The New Blackmore Vale - Issue 115

Community effort to oppose scheme for 120 homes and more in Marnhull, dubbed ‘the most important planning application ever’...

01963 400186

Debi.thorne@blackmorevale.net 07714 289409

07714 289411

Parish council fights new homes plan

MARNHULL Parish Council is putting up a fight against plans to build up to 120 houses in the village. Plans to build the houses, along with shops and a business premises across two sites in Marnhull – at a plot named Tess Square and in Butts Close – were rejected by Dorset

terms of highway safety, heritage and landscape.

“These will impact us all individually but will also adversely impact cherished local businesses.

“This view is widely supported by our 2023 parish survey

Gardens spring open for charity

PICK up inspiration from the beautiful gardens around the Vale, open in March as part of the National Garden Scheme.

The

Old Vicarage East Orchard, Shaftesbury SP7 0BA

Hundreds of different snowdrops, crocus, daffodils, tulips and many other bulbs and winter flowering shrubs. A stream meanders down to a pond and there are lovely reflections in the swimming pond, the first to be built in Dorset. The new acre has been planted with several unusual trees. Wildlife garden, pond dipping, swing and other children’s attractions.

Open Friday, March 14, and Sunday, March 16, (2pm-5pm), £5, children free. Visits also by arrangement from January 2 to December 21.

Frankham Farm

Ryme Intrinseca, Sherborne DT9 6JT

This large and lovely farm garden has been created since 1960 by the late Jo Earle for year-round interest. Deep borders surround the lawns near the house, filled with a variety of roses, unusual shrubs and trees, clematis and other climbers. Spring bulbs through to autumn colour. A wonderful range of tree species, some quite rare and planted a long time ago – particularly oaks. There’s also a large, productive vegetable garden. Sorry, no dogs.

Frankham is a working farm (organic arable & livestock) which includes woodland walks underplanted with spring bulbs and camellias. It has a ground-level tea room with Frankham-grown lunches plus tea and cake.

Open Sunday, March 16 (12-5pm). £7, children free.

Athelhampton House Gardens

Athelhampton, Dorchester DT2 7LG

The award-winning gardens at Athelhampton surround the Tudor manor house and date from 1891. The Great Court, with its 12 giant yew topiary pyramids, is overlooked by two terraced pavilions.

This glorious Grade I architectural garden is full of vistas with spectacular planting, ponds with fountains and the River Piddle flowing past.

Coffee, lunches & afternoon tea available daily.

Open Thursday, March 20 (10am-5pm). £12.50, children free.

Entries may be subject to change – for latest information please check www.ngs. org.uk

Tickets can be purchased on the day or in advance via www.ngs.org.uk and make perfect gifts for family and friends too!

Mayor thanks schools for fundraising efforts

THE Mayor of Wimborne Minster, Councillor Jeff Hart, has thanked local schools for supporting his charities through non-uniform days.

Money raised from the special days, in which pupils pay a small amount to take part, have been contributing to the Mayor’s Fund, which supports Wimborne Hospital and Planet Wimborne.

To show his appreciation and raise awareness, the Mayor has visited school assemblies to discuss his charities and the role of Mayor.

“I am so grateful to the fantastic local schools taking part – QE, Allenbourn, Pamphill, Witchampton,

“It has been a pleasure to visit their assemblies, share insights about my work and see the enthusiasm of students. A huge thank you to all involved!”

The Mayor initially set a fundraising target of £5,000, which has already been achieved.

He is now aiming to double that amount to £10,000 with continued community support.

Learning curve at Cerne

CERNE Sheep Group started the year with member Howard Payton giving an interesting talk on his time on the island of St Kilda and the native Soay sheep.

The meeting scheduled for Monday (February 10) at The Fox at Ansty was set to include a talk by Rob Sansom on HM Coastguard and Rescue Service and the annual meeting.

The next meeting is on Monday, March 10 –details to follow.

Colehill First and Hayeswood First,” said Cllr Hart.

Athelhampton House

Frankham Farm

The Old Vicarage

Helping the homeless

DORCHESTER Townswomen’s Guild will be learning about homeless charity The Bus Shelter Dorset at an upcoming meeting.

The Bus Shelter Dorset provides care and a place to stay for rough sleepers. On Monday, March 10, one of the charity’s volunteers will be talking to the members of the Dorchester Townswomen’s Guild.

The talk will take place at 2pm, after the group’s annual general meeting in Dorchester Community Church, Liscombe Street, Poundbury (DT1 3DF).

Donations of toiletries for the charity would be very welcome. Visitors welcome. Call 01305 832857 for more information.

How horse riding changes lives

VOLUNTEERS and supporters gathered at Durweston Village Hall to mark the 50th anniversary of the Hanford Group Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA).

RDA volunteers support children with a wide range of needs. Every Wednesday during school terms, the children ride at Hanford School.

For these children, pony riding is a life-enhancing experience. They gain confidence, benefit from a very real sense of achievement, and at the same time their co-ordination, muscle strength and posture can be improved. Even more importantly, they have fun.

Hanford RDA is a friendly and dedicated group of volunteers, who get immense satisfaction and pride from seeing the children progress and develop.

RDA is a national charitable organisation, with almost 500 groups around the UK, enabling over 25,000 people with a variety of disabilities to participate each year.

If you would like more information or would like to help, either by volunteering or making a donation, please contact Chris Long (Secretary) on 01747 812188.

Museum gardeners are a growing gang of award winners

THE hard-working team of six volunteer gardeners at Wimborne’s award-winning Museum of East Dorset have been awarded the Volunteer Team of the Year at the Volunteer Centre Dorset Awards.

Museum director, Francessca Hollow, said: “The Museum of East Dorset is a charity dedicated to preserving local culture and heritage and we pride ourselves on our stunning 100-metre walled heritage garden and tea room which is maintained solely by a small team of volunteers.

“The museum has been open to the public since 1962 and over the last few years, the gardening team have been working to improve and maintain our garden as we want everyone in the community to be able to visit and enjoy its beauty and tranquillity.

“The garden is seen by the

locals as a real hidden gem and a community space, something we are all proud of!”

The winning garden team consists of Janice Dunk, Alison Francis, Jolyon Lockhart, Michael Henry, Wendy Proctor, Catherine Walker and head gardener, Simon Dunk.

produce and lead tours to raise money for the museum.

Not only do the gardening team volunteer every week to maintain the garden, they also grow their own

01258 475582 Office open Monday - Friday 9:30am - 1:30pm info@acnorthdorset.org.uk | www.acnorthdorset.org.uk

In 2024, the gardening team sold almost £2,000-worth of plants and garden produce, including the head gardener’s

homemade jam.

Francessca added: “The time and dedication to go above and beyond really exemplifies the team’s commitment to the museum and the community of Wimborne.

“A huge thumbs-up to their green fingers and dedication.”

Big breakfast bonus!

THE Lydlinch and Bagber communities turned out in force to enjoy one of their regular fundraising “big breakfasts” for the Hooper Hall, which coincided with the formal opening of the newly improved disabled access.

Pictured are local residents Brigadier Nicholas Cocking and Alex Bolton, who cut the ribbon.

Support for homeless families on the up thanks to Big Give fundraising

HOME-START Wessex has reached its fundraising target during the Big Give Challenge, raising £10,295.18 to support young, homeless families in Dorset.

The Big Give is the UK’s biggest match-funded campaign with every donation in the qualifying week doubled through match funding.

Kathy Fryatt-Banks, chief

executive of Home-Start Wessex, said: “This was the first year Home-Start Wessex had taken part in the Big Give, and we were blown away by the support we received.

“It was a huge ask to reach the £10,000 target when we know many families are struggling to support themselves, let alone others.”

The funding was needed to keep its weekly support group for homeless families open.

Home-Start Wessex offers friendship, practical support and emotional advice to parents in Dorset with at least one child under five when they are in crisis.

Alongside running specialist support groups, one-to-one home support and school readiness workshops, the charity

runs two weekly support groups in temporary hostels, which mainly house single mothers aged 18-25 and their children.

Over the last year, the charity has transformed 1,682 lives, helping a record 501 families.

Its reach covers an area with a population of more than 650,000, including many pockets of high-level deprivation.

Anyone who could commit to two or three hours each week to help as a family support volunteer is asked to contact heidi@ homestartwessex.org.uk

Library talk

SHERBORNE Library is the venue for a talk by Justin Newland on the repulse of the Spanish Armada on Friday, February 28, from 2.30pm3.30pm. Entry is free of charge.

Train users warned of disruption between Salisbury and Yeovil

RAIL users are being warned of a week of disruption to services in Dorset, Wiltshire and Somerset later this month (February).

On Saturday, February 22, and from Monday, February 24 to Friday, February 28, no trains will run between Salisbury and Yeovil Junction, while direct services from London to Exeter will not stop at Tisbury, Gillingham, Sherborne or Templecombe, due to being diverted via Westbury.

Buses will replace trains between Gillingham and Yeovil Junction, calling at Templecombe and Sherborne.

On Sunday, February 23, bus replacement services will operate between Salisbury and

Yeovil Junction, calling at all stations. No direct trains will run between Salisbury and Exeter.

The disruption is to allow work on improving drainage in the Gillingham area and maintenance between Gillingham and Yeovil Junction, including inspections of equipment, repairing lineside fences and cutting back diseased trees and hedges.

Mark Goodall, Wessex route director for Network Rail, said:

“While there is never a good time to close the railway, we have worked incredibly hard to minimise the disruption for passengers, by limiting the distance of this closure and diverting trains via Westbury.

Warning after thieves steal £1,000 worth of heating oil

THIEVES pried open an oil tank cover and syphoned around £1,000 worth of domestic heating oil from a property in Trent.

Dorset Police said the theft is believed to have taken place between January 31 and February 1.

Officers are encouraging people to properly secure oil tanks to avoid this happening again.

“There are ways to target harden your heating oil tanks,” a spokesperson said.

“Consider installing tanks within a secure building or cage.

“If it’s not possible to keep your tank inside a building, you may want to plant spiky shrubs and fencing to hide your tank

and surround the area around the tank with gravel.

“Install motion-sensing CCTV and security lighting.

CCTV can now be linked to your phone, giving you peace of mind and real-time alerts at any time of the day or night.

“An oil tank alarm is a good option. This type of alarm will send an alert to you via your mobile device if the inspection cap is lifted or the oil level drops suddenly.”

Anyone with information about the theft is asked to contact police on 101 using reference 55250015404 or via their website.

For more information on how to protect your home from crime, visit https://orlo.uk/ WylVj

“I am, though, sorry for the disruption that passengers who use the West of England Line will face during this closure.

“This work is vital to ensuring this part of the network is strong for the years to come. Once completed, passengers will benefit from a more reliable journey through the Gillingham area.”

services running.

Peter Williams, customer and commercial director for South Western Railway, added: “We know just how important The West of England Line is to the local communities that use it, which is why it’s vital that Network Rail carry out this maintenance to keep our train

“Customers should check before travelling, with buses operating between Gillingham and Yeovil Junction, and train services being amended and diverted.

“We’re sorry for the disruption and would like to thank our customers for their patience.”

Roadside scammer empties bank account

A PERSON who offered help to a seemingly broken-down motorist saw their bank account emptied in a scam.

The victim was driving along the A352 Sherborne to Dorchester road on January 29 between 11am and 12pm when they noticed a white van with its bonnet up.

This caused the victim to stop, and the driver of the van asked to use their mobile phone, claiming that his phone battery died.

The good Samaritan opened their mobile phone using their PIN number and handed it to the scammer. The scammer then walked away, claiming the reception was poor where he was standing.

The scammer walked out of sight and added an app to the phone, which gave him access to the phone’s contents.

Later that day, the victim received a call from the scammer claiming to be their bank. He said that money had been taken from the victim’s account and that the victim needed to open the banking app on their phone.

When the app was opened, the scammer used the access to the phone they had obtained earlier to remove all the money in the victim’s bank account and then removed the victim’s banking app from the phone so they could not check their account.

Dorset Police is now appealing for anyone with a dash cam who was driving along the A352 on January 29 between 11am and 12pm to check footage to see if the registration number of the white van has been recorded.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police via their website using reference number 55250014780.

Gillingham Station Network Rail

New charges for spending the night in council car parks across Dorset

DORSET Council is planning to bring in a flat rate £2.50 charge for overnight parking in its car parks.

The charge would cover any amount of time between 6pm and 8am, and would be introduced this summer.

It is also proposed to bring in a permit for residents who use council car parks overnight – this would cover the period

Witnesses needed after hunt hounds chase fox

POLICE are appealing for witnesses to come forward after reports a fox was illegally pursued by a hunt near Sherborne.

Dorset Police’s Rural Crime Team is investigating reports that some time between 2pm and 2.30pm on Saturday, February 1, offences were committed under the Hunting Act 2004 where a fox was pursued by hounds in fields surrounding Bishops Caundle and Alweston.

PC Sebastian Haggett, of the Rural Crime Team, said: “We are carrying out enquiries into the report to establish what happened.

“I am keen to hear from anyone who was in the area and either witnessed the incident or captured something of relevance on camera footage.”

Anyone with information about the incident should contact Dorset Police via www. dorset.police.uk, or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55250015395. They can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling 0800 555 111.

5pm to 9am daily and cost about £50 a year.

The council hopes that an increased take-up of parking permits will result in providing more cost-effective parking, a spokesperson said.

North Dorset MP, Simon Hoare, describes the proposal to introduce nighttime parking as a ‘mad idea’ in his column in this week’s New Blackmore Vale (page

38).

He said it would inconvenience residents and be a blow to the evening and leisure economy of market towns.

The new arrangements are subject to public consultation.

The council plans to increase hourly parking charges across the county from April 1, pending full council approval.

Cameras

at the ready

A PHOTO competition celebrating North Dorset has been unveiled.

The North Dorset Photo Competition, a collaboration between Visit Dorset and the north Dorset towns of Blandford Forum, Shaftesbury, Sherborne and Sturminster Newton, invites photographers of all ages and skill levels to showcase their talent.

To enter, you’ll need to capture the stunning landscapes, community spirit and rich heritage that define these beloved towns and upload them to www.northdorsetphoto.co.uk

The competition is open to all ages and skill levels, with categories for under 18s, 18 and over, and professional photographers.

The website is open for entries from February 14 to March 28.

Entries will be shortlisted by judging panels from each town, going forward to public exhibitions around the county from May 9. The public will cast the final vote for winners.

Wessex won’t be going solo as Government rejects devolution bid

THE four councils of Wessex will not be able to make regional decisions free from central government.

The Government has confirmed that Wessex has not been included within the Devolution Priority Programme.

The councils’ proposal outlined the ‘transformative benefits devolution could bring’, including greater local control over transport, housing and economic development.

In a joint statement, the leaders of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire Councils, Cllr Millie Earl, Cllr Nick Ireland, Cllr Bill Revans, and Cllr Richard Clewer, said:

“Despite the fact that we felt Government were moving too quickly to deliver devolution, and our discussion about the format of Mayoral Strategic Authority as the most appropriate solution for our

region, we worked collaboratively with ministers throughout to deliver a strong proposal. Therefore, the decision not to include Wessex within the Devolution Priority Programme is extremely disappointing.

“We feel the Wessex proposal aligned with the aims of the White Paper, encompassing a population of approximately 1.9 million, with the region well-placed to support the Government's growth priorities, particularly in clean energy, defence, digital technologies, life sciences, and tourism. The area could now miss out on essential funding, and combined with the likely defunding of pan-regional partnerships and the substantial reduction in the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the fact that this will now be delayed when we are ready to go is deeply regrettable.”

SHAFTESBURY VALUATION DAY

February half-term planting sessions

GREEN fingers at the ready! Join the volunteers in the Kitchen Garden Potting shed weekdays this half-term (February 17-21, 11am-3pm) for planting sessions.

The snowdrops in the wider garden will also be in full bloom and a joyful sight for all ages.

Planting session are free (normal admissions apply). Booking not required. Find out more at www.nationaltrust. org.uk/visit/dorset/kingston-lacy

Safeguard Your Hard-Earned Assets from 40% Inheritance Tax, Looming Care Fees, & Potential Family Disputes.

Inheritance Tax Planning: Are you concerned about losing 40% of your already taxed hard earned wealth to the government? Our bespoke legal strategies, meticulously crafted using trusts and wills, ensure your assets stay where they belong – in your family’s hands. Fully compliant with UK law, we shield your estate from the grasp of inheritance taxes, giving you peace of mind and financial security.

Care Fees Protection: With average care fees hitting £2,000 per week and typical stays ranging from 3 to 7 years, these expenses can quickly deplete most estates. Our custom-tailored solutions offer a lifeline. While many believe protection is impossible, we’ve developed a tailored legal strategy fully compliant with UK law to safeguard your assets, including protection against care fees.

Wills: Don’t leave your loved ones squabbling over vague wills! Oakwood Wills specializes in drafting crystal-clear documents that leave no room for ambiguity. No more family feuds. Just smooth, conflictfree asset distribution that honours your final wishes. Lasting Power Of Attorneys: Statistics don’t lie – the chances of incapacity rise with age. With our Lasting Power of Attorneys services, you can appoint trusted individuals to make financial and healthcare decisions on your behalf. No more court approvals, no more uncertainty in times of crises – just peace of mind knowing your interests are in safe hands.

