The New Stour & Avon - Issue 88

What’s inside this issue...

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Meet the team

Steve Belasco Editor newsdesk@ stourandavon.net

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Faith Eckersall Reporter newsdesk@ stourandavon.net

Lorraine Gibson Reporter newsdesk@ stourandavon.net

Cover: White Mill bridge, Sturminster Marshall

Space race at historic riverside mill

Trustees and makers at Wimborne’s Walford Mill Crafts are looking to create more temporary and long-term opportunities for developing artists and makers.

The Grade II-listed riverside building, dating from the 1780s, retains many interesting features from its former life including the mill races, a steam boiler housing and crop storage lofts.

Currently re-evaluating the space it has, the educational charity wants to encourage new and

emerging talent by offering affordable short-term weekend display space both within the mill and outside in the adjacent courtyard.

Longer-term residency is also possible with a new area available in the ground floor studios which are open to the public, without charge, from Wednesday to Sunday weekly.

Potential exhibitors are welcome to visit during opening hours or contact info@walfordmillcrafts. co.uk for more information.

Top honour for town stalwart

Four-time Wimborne mayor and community stalwart Diann March has been honoured with the Freedom of the town. Diann, who moved to Dorset in 1976, was elected as a Wimborne Minster councillor in 1991 and has served the area consistently for more than three decades. As well as her efforts with the council, she has been involved in countless groups and initiatives, including Wimborne Musical Theatre and the Wimborne/Ochsenfurt and Wimborne/Valognes Twinning Associations. She has also volunteered at Green Cottage Riding for the Disabled, the Wimborne Repair Cafe and the Allendale Community Centre.

A council spokesman said the authority was ‘delighted’ to hand Diann the title of Honorary Freeman of Wimborne Minster.

“This accolade is one of the

highest honours the town can bestow upon an individual, recognising Diann’s outstanding contributions to the town council and its wider community”.

People who urinate in public, light fires or play loud music on the BCP Council-controlled coastline between Christchurch and Poole can now be subject to instant fines and confiscations. The council has decided to instate a Public Spaces Protection Order along 15 miles of beaches and open spaces. The Open Spaces PSPO covers designated parks and green spaces across the conurbation. The Open Spaces PSPO says no person shall place, throw or drop anything likely to cause a fire, light a fire or barbecue, including disposable barbecues or use any item which causes a naked flame.

Breaking the conditions of a PSPO could result in a £100 fixed penalty notice being issued

New bylaws on coastline Road set to close

The E S Pipelines company has applied for a temporary closure to West Parley’s Dudsbury Road for five days from September 23 to 27, to allow a new gas main to be laid.

nDiann, second left, is presented with the honorary scroll by Wimborne mayor Cllr Jeff Hart

The Oak Fair at Stock Gaylard

is a celebration of countryside, woodland, timber, craft and above all, conservation.*Advertising Feature

The Oak Fair at Stock Gaylard is a celebration of countryside, woodland, timber, craft and above all, conservation. With over 200 exhibitors showing everything from handcrafted wooden furniture to industrial machinery, the Oak Fair provides a platform for rural crafts and countryside tradition.

The heart of the Oak Fair has and always will be conservation, of the countryside and woodland, as well as traditional country crafts. Discover beautifully handcrafted furniture, homeware, baskets, jewellery, art, gifts and more, all created by master craftspeople. Learn more about charities who support our local countryside, woodland and nature and watch demonstrations of traditional hand working and country skills including the ever-popular chainsaw carving, coppice work, surfboard making, medieval reenactments, falconry, heavy horse logging,

and the daredevil stunts of the Adams Axemen display. Get involved with hands on activities including archery, willow sculpture and scything. Keep the kids busy with the many children’s activities on offer including bushcraft skills, face painting, circus skills, little Land Rovers and tractor trailer rides through the historic deer park. There will also be demonstrations of vintage and modern machinery and skills including logging, fine art foundry and wood chipping.

If you start to feel peckish head to the Market Square where you will find something to eat to suit all members of the family. With a strong commitment to local food and drinks producers this year there will be over 40 exhibitors across the Market Square and Food Marquee selling a wide range of delicious produce.

24th & 25th August, 10.00am

Stock Gaylard Estate, DT10 2BG

Early bird tickets are now on sale: £14 adults, £2.50 children, children in prams go free, £10 concessions. www.theoakfair.com

Climate change protest at estate

Climate change protestors held a protest at Kingston Lacey near Wimborne Minster to demand the National Trust cease banking with Barclays. They claim the bank is the biggest fossil fuel funder in Europe.

National Trust members joined with Extinction Rebellion Wimborne, complete with placards and signs, to speak to hundreds of visitors and urging

them to join the call to encourage National Trust to stop banking with Barclays.

Analysis in the ‘Banking on Climate Chaos’ report reveal that Barclays provided $24.2 billion of financing to fossil fuel companies. The report also claims that since the international treaty on climate change was signed in 2016, otherwise known as the Paris Agreement, their financing has accumulated to $235.2 billion.

Protestors carried placards saying ‘Love National Trust, Not Barclays’, and invited visitors to sign a petition calling on the charity to switch to a bank which does not fund fossil fuels.

Responding to the report Barclays said their fossil fuel financing has fallen by 26% since 2020.

A spokesman said: “Barclays is a global bank; our position relative to other banks reflects this, the size of our balance sheet, and our historic energy and power business. Our financed emissions for the energy and power sectors have reduced by 44% and 26% between 2020 and 2023.

“Investment is needed to support existing oil and gas assets, while clean energy is scaled.”

A Trust spokesman said: “The Trust fully understands the urgency needed to find solutions to the climate crisis and the strength of feeling about this among some of our supporters.

“We welcomed Barclays’ announcement that they will stop direct financing to clients engaged in oil and gas expansion. It is critically important we continue to engage with the banking sector to do more and faster to reduce financed emissions.”

Retired ship captain, Peter Aldous, who took part in the action said: “The Trust have known about their members’ ethical concerns for years and are doing nothing about them.”

James Bullock, professor of ecology, said: “I love the National Trust and all the amazing work it does to restore and protect nature.

“Knowing that I’m indirectly supporting Barclays really spoils my trips to Trust sites for me.

“The Trust must cut its ties with Barclays, the most planetdestroying bank in Europe.”

Festival comp takes the cake

Get ready to put on your aprons and showcase your baking skills at the Wimborne BID Food Festival’s Cake Competition. The event, on September 14, is set to be a highlight of the festival, inviting all cake enthusiasts to bake for the Mayor’s charities.

Participants are encouraged to create their most delicious and visually stunning Dorset Apple Cake and bring it to the marquee on Willow Walk between 2.30pm pm and 3.00pm on the day. Judging is at 3pm. Competition will be fierce, as our panel of expert judges will award fantastic prizes to the best cakes. Top prize is a stunning £150 pan set.

Wimborne BID volunteer Jeff Hart said: “Everyone is invited and the winning baker will win a £150 Neff pan set, courtesy of Dacombes. Do have a go!”

Whether a seasoned baker or just looking to have some fun, this is your chance to show off your culinary talents.

For more information, contact Jeffhart414@gmail.com.

Young poets urged to focus on rivers

Planet Wimborne has announced an Illustrated Poetry Competition aimed at fostering awareness about the environment for young people. The competition invites young artists to create illustrated poems on the theme of rivers. The illustrated poems will serve as visual reminders of our collective responsibility towards the environment.

Competition Details: Theme: Rivers Poetry submission size: A4. Submission deadline: Noon, October 4, 2024.

Submission address: Wimborne Library, Crown Mead, BH21 1HH (FAO Jeff Hart).

Each entry should include the name, age, and school of the participant on the back and prizes will be awarded in three age groups – first, middle and secondary school ages. The Mayor of Wimborne Minster and director of

Planet Wimborne, Jeff Hart, emphasised the significance of the competition, saying: “Wimborne is a beautiful town, but its charm can be further enhanced if we all prioritise environmental conservation.

“We have many beautiful rivers in Wimborne and the young people are encouraged to reflect on the meaning and significance of these.”

All participants will receive certificates to acknowledge their contribution and the winners from each age group

will be awarded special prizes. The winning entries will be showcased at a special display event on October 10 at 4.00pm, held in Wimborne Library. This competition not only encourages creativity but also serves as a platform for young minds to express their concerns and ideas regarding environmental sustainability. For further information, contact: Jeff Hart, director, Planet Wimborne, on 07825 226837 or Jeffhart414@gmail. com.

n The beautiful River Allen

Picture: TOM SCRASE

Singing like Sondheim

Stephen Sondheim said: ‘If I cannot fly, let me sing’. When Lockdown came in March 2020, everything ground to a halt. Well, not quite. It was going to take more than a lockdown to stop us singing! The Bridge Benefice Choir, based in Sturminster Marshall, were not going to give up that easily so, led by their excellent director of music, Sally Plowright, we recorded ourselves in our own homes every week and sent our tracks to Sally who put them all together and produced music for the online church services. But that was not the end of the story, not by a long way. These online recordings became so popular that we were approached by singers from

across Dorset who wanted to join us as their choirs had shut down due to the Pandemic. We chatted on Zoom each week and the singing carried on until Lockdown was over and things started returning to normal. But nobody wanted to stop singing with the now 30-strong ‘Lockdown Choir’ so the Dorset Bridge Choir was born. We have given four concerts since then and they have become so popular that the last concert was a sell-out.

Our next concert, entitled ‘Sing For Joy’ is at 7.00pm on Sunday, September 8, in Lytchett Minster Church. Tickets are £15 to include wine from liz.york@btinternet.com

Liz York

Sturminster Marshall

Do bring your dancing shoes

Godshill Village Hall will be repeating its very successful evening from last year by inviting back the local verypopular band Blue Tides. By popular request they are returning to Godshill Village Hall at 7.30 pm on Friday evening, August 30.

Blue Tides is a locally-based eight-piece band, playing an assortment of musical genres, from flute, saxophone, brass, guitar, bass and drums. Songs from the Great American and British songbooks, including exiting and eclectic original arrangements, will be played.

Players from the Godshill Village Hall-based New Forest Jazz Workshop will also be guesting.

Tickets are £15 per person to include a light supper.

There is no need to bring drinks since there will be a licensed bar, and a raffle with superb prizes... but do bring your dancing shoes!

All in all, this promises to be an exciting evening.

For further details about the hall, Blue Tides or the New Forest Jazz Workshop, please contact Marlene Williams on 01425 650845, or Alison or Derek Ayling, on 01425 650770, or 07798 555500, or by email, on Hippotain@BTInternet.com

Derek Ayling

Godshill

Action over the High Street

I write in respect of the letter in your magazine dated August 9, titled Brighten Up The High St. I very much agree with the sentiment of this letter. As an active member of the Wimborne in Bloom Monday Weeding Group I would like to advise that I am in contact with the Environment Agency to try

and ascertain what can be done to improve things. Any like-minded Wimborne residents would be warmly welcomed to join our group. We meet at Hanhams Car Park at 10am on Mondays, weather permitting.

Matthew Phillips Wimborne

What’s next from Labour?

Greg Williams of Dorset Labour has expressed concern about the retention of the twochild benefit cap and how its removal could be funded to avoid further child poverty. I have a suggestion. Why doesn’t Labour increase pensioner poverty to counterbalance?

Oh dear, they’ve already thought of that - despite heartfelt promises to the contrary. I wonder what’s next after the Winter Fuel Payment. Of course, that’s all fine, so long as the public sector unions are happy.

