F
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Issue No. 125
June 2017
for Whitechurch, Whatcombe, Clenston, Stickland, Houghton, Turnworth & Milton Abbas
Helping to inform and unite the Community Š Valley News 2017
Content may not be reproduced without prior permission of the contributor
project as Paul Seeley has been more involved with his business than expected for the time of year, but is happy to provide training to willing volunteers. Advance warning has been received from Macmillan Dorset Bike Ride confirming that the 29th annual ride will pass through Milton Abbas on Sunday 2nd July, please be prepared for some disruption as 800 cyclists are anticipated to take part, although not all of them will be cycling through Milton Abbas. PLANNING Applications 2/2017/0087/FUL Milton Abbey School – Form equestrian Manege (for school use) & erect perimeter fence. This application prompted some extensive discussion during the open forum as residents expressed concerns that the Capability Brown landscape would be damaged by the proposed works. It was unanimously agreed that a decision on the application should be postponed until after a group site visit, with a representative from Milton Abbey School on hand to provide clarification. 2/2017/0501/TPTREE Milton Abbey School – Pollard lime tree, fell 1 Cherry tree, fell 1 Beech tree, fell two additional trees* 2/2017/0549/CATREE Maltings House – Remove 2 yew trees* 2/2017/0525/CATREE Penwarne, Catherine’s Well – Fell & replant leylandii hedge, fell 1 cotoneaster, fell & replant holly, fell unknown deciduous tree, reduce height of unknown evergreen tree* *The Tree Warden had not expressed any concerns relating to these applications. 2/2017/0239/HOUSE St Catherine’s Bungalow – Install 2 no. dormer windows and enlarge first floor window. An extension has been requested to consider this application at the May meeting. The next meeting will take place on 10th May 2017 and will be preceded by the APCM at 7pm.
Editorial It has been a long-held wish that our magazine should appeal to a wide range of readers, and that we maintain a wide range of contributors to help us achieve that. Judging by the occasional kind comments we receive we seem to be succeeding with the former, and (although we always welcome more articles on a wide range of subjects) we seem to have arrived at a feature that has become really popular – namely taking the Valley News on holiday! We have had photos of some stunning locations from abroad, and this month one from this country. Keep them coming – we do appreciate seeing them and will include as many as we can. Congratulations are due to two schools locally, who have let us know that they have received really successful OfSTED inspection outcomes. These inspections are not the easiest times for schools and to have received such outstanding results is a great credit to everyone involved – staff, pupils, governors and even parents! We are pleased that Knighton House School in Durweston, and our own community school Dunbury C of E Academy, have done so well. Summer is now officially here – and the longest day of the year (June 21st) is only a short time away. And in just a few short days the General Election will be here. We are very keen that we don’t take any particular view as far as any of the political parties are concerned, but what we do encourage is that everyone who is entitled to vote, does so. It’s so important not to forget that the entitlement for everyone to vote was a hard won right, and we should exercise that right – whatever views one might hold, and however one views the political system, our democracy should be cherished and supported at all times. We hope everyone has a great summer. The Valley News Team
Milton Abbas Parish Council
Vandalism at WSSCC
This is a summary of the Parish Council Meeting held on 12th April. For more details and the full minutes, when they are approved, please visit: www.miltonabbaspc.org.uk - The Clerk can be contacted on 01258 880383 or miltonabbas@dorset-aptc.gov.uk. Please note that with immediate effect, the Clerk’s postal address has changed to Bourne View, Chapel Lane, Winterborne Stickland DT11 0NG. Present: PCs: Tom Ives (Chair), Tobias Carleton-Prangnell, Steve Cox, Ellie Payne & Rowan Woodhouse. Also present Elizabeth Sellen (Clerk) and 6 members of the public. Work surges ahead with the new Play Park aided in part by contributions from local contractors. Tom reported that the ground has been levelled, and HERAS fencing has been delivered, to be erected on Friday 14th April. Installation of the play park equipment will commence on 18th April. Thanks to contacts provided through Spetisbury Construction, the HERAS fencing has been provided free of charge by Brandon Hire and the storage cabin has been provided as an effective donation of £300 by Eagle Plant, who are only charging for transportation costs of £120. With respect to the Bridleway which currently runs across the play park, Mr Graham Stanley (DCC Senior Ranger) has visited the site and confirmed that providing the Parish Council undertake to relocate the bridleway via the designated path (owned by the Housing Association) there will be no objection to the works to the Play Area. There will be costs from DCC (£3,000) and the Housing Association (c. £1,000). It was agreed to consider expenditure against budget later in the financial year to see whether the commitment could be undertaken in this financial year or postponed until 2018/2019. The working season for Jane’s Wood has ended, 30 shrubs funded by MATCH have been planted and MATCH has provided an additional £200 for day-to-day expenses. Mr Diek’s recent bat inspection identified resident Soprano Pipistrelles and Brown Long-Eared bats. The Annual Parish Meeting will be held in St James Church, Milton Abbas (date to be confirmed) and local groups will be invited to make a presentation for the benefit of residents. If you would like to be involved, please contact the Clerk for further information. Volunteers are sought to continue the work on the fingerpost
Between the 14th April 22:00 and the 15th April 10:00 the Sports Club in Winterborne Stickland was the location of multiple acts of criminal damage. This consisted of glass bottles being thrown and smashed, a fence panel being kicked down onto the grass and a bag of cement being ripped open and strewn across the veranda. This incident is being investigated by Dorset Police and lines of enquiry are being made. Crime prevention methods are now being installed at the location, specifically CCTV and Police patrols are being increased around the area. PCSO Mike Sinnick stated, “This is a frustrating and pointless act of vandalism, which targeted a community run sports centre – entirely based on volunteers and donations. I urge anybody with any information to come forward and contact 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 and quote the Occurrence number – 55170054953.” The committee members would like support with identifying ways in which we can engage the more disengaged members of our community to prevent this behaviour happening again. We are in the process of planning a few events, any support and ideas please contact WSSCC through Facebook facebook.com/WSSportsClub or by contacting the secretary Christina Rhodes Christina.rhodes@outlook.com or miriamleigh218@btinternet.com Upcoming Events 27th May Chris Henderson 8pm - late 1 June Clubhouse open to members & guests from 6pm 1 July Clubhouse open to members and guests from 6pn Miriam Leigh WSSCC Chairperson
Pamela Hambro Hall Following the AGM held last month, we are pleased to report the election of the following officers: Chairman: Kevin Oakley Vice Chairman: Graeme Gale Treasurer: John Jeffery (a welcome volunteer!) Secretary: Graham Case We are grateful for the support of the community for our efforts to maintain and develop the hall facilities, and for the continuing extensive use made of them. Graham Case 2
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The Winterborne Stickland Solar Fund Committee would like to remind residents of Winterborne Stickland that funding is available for community projects. Applications for funding should be emailed to sticklandsolarfund@yahoo.com Decisions are made every 2 months. The basic criteria is that ideas should have benefit to the community. A committee of volunteers select successful projects.
