October 2013 Forum Focus by Sevensioux

FORUM FOCUS For Blandford and surrounding villages Issue No. 19

October 2013

All steamed up - Page 11

Faces of Blandford End of an era: Conio and Sue Jeans have retired from their newsagent's shop in Blandford Market Place, bringing to an end a family link stretching back many years. The couple have run the business since 1977 and took it over from Conio's father who established a greengrocer's shop there before the war. Full story: Page 6 Right: Little Florence Haskett and her toy box provided one of the many eye-catching characters on display when Blandford's colourful carnival paraded through the streets. Story and more pictures: Pages 8-9

PO ‘bussing’ plan under fire MP calls for temporary local site while premises are refurbished A FAILURE by the Post Office to arrange a better alternative than bussing people to Shaftesbury when the Blandford branch shuts for ten days this month has been criticised by local councillors and North Dorset MP Bob Walter. The branch will be closing for refurbishment and reconfiguration between 12.30pm on Saturday 12th October and 1pm on Thursday 24th October. It follows a similar closure and refurbishment at Shaftesbury Post Office last month, when Mr Walter succeeded in persuading Post Office bosses to lay on an hourly bus service to nearby Gillingham. This time Blandford customers will be offered a service at 90-minute intervals to Shaftesbury. Mr Walter said he had asked for a temporary service in Shaftesbury, and when he heard of the Blandford closure, had asked for a temporary service to be provided locally. "They had anticipated my concerns and already arranged for the free bus service, and said the nearest alternatives, Pimperne and Winterborne Stickland, were too small to cater for the capacity. I tried to suggest the

by Nicci Brown Community Room, Woodhouse Pavilion and Parish Centre as alternative temporary venues, but they were all deemed unsuitable." District and county councillor Barrie Cooper said he was trying to make contact with the chief executive of the Post Office. "I believe it is not too late for the Post Office to provide the service via a mobile while the refurbishment is taking place," he said. "Members of the public should not be expected to go to Shaftesbury, and residents should make their views known by phoning 08457 223344." They can also phone that number to find whether all customers have to be bussed to Shaftesbury, and what services are available from the smaller sub post offices, which also include the sub post office at the White Horse in Stourpaine. Town councillor Esme Butler said: "As a resident who regularly collects my mum's pension, I don't fancy a two-hour round trip to Shaftesbury."

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She added that she had asked the town clerk to enquire whether the refurbishment will include the retention of the painting which hangs over the counters and shows the town during the Great Fire. Mr Walter said: "No matter how smoothly the customer bus service runs, it will undoubtedly be an inconvenience for local people. However, given that the outcome will be a new modern branch open all day on a Saturday, it will hopefully be worth waiting for." The refurbishment is part of a three-year investment and support programme to convert 6,000 branches nationwide to new-style branches. As well as the extended opening hours, the new open-plan office will have four service points and include a hearing loop for the hard of hearing.

Blandford Hospital set for £1.1m boost: Page 3 www.forumfocus.co.uk

October 2013

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DROP POINTS Main drop points for Forum Focus in Blandford and Blandford St Mary are at Blandford Post Office, Blandford Library, and Corn Exchange in the Market Place, James Newsagents in The Plocks, Homebase, the Co-ops in Salisbury Road and Langton Road, Tesco at Stour Park, One Stop in Salisbury Road, Blandford Leisure Centre, the Central shop and Blandford Tourist Information Centre, West Street. In the villages they are at the Charlton Marshall Church Rooms and Charlton pub, Woodpecker pub at Spetisbury, True Lovers Knot and Langton Arms in the Tarrant Valley, Pimperne shop, White Horse Inn at Stourpaine, Iwerne Minster post office, Shillingstone garage and church centre, Royal Oak at Milborne St Andrew, Sticky Stores at Winterborne Stickland and the Cricketers at Shroton.

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Arches could be a nature viewing spot IDEAS for the use for the former railway flood arches at Langton Meadows were put on display by the Blandford Railway Arches Trust on Bank Holiday Monday, when supporters were invited to see illustrations of how the arches might be developed into an environmental observation point. The Trust was established some years ago when there was talk of demolishing one of the last remaining structures built as part of the Somerset & Dorset

Railway in the town, and campaigned against their demolition because of their historic significance and popularity with the public. "The main issue over their reuse is providing access to the top, which will be an expensive project," said chairman Sylvia Hixson Andrews, "but we have succeeded in persuading the town council to carry out some maintenance work and, with the help of the North Dorset Countryside Rangers, have removed ivy and vegetation growing on the building. "We have been developing a management plan based on the acknowledged wildlife attractions of the meadows, and collecting supportive evidence from members of the public. But many people have no idea what the structure is, so we are grateful to the Rangers for recently providing an explanatory notice." Those interested in progressing the project to re-use the arches are invited to call Mrs Hixson Andrews on 01258 458911 or Nicci Brown on 01258 459346.

Fire damage to furnishings in Blandford cemetery chapel.

Arsonists damage Chapel THE chapel in Blandford cemetery was broken into some time overnight on the weekend of 14th and 15th September and fittings were set on fire. The alarm was raised at about 7.30am on the Sunday by a local resident and the fire service were quickly on the scene to deal with it. But fire damage was caused to a pew, the lectern and the table, and there was fire and smoke damage to the plasterwork. A Town Council spokesman said: "It is particularly saddening that this damage has been caused as the Chapel was one of the features during the Dorset Architectural week. "It is the last remaining example of such a chapel in Dorset and one of the few remaining in the country in its original condition. "The fire has sadly now damaged some of its original features, a heritage lost." The Town Council will work to restore the chapel as soon as possible and is offering a financial reward for information leading to a successful prosecution of the culprits.

October 2013

Swimmers take the plunge for charity SIX youngsters swam over a marathon in 10-minute laps over a 12-hour period in Blandford Leisure Centre pool to raise £1,750 for the Brain Research Trust. The sponsored event was organised by John McGuinness, a lifeguard at the pool, and his sisters Rosie and Katie, a London physiotherapist, in memory of their father, who died in February after a long battle with a rare degenerative brain disease CADASIL. They wanted to raise awareness and funds for research into neurological conditions, and John and Katie were joined by pool lifeguards Olly Dyke, Hannah Neish, V-Jaye Burchell and Stephen Pike in the relay between 5am and 5pm. In their 10-minute stints of front crawl they swam a total of 1,688 lengths of the 25-metre pool, a distance of 26.3 miles. "We aimed to cover 22 miles and raise £1,000, but with more still to collect, the total is £1,750," said John. He thanked the leisure centre for giving them the use of a lane for the whole day and for the top prize in their raffle, which raised £375, of a year's membership to any Dorset Everyone Active Leisure Centre, as well as other prize donors, including the Offcamber cycle shop and Kutting Edge hairdressers. To donate, go to www.Justgiving.com/JohnMcGuinness2.

Marathon charity swimmers Olly Dyke, John McGuinness, Stephen Pike, Hannah Neish, Katie McGuinness and V-Jaye Burchell after their efforts for the Brain Research Trust.

Blandford hospital set for £1m boost A £1.1 million development plan will be starting in January at Blandford Community Hospital to include work in the old Portman Ward area. It will enable dentistry to be available five days a week, and the Day Hospital will move to the conservatory area alongside chemotherapy, blood transfusions and other ambulatory care. The Community Service part of Social Services will then be able to move into the main hospital alongside their colleagues in the Community Rehabilitation Team, creating much more efficiency between the teams and avoiding overlapping and gaps in the service. The theatre will be upgraded to result hopefully in an increasing number of services being attracted to the hospital. Peter Fale, chairman of the Friends of the Hospital, who are contributing £600,000 to the rede-

velopment, said: "This is a huge step forward for the hospital and very good news for Blandford. The Friends are very enthusiastic in supporting this venture." A busy calendar of events for the Friends starts this month with prize bingo on Thursday 3rd October in the hospital dining room, when doors open 6.45pm for eyes down 7.30pm. On Saturday 19th October they hold their annual Autumn Fair in the Corn Exchange in Blandford between 9.30am and 2pm. The Friends are also looking forward to their annual market stall in Blandford on Thursday 7th November and a Race Night at Bryanston Club on Friday 22nd November. The following month the Christmas bingo event on Thursday 5th December is followed by the grand finale of the fundraising year, a concert by the Band of the Royal Corps of Signals on Friday 20th December. For information, contact the Friends' office at the Hospital on 01258 450095 or visit their website: www.friendsblandford.org.

October 2013

Peak practice pays off for Kilimanjaro climbers TWO Blandford people were reaching the dizzy heights of the summit of Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak, in August. Trine Pedersen undertook the challenge to raise funds for Diabetes UK, the charity supporting her son who was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes 18 months ago at the age of 12. Gareth Bishop, after climbing the UK's highest peak of Ben Nevis in June, climbed Kilimanjaro for Greyhound Rescue West of England (GRWE). In his blog, Gareth said: "It was like fireworks going off when I got to Stella Peak, and at around 09.30 all my dreams came true. I stood proudly at the sign of Uhuru Peak 5,895 meters or 19,340 feet above sea level, and after having my photo taken I remember dropping to my knees and just trying to soak in what was going on." Trine, who attended the opening

Trine Pedersen and members of her group at the peak of Kilimanjaro.

night of the Blandford Film Society at The Blandford School with her collecting tin on 11th September, said: "On the fifth day we started walking at 10.30pm and were at the peak at 7am. "Together with two other women from Poole I met, we are hoping to do a collection for the local orphanage that we visited while we were there. I took a bag full of toys, balls, skipping ropes and stuff they cannot get in Moshi. The kids made me feel like Father Christmas. They sleep two or more to a bed and have nothing personal, not even clothes, but I had never seen such happy children." To give them further sponsorship, support Gareth at justgiving.comgareth-bishop1. Trine's donations page can be found at diabeteschallenge.org.uk/challenge/trinepedersen-kilimanjaro2013.