For a complimentary consultation, reach out to Oakwood Wills.

Tel: 07832 331594 or Email: info@oakwoodwills.co.uk

August Motors, based in the heart of Salisbury

Based in the heart of Salisbury, August Motors is a family run business that has been in the motor trade since 1971. Part of the Balmer Lawn Group covering Wiltshire, Dorset and Hampshire, they are committed to building long-term relationships with their customers and providing a high-quality product and service.

As a main dealer for KGM, they offer comprehensive care for your vehicle, with expert servicing, MOT testing, and a wide selection of genuine parts. KGM, formerly known as SsangYong, recently celebrated 70 years in vehicle manufacturing, and in that time have built a reputation for engineering vehicles that combine performance, safety, and style. From electric cars and comfortable SUVs to the ultimate 4x4 pickup truck, KGM caters to every driver’s needs. Recognising the local agriculture, August Motors is proud to offer a range of KGM vehicles that meet the needs of the community, from reliable pickups to versatile utility vehicles. Proudly selling the Musso, which won 2024 Best Value Pick-Up in “4x4 Magazine”. We understand the importance of durability and efficiency in the field, and our team is here to help agricultural customers find the right vehicles to enhance productivity and mobility. The Rexton, along with the Musso has a huge towing capacity of 3.5 tonnes. August Motors offer a “Tools

and Trade Discount” to businesses and individuals that purchase these models. Both vehicles can be seen in our advert opposite..

August Motors also offer an electric KGM vehicle, The Torres EVX provides an environmentally friendly option that don’t compromise on performance. For August Motors, providing electric vehicles, is about being a part of a more sustainable future.

August Motors is a premier KGM dealer that prioritises quality and customer satisfaction. If you’re in the market for a new vehicle, look no further than August Motors and Balmer Lawn Group —where your automotive journey begins and ends with a smile. Come to visit and experience the difference for yourself!

The Torres EVX, electric KGM vehicle

WI ladies take to the high seas

TWO groups of Blandford Evening WI ladies thoroughly enjoyed separate visits to the Royal National Lifeboat Institute College (RNLI) in Poole.

Escorted by a volunteer guide, the ladies were shown around the superb, in-house facilities used to train RNLI personnel to a world-leading standard.

During the tour, each

group was taken into the lifeboat simulator used to train RNLI volunteers to use the different classes of lifeboats.

The simulators are so real that one lady had to leave because she felt seasick.

The ladies were impressed by the building, the facilities and the welcome, especially the cafe/bar and the restaurant afterwards.

Blandford suffers ‘brain drain’ as young people leave after university

GRADUATES are unlikely to stay on in the small towns of Dorset and Somerset where they have been living once they finish their studies.

Blandford Forum and Gillingham is the area in England in which graduates are least likely to stay on after finishing university.

Students often commute from the area to universities in Bournemouth but less than 26% locally after graduation, according to student recruitment agency Think Orion’s report.

More than 52% of adults are employed and average annual pay is £32,862, the report says.

Street and Wells had the third lowest graduate retention rate at 30%, Yeovil the fifth lowest at 34% and Bridport the sixth lowest at 35%.

Rural areas and smaller towns had a disproportionately low graduate retention rate, with students having to move elsewhere for higher education and choosing not to return home after

graduation.

London had the highest graduate retention rate in England, at 84%, and is the only region in the UK where university graduates are more likely to remain than non-graduate residents.

The average annual income in the city is £51,662, the highest in the UK, and 61% of adults are employed.

In second place is Manchester, with a retention rate of 76%. The average annual income in the city is £33,715 and around 54% of adults are currently employed.

Think Orion analysed government data on several cohorts of students, calculating the percentage of university graduates who remained in the same region where they sat their GCSE examinations.

Manno Notermans, chief executive of Think Orion, said: “The ‘brain drain’ from rural areas, small towns and even large university cities to London is a concern for local authorities, as jobs requiring qualified professionals are often left unfilled.

Professional, reliable and caring

“Relocating to London is an exciting opportunity for young graduates, with high employment statistics and average salaries providing a great incentive to move.

“However, a significantly higher cost of living awaits London dwellers, and excellent employment opportunities are available for students across the country.”

From broke to brilliant

BRING your broken bits to Netherbury Repair Cafe at the town hall on Sunday, February 23.

As long as you can carry it, the handy volunteers will look at it! Bring any spare parts you know you need. The cafe will be open between 10am and noon. For more information email lisagracewillis@gmail.com

From farm to fork: Time to tackle the food system

by Rachel Bodle, Planet Shaftesbury

LATER this month, Shaftesbury will host a meeting for anyone passionate about food and concerned about the way the food system works.

The meeting at Shaftesbury town hall on Thursday, February 27, will bring together people who care about food and diet-related ill-health, or fairness and affordability, or climate; nature; animal welfare; livelihoods in the local food economy; balancing the use of land for food/nature/energy; food security in an uncertain world… and more.

All these perspectives are important. The aim is to spark conversations between people who share similar concerns and foster connections that could lead to meaningful initiatives.

What happens will reflect the people who turn up on the day.

The purpose of the meeting is to explore ideas about what a more sustainable local and global food system could look like and encourage steps towards positive change.

Why now?

Shaftesbury’s rich food heritage, from its regular markets to the volunteer-run Shaftesbury Homegrown community farm, provides a strong foundation for this discussion.

Recent events hosted by Planet Shaftesbury have already generated lively debates.

A film screening and discussion in October highlighted the benefits of regenerative farming, from improving soil health and supporting nature’s recovery to boosting resilience to extreme weather.

Contributors agreed that commercially produced ‘cheap’ food is not really ‘cheap’ because of the effects on our health and the environment. The importance of fairer support systems for farmers was also emphasised.

In November, as part of the national Food Conversation organised by the Food, Farming and Countryside Commission, a broad range of issues around food were considered at a local gathering. The group’s priorities for action across the UK were food education, environmental protection, the transition to nature-friendly farming, and tackling food security. Participants called for a follow-up meeting to focus on local solutions – leading directly to this event.

What’s next?

This meeting aims to be a catalyst for new collaborations. Any initiatives that emerge will find strong local and regional support. Shaftesbury Town Council is committed to

A walk around… Cann

Soak up the scenery as you walk with retired Dorset rights of way officer Chris Slade

START on the southern boundary of the parish. The bridge over the river bears a plaque warning drivers of traction engines and, although it’s on the A350, isn’t suitable for heavy vehicles.

Join the road on your right that leads north east up Foot’s Hill. Walk up the hill for about half a mile until you get to Bishop’s Farm. Join a footpath on your left, which heads north alongside a hedge. There are good views over the valley below.

After a few fields you reach the B3081, which takes you north west. Be careful because there’s no pavement and plenty of traffic. After half a mile it reaches Shaftesbury, opposite a Persimmon Homes estate. Join a footpath on your left, which follows the parish boundary at first then loops into Shaftesbury to get around the top of the steep valley, Boyne Hollow. On my visit a tree had recently fallen across the path and I had, gingerly, to walk along the trunk to get back on the path. It will probably have been removed by the time you read this as loggers had been at work.

After the loop, the path takes you to the A350. Cross it to join a

footpath that takes you south west along the parish boundary for about half a mile.

food initiatives, and the Feeding Dorset Partnership connects local efforts and provides links to the broader Sustainable Food Places network.

Whether you’re an individual, a business owner, a grower, or someone simply curious about food and sustainability, you’ll have conversations with people who share your concerns. You may make new, helpful connections. Your participation will make a difference to the wider exploration. The meeting offers a chance to be part of something impactful. Join in to explore how to make the Shaftesbury area a more sustainable food place – one conversation, connection and initiative at a time.

Places are limited at the meeting, which takes place on Thursday, February 27, at 7pm at Shaftesbury town hall.

Please RSVP using the event listing at www.planetshaftesbury.org.

At a junction of paths, curve south for a short distance to join a road leading steeply downhill, south, for half a mile to the Three Ways junction where you turn left and continue downhill along French Mill Lane, passing an old mill with a millstone in front of it and a fast flowing leet passing it. It’s on the boundary of Melbury Abbas, into which you trespass to join a footpath heading east across a muddy field. It soon crosses a bridge back into Cann.

The path continues past Cann Mills and the massive pond to take you back where you started. You’ll have walked over three miles and gone up and down 85 metres.

Leweston Prep School Visit Week

Imagine a place where your child’s individuality is not just recognised but celebrated. Leweston Prep believes in fostering a love for learning that goes beyond the classroom, offering a tailored approach to ensure that each child’s potential is unlocked.

Whether your child is interested in day, flexi, weekly, or boarding options, Leweston provides a supportive and enriching environment for boys and girls to thrive. Join their upcoming ‘Visit Week’ for a personalised, guided tour of the school and an opportunity to meet staff, students, the Headmaster and Admissions Team.

Leweston Prep School Visit Week | 3 – 7 March 2025

The best way to experience Leweston is to book an individual tour, tailormade to your requirements.

Leweston ‘Visit Weeks’ are available to book now. These offer a personalised guided tour of the School during which you can find out more about academic, creative and sporting opportunities, view their extensive facilities and talk to the Admissions team about entrance, transport, enrichment and more. Your visit will also include a meeting with the Headmaster, Mr Richard Thompson.

Contact their Admissions Team, or visit their website to book your place –admissions@leweston.dorset.sch.uk | 01963 211054 | www.leweston.co.uk

Book a personalised tour during our visit week and find out more about an education at Leweston Prep PREP SCHOOL 3 - 7 MARCH

Charity steps up to save wading birds from extinction

WADING birds are in decline and need wet areas with soft, muddy ground to feed over winter – but a farming charity says not enough is being done to protect their habitat.

The Countryside Regeneration Trust (CRT) is running a winter appeal to raise money to help create wetland areas for wading birds to thrive on two of its farms, including Bere Marsh in Dorset.

The charity, which promotes naturefriendly farming to help reverse biodiversity decline, needs £8,000 to create an ideal habitat for wading birds.

These include lapwing, black-tailed godwit, curlew, golden plover, redshank, common snipe, jack snipe and sandpiper species. It will also attract other species, such as wigeon, teal, gadwall and goldeneye.

Helena Darragh, head of conservation and land management at CRT, said: “We’re asking for your help to create a simple, yet potentially lifesaving feature on our farmland – a series of shallow, muddy channels that will make the difference at the toughest time of the year.

“A species like the curlew uses its long, down-curved bills to push into soft, wet ground to find food.

“Without areas of damp grassland, wading birds struggle to find food over the colder winter months.

“The curlew is already one of the UK’s

most rapidly declining breeding bird species, with a 48% drop in numbers from 1995 to 2015 in England.”

Helena added: “For centuries, the UK’s wetlands, floodplains and coastal areas have been home to waders.

“However, these natural habitats are being lost, and while these birds are adaptable, they can’t keep pace with the rapid loss of safe spaces to feed and rest undisturbed.

The curlew is already one of the UK’s most rapidly declining breeding bird species

“Curlew and lapwing are among the most iconic of our Red-listed wading birds, but the habitat we’ll create with your donations will also attract other Amber-listed birds such as teal, widgeon, and numerous ducks and geese.”

Development on tidal fringes and floodplains, drainage of fields and dredging of rivers has meant that fields do not get wet and stay wet like they once did.

“As a result, we are lacking areas of seasonally inundated water, which is what our wading birds and waterfowl need in the winter to feed,” said Helena.

Work on the wetland habitats at the CRT farms will start this year, but it will cost about £13,000 to carry out survey work and prepare the land.

“While we can get a partial grant, we are looking for around £8,000 in donations to make this happen,” added Helena.

“We are aiming to have both habitats ready for winter 2025 and will begin work at Bere Marsh Farm this summer.

“These areas can be created by creating shallow channels and pools no more than 50cm deep on grassland fields, which typically are soggy in the winter.

“We then connect these channels to existing watercourses, such as ditches, to allow water to flow into them in wet periods, creating muddy puddles which create wet grassland habitat.

“In dry months, the water recedes or evaporates, and we can continue to manage the field with livestock and hay cuts.”

Donations will help support the future of wading birds and will give them a chance to thrive in the winter months.

To donate to the lifeline for wading birds in winter appeal, visit the CRT website at www.thecrt.co.uk/appeal/wadingbirds.

*Advertising Feature ADVERTISING FEATURE

We are excited to have launched a new shutter in our range to bring you the best in choice and quality.

With all the uncertainty of the British summertime why not enhance your outdoor space with an Awning or Veranda with heating and lighting to stop the weather spoiling your plans.

Our range of Awnings are available manual or motorised operation up to 14meters long and Verandas custom built to any size, also suitable for use as a Carport.

We know customers want a highly durable product that is both water and impact resistant but retains the beauty and feel of real wood. With this in mind our new range have been developed with a material combining the beauty and texture of real hardwood with the strength and durability of PVC, stronger than Wood, lighter than MDF. We believe Bonded wood outperforms every other material used in shutter construction, with the added benefit of being fully recyclable and environmentally friendly.

The new range has concealed tilt, interlocking mortice and tenon joints, rebated hinges and locking stiles, recessed magnets and concealed fixings as well as being available in 8 gorgeous colours all as standard for no extra cost.

For when the heatwave arrives, we can offer a large range of Blinds and Shutters to suit your shading requirements, whether you would like blackout for a better sleep or screen blinds to reduce the solar gain into your rooms. Our expert advice and extensive experience will ensure you get the right product, and provide the shading solution you need.

Why chose us to supply and install your shutters? We can assure you of high-quality products, professional installation and first class service from start to finish.

enquiries@lizziepriceshadingsolutions.co.uk

07879 9920000

To see our full range of products visit the website www.lizziepriceshadingsolutions.co.uk and used our contact form or call us on 07879 992000 to discuss your requirements and book a no obligation home visit.

Fern Brook Lodge residents celebrate Burns Night

Fern Brook Lodge care home residents in Gillingham celebrated Burns Night with Scottish

Amy, who works in the kitchen of the care home, honoured her Scottish heritage by preparing clootie dumplings and blessing the haggis with a Robert Burns poem. Many residents tried haggis for the first time, before they ended the evening by listening to Scottish music. The care home’s dedicated activities team runs daily events to encourage socialising and friendship.

Fern Brook Lodge, which is part of the not-for-profit charity, Care South, provides residential, respite, and dementia care. It hosts free Welcome Wednesdays sessions each week, where visitors can enjoy complimentary cakes and hot drinks while experiencing the warm and friendly atmosphere.

The home also hosts Memory Café sessions every Thursday from 10am to 11 am for people living with dementia and their carers. No need to book - just drop in.

Snowdrop festival fun

SHAFTESBURY library is teaming up with the Snowdrop Festival to provide crafty activities this half term…

Tomorrow (February 15), young people aged 8–15 can get help with their haiku from local poet Annie Philpott.

On Monday, February 17, children aged over three can make a beautiful paper snowdrop crown.

Friday, February 21, sees the library host a drop in event for all ages to make a simple origami bookmark.

All events take place between 11am and midday.

Children under eight must be accompanied by an adult.

For further information please call Shaftesbury Library on 01747 852256 or email shaftesburylibrary@ dorsetcouncil.gov.uk

Booking is available via Eventbrite to guarantee your space.

West Dorset has pub of the year

REAL ale fans in West Dorset have chosen The Woodman in Bridport as their favourite pub.

The hostelry in South Street won the West Dorset Campaign for Real Ale’s (CAMRA) Pub of the Year award for 2024.

The Woodman had previously made the last 16 in CAMRA’s national Pub of the Year award and was in the last four for the national Cider & Perry Pub of the Year gong.

The West Dorset branch’s award was presented on stage at the recent Dorchester Beerex where licensee, Darren Moore, dedicated it to the late Victor Irvine, of Cerne Abbas Brewery.

Darren said: “I’m over the moon! This one came as a real shock and everyone at the pub is extremely happy.

“I would like to dedicate this award to my very good friend, Victor, who very sadly recently passed away – he was a great help over the last few years.”

West Dorset CAMRA chair, Bruce Mead, said: “The Woodman continues to go from strength to strength in the hands of Darren and his team.

“They came so close to making the final four in CAMRA's national Pub of the Year competition last time round.

“Can they do it this time – we certainly hope so!”

The Woodman serves five cask ales and a large selection of real traditional ciders sourced from near and far.

It also has a skittle alley, a small garden and outside

at

The Woodman licensee, Darren Moore, (left) and West Dorset CAMRA chair, Bruce Mead

Concern for most vulnerable as Lloyds plans to close another branch

QUESTIONS have been raised of what the future could hold for elderly people in the Blandford area following the announcement the Lloyds branch is set to close this year.

Lloyds Banking Group announced plans earlier this week to shut 136 more high street branches across the UK, blaming the decision on customers shifting to using mobile services rather than in-person banking.

Sadly for Blandford residents, this means the Lloyds branch in the Market Place is set to close on November 10.