Valley News COPIES AVAILABLE FROM: • Winterborne Whitechurch Church • East Farm Shop, Winterborne Whitechurch • The Milton Arms, Winterborne Whitechurch • Milton Abbas Post Office • Pamela Hambro Hall, Winterborne Stickland • Winterborne Stickland Church • The Crown, Winterborne Stickland • Blandford Tourist Information Centre And online at issuu.com/valleynewsdt11
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Charisworth Farm
Hog Roasts Event catering 01258 453202 • 07766 913943 Private parties Machine Hire Outdoor reared Pork, Lamb or Turkey Call to discuss your requirements Meat boxes also available
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The cost varies, but could be around £50 for each dose. Neither Eagle House nor Whitecliff Surgeries provide these vaccines and the closest private clinics are at the Quarterjack Surgery in Wimborne, Sturminster Medical Centre or Abbey View Surgery in Shaftesbury. Some pharmacies and other GP practices may also offer this service, but you will need to ask. Antimalarial medication can be bought over the counter at a pharmacy, but you should avoid travelling to an area where malaria is a risk if you are pregnant. Travel vaccination arrangements should be made, if possible, at least eight weeks before you travel, to allow time for a comprehensive risk assessment of your travel plans. Some vaccinations need to be given well in advance to allow your body to develop immunity, and others involve multiple doses spread over several weeks. Dependent on when and where you travel and the activities you plan, you don’t always need vaccinations For up-to-date info on which vaccinations are recommended for different countries, see fitfortravel.nhs.uk/destinations.aspx
Winterborne Whitechurch Parish Council The meeting was held on Wednesday 10th May in the Old School Room with 7 members of the public present. The AGM voted Christine Flemming as Chair and Emma Parker as Vice Chair again without any other nominations. In the chairman’s report, Christine Flemming spoke of ‘still waiting’ for outcomes of issues raised with Dorset Highways, North Dorset, Feedback about Speed Watch etc. Thanks were given to Aideene Turley and the team for the time and effort against the still excessive speed of the traffic going through the village. The playpark unfortunately has been closed due to increasingly rapid deterioration of the centre tower/slide structure and wood bark surface which was acting like a sponge. After a small number of volunteers of mainly councillors and family members removed the bark and timber surround, it was decided that some of us were getting too old to do anything more and that it was no longer a viable option to try and do everything ourselves to save money. Hence we paid to have the central structure removed and ground levelled. A fund raising committee was formed but there was little interest from the village and after we increased our precept it was decided to close the separate committee although there are still plans for fund raising events. There are also plans for grants being obtained from a choice of various sources. It is hoped to have the outcome of these soon so that the play park can be reopened again. Reports were also provided from the clerk/RFO regarding Finance, from our County Councillor, District Councillors, and local organisations, the Village Hall, St Mary’s Church, and the Scouts group. The various councillor duties were then agreed on.. This concluded the Annual Meeting. Following the AGM the monthly meeting was held. Items discussed included the ongoing issues regarding a sign for the Village Hall that originally Highways were going to provide only if we paid for it - and now they won’t be doing that either. The outcome of Teddy Rock festival held just outside of the Parish did not cause any issues with noise although problems with traffic delays outside the site due to the traffic light system did. The planning application consultation for alteration to the Lady Bailey Caravan /Touring Park to make it 12 months occupation like the Residential Park was finalised. The Parish Council’s decision was that they were unable to support the application. This was due to the many issues raised by the Residential Park residents although these were not apparently legal objections for planning. The play park has now been prepared for replacement of the removed central structure and waiting on results of funding decisions. It is hoped to be in a position to start soon with the replacement tower/slide and a new ’bird’s nest’ swing for children with disabilities. The Community Speed Watch Team was out at different times each week and recently took part in a combined operation with other Dorset CSW Teams and Dorset, Devon & Cornwall Police Forces. The next Parish Council meeting has been changed to 7th June at 7:30 in the Old School Room. As usual all are welcome. For further information please see the village notice boards or contact the clerk on 01258 880600 or email to winterbornewhitechurch@dorset-aptc.gov.uk
