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Plans for a new eco-friendly service station and hotel on a 12-acre site near Sturminster Marshall have been submitted.
The scheme, submitted on behalf of MB Wilkes Ltd, would see the services, including a battery storage facility, built on land at Henbury Green off the A31, also serving the A35 and A350.
The scheme would create a new roundabout to the A31 and the Henbury Farm Industrial Estate. Potentially featuring hydrogen fuel services, as well as electric chargers and a tradtional filling station, the plans also outline proposals to create a ‘wetland and woodland habitat’.
The application says the services could cater for around 50 electric vehicle charging points as well as a hydrogen charging facility and petrol and diesel fuelling.
Parking would also be created for an additional 50
other vehcles, plus 30 for cars towing trailers or caravans, motorhomes and coaches. The site would also boast an amenities building, business centre and a hotel with 50 to 100 beds. However, the plans have received critical feedback from some residents.
One wrote: “I object to green belt development. The last thing the A31 needs is another roundabout. “This application just looks like gravel extraction by underhand means and the lorry traffic would be horrendous.”
Another said: “I don’t see the need for another service station on the A31 when there is already one so close, which already provides electric points for electric cars.”
For more details, log on to dorsetcouncil.gov. uk and search for application reference P/ OUT/2023/01890.
Mobile phone users in Wimborne and surrounding areas could see an improvement in their 4G signal if plans for a new mast are approved.
Mobile infrastructure firm Cornerstone has applied for permission to install a radio base station - including a 25m-high mast - at All Hallows Farm, in Coach Road to provide improved coverage.
The application to Dorset Council comes as part of the Government-backed Shared Rural Network scheme, a collaboration between mobile firms Vodafone, VMO2 and Three, to boost coverage in rural parts of the UK. For more information and to comment, log on to dorsetcouncil. gov.uk and search for application reference P/ PAEL/2023/03210.
Wimborne
by Tom Scrase Minster Folk Festival 2023
was one of the largest gatherings of musicians, dancers and entertainers in the South of England, like no other
I have seen over the years. The lengthy procession kicked off on the outside of the packed town with Mayor Diann March leading all the way into the town centre and
ending in the square. The town was alive with folk music, dance performances, concerts and street markets for all the family. It was widely described as ‘the best ever’.
Nicholas O’Hara Funeral Directors celebrated opening their latest funeral home in Canford Heath with a service of blessing for their chapel and funeral home.
The service, lead by Rev Peter Homden from St Paul’s Church, focused on the care the family business provide, the beautiful chapel setting for the bereaved to visit and the staff who work there. The service was attended by businesses that workalongside and Anthony O’Hara gave a quick history of the family business, which was established in 1974 by Nicholas and his parents in Wimborne, before expanding to Verwood, West Moors, Westbourne and Canford Heath.
The company also presented a cheque to Tyler’s Friends chairman Jon Rust, representing a donation for every pre-paid funeral plan sold last year. The family motto is: ‘Our family are here for your family’.
If you’ve always wanted to try using an iPad but never been able to try one out, Dorset Libraries has a new scheme which may help.
You can borrow an iPad for a period of up to six weeks, free of charge if you are aged 18 or over, a full member of Dorset Library Service living in the Dorset Council area and looking for employment.
The iPads are available to borrow from libraries including Blandford and Ferndown.
They all come with data, so you don’t need to have internet access at home and they also include a combined keyboard case and a stereo headset to enable you to attend online interviews.
They also come with readyloaded links to websites with information about employment, writing a CV and interview skills, money, claiming benefits and maintaining a Universal Credit claim, health and wellbeing and computing skills. More details here: dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/w/borrowan-ipad-from-dorset-libraries.
Photographer Tom Scrase was invited along to a special concert. He writes, the Bovington Military Wives choir, above, performed a concert in Wimborne on Saturday, June 3.
A representative from the choir said as well as enjoying the concert, they were thrilled to be supporting the amazing Vivamente Voices, inset, as they celebrate their 10-year anniversary in the
beautiful setting of Wimborne Minster. The sound and vision in the Minster was outstanding and provided much enjoyment for lasting memories
Oh dear!. We do have some selfish cyclists about (letters June 2).
Mark Fenwick thinks it perfectly acceptable to hold up a stream of traffic (and subject himself to extra danger from frustrated motorists) because he cannot ‘make progress’ on the path provided.
I have found that path to be perfectly useable and safe: it is a bit uneven but has no driveways or other obstacles and there are rarely pedestrians.
Ian Turner freely admits that he will not use the lanes provided at significant expense and effort: taxpayers’ money that could have
n I would like to agree with Mark Fenwick. Cyclists do not have to use the cycle lanes,however I do not understand why you would want to cycle on these fast dangerous roads when there is a new cycle lane next to you!
I regularly cycle along the new Whiteleg Way path down through Redhill.
It is an absolute joy to use,very smooth,and now both myself and pedestrians can cross this huge non-stop road, in safety as, after many years of asking, there is a pedestrian crossing. It is great seeing parents cycling
n Mark Fenwick (June 2) makes some perfectly reasonable observations in response to John Heath’s original complaint about cyclists and cycle lanes, but he lost me by being unnecessarily condescending. People are allowed to have views, Mark. Ian Turner’s response is more considered.
My wife would say my own style is like Mark’s when it suits me but here goes...
I believe cyclists should more regularly than not use a cycle lane, shared or otherwise. They should dismount when amongst pedestrians. And, whilst my experience of such behaviour is infrequent, they should not delight in causing an obstruction
been used for more deserving causes like the homeless or those struggling to feed their families. Both riders have completely missed the point in their arguments about riding two abreast or in line.
Where there is a cycleway surely it is safer to just get off the road and use it.
All road users have an obligation to treat others with consideration. If they insist on inconveniencing others by not using the facilities provided, there is a case for making it a legal requirement to do so.
John Heath Ferndownwith their children in safety, and pedestrians not treated like second-class citizens.
The motorists who keep moaning about these wonderful improvements need to think about the cases of lung cancer, and children growing up with respiratory diseases, due to toxic traffic fumes. There is a point to all this they are missing. Global warming is here, we have to all do something about emissions,that includes selfish drivers who do not care about the environment.
Susan Williams Ferndownjust because the law allows them. They should be prepared to pull over to relieve any obstruction.
I am both a driver and a cyclist (albeit a gentle one) and would welcome a bit more tolerance and respect on both sides. Unfortunately, cyclists will always be a bit like Marmite to many drivers and they are often their own worst enemies. Despite the law, I don’t think it is unreasonable for drivers to consider their cars to have some sort of priority on a highway, but not in any way to risk the safety of the cyclist. Anger never helps anyone. Both sides should be respectful of each other’s needs.
Chris Wilkinson FerndownWater is a finite resource and most people realise that it is integral for our survival. Yet the last new reservoir built in the UK was Carsington Water in Derbyshire, officially opened in 1992 when the UK population was about 57million. Now it is over 67million and climbing rapidly. No wonder water shortages are forecast this summer and in subsequent summers. So, while the Government can squander more than £100bn on the HS2 vanity project and untold billions on net zero, it cannot provide sufficient water for its people. We need a masterplan to build new reservoirs to ensure sufficient supplies as summers become warmer and drier.
In particular, the National Park Authorities in upland areas should be required to draw up
plans to flood at least one valley to provide a substantial reservoir of clean drinking water.
Around our coastal regions our needs would be better served by installing desalination plants. They take sea water through systems until it has every drop of water free of its salt.
Because we don’t have any desalination plants in the UK, we have to draw on the experience of Barcelona’s desalination plant that in April 2021, rivers provided 63 per cent of drinking water, wells 34 per cent and desalination just three per cent.
Two years later desalination makes up 33 per cent, while wells provide 23 per cent and its shrinking rivers just 19 per cent. Let’s not wait until tomorrows problem becomes a crisis.
Mike Fry UptonNews has just reached Fordingbridge Twinning Association, that there are no pot-holes in its twin-town, Vimoutiers, in Normandy. The photograph depicts Rue de Fordingbridge, a main road leading into Vimoutiers. The roads in Vimoutiers have been renovated and transformed, much to the satisfaction of residents and other users. Improvements have been made to the road surface, traffic calming measures and more
pedestrian access to a bridge to their footpath network. Meanwhile here in Fordingbridge, later in the year, the twinning association will be arranging a visit to the annual Foire de la Pomme, in October, visiting the aforementioned Vimoutiers in Normandy. For further details, contact me or Alison Ayling on 01425 650770 or by email on Hippotrain@BTInternet.com.
Derek Ayling FordingbridgeChristopher Chope’s comparison of house rental to car hire is crass. Many tenants rent long-term, have children at school, and relatives in the area. They need long-term security of tenure, decent standards and affordable rent.
This was, of course, once
available through local authority housing (council houses), a system destroyed by Margaret Thatcher and successive governments.
Private landlords (many good) have failed to fill the gap.
Graham Boorer FerndownI totally agree with Carole Crease (May 19) that Wimborne looked so poor for the Coronation - where was the bunting - poor excuse I had from Britain in Bloom is that they provided tables; big deal! Surely a few, even if just across the Square would have been something?
A AndrewsWimborne
Wimborne Minster WI meet on the first Monday of the month in St Catherines Church Hall, Lewens Lane, Wimborne, at 10.00am.
On July 3 our speaker is former senior Army officer Sally Cadec.
Please check our venue as it may need to change due to refurbishment.
Please call me on 01202 888194 for more details.
Jill HaywoodWimborne
Wimborne Choral Society continues to celebrate its 45th anniversary this year with our Summer Concert at Wimborne Minster on June 24 at 7.30pm. Led by musical director Christopher Dowie and accompanied by Wimborne Chamber Orchestra, the choir will perform Mendelssohn’s Elijah, a powerful, well-known masterpiece based on the life of the prophet Elijah. For further details, visit our website: wimbornechoral society. org.uk Also, the society is organising a second Come & Sing day event on September 30, which is open to all.
We will be exploring Karl Jenkins’ work Stabat Matter, that very piece that the choir will perform at our last concert of this celebratory year in December. More details will follow.
Christine Brienne Wimborne Choral SocietyWe have been awarded this much sought after accolade for our work with Gold Standards Framework
On Saturday, June 3, Wimborne Rotary Wives held a barbecue for 40 guests at the home of Brenda and Ron Franks in Colehill. This was to fundraise for their chosen local charity ‘Acts Fast’ (supporting families impacted by child sexual abuse, sexual assault and indecent images of children).
It was a wonderful event, with Wimborne Rotary president Ron as the chef. Assorted exotic desserts made by members of the RWs are
always the highlight of our barbecues.
Chairman Jan Radley spoke of the charity chosen this year and their difficult work and how pleased she was that their fundraising would help them.
Jan RadleyWimborne
Live life better... every day at Spetisbury Manor
Current resident
“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.”
The Bierfass Band and Grey Day played at the Barrington Theatre in Ferndown recently.
It was a fantastic night of great music, dancing and raising funds for a great cause!
Report and pictures: TOM SCRASE
‘The human fish’, Dorset eco swimmer Oly Rush is gearing up for his next dip to raise awareness of the plastic pollution problem. Oly, from Upton, is currently training for a 24-hour swim around the Greek island of Ithaca. The plunge will follow similar swims that saw him break the record for swimming around the Isle of Wight - going non-stop for 37 hours.
His latest adventure, the 46 miles around Ithaca, is set to take place in September.
Oly has also picked up a new backer, in the form of recruitment firm Green Folk, who contacted him after his Isle of Wight swim. Green Folk, headquartered in Hook, Hampshire, is sponsoring
Oly’s swim, as well as supporting regular beach cleans on the Dorset coast after Oly’s efforts caught the eye of company owner, Chris Payne.
“Chris helps funds my beach cleans and also comes and joins in along with his staff.
“He really walks the walk - he means what he says and puts his money where his mouth is. The Ithaca challenge will take me between 22 and 28 hours.”
Thanks to the sponsorship of Green Folk, all money donated will go to Project Planet and Greece-based Healthy Seas. For more details of the swim, visit the ProjectPlanet.earth website and to make a donation, log on to gofund.me/a2c63c3d.
The lucky winner of our competition to win £250 to spend at Poole Lighting is Margaret Frampton who lives in Gillingham. Well done Margaret!
At the recent meeting of Verwood Townswomens Guild member Angela Daymond gave an interesting talk on ‘How Verwood Has Changed Over The Years’, with old photos to show us just how much!
Witchampton Church of England First School is officially ‘good’, according to its most recent Ofsted report.
Inspectors said the school’s motto of being a ‘small school with a big heart – making a difference’ is played out.
And when its 59 pupils demonstrate one of its key values of love, courage, inspiration and respect they are issued with a ‘Witchampton Wow’ badge to wear.
The report emphasises the importance the school puts on the fundamental subjects of mathematics and English.
It said: “Leaders prioritise reading. Storytime is built into the daily timetable for all classes… “Pupils say they enjoy reading and continue to read at home.”
It added that the school’s phonics programme begins in Reception Year and this helps get children ‘off to a flying start’.
The report also notes the culture of ‘inclusivity and acceptance’ and that fundamental British values are taught.
Headteacher Jo Hancock said: “The inspectors judged us ‘good’ in all areas, which reflects the efforts of the staff and children.
“I was pleased that the report said that leaders, governors and trustees are ambitious for all our pupils, and that we have high expectations of their conduct.
“It says how good our safeguarding is and that those with special educational needs and/or disabilities are well supported.
“We are delighted with our report.”
A Champagne lunch, a history tour and a trip to Beaulieu were part of the activities Ringwood Twinning Association arranged for its visitors from the French town of Pont Audemer in Normandy, pictured right.
During their three-day visit, the French guests stayed in Ringwood association members’ homes and were taken on a tour of historic Ringwood by Ringwood Society, followed by a Champagne – but, of course - lunch in the Unity Hall, attended by both mayors ,and sponsored by Ringwood Town Council.
On their penultimate day, members of both associations were taken to Beaulieu motor museum for the day and had a picnic lunch.
‘Farewells’ and and ‘mercis’ were exchanged over a coffee at Café Velo before the French guests bade their twins a final ‘adieu’.
Summing up the experience, Breece, one of the French group’s leaders, said: “We have been to Ringwood in the past, but this time we have found a great welcome and warm hospitality from Ringwood
For info about membership, call June on 07779 997879.
But now classed as a rural town, it still has a good community spirit with plenty going on. Some members also took part in the Dorset Federation Skittles and Cream Tea afternoon, enjoyed by all.
This month is the guild’s National AGM to be held in Llandudno and included in a five-day holiday to the area. For information ring Judi on 01202 053264.
Dorset is one of five areas selected to receive government funding worth £200,000 to reduce demand for illicit drugs. The money is part of a study to research and develop interventions with young people that can be tested locally. It is part of a 10-year plan to cut crime and save lives by reducing supply and demand. Working in partnership with BCP Council, Dorset Council will use the funding to explore and investigate drug use amongst young people and develop preventative programmes and support.