When the Blandford branch closes, it will leave just the Nationwide Building Society in the town. This comes after HSBC closed in April 2023 and NatWest in August 2023.

The Tesco at Stour Park will

also be the only place residents will be able to access cash 24/7 – a long walk for those without access to a car.

The nearest Lloyds bank to Blandford is found in Dorchester’s South Street –however that branch is also set to close on June 19.

Banks such as Lloyds offer more than just a place to take out cash.

For many elderly customers, banks provide a trusted safe space to chat and build a rapport with staff who can offer vital advice about customers’ banking as well as update them on the latest scams to be wary of.

MP Simon Hoare (Conservative, Dorset North) said he has requested an urgent meeting with Lloyds to establish what their proposals are for

community banking support in the town.

He said: “While many of my constituents are able/happy to bank online or by app many also are not.

“We cannot have banking deserts nor people left high and dry regarding their banking needs.”

Councillor Byron Quayle (Conservatives, Blandford) said the move was “long expected” and that he will look into applying for a banking hub for the town.

Lloyds said Blandford would receive a community banker following the closure who would provide services including making payments, account enquiries and online banking support.

The town has not so far been recommended for a banking

hub, but applications can be made by anyone on the LINK website, www.link.co.uk/ helping-you-access-cash/ request-access-to-cash.

Banking hubs are shared banking spaces available to all banking customers.

A counter service operated by Post Office employees will allow customers of any bank to withdraw and deposit cash, make bill payments and carry out regular banking transactions in person.

There will also be private spaces where customers can speak to community bankers from their own bank for more complicated matters that require specialist knowledge or privacy.

The banks work on a rotating basis, so there will be staff from different banks available on different days.

Buy a book and make a date with a mystery read this Valentine’s Day

TAKE a gamble on a new read at Kingston Lacy – pick up a mystery book for just £1.50.

The National Trust team at Kingston Lacy are inviting visitors to buy a mystery book for a blind date this Valentine’s Day.

The Dorset-based property includes a well-stocked secondhand bookshop, which can be found in the Laundry Courtyard. The bookshop is stocked from donations from visitors, and all purchases made go towards the care of Kingston Lacy. A selection of books are wrapped and ready to go home with visitors wanting a surprise read.

Nan Cleary, Welcome Manager at Kingston Lacy, says: “We stock everything from children’s books to local history to art. Visitors love

browsing the shelves, but sometimes we all need a little push to try something a bit different. We’re encouraging people to take a chance on something unknown – it could be the start of the beautiful friendship.”

“There are always more fish

in the sea,” says Nan. “If your blind book date doesn’t work out, come back and find something else. There’s definitely a book out there for you.

“Whether you’re taking a break from swiping right or just looking to snuggle under the duvet for a good read, this could be the blind date for you. At only £1.50, it’s a cheaper than a

bunch of red roses but it could last a lot longer.”

Meanwhile, in the garden, you can take a walk through the millions of snowdrops now in bloom.

The extensive grounds at Kingston Lacy showcase more than 40 varieties of snowdrop, with carpets of these delicate white flowers to see across the garden and estate. Visitors can find swathes of common snowdrops along the along Lime Avenue or in Nursery Wood, in the shelter of the Victorian Fernery, and along Lady’s Walk.

Normal admission applies. Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ kingston-lacy for more details and opening times.

Reopening 17th February 2025

Power Dressing 1770 - 1990

Plus other displays covering 200 years of fabulous fashion Monday; Thursday; Friday & Saturday

Opening Hours: 10am - 4pm

© National Trust Images, James Dobson & Clare Gascoigne

Helping hand for Dorset’s ancient churches

THE ancient rural church at Wraxall has received a helping hand paying for works to resolve damp problems.

The cost strained the resources of the small parish but now the Dorset Historic Churches Trust has stepped in with a grant of £2,500.

Trust chair, David Grant, used a tomb in the churchyard to sign a cheque which he presented to the Reverend Tim Greenslade (centre) and Churchwarden Edward Lewis (right).

Trust local representative, Shaun Leavey, said: “The help that the Trust has been able to give to Wraxall is a classic example of the support it provides across Dorset to many churches – large and small.

“This is a time when the cost of repairs is going up and financial support at national level is going down.

“In my area of the Trust the vast majority

of the churches are ‘listed buildings’ so are very important parts of our heritage.

“But it’s important to remember that the Trust relies entirely on its supporters’ generous donations, sponsorship and legacies to be able to fund such work.

“We do encourage those with an interest in churches or ancient buildings – or both – to support the Trust.”

Up close and personal

CARE home residents in Gillingham got up close and personal with an array of reptiles.

Garwyn Reptiles treated residents at The Malthouse to an unforgettable afternoon that provided a unique opportunity to learn about the diets, habitats, and behaviours of these remarkable creatures in an engaging and hands-on setting.

A spokesperson said: “Residents were thrilled to not only observe these creatures but also to interact with them, creating a memorable and educational experience for all.”

Have you had your NHS Health Check?

ADVERTISING FEATURE

If you are aged 40-74, you may be eligible for an NHS Health Check with your GP.

An NHS Health Check is a free check on cardiovascular health and can spot early signs of diabetes, kidney disease, heart disease or stroke. During your check, you will also be told how small lifestyle changes can help decrease any potential risk of developing these illnesses.

If you are eligible, you will be contacted by your GP by letter or text message. Even if you are feeling fit and healthy, it’s important to not miss out on the opportunity of having a free health check. It’s a 30-minute appointment which can detect potential health problems sooner rather than later.

Dave aged 55 from Dorset, said: “I had a few niggly questions about myself and thought it would be good to get some answers. The results were good so I can walk out a happier man than I went in.”

For more information about NHS health checks and to find out what happens during your check, visit publichealthdorset.org.uk/ nhs-health-check.

If you’re eligible and you’ve not been invited by your GP, you may be able to have your free NHS Health Check with Dorset’s free health and wellbeing service LiveWell Dorset. Find out more about LiveWell Dorset and where you can get a health check in your community at livewelldorset.co.uk.

If you Check A and or stroke. lifestyle these If text to not It’s problems D about The in.” F what nhs-health-check. If may free about your

Secret history: can you help?

YOUR help is needed to gather information for an exhibition commemorating Blandford’s part in WW2.

Blandford Commemoration Group will be staging an exhibition to mark the 80th anniversaries of momentous battles and turning points of the Second World War.

The Group is seeking your stories, information about Blandfordians’ contributions to

the war effort, and what was going on behind the scenes.

“During the Dark Days of 1940, invasion by Nazi Forces seemed imminent,” said a Group member.

“Churchill’s Secret Army was recruited to operate behind the lines of any advancing invasion force harassing and sabotaging, allowing the British forces time to counter attack.

Highly secret, there were units

formed in Blandford and the areas around, made up of local men who knew the area well and could live off the land.”

The Group would like to

know if you recognise any of the people in these pictures, or the family names listed below.

Were any of your relatives involved in these secret units?

Any stories would be gratefully received and appreciated by the Blandford Commemoration Group. Information can be passed on at refcart@aol.com

The resulting exhibition will be staged at the Woodhouse Pavilion on the Armistice 80 weekend in May.

New iconic wedding venue for Blandford

COUPLES will be able to tie the knot at an iconic Blandford venue next year.

The Grade I listed Blandford Town Hall and Corn Exchange will be licensed for civil ceremonies from January 2026.

A spokesperson for Blandford Forum Town Council said: “From January 2026, couples will be able to say ‘I do’ in the heart of our beautiful town, surrounded by Georgian history and charm.

“Whether you’re planning a small, intimate ceremony or a grand celebration, our stunning venue will provide the perfect setting for your big day.”

They added: “We will keep you updated with more details. If you’re planning a wedding for 2026 and beyond, we’d love to hear from you!”

Plans for a range of improvements for both the town hall and Corn Exchange were given the green light last year.

These include changes to the stage, a new staircase, as well as a lift and ramp.

Work is ongoing. Visit the Blandford Forum Town Council website for an update on the work.

Superb kitchens designed and installed for you

Visit our showrooms to view our kitchen displays

Shaftesbury: 01747 851 476

Longmead Industrial Estate, Shaftesbury SP7 8PL

Warminster: 01985 219 200 5 George Street, Warminster BA12 8QA

Garden centres scoop awards

THE Gardens Group, which owns Castle Gardens in Sherborne, Brimsmore Gardens in Yeovil, and Poundbury Gardens near Dorchester, came away with several awards at an industry event.

It scooped 11 accolades at the Garden Centre Association’s (GCA) annual conference at a ceremony held at the De Vere Wokefield Estate, Reading.

In the national Garden Centre Category, Castle Gardens won the Paul Cooling Environment and Sustainability Award, and the Ian Boardman Indoor Plants Cup for its houseplant department, as well as the Christmas Competition for its Christmas displays.

In the Local Garden Centre Category, Poundbury Gardens came second in The Outdoor Living Award for Best Outdoor Living Retailer, and earned second in the Ian Boardman Indoor Plants Cup for its own houseplant department.

In the final round of awards for overall performance, Castle Gardens came 13th in the country, with Poundbury Gardens in 26th place and Brimsmore Gardens in the top 60. Poundbury Gardens also came second in the Local Garden Centre of the Year

category.

Mike Burks, managing director of The Gardens Group, said: “We are immensely proud to have come away from this year’s GCA Awards with so much to celebrate, especially as these 11 awards take in all three garden centres, and areas as diverse as houseplants, outdoor plants and Christmas.

“Every one of these awards is rigorously judged by the GCA’s experts, so we couldn’t win any of them without our whole

team pulling together to achieve exceptional standards.

“As we all work towards a more ecoconscious future, we’re absolutely committed to making gardening a force for good – so the Environment and Sustainability Award is particularly special, following huge and sustained efforts across all teams and departments to reduce our impact on the planet, in any way that we can.”

Final push for museum’s M47 tank restoration campaign

WITH just £5,000 left to find, the Tank Museum needs you!

Thanks to a generous private donation, The Tank Museum, at Bovington, is now close to raising the £50,000 required to restore its M47 tank to running order. But the Museum still needs your help!

The Tank Museum announced in November 2024 that it was over half-way to its target for the campaign to restore their M47 Patton, a US-built Cold War era tank. Now, thanks to a donation of £15,000 from William Bannister, around £45,000 has been raised towards the £50,000 target.

Head of Collections, Chris van Schaardenburgh said: “We are hugely grateful for this generous donation towards the M47 restoration project. We have worked closely with William Bannister for many years. His collection of historic vehicles and support of the Museum’s Workshop and restoration projects has been invaluable.”

well underway in the workshop of engineer Matthew Pyle, but the fundraising campaign continues, with a further £5,000 required to complete the project.

Collection compliments our own running fleet of significant Second World War tanks, which allows The Tank Museum to put on shows like TANKFEST and Tiger Day.”

The restoration work is now

The M47 is expected to be in running condition ready for TANKFEST 2025 – the world’s biggest live display of historic tanks and armoured vehicles, held at The Tank Museum in Dorset.

Find out more and support the M47 restoration project at www.tankmuseum.org/m47

Our loose Canon

Wise words can keep the romance alive in any relationship

by Canon Eric Woods

I can cook. I really can. But unlike my wife Sandra, I’m not an instinctive cook. I need the manual – I mean the recipe – and full instructions. Then I can do it – albeit slowly.

So this evening, for our Valentine’s Day dinner, I’m playing safe. I have ordered a Fortnum & Mason Valentine’s dinner box. Of course, it hasn’t arrived yet – I am writing this column several days earlier – but the website promises me that everything will be oven-ready and all I will have to do is to follow some simple instructions. Wish me luck!

only realising what has happened when it’s difficult, or even too late, to row back.

I suppose my unwillingness to take Sandra out to dinner stems for a wedding interview I did many years ago, when the young couple and I got onto the topic of relationships, and how to keep them alive. I suggested that the golden rule is “keep talking”. The bride-to-be pealed with laughter. “You ought to come on Valentine’s to see the restaurant where I work”, she said. “It’s full of couples who think they ought to do something romantic but haven’t anything left to talk about.” The following year we tested that out. We were the only ones talking to each other.

You see, if in today’s high-speed, high-pressure world, two people see little of one another, they soon end-up communicating mostly by text. And gradually, bit by bit, they begin to drift apart –

Finding what’s called “quality time” is essential to any relationship. And it needn’t cost much. A walk in the country or the park is free. Turning off the television and opening a bottle of wine won’t break the bank.

Quite why February 14 has become a day for the celebration of love and romance is something of a mystery. The first reference to it as a day of romantic love comes from the English poet Geoffrey Chaucer in 1382, in his ‘Parliament of Fowls’: “For this was Saint Valentine’s Day, when every bird cometh there to choose his mate.”

Yes, well, possibly. But the fact remains that every year in the UK we buy over a billion roses on Valentine’s Day, and send huge numbers of cards, e-cards and other romantic messages. And restaurants are full of people who think they ought to do something romantic but haven’t anything to talk about.

And that’s sad. The great secret in any relationship is to keep talking. When disagreements happen – as they are bound to – deal with them straight away before they escalate into real conflict. “A gentle answer turns away anger”, the Old Testament tells us. And when tempers rise, the New Testament advises “do not let the sun go down on your anger.” Try to put yourself into the shoes of the other person – husband, wife, partner or friend – to discover how they are feeling, and why. Conflicts often happen over apparently trivial issues, but all sorts of feelings lie beneath them. And have the grace to recognise that, just occasionally, you might be the problem – and do something about it!

Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

Get Ready to Get Muddy: The Lewis-Manning

Muddy Dog Dash Returns to Upton Country Park

E

xcitement is building as Lewis-Manning Hospice Care proudly announces the return of the muchloved Muddy Dog Dash to Upton Country Park on Saturday, 29th March 2025.

This fun-filled, family-friendly event invites dog lovers, adventure seekers, and supporters to tackle a muddy obstacle course whilst raising funds for an incredible cause.

Now in its 3rd year, the Muddy Dog Dash offers participants the choice of two exhilarating routes: 2.5km or 5km, featuring obstacles such as muddy ditches, tunnels, wiggle poles, and the ever-popular tyre runs and ramps. This year introduces exciting new features, including a Doggy Disco and Colour Rope Jumps.

• Craft and cheer stations for younger attendees and enthusiastic supporters and the opportunity to stay dry, if needed.

Why We Dash

All funds raised will go towards supporting Lewis-Manning Hospice Care, a charity that has been providing extraordinary care for over 30 years to people across Poole, Purbeck, East Dorset and West Hampshire. From day hospices to bereavement services for patients, every step, and wagging tail, helps them to continue their mission to bring comfort, care, and compassion to people when they need it most.

The first 100 sign-ups will receive a FREE t-shirt!

• Dog & Adult: £15

• Dog & Child: £10

• Family (2 adults + 2 children): £25

• Adult Only: £10

• Child Only: £5

• Additional Dog: £5

T-shirts also available for £6

MUDDY DOG DASH

Whether you walk, jog, or skip, this event is all about having fun and creating memories—all while supporting Lewis-Manning Hospice Care’s vital work for people living with life-limiting illnesses and their families.

Upton Country Park, Poole

Saturday 29th March 11am - 3pm

A Full Day of Fun for the Whole Family

The event village will feature plenty of entertainment for participants and spectators alike, including:

• Live music and entertainment by HOT Radio

• Delicious food and drinks from the Upton Country Park Tea Rooms & Kiosk

• Meet-and-greet Bluey the Dog mascot, (£5 per photo)

Anna Durose, Events Fundraiser at Lewis-Manning Hospice Care, said, “A heartfelt thank you to our incredible sponsors, partners and volunteers who help to make the event possible, with special mention to Barratt Homes, our headline sponsor. We are also grateful to Care South for their kind support and look forward to welcoming their residents to watch and cheer on our Muddy Dog Dashers.

“The Muddy Dog Dash is one of our most loved events, and we’re thrilled to bring it back for 2025 at Upton Country Park. Whether you’re running, walking, or cheering from the sidelines, every step makes a difference to our patients and their families that we support. We can’t wait to see everyone there!”

How to sign up

Sign up now to secure your spot at lewis-manning. org.uk/muddy-dog-dash

Participants are encouraged to raise a minimum of £50 sponsorship per dog, with all proceeds going directly to support Lewis-Manning Hospice Care’s services. You will receive a JustGiving link to create your own fundraising page upon registration.

Event Details

• Where: Upton Country Park, Poole

• When: Saturday, 29th March 2025

• Event village opens: 11:00am

• Wave 1 participants start: 12:00 noon

Parking is available at Upton Country Park with 400 spaces and easy access by car, train, bus, bike, or on foot.

For more information, please contact: Anna Durose, anna.durose@lewis-manning.org.uk

Join us on 29th March 2025 for an unforgettable day filled with mud, fun, and purpose. Together, we can make a difference!

