connecting or re-connecting people with others in their local community. They support applications that combat loneliness and enable people to be active and engaged.

Kings Park’s senior general manager explained: “We decided we wanted to

give back by doing something to help raise funds and awareness of this amazing cause, so we got our thinking caps on and decided we would host a cyclethon on a static bike here in the home.

“Residents, staff, families, friends as well as local community, all got involved too and they day was a wonderful success.

“Some of our residents pedalled on a mini-version of the bike, allowing them to pedal in their seated positions, whilst others got on the bike for a ride.

“The atmosphere was brilliant and everyone had so much fun joining in.”

Sarah Diffey, deputy manager, added: “It wasn’t about how far we cycled, or how

long (but we did cycle all day, taking it in turns), but about a wonderful, fun collaboration and in doing something amazing in a way that brought everyone together.

“We also hosted some fun activities in the garden, such as an egg & spoon relay and there was a lot of laughter.

“To boost funds, we also had a raffle on the day and overall we raised a wonderful £407 for the foundation.

“Huge thanks to all who donated and to those who supported this event.”

To find out more about the foundation or to donate, visit their webpage at bhcfoundation.org.uk.

Housebuilder’s boost for the Bearwood community

As part of its ongoing commitment to working with the local community, Taylor Wimpey Southern Counties has donated £1,000 to St Barnabas Church in Bearwood to support its community activities, pictured right.

The donation has been split between the two community groups and services, which are hosted at Bearwood Community Centre, near to the newly-launched Canford Vale development in Canford Magna. St Barnabas Church runs a weekly community youth club on Friday nights which is staffed by volunteers and was funded by the local council, however it lost this funding at the start of 2023 due to cuts. With a rise in young people attending the club over the last 18 months, £500 of Taylor Wimpey’s donation will be put towards the club’s operating costs.

The church has also employed a children and families worker

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to support children and families in Bearwood through a partnership with Bearwood Primary School.

The other half of the housebuilder’s donation will go towards resourcing school holiday events and the Seedlings weekly toddlers group put together through this collaboration.

Revd Peter Myres, vicar of St Barnabas Church, said: “We are very grateful to Taylor Wimpey for their generous financial gift of £1,000 and for investing into our valuable community services such as our community youth club and the work of our Children and Families Worker.”

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Gardening club publishes late summer show schedule

Wimborne Gardening Club has published the schedule for its late summer show which will take place on Saturday, August 31, in the Allendale Community Centre, Hanham Road, Wimborne Minster, writes Anthony Oliver. It will be open from noon until 4.00pm. Admission is free but donations will be welcome. In the schedule there are classes for everyone to enter from vegetables and fruit to flowers, floral art, photography and cookery, the latter class including an exciting new class, the Wimborne Gardening Club

Cake Challenge, following a recipe kindly provided by supporter Kathy Curtler. There are also classes for children. There is no charge to enter any of the classes and there are trophies and prizes to be won so come on and show what you can do... everyone is most welcome whether you are a novice gardener or a seasoned pro!

Schedules for the show are available in various venues around the town and can be downloaded from the clubs website at wimbornegardeningclub. org.uk.

Home & Garden

Open gardens of delight for you to visit

Gardens Open - August 2024

NEW: 105 WOOLSBRIDGE ROAD

A true Plantsman’s garden with paths meandering through architectural jungleexotics, bamboos & bananas, a woodland walkway with rhododendrons, fernery, grass bed, pond and hot gravel bed.

Open: 17, 18 Aug (11-4.30). Adm £4, chd free. Teas

Ashley Heath, Ringwood BH24 2LZ

NEW: 1C RECTORY ROAD

Unusual character house and garden designed and built by the owner over the last five yrs. Full of objet d’art spanning centuries, there’s curiosities to see in every corner!

Open: 18 Aug, (11-5). Adm £4, chd £2. Teas

Poole BH15 3BH

NEW: 20 WICKET ROAD

The design of this small suburban garden (just 18 x 13 metres) uses every trick in the gardening handbook to create a truly memorable space with some unusual planting. Exhibition of the garden’s history.

Open: 24, 25, 26 Aug (2-5). £5, chd free. Teas Kinson, Bournemouth BH10 5LT

MANOR FARM,

HAMPRESTON

Lovely traditional farmhouse garden noted for

its herbaceous borders and rose beds within box and yew hedges. Mature shrubbery, water and bog garden. Plants for sale.

Open: 4 Aug, 1 Sept (1-5). Adm £5, chd free. Teas

Wimborne BH21 7LX

HILLTOP

Pictured above, a gorgeous riot of colour and scent, the old thatched cottage at Hilltop is barely visible amongst the flowers. Unusual annuals make for a spectacular display, attracting an abundance of wildlife.