Castleman Community Larder are holding a car boot sale at the Tap and Railway pub in West Moors on Saturday, July 8, from 9am- noon. More than 40 stalls are expected. More details from castlemancommunitylarder@ outlook.com or on 07543 293 872.
Cyclists can protect their beloved bike from theft and check whether their new one is stolen on BikeRegister. The national database allows owners to register their details. Its BikeChecker is a free service for people buying a used cycle, allowing them to check that the bike is not listed as stolen on the BikeRegister Database. More details at bikeregister.com.
When holidaymaker Jordan Jenkins lost his ring in the sand on Bournemouth beach, it felt like the end of the world.
It hadn’t cost him a fortune. It wasn’t a wedding band, nor was it a rare antique, it was something far more precious – it was a ring with a rose-coloured gem made using his brother Owen’s ashes.
Jordan was distraught, and the seafront location of the ring’s disappearance would not have been lost on him, since Owen had tragically drowned in open water at a canal near the family home.
Step up, Darren Wiles from Winton, whose day job is software sales but whose other role is that of resident recoverer of the East Dorset Coast’s lost treasures.
“I was called by the Marsham Court Hotel saying a guest needed help with a lost ring, so I went down there.”
Metal detector ready, he did what he does best and, as usually happens, quickly located the beloved memento.
“I found it in about five minutes,” says Darren who, to date, has unearthed – or unsanded - 152 lost items.
Jordan was overjoyed.
“He gave me a massive hug and I could tell how emotional he was,” Darren said.
“It was an emotional moment all round.”
Locating stuff - from a £10,000 Rolex watch to a flagpole buried in undergrowth for a Guides and Brownies group, from endless rings and sets of keys to a tiny earring bought for a mum by her son for her 40th –has made Darren a bit of celebrity.
“Something can be worth nothing, but can mean everything to its owner.
“I’ll look for anything. I say, ‘If it’s important to you, it’s important to me.’” Time is no obstacle. He’ll search day or night. “I just love the smiles it brings to people’s faces.”
He doesn’t charge, he genuinely gets a kick from just making people happy.
The night before our interview, Darren excelled even himself by recovering a miniscule item of jewelry for a woman on Southbourne Beach.
“Even I was shocked at this one,” he says. “Vickie had lost the back of a platinum earring in the sand.
“It had sentimental value, but it was too busy to search in the day, so I went at 10pm.”
As an earring wearer, I know how tiny those backs are so how, I ask, do you look for something that small in the dark?
“I just wear my headlamp. It’s easier sometimes because it’s really quiet and you can zone in. It can be creepy, depending on
where you are, but I see some great sunrises – and moonrises.”
“As it was so small, I had to go very slow and listen to the opposite of what I normally want to hear due to the small amount of platinum, compared to a big ring.” After two hours looking, and thinking of admitting defeat, ‘not something I’m good at’, he struck gold... well, platinum. “Boom! I found it at midnight.”
And Vickie?
“She was so happy and shocked. Me too!
“It’s the smallest thing I’ve ever been asked to look for!”
Fortunately, Darren’s other half supports his happiness-spreading hobby. “She prefers bowls,” he says.
Owen Jenkins’ family set up OWEN (Open Water Education Network) as a legacy in his honour.
The organisation connects with people to highlight the risks of open water and reduce deaths from drowning.
Owen’s story is at owen7.org.uk
For Darren’s recovery services, call him on 07864 102025 or visit his or Bournemouth Metal Detecting Club’s Facebook pages: facebook.com/groups/252408145292688/ user/782892235 and facebook.com/groups/1628355830812419/ ?locale=en_GB.
OneFridaybackinMarch2023mywifeandIvisitedthe AllendaleCentreFridayMarket.WhileIwaslookingatthe stamps,mywifegottalkingtoaladyononeofthestandsNickiEdwards,TheCambridgeLady.Nickiexplainedsheloves supportingpeoplewhowanttoloseweightandhasbeena1:1 DietConsultantforCambridgeWeightPlanfor10years.Mywife proceededtotellherallaboutmesayingIneededtoloseweight! BeforeIknewitIwasbeingintroducedtoNicki!
Nickikindlylistenedtome andexplainedhowshe couldhelpandthatshe wouldbedelightedtotryeventhoughItoldherIhad triedmanydietsbeforeand theyjustdidn’twork.
Asyoucanseefrommy picturesIcarryallmy weightonmytummyandit wascausingmehealth issuesincludingbreathing, andconstantbackpain.I hateditbuthadresigned myselftothefactthatthis wasme.
ThefollowingwednesdayI wasweighed(15stones7½ lbs)andmeasuredat
Nicki’s.Sheaskedmeall aboutme,myhealth,hobbies,lifestyleand, explainedaboutthediet.Ifeltvery positiveandNickiwasreallygenuine.My wifewasobviously100%onboardandwas goingtosupportmealltheway.It’sbeena longtimesinceI’vehadtwopowerfulwomanonmy side!!
Mydaughterhoweverwasveryscepticalandsaid ‘Dadyouaresogullible,it’llbesuchawasteof money.Youcandoityourselfifyoujusteatmore healthily.’-Ihadtriedthat!
Anyway13weekslaterIhavelostover2Stoneand5inchesfrommytummy.MyBMIhascome downby5pointsandI’mnolongerobese.Ifeelamazing.NickikeepstellingmehowwellIlook andyoungertoo-notsureaboutthatbit!Imovemoreeasily,I’minlesspain,mybreathingis easierandevenmyskinhasimproved.I’mevenwearingshirtsinsteadofabaggyT-shirt.
NickiknewallalongthatIcoulddoitandisagreatencouragement,alwaystheretosupportme andmywifeandansweranyquestions.IstillhavesomewaytogobutwithNickibyyoursideanyonecandoit.
Diabetes UK launched its ‘DiRECT’ trial in 2018, which proved that almost half of participants (46%) could reverse their Type-2 Diabetes through a weight loss programme supplied by The 1:1 Diet by Cambridge Weight Plan.
This week a new report has announced that nearly a quarter (23%) of participants, who were in remission from Type-2 Diabetes at two years, have remained in remission five years on.
This figure is staggering when you consider that, in the original study, a separate group of dieters who received the traditional diabetes treatment as a comparative test, only 4% reversed their Type-2 Diabetes. So five years on, The 1:1 Diet by Cambridge Weight Plan is still significantly more effective than the traditional approach taken.
Similarly when comparing the actual weight lost, those who succeeded in reversing their Type-2 Diabetes with The 1:1 Diet by Cambridge Weight Plan, lost nearly double that of those in the alternative control group, 8.9kg versus 4.6kg.
The new five-year results from DiRECT also show that, the 23% still in remission had lower blood pressure and halved their risk of serious health issues.
In the original trial, The 1:1 Diet by Cambridge Weight Plan provided a test group of dieters food products such as soups, shakes,
ready-made meals and snacks. The study also included one-to-one support, in keeping with our Consultant model. Cited as a significant factor in the participants’ initial weightloss success, having access to The 1:1 Diet Consultants, who offer personal support and motivation, is a key USP of the brand, versus alternative TDR (Total Diet Replacement) weight loss programmes.
Mark Gilbert, Commercial Nutritionist at The 1:1 Diet by Cambridge Weight Plan said: “We
at The 1:1 Diet are very proud that the NHS is using the lessons learned from scientific studies using our diet programme, to help some of the estimated five million Type-2 Diabetics in the UK.
“Obesity is known to be the leading cause (80-85%) for those at risk of developing Type-2 Diabetes, and with more pressure on the NHS than ever before, alternative solutions are needed now.
“This study doesn’t just clinically prove the success of our weight loss programme, both initially and after five years, it also reinforces the ground-breaking capabilities of TDR (Total Diet Replacement) programmes over other alternatives.
“We will continue to support the NHS and Diabetes UK in helping to support those at risk or suffering from Type-2 Diabetes.”
l Dieter Angela says: ‘After following the plan, not only did I have a new lease of life, but my type-2 diabtetes went into remission’. What an inspiring weight-loss transformation from Angela that’s not only boosted her happiness but improved her health too.
Experience a diet Plan that’s got gold standard research and is scientifically endorsed. Plus, get free dedicated one-to-one support. You won’t find that anywhere else.
Start your journey today and hit those weightloss goals with me! VISIT: one2onediet.com/ diet-and-weight-loss-for-diabetes-the-1-1-diet.
Linda Bunting, pictured right, who lives in Wimborne was one of just 500 people from across the Country to be nominated as a Coronation Champion.
Linda who is a member of the Wimborne Minster Environmental Group is also involved with the local Donate IT, is a volunteer with Dorset Wildlife Trust, monitors Riverfly on the River Allen and is an Ambassador for Wimborne Win on Waste. She is a director of Wimborne War on Waste and a founder of the Wimborne Repair Café, as well as chairman of both Wilding Wimborne and Planet Wimborne.
Linda was nominated as a Champion for the amount of work she does for the local environment. She received two tickets for the special concert held in the grounds of Windsor Castle on the day after the Coronation and which she attended with her husband John.
Residents have been told to avoid part of Parley Common after fire broke out last week, pictured right.
A ‘forest fire’ was reported at the Parley Common Nature Reserve at around 4.15pm on Wednesday, June 7, with crews from Ferndown and Verwood sent to the scene.
A Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said: “On arrival they requested further support and at the height of this incident there were some 30 firefighters on scene.
“Crews extinguished the fire using beaters and hose reels.”
The spokesman confirmed firefighters had stayed on the scene overnight and asked residents to avoid the area.
It happened just days after the fire at Stephens Castle, Verwood, that destroyed around five hectares of rare lowland heath.
Wimborne had a hand in the robes worn by King Charles and Queen Camilla at last month’s Coronation ceremony.
Wimborne-based Master Embroiderer Jen Goodwin, pictured right, was part of an expert team from the Royal School of Needlework responsible for several items used in the ceremonies and celebrations.
The school’s Embroidery Studio managed the embroidery of the Anointing Screen, designed and hand embroidered Queen Camilla’s Robe of Estate and conserved the King’s Robe of State and Coronation Sword Belt, originally worn by King George VI in 1937.
The studio also worked on the Throne Chairs and Chairs of Estate used at Westminster Abbey, including a newly-embroidered coat of arms for The Queen.
Jen started her journey in hand embroidery as an apprentice at the Royal School, based at Hampton Court Palace, and has since spent 20 years as a tutor, author and designer.
“I am very proud to be part of the team at the Royal School of Needlework to have worked on the Coronation, it has meant the world to me,” she said.
Jen also holds classes for embroiderers of all abilities in small groups at Walford Mill Crafts, where she teaches a wide variety of hand embroidery techniques.
For details of Jen’s activities and other workshops and exhibitions, visit walfordmillcrafts.co.uk.
More than 4.5 hectares of land in Verwood was ‘devastated’ by fire on Wednesday, May 31 - as Dorset remains on wildfire alert. A fire was started at Stephens Castle, Verwood, which destroyed 4.7 hectares of rare lowland heath, according to Dorset Council.
Crews from Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service fought the flames for eight hours before bringing the blaze under control, with firefighters still on scene on the Friday, damping down hotspots.
During the battle to control the blaze, a mains water outlet they were using collapsed, so they had to syphon water from the heathland pond.
When natural water sources are used in this way, crews check and clear the filter regularly.
During a regular check they found some rare great crested (triturus cristatus) and palmate (lissotriton helveticus) newts had been drawn into the filter.
This meant they stopped immediately and carefully freed the amphibians, releasing them back into the pond.
Sadly, there were several fatalities, along with more heathland creatures which perished in the flames.
Fire service wildfire tactical adviser Andy Elliott said: “Wildfires at this time of year can be devastating to wildlife with ground nesting birds, reptiles and amphibians all being badly affected.
“I’m really pleased at how the crews reacted so quickly to this unfortunate incident by immediately stopping all pumping operations and taking action to release the trapped newts.
“We have to thank our colleagues from Forestry England who provided a tractor and bowser to enable us to continue damping down.”
This is just another hidden and perhaps unexpected cost of the wildfires which have become so prevalent across heaths and forests in recent times, said Ben Walbridge, senior ranger for Dorset Council’s Greenspace Team East.
“It was heartbreaking to see the devastation left by the fire with charred slow worms, and other animals burnt alive in the flames,” he said.
“The team has worked hard to reduce the fire risk and improve the heathland habitat for wildlife, with several hectares of gorse and scrub cleared last winter alone.
“To put into context how important these sites are, Dorset has nearly 2.5% of the world’s remaining lowland heathland, and we can scarcely afford to lose any more to fires.”
Everyone can help protect the heaths from fire. If you see a fire, get to safety and call the fire service on 999.
Paul Attwell, team manager at the Urban Heaths Partnership, said:“Please take additional care and try to be extra vigilant during warm weather. During this time, we will increase partnership staff and volunteers on site to help prevent large fires.”
Part of my Whitsun Parliamentary Recess was spent at an international conference discussing the need for and merits of family-friendly political policies. The venue was the beautiful city of Budapest, capital of Hungary. Hungary’s Secretary of State for Families focused her presentation around the success in implementing her country’s Constitution which provides that it ‘shall protect the institution of marriage... and the family as the basis of the survival of the nation. Family ties shall be based on marriage or the relationship between parents and children...’. The number of marriages has doubled over 10 years in Hungary while the number of children at risk has halved. Both the number of births and the fertility rate have increased. This has been achieved alongside a substantial increase in female employment which is now 83% for those aged
between 25 and 50.
Tax incentives are directed towards supporting parents who are raising children including help for home ownership.
Mothers have the freedom to stay at home to look after their children for up to three years while family benefits are linked to employment so that working parents pay less tax.
Child care fees are paid to
grandparents to incentivise inter-generational solidarity.
Hungary’s popular Prime Minister, Viktor Orban, whom it was a pleasure to meet, believes fervently that population and demography are his country’s most important challenges. By increasing its own birth rate and making every sphere of the country family-friendly, Hungary is able to avoid the need for mass migration. Indeed, through effective border control it has prevented 270,000 entering illegally in the last year alone.
The contrast with the UK approach is stark. While Hungary controls migration and increases its economic growth per head of population, the UK’s output per head of population has remained stagnant for seven years. The consequence of increasing net migration by more than 500,000 per year has been an unacceptable burden on housing, transport and public
services. Higher population inevitably increases overall economic growth.
But the key indicator should be growth per head of population. The failure to recognise this distinction is irresponsible. I raised this issue when I was asking Ministers questions at the Environmental Audit Committee on the impact of increased population upon our ability to meet Net Zero targets. The Ministers were unable to offer a coherent response, referring instead to irrelevancies such as targets for home insulation and heat pumps. Since 1990, the base date from which we calculate reductions in carbon emissions, our population has increased by 20% from more than 57million to almost 69million. It is extraordinary that the policy implications flowing from this population explosion remain unaddressed by our Government. Hungary can teach us valuable lessons.