Sign up today - lewis-manning.org.uk/muddydog-dash

Recycling foil trays, sheet foil, and foil wrappers

Dorset Council can now accept the following foil items in your recycling containers:

Foil containers (e.g. pie trays, take-away trays)

Foil sheets (e.g. to cover food or wrap sandwiches)

Confectionary wrappings (e.g. Easter eggs, the inner wrappings of chocolate bars)

Foil lids (e.g. yoghurts, noodles)

We’d be very grateful if you could carry out these simple actions before recycling your foil items please:

- Wipe clean any sheet foil as best you can

- Rinse foil trays

- Scrunch sheet foil or wrappers into a ball approximately the side of a tennis ball

Some items that look like foil are joined with plastic or paper, and should not be placed in your recycling bin:

Crips packets

Branded wrappers for chocolate bars

Pet food pouches

Drink pouches

Butter wrappings

Blister pill packs

Not sure if it’s foil? Scrunch the foil in your hand. If it stays scrunched, it’s aluminium and can be recycled. If it springs back open, it’s film (or a

mixed material) and cannot go in your kerbside container. Please check local listings, including shops and supermarkets, for where non-foil items can be taken for recycling. Otherwise, please place these in your black bin/rubbish bag.

A passion for family history

FAMILY historians in the Blackmore Vale area are in for a treat when the South West Really Useful Family History Show is staged in Bournemouth.

Dorset Family History Society has teamed up with its counterpart group in Devon and the Family History Federation to hold the event, which includes a range of exhibitors, speakers and experts.

Two talks will be on offer, each given twice during the day-long event.

Making the Most of Your Autosomal DNA Matches is a practical talk focusing on Ancestry DNA, showing how family historians can work with their matches to advance their family history research.

An A to Z of Family History – An Alphabetical Journey Through Less Well-known Sources provides information on lesser known resources

family historians can use rather than the well-known sources usually available online from major providers.

Places are limited at the talks – a small fee will apply – and will be allocated on a first come first served basis.

Visitors will also have a chance to meet the experts:

Dating photographs – take old family photos to receive

help dating them.

Exploring Your DNA –Between talks, the speaker will provide advice on individuals’ own DNA journey.

Palaeography – Reading old Wills – Tips for looking at old handwriting and assistance with deciphering old wills. Visitors should take along old documents to receive guidance.

General Family History

Half-term thrills and spills at motor museum

MAKE a pitstop at Haynes Motor Museum this February half-term (15–23) and enjoy automotive adventure for all ages.

Step back in time to 1985 with a new family trail celebrating the ground-breaking cars, iconic films, and unforgettable music of the early 80s.

Discover famous vehicles like the DeLorean, a bubble car, and a cutaway

Mini. Solve trail questions along the way and immerse yourself in the stories behind these incredible machines.

Feeling competitive? Get ready to race on the all-new radio-controlled track.

Prefer a slower pace? Create your own motoring masterpiece with the interactive brick-building activity.

The DriveTribe Exhibition features TVfamous cars like The Grand Tour’s Aston Martin from the ‘Sand Job’ episode and Richard Hammond’s beloved Oliver from Top Gear

These vehicles and their fascinating stories offer a unique glimpse into automotive stardom.

Even little ones are catered for, with an engaging outdoor play area perfect for some fresh-air fun. And for families with toddlers, under-fours go free.

Being an all-weather attraction, Haynes is the perfect day out for car enthusiasts at this time of year.

Plus, book online and save 10%.

With over 300 vehicles on display, the Museum covers everything from classic cars to modern supercars. The ‘Hall of

Research – Researchers from family history societies will be available for advice, guidance and general help with research challenges.

Visitors should reserve a free slot to meet the experts.

The event will also include a range of exhibitors from neighbouring family history societies, commercial organisations which provide goods and services of interest to family historians, and local history societies.

The South West Really Useful Family History Show is at Kinson Community Centre (Pelhams Park), Millhams Road, Bournemouth BH10 7LH on Saturday, March 29, from 10am–4pm.

Entry, parking and refreshments are all free.

For more information, visit www.dorsetfhs.org.uk/eventsactivities/family-history-day.

Motorsport’ exhibition showcases vehicles that have shaped racing history, celebrating the engineering, speed, and passion behind motorsport.

Haynes Motor Museum, Sparkford, Nr. Yeovil, Somerset, BA22 7LH. Open 10am daily. For more information call 01963 440804 or visit www.haynesmotormuseum. org

Doctor in the house for classic Wilde comedy

STAR of Doctor Who, Ncuti Gatwa, takes to the stage dressed in a Barbie-pink satin ballgown in Oscar Wilde’s comedy The Importance of Being Ernest

The production, filmed at the National Theatre and described as ‘triumphantly queer’, is being screened at Shaftesbury Arts Centre next weekend.

Race across the planet

PUPPETRY, fantastic facts, silly slapstick, crazy comedy and live music come together in a new show for all the family.

Wonderful World sees Craig Johnson of Squashbox Theatre

Gatwa plays the louche playboy Algy. He and best friend Ernest lead double lives – Algy pretends to have an invalid friend named Bunbury so he can skip boring social events, while Ernest has invented a reprobate younger brother so he can escape his dutiful family obligations.

When Ernest tells Algy of his

as an intrepid explorer in a breathless race across the planet.

He needs to decipher clues left by his globe-trotting Great Aunt Gladys which could explain her mysterious disappearance.

Wonderful World crosses continents, encountering strange

plans to propose to Gwendolen, Algy laughs in disbelief, and he teasingly sums up his friend’s different personas: “Ernest in town, Jack in the country”.

The Importance of Being

and splendid creatures, meeting crazy characters and learning incredible facts about geography, ecosystems, climate and navigation along the way.

The show is at The Mowlem in Swanage on Tuesday, February 18; Broadwindsor Comrades Hall on Wednesday, February 19; and Alderholt

Errnest is screened on Saturday, February 22, at 7pm. Tickets are available online at www. shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk or from the ticket office in the mornings.

Village Hall on Thursday, February 20.

Afterwards, children can take part in a puppet-making workshop and create articulated card puppets of animals from around the world – workshop places are limited.

For more details and tickets, visit www.artsreach.co.uk

Broadchurch creator looks on lighter side

WORST Wedding Ever, a comedy-drama by Broadchurch creator Chris Chibnall, is set to be performed at the Tivoli Theatre in Wimborne.

Rachel and Scott are getting married and buying a house together – not the easiest of things to do at the same time.

When the house price goes up, their plans for a dream wedding have to be downsized to the local registry office.

Rachel’s mother, however, has other ideas. What if the family could join forces and make it a wedding to be proud of?

With a marquee in the back garden, a hand-me-down dress, the pub band and two fully functioning Portaloos, surely

the day will pass without a hitch?

The play, set in Dorset where Chris Chibnall has lived for the past 20 years, is being performed by Wimborne Drama Productions from Thursday to Saturday, February 20-22.

It is directed by Tracey Nicholls and in her cast are Jo Eva Edington, Rob CordingCook, Tracie BillingtonBeardsley, Gary Paine, David Beddard-Banks, Michelle Barter, Tony Feltham and Calum Hearne.

For more information and to book tickets phone the Tivoli Theatre box office on 01202 885566 or visit www. tivoliwimborne.co.uk

Ncuti Gatwa camps it up in The Importance of Being Ernest

Jo Eva Edington and Rob Cording-Cook, who play Rachel and Scott

Arts & Entertainment

Music, poetry and Dorset fayre

THE Ridgeway Singers & Band and Dorset rural arts charity Artsreach have celebrated the works of the county’s own dialect poet, William Barnes, since 2017 through music, song and poetry in Tea with William Barnes. Born in Bagber in 1801, Barnes attended school in Sturminster Newton.

A scholar, linguist, artist, priest and inventor, he wrote more than 800 poems in the Dorset dialect, relishing the country dances, folk songs and carols of the county, and often writing about community celebrations where music was an element.

This year’s Tea with William Barnes celebration is at Sturminster Newton Exchange on Sunday, February 23, at 3pm.

Led by Tim Laycock and Phil Humphries, The Ridgeway Singers and Band will be joined by guests from The William Barnes Society to celebrate the life of Barnes, performing traditional songs and dance tunes collected across the county, and reciting some of the poems that keep alive the rich dialect of Dorset.

Tickets for the afternoon include a Dorset Cream tea and are available to book via The Exchange on 01258 475137 or online at www.artsreach.co.uk

The event will also be live-streamed by Pageant Productions and available to watch online at www.artsreach. co.uk or on the Artsreach Facebook page for those unable to attend in person.

Artsreach is also partnering with The Exchange and Dorset

DORSET MUTINEERS ACAPELLA SHANTY GROUP are looking for new members ideally bass singers, we rehearse every Monday evening in Sherborne and have various gigs through the year. Call 07817-939623

Events

Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before

JUMBLE SALE

Ashmore Village Hall SP5 5AQ

Food & Drink to host a mini pop-up producers and makers market on the day, open from 11am-3pm.

PUPPETRY, silliness and storytelling are on the menu when Sam O’ Shanty comes to three venues in Dorset at February half-term. This nautically comic show for all the family is crammed with facts, fantasy and farce,

and is perfect for children aged four-plus.

It is at Sixpenny Handley Village Hall on Monday, February 17, Litton Cheney Community Hall on Tuesday, February 18, and Sturminster Newton Exchange on Wednesday, February 19, all at 11am.

For more details and tickets, visit www.artsreach. co.uk.

Cellist’s candlelit recital

THE outstanding Catalan cellist, Gerard Flotans, is set to give a candlelit recital in St Peter’s Church, Dorchester.

Stalbridge Hall Thursday 27th February

Doors open 6.30pm

11 5 40 64 22 BINGO!

Eyes down 7.30pm In aid of hall funds 90

SIXPENNY HANDLEY COMMUNITY CINEMA

The Outrun

Village Hall, Common Road SP5 5NJ

Friday 21 February | 6.30 for 7.00 pm

£6 | Bar & snacks | Information: 6dhandleyhall@gmail.com

The concert is being organised in collaboration with the Tillett Trust, which supports the most talented UK performers as they begin their careers in classical music.

Gerard has been winner of the Royal Overseas League Strings Competition, a Philip and Dorothy Green Young Artist and has been invited to perform at music festivals around Europe such as IMS Prussia Cove, Mendelssohn on Mull, Schiermonnikoog, Santander Encuentro and the Hope Academy.

An avid chamber musician, Gerard has collaborated with renowned artists such as

Daniel Hope, Roger Vignoles, Jens Peter Maintz and the Doric Quartet.

Gerard’s programme includes two of Bach’s Cello Suites – No. 4 in Eb Major BWV 1010 and No. 3 in C major BWV 1009 – alongside works for unaccompanied cello by Casals and Cassado. Tickets for the concert on Friday, February 21, at 7pm are £10 and are available at www.musicatstpeters dorchester.org/events.

The Ridgeway Singers & Band are performing their annual Tea with William Barnes event at The Exchange in Sturminster Newton

Catalan cellist Gerard Flotans

Arts & Entertainment

Young folk duo hitting the road

LANDSCAPES painted in Dorset and Wiltshire, and Sicily, will go on show when Christopher Riisager holds an exhibition of new work at The Art Stable at Child Okeford.

The exhibition runs until Saturday, March 8, and is open Thursday to Saturday, 10am-3pm and by appointment.

Pictured is the artist’s painting Ruins, at Tonnaro del Secco in Sicily.

EXCITING and energetic young folk duo Arthur Coates and Kerran Cotterell are quickly carving out a name for themselves.

The pair, who are heading to Dorset following the release of their debut album, Music for Cows, have a unique style, rooted in Quebecois traditional music fused with songs from around the British Isles and North America.

Arthur Coates studied violin and piano at the Aberdeen City Music School and is an acclaimed fiddle player.

Guitarist Kerran Cotterell has garnered numerous plaudits having performed at Cambridge Folk Festival and the BBC Proms in the Royal Albert Hall.

The pair are performing in Dorset at the village halls at Shipton Gorge on Thursday, February 27; Milborne St Andrew on Friday, February 28; and Woodlands on Saturday, March 1, all at 7.30pm.

Tickets and further information are available at www.artsreach.co.uk

Accident waiting to happen?

EVERY time I drive past this stretch of road in Sturminster Newton it occurs to me that some unfortunate motorist will come to grief and end up in the river. Perhaps in winter when the roads are covered in ice! Surely the post and rail fence should be extended more towards the Mill?

Come on Dorset Council – get it done before it is too late!

Brian R Chant Marnhull

It is nice to see some of the empty shops being renovated and fronts painted.

Let’s just hope the rents will be affordable so new businesses will be attracted to our town.

It is a very sad place at the moment – it used to have almost all we needed.

fresh, clean bedding, seemingly without a care in the world.

Undercover investigations and scientific papers show how animals suffer in laboratories.

The data from animals cannot be reliably translated to humans, making their suffering and deaths even more scandalous – all this suffering in the name of ‘bad science’.

A recent government report outlined cases of ‘noncompliance’ with the licences granted to conduct animal experiments.

These included:

n Two dogs reached the ‘humane endpoint’ of their use – when it is deemed their suffering is too much and they should be killed. However, in this case, ‘appropriate action was not taken’.

n ‘Processes were not followed, leading to the deaths of 20 mice in an overcrowded transport box’.

These are just two of 169 cases of non-compliance.

Animal Aid is opposed to all animal experiments – they are cruel and unreliable – and we have published our roadmap to phase out animal experiments.

Find out more and ask your MP to support it – visit www. animalaid.org.uk/

EndAnimalTests

Jessamy Korotoga Head of Science, Animal Aid

Town is in a sorry state

I AM wondering what on earth is happening to Blandford.

Most of the shops have closed, there’s hardly any market and now it seems that most people just want a Turkish haircut!

How on earth was the huge gold sign allowed to be put up opposite the church?

There used to be strict rules and regulations about signs and colours on shop fronts because Blandford is an ‘Old Georgian Town’.

I remember several years ago the owner of a small lighting shop in East Street fitting security shutters to the windows for protection and promptly being told to have them removed, so his little business disappeared.

The town has plenty of eateries, if you can afford to visit one.

Soon Lloyds bank will close – a large number of people needing a haircut could fit into that!

Was it in the First World War When the US turned up late? Was it during Prohibition When gangsters ruled with hate?

H Rawles Blandford St

Mary

A short poem about MAGA...

MAKING America Great Again ?

‘We’re making America Great again!’

That’s what the Trumpites roar

But I’m really just left thinking When was it Great before?

Was it when the native Americans Were suffering genocide? Was it when the gory slave trade

Meant millions of black folk died?

Was it in the Great Depression? Was it in the Second World War?

Dropping two nukes on civilians

After turning up late like before.

Was it in Korea or Vietnam? In segregation, Watergate and more?

Was it in some numbskull presidents?

Or the shootings of children galore?

The red necks, the Bible Belt, the killing of blacks, The ruling of women by men, If any of this made America Great, I hope it isn’t Great again! Martin Hobdell Swanage

Airmen parachuted to safety

IN response to Mr Hayward’s letter – New Blackmore Vale, January 17 – and his wife’s recollections, the crash she remembers was on our land on July 6, 1971.

A Sea Vixen from Yeovilton had difficulties and both airmen parachuted successfully over the Sigwells area.

The plane crashed and blew into many pieces in the field next to our farm, and airmen from the base came and walked the land and cut off the whole area for a time.

The small village of Mapperton is two miles away, nearer the A303. This may have caused the confusion.

Bapsy Gooding Via email

Bapsy Gooding sent in this snippet (below) from the local church magazine and the photos (above) from the crash scene

Variety is the spice of an MP’s life

RATHER than a themed article I thought a few ‘what have I been up to’ highlights might be interesting:

• I’ve held a number of advice surgeries across North Dorset and we are now on the case helping many constituents sort out their issues of concern. These straddle all areas such as Child Maintenance, SEND provision, planning and HMRC issues.

• I enjoyed sitting down with Puddletown Parish Council recently to discuss local issues and the wider Westminster scene.

• Flyers have been delivered to promote my Meet Your MP events in Puddletown and Tolpuddle. Both were new additions to the North Dorset constituency and I am enjoying getting to know the local community.

• In the Commons I spoke in a debate on the damaging imposition of the Family Farm Tax. The weight of sectoral and

Conservative MP for North Dorset

Simon Hoare

professional opinion against this proposal is growing and I asked the Minister a very simple question: What would Labour be saying if this were a Tory measure introduced by a Tory Government? He did not have a reply!

• Again, in the Commons, I was heavily involved, working cross-Party, on the Climate & Nature Bill. This was a Private Member’s Bill and I was able

to help with the tactics to advance this kind of legislation. My focus in the debate was very much on increasing and improving biodiversity and recognising the twinned relationship between our natural world and climate. I was able to point out that it was Margaret Thatcher who was the first national leader to make a speech on the environment and climate at the UN.

• Local councillor James Vitali and I met residents of Blackmore Meadows in Stalbridge recently to discuss the lack of developer action in finishing roads, pavements and drains. I am in contact with the company and will meet them shortly. When people spend good money on a house, they deserve for the development to be finished to a high standard.