Pamela Hambro Hall 100 Club April: May: June:
1st 127 Rene Webb 2nd 154 Francis Dennett 1st 109 Lynn Rainford 2nd 137 Mark Steele 1st 177 Ken Langrish 2nd 192 Dave Jolliffe
3rd 116 Vaughan Manners 3rd 169 Pat Oakley 3rd 173 Joan Wellstead
Winterborne Whitechurch 100 Club April
1st 1 Mr. Martin Dodd 2nd 23 Mr. Barry Thom
3rd 88 Mr. Bill Platten
Milton Abbas Local History Group Another packed meeting with another record attendance! Interest in the history of this remarkable village continues to grow. The second part of Martin Foers talk on the Damer dynasty focused on the 19th century family and its connections with Ireland. Joseph Damer's grand ambitions for his descendants to prosper in his new Milton Abbey estate rapidly came to naught. Although two of his three sons outlived him, none left him any heirs. His titles, including that of Earl of Dorchester, became extinct within 10 years of his death, and his beloved daughter Caroline had no heirs either, dying in 1828 and passing the estate to the Dawson family in Ireland. They were in debt and sold the estate in 1852. We now have a contact in British Columbia, and they have proved very useful because their ancestors were here in the critical period of the 1780's when the school was moved to Blandford, and the town demolished. Indeed one was a master of the school. It is possible that we can reach out to people around the world by using social media, and we are investigating this. We are in touch with Dorset Family History Society and are asking them to help with the transcribing that will help us understand what happened to the families here in the past. A trip to The National Archives unearthed many documents dating from as early as 1472 which we have now photographed and catalogued. The history group will have a stall at the Street Fair with a small display. Also we will be at the Annual Parish Meeting in St James on 31st May from 7pm. Do please come and talk to us and see what we are up to. Our group will be visiting the Dorset County Museum store this month and Cerne Abbas for a guided tour of that village in August. Our members Brian Larcher, Helier Exon and Michael McAvoy explained the exhibitions which are planned for the Abbey this summer; they will show the history of the Abbey building and its recent renovation, the stories of people who have shaped it, the landscape it is set in, the story of the move of the old town, the vision that it inspires and its spirit. There will be a reception for potential stewards, with refreshments, on Thur 1 June 6pm at the Abbey, all are welcome. Please contact Michael McAvoy on 880333 or email: mmcavoy@tiscali.co.uk if you would like to join them.
News from the Blandford Surgeries Going away – don’t forget your holiday jabs! If you are planning to travel abroad for your holidays, you may need vaccinations. Travel vaccinations against diphtheria, polio and tetanus (combined booster), typhoid, hepatitis A & B, and cholera are usually available free on the NHS to protect against diseases thought to represent the greatest risk to public health if brought into the UK. You're likely to have to pay for travel vaccinations, from designated centres only, against: Hepatitis B when not combined with hepatitis A, Japanese encephalitis and tick-borne encephalitis, meningitis vaccines, rabies, tuberculosis (TB), yellow fever. 6
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Dunbury CofE Academy
Bow-Wow – what a day!
Key Stage 1 news So far this term we have been busy exploring our topic of Ready Steady Grow and already a giant beanstalk has appeared in the corner of Maple class! We still don’t know who planted the seeds! The children have also been exploring the trees and plants growing in the school grounds especially as they are now in full blossom. We also took the opportunity to use the lovely colourful blossom to create some fantastic environmental art. With the lovely warm weather we are currently experiencing we have also had a welcome visit from the RNLI. We learned all about how to stay safe at the beach and near water.
Thank you to everyone who supported the Stickland Fun Dog Show and what fun we all had! The sun shone, the dogs behaved not one dispute over a biscuit for catching or territorial ownership of the Village Green. There was a keen competitive spirit to win the beautiful rosettes with handlers scrambling through tunnels and jumping fences - even if their dogs decided to give them a miss and take the easy route! We were entertained with tricks and musical sit downs. And the lengths owners went to to look like their dogs really demonstrated determination and pre-show preparation too. Who knew that we had a canine Rector as well as a human one!
We are all proud of the brilliant OFSTED and SIAMS results the school has achieved and the children are looking forward to the plant sale at the end of the term where they will be selling their own plants.
