December 2020 Forum Focus

Forum Focus The free monthly news magazine for the Blandford area

December 2020 Issue No.105 Est: 2012

Covid casts its shadow over festive season THE nature of a Covid Christmas hung in the balance as Forum Focus went to press this month, dependent on the impact of the second national lockdown on infection figures, whether the lockdown would be lifted on December 2 and in what form.

Public Health Dorset warned in mid-November that residents needed to play their part in bringing cases down and put them in the best possible place to return to fewer restrictions after national measures ended.

By the middle of the month the number of new positive cases in the previous seven days had continued to rise in both Dorset, to 448, and in neighbouring Bournemouth/Christchurch/Poole to 920, almost double the number a month earlier.

The total number of Covid-related hospital deaths across all settings had also risen by over 30 since a fortnight earlier.

Continuing rising case numbers could mean that Dorset emerges from full lockdown, if at all, with higher restrictions than the Tier 1

FORUM FOCUS

the county employed previously.

The local Hindu community has already experienced a very different Divali - the Festival of Lights, a week-long celebration which began in the middle of November and in which families traditionally get together and exchange gifts but this year were restricted to meeting virtually.

With most of the usual festive season activities, carol services and parties cancelled, and Santa Claus prevented from making most of his seasonal appearances (but it is hoped he will still be able to arrive for youngsters on Christmas Eve!), Christmas itself may or may not be similarly curtailed.

There has been good news on the development of vaccines, but they are unlikely to be widely available until the spring.

Scientists continue to work to bring forward easily accessible testing and it is hoped that students will be allowed to return to their homes and families and people to visit their loved ones in • To Page 3

Little Felix is feeling festive in one of the Christmas jumpers being sold online by Dorset's disability charity Diverse Abilities.

Stay snug this Christmas DIVERSE Abilities, Dorset's disability charity, has launched a range of fundraising activities to bring festive cheer, including baubles which can be sent as a kind gesture to family and friends, the people that the charity supports, and care home residents.

Recipients can be sent a pair of baubles, one designed by an adult supported by Diverse Abilities, another by a volunteer, and handmade by a local business, Life in Layers, with designs etched into wood and hung on white, festive ribbon. There is also a range of Christmas jumpers. For more information see diversabilities.org.uk.

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December 2020

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ON THE WEBSITE www.forumfocus.co.uk

Forum Focus is an independent, not-forprofit, community publication produced entirely by volunteers. We are always pleased to receive offers of help.

Where to find Forum Focus FOR the duration of the Covid19 emergency the number of Forum Focus pick-up points has reduced due to the closure of many premises.

However we hope it will again be in re-opened village pubs and venues, in addition to publishing on our website and distribution through social media and email.

Currently confirmed pickup points are: Blandford and Blandford St Mary: Tesco and Homebase, Blandford St Mary; Lidl and Bartletts in Shaftesbury Lane; Morrisons, Greyhound Yard; M&S, Langton Road; the Spar Shop in the Market Place; Chaffers and Iceland in Salisbury Street; James Newsagents in The Plocks; The Post Office in the Tabernacle; The 3Cs in Damory Street; The Co-op, Damory Garage and One Stop in Salisbury Road; Blandford Hospital in Milldown Road; Central Shop in Heddington Drive.

Sturminster Newton: The Emporium and shops in Market Square, The Exchange.

In the villages: Bryanston Bryanston Club; Child Okeford The Cross Stores; Iwerne Minster - the Post Office; Langfton Long Abbots Nursery; Pimperne phone box and church; Shillingstone - Garage and Coop; Spetisbury - Village Hall and Clapcotts Farm; Stourpaine - The White Horse Inn; Tarrant Keyneston - St Richard Close bus stop; Tarrant Launceston and Gunville Farm Shops.

Diary events are updated regularly on our website so it is always worth logging on to stay up to date with what’s happening in the area. The website also carries additional pictures of local events and background information on stories.

DEADLINES Adverts: Tuesday December 8 Editorial: Wednesday December 9 Deliveries from Monday December 28 View future deadlines on our website.

OUR ADVERTISERS Please support our advertisers who have given us their support. All material published in Forum Focus (either in the magazine or the website), including adverts, editorials, articles and all other content is published in good faith. However, Forum Focus accepts no liability for any errors or omissions and does not endorse any companies, products or services that appear in the publication or on the website.

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Roadworks delays spark motorists’ fury

WORKS on the gas main as part of the new development by Bellway Homes opposite Tesco off the Blandford bypass prompted an outcry when four-way traffic lights resulted in heavy congestion in all directions on November 11.

Southern Gas said they were carrying out essential and safetycritical upgrades to their gas network in the Bournemouth Road area of Blandford St Mary which was hoped to be completed by Sunday December 6.

The lights, which allow travel in each direction for only a minute with a 15-second time lapse when they change, will be in place throughout, and the company say they are to avoid road closures and ensure everyone's safety.

Motorists on the first day thought differently after finding the main roads jammed with traffic and found themselves travelling the wrong way around the roundabout when the correct route was blocked, and on occasions heading for the wrong destination.

People were late for work, children were late for school, some were unable to get into and out of their driveways, others were driven to use the narrow Langton road through Langton Long and Tarrant Crawford to get to travel south from the town.

After a few days the system appeared to be working smoothly, but still with considerable queues, and a significant increase in traffic through the town centre, prompting speculation on how the junction and bypass would cope when all the houses were built.

Traffic negotiating the temporary directions and traffic lights at the Tesco roundabout.

The gas main work is being carried out by specialist contractors I&G, and once the upgrades are completed, there will be more disruption when Bellway resurface the road.

Meanwhile Bellway are preparing for a public inquiry into their proposals for the next phase of development at St Mary's Hill which will start on December 1.

The inquiry for the Planning Inspectorate, which will take place as a virtual event via Microsoft Teams, will hear their

appeal against non-determination

by Dorset Council of their detailed application for 350 homes and associated works following the grant of outline permission by North Dorset District Council in 2016.

But as reported in October they have also submitted a revised application for the second phase of development on the same site.

Detailed permission for the first 89 of the homes was approved

by Dorset Council in January this year.

OVER-ZEALOUS photographers reported to the police as having been disturbing otters on Blandford's Stour Meadows have been warned that they could be prosecuted. Information boards state that otters are protected and fencing prohibits access to certain areas.

A Dorset Police spokesman said: "Whilst many will know it's an offence to kill, capture or injure an otter it is important to stress it is also an offence to disturb one. We will continue to work with the UK Wild Otter Trust to protect Dorset's otters."

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December 2020

Airfield’s historic role honoured in new display board A NEW display board next to the stone memorial at the former gate to Tarrant Rushton airfield tells the history of the site that has played a vital role in both war and peace, first as a Royal Air Force base in the Second World War and then as the home of pioneering aviation research.

The airfield was opened in 1942 by the RAF to become home to the 3,000 people working with gliders towed in the D-Day, Arnhem and Rhine crossing operations of 1944 and 1945, and dropped secret agents, troops and weapons to Resistance forces from the south of France to the Low Countries and up to Norway.

In 1947 it become the home of Flight Refuelling, and the display board was unveiled on September 30, the 40th anniversary of the last jet flying out of the base, by Shirley Lockwood.

She was the Flight Refuelling air

traffic controller who in 1980 supervised the last flight by a former Royal Navy 1950s-built DeHavilland Sea Vixen jet which took off for its new base at Hurn, now Bournemouth Airport, where the company's successor Flight Refuelling Aviation is still based.

The display board has been produced by Bob Seymour, a member of the Wimborne branch of the Royal Air Forces Association. His father was a navigator on RAF Halifax bombers at Tarrant Rushton in 1944 which took part in the D-Day and Arnhem operations.

He said: "We were delighted and honoured that Shirley agreed to unveil the new history board because she worked on the airfield from the late 1950s through to closure in 1980 and controlled that last jet take-off from Tarrant Rushton."

Present at the unveiling were a

Covid casts shadow • From Page 1 care homes. The last couple of months have seen some local closures, including the Wings Chinese takeaway in East Street following the retirement of the couple who have run it for 28 years, and the Clear-It Second Hand Emporium in Holland Business Park, which had continued trading only until the premises were re-let.

It remains to be seen whether other premises will fall empty, particularly the national chain shops announcing closures.

Miles of Value in Barnack Walk, which had remained open when the second lockdown began, was told it was 'non-essential retail' and would have to close, but they were determined to reopen when it was permitted.

They and other small independent businesses were hopeful that they could access government support after being forced to close again at what should have been one of their busiest periods in the lead-up to the festive season, and that they would be able to reopen on December 2.

Newly recruited 'Covid Marshals' trained with government funding by Dorset Council in association with an event security company, have been working with the public and businesses to ensure that they have been Covid secure. Individuals in need of help or support were advised that the Dorset Together helpline 01305 221000 remained open Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 5pm.

TEENAGERS found in an unused shelter on the Glenmore Business Park were warned of the possible breach of Covid regulations and told their parents and guardians would be informed after antisocial behaviour was reported on November 11.

Officers also found cannabis and other drug paraphernalia and unrelated criminal damage to a fence on the boundary with private land at the rear of the business park.

Blandford NPT are working with the business park management company and landowner to prevent access to the park from the nearby housing estate.

Shirley Lockwood and Bob Seymour with the new display board at Tarrant Rushton airfield. Picture: Andrew PM Wright. representative of the Glider Pilot Regiment Society, Nick Harding, who farms a large part of the former 300-acre airfield, and several invited friends with a keen interest in the airfield's history.

Shirley, who lives in Wimborne and was awarded the MBE in the early 1990s for services to aviation after her Flight Refuelling career of more than 30 years, said: "Tarrant Rushton always had a special atmosphere and it still does, even though the runways, aircraft hangers and other buildings have been gone for almost 40 years. It is a very special place

for me and many other people who worked there."

The airfield, with its 300 buildings, two large aircraft hangers and more than 30 concrete aircraft parking bays and half the 3.5-mile perimeter track was demolished soon after its closure, and crushed concrete from the runways was used to help build the bypasses around Wimborne and Blandford.