Open: 11, 18 Aug (2-6). Adm £4, chd free. Teas

Woodville, Stour Provost, Gillingham SP8 5LY

BROOK VIEW CARE HOME

Colourful and vibrant garden with games lawn, mixed borders and greenhouse leading to further gardens and raised beds, in a courtyard setting. Residents help with the production of many of the plants!

Open: 17, 18 Aug (11-4.30). Adm £3.50, chd free. Teas

Riverside Road, West Moors, Ferndown BH22 0LQ

ANNALAL’S GALLERY

Enchanting 180 yr old cottage, home of two Royal Academy artists. Sculptures and paintings hide among the flowers and shrubs. Unusual studio and garden room.

Open: 25 Aug (2-4). Adm £3.50, chd free. 25 Millhams Street, Christchurch BH23 1DN

22 AVON AVENUE

Japanese themed water garden featuring granite sculptures, ponds, waterfalls, azaleas, rhododendrons, cloud topiary and a collection of goldfish and water lilies.

Open: 25 Aug (12-5). Adm £5, chd free. Teas Avon Castle, Ringwood BH24 2BH.

n Entries may be subject to change – for latest information visit www.ngs.org.uk.

Julian is museum’s new chief

Dorset Museum & Art Gallery has announced that Lord Julian Fellowes of West Stafford, the multi award-winning screenwriter, actor, novelist and director, will be presenting himself for election as president of the Dorset Natural History and Archaeological Society this autumn.

Bringing decades of experience from the forefront of the British and international arts scene, Lordt Fellowes is a long-time resident of Dorset and has been a supporter of and generous donor to the Museum & Art Gallery for many years.

Lord Fellowes will be president of an organisation with more than 1,000 members whose core purpose is to collect, preserve, research and exhibit objects relating to the culture of Dorset.

The society is immensely grateful to Lady Susan Bradbury who is standing down after 10 years, having overseen a programme of critically-

acclaimed exhibitions and the re-opening of the newlytransformed museum in 2021.

The position of president was once held by Thomas Hardy and the society has been in existence since 1928, with the merging of two separate support groups, the Field Club and the Museum Society. The running of the Museum & Art Gallery in this

organisational way has been in place as far back as 1875.

Lord Fellowes said: “I am both delighted and extremely honoured to be put forward for this role.

“The museum has grown and developed during my time here, so I have been able to witness its transformation into the marvellous place it is today.”

Top choral director returns to county

Former King’s Singer, choral director and composer, Jeremy Jackman, returns to Dorset this August to lead the choir Laudemus, showcasing music for the service of Choral Evensong.

Taking its name from Latin for ‘let us praise!’ and singing in venues across the county, the group has its roots in the Wimborne Arts Festival of 1991. The choir has returned each year since then to bring cathedral-style Evensong to country churches across Dorset. Operating as an annual summer course, singers come from all over the UK and some from overseas. The repertoire is wide ranging, with different music for each service on the tour. This summer, Laudemus will visit churches in Stalbridge (6 August), Swanage (7 August), Gussage All Saints (8 August), Symondsbury (9 August) and the Minster in Wimborne (10 August).

The choir is accompanied for most of the week by Dorset-

n Conductor

born organist Sam Hanson, who pursues a busy freelance career as conductor, accompanist and composer in both Dorset and London. On Saturday, the organist will be Colin Davey, organist and director of choirs at Wimborne Minster. Saturday’s service will also feature the first performances of two new choral works: the winning pieces in the recent Laudemus Composition

Events

Shamrock & roll evening

by Lorraine Gibson

Embark on a musical journey to the Emerald Isle with the all-star cast of Irish singers and performers in the five-star-rated Ireland, The Show 2024!

Coming to East Dorset for a rip-roaring ride through the decades of the globally-loved Irish culture, it won’t just be Irish eyes that are smiling as the much-feted Keltic Storm band and world champion Gael Force Irish dancers, perform a string of well-known classics made famous by iconic artists such as the Dubliners, the Pogues, Makem and Clancy, Luke Kelly and Christy Moore.

Add a crock of chucklesome anecdotes and jokes, topped off with energetic reels and jigs from the company’s fiddling maestro and you’ll be forgiven for feeling like you’ve been to Ireland and back in one evening! Regent, Christchurch, August 15, 7.30pm.

Dom really is out to get you

Just because you’re paranoid, doesn’t mean you’re not being followed, says comedian Dom Joly, whose new Conspiracy tour comes to Poole’s Lighthouse Theatre on Friday, September 20.

Dom has been travelling to explore some of the world’s weirdest conspiracy theories and will be sharing his thoughts on a variety of issues, such as whether Finland really exists and are UFOs piloted by lizards. In the spirt of fairness, Dom will also be inviting a wellknown and highly-respected conspiracy theorist, Dr Julian Northcote, to take the stage and defend the alternate view.