The one platitude often heard on the doorsteps of North Dorset at election times is ‘I support the Tories as the Party that brings stability to Britain’. Generations have been brought up to believe that supposed truism.
This month’s events took another lump out of that myth. Witness the spectacle of hand wringing over handing over diaries, What’s App messages and mobile phone records to the Hallett public inquiry on Covid. It really does not matter who is telling lies and not providing information in an unredacted form - Boris Johnson or the Cabinet Office.
It is up to Lady Hallett to decide what matters are relevant to her inquiry and what is not.
Not Johnson or his successors. This only heightens the feelings of the British electorate so eloquently already expressed at last month’s local elections that
this administration cannot be trusted.
Malpractice has seeped into North Dorset where our very own Tory has hit a spot of bother with his expenses. It would appear that Simon Hoare incurred a London Congestion Charge and failed to respond to four penalty point notices thereby incurring £320 in penalties, which he subsequently claimed on political expenses. Whilst he tries to remain silent on the matter, not so in Northern Ireland, where two voices from the province have called his actions ‘shameless’ and ‘a resignation matter’ for his position as chair of the Northern Ireland select committee.
Why do you not use the train to get to London, Simon, like your constituents?
Meanwhile, following Mr Farage’s admission that Brexit has not worked, the Sunday
Times ran a readers’ poll last edition when they voted 87% to 13% that Brexit has been a disaster.
Given that, I truly believe Keir Starmer should come out more strongly in favour of a much closer alignment with Europe if only for trade purposes.
With UK personal taxation at its highest level for more
than 60 years and the petrochemicals companies posting such obscenely huge profits, a Labour administration should take all these factors into account when deciding the shape of economic and taxation policy in its first few months. This will help re-balance the taxation spread to the ultra wealthy and give immense relief to the middle ground and poorest in society.
Meanwhile we have the worrying sign of the schism in a Tory party that is increasingly sliding to the Right.
There were two recent Neo-Con conferences in London at which the Home Secretary Suella Braverman, fresh from her attempts to persuade her civil servants to arrange a private spread awareness course, was the apparent ‘star.’ She will have to be watched by her boss Rishi Sunak as she plots to succeed him as Tory leader.
The UK is known for being a nation of animal lovers and almost two-thirds of households now own a pet, a 50% increase in just five years.
Perhaps our passion for pets led to the decision to include a substantial package of commitments to animal welfare in the 2019 Conservative General Election Manifesto.
This election pledge was followed up in 2021 when Defra introduced the Kept Animals Bill. The proposals included a ban on live animal exports, tougher regulations on the imports of puppies and measures to protect sheep and other livestock from dogs.
After passing the first reading and the committee stage in late 2021 there had been no progress on the animal welfare legislation, until the announcement last month that it was being dropped. Given the turmoil in government now, with scandal upon scandal, this could have been a
positive story for the UK. Instead, ministers seem to have been worried that the debate in Parliament might have become challenging with a widening to discuss hunting - a practice that many Conservatives would like to see return.
To me and other animal lovers this smacks of cowardice.
When the Bill was introduced in the Queens Speech in 2021, the Prime Minister claimed he wanted to be a ‘world leader in animal welfare’.
However, the RSPCA, which celebrates its 200th birthday next year, said that the loss of this legislation would see ‘animals paying the price for broken promises’ and that there was a real risk of a ‘dramatic downward spiral in animal welfare’.
Liberal Democrat MP Tim Farron has now introduced a Bill to try and retain the puppy smuggling element of the proposed legislation and we expect
others to follow suit with more proposals around live animal exports. Sadly, looking at the timetable for Government, the second reading has been scheduled on a day when Parliament is unlikely to be sitting and so the Bill is likely to fall, a typical approach for a Private Members Bill submitted by an opposition MP. With a large majority in
Parliament, the Government should be able to progress its legislation quickly to sustain communities and grow our economy, not dropping anything that might generate division in the ruling Conservative Party. It is outrageous that something that had the backing of so many people and gave us the opportunity to ensure that animal welfare legislation at risk since Brexit is replaced has been scrapped and shows just what a zombie government we have. The Levelling Up Bill has still not received Royal Assent, delaying significant changes needed by councils, there are delays affecting rules on environmental changes for recycling and waste collection too. It feels like this government is in its dying days and the best thing for everyone would be to put it out of its misery and call a General Election so that the country can have some real leadership.
Sunday 18th June
Shepton Mallet Antiques Fair (coach & entrance) ............£23
Monday 19th June
Exeter .......................................................................................................................£24
Tuesday 20th June
Hurst Castle (coach, entrance & ferry) £25
Tuesday 27th June
Gunwharf Quays £18
Monday 24th July
Jurassic Coast Tour £24
ALL ABOARD: Spetisbury station Picture: KEV MITCHELL
On a mission to evoke the atmosphere of a country railway station, volunteers from the Spetisbury Station Project have been busy making the site attractive to visitors.
They have installed new replica signs, one that welcomes visitors at the foot of the steps leading from the lane to the platform, and another showing the location of the signal box.
Sadly, and not for the first time, the station was recently targeted by vandals who damaged platform furniture, so more local volunteers are always needed to help them maintain and care for their lovely station.
“We are a friendly bunch of people and helpers can find information www.
spetisburystationprject.co.uk,” says volunteer, Kevin Mitchell.
Wednesday 26th July
Sound of Music at Chichester Festival Theatre ...................... (coach & ticket) £69
Wednesday 26th July
New Forest Show (coach & ticket) ..............................................£33
Thursday 3rd August
West Bay & Lyme Regis ....................................................................£24
Sunday 5th August
Portobello Road, London £25
Tuesday 8th August
Afternoon Tea Tour £29
gill@lagunaholidays.com www.lagunaholidays.com
Each auction always includes following sections:
Jewellery and Silver - Works of Art
Ceramics - Pictures - Books
Miscellaneous Collectables such as Stamps, Postcards and Toys
Furniture - Garden and Agricultural Items
Contact us to find out about entering items into our auctions!
01425 480178
The Close, Ringwood, BH24 1LA www.ringwoodauctions.co.uk
Just like
of Sherborne (near the Abbey)
Thirty years of dealing in antique and Collectible Toys.
Top prices paid for all types of model railway, die cast cars, early Action Man and Star Wars, Scalextric, Meccano, unmade Airfix kits etc.
Those magical makes; Hornby, Dinky, Triang, Spot-On, Corgi, Subbuteo, Britains, Timpo plus plus plus
Telephone: 01935 816072
Mobile: 07527 074343
Next Sale
Pictures, Books, & Prints, Stamps & Ephemera, and Antique Furniture & Objects
Saturday 8th July
For a full list of our specialist sales please see our website
A ne Art Deco aquamarine bracelet. SOLD FOR £22,000
For free verbal valuations please contact and South Kensington, London
Station Road, Semley, Shaftesbury SP7 9AN 01202 842 900 www.semleyauctioneers.com
Monday 12th Pictures, Maps, Books & Postcards
Pictures, Maps, Books & Postcards 19th
Tuesday 13th Silver, Jewellery, Watches & Clocks
Coins, Medals, Militaria & Stamps 20th
Wednesday 14th Model Cars, Trains, Dolls & Toys
Thursday 15th Medals, Militaria, Coins & Stamps
Mid Century & Decorative Arts 21st
Friday 16th Asian Ceramics & Works of Art
Chinese & Japanese Ceramics & Bronzes 22nd
Classic Motorcycle Auction 28th October
Jewellery, Watches & Silver 23rd
Classic Car Auction 11th November
Further entries now being accepted
Classic Motorcycle Auction 29th June
Further Entries Now Invited
The Long Street Salerooms Sherborne DT9 3BS
There’s always a perfectly good excuse to have a biscuit but - with National Biscuit Day this week - I decided to elevate the humble biscuit to a thing of wonder.
Now I happen to love that staple tow-pack of hotel-room tea trays, the Lotus Biscoff. It’s feather-light, but firm crunch is unique and perfect with a dark roasted coffee.
But it’s also perfect for making one of the scrummiest cheesecakes that will ever melt in your mouth. Here’s our family no bake, easy-peasy, five-ingredient recipe, which goes down a storm if we have any left for guests!
Ingredients:
248 g pack of Biscoff biscuits
60/70g melted butter
500 g room-temperature cream cheese
1 jar of Biscoff spread 100g icing sugar
Method
Crush the biscuits into fine crumbs and pour into a bowl. Take out two tablespoons of the crumbs and reserve for later.
Mix the melted butter into the
crumbs and press (very firmly until compacted) into an 8-inch square, lined baking tray. Mix the cream cheese, 150g of the Biscoff spread and the icing sugar together and whisk until combined.
Spread the mix over your base and even out.
Melt 200g of Biscoff spread, pour over the mix and smooth out.
Sprinkle the reserve crumbs around the edge (as in the photo) and place a single biscuit for decoration in the centre or in one of the corners. Chill in the fridge (min 3 hours), serve and look smug while everyone tells you that it really takes the biscuit!
The south’s newest food festival has been unveiled – taking place in the New Forest over the weekend of August 5 and 6. Based on the Hinton Admiral Estate, north of Christchurch, the two-day event will showcase a host of produce, crafts, makers and artisan food and drink fsuppliers rom the unique New Forest area.
There’ll be a mix of pop-up food stalls, artisan food markets, cookery demonstrations, craft and cocktail bars,
live music and kids’ entertainment. Unlike many food festivals, camping will be available, allowing visitors to enjoy everything on offer later into the day. There will be children’s activities run by the Outdoor Learning Company, as well as braiding, and face-painting. Music will be provided by bands including Dr Beatroot, Outlandish, and Marley, with Krista Green and The Bees headlining.
More information here: newforestfoodfestival.co.uk/
Risotto
My husband makes the most wonderful risotto! Before I moved in with him, I had never eaten or heard of risotto. If I am having a hard time, or am very tired, and we have leftover chicken, he will make me a risotto. I will even eat it cold for lunch the next day. I am not sure why I like it so much... it could be the creamy cheese. It just gives me a warm feeling like I am being hugged by something warm and cuddly.
(My husband does good cuddles too but as he is nearly a foot taller than me, it can be a bit difficult!)
We sometimes miss out the celery, as neither of us like it. We have several dislikes in common, marzipan is one, (that why we didn’t have a wedding cake) and sprouts is another! Having said that, Martin likes peanut butter and I can’t even stand the smell!
However, we both like risotto, although Martin always gives me a bigger serving as he knows that it is one of my favourites.
Ingredients
1.1 litres organic stock, such as chicken, fish, vegetable
Leftover diced chicken
Mushrooms, sliced
1 large onion
2 cloves of garlic
½ a head of celery
90g Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
unsalted butter
400g risotto rice
2 wine glasses of dry white vermouth (dry Martini or Noilly Prat) or dry white wine
Heat the stock
Chop the onion and garlic and the celery. Grate the Parmesan
Heat the oil and 1 piece of butter over a low heat, add the onions, garlic and celery, and fry gently for about 15 minutes, or until softened Add the rice and turn up the heat –keep stirring it. After 1 minute it will look slightly translucent. Add the vermouth or wine and keep stirring.
When the alcohol has cooked into the rice, add a ladle of hot stock and pinch of sea salt. Turn the heat down to a simmer so the rice doesn’t cook too quickly on the outside. Keep adding ladlefuls of stock, stirring, allowing each ladleful to be absorbed before adding the next. This will take around 15 minutes.
Carry on adding stock until the rice is soft but with a slight bite.
Remove the pan from the heat, add 1 knob of butter and the Parmesan, then stir well. Place a lid on the pan and allow to sit for 2 minutes – this is the most important part of the perfect risotto, as it becomes outrageously creamy and oozy like it should be.
Eat it as soon as possible, while the risotto retains its beautiful texture.
A famous Ringwood name is set to close premises in the town and be sold off. Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company (CMBC) has announced plans to sell Ringwood Brewery and the depot in the town closed, with staff informed of the move this week.Deliveries are set to be relocated to CMBC depots at Tiverton in Devon and Farnborough in Hampshire, with support from Cardiff. Ringwood is famous for brands including Razorback, Old Thumper and Fortyniner. The brewery was founded in 1978 and moved to the current site in 1986. Paul Davies, CEO of CMBC, said: “This is not a decision we have taken lightly - we have incredible respect for the effort and dedication of the team at Ringwood.
“However, the brewery’s location in a residential area makes expansion complicated, and as such the investment required to bring its capacity and capability up to the level we need for our business is too great to be a viable path for CMBC.
“To ensure our future growth and simplify the business, we are looking for a new owner for Ringwood in the brewing industry, including its excellent range of local ales.
“We are confident that, by taking these
actions now, we can ensure we continue to grow, innovate and deliver great beers across the UK, putting us in the best possible position to achieve success now and in the future.
“We have informed colleagues affected by these proposals at the brewery and our priority now is to support them through this process, and to begin the search for the right buyer for Ringwood.”
Girls from the LVIth at Hanford (Year 7) gave up the last day of their half term to tackle the Clarendon Way Challenge, in support of local charity Naomi House and Jacksplace. Supported by staff, parents, siblings and quite a few excited family pets, the girls walked from Broughton to Winchester, over 14 miles in all, taking the heat in their stride. The girls had raised sponsorship for their walk and were delighted to be told by the charity that they were among their top 20% of fundraisers.
It was a beautiful, hot sunny day and the Clarendon Way took the group through the stunning Test Valley with refreshing pit stops along the way supplied by charity volunteers; as the girls walked in to Winchester Cathedral’s cloisters, they were cheered by Army cadets and awarded with medals and delicious ice cream for all their efforts.
It was not all plain sailing but nasty blisters and a sore ankle were tackled with great stoicism by the girls and any lagging spirits towards the end of the
We’re giving away 10 sets of family tickets to see Jay Miller’s Circus.
day were lifted at the sight of their canine companions – Chilli, Alfie and Mungo –bounding through the flowerstrewn meadows.
Rory Johnston, head of Hanford, accompanied the girls along the walk. He said:
“I was very proud of the girls’ achievement.
“This is a long walk and made all the harder because of the heat, but they all rose to the challenge, and I didn’t hear a single moan!
“I’m delighted that once again we’ve been able to support Naomi House and Jack’s House, two local charities.
“Hanford girls have now walked the entire Clarendon Way - 28 miles from Salisbury to Winchester - and we hope to do so again in the years to come and keep up our support for these important Dorset charities.”
Naomi House and Jackspace are hospices providing vital support for children and young adults with life limiting and life threatened conditions in Dorset, Wiltshire, Hampshire, Berkshire, the Isle of Wight and
Q: What was the name of the circus impresario known as “The Greatest Showman”?