Anyone interested in helping with the maintenance and upkeep of the Tarrant Rushton airfield memorial should call 01202 882895.

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Town councillor Colin Stevens examines the new paving which is being trialled in Sheep Market Hill.

December 2020

Upkeep concerns as new paving divides opinion THE jury is out on the trial paving in Sheep Market Hill, which could be used to replace the worn and broken paving slabs in Blandford town centre.

The test patch has been received with a generally positive response, apart from some resistance to the very light colour.

Those concerned that it might not withstand the strain of heavy lorries parking on it have been reassured that it is basically coloured textured tarmac, which has been used in a number of other town centres in Dorset, will not only be strong enough for vehicles to go onto it but also will not be slippery when wet.

But a number of people have commented that replacement of the slabs has only become necessary because of poor maintenance since they were laid at the turn of the century as part of the last town enhancement scheme, when they were specifically commissioned because of the high status of Blandford's Georgian Conservation Area.

Retired architect John Turnbull, who was in practice in the town at the time of the earlier scheme, said: "If the highway authority are going to be so neglectful in their maintenance, the new area will end up looking more unsightly than when new. On performance up to now, maintenance cannot be guaranteed."

He said one of the most important terms of the agreement under a

Conservation Area Partnership with Heritage Lottery funding through English Heritage, now Historic England, and Dorset Council was that the council would, as the authority responsible for repair and maintenance of highways, retain a stock of the original natural paving slabs.

Interim repairs would be made by utilities with a final repair carried out by the use of the slabs held by the council.

"This has failed to materialise in any meaningful way, leading to loose and dangerous slabs together with large patches of unsightly tarmac."

Terence Dear, who recently retired as chairman of Blandford & District Civic Society, said: "It looks very nice and I wouldn't object to its use in Blandford. On the basis that anything will be better than the current situation, I would be loath to suggest anything that will cause further delay."

In response to an appeal on social media for residents' views by the town's county councillors Noc Lacey Clarke and Byron Quayle, by far the majority thought it looked acceptable and would be an improvement on what is there now.

But a significant number thought it looked low quality and something better could and should be found.

A number of technical questions were also asked which the councillors undertook to answer in consultation with highway officers.

The hunt is over THERE will be no Boxing Day Hunt meet on the Crown Meadows this year - or in the future.

Following last year's confrontation between hunt supporters and protesters which potentially put members of the public at risk, an indication was given to Blandford Town Council that there would be no gathering in the town this year.

Confirmation was sought by Dorset Police, who say that due to Covid the hunt has decided not to hold the traditional meet this year, but also that the cancellation is permanent.

Town Clerk Linda Scott Giles said the police had requested that the

hunt apply for road closures, provide marshals and take greater responsibility at their event.

But it appeared that the hunt had decided not to invest in the recommendations and would likely meet elsewhere on private land.

It was noted that nationally there has been a decline in the Boxing Day meets due to the emotive nature of the gathering of both sides of the hunting argument.

Police were last month investigating an allegation that a fox was chased by hounds across the B3092 road between Sturminster Newton and Hinton St Mary during an organised trail hunt on November 3.

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December 2020

Charity preacher wins police case THE chief executive of a Christian charity who was prevented from preaching in Blandford Market Place during lockdown in April has won compensation from Dorset Police.

Dominic Muir, 44, was singing and preaching from the Bible with a microphone from the back of his van in the mostly deserted town centre on April 22 when an officer told him he would have to move on, citing Covid restrictions which did not allow people to leave home except for essential reasons.

He said he asked for and was granted five minutes to give his talk, but after three minutes was cut off by the officer who mounted the truck and grabbed his arm.

The Christian Legal Centre assisted Mr Muir with a letter to Dorset Police seeking compensation, and lawyers argued that the officer's sole intention was to stop him from exercising his legitimate right to free speech,

which was not prohibited by the Covid regulations.

They said the force had now admitted that the officer had acted unlawfully and he has been awarded compensation of £1,250 in damages and costs.

Responding to the settlement, Mr Muir said: "For centuries, street preaching in the UK was an honoured profession that was respected and deemed essential to people's physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing."

Andrea Williams, chief executive of the Christian Legal Centre, said: "Mr Muir had not broken lockdown restrictions. He was singing and preaching about the hope of Jesus Christ at a time of great uncertainty and need for many.

"We welcome that Dorset police have recognised that they acted unlawfully. We call for greater respect and understanding from the police to street preachers now and beyond the pandemic."

Brewers back traders with festive markets BREWERS Hall & Woodhouse are supporting small, local businesses this winter by hosting a new Christmas market at their brewery in Blandford in aid of their chosen charity Dorset Mind.

The Christmas markets in the brewery car park, which started on Saturday November 21 and were planned for every Saturday between 10am and 4pm, were designed to bring the community safely together after a challenging year and encourage people to shop with independents and support local businesses.

Jess Epton, visitor centre manager at Hall & Woodhouse and organiser of the Christmas market, said: "Although the government is doing its bit to protect the economy, there are still plenty of creative ways that we can support our favourite local businesses at a time they need it most."

Stallholder fees of £25 includes

the pitch, tea and coffee throughout the day and a bacon butty while setting up in the morning, with £10 from each donated to the charity.

Strict measures were in place, including a one-way system, and all visitors and sellers required to sign in and provide their details for NHS Test & Trace.

Additionally The Brewery Tap, located at the brewery, is providing a hot desking service for those in the community who are working from home and want a change of scene.

Space is available for £7 a day, Monday-Friday 9am to 5pm, and includes free wi-fi, unlimited coffee and a Badger beer at the end of the day.

For more information call 01258 486004, visit the Facebook page BreweryTapHW or see the website hall-woodhouse.co.uk/ pub/brewery-tap.

A CHIMNEY fire at a property in Forum View, Bryanston, on November 14 was attended by fire crews from Blandford and Sturminster Newton, who on arrival requested an aerial appliance from Westbourne to help extinguish the blaze. All occupants of the property were reported to be safe, and crews remained in attendance to ensure it was completely extinguished, causing the road to be closed for some time.

Dominic Muir preaches from the back of his red pickup.

Customers turn away MARKET Manager Andy Reynolds has reported that some customers at Blandford's indoor market have been reluctant to comply with Track & Trace measures introduced for those without the NHS app or the ability to use a QR code, and have turned and left when asked to fill in a form.

But reduced rates for market traders on Thursdays and Saturdays helped to improve occupancy until the second lockdown, when there had been some confusion as to who was allowed to trade since the rules were different from the first.

Dorset Council has allowed a reduction in the amount charged for use of the parking spaces on Saturday, allowing a small surplus in income over expenditure in the three months to the end of September.

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December 2020

Worries voiced over infrastructure gaps in major development plans STRONG reservations have been expressed by town councillors and others to the application

by Wyatt Homes for development north and east of the Blandford bypass which forms a key part of the area's Neighbourhood Plan.

Initial concerns at the town council's planning committee meeting were to the lack of any reference to renewable infrastructure and the shortage of small open spaces.

They were also concerned as to

LIONS zone chairman Barrie Haynes completed his cycle challenge from Poole Park to Gold Hill Shaftesbury, on a wet and windy Saturday in support of Breast Cancer Charities.

Barrie, dressed in a pink rabbit outfit, stopped off at the start of the Trailway in Blandford to be presented with a cheque for ÂŁ50 by Blandford Lions' president Gordon Cox, accompanied by secretary Tony Ives, who wished him well for the second half of his journey, and congratulated him on making double the effort in atrocious conditions.

how public transport would serve those getting to a proposed school, and the elderly accessing a proposed health centre.

They wanted to know more about the timescale being allowed for the relocation of the Lamperd's Fields allotments, and the affordability of the affordable home provision.

Roger Carter, chairman of the group which has drawn up the Neighbourhood Plan which has yet to be put to public referendum and become policy, said these things could be discussed with Wyatts.

He proposed acceptance subject to ongoing discussions, saying if they opposed it, county would decide and the town council would have no further say.

But members agreed that a working group should go over the plans so that a more detailed recommendation could be made to full council on November 23, the day before comments are due to be received by Dorset Council.

Carol Tilley, Blandford Group Surgery practice manager, has asked what arrangements are being made to address capacity issues for the practice, saying: "Current services are already struggling to meet existing demand which is constrained by the size of the current premises and other infrastructure challenges.

"Another 600 houses will inevitably increase the local population and the demand on local health services."

Dr Colin Davidson, responding on behalf of the Dorset Clinical Commissioning Group, has

sought a contribution of around ÂŁ48,000 towards an additional clinical room for Primary Care Services.

Richard Burden of the AONB has asked for more time to respond, given that the application team had had over a year to work on it, but consultation letters went out a month after the application was validated by Dorset Council, giving a month to respond at a time when everyone was working in difficult circumstances because of Covid restrictions.

Chairman of Tarrant Hinton Parish Council Mike Nathan has urged residents to give their views, saying roads are already an issue, especially on the A350 to Poole, the B3082 Wimborne road and the A354 through the villages.

"We already have a new development at the A350 roundabout diagonally opposite Tesco and building 600 more homes will not help during the Great Dorset Steam Fair.

"The properties will pay lip service to design to fit in with what is believed to be a Dorset style home . . . brickwork with flint bands or cob style. Here comes Tescoville!"

Pimperne Parish Council, which at its October meeting noted that Dorset Council's recent 'call for sites' includes as an area for development land between this site and the village, from Letton to Hammetts Farm, has not yet commented, but met on November 11 to consider the application.

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December 2020

Traffic cutbacks on Now permits join the town agenda the parking debate A TRIAL pedestrianisation of the market area in the spring in Blandford Market Place, a programme of activities and events, and signage to reduce the amount of traffic through the town are among recommendations of the town centre enhancement group, which were made to Blandford Town Council at their meeting on November 23.

Also recommended is fuller engagement with businesses in the town centre and beyond to seek their views on other proposals which might be put forward.