More details and booking here: lighthousepoole. co.uk/event/dom-joly-theconspiracy-tour.

Competition written by John Sturt and David Harris. There will be a presentation to the young composers at the close of the service.

Jeremy Jackman and, inset, Sam Hanson

Poet Pam’s Ayres & graces

According to the Bookseller magazine, Pam Ayres is the best-selling poet since records began, after former Poet Laureate Ted Hughes. Pam has been making the nation laugh for almost 50 years with her poetical works and television appearances, most recently on The Cotswolds for Channel 5, This Morning, Alan Titchmarsh, Countdown and Would I Lie To You?

She is appearing at Poole’s Lighthouse Theatre on Wednesday, September 11, with a performance including a selection of poems and stories from across her long career, including Pam Ayres On Animals, which was the UK’s bestselling poetry book of 2021, and her latest book, Who Are You Calling Vermin?

Details at lighthousepoole. co.uk/event/pam-ayres-2024.

Enjoy music while you lunch

The Summer Lunchtime Concert Series in Wimborne Minster commenced on Monday, July 1, with the Christchurch Vintage Brass who have started the week off for a number of years now, writes Anthony Oliver. The programme of 11 items started with Liberty Bell and included items such as the

Blaydon Races, Dem Bones, Men Of Harlech and Hot Toddy. It was much enjoyed by an enthusiastic audience. The concert series continues on all the Mondays in July commencing at 12.30pm and lasting just under the hour. Admission is free with a retiring collection for Minster Funds.

County music stars invade the best fest

by Lorraine Gibson

Local breakneck banjo punks, Pronghorn are leading a stage takeover with Endorset – a Dorset musicians-based event - at this year’s family-funfest, Camp Bestival.

Joining them, hot from an appearance at Rustic Stomp, are Heathen Apostles, a goth Americana outfit who mix western sounds, with post-punk and gothic rock to grass-rootsy effect.

Add Rolling Drunks, Red Hot Riot, Guns of Navarone and Milli Watson and you’ve a foot-thumping, string-scraping mini-fest included in the main ticket price.

The four-dayer in Lulworth is known for its eclectic line-ups and this year is no exception. DJ Pete Tong’s Ibiza Classics and Paloma Faith rub shoulders with McFly, Orbital and the Darkness, and Jake Shears (Scissor Sisters), James Arthur and the ubiquitous Sophie Ellis-Bextor (thank you, Saltburn) join Gok Wan and Craig Charles.

However, it’s the free kids’ stuff that makes this such a draw. That and the fact that it’s staged at a castle by the sea.

A space camp, footie, drawing lessons, beekeeping, a night parade, wall-climbing, and even haircuts, all mean that children have as much fun as the adults.

Camp Bestival co-curator Rob da Bank said: “We have officially got the best family weekend experience ever.

“This is your chance to treat the family to a memory-making wonder world of music, fun, food and free activities.

“There is something for everyone, so don’t hang about!

Camp Bestival Dorset July 25-28, Lulworth Castle.

Info and tickets at campbestival. net.

Library activities for children

Children aged 4-11 can take part in free summer holiday activities at Dorset Libraries this summer, alongside the annual reading challenge.

In partnership with Create, a leading arts charity, and public libraries, this year’s Marvellous Makers Summer Reading Challenge celebrates kids’ creativity and storytelling. Children will be encouraged to explore new books and stories

while taking part arts and crafts to music, dance, and more.

The challenge aims to prevent the ‘summer dip’ learning loss many children experience over the holidays. With libraries’ support, it provides a free, fun way to keep young minds active. In 2023, more than 685,000 children participated.

Visit your local library or dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/whats-onin-dorset-libraries.

Events

ABBA-cadabra! It’s 70s magic

The Fabulous Land Girls are reliving the glory days of ABBA especially for the John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation, at the Barrington Centre, Ferndown, on Saturday, August 17, at 2pm.

This journey back through the Seventies will include many other hits too, so dust off those platforms and get out your flares for an afternoon of musical nostalgia. This extremely popular duo is certain to get the audience singing along, so why not join us for an afternoon of Seventies bliss?

Tickets are £11 per person, to include tea and cake, and they will sell fast so don’t dilly dally. Buy yours today!

Tickets are available at the Barrington Centre box office or direct from the JTYAF.

For more information, telephone Pete on 07792 121645.

All proceeds will be supporting local young people, providing them with the financial help they need to achieve their ambitions and really develop as individuals.

So, enjoy a fabulous afternoon and support a great local charity in the process.

The Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival was set up in 1999 with the intention of putting the town “back on the map” after the closure of the calf market in 1997 and the subsequent closure of the Cheese factory. It has grown to be a major event, attracting thousands of visitors.

We distribute as much of the proceeds of the event as we can to local charities and good causes. Since 2012 over £400,000 has been raised and given to local charities and organisations, the vast majority of which are local to the Sturminster Newton area.