Railway landmark is remembered BLANDFORD last month celebrated the 150th anniversary of the completion of the Somerset and Dorset railway through route from Wimborne to Burnham and the opening of Blandford Railway Station. A fun day at the Railway Hotel in Oakfield Street commemorated the opening on 31st August 1863. Lisa Foster Thorn said: "We celebrated with a Victorian-style family day with games, competitions, cakes and ice-cream. People dressed up in Victorian clothes and had photos taken with a seaside peep board." Licensee Nigel Jones said: "Oakfield Street used to be a hive of activity and the hotel was also used as wine merchants and for funerals and weddings, playing an integral part in the life and activities of the station. Next year we will be celebrating 150 years of the Railway Hotel serving visitors and the community of Blandford." Over the weekend of 21st and 22nd September, a major rail and transport exhibition at The Blandford School was organised by members of the Blandford Museum Railway Club, part of the Blandford Museum Trust. A magnificent display was arranged featuring around 50

exhibitors and including layouts, railway preservation groups, railwayana, trade stands, historical information, maps, plans, photographic records and documents. They included, courtesy of the Somerset and Dorset Railway Trust, the original ceremonial barrow and spade used by Lady Smith to cut the first turf at Blandford St Mary in 1856. Pride of place will be taken by the working 00 gauge model of Blandford Forum Station and environs constructed by the Museum Railway Club members over the last few years as a historically accurate record of the area in the early 1960s. See pictures on our website. MEMBER Malcolm Bowditch was the speaker at Blandford Forum Camera Club last month when his topic was 'The history of the Royal Naval Cordite Factory'. His presentation was based on his publication 'CorditePoole' and 'A pictorial record of the RNCF', and his talk was supplemented with anecdotes, period bromide prints from both world wars, maps and other artefacts.

October 2013

Trailway route for charity travellers

Mayor of Blandford Bob Brannigan and supporters of the Blandford Opportunity Group at the start of their sponsored walk, run and ride on the North Dorset Trailway.

Signals Band gets ready for a change of beat TWO concerts by the band of the Royal Corps of Signals in the coming months could herald a reduction in the number of opportunities to see them locally. The band, which has been based at Blandford since the early 1970s, is awaiting confirmation of an expected relocation next spring to the West Midlands as part of a reorganisation of the Corps of Army Music (CAMUS). It has come to be regarded as the town's own marching band, whose members have regularly appeared at Remembrance Day parades, major town events and informally at other venues. June Davey, organiser of the concert with the Corps' Dixie Band and Saxophone Quartet in support of Tarrant Monkton Church at the church on 19th October (see back page listings), said: "It is terribly sad that The Band of the Royal Corps of Signals is being dispersed, as I understand it, so I feel that we are very lucky to have what promises to be an amazing evening. The camp is in our parish." The Friends of Blandford Hospital have regularly secured the services of the entire band for pre-

Christmas concerts which have been staged both in Sturminster Newton and at Bryanston School where this year's concert will take place on Friday 20th December. But engagements in Blandford and Dorset, which reduced in number after the size of the CAMUS was cut in 2009 to meet operational demands in Afghanistan, are expected to be even fewer when the musicians are relocated. The MoD announced in July a reorganisation of CAMUS, which promises a more professionally stimulating career for Army musicians and a wider range of military music for audience members, and meets defence needs, improving retention and capabilities. No reduction in personnel is planned and regimental affiliations and uniforms of existing bands will not change. But regular Army bands will specialise and reorganise to include 18 marching bands, including the first professional brass bands, three contemporary specialist bands playing popular music, and a new CAMUS State String Orchestra. A number of bands will merge, and seven will relocate to existing band

A NEW season for Durweston Choral Society started on 4th September in the village hall. The main concert for the 2013/2014 season will be Haydn's 'Creation', on 15th March and there will also be another popular 'Musical SoirĂŠe' in January. New members in all voices are welcome and can attend two free sessions in order to find out if this is the choir for them. There is no audition, and more details can be obtained by contacting Lizzie Patterson (01258 830216) or Jennie Rake (01258 451186/453555).

facilities while three new facilities are planned in the East Midlands, West Midlands and Wales.

CYCLISTS, runners and walkers took part in a sponsored event in support of the Blandford Opportunity Group on the North Dorset Trailway on 25th August. Around 50 people and dogs took part on the 11-mile route from Blandford to Shillingstone and back, to raise funds for the charity, which has for the last 21 years provided vital preschool education to children with severe special needs. It is also raising money to refurbish the sensory room at the Williams Opportunity Hall in Whitecliff Gardens, which was provided by Blandford Lions Club in 2001 with the support of local businesses. The event was started by Mayor of Blandford Bob Brannigan who wished them all well on their route to Stourpaine, Shillingstone and back, a total distance of up to 11 miles. Opportunity Group chairman Colin Stevens thanked everyone taking part for their support.

October 2013

Shop closure marks the end of an era

Protests greet traffic proposals A PETITION launched by the town council in protest against a Dorset County Council proposal to introduce pay-and-display parking in Blandford town centre - in East Street, West Street and The Plocks - has been signed by hundreds of people. Copies of the petition were circulated after the councillors' planning meeting in September, where they were told that North Dorset District Council's conservation officer had also objected and asked for formal consultation on the proposal. Town councillors have also strongly objected to suggested bus service revisions, which include the dropping of Saturday and Sunday services and lack of direct access to the main line railway station in Salisbury and Dorchester hospital. Members of the public and neighbouring parishes have also been vocal in their protest against both proposals, which were considered by the Blandford Transport Action Group at a meeting on 24th September in time for a co-ordinated response to Dorset County Council's October Cabinet meeting. Focus Letters: Pages 12-14.

THE retirement of Conio and Sue Jeans (pictured left) from their newsagents in Blandford Market Place on 28th September represented the end of an era. The couple had run the shop since 1977, and took it over from Mr Jeans's father who had established a greengrocer's there in 1938. Mr Jeans said: "It became a sweet shop during the war when it was impossible to get fresh fruit and vegetables, and my father went into partnership with a man making sweets just outside Wareham. We introduced newspapers 25 years ago." He said that after 44 years of starting work at five in the morning and working six days a week - and often more than 12 hours a day - he was looking forward to retirement and being able to "do what normal people do, like going shopping with my wife". He added: "I always said I would not continue as long as my father, who retired at 70. I will be 70 on 29th September so I've beaten him by a day." The couple have seen many changes over the years, but one thing that hasn't changed, he says, is the way their customers keep coming back for newspapers, cigarettes still visible on the shelves, and sweets still dispensed from glass jars. Asked whether the arrival of supermarkets selling newspapers, tobacco products and sweets had affected his trade, he said: "Our customers have been very loyal." Newspaper deliveries will be taken over by Blandford's other independent newsagent, James the Newsagents in The Plocks. However, a successor will have to be found to distribute entry forms for the popular Blandford Carnival 'Spot the Oddity' competition, and as a collection point for the Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance, just two of the services the Jeans have provided for many years. The shop itself will be sold at auction in Sherborne on 28th October.

Homes swap could help solve bedroom tax issue AN event at the Crown Hotel on 18th September gave those being driven to downsize by new housing benefit rules an opportunity to consider 'house swapping'. The so-called 'bedroom tax' introduced by the government to reduce housing benefit to those with one or more spare bedrooms has attracted a lot of criticism, and figures suggest that up to 96 per cent of people affected have nowhere to move to. North Dorset District Council, Spectrum Signpost and First Dorset Credit Union hosted the 'house swapping party' in an attempt to find a solution to the problem. District councillor David Milsted hopes that by bringing together tenants of 'under-occupied' housing association homes with those who may be considering downsizing, the balance could be redressed with a simple swap. "There are lots of young families living in homes that are too small for them. There could be swaps to be done and that should be the least painful way of dealing with the problem," he said. The Mutual Exchange event was open to all registered social housing tenants, and featured information stands from the Credit Union, CAB, Resident Involvement, North Dorset District Council's housing team and more. For more information on house swapping, contact Sue Watson on 07825 521390 or email SWatson@north-dorset.gov.uk.

Meadows back on the agenda BLANDFORD'S Crown Meadows remains a favoured site for development in North Dorset's new local plan, which was back on the agenda at district council meetings last month following revision since a public consultation almost a year ago. Following approval by full council, the revised Part 1 of the plans will be subject to another six-week consultation starting in November. The Blandford proposal was described to councillors as the most controversial in the report. They were told that the Crown Estatesowned land, including a site in Blandford St Mary, remained the preferred option since a number of issues remained unresolved concerning the suggested alternative site beyond the bypass opposite Tesco, which was included in last year's consultation. They include the separation from the town caused by the bypass, the need to modify the route of a potential A350 bypass, and to develop sensitively on rising ground. Full details of the new Local Plan Part 1 can be found on the Dorset for You website in the North Dorset District Council agenda documents.

October 2013

New home agreed for rugby club

Council support for The Fording Point TOWN councillors have confirmed their support in principle for the project to establish The Fording Point as a dedicated performance venue on land next to Bere's Yard. Jon Ivay, the leader of the project, told councillors last month that a planning application would not be submitted to North Dorset District Council without their approval. He said the decision had been to wait to ensure that the project did not conflict with the town council's own plans to refurbish the Corn Exchange, and he was able to satisfy them that it did not. It would, he said, be complementary to the council's scheme and would provide a cultural hub dedicated to professional theatre and cinema performance within the complex. He told councillors he expected it would

take around three years to bring the project to fruition, and the steering group felt it important to secure outline planning permission before involving other local groups and partners.