There was enthusiastic support to ‘give it a go’, and many Dads went home with lighter pockets after the children took every pound to enter more and more classes. Sorry Dads – we promise to make it up to you on the 18th June. Thank you to Glynis for the agility resources and the demonstrations from her lovely dogs. Our judges, Tony and Rachel gave their time willingly and we are very grateful to them. Pat’s team once again served delicious cakes and teas including ‘doggie’ cupcakes. A huge thank you to everyone who baked, served and washed up for us. Kevin and Jason, who had worked hard to prepare for the day, ensured entertainment all afternoon with their fantastic ring organisation and witty running commentary. Thank you to our team of regular helpers (including children) who worked hard behind the scenes to make sure everything ran smoothly. As we have stated many times, our events have two aims - to help raise much needed funds for the day to day running of the Church and the clergy support team, and also, to hold a range of events that appeal to a wide range of villagers and their friends and families. The Church will benefit from £436 from the proceeds of this event, and we were really pleased to see many new faces along with many of our regular supporters – thank you all and we are so pleased you had a great day! Sunday, June 18th - The Great Get Together 2017 and more Our next event will be our Vintage Teas afternoon on the Village Green on Sunday, 18th June. Celebrate Fathers’ Day and also be part of the National Great Get Together (www.greatgettogether.org) which is being held all over the country in memory of the late MP Jo Cox. Share and enjoy an afternoon with people in our community. Bring your family, friends, neighbours and don’t forget Dad! Enjoy a relaxing afternoon with delicious homemade sandwiches, scones and cakes. No entry fee and all items individually priced so why not come along, eat as much or as little as you like and enjoy! There will be a bouncy castle and slide for the children to burn off their energy, a magic show to keep us all entertained, music, raffle tickets to buy if you want to try your luck, and locally grown plants for sale to add to your garden collection and remember the day. Thank you to everyone who supports St Mary’s in so many ways. We are really looking forward to sharing more summer fun and laughter with you all. St Mary’s Stickland PCC and Events Team Picture: Lynne Rainford
Winterborne Whitechurch Village Hall Over the past month we have been having trouble with the heating system, it was found to be leaking too much carbon monoxide thus becoming a danger to all users of the hall. A new boiler is being fitted on Wednesday 10th April, so hopefully all will soon be back to normal. During the breakdown the hall was still being used although it was found to be rather cold to start with. We the Village Hall committee used the back room, thankfully we were rather warm as we had the use of the two wall heaters! At the time of going to press the hall will have held an Auction hopefully as successful as those in the past. A Jumble Sale will be held on the 17th June. The hall is being extensively used by many groups, Scouts, Zumba, Keep Fit, Bingo plus other private parties. Other organisations included the Forestry Commission, Cyclists who use the hall as a stop off and obtain refreshments, and of course the Elections. A pantomime is at the moment being arranged for the end of the year - more details to follow. We hope it will be as successful as the one held last year. The hall has been fitted with WiFi free for all users.
Bere Regis Floral Group The next meeting of Bere Regis Floral Group will be on Tuesday June 13th at 2pm in Winterborne Kingston village hall. The demonstrator for that day will be Denise Bright, and her title is Room to Room. Visitors and new members are always welcome to come along to any meeting, and your first visit is free of charge. Contact secretary Sue Stone on 01929 471082.
Viola Purple, yellow, and white, like a row of sentinels. What a glorious sight, to make your heart swell.
Standing on their tiptoes, this colourful frieze. My favourite flower show, Viola, my heartsease. Jackie Grearson
Deadlines for July’s Valley News Ads: Sat 10th Jun • Articles: Thu 15th Jun 8
Polly 'Bs' Local lady doing: Holistic Treatments, Massage, Reflexology, Indian Head Massage and Ear Candling. Also Beauty Treatments Facials, Waxing, Eyebrow/Lash tinting. Manicure and Pedicure Nail cutting and Hard Skin Removal. Appointments available during the day and evenings. Some treatments can be done in your home.
Ring Pauline on 01258 880084 / 07760 303332 Gift Vouchers available.
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Events
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See page 18 for more Events
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Streamwatch
Bus2Go
Dilemma 2016/17 has been the driest winter in 20 years and this has been followed by the driest April for 20 years so there is little wonder that the water levels for the River Winterborne are exceptionally low. The Met Office forecast long periods of dry conditions throughout the coming summer with little hope for much needed rainfall. As a ‘chalk stream’ the River Winterborne relies upon water flowing from the chalk at the point where the underlying porous rocks meet an impervious layer forming springs. This is supplemented by water pumped from wells at the fish farm, however, when ground water drops excessively, even these are unable to produce water. Along with the problem of low water levels, a number of swallets are opening up due to the drying chalk. In order to get water to reach the village green for the Stickland dog show, three swallets were carefully blocked, however more are opening up – the trouble is finding them! The observant pedestrian will note a sudden change in water levels and drop in flow rate about half way along Water Lane. It is not permitted to remove weed from the watercourse before the end of May when the Ranunculus finishes flowering. This will help with flow rates but not with the disappearing water. It is possible to remove some of the other vegetation but here is the dilemma - there have been sightings of water voles along this stretch over the past three months.
We are all looking forward to our outing on the 1st June when we take to the canal on a Horse Drawn Barge on the Kennet and Avon Canal at Kinterbury. All are welcome, please see poster for details. The outing is in celebration of our 5th Birthday and becoming a registered charity in 2016.