Chris Wilkinson, Ferndown

Come and sing with our group

The Fayrewood Singers of Verwood start a new term on September 3 and would like to welcome new members. We will begin learning new music in preparation for our upcoming concerts and would love you to join us. No auditions necessary, you just need to have a love of music and singing.

We rehearse at Verwood Hub on Tuesdays from 2pm to 3.30pm and perform two concerts a

year, plus ‘mini concerts’ for clubs or associations who would like some entertainment at a meeting or event.

We’re a jolly bunch who enjoy singing together, we work hard but have lots of laughs with our conductor Sylvia and pianist Vanessa.

Come and give us a try! Or give Margaret a call on 01425 475232.

Linda Pearson

Verwood

Autumn quiz is approaching

Wimborne and Ferndown Lions’ early autumn quiz this year will be at the Allendale Centre, Wimborne.

The date is Friday, September 6, starting at 7.30pm.

The format is as before, teams of up to six players.

Entry is £10 per player including a cold platter and rolls.

A bar will be open.

To enter a team, please email me on events@ wimborneandferndownlions. org.uk.

Ron Neave, Wimborne

7 & 8 SEPT 2024

Ferndown Upper School celebrated a 100% pass rate in last week’s A Level results, with more than half of the students’ grades being of the highest possible.

All sixth-formers have secured their places at the universities and apprenticeships of their choice, including some top UK institutions.

Among them was Adam Kemp, who will be taking up a place to study Computer Science at the University of Exeter after achieving two A*’s in Mathematics and Further Maths and two A’s in Computer Science and Physics.

Other Sixth Formers celebrating included: Eloise Cowley, who has secured a place at the University of Bristol to read Engineering Mathematics , Erin Rolfe, who will be going to the University of Durham to study Mathematics and Jacob Wischhusen, who will be taking up a place at University of Birmingham to study Medicine.

The school is also celebrating students Abbie Tucker, Maddison King and Xavier Evora for securing their prestigious Degree Apprenticeships with JP Morgan after receiving their Digital Design Production Development T Level, the first cohort through Ferndown Upper.

And Esha Heetoo completed her Diploma in Education and Childcare after restarting sixth form two years ago n Upper Sixth Canfordians also excelled in this year’s exam s with 23% of all grades at the top grade A* and more than half of all grades, 53%, at A*/A, 82% at A*/B and

Platinum Award-Winning Care 2022

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

Students celebrate top marks

96% A*/C, and strong performances across arts, science and humanities subjects. Regionally, Canford results were double those overall at A*/A across the South West. Forty pupils gained straight A*/A grades, 12 with three or more A*s and a further 15 with at least 2A*/A grades.

The vast majority of leavers are heading to university with 82% of places at Russell

Group/Sunday Times Top 12 institutions including eight confirmed places at Oxbridge and seven for the highlycompetitive courses in Medicine and Veterinary Science.

Among the popular destinations this year are Oxford, Cambridge, Durham, Bristol, Exeter, Imperial College London, Edinburgh and St Andrew’s.

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

life better... every day at Spetisbury Manor

n From left, students Esha Heetoo, Jacob Wischhusen and Eloise Cowley

Fundraisers and flowers

It’s not too late to purchase your tickets for the Wimborne in Bloom Duck Race tomorrow, Saturday. The ducks will be launched at 4.00pm from the bridge at the bottom of Mill Lane and finish in Rising Sun garden in East Street. Tickets, at £1.00 each, are on sale all day outside Waitrose and the Co-Op. And there’s only a week to go before the Wimborne Gardening Club Late Summer Show in the Allendale Centre next Saturday, August 31, from noon to 4.00pm.

It’s not too late to enter and schedules are available in the Allendale or from wimborne gardeningclub. co.uk.

Or just visit and enjoy the show.

The next meeting of Wimborne Gardening Club is at St Catherine’s Church

Hall in Lewens Lane.

The meeting will be held on Monday, September 2, at 7.30pm when Neil Lucas from Knoll Gardens will provide a talk on ‘Using Perennials in the Modern Garden’.

All are welcome to attend.

Club meetings will be held in the hall on Mondays October 7, November 4 and December 2 .

Anthony Oliver

Boost for women and families

A major policy shift to help protect women has been announced by BCP Council. The Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Unity Promise aims to enhance the safety and inclusivity of women and girls by shifting the responsibility from them to local businesses, organisations, and communities, helping to create a united front. Organisations signing up will be asked to undertake seven commitments, including clear routes for people to report unacceptable behaviour. They will also agree to provide training for staff on how to respond, including what to say or do, what not to say or do, and any relevant business policies. Other commitments include appointing a named champion to take commitments forward, and develop routes for reporting unacceptable behaviour at work and supporting cultural change. n If you need help or advice about your children, or support with a family issue, Dorset Council’s Family Hubs are one-stop shops for this and lots more.

The Hubs bring together

workers from Dorset Council, health services, and voluntary and community organisations in one place, helping people to get the right support when they need it.

People living in or near Ferndown can access the Centre Family Hub at Tricketts Cross. As well as being a distributor for Wimborne Food Bank, the Hub runs a number of activities every week. Sessions include everything from legal advice on family law, to a midwife clinic, a play and drop-in for SEND children, Pilates therapy, and Irish dancing.

Leigh Park Wimborne Family Hub in Gordon Road has a number of activities and children’s clubs including baby massage, Under-Ones club, a health visitor and baby drop-in, plus stay and play sessions. Hubs are available to provide information and services for families with children from conception to age 18 and up to age 25 for children and young people with SEND.

Visit dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/ children-families/family-hub/ find-a-family-hub.

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Book now for a night of glam and glitter

Diverse Abilities, Dorset’s disability charity, returns to Poole’s Lighthouse with its popular Gala Ball this November, sponsored by Franses Jewellers of Bournemouth.

There’s still a chance to get your ticket for the charity’s eighth Gala Ball, which will be held on Saturday, November 16. Tickets are available to purchase for both groups and individuals, with funds raised helping the 1,500 children and adults supported by the charity across Dorset every year.

Tickets for the ball are £110 per person or £1,000 for a table of 10.

Be prepared for a glamourous night where you’ll be treated to a glittering drinks reception from 6pm ahead of a spectacular night of fine dining, great entertainment, games and live music. Demi Tarrant, events executive at Diverse Abilities, said: “The Gala Ball is without a doubt one of the highlights of the calendar.

“It’s the perfect opportunity to get dressed up, enjoy a delicious threecourse meal and dance the night away to our live band and DJ, all whilst

raising money to support children and adults with disabilities in Dorset.

“A big thank-you goes to our generous sponsors as we would not be able to host this event without their support. “We’re also hugely grateful for the support of Franses Jewellers, Colten

Tea and cake afternoon raises £549 for annual flower fest

The Tea and Cake Afternoon held in the Garden of Anthony and Christine Oliver in Park Lane, Wimborne, raised a splendid £549 towards the cost of the flowers to be used at the Minster Flower Festival which will take place next year from September 26 to 29.

Around 50 people attended the event on a lovely afternoon and Christine said afterwards how grateful she

was to all who supported the occasion, made cakes and biscuits, donated prizes for the raffle and gave donations and all the helpers which made the event run so smoothly.

Some of those present then went onto The Minster to enjoy Choral Evensong sung by the Laudemus Choir on the last evening of their summer tour of singing Evensong in churches across Dorset. Anthony Oliver

Care and Forelle Estates.”

The evening also includes other surprise entertainment, a live auction, and the opportunity to win great prizes throughout the night.

Visit diveseabilities.org.uk/gala or call 01202 711502 to find out more.

New trustees join charity

Macmillan Caring Locally (MCL) the Christchurchbased hospice charity, which is celebrating its golden anniversary, has welcomed three new trustees.

Dr. Karen Rees, Peter West and Ann Allen will help to drive the success of MCL, which supports the Macmillan Unit.

Karen is a registered nurse, district nurse, and health visitor, and has worked locally as a practitioner and nurse academic for 30 years.

Peter has a background in banking, commercial property and corporate estates management, and Ann also brings a wealth of professional and personal experience.

Mike Emsley (chairman of trustees) is pictured with Karen, Ann and Peter.

Cuppas and companionship

by Lorraine Gibson

Every three minutes, a person develops dementia in the UK. That’s the shocking statistic from Avon Valley Dementia Support (AVDS), a local charity on a mission to help ease the stress of the impact of this lifechanging disease.

Despite being a small charity, AVDS runs the pop-up Butterfly Café at the Victoria Rooms in Fordingbridge, a regular - and free - event held every second Tuesday of the month for anyone living with dementia, and their loved ones.

On the menu, along with a cuppa and a slice of cake, are companionship and entertainment, including live music from Poole musician and singer, Angus Todd. Since music has proven to be a powerful tool in helping engage those with dementia, every fourth Tuesday of the month local musician, Curly the Busker, pictured right, gives up his time to host Music For Memories sessions - again free. These often end up in a lively sing-along and a bit of dancing to boot.

Personalised social worker support, 24/7, 365 Regular training Informal get togethers

Dementia specialists also attend some sessions to give advice and support to those caring for those with the disease.

Charity chairman Edward Newsham said: “Living with dementia can be lonely for both the sufferer and their carer. “Our pop-up events offer respite, interaction and support for those living with the disease and those caring for them.”

AVDS welcomes care-home residents and would love to hear from more care homes in the Avon Valley area who’d like to attend.

The café opens at 10.30am and runs for the morning. For more information, call Edward or Gilda Newsham on 01425 473777 or visit Avon Valley Dementia Support.

Independent Agency or Local Authority? Helping you to make an informed decision

We always suggest exploring all your options before making a commitment and find a fostering service that you feel is right and comfortable for you. Here are some hints on what to consider when choosing your foster care provider:

Training and Support – when setting out on your journey to fostering always bear in mind that everyone develops at a different speed and your confidence in fostering may grow greatly or require more support and training. Always seek a fostering provider that can fit your needs with training and support.

Age of placements – Local authorities tend to have more placements that are young children and babies, whereas independent agency although still have some placements veer on the side of slightly older children.

Fostering payment – Although fostering is not about the money, and we emphasise the will to care over the benefits. It is important to always consider your financial situation whereby an independent fostering agency tends to provide a higher reward.

Location – From placements to support, think about how far you would like to travel and check with the fostering provider which areas they serve for placements.

As an independent agency we, Footprints offer tailored training and support that suits your needs. Also as the agency is small, you bond close relationships with fellow foster carers meaning the training is great fun! The social workers have low caseloads so can provide you with 24/7 support. Finally we are local, serving the local community, someone is never far away and you will always be greeted upon visits to the office by one of our team.

Yes, independent fostering agencies and local authorities have key differences, but the main thing to remember is the child, and both options ensure that the well-being and safety of the child in care is at the forefront of service.

We would welcome you at footprints for a further discussion to help you make an informed decision, either give us a call, email or pop by the office!

Lo-cal sunshine recipes are sure to delight

It’s that time of year when we (hopefully!) get some brilliant days of sunshine.

Want a fun drink – like a mocktail? In need of a tasty dessert?

Or are you looking to add a little something extra to your weight-loss Plan?

Water flavourings can do just the trick!

Firstly, what are The Cambridge 1:1 Diet water flavourings?

