Sherborne Times July 2018

J ULY 2018 | FREE

A MONTHLY CELEBR ATION OF PEOPLE, PLACE AND PURVEYOR

LEARNING THE ROPES at Sutton Bingham Sailing Club

sherbornetimes.co.uk

WELCOME

I

’m making a concerted effort to be aware of summer this year. That might sound daft but time it seems has the wind at its back these days.

It’s all too easy for a day, a week, a month or an entire season to sneak past while I was looking in the other direction. So this year, every tinkle of a distant ice cream van, every crunch of wave on the shingle and every beautiful meditative moment of komorebi is a gentle tap on the shoulder: “Psst… wake up.”

And so to July. Ali Cockrean explores the birthright and undoing of creativity, Andy Foster demonstrates a constructive take on rejection, Suzy Newton sheds light on the subject of interiors, Mike Burks contemplates climate change, Val Stones sends us brownies from New York and David Copp brings home a very fine malt whisky from the Highlands.

Jo and Katharine meanwhile head to Sutton Bingham Sailing Club, and discover a reservoir brimming with talent.

Have a wonderful month.

Glen Cheyne, Editor glen@homegrown-media.co.uk @sherbornetimes @sherborne_times

CONTRIBUTORS Editorial and creative direction Glen Cheyne Design Andy Gerrard @round_studio Sub editors Jay Armstrong @jayarmstrong_ Elaine Taylor Photography Katharine Davies @Katharine_KDP Feature writer Jo Denbury @jo_denbury Editorial assistant Helen Brown Illustrations Elizabeth Watson @DandybirdDesign Print Pureprint Distribution team David Elsmore Christine Knott Sarah Morgan Mary and Roger Napper Alfie Neville-Jones Claire Pilley Geoff Wood

Homegrown Media Ltd 81 Cheap Street Sherborne Dorset DT9 3BA 01935 315556 @sherbornetimes glen@homegrown-media.co.uk helen@homegrown-media.co.uk sherbornetimes.co.uk Sherborne Times is printed on Edixion Offset, an FSC® and EU Ecolabel certified paper. It goes without saying that once thoroughly well read, this magazine is easily recycled and we actively encourage you to do so.

Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither Sherborne Times nor its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause.

Sherborne Times does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system, or transmitted in any form - electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise - without prior permission from Sherborne Times.

Additional photography: contributor's own, Shutterstock and iStock 4 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

Adam Anstey Sherborne Preparatory School @Sherborneprep sherborneprep.org Simon Barber Evolver Magazine @SimonEvolver evolver.org.uk David Birley davidpfbirley@hotmail.co.uk Elisabeth Bletsoe Sherborne Museum @SherborneMuseum sherbornemuseum.co.uk Richard Bromell ASFAV Charterhouse Auctioneers and Valuers @CharterhouseAV charterhouse-auction.com Mike Burks The Gardens Group @TheGardensGroup thegardeneronline.co.uk Cindy Chant Sherborne Walks @sherbornewalks sherbornewalks.co.uk Ali Cockrean @AliCockrean alicockrean.co.uk Gillian M Constable DWT Sherborne Group @DorsetWildlife dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk David Copp Jenny Dickinson Dear to Me Studio, Fine Stationery @DearToMeStudio deartome.co.uk Melanie Fermor Dorset Wildlife Trust @DorsetWildlife dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk Jonathan Fletcher Opera in Oborne @operainoborne

Peter Henshaw & Mike Riley Riley’s Cycles @rileyscycles rileyscycles.co.uk @DCNSherborne dcn.org.uk Sarah Hitch The Sanctuary Beauty Rooms @SanctuaryDorset thesanctuarysherborne.co.uk Colin Lambert colinlambert.co.uk Loretta Lupi-Lawrence The Sherborne Rooms thesherbornerooms.com Sasha Matkevich The Green Restaurant @greensherborne greenrestaurant.co.uk Jack McCarthy MRCVS Kingston Veterinary Group @TheKingstonVets kingstonvets.co.uk Suzy Newton Partners in Design partners-in-design.co.uk Mark Newton-Clarke MA VetMB PhD MRCVS Newton Clarke Veterinary Partnership @swanhousevet newtonclarkevet.com Kitty Oakshott Upstairs Downstairs Interiors @updowninteriors updowninteriors.co.uk Jan Pain Sherborne Scribblers Simon Partridge SPFit @spfitsherborne spfit-sherborne.co.uk Lindsay Punch Lindsay Punch Styling @stylistmum lindsaypunchstyling.co.uk

Jimmy Flynn Milborne Port Computers @MPortComputers computing-mp.co.uk

Dr Tim Robinson MB BS MSc MRCGP DRCOG MFHom Glencairn House Clinic glencairnhouse.co.uk doctortwrobinson.com

Andrew Fort B.A. (Econ.)

CFPcm Chartered MCSI APFS Fort Financial Planning ffp.org.uk

Paul Stickland Black Shed Flowers @NaughtyDinosaur blackshedflowers.blogspot.co.uk

Andy Foster Raise Architects @raisearchitects raisearchitects.com

Jonathan Stones Sherborne Literary Society @SherborneLitSoc sherborneliterarysociety.com

Hayley Frances Thurlow Hayley Frances Nutrition hayleyfrancesnutrition.com

Val Stones @valstones bakerval.com

Paul Gammage & Anita Light EweMove Sherborne @ewemoveyeovil ewemove.com

Jackie Theobald Soroptimist International @SoroptiTweet soroptimistinternational.org

Mark Greenstock St Paul’s Church @StPaulsSherb stpauls-sherborne.org.uk

Marcel Wadman The London Road Clinic @56londonroad 56londonroad.co.uk

Craig Hardaker Communifit communifit.co.uk

Luke Watson Mogers Drewett Solicitors @mogersdrewett md-solicitors.co.uk Wayne Winstone Winstone's Books @winstonebooks winstonebooks.co.uk

64 8

What’s On

18 Shopping Guide 22 Community 24 Wild Dorset 28 Family 36 History 42 Architecture 44 Interiors 54 Antiques

JULY 2018 57 Gardening

116 Finance

64 SUTTON BINGHAM SAILING CLUB

118 Tech

72 Food & Drink 82 Animal Care 88 Cycling 90 Body & Mind 108 Property 114 Business

122 Folk Tales 124 Short Story 127 Literature 128 Crossword 129 Pause for Thought 130 Out and About

sherbornetimes.co.uk | 5

It’s closer than you think.

Introducing the Audi e-tron quattro concept – our first-ever all-electric car, arriving early 2019.

Yeovil Audi. Look No Further.

Contact Yeovil Audi today to find out more about Priority Ordering.

Yeovil Audi Houndstone Business Park, Mead Avenue, Yeovil, Somerset BA22 8RT 01935 574981 yeovilaudi.co.uk ď‚ ď‚‚

@elizabethwatsonillustrations 8 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

THE DORSET OPERA

MMXVIII

The full Country House opera experience on your doorstep with internationally-renowned soloists, a full orchestra and a chorus of 70 Marquee bar | Individual Picnics | Formal Dining British Stage Première Jules Massenet

LE CID

24, 26 July at 19:00 | Matinée 28 July at 14:00 Sung in French with English surtitles

Giacomo Puccini

LA BOHÈME 25, 27, 28 July at 19:00 Sung in Italian with English surtitles

The Coade Theatre Bryanston Blandford Forum Box Office: 01202 499199 Book Online: dorsetopera.com

WHAT'S ON Listings

and Country Concert

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Jubilee Hall Yetminster. £10, raising

funds for the church tower restoration.

Every Monday 2pm-3.30pm

Info: pandy.brown@btinternet.com

‘Feel Better with a Book’ group Sherborne Library, Hound St. Do you love

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classic stories and poems and would enjoy

Saturday 7th 8pm

aloud with a small, relaxed and friendly

Watkins and Swarbrick

regularly as you wish. 01935 812683

Chetnole Village Hall, DT9 6NU.

listening or taking part in shared reading

(doors and bar from 7.30pm)

group? It is free and you can attend as

in Concert

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Pay what you think performance

First Thursday of each month 9.30am Netwalking from Bean Shot, South St. Free walk and talk with other small business

The Jerram Gallery, Half Moon Street DT9 3LN. 01935 815261, info@jerramgallery.com

was worth at the end of the show.

Reservations essential: 01305 837299 or songsfromthehalls234@gmail.com

____________________________ Sunday 8th 11.30am-3.30pm

owners and entrepreneurs. Bring the

Sunday 1st 11am-2pm

Sherborne Steam and

desire to move your business forward

Fire Station Open Day

Waterwheel Centre Open Day

as well as helping others to do the

same. FB: Netwalk Sherborne Instagram

Sherborne Fire Station, Coldharbour

Oborne Road, DT9 3RX. Entry by

yourtimecoaching Twitter @yt_coaching

DT9 4HA. Meet the crews, look round the fire station, demonstrations

additional parking available nearby on

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donation. Limited parking on site,

Oborne Rd. 01935 816324 sswc.co.uk

First Thursday of each month

Wednesday 4th 2pm and 8pm

2pm-3.30pm

Arts Society talk -

Monday 9th 9.30am-3.30pm

“My Time” Carers’

From Bronzes to Banksy

Print and Print with

Support Group

Digby Hall, Hound Street DT9 3AA.

tutor Alison Hume

visitors (£5) are welcome. 01935 474626

Country Embroiderers meet on the 2nd

The Shielings, The Avenue, DT9 3AJ. Good company, advice, information,

relaxed atmosphere, coffee and a chat.

Info 01935 601499 or 01935 816321

With Ian Swankie. New members and

Digby Hall, Hound Street. West

theartssocietysherborne.org.uk

Monday of each month with an optional

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Friday 6th 6pm-9pm

Saturday 16th June -

Big Summer Wine Festival

Wednesday 4th July 9.30am-5pm

Memorial Hall, Digby Road. A fantastic

Tuesdays-Saturdays Exhibition of New Sculpture

by Mark Coreth The Jerram Gallery, Half Moon Street, Sherborne DT9 3LN. 01935 815261, info@jerramgallery.com

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workshop £15 payable in advance. Info: Ann 01963 34696

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opportunity to sample over 120 wines from around the world in a fun and

relaxed environment. Tickets £10 from Vineyards, Digby Rd. 01935 815544.

Over 18s only please.

Saturday 7th 2pm

Wednesday 11th 7.30pm

Saturday 23rd June -

Over with Nether Compton

Sherborne ArtsLink Flicks - Edie

Saturday 7th July 9.30am-5pm

Fete and Fun Dog Show

Tuesdays-Saturdays

The Green. facebook.com/comptonfete

Memorial Hall, Digby Rd. Tickets

Exhibition of New Work

by Emma Brownjohn

____________________________ Saturday 7th Gerry Colvin Band Folk

10 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

£6 (or pre-film supper £12) from TIC 01935 815341 or on door. sherborneartslink.org.uk

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JULY 2018

Children

Please share your recommendations and contacts via FaceBook @sherborneparents

___________________________ Tuesdays 1.30pm-3pm Under 5s Play and Learn Session Children’s Centre, Tinney’s Lane.

Info: 01935 224310

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Sundays 11am-1pm

Mondays from 30th - 3rd Sept

Pogles Wood Explorers

Art Club@Thornford

10am-12.30pm

No 1 Wheelwright Studios, Thornford

Little Strawberries Summer

Woodland Wednesdays, summer holiday

provided. £15 for 1 hour or £30 for

For children 0-10 years, cooking and

alicockrean@gmail.com or visit

£25 per session includes refreshments

Sherborne Museum

children. Info 07586 717678 hayley@

child friendly and free. 01935 812252,

DT9 6QE. 8 years +. All materials

Cookery School

2 hours. Info: 07742 888302, email

eating with homegrown ingredients.

alicockrean.co.uk

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Yetminster Fair Weekend Friday 13th 5pm

activities and more! Info: email philippa. toulson@gmail.com or Facebook Pogles Wood Explorers

___________________________

for 1 adult and lunch for up to 3

Church Lane close to the Abbey. Extremely

hayleyfrancesnutrition.com

Facebook page or sherbornemuseum.co.uk

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Friday 13th - Sunday 15th

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for open air performance. All ages.

Tickets: illyria.uk.com

Yetminster Sports Club grand opening

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Saturday 14th 7pm Male Voice Choir Sherborne Abbey. Featuring Avon and Somerset Constabulary and Dorset

inc. football match, food and DJ.

Police. Tickets £5-15 from Sherborne TIC or via: 01202 431556, 01179

Saturday 14th 1pm-5pm

Yetminster Street Fair - 30+ stalls,

613162, ticketsource.co.uk/policechoir

music and children’s entertainment.

Sunday 15th

Pet service in the marquee behind the pub yetminsterfair@gmail.com

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Saturday 14th July Doors 5.30pm Film 6.30pm OTHER SIDE - MOOMINS ON THE RIVIERA (U) 80min The Toy Barn, Blackmarsh Farm,

Sherborne, DT9 4JX. Family film

Friday 13th 6.30pm for 7.30pm start Illyria Open Air Theatre The Merchant of Venice Castle Gardens, New Road DT9 5NR. Bring picnics and blankets

screening, popcorn, juice and nibbles,

Saturday 15th &

workshops with Relax Kids, flower-crown

Classic and Supercar Show

authentic Sri Lankan curries from Hari

5NR. Regarded as one of the premier

drinks and cocktails, children’s mindfulness

Sunday 16th 10am-5pm

making with Black Shed Flower Farm,

Sherborne (new) Castle, New Road, DT9

Hari, tastings and bakes from Comins

classic and supercars show in the south of

Tea. FREE ENTRY, donations to Sherborne Food Bank welcome.

Contact eleanor@denmangould.com other-side.eventbrite.co.uk

England. 2000 cars on display from chain driven monsters to the latest supercars.

With 30 car clubs, trade, craft & auto-

jumble stands, and excellent food outlets.

Tickets from Sherborne TIC: adult £13.

sherbornetimes.co.uk | 11

WHAT'S ON On the gate: £15. Children (accompanied

Annual Luncheon with writer

and under 16 yrs) free. classic-supercars.co.uk

Lucy Hughes-Hallett

Sunday 15th 1pm for sellers

£27) inc. 2-course meal with initial

(£5 per car) 2pm for buyers (50p)

Leweston School. £24 (non-members

Meet outside Sherborne Museum. 3

different walks - info: 01935 814893. £5, no need to book.

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drink, tickets via 01935 389630 or from

Thursday 26th 6.30pm

Winstone’s Bookshop

Wildlife Friendly Gardening

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Awards Ceremony

Hospital Car Boot Sale

Friday 20th

The Terraces, DT9 5NS. Free parking,

Yeovil Hospital

Castle Gardens, New Road DT9 5NR.

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Castle Gardens, New Road, Sherborne

- note change of time Friends of the Yeatman

Organised by Dorset Wildlife Trust.

sorry no dogs

Charity Quiz Night

Sunday 15th 2.30pm

DT9 5NR. 01935 814633

Thursday 26th 7.30pm

____________________________

Sherborne Floral Group Workshop

Pageant Gardens, Digby Road, DT9 3NB.

Saturday 21st - Saturday 28th

Miniature arrangements with Philippa.

Youth Band play light entertainment

Sherborne Art Club

sherbornetownband.co.uk/events

Music in the Park

Tickets available in store. 01935 814633

____________________________

Sherborne Town Band and Sherborne

10am-5.30pm

music. Bring the family and a picnic.

Annual Open Exhibition

Sunday 29th 10am-4pm Angels of Sound - Voice

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Digby Hall, Hound Street, DT9 3FE. Free entry. sherborneartclub.com

Playshop (10am-12.30pm) and

Insight Lecture: Liberal Truths

Saturday 21st 10am-4pm

Bowls (2pm-4pm)

Memorial Hall, Digby Road, DT9 3NL.

13th Leigh Food Fair and

Village Hall, Oborne DT9 4LA.

01935 812452, insight.sherborneabbey.com

Leigh Village Hall, DT9 6HL. Raising

Thursday 19th 10.30am-1pm

under 15 free. Info: 01935 873846

Monday 16th 7.30pm

Talk by Tim Farron MP on Liberalism.

Vintage/Classic Car Display

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money for various charities. £2, children

Museum Finds Day Sherborne Museum. Ciorstaidh

or elizabethturnbull70@btinternet.com

Info: 01935 812722

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Crystal and Tibetan Singing

£24 for the day or £12 per session.

Info and bookings: 01935 389655, centreforpuresound.org

____________________________ Sunday 29th - Sunday 12th August

leighfoodfair.co.uk

Sherborne Summer Music

objects but do bring your own mysterious

Saturday 21st 6.30pm

DT9 3AP. 18 music courses in all

donations welcomed.

Illyria Open Air Theatre -

Trevarthen will bring some inspirational objects to be identified! Free event,

for 7.30pm start

____________________________

Dr Dolittle

Wednesday 18th 2.30pm

Bring picnics and blankets for open air

Sherborne W.I. - Reflexology Catholic Church Hall, Westbury. Talk

performance. All ages. Tickets: illyria.co.uk ____________________________

Sherborne School, Sherborne

disciplines. Info: 01342 893963, sherbornemusicsummerschool.co.uk

____________________________

Workshops and classes

and demonstration by Lynn Jagger.

Sunday 22nd 12pm-2pm (doors

includes refreshments.

Thursday 19th 10.30am

Natalie Lowe from Strictly. Tickets £25

Tinney’s Lane Youth Centre, Sherborne

From Kings Arms, Thornford. 01935

Tuesday 24th - Thursday 26th,

class with movement specifically

New members and visitors welcome. £4,

open 11.15am)

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Fitsteps and Dance Masterclass

Thursdays 2.30pm-4pm

____________________________

Milborne Port Village Hall. With

ArtsLink Parkinson’s Dance

____________________________

A fun, supportive and therapeutic

Ramble (4.5 mile walk) 428607, southsomersetramblers.org.uk

Tuesday 31st - Thursday 2nd

____________________________

August 6pm

Friday 20th 1pm

Sherborne Museum Pub Walks

12 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

designed for those experiencing the

symptoms of Parkinson’s followed by

a cup of tea and social time. Free with

WHAT'S ON donations welcome. 01935 815899

jewellery. £15. Book via lindaypunchstyling.

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____________________________

____________________________

Vintage Market

sherborneartslink.org.uk

Thursdays 7.30pm-9.30pm

co.uk, details sent on booking.