• Lloyds delivered further bad news by announcing the autumn closure of its branch in Blandford. I am meeting

Lloyds next month in the Commons to discuss how it will deliver community banking support. When a market town bank closes it has a disproportionately negative effect on the local economy. I am not sure the banks realise this. Moreover, our demographic is older, and use of a physical bank is often preferred or required by my older constituents. To that end local councillors Noc LaceyClarke and Byron Quayle and I will be pressing for a Banking Hub to meet the needs of the town and its surrounding villages.

• I also raised in the Commons the mad idea of the Lib Dem Council to introduce night-time parking charges. These will inconvenience residents and be a blow to the evening and leisure economy of our market towns. I have written to the Council Leader – no reply –but pray it will drop this damaging policy.

Towns prove high streets can thrive

THIS week we had an important debate on the health of rural high streets. The wonderful towns of West Dorset may be small, but they are mighty.

The resilience of our local businesses cannot be overstated. The Liberal Democrat-run town councils have done a brilliant job of working with local business groups to help our high streets recover from the ravages of Covid.

In our towns of Bridport, Dorchester and Sherborne we have seen encouraging signs of recovery but there is still much work.

Lib Dem MP for West Dorset

Edward Morello

the national average of 14%, but still above pre-pandemic levels.

In Dorchester, the town’s Sunday market has drawn more than 10,000 visitors, leading some businesses to extend their opening hours.

Sherborne, too, has shown its ability to attract new businesses. With cultural events like Abbey Concerts, the Literary Festival, the Film Festival and the Sherborne Festive Shopping Day in December helping to bring more people into the town.

rural communities.

Our high streets are not just places to shop – they are spaces where communities come together.

These businesses need our help, not just from all of us shopping locally, but from government policies that recognise the unique challenges of rural high streets. That is why the Liberal Democrats are fighting so hard to convince the Government to reverse its decisions on National Insurance contributions and business rates.

Amazingly, Bridport and West Bay enjoy 596,000 day visits a year, and up to £49 million in tourism spend –including £10m for shopping alone. Driven in no small part by a packed calendar of events in the town.

Retail unoccupancy in the town is 7%, significantly below

But there are challenges, too. The last remaining bank in Sherborne is set to close soon, to be replaced by a banking hub. This transition highlights the ongoing struggle to maintain essential services in

West Dorset is home to some of the most remarkable towns in the country. They are proving that with determination, innovation and the right support, high streets can thrive.

CAN kicked down the road, yet again

LAST time I referred to the human super power of imagination, and how it can be used to create solutions as well as motivate us to take action and implement those solutions. Sadly, there was precious little imagination in the Government’s response to the Climate & Nature (CAN) Bill debated in Parliament on January 24.

The Bill calls for the creation and implementation of a joined-up strategy to reduce the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions and reverse the catastrophic degradation of nature. Critically, the Bill also calls for legally binding targets, and the involvement of a Citizens Assembly whereby informed members of the public have a say in the formulation of the legislation. The Government shied away from both the idea of firm targets and the involvement of citizens in

Ken Huggins on behalf of the Green Party in North Dorset

setting those targets. It pushed through a motion to cut the debate short before it could be put to a vote. The Bill has been rescheduled for July 11, when there will probably not be enough time for it to be debated. And so, the CAN has been kicked down the road, yet again, in spite of the glaringly obvious fact that the climate is

now changing rapidly for the worse and our natural world continues to decline.

Although the UK already has a legislative environmental framework, including the Climate Change Act 2008, the Government’s advisory body, the Climate Change Committee, has repeatedly warned that the UK is way off track to reach its targets and urgently needs to do much better.

That so few MPs turned up for the debate speaks volumes about the lack of urgency with which our elected representatives view the two most important issues of our time, climate change and the environment. Included among the MPs who did attend were the cross-party group of 12 MPs co-sponsoring the Bill, which includes North Dorset MP Simon Hoare. My thanks to Simon for speaking eloquently in the shortened

debate about the need for the Bill.

Agreeing with the Government’s aversion to Citizens Assemblies, the Tory frontbench spokesman declared that “it’s not how decisions should be made in this country”. They would do well to reflect on how badly the present decision making system has failed us, with a marked decline in the public’s trust and confidence in our parliamentary system. Particularly so among our younger citizens, who increasingly rely on social media that is awash with ideas that threaten the future of democracy. In one recent poll 52% of those aged between 13 and 27 – so-called Gen Z – thought we should have a strong leader “who does not have to bother with parliament and elections”. History shows only too well where that path leads.

New nuclear plants will bring jobs

OVER the last couple of weeks we saw more examples of the Labour Government’s plan for change.

More nuclear power plants will now be approved across England and Wales as the Prime Minister slashes red tape to get Britain building.

Reforms to planning rules will clear a path for smaller and easier-to-build nuclear reactors – known as Small Modular Reactors – to be built for the first time ever in the UK. This will create thousands of new highly skilled jobs while delivering clean, secure and more affordable energy for working people.

It’s part of Labour’s refusal to accept the status quo, with the Government ripping up archaic rules and saying no to the NIMBYs, to prioritise growth. It comes after recent changes to planning laws, the scrapping of the three-strike rule for judicial reviews on

Greg Williams, on behalf of Dorset Labour

infrastructure projects and application of commonsense to environmental rules.

For too long the country has been mired by delay and obstruction, with a system too happy to label decisions as too difficult or too long term. Perhaps we will see small modular reactors in Dorset, along with more onshore wind and solar?

One of the best ways to reduce our emissions associated with energy use is just to use less energy in the first place.

As of 2030 all private landlords will be required to meet a higher standard of Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) C or equivalent in their properties – up from the current level of EPC E.

This will require landlords to invest in measures such as loft insulation, cavity wall insulation and double glazing, ensuring homes are warmer and more affordable for tenants.

For years tenants have been abandoned and forgotten as opportunities to deliver warm homes and lower energy bills have been disregarded and ignored. These new changes could save renters £240 a year by increasing the efficiency of homes to cut the cost of bills.

In local news, we saw the ‘heart of Wessex’ plan for a combined Dorset, Somerset,

Wiltshire and BCP authority excluded from the next round of the Government’s devolution plans.

I’m not sure this should come as a surprise – the different council leaders were hardly positive about the scheme in the first place, with the leader of Wiltshire proclaiming ‘none of us think a Mayor is a good idea.’ They wanted devolution without democratic accountability and, unsurprisingly, the Government instead selected regions in the north which were more positive.

Perhaps this failed attempted will have the impact of getting the councils of Wessex to work together more on shared services, better inter-county bus connections and on meeting housing targets. There’s no reason why they cannot.

Hardy’s greater Wessex might have to wait a bit longer, but the benefits of cooperation can be achieved now.

MP’s call on rural high streets

THE MP for Yeovil, Adam Dance, has called on the Government to take urgent action to stop the decline of high streets in rural areas.

He highlighted the closures of banks, pharmacies, businesses and cultural and leisure facilities across South Somerset in a debate in Westminster Hall.

He cited the closures of Lloyds Bank in Ilminster and Chard, and said that while Crewkerne has secured a banking hub, Ilminster and Chard have been denied one.

He urged the Government to reassess LINK’s criteria for banking hubs, to ensure that rural geography and travel times are properly considered so that communities are not unfairly left without face-to-face

banking services.

Local businesses are also feeling the strain, with the popular Kazbar in Yeovil among those forced to close.

Mr Dance highlighted the business rates system as a key

driver of closures and called for a Commercial Landowner Levy to tax land value fairly, rather than penalising productive investment.

He also raised concerns about the pressure on community pharmacies, with an estimated 1,200 pharmacies closing nationwide in the last seven years and facing increasing financial difficulties.

He called on the Government to exempt pharmacies from the upcoming rise in Employer National Insurance Contributions in the 2025-26 funding contract negotiations.

Mr Dance praised the recent investment in Yeovil’s new amphitheatre at The Triangle as an example of what investment in public spaces can achieve.

However, he warned that

funding cuts of more than £2.3 billion since 2010 have left local authorities struggling to deliver similar projects and urged the Government to increase funding for arts and cultural spaces to bring life back to rural town centres.

Mr Dance added: “The tide of closures on our high streets must be reversed.

“Rural communities like those in South Somerset deserve high streets they can take pride in, with access to the services they need – not rows of boarded-up buildings.

“The Government must take action to address the broken Business Rates system, reassess banking hub criteria, support our pharmacies, and invest in arts and culture to help rebuild our high streets.”

Yeovil MP Adam Dance

On mental health and farming...

THIS Valentine’s Day, I want to highlight an issue close to my heart – farmers’ mental health. Today also marks the end of Mind Your Head Week, an initiative led by the Farm Safety Foundation, bringing together more than 400 organisations to create awareness around mental health in farming. This year that’s more vital than ever. Alarming statistics reveal 65% of farmers fear losing their farms in the next 18 months, and 95% say mental health is the biggest hidden danger facing farming.

Mind Your Head week’s theme this year – positivity, resilience and love – could not be more fitting, as farmers are in need of all the above. They work tirelessly to feed the nation, often facing financial insecurity, unpredictable weather and long hours in isolation. Pressure on their mental health has never been greater. So, it’s incredibly disappointing the Government has chosen to add to the burden

LibDem MP for Glastonbury & Somerton Sarah Dyke

with its devastating family farm tax – which could see many family farms forced to sell up to pay inheritance tax.

A farming family who contacted me from Bruton told me how five generations had farmed their land for 100 years, but heartbreakingly their son would probably have to close

the farm gates forever when they passed on if the family farm tax is implemented. Imagine generations of history and hard work sold off in order to pay a tax which the Government’s own figures show won’t move the needle on public finances. Make no mistake about the cost – the loss of family farms will be devastating for our food supply and national security and will hit the mental health of our farmers unspeakably hard.

This year, I’m also particularly concerned about the mental health of women in agriculture. Women play an integral role in farming, often balancing multiple responsibilities and working tirelessly to keep farm and family afloat, yet there is little support for their unique challenges. So, I’m pleased that a new study from Exeter University is seeking to understand more about this issue.

It is essential we break the

stigma surrounding mental health in agriculture. Seeking support should be seen as a strength. By encouraging open conversations, we can ensure that, despite the toughest of times, farmers receive the help they need before reaching crisis point.

I will continue to champion mental health awareness for our farmers in Parliament. I believe we can build a farming industry that is supportive of those who dedicate their lives to it.

So, as we celebrate Valentine’s Day, let’s extend our appreciation and compassion to the farming community who continue to put food on the nation’s table, despite ever more challenging conditions.

As always, I want to hear from you. If you would like to share your views, have an issue I can help with, or wish to register your interest to attend one of my regular advice surgeries, please don’t hesitate to contact me at sarah.dyke. mp@parliament.uk

Questions over health choices

MY long-running campaign against the proposed incinerator in Westbury is partly about public health and partly about the environment. I never miss an opportunity in the House of Commons to urge the Government to ban new waste burners, as the Scottish and Welsh governments have done. Either Scotland and Wales are right or the UK government is. No prizes.

This week it was the Government’s new National Cancer Plan. I cautiously welcome the Government’s proposal, even if it is more of a plan for a plan. The damning Darzi report on the NHS found more cancer in the UK population than in continental Europe, Scandinavia and the rest of the English-speaking world. The NHS isn’t hitting its referral targets and the

Conservative MP for South West Wiltshire

Dr Andrew Murrison

improvement in survival rates after one, five and 10 years has slowed and kept slowing. We can and should do better. Clearly the Government needs

to act.

But that’s the key word – act. Words must be converted into action. It’s still quite early days for this administration but it’s a bad sign that it has already scrapped the Major Conditions Strategy published by the last government. The idea there was to improve outcomes for patients suffering from six major conditions – cancer, heart disease, musculoskeletal disorders, mental ill-health, dementia and respiratory diseases. That was broader than the new plan that focuses on cancer alone.

You can do both. The Government seems to have decided to prioritise cancer care over the rest. But prioritising one thing means deprioritising others. Resources that would have gone towards improving care for heart or dementia

patients now will not, presumably. How about those suffering from chronic neurological conditions, such as people with Parkinson’s disease who I met recently at a self-help group in Trowbridge. Having been a minister, I appreciate how difficult it is to decide how to distribute resources between equally deserving groups. You want to help them all but don’t have the resources to do it. Hard choices are the daily business of government and making them is rarely much fun. One choice that should not have been difficult, however, is wasting £9-18 billion on paying Mauritius to take the Chagos Islands off our hands. I asked the Government why it has done this rather than fund the Winter Fuel Allowance. I did not get an answer.

Wordsearch

Sudoku 3D puzzle

Cryptic crossword

Place 1 to 9 once into every black-bordered 3x3 area as well as each of the 54 rows indicated by the coloured lines. Rows don’t cross the thick black lines.

Killer Sudoku Pro

Brain

chain (hard version)

• Anglican High Mass at Wimborne St Giles: First Sunday of each month at 11am. BH21 5LZ.

• Blandford Methodist Church: Sundays – everyone is invited to services at 10.45am. Thursdays – coffee and a chat from 10am-noon. Fridays –lunch club for over-55s from noon at £5 per meal. Phone Joyce Wild on 07817 505543 to book. The church is anxious to offer help to all those in need

– call church steward John Cornish on 07799 516735 or leave a message.

• Blandford Evangelical Church: Sunday – 10am Family Service. Monday – weekly gathering for older people 2.30pm-3.30pm. Tuesday –Footprints, an activities playtime for pre-school children, 10am11.30am and 1.15pm-2.45pm. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings – small groups meet at homes at 7.30pm. The church is in Albert Street. Phone 450689 for more information.

• Castleton, Sherborne, St Mary Magdalene (DT9 3SA): First, third and fourth Sundays, Sung Mattins; second and fifth Sundays, Holy Communion. All services are BCP at 11.15am.

• Chalbury Church: Fourth Sunday of the month, 10am Holy Communion.

• Chatty Café Scheme: Pear Tree Café, Half Moon Street, Sherborne, Mondays 2pm3.45pm.

• Cheap Street Church, Sherborne: Prayer time –9.45am Thursday; Thought for the Day – 10.30am Thursday; Sunday service at 10.30am; Monday Music second Monday of the month at 6.15pm; Taizé Service second Sunday each month at 6.30pm. Further details from vicarlesley@outlook.com

• Digby Memorial Church Hall: Sherborne Quakers – Meet Sundays 10.30am in the Griffiths Room. For more information, phone Nick on 07870 192599. Children’s Choir – Rehearses at the Almshouse on Mondays at 4pm. Contact charlie. gurnham@sherborneabbey. com, assistant director of music,

to join, or just turn up. Mothers’ Union – Next meeting is on Friday, February 28, at 10am for 10.30am in the Griffiths Room. The speaker is the Rector on The Almshouse Past & Future. Everyone welcome. Shrove Lunch – Sunday, March 2, from 12.30pm. Tickets: £12.50 –children free – available from the Parish Office.

• Hinton Martell: Second Sunday of the month, 10am Holy Communion.

• Horton Church: First Sunday of the month, 10am Holy Communion.

• Horton & Chalbury Village Hall: Third Sunday of the month, 9am Breakfast Church.

• Kingston Lacy: Second Sunday of the month, 9.15am Holy Communion. Fourth Sunday of the month, 9.15am Family Service.

• Lillington: All morning services at Lillington now begin at 9.30am.

• Longburton Village Cafe: Held in the village church of St James, the cafe provides tea, coffee – free refills and great cakes – for just £2.50. Tuesday, February 18, 10.30am-noon.

• Lufton Church: BA22 8SU, just to the west of Yeovil. Prayer Book services every Sunday at 6pm. Sung Mass on the third Sunday. See www.lufton.co.uk for details.

• Our Lady’s RC Church, Marnhull: Mass Sunday, 9am and 6pm.

• Sacred Heart, Tisbury, and All Saints’ Wardour Catholic Parish: Sunday Mass – Sacred Heart, Tisbury, 9am, coffee after Mass; All Saints’ Wardour 10.30am.

• Shapwick: Third Sunday of the month, 9.15am Holy Communion.

• Shaftesbury Quakers (Society of Friends): Meets for one hour each Sunday from 10.30am at the Quaker Meeting House, Abbey Walk, Shaftesbury SP7 8BB.

• Shaftesbury team benefice: February 16 – St Peter’s, 9.30am Holy Communion; St James, 9am Holy Communion; Motcombe, 10am Breakfast Church; Compton Abbas,

11.15am Holy Communion; Enmore Green, 11.15am Morning Worship; Motcombe, 6pm Evening Worship. ebruary 23 – St Peters, 9.30am Holy Communion; Motcombe, 9.30am Holy Communion; Melbury Abbas, 11.15am Holy Communion; Enmore Green, 11.15am Morning Worship; St James, 4pm Teatime Church; St James 6pm, Reflective Communion.

• Sherborne Abbey: Monday to Saturday, 8.30am Morning Prayer; The Sepulchre Chapel. Mondays, 9am CW Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. Tuesday, noon CW Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. Wednesday, 10.30am Holy Communion with Homily; The Lady Chapel (alternates CW and BCP). Thursday, noon BCP Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. Friday, 9am Ecumenical Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. First Friday of the month, 9am Requiem Holy Communion; The Sepulchre Chapel. Third Friday of the month, 11am Remembering the Fallen. Saturday, 9am CW Holy Communion; The Sepulchre Chapel.