Historic town paintings to be restored OIL paintings of John and William Bastard, the architects responsible for the rebuilding of Blandford town centre in the 18th century, are to be cleaned and restored at a cost of more than ÂŁ1,000. Blandford Town Council, which owns the paintings,

last month agreed to the expenditure and to commissioning the restoration, which was said to be needed because of the poor condition of both the paintings and their frames. Funding applications have also been made to cover some or all of the cost.

REDEVELOPMENT of Larksmead recreation ground to become the home of Blandford Rugby Club will include levelling and extending the playing area to create two full-size pitches and installation of floodlighting at the far end of the field. An outline of the plans was presented to and supported by Blandford Town Council, which manages the ground. Rugby Club chairman Justin Frampton said the two pitches would accommodate two adult sides on a Saturday and more than 100 academy players on a Sunday, together with a football pitch and goalmouths for community use. The floodlighting is being designed so as not to disturb neighbouring properties. Fencing around the pitches, erected to protect them for Blandford Youth Football use, will be extended towards Larks Rise and up to the pavilion which will also be extended in a second phase, but space will be allowed for people to walk around it.

October 2013

Smiles of fun at the carnival ROWDS lined up to cheer on the bands, dancers, floats and imaginatively dressed characters who paraded through the streets at this year's Blandford Carnival. The Magnum Carnival Club were triumphant. Their Butterfly Ball tableau was judged best overall and best local entry, while the Cherokee Indians on the float of Muppets CC won best endeavour and the Fran Rose trophies. Pirates from Milldown Primary School declared they had captured 'cappuccinos' on board, and the Young Farmers liberally dispensed straw over the public who were also invited to donate into the collecting tins of the swarm of bees surrounding the Honeypot of the Carnival Committee float and the digger of Mark Farwell bringing up the rear. "People were very generous," said Carnival chairman Lil Jones. Humorous award went to the Disability Action Group with their DAG Arrows, and five-year-old Florence Haskett took the best endeavour award in the walking entries as a rag doll in a toy box. Almost everyone won a prize, including Storm CC's Grandma's Feather Bed, the recyclers of the St John's Badger Sett, walkers Georgia, Curtis and Jess Vick as the Smurf Crew, Carnival stalwarts Rosie Wild and Janet Hinton as The One That Got Away and Hippy Chick, and Natasha Shaw as a glowing Firebird. Blandford Rugby Club Juniors and Blandford Youth Football turned out in force in the youth class, and the procession was swelled by the Royal British Legion advertising their Car Show and Blue Light Day, a parade of a dozen vehicles from the Southern Subaru Car Club, seven troupes of majorettes and bands. Carnival Princess Jenny Lockyer and her attendants Amelia Ball and Lauren Johnstone, and Miss Teenager, Alex Oldfield, presided in style. Earlier in the day awards were presented to long-time carnival supporters Magnum CC, Milldown Primary, John Paulley and the Stour Valley Band, and to winners of the Carnival Baby show - 21month-old Tommy Yorukogmu, 13-month-old Eliza Hinks, 11month-old Gabriela Kostova and five-week-old Layla Yates.

Baby show winner Tommy Yorukogmu with his proud gran Ann Mackley

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October 2013

Left and below: Fierce pirates from Milldown Primary School.

Carnival Court chaperones Liz Fowler and Jenny Guy.

Left: Some of the guests at the Butterfly Ball of Magnum Carnival Club. Their tableau was judged best overall and best local entry.

Right: Bethaney Dean and her dog with the Royal British Legion team.

October 2013

Advice about flu jabs

The Blandford Carers Group meeting at the home of one of their members in Preetz Way.

Larger base needed as carers group outgrows its venue BLANDFORD Carers Group will be moving to a new venue when its meeting on Wednesday 16th October will be held between 2pm and 4pm at Durweston village hall. The group was founded by Pete Collins to support those caring for disabled partners and relatives, and after losing the use of the Blandford Day Centre in Heddington Drive, has until recently met at PLUSS Mobility in Holland Way, and sometimes in members' homes. "But it has grown from a group of about five to now around 20 on the books, so we needed somewhere more spacious," said Mr Collins. Guest Deborah Croney, leader of North Dorset District Council and district councillor for Hill Forts,

will be talking about the services provided by the council for carers. There will also be a raffle. In August the group enjoyed a trip to Stourhead, and a programme of events over the next few months includes a trip to Castle Gardens in November, a Christmas lunch and party in December, and speakers from Age UK, the Leonardo Trust, Tax Help and NHS Healthcare in the new year. Hand-made cards for all occasions made by Pete's wife Jan and costing 10p each or 90p for ten are now on sale in aid of the Carers and Disability Action Groups from Jan at 24 Haycombe, Durweston (phone 01258 459215) and can be ordered through the Disability Action Group in Nightingale Court, Blandford.

THOSE eligible for free NHS vaccination against flu are being urged by surgeries in the area to make appointments now for a series of flu clinics. Vaccination is offered to those considered at risk of developing potential serious complications of flu, who include those over 65, pregnant women and people with an underlying health conditions such as heart or respiratory disease or a weakened immune system. For the first time this year a nasal spray flu vaccine will be offered to children aged two

and three years as part of the NHS childhood vaccination programme. New flu vaccines are produced each year to protect against those strains which are considered most prevalent. Details of clinics in North Dorset can be found on the North Dorset locality page of the NHS Dorset CCG website and from individual GP practices. Those in Blandford and Child Okeford are shown in our back page listings for Saturdays 5th, 12th and 19th October.

Disease screening offer A CHANCE for older women to check whether they are at risk of the killer condition osteoporosis is being offered by Healthcare Screening in Blandford this month. Osteoporosis affects one in three post-menopausal women and is often called the 'silent disease'. Fracture following trauma is often the only indication of an underlying problem which can be

addressed if detected early enough. But victims can suffer deformity, pain, loss of independence and premature death. Non-invasive scans, not readily available to reveal the risk of fracture, will be offered at Blandford Town Council office on Thursday 24th November, and information and appointments can be made by calling 0845 224 6784.

Pyjama walk for hospice MORE than 60 women took part in a Pyjama Walk around Bryanston School in aid of Weldmar Hospicecare Trust on 30th August, a fabulous evening at which more than ÂŁ5,500 was pledged on the night. Verity Bayley, community fundraiser for North Dorset, said: "I would like to thank everyone who took part in the walk, everyone who sponsored them and Bryanston School for allowing us to use their beautiful grounds.

"We raised a fantastic amount of money, and with gift aid our total should be well over ÂŁ6,000. This money will help us to continue to provide our services across Dorset, including our Community Nurse Specialist, Christine Senter, based at Blandford Hospital." On Saturday 19th October there's a family fun day with 'wacky hair' competition at the Stour Inn, Blandford St Mary. Call 01258 474942 or email very.bayley@weldhospice.org.uk for details.

October 2013

Steam powers to a world record

A RECORD-breaking year at the Great Dorset Steam Fair included a gathering of the greatest number of steam rollers over a set course 10 years to the day since the previous record was set at the same venue. Managing director Martin Oliver said: "We had a fantastic week, the weather was brilliant, and it was probably one of the best events we have put on in the 45 years of the steam fair. “My dad would have been really proud, particularly of the Roller Special Display. We are so privileged to be in the presence of so many beautiful engines and I would like to personally thank everyone involved." This year's fair followed a 2012 event which had been badly hit by heavy rain. A total of 102 rollers, a unique range of steam, petrol and diesel rollers from the leading manufacturers throughout the history of road rolling, took part in the world record attempt on the morning of 31st August when they rolled in formation on a newly created road. One of the independent witnesses was Colin Tyson of Old Glory Magazine, a respected figure in the steam industry. The previous record of 32 set in 2003 was smashed with a new mark which has been officially acknowledged HAWTHORN Contemporary Craft Gallery in Salisbury Street is this month continuing to showcase the work of 16 artists and makers who work with and are inspired by books and illustration. The 'By the Book' exhibition opened on 1st August and will remain in situ until 30th October. It is the first in a programme of exhibitions to be staged at the gallery, and marked the reopening after a week-long closure for refurbishment.

by Guinness World Records. On the final day of the fair, the Michael Oliver Memorial Cup for the best exhibitor was presented by Martin Oliver to Graham Atkinson of Burbage, Leicestershire, for his 1932 Aveling & Porter motor roller, which was featured in the Roller Special Display. The steam fair was not without its usual pre-cursor of a traveller encampment on land earmarked for the Asda supermarket off Shaftesbury Lane in Blandford. Town and district councillor Tony Harrocks has called on the authorities to take tougher action against people who camp illegally leaving filth behind them. The travellers moved onto the official steam fair site when it opened a week after they set up camp on the site owned by Hospital Metalcraft, and left behind rubbish, including hazardous waste, which cost hundreds of pounds to clear. Mr Harrocks said: "What makes me angry is that if any other organisation used a field and then left it in the state that that field was left in, there would be an enormous outcry and those guilty would be fined, very rightly. "But because it is travellers' mess, the councils or private individuals are expected to pay up and say nothing."

Above left: An overview of the huge gathering for this year’s Great Dorset Steam Fair. Above: More than 100 steam rollers broke the world record for their gathering at the steam fair. Right: Steam Fair managing director Martin Oliver celebrates a recordbreaking year. ‘My dad would have been really proud,’ he said.