Art Club@Thornford for Adults

Fairs and markets

No 1 Wheelwright Studios, Thornford

____________________________

DT9 6QE. Tutored art with Ali

Saturday 28th 9am-3.30pm Memorial Hall, Digby Rd. 30+ sellers of quality vintage. 07809 387594

____________________________

Cockrean. £10 per session (tuition only)

Sport

888302, email alicockrean@gmail.com or

Every Sunday 9am

____________________________

From Riley’s Cycles. 20 - 30 miles,

or £15 (materials included). Info: 07742

____________________________

alicockrean.co.uk

Digby Etape Cycling Club Ride

Every Wednesday 2.30pm-3.30pm

average 12 to 15 mph. Drop bar road

bike recommended. Facebook: Digby

Age UK Dorchester Cognitive Stimulation Therapy

Etape Sherborne Cycling Club or text

Free. To reserve your place,

Thursdays and Saturdays

Mike 07443 490442

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The Parade

Every Tuesday and Thursday

call Cecilia 01305 269444

Pannier Market

Tuesday and Thursdays 10am-12pm

____________________________

7.30pm–8.30pm

Tai Chi for Health

Thursday mornings 9.15am-11.15am

Mixed Touch Rugby

Leigh Village Hall. £5 per session,

Country Market

Sherborne School Floodlit Astroturf,

lindsayhome@btinternet.com

____________________________

info: 07813 039813 or email

Church Hall, Digby Road

____________________________

Every third Friday 9am-1pm

The Slipped Stitch workshops:

Farmers’ Market

Saturday 7th 10am-4pm

Cheap Street

Needle-felted Mice with Mary Jane, £26

____________________________

Ottery Lane. DT9 6EE. Novices very welcome. £2 per session, first four

sessions free. Visit sherbornetouch.org or call Jimmy on 07887 800803

____________________________

____________________________

Sherborne Cricket Club

Thursday 19th 6.30pm-8.30pm

Every fourth Saturday (exc. April

Improvers Crochet - Mandalas with

and December) 9am-4pm

The Clubhouse, The Terraces, Sherborne DT9 5NS. DCB Premier League

Holly, £20

Saturday Antiques

Saturday 21st 10am-4pm

and Flea Market

Beaded Lace with Anniken Allis, £50

Church Hall, Digby Rd

v Bere Regis (H)

____________________________

____________________________

Yarn-dyeing for Beginners, £25 inc 2

Saturday 7th 9am-4pm

Compton House Cricket Club

skeins of yarn

(public and trade)

Tuesdays and Thursdays 10am-12pm

Chasty Cottage Antiques

Over Compton, Sherborne DT9 4RB.

Knit and Natter

and Collectables Fair

email info@theslippedstitch.co.uk or online

Info: 01963 370986

v Cattistock (A)

Saturday 28th 1pm-3pm

sherborne.play-cricket.com Saturday 7th 1pm

Dorset League County Division 1 comptonhousecricketclub.co.uk

The Julian, Cheap St. 01935 508249,

Digby Hall, Hound Street.

theslippedstitch.co.uk

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Saturday 14th

____________________________

Saturday 14th 10am-4pm

v Portland RT (H)

Tuesday 17th

Fleamarket

Saturday 21st

Elevate Your Style

Memorial Hall, Digby Road.

v Cerne Valley (A)

crafts. Free entry. 01749 677049

v Broadstone 2nds (H)

with Accessories Sherborne venue. With Personal Stylist Lindsay Punch and Stella and Dot

14 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

Saturday 7th

1000s of collectables, antiques and

Saturday 28th

westcountrycraftfairs.co.uk

____________________________

JULY 2018 Planning ahead

The Cherry Orchard

____________________________

Sandford Orcas, Higher Orchard, DT9

Friday 3rd to Sunday 5th August Opera in Oborne St. Cuthbert’s Church, Oborne. Tales

4RX. £10, £8 u18s, £32 fam. 01963 220749 artsreach.co.uk

____________________________

of Hoffman - Friday 3rd and Saturday

Saturday 4th August 2pm-4.30pm

Arias - Sunday 5th. Tickets £25.

Field next to Village Hall DT9 6NU.

(See our feature on page 22)

workshops and stalls. £1 entry, children

4th. Tickets £35. Gala Concert of

Chetnole Fête and Flower Show

operainoborne@gmail.com 01935 817194

With outdoor sideshows, music,

____________________________

____________________________

free. 01935 873742

____________________________ Wednesday 29th and Thursday 30th August 2018 (book by 20th July)

To include your event in our FREE listings please email details – date/time/title/ venue/description/price/ contact (in approx 20 words) – by the 5th of each preceding month to gemma@howmegrownmedia.co.uk

St. Paul’s Church Children’s Holiday Club Friday 3rd August 7pm Miracle Theatre Company -

Free club for children aged 7-11. Info: email stpauls-sherborne.org.uk, 01935

816444, holidayclub@stpauls-sherborne.org.uk

Due to the volume of events received we are regrettably unable to acknowledge or include them all.

DAYS OUT and HOLIDAYS with TAYLORS COACH TRAVEL Day Trips ____________________________ Dartmouth Paddle Steamer Cruise and Totnes Sunday 15th July Adult £39.50, Club £37.50

____________________________ Cheltenham Saturday 11th August Adult £22.00, Club £20.00

____________________________ Lymington Market, New Forest Drive and Cream Tea Saturday 18th August Adult £28.00, Club £26.00

Holidays

____________________________

____________________________

Mystery Drive and Lunch

Austria – Imperial Vienna

Sunday 26th August

11th -18th October

Adult £37.50, Club £35.50

8 Days - £965.00

____________________________

____________________________

2018 Day Excursions and Holiday brochures available.

To join our mailing list please call the office on

01935 423177 www.taylorscoachtravel.co.uk sherbornetimes.co.uk | 15

PREVIEW In association with

Nick Andrew ‘Southleigh 310518’ (Mixed media drawing, 76 x 56 cm)

'SOUTHLEIGH SUMMER' + 'WILDWOOD' 22th - 28th August Shaftesbury Arts Centre, Bell Street, Shaftesbury, SP7 0PX. 10am - 4pm

07730 400784 / 07713 277083 | nickandrew.co.uk | tanyahinton.jimdo.com Southleigh Summer: A series of mixed media drawings by Nick Andrew exploring the complexity, vitality and his solitary involvement with this South Wiltshire woodland, believed to be the location for the Iley Oak, where King Alfred and his troops rested overnight before the battle of Ethandun in 878.

Wildwood: Unique paintings by Tanya Hinton of indigenous birds and beasts

using the natural landscapes created in found, reclaimed and weathered wood. evolver.org.uk 16 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

Family film screening

MOOMINS ON THE RIVIERA (U) ‘flawlessly faithful’ The Guardian

SATURDAY 14TH JULY

Doors 5.30pm Film 6.30pm (80min) THE TOY BARN, BLACKMARSH FARM, SHERBORNE, DORSET DT9 4JX Tastings and bakes from

Popcorn, juice and nibbles

Wine, cocktails and ale

Children’s mindfulness workshops with

Authentic Sri Lankan curries from

A series of free talks, lectures, live performances and screenings in support of

Suggested donation £7

Shopping Guide

Turkish wool cushion, £48 Upstairs Downstairs

Fairtrade olivewood salad servers, £12.99 The Village Shop, Charlton Horethorne

Foothold, embroidery on Russian linen, 90cm x 90cm, £685 denmangould.com

HANDIWORK

Jenny Dickinson, Dear To Me Studio Discover beautiful hand-made products from around the world and closer to home. deartomestudio.com 18 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

Mr Fans yixing teapot, £130 Comins Tea House

Italian sandals, £55 Florence Leather Collection

Italian stilettos, £69 Florence Leather Collection

Triple Russian amethyst bangle, £145 emmarobinsjewellery.com

Pink tourmaline ring, £55 emmarobinsjewellery.com

Coral and Tusk bear portrait wall hanging, £40 agatheredlife.co.uk

Leather earrings, Tessa Marie Cox, £14 Upstairs Downstairs sherbornetimes.co.uk | 19

EDITION FOUR

Contributors to the next edition of Elementum include Jackie Morris, Alex Preston, Neil Gower, Catherine Hyde, Helen Scales and Whitney Brown.

AVA I L A B L E L O C A L LY O R O N L I N E

ELEMENTUMJO URNAL.CO M

L I F E S T Y L E

B O U T I Q U E

OPEN 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM 33 CHEAP STREET, SHERBORNE, DT9 3PU PHONE 01935 816551 20 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

PROUD TO BE STOCKING Award-winning manufacturer of digital audio and music streaming devices CALL IN FOR A DEMONSTRATION As a well established TV and radio shop, Godden & Curtis have been offering a wide range of audio visual sales and repair services for over 47 years.

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF OWNERSHIP Greenhill, Sherborne, DT9 4EW Tel: 01935 813451

Dorchester

O13O5 265223

Established in 1968 as a radio and black and white TV shop in Newland, we moved our business to our current premises on Greenhill in 1972. We have continued to deliver the high standard of service that our business was built on.

www.goddenandcurtis.co.uk

Sherborne

O1935 814O27

sherbornetimes.co.uk | 21

Community

OPERA IN OBORNE Jonathan Fletcher

O

pera in Oborne began out of a chance meeting between Oborne residents, Sir Robert and Lady Susan Corbett, and Gill Ford, the musical director of a group of opera singers. When, some years later, St Cuthbert’s Church needed a fundraiser, Sir Robert and Lady Susan contacted Gill and, on a cold January evening in 2012, four singers and a pianist gave a performance of popular arias which was so breath-taking they were immediately press-ganged into returning in 2013. However, the unreliable church heating dictated that, in future, this should be a summer event.

In August 2014, the inaugural Oborne Opera Weekend took place with an abridged version of Mozart’s The Magic Flute, arranged by Stephen Brown with the help of Gill and the singers, and a Sunday concert which was as good as ever. This successful format of operas alongside a Sunday concert was continued with Don Giovanni in 2015, The Marriage of Figaro in 2016 and in 2017 Four Scenes from Four Famous Operas.

Back in 2012, the set up was fairly rudimentary but by 2017 it was a different story. The church was transformed into a theatre for the weekend, with a custom-built stage and a 20’-high backdrop onto which the scenes were rearprojected. Theatre lights were hung from the rafters and a follow-spot added. Televisions were installed to give the audience prompts as to what was going on in the opera. It really was a very different experience from 2012.

Over the years, Oborne has seen professional opera singers from England, Scotland, America, France and Latvia. The event is quickly becoming a must-see in the musical calendar, with people travelling some distance to attend. Where possible, the cast involve one or two young singers from local schools who gain invaluable experience from being with professional singers for a week. For 2018’s Tales of Hoffman we hope to welcome back 18-year-old Amelia Monaghan (who in 2016 played Barbarina in Oborne’s Figaro) and one male singer.

22 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

Many of the original singers from 2012 continue to support Opera in Oborne and perform most years. This year we welcome back Stephen Anthony Brown, Baritone and Director of OiO, Eleanor Ross, Soprano, and French Baritone Florian Bonneau who have all been with OiO since the beginning. We also have Zita Symes and Alistair Ollerenshaw who have both performed at Oborne before.

Crucial to the weekend’s success are the friendships that have developed between cast and villagers. The performers stay with villagers becoming, for a short time each summer, part of the family. Each year, the Grange Hotel hosts a buffet supper after the Sunday concert, and the singers can normally be persuaded to perform a couple of numbers.

Sir Robert Corbett said, ‘I find it hard to believe that Opera in Oborne is now in its seventh year. Our brilliant performers seem to us in the village to be more like family than international stars. We love having them here with us and so do our audiences, who fill St Cuthbert’s to bursting! Long may it last.’

Whilst the cast are professional, everything else is completed by a small army of volunteers without whom the weekend would not happen; the Grange Hotel too goes out of its way to ensure the success of the venture.

As one visitor said, ‘What a wonderful evening. We could not have enjoyed it more. It was magnificent.

Please pass on our thanks to all those who worked so hard in making the evening special.’

Opera in Oborne, Friday 3rd to Sunday 5th August, St. Cuthbert’s Church, Oborne Tales of Hoffman - Friday 3rd and Saturday 4th. Tickets £35 Gala Concert of Arias - Sunday 5th. Tickets £25 operainoborne@gmail.com 01935 817194 @operainoborne

SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL

WOMEN INSPIRING ACTION AND TRANSFORMING LIVES Jackie Theobald

S

oroptimist International (SI) is a global volunteer movement with nearly 80,000 members in 124 countries. SI has consultative status at the United Nations and is a recognised Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) representing women from all over the world. The name Soroptimist was coined from the Latin soror, meaning sister, and optima, meaning best.

Perhaps the most appropriate interpretation is, ‘the best for women.’ From the founding of the first Soroptimist club in Oakland, California, in 1921, through to the present day, Soroptimists have continued to strive to achieve ‘the best for women’ in every aspect of their lives.

Soroptimist International Yeovil, Sherborne and Districts was chartered in January 1951. We meet socially and to agree our project work. Often these meetings will include a talk related to key issues affecting women and girls, or society issues; for example, a dog handler from Avon and Somerset Police explained to us how dogs are trained to search for drugs and explosive devices and to intercept offenders. We also arrange fun visits to places such as Burns the Bread in Glastonbury. We work with charities such as Chernobyl Children and WaterAid and support young carer groups in the community. At The Rendezvous in Sherborne we are working with young people to help them improve their emotional wellbeing and mental health, resolve practical problems, gain qualifications, and plan and work towards a positive future. In Yeovil we are involved with The Hub, which supports the development of work and life skills for young people and adults with learning difficulties, disabilities, and social communication and mental health issues.

One of our organisation’s key aims is the elimination

of violence against women. We lobby and raise awareness of Human Trafficking and research how to recognise the signs in our community. The club was instrumental in producing and distributing the international award-winning, ‘Loves Me, Loves Me Not’ bookmark and accompanying poster, designed by the club to raise awareness of good and bad relationships.

The bookmark was circulated to professionals in education, the women’s refuge and domestic abuse forum. 17,000 bookmarks have been circulated by SI Yeovil, Sherborne and Districts and many thousands more by Soroptimists across the UK. Internationally Soroptimist clubs raise funds to educate and train women and girls in the developing world. The Meru Women’s Garden Project, in partnership with Child.org, is one such initiative. The project provides sustainable gardening techniques, education and tools to women in the Meru area of Kenya. It also educates girls on their rights, empowering them to stand up to damaging cultural practices such as female genital mutilation (FGM).

Working closely with Soroptimist clubs throughout the world we are able to respond to natural and man-made disasters and to improve the lives of women and girls.

Soroptimist International always welcomes like-minded women who would like to join and help support their important cause. To find out more please call or text 07707 055806, email siyeovil@hotmail.co.uk or visit their global and regional websites. sigbi.org sigbi.org/yeovil-sherborne-and-districts sherbornetimes.co.uk | 23

Wild Dorset

YOUR TERN TO VISIT Melanie Fermor, Dorset Wildlife Trust

J

une is a great time for a trip to Chesil Beach and a chance to spot the UK’s second rarest breeding seabird: the little tern. This tiny character weighs in at less than a tennis ball and is the UK’s smallest tern. With their little black caps and bright yellow bills with a black tip they cut a fine figure, sprinting through the air in precision dives for small fish in the lagoon. They are just starting to nest now so what better time to visit the Fine Foundation Chesil Beach Centre and have a look? To avoid disturbance, the best views of the terns are from Ferrybridge looking towards the yellow buoys.

Little terns make an awesome journey each year, all the way from Africa, to nest here in Dorset. Aerial flying displays and offers of small fish herald the start of courtship, with females then laying two or three eggs. Once hatched, the young grow very quickly and can be seen running around on the beach after just a few days. Here they remain for several weeks, honing their flying and fishing techniques while being fed by their parents.

These elegant little birds enjoy peace and protection at the Chesil Beach colony, but their past has not always been so rosy. Between 1997 and 2009 their population dropped from 100 pairs to none at all. This triggered the creation of The Chesil Little Tern Project, led by the RSPB and supported by Dorset Wildlife Trust, Natural England, The Portland Court Leet, the Crown Estate and the Chesil Bank and Fleet Nature Reserve.

The challenge for the little terns is the fact that they are ground nesters. They actually nest right on the pebbles, leaving them vulnerable to predators such as foxes, kestrels and gulls. The project fences off the nesting area and positions special Little Tern Wardens on hand twenty-four hours a day to ward off any potential threats.

The wardens also provide nesting patches, monitor behaviour and hatching outcomes and were responsible for working out that some low hatch rates were due to the chilly, draughty aspect of the beach.

Providing sand helped remedy this and raised hatching outcomes dramatically. Good detective work!

• The best way to see little terns is to take a trip on the Fleet Explorer boat or on a guided walk – Sunday 22nd July at 1.30pm.

• Little terns are protected by the Wildlife Countryside Act and are Amber listed.

• The Chesil Beach colony is the only little tern colony in the South West.

dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/chesilbeach 24 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

Image: Paul Williams sherbornetimes.co.uk | 25

Wild Dorset

SHERBORNE DWT

Gillian M Constable, Dorset Wildlife Trust Sherborne Group Committee

A

t the end of May the Sherborne Group of DWT had a field meeting at Bracketts Coppice, a relatively local DWT reserve, and I am told it was a great walk; sadly, I was unable to attend. Steve Oliver, reserve warden for Mid-Dorset, led the walk and was able to show the group 6 species of orchid including the rare bird’s nest and common twayblade orchids. The twayblade orchid has not been recorded in the county since 1997. Also recorded were several marsh fritillary butterflies and the difficult-tospot adder’s-tongue fern.

Last month I wrote about the delight of watching the barn owl webcam at Lorton Meadows DWT reserve.

The first egg was hatched on 13th May and a fifth on 23rd May. Bob provided his growing family with a regular supply of mice and voles. Sadly, after a few days, Brenda went missing; a search by wardens discovered the remains of a female barn owl on the reserve. Then Bob deserted the nest. DWT kept webcam followers up-to-date with procedures and on 1st June the three largest owlets, which had survived, were removed from the nest by an expert and taken away to be looked after 26 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

with as little human contact as possible. The presence of the webcam recording these events means that 3 owlets should progress to fledge and return to the wild; no one would have known about the tragedy otherwise. It will be interesting to hear how the owlets progress and if it can be determined why Brenda died.

Update as at 5th June: the smallest owlet, which had a deformed beak, has died but the larger two are growing well.

At the start of June, the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) was commenting that the spring migration of swallows, house martins and swifts was running late and numbers were looking poor. Locally, swallows and house martins seem to be in their usual numbers but I have yet to get somewhere to listen to the wonderful screeching of the swifts. BTO reports that the lesser whitethroat numbers are up this year and that 4 of their 5 tagged cuckoos are back in England. So much has been learnt about cuckoo migration over recent years through the tagging scheme. dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk

Wild Summer How will you go wild this summer? www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/events

DORSET WILDLIFE TRUST Photos © Vicky Ashby, Katharine Davies, Laura McLellan & Matthew Roberts.