We have been fortunate in having lovely weather as we take our first outings of the season to the great outdoors. Forty of our passengers were on the outing to Jailhouse Café Portland. The Trustees of Bus2Go would like to take this opportunity to thank our hard working, cheerful volunteers who willingly give of their spare time to ensure our passengers all have a safe and enjoyable experience. Our popularity is increasing and we welcome new volunteers. Full training and support will be given. The ethos of our project is to go out and have fun! Looking forward to welcoming you on board very soon. For further details please ring 01258 837749/07917 298321 or visit our website www.bus2godorset.org
Down the Garden Path I was amused to hear someone on the radio describing how they had moved and created a new garden. All the advice given at the time was for a Mediterranean dry garden so she followed the advice. Then there were two successive very wet summers and her plants drowned. So she dug them all up and replanted for a wet summer and it has been dry ever since. Such are the vagaries that gardeners have to deal with and so far 2017 has been very dry. Some people put drip hoses through their borders to water the garden but I don't believe in watering borders. Plants need to take their roots down to find moisture and, unless you saturate the soil, most of the watering evaporates before it percolates to any depth and consequently plants get lazy and concentrate on roots nearer the surface where the water is more accessible. If I see a plant which is clearly shouting for water I will give it a watering can full, and sometimes two, until it perks up. New plants need to go into humus rich well watered holes so that the compost holds the water and enables the roots to settle and grow. Neither do I ever feed my lawns. I tend to agree with the concept of green spaces rather than immaculate lawns and, unless you have a Highgrove staff at your disposal, a proper lawn is a lot of work. It needs feeding and weeding, cutting and watering and the grass has to be tended to the exclusion of all other plants. Monoculture is an unnatural state. One patch of ours is more daisies than anything else and at this time of year we leave it uncut in favour of a wonderful carpet of white. Monty Don increasingly leaves his green spaces to grow, cutting paths through them. For me, immaculate lawns are like house work - you do it week in, week out, and no one really notices because it all looks as they expect. The one exception that we make is that, having cut the grass so that the cuttings accumulate in strips, we rake up the debris. In the recent dry spell this removed much of the winter's moss and helps to aerate the lawn. I love abutilons and last autumn repotted my yellow one. Two tomato plants appeared alongside in February and they too were potted on. They are still indoors and both plants have set tomatoes
Picture by Will Bown This means that any work in blocking swallets or removal of vegetation or cutting weed is curtailed until surveys have been undertaken. The Environment Agency, Natural England, Dorset Wildlife Trust and The Highways Agency all have a say in what should or should not be done and such engagement is protracted and advice never immediate. The River Management Group has requested advice and appropriate licences. It appears that successful management over the past couple of years has created favourable conditions for water voles once again. Ecologists from the Dorset Count Council Natural Environment Team visited Stickland in May, specifically looking for water vole signs. They, and the Environment Agency, are particularly encouraged by the strategy adopted by the Stickland Parish Council and both groups are very positive about the work being done through the River Stickland Management Group and its helpers. It is important to keep a wildlife corridor for water vole movement. The low levels of water dictate that the river channel should be very narrow. Any work in the river must be preceded by a locality survey and logging findings and proceeding with actions that create minimal disturbance. Now add to this equation, there is urgent need for road and bank repairs due to subsidence and erosion of banks by both water and vehicular damage - you can understand the complexities of keeping everyone happy. Thanks for your many positive comments, support and pictures. If you would like to help in any way please contact Richard Marchant on 01258 881716. River Stickland Management Group 14
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so it will be interesting to see which variety they are. Pleasant surprises are always welcome but sadly abutilons are not frost hardy and so need to come inside each winter. In their original habitat they grow into small trees which show off their flowers perfectly, a feat I managed in London but not here in the chill of a Dorset winter. Geraniums are such giving plants, they are easy to grow and come in a huge range of colours with a variety of leaf colours and shapes. Among my favourites are the scented varieties with wonderfully aromatic leaves which are perfect in a position where you have to brush past them repeatedly, so releasing their oils into the air. Being easy to propagate, what’s not to like about them, and planted in pots or in the garden they put on a lovely show through to the autumn with a bit of dead-heading to encourage them. Claire Scott
corner and continue folding it along the whole strip into a triangular parcel. Repeat until all of the pastry and filling has been used up. Brush the top with butter and cook for 25 minutes until crisp. A perfect accompaniment is a salad laced with lots of fresh herbs: parsley, rocket, mint, dill, coriander, oregano, basil and marjoram, all adding extra flavour to the lettuce. The zest of lemons or limes add an unexpected twist while chives or spring onions add another dimension along with finely sliced sweet red onions. Herbs are so easy to grow in the smallest of gardens and thrive on poor soil, as in their native countries. So, have fun and play with their wonderful flavours. Claire Scott
News from Milton Abbey Church Well, they say that good things are worth waiting for and this is certainly true of Milton Abbey Church. It has been more than 150 years since in 1865 Sir Gilbert Scott last restored the Church at the expense of the late Charles Joachim, Baron Hambro. Yes, the fine edifice is still set like a gem in the stunning Capability Brown landscape but sadly the intervening years have not been kind to Milton Abbey. The elements, in particular rainwater, have taken a costly toll, resulting in damage to the roofs and ceilings, water running down the internal walls and due to poor drainage rising water raising the tiled floors. Now, with the aid of Viridor funds and a successful Heritage lottery grant to the newly formed Milton Abbey Heritage Trust (MAHT) we beginning to see the benefit of a major investment in this wonderful place. MAHT brings together three parties to share in this project, Salisbury Diocese, Milton Abbey School and The Forestry Commission. In addition to the planned physical works all are committed to achievement of a sustainable future for The Abbey Church, St Catherines Chapel and the Heritage Landscape in which they reside. To help secure this MAHT has recently appointed Brian Larcher as Development Manager, previously Estates Bursar at Milton Abbey School. In addition to his work over many years caring for property in general and listed buildings in particular, Brian also brings significant design, development and operational experience of entertainment and visitor centres in leading locations such as Stratford-upon-Avon and Winchester. Brian will be working closely with the many volunteers and helpers who have given so generously of their time and talents over the years and helped to establish this project. In addition to those loyal and committed supporters he will be seeking to encourage others join them in the future. It is his hope "that when more people hear of the need and opportunity to help in this project many may will want to learn more about our activities and plans for the future of the Abbey Church and Landscape and wish to join us". One way in which many people have been involved in the past is via stewarding and acting as Abbey guides. Current and former stewards are invited to an evening reception at The Abbey Church, this year on Thursday 1st June 6pm for 6.30pm, but this is open to all. During the evening the programme of refurbishment will be explained. There will also be a brief outline of the ways in which local residents can be involved in events, programmes and development of The "Abbey community". In the immediate future, this will focus on the forthcoming Summer Exhibition. On this evening it is planned to provide refreshments and Brian would be grateful if you would let him know by email to brian.larcher@maht.org.uk if you plan to attend. This year the Summer Exhibition featuring the Landscape, History and Heritage of the place will be open at The Abbey from 7th July until August 30th. Abbey visitor parking will be at Damer green, just inside the school gates. Earlier this year Chris & Carolyn Jervis moved to take up residence in their home in Hazelbury Bryan. Chris, having been the Chaplain and Head of Philosophy and Theology at Canford for many years, and having recently spent 4 years as the Vicar of St. Helier Jersey, returned to Dorset to be appointed as The Provost of The Abbey at Milton. In the Abbey on July 11th Chris will lead a Celebration of St.Benedict' Day at 7pm. This event will also provide an introduction to new ways in which you can enjoy a closer relationship with us through becoming a Member of the Abbey Community.