October 2013

FOCUS letters

Ghost town I'VE come to the conclusion that the town, district and county councils have decided to make Blandford town centre the 'Imber' of the 21st century. The loss of once-a-week buses from villages will have an impact on the town. I will have to do my shopping in Salisbury as this service through the village, at the moment, will continue. With free parking at supermarkets more people with cars will go there. And who had the crazy idea that a condition of allowing Asda to the town is that it provides a subsidy for a bus service between the store and the town, allowing people to shop at the store, hop on a bus and maybe go to the bank or doctor? Or for people in the town to go to Asda! Mrs Ella Smith Tarrant Gunville PS I enjoy reading Forum Focus something else I shall miss if I am unable to get into Blandford. Editor's note: Imber is known as the ghost village of Salisbury Plain because, like Tyneham, it has lain abandoned since being evacuated for wartime training.

The focus for your views Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t judge DO write to Forum Focus if there is something you'd a book by like to comment on or share with other readers. Email your letter, which should be as brief as possible, its cover to: editor@forumfocus.co.uk. Alternatively, you can call 01258 459346 or deliver your letter by post or by hand to: Forum Focus, c/o Colin's 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.

This is not what library staff are expected to do I WAS disturbed to read the letter from Paula Andrews with regard to Blandford Library. Her comments were written in a context that indicated that she was not a user of the library and was expecting the staff to maintain the outside of building. I find it disturbing that she believes that the staff should be responsible for cleaning windows

and dusting the exterior of the building. I have no doubt that the exterior condition is due to cuts in expenditure at both local and government level. She does not go on to say that doctors should clean wards or airline pilots sweep the runway, or give any other examples where staff should undertake maintenance of the workplace that is not their job, yet for some reason she expects librarians to undertake these tasks. I am a large user of the library's facilities and I have always found the staff extremely helpful and courteous, and the interior, for which they are responsible, clean and tidy. Ken Vincent Greenhill, Blandford

AS a regular user of Blandford Library for over 30 years and a volunteer with Home Library Service for eight, I feel empowered to respond to the letter in your Issue 18. I picked up the Forum Focus after I had been to the library on 2nd September. During that visit the library was buzzing with children returning books from the Summer Reading Challenge and collecting stickers and awards and I thought how lovely it was to see them obviously excited by what they had been reading. The young, enthusiastic staff were enjoying it too and there were a lot of smiling happy faces. I know that the staff also run a Creative Writing Workshop, Friday Singalong sessions for toddlers as well as school visits, Holiday Workshops and the Home Library service. The library is a bright, welcoming place with helpful, friendly assistants, eye-catching displays, a good selection of books, CDs, computers and a lovely atmosphere. I think the writer of the letter should not judge a book by its cover but go in and see what the library has to offer. Sally Knight Winterborne Kingston

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a good feeling when common sense prevails IT is so easy to criticise supermarkets for their stupidity and intransigence so I feel it is only fair to attempt to restore the balance. A recent experience over the need to pre-order a simple but essential household item (organic bread) has resulted in an extremely positive response from Morrisons who have taken a pragmatic common sense approach to the needs of a rural customer. I am not the customer but provide her with voluntary transport to enable her to complete her grocery shopping. Head office has allowed dispensation against a recently introduced policy where items had to be pre-ordered and 100 per cent pre-paid at least 48 hours in advance. The cost of driving to Blandford to place an order for five loaves of bread was as much as the bread itself. The temporary solution was to pre-order two weeks in advance but she then had to specify her next shopping day, which is reliant on my availability so can be subject to change. I realise Morrisons has to protect its cost base in the interest of shareholders but thankfully some thought has been given to customer needs - common sense has prevailed and she can now order her bread by telephone once more. Thank you, Morrisons, for a positive approach - shame other supermarkets in the area are not so accommodating. Nigel Hodder, Milton Abbas

October 2013

FOCUS letters

Idea for parking charges is ‘absolute balderdash’ I HAVE never read such absolute balderdash (Forum Focus Sept 2013 p4). Matthew Piles, [Dorset County Council] Traffic Manager, ought to be ashamed of himself. As justification for Pay & Display to say that enforcement would be easier, traffic flow would be enhanced, pollution would be reduced and there would be fewer cars manoeuvring to find spaces, smacks of total desperation. Increased restrictions and charges will lead to fewer vehicles in town and less money spent. Those that do come will park for less time, browse less, will not stop for a coffee, to buy clothes, to wander down alleys and passage ways, or to chat. The councils should be looking at ways to improve their incomes in the long-term through a vibrant town centre with increasing footfall to the shops, not looking for immediate gain by hitting the spending public yet again through parking restrictions and charges. Andrew Munden, Church Close, Tarrant Keyneston

No more than a money-maker READING the headline comments in Issue 18 [September] of Forum Focus tempts us to write. My wife and I live within 15 minutes' walking distance of the centre of Blandford and often take pleasure from walking into town. However, twice each week we need to use the car for such things as bulk shopping. On current pay-and-display rates shopping in our own town costs us an extra £40 to £60 annually. As with taxes, there are perhaps two reasons for car park charges, either to apply a degree of control on car usage or to make money. We have little doubt as to which of these is uppermost in the minds of our council members. By the way, we are also regular users of the local bus services. Ann and Philip Baker, Froxfield Road, Blandford

Fail to see logic in restrictions I CANNOT see the logic in imposing further restrictions to make it even more difficult for people to use the smaller shops. Planners seem to assume that all shoppers have endless time to park in larger car parks and walk great distances to shops. If they are elderly or frail, have young children, or are meeting a deadline, they do not want to be struggling to meters, fiddling with coins in the pouring rain, and returning to their cars to display the ticket before they can shop. They will take the soft option and go to Tesco or Asda. I cannot see that more meters will achieve fewer manoeuvrings of vehicles or less pollution. Country dwellers pay enough as it is to reach the local towns by car (our village is served by only one bus a week). Please give us a break! S.J. Wyllys, Tarrant Monkton

Drive shoppers away from town I ASSUME that the anti-car dogma and draconian parking proposals are intended for pecuniary interests only and will not in any way help towards regenerating the town centre but simply drive motorists into the arms of internet retailers and out-of-town facilities. Parking charges introduced on Stour Meadows last year forced drivers to park in narrow residential roads on the edges of town, in many cases causing serious inconvenience and often dangerous traffic situations. Eric Pickles the Communities and Local Government Secretary states "parking should be appropriate and not undermine the vitality of town centres and local shops". This would definitely not be the case in respect of Blandford Forum if further parking meters and restrictions are imposed. They could well be the final nail in the coffin of long established and vital local shops. Blandford deserves better than becoming a Ghost Town. Cllr Malcolm Albery, Chairman, Blandford St Mary Parish Council

One more letter: Page 14

October 2013

Sad death of a ‘career’ walker

Forum Focus letters extra - from pp 12-13

We need to change the council’s mind on parking NORTH Dorset District Council's review of parking charges must do more than rearrange the deckchairs, and the public must persuade Dorset County Council to change its mind quickly about implementing another disincentive to shop in town. Footfall in the town centre has declined since parking charges were introduced on the Stour Meadows car park, now largely empty. Five market traders have either left or are about to leave the Saturday market since charges were introduced. It is to be hoped that District and County councillors read the correspondence in Forum Focus and will do something imaginative to stop the rot. High car park charges, and the absence of free parking in other than out-of-town supermarkets, is the antithesis to regeneration. Nic Nicol Blandford

Graham and Chris Hyde receive their two cheques from Jerome Dodge of Blanchards Bailey.

Couple pass on prize BLANCHARDS Bailey Solicitors recently held a £100 prize draw for clients who completed a feedback survey. The winners, Graham and Chris Hyde, kindly donated their winnings to charity, requesting that the £100 be divided between the National Ankylosing Spondylitis Society and Ataxia UK, both significant causes for family reasons. Blanchards Bailey were impressed by the couple's generosity and were happy to meet their request. Mr and Mrs Hyde went to Blanchards Bailey's office in Blandford where Jerome Dodge presented them with two cheques. Feedback collected in the customer survey was extremely positive, particularly surrounding the excellent client care offered by the firm. Clients expressed their complete satisfaction, one saying "the service was perfect". Another commented on the thoughtfulness of the staff, saying: "When I explained that I work some distance from the town, the solicitor kindly offered to meet me outside normal office hours." Mr Dodge said: "It is extremely useful to receive feedback from our clients and it helps us to continually try to improve the service we offer."

MANY people in the area will be sad to learn of the death at the age of 72 of Robin Holland, a Blandford resident for 36 years. He was a member of the 14th/20th King's Hussars for 22 years, after which he worked for the army as a civil servant, spending several years at Blandford Camp. He ended his career at Lulworth Camp, where his lunchbreak walks inspired a new 'career' walking around Britain. For him the highlight was the coast-to-coast walk Irish Sea to North Sea. In a relatively brief period away from the army, Mr Holland worked at Blandford's Forum Garage. Many Blandfordians will remember his ready smile and immaculate turn-out. His wife Gitta was just as wellknown in Blandford as the manageress of Johnson's drycleaners for 30 years. Mr Holland lived in Purbeck in retirement and his funeral at Lytchett Minster drew friends and comrades from all over the country.