Whilst on Plan, it’s key to drink plenty. Water can sometimes be boring, so for those that like to mix it up a little, The 1:1 Diet water flavourings range can help keep you hydrated. There’s a variety of flavours to choose from, so something to suit everyone:

Orange Pineapple Raspberry & Elderflower Pink Lemonade

Golden Vegetable (if you want something a little more savoury)

All you do is add a teaspoon of the flavour of your choice to a litre of water and voila – a tasty drink.

But that’s not all. We’ve got in touch with Consultants to share some of their creations and find out how you can take a simple tub of water flavouring (and maybe a scoop of mix-amousse or two) and turn it into something fabulous!

Here are a couple to start:

Turkish Delight Recipe

Sweets on a diet? Well look no further. We’ve found a hack so you can make healthy turkish delight using the Raspberry and Elderflower flavour.

Ingredients: 1 teaspoon of The 1:1 Diet mixa-mousse

½ teaspoon of Raspberry and Elderflower water flavouring (dependent on how strong you like the flavour – add more for a more intense flavour)

2-3 drops of rose water 150ml of water

Method:

Mix ingredients together with a blender and pour into moulds of your choice. Chill in the fridge until the liquid has set into a jelly-like consistency. Take from the mould and slice into cubes. Enjoy! Thanks to Consultant Alex Murray-Twinn for her Turkish delight picture –it looks great.

Ice Cream Slushie Recipe

Ice cream is a bit of a treat, and certainly not something you’d associate with being on a diet. But some crafty Consultants have shown how you can turn The 1:1 Diet Vanilla meal replacement shake into ice cream, with a little help from water flavourings too.

Ingredients:

A handful of ice cubes 100ml of water

1 The 1:1 Diet Vanilla shake sachet

¼ teaspoon of Lemon and Lime water flavouring (dependent on how strong you like the flavour – add more for a more intense flavour)

Method:

Combine all of the ingredients into a blender and blitz together until you have a creamy consistency. Once ready, transfer into a bowl or glass of your choice and enjoy! Total calories: 200, suitable for any step. Serves 1. Visit our meals and food page to find out more about our deliciously nutritious products.

Time to get our children out of poverty

I have been out knocking on doors listening to residents’ priorities.

I am grateful to all those who greeted me warmly and I look forward to continuing my active campaigning. It is important to keep abreast of the big issues and those more local ones that can be dealt with by colleagues on councils.

But I wanted to reach out specifically to those people who voted for someone else, to those who were so disillusioned or angry that they chose not to vote and for those who were not able to vote. As a Member of Parliament, I represent everyone, whether or not you gave me your vote.

There will be times that my Parliamentary vote or the campaigns I support do not please everyone. But I will consider all legislation and campaigns that reach me, and where I take a different decision to that of campaigners, I will share my reasons and respect

the views of those who see the world differently.

Politics DOES change things and CAN improve the worldwe do this by giving everyone the opportunity. It helps no one to denigrate communities that we do not understand or to want some parts of society to fail. Other people sitting workless, homeless or hopeless disadvantages us all. Those whose education has failed them, who have suffered trauma or ill-health, or who cannot cope in this fast-moving society, often use more services and are more costly to authorities - whether in the short or long term.

This might apply to people on the streets, at the job centre, or in prison - or it may be those who live in poverty or fear unseen by the rest of us. It is in society’s interest to have a strong safety net, not just because it is right, but because it makes financial sense.

This is why I am frustrated the

Government has not listened to Liberal Democrat MPs on the two-child benefit cap. It has even lost seven of its own MPs who feel the same way! Far from the Conservative view when they introduced it in 2017 that it would prevent people having children they could not afford to raise, it is driving hard-working families into poverty, and it is children who are suffering.

The cap applies to all new claims for benefits made, including many from families with the means to support their three, four or five children until a crisis happened. Redundancy, accident, illness or death can take a family who are paying their own way into the benefits system overnight.

Families who have paid their taxes are trapped in poverty through no fault of their own. More than 1,000 children currently live in poverty in the Mid Dorset and North Poole constituency (statistics from End Child Poverty Coalition) and Liberal Democrats believe that ending the two-child cap is the quickest and most effective way of lifting children out of poverty.

I remain hopeful that it is just a matter of time before the Government joins me and other Lib Dem MPs in coming to this conclusion, improving the lives of these children so they can thrive and fulfil their potential.

Assessing underlying causes of disorder

I had a very meta experience the other day... I got out of the Shaftesbury Lido to see a gentleman at the side of the pool reading this column. Upon making some selfdeprecating remark as I passed about it all being nonsense, he responded ‘well, it’s not a good start, is it?’

Normally I’d engage, but reflecting on the asymmetry of our attire, I scuttled off to the showers.

Right wing commentators, such as those famous for being married to Michael Gove, have gleefully recounted every piece of bad news this past month. She even tried to pin the demise of Huw Edwards on the new Labour government.

No doubt the decline in Team GB’s gold medals this year at the Olympics will be our fault too.

But what of these riots? No one could have predicted them, or the horrible, tragic murder of children at a dance class

in Southport that precipitated them. Yet it is fair that the Government should be judged on how it responds.

As I write on Sunday 11th, the violence seems to have passed. Our over-stretched police quickly arrested the perpetrators - online and on the streets. Our justice system was then able to promptly charge, convict and sentence them. The publicity of these sentences was instrumental in deterring further offenders. The assembly of thousands of peaceful, antiracist counter protesters also played a key part.

I condemn the rioters in the strongest terms.

The arson of Spellow Library was emblematic of their ignorance.

But disdain for their actions should not deter us from clinically assessing the underlying causes of the disorder, and suggest interventions.

I would point to the following:

A creaking prisons system. Rioters would have been aware of directives by the previous Tory government to reduce the number of arrests. They’d also have known of the early release of prisoners.

This has led to a perception of the ineffectiveness of law and order in the country, which

lowered the deterrent to rioters. Simply, we need more police and more well-managed prison spaces.

Anxiety around immigration. We have too many racists in this country. We have many more people who are not racist, yet are uncomfortable about the levels of immigration. And we also have politicians and influencers who are eager to prey on those anxieties to further their own celebrity, from Farage to Yaxley-Lennon. Our contempt for racists and populists should not cloud the assessment of why people feel anxious about immigration. Uncontrolled social media

The idea of Musk et al that social media should be a world of ultra, consequenceless free speech facilitates these populists and racists. It enables wilful misinformation sharing and the orchestration of violence online.

The Online Safety Bill should be reappraised in light of these riots.

Dorset Labour GREG WILLIAMS

Dorset Lib-Dems VIKKI SLADE

Swift justice must be applied more widely

We have been fortunate in Dorset to have avoided the worst of the summer thuggery which has besmirched so many towns.

Dorset is not, however, immune to the challenge posed by accusations of two-tier policing. Our shops may not have been looted but the consequences for retailers of systematic, organised repeat shoplifting are not dissimilar.

Indeed, some national retail chains are withdrawing from the high street specifically because they cannot afford to carry the cost of the epidemic of shoplifting being done with impunity.

The two-tier criticism doesn’t only apply to failure to prosecute but also to the unacceptable delays in court processing and the many soft outcomes resulting therefrom. We should heed the new Home Secretary’s concerns that such a soft approach to justice leads to

people feeling that crime has no consequences.

A topical local example of unacceptable delays concerns two former Dorset police officers accused of misconduct in public office. The offences took place four years ago and although quickly referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct and subsequently to the Crown Prosecution Service, will only reach court this August.

The deterrent effect of swift justice must be applied more widely. It is extraordinary that so many of those arrested and now convicted in relation to the riots had numerous previous criminal convictions for serious offences – in one example, for over two dozen offences, despite the offender being only aged 28.

nAlthough the official unemployment rate is only 4.2%, emphasis is rightly being placed on the fact that

Christchurch & East Dorset CHRIS CHOPE MP

more than 22 out of every 100 adults of working age are not in employment or even looking for a job; 2.8 million are blaming long-term sickness, 700,000 more than five years ago. While the overall number of people in employment has increased, more than 70% of

recently arrived in the country. These issues of economic inactivity, lawlessness and mass immigration must be considered together.

If more taxpayer money had been invested in raising the skill standards of our indigenous population and less had been wasted on importing substitute labour at cheap rates, many of our country’s problems would be overcome. The linkage between these important issues needs to be at the forefront of public debate in the months to come.

n It was a privilege to be able to attend the funeral of Beryl Charlick a few weeks after celebrating her 100th birthday on June 1 with her and her family in Ashley Heath. She gave a lifetime of service to nursing having first joined as a wartime trainee in 1940. Her commitment to living life

The Great Tail Trail will have

Local businesses are diving in headfirst for the chance to sponsor one of 40 giant mermaid tail sculptures during the Great Tail Trail next spring.

The latest sponsors include Poole BID, Castlepoint, Compleat Food Group, GoodOaks Home Care and air traffic control simulations specialist, Micro Nav, with more big names soon to be announced. The sculpture art trail, which will raise vital funds for local children’s hospice charity Julia’s House, is set to be the biggest and most colourful public event across Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch (BCP) in 2025. Artists will be chosen from hundreds of entries, to give each sculpture a unique and eye-catching design for the trail, which runs for eight weeks from April 5 to June 1.

Jacqui Rock, Poole BID lead, commented on why it was important to them to support the trail.

She said: “Poole BID is committed to supporting the local community and making a positive impact.

“Partnering with Julia’s House allows us to contribute to their important work and help make a difference to the lives of children and families facing incredibly tough challenges. “Spreading the word and raising awareness of Julia’s House and the incredible work they do can make a real difference in the lives of these deserving children and families

in our community, to help make every moment count.”

More than half of the sculptures have been snapped up by sponsors already, but for those business who haven’t yet heard about the trail there’s still time to get involved and show your support.

Julia’s House is also looking for a headline sponsor to put their name to the event and a learner programme partner to sponsor the Tiny Tail Trail, which sees schools and community groups decorate their own smaller

version of the giant mermaid tails.

“If you’d like to sponsor our learner programme we urge you to get in touch quickly,” said Laura Maidment, public fundraising manager for Julia’s House.

“This is a special sponsorship which will support all the schools and groups taking part.

“You’ll be helping children to get creative, see their work exhibited and get active outdoors as they explore the trail.

“As a sponsor, you’ll feature

on more than 40 Tiny Tail sculptures and be part of a wider marketing campaign, reaching thousands of people in the runup to and during the trail next spring.”

To find out more about becoming a sponsor visit juliashouse.org/tail-trail/ sponsors.

Discover more about The Great Tail Trail at greattailtrail.co.uk.

Key dates for the Great Tail Trail:

September 26, 2024

Art selection event - sponsors choose their sculpture’s design October-December 2024

Sculptures are painted January 25, 2025

Sponsors’ activation workshop April 5-June 1, 2025

The Great Tail Trail is live around BCP for eight weeks June 14-15, 2025

Farewell event at the BIC with all the mermaid tails in one place June 19

Giant sculptures are auctioned to raise vital funds for Julia’s House.

Stamp of

An album of stamps is estimated to sell for a total of £10,000 in the Charterhouse auction of coins, militaria and stamps on Thursday, August 29.

“The owner is thinning down some of his collection and took advantage of the free valuation days we offer at our Sherborne salerooms,” said Richard Bromell.

Stamps in the album range from iconic penny blacks printed in 1840 through to high-value stamps, including a rare Queen Victoria orange £5 stamp.