As with many organisations we are always lookign out for more volunteers. If you are interested, or if you belond to a group or club which would be able to help over the weekend, we would love to hear from you! Please email us with your details to: enquiries@cheesefestival.co.uk

Crafty shopping

A date for your diary. Wimborne Rotary’s craft fair returns to the Allendale Community Centre this September with all sorts of interesting, locally-made arts and crafts for sale. Entrance is free, although a donation on leaving to Rotary charities would be much appreciated.

Rotarian Chris Mogg reports that almost all of the 30 display tables are already booked.

He says: “We’ve had a great deal of interest from local crafters enthusiastic to display their skills and as a result there are now only a few spaces left which we are keen to fill”.

Minster Hall, Allendale Centre, Saturday, September 28, from 11.00am to 4.00pm. Crafters wanting to take part should contact Chris at crmogg@gmail.com.

OUR TICKET PRICES HAVE REMAINED THE SAME SINCE 2022!*

10am to 5pm

Events

Frank’s gags still gleaming

by Lorraine Gibson

Comedy legend and mega England footie fan, Frank Skinner has just announced that he’s added a Dorset performance to his latest sellout tour.

He’s extending his criticallyacclaimed stand-up show, 30 Years of Dirt with an additional 24 dates across the UK.

Over the years, Skinner has toured many a sold-out standup show, had huge success in both radio and TV, and last year, was awarded an MBE by the Princess Royal, Anne, for his efforts.

With David Baddiel, he created and presented both Fantasy Football and Baddiel & Skinner Unplanned; even more memorably, along with the Lightning Seeds, the pair also wrote the seminal football anthem, Three Lions.

Local fans will get to learn all about what he’s gleaned over his three decades in the business when he takes to the stage in Bournemouth on Saturday, October 5.

Visit bic.co.uk.

Come & Sing Mozart in Tisbury, October 26-27, with Cherubim Chamber Singers & Orchestra. Requiem, Don Giovanni, Magic Flute. £70. cherubimtrust.org/tkts

Town art club’s summer show

Wimborne Art Club is holding its summer exhibition on Saturday, August 10, at the Church House in Wimborne.

The one-day exhibition showcases the artistic talents of its members and there is a varied selection of subject matter and styles on display and for sale; something to suit everyone’s taste and pocket.

One artist featured is Jan

Wall, who has been a club member for 20 years. Jan was born in Dorset and trained and worked as a potter.

Her love is painting with watercolours.

She says: “I love the happy accidents and use salt/cling film, etc, on a diverse range of subjects... whatever inspires me”.

This picture of Old Harry Rocks by Jan is painted in watercolour.

The day-long exhibition is open to the public from 10.30am to 4.30pm and entry is free.

Hierarchy & Other Stories at Durlston Country Park

A new exhibition by Josh Hollingshead at Durlston Country Park in Swanage, uses stunning, colourful and complex paintings to explore environmental, social and religious themes from around the world.

Running until July 18, the large scale and varied, heightened colour of the canvasses create a sense that the spectator could enter the painting, where myriad vignettes tell a story, and details at the margins of a scene reveal hidden meanings.

At the age of 14, Josh began drawing by copying the Old Masters, and at 16 he moved on to painting on canvas. He adapts his technique for

each new painting; be it through use of metallic underlayers and/or phosphorescent acrylic, for creating glow-in-the-dark images, viscous thick oils or powdery paint.

The symbolism of colours fascinates him.

Josh said: “I thank all who have made this exhibition possible.

“This exhibition sets out many tableaux, these are voices for the driving need and pressure for a more equal country, environment and world”

The exhibition is open daily from 10.30-5pm.

For more information on upcoming events and exhibitions, visit durlston.co.uk or call 01929 424443.

Fun at Fordingbridge festival

Fordingbridge Festival kicks off at noon on Saturday, July 20, at the recreation ground with children’s entertainment, stalls, food and drink, with the Old Grey Guitarists live on stage at 1pm.

The duck races take place at 3pm and 3.30pm, with music from the Eighties and Ninetiess from Lucy Loves Liquor at 4pm.

The fun and festivities end at 6pm.

Probus Club of Wimborne

Probus Club of Wimborne is for retired men. We meet monthly on the first Thursday of the month in the beautiful surroundings of Broadstone Golf Club for a sociable lunch,followed by a speaker on a wide and interesting range of subjects. There are also a number of social events throughout the year for wives and partners.

Our members come from around the area including Wimborne, Corfe Mullen, Ferndown and Broadstone

For more information, please phone our secretary John Kent on 01202 693279 or via our website: www.wimborneprobus.org.uk

New members are always made very welcome

Events

Never too late for popular show Village’s fete casts a spell

The picturesque village of Witchampton, nestled in the heart of the Cranborne Chase (just five miles north of Wimborne Minster), is set to host a quintessentially English village fete and dog show this Sunday, July 14. This charming event promises a delightful day out for families and visitors, showcasing the best of rural life and community spirit. The fete will feature an array of traditional stalls including cakes, plants, bottle tombola, children’s games, bouncy castle, raffle, shabby chic, local produce, art, bric-a-brac, and books.