October 2013

Local teacher to stand for parliament LIBERAL Democrats in North Dorset have selected a teacher from Blandford as their new Prospective Parliamentary Candidate to fight the General Election in 2015. Hugo Miéville, a Blandford town councillor, who teaches at Milton Abbey School and has lived in North Dorset for nearly 30 years, has succeeded Emily Gasson, who has fought the seat since 2001 and in 2005 married Ed Davey, MP for Kingston and Surbiton, with whom she now has a son. Mr Miéville is acutely aware of local issues such as the proposed Crown Meadows and Asda

developments and the impact of cutbacks in bus services on particularly the old and the young in a rural community. He says he is looking forward to working with local people on behalf of the county. "I remain optimistic about the area because of the people I have lived and worked with over the past 28 years," he said. "The people of North Dorset are generous, kind and communityoriented at heart - just look at the response of local people to the family affected by fire in Stalbridge, or the huge community effort needed to build The

Exchange in Sturminster Newton. I look forward to giving something back to and serving this wonderful community." Looking to the future, Mr Miéville knows that winning North Dorset for the Liberal Democrats won't be easy, but he says: "My predecessor Emily Gasson came very close in 2005, and Frank Byers won this seat for the Liberals in 1945 - so why not a Liberal Democrat win 70 years later?" He can be contacted on 0781 515 1277 or by email to hugomieville1@gmail.com. There is also a North Dorset Liberal Democrats Facebook page.

Hugo Miéville, North Dorset Prospective Parliamentary Candidate, pictured with Barrie Cooper, DCC Liberal Democrat councillor for Blandford, and Business Secretary Vince Cable.

Residents have their say on town traffic RESIDENTS' suggestions for improving the traffic flow in Blandford town centre were considered by town councillors at their Town and General Purposes committee meeting on 23rd of September. One idea was the removal of the traffic lights halfway up Salisbury Street, highlighting an occasion when their failure removed congestion in the town as traffic was no longer being stopped at that point. The proposer suggested that pedestrians were now in the habit of using the raised

crossings elsewhere in the town, making the signalled crossing unnecessary. Another suggested a reorganisation of parking in the Market Place so that cars could pull in from a lane immediately in front of the Corn Exchange into chevron parking which allowed them to re-enter the traffic lane in a forward direction - a return to the days before the town centre enhancement in the 1990s. And a third was for an inner bypass across the non-flooding part of the Crown Meadows from the River Mews junction with West Street

Fun and flames THE autumn schedule of community transport service Bus2Go includes a trip on 9th October to Stewarts Garden Centre in Wimborne for plant shopping and lunch, and on 30th October, a half-term trip to the Dorset Fire and Rescue headquarters in Weymouth for a guided tour of the newly built unit, including a house fire demonstration, and followed by lunch. On 10th November, Remembrance Sunday, there will be a visit to Bovington Camp to remember heroes past and present, and following the service an opportunity to visit the museum and lunch in the restaurant. For further details contact Margo 01258 837749/Ron 01258 839234 for further details.

to Whitecliff Mill Street, financed by infrastructure contribution from the development of 50 to 75 homes to the north on the site offered by the Crown Meadows as their five-hectare option now being considered in the new local plan. They also considered submitting a suggestion from Dorset County Council of a trial 20mph speed limit to operate only during school opening and closing hours outside Archbishop Wake Primary School in Black Lane. Forum Focus would like to hear your views.

October 2013

Aga comes to town COUNTRY Image of Blandford has been appointed an authorised Aga showroom. The company offers a full design and installation service for kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms, and an Aga cooker now sits alongside a new Stoneham Kitchens display in the showroom on Sunrise

Adam Wates of the Wates Foundation, left, presents a cheque for £7,000 to Sue Diffey, project manager, and Dave Sullivan, chairman of Youth Aid Blandford, and fellow Youth Aid members.

Youth Aid in the money MORE than £16,000 has been pledged to Blandford charity Youth Aid through fundraising by a Wimborne estate agency and a successful application to a grant-making charity. Adam Wates, a local representative of The Wates Foundation, visited the charity in the Anchor Gateway to present the first of two £7,000 cheques to support project manager and co-founder Sue Diffey over the next two years. And staff from Connells in Wimborne staged a sponsored walk and run raising £2,000, including match funding from the company, as part of a team-building exercise after learning of the charity's work from joint founder Dave Sullivan, proprietor of a sweet shop Sweet Memories in the town. Ms Diffey said: "It will help us enormously that Youth Aid's work has been recognised by such a mainstream funder."

Football memorabilia plea AN appeal has been launched by the Bankes charity football competition organisers to trace memorabilia in time for the 125th anniversary in 2014. The original cup was donated in 1889 by Walter Bankes of Kingston Lacy House, and the first games played between Poole Town, Blandford and Wimborne. The cup was lost during the First World War but later rediscovered in Canada and returned to Kingston Lacy as part of the family collection. After the war the competition attracted more entries, and Walter's son Ralph donated a further three trophies. Various items are kept in the History Museum at Dorchester, but more are being sought which can be loaned for a possible exhibition, particularly photographs featuring members of the Bankes family. They will be welcomed by secretary Alan Dewey who can be contacted on 01202 624025, email: secretary@bankesfootball.co.uk. For more information see www.bankesfootball.co.uk.

Business Park. Director Sharon Bigg said: "Giving our customers excellent service is paramount to our continued success in business. We specialise in high quality products and our new Aga is a wonderful addition." For more information go to www.countryimage.co.uk.

Corn Exchange plans revised BLANDFORD Town Council is hoping that revised plans for the refurbishment and extension of the town's Corn Exchange and council offices will overcome the objections of English Heritage. A new application has been submitted to North Dorset District Council, removing the top storey and unconventional roof of the rear council office block and revising exterior design details. The English Heritage objections had prompted a 'call in' by the Secretary of State for a public inquiry in December, but councillors were told that the new scheme had the support of the government advisory body. The council met with English Heritage officers earlier this year, and project officer Nicki Ginn said: "English Heritage gave

some indication of the types of change they required to the replacement office building, and the council's architect has been working with them and the LPA to produce a design that is acceptable and meets their criteria." It was agreed that if the new application was approved by the local planning authority, the original would be withdrawn, avoiding unnecessary costs of an inquiry for all parties. Blandford and District Civic Society has also withdrawn its objection, made on similar grounds to English Heritage, but suggested that rather than a single row of retractable raked seating blocking the entrance to the Corn Exchange, there should be two, allowing easier central access.

African voices in concert THE renowned African Children's Choir will be performing two concerts this month at The Blandford School, hosted by Blandford Evangelical Church. On Sunday 20th October the concert will also feature the Blandford Primary Schools' Network Choir, and on Monday 21st October the

choir will be joined by the Blandford Garrison Choir and the Playsongs Mums' Choir. Both concerts will start at 7pm. Tickets are available from the Set Fair 4 Trade shop in Salisbury Street, Blandford, by calling 01258 450689 or by emailing admin@becbygrace.co.uk.

Polling forms are on the way ELECTORAL registration annual canvass forms are due to be sent out by North Dorset District Council at the beginning of October. Recipients are urged to respond as soon as possible, either by Freephone or internet if there are no changes, or by returning the form if there are changes. The council is required by law to ask each year if individuals wish their details not to appear on the Edited Register. This can be updated when responding by

Freephone or internet. Anyone with queries about the process should contact the Electoral Services Team at North Dorset District Council on 01258 484060 or email demrep@northdorset.gov.uk

Loo work begun REFURBISHMENT of the toilets in Blandford Corn Exchange started on Monday 9th September and was expected to be completed by the end of the month.

October 2013

FOCUS on schools

Praise for GCSE record-breakers STUDENTS and staff at The Blandford School celebrated a record breaking GCSE year with 71 per cent of the year group achieving 5A*-C, a two per cent increase on last year. The overall A*-C figure is also well above the national figure at 72 per cent (national 68.1 per cent) which continues the trend of improvement. Over 51 per cent gained 5A*-C including English and Mathematics. Students of all abilities did very well, and those securing high grades who were particularly congratulated included: Freya Edwards 6 A* 4A 1B, Micah MacKay 4 A* 7A, Abigail Henley 4A* 6A 1B, Jessica Hollings 3A* 7A 1B, Lily Westerby-Griffin 3A* 6A 2B, Ellenor Failes 3A* 4A 4B, Georgina Duckworth 2A* 4A 3B 4C, Sophie Babbs 1A* 4A 5B 1C, Rebecca Rowland 1A* 4A 6B, Freya Bliss 1A* 2A 5B 3C, Ningma Tamang 10A 1B, Emma Cox 8A 3B, Aklema Begum 7A 4B and Ellen Adby 6A 4B 1C. Headteacher Sally Wilson said: 'I am really delighted with our 2013 results. This year group were very

Smiles of celebration - and satisfaction - from these pupils of The Blandford School after receiving their GCSE results.

Freya Edwards and Abigail Henley share the news of their remarkable results. focused and worked extremely hard under the leadership of Mr Adie Young. They deserve to be congratulated. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am also delighted for the staff whose support of our youngsters is exceptional. I know they will be thrilled we have broken records this year."

Year 11 Blandford School boys on the day they collected their GCSE results.

Knighton feeds young creative minds A COOKERY and Art Club was held for local children at Knighton House School in Durweston during the summer holidays. Mornings were spent in the cookery room where they rustled up tasty treats with trained pastry chef and current parent, Claire Chapman from Milton Abbas. Afternoons were devoted to art workshops with head of art, Anna Bogue. Kate Cox, marketing manager at Knighton House, said: "Whether it was making fresh bread rolls or

creating prints and ink drawings of shells, it was a great way to spend a few days during the summer holidays.â&#x20AC;&#x153; Knighton House is holding its Autumn Open Day on Saturday 12 October. Anyone wishing to register a place for the Open Day or find out more about the Prep school, Preprep or nursery options should contact the school on admissions@ knighton-house.co.uk or telephone 01258 452065.

For Micha MacKay happiness is 4 A*s and 7 As in her GCSEs.