Viewing to the auction is at the Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne from Tuesday,

August 27, or you can see all the lots and bid live online via charterhouse-auction.com. Charterhouse are now accepting entries for their next specialist auctions including enamel signs, automobilia, classic cars, motorcycles, pictures and books.

n Richard Bromell and the Charterhouse Team can be contacted for specialist advice and valuations at The Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne, 01935 812277 or via rb@ charterhouse-auction.com.

Food & Drink

Cooking... with Martha Legg

Creamy roasted pepper pasta

Martin is not a fan of pasta; I think because it’s often difficult to get the sauce right. He does make a good carbonara, but in general, it’s me who makes the pasta dishes.

We found this recipe and I suggested that Martin should make it.

He is very precise when it comes to ingredients, so I have to make sure we have them all in.

Having said that, it doesn’t make much difference as he still shouts from the kitchen when he cant find something!

I think we should have had a hatch put in between the kitchen and the lounge so that I didn’t have to keep getting up!

It’s funny as he doesn’t like to run out of things, so we buy extra packets of pasta, etc.

He puts them in the top cupboards in the kitchen, which I can’t reach, and then is surprised when he finds them...

Anyway, this pasta sauce was creamy and we both enjoyed it. The only thing we forgot, was to put any protein with it. It would have been so much better if we had added some cooked chicken or diced fish with it.

But hey, you live and learn.

Ingredients:

3 large roasted red peppers from a jar

1 large banana shallot

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 heaped tsp white miso paste

15g grated parmesan

1 tbsp sun dried tomato paste

1 tbsp tomato purée

1 tsp smoked paprika

A cupped handful of cashews (30g)

1 heaped tbsp half fat crème fraiche

200g uncooked weight pasta

Fresh basil

Serve with chicken, fish, or anything you fancy.

Method:

Pop a pan of salted water onto boil. Cook the pasta to al dente, reserving a cup of the pasta water.

Drain and set to one side.

In a pan, sauté the shallot and garlic in a good serving of olive oil.

Add a pinch of salt.

Once softened, add in the cashews to lightly toast for a few minutes.

Mix in the smoked paprika, both tomato purées and sauté for another minute.

Then add in the diced roasted red peppers, 1 tsp miso and 2 tbsp water.

Sauté for another 2-3 minutes then turn off the heat.

Tip the mix into a blender, adding 1 heaped tbsp crème fraiche and the grated Parmesan.

Blend until silky smooth. Taste and season if needed.

Tip the sauce back into the pan to warm, add some torn basil, the cooked pasta and 2-3 tbsp of water.

Toss together - if it’s too thick simply loosen with more pasta water.

Portion up, top with extra basil and a little extra Parmesan if needed!

Care home boss in £25k charity cook-off

Staff and residents at Moors Manor care home in St Leonards are celebrating after their managing director, Natasha Lazovic, from Barchester’s South Division, stepped out of her comfort zone to compete in the Barchester Charitable Foundation Cook Off 2024. Natasha went head to head with the MDs from Barchester’s four other divisions and cooked up a storm to raise £24,595 for Barchester’s Charitable Foundation.

The foundation helps connect vulnerable people and those living with a disability to community groups in their local area by providing grants to improve mobility and quality of life.

Each year the foundation distributes thousands of pounds to individuals, small community groups and charities across England, Scotland and Wales. In 2023 it reached a donation

milestone of £225,000 which enabled the charity to provide vital help to 160 small groups and charities, and 87 individuals in one year alone.

Natasha made some fabulous dishes for her Cook Off Challenge.

Firstly she prepared roast chicken breast with smoked bacon mash and a wild

mushroom veloute sauce before she moved on to her sticky date and ginger sponge with caramel sauce, both of which were very well received by the judging panel made up members of Barchester’s executive team. She was pipped at the post but highly commended by the judges nonetheless and her division raised the largest

amount for the foundation, an impressive £11,595.

Moors Manor general manager Gemma Chalkley said: “We’re all so proud of Natasha for taking part in this challenge, she really is amazing.

“Her dishes looked absolutely fantastic and she raised so much for the foundation, we think she’s an absolute superstar!”

Camels, cattle and cakes crown cracking show!

The morning rain certainly didn’t deter visitors to the first day of the annual Gillingham and Shaftesbury Show.

A steady stream of visitors braved the weather to be treated to a host of rural attractions, craft skills, live music and delicious Dorset food and drink at this muchloved annual countryside event. Hilarious camel racing proved to be one of the star attractions at the Turnpike showground in Motcombe as the annual show welcomed one of the country’s most renowned animal trainers, Joseph Fossett, with his aptly named Joseph’s Amazing Camels (who’ve been featured in Bollywood, Disney and Marvel movies).

A firm favourite is the array of rare-breed cattle and sheep with sheep handlers as young as five showing off their fourlegged friends.

The overall prize winners took part in a Grand Parade in the afternoon with an incredible line-up including majestic heavy horses.

Young jockeys enjoyed the thrill of showjumping on a smaller scale as they competed in the Shetland Pony Grand National alongside the excitement of full-scale showjumping and stately carriage driving.

As well as a great day out for the family, the show is a highlight in the farming community calendar as farmers from across the county came together to network, do business and enjoy a brief respite from the busy harvest season.

And the sun even appeared in the afternoon!

COUNTY SHOW ANNOUNCES NEW ADDITIONS FOR 2024

Get ready for Action Horses, Alpacas and Fire jumping motorbikes!

THE DORSET COUNTY SHOW returns on the 7th & 8th September, and once again will celebrate rural life in Dorset! This year, welcoming new displays including Atkinsons Action Horses, IMPs Motorcycle Display Team, Tomahawk Throwing and Alpaca Competitions!

The grand family day out is Dorset’s end of harvest celebration as well as a major networking event for the county’s agricultural sector. The Show brings together everything the county has to offer, introducing new acts alongside favourite local headliners with a modern twist.

Atkinsons Action Horses promise is to thrill, excite and astonish with his high energy, breath-taking, deathdefying stunt Show! The County Show will be their first time in Dorset, the display will be an phenomenal display of skill by both rider and horse.

New to the Woodland Area is have a go (free of charge) Tomahawk Throwing with Rockley Buddens Activity Centre.

*Advertising Feature

From the sound of revving engines to the awe of a billowing fire jump and the suspense of a multiple motorcycle combination ‘cross-over’ routine. The IMPs Motorcycle Display team will have you mesmerised by this unmissable display!

James Cox, Show Organiser, said: ‘At Last year’s Show, we introduced new attractions and areas, this year we have built on these positive changes with even more brilliant new acts that not only celebrate Dorset agriculture and countryside but bring fantastic unmissable displays to the County!’

While welcoming new additions, the annual traditions remain at the heart with Livestock, Crafts, delicious Food & Drink, Heavy Horses and so much more! Don’t miss the biggest weekend in the County calendar at your County Show.

For further information and to book your Show Ticket, visit www.dorsetcountyshow.co.uk

New sixth form shortlisted for top award

Autism specialist charity Autism Unlimited has been shortlisted for a national award for its transformation of a former Christchurch car parts warehouse into a stunning new Sixth Form.

The Portfield School Sixth Form is a finalist in the Change Project of the Year category of the Charity Times Awards 2024

The building in Airfield Road, formerly used by a neighbouring business, now comprises a state-of-the-art learning hub, a professional kitchen for health and nutrition training, an in-house gym area, music recording studio and an actor in residence to enable students to study drama and work in theatre.

The Charity Times Awards, now in their 25th year, celebrate best practice in the UK charity and not-for-profit sector.

Siún Cranny, CEO of Autism Unlimited said: “It’s hugely gratifying for everyone involved in the project to be nominated for this award, and well-deserved recognition of the amount of hard work which has gone into creating this wonderful place.”

She continued: “Whilst Autism Unlimited had a small existing sixth form, we wanted more for our students. We set ourselves an ambitious 18-month time frame for the refurbishment, but the vision had been developed over years.

“Many of our students are now confidently seeking paid employment and college places

to pursue their interests. Others now have the support they need to focus on their individual passions.”

Portfield School Sixth Form will increase its roll to 35 in September 2024.

The full curriculum includes functional skills in English, maths and digital, Prince’s Trust Personal Development and Employability Skills, ASDAN, RSHE, Preparation for

Adulthood, and the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme.

The winners of the Charity Times Awards 2024 will be announced at a ceremony in London in September.

A video to hear from students first-hand about the difference that this Sixth Form has made to their lives is at youtu.be/ZuTYn7RL9ew.

National success for care workers

Weymouth and Portland care workers have been honoured at a national awards ceremony by Castletown-based care provider Agincare.

Celebrating its third year, the Agincare Heroes Awards saw team members from around the country gather at Pennyhill Park Hotel in Surrey.

Crecy Care Home in Spa Road, won the Will Mitchell Award for Outstanding Achievement, which is named in honour of an exceptional team member from Weymouth who died tragically young in 2022. The award was presented in recognition of the home’s longstanding success in supporting people living with complex mental health conditions to live independently and thrive in the local community.

Guest of honour Homecare Association chief executive Jane Townson joined Agincare founder and chairman Derek Luckhurst and chief executive Raina

Summerson to present awards to 15 winners from Agincare’s 4,000-strong workforce. Other winners included Karen Ingram from Weymouth, who picked up an Agincare Hero Medal, the ceremony’s most prestigious award, in recognition of exceptional service and leadership over 20 years.

Lia Khachapuridze from Crecy Care Home also collected an Agincare Hero Medal, and Luminita Bunghez from the Weymouth Home Care Team won

the Apprentice of the Year Award.

An expert judging panel selected the winners from hundreds of nominations submitted by those receiving care, their families, health and social care professionals, Agincare colleagues, and the general public.

Team members at Agincare’s Head Office in Castletown also collected awards in customer service and support service categories.

RSV vaccine becoming available soon

If you’re 28 weeks or more pregnant or aged 75 or older you’ll soon be eligible for the new RSV vaccine, which is becoming available next month. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major respiratory virus that is common over the winter period, typically November to February. While the symptoms are mild for many, RSV can be especially dangerous for infants and the elderly, says Public Health Dorset.

RSV accounts for around 30,000 hospitalisations of children in the UK annually, and for 20 to 30 infant deaths. RSV can also be severe in older adults, causing pneumonia and existing lung-condition flareups. It causes around 9,000 hospitalisations in those aged over 75 in the UK each year.

n Celebrity chef Lesley Waters, second left, with Sixth Form students Jack and Luke and Jan Banks of Christchurch Rotary Club

Ten top tips for building healthier habits

In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can feel like a challenge.

With so many demands on our time, it’s easy to fall into patterns that don’t support our wellbeing.

However, cultivating healthier habits doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Small, consistent changes can lead to significant improvements in your overall health and happiness. Here are 10 practical tips to help you build healthier habits that stick.

Start with Small Steps

Making big changes all at once can be daunting and unsustainable. Instead, focus on small, manageable steps. Gradually, these small steps will add up to significant lifestyle changes.

Create a Routine

A solid routine can provide structure to your day and help you stick to healthy habits. Consistency is key to making habits stick.

Set Specific Goals

Vague goals like ‘I want to be healthier’ are difficult to achieve. Instead, set specific, measurable goals.

Clear goals help you track your progress and stay motivated.

Prioritise Sleep

Sleep is often overlooked, but it’s crucial for overall health. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality

sleep per night. Proper rest will improve your mood, energy levels, and cognitive function.

Stay Hydrated

Water is essential for almost every bodily function, yet many of us don’t drink enough. Keep a water bottle with you throughout the day to remind yourself to stay hydrated.6.