Attendees can also enjoy live music, maypole dancing, and singing throughout the day, while indulging in cream teas, burgers, Pimm’s, wine, beer, ice cream and soft drinks.

A highlight of the day will be the annual dog show, inviting local canines to strut their stuff and compete in various fun categories.

It’s a perfect opportunity for dog lovers to celebrate their furry friends and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

The show is a fantastic chance for locals and visitors alike to experience the charm and warmth of our rural community. With free parking and activities for all ages, it promises to be a memorable day out.

Tickets are £3 for adults with free entry for under-12s. For more information visit witchamptonvillagefete. com or Facebook @ witchamptonvillagefete Brook Paddock, Abbey Ruins, Witchampton, BH21 5AG.

by Lorraine Gibson

Weekday show dates can be tricky for folk with work or other commitments, which is why one of the county’s most popular rural events has introduced extended hours on opening day.

Visitors to the Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show can stay longer, or arrive later on Wednesday, August 14 only, thanks to a new closing time of 10.30pm.

After the main show closes at 6pm, visitors on a day ticket can stay into the evening to enjoy live music from local bands, including Fair Play with their trademark medley of funk, soul, pop and disco, Big Brass Ska whose show includes songs by Bad Manners, Madness and the Specials, and the spirited Mustang Sally who will keep the party atmosphere going.

And if you can’t get there during the day, a special entrance rate (adults £10;

family £24) applies from 3pm. Show organiser Cat Harris said: “There’s always a feel that visitors want to stay longer to relax in the great setting of our showground after enjoying the wonderful rural attractions. “Our extended hours will allow them to do this and get even more for their money with the bonus of free evening entertainment.”

She added: “We’ve also listened to feedback from people who can’t make the whole day, so afternoon access at a reduced price seems the perfect scenario.”

The show is on Wednesday and Thursday, August 14 and 15until 10.30pm Wednesday and 6pm Thursday. gillinghamandshaftesburyshow. co.uk.

Go for gold on town high

The Olympics are coming to Wimborne this summer.

In time for the school holidays, the town is launching an Olympic-themed High Street Safari Trail.

Funded by Wimborne BID, the ‘Animal Games’ is free to take part in, has 10 stops around the town and features brilliant creatures who come to sporting life when you simply scan a contactless QR code. There’s no need to download an app or sign up to any site.

Walk around the town and meet team GB at the Animal Games as the characters reveal themselves through augmented reality. See them in action and complete your own mini-sporting challenges along the way as well as learning about local sporting heroes.

The clever technology allows you to take selfies and make your own videos with these quirky characters.

On completion of the trail, you can download a free prize e-book and proudly ‘pin’ digital Olympic

street

badges to yourself for fun summer photos.

Tammy Sleet, BID manager said: “The Trail is an innovative way to offer free activities for tourists and locals throughout the summer.

“It allows adults to discover the town while their children have great fun along the way.”

Look out for the large Animal Games cut-outs around the town or to find out more visit wimborne.info.

Motorists warned to stay vigilant over parking scam

People paying for parking in the BCP Council area are being urged to stay vigilant for the latest parking scams, which involve fake QR codes.

The authority says fake QR codes – the small black-andwhite barcodes which resemble miniature crossword puzzles –had been placed on some parking meters in the area.

Once scanned, these QR codes may take you to a fraudulent website, where there may be a danger of money being taken from your account.

The stickers are being placed on top of genuine QR codes and this scam could be easily missed by anyone in a rush.

To help avoid the fakes, it is suggested drivers should download one of the three apps that can be used to pay for parking in the BCP area. area, which include RingGo, PayByPhone and JustPark. Downloads should only be made from certified vendors, police have advised.

Report scam QR codes on 01202 128900.

2008 (08) Citroen Berlingo Multispace 1.6HDi Desire 5 Seat MPV Estate 5dr. 75bhp, diesel, 5 speed manual gearbox, high seating, tip tumble & removable rear seats, massive load space, MOT Jan 25, cambelt has been replaced, not perfect & may need some work to improve but it’s a bargain clearance car, 195,000 miles ...............................................£1000

2018 (18) Dacia Sandero Stepway 0.9TCe Laureate 5dr. 90bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, sat nav, reverse camera, parking sensors, cruise control, hill start assist, only 13,500 miles ..............................£8950

2015 (15) Honda Jazz 1.4 ES Plus Automatic 5dr. 99bhp, petrol, automatic gearbox, sat nav, sign recognition, cruise control, parking sensors, clever folding rear seats & good size boot, only 24,500 miles ...............£9450