October 2013

FOCUS on service

Brewery cash hand-out rewards voluntary groups VOLUNTEERS who give their time and effort to helping others in Blandford were recognised and rewarded at the Hall & Woodhouse Community Chest presentations at the Brewery Visitor Centre last month. The Blandford Foodbank, which in its first six months of operation distributed 100 food parcels to people and families in crisis, was awarded £500 to buy communication equipment. Knees Up Healthy Living were awarded £1,000 to upgrade the windows of their studio behind M & Co in East Street. Treads youth advice centre received £459 to buy a laptop, and Victim Support, which operates county-wide but helps victims in the Blandford area, were awarded £1,000. There was also an award of £900

to the Longmead Community Farm at Milborne St Andrew.. Mark Woodhouse said the number of applications this year had dropped, due partly to a number of organisations having failed to survive, but the total applied for had increased to £255,000, demonstrating the increasing demands on voluntary organisations as pressures rise on public finances. A total of £23,308 was distributed between 31 award winners. Lord Lieutenant Valerie Pitt-Rivers said: "The people here are representing a lot of other people." The Foodbank, set up by Blandford Churches and operating in partnership with Faithworks Wessex, has moved from the Clump Farm industrial estate to Blandford Methodist Church in The Close, Blandford, and is open two sessions a week on Tuesday

Gail del Pinto of the Blandford Foodbank, Mark Williams of Treads and Hazel Warrington and Don Bird of Knees Up at the Hall & Woodhouse Community Chest presentation. and Thursday mornings. It has also been hugely supported by local schools, charitable organisations, the wider community and other rural churches, with food donations generously made at collection points including the Morrisons and main Co-op supermarkets, the entrance to Blandford Parish Church, and at other churches in the town and villages. The number of people supported with food parcels providing sufficient food for three days has significantly increased and in the first six months of 2013 the Foodbank provided emergency food supplies for 189 adults and 80 children, referred to the service by agencies

working in the community. A spokesman said: "The growing demand for the Blandford Foodbank services means there is an ongoing need for food donations and regular financial support. We also need volunteers to help on a rota basis to ensure all donated foodstuffs are correctly stored and issued." Financial donations can be made by cheques payable to Faithworks Wessex and sent to them at 35 Palmerston Road, Boscombe, Bournemouth BH1 4HN marked 'Blandford Foodbank' on the back. Volunteers should call 07531 629563 or email blandfordfoodbank@gmail.com.

Age Concern is still in need of more helpers AGE Concern Blandford is continuing to seek the services of a new chairman following the resignation more than six months ago of Dennis Wardleworth as chairman and the group treasurer Vic Chippendale. The AGM in July was chaired by former chairman Dave Aitchison, who reported that Peter Slocombe had been elected new treasurer. Vice-chairman Carol Bunnagar reported on the information and advice service for which 646 clients had attended the office and the total of claims for benefits was £63,000 over the last year. The wills and power of attorney surgeries held had proved to be helpful to many, and Jerome Dodge from Blanchards Bailey was thanked for giving his time. The Pop In continues to be popular every Wednesday morning at Woodhouse Gardens 10am to

11.30am, with a total of 1,412 attendances by 326 people The Dorset Community Transport minibus is used to bring in people unable to get to the Pop In at a small charge, and thanks were offered to the drivers and escorts. The total using all services was 2,432, proving that Age Concern Blandford Forum is an active and popular group. Volunteers who have given a total of 3,000 hours of their time to the older people of Blandford were thanked and a new leaflet printed was distributed to those present, who after the meeting enjoyed a cream tea. To volunteer with Age Concern or seek advice or help, call 01258 458250, email ageconcernblandford@talk21.com or call into 4 Nightingale Court on Monday, Tuesday or Thursday mornings.

October 2013

FOCUS on service

Volunteers needed: can you spare some time to help? MORE volunteering opportunities have been notified by Gill Muhl, the Volunteer Centre Dorset Outreach for Blandford, who holds a drop-in session in the town on Thursday afternoons at the DT11 Forum office in Nightingale Court. She highlights: Blandford Tourist Information Centre wanting assistants to work in the shop to give advice and help to visitors and local people; Blandford RVS Befriending Scheme needing volunteers to

Talks with a difference WHERE could you find out about Catalhoyuk, a Neolithic town in Turkey where there were no streets so the inhabitants 'got about' by moving across the rooftops; the exploits of the Portman family; and a brief history of computers from the Egyptians to GPS? This varied programme of short talks has been given by members of the Blandford Town Museum Trust in the last three months to enthusiastic and interested audiences who have packed the Museum once a month on Thursday evenings. Last month there was a change to the usual presentation when the talk was being held in the Town Hall and Shambles in order to hear the history of Blandford's regalia and ceremonial costumes, which were on display. This month features the reminiscences of the Tory family over the last 350 years; and future subjects include insights into the Stone Age. The talks are free to attend although donations are welcome and as space is limited, audience members are advised to arrive early to get a good seat.

support elderly and vulnerable people in their own homes; Blandford Children's Centre welcoming volunteers for a variety of roles such as play assistants, drivers, garden helpers and administrators. For more information and details of other volunteering opportunities, contact her by emailing g.muhl@volunteeringdorset.org.uk, by phone to 07918 639011, or by calling in at the DT11 Forum Office in Nightingale Court off East Street between 2pm and 4pm on Thursday afternoons. The Blandford branches of the First Dorset Credit Union and Job Club are also seeking volunteers to help those having difficulty setting up a bank account because of debt problems or other financial issues and those seeking jobs for the first time or when returning to work by helping create CVs and fill in applications. Joyce Guest, general manager at North Dorset District Council, has been leading a pilot project to help steer the government's biggest welfare reform to date: the introduction of Universal Credit. She said: "Universal Credit will simplify the system, reduce cost and encourage more people into work but applicants will need to have a bank account and many people currently on benefits do not have one." Volunteers should call Joyce Guest at North Dorset District Council on 01258 454111.

Honoured Rotarians (from left): Sid Falla, President John Bentley, District Governor John Eade and Roger Jefferies.

Award honour for three Blandford Rotarians THREE Blandford Rotarians have been presented with the movement's highest honour for their outstanding service. District Governor John Eade visited a recent meeting of the Rotary Club of Blandford and presented the Paul Harris Award to Sid Falla, John Bentley and Roger Jefferies for their outstanding service to the Rotary movement. President John Bentley received his award for the many thousands of pounds raised through the Business Partners scheme, past president Roger Jefferies for many years service as club treasurer and Sid Falla for setting up and maintaining the club's website. The award is named after Paul Harris, a Chicago attorney. He formed one of the world's first service organi-

sations, the Rotary Club of Chicago, on 23rd February 1905 as a place where professionals with diverse backgrounds could exchange ideas and form meaningful, lifelong friendships. Rotary's name came from the group's early practice of rotating meetings among the offices of each member. Today the Rotary movement has 1.2 million members worldwide and its commitment to service is ongoing. The Rotary Club of Blandford supports international projects but the bulk of its activities and financial assistance is aimed locally.

October 2013

FOCUS on service

A fond farewell to ReachOut founder

Jimâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the new face of CAB NORTH Dorset Citizens Advice bureau has welcomed its new Advice Service Manager, Jim Cook (pictured), who previously worked for Mendip CAB in Somerset as a legal aid specialist. He has been involved with the CAB service for 15 years and has also worked for the Princes Trust Volunteers, Trading Standards and as an independent Welfare Rights trainer and consultant. North Dorset CAB is a vibrant organisation which handles more than 3,500 enquiries every year, has offices in Gillingham, Blandford and Shaftesbury, and provides appointments in Sturminster Newton. It is an independent charity staffed almost entirely by volunteers who are involved in every aspect of delivery of

the service, and Jim will be recruiting volunteers for a variety of roles following the retirement of long-standing staff. The Bureau is looking for people to provide information and advice, and also to give administrative help and a reception service. A regular weekly commitment is required but can be tailored to suit availability. No previous experience is needed and full training will be provided. To find out more, get in touch with Jim on 01747 825286, or 07900 894194, or advicemanager@northdorsetcab.cabnet.org.uk.

WELLWISHERS gathered at the AGM of the North Dorset charity ReachOut in the Woodhouse Gardens Pavilion in Blandford to say goodbye to one of their founders, Sarah Dummer-Wade. Sarah is leaving after 10 years with the organisation, of which she is chief executive and which contributed to her being awarded an MBE in 2012 for her lifelong commitment to her community and young people. The charity, which in 2008 received the first Dorset Business Charity Award, provides outreach support to young people who are finding life difficult to manage and has particular expertise in supporting young runaways and their families. It is supported by local organisations and individuals who raise funds for them and has also received funding from Children in Need and the National Lottery. Most recently the charity has been awarded funding to set up an alternative therapeutic service for young people who have strug-

gled to use statutory mental health services. Sarah said: "ReachOut and its well-known subsidiary Dorset Runaways Service is in great shape and it's time to make way for new blood. I have loved being part of this energetic and positive staff team and am proud of all their achievements." For information on ReachOut and the vacancy for a chief executive, email info@reachoutdorset.org.

Sevens up THE Dorset Austin Seven Club was in town on Sunday 22nd September when members visited the Blandford Costume Museum for a talk on 1920s/1930s costume. Their cars were due to be parked in the Market Place for public view during their museum visit, and they planned to call in on the rail and transport exhibition at The Blandford School.