The recommendations come partly as a result of the key responses to the survey carried out during the summer to which over 1,000 local people responded, calling for less town centre traffic, more activities for families - both in the town and on the meadows - and support for local shops.

There has also been discussion

with the team which implemented pedestrianisation in Shaftesbury when the Covid restrictions first came in.

The Shaftesbury experience highlighted the need to fully involve local business owners in whatever outcome is achieved.

A further recommendation is for a member of council to be appointed to be responsible as a key liaison with town businesses.

An action plan drawn up by the working group highlights a number of measures which could be brought forward almost immediately and others for the medium and longer term, and will involve the agreement both of Blandford Town Council and Dorset Council.

The hope is to address other key messages from the survey suggesting that people want to see wider pavements, more outdoor seating, greenery and public toilets, cleaner streets and more free parking.

HARD on the heels of Dorset Council's announcement of an extension to the times when charges will be made for their Blandford car parks has come a consultation over plans to introduce a shopper parking permit scheme across all Dorset Council-run car parks.

The council says a county-wide permit scheme could encourage more people to use struggling town centres and shop locally - although it says it would cost around ÂŁ50,000 annually in admin costs and lost revenue if it was introduced.

Residents have until December 6 to respond on the council website at dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/shopperspermit-survey or by emailing to parking@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk to ask for a paper copy, which will be posted out and can be returned to Shoppers Permit Consultation, Unit A1, Marabout Industrial Estate,

Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 1YA. The permit consultation was launched soon after the council announced, without consultation, that in January it would be extending car parking charges until 8pm in the evenings and applying them on Sundays in a number of market towns.

The council stated that there were no current plans to review the decision, which had been made as an 'operational matter'.

But it has been strongly criticised by Blandford Town Council in a letter copied to Councillor Ray Bryan, Cabinet member for highways, travel and environment, on the grounds of its impact on the evening economy in the market towns - pubs, restaurants, takeaways and entertainment venues - as well as churchgoers and on residents without parking at their homes who use the car parks overnight and on Sundays.

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Water refill point agreed A WATER refill point is to be installed outside Scrivens, next to the cycle racks, in Blandford Market Place, following a successful application made last year to Wessex Water for a grant for the facility.

Wessex Water suggested the Market Place and, after a site visit, agreed the location, and will work with Dorset Council to seek relevant permissions.

The installation by Wessex Water will be maintained by them and the town council will be responsible for reporting any faults.

Cllr Noc Lacey-Clarke asked why the Town Pump was not to be the location, and Cllr Haydn White said he believed the water was disconnected a long time ago and the cost of reinstating would be prohibitive.

Councillor Peter Clark added that he believed the pipes were lead and therefore not suitable.

December 2020

Babs shortlisted for national ‘care champion’ award AN administrator at Blandford Grange nursing home has been shortlisted for a national industry award.

Babs Mitchell, team member at the home in Milldown Road, part of the Healthcare Homes Group, has been announced as a finalist in the 'Care Champion' category of the National Care Awards.

The annual awards celebrate the very best people in the care sector by highlighting excellence and rewarding those who work tirelessly to provide consistently outstanding care.

Babs has been part of the Blandford Grange family since it opened its doors 10 years ago and has been supporting the home as administrator ever since.

The home provides nursing care for up to 63 residents, many of whom live with dementia, and Babs knows the home inside and out, acting as the first port of call for anyone needing support or help.

Whether it's a colleague, the home manager or the relative of a resident, Babs provides continuous support, serving as an ambassador for the home.

Home manager Tilla Wagner explains: "I was so delighted to nominate Babs for this award, which is all about celebrating people who go above and beyond, and her shortlisting is utterly deserved.

"She is my confidante, my right-hand woman and someone who I truly wouldn't want to work without.

She quietly and resolutely carries out her day-to-

Babs Mitchell of the Blandford Grange who has been shortlisted for a national 'Care Champion' award. day role, rarely singled out and celebrated for the work she does, yet she is a clear example of a 'care champion' through the support and commitment she offers her home, her colleagues and residents. She is an absolute asset to our home and we couldn't be prouder of her."

Winners will be announced shortly at a 'virtual' awards ceremony.

December 2020

Change on the way Picnicking teddies for local churches raise charity funds REORGANISATION is in the pipeline for the churches in the Milton and Blandford Deanery.

It follows the retirement of the Rev Dr Michael Foster in the Chase Benefice in May and the appointment of the Rector of Blandford and Langton Long, the Rev Canon Jonathan Triffitt, to a new role within the Salisbury Diocese.

An advertisement in the Church Times offers a three-year appointment to a minister for the Chase Benefice who can help reshape how the church works in the benefice and wider Deanery and develop lay ministry as it evolves.

Chase Benefice administrator Gill Baverstock, in the Tarrant Times magazine, says that in common with a number of dioceses, the Diocese of Salisbury needs to cut down on its spending and the vacancies in the Chase and Blandford Forum Benefices should help the process.

The Benefice currently consists of the 12 churches in the nine parishes of Chettle, Farnham, Tollard Royal, Gussage All Saints, Gussage St Michael, Tarrant Gunville, Tarrant Hinton, Tarrant Keynston, and Tarrant Monkton with Launceston and Rushton.

Parochial church councils are being consulted on a Deanery Pastoral Plan which could result in the Gussages becoming part of the Cranborne Benefice and the remainder of the benefice being split up.

The Tarrant Valley parishes would become part of a team ministry of 13 parishes served by three priests including the benefices of Blandford and Langton Long, Lower Stour (Blandford St Mary, Charlton Marshall and Spetisbury) and Pimperne (Stourpaine, Durweston, Bryanston and Pimperne).

Tollard Royal, Chettle and Farnham will join the Sixpenny Handley Benefice.

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WHEN all home visiting services were suspended during lockdown the WRVS Home Library Service volunteers kept in touch with their clients by phone and came up with the idea of a knitted teddy bears' picnic.

They called on all crafters stuck at home to help making bears, picnic food and blankets, and hand- The RVS teddies with their picnic crafted items flooded in from basket. across the area and beyond.

Cards for Good Causes in Dorchester invited them to display some of the creations in their temporary shop in Antelope Walk where the teddies are sitting happily, enjoying their picnic and where people were able to buy them, with proceeds and donations supporting the work of RVS in Dorset.

The shop was closed by the second lockdown, but they are hoping it can be reopened and people will visit to see the display.

The Home Library Service is now active again offering a doorstep delivery service and following all safety guidance. Books are chosen and made ready at the library and delivered to readers' doorsteps by volunteers who do not enter the house. The return of the service has been very much welcomed both by readers and volunteers, who love to chat, even if it has to be at a distance.

Anyone with bears or other items for the RVS which they have held on to until now who would like to arrange collection, or seeking information regarding the service is invited to get in touch on 01305 236666 or email maria.jacobson@royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk.

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December 2020

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December 2020

Festive lighting-up time arrives early CHRISTMAS came early in the first week of November when the promised illumination of Blandford's Woodhouse Gardens was brought forward by the contractors Basement Hire, who had the same day provided support to the Remembrance service at the same venue.

The gardens are now decorated throughout with fairy lights and feature spotlights on the trees and pergola which are switched on between 4.30pm and 9pm every evening.

Many have been taking advantage of the early evening opportunity to visit, maintaining social distancing, and view the changing display in the gardens which are always so popular with people who can stroll or sit to enjoy

The illuminated Queen's Jubilee Tree in the Woodhouse Gardens. the peaceful town centre environment.

Yuletide Festival falls victim to the virus AFTER weeks of deliberation on how best to bring the spirit of Christmas to Blandford amidst Covid restrictions, the Blandford Yuletide Festival committee decided that the annual event will not take place on Friday December 4.

Neither could plans for Father Christmas to meet children in a ticketed event in the Woodhouse Gardens. It was realised that if shops weren't open and markets unable to run, there would be no extra business for the town and it would benefit only a few families.

Spokesman Nic Nicol said: "We agreed it was not safe and there would not be sufficient time to safely organise it if restrictions are lifted. So despite best efforts to find a way to keep the event going, the BYF will not take place this year."

Committee member Sammi Elliott said: "The BYF committee have met every two weeks for the past couple of months as we were desperate to put something together to bring some community spirit to Blandford. We are really restrained by time and not knowing what restrictions will be in place

after December 2 to carry out the required risk assessments."

Instead the committee have worked with supermarket Morrisons and the Blandford Business Support Group to promote local shops on their website and by offering customers in participating shops a free raffle ticket for every £5 spent with the chance to win a Christmas hamper. They are hoping the lockdown will be lifted to allow the plan to work to its full extent.

There will also be a Dorset Cycling Network-organised 'Rudolph's Ride' fancy dress bike ride through the town on Saturday December 12 in which families and other cyclists will be led in socially distanced groups by a lead reindeer.

The three-mile route will start from the Milldown and finish outside the Corn Exchange, with spot prizes for the best dressed rider and bike and a cost of £12 per family or £5 per person.

Advance registration by email to: blan@dcn.org.uk or on Facebook /YuleRide is necessary to manage numbers.

BLANDFORD Town Museum may have been forced to close during November and is hoping it will be able to reopen soon.

But outside in Bere's Yard, the Museum's Victorian Garden Club has planned an open day on Saturday December 19 from 10.30am to 3pm when they will be selling potted spring bulbs, jams and chutneys, with hot chocolate available.

The gardeners have continued working through both lockdowns in a socially distanced environment to maintain the garden as an enchanting place to visit, and even if lockdown continues the Christmas tableau will be on display with a tree as part of the town's Christmas Tree Trail.

Also arriving early were the small Christmas trees which every year decorate the main streets which, together with street lighting columns, were due to be illuminated with festive lights at the end of November, when the larger tree was installed in the Market Place.

The Town Council is also running its Christmas shop window competition, with awards for the best festive displays which every year add to the atmosphere in the town centre. Subject to time limits, there will be free parking every Saturday up to Christmas, starting on November 28.