@elizabethwatsonillustrations 28 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

THE

TOY BARN’S

MAIZE MAZE OPENS 21 JULY NEW EXCITING DESIGN

TICKETS: toy-barn.co.uk

The Toy Barn Blackmarsh Farm Sherborne DT9 4JX 01935 815040

encouraging

happy,

enthusiastic and

independent children

For more information or to arrange a visit please contact the Registrar, Charlotte Carty

01935 810911 or registrar@sherborneprep.org Acreman Street, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3NY

www.sherborneprep.org sherbornetimes.co.uk | 29

UNEARTHED LILAC PAYNE, AGED 10 Sherborne Prep

‘I

t just started with a cake sale for Syrian Refugees,’ says Lilac in her wonderfully calm and understated manner. For most of us, baking a cake for a charity sale would make us feel as though we had ‘done our bit’ but, thanks to the support of the volunteer-led Sherborne Area Refugee Support (SHARES), a handful of Syrian families have found themselves starting a new life in Sherborne. With the backing of her parents, Lilac decided to do her utmost to help one family settle into Sherborne and life in rural England. The mother and father and their two young children, who were previously attempting to build a life in Egypt but who faced danger every day, arrived in Sherborne earlier this year and since then Lilac has visited the family every week. With her natural warmth and empathy, Lilac has formed a special relationship with the family and a particular bond with the little girl. She devotes her precious time with the family to reading books and drawing: ‘The little girl loves to draw and with her little brother we all play unicorns and dragons. And they could not believe their eyes when they saw the snow for the first time!’ recounts Lilac fondly.

Her devotion to the family has clearly been instrumental in helping them to integrate into the community and begin rebuilding their lives.

Lilac’s dedicated reading has fast-tracked the little girl’s learning of the English language to the extent that she can now act as a translator at her school for other young children new to the area – what a skill to have at this tender age, particularly after everything these children have been through. However, Lilac is quick to add that this family are ‘the lucky ones’ - thanks to SHARES, they have had the opportunity to escape the threat of war and to start their lives again in the quiet of the South West. Lilac beams when she describes the family and it is obvious that an enduring friendship has formed. How commendable it is that Lilac, aged just 10 years, can show such a committed, caring response to the situation and is eager to go that extra mile. sherbornearearefugeesupport.org.uk sherborneprep.org

KATHARINE DAVIES PHOTOGRAPHY Portrait, lifestyle, PR and editorial commissions 07808 400083 info@katharinedaviesphotography.co.uk www.katharinedaviesphotography.co.uk

30 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

Family

Children’s Book Review

Wayne Winstone, Winstone’s Books, Independent Bookshop of the Year 2016

Ocean Meets Sky, by The Fan Brothers (2018, Lincoln Children’s Book) £12.99 Sherborne Times Reader Offer Price of £11.99 at Winstone’s Books

F

inn lived by the sea and the sea lived by him.

This is a gentle and enchanting tale of a little boy who remembers his late grandfather’s stories of a place where the ocean meets the sky.

Finn builds a boat from driftwood and old tyres to sail to this magical place. He crawls inside for a nap and this hauntingly beautiful book takes us on a wondrous journey through the imagination of a little boy. In his dream, Finn begins a mystical adventure and is led to the destination spoken of by his grandfather, by a huge golden fish with a goatee beard. On the way, he comes across the bookish birds of Library Island, who roost and

'Independent Bookseller of the Year 2016’ 8 Cheap Street, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3PX www.winstonebooks.co.uk Tel: 01935 816 128

read, a mélange of giant whales, splendid hot-air balloons, sailing ships and submarines.

We glide through magical and mystical illustrations, as the boat is lifted from the sea into the air and sails towards a full moon with a familiar, beloved face. Finn is summoned home by his Mother’s call and reflects, ‘It has been a very good day for sailing.’

The themes of loss and closure are subtle; most children will be simply captivated by the beautiful artwork and the Great Adventure. winstonebooks.co.uk

Books to occupy eager minds this summer

Family

WHY EVERY CHILD IS AN ARTIST Ali Cockrean, Artist

W

hile we are incredibly lucky in Sherborne and the locale to have such a plethora of exceptional schools, I think it would be fair to say that, nationally, most schools are up against it when trying to maintain the balance between academic and creative subjects. Put simply, the arts aren’t very high on the government’s agenda when it comes to focus or funding. I work with schools regularly and I see first-hand that this is a source of extreme frustration to the dedicated staff who know only too well how important this balance is - not only to a rounded education but also to the health and wellbeing of every child.

Having worked across the South East and South West with schools in both the state and private sector, I know that there are art teachers who are currently buying equipment and materials out of their own 32 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

pockets to ensure that the children have the opportunity to develop their skills and techniques. So, a quick plea if I may be so bold. If you have a stash of art materials which have been sitting gathering dust, please offer them to your local school. They will be received with much gratitude and you can be sure that they will be put to good use.

The sadness for all those involved in teaching the arts is that we recognise that creativity is a birthright. Very young children have vivid imaginations and are able express themselves effortlessly. As Picasso so eloquently put it, ‘Every child is an artist, the problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.’

As arts funding dwindles and the curriculum is squeezed ever tighter, so the creativity in our young children too often dims. It doesn’t take long before they cease to recognise themselves as having any innate

talent. As a private tutor, it is quite common to hear 10-, 11- and 12-year-olds say, ‘I’m useless at drawing.’

The truth is they just need some simple pointers and valuable time to practice. There is nothing quite so rewarding as seeing the look of delight on young faces as they surprise themselves at what they can achieve.

Let me reiterate, this is simply due to the fact that the curriculum does not allow for the time required to practice sufficiently and is in no way a reflection on the teaching staff.

And if you still doubt how important creativity is to children, I hope that the following story will convince you.

A number of years ago, when I lived and worked in Buckinghamshire, I received a call from a mother who was clearly at the end of the proverbial tether. ‘I have a 12-year-old boy called Tom,’ she said. ‘He’s dyslexic

and went to secondary school last year, but it’s turned into a nightmare. He’s disruptive in class, impossible to teach and threatened with exclusion if his behaviour doesn’t improve. The only thing he is remotely interested in is drawing, but at the moment he’s not even engaging with that. Can you help?’

My initial reaction if I’m honest, was to say no!

However, I could tell she was desperate to find a way to help him and I relish a challenge, so I agreed to meet him for a one-to-one lesson. When he arrived at the studio trailing after his mum with little or no enthusiasm, I knew this was going to be a struggle for both of us. She left him with a firm, ‘You behave yourself and do what Ali tells you.’

‘So, Thomas, let’s see how you get on drawing this.’

I put a couple of objects down on the table.

‘There’s no point,’ he said, ‘I’m useless at everything.’

My instinctive response was simply, ‘I’ll be the judge of that… you just get on with it.’

It was a long session, as he slowly and reluctantly completed the task and regularly reiterated, ‘I’m useless at this…see?’ In fact, while the result wasn’t brilliant, I could see that he had talent and it was lack of confidence in his ability that was really holding him back. He’d talked himself into believing he couldn’t do it.

Over the following months he kept coming each week and, over a period of time, I watched him change.

It took a few weeks before he actually arrived ahead of his mum rather than trailing grim-faced behind her, but I will never forget the morning he opened the door himself and smiled at me. It was a breakthrough moment. A simple act which told me that finally he was looking forward to the session and beginning to acknowledge he was achieving.

It was a year before I dared allow him to join the other children, as he expected to be judged and would become very defensive and aggressive. However, once he finally acknowledged that he was able to draw and paint, he was fine. He made friends and they complimented him on his work. He blossomed.

Meanwhile at school his new-found confidence started to affect other subjects. His mother rang me one afternoon to tell me that for the first time he had come home with a certificate for the ‘most improved’ pupil in his year.

The next time I saw him, I congratulated him.

‘Yeah, thanks,’ he grinned, ‘I suppose I’m not so useless at everything!’ alicockrean.co.uk sherbornetimes.co.uk | 33

Family

DATA ANALYSIS

Adam Anstey, Director of IT, Sherborne Prep

D

ata, a word recently inundating our lives, is derived from the Latin word Dare, literally meaning, ‘something given’. No irony is lost in the fact that as a society, we continuously, either knowingly or unknowingly, give away insightful and valuable personal data to a host of interested parties.

Due to the extremely large size of data sets now being created, these are computationally analysed and, as a result, the term ‘Big Data’ has been born.

These parties, whether a well-known online shopping supplier, a fitness app or indeed GCHQ, will collect data to build a profile. That profile is then compared with that of others according to gender, age, interests, ethnicity, frequented locations and salary, thereby using our seemingly private details to identify business opportunity. The data processed is often assumed as fact, inspiring calculations that decide whether an automated email is sent proclaiming 10% off delivery, a reminder issued insisting that, according to your previous attempts, you really ought to be running faster, or that your picture is placed in front of a panel to consider if you are a potential threat to national security.

Recent headlines involving Cambridge Analytica shine a bright light on how our data is being used and this negative coverage causes society to be somewhat reluctant in sharing data willingly. For transparency and reassurance, it is essential to have clarity on who is using personal data, the specific data being received and how it is used, realms which our pupils are given the opportunity to explore and debate often.

The new data protection law, now officially being enforced, signals a positive step in ensuring that our most private data is kept secure and that as a society we are given more power to choose how our data is used. If we are not happy with the explanation given, we have the right to refuse for it be processed. However, the impact of not sharing data can be significant and one 34 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

which should also be a consideration when its use has the potential to help others.

IBM provides an excellent example in their creation of ‘Watson for Oncology’, an artificial intelligence platform that can sift through large amounts of unstructured clinical data in a fraction of the time it would take a team of humans. In this fully automated process, a clinician can cross-check an individual’s test results, instigating evidence-based treatments for cancer diagnosis. This system still relies on human judgement and yet represents a significant advance in how humans and machines can work in harmony

analysing the vast amounts of data being held. If we refuse consent for our data to be used in this way, theoretically a system such as this will lack the resources required to function.

It should never be forgotten, that data does not solely portray the entirety of an individual’s character or potential attainment; however accurate the method used for the accumulation of that data. As humans we are infinitely complex and despite what predictive methods are used to profile us, we will always remain unique. As a result, it may be the case that some predictions are proven to be positively unrealistic, vastly

surpassed by an achievement, for example, that proves the system is flawed.

As educators, we never limit what we believe a pupil is capable of simply because of what a selection of generated data suggests. We have a more holistic approach in gauging our pupils’ potential and draw on many factors when creating differentiated pathways for all. Happiness, perseverance, kindness and independence are not actively measured using numbers, yet instilling these essential values is, without doubt, a measure of success. sherborneprep.org sherbornetimes.co.uk | 35

History

36 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

RALEGH THE COURTIER

The Love Symbol and The Secret Marriage

T

Cindy Chant, Blue Badge Guide

here is no doubt that Walter Ralegh was a ladies’ man, and in the early 1580’s he had made it to Queen Elizabeth’s Court. From his humble background he had achieved one of his great ambitions, and Elizabeth became infatuated with him. She loved his quick wit. She loved his deep Devonshire accent.

One day in the Palace, Walter took his diamond ring from his finger and scratched on a window: “Fain would I climb, yet I fear to fall”. And Elizabeth, in her excitement, took the ring and scratched. “If my heart fail thee, then climb not at all”. She loved his way with words.

The 1580s were without doubt Walter’s best years, and he became Elizabeth’s favourite courtier. A German visitor to the Palace noticed that Elizabeth appeared to show Walter much affection. As well as affection and fame, Elizabeth showered him with great riches and gifts, and also gave him the use of Durham House to enjoy.

Even more in January 1585; he was bestowed a knighthood! And the favours continued. He was appointed Lord Warden of the Stannaries, Lord Lieutenant of Cornwall, and Vice-Admiral of Cornwall and Devon, and then entered Parliament as M.P. for Devon. So Walter began to live in some style and definitely had a special place in Elizabeth’s affections.

So what was going on here? A young man from the West Country, who had recently arrived at Court, as something of an upstart, having performed some minor military service in Ireland, was now being rewarded with great riches by his Queen.

Walter had also by now got himself a reputation as an accomplished poet, and he was conducting a tortuous game of verbal love with Elizabeth, writing her numerous poems of his love for her. Recently, a newly discovered sea and moon symbol hidden beneath centuries’ old layers of varnish on a Sir Walter Ralegh portrait of 1588 reveals his love and devotion to his Queen. The discovery shows the sea just below an emblem of a crescent moon, indicating Walter’s willingness to be controlled by Elizabeth in the same way that the moon controls the tides. Also Walter’s letters to Elizabeth contain similar coded references to the moon and sea. He called her ‘Cynthia’ after the Greek Moon Goddess, and Elizabeth called him Water, referring to his love of the sea and sailing; a pun also on

the sound of his own name in his Devonshire accent.

These, of course, were important ways with which he could send personal messages of his love and devotion to his Queen. But Walter wanted more. On his many rides from Devon to London, he always passed through Sherborne, and had seen the Castle that had been built

by Bishop Roger in 1138 that was now owned by the Bishop in Salisbury. It was a massive attractive building, and he had a huge lust to have it for himself. He asked Elizabeth to help him obtain it, and as she loved jewels, he gave her a large ruby worth £250, and she in turn granted him the castle.

But only just in time! Walter, being very fond of women, was also having an affair with Elizabeth’s LadyIn-Waiting, Bess Throckmorton. But Bess had become pregnant! Walter and Bess had a rushed marriage; a secret marriage, so that Elizabeth would not know. He was playing a dangerous game, as only the Queen could give permission for their union. A son was born the following year, but he sadly died in infancy.

Walter desperately hoped to get away with his deception, and he prepared to take himself off on some sea expedition. But the truth came out. Elizabeth’s fury erupted, and Walter was recalled back to London, and both he and Bess were sent to the Tower.

Walter remained in the Tower for only 5 weeks before having an early release. Elizabeth ordered him to get down to Dartmouth to sort out the anarchy in the Port over a captured Portuguese galleon, which had been carrying a huge cargo worth over £150,000. Once it was all sorted, Walter made a deal with Elizabeth allowing her to have much of the wealth of the cargo, and he in return was formerly liberated from the Tower.

Walter and Bess were reunited, but of course, banished from Court. So they returned to Sherborne, to Walter’s newly acquired Castle. The Sherborne townspeople were delighted. The Abbey bells were rung.

They were welcomed in a big way and Walter became Sherborne’s ‘adopted son’. And so he and Bess began their married life in the home that Walter called his “Fortune’s Fold”.

So next month, “Domestic Happiness in Sherborne and tales of Heresy and Atheism”. sherbornetimes.co.uk | 37

History OBJECT OF THE MONTH

MISS O’SHEA’S SHELL CABINET Elisabeth Bletsoe, Curator, Sherborne Museum

S

hellfish have always been useful as a food but their exoskeletons have also been prized for their decoration and sculptural qualities. In many cultures they have been used variously for currency, musical instruments, cooking utensils, jewellery and buttons. From at least the 17th century, they were as much a part of collecting fever as tulip bulbs and the obsession was known as conchylomania, a product of colonialism, exploration and the development of trade.

Shells were perceived as works of art gifted by God and to be contemplated; their collection was seen as a meditative activity, conferring a spiritual status upon the collector. Shells also symbolised escape, particularly for women in the 18th and 19th centuries, who were allowed the comparative freedom of inhabiting the liminal space offered by the shoreline. There, it was acceptable to be seen unchaperoned, collecting from rock pools and it was understood that sensible clothes and boots were to be worn to allow ease of movement.

It was then fashionable to house the collections in cabinets fitted with small drawers or wooden chests with compartmentalised trays.

The provenance of the museum’s shell cabinet is not precisely known; the donor was Elizabeth Mary O’Shea (1910-1986) who was born in Sheffield on Christmas Day, the daughter of Lucius Trant O’Shea (1858-1920) and Mary Annie Elizabeth Tindall (1875-1958). Her father, Lucius, was a Professor of Applied Chemistry at Sheffield University as well as a mining engineer and he made several contributions to the study of mining problems, particularly in connection with explosives. After his death, Elizabeth and her mother came to settle in Sherborne, later living at Whitely, The Avenue. Elizabeth was a founder member and trustee of the museum and 38 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

contributed several significant artefacts and collections.

The cabinet itself is interesting with a simple but attractive marquetry veneer of oak, yew and coromandel wood. It stands on four round brass feet. The seven compartmentalised drawers have stained oak fronts, with replacement wooden handles. The collection includes tusk shells, jujube topshells, freshwater cowries, harp shells, periwinkles, arc shells, dog whelks, scallops, oysters, pieces of coral, sharks’ teeth, tellins, a mermaid’s purse and some sea horses, as well as a drawer containing rare paper nautilae (the egg cases secreted by the female Argonaut), although many are still to be identified.

Most seem to come from the Atlantic coast, in a region from North Carolina to the Gulf of Mexico. The smaller shells, when arranged in compartments according to species, form solid blocks of colour like a mosaic.

Or, rather – they do now! The shells had become dusty and hopelessly jumbled and it took around nine months to conserve the cabinet properly, gently washing, air-drying and carefully re-arranging with tweezers after identifying the major species allocated to each compartment. Some of the dividers between compartments had worked loose and required a delicate application of a particular type of glue. Such painstaking activity was greatly rewarded as the cabinet now glows like a jewel in our natural history room and is much admired by all. It is also one of our objects up for “adoption”; for more information on this, please visit our website.

Opening times: Tuesday - Saturday 10.30am-4.30pm.

Admission free although donations are welcome sherbornemuseum.co.uk

ARE YOUR RETIREMENT PLANS ON COURSE? Contact us for a pension review.

PETER HARDING WEALTH MANAGEMENT Principal Partner Practice of St. James’s PlaceWealth Management

40 High Street, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8JG Tel: 01747 855554 9 Cheap Street, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3PU Tel: 01935 315315

www.peterhardingwm.co.uk

Partner Practice represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives. Peter Harding Wealth Management is a trading name of Peter Harding Practice Ltd.

Burchell & Burchell

31 Cheap Street Sherborne 01935 815 657

traditional | contemporary | heritage sensitive | simple | sustainable raisearchitects.com

Architecture

THE ILLUSION OF REJECTION Andy Foster, Raise Architects

H

as your work ever been rejected? Perhaps you’re a creative who has had work turned down for an exhibition, or you’re in business and have lost out on a big contract. Or your dream job was handed to another candidate.