2018 (18) Hyundai Kona 1.0T-GDi Premium SUV 5dr. 120bhp, petrol, 6 speed manual gearbox, sat nav, parking sensors & reverse camera, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, hill start assist, 21,300 miles ..........£12250

2005 (55) Mercedes-Benz SLK200 Kompressor 1.8 Convertible 2dr. 163bhp, petrol, 6 speed manual gearbox, electric roof, heated leather, neck heating, wind guard, cruise control, auto lights, MOT Feb 2025, exceptionally well kept vehicle, documented history, 11 stamps, bargain clearance car, only 31,500 miles........................................................£6500

2010 (60) Nissan Juke 1.6 Tekna SUV 5dr. 115bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, heated leather, sat nav, reverse camera, auto lights & wipers, MOT June 2025, bargain clearance car, 84,500 miles............£3000

2016 (16) Mini Clubman 1.5 Cooper Estate. 134bhp, petrol, 6 speed manual gearbox, sat nav, hill start assist, auto wipers, cruise control, £35 a year tax, upto 55mpg, great load space, 35,200 miles ....................£10950

2009 (09) Skoda Roomster 1.4TDi SE MPV Estate. 80bhp, diesel, 5 speed manual gearbox, high seats, big load space, MOT April 25, cambelt replaced, not perfect but a bargain clearance car, 172,000 miles.......£1000

2017 (17) Vauxhall Astra 1.4 SRi 5dr. 100bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, parking sensors, pre-collision assist, sign recognition, 63,600 miles................................................£7650

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2010 (60) Mitsubishi L200 2.5Di-D Barbarian 4x4 Double Cab Pickup 4dr. 175bhp, diesel, 5 speed manual gearbox, switchable 4 wheel drive, leather, reverse camera, cruise control, rear canopy, MOT Jan 25, not perfect but a bargain clearance vehicle, cambelt replaced at 123k miles, service history, 157,000 miles ..........................................................£5500

Farming & Environment

Telling the difference between ‘not seen bulling’ and ‘acyclic’ cows

by Martha Twist

Every farm that breeds cows will struggle with a difficult group that do not get in calf as easily as others. These are usually termed “not seen bullers”, “oestrus not observed” or “no heat detected”. But why do these cows not express heat as well as others? What do vets look for when scanning these animals and how to we decide on treatment and management plans?

First, we must understand the distinction between cows that are not seen bulling (in heat/oestrus) and those that are acyclic (not cycling).

Not Seen Bulling

When cows are not seen bulling, it often means they are cycling, but for some reason, their oestrus signs are not observed. Several factors can contribute to this issue:

1.Subtle Oestrus Signs: Some cows exhibit very mild or short-lived signs of oestrus, making it difficult to detect. This is more common in higher yield cows

2. Environmental Factors: High temperatures and stress, especially in the upcoming (hopefully!) summer weather can reduce the intensity of oestrus signs. Additionally, overcrowded or slippery underfoot conditions

may reduce the cows’ ability to display signs, especially more obvious ones such as mounting other cows.

3. Management Practices: Insufficient time spent observing cows, particularly during peak activity times (early morning and late evening), can result in missed oestrus detection. Without heat detection aids, the labour demands of observing heat are huge –at least two 30 minute blocks in 24 hours, but ideally more.

Hormonal intervention can be very useful in these cows to bring them into oestrus in a more predictable way. Synchronisation programmes with timed AI can also be of benefit here.

Acyclic Cows

Acyclic cows, on the other hand, are not experiencing oestrus cycles at all – they are anoestrus. This condition can be due to several underlying issues such as:

1. Nutritional Deficiencies: Inadequate transition cow management & BCS loss can lead to anoestrus. Ensuring cows are receiving a diet with adequate energy, protein, and minerals relevant to your farm is crucial.

2. Post-calving Anoestrus: After calving,

cows will naturally go through a period of anoestrus, this is normal and often goes unnoticed as it falls well within the voluntary waiting period. However, this period can be prolonged due to conditions such as ketosis, retained foetal membranes, metritis or whites. Health Problems: Conditions such as ovarian cysts, pyometra (uterine infection), or hormonal imbalances can disrupt the oestrous cycle.

A day at the farm

with Tiffany Fleming

Tiffany is a volunteer at High Mead Farm in Longham, Ferndown.

High Mead Farm is a working farm run to promote the benefits of engaging with animals, soil, and nature.

They ‘create purposeful roles for our cofarmers, young people and adults alike, to help bring about a sense of well-being and self-worth that many have never experienced before’.

It is fascinating to watch the process our ‘new joiners’ go through when settling into High Mead.

Any nervousness or shy behaviour is invariably short lived, such is the warm welcome. Within no time, guards are dropped and personalities come shining through.