A) P.T. Barnum
B) P.C. Farnham
C) P.G. Rated Enter
A visit from an MP and a giant 50 marked a Wimborne school’s special anniversary. It is 50 years since the founding of Hayeswood First School, now part of Initio Learning Trust, and the occasion was marked to celebrate five decades of students passing through the doors.
MP Michael Tomlinson joined pupils for a special assembly, during which a mock parliament voted for an extra week’s holiday.
And later, around 150 youngsters rallied to create a giant number 50 on the sports field, complete with filming by a drone.
Mr Tomlinson said: “Congratulations to Hayeswood on its 50th birthday; it was great to be there to help celebrate. “We had a mock parliament and the children behaved and contributed very well.”
Executive headteacher, Sharon Staddon, said: “It was really nice of Mr Tomlinson to join us for assembly.
“We showed him the school logbooks from our early days, which are a wonderful social history.
“To mark our 50th birthday we spoke a lot about the similarities and differences between 1973 and today.
“Early photos show the trees around the sports field were very small, but now they screen off the school from everything around it.
“Generations now have passed through Hayeswood and we look forward to welcoming many more children in the future.”
Liz West of Initio Learning Trust said: “Everyone remembers their first school and there will be lots of people locally who remember their time at Hayeswood. “The children there now are able to progress through our middle schools and right through to A Levels at QE School in Wimborne.”
is
If you have a question for her, email:hannah.hobbschell@ outlook.com including a picture
Answering your questions to your horticultural hang-ups. Please email me (including photos) if you’d like a question answered in the next issue. Hannah.hobbschell@outlook. com
What is a good small tree for my garden?
Trees are absolutely essential in the garden, and no matter the size of your plot, there is a tree for you. Trees bring life and wildlife into the garden, provide valuable shelter and
shade, movement and height to add a more 4D experience which is aesthetically and psychologically pleasing. We are attracted to trees for good reason – our ancestors used trees for shelter and food and it is a respected scientific
field of thought that it is still inbuilt in us for this reason. Trees come in all shapes and sizes, from the giant redwood to the often petit Japanese Acers. Some trees are narrower than others so it depends what space you have in the garden as to what shaped tree is best. Shorter wider trees that are excellent in a small garden are Japanese Acers, Cercis canandensis (‘Forest Pansy’ has the most gorgeous ruby red foliage), Cornus kousa, Dwarf fruit trees, and Malus ‘John Downie’. More upright narrow trees that I love are Cercidiphyllum japonicum (I think this is my
absolute favourite tree truth be told – it smells like burnt sugar in the autumn at leaf drop), Cercidipyllum aponicum ‘Rotfuchs’ (the burgundy leafed version of cercidiphyllum – it gets even better!), Sorbus (Rowan), Prunus ‘Amanogawa’, Prunus ‘Snow Goose’, Betula pedula, Parrotia persica ‘Persian Spire’, Amelanchier ‘Obelisk’ to name a few.
I suffer from hay fever, what can I do with my garden?
Hay fever is miserable, and can make what should be a lovely spring and summer an endurance test.
But, whilst you cannot control what your neighbours grow, there are many options for plants that will not add to the hay fever burden in your garden.
There are some plants and trees which are absolute no-no’s. In fact many of our most common and stately trees are some of the worst offenders sadly. Silver birch (Betula spp.) is one of the worst offenders of all the plants and trees, yet is so common in gardens and street scenes, and Quercus (oak), Populus (poplar), and Acer pseudoplatinus (sycamore) are also bad for allergy sufferers. In terms of plants, avoid sunflowers, chrysanthemums and dahlias among others. Plants that are least likely to affect you are those that are pollinated by insects, rather than wind; those that have a shorter flowering time; and those that have heavy, sticky pollen. Male plants are also a problem, since they are the pollen producers not the females. Some plant varieties are male or female only, whereas some plants have both male and female flowers on one plant.
An example of male and female plants is Ilex (holly) – it is the female varieties and cultivars which carry the berries, males will never bear berries but will produce pollen.
A completely pollen free tree is Acer ‘Autumn Glory’, and double hollyhocks have virtually no pollen either (in fact many double flowers are good for allergy free gardening). Also be aware that grass pollen is a big cause of hayfever, so it’s
no wonder that we are seeing an increase in sufferers and severity now that we have the push for ‘no mow May’, and reduced verge cutting. Sadly all good things come with side effects too. Follow these guidelines and it is perfectly possible to have a fabulous garden that is allergen friendly. Thomas Ogren is a leader in the field of allergy free gardening, and is well worth looking at if you are interested, or consult a horticultural consultant or designer to help you.
•
•
by Lorraine Gibson
What do you say on live TV when you’re asked the best place to put a garden gnome? Is naked gardening ever a good idea?
And why do the roses surrounding beautifullymanicured English bowling green lawns grow so vigorously?
Just some of the things considered by a local author in a memoir bound to appeal to readers, green fingered or otherwise.
Whether you watch Gardener’s World and fantasise about getting your hands dirty like Monty Don, or you don’t give a fig about dusting the office dieffenbachias – whatever side of the garden fence you’re on, prepare to be charmed by tales of a life spent outdoors told by someone who’s not afraid to stand out like a sunflower in a row of cabbages.
Garden guru, Bournemouth’s first female parks gardener and former Wimborne garden shop owner, Tamsin Westhorpe’s Grasping The Nettle, Tales
From A Modern Country
Gardener is one woman’s guide to making a living with muddy fingernails, steel toe-capped
boots and a can-do gardening attitude. Her memoir of memorable
mishaps, peppered with a cast of colourful characters, relates her hapless horticultural
exploits while making a living with her hands buried in soil.
Tamsin has had a long and successful career in the horticultural industry and has worked as an interior landscaper, a lecturer, as editor of the English Garden magazine, and as a judge at RHS Chelsea.
She hopes that reflecting on her career will encourage others to grab the wheelbarrow and embrace the life horticultural.
£14.95 from Gulliver’s, Wimborne and orphanspublishing.co.uk/book/ grasping-the-nettle-tales-froma-modern-country-gardener/
If you have worried about becoming forgetful or confused in the future, you may have assumed that your close family will automatically be able to take over managing your money. It may surprise you to know this is not the case. Your family will only be able to take over and look after your money if you have given them written permission, in a form that banks, utility companies and other organisations will accept.
The way to give this written permission is by making a Lasting Power of Attorney
If you have already received a diagnosis of dementia, you need to make your Lasting Power of Attorney sooner rather than later. We can help you make a Lasting Power of Attorney that is tailored to your circumstances. That gives your family all the permissions they need. And that builds in protection to prevent things going wrong
If you would like to talk about making arrangements for the future by making a Lasting Power of Attorney, please call Christine on 01308 424808 to arrange a date for us to call on you at home. Or email christine@winterbornelegal.co.uk
An 83-year-old hospital volunteer has received royal approval for her efforts.
Eileen Waters, who has been a volunteer at Blandford Hospital for the past six years, received a Coronation Champion Award from His Majesty The King and Queen Camilla for her outstanding contribution to voluntary service.
The Coronation Champion Awards celebrate extraordinary people across the country who have made a real difference to their communities.
Eileen was one of 500 people chosen from thousands of nominations to be recognised by the Royal Voluntary Service as part of the coronation celebrations.
The news came during Volunteer Week, with Dorset HealthCare celebrating the difference Eileen and other volunteers make to patients, staff and carers.
Eileen helps on the Tarrant Ward for older people who need rehabilitation and palliative care, spending quality time and supporting them at their most vulnerable times, as well as leading activities such as reading and playing games, and helping ward staff. She has even visited patients
in a local care home once they have been discharged from the hospital to provide a friendly, familiar face.
“I started volunteering as I wanted to do something where I could make a difference, where you could see and feel what you’ve done,” she said.
“When I heard I had got the award, I felt proud, honoured
and humble all at the same time. “Knowing I was one of just 500 felt unbelievable; tears ran down my face.”
Hospital Matron Annette Sanchez said: “Eileen is a ray of sunshine and so very valuable to us. She is fabulous with the patients, giving them her time and patience, chatting with them and showing such care.
Anderson is a little-populated parish on the north side of the A31 where it passes Red Post. The river Winterborne flows through it and it includes the hamlet of Winterborne Tomson and the outskirts of Winterborne Muston. Park by Tomson Church, which is worth a visit if it’s open, then head west along the road passing a massive avenue of trees leading up to the Manor House. Join a bridleway that heads north, going gently uphill for a couple of miles until it reaches the woodland at Combs Ditch, which forms the parish boundary and was an Iron Age defensive line, later reinforced in late Roman and Anglo Saxon times. It’s an ancient monument. Cross the line and go through the narrow
“She has the incredible ability to listen to the needs of every patient and has supported hundreds of patients during their stay, making them laugh, listening to their needs and providing comfort, and is especially considerate to those without loved ones.”
Kim Mansbridge, Dorset HealthCare’s volunteers development lead, praised Eileen’s work over the years.
“Eileen is the sole carer for her very ill husband and is recovering from a recent operation herself, but still finds the time to help others,” she said.
“We are very lucky to have such amazing volunteers who give us the gift of their time for the benefit of our patients, staff and carers. Volunteers bring such joy to our hospital wards and services, just with their smiles and willingness to help and support.
“If you have some spare time, we are currently looking for more volunteers to join our friendly community hospitals to undertake what is a very rewarding role.”
Find out more about volunteer roles and how to get involved at dorsethealthcare.nhs.uk/join-us/ volunteers.
band of woodland to look over the view of the Stour Valley, then return to join a bridleway that leads east through the wood for a quarter of a mile then joins the Ditch heading south east along the boundary and Great Coll Wood for a mile.
At a crossing of bridleways at the end of the wood turn right and head south, then south west, joining the Roman Road that takes you towards Winterborne Kingston.
After a mile you’ll have crossed the parish boundary so take a left turn and head south towards Winterborne Muston. After a short distance, turn left along a public footpath. This takes you eastwards for half a mile, crossing the bridleway near the Manor House. You’ll soon be in sight of the Church, near which is your car. You’ll have walked about seven and a half miles.
St Ives House care home, nestled on the edge of the New Forest near Ringwood, is welcoming new residents and their families and friends to enjoy lots of Food, Fun and Friendship this summer. The Care South care home is the perfect choice for a respite break this summer. If you provide care for a loved one it can be difficult to take a break, even if it is just to stay at home and enjoy some time to yourself. St Ives House offers residential, dementia and respite care and its caring, expertly trained staff offer the highest quality care for all levels of need. A respite stay at St Ives House care home offers complete peace of mind that you or your loved one are getting the best care in a home-from-home environment. Respite breaks offer a chance to enjoy a change of scenery, meet new people and try out some new activities and experiences as there is always something happening for residents to take part in as much or as little as they wish. Often, respite breaks do wonders
for loved one’s confidence and self-esteem, as they know trained staff are around if their friend/relative needs support. The home has a variety of charming communal lounges, a library, hair salon and an on-site café which is perfect for relaxing in with family and friends. Outside, the beautifully landscaped courtyard and gardens are the perfect place for the Activities Team to set up an activity on a warm sunny day for residents to take part in, or to simply sit and enjoy the wonderful outdoor surroundings.
St Ives House is owned by Care South, a not-for-profit charity and leading provider of residential and home care across the south of England. The care home near Ringwood accommodates 60 residents, and offers residential, respite and dementia care.
For further information about St Ives House call 01202 712410 or visit www.care-south.co.uk
Generally speaking, golf is a relaxing game, one that is meant to be enjoyed! More to the point, it clearly lacks the risk of other partial or full-contact sports. However, that doesn’t mean that there aren’t ways that people can’t sustain painful golf injuries. Common golf injuries involve injuries to the lower back, elbow, and shoulder.
Thankfully, with proper awareness, you can prevent golf injuries. Additionally, in the event that you do hurt yourself playing golf, there is no shortage of available golf injury treatment.
Like most sports, golf injury prevention is simply a matter of preparing your body for the game of golf and ensuring that you are doing what you need to do in order to prevent such an injury. Some common injury prevention methods involve the following:
Warm-up: Make sure to stretch! Dynamic warmups and take some practice swings before playing. This will ensure that your muscles are ready to go when you start to swing as hard as you can. Ten minutes of low-impact exercise and stretching should do the trick!
Talk to an expert: Golf pros are about more than just improving your score: They are also about preventing injury. A golf expert can examine your swing and help make sure that you aren’t doing your body any long-term damage. Our chiropractors can detect dysfunction and problems in areas of your movement patterns that can lead to injury.
Go slow: Start slow – particularly when you are first learning how to golf. Don’t jump right into a long, 18-hole game. Instead, play a few holes and use the golf cart. Gradually work your way up from there.
Exercise and stretch – even when not golfing: All of this can help get your body ready for physical activity and prevent an injury in the first place. This obviously has the added bonus of getting you into shape.
Sometimes, no matter how hard you try, you hurt yourself anyway. Thankfully, there are many ways you can treat a golf injury. The specific method of treatment obviously depends on what exactly you do to yourself. In
We strive to give every patient the absolute best chiropractic and massage care , as well as providing outstanding customer service. We are a motivated team passionate about getting you better and enabling you to live a pain free life, getting you the best version for you !
Conditions we can treat:
• Migraines
• Lower Back Pain
• Joint Pain
• Frozen Shoulder
• Tennis Elbow
• Neck Ache
• Sports Therapy NEW
£40 (NORMALLY £120)
some cases, rest and over-the-counter medication may be all you need.
In more painful cases, conservative care can really help.
However, regardless of how you hurt yourself, you’ll need to make some changes in order to make sure that you don’t do so again. First, you should adjust your pre-game routine in order to better incorporate the prevention techniques noted above. This will help to minimise the risk of hurting yourself in the future.
Second, you will likely want to incorporate strength-training techniques and regular exercise. Exercise can help to increase your muscle mass, keep your body loose, and strengthen your ligaments, tendons, and other parts of your body that may be involved in an injury. You should also seriously consider chiropractic care.
Chiropractic care can help you recover from an injury by reducing inflammation, correcting your spine alignment, working on your tight or injured muscles or making other appropriate adjustments that can help your recover from a sports injury. Additionally, a good chiropractor will work to ensure that you are holistically addressing your physical care by improving your posture, giving you exercises, and potentially incorporating other modalities of healing into your wellness routine. All of this can not only help you recover from an injury but prevent another one later down line!
Football manager Harry Redknapp was often heard saying his squads were ‘down to the bare bones’ due to injuries. That catchphrase took on a whole new meaning this week, as the former West Ham, Tottenham and Portsmouth boss re-opened the revamped radiology unit at Wimborne’s Victoria Hospital.
A donation of £350,000 combined with £255,000 of charitable funding from the Friends of Victoria Hospital has seen Dorset HealthCare refurbish two X-ray rooms at the site to deliver improved imaging and increased capacity.