• Sherborne Abbey organ recitals: Mondays at 1.30 pm, free entry, retiring collection, everyone welcome.

• St Gregory’s, Marnhull: Sunday services 8am and 10am. Other services, visit www. stgregorysmarnhull.org.uk.

• St James Church, Shaftesbury: Two services as part of the Snowdrop Festival 2025. Everyone invited on Friday, February 14, 3.30pm. Short service includes an installation of artwork from the Abbey School. Sunday, February 16, 4pm – an opportunity for the community to connect with and support those suffering from dementia.

• St John’s Church, Enmore Green: Service every Sunday at 11.15am; parish communion on the first Sunday of the month; prayer services every other Sunday.

• St Margaret’s, Margaret Marsh (Shaftesbury Benefice) SP7 0AZ: Alternating first

Sundays Mattins and Holy Communion, 11.15am. Everyone welcome.

• St Mary’s, Motcombe: Evening worship (BCP) – every first Sunday 6pm; parish communion – every second and fourth Sunday 9.30am; evening worship – every third Sunday 6pm.

• St Mary’s, Sturminster Newton: First, third and fourth Sundays – 11am Holy Communion; second Sunday – 9.30am Morning Prayer; fifth Sunday – 11am Benefice Holy Communion; second and fourth Sundays – 6pm Evensong; Wednesdays – 10am Holy Communion.

• St Mary & St Bartholomew’s Church, Cranborne: Book of Common Prayer Evensong with the Benefice Choir, first Sunday of the month at 6pm.

• St Peter’s, Hinton St Mary: First, second and third Sundays, 9.30am Morning Prayer. Fourth Sunday, 9.30am Holy Communion.

• St Thomas’, Lydlinch: Second and fourth Sunday, 11am Holy Communion. Third Sunday, 6pm Evensong.

• Witchampton Church: Third Sunday of the month, 10am Holy Communion.

• Two Rivers Benefice: Sunday, February 16 – 9.30am Communion at St John The Baptist, Spetisbury; 9.30am Family Service at St Mary’s Church, Charlton Marshall; 11am Morning Worship at All Saints, Langton Long; 11am Communion at All Saints, Tarrant Keynston. Sunday, February 23 – 9.30am Communion at St Mary’s Church, Charlton Marshall; 9.30am Morning Worship at St John The Baptist, Spetisbury; 11am Communion at All Saints, Langton Long; 11am BCP Communion at St Mary’s Church, Tarrant Rushton. Coffee and cake – Spetisbury 10am – 11.30am first and third Monday each month. Coffee and cake – Blandford St Mary 10am-11.30am March 20. Coffee stop – Charlton Marshall Parish Centre 10.30am-12.30pm Tuesday to Friday.

Gold watch chains in high demand for repurposing

CLARKE’S Auctions in Gillingham has found that gold, silver and jewellery items are still the best sellers at auction after its first sale of 2025.

A charming gold and enamel folding lorgnette with concealed watch sold for £3,200 to an online bidder despite having a damaged enamel panel.

The intricate enamel panel depicting a mother and child and her attendants was worked by one of the finest enamelling artists of the 19th century, Auguste Le Dutertrie, of Geneva.

Another lot that generated a lot of interest was a George VI silver miniature replica of the Warwick vase made by Edward Barnard, London 1938.

Measuring only 5cm high, it was modelled on the 2nd century AD vase found in Tivoli in 1771.

Although fashion is ever changing and adapting, gold and good quality jewellery can always be repurposed and redesigned.

As the wearing of pocket watches has declined over the decades, original gold watch chains of the 19th and early 20th century are in high demand and are being fashioned into chunky gold bracelets and ‘T’ bar necklaces.

So, if you have any chunky old chains lurking about in the backs of drawers, call in and get one of Clarke’s valuers to take a look and give you an idea of its

Auctioneers & Valuers

Antiques & Collectibles Sale

Antiques & Collectables

Friday 9th & Saturday 10th August

Friday 7th & Saturday 8th March

Now accepting items for this and future sales

A modern design French 18ct gold bracelet. Sold for £3,800 hammer.

An original Fry & Sons 'Fry's Pure Concentrated Cocoa' enamel sign. Sold for £1,600. Clarke’s Auctions o er free home visits and verbal valuations. Now accepting items for this and future sales

The Old Glove Factory, Buckingham Road Gillingham, SP8 4QF 01747 685592 enquiries@clarkesauctions.co.uk

Dutertrie, Geneva, a 19th century French gold and

lorgnettes and watch set, sold for £3,200

The auction house is taking in entries for its March Antiques & Collectibles sale and its Classic Vehicles & Automobilia sale being held in April. Enquiries for consignment into either of these sales, for or full or part house clearances, should be made to Richard Clarke or Karen Marshall on 01747 685592 at the salerooms at The Old Glove Factory, Buckingham Road, Gillingham SP8 4QF.

Units 1 & 2 Kingsettle Business Park, 01747 855109 enquiries@clarkesauctions.co.uk

e Old Glove Factory, Buckingham Road Gillingham, SP8 4QF 01747 685592 enquiries@clarkesauctions.co.uk

Auguste

enamel

Georgian jewellery likely to sell well

ACREMAN St Auctioneers & Valuers, Sherborne, is set to hold its two-day February auction.

The general Antiques & Collectors sale on Thursday, February 27, from 10am, features a family collection of weapons put together over two generations that includes a Victorian police sword and an antique American Bowie knife by Hutton & Co in a brown leather sheath.

The Jewellery, Silver & Watches sale on Friday, February 28, from 10am, includes a small collection of Georgian gold mourning jewellery texpected to do well.

The catalogue and bidding are available through Easyliveauction.com and Thesaleroom.com, and Auctionet.com for timed auctions.

Acreman is holding a Spring Garden & Architectural Auction on Thursday, March 27 – if you have anything you would like to consign, please contact the auction house.

Acreman is now holding regular valuation days where prospective sellers can take in items for its specialists to evaluate at 121 Acreman Street, Sherborne DT9 3PH.

Valuation days, 10am-3pm: Jewellery & Watches, Tuesday and Saturday; Silver & Obje't D'art, Tuesday and Saturday; Toys & Collectables, Wednesday and Saturday; Oriental & Asian, Thursday and Saturday; Coins, Stamps, Books & Ephemera, Friday and Saturday; Militaria, Fridays and Saturday; Textiles & Fashion, Mondays and Saturday;

Paintings & Contemporary Art, Mondays and Saturdays.

Anyone unable to get along to the allocated days can phone or email to make an appointment – house visits can also be arranged if required.

Acreman is also accepting consignments for its upcoming sales and can offer advice on items being considered for auction.

Photographs can be emailed to auction@acremanstreet antiques.co.uk or visit the salerooms, open Monday to Saturday 9am-4pm.

Acreman can take in everything from single items to complete collections.

It can also offer advice and valuations to householders who are downsizing or who need to deal with a whole house and can arrange full house clearances at competitive rates.

Anyone who has anything they would like to consign should contact Gill Norman on 07908 333577 or 01935 508764 or via email.

20-plus Honda bikes for sale

A HOARD of 27 Honda motorbikes is entered into the Charterhouse auction of classic and vintage motorcycles at Haynes Motor Museum on Thursday, March 13.

“From a deceased estate in Wales they have been collected and enjoyed over many years,”

said George Beale, from the auction house.

The collection includes classic Hondas from the 1960s through to the 1980s with everything from 125cc commuter bikes to 1,000cc street machines.

Many bikes from the ever popular Honda CB range feature in the collection with CB250/350/500/550/750s, along with two Black Bombers and a sought after Honda CBX with a six-cylinder engine.

The collection is expected to sell for £70,000 with the bikes estimated to make between £1,000 and £10,000.

Charterhouse is now accepting further entries for this specialist auction of classic motorbikes.

George Beale and the Charterhouse team can be contacted for valuations on classic and vintage motorbikes at The Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne, on 01935 812277 or via bikes@charterhouseauction.com

is holding a free

and

watch and found yourself wondering, ‘what's this really worth?’.

It's a question that often lingers, whether it's an inherited heirloom, a gift from a special occasion or something you have simply collected over time.

Understanding the true value of these precious items can be informative for insurance purposes, estate planning or even simply satisfying curiosity.

Duke's offers a discreet and complimentary opportunity to have those questions answered.

on Tuesday, February 18,

its Fine Art Saleroom in Brewery Square, Dorchester

Get jewels and watches valued

DUKE’S Auctioneers is offering a chance to have your items valued, free of charge, at its salerooms in Dorchester on Tuesday, February 18.

The confidential valuation

could answer your abiding questions about the cost and quality of your jewellery and watches.

Have you ever looked at a piece of jewellery or a beloved

Its Fine Art premises in Brewery Square, Dorchester, will host a confidential valuation day specifically for jewellery and watches on Tuesday, February 18.

This is a chance to have your treasured items assessed by experts in the field, without any obligation.

Please contact reception on 01305 265080 or reception@ dukes-auctions.com to make an appointment with one of the auction house’s specialists.

Duke’s

jewellery

watches valuation,

at

Home & Garden

Growing new plants from seed

by Sally Gregson

THE days are lengthening. The sun is shining perceptibly more warmly. And the birds are getting more animated. Soon winter will be past and we can celebrate spring. And, gardeners among us especially, are thinking about growing new plants from seed.

This year there are lots of exciting new plants to raise and fill our gardens. For pots and borders there are all sorts of differently coloured flowers from apricot sunflowers ‘Astra Rose’; through magenta cornflowers ‘Red Boy’; to sweet peas the colour of the pale peaches and cream, Lathyrus ‘Castlewellan’.

If you like growing your own

vegetables, a new ‘micro’ aubergine that is small enough for pot culture must be welcome. Aubergines used to be very difficult to grow in the UK – our summers were never long enough. But breeders have developed varieties that are more tolerant of lower light levels, and this new dwarf form could be ideal for a meal for one or two. Each plant grows to just

Shrub lends a splash of colour on dull days

by Sally Gregson

GREVILLEAS are a genus of small winter-flowering shrubs that despite their lack of hardiness, brave our cold, wet weather and bring a splash of colour on dull days.

Were you reading this north of Yorkshire, you would be unwise to plant grevilleas outside at all. But they make everyone smile. They really do deserve a little extra care and attention.

And they seem to fit comfortably in British gardens

without blowing their own trumpets too raucously. The slightly aromatic, spiky leaves support clouds of spidery flowers mostly in shades of soft red or rich pink, or more unusually, primrose-yellow, from the middle of January until the end of March.

Grevilleas come from the other side of the world – the south-eastern corner of Australia – and if grown in our gloomy, English gardens, do need to be in full sun. They prefer an acid soil and good

over a foot in height (35cm) in a 2-litre pot on the windowsill or in the greenhouse, and will produce a stream of plump, shiny purple fruit.

Japanese plant breeders have also been working on winterhardy forms of Mizuna that can be picked throughout the cold months and eaten in salads. And there’s some pure white spring onions that can be harvested throughout the summer on offer. Order the seeds online, and when they arrive it’s important to keep the seeds correctly. Store them in their paper envelopes inside a plastic box with a lid that can be sealed. Place the box inside the fridge, which is kept at a steady 4-5 degrees centigrade. The

Grevilleas come from the south-eastern corner of Australia

drainage, too, and will fail if the ground is too wet.

But they are ideal subjects for a large pot that could be kept in the protection of a cold greenhouse or conservatory for the winter. This would be especially wise in our alkaline part of the country where the

humidity will be constant, too.

Garden centres have a good selection of the more usual seeds but be a little wary of those that display their seeds in a greenhouse. The temperature might fluctuate too much for good storage.

Sow the seeds in commercial compost that has been kept dry and covered from the rain. Not only does wet compost deteriorate the seeds but the added nutrients may have drained out.

If there is no suitable windowsill or greenhouse to use, sow half the seeds once the weather has warmed up, outside. Keep the other half in reserve in case our winter makes an unwelcome return.

pH of the compost could be managed more easily. Use an acid, ericaceous compost and, if possible, water the plant with rainwater. The plant could be trundled outside in summer for a holiday in the rain and sun.

A grevillea will quickly fill a large pot and reach up to 1.5 metres in height and width. For this reason, it might be wise in March or April, after it has finished flowering, to cut back the taller stems that have already flowered by about a half, to encourage side growth and make the plant better shaped and more bushy.

Planted out into an acid soil in a sunny part of the garden, a Grevillea will grow to about 2 metres in height and prefers its own space. They are free of pests, and even deer tend to ignore them.

Home & Garden

TREEWISE

Experts in all aspects of

TREE SURGERY, HEDGECUTTING & STUMP REMOVAL

NPTC qualified & fully insured No job too small, Friendly, personal advice and free quotations.

Make a wise choice and call David Merefield today on 01747 850906 / 07966 522361

Kitchens

Freestanding & fitted Supply & Fitting Service

£60.00 a transit load. ASBESTOS REMOVAL

Garages, Sheds, Lean to’s, Roofing and Cladding Collection and Dismantling BY

For all your fencing and decking needs

Closeboard, panels & sheds supplied and fitted. Gates made to measure.

Sherborne Fencing Ltd Tel: 01935 814272 Mobile: 07814246332 WANTEDDave buys all types of tools Call 01935 428975 SELF

For all your Plastering needs

LANDSCAPES. All aspects of garden • Fully qualified & insured tree surgeon • All aspects of tree surgery, hedge cutting & stump grinding

FENCING all types undertaken, Domestic, farm, equestrian. New work

Free Design & Planning By Luke James 07793065120 CURTAIN ALTERATIONS

Competitively priced • Free no obligation quotes

Business based in Shaftesbury, Offering a wide range of services including foam cut to size and HEDGE TRIMMING, planting, laying. Small tree

PETER PORT UPHOLSTERY A Local Family Run

North Dorset Tree Surgeons

FOR FREE QUOTATION 01747 822080

FOR

QUOTATION 01747 822080

CONTACT FOR FREE QUOTATION 01747 822080

CONTACT FOR FREE QUOTATION 01747 822080

info@kingsmeresurfacing.co.uk www.kingsmeresurfacing.co.uk

info@kingsmeresurfacing.co.uk www.kingsmeresurfacing.co.uk

info@kingsmeresurfacing.co.uk www.kingsmeresurfacing.co.uk

info@kingsmeresurfacing.co.uk www.kingsmeresurfacing.co.uk

info@kingsmeresurfacing.co.uk www.kingsmeresurfacing.co.uk

Kingsmere Surfacing are a specialist driveway company working within Dorset, Wiltshire & Somerset. We can transform the look of your home, by laying a new surface to your driveway, giving a beautiful, eye catching and individual look.

Kingsmere Surfacing are a specialist driveway company working within Dorset, Wiltshire & Somerset. We can transform the look of your home, by laying a new surface to your driveway, giving a beautiful, eye catching and individual look.

Kingsmere Surfacing are a specialist driveway company working within Dorset, Wiltshire & Somerset. We can transform the look of your home, by laying a new surface to your driveway, giving a beautiful, eye catching and individual look.

Kingsmere Surfacing are a specialist driveway company working within Dorset, Wiltshire & Somerset. We can transform the look of your home, by laying a new surface to your driveway, giving a beautiful, eye catching and individual look.

Kingsmere Surfacing are a specialist driveway company working within Dorset, Wiltshire & Somerset. We can transform the look of your home, by laying a new surface to your driveway, giving a beautiful, eye catching and individual look.

We offer a most attractive and versatile choice of surfaces for both classic and contemporary driveways.

We

We offer a most attractive and versatile choice of surfaces for both classic and contemporary driveways.

We offer a most attractive and versatile choice of surfaces for both classic and contemporary driveways.

We offer a most attractive and versatile choice of surfaces for both classic and contemporary driveways.

We offer a most attractive and versatile choice of surfaces for both classic and contemporary driveways.

Services offered include:

Services offered include:

Services offered include:

Services offered include:

Services offered include:

• Decorative Resin Bound & Bonded Aggregate

• Decorative Resin Bound & Bonded Aggregate

• Decorative Resin Bound & Bonded Aggregate

• Decorative Resin Bound & Bonded Aggregate

• Block Paving

• Decorative Resin Bound & Bonded Aggregate

• Block Paving

• Block Paving

• Block Paving

• Block Paving

• Natural Stone Patios & Paths

• Natural Stone Patios & Paths

• Natural Stone Patios & Paths

• Natural Stone Patios & Paths

• Natural Stone Patios & Paths

• Tarmacadam

• Tarmacadam

• Tarmacadam

• Tarmacadam

• Tarmacadam

Home & Garden

Landscaping, Groundworks and Garden Maintenance, Specialists in Patios, Fencing, Driveways, Walling, Ponds, Turfing Free Quotations amralphlandscaping@gmail.com www.ralphlandscaping.co.uk

Tel: 01747 631471 Mobile: 07921 637227

Tree Surgery. Reductions. Felling. Hedge Trimming. Stump Grinding. Woodchip supplies.