Whatever form it takes, rejection can be hard to bear.

If can feel like confirmation that you’re doing the wrong thing, that you don’t belong or that actually, you just aren’t very good. And every time it happens, it feels that little bit worse, nibbling away at your confidence and sowing the seeds of self-doubt.

But rejection is an illusion. Along with its opposite, acceptance, it creates the impression of a binary world when, in actual fact, no such thing exists. Anyone who has had to choose between two equally good, competing candidates will know this. Which is to say, all of us. The ‘winner’ is elevated to a superior position relative to the ‘loser’ out of all proportion to reality. All because only one could be chosen.

It is often the case that you will never find out the ‘real’ reasons for your rejection or how close you came.

At times like that it’s useful to keep in mind that you’re in esteemed company (just do a search for ‘famous failures’ to regain some perspective).

Such thoughts were in our minds when we recently came a close-run second in the race to win a major project. In our world, there are no prizes for runners-up.

There is only win or no-win and, when you’ve put in the work, rejection can be harsh.

This particular project was our kind of project. It involved both the restoration of a significant heritage building as well as the creation of new, contemporary structures alongside. It was a large Victorian country house, the work of the pre-eminent architect of his day, Edward Blore, designer of the later phases of Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle, among many others. We would have drawn on our recent experience of working with the Grade I listed estate properties at Mapperton in Dorset and at Peckforton in Cheshire.

We were to restore the extensive ranges of servant

42 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

quarters, the stable courtyard, the ice house, gazebo and garden walls. A new swimming pool and leisure complex was planned in the kitchen garden, and the later, inappropriate buildings in the enormous walled garden were to be removed and replaced with four highly contemporary dwellings.

This was definitely our project.

We were on an invited list of three architects and, given the limited competition, it felt worthwhile to go the extra mile to illustrate our experience, expertise and ideas. In fact, we were already designing the new buildings as we were putting together the material for the submission. Yes, this was definitely our project.

We didn’t win it.

But on learning of our rejection, we chose to celebrate. Why? Because we regarded the whole process as confirmation that we’re on the right track. Getting on to the invited list of three and making the decision difficult for the client demonstrated that we are a player in the game.

Being in there, being able to compete should always be celebrated, regardless of the final outcome.

‘It is not the critic who counts… The credit goes to the man in the arena.’ (From the ‘Citizen in a Republic’ speech by Theodore Roosevelt) And you too, who are also in the arena should remember that, although it may seem like it at the time, rejection is not the end of matters. It should neither trigger such despair that you give up, nor such complacency that you think there is nothing to learn from the experience. Celebrate where you’ve got to, build on it, and keep going.

‘This is not to say that you aren’t entitled to feel shitty for a few hours or a few days… So mope. Eat macaroni and cheese while watching reality TV shows. Take long, hot showers and wandering walks… and then, get back on the horse.’ (From ‘Remember this the next time you are rejected’ by Courtney E. Martin) sherborne@raisearchitects.com

Image: Dawn Addison sherbornetimes.co.uk | 43

@elizabethwatsonillustrations 44 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

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Interiors

MIRROR, MIRROR Kitty Oakshott, Upstairs Downstairs Interiors

M

irrors can be often overlooked for their beauty and instead become more of a necessity but let’s not forget that mirrors aren’t just for practicality. Mirrors come in all shapes and sizes and can be the perfect accessory to brighten a dark corner or create interest on a plain wall.

Plain-coloured walls can often be a perfect backdrop for a statement mirror, perhaps something with a decorative surround. Or why not put together a set of different-sized mirrors hung at different heights? However, don’t let this 46 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

stop you adding mirrors to a wallpapered wall; it can be just the finishing touch it needs. Often the reflection in a mirror can bring a perfect break to a busy wallpapered wall, providing a sense of light and space.

Place a mirror opposite your favourite ‘scene’ - this could be opposite the window to reflect the view of the garden and the beautiful soft furnishings framing the window, thereby bringing colour and pattern to other areas of the room.

Mirrors can be used as a form of trickery, which can

EMMA BROWNJOHN 23rd June – 7th July

be an advantage. Smaller and darker houses can really benefit from the sorcery of a mirror, bringing light and reflecting space. And no mirror is too big. Make a statement!

Mirrors with beautiful metallic painted surrounds can add a touch of style and work well with most colour schemes. Or why not go for more of a rustic painted edge in a statement colour or classic neutral which would work perfectly in a country kitchen?

No wall space to hang mirrors? Not to worry! Make a statement with a large mirror placed upon a console table or mantlepiece. This can look lovely, especially if the mirror has a decorative carved or gold gilt surround.

Or what about a quirky mirror on a stand, maybe one with bird feet? Or pop a few little mirrors around the home, colourful painted frames will add some fun.

Mirrors don’t just need to be for inside the home - why not have a mirror outside? There are some great upcycled window frames that have been transformed into mirrors which look great in the garden. If you’re handy, look out for an old window frame and make one yourself.

Who knew there could be so much you could do with a mirror? Most of us glance at them daily, so I urge you to make sure it’s a beautiful one! updowninteriors.co.uk

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Interiors

LIGHTBULB MOMENT

L

Suzy Newton, Partners in Design

ighting is key to enhancing your living space, so the earlier lighting is considered in your overall home design the better. Great lighting is not merely functional but, when designed correctly, improves the feel and atmosphere of your environment and affects how you experience a space.

It’s key to creating the right ambience in your home. You may decide to invest in a statement lighting feature but it’s often the subtle light fittings that create mood lighting which are important; they come into their own particularly in the evenings.

They might be in the form of walkover lights, uplighters behind furniture or art, light strips hidden in pelmets or cornices of cabinetry etc. A successful lighting scheme will consider the space and where you would like to draw the eye.

If you’re renovating a property, think about the lighting right from the start. You need to consider how you will use the space: what functional lights are needed for tasks and what ambience you’d like to create at different times of day.

Create interest with layers of light and contrasts of light levels. Accent lights that highlight art, cabinet interiors or walls can add a luxe design element to a room.

The use of cool white bulbs will create a modern, crisp look while warm white will soften a space with a golden glow.

With the increasing popularity of open-plan spaces, flexibility is key. Layering your lighting on separate lighting circuits will allow you functionality and the ability to create ambiences that meet all your needs in each space. Philips Hue lighting will let you control light levels and colours from the bedroom to the kitchen.

With new technology your lights can even welcome you home or switch on and off automatically when you leave your home or walk from room to room. It’s all about simplifying your life and offering you the security of controlling lighting when the house is empty, making it seem like you’re home even when you’re not. Whether you forget to turn your lights off before heading to work or when you are stuck in a late meeting, with Philips Hue it’s not a problem. Use the app to set your lights to turn on and off automatically. You can even set rooms to light up at different times.

Table lamps provide the most flexibility, allowing you to have a lot of fun and enhance your décor. The Melt by Tom Dixon is one such table lamp which looks great on or off – an imperfect, organic and naturalistic lighting object, as much a work of art as a light fitting! Similarly, the impressive “vertigo” pendant from Petite Friture, a light wave form, will create a sense of awe in a hall or over a dining table.

The Design collection by Danish company Tala comprises fantastic statement design pieces. The collection has sculptural organic forms which can be displayed in clusters of three pendants or more for the biggest impact or as singles over a kitchen island.

Far from being an “add on” element of your home design, great lighting will enhance the look and feel of the space and ensure maximum relaxation and enjoyment for you and your guests. partners-in-design.co.uk 50 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

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Antiques

HORSING ABOUT Richard Bromell ASFAV, Charterhouse Auctioneers

The vintage gym horse vault included in the Charterhouse auction on Friday 27th July, £200-£400

W

orking in a saleroom is like working in a sweetie shop – there is temptation everywhere. One advantage though is that you can try before you buy. This facility is available to everyone when we are open for our viewing days, however not everyone wants to do publicly what they get up to behind closed doors.

Take George Holtby. George has worked at Charterhouse for a few years now. During this time, as a keen sporting chap, he has developed our sporting auctions. These sales have a great following from the hunting, shooting and fishing brigade and, whilst I have never seen George casting in the saleroom with a Hardy fishing rod and reel, I have seen him walking around the saleroom in size 12 camouflage fishing waders.

Naomi Grabham, who has been with Charterhouse for two-thirds of her life, is a little more restrained than George. I doubt I will ever see her wearing a pair of waders but, as our jewellery expert, she can often be seen wearing diamond rings, brooches or the odd necklace or two. She maintains this is so she can advise prospective purchasers how it would look on their partners if they are looking to buy them a present.

However, it is probably Matthew Whitney who can have the most fun. Matthew was involved in our classic car and motorcycle department from our first 54 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

such specialist auction 19 years ago. A self-confessed petrol-head, Matthew likes nothing more than visiting a client who is entering their classic and vintage car or motorbike into one of his auctions and being taken out for a spin – though he is resigned to sitting in the passenger seat rather than behind the steering wheel.

As for me, well, I recently found myself visiting a client in Devon who had an eclectic array of items to be sold in our 27th July auction. One of the items which took my fancy was a vintage horse vault, the same as I used at school decades ago. It is just the sort of quirky item which is ‘on trend,’ being ideal as a statement piece of furniture in a city loft apartment or in the Devon farmhouse from which it came.

Back at the saleroom, the horse vault was set up.

Sadly, there were no takers for having a go from the staff as they all said they were far too busy. Me, I did not have my gym kit with me…

If you have furniture and/or collectibles you would like to put into July’s auction please contact Richard Bromell at Charterhouse, The Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne or on 01935 812277 to arrange a home visit, or email Richard with items for valuation at info@charterhouse-auction.com. charterhouse-auction.com

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CHARTERHOUSE Auctioneers & Valuers We are now accepting entries for our forthcoming auctions: Classic & Vintage Motorcars Sunday 15th July at Sherborne Castle Pictures, Maps, Books & Antiques Friday 27th July Silver, Jewellery & Watches Thursday 23rd August Interiors with a selection of Wine, Port & Whisky Friday 24th August Classic & Vintage Motorbikes at Netley Marsh Friday 31st August

1969 Jaguar E-Type Roadster £80,000-90,000

Contact Richard Bromell for advice and to arrange a home visit The Long Street Salerooms Sherborne DT9 3BS 01935 812277 www.charterhouse-auction.com

FENCING | GARDEN DESIGN | LANDSCAPING | TIMBER STRUCTURES | LAWNS | PAVING

56 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

@elizabethwatsonillustrations

Gardening

A WARM RECEPTION Mike Burks, Managing Director, The Gardens Group

58 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

F

ollowing an interesting range of weather conditions and a number of speaking engagements at garden clubs so far this year, I have been thinking about the changing climate.

I first gave a talk to a garden club on the subject of weather conditions perhaps 20 years ago to answer the question, “How to Garden in Drought Conditions”. Only a few years later no-one was interested in that talk, wanting instead, “Gardening in Waterlogged Conditions”! To cover both eventualities the talk became, “Gardening in a Changing Climate”.

At the start of the talk I always ask the audience for a show of hands on who believes that the climate is changing. I give the option to include the view that it is a man-made phenomenon or that it is a natural variation. The answers are always fascinating; the two extremes were a club in the Bournemouth area in which not one person believed that the climate was changing, and Somerton, in the year that the Somerset Levels flooded, where everyone put their hand up! To be fair, a good number would have been underwater at the time so the evidence seemed fairly strong.

The Bournemouth opinion was irksome, not because they didn’t believe but because it was a Friday evening and, as I was setting off, friends phoned to invite me for a drink at the Digby Tap. To then find an audience who were apparently uninterested in the subject made me feel that I was wasting my time. I told them so and we had a good laugh and I gave the talk anyway!

In recent years the number of climate change sceptics has reduced to one or two per club, and the majority usually favour the cause being partly down to natural variations in climate along with a significant man-made influence. I like to make the sceptics feel welcome by saying that they are in the company of good people such as Jeremy Clarkson and Donald Trump, which usually makes them feel a whole lot better.

This year’s weather patterns have been interesting: we had a long winter which was particularly cold at the end. It was quite wet too and I feared that losses in the garden would be quite high after such conditions (as we guarantee our hardy plants, this needs to be kept in mind).

However, I have been pleasantly surprised (touch wood) that there have been relatively few losses. The reason, I think, is that plants went properly dormant for a decent period through the bad weather, thus protecting themselves. This was something predicted in an article on the subject written many years ago by the Centre for Alternative Technology. They feared that in warm winters plants wouldn’t become dormant and then, if rainfall was high, their roots would be badly damaged. This year’s outcome appears to support their theory.

Extreme conditions are the most consistent feature of these recent weather patterns.

When it rains, it really rains, with the drops hammering down. This can cause a good deal of damage to topsoil, destroying soil structure and leading to the washing away of good quality soil from the surface just as it does in parts of the world affected by monsoons. These problems can be avoided by mulching the bare soil with products such as composted bark.

The rain hits the mulch and gently seeps down into the soil; over time the mulch breaks down improving the soil beneath. The moisture is retained in the soil through a hot summer and the soil is insulated through a cold winter, reducing weed growth - a win-win-win scenario.

Wind and rain in the summer months can also be very destructive, and many gardeners now install support systems in the herbaceous borders to counteract such problems.

Traditionally pea sticks (usually hazel twigs) are pushed into the border and the plants grow through them, hiding the twigs but using them for support. Nowadays there are some excellent metal frames, usually coloured green, which can be used. Again, as the plants grow, the frames are hidden from sight but provide support so that all your efforts earlier in the year aren’t ruined by a summer storm. thegardeneronline.co.uk sherbornetimes.co.uk | 59

Gardening

DIARY OF A FIRST-TIME FLOWER FARMER

T

Paul Stickland, Black Shed Flowers

he arrival of summer has brought a very welcome blast of colour to our flower beds here at Black Shed. It’s an exciting time and each day brings fresh surprises. We’ve had amazing alliums, fantastic anemones and cornflowers in every shade. The lovely foxgloves have come in all manner of colours and forms, whites, creams, pinks and purples, with diminutive yellow species foxgloves from Italy and tall 6ft giant digitalis ferruginea. Cosmos arrived in pink, purple and white, frilled and fluted or even, bizarrely, shaped like a cupcake.

Weird lysimachia purpurea has been wriggling away in the undergrowth and providing some distinctly sinister stems for some of our event florists. A kaleidoscope of tall antirrhinums, or snapdragons, specially developed in America for the cut flower market, have really performed well for us. The scabious have burst into bloom in violets, blues, burgundy and whites, in sizes ranging from our tiniest wild field scabious to 7ft giants. The early arrival of the crazy, colourful zinnias have created their own Mexican fiesta in Dorset, perfect for all those festival-style weddings.

There’s no doubt that the star of the early summer has been the delphinium family. In the winter of our first year Helen pulled off an incredible feat; she managed to germinate a wide range of delphinium seeds, which are notoriously difficult to germinate. Amazingly they flowered in their first year but this year we have been rewarded with some incredible stems in a phenomenal range of colours.

Anyone who’s driven past our flower farm at The Toy Barn on the A30 will have seen the towering spires of brightest blue rising above the hedge. They all went to form the focal points of big floral installations at weddings and events. We supply some really talented floral designers and it’s particularly exciting to see our flowers in use on their Instagram feeds.

The huge and elegant white delphiniums have been very popular too, although I have to admit a big love for the ravishing sky blues. There is nothing like the clear, cerulean blue of varieties such as Cliveden Beauty. Vying for attention are the deep violet forms with their rich, black stems rising out of striking dark foliage. Bees just adore delphiniums and it’s curious to note that the white, brown or black structure in the centre of a delphinium flower is referred to as a bee. They do look remarkably similar.

Larkspurs are the more modest wing of the Delphinium family but supply the most wonderful selection of cut flowers. In many ways they are easier to use in floral arrangements than delphiniums, which demand centre stage. They come in a range of colours from whites to deepest blues via lilacs and the most subtle misty lavender grey. I must admit to a real soft spot for the wild blue or white form of larkspur, delphinium consolida, or consolida regalis, which is an airy, delicate and gracious plant, a world away from its spectacular cousins.

July brings big changes in the cut flower farming year. The arrival of the first buds on the dahlias herald yet another chapter in the constantly changing seasons here at Blackmarsh Farm, bringing a new rich palette of colours that will take us through into the high months of summer. blackshedflowers.blogspot.co.uk instagram.com/paulstickland_

60 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

sherbornetimes.co.uk | 61

Summer Events at

Castle Gardens Saturday 23 June - Sunday 1 July Painting and textile exhibition

by The Horizon Painters In the Butterfly House

Friday 20 July Yeovil Hospital charity quiz night 7:00pm for 7:30pm In the Butterfly House

Thursday 26 July Wildlife Friendly Gardening Award Organised by Dorset Wildlife Trust Tickets available in store

Friday 13 July Illyria performance of The Merchant of Venice Doors open at 6:30pm for a 7:30pm start Tickets available in store

Saturday 21 July Illyria performance of Doctor Dolittle Doors open at 6:30pm for a 7:30pm start Tickets available in store

Monday 23 July - Sunday 5 August Art and Artefacts exhibition at The Butterfly House In the Butterfly House Plus many more to be announced!

Open Monday-Saturday 9.00am-6.00pm, Sunday 10.00am-4.30pm (tills open at 10.30am).

Castle Gardens, New Road, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 5NR.

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62 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

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SUTTON BINGHAM SAILING CLUB Words Jo Denbury Photography Katharine Davies

T

he sun is threatening to break through the clouds as I sit on the bank of the Sutton Bingham Reservoir watching six small dinghies, with even smaller helms, make their way across the water. It’s rather like watching fledgling ducklings take their first paddle without mother duck. With me is Mark Talbot, one of the senior instructors at the Sutton Bingham Sailing Club, a man with an infectious exuberance for teaching youngsters how to sail.

‘I first sailed here a long time ago when I was a pupil at Taunton School and won the Dorset Schools championship,’ he says. Mark returned some 30 years later with children of his own, all of them now grown up. ‘I bought a 420 boat and raced here with them, and I suppose helping to raise four children was my greatest qualification,’ he adds, although he is of course a fully qualified instructor. Mark firmly believes that if you can encourage children to enjoy sailing they will be hooked for life. >

64 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

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66 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

I admit that I’m already a convert. Years ago, I pushed my six-year-old daughter out to sea (just as I had been) in a small boat – admittedly within the confines of Portland Harbour and with an instructor near to hand – and it felt like an act of liberation on her behalf. Once afloat my girl was the captain of her own ship – there was talk of treasure islands and picnics on secret beaches.

Five on a Treasure Island was read at night and cousins were invited down to spend a week on the water.