Move Your Body Regularly

Regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do for your health. Aim to incorporate a mix of cardio, strength training, and flexibility exercises into your routine.

Practice Mindful Eating

In our busy lives, it’s easy to eat on the go or while distracted. Mindful eating involves paying full attention to the experience. This

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can help prevent overeating and make meals more enjoyable.

Reduce Stress with Relaxation Techniques

Chronic stress can take a toll on your health, so it’s important to find ways to relax. Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or even spending time in nature can help reduce stress levels. Make time for these activities.

Surround Yourself with Support

Building healthier habits is easier when you have support. Surround yourself with friends, family, or a community that encourages and motivates you.

Be Kind to Yourself

Finally, remember that building new habits takes time. Be patient and kind to yourself, especially if you encounter setbacks. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and keep moving forward. The goal is not perfection, but progress.

Conclusion

Building healthier habits doesn’t require a complete life overhaul. By starting small, staying consistent, and being mindful of your choices, you can create lasting changes that enhance your well-being. Remember, it’s the small, everyday actions that contribute to a healthier, happier life. So, take that first step today—your future self will thank you!

Home & Garden

Hannah’s horticulture...

Its been a really bitty summer, no consistency, except for the slug population!

But I notice that hasn’t put most of you off from getting in the garden, whether for just enjoying the space or for actual gardening enjoyment! And I’ve had a few questions from you, so here we go: I have a lot of a really vigorous vine with white flowers that is smothering my plants. What is it and how can I get rid of it?

This sounds very much like Bindweed, and it indeed does smother, given an inch of a chance!

Bindweed grows with rhizomes (underground stems) spread deeply and in all directions. They can reproduce from just a small fragment of stem or rhizome which makes them difficult to get rid of. It’s a good

idea to try and gently fork out as many rhizomes as you can before collecting them and disposing of them in household waste - don’t compost the pieces as they will quickly regrow all over your compost heap! They are easy to spot as the rhizomes are white and

slightly thicker that the stem mostly. I personally find it really satisfying to sift through and find the bits, and hopefully you will too! It is perfectly possible to rid the garden of bindweed this way, with a bit of persistence and patience, I have done just that.

Don’t let any regrowth get a hold, regrowth quickly feeds the rhizomes and makes them grow!

And doing it this way you avoid any chemical use too. I’ve never taken cuttings before to make new plants to share with family and friends (and more for me!).

I’m really unsure where to start though, please can you give me a good starter plant to try?

I love making new plants from cuttings, it seems nothing short of miraculous to put a stem in the compost, wait a few weeks and hey presto its grown roots and become a whole new plant! Now is the perfect time to start; you’ll be taking what we call ‘semi-ripe’ cuttings,

Hannah Hobbs-Chell is a horticulturist and garden designer/consultant. If you have a question for her, email:hannah.hobbschell@ outlook.com including a picture if relevant

which is basically the point where new stems have slightly stiffened up, but still have a little bit of flex in them (fully ripe means they snap rather than flex, and they are too old at this point for this type of cutting).

Hydrangeas are your friend here; they take pretty easily from cuttings, especially at this time of year.

Select healthy, non-flowering shoots 10-15cm long, that have at least two sets of leaves below the top set of leaves. Trim below a node (the place on the stem where the leaves attach), then remove the sets of leaves on the lower nodes by snipping them off as close to the stem as possible.

Cut each hydrangea leaf in half with a knife. This reduces water loss and the stress endured by the rooting process. These leaves will soon be replaced when the cutting has rooted. Insert the cuttings individually into small pots filled with compost. Firm them well and soak with water straight away. Place in a shady place out of direct sunlight, preferably with a clear cloche over if you have it.

You need to keep the cuttings moist whilst they root, they don’t like drying out (nor do they like drowning – little and often).

Let me know how you get on!

Size really does matter for stunning squashes

Size really does matter at this year’s Dorset County Show where monstersize pumpkins will be weighing in on September 7 and 8.

The heaviest pumpkin class is one of the most popular classes to see at the show. Many of these giants spend more than 100 days on the vine before their debut. A huge amount of care goes in to achieve this size and they are thirsty too with many liking to be watered more than a dozen times a day.

On chillier evenings, rumour has it that many of our pumpkin growers tuck their pumpkins up with blankets!

Arriving at the show in trailers, these giant gourds will be on display all weekend.

Carefully weighed before the start of the show, the champion squash will be announced on Sunday, September 8. To put their size into perspective, many of these beautiful behemoths weigh more than 1,000lb - that’s equivalent to 11 bags of cement and more than many of the horses and ponies competing at the show.

It’s not only pumpkins that are weighing in. The heaviest onion class is also attracting entries. Giant onions can weigh in at 9kg, the same as a watermelon or a bowling ball. The county show celebrates rural life in Dorset and will be welcoming

horse logging,

IMPs

and of course – livestock. There really is something for everyone. For tickets, visit dorsetcounty show. co.uk.

Atkinsons Action Horses,

Motorcycle Display Team, Tomahawk Throwing,

Axeman

Home & Garden

Gardens opening for charity - September

NEW: 1C RECTORY ROAD

Unusual character house and garden designed and built by the owner over the last five years.

Full of objet d’art spanning centuries, there’s curiosities to see in every corner!

Open: Sunday, 8 Sept (11-5).

Admission £4, child £2. Light refreshments.

Poole, BH15 3BH.

MANOR FARM, HAMPRESTON

Lovely traditional farmhouse garden designed and cared for by three generations of the Trehane family. Noted for its herbaceous borders and rose beds within box and yew hedges. Mature shrubbery, water and bog

garden. Excellent plants for sale.

Open: Sunday, 1 Sept (1-5).

Admission £5, child free. Home made teas.

Wimborne, BH21 7LX.

ANNALAL’S GALLERY

Enchanting 180-year-old cottage, home of two Royal Academy artists. Sculptures and paintings hide among the flowers and shrubs.

Unusual studio and garden room. Mural of a life size greyhound makes the cottage easy to find and adds a smile to people’s faces!

Open: Sunday, 15 Sept (2-4).

Admission £3.50, child free. 25 Millhams Street, Christchurch, BH23 1DN.

Exploring Stour & Avon...

This is a short walk of only about three and a half miles across terrain which is mainly flat except where it crosses the heath.

Start at the Church which, although large and welcoming, isn’t very interesting, the only stained glass is about a century old.

Cross the road and join a footpath next to the river Win leading to the village centre. Turn left and head west for about 100 yards then turn right, next to a house, then north west across a field to a gate leading onto the main road, the A352, just to the left of the first/last house of the village.

Cross the road and join a bridleway that

KNOLL

GARDENS

Since 1994 internationally-acclaimed gardener Neil Lucas and his team have created a wonderful naturalistic garden, a haven for both people and wildlife.

Knoll is a unique, naturalistic and calming garden, renowned for its whispering ornamental grasses with an abundance of show-stopping flowering perennials.

A stunning backdrop of trees and shrubs especially in the autumn. Onsite nursery, self-service refreshments.

Open: Friday, 20 Sept (10-5)

Admission £7.95, Child £5.95. Hampreston, Wimborne BH21 7ND. n Entries may be subject to change –for latest informationvisit ngs.org.uk.

with retired Dorset rights of way officer CHRIS SLADE

heads north for about half a mile, passing a herd (or flock?) of black alpacas.

The bridleway then goes through a gate and enters Winfrith Heath, a nature reserve that is Access Land over which you have a right to roam.

If you’re tempted to climb the nearby barrow to get a better view of the area beware of the dozens of badger setts down which it would be easy to lose a leg!

The bridleway takes you north for a furlong or so then veers right and soon joins a road that heads south east to Blacknoll where it joins a road that takes you south, down to the A352 opposite the Red Lion.

Pass the pub (or go in for a beer) and turn left, south, down the road leading through the village.

Use the paved path alongside the sports field to avoid traffic for the first furlong then continue down the road, passing the village shop until you’re back to where you started.

WINFRITH NEWBURGH

nManor Farm, Hampreston and, right, Knoll Gardens

Farming & Environment A day at the farm with Richard Boden

Richard is a member of staff at High Mead Farm in Longham, Ferndown.

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

We create purposeful roles for our co-farmers, young people and adults alike, to help bring about a sense of wellbeing and self-worth that many have never before experienced

In the last article, we mentioned High Mead Farm’s recent success in being granted funding of just under £20,000 via the Community Lottery scheme. The money will be used for a variety of projects, which we will talk about in later articles.

One of the projects is to be able to offer regular music therapy sessions for our Co-farmers. We are proud to announce that Sandra Trehane, a classically-trained musician, and wife of High Mead’s landlord, Jeremy Trehane, is now leading High Mead’s music therapy sessions. Sandra’s piano playing is rousing and uplifting and she seemingly can turn her hand to play any request made. The first session was well attended, and an hour of singing could be heard all around the farm. The Lottery funding has also allowed the purchase of additional percussion instruments, which were put

Stock person/tractor driver position available on our forward-thinking dairy, beef and arable farm. Located near Wimborne, Dorset. Fun, friendly team on a well invested farm. Accommodation available. To express an interest please contact david.rj.mckie@gmail. com.

to good use accompanying Sandra’s piano playing.

Our piano was donated and has recently been kindly tuned for free by friend of the farm, Mikey.

On Sunday, of August 11, it was Dreamboats Regatta Day, which is also a fundraising event for them.

High Mead Farm and Dreamboats work closely together in supporting each other at each other’s events.

Charlotte and Roger and their team organised a fantastic day and were supported by their loyal Volunteers. The weather was perfect, and was very well attended, so much so that the Pimm’s almost ran out!

High Mead Farm won the raft race for the second year running and the Coach and Horses raft got stuck again on a buoy. Forest FM entertained us with their lively commentary of the raft races and rowing

events and provided us with music until the popular local band the Samurais gave an inspired afternoon of live music.

We were proud to be able to offer a handsome prize of freshly-picked Farm produce, along with own honey and quail eggs for one of the Regatta raffle prizes.

We are excited to announce some new arrivals to the farm; two beautiful young male ferrets who are busy exploring their new home, and are incredibly friendly and quite mischievous.

After countless suggestions the animal team finally decided on the naming of the pair, so welcome to High Mead Farm, Melvin and Kelvin!

In September we are planning our first Co-Farmer outing to Paulton’s Park, in our minibus – nicknamed Sergeant Bash. This was recently kindly donated to us from Montacute School in Poole.

All repairs were undertaken at no cost to us - so thanks to Gary at ILS, Martin at Elford Accident and Repair Centre Ltd and Blair at Wimborne MOT Centre for their generosity.

Stunning ruby sale to be a red-letter day

Red Ruby Devon cattle are famed for their beautiful deep rich red mossy coats, calm temperament, high fertility, plentiful milk, marbled connoisseur beef and outstanding ability to graze environmentally-enhanced pastures commonly found in our most beautiful local landscape. These attributes first attracted the current owners when looking for a beef herd to graze their farms at Mere, near the Wiltshire Downs. Their decision to buy Red Ruby Devons coincided with a major reduction of the celebrated Kingston Lacy Herd - the property of the National Trust which had been established in the 1890s by the late WR Banks and gifted to the Trust in 1981 by HJR Banks.

Farmer Ruth attended the sale and bought well, securing the best, to establish the Mere Park herd.

Stock bulls have come from the world-renowned Whitefield herd

and latterly the prize-winning Rocknell herd.