What’s Cooking Summer means lighter food and fresher flavours. Spanakopita is a delicious Greek filo pastry pie which is very easy to make and can be served hot, warm or cold. Even TV chefs buy their filo pastry which is readily available and also freezes. When handling it, it is important to ensure that it doesn’t dry out so unroll it and lay it out on the work surface covered with a damp tea towel. Spanakopita is a spinach and cheese pie, usually made with ricotta. The green element does not have to be just spinach and you can add another flavour such as watercress and rocket. You can also substitute feta, ewe or a hard goats cheese for ricotta and finely chopped fennel adds a mild aniseed flavour. It can be made as little triangular individual finger food or as one pie. The basic recipe is 500g spinach, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 small onion finely chopped, 2 spring onions, trimmed and finely chopped, 100g feta cheese, 1 large egg and 1 tbsp parmesan. The Greek cheese is kefalotiri which is not easy to get hold of and parmesan works just as well. A pinch of freshly ground nutmeg, 2 tbsp chopped fresh mint, 250-275g packet of filo pastry (about 6 sheets), 100g butter, salt and freshly ground pepper. Wash and dry the spinach and remove any large stalks. Finely shred the leaves and heat the olive oil in a large pan, add the onion and cook gently until soft but not browned. Add the spinach a handful at a time until it has wilted. Tip into a colander and drain, pressing out all of the excess liquid, then return to the pan with the spring onion and cook for one minute. Leave to cool. Crumble the feat cheese into a mixing bowl and mash with a fork to remove any really large lumps, but leave it chunky. Mix in the egg, parmesan, spinach mixture, nutmeg, mint and salt and pepper to taste. Preheat the oven to 180C/gas mark 4. Unroll the filo pastry and, if you are making a single pie, lightly grease a 20cm round, 7cm deep, dish or a spring form cake tin if you want to serve it on a platter. Take one sheet of filo at a time and brush all over with melted butter, then lay in the tin to cover the base and overlap the sides. Take another sheet, brush with butter and lay on top of the sheet already in place. Repeat with the remaining sheets until the dish is fully lined and you have only one sheet left over. Spoon in the filling and level, fold the over-hanging filo into the middle, then lay the last sheet on top. Try and scrunch it a bit to give a textured surface, brush with the remaining butter. Transfer to a baking tray and bake for 35-40 minutes until golden and crisp. Allow it to stand for ten minutes before removing from the tin if you have used one. To change the flavours, use one 170g bag of watercress and a similar amount of rocket with 50g spinach and 1 finely chopped fennel bulb. The cheese can be a 250g tub of ricotta instead of feta with grated hard ewes or goats cheese instead of parmesan or, if you have some strong hard cheddar lurking in the fridge, use that. This is another example where a basic classic recipe can be changed to suit your taste or what is available. You can even add raisins and pine nuts which both work well with spinach. If you prefer to make individual pies, cut the stack of filo lengthways into strips about 7.5cm wide. Brush the top layer with melted butter. Place a heaped teaspoonful of the filling in the centre of one strip at the end nearest to you and fold one bottom corner of the pastry diagonally over the filling so that the corner touches the opposite side to make a triangle. Then fold over the filled triangle 16
VIVIENHORDER Estate Agents See the latest properties online:
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The Winterborne Valley & Milton Abbas Benefice was saying, they picked up stones to throw at him. The first martyr was Stephen, he was stoned to death... Why? because he spoke truth. This sort of thing still happens in the 21st Century. We mostly use words rather than stones. Sometimes we think that what we have is the truth and that it is alright to use it indiscriminately. There are plenty of examples in the present and recent history of the civilised world to see this. Jesus talked about truth. One time he described himself as, "The way, the truth and the life". Another time he is reported as saying "The truth will set you free". You can see from the wisest book we have, that truth is something positive, something gentle, something that builds up - not destroys. Truth used as a weapon is no longer truth but something less helpful. The Gospel is anchored in the idea that truth (and even love) is objective and available to all. Truth values all people. Truth calls us to confess, to repent, and to put something bigger than ourselves above ourselves. Truth, therefore is something holy, something to uphold. Blessings, Alan Ryan