Sailing is perhaps one of the last remaining bastions of freedom for children. Once you’ve got the hang of wind and tiller you’re off and the ocean (or the lake) is your kingdom. It gives a child an independence and a confidence that they’d be hard pressed to find elsewhere. The great thing about Sutton Bingham is that you can venture to unseen shores beyond the sight of your parents without

getting into too much trouble. It’s no wonder then that the youth group is a growing band of youngsters that meets every other Saturday and has an increasing number of courses running throughout the summer holidays.

The club is run by a group of keen volunteers and has a wonderful, friendly atmosphere. Mark, Chris Hutton and Tim Robertson are three of the senior instructors but there are also young instructors who have come up through the club ranks and are more savvy with the onboard talk of SnapChat and Youtube. A few of the young sailors have gone on to follow careers in sailing: one ex-instructor now skippers Maxi yachts across the Atlantic, Rob Dyer is a Laser 4.7 champion and 'Frosty’ (Andrew Frost) one of their young instructors, is the RS Aero 5 World Champion.

The sailing club was formed in 1970 by Commodore > sherbornetimes.co.uk | 67

68 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

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‘Scrap’ Batten. The lake itself was formed in the 1950s when a valley was flooded to make a reservoir. ‘We pretend to the children there is a lost village below,’ says Mark, ‘although it isn’t really true – just a submerged mill - but it adds to the fun.’ At the last count they had 180 youth members and 35 adults.

‘It’s a great place to sail,’ says David Thomson, the club’s RYA Training Principal, ‘as there are no tides and no big waves. We have five senior instructors, ten dinghy instructors and eight assistant helpers who are aged between 16 and 22. This is great for the youngsters, who don’t want an old codger telling them what to do!

We also have a great support team who deal with the bookings and provide food for them.’ Not that it’s solely for the youngsters – as David points out, they are keen to encourage adult members as well. The club runs a series of adult courses during the summer that coincide with the youth courses, allowing the whole family to be on the water at the same time. Learning to sail alongside your children is a wonderfully rewarding and bonding experience.

Adults new to sailing are not expected to fold themselves into a tiny dinghy, leaving their knees begging for forgiveness, but have the advantage of going out with an instructor in a larger dinghy with a heavier keel (it won’t capsize unless forced to – ask your instructor about this). On the subject of capsizing, please don’t let the risk be a barrier to learning. Adults prefer to stay dry but children love getting wet. In fact, my daughter and her cousin went through a stage of preferring to be in the water rather than in the boat, until they were firmly told by the rescue team that the point was to stay in the boat and keep it upright. At Sutton Bingham you are in safe hands, with plenty of rescue boats in attendance and several members manning the shoreline to spot anyone who does go overboard or require assistance.

For the competitive sailors there are race nights and the club is part of a triumvirate where members visit and compete against Lyme Regis Sailing Club and Castle Cove in Portland Harbour. However, if, like me, you’re beginning to err towards the Wind in The Willows approach rather than racing to Treasure Island, Sutton Bingham is just as equally the perfect spot. The lake stretches almost as far as Halstock and offers a number of sheltered spots to heave-to and drift while you tuck into a spot of lunch. You’re also welcome to BYO - that’s boat not rosé, just in case anyone is starting to get ideas.

Not that you’re likely to, but just suppose... suttonbinghamsc.net sherbornetimes.co.uk | 71

@elizabethwatsonillustrations 72 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

Little Barwick House Restaurant with rooms

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Indulge yourself at the George Albert Spa Our Afternoon Tea and Spa package includes: 2 hours access to our hot tub, sauna and steam room 10% Spa treatment discount

ÂŁ25 per person A perfect opportunity to relax and unwind George Albert Hotel Wardon Hill, Evershot, Nr. Dorchester, Dorset DT2 9PW Tel: 01935 483430 www.gahotel.co.uk sherbornetimes.co.uk | 73

Food and Drink THE CAKE WHISPERER Val Stones

SWEET POTATO BROWNIES

74 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

I

’m staying in New York with my sister at the moment and we are making batch brownies for Graduation Day when all the Moms (and in my case Aunty) contribute bakes for the leaving party.

I didn’t start using sweet potatoes in baking until about 10 years ago when I found out that they were low GI. They add a sweetness, lightness and moisture to bakes as well as being good for you. Over the years I’ve become more aware of food intolerances and preferred diets including vegetarian and vegan. I have developed my own twist on various recipes found online and am now happy to call these brownies my own!

This vegan sweet potato brownie recipe can be suitable for low calorie, gluten-free, and sugar free diets (if you use sugar substitute). It can be made gluten-free by adding gf self-raising flour or almond flour.

Ingredients

Makes 12-16, depending on how big you want the pieces 150g sweet potato puree (you can bake or boil the sweet potatoes) 250g peanut or almond butter if you have a nut allergy you could try a nut substitute spread 2 teaspoon vanilla extract ½ teaspoon cinnamon 50g self-raising flour (oat, white, spelt flour and Dove’ Farm gf self-raising flour work well if you are gluten intolerant) 60g mini chocolate chips + more for the top, optional

130g granulated sugar of choice or xylitol 40g cocoa powder 1½ teaspoon baking soda 4g fine sea salt What you will need: A brownie pan lined with parchment and greased.

Method

1 Set the oven for 160C fan, 180C conventional, 325F, gas mark 3.

2 Gently heat the nut butter until easily stir-able.

3 Whisk the softened nut butter with the sweet potato and vanilla extract in a large bowl.

4 In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa, baking powder and cinnamon.

5 Pour the dry ingredients into the sweet potato mixture and fold in until all combined.

6 Pour into the prepared pan and smooth out evenly - you can use an off-set spatula dipped in water to do this.

7 Sprinkle with a few extra chocolate chips if desired.

8 Bake in the centre oven for 20 minutes.

9 It will look a little underdone, and when you shake the pan the centre of the brownie should wobble, but it firms up as it cools.

10 When cooled, if it is still too gooey let it sit in the fridge for a few hours. It will still taste delicious. bakerval.com sherbornetimes.co.uk | 75

Food & Drink

76 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

THE BENEFITS OF GROWING YOUR OWN Hayley Frances Thurlow, Cook, Caterer, Nutritional Therapist

W

hilst I was at the allotment checking my potatoes I started thinking about why growing my own has become a favourite pastime. I haven’t been doing it that long but it brings me such joy and I genuinely get excited about going up there and checking on progress. A lot of people ask me why I bother, ‘Isn’t it easier and cheaper just to nip to the supermarket?’ Sure, I suppose the financial savings are negligible when you’re doing it on a small scale and, yes, nipping to the supermarket is probably quicker.

But if you have ever tasted food grown in a garden or allotment, you’ll know that the taste is so remarkably superior. New potatoes, rather than crumbling and powdery, are tender, waxy and succulent, and tomatoes are soft and sweet rather than bitter and hard. Strawberries burst with sweet nectar and herbs are strong, alive and fragrant. The produce tastes this way because it is born from the natural rhythm of nature and on a scale with which nature feels comfortable. Food which is grown out of season on a mass scale will never taste like this.

Food grown on your doorstep is seasonal and therefore packed with nutritional content – partly why it tastes so amazing. When your only shipping delay is the time it takes to get from the garden to your table, fruits and vegetables are at their best. The vitamins and antioxidants in some types of home-grown produce may be more than 100% higher than in similar imported and mass-produced types. As the ‘farmer’, you are also in control of what chemicals are fed into the growing process, so you can choose to go completely organic if you like.

The health benefits of growing your own continue when we consider the physical work involved. Digging, watering, raking and mounding are fantastic activities for keeping you fit and it feels wholly natural to be exercising in a way that serves a purpose beyond improving fitness.

Working the land is also the perfect way to absorb lots of Vitamin D and support mental health.

A garden or allotment, however small, offers a healing stillness and tranquillity; add the sound of birdsong and buzzing bees to the scene, along with the fragrance of flowers and growth, and you have the perfect recipe for a sound and happy mind.

Growing fruit and vegetables is a wonderful activity to bring a family together, whether that be parents and young children, adults and elderly parents or couples wishing to spend more time together. Nature creates a wonderful, harmonious backdrop for positive interaction and gathering fresh produce with children so they can enjoy a full earth-to-plate experience has enormous benefits in terms of influencing a healthy, knowledgeable and easy relationship with food.

According to government statistics 25% of children aged 2-10 years old are obese. There is also a sad prediction that by 2034 70% of the population will be so. These statistics are heart-breaking and it seems that anything we can do to reverse them through lifestyle change and getting back to basics should be done – especially when it’s such fun.

Hayley will be running the Little Strawberries Summer Cookery School for Children from her home in Stoke-sub-Hamdon (25 minutes from Sherborne). The school is designed for parents and little ones aged 0-10 years and will run from 10am-12.30pm each Monday morning, from 30th July to 3rd September.

Part of the session will involve gathering fresh fruit and vegetables from her allotment and garden to cook.

To book, call 07586 717678 or visit littlestrawberriessummercookeryschoolforchildren.eventbrite.co.uk Hayleyfrancesnutrition.com sherbornetimes.co.uk | 77

Food and Drink

HIGHLAND AND ISLAND MALT WHISKIES David Copp

I

t is always a delight to revisit the highlands and islands of Scotland where the great malt whiskies are distilled. I love the landscape, the people and the product and am eternally grateful to the Morrison family who invited me to join their company in 1966. The founder of the company, Stanley Morrison, had recently purchased Bowmore, the oldest Hebridian distillery, and invited me to join his sons Tim and Brian to introduce its rich, peaty flavours to London and Europe.

Bowmore is now a world-renowned malt whisky, a bottle of which was used by HRH Queen Elizabeth at the traditional launching ceremony of the 65,000 ton Queen Elizabeth Class Aircraft Carrier, under the watchful eye of First Sea Lord, Sir George Zamballas.

Tim and Brian have both recently opened new malt distilleries; Tim, the Clydeside Distillery in Glasgow: Brian, the Aberagie distillery on the border of the highlands outside Perth, both offering an excellent Scotch whisky experience for those who do not have the time to make the lengthy journey that I have just completed through the highlands to the Outer Hebrides.

Malt whisky is made from barley and water and matured in wood. That sounds a pretty bald statement, but it is the human input - in the choice of still, the selection and malting of the barley, the shaping of the copper stills and condensers, and the choice of wood for maturation, that makes the difference.

Malt whiskies are blended with grain whisky to make such famous brands as Johnnie Walker, J and B Rare, Bells and Teachers. The pure malt whisky business did not really take off until the 1970s some 150 years after George Smith, a distiller in Glenlivet at the very heart of the Highlands, had the vision and moral courage to apply for an English Government licence to distil whisky. This was against the wishes of his fellow illicit distillers, highlanders still smarting from the comprehensive defeat of the Jacobite armies at Culloden Moor in 1745, who abhorred the idea 78 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

of paying taxes and duties to an English government in London with a Hanoverian rather than a Stuart king.

However, the Duke of Gordon, the major landowner in the region, persuaded Smith to apply for a licence, arguing his whisky was good enough to sell more widely than the few gallons sold locally with one eye out for the ‘guager’ (the tax collector): Edinburgh and London were huge potential markets which might well open up opportunities throughout the British empire.

Smith knew that his farm produced good barley and that he had an abundant supply of pure water so he set out to produce a fine spirit by double-distilling his barley mash to eradicate any faults. He also knew that if he matured his whisky in good wood it would enhance the nuances of aroma and taste, and he could produce a fine and elegant eau de vie (uisque beatha in Gaelic) worthy of the world’s attention. So, with an eye to sales beyond the glens, he took out a licence… and bought two pistols to protect himself from his enraged neighbours who hounded him as a blackleg even in church, and threatened to burn down his farm.

But when they saw him begin to ship quantities of his whisky down south they followed his example and became licensed.

Ardbeg distillery, Islay

Today, the British Government earns £4.4 billion from Scotch whisky sales, of which £1 billion is from malt whisky. If you are a malt whisky drinker and plan to visit the Highlands I can recommend the pilgrimage to the Glenlivet distillery in the heart of Speyside, close to some wonderful salmon and sea trout river fishing, where there is a superb exhibition of Smith’s life and work.

Nearby there are other great Speyside distilleries such as Glen Grant, Glenfiddich, Glenfarclas and Macallan.

From Speyside I would advise you to go even further north to Tain on the Dornoch Firth above Inverness, the home of Glenmorangie where Dr Bill Lumsden explored in depth malt whisky’s relationship with wood.

The industry generally prefers to fill newly distilled whisky into used bourbon barrels made of American oak for its first years’ of maturation, switching to used sherry casks thereafter. Lumsden explored the differences between different sherry casks (e.g. Amontillado and Oloroso), and also port and Madeira casks and as a result you can purchase Glenmorangie finished in a variety of different woods.

At Bowmore on Islay the ripening barley is dried on malting floors heated by peat fires, a process which gives them their lovely rich, smoky aroma and full flavour.

There are now nine or ten Islays on offer and along with Bowmore, I admit my personal preference for Lagavulin and Ardbeg.

I am also a fan of Talisker from Skye and Highland Park from the Orkneys. We made the distillery tour at Talisker which I heartily recommend because it brings the production process alive and one gets a chance to taste the results of the distiller’s labour!

Taking water with malt whisky is a very personal matter. I add two or three drops - and I mean drops – of natural water to my dram because they expand the aromas and flavours of the whisky. If you are drinking pure malt whisky for the first time, I recommend that you savour its aroma first, then sip it neat. Then add a few drops of water, and taste again. Then add a few more drops to help you decide what is better for you. I think you will be surprised at the difference. Generally speaking great malt whiskies do not need ice cubes or soda water but remember that is up to you to decide which suits your taste. If you need further guidance I recommend Charles MacLean’s Malt Whisky, an excellent guide, and Andrew Jefford’s Peat Smoke and Spirit. However, there is no real substitute for going to the highlands and islands and finding out for yourself. sherbornetimes.co.uk | 79

Food and Drink

PORTLAND LOBSTER CRÈME BRÛLÉE Sasha Matkevich, Head Chef and Owner, The Green with Jack Smith, Apprentice Chef

Ingredients

1 (500g) live lobster (ask your local fishmonger) 2 sprigs of dill 2 sprigs of parsley 2 sprigs of celery leaves 100ml olive oil 50ml white wine 1 free-range egg 70g free-range egg yolk 240g whipping cream 1 clove of garlic 1 sprig of thyme 70g blanched sea lettuce or Wakame (soaked and lightly cooked) Cornish sea salt Cayenne pepper to taste Method

1 Cook the lobster in a large pot of boiling water for 8 minutes; remove from water and set aside to cool for 10-15 minutes. Once cooled down enough to handle, prepare lobster in the traditional way by separating the meat from the shell. Refrigerate the meat and roast the shell in the oven for 10-12 minutes.

Combine the shell with white wine, parsley, dill, celery leaves, olive oil and half a clove of garlic in a liquidiser 80 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

for 2 minutes. Transfer to a small saucepan and bring to the boil. Set in an ambient temperature to make an infusion (72 degrees Celsius) for 50 minutes.

2 Meanwhile bring the cream, garlic and thyme to the boil. Take 70 grams of the lobster meat, the egg, egg yolk, and the remaining half of the garlic clove and liquidise in a food processor. Slowly poor in the cream, blitzing until combined. Leave to infuse for 15 minutes and then pass through a fine sieve.

Season with sea salt and cayenne pepper to taste.

3 Divide the remaining lobster meat and sea lettuce between 5 crème brûlée ramekins. Pour cream infusion into ramekins and cook in a bain marie at 110 degrees for 40 minutes. Once cooked, refrigerate for a minimum of two hours.

4 Once your lobster oil infusion is ready, pass it through a fine sieve and refrigerate.

5 10 minutes before serving, remove the brûlée and oil from the fridge and bring to room temperature.

Using a blow torch, slightly caramelise the top of the brûlée until golden brown. Dress with lobster oil to enhance the colour and flavour. Decorate with the sea salt flakes and serve immediately.

Bon Appetit! greenrestaurant.co.uk

COFFEE BREAK Kafe Fontana 82 Cheap Street, Sherborne, DT9 3BJ @kafefontana kafefontana 01935 812180 kafefontana.co.uk Old School Gallery Boyle’s Old School, High Street, Yetminster, DT9 6LF @yetminstergalle 01935 872761 yetminstergallery.co.uk

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Families in need who rely on free school meals to help feed their children have no access to this during the school holidays. Meanwhile, as many of us head away on summer holidays donations to the Food Bank reduce.

This is an important time of year and we urge you to keep giving. Please visit our website for details of where and how to donate food items. Financial donations can also be made via our website.

Thank you.

www.sherbornefoodbank.org 07854 163869 help@sherbornefoodbank.org sherbornetimes.co.uk | 81

Animal Care

HOT DOGS

Mark Newton-Clarke, MA VetMB PhD MRCVS, Newton Clarke Veterinary Surgeons

A

nother Sherborne Castle Country Fair has just passed, thankfully blessed with super fine weather... perhaps a little too good! Although not tasked with looking after the farm animals and horses, I always wander around the sheep, pigs and cows to remind myself of a previous life as a large animal vet. By 9am the temperature was soaring and the heavily fleeced sheep were panting and looking for shade (soon provided by their owners with jerry-rigged tarpaulins). The sows went on strike and refused to leave their pens, which had been turned into wallows with buckets of water, making the judging a muddy job.

With little sign of cloud, I started checking my first aid kit in preparation for heat stroke cases that were almost certainly going to arise as the sun’s strength grew.

However, the organisers of the show rings had it all in hand with several well-placed water bins into which dogs were dunked, frequently used once the canine agility competition got underway. I suspect the humans taking part would have liked the same.

Summer has traditionally been the busiest time for small animal vets due to parasites, allergies, injuries and infections that thrive in the warmer weather and the increase in animal interactions as everyone is out and about. Skin, eye and ear problems are particularly common at this time of year, often triggered by a flea bite or allergy that causes irritation, leading to scratching and hot, traumatised skin that rapidly becomes infected.

The most dramatic example is ‘wet eczema’ which presents as a wet, inflamed area of skin that can spread in a few hours with the help of a thick coat and a busy doggy tongue. Owners of retrievers may be familiar with this condition as it seems most common in this breed.

Essentially, it’s a superficial skin infection which is so painful that many dogs will not let us touch the affected area without sedation or really effective pain relief. If you

82 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

catch it early, use chlorhexidine skin wash (don’t get it in your dog’s eyes or yours) after clipping the hair away.

Never use TCP or Dettol as they are too irritant and, for cases that have an affected area of skin bigger than a square inch or so, consult your vet. Wet eczema can spread really rapidly so early effective treatment will save your dog pain and you money.