Dorset resident Harry, who won TV’s I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here! contest in 2018, was joined at the reopening by Mayor of Wimborne, Diann March, hospital staff and other NHS representatives, as well as family members of the legacy donor and Friends of Victoria Hospital group members to unveil the new state-of-the-art technology.
Brad Rootes, Dorset HealthCare’s East Dorset and Purbeck locality manager, said: “We would like to thank the local family for their generous legacy donation, which together with the support of the Friends of Victoria Hospital has enabled this substantial refurbishment for the benefit of local people and staff.
“We are always incredibly grateful for the support from the local community and Friends of Victoria Hospital which allows us to continually update facilities to enhance services and the experience of our patients.”
Anne Salter, chairman of the Friends of Victoria Hospital, added: “We are delighted to be supporting further refurbishments at Victoria Hospital which is at the heart of what we stand for, striving
to improve, helping patients of the hospital and others in the community to get the care they need.
“If anyone would like to get involved by becoming a member or a simple one-off donation, we guarantee it will be spent on benefitting the hospital.”
To become a Friend or to donate to the hospital, visit friendswimbornehospital. org.uk/join-us, and for more on the facilities, see dorsethealthcare.nhs.uk.
Would you have the confidence to act in a medical emergency?
Following a practical training session last month, 22 people in Merley can now answer a resounding yes!
The session was led by Simon Cassin and Max Cassin from Ouch Learning & Development, Wimborne.
Merley Community Defib Group purchased two defibrillators after fundraising in autumn 2016. It was time to do some more training and the Steering Group successfully obtained CIL Neighbourhood funding from BPC for a training session.
It was held in the Lantern Church Hub and publicised on Merley Defib Project and Merley Community Facebook pages. Merley Neighbourhood Watch promoted the training in their community newsletter and directly to their co-ordinators. Seconds and minutes are vital, and people were taught how to do CPR and use a Defibrillator. Thanks to Simon and Max for an informative evening.
Today, nine in 10 people in England agree that UK healthcare should be free of charge and more than four in five say that care should be available to everyone, and that the NHS is what makes them most proud to be British. When asked questions around the government’s handling of the NHS, polling showed that support for government in this aspect is the lowest in two decades.
As various political agendas muddy the waters of public attitude to and opinions of the NHS, this recent research by ipsos clearly speaks for itself. Treating more than a million people a day in England, the NHS touches all of our lives.
When it was founded in 1948, a pioneering yardstick for social responsibility and evolutionary
healthcare vision, it was the first universal health system available to all and free at the point of delivery.
To celebrate 75 years since its launch, Wimborne’s Friends of Victoria Hospital have organised three dedicated events. One will use Michael Rosen’s NHS poem as the inspiration and source for reflection during a drama day on July 5. The workshop, led by renowned local actor and director, Tony
Lewis-Manning Hospice Care is making an appeal for ad hoc fundraising event volunteers to support the hospice in its busy schedule of events planned throughout 2023. Volunteers manager, Nicola Garsden said: “Following the King’s Coronation and the Big Help Out volunteer initiative which is encouraging businesses, organisations, and individuals across the country to help out and volunteer in their local communities, we are looking to reach out to anyone who is considering volunteering to come and join our enthusiastic team of fundraisers. We’d love to encourage volunteers to get involved in their local community hospice. “We have a diverse calendar of community events and campaigns taking place over the coming year and are really keen to grow our team of volunteer helpers for different events.
“Events include our Nightingale Ball, Sand Polo, Wimborne Folk Festival, Swanage Classic Car Show, Fire Walk, Community Candles Remembrance Events, Christmas Tree Recycling Service, Wreath Making Workshops and the return of the Muddy Dog Dash in 2024.
“It’s brilliant how the hospice is being embraced with so many community events choosing to support us and allowing us to have a presence.
“Having event volunteers onboard will certainly allow us to ensure that the LewisManning name is getting out there and will make a real difference to us and increase awareness of the services that we offer to patients and their families with life limiting illnesses.
“We also have opportunities in other areas of the charity, including support our E
Commerce manager and our Complementary Therapy team. In line with the Big Help Out message, we would urge volunteers to ‘do something amazing, join in, lend a hand and make a change!’”
Anyone interested in learning more about volunteering opportunities with LewisManning Hospice Care is urged to email Nicola.garsden@lewis-manning.org.uk.
GoodOaks Homecare, the award-winning homecare provider based in Ferndown are expanding their coverage and are now offering visiting and live-in homecare in Salisbury and Amesbury.
Branch owner Sam Jones said: “We are very excited for the opportunity to take our quality homecare service into these new areas, to meet new clients and provide premium care for them in the comfort of their own homes”. Moving into this new area means that they can now offer residents of Salisbury, Amesbury and the surrounding areas an alternative to moving into a care home, allowing people to remain living independently in their own homes. Their service will cover the whole of Wiltshire, from Calne to Warminster.
The team are driven by a passion for providing personalised, person-centred care and with their expansion, their aim is to extend their unwavering commitment to the residents of these communities, ensuring that they receive the highest standard of support, in the familiarity of their own homes.
To speak with a member of the team please call: 01202 065 261 or to find out more visit goodoakshomecare.co.uk/salisbury.
‘There are always highs and sometimes some really tough lows, but each one brings new rewards and new challenges.’
“There are always highs and sometimes some really tough lows, but each one brings new rewards and new challenges”
The hustle and bustle of a busy household can provide so much joy and fulfilment, seeing others achieve or just sharing experiences over a heartwarming breakfast.
The hustle and bustle of a busy household can provide so much joy and fulfilment, seeing others achieve or just sharing experiences over a heart-warming breakfast. Yet, that does not mean there are no challenges involved, with any household regardless of size and make up has its own unique challenges – and that is the same for fostering households.
a difference in their lives, but a low, because they are leaving you’.
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When children come into your life, whether that be short term or long term you know as a carer that, at some point, it is more than likely this child may move on to a more permanent home. It can be emotional to see a youngster move on but our carers highlight that it is nice to see when they become settled and happy in a new home. One carer notes such moment is “a high and a low together! … A high as we know we have made a difference in their lives, but a low, because they are leaving you”
This is not only a difficult time for the carer, the child must also get used to a new home, and new guardians.
Yet, that does not mean there are no challenges involved, with any household regardless of size and make-up having its own unique challenges – and that is the same for fostering households. When children come into your life, whether that be short term or long term, you know as a carer that at some point it is more than likely this child may move on to a more permanent home. It can be emotional to see a youngster move on but our carers highlight that it is nice to see when they become settled and happy in a new home. One carer notes such a moment is ‘a high and a low together... a high as we know we have made
This is not only a difficult time for the carer, but the child must also get used to a new home, and new guardians. That is why Footprints pay close attention to this transition, giving the support required for all individuals. Over the last years, more special guardianships have been approved, allowing carers to look after youngsters on a more permanent basis - this is a great outcome of which Footprints are proud.
That is why Footprints pay close attention to this transition, giving the support required for all individuals. Over the last years, more special guardianships have been approved, allowing carers to look after youngsters on a more permanent basis, this is a great outcome that Footprints are proud of.
If you are up for a new challenge fostering could be your next step, but remember it does not always go swimmingly; but it promises rewards!
If you are up for a new challenge fostering could be your next step, but remember it does not always go swimmingly, but it promises rewards! That is why Footprints are the best choice for anyone that would feel content in a small supportive environment.
In the next article from the series, we will be exploring what inspires our wonderful foster carers!
That is why Footprints are the best choice for anyone that would feel content in a small supportive environment. In the next article from the series, we will be exploring what inspires our wonderful foster carers!
by Lorraine Gibson
‘If there’s a fiddle, banjo, accordion, double-bass or mandolin playing in July in Dorset, it’ll be at our festival.’ Ski-Daddle, Rustic Stomp. What, you may ask yourself, has Elvis got to do with a rambunctious, foot-stomping, fast-fiddling hoedown of a festival in deepest Dorset?
Quite a lot, actually. When he was born, the King of Rock & Roll was more a prince of paupers, his castle a shotgun shack in Mississippi, his parents poorer than Pentecostal church mice. His humble beginnings, though, instilled a love of the music of the poor American South, the painwrought field hollers (songs) sung by slaves to make their lives more bearable and the gospel, country and hard-life blues, that defined his career.
So, it figures that, among a blistering line-up of the finest contemporary grass-roots musicians at the Rustic Stomp festival, Dorset’s own Elvis tribute artist, Garry Foley should be in the building, or barn, too. In local festi terms, the Rustic Stomp is unique, with an eclectic, yet comprehensible stream of roots acts and relevantly-themed stuff, including a hillbilly king and queen fashion show and a wellness hub, that you won’t find elsewhere round these parts. “It brings together local, national and international artists, resulting in the finest bluegrass, hoedown, blues, swamp stomp, countrybased festival, with tractors, that money can buy.
“Three days of music and
merriment wrapped within the rustic aesthetic,” says organiser, Ski Daddle .
It brings together three Crawdaddy festival brands under one roof.
“The Wonky Donk stage will feature the best of hoedown, country and hillbilly music.
“The Dark Holler stage takes a slightly, well, darker comedic look at life, and the Organford stage is a more accessible, easy listening venue.”
New this year, as well as historic vehicles, is Dungaville, an interactive area for local talent, kids’ entertainment, westernthemed games and the Well-Bean Art Tent and Safe Space, run by musician, Millie Watson, who is organising a group trip to the Rustic Stomp for folk with a shared experience of mental health issues, or who just want to meet new people.
“Festivals can be daunting if you struggle with mental health or social anxiety, but they can be
a life changing chance to build community.”
Everything bucks off Thursday evening with local foot-stompers, the Jimmy Hillbillies and their Dorset Hoedown.
Friday it’s Frank from Blue Velvet, local skiffle kings, Quinn’s Quinney, Burg and the Vagabond Choir and festival favourites, the Curst Sons. International superstar headliners, the Heathen Apostles, bring a heavy-weight feel to Saturday with added heft from Texas Swing outfit, the Bootheel
Playboys, Dead Horse Bay and London’s finest banjo maestro, Flatfoot Johnny.
Sunday steers further towards country with the beloved Sarah Vista headlining, with Dorset supergroup, Country Tones, an under-18s stage takeover by the Music Club and, finally, Foley, as Elvis, making it a belter of an ending.
“We’re looking to add something different and are working up a few surprises,” says Ski.
“We are talking with the East Dorset Trac Pac on a vintage tractor-based ‘happening’ on Saturday, so fingers crossed... ”
Rustic Stomp began more than a decade ago, when Hawkeye Houlihan and some pals staged a small festival to help the Donkey Sanctuary at Home Farm, Lytchett.
“Each year, we aim to increase the accessibility of this type of music to a wider audience and promote the local artists that provide the backbone to the scene, as well as bring in some top-ranking national and international stars,” says Hawkeye, whose vision and persistence kept the festival running despite the lockdown.
Ski adds: “The Rustic Stomp feels important... we can help bring people together, have a good time, celebrate our music and our community. It’s a bit of escapism for one weekend.”
Thursday evening until Sunday, July 13-16, at Pikes Farm, Organford, Dorset.
Weekend tickets £86.40, day tickets from £27.50. wegottickets. com/f/12910.
Jaw-dropping images from the Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition are going on show in Dorset later this summer. The images – all captured by entrants to the prestigious international competition - are part of a touring exhibition loaned by the Natural History Museum.
From July 21-October 29, Dorset Museum will be showcasing images of wildlife in the UK and in 90 other countries.
To accompany the exhibition, Dorset Museum has created an events programme featuring family activities, talks, and a photography workshop for adults. Schools can take part in a workshop inspired by the Natural History Museum’s Explore: Urban Nature project which challenges students across the UK to help everyone better understand the nature around us.
Get up Close to Nature workshops, aimed at Key Stage 2 pupils, will introduce the museum’s collection, as well as exploring the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition.
Director of the Natural History Museum, Dr Doug Gurr, says: “The 100 photographs encourage curiosity, connection and wonder
as well as the human impact on the natural world in a way that words cannot – from the urgency of declining biodiversity to
Wimborne in Bloom Open Gardens Day is all set to take place. Gardens in and around Wimborne will be open on Sunday, June 25, from 11.00am to 5.00pm to raise funds for Wimborne in Bloom, writes Anthony Oliver.
Pay £7.50 at the first garden visited. Start at any garden and in any order. They will be well signposted
throughout the Town. You can enjoy a day out and see some lovely gardens at the same time as raising money for Wimborne in Bloom. Teas available at some of the gardens. Full details can be found on the Wimborne in Bloom website: wimborneinbloom. org.uk
For further details, contact Les Halton on 01202 880131.
Burtons Community Orchard, DT11 0TX
Sunday 18th June 11am
Sign in for noon start £1 per class /18 classes
01258 860019
the inspiring bounce back of a protected species.”
Visit dorsetmuseum.org.
Every journo loves a good story and the Dorset-based former war correspondent and best-selling writer, Damien Lewis, is no exception.
“When you do war reporting you’re almost invariably embedded with the military and you often come across former SAS guys as security advisers,” says Damien, who was born and raised in Dorset and lives near Briantspuddle.
He’d listen to the SAS men’s incredible stories but didn’t start writing about them until he was commissioned to produce a book on the unit, which is often referred to as simply ‘The Regiment’. It sparked a career which has seen him document everything SAS, from the previously untold story of Bravo Three Zero, one of the three SAS units operating behind enemy lines in the Gulf War, to the
sabotage operations and intelligence missions, before he was caught by the enemy, tortured, and escaped again, leading American forces in battle, before returning to Britain.
Damien believes Castelow exemplifies the indomitable spirit of the SAS.
“He was a lone escapee in France, post D-Day and was ambushed but his wasn’t really an escape, because he was trying to remain in the field and fight the enemy,” he says.
“Really, it was about completing your mission and avenging your comrades.”
This legendary toughness lies at the heart of the SAS, he says.
“All the escapes I’ve written about are superhuman feats of endurance but also stories of exceptional individuals who refuse to give up.”
“There’s a lot of mythologising about the SAS but those who have made it through selection almost always say the same thing; it’s not the physical attributes but the mental side. It’s that ability to think outside the box and laterally, and outflank the enemy.”
Along with the book, fans of the SAS and of Damien’s work will be happy to know that a Guy Ritchie film based on his book SAS Great Escapes is due for The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare documents the courage and ingenuity of the SAS during the Second World War in Damien believes we need these stories of men who fought so tenaciously for their freedom and their country’.
“We need people to believe in, who do things for the right reason,” he says.
“I don’t want to name names, but we have a political class in particular that seems to be somewhat bereft of the morals and strictures that those who fought for our freedoms and made the ultimate sacrifice, demonstrate.
“The British are desperate for heroes we can believe in - we need these uplifting stories about triumphs of the human spirit.”
SAS Great Escapes 2 is published by Quercus Books and is £22.