Blandford Parish Church has had to abandon its annual Christmas tree festival but has instead invited schools and local organisations to once again decorate their trees for display in The Old Bath House on Church Walk, to the rear of the church, and in shop windows and other locations.

The Christmas Tree Trail of decorated trees around the town will be on display from December 4 to Christmas Eve. For more

The brightly lit pergola surrounded by fairy lights.

Another illuminated tree in the Woodhouse Gardens. details see Blandford Parish Church website and Facebook page.

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A Christmas message from the Revd Karen Wilson

A

S the Priest who is currently looking after the churches in both Blandford and Langton Long, it is a privilege to have been asked to write a Christmas message for the Forum Focus magazine.

I have seen numerous social media posts and tweets saying that Christmas has been cancelled this year and that simply is not true. Yes, it will look different due to the Covid-19 pandemic but the true message of Christmas remains unchangeable and eternal.

The Church of England's theme for Christmas this year is that of 'Comfort and Joy', echoing the words of the carol 'God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen'. 'Comfort and Joy' holds together the hope that Christmas will bring joy and a celebration after an incredibly difficult year.

As the parish church in Blandford, a church that is at the very heart of the town and community, we acknowledge and willingly take on the role of providing consolation for those who have lost loved ones or livelihoods, or who are potentially still not able to be with loved ones this Christmas.

We understand that not everyone will want to, or be able to, join in with the celebrations. It is the hope that the campaign enables us to reconnect with the rich and joyous traditions

of the past and to offer God's consoling love in the present.

My hopes and prayers for the town this year are that the church is seen as the heart of the community, reflecting the deep love of Christ out into Blandford, the town that we serve.

Both the churches in Blandford and Langton Long will be holding Christmas services (adhering to Covid-19 regulations) which I hope that you will join us for. A booking system has to be in operation this year so please do contact the Parish Office to book a place at one of our services. I hope that you will find both comfort and joy by coming along to the services as we celebrate the true meaning of Christmas, the birth of Jesus Christ.

We may not be able to offer you the traditional mince pies (and I do love a mince pie!) and mulled wine after the services but our welcome will be very warm and we will be upholding as many of the Christmas traditions as we can, given the circumstances.

May I take this opportunity to wish you a very happy and blessed Christmas. May you and those whom you love find the true Comfort and Joy of Christmas this year.

God Bless Revd Karen

December 2020

December 2020

Christmas kindness boxed and ready EVERY year Blandford Stour Rotary organise their Shoebox Scheme, and through the generosity and kindness of the community and members, they are again sending 520 filled boxes from this area, despite the current lockdown.

The scheme aims to give children who live in extreme poverty in Albania, Montenegro, Moldova and Romania what may be their only gift at Christmas.

Shoeboxes are wrapped with Christmas paper and filled with gifts such as flannels and toothbrushes, stationery items, toys, hats and scarves, and in boxes for younger children a cuddly toy, BRYANSTON enjoyed a community day of fun on October 11 while hosting a Macmillan coffee event. Residents got to work on the front garden of Bryanston Club, while the children planted bulbs around the village for spring colour next year. The village raised ÂŁ129 for Cancer Research.

to be transported with thousands from this area to a central depot and then by lorry to their destination.

The club is extremely grateful to all who support this scheme, filling boxes, volunteering as collection points and making items to go in the boxes. Without their support it could not work and many children would go without.

Also this year the club has again joined forces with the Blandford Lions to support the provision of meat vouchers from Mato's butchers for families who use the Blandford Foodbank this Christmas.

It has arranged to share equally with the Blandford Rotary Club the cost of the entry fees for The Blandford School's representatives in the prestigious National Young Enterprise Scheme, preparing students for advancement in the commercial world after education.

Further information about the Shoebox Scheme is available on blandfordstourrotary.co.uk.

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Some Stour Rotary elves with shoeboxes now on their way to children living in extreme poverty abroad.

14

December 2020

Lions answer the call for Christmas toys IN response to an appeal on Facebook by Gail Del Pinto of Blandford Foodbank for Christmas toys, the local Lions were able to supply a van full of new toys thanks to a donation from an anonymous well-wisher.

Gail said: "This generous gift will make a huge difference to many local families this Christmas.

"With 2020 being such a difficult year for so many, the Foodbank would like to help spread a little cheer among the children of the families in our local community who need our support.

"Our aim is to give every child a gift bag filled with new toys which will be distributed with their family's Christmas food parcel. Every child deserves a Christmas and for some this year

Pictured delivering the toys to the Blandford Foodbank are past Lion president James Mayo, left, and Lions treasurer Nigel Hodder with Gail del Pinto.

whose parents are struggling, this may not otherwise be possible."

To contribute to the appeal, they have collection points at the Blandford Foodbank itself at the United Reformed Church in Whitecliff Mill Street, open Tuesdays and Thursdays 10am to noon; at Spoons of Dorset in Nightingale Court, open Monday to Saturday 10am to 4pm excluding Wednesdays; at Chaffers estate agents in Salisbury Street, Monday to Friday 9am to noon; and at the Langton Arms, Tarrant Monkton, Wednesday to Saturday 12 noon to 5pm (please knock on the door).

Items can also be collected from those who are shielding or do not drive by sending a message to their Facebook page.

Cash backing for community fridge PLANS to establish a community fridge to which businesses and individuals can donate surplus fresh food for distribution to those in need have been backed with a grant of £2,000 from Blandford Town Council.

The project has already been supported with a £1,000 pledge from the Georgian Fayre committee and a £2,000 award from the Dorset Community Impact Fund.

The Town Council grant, which is dependent on finding a site where the fridge can be located, will pay for volunteer training, refurbishment of the venue, installation of CCTV, electrics and lighting and direct material costs.

A number of sites have been considered, including the churches, youth centre and Corn Exchange Shambles.

A key requirement will be public accessibility and support from local supermarkets, who were approached in September to establish whether they could give perishable items which would otherwise be thrown away.

Various groups, including the Blandford Group Practice, the Food Bank and the Town Council, along with volunteers, have come together to try to

establish the project to eliminate food waste, address food insecurity and strengthen community sharing and mutual support.

A list of volunteers, many of whom put themselves forward during the pandemic and are still wanting to support their community and some volunteering for the first time, is being compiled through community engagement and social media to staff the facility seven days a week from 9am to 5pm.

Sara Stringer, in her application to the council, said: "The reduction of food waste is key for all, but an additional positive is that the fridge is for all so those in need - but not wanting others to know that - can access the fridge on a daily basis without feeling embarrassed, which can sometimes be why they avoid manned Food Banks.

"With some people becoming unemployed due to the current situation, this fridge will be an accessible point for fresh food when money is more of an issue than usual."

She also highlighted the health benefits of providing healthy options for people who might not opt for them if they had to pay, and the opportunity to make a fresh start with a new project following a difficult period.

December 2020

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16

Readers’ letters

Parking plan is against the law I READ with interest in Forum Focus last month the public outcry over increased car parking charges in Dorset.

Local authorities can only raise car parking charges strictly in line with the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984. In the last years of NDDC, the council showed in their publicly available accounts a surplus of income over expenditure totalling £1,142,357.

That figure was for just NDDC and the other authorities may have had surpluses in the same order when they were all amalgamated into Dorset Council.

Under Section 55 of that Act, local authorities have no legal power to set parking charges at a higher level than needed to

December 2020 Please write to Forum Focus if there is something you'd like to comment on or share with other readers.

Email your letter, which should be as brief as possible, to: editor@forumfocus.co.uk.

Alternatively, you can call 01258 459346 or deliver your letter to: Forum Focus, c/o Colin's

achieve the objective of relieving or preventing congestion of traffic. Furthermore, local authorities can only exercise statutory power to charge for an activity in order to cover the cost of that activity.

For Dorset Council to say that they are making charging more consistent across the area, a levelling-up, does not meet with the terms of the law.

The council may wish to increase charges to offset their £2m loss over lockdown but this is a oneoff loss, as has been experienced by all businesses, and is not a legal reason to increase charges.

If this was the case then the increased charges should come down when we return to normal.

Do you think this would really happen?

I therefore ask our elected members to thoroughly interrogate Cllr Ray Bryan and the council and ensure that any changes to car parking charges are strictly in

Community Club, 49 Damory Street, Blandford DT11 7HD. Please mark your letter 'for publication' and remember to include your address, which will not be used in full. Forum Focus reserves the right to shorten or edit letters in the interests of clarity, brevity and style.

line with what is legal and not treat car parking revenue as the 'cash cow' as it has been in the past.

John Turnbull Blandford Forum

In praise of our library . .

I HAVE never written a letter to a magazine or local newspaper before, but I have been moved to do so to say thank you to a wonderful, but overlooked, local amenity: our library.

I have been a Blandford resident for 35 years and have used the library continually, appreciating the courtesy, knowledge, humour and help of the library staff.

In March of this year, walking through the ghost town that Blandford had become, I was shocked to see that our library was closed too. Then it struck me how much I valued it and how much I would miss it.

Eventually, after months of lockdown, I received an email saying that the library would be reopening and that they were slowly getting back to normal.

When I go there now I am met with the same courtesy, plus the new dimension of Track and Trace, but most importantly of all, the books are now available.

There is a lot more that I could say but to reduce the experience of 35 years into a single letter is impossible.

We are all living through a wretched and uncertain period but for me there is one special place where everyone can go to replenish themselves and discover new things. The library is a special place where riches are available - and they're all free!

Hugh Taylor Queens Road, Blandford

. . and the dentist . . .

I RECENTLY suffered a toothache and, having read in the Press some hair-raising stories about dental care during Covid, it was with some trepidation that I telephoned my dentist at Alaska House Surgery.

I was immediately given an appointment, an ulcer was diagnosed, and after an x-ray I was further diagnosed with a problem root. As my gum and my face were very swollen and painful, I was given antibiotics and the gum was drained. Later that evening the dentist, Dr Kiersz, rang my husband to see how I was.

An appointment was arranged for a few days later and on my return the problem was dealt with quickly and efficiently.