Like skin problems, eyes and ears can worsen in a few hours if left untreated. Dogs who love water are more likely to suffer from ear infections, probably due to the moisture left in the ear canal after a swim. Running through long grass is a good way to scratch the surface of the eye, especially if you’re only 2 feet tall and forget to blink as that bunny just might make an unexpected turn. Signs of ocular trauma are a squinty or closed eye.

Don’t delay with this one; go straight to your vet clinic and make sure the receptionist understands it’s urgent so you can be seen as soon as possible.

I can’t write a summer article without mentioning grass seeds, our old enemy. Most wild grasses will develop seed heads by early June and will be dropping their seeds anytime afterwards. Designed to plant themselves into the ground, grass seeds are just as happy planting themselves into your dog. Breeds with long feathers on paws and floppy ears are particularly at risk so check between toes after any walk in long grass. A seed in an ear produces instant and unremitting irritation so head down to the vet for extraction (your dog may need sedation) as soon as possible. If left, these tiny burrowing things can enter body cavities and be a nightmare to find and remove.

With a little vigilance summer should be problemfree and a chance for us all to enjoy the outdoors while we can. newtonclarkevet.com

sherbornetimes.co.uk | 83

Animal Care

IS YOUR HORSE UNDERPERFORMING? GASTRIC ULCERS

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Jack McCarthy MRCVS, The Kingston Veterinary Group

astric ulcers are very common in horses and are often under-diagnosed. Their prevalence has been estimated to be above 50% in most breeds of horses used for an athletic purpose. Foals are particularly susceptible as they secrete gastric acid from two days of age. A common cause of ulcers in foals is the use of anti-inflammatories such as phenylbutazone.

The clinical signs associated with gastric ulcers are often vague. They can be non-specific such as poor performance, unwillingness to train or a mild change in behaviour. Other clinical signs can include: • Poor appetite • Dullness • Poor body condition • Poor coat • Weight loss • Excessive recumbence • Low grade colic • Loose faeces • Teeth grinding in more serious cases

the wall of the squamous portion of the stomach. Since feed material can obstruct the view of the stomach wall, fasting for a minimum of 12 hours is important.

When it comes to ulcers prevention is always preferable to treatment. This involves feeding horses frequently on a free choice basis (pasture), avoiding grain in the diet and avoiding the use of anti-inflammatories, especially in younger animals. If they need to be used, use with a gastro protectant. Another important component is limiting stress in a horse’s life. This can be done by gradual introduction to training, avoiding transport where possible and providing company or companions.

Treatment of gastric ulcers revolves around decreasing acid production in the stomach. This can be achieved by proton pump inhibitors such as gastroguard. Antacids such as sucralfate can also be incorporated into the treatment. Treatment normally involves 28 days of a proton pump inhibitor and re-scoping to ensure the ulcers have been treated sufficiently. Focusing on management aspects can also be very helpful in treatment.

The only way to diagnose gastric ulcers is through gastroscopy. This involves passing a 3-metre scope into the stomach of a horse. This procedure is easy to perform and allows you to evaluate the wall of the oesophagus, the wall of the glandular portion of the stomach and

If you suspect your horse has gastric ulcers or if you would like to get your horse gastroscoped, please contact Kingston Vets on 01935 813288 to speak with a member of their equine team.

84 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

kingstonvets.co.uk

sherbornetimes.co.uk | 85

NEVER MISS A COPY If you enjoy reading the Sherborne and Bridport Times but live outside our free distribution areas you can now receive your very own copy by post 12 editions delivered to your door for just ÂŁ30.00 To subscribe, please call 01935 814803 or email subscriptions@sherbornetimes.co.uk

www.sherbornetimes.co.uk 86 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

Veterinary services for livestock & pets in Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire We now have a new collection point for livestock medicines and supplies at Pearce Seeds, Rosedown Farm, Sherborne.

Please call the office on 01258 472314 for all enquiries

www.friarsmoorvets.co.uk

Summer Fun

At

ferne

Big Butterfly Count 20th July – 12th Aug Interactive Animal Athletes Trail 25th July – 31st Aug Family Dog Show – Sat 1st Sept Discovering Dragonflies Throughout the summer Café, Shop, Visitor Centre – open daily Sherborne Surgery Swan House Lower Acreman Street 01935 816228

Yeovil Surgery 142 Preston Road 01935 474415

www.newtonclarkevet.com

ferneanimalsanctuary.org Wambrook, Chard, Somerset TA20 3DH tel: 01460 65214 Charity No. 1164350

Cycling

MASS APPEAL

Peter Henshaw, Dorset Cyclists Network Mike Riley, Rileys Cycles

‘C

ritical Mass’ has more than one meaning – as well as having something to do with nuclear fission, it’s a mass cycle ride on urban roads. The idea is that when enough cyclists ride at the same time, they can dominate the road space and slow traffic down to cycling speeds (although in our congested towns it often already is). Why? Because, once a month, bike riders can feel safe on roads usually dominated by cars and make the point that bikes are quieter, less polluting and better for everyone concerned. You’ll find Critical Mass rides all over the world, and our nearest is Bristol.

We had one in Dorchester on 3rd June, not as any sort of protest but as the start of the Great Dorset Bike Ride. Riding down High West Street in the middle of a crowd of 246 cyclists was a great feeling, and although it wasn’t intended as a proper Critical Mass, it had the same effect.

The Great Dorset Bike Ride (let’s call it GDBR) started back in the 1990s, organised by that wonderful shop, Dorchester Cycles. It became a festival of cycling, with hundreds of riders doing an easy-ish 45-mile route from Dorchester to Wareham, over the Purbecks and back via Moreton followed by a BBQ back at the shop.

Sadly, Dorchester Cycles closed a few years ago and the GDBR seemed to have died with it.

Happily, it was revived this year, thanks to the combined efforts of Cycling UK (Britain’s biggest cycle organisation; it used to be the CTC) and Mud, Sweat and Gears. The format was exactly the same as in previous years: a nominal fiver bought entry to the event with all proceeds going to Cycling UK, the Joseph Weld Hospice and the Multiple Sclerosis Society, the latter two in memory of the late Peter Robinson, proprietor of Dorchester Cycles. Better still, it marked the beginning of Bike Week, the nationwide (and, as the name suggests, week-long) cycling festival which sees events happening all over the UK. Revived events don’t always work out, but this one did. The car park was packed with 246 people 88 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

paying their fiver and signing on. There was a lot of lycra and drop handlebars in evidence but a good smattering of general purpose bikes as well, not to mention a small but cheerful contingent from Sherborne. For reasons too complicated to explain, I was lent a bike by Rileys Cycles.

I’ve ridden the GDBR before and it does pass through lots of beautiful Dorset countryside but, for me, the best bit was the mini-Critical Mass down High West Street. As the Dutch discovered decades ago, the best way to make cycling safer is to get plenty

of people doing it – there’s safety in numbers and it works. Mind you, our Critical Mass didn’t last very long, because GDBR encompasses everyone from headsdown keen types to people out for a leisurely day ride.

The keen types soon disappeared over the horizon and our 246-strong peleton stretched out, with everyone going at their own pace.

Boy, it was hot, but at least the back roads route to Wareham via Tincleton isn’t big on hills, and we rolled into Wareham for a coffee without feeling too exhausted. Lunch was at the cafe on the Arne

Peninsula before heading westwards to Wool (yes, some of us decided to forgo our card stamps and give the mountainous Purbecks a miss) and the obligatory cake at Moreton Tea Rooms to fuel us for the last leg back to Dorchester. We felt quite proud of ourselves - though we did meet an eight-year-old who, with his dad, rode his own bike over 20 miles to Arne which rather put what we did into perspective. dcn.or.uk rileyscycles.co.uk sherbornetimes.co.uk | 89

@elizabethwatsonillustrations 90 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

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Body and Mind

DAMAGE LIMITATION Sarah Hitch, The Sanctuary Beauty Rooms

I

t is during these generally balmy days that we should still be on our guard to protect our skin from damaging photo-ageing. In fact, roughly 90% of photo-ageing can be prevented by wearing a high-level, broad-spectrum sunscreen daily all year round.

The photo damage or UV exposure which causes premature ageing can occur through glass, cloud and even from fluorescent indoor lighting at anytime of the year. So, if you spend time in the car or in a well-lit office on a daily basis your skin health is at risk.

Whilst our skin makes Vitamin D from sunlight in the summer which aids our bones, teeth and muscles, this process stops after 15 minutes of exposure. If it didn’t, toxic levels would make us ill. A healthy, balanced diet containing oily fish, red meat and fortified cereals is usually enough to keep sufficient levels in the body all year round or supplements can be helpful.

We all appreciate the warm glow of the sun and the lift it gives to our soul. However, to maintain a healthy, 92 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

smooth, even-toned skin it is important to apply the right amount of a good quality sunscreen that suits your skin. There are in fact two main types of sunscreen: chemical and physical. Chemical sunscreens, suitable for most skins, absorb into the skin and turn the UV light energy into heat energy. If you have ever felt the burn of a sunscreen on application or during time in the sun then a physical sunscreen will be better for you. Physical sunscreens are mineral-based and bounce the light and heat off the skin due to their reflective quality – perfect for sensitive skins.

SPF (Sun Protection Factor) theoretically indicates how long it will take for UVB rays – the main cause of sunburn - to burn the skin. For example, SPF 15 allows a person to stay in the sun 15 times longer without burning than they could without sunscreen. It does not take into account UVA rays (the same rays emitted by tanning booths) which penetrate the skin more deeply and play a major part in accelerating the signs of skin

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Abbey Brides ageing and initiating skin cancer. UVA rays account for up to 95% of the UV radiation that reaches the Earth’s surface.

To protect your skin from both UVA (ageing) and UVB (burning) rays, don’t just buy a product with an SPF of 15 or higher. Make sure it is labelled ‘Broad Spectrum’, which means it contains a combination of ingredients known to protect against both types of UV rays. A sunscreen with an SPF of 30 and a UVA rating of 4 or 5 stars is generally considered to be a good level of sun protection.

The recommended amount of sun cream to deliver the SPF level on the bottle is a shot glass-full for the body and a teaspoonful for the face. So generally, a dab of foundation with a built in SPF just won’t cut the mustard – the overall sunscreen message is ‘more is better’ and your skin will thank you for it.

Beautiful bridal gowns & dream dresses 81 Cheap Street, Sherborne Contact Alison 01935 321375 | 07890 708552 abbey.brides@virgin.net www.abbeybrides.co.uk @AbbeyBrides

thesanctuarysherborne.co.uk sherbornetimes.co.uk | 93

Body & Mind

WHAT TO WEAR Lindsay Punch, Stylist

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good pair of shoes can make all the difference when completing a look and can add quality to any inexpensive outfit. However, when it comes to style, comfort and practicality, support is key for the sake of your foot health. I spent over 13 years trotting around on four-inch-high heels across the floors of Zara, Harrods and Ralph Lauren in my retail management days; the last four years of school runs and personal shops has brought me down a few inches as I try and rest my battered feet. However, although my feet have aged, my love for shoes has not diminished! The good 94 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

news is that brands have started to incorporate more comfortable, less frumpy features such as straps and block heels which help spread out the impact of each step. Style does not have to be sacrificed for comfort.

Here are my summer suggestions based on the comfort of my clients and my own swollen size sevens!

Espadrilles. The quintessential summer shoe! They come back every year and this year we are seeing a completely fresh style with pompoms, animal print and ankle ties as opposed to the usual canvas or metallics.

There are many classic yet playful styles to choose from

and a wedge height to suit everyone’s support needs.

The biggest bonus is you don’t have to worry about making time for a fresh pedi! If you are looking for a comfort with style, check out the colourful designs from Air and Grace and for a choice of widths visit JD Williams.

Ballet flats with straps. Most ballet pumps lack arch support, however it is natural to swap anklebusting heels for flats. Soft lining and cushioned soles are recommended and, if you find yourself scrunching your toes to keep a standard ballet slipper on, a criss-cross or ankle strap will add support.

This is also great if you wear arch supports. While no podiatrist would recommend a pointed toe, an almond or pointed end will add an elegant, chic finish - even for wide feet! I find the best wider ballet pumps come from Office and Asos, then you will be able to enjoy everyday dresses, trousers or jeans with strapped ballet flats in a variety of bright colours or textures such as leopard print or snakeskin.

Sandals. It’s time to ditch the cheap flip-flops!

Thin and flat sandals will not do your feet any good.

You will see a big trend on slides, which is fine if you are pottering by the pool or in the garden, however you will be gripping your toes to keep them on which causes strain on the muscles. You need not fear a heel: a little wedge or small block will help you to avoid over-pronation. The more straps the better, along with a back - which is why I love a gladiator style. If you want to play dress up, the straps allow for more embellishment with crystals, studs and even pearls.

If you have well aligned, balanced feet you will have no limits to your style and fashion choices. However, if you are worried about your feet or need orthotics, it is best to get professional guidance to make sure you are getting the best support and balance.

Beautiful shoes do not have to equal pain. You can wear stylish shoes that do not result in sore feet or knees. You will also look and feel your most confident when you are comfortable!

Tuesday 17th July, “Elevate Your Style with Accessories”.

Take your simple outfits to a new level with practical tips on accessorising with Personal Stylist Lindsay Punch and Stella and Dot jewellery. £15 per person which can be redeemed on any purchase of Stella and Dot. Sherborne Venue. Book via website. Details sent on booking. lindsaypunchstyling.co.uk

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70 SOUTH STREET BRIDPORT DORSET DT6 3NN 01308 458107 @DRESSBRIDPORT OPEN TUESDAY - SATURDAY 10.30AM - 5.00PM sherbornetimes.co.uk | 95

Body & Mind

NO HEALTH WITHOUT MENTAL HEALTH Loretta Lupi-Lawrence, The Sherborne Rooms

S

ummer: sunshine on our skin, soaking up the vitamin D that makes us happier, fresh air in our lungs, BBQs, beach days, holidays planned. But what if you are walking under a dark cloud and can’t see or feel the sun around you, spending your days inside instead of outside? We are all walking among people who are heavily weighted down with all kinds of toxic stress that is having a huge effect on their mental health.

How do you know what your greengrocer, postman or the supermarket check-out assistant is going through?

Even the friends you see regularly may be hiding the darkness that coats their mental health like tar. We are indoctrinated to say, ‘How are you?’ and the common answer is, ‘I’m fine’ - but are they? Are we really asking how someone is and do we really want to know?

Mental illness can happen to anyone at any time. My own mental health journey should have been addressed a lot earlier than it was, however denial and youth had a large part to play. In my twenties, when my life was really just beginning, I appeared to be carefree, full of vigour and enjoying life but, instead of living the London dream, I was actually hiding in a very dark place, confused and frightened to talk about how I was feeling. Not one of my friends or work colleagues would have known what was happening on the inside as I was the happy-go-lucky fun one. I coped. Badly. But I survived. My thirties saw 96 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

me move from London to Salisbury. The first two years were a lonely existence: not fitting in, recovering from an extremely toxic relationship and still grieving the death of my grandfather. I remember falling to the floor once and sobbing for hours, feeling at an absolute loss. I was still frightened to talk. Once again, I survived through sheer determination. I then met my husband and finally had some support but, after a 5-year-long fertility battle and four failed IVF treatments, I soon spiralled out of control. I sought help as soon as I moved to Sherborne.

Therapy saved me, that I truly believe. The walls no longer came in on me and I started to breathe life and happiness back into my body and mind. I’ve not looked back. I have learnt so many lessons from my past and I now run a life that is positive and full of honest smiles. In short, I’ve learnt how to live and how to love myself.

Mental health still has a stigma attached to it. More and more people are regularly suffering with panic attacks from trying to ‘cope.’ Modern-day stress and pressure is very toxic to our bodies. As a Positivity Mentor I see clients who have had situations trigger a negative mental health lapse and a lot of these triggers stem from one or two changes in their lives. I believe that we all need to lean on someone who can support us while we navigate around these life changes. Someone that we trust and who can check in with us. Do you

need someone to check in with you? I urge you to reach out - see a doctor or get some support from a professional. Give yourself a break, kick your inner critic to the curb and get some help managing those demons.

Here are some positive steps to help with your mental health: • Accept who you are • Talk it out • Keep active • Keep in touch with your friends and family • Learn a new skill • Do something creative • Get involved in a community project • Rest as much as you can • Get some help.

Neal‘s Yard Remedies Organic orders are being placed weekly on a Friday. Please email or text your orders to sherbornerooms@gmail.com or phone 07545 328447.

For Positivity Mentoring please email and we can take steps towards helping you. thesherbornerooms.com

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hayleyfrancesnutrition.com sherbornetimes.co.uk | 97

Body & Mind

TRAIN LIKE USAIN Simon Partridge BSc, Personal Trainer SPFit

L

ast month Zoe Charlton wrote about the benefits of exercising outdoors and demonstrated how anyone can perform the amazing ‘tyre flip’.

So, what other fun exercises can we introduce to get results that you may never have achieved before?

Have you ever tried the ‘tyre drag’? Usain Bolt inspires millions across the world and if it is good enough for him, it is surely good enough for us. In his biographical documentary film, I am Bolt, we see him drag a smallish tyre, all be it at an extremely rapid rate of knots. The film is truly inspirational as well as very entertaining, and well worth watching. While none of us may be Olympians, there is no reason why, no matter what our fitness level, we cannot use similar training methods. We just have to make sure it’s safe and effective, remember to start at the right level, and design a program that progresses sensibly to achieve our goals.

For example, we have had a surge in membership in our Running Club in 2018 and we use the tyre drag to help clients run up dreaded hills – Jerusalem Hill in the Sherborne Castle Estate is a particular favourite.

One great benefit of this exercise is its simplicity.

Using a special attachment, attach one end to a belt or vest and the other end to a tyre (which come in a variety of sizes). Then run as fast as you can, dragging the tyre behind you over a specific distance. Record your time, rest for a specific period and repeat for a specific number of sets or as part of a circuit with various other exercises.

This exercise specifically builds core and leg power in a far more effective way than any gym machine.

Adding resistance to running/sprinting helps to harness explosive power and provides a challenge 98 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

without comprising technique, so dragging a tyre will help tone up legs. Eddie Jones uses resistance bands with the England Rugby team: one player has a band around his body and tries to drag another player up the pitch. Another option is to use a special sled. We also use special resistor bands which a training partner holds (these are seriously fun to train with as they can add some moments of comedy with a training partner).

Exercises with many variants have the added advantage of keeping it fresh so you never get bored.

While you may not want to be a sprinter, nearly all of us want to reduce the percentage of our body fat.