Jules
Did you know there’s no such thing as a Viking? Some people think the word Viking means pirate or Fjord – or that it means to go ‘A-Viking’ on a journey overseas to raid, trade and settle in new lands.
Ulfheddin are a re-enactment group from Poole part The Vikings UK one of the biggest Dark Ages societies. The rich history of Dorset includes raids and settlement by Vikings on Anglo-Saxon lands such as in Wareham in the 9th Century. King Alfred made the Vikings swear peace on the halgan beage or ‘holy ring’ that they would keep the peace. Then of course the mysteries of the Ridgeway Hill Viking burial pit with more than 54 skeletons in a mass grave.
Broadstone Music Series presents
A Tea & Cakes Concert
on Sunday 9th July in St John’s Church Hall, Broadstone
Macauley Road, Broadstone BH18 8AR from 4 – 6 pm
Enjoy tea and Debra’s fresh cakes while you hear performances by talented local young classical musicians
Tickets: Adults £10; up to 18, £5; Family ticket £25 (2 adults & 2 kids)
Advanced booking online only at broadstonemusicseries.info
Wolfgang
Mozart
HIGH ST, CHRISTCHURCH (01202) 499199 www.theregent.co.uk
BEAU IS AFRAID (15) Fri 16 Jun: 17:30 |
Following the sudden death of his mother, a mild-mannered but anxiety-ridden man confronts his darkest fears as he embarks on an epic, Kafkaesque odyssey back home.
FAST X (12A)
Dom Toretto and his family are targeted by the vengeful son of drug kingpin Hernan Reyes.
PADDINGTON (PG)
Sat 17 & Sun 18 Jun: 10:30 (KID’S CLUB) All tickets £4.50
When her family moves from the city to the suburbs, 11-year-old Margaret navigates new friends, feelings, and the beginning of adolescence. Based on the beloved book by Judy Blume.
WITHNAIL & I (15)
Sat 17 June: 20:00 [35mm]
Dirt in the Gate Movies presents this 1987 cult classic, screening form an original theatrical 35mm print.
ROYAL OPERA: IL TROVATORE (12A)
Sun 18 Jun: 14:00 (ENCORE) RUSHMORE (15)
Sun 18 Jun: 18:00
Part of our Wes Anderson retrospective.
THE UNLIKELY PILGRIMAGE OF HAROLD FRY (12A)
Wed 21 Jun: 14:00
Jim Broadbent and Penelope Wilton star in this poignant adaptation of the best-selling novel by Rachel Joyce.
THE TAKE THAT EXPERIENCE (LIVE)
Thu 22 Jun: 19:30
The ultimate celebration of over 30 years of Take That!
THE LITTLE MERMAID (PG)
New
Although it is not currently a legal requirement, please consider wearing a face covering to protect yourself and others when visiting the Tivoli.
An annual highlight on East Dorset’s summer calendar is the Gussage All Saints village fete. The event has been held for more than half a century and this year’s takes place on Saturday, June 24, starting at midday, in the picturesque grounds of Gussage House, a building dating back to Queen Anne’s reign in the early 1700s. This fun family day has many stalls as well as popular kids’ entertainer Jamie Jigsaw, barbecue, games for all, grand raffle, children’s summer
melody dancing and music from the amazing Bierfass Oompah Band with the renowned Gussage cream teas.
Adult admission £2 (children under-15 free), no dogs. All proceeds towards All Saints Church and the village hall.
FROM THE JAM UNPLUGGED WITH SPECIAL GUESTS NINE BELOW ZERO ACOUSTIC (DENNIS GREAVES & MARK FELTHAM)
FROM GOLD TO RIO
MASTER GARDENER (15)
MARK SIMMONS: QUIP OFF THE MARK Thursday 22nd
LONG STORY SHORT: WILLIE NELSON 90 (Recorded screening of Live Concert)
MADE TO MEASURE PRODUCTIONS PRESENT THE WIZARD OF OZ
MATTHEW BOURNE’S SLEEPING BEAUTY (RECORDED SCREENING) Monday 3rd July 7.30pm
THE LAUREATE (15)
‘The Big Session’ Live Music & Children’s Workshops
Saturday, 8 July,from 2.0010.00 pm
Sixpenny Handley Cricket Pitch. Tickets online from Eventbrite or local shops
Sorry no dogs. Facebook6dacoustic.live
Never fancied a night at the opera? Think it’s a bit too uppity, too dated, too elitist? Then it’s time to toss those preconceptions out of the window and let Opera in a Box prove you wrong. This south England touring company wants to bring the genre to as wide an audience as possible and, with this in mind, has gathered a cast of young and talented individuals from across all areas of the arts and brought them together to create innovative and gripping theatre. So, where better to start changing your tune, than with their production of Mozart’s Don Giovani?
The rollicking tale of a womanising cad who reaps the consequences of his philandering ways as he lusts his way to causing his own, dramatic downfall is widely considered to be one of the greatest operas ever composed. Combining comedy and tragedy, Mozart’s Machiavellian feast is sung in English by a vibrant young ensemble in what promises to be an exhilarating retelling of the famous classic. Sunday, July 9, 6pm, Lytchett Matravers Village Hall. Running time: 100mins plus interval. Visit: artsreach.co.uk and operainabox.com.
Fancy a bit of Vivaldi or Andrew Lloyd Webber?
Whatever your preference head along to Colehill Community Choir’s Summer Concert on Saturday, June 24, at 7.30pm in St. Michael’s Church, Colehill. The concert will be a joyous mix of music to suit all tastes from choral works to songs from the shows with a bit of Bacharach and more in between.
Entry is free with donations to the Friendly Food Club and The Louis Ross Foundation collected at the end of the concert.
Guests will be invited to join the choir for an after-concert drinks reception in the church hall. Seating is limited and tickets can be booked by contacting Susan Davies on 01202 842311 or email: colehillcommunitychoir1@
WOODLANDS METHODIST CHURCH
Scrumptious cream teas and bottomless tea pot
On Fathers Day, June 18th, from 3-5pm Cost £ 4.50 each £1 EXTRA FOR CAKE
Saturday, June 24th (12-3pm).
Fun and games for all with children’s entertainer Jamie Jigsaw, Bierfass Oompah Band, BBQ, stalls, celebrated Gussage cream teas. Admission £2 (under-15s free). Sorry, no dogs.
Debut author Alice Bell will be talking about her acclaimed new novel, Grave Expectations, at an online author event hosted by Dorset Libraries on June 22. Along with her inspirations, Alice will also be talking about her
writing process. Her novel is about a medium who solves a country-house murder and is a Radio 2 Book club pick. You can book your free ticket here: eventbrite.co.uk and search for Alice Bell.
A charity quiz has raised more than £1,800 for good causes.
The annual Christchurch Rotary Club Charity Quiz took place at Twynham School on April 15.
And the 38th contest saw a total of £1,883 raised for Rotarynominated charities.
After a gruelling 10 rounds of
questions on a variety of subjects, ad breaking off at half-time for fish and chips, the Mental Blanks team, pictured above, was crowned the winner, followed by The Invisibles, who had won the event for the last three years. Organiser Paul Mills, of Christchurch Rotary, said that
the major part of the sum was raised from the raffle, ‘for which the club is indebted to local businesses for providing excellent prizes’.
Next year’s quiz is scehduled to take place on April 13. All are welcome to apply and bring a team.
Wimborne Community Theatre is looking for performers, (dancers, singers and musicians) who enjoy unusual performance challenges to join its autumn production in a high-profile arts event at Badbury Rings in late September 2023. Glow Badbury, organised by Emerald Ant in partnership with the National Trust, will involve various visual artists and musicians in creating a celebration of the Rings through illuminated ambient performance pieces on September 29 and 30.
WCT has been invited to create a new piece of theatre to portray the true story of the Dorset Clubmen.
During the English Civil War in the 1640s, thousands of East Dorset tradesmen and farmers and farm labourers met at the Rings to protest against both sides in the war trampling across their land, damaging their crops and stealing livestock and produce.
Church bells were rung around the local villages and more than 4,000 turned out to hear a
Petition read aloud up at the Rings. The WCT show (created with Dorset professional theatre makers, choreographers and musicians), will combine acting, singing, percussion and original choreographed movement.
If you enjoy drama, dance or history and would like to get involved, please contact WCT. Anyone over 18 years is invited to join a movement workshop led by choreographer, Claire Benson, at Badbury Rings, tomorrow afternoon, Saturday, June 17.
If you would like to take part, contact Tony Horitz for more details at: Tony.horitz@icloud. com or on 07584 163876.
Visit: facebook.com/wimbornecommunitytheatre and wimbornecommunitytheatre.co.uk.
Dorset County Show has announced its chosen charity of the year is Dorset County Hospital Charity.
In what is set to be the largest investment in healthcare provision in West Dorset in 25 years, the hospital is planning to build a new Emergency Department (ED) and Critical Care Unit on the site of the former Damers First School.
This will significantly improve the hospital’s capacity and transform the experience of patients and their families. Dorset County Hospital Charity is running a £2.5million Capital Appeal to fund enhancements to the planned new unit, pictured right.
Nicki Ralph, above, chairman of the region’s largest annual agricultural show, knows all too well how vital the critical care services at the local hospital are. Her farmer husband, Nic, was admitted last year with total kidney failure and sepsis. He spent nearly three weeks in a coma in intensive care - 11 days on life support.
Nicki said: “This truly is a cause close to my heart. My family are indebted to the incredible support the hospital gave my husband who, without a shadow of a doubt, wouldn’t be alive today without their unstinting help.
“All the staff were amazing. They left no stone unturned to find out the cause of my husband’s sudden deterioration.”
She added: “It was all so sudden! One minute my husband was in Accident and Emergency feeling very unwell, the next he was fighting for his life. Many of us may end up in A&E or hospital but none of us know when we may need intensive care.”
Simon Pearson, head of charity for the hospital said: “Nic was one of more than 50,000 people treated in our emergency department annually.
“It was originally built for less than half of that - 22,000 attendances.
“Clearly, there is currently insufficient Emergency Department and Critical Care Unit capacity to meet current and future demand.”
He added: “This is our biggest-ever fundraising project. This appeal will raise funds for enhanced facilities and additional medical equipment, making patient care even better.
“It will also fund artistic elements in both new units to create a sympathetic and healing environment for the benefit of all.”
The Dorset County Show, which already raises thousands of pounds annually for local charities, is planning a fundraising Tractor Run on Sunday, June 25.
Starting at Cheselbourne, tractors of all sizes, ages and makes will trundle to Piddletrenthide and back, offering a rural spectacle for drivers and spectators alike. Ahead of the show, which takes place on Saturday and Sunday, September 2 and 3, there will also be a Dorset-themed Charity Night on Wednesday, August 30, hosted at the Dorchester Showground with music, bingo and bring-your-own food.
Dorset County Hospital Charity will have a stand at the Show where visitors will be
able to find out more about the hospital plans and donate to the appeal.
Show organiser James Cox said: “The experiences of our chairman Nicki and her husband have highlighted the fact none of us know when we may need critical care.
“To have state-of-the art resources on hand at our local hospital makes us incredibly fortunate. We’re delighted to fundraise for this fantastic cause.”
Stalwart 67-year-old Nic, who is now recovering well at home, is aiming to do some fundraising himself for the hospital once he is fully recovered.
Giant vegetables, prize cows, Dorset crafts and foods, monster trucks, axemen in action and hoe-down music – the Dorset County Show has a line-up of amazing attractions. Tickets dorsetcountyshow.co.uk
For more information on the charity Tractor Run visit: dorsetcountyshow.co.uk/ tractorrun/.
To find out more about the hospital project visit: dchft.nhs.uk/about-us/your-futurehospital/new-emergency-department-andcritical-care-unit/
To find out more about fundraising for Dorset County Hospital, email charity@ dchft.nhs.uk or phone the Dorset County Hospital Charity team on 01305 253215.
Tiffany Fleming 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 co-farmers, young people and adults alike, to help bring about a sense of well-being and self-worth that many have never experienced before’.
Regular readers will be used to me blowing the trumpet for the Farm’s volunteers, but it is true to say that without them the Farm would cease to function. So, when a member of the team leaves, their absence is keenly felt.
It is as if every person on the Farm, be they Co-Farmer, Carer, Staff or Volunteer, has a presence and if that presence disappears, a gap appears in their place.
We are lucky, our losses are
few. But every now and then, circumstances beyond our control mean a departure is inevitable.
And that is the case this month with the departure of one of our founding Farm Shop volunteers, who is moving out of the area and abandoning us all... not that I am taking it badly, Sue, honest!
So, I thought it fitting that instead of my usual ramblings, you hear about the Farm from the unique perspective of a
volunteer who is leaving, very reluctantly, after two years of making a real difference at High Mead: ‘My husband and I moved to Wimborne in March 2021.
‘It was an eventful time; I fell off a ladder on our first day and spent the next three months housebound and feeling very sorry for myself!
‘Thank goodness I had joined a local Facebook page, the Colehillians, and spotted a plea for volunteers to help run a Farm Shop at a therapy farm just up the road from me.
‘It seemed the perfect opportunity to persuade me out of the house, to meet people, and to do something useful.
‘I visited the shop just after its official opening on July
22, 2021, still limping and a little unsteady on my feet, and nursing a loss of confidence too.
‘I’d never worked in a shop before - apart from manning the snack bar at Watford Town Hall when wrestling took place. (Real wrestlers, may I add, Jackie Pallo was our favourite!).
‘In a previous life I had worked for airlines, and subsequently taught in a secondary school (Oh the joy!) so I should have been very well prepared.
‘But after months at home, the thought of learning new skills and meeting new people was a little overwhelming: a till, a credit card machine, weighing scales, sell-by dates, use-by dates – all unfamiliar to me and outside my comfort zone.
‘I was gently persuaded
SOS to all air rifles and pistols, any make or model, any condition.
We collect in any area.
Top prices paid in cash. 07970
to persevere and accepted the opportunity to shadow other volunteers until I felt comfortable on my own.
‘It soon became a pure delight
to turn up every Wednesday morning for my three-hour shift.
‘The staff, other volunteers, our Co-Farmers and their carers are
all beyond amazing.
‘I have enough tales to fill an entire issue, but only one parting statement to make. ‘Thank you to High Mead Farm
for giving me the opportunity to meet some great (hopefully lifelong) friends and for giving me two of the best years of my life.’
Multi-million-pound plans to help preserve the ecology and health of Dorset’s River Stour take a further step forward with the launch of a year-long project in Wimborne this month.
A £4million investment at the water recycling centre at the edge of the historic market town will protect the environment by reducing the release of untreated wastewater and enhance the removal chemicals and pollutants from sewage arriving at the site.
The work will reduce the instances of storm overflows operating automatically to relieve the threat of overwhelmed sewers flooding homes and businesses following heavy rainfall.
Designed as a relief valve to protect homes from flooding, if there is too much rainfall in the system, the overflow automatically discharges into watercourses.