I consider the service and care I received was outstanding and above the call of duty. So thank you Alaska House! How nice it is to send a letter of praise rather than of complaint in these grim and strange times.

Jackie Stayt, Blandford

. . and Janet YOUR article in the October issue just hints at the contribution Janet Knight has made, through dance, to the cultural, physical and mental benefit of two generations of people in the Blandford area - not to mention advice and help given in all other related activities.

I hope that her contribution to so many will be properly recognised.

Richard Foley

. . and more I WOULD like to thank the various services for their help and support to my late brother Desmond Wyndsor-Cowley, who left us in August 2020.

In particular the Blandford Mental Health Team, Blandford Day Centre, Eye Clinic, Learning Disabilities Team Sturminster Newton, NHS Dorchester Hospital and our local doctors at Milton Abbas Surgery.

Thank you to you all.

Robert Cowley CO-OPTION of a new councillor to fill the vacancy on Blandford Town Council caused by the resignation of Councillor Doro Russell, who has relocated abroad, has been deferred until the start of a new council year in May 2021. There were insufficient numbers expressing the wish for an election to be held.

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December 2020

Children’s poetry helps the barn owls DORSET schoolchildren have taken part in a poetry performance competition to help save the endangered barn owls at Bere Marsh Farm, Shillingstone.

The 'Icons of the Landscape' competition in support of the fundraising campaign to replace the roof on the owls' home has been judged by Dame Judi Dench, patron of the Countryside Restoration Trust (CRT), which recently purchased the farm.

The endangered barn owls have now been saved from the threat of homelessness as winter approaches thanks to the sensitive repair of the roof of the barn in which they live after ÂŁ30,000 WITH most Health Champion groups suspended due to lockdown, patients of the Blandford Group Practice have been advised they could stay in touch, either through their preferred group on Facebook or by contacting Sara Stringer at the surgery on 01258 452501, or by email to sara.stringer@dorsetgp.nhs.uk.

was raised with the help of several wildlife and conservation bodies and scores of individual contributions from CRT supporters and the local community.

The poetry competition was created by Charlotte Weatherley, assistant head of Knighton House School, one of the 11 local schools and five others from the surrounding area whose pupils were invited to write, perform and record a poem inspired by the title.

Charlotte said: "The barn owls are iconic of Bere Marsh and very much beloved by young and old throughout the surrounding community. We felt compelled to help the CRT." Joining Dame Judi in her judging duties was Dorset poet and writer, David Caddy, author of eight books and editor of the international literary journal, Tears in the Fence.

The winners and runners-up in junior and senior categories were due to be announced on November 27.

A Bere Marsh Farm barn owl. Picture: Alan Wicks.

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December 2020

Restrictions add poignancy to silent tribute I

T was with added poignancy that Remembrance services were held in Blandford this year when Covid restrictions prevented large gatherings.

The government's announcement of a national lockdown from November 5 brought with it the realisation that plans for a Covidsecure if restricted ceremony in the Market Place on Remembrance Sunday would have to be abandoned.

Blandford Royal British Legion hosted their annual Act of Remembrance at the town's cemetery on Sunday November 1 in the belief that it would be the only physical ceremony permitted.

The gathering a week before the main national and international commemoration acknowledges the military casualties of war - the

majority during World War I and World War II - who are buried in Blandford.

It was this year scaled down to include invited guests only, including the Mayor of Blandford Lynn Lindsay, the commander of Blandford Garrison Col Mike Morton, and Malcolm Yeomans of SSAFA, together with the President Gyan Tamang, chairman Terry Clarkson, and Poppy Appeal organiser Robert Taylor of the Blandford Royal British Legion branch and Marilyn Gibbons, president of the RBL Club, all of whom laid wreaths on the Cross of Sacrifice. Branch secretary Bryan Kelly read the poem 'High Flight' by John McGee. The Mayor thanked everyone for attending what could be the only formal service of Remembrance

President of Blandford RBL branch Gyan Tamang offers a prayer after laying his wreath at the town’s cemetery. this year - a service which was as important to them as it was to her.

Mr Taylor said that this year it focused on the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II, which saw German pilots interred in Blandford alongside British casualties.

"While the number of dead buried here at Blandford cemetery is small compared to the millions who lost their lives during the Second World War, it is not the number that tell the story," he said.

"Every individual who died has his own story, which was destroyed by the war that ripped them out of their normal life and

for which they made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

"Many people in both countries have dedicated themselves to good relations between Britons and Germans, and today's event is just one part of the process, showing that former enemies can become friends and partners and that friendship can grow out of hatred and tragedy."

The service was led by the recently appointed branch chaplain, the Rev David Flower, and assisted by standard bearers Tony Lucas and Marie Parsons of Blandford RBL and Trevor Smith of RAFA. The Last Post and Reveille were played by Geordie Thomson, and piper Lyndon Wall.

Standard bearers Tony Lucas of Blandford RBL and Terry Smith of SSAFA with their lowered standards for the Last Post. Mr Smith, aged 81, has been a standard bearer for 50 years.

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December 2020

The formal ceremony in the Woodhouse Gardens.

Piper Lyndon Wall leads the parade down Sheep Market Hill..

Town service beats the lockdown I

N the event, the town's Remembrance Service, which had been planned to be recorded and broadcast via the Blandford Forum Town Council Facebook page, was brought forward to November 4, the day before lockdown started.

It was held in the Woodhouse Gardens, where the Mayor, Cllr Lynn Lindsay, said they should remember not only those who had died, but also those who returned or on the home fronts whose lives were forever changed.

"We owe a debt of gratitude that we can only repay by never forgetting and living to the ideals they fought for," she said.

Prayers were led by the Rev Karen Wilson, and the Exhortation was read by Gyan Tamang and Kohima Epitaph by Lieut-Col Richard Dyer, Commanding Officer, Blandford Garrison Support Unit.

The two-minute silence between the Last Post and Reveille played by Geordie Thomson was punctuated by the birds singing and the drone of two aeroplanes flying overhead.

Deputy Mayor Cllr Lee Hitchings gave the closing address, saying: "Our lives seem challenging at present and those we remember today also lived through very challenging times of their own.

Some left for war not to return for years, some not returning at all.

"Those we remember overcame the privations forced upon them in their time and we should, and will, overcome our challenges of today with the same spirit of determination and unity. We will meet again."

Piper Lyndon Wall played Flowers of the Forest, and following the service, led the participants down Sheep Market Hill and along East Street to the Market Place. There RBL branch

Mayor Lynn Lindsay prepares to place her wreath on behalf of the town on the Corn Exchange Memorial.

A silent soldier watches over the Field of Remembrance in Blandford churchyard.

chairman Terry Clarkson and Town Freeman Michael Le Bas laid wreaths at the memorial to Jack Counter VC, and the Mayor and others placed wreaths on the Town Hall war memorial.

Wreaths were also laid by Col Dyer on behalf of the Royal Corps of Signals (the Regiment has the Freedom of the Town) and by Garrison Sergeant Major,

WO1 Reddy, on behalf of the officers, other ranks and families of Blandford Garrison.

Other wreath layers were invited to lay throughout the week instead of during the outdoor service, and representatives from local schools laid crosses in the Field of Remembrance within the churchyard of St Peter and St Paul.

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December 2020

‘Bravest village’ buys a Silent Soldier of its own

The Unknown Soldier purchased by the villagers in Shillingstone, the Bravest Village in World War I.

IN Shillingstone, residents clubbed together to purchase a Silent Soldier (Unknown Tommy) after a villager selling Lamppost Poppies realised in dismay that none existed for what was in World War I named the Bravest Village due to the high number of casualties.

A German field gun and carriage awarded by the War Office in commemoration at the time was reclaimed by the War Office to be melted down for the metal during World War II, and villagers wanted to replace it with a similar tribute.

An appeal on social media raised £200 to purchase a Tommy and two poppy wreaths which were put next to the War Memorial at the junction of Blandford Road and Lanchards Lane.

A poem was written to commemorate and welcome his installation in a position which is hoped to become permanent, and members of the Women's Institute and local craft group

also made poppies, fixed them on netting and placed them over the hedge next to the figure.

The Village Community Group are now raising funds to buy a bench similar to those which have been placed in Blandford and surrounding villages.

• In the villages, Acts of Remembrance went ahead at village memorials on Sunday November 8, including Child Okeford, where representatives of village communities, serving military, veterans and their carers were invited, and the public were allowed to spectate, respecting social distancing.

There were short Acts of Remembrance at the War Memorials in Pimperne, Durweston and outside Holy Trinity Church, Stourpaine.

In Spetisbury, there was an outdoor Act of Remembrance at the war memorial by Spetisbury church, with those attending asked to social distance and names and contact details taken for track and trace purposes.

Left: The Remembrance display in a window of Sean's hairdressers in Salisbury Street.

More Remembrance pictures at forumfocus.co.uk

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December 2020

Poppies’ pride of place RESIDENTS of Colten Care homes, including Whitecliffe House in Blandford, handcrafted hundreds of model poppies to put on display for the Remembrance season.

Relatives, care staff and community contacts also spent time fashioning the poignant tributes by knitting, crocheting and felting red fabric and sewing on black buttons.

Diane Duffield, companionship team leader, said: "Remembrance is always an important occasion for us as so many of our residents have childhood memories of the war and its aftermath.

"Preparing our display was a lovely project to be part of. Our residents really enjoy their arts and crafts and the poppy making activity certainly prompted many conversations and recollections."

Complementing the displays of poppies, Colten Care homes also fundraised for the main annual poppy appeal run by the Royal British Legion.

Town pays tribute ELSEWHERE in the town, residents who had been urged to 'Remember at Home' paid their individual tributes placing poppies in their windows, and large poppies were displayed on lamp posts by the Town Council, using string instead of cable ties.

Banners were also hung from the Town Hall windows to mark the notable 75th anniversaries of VE and VJ Day. Blandford Bowling Club as last year covered the porch of their clubhouse in Park Road in a display of poppies, and Kayleigh Jones and her family created a stunning poppy-covered bridal gown for the window of her prem-

ises, Exclusively Yours, in Salisbury Street.