October 2013

Screen Bites promises a spicy start at Durweston THE 2013 Screen Bites Food Film Festival opens at Durweston village hall on Thursday 3rd October, with a new film, ‘Jadoo’, the story of two Indian restaurateur brothers in Leicester and one of the hits of this year's Berlin Film Festival, featuring Madhur Jaffrey. Before the film there will be tastings of authentic Indian food and a mini farmers market from local food producers, and a short talk by farmer Chris Tory of the Dorset Game Larder. The festival continues across several counties, but returns to the Blandford area on Friday 25th October at Winterborne Whitechurch village hall with American comedy ‘Spanglish’. The pre-screen talk is by Lisa Osman, chef proprietor of Provision, with more tastings and food producers. On Thursday 31st October there is a Hallowe'en double bill at Tarrant Keyneston, with a children's matinee featuring Nanny McPhee with painting, pumpkins and a chocolate workshop at 2pm and the Thomas Hardy classic 'Far From the Madding Crowd', starring Alan Bates and Julie Christie, in the evening. All evening events start 7pm with the film screening at 7.30pm. For full details visit www.screenbites.co.uk or pick up a programme from farm shops, tourist information offices, etc. Alternatively, email screenbites@thanksgiving. demon.co.uk.

Author's 'perfect relaxing read' THE debut novel by Blandford shop owner Jennie Ann Rake was due to be launched at the end of September. 'Deception, Lies and Chocolate Muffins' is described as 'a perfect relaxing read for cat lovers, patchwork enthusiasts, chocolate addicts, teachers or anyone who has experienced the turbulence of a house move'. Jennie, who has run Set Fair 4 Trade in Salisbury Street with her husband, David, since 2005, was a primary school teacher for most of her working life but even though the book promises to reveal ‘the guilty secrets of a wayward school teacher’ she insists she is not the character in the story. "Some of the mix of life experience creeps into the narrative or into the mouths of some of the characters, but none of them is based on a real person," she says. "Zola, one of my three cats, is the closest to anyone or anything featuring in the novel - and then she has the wrong colour fur." Writing has been one of Jennie's keen interests since writing plays when she was 10, comedy sketches and poetry in her teens, and full length musicals, both music and libretto, including one published in 2000. She often dreamed of writing a complete novel, and found the environment of the Fair Trade shop ideal for writing in quiet moments in between serving customers. Deception, Lies and Chocolate Muffins can be found online at Amazon, the Guardian Bookshop and Book Depository websites and of course at Set Fair 4 Trade.

Autumn plays on the way ARTSREACH is coming to a village hall near you this month. The selection of attractions starts on Sunday 13th October with a choice of 'Bowjangles on the Box' at Milborne St Andrew, State of Play with 'GI Joe in Dorset' at Durweston, and the Farnham Maltings in ‘The Iranian Feast' at Sturminster Marshall, all at 7.30pm. 'GI Joe in Dorset' is a powerful play about war, prejudice and redemptive love revealed in the story of an African-American GI stationed in rural Dorset shortly before D-Day in 1944. Later in the month, Artsreach are promoting Little Soldier Productions with 'You and Me' on Friday 25th October at Tarrant Gunville, Living Spit in the 'Six Wives of Henry VIII' at Winterborne Stickland on Saturday 26th, and Noisy Oyster with a half-term children's performance 'The Three Bill Pigs' at Shillingstone on Thursday 31st. For more details go to www.artsreach.co.uk.

Jennie Ann Rake with her newly published novel.

FOCUS on arts

Celebrated artist to give talk to group BLANDFORD Art Society has secured something of a coup in booking the eminent artist Michael Taylor as guest speaker at a meeting in the Parish Centre on Wednesday 2nd October. A contemporary figurative artist, he lives at Child Okeford and is a member of the Royal Society of Portrait Painters. His work has been exhibited at the Royal Academy, the House of Lords Collection as well as Waterhouse and Dodd in Cork Street alongside work by Picasso and David Hockney. "We are extremely grateful that such a respected artist is willing to come to talk to us, and I am sure there will be many local artists more than glad to come along to hear him," said Blandford society member Tina Rowley. "His lecture should appeal to a wider audience than members alone."

October 2013

Raise your glasses for a beer festival The Lions Youth Band from Cheshire, which gave a much appreciated concert hosted free by Blandford Town Council in the Corn Exchange, have told the council they would like to return to the town next time they tour Dorset.

The Lions are friendly THE Blandford & District Lions Club is hosting an information evening on Wednesday 23rd October in the Blandford Parish Centre at 7.30pm for people who want to learn more about the club and its work. There will be a short presentation followed by refreshments and time to chat with club members. "Our club gives members an opportunity to advance worthy causes, make new friends and serve their community. It means a lot to present and past Lions who have served so well over the past 40 years, but

it means so much more to the people we serve," said Club President Tony Ives. They are seeking communityminded men and women to join them in making a difference in their community as members of the largest service organisation in the world, which has championed initiatives overseas and locally has funded the special needs opportunity group, Julia's House hospice, Riding for the Disabled and many more deserving projects. For more information contact Tony Ives on 01929 472336 or for Lions visit www.lions.org.uk

IDEAS flowed thick and fast for events and activities commemorating World War One from its start to finish at a meeting in the Corn Exchange. The commemoration will start nationally on 4th August 2014, exactly 100 years after war was declared, and continue until 2018. The steering group established by Blandford Town Council outlined plans for the four-year programme, and about 30 individuals and representatives of town groups and organisations put forward some of their own. To add more, contact the town council on 01258 454500.

A COUPLE visiting the Great Dorset Steam Fair have complained to the organisers that access for the disabled was less than satisfactory. Shan and Stephen Bartlett said: "We were horrified to find that the collection point for the Shopmobility scooters had been moved and was now a very long way off, around 500 to 600 yards from the disabled car park, and even further for those arriving later and parking lower down the hill." Mr and Mrs Bartlett of Pembrokeshire said they had also written to North Dorset District Council to complain.

A BEER Festival on Saturday 5th October at the Badger brewery is being held in support of national Cask Ale Week and to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Care. Head brewer Toby Heasman and his team will be brewing a variety of cask beers especially for the event, some of which have never been available on cask before. More than a dozen other local breweries and friends of Badger have been invited to bring their beer to the festival. Mr Heasman said: "We're really looking forward to the beer festival and joining forces with so many other local brewers to bring an exciting day out for local beer lovers. It will be great to have so many of our beers on cask for the first time and the music will be great fun." For those feeling adventurous, award-winning mixologist Nick Strangeway will be hosting the recently launched Badger beer cocktail master classes, to show how Badger beer can be given a little 'twist' at home. To find out more information about the festival and to buy tickets visit hallwoodhousebeerfest.com.

o On 25th September, 52 pubs owned by Hall & Woodhouse joined other pubs and restaurants in the national Tax Parity Day by lowering prices on food and drink by 7.5 per cent for 24 hours. The day was organised to support the ongoing campaign to

highlight the amount of VAT hospitality businesses pay on sales compared to supermarkets. The price reduction represented the amount prices could fall if VAT in the hospitality sector were cut from 20 to five per cent. Anthony Woodhouse, managing director at Hall & Woodhouse, said: "Currently UK supermarkets pay no VAT on ready meals. This seems a disparity that disadvantages an industry which can generate jobs and meaningful careers as well as supporting local producers. This campaign has the potential not only to create tens of thousands of jobs across the UK, but would also encourage sustainable growth in the UK economy."

Good turn-out for police chief DORSET Police and Crime Commissioner Martyn Underhill held a well-attended consultation in the Woodhouse Gardens Pavilion. He outlined his role and the police and crime priorities before a question and answer session at which individuals could raise issues of concern. Local crime figures were presented by Sgt Matt Chutter, and topics raised included traffic and speed cameras, road safety, drugs, travellers and night-time street lighting. A more detailed report will appear in next month's Forum Focus.

Three months for shelter BUS users could remain without a shelter in West Street, Blandford, for at least another three months, town councillors have been told. The shelter was demolished by a Damory bus at the beginning of the year, and negotiations have been lengthy to secure its replacement at a slightly different location. County councillor Barrie Cooper reported to full council that while the replacement has now been agreed, there was a 13week lead time to delivery, and that he would tell those dealing with the issue that it was not acceptable.

October 2013

FOCUS on sport

Bowls Club junior section booming BLANDFORD Bowling Club's junior section has increased considerably this year due to the efforts of Joy Steele, Tony Ives and Steve Clayton. There are now 25 junior members. They attend coaching sessions on Saturdays and Thursdays in which the art of bowling is coached in an interesting way. The section recently held their first match in which they narrowly defeated Gillingham Juniors. This has now been established as an annual event. The juniors contested the Astin Trophy, presented in 1999 by the late Alan Astin, a former club president. The competition was organised by Joy Steele to be a fun event that also tested the

skills of the young bowlers. There were six separate tests ranging from target bowls, to knocking down skittles and nearest the jack. The 17 contestants bowled to a very high standard and the outcome was very close. Many family and friends watched and were impressed by the progress that had been made since the start of the season. The Astin Trophy was won by Rob Traves, with Josh Traves the runner-up. Club president, Sally Burton, presented the trophies, medals and certificates. Club captain, Tony Ives, is keen to attract junior bowlers and has initiated a programme of coaching courses and bringing bowling to local schools. Any interested

The competitors for the Astin Trophy with their trophies, medals and certificates. junior should contact the club where they will be made very welcome. The Bowls Club has now submitted a planning application to North Dorset District Council for

an extension to its Park Road club house which will add a second storey to accommodate its growing membership and allow the provision of an indoor short mat bowling facility.

Trophy success for Ashley Wood THE Ashley Wood Ladies' Club Championships saw 36 holes played in a day, and Sue Edwards shot 76 in the morning to lead by four from S.J. Baker. She then carded a steady 81 in the afternoon to win the Scratch. Penny Meaden prevailed in the handicap competition with an excellent nett 144. The Veterans Trophy was won by Maureen Lovett, while Soli Goulbourn won the 18-hole morning stableford. At county level there has been more junior success, with Dom Dunstan winning the County Under-15 Scratch Championship at Came Down with a gross 76, an excellent performance from a young man who puts in the hard work needed to succeed. On Bank Holiday Monday club members enjoyed lovely weather as they competed for the Davidson Shield. This mixed competition was keenly contested and was won by Jake Dunstan and Sarah Holt, with Steve Wareham and Val Carder in second place and John Cousens and Pam Wareham third.