However, the increased capacity at Wimborne will keep more mixed rain runoff and wastewater in tanks at the centre before it is treated and returned to the river later. It is one of two Wessex Water projects getting under way this month to boost the protection of the River Stour, with a further £3million being invested upstream at the water recycling centre at Gillingham. In addition, nearly £2million is being spent at Ringwood as part of work getting started this month to store incoming water from sewers following heavy rainfall, buying valuable time for its careful treatment before it is safely returned to the nearby River Avon.
Within Wessex Water’s £3million a month investment to tackle storm overflows, the Wimborne scheme is part of more than £150million being spent between now and 2025 to help complete nearly 100 projects
that will reduce the operation of storm overflows by a quarter, while supporting the environment.
Project manager Kirstie Hearn said: “We’ll be building an additional tank at Wimborne that will increase the overall capacity to retain storm storage by more than a third. “When completed, more than 2.2million litres of water will be able to be stored there before being safely returned to the system for treatment when the storm has receded. “This is just one way in which Wessex is reducing the automatic operation of storm overflows. On top of that, we’re updating some other equipment at the site to monitor and remove chemicals, such as ammonia and phosphorous within wastewater. ‘’ The scheme, which is taking place entirely within the boundaries of the Wimborne site, is expected to be completed by the end of May of next year.
At Messider Interiors we provide a friendly, reliable and professional service to deliver only the best of quality. Pride and care is taken in any job that we do, from tap replacements to complete kitchen and bathroom refurbishments or installations with luxury-level flooring and tiling plus fully qualified plumbing work, as required. And we even do the decorating, just to put the high-level cherry on top!
THE BEST OF FINISHES IS ALWAYS ENSURED 07951 103 729 messiderinteriors@gmail.com www.messiderinteriors.com
on The Town Meadow 3 High Street Gillin gham Dorset SP8 4PB 8th July 2023 10.00am to 11pm in clusive
Any interested party or responsible authority may make representations on this application in writing to the Licensing Manager, Dorset County Council, County Hall, Collition Park Dorchester, Dorset DT1 1XJ or by email to : licensing@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk by no later than 12.06.23.
The full application can be viewed at the above offices between 10.00am and 4.00pm Monday to Friday or at the council’s website
IT IS AN OFFENCE knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with an application for which you may be liable to a fine of up to £5000 on summery conviction
Date of Application: 16.05.23
Some speed cameras have tolerances, which means you could go a few mph over the speed limit before you get a fine. This isn’t an excuse for breaking the speed limit though.
Tolerances aren’t the only thing that’s confusing about speed cameras. Many drivers believe that all speed cameras flash. But some catch you with infra-red technology instead. So, no flash doesn’t automatically mean no speeding ticket. Here’s what you need to know.
UK fixed and mobile speed camera tolerances
Confused.com contacted 45 UK police forces. Of the 39 that responded, 26 shared information about when their speed cameras activate if a driver is going above the speed limit.
Most police forces have a tolerance of 10% plus 2mph above the limit before a speed camera ‘flashes’. So on a 30mph road, a camera wouldn’t normally activate unless a car drove past at 35mph or faster. On a 70mph stretch of motorway, the threshold would go up to 79mph.
Here’s what the 39 forces responded with: But tolerances aren’t an excuse for breaking the speed limit. The Metropolitan police said that no matter what the threshold, drivers should always stick to the speed limit and never exceed it.
The speed camera tolerance exists in order to improve driver safety. It means that drivers don’t have their eyes fixed on their speedometer instead of the road.
Do average speed camera tolerances work in the same way?
Average speed cameras are different to normal fixed and mobile speed cameras. Instead of measuring your speed over a short distance, average speed cameras take your speed over several miles.
This means they should be more accurate and so might not have the same tolerance
levels as other speed cameras. That being said, all speed cameras should have some kind tolerance built in to account for accuracy.
What’s the range of a mobile speed camera van?
The typical range of a mobile speed camera van is around 1-2 miles on a straight stretch of road. As you might expect, they can’t see through or around bends. The speed detecting technology used also impacts the overall range of the mobile speed camera. How much over the speed limit can you go before getting a ticket?
Technically, the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) allow a tolerance of 10% + 2mph on speeding before taking punitive action.
It’s worth remembering that speed camera tolerances – where they exist – are used at the discretion of the police to follow the rules around speeding, speed cameras, and the law.
So they’re within their rights to punish drivers that break the speed limit by even just a few miles per hour. You can’t rely on these discretionary thresholds as a defence if you’re flagged for speeding. Going even 1 mile an hour over the speed limit counts
as speeding, and you could be punished accordingly if caught.
Depending on the severity of the speeding offence, you might:
• Be offered to take a speed awareness course
• Get a fine
• Have points on your licence
• Be banned from driving
How many cars can a speed camera van catch at once?
Mobile speed cameras can catch speeding vehicles in either direction, coming towards or away from the speed camera van. Only 1 car can be captured at a time, but the technology is fast. They can usually record a car’s speed quickly and move onto another vehicle.
What are the penalties for speeding in the UK?
If the offence is minor, you might be asked to go on a speed awareness course rather than take the fine and points. For more serious offences, though, that option isn’t available and the minimum penalty for speeding is a £100 fine and 3 penalty points on your licence. Speeding fines are based on a percentage of your weekly income, with the minimum
2014 (14) BMW X1 2.0TD X Line Automatic 4x4 SUV 5dr. 181bhp, diesel, 8 speed automatic gearbox, 4 wheel drive, heated leather seats, parking sensors, hill start assist, hill descent control, DAB, Bluetooth, decent boot, flat folding rear seats, upto 52mpg, 66,900 miles ......£11650
2015 (15) Honda Jazz 1.4i-VTEC ES Plus Automatic 5dr. 99bhp, petrol, CVT Automatic gearbox, flat folding rear seats, decent boot, Bluetooth, alloys, air con, sat nav, sign recognition, hill start assist, 22,500 miles ...........................................................................................£11450
2015 (65) Mercedes-Benz A180 1.5CDi AMG Sport 5dr. 109bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, £20 a year road tax, upto 72mpg fuel economy, partial leather seats, auto activation lights & wipers, cruise control, hill start assist, Bluetooth, DAB audio, 56,900 miles ..........£12250
2004 (54) Mini Cooper 1.6 Pepper 3dr. 116bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, clearance car to be sold as seen with MOT until January 2024, great value Mini Cooper, 96,800 miles ..................................£1500
2014 (64) Mitsubishi L200 2.5Di-D Warrior Automatic 4x4 Double Cab Pickup 4dr. 175bhp, diesel, 4x4, 4 speed automatic gearbox, cruise control, Bluetooth, auto lights & wipers, alloys, air con, bed liner, well cared for pickup with only 68,500 miles .............£11400+VAT = £13680
2017 (17) Peugeot 108 1.2 Allure 5dr. 82bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, reverse camera, touch screen, auto lights, hill start assist, Bluetooth, air con, alloys, key-less entry system, 38,900 miles .......£7650
2015 (15) Peugeot 3008 2.0HDi Hybrid Automatic 4x4 Allure SUV 5dr. 200bhp, diesel hybrid, 6 speed automatic gearbox, switchable drive modes including 4 wheel drive, high seating, large boot, flat folding seats, sat nav, park sensors, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, head up display, hill start assist, Bluetooth, partial leather, FREE road tax & upto 74mpg fuel economy, 114,900 miles ................................................................£7850
fine being £100. For reference, the median weekly UK income last year was £640. This is in addition to getting points on your licence.
I’ve been flashed by a mobile speed camera van. How long will it be before I get a ticket?
If you’ve been flashed by a speed camerawhether mobile or fixed, you should get your Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP) within 14 days of the offence. The NIP is sent to the car’s registered keeper. This is taken from DVLA information about the car based on its number plate.
This means you might get a speeding ticket sent to you if one of your named drivers was the one doing the speeding.
Do I need to tell my car insurance company about a speeding ticket?
Yes - you have to declare any unspent speeding convictions or points on your driving licence to your car insurance company.
Although points remain on your licence for 4 years, insurers use them in their calculations for 5 years.
As a result, you could see your car insurance costs go up up because insurers consider you to be a bigger risk.
2014 (14) Skoda Yeti 1.2TSi S Station Wagon 5dr. 105bhp, petrol, 7 speed automatic gearbox, high seating, large boot, high ground clearance, air con, alloys, Bluetooth, only 51,900 miles .................................£10450
2014 (63) Suzuki SX4 1.6 SZ3 5dr. 120bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, high seating, high ground clearance, parking sensors, air con, alloys, only 24,500 miles ................................................................£6950
2011 (61) Toyota Rav4 2.0 XT-R Automatic 4x4 Station Wagon SUV 5dr. 158bhp, petrol, 6 speed automatic gearbox, 4 wheel drive, high seating, big boot, leather & alcantara, heated seats, sliding rear seats, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, Bluetooth, only 48,500 miles .........£10850
2022 (72) Vauxhall Astra 1.2T Ultimate Automatic 5dr. 130bhp, petrol, 8 speed automatic gearbox, New shape, ½ leather, memory heated seats, heated steering wheel, park sensors, cameras, Nav, auto lights & wipers, main beam assist, sign assist, lane aid, adaptive cruise, sunroof, hill start, head up display, under 450 miles ..................................£25500
2014 (14) Volkswagen Polo 1.2 Match Edition 5dr. 60bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, parking sensors, air con, alloys, cruise control, Bluetooth, only 37,900 miles ..........................................................£8750
Could you give a child a foster home?
3 Large museum scene (7)
4 Ledge (5)
5 Lingers (7)
6 Ascend (5)
7 Snake-like fish (3)
12 Build (9)
14 Get educated again (7)
15 Hot-tasting yellow condiment (7)
17 Some beds, eg (5)
18 First-rate (5)
21 We breathe this to stay alive (3)
Perry & Son Ltd are looking for a qualified, experienced and conscientious bricklayer to join our team.
Tel 01747 811 285
Perryandsonl td@aol.com
Clean Room Production Operatives
Local Medical Company based between Gillingham and Shaftesbury
Various shifts available £11.01-£11.56 per hour
Full/Part Time Office Assistant
Local Manufacturer located between Gillingham and Shaftesbury
Hours and hourly rate to b e discussed on interview
Email julie@meditechsystems.co.uk
Urgent Ragwort Pullers Needed at Higher Houghton Blandford. 30 acres need clearing annually. Earn £1,000 for your team. Hourly rates £10 depending on experience. To start immediately. Please call Mrs Barnes on 01258 881693
http://www. knowltonparishcouncil. org.uk. Part-Time 42.5 hours per month
The role requires excellent communication skills along with good organisational and numeracy ability. The work is primarily home-based with monthly meetings. Please apply in writing with an accompanying CV and the details of two referees via email to clerk@ knowltonparishcouncil. org.uk
The closing date for applications is 7th July 2023
Part-time carer/ PA required. East of Shaftesbury for busy mother in wheelchair. 07790 524241
Required for longestablished Shaftesbury based company
Ability to undertake a range of various areas of work an advantage
Good rates of pay for the right person, dependent on experience and ability Contact Andy 07979 210074 or email andy @ sandsltd.biz for details
Part-time butcher assistant required. Thursday, Friday 7:30-5 Saturday 7:30-4 To help with serving, driving and prep work. Must have a full driving licence. Experience not necessary, full-training given. 01935 812071 or email parsonsbutchers@ outlook.com
Stockists and distributers of mild steel products currently require a n
The Blackmore Vale Ltd is looking for an experienced Sales Executive to join our team.
• You’ll need to be target driven.
• Have a proven track record of B2B sales.
• Have the ability to work independently sourcing your own leads, through competitive media, online and social media.
• An understanding of both print and digital advertising.
• The personality to build a strong customer base.
• Your own transport is a must with mileage paid. This is a full time role.
• You’ll be joining a friendly, supported team, where you’ll be selling across a range of regional magazine titles.
• We DON’T do hard sell, these are local magazines, supporting local communities, success is key, but we’re also building a reputation we’re proud of.
• We DO recognise and reward success especially team members who exceed their targets. Be nice, but be successful!
• You’ll need to be based within and familiar with the Blackmore Vale area.
• You’re welcome to work from our Wincanton office or work from home within Dorset, Wiltshire or Somerset.
For more information or to apply, please contact; debi.thorne@blackmorevale.net
We are looking for a self-motivated, experienced sales professional to join our growing team. The successful applicant will have a number of years’ experience within the steel industry and be able to bring with them new customer contacts as well as developing existing relations.
The Role:
• Profitable sales of general steel products to agricultural, commercial and domestic customers
• Liaise with the commercial director regarding sales price parameters
• Deal with all incoming enquiries via call, email & occasionally in person quickly and efficiently
• Proactively search for new customer leads and sales opportunities.
• Seek feedback on any lost orders and report to management.
• Work within an established office setting to promote a healthy, happy working environment.
Salary negotiable dependant on experience
Bonus potential | On site parking
Looking for a new challenge? apply by emailing
a CV to neil.cahill@pulhamsteels.co.uk
All applicants dealt with in the strictest of confidence
Bricklayer/Mason required on large refurbishment project Start immediately.
Contact TA Green 01963 34221
Harvest Tractor Driver required on arable farm near Mere,Wiltshire. Experience essential. No accommodation. 07966 195204
Hair stylists are required for our long standing established salon in Mere, Wiltshire. Join our team on a full or part-time basis. Benefit from great rates of pay, paid holiday, work based pensions, up to date training, free parking and a beautiful bespoke salon environment.
For more information and to discuss hours on this great opportunity contact Hayley on 01747 863471 or email Hayleyshairdesign9@gmail.com
Stockists and distributers of mild steel products currently require a
To learn all aspects of warehouse duties including steel picking, handling, loading, offloading & processing
Applicants must be highly safety conscious, accurate, and reliable with the ability to work as part of a team as well as under own initiative.
To be trained on all machinery including:
• Overhead cranes
• Sideloader
• Counterbalance forklift
• Steel sawing systems
• HGV training can be provided for the right candidate
We are looking for skilled landscapers and general labourers to join our team. A good knowledge of hard and soft landscaping along with a can do attitude required, drivers preferred but not essential. Long term positions within an establish local company. Previous applicants need not reapply.
07792892999
info@greenhavenlandscapes.co.uk
Veterinary Administrator/Receptionist - an exciting opportunity to join a developing team at Kingston Equine Vets, Buckhorn Weston, Gillingham, Dorset. This is a maternity cover position with the option to become a permanent contract for the right candidate. Also, there is a possibility of training on equine nursing and completion of a nursing diploma in the future. To start Monday 19 th June 2023.
Daily tasks include: general reception duties including answering the telephone, booking of appointments, organising of the diary, greeting clients and dealing with client requests. Attention to detail, good customer service and confident telephone skills are required. Prior experience with horses or equine business preferred. 40 hours each week working 8.30- 17.30 with 1 hour lunch break.