Other local businesses also put up window displays, some with contributions from the Royal British Legion.

They included Forum Framers, who featured particularly the Canadians buried in Blandford Cemetery who were killed in World War II, and Noc's Box, whose display highlighted the memorial in the woods near Durweston to Pilot Officer John Frederick Woodward Allen at the site where his Spitfire crashed during a patrol flight from RAF Warmwell in November 1940.

The porch of Blandford Bowling Club covered in poppies.

Colten Care resident Maureen Smith, who lives at Whitecliffe House in Blandford, crocheting poppies for the home's display.

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December 2020

23

December 2020

Museum’s clue to pocket puzzle?

HOW did Lucy Locket lose her pocket? The answer may lie in the newly acquired early Georgian provincial lady's gown that has come to rest in Blandford Fashion Museum.

It was installed in front of a prebooked audience during two sessions at the Museum. The owner has changed its style in accordance with the fashion at the time so the front is from 1812 and incorporates designs from an earlier date including a train; the latter became fashionable from 1790.

There is an air of excitement at its acquisition, hence the departure from the usual practice of working behind the scenes together with restrictions imposed through the Covid pandemic.

Important were the undergarments beginning with a chemise and followed by a petticoat.

Washable fabrics were just becoming available and the first sewing machines appeared between 1790-1814.

Is this Lucy Locket's pocket?

These durable and affordable fabrics became popular among the majority of the population.

Newspapers and magazines conveyed new ideas as did dolls.

Classical ideals were in vogue, stressing the importance of ease, comfort and a 'natural' style.

It has sleeves to the elbow (apparently a German influence) which was acceptable particularly for the 'dinner hour' when arms were revealed to a 'graceful height above the elbow'.

Importantly for 'Lucy' there are slits each side to allow the wearer access to her waist-tied 'pockets', small, often embroidered, drawstring bags, essential to young women particularly whilst making their way in the world and living in rented rooms. Keys, sewing materials, handkerchiefs and coins needed to be transported to keep them safe.

Under the influence of the industrial revolution, improved transportation and the introduction of machines in manufacturing, fashion developed at an even faster pace.

It is clear that the wearer of this dress was an ardent follower despite living far from large centres of population. It is made of brown cotton patterned with white and red stripes and blue flowers, utilising cream coloured Dorset buttons on the bodice and side openings.

In its new setting, together with a companion wearing a sumptuous coat dress, the model is seen making a 'pocket'. This is obviously to replace the one Kitty Fisher 'found' but 'Not a penny was there in it'.

Carole Fornachon

The Georgian coat dress which has been donated to the Fashion Museum.

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Bikers shed spooky light on low-key Halloween jinks HALLOWEEN and Bonfire Night were both much restricted this year, first by the general Covid restrictions and then by the country's second national lockdown on November 5.

It has been many years since any formal community commemoration of the night Guy Fawkes tried to blow up the Houses of Parliament, but fireworks had to be restricted to garden gatherings among individual households - apart from the occasional display before the lockdown

came into effect.

A few days earlier, bikers gathered on the Milldown car park in the darkness but then switched on their lights to reveal the ghoulish masks and ghostly faces of their third annual Halloween ride through Blandford.

They rode up through the Badbury estate to Blandford Heights and back down Larksmead, Elizabeth Road and St Leonards Avenue to Wimborne Road, East Street and the Market Place, then on through Blandford St Mary before returning via the town centre and Whitecliff Mill Street to finish back at the Milldown.

Joint organiser Kirsten Wareham said: "Two years ago there were only a few of us, but last year there were a few more, and now we are hoping we can turn it into an annual event."

Although they were unable to stop and give out sweets or have pictures taken this year, they were happy to keep the Halloween spirits high for people who couldn't get out, and

December 2020

Woman helped from blaze TWO fire crews from Blandford were sent to a home in Park Hill, Charlton Marshall, after a fire caused by an electrical extractor fan broke out in the loft on the morning of October 24.

No-one was injured but firefighters had to evacuate a disabled woman from the first floor of the house after the electricity was cut off and her stairlift stopped working.

The crews used one hose reel, two breathing kits and a carbon dioxide extinguisher to put out the fire.

All-star council

dressed up with lot of lights, inviting others to join them or just wave as they went past.

Homes and gardens around the town were colourfully decorated with pumpkins and other examples of Halloween activity.

Nightingale Court in the town centre was filled with carvings created at Spoons of Dorset for their three-day Halloween Pumpkin Trail.

BLANDFORD Town Council has been awarded three annual DAPTC Star awards for parish and town councils actively committed to delivering the best service possible to the community by enhancing councillors' knowledge of council processes and keeping up to date with legislation in the sector. The Council qualifies for a new category introduced for 2019/20 - a special award for councils who received three Star awards during the last four years.

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December 2020

Digital hotline aims to tackle IT issues DORSET Council's Digital Champions, who used to hold regular surgeries in libraries, have continued offering their expertise throughout the Coronavirus crisis via the digital hotline, and with winter approaching they are urging people to contact them if they need help getting online.

From setting up Zoom meetings to Facetime contact with friends and family on their smartphones, the Champions can assist with any digital enquiry.

Dorset Council's deputy leader, Cllr Peter Wharf, said: "One of the most important things that helped get us through the last lockdown was the ability to digitally stay in touch with our loved ones, work from home, keep businesses alive and allow children to keep up with their education.

"We would urge anyone who needs help with any aspect of digital technology to call our hotline.

"Since the digital hotline was

launched in March, more than 450 people have called in for assistance with issues ranging from ordering groceries online, setting up virtual tai chi sessions, accessing NHS website services and solving more technical problems.

Digital Champion, Andy Penney, said: "A lockdown during the winter is likely to be a particularly difficult period for many people but technology can really help by keeping everyone better connected and make life easier."

Fellow Champion, Mike Watson, added: "Our aim is to help people get over any hurdle that might be preventing them from enjoying and making the most of digital technology, wherever they are in Dorset."

Anyone can call the Dorset digital hotline with a digital question on 01305 221048 weekdays from 10am to 12 noon, or leave a message outside those times so that a Digital Champion can get back to them.

News from the Surgeries A message from the Blandford Group Practice Patient Participation Group (PPG) Whilst we recognise that the practice is desperately trying to retain as many medical procedures and services as possible throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the recent upturn in cases necessitates that it reacts to the current elevated risks with regards to health and safety issues, in order to safeguard the wellbeing of all its many patients and members of staff.

Steroid injections and minor surgery are currently not being offered as their implementation can significantly increase the risk and are unadvisable during the pandemic.

The minor injuries units situated in Wimborne and Shaftesbury are still available, but patients must make a telephone appointment with the units prior to attending. The MIUs can help with: • sprains and strains / broken bones / injuries to the back, shoulder and chest • wound infections / minor burns and scalds / insect and animal bites • minor head injuries / minor eye injuries The ear syringing procedure is also no longer generally available at the practice; however, such procedures are available locally at a cost.

Before ringing the GP, patients with joint pain, strains or other injuries are encouraged to visit https://www.dorsethealthcare.nhs.uk/mskhome which gives advice and guidance for managing these conditions and information how to self-refer to physio services without first needing a GP referral.

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The View from the Hill

by George Hosford More from George on viewfromthehill.org.uk

I

N the first week of December our sheep will be joined by some itinerant rams from Somerset, to ensure that lambing will begin in early May, long after the Brexit shock has died away (some hope). What kind of market will we have for our prime English lamb by then?

In the meantime we face huge uncertainty for this year's lambs.

They will not be finished before the end of the year, and where the lamb price will be in January is anyone's guess, with business relying partly on export of quality products to our nearest neighbours.

Farmers have always had to be optimists in order to plant any crops, or rear any animals, trusting that there will be a market for their produce when it is ready for sale. The weather, currency, and normal world market fluctuations have always been variable, but the Brexit fiasco is surely a selfinflicted act of madness? Let's see, will I be wrong? I hope so, but it's a massive gamble.

Elsewhere on the farm we have been playing with more shiny kit, though we won't be risking any purchase until we see the lie of the land next year. We are exploring the market for no-till drills - machines which will sow crops directly into the soil without tilling it first.

This is a further step forward

December 2020 after years of honing our minimal tillage techniques. Having dumped the plough back in 2002, our tillage system has evolved considerably, always looking for a way to produce an acceptable seedbed with minimal passes, saving on fuel and time, as well as seeing a significant improvement in our soil quality and resilience.

The more technically minded might like to view more details of our trials on the website.

As reported last month, we have tried the Amazone Cayena, a German tined machine, provided

by Martin from CJ Cox at Bagber, and the John Deere 750a, an old American design from Smart Ag services.

Next up was the Sky drill, a French-built machine imported by Opico, demonstrated by Matthew from C&O, which can sow four different things at once - large seeded beans could be sown from one hopper, buckwheat from another, both through the deeper coulter pipes, and then a blend of say clover and phacelia sown through the shallow set of pipes as they only need to be sprinkled into the surface of the soil - a bit more than we need at the moment, but we can see a day when it might be useful. The price reflects the additional cleverness with a sizeable premium.

The last drill we tried this season

These sheep have been left chewing down a grass paddock, when the rest of the flock have been grazing rape for the last six weeks. These are the tame ones who were hand-reared as lambs they had to stay near the farm to entertain our only school visit of the year. Covid has made transport and bubbling too tricky to negotiate for most schools, which has been a great shame; farm visits are usually very popular with teachers and pupils alike, in easier times. I sincerely hope we can get through this and resume educational visits in the spring. was the Horsch Avatar provided by the team at Claas Western at Puddletown which possesses coulters very similar to the JD, but with a rather better operator experience - still not a patch on the Amazone or the Sky drill though.