And although I am referring to our Co-Farmers and Volunteers, it applies equally to our animal arrivals too. I think back to my first meeting with Louise the goat; she was new to the farm, unsure of her field friends, and very much of the opinion that she should be on the other side of her paddock gate (and frequently was!). From the recent arrival of our newest piglets, who at first huddled together before they realised there was benefit in sticking their necks out, especially if there were treats on offer, to our fabulous flock of new sheep, who have also been quick to settle in.

The support the farm gives always brings out the best. As for the pygmy goats, well, I am not sure they were ever nervous to be fair, but their

audacious demands for attention grow daily. However, there are some who require a little more patience and understanding, such as our new hens.

These three girls have recently been spared from a shockingly abrupt end. At just 72 weeks old their egg production dipped, rendering them obsolete. I was raised on a smallholding surrounded by farms, and I completely understand the ‘farm to fork’ cycle, but I do find the disposable nature of mass food production shocking.

So I am delighted to say, with all the love and attention being lavished on them, it won’t be long before these girls are strutting their stuff and adding to our own, very much less pressurised, egg production. The hens are a bold reminder of the farm’s purpose; offering meaningful work, friendship and support to those less able to cope in today’s hot-house environment and the high expectations society sets. I wrote this column on July 4, celebrated as Independence Day by some, and the day of the UK General Election. There

Farming & Environment

is much anticipation about the potential changes afoot, and as coincidences go, we too have a change to announce.

After three years of sharing my ramblings with you, I am handing this column over to the farm’s staff so they can serve you up an even greater insight into all we do. Which just leaves me to thank you, our regular readers, for your generosity and support. Being able to share my experience of High Mead Farm has been an absolute privilege, and I shall very much look forward to doing so again when the opportunity arises (on high days and holidays) when I make the occasional brief cameo comeback!

(3)

Across

Across

1 Coach limits spread in part of Christianity (11)

1 Coach limits spread in part of Christianity (11)

Down

Down

2 Some chairman’s broadcast (3)

2 Some chairman’s broadcast (3)

3 Musical with bit of verse that’s very thin (8)

9 Husband with trio possibly getting arty about gardening (13)

9 Husband with trio possibly getting arty about gardening (13)

10 Take responsibility for strip by road (8)

3 Musical with bit of verse that’s very thin (8)

4 Retired pair in Luxembourg with queen becoming more obtrusive (6)

12 Cut bargain (4)

10 Take responsibility for strip by road (8)

12 Cut bargain (4)

14 Huge soldier, six-footer (5)

14 Huge soldier, six-footer (5)

15 With time put back, totally calm (5)

15 With time put back, totally calm (5)

19 Hint in ballroom dance lacking nothing (4)

20 Something that punctuates completely crowded block (4,4)

19 Hint in ballroom dance lacking nothing (4)

20 Something that punctuates completely crowded block (4,4)

22 Imposing duke with sign of jollity left out for young relative (13)

24 Break before speech for repair (11)

22 Imposing duke with sign of jollity left out for young relative (13)

24 Break before speech for repair (11)

Killer Sudoku Pro:

4 Retired pair in Luxembourg with queen becoming more obtrusive (6)

5 Name mostly yen in financial district (4)

5 Name mostly yen in financial district (4)

6 Rigorous form of English almost by civilized chap (9)

7 Move quickly cutting short spirit (5)

6 Rigorous form of English almost by civilized chap (9)

8 Run off with Eastern European in turn (5)

7 Move quickly cutting short spirit (5)

11 Determine position of attire one found tattered (9)

8 Run off with Eastern European in turn (5)

11 Determine position of attire one found tattered (9)

13 A French lake in visual range showing summer feature? (8)

16 Mount section of rally? (5)

17 A heightened atmosphere for family help (2,4)

13 A French lake in visual range showing summer feature? (8)

16 Mount section of rally? (5)

18 Reject with contempt special place for votes? (5)

17 A heightened atmosphere for family help (2,4)

21 Run newspaper in revised iteration (4)

23 Mention of couple also (3)

18 Reject with contempt special place for votes? (5)

21 Run newspaper in revised iteration (4)

23 Mention of couple also (3)

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 all the digits in each cage must add up to the value shown in that cage.

Free Legal Advice Clinic In West Moors at The Coffee Lounge

When: Every last Wednesday of

Divorce and financial relief

Co-habiting

How the family law considers remedies

Specific considerations in brief

A period of cohabitation prior to marriage should be included when considering the overall length of your relationship.

Disability

This area of law is about overall fairness, for which meeting your respective financial needs is likely to be a key issue, so that you can both move on with your lives after divorce. However, the family law requires consideration of a number of factors, to be found in Section 25 of the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973, examples of which include:

Standard of Living

The standard of living enjoyed during your time together as a married couple, so that you may seek to maintain that standard of living if possible.