The herd has been skilfully developed to maintain and enhance the qualities the couple first fell in love with and now the painful decision has been made to dramatically reduce the herd to a more manageable size.

The sale takes place at Larkinglass Farm, Motcombe, SP7 9HY, on Thursday, August 29, from noon, where around 100 head will go under the hammer, including cows and calves, served heifers, steers and bulls.

Joint auctioneers Symonds & Sampson and Andrew Lane are delighted to have been appointed to conduct the sale.

Andrew Lane, who is also president of the Devon Cattle Breeders Society, said that having sold Ruth her foundation cattle at Kingston Lacy, it was a privilege to watch the Mere Park cattle grow and develop into the well-respected herd it has become.

The herd features two outstanding stock bulls in Whitefield Unbelievable EX91

View dates and catalogues are available from the auctioneers.

Rural grants and SFI - what you need to know

Under the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI), farmers and land managers, including those submitting applications for the first time, have access to an increased number of offerings. Animal health, precision farming, and agroforestry are included, as are expanded offers for upland farmers and tenants on short-term contracts.

Symonds & Sampson Rural Partner Lucy Carnell summarised the offerings: The Sustainable Farming Incentive pays farmers and land managers to adopt or maintain sustainable farming and land management practices that protect and benefit the environment, support food production, and improve productivity.

Under the ‘expanded’ SFI offer, farmers, growers, and land managers can choose from 102 application actions.

From the summer of 2024, there will be a controlled rollout of the new SFI offer for those applying for the first time (ie those who have never

claimed BPS). Payments will include options for precision farming, agroforestry, a new and expanded offer for upland farmers, and more actions for tenants on short-term contracts.

More than 50 simplified actions from Mid-Tier Countryside Stewardship will merge into SFI to streamline the application process, including several where durations have been reduced from five years to three years to align with the needs of tenant farmers.

The expanded scheme will also offer the actions from SFI 2023, some of which will have been updated to reflect the feedback from the farming industry.

As part of SFI, farmers who keep cattle, sheep, and pigs can also apply for funding to pay for a vet to visit their farm and carry out an ‘Annual Health and Welfare Review’ of their livestock.

Capital Grants are open for applications all year round. These are standalone capital grants that can be used to support and complete SFI

actions, existing Countryside Mid Tier options, Higher Tier, and wildlife offers. Capital grants are three-year agreements offering items to achieve specific environmental benefits for:

• Boundaries, trees, and orchards

• Water quality

• Air quality

• Natural flood management

There are 70 capital items available, including:

• Hedgerow laying - £13.52 per m

• Cattle fencing - £6.34 per m

• Sheep fencing - £7.47 per m

• Concrete yard renewal - £33.64 per m²

• Roofing - £72.50 per m² Some items may need approval from a Catchment Sensitive Farming Adviser.

n For further details do get in touch with Lucy at Symonds & Sampson’s office in Yeovil on 01935 382901 or one of our grants experts in your nearest Symonds & Sampson Office.

How a new postal trend was delivered

A niche area of philately that was inadvertently created by in 1840 by Britons mocking the establishment is the subject of a new authoritative tome after interest soared. The book has been written by two Dorset stamp experts, Robin Cassell and Dr Richard Hobbs, both fellows of the Royal Philatelic Society.

It is about an 1840 postal trend that was like an internet meme of today and mocked the establishment. After many years of being overlooked by collectors, examples from this shortlived postal fashion, called ‘Mulready Caricatures’, can now fetch up to £50,000. When stamps were first introduced, a pre-paid envelope was also launched, which it was thought would be the postal method of choice.

However, the design on the ‘letter-sheet’ created by the noted artist William Mulready was mocked by newspapers and their readers when it was introduced on May 6, 1840. Britannia had been depicted dispatching winged messengers to the colonies. It instantly led to entrepreneurs and stationers creating envelopes with caricatures of the design - and they were instantly popular. They were satirical and acerbic and many were coloured in by hand.

Every extant example of these highly-collectible Mulready Caricatures has now been recorded by Robin Cassell, from Poole and Dr Richard Hobbs from Dorchester. They have pictures of more than 1,600 examples of the caricatures and associated

pictorial envelopes in their two-volume book, The Mulready Caricature.

Robin said: “In 1840 Sir Rowland Hill introduced the penny post with the 1d Black and 2d Blue stamps.

“He also commissioned Mulready - an associate of the Royal Academy - to create a design for the pre-paid envelope.

“It was launched on May 6 and newspapers ridiculed it as it was deemed pompous and over the top. Their readers also joined in.

“The messengers that Britannia was dispatching were represented by people in native costume and included exotic animals.

“Hill wrote: ‘I fear we shall have to substitute some other stamp for that design by Mulready... the public have shown their disregard and even distaste for beauty.’

“What happened next was like an internet meme of today.

Stationers, book sellers and printers immediately began issuing their own satirical envelopes – the start of the Mulready Caricature.

“Robert Wright Hume in Edinburgh issued one showing Britannia sitting on a pig.

“The first known example

of this was sent to Mulready himself who appeared to have received it in good humour because he kept it.

“London was the other major centre, with SW Fores issuing one showing a one-eyed lion.

“Then others joined in, including a Frenchman who issued 12 caricatures just for the English market.

“Because these envelopes were not pre-paid, stamps had to be bought and attached, so they also helped establish the importance of stamps.

“By early 1841 the craze of the caricatures had died out after the introduction of the more sombre penny pink envelope.

“In our book we have attempted to catalogue all known caricatures and related envelopes with photographs.

“Collectors and enthusiasts have traditionally looked down on Mulready Caricatures, but their values have rocketed.

“It’s a good area to collect because there are examples that you can find for £100, but an incredibly rare one might swap hands for £50,000.”

The book, The Mulready Caricature, is published by the Royal Philatelic Society.

n A Mulready caricature – the first English caricature, designed by John Leech, and in Leech’s own handwriting. It is worth £25,000. Right, Robin Cassell and Richard Hobbs

Week of county heritage

Dorset Architectural Heritage

Week 2024 is just around the corner!

The week-long free event across the whole of Dorset celebrates our rich historic environment. This year there are 67 separate events, some of which are not normally open to the public, while other familiar buildings will open their doors for special events or to offer behind the scenes tours.

There is a rich mix of participants which makes the whole event an exciting week for us all.

There is literally something for everyone!

So be sure to take a look at what’s on offer in this landmark Dorset event!

The booklet is available in all libraries and Tourist Information Centres across Dorset. Tickets for the bookable events are available from TicketSource www.ticketsource.co.uk/ dahw2024. For more information go to www.edht.org.uk where the booklet is downloadable. Email: dahw@edht.org.uk Or call 01202 888992.

Blue Sky thinking from foremost ELO tribute

A tribute to the music of ELO and Jeff Lynne will bring a burst of Mr Blue Sky to Bournemouth Pavilion on September 27.

The ELO Experience are the world’s foremost tribute to the Electric Light Orchestra. With a sensational string section, a stunning light show and large-screen projection, this incredible concert which accurately reproduces the songs and sounds and takes you on a magical musical journey through time.

The legacy of Jeff Lynne and ELO needs no introduction. Between 1972 and 1986, they achieved more combined UK and US top 40 hits than any other band.

Their hit songs include 10538 Overture, Evil Woman, Living Thing, Diary of Horace Wimp, Don’t Bring me Down and, of course, Mr Blue Sky.

In 2016, Jeff Lynne’s ELO came back to prominence with the

release of a brand-new album, Alone In The Universe, and a world tour.

The ELO Experience have been bringing the music of Jeff Lynne and The Electric Light orchestra to the live stage since 2006. Their latest tour will include the greatest hits from an extensive and impressive back catalogue spanning over 45 years. Tickets are £32, available to book at bournemouthpavilion. co.uk.

Saturday 14th September

Willow Walk and East Street

11am - 4pm

Whet your appetite at Wimborne’s new Food Festival with lots of delicious events going on around the town.

New season for town folk club

The new season for Fordingbridge Folk Club starts today, Friday, September 6, with a slew of guest performers at the Avonway Community Centre in Shaftesbury Street.

Confluence play new and traditional European folk tunes on cello and accordion, whilst Bimbling are a local duo with a wide range of folk songs. Back by popular demand, they also have Jay Parrack, who has done a couple of floor spots for them previously.

On Saturday, October 12, Jigfoot will be leading the club’s Fordingbridge Folk Ceilidh.

For details on how to book or join email fordingbridge folk@gmail.com.

VERWOOD ROTARY

The Rustic Fayre

Exhibition is set to really float your boat

Lymington Afloat is the name of this autumn’s new exhibition at the town’s St Barbe Museum. The exhibition will look at 1,000 years of innovation on the Lymington River and will include a festival aimed at getting those who have the least opportunity to access the water to get afloat.

From cutting-edge marine design and a thriving boatbuilding industry to the histories of trade and salt production, organisers hope the festival will also change perceptions about the river and improve accessibility for employment and leisure.

Among the attractions will be a Town Trail which shows all the pubs, restaurants, businesses and organisations taking part. The St Barbe exhibition runs from September 14 to January 11, 2025.

*Advertising Feature

Verwood Rotary Club’s annual RUSTIC FAYRE is rapidly approaching again on AUGUST BANK HOLIDAY MONDAY at Potterne Park. Club members are really looking forward to hosting this great family event in Verwood for the local community again. Gates open from 12 midday and look out for details of a very special guest to open the fayre. The cost for adults is only £7 per person with all accompanied children free. There is also ample free parking available. All the old favourites and new attractions will be there. There will be a variety of acts in the arena throughout the afternoon to sit and enjoy or take part in. These include a drum band, dog agility displays, taekwondo show, terrier racing, egg throwing competition and a birds of prey demonstration. You will also find a wide range of stalls, live musical performances, crafts, children’s activities, beer tent and food stalls. The popular classic cars display will be there to wander round and later in the afternoon you can watch the hotly contested duck race set off with the opportunity to buy your own duck to take part. All the monies raised by the club will be donated to local groups and charitable organisations, so do come along and support this event. Please put the date in your diary and we will see you there!

Photo credit: Derek Maidment

Get Ready to Groove at the Cliff Top Music Festival 2024!

For more details or to buy tickets, please visit: www.thedorsetbrocante.co.uk

Feature

On September 7th, Wharncliffe Road in Highcliffe, Dorset will transform into a 1970s paradise for the second annual Cliff Top Music Festival. Dive into an unforgettable day of funk, soul, and rock ‘n’ roll as we celebrate the iconic sounds that defined a generation.

“We’re thrilled to bring back the 1970s Music Festival,” says Mandy Polkey, Chair of the Highcliffe Action Team. “Last year’s event was a huge success, and we’re excited to create an even more memorable experience for our community.”

What to Expect: • Stellar Lineup: Tribute bands and local talent will transport you back to the era of disco balls and bell-bottoms. Headlining this year is “The Sound of the O’Jays,” bringing soulful grooves that will get everyone dancing. • Fun-Filled Activities: Enjoy retro dance-offs, vintage fashion contests, and activities for all ages. • Delicious Food and Drinks: Savor tasty treats from local vendors to satisfy every craving.

“The 1970s Music Festival is about coming together as a community, celebrating our shared heritage, and creating lasting memories,” says Polkey.

Don’t Miss Out! Join us on September 7th, 11am until 7pm on Wharncliffe Road in Highcliffe. Scan the QR code or go to www.highcliffevillage.com/music to purchase tickets.