The new Agriculture Act, finally passed, has laid the foundations for UK agriculture to become much more environmentally focused than it was under the EU's Common Agriculture Policy, and we are promised that this will reward us for farming in a more sustainable fashion, incorporating such things as cover

Our new hens have now started laying and are enjoying scratching round the farmyard.

crops, companion crops, and notill into our systems, to become more carbon friendly, and ultimately help us to become carbon neutral as a nation.

A huge caveat should be borne in mind before we get too carried away with ideas of regenerative agriculture: how will we do it if glyphosate (roundup) is to be banned?

If we are going to sow new crops into the remains of the previous crop, the previous crop will compete with the newly sown seedlings. The commonest technique now is to spray the field with glyphosate shortly before sowing.

The EU is moving towards banning glyphosate, more a political decision than a scientific one.

Being outside the EU we may be allowed it for a bit longer, but the writing is on the wall, and some manufacturers are already working on ways we might find to cope without it. The organic farmers do but find it difficult to farm without using the plough, which in my book is more damaging than the occasional squirt of glyphosate. Which is the least bad option, I wonder? Clearly neither, but we haven't found a better solution yet.

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December 2020

Charity founder and museum stalwart THE funeral service was held at Poole Crematorium on November 19 for Edna Moore, widow of the late Doug Moore, who together in 1999 founded Age Concern Blandford.

They moved to the town from Essex to be closer to family members. Mrs Moore was also involved with the Cavalcade of Costume, now Blandford Fashion Museum, where she became secretary and then chairman of the management committee, bookings secretary and tearoom volunteer.

She also, in the late 1990s, became secretary of the Blandford Townswomen's Guild for which she was awarded the Doreen Samuels Plate for volunteer of the year by the Guild's Dorset Federation in 2013, the

OBITUARY year she celebrated her 90th birthday. In her late 80s, when she fell victim to failing eyesight, she formed the Blandford branch of the Macular Society, the charity for those affected by age-related macular degeneration.

She had previously worked in the WAF during the war as a morse instructor, in secretarial and administrative roles, and as a newsagent with her husband following his retirement from work with the Daily Express.

She died on November 2, aged 97, at Casterbridge Manor Nursing Home. Donations were accepted by funeral directors Colin Close of Blandford for the Alzheimer's Society.

Christmas dinner offer gets a rapid response A TRULY goodwill offer of 100 Christmas dinners for local families from contractors Dean Teversham Roofing Services on Blandford's Clump Farm industrial estate had an immediate response.

People nominated friends, neighbours and people who had helped them during lockdown to receive the turkey, pigs in blankets and vegetables to feed four to six people.

They said: "We know this year has been exceptionally hard for everyone so we'd like to spread a little extra festive cheer this Christmas. The turkeys are being purchased from local butcher J Mato & Son and the

veg is being purchased from Stuart Pearce in the Market Place, both at full retail prices, as we believe in supporting our local family shops and businesses."

Within four hours of their post going out on social media they had already reached their 100th nominee and within 24 hours they had a waiting list of another 50, who may get lucky if anyone turns down their offer.

They said: "It was an amazing response. What a wonderful community we live in. Many deserving congratulations to each and every one, and also to the many who didn't make the first 100."

Edna Moore, pictured on her 90th birthday in 2013.

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December 2020

A financial lifeline for historic trust THE Springhead Trust is delightwell as helping the trustees and ed to have been awarded a lifestaff prepare for the resumption saving financial boost thanks to of school visits and open garthe Culture Recovery Fund for dens in a Covid-safe way.

Heritage.

Before the October half-term and The grant will go towards core second lockdown, they were able running costs and help fund a to welcome pupils from St range of works to help them Andrews Primary in Fontmell adapt and recover.

Magna, and they have also become the custodians of the Edward Parker, director of the Shaftesbury Heritage Snowdrop charity which manages the Collection, continuing the work of unique venue at Fontmell Pam Magna, Cruikshank and said: "This her colleagues grant will in preserving make all the and propagatdifference to ing rare variSpringhead. eties.

Our historic buildings If conditions and 15 allow, the garacres of den at grounds are Springhead will an important be open to the asset to the School pupils on the only visit to public between local and 10am and 3pm Springhead this year demonstrate gravity wider comevery weekday by throwing pumpkins into the pool. munity, but (free of charge) without our usual income from throughout February for visitors school groups, wedding parties to enjoy the snowdrops, and on and other users, we have been the weekend of February 13-14 struggling. to coincide with the Shaftesbury Snowdrop Festival.

"The funding will not only help to keep the charity going during the Despite their success in grant pandemic, but also help us to funding applications this year, adapt to the new circumstances." they have launched an appeal to help with the running costs of Another grant from Heritage Springhead while the Covid 19 Emergency Fund has provided restrictions persist. financial support enabling the trust to carry out vital structural Donations of cash, cheques and surveys on the historic Mill bank transfer are welcome, and Building, where damp and a there is also a Just Giving donaleaking roof are among the risks tion section on their website to the Grade II listed building, as springheadtrust.org.uk.

Follow us on Twitter @forumfocus & online at forumfocus.co.uk

Lawyer’s video will concerns Record entry for writers THE Rotary Club of Blandford has thanked everyone who entered their 2020 short story competition and congratulated the prize winners for their excellent submissions.

In the Flash Fiction category the winner was Adrianne Howell with 'Express Attraction'; in the Short Story category Lesley A with 'Celebration Cakes'; and in the under-18s Eve Alice Clark with 'When the Ships Came'.

David Bamber won the poetry competition with 'The Wintering Swans'.

A Rotary spokesperson said that as always it was a tough choice as the standards were especially high this year with a record number of entries.

Prize money totalled ÂŁ560, and the sponsors were Lesley Shand Funeral Service (poetry) and Blandford Forum Town Council (open prose).

Further information and a full list of winners, together with some of the entries, can be found on the Blandford Rotary Short Story & Poetry Competition 2020 Facebook page where all the winners are listed.

TEMPORARY legislation to permit wills to be executed and witnessed via video link due to the ongoing Covid crisis could leave the whole process open to dispute, says a leading Dorset legal expert.

Jerome Dodge, partner and head of private client services at Blandford-based Blanchards Bailey, believes the legalisation of 'video wills' could lead to questions over capacity, undue influence and the presence of witnesses.

He says he remains uneasy about the introduction of The Wills Act 1837 (Electronic Communications) (Amendment) (Coronavirus) Order 2020, which will retrospectively apply to wills witnessed from January 31, 2020, and remain in force until January 31, 2022.

He said: "Generally, I view the current and longstanding law as being very rigid when it comes to the formalities needed for a will to be validly executed. So, on the face of it, allowing flexibility in the current circumstances is a practical approach and is to be welcomed.

"But witnessing a will remotely, whilst it will shortly be possible in law, should only be embarked upon where there are exceptional circumstances, and I strongly recommend speaking to an expert beforehand.

"Homemade wills are already fraught with risk both in terms of their effect and validity. Without suitable advice, executing wills by video call gives even greater scope for things to go wrong, and disputes can be costly, complex and stressful."

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December 2020

Spotlight shines on the Bryanston bats FOR four months during the summer of 2019, cutting-edge night vision cameras and ultrasonic detectors from the BBC were focused on a greater horseshoe bat roost at Bryanston School.

The remarkable journey into the secret world of one of the country's most endangered animals featured in a special documentary 'Inside the Bat Cave' which was broadcast on BBC 2 on October 26.

It was hosted by TV presenters, Professor Kate Jones, Lucy Cooke and Ajay Tegala, and gave an unprecedented view of the hidden life of a bat colony, including the birth of pups and their progress towards their first perilous flight outside the roost.

Affectionately known as 'the Bryanston bats' by staff and pupils, they are often seen flying in the evening sky around the school. Great care has been taken over many years to avoid any disruption to the roost during any routine maintenance work on the historic buildings where they have taken up residence.

"We were delighted to host the

BBC and it was fascinating to see what really goes on in the roost while everyone at the school goes about their everyday activities," says Karen Brazier, director of marketing and external communications.

"The painstaking preparations for TV presenters Professor Kate Jones, Lucy Cooke and Ajay Tegala and a BBC film crew spent four months at Bryanston School filming for the 'Inside the Bat Cave' documentary.

Treads support network continues despite Covid An image from the documentary. filming was a real eye-opener but, by all accounts, all of the effort has produced a truly unique and amazing insight into the lives of these protected and extraordinary creatures."

Sudan link changes THIS year's Chase Benefice Christmas Fair in support of the Sudan Medical Link took a very different form, with 'stallholders' offering goods for sale by order.

Covid-safe collection from the usual fair venue of the Anne Biddlecombe Hall in Tarrant Keyneston was planned, subject to the lifting of lockdown and ongoing Covid restrictions, for Saturday December 5 for those who had ordered by November 20.

The Medical Link has for around 50 years supported people in North and South Sudan with primary healthcare medicines but fundraising has been severely compromised by the rising Coronavirus figures both here and in both Sudans.

THROUGHOUT the Covid-19 pandemic, Treads Blandford have continued to work with young people by providing virtual, online support alongside oneto-one sessions and weekly check-ins.

As they locked down once again, they were determined to continue to support young people by helping them cope with the impact of Covid-19 and adjust, adapt and continue to thrive in difficult times.

Treads remains a source of support, providing accessible youth work, information, advice, guidance and giving young people the opportunity to voice their concerns, providing group and individual support sessions led by trained youth support workers and liaising closely with other agencies such as Victim Support.

Young people don't need to be referred to them from outside agencies, they can simply request a chat and a phone or video call with a youth worker will be organised.

Online support sessions run on a Tuesday and Thursday from 4pm to 4.45pm, and joint sessions with Victim Support, focusing on self-help, anti-bullying and wellbeing, are every Wednesday evening from 4pm to 4.45pm.

Safe and confidential 'break out rooms' are also available through Zoom support sessions.

Treads can be reached by email: Youthsupport@treads.org.uk, phone: 07552 724840, Facebook Treads Blandford or Instagram youthsupport2018 COMMON Lane car park behind M&Co in East Street has been removed from the Assets of Community Value list after the owner of the car park objected to its inclusion, which had been proposed by Blandford Town Council and agreed by Dorset Council. The nomination was reassessed and believed not to qualify, but town councillors were told that that does not prevent its being nominated again.