Nicky Baker and Dom Dunstan recently won the County Foursomes Handicap Championship at Bridport Golf Club. Ashley Wood entertained Canford Magna Golf Club for a hard-fought match ending with the visitors recording a 4-2 win. The Ashley Wood winners were Roger Elcombe and Brian Cullen along with Hedley Rodgers and Terry Everett. The omens seemed good for the match against Isle of Purbeck as the Red Arrows performed a flypast while the teams were waiting on the first tee. However, things went downhill from then on for the Ashley Wood team which finished up losing by 5.5 to 0.5 with just Des Maguire and David Thwaites halving their match. Chris Brown, a former Ashley Wood captain, claimed a memorable ace when he holed out his shot on the fourth hole while playing in a club competition to become a member of the H1 Club for those clever or fortunate enough to achieve this golfing aim.

Above: Ashley Wood club captain Mike Lane (left) presents the Davidson Shield to Jake Dunstan and Sarah Holt. Right: Nicky Baker and Dom Dunstan of Ashley Wood Golf Club, winners of the county foursomes handicap championship at Bridport Golf Club.

October 2013

Forum Focus - forthcoming meetings & events Tuesday 1st October: Blandford Macular Support Group meets United Reformed Church Hall, Whitecliff Mill Street, 2 to 4pm. Speaker Ms Lucy Howe, consultant opthalmologist, contact Edna 01258-454169 Knighton House Chapel Choir sing Evensong at St Peter's Church, Dorchester, 6pm. Wednesday 2nd October: Blandford St Mary Parish Council meeting, Bryanston Court, 7pm Child Okeford Gardeners Club, village hall, Child Okeford, 7.30pm, speaker Michael Bourke of Castle Gardens ‘Border Designs’ Blandford Art Society lecture, 7pm, see page 21 Magnum Carnival Club Bingo, Pimperne Village Hall, 7.30pm Thursday 3rd October: Forum Focus AGM, Brewery Visitor Centre, Blandford St Mary, 7.30pm Blandford Museum talk, see page 12 Friends of Blandford Community Hospital autumn bingo, doors open 6.45pm eyes down 7.30pm Opening of Screenbites Festival, Durweston, see page 21 Friday 4th October: Blandford Football Club charity dinner, Sealy Suite, Crown Hotel, guest speaker Mickey Quinn, proceeds to BUFC and Wessex Cancer Trust, tickets 01258 480463 North Dorset Conservative Women's Group Beetle Drive, Masonic Hall, West Street, Blandford, 7pm, tickets £6 includes ploughman's supper, call 01202 825673 Friday 4th and 18th October: Acol Bridge, Parish Centre Blandford 2 to 5pm. contact 01258 450544

Entries in this diary are free of charge. If you have an event you would like included, please send details to Nicci Brown, 01258 459346 or email s.n.b@btinternet.com. This page is available and regularly updated on our website at www.forumfocus.co.uk Sunday 6th October: Tarrant Keyneston harvest Lunch, Anne Biddlecombe Hall, 12.45pm, admission by ticket only from 01258 453310 Start of 10-week learn to dance course (ballroom and Latin), Pimperne village hall, 6.30pm, details 01258 488820 Celebrity Organ Recital by David Halls, Salisbury Cathedral Director of Music, St Mary's, Iwerne Minster, celebrating 100th anniversary of organ installation, 7pm Monday 7th October: Blandford Town Council budget consultation, 6 to 8pm, Corn Exchange, Blandford Child Okeford Centre for Care and Learning, Child Okeford, 7.30pm. Illustrated talk by Kathy Underwood, chair of the Blandford & District branch of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, 7.30pm Blandford Floral Group meets United Reformed Church Hall, 2.15pm, demonstration by David Martin Wednesday 9th October: Blandford Forum Film Society presents In Love with Alma Cogan, 7 for 7.45pm, The Blandford School, guest tickets 01258 453851 Thursday 10th October: Blandford Town Home Watch Meeting, Blandford Police Station 7pm Saturday 12th October: Knighton House School Open Day, Durweston, 10.45am to 12.30pm

Crown Hotel, Blandford, speaker Dean Cockwell, Spetisbury Railway Station. Contact: 01258453238 Tuesday 15th October: Home Safety Falls Prevention Event, Parish Centre, The Plocks Blandford, 10am to 12 noon Disability Action Group (North Dorset) AGM, 49 Damory Street, Blandford, 7pm Wednesday 16th October: Blandford Carers Group meets Durweston village hall, 2-4pm, guest Deborah Croney, leader of North Dorset District Council Dorset Wildlife Trust North Dorset Group illustrated talk, photographer Brian Pettie 'On a Wing and a Prayer', Fontmell Magna Village Hall, 7.30pm (postcode SP7 0JU) Sue Ryder Care Bingo, Royal British Legion, 7.30pm Thursday 17th October: Live folk, country and bluegrass music, Corn Exchange, Blandford, 11am to 2pm, free tickets from town clerk's office Blandford Heart Forum meets Williams Opportunity Hall, Whitecliff Gardens 7 to 9pm, speaker Hillary Warner on "My Time with the BBC". Enquiries 01258 860 880 Blandford Museum Archaeology Club, see page 12 Friday 18th October: Shroton Autumn Quiz, village hall 7.30pm, tickets £5, book early on 01258 861542 Durweston Film Night, Arbitrage, Durweston village hall 7.30pm

main sponsor DCM Tyres, Blandford St Mary, or £10 on door The Royal Corps of Signals Dixie Band and Saxophone Quartet, in and for All Saints Church, Tarrant Monkton, 7.00pm, tickets £12 from Pimperne Shop, TICs or http://goldhilltickets.co.uk Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th October: Shooting Stars present Macbeth, White Horse, Stourpaine, 7pm, tickets 01258 453535 Sunday 20th October: Blandford Orchard Group working morning. Contact Ann 01258 857336 or Paul paul@da21.org.uk Table top sale for Cancer Research UK, Winterborne Zelston Village Hall 10.30am to 3pm Sunday 20th and Monday 21st October: African Children's Choir concerts, The Blandford School, see page 16 Wednesday 23rd October: Blandford Carnival bingo, Royal British Legion, doors open 7pm for eyes down 7.30pm Blandford Forum Film Society presents Amor, 7 for 7.45pm, The Blandford School, guest tickets from 01258 453851 Thursday 24th October: World Polio Day - see page 5 Healthcare Screening for osteoporosis, Blandford Town Council offices, for information and appointment call 08452 246784 Blandford and District Horticultural Society meeting, United Reformed Church Hall, Blandford, 7.30pm. Speaker Paul Atterbury (Antiques Roadshow), tickets 01258 459395. Friday 25th October: Artsreach, Tarrant Gunville, see page 21 Saturday 26th October:

Oxfam Quiz night, Ann Biddlecombe Hall, Tarrant Keyneston, 7.30pm, tickets £7 include a light supper

Autumn charity fair for the Three Ells charity and Stourpaine Church, Corn Exchange, Blandford, 452205

Sat 19th October:

Artsreach, Winterborne Stickland see page 21

Saturday 5th October:

Flu Clinic, Whitecliff Surgery, Blandford 8:30am to 3pm, eligible patients please make an appointment

Flu clinic, Eagle House Surgery, Blandford, 8.30am to 12.30pm eligible patients please make appointment

Folk music with Kevin Dempsey & Rosie Carson, Ibberton Village Hall, 7.30pm, tickets 01258 817269

Beer Festival, Hall & Woodhouse Badger Brewery

Sunday 13th October:

Flu Clinics, Eagle House Surgery, 8.30am to 12.30pm, and Child Okeford Surgery, 8.30 to 12 noon, eligible patients please make appointments

Blandford Art Society all day workshop, Pimperne Village Hall, 'Lettering and Illustration' with Jenny Trotman

Blandford Community Hospital Friends Autumn Fair, The Corn Exchange, Blandford, 9.30am2pm

Artsreach, Milborne St Andrew, Durweston, and Sturminster Marshall, see page 21

Cats Protection coffee morning, Woodhouse Gardens Pavilion, from 10am

Monday 14th October:

Family Fun Day and Wacky Hair contest for Weldmar Hospicecare Trust, Stour Inn, Blandford St Mary, 1 to 5pm

Thursday 31st October:

Vintage Fair, Corn Exchange, Blandford, 10am to 4pm, see page 17 Blandford Ladies' Probus Club lunch, 12 noon for 12:30pm,

Boxing Show, Blandford School, doors open 7pm, tickets £8 from

Artsreach, Shillingstone see page 21

Sam Newgarth's Light Orchestra presents an evening of Magical Musical Memories with show and Viennese music and all time favourites, Durweston village hall, 7.30pm, tickets 01258 473073 Live country, folk and bluegrass music night, Anne Biddlecombe Hall, Tarrant Keyneston, 7.30 to 11pm, collection for Oxfam, tickets free in advance from 01258 452237

Monday 28th October: Mr Merlin and Okey Dokey the Dragon, Corn Exchange, Blandford, 11am and 2pm Wednesday 30th October: Blandford Preetz Friendship Society Hallowe'en Beetle Drive, Blandford Constitutional Club, 7.00 for 7.30pm. Prize for best costume, adults £2 children free, contact 01258 459452 or 452202 Screenbites children's matinee and evening, Tarrant Keyneston: see page 21