Dear Reader, There have been some good things going on in our villages - and there is more to come! Many people have been asking when the scarecrows will be out and about around the villages. Just to let you know that they will be happening - next year. The intention is that Casting the Net or something similar will be an alternate year event. There are a lot of other events to enjoy this year as it is. The much enjoyed Messy Games is one event and will be on 8th July at Stickland sports club - and it is free! I have had some interesting feedback and conversations from the letter I wrote for the May issue of Valley News. I offered the information of how much it costs in financial terms to keep village churches running. Thank you very much to those who have responded - it has been very helpful. Some people have taken it as an opportunity to share their negative views, to get on their soapbox and tell me how the church should be. It is a free world and we are entitled to our views and opinions but not necessarily so helpful.. It is easy to offer negative criticism. If you read the bible, you will be familiar with the way that when people didn't like what Jesus FROM THE REGISTERS
Clenston Houghton Milton Abbas Stickland Turnworth Whitechurch Theme Old Testament Epistle Gospel
Baptisms Marriage
Catherine Roberts Harrison George Roberts Carl Adey and Charlotte Watkins
4th June Pentecost Red 1000 HC PC/JHB 1000 MW IB/WB 1000 MW SL 0830 (BCP) sHC AR
I will pour out my spirit Acts 2: 1-21 1 Cor 12: 3b-13 John 7: 37-39
11th June Trinity Sunday Gold or White 1800 HC AR 0830 HC BCP JHB
on 7th May 2017 on 7th May 2017 on 27th May 2017
at St James', Milton Abbas at St James', Milton Abbas at St Nicholas', Clenston
18th June 1st after Trinity (Proper 6) Green
1600 EP + baptism AR 1000 HC AR
1000 MW JT/AR 1000 HC TS Go, and make disciples Gen 1: 1 - 2:4a 2 Cor 13: 11-13 Matthew 28:16-20
1000 MW Colin Brady/PC Sheep among wolves Exodus 19: 2-8a Romans 5: 1-8 Matthew 9:35 – 10.8, (9-23)
25th June 2nd after Trinity (Proper 7) Green
1000 HC AR 1000 MW SL 1800 HC AR 0830 (BCP) sHC AR Do not fear Jer 20: 7-13 Romans 6: 1b - 11 Matthew 10:24- 39
MIDWEEK SERVICES: Mondays & Tuesdays 0835 Morning Prayer Stickland Wednesdays 0930 HC Milton Abbas SERVICES KEY: BCP 1662 Book of Common Prayer Traditional EP Evening Prayer HC Holy Communion (Eucharist) MW Morning Worship, informal service for all, with old & new hymns & songs, without Holy Communion SHC Service without hymns or music Rev'd Alan Ryan - AR • 01258 880482 • www.winterbornevalleyandmiltonbenefice.com Rev'd Sue Litchfield - SL Rev'd Jimmy Hamilton-Brown - JHB Rev’d Tina Sterling - TS Rev'd Helier Exon - HE Emily D'Silva EdS Debbie Albery DA Harriet Ryan HR Jenny Tory JT Ian Bromilow IB Wilma Bromilow WB Piers Chichester PC
COFFEE MORNING & CHARITY SHOP • Mondays • 10.30am12noon • St. Mary’s Church, Stickland WHITECHURCH YOUTH CLUB (7-14 year olds welcome) Mondays • 6.30pm • Whitechurch Village Hall COFFEE STOP • Tuesdays • 10.30am-12noon • St James, Milton Abbas CUP-N-CAKE • Wednesdays • 10.30am-12noon • Old School Room, Whitechurch ROUND ROBIN RAMBLERS Sat 3rd June • 9.15am • Valley Walk Meet at Turnworth church for a stunning walk Turnworth, Houghton, Stickland, Whitechurch, Milton Abbas. Total distance 11 miles, Smaller sections and return transport to Turnworth available. Refreshments en route but bring packed lunch. Phone Richard D'Silva (880118) or Ian Bromilow (880044) for more details. Wed 7th Jun • 11am Hilton and Dewlish (arrive 10:30 for coffee and cake) Meet at the Old School, Hilton. Bring a packed lunch. Milborne Movies ‘The Man Who Knew Infinity (PG13) • Fri 9th Jun • 7.30pm • Milborne St. Andrew Village Hall Bar open 7pm. Tickets £3.50 on the door. BINGO • Fri 16th Jun • 7.30pm • Whitechurch Village Hall Raffle, Refreshments • In aid of Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance
Valley News Information VN Team
Graham Case, Valerie Ashford, Claire & John Scott, Barbara Luke, Jim Luke Advertising Anne Donnelly ads@valley-news.co.uk, 881261 Treasurer Janet Snook news@valley-news.co.uk Distribution Sue Eggar, Angela D'Silva news@valley-news.co.uk Layout Mark Steele news@valley-news.co.uk Printing Purely Print www.purelyprint.co.uk 01258 459977 Payments All advertising to be pre-paid. Cheques payable to ‘Valley News'. Internet Bank Transfers now accepted. Small Ads Private sellers only. Small ads will be included for a donation and confirmed for publication when the donation is received. Charity Events Events in the Valley News area will be listed free on the Events page. Normal advertising rates will apply for boxed ads. Articles: Send by email to news@valley-news.co.uk or to Valerie Ashford, 11 Fairmead, Stickland Please include name & contact number in case of any queries. Deadlines: For Advertising (Business and Events) 10th of the prior month. For all other submissions (articles, pictures etc.): 15th of the prior month. Late items may not appear until the next edition. 18
CUT N COVER Ltd … We come to you An experienced, local company making bespoke covers (based in Dewlish) in UV protected/rot proof acrylic or PVC Boats, trailers, garden furniture & outdoor equipment, classic cars, motorbikes etc. in UV protected/rot proof acrylic or PVC. Upholstery – outdoor furniture, campervans, boats etc. Repairs and alterations to covers and caravan awnings CONTACT Wayne Roberts (Darren) 07974 104744 www.cutncover.co.uk wayne@cutncover.fsnet.co.uk