30

December 2020

Above: Durweston School pupils and staff at the village war memorial. Above right: The autumn welly walk through the fields at Durweston.

Durweston pupils’ lesson in Remembrance DURWESTON School marked Remembrance on Armistice Day, November 11.

Following a moving service in church, with a governor of the school playing the Last Post before the two minutes' silence, a small group of children from Year 6 went to lay a cross at the war memorial in the village.

Head teacher Nicola Brooke said: "People in the village said that they could hear the Last Post from their houses. We hope that these are the experiences that our children will remember for the rest of their lives."

Pupils were out and about again on November 13 when the whole school took to the hills for an Autumn Welly Walk.

Half-term food plea results in a flood of offers of help THE initial refusal by the government to provide no extra assistance to pupils in receipt of free school meals during half-term resulted in strong community support to help in response to appeals on social media.

There were hundreds of offers of help following a Facebook post by Jo Kempster of Charlton Marshall inviting people to offer food to those in need during half-term.

Jo then set up a GoFundMe page that raised over £300 to supply meals to any children who needed them doing the holidays, either by way of hot meals, lunch boxes or shopping, saying that any surplus after the halfterm will be donated to the foodbank in

Blandford.

Businesses offering support included Clubhouse 1896 at Ashley Wood Golf Club, Spoons of Dorset, Rebekkah's and the Willows Tearoom in Shillingstone.

Gail del Pinto, at the Blandford Foodbank, said: "If people are in difficulty during halfterm or otherwise and can't get hold of a referral agency to refer them to the foodbank, then give the foodbank a call - we're here to help.

"If you are struggling and coming to the end of furlough or facing worrying times ahead, please do contact us; we are always here to listen, help and give advice."

Well, three walks actually, as each 'bubble' took a different route.

"We were blessed with a glorious afternoon. It was a super opportunity to talk about the fabulous autumn colours and see how the landscape is changing as winter approaches. We are extremely grateful to Mr Hosford for allowing us access to his farm."

Park Road toilets to be demolished THE disused toilet block at Park Road, Blandford, is to be demolished to create more parking spaces in front and improve the appearance of the recreation ground.

Town councillors at their last meeting supported a recommendation from the Barnes for a Recreation Trust meeting at the end of October and authorised expenditure of £10,000 from a legacy donation and £20,000 from the sale of the Old Bath House, and £10,000 from general reserves to cover the cost.

The chainlink fencing will be removed, retaining the five-bar gate access for future use, and the new area resurfaced and white-lined to ensure maximum occupancy, and green palisade fencing erected to secure the site.

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December 2020

James steps down as United manager BLANDFORD United FC, which along with the rest of grassroots football were suspended with the start of the second lockdown, have paid tribute to their manager Jamie Haycock, who has stepped down after three years at the helm.

The announcement from the club on November 11 said: "When he took over we were joint bottom and we are now a thriving Dorset Premier League side regularly looking to finish in the top four and win more silverware."

There was much praise not only for his management of the team, but also for his long-term vision in maintaining a clear pathway from youth to senior, looking at players from the junior teams to see how they could develop and play a part in the senior team.

Jamie, who has a carpentry and building business, said pressure

of work, family commitments and lockdown had led him to leave after being with the club for many years.

Club secretary Frank Webber said: "He has stepped down for personal reasons. He will be hard to replace as he put his heart and soul into the club. We are looking internally to replace him, hopefully before lockdown ends."

The first-team is currently seventh in the table after winning three of the five games played, drawing one and losing one.

Their last, on November 24, away against Hamworthy Firsts, had to be called off due to a waterlogged pitch.

Blandford are next due to play bottom-of-the-league Wareham Rangers at Park Road on December 12 if lockdown is lifted on December 2.

Table tennis boost Duo’s charity run AN outdoor table tennis table similar to those at a number of local village halls is to be provided, probably at Larksmead recreation ground, increasing the amount of outdoor exercise equipment available at the site where adult exercise equipment has already been provided by Blandford Town Council.

The new facility will cost £2,275, funded in part by a £950 grant from Dorset Council which was applied for in December last year. Quotes sought at that time put the price at over £4,000, but new quotes sought when the grant approval was received in September for the green-painted concrete table reduced the cost after excluding safety matting, the need for which could be reviewed after a period of usage.

Town Clerk Linda Scott-Giles said: "It is something anyone can use for free - all they need is a bat and a ball and it is accessible for wheelchair users."

Councillor Alan Cross described it as "frivolity beyond the extreme" in the middle of a global pandemic, but Councillor Lynn Lindsay said: "It's another outdoor activity in which people can take part." The proposed acceptance of the expenditure by Lee Hitchings was approved by 14 votes to one.

A BLANDFORD couple have raised nearly £300 for Cancer Research UK by completing the Vitality Virtual London 10km event on the North Dorset Trailway on October 24.

Samantha Symes and her boyfriend Mike Stacey ran from Damory Down on to the Trailway and after completing the distance finished at the trailway bridge in Salisbury Road.

They said it was a charity close to their hearts and thanked everyone who donated for a great cause and cheered them on the way.

"Running through the finishing line together was fantastic and the thought of helping cancer research made it worthwhile," said Samantha.

Like the London Marathon, the physical 10k was cancelled this year and became a virtual event with a focus, 'Celebrate You', on the mental and physical health benefits of getting active, important during lockdown and through the year.

People of all ages and abilities were offered the opportunity to set themselves a challenge during autumn half-term to run, walk or jog 10k on a route of their choice at any time during the event week and upload their time to receive a finisher's medal and T-shirt.

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December 2020

Dorset featured in a visual symphony

What’s on this month PLEASE NOTE: most events and meetings have been cancelled in response to the Covid 19 (coronavirus) restrictions and those listed below may be dependent on lifting of lockdown. Please check with the contact where given before attending to avoid disappointment. Please also let us know by email to listings@forumfocus.co.uk of any events able to go ahead.

To Tuesday January 5: Woodhouse Gardens illuminated 4.30 to 9pm Wednesday December 2: North Dorset Trailway Network AGM, held by Zoom, 7pm, non-members/Friends can email ndtnsec@gmail.com to receive an invitation to attend Friday December 4 to Thursday December 24: Christmas Tree Festival - displays in The Old Bath House behind Parish Church and in shop windows Blandford Yuletide Festival supporting local businesses, see blandford-yuletide-festival.org.uk/ Saturdays December 5, 12 & 19: Free parking in Blandford car parks (time restrictions still apply) Christmas Market, Blandford Brewery, details 01258 486004 or facebook.com/BreweryTapHW Saturday and Sunday December 5 & 6: Christmas Fayre, Bryanston Club, details 07708 550561 Saturday December 5 to 12: Blandford Fashion Museum open daily (excluding Sunday), see Facebook Blandford Fashion

Museum Monday December 7: Panda Pre-School Bingo, Royal British Legion, Blandford, eyes down 7.30pm Friday to Wednesday December 11 to 30: IGNITE Trail, Kingston Lacy, see nationaltrust.org.uk/kingston-lacy Saturday December 12: Christmas Quiz, Bryanston Club, book in advance on 07708 550561 Rudolph Reindeer Cycle Ride, details facebook.com/YuleRide.

Details 01258 860157, book in advance by email to: blan@dcn.org.uk Friday December 18: Carols and mulled wine, Bryanston Club, 6.30pm, details 07708 550561 Saturday December 19: Open Day, Blandford Museum Victorian Garden, 10.30am to 3pm Christmas Eve: Thursday December 24: Music from Ashley Day, Bryanston Club, tables must be booked in advance, 07708 550561 Christmas Church Services: see facebook.com/ChurchesTogetheri nBlandford

A NEW film capturing the images, words, music and sounds that make up the rural landscape from Dorset to Northumberland has been created by those involved in rural touring arts schemes up and down the country, including Dorset's Artsreach.

During the enforced suspension of live events, volunteer promoters who are active as organisers of theatre, concerts and live performances in rural spaces collaborated on a project and, armed with their own cameras and smartphones, captured sound and video content from their communities during lockdown.

These were stitched together by filmmaker Gemma Wearing to create a visual landscape overlaid with music and poetry from artists in each of the participating regions.

"Symphony of the Countryside has been a real journey and the whole process has been very different to how I normally work," she said.

"It was a bit daunting not being able to storyboard the footage and just having to wait and see what arrived, but I was completely blown away with the quality and diversity of footage that we

received. It really resonates with how the majority of us have connected with nature during these difficult times."

Tim Smithies from Carn to Cove, the Cornish touring scheme which co-ordinated the project, said: "The idea was to give participating rural communities the chance to share their ideas online, understand each other better as a result, and draw the ideas and thoughts into a coherent artistic product."

Holly Lombardo, director of National Rural Touring Forum, who provided funding to help make the project happen, said: "We wanted to support initiatives that reached communities in lockdown - projects that captured the process of delivering art and culture, while supporting artists and those in isolation."

The film was premiered live in October and can be found on the Artsreach website at artsreach.co.uk together with the Artsreach digital diary featuring other shows available online: until December 4, John Osborne with 'Try to Write a Funny Novel', suitable for ages 10+, and until December 11 Jake Oldershaw with his witty 'In Loving Memory Of', suitable for ages 14+.

Viking couple’s success ALEX and Emma Young at the Ginger Viking in East Street, Blandford, were declared best Entrepreneurs of the Year in the Dorset Food, Drink and Farming Awards announced by the Dorset Magazine in November.

Other local businesses highly commended were the Steeptonbill Farm Shop in Milton Abbas in the Best Farm Shop, Allen Valley Milk & Pamphill Dairy in the Business Collaboration Award, the Dorset Food Company in Blandford for Best Local Food/Delivery Experience, and From Dorset with Love in the Best Food Producer category, whose winner was the Cranborne Book & Bucket Cheese Company.