Future earning capacity

Can you grow into your career and/or retrain, or is there very little left which inevitably leaves limited growth?

Contributions

Contributions to the marriage in different ways, such as assets accumulated or lost prospects, perhaps as a result of giving up work to ensure support for children.

This is bound to be considered, to gauge potential limits on future earning capacity, and the need for treatment or ongoing care.

Conduct

Spousal misconduct in a marriage when determining financial settlement is rarely considered regardless of any ‘moral code’.

However, recklessly frittering money away or addictions adversely affecting asset values, might be financially measurable.

Financial disclosure

You must each fully and frankly disclose your financial circumstances to the other. It follows that if your spouse decides to ignore this or fabricate the true value of assets, they should be held accountable. Do call us for a free no obligation consultation to discuss your own circumstances. Rob Price, Associate, Family Law Solicitors

SELF EMPLOYED EXPERIENCED GROUNDWORKERS/PLANT OPERATORS

We are looking for an experienced Groundworker who can also operate a 360° Excavator for local interesting contracts, working as part of a team. Applicants must be con dent in their ability to carry out all aspects of groundwork to a good standard with attention to detail. We o er a safe working environment with good rates of pay. Local work and an opportunity of long-term employment with a friendly family run business.

If you are that exible, skilled groundworker who can also operate plant to a good standard please call, Martin on 01258 455219 or email admin@farwellplanthire.co.uk

T: 01963824444

E: info@hhpltd.co.uk

POSITIONS AVAILABLE

General Builder

Now recruiting in your area for September Property Developments & Joinery w: builders-south-west.co.uk

Skilled Site Carpenter

Experienced. Full or part time. Employed preferred. Weekly pay. Experienced. Full time employed position. Weekly pay. Please apply through our Office or Website

SCHOOL MINIBUS DRIVERS

Gardener/Grounds Maintenance Person

Required to help maintain commercial & private sites. Based near Wincanton Some experience is preferred but training can be given. Driving licence essential Contact Mike on 07738824952 or email greenmanservices@gmail.com

Reliable driver required. Full-time and part-time. For full details, telephone 07913 209841

GILLINGHAM TOWN COUNCIL

GILLINGHAM TOWN COUNCIL

An opportunity to join our friendly Town Hall team

GARDENER - 17 HOURS PER WEEK

PART-TIME RECEPTIONIST/ ADMINISTRATOR

We are looking for a Gardener to work as part of our Grounds team on a Job-Share basis

17 hours per week - to be worked

The role includes assisting members of the public, carrying out general administration and providing support to the Mayor of Gillingham 20 hours per week

Monday - Thursday 1:00pm to 4:30pm and Friday 1:00pm to 4:00pm Enhanced annual leave

23 days’ annual leave plus Bank Holidays and 2 Statutory days

Local Government Pension Scheme

Local Government Pension Scheme

A full driving licence and experience of working in a similar environment are essential

Further information and application details can be found on our website: www.gillinghamdorset-tc.gov.uk/recruitment

Closing date for applications: 21 April 2024

Further information and application details can be found on our website: www.gillinghamdorset-tc.gov.uk/recruitment

Closing date for applications: 21 July 2024

AIRPORT TRANSFERS

Youngsters complete charity golf challenge

Four exceptional junior golfers took part in the Macmillan Longest Day golf challenge at Sturminster Marshall Golf Club on Thursday, June 20. Their age ranged from 9-14 years old, and they took part in raising money for the event, with bake sales, asking family and friends to donate and finishing off with a raffle.

They planned to undertake 54 holes and in the end, on the day, completed 63 holes.

They were led by nine-year-old Zachary Ashford, with team mates Amelia Slavin (11), Harmony Gaskin (12), and Lily-Paige Littlewood (14) taking on the challenge.

They were supported by their golf coaches and professionals Charlie Pillinger and England Golf Participation and Development Coach 2023, Mike Dodds.

Sport County’s javelin girls are flying high

Dorset is not usually regarded as a hotbed of athletics but, unusually, it is leading the way in the Girls Under-13 Javelin with girls currently ranked first, second and seventh in the UK, writes Peter Impett. Mila Desborough from Wimborne AC leads the national rankings with 38 metres 32.

Teammate Bethany Cassidy is second ranked with a best throw of 34 metres 22. Seventh-placed nationally is Lumen Myles of Poole Athletic Club with 30 metres 95.

All three girls are exponent of the ‘fast arm’ necessary for great javelin throwing but each has other strings to their bow with Mila and Bethany ranked in the top 20 in long jump and 70 metre hurdles respectively and Lumen occupying third place ranking in the discus.

The girls met up at the Ashdown track on Sunday in a round of the Wessex Young Athletes League.

All three threw over 30 metres with Lumen coming within one centimetre of her personal best.

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