Tree Surgery. Reductions. Felling. Hedge Trimming. Stump Grinding. Woodchip supplies.

Family run business since 1946

Family run business since 1946

Tel: 01963 250005

Tel: 01963 250005

Mobile: 07976 934 252

Mobile: 07976 934 252 www.bandgdown.co.uk

ALL TYPES OF EXTERIOR CLEANING

UNDERTAKEN. Gutter

cleaning, roof cleaning, patio driveways and solar

DRYSTONE WALLING AND LANDSCAPING www.yenstonewalling.co.

TOOLS WANTED. Cash waiting. 01747 416022

M & A J Landscaping

~ Fencing ~ Walling

~ Patios/Steps

~ Concreting/Tarmac

~ Tree work

~ Garden maintenance

WOODLAND CLEARING AND COPPICING, pruning, hedge cutting, Chain-sawing and general

HUSSEY CARPET AND FLOORING,

South Street, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 4AP

Domestic and Commercial Carpets,Vinyl,Luxury Vinyl Tiles,

JAMES AYRES

DORSET TREE CARE

Specialist Tree Workers

All kinds of trees expertly felled, topped and pruned.

LANGTON NURSERIES (C W Abbott & Son) Seed

Potatoes, IOW Garlic, Shallots and Onion Sets. Fruit Trees and Ornamental Trees, Perennials & Shrubs, Large selection of; stoneware, terracotta and glazed pots, Wild Bird food 20kg £14.50, Stockists of Kings, Franchi and Fothergill Budget Seeds, Potting Compost. Open daily

LES BENHAM

Garden Property Maintenance

All Hedge/tree work/rubbish clearance

Gravel Driveways/Pressure Washing

GUTTERS CLEARED

• Windows,

• Fascias,

• Soffits,

• Gutters cleaned,

• Repairs,

• Free Estimates 07788-376752

Garden & Property Maintenance

Tree Pruning/Cutting

Lawn Mowing

Weed Control

Hedge Cutting Driveway/Patio Cleaning Landscaping

Low Maintenance Gardens Fencing

Call For A Free Quote

OUTDOORS

cooperg685@gmail.com

GC GARDEN CARE 07754 821 232

TREES R US Dorset.co.uk.

Hedges, Patios, Turf & Fencing

WINDOWS & DOORS

Family run Door and Window installations and repairs company with 20 years’ experience

We’ll help you fall in love with your home again at an affordable price

Call for a free quote on 01747 859 209 / 07429 680 959 or view our gallery at www.lovedoorsandwindows.co.uk

RESTORATION OF YOUR WOODEN WINDOWS, DOORS and So Much More. Embrace the old don’t buy new. WINDOWS & DOORS RESTORATION

Local Services

ARCHITECTURAL, BUILDING & ELECTRICAL

Architectural Services

WOODROW BATHROOMS

SOLID FUEL INSTALLATIONS LTD

Accredited installers of Wood burning & Multi fuel stoves, Chimney liners, twin wall flues, fireplace conversions, replacement hearths, chimney restoration & rebuilding, dealing with water ingress, cowlings, bird guards. Fully Insured, long term established.

CHIMNEYS

Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication. insuring a quality finish and not waiting for other tradesmen. Established reputable company with excellent reviews and vetted by checkatrade. Relining existing woodburners, all building work undertaken from plastering/rendering/demolition and fireplace alterations even exterior painting or chimney/roof leak fixing.

•

•

•

I’m

PICTURE FRAMING

& DOORS

Health & Wellbeing

Meditations in nature: A rendezvous at dusk

by Susanna Curtin

IT is a beautiful blue-sky day, and I am out walking in woodlands on Cranborne Chase. The forest floor has begun to yield the first shoots of spring, buzzards are calling overhead and the red kites are performing their aerial courtship displays above the rolling fields. As I make my way out of the woods, I spot a small herd of fallow deer bouncing elegantly across the chalky ploughed field. It is late afternoon, and I am mindful of the time for I want to be at a particular location an hour before sunset to rendezvous with some very special owls.

Like many people, I am especially fond of owls, partly because of their cultural symbolism but mostly because they are such majestic birds to behold. Instantly recognisable with their forward-facing, large, all-seeing eyes, and heads that can swivel 270 degrees, they are always an exciting wildlife encounter.

We have five resident species of owl in the UK – tawny, barn, little, long-eared and shorteared. Tawny owls are our most common species, and these are almost entirely associated with the darkness. They hunt mostly at night while issuing their

familiar but eerie, otherworldly calls. In comparison, the long-eared owl is one of Britain’s rarest owl species. I have only ever seen one in Dorset. It was dozing during the day on a low branch. When it saw me, bright orange eyes flickered open and it elongated itself, doubling its height. It was quite extraordinary to watch and a moment I will never forget. Three of our five owl species, barn, little and shorteared, are also daytime hunters, particularly visible at dawn and dusk. Short-eared owls are one of the most active owls at this time of day and I just happen to know some rough grassland where I can see them.

and graceful, buoyant flight.

This is my second attempt already this winter, as, like all wildlife watching, there is timing and fortune at play. Today, however, my luck is in!

The minute I leave my car, my binoculars centre on the sweeping, fawny wings of this elusive, nomadic owl. I have only previously seen a handful of short-eared owls in the UK, so I am totally awestruck as I watch a pair quartering the grass bank in front of me with their astonishingly long wings

They are identifiable by their mottled brown bodies, pale under-wings and piercing yellow eyes framed by sooty black feathers. In winter, resident populations are often joined by migrants from Scandinavia, Russia and Iceland, swelling their numbers. It has one of the most widespread distributions of any bird, occurring on all continents except Antarctica and Australia. They are groundnesting owls and next month this pair will likely fly to the uplands and moorlands of northern England and Scotland to breed. Sadly, they have been placed on the Amber list of UK Birds of Conservation Concern as numbers have declined by half over the last 50 years. The resident population in the UK is relatively small, and breeding success is low.

Unfortunately, many tagged short-eared owls – and other birds of prey – get frequently shot on the grouse moors of upland Britain as they are a perceived threat to grouse chicks and the long-established shooting industry that brings jobs to rural communities.

There is much debate about the land use of these moors, that is the monoculture of heather, the single species focus on grouse protection and the wildlife crimes that ensue. The prevalence of sheep farming in upland areas is also known to impact the breeding success of short-eared owls as sheep grazing reduces vole populations, which is their favoured food. It is yet another example of the fragile balance between ecological success and human agency.

I watch this beautiful pair of owls grace the field in front of me for over an hour. I see their favourite perches, the exquisite way in which they hunt, their periods of activity followed by periods of rest. There are also moments of intense drama as they are chased by crows or jostled by a kestrel in competition for prey, and then all the action stops. I pack up and bid them farewell, so glad that I have seen them at last. But then, just as I begin the drive home, I catch sight of a barn owl hunting in the very next field. I leap out with my binoculars to enjoy the flight of this enigmatic, ghostly owl against the purple and crimson sky. Its white round wings proud beside the vivid backdrop of the sunset. What a breathtaking end to a day marked by two of our resident owl species.

n Dr Susie Curtin (email curtin.susanna@gmail.com).

Valentine’s Day: Herbs for love

by Fiona Chapman WITH Valentine’s

Day approaching, I thought it might be interesting to write about the herbs that help to stimulate the libido and are called the ‘sexy herbs’, although nothing beats finding your partner attractive, respecting, supporting and enjoying, and being able to laugh and talk to each other. But here goes with herbs said to benefit a good healthy sex life. First and foremost is Horny Goat Weed – the clue is in the name.

Shepherds noticed an increase in their goats’ sexual activity after eating it. This herb contains a flavonoid called icariin, which stimulates nitric oxide synthesis, enhancing penile circulation and erectile function – a natural Viagra.

Panax ginseng is also supposed to enhance spermatogenesis and increase libido as well as boosting testosterone levels – so traditionally a herb for the men! Withania somnifera or

Ashwagandha also increases nitric oxide as well as testosterone and gonadotropins.

Turnera diffusa or Damiana is another herb said to increase the libido and is probably more a woman’s herb as it is used in the treatment of menstrual problems. It is also a nervine and often women who are trying to do too much and are stressed and exhausted will lose their libido, so help calming the nerves is always a good thing.

Adaptogenic herbs such as

Siberian ginseng, Schizandra and Ginkgo biloba, which help to strengthen the body and mind, and adrenal-supporting herbs such as Glycyrrhiza glabra – liquorice – to balance the cortisol, are also beneficial. Asparagus racemosus or Shatavari in a powdered form –drunk in oat milk or warm water – is an adaptogenic herb recommended for vaginal dryness and balancing female sex hormones. For those going

Continued on next page

Be a good friend

by Emma Holmes

FEBRUARY 14 signalled a day to focus on love and romantic relationships. Galentine’s Day has become the new spin-off where you focus on your female friendships instead of romantic ones. I am adding all genders of friendships into the mix and suggesting for the month of February you focus on your pals.

Good friendships are so valuable and provide support, joy and connection. However, some friendships become the opposite. A friend who takes from you and drains your energy can actually make you feel down or stressed. Maybe it is time to reflect and take notice of those

friendships that are working well and the ones that aren’t.

Creating boundaries for friendships is important. If a friend constantly expects you to help them out and never offers the same in return, it might be worth considering challenging this and setting a new boundary – for example, reduce your help.

Or you could bring this to their attention and mention you noticed that the friendship has become a little unbalanced and explain you would like some support too, sometimes. Being able to strengthen good existing friendships is helpful and here are some practical tips to help: Communicate consistently

Consistent communication keeps relationships strong. Send a quick message, call or schedule regular meet-ups.

Show interest

Ask thoughtful questions about their lives, listen and celebrate their successes. Remembering little details shows you care.

Balance

Show up when they need you. Reliability builds trust and strengthens the foundation of your friendship. The reverse should also be true and allow them to be there for you.

Share experiences

Try new things together— whether it’s travelling, tackling a project or simply watching a favourite show. Shared memories create lasting bonds. Express gratitude and care

Valentine’s Day: Herbs for love

From previous page

through or post menopause, herbs to increase oestrogen might help, such as Wild Yam, Black Cohosh and Trifolium pratense – red cover. You can also make a lubricant with Vitamin E, Hypericum and Calendula oil in equal quantities with a drop of rose or sandlewood essential oil. Spring, and the sun, fresh air,

feeling good about yourself, being fit and healthy, eating and sleeping well, a positive attitude, things to look forward to and a joy in life will all help to increase the libido, and as the

& Wellbeing

Don’t take friendships for granted. A heartfelt ‘thank you’ or a kind gesture can go a long way in nurturing the relationship Friendships thrive on mutual effort and respect. By being open, communicative and intentional, you can build meaningful new relationships and deepen the ones you have. n Emma Holmes is a counsellor at Calm Seas Therapy and is based in Poole. She works online and in person – elholmes. counselling@gmail.com, phone 07442 662287. She is also the co-founder of Dorset Employee Wellness Support (DEWS) which supports businesses by providing counselling and wellness services – for more information email DorsetEWS@ proton.me.

daylight hours increase and the sap rises, embrace being alive – and each other! n Fiona Chapman is a naturopathic herbalist (email Pellyfiona@gmail.com).

£154.95,Brand-new, boxed,

ARE YOU HOUSE BOUND? Foot, Haircare and Assisted bathing/showering, in the comfort of your own home. Fully qualified, DBS and references. Covering 12miles radius of Sturminster DAYS ESCAPE LIGHTWEIGHT FOLDING WHEELCHAIR. Amazon

PHYSIO Ear wax removal in the comfort of your own home or at one of our conveniently located Clinics run in the heart of your community. 07544 857 560 enquiries@nowaxear.co.uk www.thenowaxearcompany.co.uk

ROBERTS RCST CRANIOSACRAL

07702 681264 www.belinda-roberts.co.uk A holistic treatment to help release deeply held patterns of trauma, tension and pain.

friendly team truly care for your family like they would their ownproviding compassion, respect, and dignity. With a deep commitment to meeting residents’ individual needs, whether it’s residential or respite care, The Malthouse is your perfect choice.

Food & Drink

Lobster, mac ‘n’ cheese: Try a gourmet twist on a comfort classic

EVER since lobster mac ‘n’ cheese found its way on to British menus, it’s become very fashionable to have it requested on private catering jobs either as a starter in a small cast iron pot or as surf and turf with fillet steak.

Ingredients (serves two) 250g lobster meat – ask your fishmonger in advance or order half a lobster so you can use the shell to make a bisque on the side in a shot glass, or add the flavours to the roux – white – sauce. Note: You would reduce the shells with a diced carrot, onion and celery to make a flavoursome stock by adding water and simmer away, lid off.

300g macaroni tubes

Flour

Butter Milk

Stock, as above, sieved and strained

Gruyère cheese

Barbers 1833 cheddar

Fresh thyme

Breadcrumbs or buy panko

Salt and pepper

Method

Cook the pasta, salting the water, less a couple of minutes – al dente – so it doesn’t over cook when you put your dish in the oven to turn golden brown. While the pasta is cooking begin your roux sauce. Choose a medium-sized saucepan to begin melting the butter and add the flour. (I learnt a trick from my brother when he was in France and had to make

a roux for a lot of monks, and that is to heat your milk first, before adding the butter, and whisk in immediately. There’s no need for bit by bit, but do what you’re comfortable with).

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper – optional – and two-thirds of both the Cheddar and Gruyère to the sauce. Remember, you must season the white sauce with a good pinch of Maldon salt, although the cheese helps with the flavour in this instance, as does the lobster-shell stock. A bland white sauce is very boring. Now you have all your

Like it hot? Then you’ll love chilli festival...

ORGANISERS of the Great Dorset Chilli Festival have announced the date for this year’s event – and two competitions.

The 14th chilli festival is returning to the Stock Gaylard Estate, near Sturminster Newton, on Saturday and Sunday, August 2-3.

The event promises what may be the largest selection of chilli sauce producers at any UK event, along with food, music, entertainment and competitions – as well as plenty of great flavours untouched by chilli, too.

The festival has also launched a chilli plant growing competition.

Chilli plants are fun and easy to grow and can look

spectacular – and all fruit can be eaten.

Anyone who would like to enter plants in the competition, to be judged on the Saturday of the festival, needs to sow them now to ensure ripe chilli fruit by August.

The competition has two

Free packets of Bolivian Rainbow chilli seeds are available, which could be used in the Great Dorset Chilli Festival competition

classes. Class 1 is only for the chilli variety Bolivian Rainbow, a very hot and stunningly beautiful chilli plant.

The short bushy plants are ideal for growing in pots.

Class 2 is the open class into which any chilli plant can

components ready.

Add the al dente macaroni cheese to the white sauce and then the chopped lobster meat. Tip into a dish, or a pair of matching oven-proof dishes, and top with a mix of the breadcrumbs, cheeses, fresh thyme leaves, then put in the oven for 15 minutes or until golden brown and bubbling. Serve with a good green salad, as it’s very rich, or steam tender broccoli.

n Annie des Forges, Director/ Chef The Table Bruton; Annie Austin, Director/Host & Concierge Somerset Roadtrip.

be entered.

Plants will be judged on appearance, development, condition and fruiting.

Commercial chilli seed grower Matt Simpson, of Simpson’s Seeds, will be doing the judging.

The winner of each chilli plant competition class will receive a £50 gift voucher from local cookware and gardening retailer, Harts of Stur, based in Sturminster Newton.

“It’s a level playing field and anyone could win,” said festival director, Miles Halton.

“And although it might help to have green fingers, sometimes complete beginners go home with a rosette.”

Sea Spring Seeds has supplied festival organisers with a limited supply of Bolivian Rainbow chilli seeds to give away.

For a copy of the rules and to claim seeds email info@ greatdorsetchillifestival.co.uk

Lobster Mac ‘n’ Cheese is a rich dish and is best served with a green salad or tender stem broccoli

Food, drink and lots of cheese

THE Bath & West Food & Drink Festival will return to Somerset for its second outing next month promising more talks, more tours and more tastings, as well as a big helping of cheese.

The event, at the Bath & West Showground, near Shepton Mallet, will bring together farmers, producers and purveyors from across the south west, and host the 29th edition of the prestigious British & Irish Cheese Awards.

Visitors will have the chance to view hundreds of cheeses from across the UK and Ireland, and even sample some of this year’s trophy winners by joining a Cheese Tour, hosted by this year’s cheese awards judges.

Food and drink stands will surround the judging area, showcasing the region’s best in

real ales, craft beer, cider, jam, gelato, cheese, chocolate and more.

On the Farmhouse Kitchen Stage, a diverse line-up of special guests will cover topics ranging from farming to feasting and everything in between.

The Bath & West Steam Railway will be open throughout the weekend, and the Kids Zone will keep little foodies entertained with cooking workshops The Fun Kitchen as well as creative crafts and food and farming activities.

The Bath & West Food & Drink Festival is at The Bath & West Showground on Saturday and Sunday, March 22-23.

Tickets are available from bathandwest.com/food-anddrink-festival

Enford Farm Shop

Durweston DT11 0QW

Home reared and locally produced meats, game, deli, fruit, veg, free range eggs and lots more.