D.YOUNG GENERAL BUILDER & MAINTENANCE BRICK & BLOCKWORK EXTENSIONS & PORCHES DRIVEWAYS & PATIOS FENCING & CONCRETING 56 PHILIP ROAD BLANDFORD DORSET MOB 07779 827723 DT11 7NT TEL 01258 459042
G P Lewis Interior/Exterior Painter & Decorator All aspects of painting and decorating undertaken including Domestic, New builds, Refurbs and Commercial. Qualified and with over 30 years experience,will offer friendly advice if needed. 1st class finish Free written quotes Fully insured No job too small or big No VAT If you require a job done hassle free, by an honest friendly tradesman, please give Gavin a call, Winterborne Kingston 01929 471704 or 07977 047314 Email g.lewis515@btinternet.com
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VALLEY LAWN CARE Services available: • Grass cutting /edging • Lawn rolling • Hedge trimming • Garden tidy up
THE DORSET SAWMILL Fence panels Posts, rails and most sawn timbers LOGS for sale Air dried / Barn stored / Kiln dried Kindling
All works completed to a high standard.
Call Chris on 07833 467176
Call Kevin 01258 860053 • 07766 556010 21
ACUPUNCTURE 1:1 PILATES CLASSES HOPI EAR CANDLES Clinics at: Winterborne Stickland & Blandford 01258 880464 07913 985495
Tessa ~ Catering FOR ALL YOUR CATERING REQUIREMENTS
SJW Tree and Hedge Care Logs Supplied
Birthdays, Christenings, Weddings Corporate & Social Lunches Drinks, Canapé & Dinner Parties Teas, Cakes & Cake Decoration
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01258 881550
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Email: robert@kelso.org.uk
WANTED CASH BUYER SEEKS MOTOR VEHICLES £100 - £10,000
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Prompt free collection and cash settlement. Mature polite buyer. No pressure or obligation. Often better than dealer part exchange offer. DVLA paperwork completed. 4 x 4 and prestige motors especially wanted.
Seasoned logs sourced locally from managed woodlands, delivered to you. Call Graham 07870 829160 or Richard 07766 913943
Are you building a new extension? Are you doing alterations to your home? Do you need some free advice & a quote for drawings?
jo d designs Posters Advertising Planning Drawings Building Regs Drawings Call me:
01258 721347 or 07703 034127 or email: kempo79@sky.com
J.P.L Gardens Professional Garden Services Lawn Mowing • Hedge Cutting Garden Maintenance • Garden Clearance Mole Catching • Landscaping and fencing Small tree work
Call Jerry Legg 01258 489977 • 07940 895803
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Parties, wedding receptions, meetings and any function that needs a bit of space. Kids birthday parties welcome. Kitchen facilities, toilets and bar area. Disabled friendly. Booking charges are £7 per hour. Also available to hire are marques and gazebos.
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Domestic and Industrial J.I.B. Registered Robert Way
sofa bed and travel cot. Electrical Contractor Kitchens and Bedrooms Long term, Short term, Weekends a speciality Wyvern Cottage and Overnight. North Street General handyman for all Excellent Breakfast Menu available Winterborne Stickland All welcome those jobs that never get done. Please call Roz Tel 01258 881363 01258 880363 Free Estimates Mobile: 07740 859865 07713 148896 24 Hour Call out Service Email roz.steveappleton@btinternet.com
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Stickland Mowers Servicing and repairs carried out on all makes/models of Garden and Horticultural machinery, with over 27 years experience.
Upholstery and Soft furnishings Types of work carried out :Sofas & Armchairs, Wing Back Chairs Dining Chairs, Bedroom furniture Boats and Caravans, Curtains & Cushions All work undertaken by a fully qualified City & Guilds Certificated Upholsterer
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Conservatories, Fascias, Soffits and Gutter Cleans. Gutters Cleared. Call Darren
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MUCKY BOOTS DORSET Dog walking • Doggy day care Home boarding • Pop in visits We provide a caring environment where your dog can socialise and have some fun. Friendly reliable service, licensed with NDDC, Insured & CRB checked. Visit: www.muckybootsdorset.co.uk Email: julie@muckybootsdorset.co.uk Tel: 07816 031280
NIGEL KELLAWAY General Builder & Maintenance 35 years+ experience • City & Guilds qualified Flint & Stonework • Wall & Floor Tiling Brickwork • Dabbing & Plasterboarding Footings • Extensions • Patios Brick Paving & Driveways Garden maintenance All aspects of building work undertaken Free estimates • No job too small
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helenlovescards.co.uk fb: @helenlovescards helenjhughes@icloud.com 07973 692390 Buy direct or request a basket of stationery to browse at your leisure. Pop up shop available for fetes, fairs, coffee mornings & fundraising events. Independent Phoenix Trader 43568
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