The current trend for HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) means HIIT classes are abound - but do we do HIIT effectively? The tyre drag is perfect for CrossFitstyle training and for those who want to add dynamism to Tabata/HIIT or circuit sessions. Crucially it helps to maximise the number of calories used in a specific session, increases our metabolic rate and calories burnt over the next 24 hours after the session has finished.

Most importantly, try something you did not think you could do and challenge yourself. You will be amazed at what you can achieve. Have fun outside in the sun, either by yourself or as part of a team and you will be well on the road to a fitter, stronger and healthier you.

SPFit has a variety of training options designed for all abilities from 1:1 coaching, a running club to small group training that includes power yoga (Broga), outdoor bootcamps, crossfit and weight lifting and circuits classes. spfit-sherborne.co.uk

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All Neal’s Yard Remedies orders in July will be entered into a draw to win £50 of products Also available at the Sherborne Rooms • Positivity Mentoring (specialising in IVF / Adoption / Menopause) • Deep Tissue Sports Massage • Talking Therapy & Meditation • Bach Flowers Remedy Practitioner • Osteopathy

07545 328447 email sherbornerooms@gmail.com or visit www.sherbornerooms.com

56 Cheap St, Sherborne DT9 3BJ sherbornetimes.co.uk | 99

Body & Mind

BALANCE

Craig Hardaker, BSc (Hons), Communifit

I

n June’s article, I stated that sarcopenia (muscle deterioration) is one of the main negatives of the ageing process. Sarcopenia can have many negative effects on our bodies, one of which is reducing balance.

But what exactly is balance, and is there anything we can specifically do to improve it?

Balance is the ability to maintain control on the base of support to avoid falling. We need good balance for many different activities each and every day. It is a very underrated component of fitness, yet immensely valuable to everything we do. Certainly when exercising, balance 100 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

isn’t commonly targeted for improvement. It won’t cross many minds to improve it, unless you suddenly find it an ever-increasing challenge. Whether jumping up for a header in a football match or turning around quickly in a busy Cheap Street, we all need effective balance!

There are two types of balance: static and dynamic.

Static balance, as the name suggests, is the ability to maintain balance when standing still. Static balance can be improved by challenging our ability to maintain balance and remain still when the base of support is unstable, i.e. standing on a foam base or sitting on a

stability ball. Dynamic balance is the ability to move without losing balance or falling. Dynamic balance can be improved by decreasing the base of support while walking in a straight line, for example heel to toe manoeuvring around objects, and making quick turns. To perform either static or dynamic balance effectively, muscle strength is needed. This is particularly true for posture control, which is the ability to activate the core muscles that provide stability when carrying out a movement or action. As we age, we find it more difficult to perform multiple tasks, particularly if one task is maintaining balance.

There is also an increased feeling of being unstable; the fear of falling can aggravate any sensory or motor limitation and actually increase the risk of falling. We can however help stabilise our posture by developing the strength and flexibility of our ankles and hips.

I have helped many individuals who have a known medical condition that affects the eyes, nervous system, or ears with their balance. When this is the case, the aim of balance is to help develop strategies that will compensate for any deficits or deterioration.

Despite any changes due to age that affect the ability to balance, the sensory system can adapt and learn new balance strategies. Balance training that also challenges the motor system can improve the ability to respond more quickly and reduce the risk of a serious fall. In older adults, delayed reaction time and an inability to respond quickly enough to regain balance after a trip causes the greatest risk of a fall.

There are five skills for better balance: being able to walk and turn the head at the same time, the ability to extend the hip back, the ability to reach down and pick up something, the ability to reach up, and being able to stand on one foot for five seconds.

To be successful in relation to these five skills, muscle strength, joint mobility and muscle flexibility must be effective.

Communifit’s classes carefully design the exercises to target muscle strength in all major muscle groups.

They aim to improve the mobility of all joints, and the flexibility of all muscles. Carefully working with a participant’s strengths, weaknesses and limitations, they aim to not only improve balance but also to provide a whole host of other benefits. Whether you are very active or fairly sedentary, their classes cater for all. communifit.co.uk

Specialised Exercise Classes

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A chair-based exercise class aiming to increase your strength, flexibility, joint mobility, balance & functional independence - all while having fun!

Wednesday 2pm at the West End Hall Friday 12.15pm at Tinneys Lane Youth Club

Same objectives as sit & strengthen, but you are standing! Targets all major muscle groups. You must be able to stand for the whole duration.

Wednesday 3.15pm at the West End Hall Friday 1.30pm at Tinneys Lane Youth Club

An active circuit-based class improving muscle strength, aerobic fitness & core stability. Be proactive, not reactive, towards your health & fitness! Suitable for all ages.

Wednesday 4.15pm at the West End Hall Friday 2.30pm at Tinneys Lane Youth Club

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sherbornetimes.co.uk | 101

Body & Mind

HOT FOOT IT

Marcel Wadman, 56 London Road Clinic

I

had intended to talk about achilles tendon injuries this month, however the recent hot weather has stimulated me to discuss the ‘Do’s’ and ‘Don’ts’ of footcare.

The ‘Do’s’

Wash your feet daily. This may seem obvious but many people do not do it and for a variety of good reasons.

The inability to reach the feet is one, whether due to old age or injuries with replaced hips, or the need to keep dressings dry. Without regular cleaning the rise in daily temperature ensures a hot, moist environment in which fungal infections of the skin can arise – and there are some 100 species of fungus that affect the feet! Regular washing with a mild soap will help reduce the risk. If you already have a fungal infection, it is normally between the toes and will be malodorous; it should be treated swiftly with anti-fungal cream. If in doubt consult your podiatrist but don’t just leave it - it will not resolve of its own accord.

Use sun cream on the feet. Our feet spend most of the year covered up and hence are ill-prepared for sudden long exposure to the summer sun. Ladies, if you can see white strap marks from your sandals, that is too much sun. Gentlemen, if you use deck shoes without socks at the beach, on boats etc., do make sure to use a high factor, water-resistant sun cream. The feet are just as much at risk of skin cancer as the rest of the body, and account for up to 15% of all cutaneous melanomas.

Air shoes where possible. Wearing alternate pairs of shoes on different days allows the moisture accrued within to escape.

Use a good moisturising foot cream. If you have dry cracked heels, make this a daily task with a high urea 102 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

content cream. Without this the skin will eventually split open, leaving a bleeding wound and the possibility of infection. For the rest of us, any foot cream emollient will do but avoid heavily perfumed creams which may cause a reaction on sensitive skin.

Elevate your feet if they are swelling up. Try to do this at different times of the day for short periods and not just in the evening.

The ‘Don’ts’

If you normally wear heels all day, don’t then switch to wearing flat shoes all day, as this will put a sudden and severe stretch on the achilles tendon. You will know when this has happened as a sharp stinging pain, low at the back of the heel, will be evident during walking.

The greater the change, the greater the injury. Instead, gradually increase the time spent in flat shoes: 30% of the time, then 50% etc.

Don’t take long walks in flip-flops or you will experience problems.

A ‘Do’ and a 'Don't'

Individuals with fungal nail infections should not paint the nail with normal nail varnish, as this permits the fungus to continue eroding the nail plate and can exacerbate the condition. However, if you feel you must use a nail varnish, use a specialist one which incorporate anti-fungal agents – these are available from your chiropodist, podiatrist etc.

So, there you have it: a few simple tips for keeping your feet at their very best this summer!

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www.churchstreetdentalcentre.com @churchstreetdentalcentrewincanton sherbornetimes.co.uk | 103

Body and Mind

HEALTHY HOLIDAYS

W

Dr Tim Robinson MB BS MSc MRCGP DRCOG MFHom, GP and Complementary Practitioner, Glencairn House

e all look forward to our summer break: that much-needed rest from work and the normal daily grind. Staying healthy on holiday will ensure maximal enjoyment and benefit from the break. Here are a few tips to help: • Jabs - if you are going abroad make sure you check with a travel clinic or your GP surgery for vaccination and malaria advice.

• Fear of flying - for flying anxiety take GP-prescribed beta-blockers or homeopathic Arg Nit 30c.

• Travel sickness - take herbal garlic, homeopathic cocculus, anti-histamine stugeron or use acupressure bands.

• Blood clots - if you are at risk of DVT blood clots remember to drink water (not alcohol), move around in the plane, and consider flight socks and mini-aspirin.

• Jet lag - Arnica 30c helps you to get over jet-lag.

• Sunburn – protection against ultraviolet sunshine is important. Sunburn is painful and a risk factor for skin cancer. Remember the Aussies’ ‘Slip Slap Slop’ – slip on a T-shirt, slap on a hat, slop on the suncream (preferably SPF 30 or 50).

• Dried out - beware dehydration. Normal daily fluid intake is 2-2.5 litres; in hot climates this can go up to 10 litres. Make sure your drink sufficient water and soft drinks – keep an eye on your pee and make sure it is pale! Remember alcohol and caffeine tend to dehydrate.

• The Runs - to avoid travellers’ diarrhoea make sure your drinking water is safe and clean; if in doubt drink bottled water and never use ice. Only eat freshly cooked food, make sure it is piping hot, avoid anything reheated

104 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

and only eat fruit that you have peeled. Avoid uncooked vegetables or salad - you never know who has handled them! If you are struck down take the drug Loperamide (Imodium), homeopathic Arsenicum Alb 30c and probiotics (to restore the healthy gut bacteria).

• Bunged-up - at the other end of the spectrum many folk become constipated while away - change of routine, lack of dietary fibre, less exercise (sloth holidays!) and the ‘local water’ may all contribute. To avoid it, ensure adequate fluid intake, eat fruit and vegetables for fibre. Take senna if needed.

• Indigestion – this can arise due to dietary indiscretion or gluttony! Don’t forget Gaviscon or herbal ginger or homeopathic nux vom 30c - all ideal following Bacchanalian excesses!

• Patched-up - it is wise to be prepared for cuts and grazes. Make up a simple first-aid kit (wound dressings, micropore tape, butterfly steri-strips, elastic bandage for sprains) along with antiseptic Savlon, teatree oil or homeopathic Hypercal cream.

• Wise to take - other things I take on holiday ‘just-incase’ are insect repellents, ear plugs and eye visors.

• Medicine cabinet - the medicines to take are paracetamol painkiller, ibuprofen anti-inflammatory and Cetirizine anti-histamine - these can all be obtained without a prescription from your chemist.

Hopefully these tips will ensure a healthy, hence happy and restful, holiday. Now it’s over to you – get packing!

Don’t forget your iPod and Kindle. Bon vacances! doctorTWRobinson.com

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When your family suffers the loss of a loved one, we are here to support, guide and reassure you – every step of the way Call Daniel on 01935 812647 100 Lenthay Road, Sherborne DT9 6AG Email: daniel@wsbrister.com www.wsbrister.com

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Set in its own secluded, beautifully landscaped gardens, woodland and meadow, and with stunning views overlooking the Dorset countryside, it’s hard to resist the charms of the Old Vicarage. As soon as you step through the front door of this charming country house, you’ll discover an oasis of comfort, warmth, calm and relaxation.

Our highly trained staff ensure that everything - from the mouth-watering food and drink and the stylishly cosy bedrooms to the wide range of activities - will make the Old Vicarage truly a home from home. We have been recognised by the Cinnamon Trust as being one of the best pet friendly care homes in the country.

To arrange a visit please call on 01935 873033 or email care@tovic.com

@elizabethwatsonillustrations 108 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

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Tel: 01935 814946 sherbornetimes.co.uk | 109

Property

HOW DO YOU BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY? Paul Gammage and Anita Light, Ewemove Sherborne

A

s the summer holiday season is upon us I thought it appropriate to compare the way people buy holidays and property.

Buying a holiday

I would suggest a very typical journey starts online. You may have preferred holiday websites and you may even subscribe for alerts, specifying location, budget, type of accommodation, board basis etc. When you then search the results, what is it that makes you choose to click on a holiday for more detail? Assuming that the price and location are right for you, then my guess is that it’s the “killer” photo that draws you in. Imagining the cocktail in the foreground, infinity pool in the midground and amazing sunset to finish… if that’s what you’re looking for of course.

So now you’ve found a place that looks great, is in the right location and in your price range. What is it that makes you take the plunge? Emotion? When you read the narrative and can envisage yourself and the family enjoying the facilities, the excursions and the surrounding area and realise you’re going to have an amazing holiday, you go for it. You may even exceed your original budget if you think it’s worth it.

Moving on, you’re back from the holiday and evaluating the whole experience. Would you use the same provider? Did they over-promise and under-deliver or did they exceed your expectations?

Buying a home

It doesn’t take too much of a leap to transpose the above to buying a home. Rightmove and Zoopla are the two

110 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

most well-known portals. Rightmove figures indicate there are in the region of 25,000 people registered for alerts in the Sherborne area.

When you’ve entered your search criteria and that page of 10 search results appears, the average person spends less than 30 seconds on that page. What is it that is going to make them click on your home and look at the detail? Exceptional photographs. Ones that make people want to look inside your home.

Rightmove estimate that professional photography generates 61% more enquiries. Floorplans are also very important here. It’s estimated that floorplans generate 30% more enquiries.

So now potential buyers are looking at your home, what is it that’s going to make them want to come and view. That’s right, emotion. Understanding the sort of lifestyle they can have in the home and in the area.

Are the schools right for the children? Is the area well serviced by the amenities they require?

Great news, they’ve taken the plunge and made an offer on your home. As the home has been professionally marketed, your agent has managed to get you a very good price. Now for the most important bit, will your agent get the sale over the line? It’s widely reported that 30% of sales fall through, causing lots of distress, time and money. Will your agent be proactive and do what they promised to? Will they communicate regularly and effectively and will you come out of the transaction stress-free? Talk to your local proactive agent and discuss the above. ewemove.com/estate-agents/sherborne

F I N D O U T W H AT YO U R H O M E IS WORTH Use Our FREE Instant Online Valuation Tool If you’re thinking of selling your home our Hometrack valuation report is a great starting point to find out what your home might be worth or what you could rent it out for.

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Get your FREE online valuation report at: www.EweMove.com/Sherborne Or Call 24/7: 01935 350 350 EweMove respects any existing sole agency agreement already in place with another agent.

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Luke Pender-Cudlip MRICS Partner, Office Head With over 30 years of property experience plus a chartered surveyor’s credentials, Luke’s experience is extensive.

He has been involved in property of all shapes and sizes from £400,000 to £20 million. His client base has also been varied having dealt with those in finance, food, modelling, recruitment, sport, government and many more from all corners of the world.

Simon Barker MRICS Partner Simon has been selling country houses from the Sherborne office since 1995. He mainly concentrates on the sale of properties up to £1,250,000. He has also assisted with a number of sales over this price point, since joining Knight Frank.

For property advice or a no-obligation market appraisal of your home, please call our team.

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T: 01935 590023 sherborne@knightfrank.com 15 Cheap Street, Sherborne DT9 3PU

Property

DEALING WITH A NEIGHBOUR DISPUTE

I

Luke Watson, Partner, Dispute Resolution at Mogers Drewett

f there’s one place where everyone wants to feel comfortable and relaxed, it’s at home. Hence, if you have a dispute with your neighbour, it can be a particularly stressful experience. There are a host of issues that can arise, such as disputed boundaries, party walls, rights of way, parking issues or building works.

Neighbour disputes can be difficult to resolve.

After all, you live right next to them so getting into a dispute is in no-one’s interests. A degree of diplomacy is often required. The first step in trying to resolve an issue should always be the informal approach: sitting down with your neighbour, politely raising the issue and talking it through. Sometimes just bringing it to someone’s attention can have a positive effect.

If this doesn’t change anything, then a next step might be to write your neighbour a letter. Putting something in writing formalises the issue and could make them think more carefully about how they are acting.

The ultimate action, of course, is to take your neighbour to court. However, there are other options before you get to that stage. Mediation is one practical (and cheaper) 114 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

possibility, where you and your neighbour sit down with a professional mediator who will try to facilitate an agreement. At Mogers Drewett, we can refer you to accredited mediators who are specialists in negotiation.

We can also send letters on your behalf to your neighbour, setting out your concerns and making it clear that legal action could be taken. This can sometimes be enough to bring about a change. If legal action is necessary, then we can help you fully understand the process and what’s involved, making sure the experience is as stress-free as possible.

It is important to be aware that if you are in a dispute with your neighbour it will be virtually impossible for either of you to sell your properties because any potential buyer would have to be made aware of the dispute. As such, seeking early advice from a specialist lawyer is key.

We are here to help – if there are any neighbour issues keeping you up at night, our team will be happy to have a no-obligation discussion. mogersdrewett.com

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116 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

Finance

SPEND IT WISELY

Andrew Fort B.A. (Econ.) CFPcm Chartered MCSI APFS, Certified and Chartered Financial Planner, Fort Financial Planning Spending strategy

The number of retirees is rising rapidly. Many investors have both taxable and nontaxable investments and recent budget changes have increased the financial options open to the recently retired. Significant extra value can be obtained by ensuring that post-retirement spending is undertaken as tax-efficiently as possible.

Let’s look at a hypothetical example. Consider a higher-rate taxpayer with a portfolio that is invested 60% in equities and 40% in bonds and split evenly between taxable and non-taxable investments. If this client wishes to withdraw 4% of the portfolio each year, the order in which he or she makes those withdrawals will have a big impact on the rate of tax they pay. This, in turn, will affect the longterm returns that the portfolio will generate.

Spend from taxable accounts first

For example, if our hypothetical client draws down the taxable portfolio first, an increasing proportion of the remaining portfolio will be tax-sheltered. Thanks to its favourable tax treatment, this remaining portfolio will subsequently grow faster than the starting portfolio, half of which was being taxed.

We have calculated that a higher-rate taxpayer with a £1m portfolio could achieve a 0.48% advantage in the internal rate of return over a 30-year retirement period by spending in this way, compared with another client who spends from both the taxable and tax-sheltered parts of the portfolio at the same rate. Although 0.48% a year is a small number, the magic of compounding means that over 30 years an extra return of over £150,000 is generated.

For clients who do have some tax liability and who wish to make withdrawals, sound advice can make a real difference. For example, a client with a £250,000 portfolio who is within the capital gains allowance and only has 20% of the portfolio in taxable accounts could still generate savings of 0.29% per annum by spending in a tax-efficient way.

FFP specialises in providing life-long advice to relatively affluent families who recognise the advantages of expert advice. ffp.org.uk

sherbornetimes.co.uk | 117

Tech

S

o, this is how it works! If you live in a big city you can have separate phone and ultra-fast broadband (FTTP) services delivered to your house (e.g.