Grab your dancing shoes and get ready to boogie the day away!

Email: highcliffeactionteamchair@gmail.com

Phone: 07869149976

The Summer Brocante

Advertising Feature

The perfect way to end the summer with a visit to this beautiful home and lifestyle fair hosted by The Dorset Brocante at Moyles Court, nr Ringwood. We are delighted to be hosting this event in the sublime setting of Moyles Court in the New Forest.

With some of the very best Exhibitors offering French Brocante, vintage wares, decorative antiques, textiles, jewellery, stationery, slow fashion, plants, flowers and artisan homewares. Local artisan foodies will be serving fresh coffee and delicious food all day.

The gates open at 10am on Bank Holiday Monday 26th August, where you’ll find the stalls set out on the lawns and in the historic courtyard. Entry is £7:50 for adults, U14 free. Tickets can be bought in advance or on the gate. Dogs on leads are welcome and there is free parking on site and accessible facilities.

Moyles Court is located between Ringwood and Salisbury just off the A31 and A338.

For more details or to book advance tickets, please visit www.thedorsetbrocante.co.uk

Events

Leo still feels like dancing

by Lorraine Gibson

That most-lovable of ‘one-man bands’, British music legend Leo Sayer is coming to Dorset as part of his UK tour. The curly-mopped Peter Pan of pop has more than 50 years of exquisitely catchy singing and songwriting success tucked under his belt and this year, along with the tour, sees the release of his muchanticipated autobiography, Just A Boy. Leo and his band bring boundless energy and exuberance to this packed show which will feature all his instantly-sing-alongable hits which

include the mighty Thunder In My Heart, the bitter-sweet Moonlighting, the cheering One Man Band plus I Can’t Stop Loving You, More Than I Can Say and his iconic anthems, The Show Must Go On, When I Need You and, of course, You Make Me Feel Like Dancing.

Prepare for a high-energy evening of singing out loud nostalgia!

Bournemouth Pavilion, October 4, 7.30pm.

Visit: bournemouthpavilion.co.uk/ events/leo-sayer-2024 for details.

Stunning

way to experience a sci-fi classic

by Lorraine Gibson Bladerunner,

the cult 1980s scifi film starring Harrison Ford, is still regarded as a masterpiece and remains a great piece of celluloid storytelling.

Great news for local fans, then, as the BIC announces that the 2007 Final Cut of Blade Runner will be shown on a massive HD screen, while Vangelis’ synthesiser-led score is performed live by the Avex Ensemble - in sync with the original 1982 movie.

Sci-Fi Bulletin said of the original Royal Albert Hall performance: ‘For a Blade Runner fan, it’s a whole new way to experience the movie.’ Add the era-defining soundscape score, lauded for both its Eighties vibes and its evocative, futuristic elements and you’ve an all-out cinematic nostalgia fest.

For those who don’t know the story – the stylish noir thriller sees detective Rick Deckard (Harrison Ford), a Replicant (scarily human robot) Hunter who’s following four Replicants who’ve escaped from galactic colonies and returned to Earth. However, in classic movie plot style, things get complicated when Deckard falls for Replicant Rachel (Sean Young) Windsor Hall, Tuesday, September 24, 6.30pm.

Summer of History to end with a bang!

September in Wimborne looks set to get off to a magnificent start with a special anniversary festival celebrating 25 years of the Wimborne Militia.

Save the date of Saturday and Sunday, September 7 and 8, as Wimborne’s famous, redcoated re-enactment group of 1685 invite you to a free family festival.

Over these two days, the Militia encampment will be set up at the field near Julian’s Bridge, which can be accessed immediately before the bridge on the left as you are leaving the town.

The Wimborne Militia will be joined by historical societies and experts from all over the country to create Living History demonstrations throughout the weekend with a chance to see ancient crafts in action. There will also be 17th-century live music and a chance to explore an 18th-century gun deck.

An outside arena will

host spectacular historical demonstrations and theatrical performances throughout the weekend.

On the Saturday night, there’s a chance to listen to Tchaikovsky’s iconic 1812 overture as it was meant to be performed - with live cannon fire!

This special event rounds off the town’s Summer of History

programme for this year which has included a spectacular reenactment of the Battle of Wimborne by the English Civil War Society, special events to commemorate D-Day, historical talks and a new exhibition at the Museum of East Dorset ‘Rebellion And Revolt’ which looks at the impact of the English Civil War across Dorset, and which will remain

open until October. This anniversary celebration is being funded by the Wimborne Militia with support from Wimborne Minster Town Council and the Wimborne BID.

Please note that the pedestrian entrance to this event is on Julian’s Road immediately before the bridge.

Visitors are requested to use town car parks and walk to the site along Julian’s Road footpaths.

For more information email: thewimbornemilitia@ outlook.com or visit their Instagram and Facebook social media pages.

CAR BOOT SALE,

B/H August 26th 2024. PAMPHILL GREEN, Wimborne, BH21 4EE Cars £5, Car + trailer & Vans £7 Sellers 8am, Buyers 9am.

TWIST & SHOUT

on: 07379 068334 or email info@it-ez.support. www.it-ez.support.

Recruitment

Health Care Support Worker

Synergy Complex Care is currently recruiting for a Healthcare Support Worker to join a team supporting our client, a disabled veteran who has severe MS, in the Shaftesbury, Dorset area. Must be adaptable, broad minded with a sense of humour. Duties include, but are not restricted to, all personal care and hygiene tasks, hoisted transfers from bed to chair, helping with eating, light domestic duties and driving; some cooking may be required. Must be a dog lover. Experience preferred. Full training provided. Salary range £13.00-£16.25 per hour. Email info@synergycomplexcare.com or Call 0117 403 7878

PURCHASE LEDGER ADMINISTRATOR

BLANDFORD DEPOT

We are looking for a great team player to join our Finance Department based at our Blandford Depot, with at least two years’ experience of Purchase Ledger, with good IT skills including Word and Excel. For full details and to apply please go to our website https://www.candotractors.com/career/

To advertise in the New Stour & Avon magazine, contact: jane.toomer@blackmorevale.net

SELF EMPLOYED EXPERIENCED GROUNDWORKERS/PLANT OPERATORS

We are looking for an experienced Groundworker who can also operate a 360° Excavator for local interesting contracts, working as part of a team.

Applicants must be con dent in their ability to carry out all aspects of groundwork to a good standard with attention to detail. We o er a safe working environment with good rates of pay. Local work and an opportunity of long-term employment with a friendly family run business.

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

At Morebus, we are so much more than just a bus service. You may be surprised to learn our range of services includes:

Regular bus services in and around Bournemouth, Christchurch, Poole, Wimborne and Purbeck

Unibus - dedicated Bournemouth University routes

New Forest Tour - seasonal open top tourist routes

Purbeck Breezers

Dedicated school buses.

All you need is a smile and a UK driving licence. Our friendly training team will support you through the rest of your journey. The process of gaining your PCV licence and learning the routes takes between 7-12 weeks.

There are lots of other benefits too:

Free bus travel on all Go-Ahead bus services in England (except London) for you and one other.

Discounts at high street retailers, including the main supermarkets, helping your money go that little bit further.

Employee Assistant Programme – with access to health/wealth advice and counselling.

Social events.

£16 Bus Drivers Saturday & Sunday

Trainee drivers start on £13.75 per hour from the first day, increasing to £15 per hour Monday to Friday, with even higher rates at weekends and if you do overtime all available once fully trained

We have VACANCIES at: Bournemouth

Bournemouth Poole

Ringwood

Lymington

Arrow words

Wordsearch

Garden Flowers

Crossword

Tempers (5)

Strokes (4)

1

6 3 2

Killer Sudoku Pro

Across

1 Small change for policeman (6)

1 Small change for policeman (6)

4 Woollen blanket from a fine African country largely (6)

8 Popular new hostel (3)

9 Doctor with man in reserve showing lack of poise (9)

Woollen blanket from a fine African country largely (6) 8 Popular new hostel (3) 9 Doctor with man in reserve showing lack of poise (9) 11 Former partner in morning takes test (4)

Loyal recording of female 60s British singer (8)

11 Former partner in morning takes test (4)

12 Loyal recording of female 60s British singer (8)

15 Fellow amid poor toil working to get collection of papers (9)

18 Good general driver, maybe, for US choir (4,4)

15 Fellow amid poor toil working to get collection of papers (9)

18 Good general driver, maybe, for US choir (4,4)

19 Painful separation without companion, serving woman (4)

19 Painful separation without companion, serving woman (4)

21 Improperly obtained tent I log roaming round lake (3-6)

23 Illuminated set of items with sun gone (3)

24 Salesperson gets to publicize resort (6)

21 Improperly obtained tent I log roaming round lake (3-6)

23 Illuminated set of items with sun gone (3)

25 Disclose writer engaged by publishing company (4,2) Down

24 Salesperson gets to publicize resort (6)

25 Disclose writer engaged by publishing company (4,2)

Killer Sudoku Pro:

Down

1 Herbs caught by places with a buzz? (6)

1 Herbs caught by places with a buzz? (6)

2 Tree by tech giant producing fruit (9)

2 Tree by tech giant producing fruit (9)

3 Fine old monarch in charge (4)

5 Complete fool defending new driver at high speed (4,4)

3 Fine old monarch in charge (4)

5 Complete fool defending new driver at speed (4,4)

6 Natural layer in the neighbourhood (3)

7 Dislike obelisk (6)

6 Natural layer in the neighbourhood (3)

7 Dislike obelisk (6)

10 Have eventual success – as an orchard does? (4,5)

13 Stump place with a note and diagram of layout (5,4)

10 Have eventual success – as an orchard does? (4,5)

13 Stump place with a note and diagram of layout (5,4)

14 Brother with old cricket club given exotic oil for vegetable (8)

16 Posh Greek concealing falsehood is more disquieting (6)

14 Brother with old cricket club given exotic for vegetable (8)

17 Part of a shoe conforming with others? (6)

20 Crack crisp biscuit (4)

16 Posh Greek concealing falsehood is more disquieting (6)

22 Insolence overturning a lot of lager (3)

17 Part of a shoe conforming with others?

20 Crack crisp biscuit (4)

22 Insolence overturning a lot of lager (3)

Place 1 to 9 once each into every row, column and bold-lined 3×3 box.

No digit may be repeated in any dashed-line cage, and all the digits in each cage must add up to the value shown in that cage.

MND golf day raises a hole lot of cash

A charity Golf Day organised by Danny’s MND Foundation at Ferndown Forest Golf Club has raised £17,000 for Motor Neurone Disease (MND) charities, research and support, including a donation of £4,100 for Forest Holme Hospice Charity.

Fourteen teams took part in the golf day which was the brainchild of Danny FudgeHarmen, a local estate agent who was diagnosed with MND in 2013, aged 36, with event sponsorship support provided by Asbury Heating and Maintenance and Volvo of Poole.

Since his diagnosis, Danny’s mission has been to raise awareness and help others affected by MND, which has included funding invaluable experiences, essential equipment and costly medications, as well as supporting MND charities.

Forest Holme Hospice Charity is particularly close to Danny’s heart as they part-fund an MND co-ordinator, Annemieke Fox, who supports people with MND and their families from diagnosis onwards including Danny and his family.

Danny said: “I am grateful to have found support in people like Annemieke at Forest Holme, who have been invaluable in helping me navigate the complexities of my condition.

“Her support and skills extend far beyond my medical care.