Five weeks holiday plus bank holidays (pro rata) plus birthday leave. Company discounts and access to great saving offerings.
To apply: Please send covering letter and CV to Annette PurduePractice Manager. Email: annette.purdue@kingstonvets.co.uk
Benefits include
free on-site parking ➢ No weekends ➢ Competitive salary
Overtime opportunities
Looking for a new challenge?
Please apply by emailing a CV to neil.cahill@pulhamsteels.co.uk
Do to our continued growth, we are looking for an experienced PART TIME accounts clerk, must be fully conversant with SAGE systems, VAT and associated procedures.
20 hrs per week spread over 4 days Mon to Friday, exact hours to be agreed upon. Excellent rate of pay for the right applicant.
If this might be of interest, please E MAIL us hq@WeDoVans.com detailing your suitability and experience.
Garden help required, one or two days per week in established garden in the Donheads, to assist full time gardener.
Duties to include grass cutting, strimming, weeding and other general garden/estate work. Please send cv to kerrylovatt@hotmail. co.uk
Caretaker/ Cleaner Required Chilmark. Holiday let cottage and help required to look after the house and to clean for change overs, usually on Saturdays. Tel. 07711 183868
Tractor driver wanted on dairy farm in Sturminster Newton. Tel: 01258 472050
House Fairy wanted for very well organised House on the edge of Shaftesbury. Cleaning, Laundry, Ironing also to House sit with 2 well behaved dogs when needed would be a bonus. Good Rate of Pay. Refs Required 07909 994919
BOOKKEEPER required in Yeovil, Lynx Trading Estate to operate Zero Accounts Package. Position entails posting purchase and sales invoices onto the system. Producing profit and loss accounts. Paying suppliers and completing the VAT return. Current post holder works two afternoons per month for a total of 5 hours.
Please contact Bob Jones, Global Product Supplies Limited on 07738737170 to discuss the position in more detail. Ideally a cross over with the current job holder would be advantageous.
ALDERHOLT
Wolvercroft Garden
Centre
Co-op Southern
ASHLEY WOOD
Caravan Park
Golf Course
BROADSTONE
Candy Chocs
M & S Food Hall
Tesco Express
Café Gardenia
Broadstone Library
BROOM HILL
Stuarts Garden Centre
BLANDFORD
Damory Garage
Post Office
Lidl
Bartletts Country Store
Gorge Café
YMCA
M & S
Tourist Information
CANFORD MAGNA
Canford Magna Garden
Centre
Hamworthy Club
CHARLTON
MARSHALL
Parish Rooms
CHRISTCHURCH
Regents Centre
Library
Independent Day School for Girls and Boys from 2 to 13 years
An exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic Science Technician who will provide technical guidance and support to a dedicated and busy department
Hours: 8.30am until 1.30pm for three/four days a week, but flexibility with hours/salary will be considered for the right candidate
MINIBUS DRIVER
To join our team of friendly drivers who provide an excellent minibus service in the mornings and evenings to pupils travelling to and from school
Hours: a minimum of 18 hours per week
For an application form and further details on both positions, pl ease visit www.dumpton.com/vacancies
Closing Date for Applications – 9am on Monday 3 July 2023
Dumpton School, Deans Grove House, Wimborne, Dorset BH21 7AF Telephone 01202 883818
Dumpton School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. These posts are subject to an enhanced DBS check.
www.dumpton.com
Registered Charity No 306222
Nisa Local
M & S
East Dorset Bowls Club
Lidl
COLEHILL One Stop
Colehill Library
St Michaels Church Hall
Chemist Pharmacy
CORFE MULLEN
Holme Bush Inn
Naked Cross Nurseries
Co-op
Candy’s Farm Shop
Library
CRANBORNE
Cranborne Stores
CRITCHEL Bus Shelter
DAMERHAM
Crossways Farm
EDMONDSHAM
Bus Shelter
FERNDOWN
McCalls
Spar
Ferndown Post Office
Iceland
Sam’s Newsagent
Hearnes Estate Agent
M & S Food Hall
High Mead Farm
Ferndown Library
Barrington Centre
FORDINGBRIDGE
Londis Petrol Station
FURZEHILL
Village Stores
GUSSAGE ALL
SAINTS
Phone Box
GUSSAGE
ST MICHAEL
Edward ARG Works
HAMWORTHY Library
HINTON MARTEL
Phone Box
HORTON Horton Inn
HURN
Adventure Wonderland
LYTCHETT MATRAVERS Library
Plants Direct
Tesco
MERLEY Shop
PAMPHILL Farm Shop
RINGWOOD
Greyfriars Community Centre
Lunns of Ringwood
Crow Farm Shop
Texaco Petrol Station
In Excess Garden Centre
Ringwood Information Centre
McCalls/Morrisons
SANDLEHEATH
Sandleheath Village Stores
SHAPWICK
Shirley
SPETISBURY
Village Hall Box
Clampets Farm
STANBRIDGE
Aunt Fannys Farm Shop
Artisan Shop
STAPEHILL
Spar
Wimborne Garden Centre
STURMINSTER
MARSHALL
Nisa Local
Vines Close Farm Shop
TARRANT
KEYNESTON Bus Shelter
TARRANT
LAUNCESTON
The Shed
TARRANT RAWSTON
Cart Shed
TUCKTON
Nisa
Tesco Express
THREE LEGGED CROSS
Woolsbridge Farm
Feeds
Hillier Garden Centre
Londis
UPTON
Lytchett & Upton Council Library
Aldi
VERWOOD
Verwood Heritage Centre
Verwood Library
Andrews Butchers
Co-op Southern
Tesco Express
The Hub
Lidl
WEST MOORS
Spar/ Post Office
Library
WEST PARLEY
Basket and Blooms
In Excess Herbies Fish and Chips
WIMBORNE
McColls
Allendale House
T & S News
Long Johns Fish and Chips
Co-op Petrol Station
Southern
Keating Butchers
W. H. Smith
Allendale Centre
Hearnes
Green Man
Wimborne Minster
Porch
Coach & Horses
V & A Store
Tourist Information/ Museum
Fair Ground Fair Trade Shop
Gullivers Book Shop
Spar
Fluffetts Farm
Dacombes
WOW Fitness
David’s of Wimborne
Wimborne Library
Wimborne Community Centre
Cricketers Arms
WIMBORNE ST GILES Post Office
WINTERBORNE
ZELSTON
Red Post Filling Station
WITCHAMPTON Club/Shop
WOODLANDS
The Egg Shed
The deadline is fast approaching for entries for the first Dorset Business Awards in four years. Organisers from Dorset Chamber are urging businesses and individuals to lodge submissions before the closing date of Friday, June 23. The awards, the first since 2019, are among the highlights of a Dorset Business Festival being held from October 10-12. Dorset Chamber – the county’s leading business support organisation – is also holding an exhibition and conference during the three-day extravaganza.
Ian Girling, chief executive of Dorset Chamber, said: “It’s been a challenging economic climate, but out of that we have seen amazing innovation, resilience and strength across the business community.
“The awards are a golden opportunity for businesses in
the county to showcase their achievements, recognise their workforces and celebrate successes.
“We’re all excited to bring the prestigious competition back for the first time since the Covid Pandemic and we can’t wait to read some of the inspirational entries.
“Don’t forget to get your entry in by June 23 for the chance of taking a starring role in one of the highlights of the business calendar.”
There are 10 categories, which are free to enter and open to all businesses and charities in the county whether members of the chamber or not.
Visit dorsetchamber.co.uk/ festival/the-awards/ to enter and for more details.
Email festival@dorsetchamber. co.uk to nominate a business for the awards.
Wimborne Wayfarers Hockey Club has started a community-wide fundraising drive to replace the top surface of the Astro-turf pitch located at QE Leisure Centre, Wimborne. In 2022, Dorset Council announced that they would be ending their management of the leisure centre facilities located at QE School, accessed by the local community across sports including; hockey, football, swimming, athletics, climbing and gym membership. This came at a critical time for all users of the Astroturf, including hockey club Wimborne Wayfarers, as a replacement pitch surface was due and required for the league hockey positions that the local club’s five adult teams successfully occupy. Following consultation, the council has pledged £150,000 towards the pitch, which leaves a gap of approximately £125,000 to be raised towards the estimated cost.
The owners of the site, Initio Learning Trust, have explored a leasing arrangement option to plug the gap, however this would add additional costs to all users, like the
Wayfarers, on top of hire and insurance –making sport less accessible to local people, particularly during a cost of living crisis. With no alternative Wimborne’s hockey teams and other users are at risk of losing access to their home pitch. Given the club also has a thriving junior section for children and young people to discover sport and exercise this
would be a significant loss for the town. The club has set up a CrowdFunder page at crowdfunder.co.uk/p/wimborne-hockey-pitch and in May held a mixed 7s tournament, raising the first vital £1,000. The club are asking people and local businesses to support them on CrowdFunder or via wimbornewayfarershc.co.uk
Photographer Tom Scase went along when the best Pétanque players in England descend on Ferndown for the prestigious Pétanque England Championships.They took place behind Ferndown Upper School. Competitors came from across the country to compete in the National Singles Competition on May 27, National Doubles on May 28 and the National Mixed Doubles on the 29th final day.
‘We are thrilled to bring a national event to Ferndown’, said a Pétanque England spokesman and the members of Parley Pétanque Club were delighted to be acting as hosts.
How do you play Pétanque? An outdoor game of French origin, similar to bowls, it is traditionally played on open dusty ground in public places with heavy metal balls that are tossed with a backhand action. Often known as boules, pétanque sees players aim to score points by throwing or rolling ‘boules’ closer to a small target ball (often called a jack) than opponents. Players throwing must stand still. Opponents’ boules can be knocked out of the way as part of the game, in a bid to install the throwers’ boules nearest the jack.
ATHLETICS
by Peter Impett
Fired up by the input of the under 17 and Senior Women, Wimborne Athletic Club powered their way back to the top of the South West League at Exeter on May 28.
Trudi Carter and Daisy Tyndall wrapped up the pole vault with 2m35 and 2m25 respectively.
Leilani Roberts won the discus with a personal best 27m04, Lucy Lucas was second in the 100 metres in 13.14, Amy Darragh was second in the discus 22m01 and India West third in the long jump 5m03.
Kayla Robbins set a new club record of 1m45 in the Under 13 high jump and was also a winner in the long jump with 4m33.
Ava Elliott Smith continues to get ever closer to long standing club records winning the 100 in 13.56 and the 200 in 28.90.
Elliott Trickey had a good day for the under 13 boys winning the 200 in 27.47 and was second in the 100 metres in 13.94 and the long jump 4m70.
Euan Eadie was third man home in the 800 metres in 2.29.32. At under 15 level Felix Summers won the high jump with a personal best 1m68, Iris Jones was second in the 100 metres in 13.61 and Olivia Jones was second in the shot 8m34.
The under 17 and senior men
played their part.
Will Langridge produced a 13m11 winning triple jump.
Jake Roberts was second with a 1m85 high jump and was third with a 33m87 discus throw.
Harry Jones scored good points with a second placed under 17 hammer 24m96 and a third placed 29.08 in the discus.
Match Result:
1 Wimborne – 2013,
2 Exeter – 1811.5,
3 Taunton – 1610,
4 Armada – 1601.5,
5 Poole AC – 1454,
6 Yeovil – 1436,
7 Cornwall – 1412.5,
8 Newton Abbot/Torbay –1350.5,
9 Newquay Par – 1332.5,
10 North Devon – 704,
11 South Devon – 392,
12 Dorchester – 329, 13 Mendip – 58
Table after two matches
1 Wimborne – 3783.5 (25 pts),
2 Armada – 3494 (23 pts),
3 Exeter – 3312.5 (22 pts).
4 Poole AC – 3088.5 (20 pts), 5 Taunton – 2665 (17 pts),
6 Yeovil – 2540 (16 pts),
7 Newton Abbot/Torbay – 2669 (15 pts),
8 Cornwall – 2491 (14 pts),
9 Newquay Par – 2364.5 (10 pts),
10 North Devon – 1273 (7 pts),
11 Dorchester – 962.5 (6 pts),
12 South Devon – 895 (5 pts), 13 Mendip – 150 (2 pts).
Thatched, Grade II listed property restored to its former glory following house fire is now for sale with DOMVS estate agents
Honeysuckle Cottage has just come onto the market with an asking price of £375,000. The semi-detached house, dating back to 1843, suffered extensive fire and water damage following a serious fire at the end of 2020. A total of 65 firefighters were involved in tackling the blaze throughout the night, which devastated the thatched cottage.
Following several years of planning applications and renovations, the cottage has now been sympathetically restored and is ready for the next owners to enjoy. The Grade II Listed house is thought to be linked to nearby Poxwell House, once part of the Cerne Abbey Estate and the current owners have done everything possible to retain its heritage throughout the painstaking renovations.
Karen and Keith, the owners, were devastated when the fire spread from a neighbouring property and destroyed the roof as well as damaging the upper floor of the cottage. She said “some of the original parts of the roof, dating from the 1840s, were lost. To know that the cottage had been there for nearly 200 years and had such history meant a lot to us and we wanted to make sure it was rebuilt to last another 200 years. With help from a local builder - the brilliant Trevor Stockley of Warmwell - we were able to rebuild using local, experienced craftsmen.”
Set in just over a quarter of an acre of beautiful grounds, there is space for a number of vehicles at the front and a rear lawned garden with extensive views over the countryside. The surrounding farmland lies within the Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which includes the Jurassic Coast, Britain’s first natural World Heritage Site.
Polly Greenway, DOMVS CEO says “Honeysuckle Cottage is an adorable property, which whilst ‘a period home’ now represents a fabulous opportunity for the new owners to enjoy a sense of history and reassuring modernity. With a spacious feel the cottage has lovely features throughout with latch doors, timber beams, timber flooring and a brick-built fireplace. There are two bedrooms, a contemporary kitchen, and a bright reception room. The garden, with a shed and outside tap, provides plenty of space to create a vegetable garden or keep chickens, for example.”
Poxwell is a small hamlet in Dorset, located just six miles from the transport links and amenities of both the county town of Dorchester and the seaside resort of Weymouth. It is also approximately two miles from the sea at Ringstead Bay, with its spectacular coastal scenery typical of South Dorset. The name originates from ‘Pokes well’ – a Roman well located on a hillside in the village.
The owners fell in love with the village and cottage after driving through the hamlet when visiting the area. Karen says “we were really excited when we were able to buy Honeysuckle cottage and make it our own. We spent many weekends travelling down from our home in Essex to redecorate the property to use for holidays. It has also been a holiday cottage for others to enjoy too. We’re delighted that Honeysuckle Cottage is now restored to its former glory and its legacy will live on, providing a wonderful, happy home for the next family”.
For more information visit: http://www.domvs.co.uk/ properties/domrps-PRE220249