Virgin Fibre). Unfortunately, as we live in the rural West Country, we can’t! Our telephone service arrives down a pair of copper wires from the local exchange and you can decide who provides this (BT, TalkTalk, Sky etc); you pay them line rental and call charges. We also get our broadband down the same pair of copper wires and the service is split (filtered) where it comes in to your property. Again, you can choose your broadband provider.

There was a time when we had a choice of BT or BT, however times have moved on and nowadays you have a choice of about 20 providers. Few people make best use of that choice. Firstly, if you change your telephone provider you can keep the same number and you no longer have to jump through any hoops to do it - just phone the new provider of your choice and say, ‘give me telephone,’ or, easier still, do it online. The same is true of broadband services - no magic codes or numbers any more, just ask to be moved.

The best deals are usually to be had when you bundle everything together under one roof and you pay line rental, broadband and calls to the same provider. This is usually for a 12- or 18-month contract period and often includes an 118 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

introductory special offer. At the end of your contract, if you do nothing, then you’ll move on to their standard tariff, just as with gas and electricity prices, so it’s best to shop around.

Personally, I’m a bit of a ‘rate tart.’ At the end of every contract period I take full advantage of the best introductory offer going at the time and change providers. My number stays the same and all I have to do is plug in a new router provided free of charge by my new provider. I frequently go into a client’s house and see a 10-year-old router providing slow broadband simply because the client is reluctant to change, or still thinks that BT are the only choice.

Finally, even if you’re not going to change providers for whatever reason, call them and ask for a better deal!

All of my recent clients who were still on old ADSL (slow) broadband who called to upgrade to FTTC (superfast) broadband found that their new package was, in fact, cheaper than the old one and included a new router as well… a definite no-brainer!

As always, if you need help with this or anything else, you know where to come.

Coming up next month… BYOD and the consumerisation of IT computing-mp.co.uk

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Unit 14, 0ld Yarn Mills, Sherborne Dorset DT9 3RQ 120 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

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sherbornetimes.co.uk | 121

FOLK TALES with Colin Lambert

MARIA COSTANZO

G

atwick Airport, Thursday 5th December 2013.

A young lass (never left home before) stands in Arrivals. She is 18 years and 42 days old, speaks no English, has £60 cash and a Pay-As You-Go phone with £10 credit. Scarier still, she wanted to come here at 16. That’s for later.

Tamburino Gold, Digby Road, June 2018. Outside table, it’s warm and life’s good. Sheila and I are settling down after a life-changing year. Pinot Grigio is poured by a rather feisty looking lass, in Yorkshire speak. The bread dipped in balsamic vinegar of Modena and oil is yummy. Modena is world-renowned for its classic wine vinegar and is also 1300K (by road) north of Palermo, Sicily where Maria Constanzo arrived into a world of poverty and unemployment.

Bagheria, 12 miles east of Palermo, became home.

Dad unemployed, Mum taking on housekeeping jobs to make ends meet and all three living in a one-room studio apartment. Life was tough! Maria, Marilú as she became known, didn’t see it that way. Her childhood was playing football in the street, running, dancing and having a ball. Her favourite street game was ‘poison ball’.

If the ball hit you, you were dead and out.

School in Sicily started at 8am and finished at 1.30pm, after which lunch and sleep was the norm.

Marilú loved school, spoke her mind and attracted attention - by the school bully. All by the age of 8.

There’s an old rugby saying, ‘The bigger they are, the harder they fall,’ and fall the bully did. Shame about the wall in the way, though Marilú did slam his head against it ‘gently’! ‘It was a life-changing moment, sending a clear and unequivocal message that I was not to be messed with.’

A baby sister arrives just as the economy collapses in 2008. Parents, unable to pay rent, move into a cheaper studio flat but now it’s a family of four. Marilú starts middle school aged 11; the days of street football and 122 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

Image: Katharine Davies

dancing long gone. ‘My early teenage years were not good. By 13 my school holidays were spent working 10 hours a day in a shop, to support my family. In Italy we go to College from 14 to 18 years, then University. I went to College for 14 to 18 years then work.’

Marilú tried to manage school and work: awake at 6am, an hour’s walk to school, finish at 1.30pm, walk home, quick nap, then work in a bar till 11pm or later. She made it to the second year of college but the family needed money so she quit school and worked in a bakery and a pet shop, then handed out flyers outside a bar and finally, aged 16, got a job in a bar. Now, this feisty lass may be petite but taking no nonsense from the punters quickly impressed her peers. By 16 Marilú was desperate to leave home and heard of a job (her boss mentioned it) in Sherborne Dorset and… ‘Nah, too young lass, although you do sound feisty. Good luck. Come back when you’re 18,’ was the response.

So, head down, she worked hard - working illegally in bars, somehow holding down 3 different jobs at

once. Even with a loving, supporting family, the work took its toll. In her limited spare time, she played football, went dancing, developed a love of gymnastics and even took up boxing. She counted down the days to her 18th birthday, 27th October 2013.

‘Ok, so you’re now at Gatwick Airport, you speak no English, have 20kg of worldly possessions, £60 in your pocket and… what?’

‘Well, co-incidentally, another of my bosses mentioned a job vacancy in Dorset, England, in the same restaurant as before!’

‘Wow, that’s amazing, what a coincidence.’

Synchronicity methinks.

‘It was hard, I was the only girl out of ten staff. I rolled my sleeves up, went to Yeovil College and got English Level 1 and re-sat my driving test in English.

I’m now about to complete a 3-year NVQ in hospitality management. Maybe start a degree in business studies.’

‘Meet many bullies on your adventures?’

‘I survived. I became known for my no-nonsense

approach and steely resolve to do the job well. After 18 months of hard work, the owner looked at me, smiled and said, ‘Marilú, I think you’re ready’. Three years later and Marilú is the boss, manager of Tamburino Gold, no less.

‘I love it here and have a fabulous team to support me.’

‘So how do you switch off ?’ I ask.

‘I read a lot and love walking. I also love Sherborne, its quirky folk, the history and the beautiful buildings.

I live in Milborne Port and, in my trusty Fiat Grande Punto, I explore this beautiful land.’

It’s a secret, don’t tell, but I first met Marilú on my wedding day last December. Between the registry office and the Eastbury hotel ceremony, Sheila and I popped in for a pizza and a bottle of Pinot Grigio, as you do on your wedding day, only to be met by…

Thank you so much Marilú for sharing your wonderful and heartfelt Folk Tales.

Have a great July - enjoy those warm summer evenings.

Colin Lambert sherbornetimes.co.uk | 123

Short Story

MAKE-BELIEVE Jan Pain, Sherborne Scribblers

A

lfie’s mother knew that the imaginations of countless children had been fired by the tales of Beatrix Potter, whose keen observations of wildlife went hand in hand with a remarkable artistic talent. She had cut her literary teeth on them and resolved her son would do the same. Now, as a parent, she valued those stories anew, realising they contained profound messages about human behaviour portrayed through the characters of the animals. Alfie soon began to understand the disobedience of Peter Rabbit, the silliness of Jemima Puddleduck, duped by the wily fox, and the wilfulness of Squirrel Nutkin. Long before he could form his letters, he loved to turn the pages of the little books and gaze at the water colour illustrations which, as his mother read, brought the stories vividly to life.

His father had other preferences, remembering his own childhood with the books of A.A. Milne and introducing Alfie to the exploits of the solitary Christopher Robin, like his son, an only child. Alfie entered this imaginary world fascinated by Winnie the Pooh and his coterie of friends, especially the bouncing Tigger and lugubrious Eeyore. Although only four years old, Alfie also liked a poem from Now We are Six. He became obsessed with ‘Binker,’ which he knew by heart, as it resonated with his alter ego to whom he would talk for hours. It became the name of his imaginary friend.

By the time Alfie was taken to his first pantomime, he was steeped in the fantasy world of children’s literature: absorbing picture books, nursery rhymes and fairytales, all fuelled his imagination. Just before Christmas, the family set out for The London Palladium and a production of Little Red Riding Hood, a story Alfie knew well.

First, there was the excitement of the train journey to town. The platform was enveloped in steam, blurring the outlines of the waiting passengers. Alfie pointed them out to Binker, who remarked that they looked ghostly. He didn’t dwell on this, however, and soon was snuggling down in the warmth of the railway compartment looking at the framed advertisement for the seaside, which he had visited in the summer, though he didn’t remember the sky looking so blue.

On arrival, the grandeur of the variety theatre with 124 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

its bright lights and tip-up seats upholstered in red plush velour enthralled him. Thronging with excited children, the noise was deafening and Alfie had a quiet word with Binker to make sure he felt safe. Squeezed between his parents, his father showed him how to put sixpence into a slot in the seat in front and withdraw a pair of Bakelite binoculars. These, he explained, would be useful later because you could magnify the people on the stage.

The maroon, heavily fringed curtains were still in place, behind which Alfie pictured a woodland scene with Little Red Riding Hood on a mission to see her grandmother, carrying a basket covered with a white napkin over her arm. He was squirming with excitement. His mother produced a box of Milk Tray as a special treat and he took two chocolates, knowing that Binker also would want one.

The performance was everything he had hoped for.

He gripped his father’s hand when the wolf appeared in grandma’s bed, wearing her nightcap. He knew what was coming and mouthed to himself, ‘What big eyes you have.’ He told Binker not to be afraid because it would all come right in the end, as it most certainly did when Little Red Riding Hood took several curtain calls. By this time Alfie was beginning to feel a little fidgety and tired and, as everyone got up to leave, he lagged slightly behind. The melee of pushing people was overwhelming until he suddenly had an idea.

Instead of making the conventional exit, he went in the direction of the stage and found a small doorway off to one side. Going through, he trotted down a labyrinth of gloomy passages.

And then came the moment when his parents realised he was missing. His mother’s imagination ran riot! Abduction was the only word on her mind. The house manager was summoned, together with as many stage hands as could be mustered. For ten long minutes they combed the theatre until Alfie was spotted, almost at the dressing rooms, sitting disconsolately on the floor.

‘Alfie,’ cried his mother, ‘We’ve been so worried, why didn’t you keep with us?’ The little lad looked up, appealingly.

‘Binker and I wanted a word with the wolf,’ he said, bursting into tears. ‘But I think he went home.’

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Literature

LITERARY REVIEW Jonathan Stones, Sherborne Literary Society

The House of Islam; A Global History, by Ed Husain (Bloomsbury 2018). RRP £25.00 paperback

T

Sherborne Times Reader Offer Price of £24.00 from Winstone’s Books

he author is a devout, British-born Sunni Muslim who, at the age of 13, joined the London march supporting the fatwa issued against Salman Rushdie in response to the publication of The Satanic Verses. Since then he has successfully reinvented himself as the co-founder of the antiextremist Quilliam Foundation. He now works for the US Council on Foreign Relations.

In this book, Husain sets out to survey the foundations of the Muslim religion, to describe how Muslims think and feel about their faith, and finally to recommend ways by which the cruelties perpetrated by extreme Islamicists may be faced down and ultimately eradicated. On the way he describes in layman’s terms the origins of the Quran and of the Sunni-Shi’a schism, and the meaning of and (to him) abiding pre-eminence of sharia law. In Part Two of the book he investigates the origins and, for huge numbers particularly of young Muslims, the mystifying (to the West) attractions of Salafi-Jihadism. In Part Three he contemplates the state of Israel and the long and complex history of the Jews and their treatment at the hands of successive Muslim hierarchies and the historic and presentday position of Muslim women. Also, and crucially (and, to this reader at least, illuminatingly), the decline of education in the Muslim world particularly as taught in narrow faithbased schools, the potentially lethal consequences of this being the production of a mob mentality on an industrial scale. In the final part of the book he looks to the future of Islam; despite a succession of minatory warnings which he issues concerning what he perceives as the inevitable consequences to the West of failing intelligently to address the spread of Islamic fundamentalism, he recommends three strategies which he urges us to consider in

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overcoming it by assisting Muslim states to help themselves out of their present morass.

Amid a confusing myriad of Islamic sects and schools of thought, Husain positions himself squarely as a political and religious conservative. He is evidently no fan of the European Enlightenment, reserving some of his harshest judgements for the likes of Voltaire and Rousseau whilst actively endorsing the views of Edmund Burke who wrote, ‘a state without the means of some change is without the means of its conservation.’ Husain adds, ‘Edmund Burke’s genius in Britain and relevance in today’s Middle East was that he was both religious and a conservative but also understood and held in balance the forces of past, present and future.’

Elsewhere he can occasionally seem to fall into the trap of committing precisely the same errors of oversimplification in his attitude towards the West as he assumes of the West in its apparent failure to understand Islam. This can lead him into sweeping generalisations as in, ‘The modern West has lost the inner spirit that gave rise to the great cathedrals of Chartres, Winchester, St Paul’s and Notre Dame.’ And what are we to make of, ‘… King Henry VIII caused scandal and ended up creating his own Church, breaking away from Rome, for lust and love of the women in his life.’ Thus are the origins and import of the English Reformation airily dismissed. Despite these occasional irritations, this is a monumental (and I anticipate, courageous) exercise which somewhat justifies the grandiloquent title even if, at the end of the book, it may seem to have raised more questions than it answers. sherborne.literarysociety.com

Book time this summer

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JUNE SOLUTIONS

ACROSS 1. Cried (4) 3. Recording device (8) 9. Form of public worship (7) 10. Seethed with anger (5) 11. Repository for misplaced items (4,8) 13. Be extremely hungry (6) 15. Sharp pain (6) 17. Amusing (12) 20. Group of shots (5) 21. Alfresco (4-3) 22. Move out the way of (8) 23. Sort (4)

128 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

DOWN 1. Undomesticated animals (8) 2. Ways or tracks (5) 4. In a careless manner (6) 5. Creator of film scripts (12) 6. Become tense (7) 7. Finishes (4) 8. Absurd (12) 12. Dish of rice with fish and eggs (8) 14. Ruined; crushed (7) 16. Minion (6) 18. European country (5) 19. Egyptian goddess of fertility (4)

PAUSE FOR THOUGHT

T

Mark Greenstock, Lay Minister, St Paul’s Church

he wise old Mother Superior was dying. As the nuns gathered round her bed they gave her some warm milk to drink, but she refused it. One nun went back to the kitchen and, opening a bottle of whisky given the previous Christmas, poured a generous amount into the milk. Back at Mother Superior’s bed, she offered the glass again. The Mother sipped, then drank, and before they knew it, she had drained the whole glassful. ‘Mother, Mother,’ the sisters cried, ‘give us some wisdom before you die!’ She raised herself up in bed and, pointing out of the window, said solemnly, ‘Don’t sell that cow!’

A harmless enough story, behind which lies a deep truth: don’t trade away your most priceless asset. We have just returned from the English Lake District where (in contrast to the experience of the south-west) the last fortnight in May brought day after day of sunshine and no rain. We have never seen England’s finest National Park looking lovelier: spring flowers everywhere, cuckoos calling, lambs bouncing all over the meadows and rocky knolls, clear views to the farthest hills. However, the becks are running more slowly, the waterfalls diminishing, many trees turning brown, the lakes and reservoirs showing their edges. You can walk round the southern end of Derwentwater on the boardwalk high above the dry marshes. The most priceless asset of the Lakes is water. As the Arab saying goes, ‘All sunshine makes a desert.’ Water is life and hope.

My generation (those born just before and during the Second World War) has never had it so good. We have been brought up in a time of (relative) peace and (considerable) plenty. But, as Ann Morisy points out in her perceptive and critical book Borrowing from the Future (Continuum, 2011), this comes at a price. There has been a draining of what Morisy calls ‘durable hope.’ The reservoirs of faith, as Matthew Arnold foretold in Dover Beach, have been remorselessly shrinking.

Churches have forgotten what it is to be a resurrection people. Society is short of compassion, honesty, self-discipline, forgiveness. Morisy offers a telling quotation from Rabbi Jonathan Sacks: ‘In achieving material abundance we have begun to lose our moral and spiritual bearing. We have focused on the how but not the why.

In achieving technical mastery, we have lost sight of the question: to what end? … Luckily, all that we have lost is recoverable. … The human spirit is unique in its capacity to correct its own errors. What we damage, we can repair. What we destroy, we can rebuild. There is one proviso: that we do not lose our sense of hope.’

Don’t sell that cow! stpauls-sherborne.org.uk

sherbornetimes.co.uk | 129

OUT AND ABOUT David Birley

W

hat a great day we had for our Summer Festival! When I woke to see a grey sky and leaden clouds I was somewhat apprehensive, especially as the two previous festivals had been on lovely sunny days - with 2017 being rather too hot for some.

However, as the day went on, we had only a few patches of light drizzle and the sun made a valiant effort to shine through. Also, the people of Sherborne and our surrounding villages are hardy folk and had come to enjoy themselves.

Above all this was a community event. It was lovely to see such a great turn-out and watch so many people of all ages and from different sections of our community coming together to enjoy themselves. The bouncy castle was a big hit with the young as was face-painting and the balloon fairy. All ages could have a go at fly fishing and archery, and enjoy the martial combats of the knights. The food and drink stalls did brisk business. There was a great range of food from sweets to burgers to paella. As for drink, we were spoilt for choice with locally produced cider and beers, prosecco and a variety of gins on offer.

Of course, the main reason for coming was to see the acts on stage. Both our primary schools performed exceptionally well. It is not easy to get on a stage and perform to a large audience when you are very young, but it was lovely to see the confidence of our schoolchildren and how accomplished their performances were. Full marks to them and their teachers!

We were very fortunate to have a great line-up of bands organised by Taff Martin of Abbey 104, all of whom kindly played for free. Stevie and the Masquerades is an act which I’m sure we will hear a lot more of in the future. Local hero Jordan Lindsay was very popular. Rock ‘n Roll got underway with sets from Bad Edukation, The Diamonds and Electric Temple and the audience were in full party mood for the Jamie Turner band, who performed great versions of rock classics which put everyone in a dancing mood. Live Wired, our headline act, really got the whole crowd going.

The event may only last ten hours but a huge amount of planning and hard work goes into organising it – we started planning this year’s event in October of last year. As the event has got bigger so has the workload, but it is still just five of us who put the event together. We really need more people to help with the organisation so please, if you would like to be involved, either write to me at the Sherborne Times or give your name and contact details to the Slipped Stitch at the top of Cheap Street.

As in previous years we will be making donations to local charities and good causes. One such donation already made is of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission's "Tommy" figures to the Abbey. This seemed particularly appropriate as this year marks the centenary of the end of the First World War, which cost the lives of so many members of our community.

"Tommy" can be seen in the Abbey and there will be a service of dedication later in the year.

130 | Sherborne Times | July 2018

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