“She offers guidance and counsel for my wife and children as well, recognising the impact that this condition has on our entire family.

“Her willingness to listen, to offer advice, and to provide emotional support has been a lifeline for us during some of our darkest moments.”

He added: “To all those who kindly made donations for our golf day charity event, we

are immensely grateful for their generous contributions.

“The support in donating items for the auction and raffle was essential in making the event a success, and thanks to everyone’s generosity, we were able to raise significant funds to support those affected by MND and further our mission to find a cure.”

For more information on Danny’s MND Foundation, visit dannysmndfoundation.co.uk.

Return of popular rugby lunch event

Diverse Abilities, Dorset’s disability charity, hosts its annual Rugby Lunch, at Hoburne Park, Christchurch, on Friday, September 13, sponsored by Dunore Utility Connections.

The Rugby Lunch provides great entertainment, networking opportunities, and guest celebrity appearances including Luke Pearce, one of the leading World Rugby referees representing England and the most capped current referee, achieving 50 tests. Alongside Pearce is Neil Back

MBE, a legend of the game, Neil has played a fundamental role in some of the most momentous games of the modern era.

Plus, David Flatman, former prop for Bath and the England national rugby team turned pundit, returns to host the day. Over the past 13 years the event has raised a combined

total of more than £298,000. Funds raised at the event ensure the charity can continue to make a difference to children and adults living with physical and learning disabilities in the county, and their families.

Tim Carroll, director at Dunore Utility Connections, said: “It means so much to us to support a charity that does so much

to help children and adults with physical and learning disabilities.

“It’s such a pleasure to be involved in the event again, and we are really looking forward to attending in September.”

The sporting lunch kicks off at noon with welcome drinks and a VIP reception for sponsors, before guests take their seats for a three-course meal and hear from the celebrity guest speakers.

There will also be an opportunity to win the famous Knife, Fork, and Spoon game, raffle prizes, and auction lots, of which prizes are donated from local businesses and the community.

Tickets are now sold out for this event, however you can sign up for the Diverse Abilities Newsletter, to be the first to find out details of next year’s event at diverseabilities.

org.uk

Chilthorne Domer

Chilthorne Domer

Guide: £525,000

Guide: £525,000

46.89 acres (18.98 hectares) of productive level arable land situated to the north of Yeovil. For sale by Formal Tender as a whole, closing Wednesday 31st July 2024.

46.89 acres (18.98 hectares) of productive level arable land situated to the north of Yeovil. For sale by Formal Tender as a whole, closing Wednesday 31st July 2024.

Yeovil | 01935 382901

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

Yeovil | 01935 382901

2014 (14) Ford Fiesta 1.0T Zetec 5dr. 100bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, Free yearly road tax & upto 65mpg economy, cambelt wetbelt kit has been replaced, full history, 85,000 miles ............................DUE IN SOON £5250

Foyle Hill, Shaftesbury

Foyle Hill, Shaftesbury

Guide: £150,000

2010 (10) Ford Focus 1.6 Zetec Estate 5dr. 100bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, great value load lugger, MOT Jan 25, cambelt has been replaced, private sale on behalf of a customer, 105,500 miles .................................£2000

Guide: £150,000

12.37 acres (5.00 ha) of undulating pasture land boasting spectacular far reaching views over the surrounding countryside. Suitable for agriculture, equestrian and amenity uses. For sale by Informal Tender, closing Wednesday 7th August 2024.

12.37 acres (5.00 ha) of undulating pasture land boasting spectacular far reaching views over the surrounding countryside. Suitable for agriculture, equestrian and amenity uses. For sale by Informal Tender, closing Wednesday 7th August 2024.

Salisbury | 01722 334323

2004 (53) Mercedes-Benz SLK200 Kompressor 2.0 Convertible 2dr. 163bhp, petrol, 6 speed manual gearbox, cheap summer fun, leather, clearance car to be sold as seen, MOT June 25, only 53,500 miles ..........................£3500

2021 (71) Mercedes-Benz Vito 119 2.0CDi Tourer Select Automatic LWB 9 Seat Minibus 5dr. 187bhp, diesel, 9 speed automatic gearbox, 8 seat plus driver, 3 front seats, 6 rear seats, twin side doors, auto lights & wipers, slide tip & tumble rear seating, 45,500 miles ..........................£32000 + VAT = £38400

2001 (Y) MG MGF 1.8 Convertible 2dr. 118bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, cheap summer fun, to be sold as seen with MOT until August 2025, British Racing Green with 2 tone leather interior, only 49,700 miles .........£2000

Bagber Common

Guide: £1,350,000

2020 (69) Ford Tourneo Custom 2.0TDCi Titanium 320 L1 H1 Automatic 9 Seat Minibus 5dr. 130bhp, diesel, 6 speed automatic gearbox, 8 seat plus driver, 3 front, 6 rear, reversable rear seats, rear ac, auto lights & wipers, cruise, heated front seats, park sensors, cambelt kit has been replaced, 97,000 miles ..........................................................£23000 + VAT = £27600

Bagber Common

Salisbury | 01722 334323

2020 (69) Ford Transit 2.0TDCi Trend 350 MWB MR L2 H2 11 Seat Minibus 5dr. 130bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, 10 seat plus driver, 2 front seats, 9 rear seats, auto lights & wipers, cruise, park sensors, heated front seats, rear heating, hill start assist, cambelt kit has been replaced, 90,200 miles ..........................................................£22500 + VAT = £27000

2020 (20) Hyundai i10 1.0 SE Connect 5dr. 67bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, reverse camera, auto lights, cruise control, lane aid, hill start assist, 60mpg economy, 31,200 miles ........................................DUE IN SOON £10250

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

Nr. Sturminster Newton

Nr. Sturminster Newton

Guide: From £375,000

Guide: From £375,000

A traditional farmyard development of just nine bespoke dwellings in a delightful rural location close to Sturminster Newton. Open Day 20th July, 11 am – 3 pm. Please call for an appointment.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

A traditional farmyard development of just nine bespoke dwellings in a delightful rural location close to Sturminster Newton. Open Day 20th July, 11 am – 3 pm. Please call for an appointment. Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Tuesday 20th August at 5.30pm

Sunnymead Farm, Halstock, Yeovil, BA22 9RR

Sale of 2 Tractors, Farm Machinery & Livestock Equipment, etc

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

An extremely versatile detached family house with over 3300 sq ft of accommodation and a lovely west facing garden, set in a peaceful rural location with fine views over fields. CTB F.

Guide: £1,350,000

An extremely versatile detached family house with over 3300 sq ft of accommodation and a lovely west facing garden, set in a peaceful rural location with fine views over fields. CTB F.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

2016 (66) Volvo V40 2.0TD D2 R-Design 5dr. 120bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, sat nav, partial leather, heated seats, parking sensors, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, hill start assist, FREE road tax & upto 83mpg economy, 88,500 miles .............................................................................

Guide £450,000

Stinsford

ON FARM AUCTIONS

A 3 bedroom Grade II listed property forming part of a converted manor house, having links to Thomas Hardy, in a small hamlet on the edge of Dorchester.

Guide £450,000

A 3 bedroom Grade II listed property forming part of a converted manor house, having links to Thomas Hardy, in a small hamlet on the edge of Dorchester.

Thursday 29th August at 12.00 Noon

Dorchester | 01305 261008

Dorchester | 01305 261008

Larkinglass Farm, Motcombe, Shaftesbury, SP7 9HY

Chilthorne Domer Guide: £525,000

Reduction Sale of The ‘Mere Park Herd’ of Pedigree Devon Cattle

92 Head comp: 28

Cows with their Calves at Foot, 2

46.89 acres (18.98 hectares) of productive level arable land situated to the north of Yeovil. For sale by Formal Tender as a whole, closing Foyle Hill, Shaftesbury

Pedigree Stock Bulls, 15 Served Heifers, 17 Steers, 2

Pedigree Stock Bulls (16/17mnths)

(In conjunction with Andrew Lane)

Marnhull

12.37 acres (5.00 ha) of undulating pasture land boasting spectacular far reaching views over the surrounding countryside. Suitable for agriculture, equestrian and amenity uses. For sale by Informal Tender, closing Wednesday 7th August 2024.

Marnhull

Salisbury | 01722 334323

Land at Kings Mill Farm, Marnhull

Guide: £400,000

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Including: 2007 John Deere 5720 c/w Quike Q50 Loader (1780hrs), 2010 New Holland T5030 Deluxe (2058hrs), Joskin TR275 C3 Topper, JF CM1650 Drum Mower, Kuhn 300 Haybob, Teagle 45 Tipping Trailer, Hardi 600L 12m Sprayer, Parmiter Disc Harrows, Parmiter 16’ Chain Harrows, Kongskilde Triple K Cutlivator, Fulwood 3,800L Bulk Tank, Water Heaters, 72 Cubicle Loops, 250 Bags Mendip Sawdust, Silage Sheets, Gates, Troughs, Workshop Items, Livestock Sundries, etc

Guide: £400,000

A detached 3 bedroom house with private garden on the edge of the village built in 2019, Apple Tree Cottage encapsulates old cottage charm with modern fittings. CTB E.

A detached 3 bedroom house with private garden on the edge of the village built in 2019, Apple Tree Cottage encapsulates old cottage charm with modern fittings. CTB E. Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

On behalf of Mr & Mrs Crocker (Retiring)

A block of productive pasture and arable land extending to approximately 119.53 acres Offered on a 3 year Farm Business Tenancy. Available as a whole or in up to 3 lots by Tender

Maperton, Wincanton

Maperton, Wincanton

accommodation and a lovely west facing garden, set in a peaceful rural location with fine views over fields. CTB F. Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Tenders close 12 noon on Friday 6 September

Guide: £420,000

An attractive 3/4 bedroom house situated in an accessible location within the Blackmore Vale countryside, and with ample off-road parking. CTB C. Freehold.

Sherborne | 01935 814488

Contact Greg Ridout: 01935 382909/07817 517467

Sherborne | 01935 814488

Guide: £420,000

An attractive 3/4 bedroom house situated in an accessible location within the Blackmore Vale countryside, and with ample off-road parking. CTB C. Freehold.

Stinsford

Gorgeous little terrier in a bit of a pickle

Hello, I’m Pickles and I’m a 12-year-old terrier cross.

I am a little anxious here at the sanctuary, but love my outside time and enjoy a stroll around the garden.

I like a slow leisurely walk and enjoy the company of other dogs when we walk together, but would prefer to have a home of my own.

I am looking for an experienced owner with a quiet home who will give me time to settle and find my feet.

If you are able to offer Pickles or any of his lovely friends a forever home or a foster home please contact our office on 01202 875000, e-mail: admin@ waggytails.org.uk or visit our website waggytails.org.uk.

We also have lots of other dogs looking for their forever homes.

Puzzle solutions

Upcoming Events: Please do make a note in your diary and come to support us:

August 31: Wiseguys Coffee Morning & Stalls, 5-7 Stanpit, Christchurch,

BH23 3LZ.

September 14: True Lover’s Knott

Village Fete including Fun Dog Show, Tarrant Keyneston, DT11

9JG. Fete 12-late, Dog Show 2pm-4pm.

October 13: Charity Auction Night, The Hamworthy Club, Magna Road, Canford Magna, BH21 3AL, 6.30pm.

November 23:Autumn Fair, Kinson Community Centre, Kinson, BH10 7LH, 10am to 12:30pm.

Full details will be on our website prior to each event.

Brain chain (hard)

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