Follow us on Facebook for all our latest meat pack deals and what’s in fresh that week.

Chicken feeds etc available.

Open Wednesday to Saturday 10am-5.30pm.

01258 450050

TRADITIONAL COUNTRY PUB

SERVING FINE FOOD AND

DRINKS

Peter and Karlene are delighted to invite you to the Plough Inn at Manston and look forward to seeing you soon.

We are delighted that our renovation and expansion project has been well received by customers as have our food and beverage offerings. After a very long search, we now have a fully staffed kitchen and offer our full lunch and dinner menu every day from Tuesday lunch until Sunday lunch. We are closed after lunch on Sunday and all day Monday. We offer a wide range of beers, cider, wines and spirits as well as a range of non-alcoholic options.

A Pub With Warmth And Atmosphere

The bar and snug have been refreshed but retain all the old features that made this cosy area so attractive. And, by popular demand, we have a new wood burning stove to provide atmosphere and warmth whenever needed! We have a completely new kitchen, beer cellar and new male, female and disabled washrooms. The old conservatory is now an insulated garden room and we have a new dining area which can accommodate a further twenty guests.

Hearty Food And Distinctive Drinks

By experimenting with our menu and listening to our customers we have developed a popular menu ranging from light snacks to exciting specials and everything in-between. Please look at our menu and see if you can spot your favourite country pub meal. For Sunday lunch, in addition to our full menu, we offer a traditional roast with all the trimmings. Our range of drinks has evolved in response to customer demand and caters for all tastes. But most importantly we have built a wonderful team to look after you all and ensure a great experience at the Plough.

We hope to see you soon, Cheers, Peter & Karlene

Ins and outs of owning a reptile

by Lynn Broom Longmead Veterinary Practice

REPTILES are interesting pets but require knowledgeable homes. It is essential to their welfare that you have researched their care needs prior to getting one.

Some reptiles are easier to keep as pets than others, but they all have specific needs. This may not always be obvious because many health conditions can take, weeks, months or, in the case of tortoises, years to become apparent.

Basic requirements which need attention to detail are temperatures, humidity, appropriate heaters and light sources, and diet. Most reptiles have specific temperature minimum and maximum ranges with specific basking temperatures. This usually requires more than one thermometer so that these can be accurately monitored. A thermometer should be placed where the reptile sits to bask to ensure accuracy. Relying on

ambient room temperature can allow the temperature to drop too low at night in winter, so monitoring this is essential to avoid problems.

Humidity requirements vary between species. Some need humid spaces within their environment to allow normal shedding and others need regular water sprays because they get their moisture from drinking ‘dew’ on leaves.

The type of heat source needs to be appropriate to the needs of the species. Heat mats can lead to burns in snakes which have developed to absorb heat from the sun and are less aware of overheating underneath. More than one source is often necessary to provide the correct temperature range and basking spot. Light or heat bulbs should be outside the housing or protected by a cage to prevent burns in species which can climb. UV light bulbs are essential for many reptile species and need replacing regularly. Lack of UV B leads to chronic disease, typically metabolic bone

disease, and this may not become apparent for many months. It can lead to bone fractures and multiple health problems.

Most reptiles have specific food requirements and chronic poor nutrition will lead to health issues. Commercial diets can be ideal for certain species such as terrapins because they are balanced for their needs and prevent malnutrition. Tortoises, however, thrive on weeds and other appropriate plants, and commercial diets can lead to rapid growth and developmental abnormalities.

Most reptile illness is related to their husbandry. Even

infections are more likely to cause symptoms if environmental conditions are sub-optimal. For instance, Horsefields tortoises can carry a herpes virus but may only develop respiratory symptoms if kept in a glass vivarium where ventilation is not sufficient. Many conditions have been long standing by the time symptoms are seen and treating these and reversing symptoms can be difficult if not impossible.

If you are considering a reptile as a pet, please research its needs and don’t cut corners on its requirements so that it leads a long and healthy life.

Ready now. Vaccinated, vet checked and microchipped.

SPRINGHILL POULTRY, BH21 4JE

Closing down sale Ex battery hens £5 each Card payments accepted

Open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm & Saturday 10am to 1pm. Visit our store for

Heat mats can lead to burns in snakes – they absorb heat from the sun and are less aware of overheating underneath

MID DORSET CATS PROTECTION Cats looking for new homes

Jasper, 11 years. Absolute dream boy, looking for his retirement home, find out more about his story online

Misty, 10 years.

Delightful girl and a bit of a character, never wanting to miss out on attention

Rene and Gruber, six months. Delightful pair looking for a home together

homes

LOST CATS

If your cat has gone missing, Cats Protection offers practical steps to help bring it home safely. Start by searching your local area thoroughly, checking sheds, garages and outbuildings where it might be hiding. Create posters and share them in your neighbourhood and online communities. Inform local vets and animal rescues in case someone has found your cat. Ensure your cat’s microchip details are up to date, as this can be a vital tool for identification, and update the microchip database to advise your cat is lost.

FOUND CATS

If you have found a stray cat, Cats Protection has helpful guidance to ensure the cat gets the care it needs. First, check if it is in distress or injured and contact a vet if necessary. Look for an ID tag or take the cat to a vet to check for a microchip. If the owner cannot be identified, share details about the cat locally via posters, social media and community groups. Cats Protection advises against assuming all stray cats are lost, as some may simply be exploring. For full guidance, visit the Cats Protection website or call us on 01258 858644.

n For details, please call the helpline on

Choosing the right lead for your walk

by Raychel Curson

SELECTING the right lead for your dog is essential for safe, enjoyable walks and effective training. The following are common types of leads: Double-ended leads

These versatile leads have clips on both ends, allowing for multiple configurations. They’re great for training as if you have a front attachment harness, you can attach one end to the back and the other to the front, providing better control. They’re also ideal for dogs who need gentle guidance or support when learning to walk nicely on a lead. Short leads

Designed for maximum control, short leads keep your dog close to you, making them perfect for busy areas or situations where your dog might need to stay by your side. However, they don’t allow much freedom for sniffing or exploring, so I tend to recommend 1.5m to 2m lengths. Chain leads

These are often chosen for dogs which chew their leads. While they’re chew-proof, they can be heavy and less comfortable for you and your dog. Only use a

chain lead if your dog has a persistent chewing habit that needs management.

Long lines

Ideal for training recall or giving your dog more freedom in safe environments, long lines allow dogs to explore while still under control. Be cautious, as they can tangle or get caught easily, so use them in open spaces.

Slip leads

Slip leads tighten around the dog’s neck and should only be used on dogs that walk to heel reliably. For dogs that pull, slip leads can cause discomfort or injury, making them unsuitable for training or untrained dogs. I prefer slips that have two stoppers for when I’m working them in the field – easily on and off but less of a choking hazard. Flexi leads

While flexi leads may seem convenient, they can be dangerous. They provide inconsistent tension, encouraging pulling, and their thin cord can cause burns or tangles.

For better control and safety, choose a lead that matches your dog’s size, training needs and walking style. If you need any personalised guidance, I offer one-to-one and group loose lead and recall classes.

n Raychel Curson is owner of Pet Peeves Animal Behaviour & Teaching (email raychel@ petpeevessomerset.co.uk).

For more details, please call our helpline 01258 858644 or visit our website: cats.org.uk/blandford (Formerly Blandford & Sturminster)

Sponsored by Longmead Veterinary

Independent family run business offering a very personal, caring pet cremation service to bereaved pet owners. Collection Service Farewell Room Out of Hours Service provided Located in a rural countryside setting on the Somerset Dorset border

ANNOUNCEMENT

GRANTS AVAILABLE FOR CHILDREN who were under the age of 12 years on 1 January 2025

PARENTS of children resident in Blandford Forum only (not periphery villages) who have a child/children who were under the age of 12 years on 1st January 2025 are invited to apply for consideration of a grant from the TED George Fund.

For an Application Form, please telephone 01258 451810 in the first instance or write or email to:

The Clerk to the Trustees, Blandford Forum Almshouse/General Charities, Barnes Homes, Salisbury Road, Blandford Forum, Dorset DT11 7HU. Email: clerkbfc@googlemail.com

Completed applications to be returned by Midday Friday 21st March 2025

T E D George Fund-The Blandford Children’s Fund (Administered by the Trustees of The Blandford Forum Almshouse/General Charities)

Registered Charity No: 230853

The Blandford Forum Almshouse Charity complies with Data Protection Regulations

18th BIRTHDAY

DEWBERRY, Alice.

Congratulations on your 18th Birthday, 15/02/2025.

MEETING PLACE

GENTLEMAN LOOKING FOR LADY PARTNER,

IN MEMORIAM

Fred Evill: 3/2/1921, Died 4/2/2013

Valerie Evill: 14/2/1925, Died 29/6/2020

Both sadly missed and always in my thoughts

DEATHS

JAMIE GAWLER

20/07/70 – 18/01/25

Jamie was a true gentleman and a very much loved Son, Brother, Uncle and friend. The family are devastated by his

GARRETT Vera Mercy

Passed away peacefully at home on Friday 17th January 2025

Aged 99, Beloved wife of the late Fred, Mother, Grandmother, Great Grandmother & Great Great Grandmother.

Funeral Service to be held at St Mary’s Church in East Knoyle on Tuesday 25th February at 1pm. Family flowers only please

SCORGIE

Jennifer Catherine - ‘Jenny’

Peacefully on 22nd January 2025 in Millbrook House, Child Okeford aged 92 years.

Beloved wife of the late Raymond and much loved mother of Nigel, Debbie and Katie and grandmother of Virginia, Lucy and Charlotte.

CHANT

PATRICIA DAWN (Pat)

Aged 85years of Templecombe, on 22nd January 2025.

Peacefully at Yeovil District Hospital. A much loved Mother, Grandmother, Great Grandmother, Partner, Sister, Aunt and Friend. Funeral Service at Yeovil Crematorium on Thursday 20th February at 2pm. Family flowers only please.

DEATHS

ISGAR DAVID ERNEST

Peacefully on January 2nd 2025. David, aged 96 years. Beloved husband of Greta and father to Paul and Jackie.

Funeral service at the Memorial Chapel, King’s Stag, Sturminster Newton on Fri 28th February at 12noon.

GRAHAM

Olive Ann

Peacefully on 9th February 2025 at Casterbridge Manor Care

Home, aged 91 years, of Stalbridge and Stourton

PATCH

GWLADYS JOAN (Joan)

Aged 87 years of Wincanton, on 15th January 2025, Peacefully at her home. A much loved Mum, Grandmother, Sister, Aunt and Friend. Funeral Service at Yeovil Crematorium on Monday 24th February at 12noon. Family flowers only please.

SOUTHWAY

PATRICIA ANNE (Patsy)

Aged 68 years, Formerly of Keinton Mandeville. On 31st January 2025. Peacefully at St Margaret’s Hospice, Taunton. A much loved Mum, Nana, Sister, Aunt and Friend.

Funeral Service at St Mary Magdalene Church, Keinton Mandeville, on Thursday 27th February at 12noon,

Mervyn Biss

passed away peacefully at The Mellows Care Home, Gillingham on Friday 31st January 2025, he will be sadly missed by his wife Annie and sons Robert, Tom & Antony, and his all his Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren. Family flowers only. A funeral service is being held at Yeovil Crematorium on Tuesday 25th February at 12:00.

Enquires to Bracher Brother Funeral services, Newbury, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4QL

MARGARET ROSE PAYNE

On 2nd February 2025, suddenly, but peacefully, in Salisbury Hospice, aged 81 years. Of Fontmell Magna.

Wife of the late Arthur, mum to the late Gary and a loving partner to Nick.

She will be sadly missed by all family and friends.

Funeral service takes place at St Andrew’s Church, Fontmell Magna, on Friday 28th February at 1.00pm.

No flowers please, but donations for Salisbury Hospice

Denis Mitchell, 92,

Sadly Passed Away 31st January 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Denis Mitchell, who died peacefully at home in Mappowder at the age of 92. A beloved husband to Dee of 59 years,

Father to Gary & Tammy, Father-in-law to Alma & Steve, Grandfather to Catherine, Brother in-law to Reet, Annie and Babs, and Uncle. Denis was a kind and devoted man who touched the lives of many.

Throughout his long life, of which most were spent in Mappowder, Denis built a legacy of love, hard work, and generosity. He was a man of great character, always putting

Announcements

Kenneth ‘Ken’ Love

DEATHS

passed peacefully on 3rd February 2025 at Yeovil district hospital aged 90 of Zeals, Husband of the late Heather, much loved Dad of Wendy and Kenny, Grandad, Great Grandad and Brother.

NORRIS SYLVIA ANNE

Aged 54 years of North Cheriton. On the 29th January 2025, suddenly but peacefully at her home. A much loved Partner, Mother, Grandmother, Daughter, Sister, Aunt and Friend. Funeral Service at Yeovil Crematorium on Tuesday 25th February at 12:40pm. Family flowers only please,

Reginald Charles Bowen

Passed peacefully on 29th January 2025 aged 97 Years, at Salisbury District Hospital. The funeral service will be held at Salisbury Crematorium on 25th February 2025 at 1pm. Family flowers only and donations in lieu can be made in Reg’s memory to Stars Appeal at Salisbury Hospital or

Warrender

Sally Myreea

Passed away peacefully on Wednesday 5th February aged 85 years. Much loved wife to Bob. Loving mother to Mark and Steven. Sally will be sadly missed by all her friends and family. The funeral service is to be held at St Nicolas Church, Winterborne Kingston on Tuesday 18th February 2025

Sheila Richardson

In loving memory of Sheila who passed away on 3rd February, aged 91 years. Funeral service at Yeovil Crematorium on Wednesday 19th February 2025, at 11.20am. No black please, dress for comfort.

Sheila Ann Broom

neé Neal

Peacefully at home in Sherborne on 2nd February 2025. Aged 70 years. Much loved wife, mum, nanna, sister, aunt and friend. Funeral service at Yeovil Crematorium on Friday 21st February at 10am. Family flowers only please.

Gwen Hunt

Passed away peacefully on 24th January 2025, at West Mendip Hospital, Glastonbury. She will be sorely missed by her family and friends. Her funeral service is being held on Wednesday 19th February, at Mendip Crematorium, Shepton Mallet at 1.30pm. Family flowers only. Donations

ABBOTT

Wendy Patricia

Peacefully on 23rd January 2025 at Westminster Memorial Hospital, Shaftesbury, aged 82 years of Gillingham. Much loved wife of the late Bud. She will be sadly missed by her family and friends.

Funeral service at St. Mary’s Church, Gillingham, on Tuesday 4th March at 12.00pm, followed by private cremation.

BANG & OLUFSEN BEOCENTER 4600 with speakers, good condition. Rosewood finish £125 ono

1930’s INFANT SCHOOL

DESK with lid, tip-up seat, red pine, £120 ono. Tel:

CARPET CLEANER, a rapid deluxe. Cost £159 never been used. Bargain £120. 01963-351931

KIRBY G4 in good working order. Vacuum cleaner with all attachments plus the bags and corded handbag to go with it.

CLASSIFIED ADS

GLASS ALUMINUM GREENHOUSE. 6ft X 6ft.

HOUSE CLEARANCE. Sat 15th Feb. 10-3pm. Tools, white goods etc. Cash only.

LARGE WOOD BURNING STOVE. Some flue attachment. £300 ono.

LARGE CHEST FRIDGE FREEZER, good condition. £300 ono. Tel: 07831-364764

FREE CLASSIFIED ADS

500 A4 LEVER ARCH FILES, good condition. FREE

EXTENDING LADDER, 2 x 11’ sections, £50 Gillingham,

CIDER PRESS. Domestic, including apple shredder. plus 5

GEORGE FOREMAN

WEIGHT LIFTING GEAR.

GENTS HUGO BOSS 100% pure wool navy overcoat. 48” chest, 44” length. £45. Tel:

HOTTERS SHOES size 6 brand new. 3 pairs, £7.50 per pair or 3 for £20. 01258-

ROHAN LADIES BLACK “GLOBETROTTER” mac with detachable hood and fully waterproof “Barricade” lining; medium-size 12-14, length

2 WEATHERBEETA STABLE RUGS with half neck. 300g. Clean and in good condition £12 each

BRIGGS AND STRATTON GARDEN ROTAVATOR 675

TOWER STAINLESS STEEL SOUP MAKER 1.6L. Unwanted gift used only once

KAMPA DOMETIC, 12volt electric pump for blow up

DINING TABLE AND 6 CHAIRS. Good condition. Offers. £30. Buyer collects, near Sherborne.

GRANDPARENTS

SELLING TRAVEL COT AND MATTRESS (bought separate) only used twice. £50 ono.

BOSCH TUMBLEDRIER - Good working order. Barely

SELECTION OF 10 TERRACOTTA FLOWER

Classified Adverts classified@blackmorevale.net up to £50 1 ad per contact number. Please limit to: 15 words or less household items only

AIR RIFLE 22, very good condition, £50.00 Call 07970

GO-CHEF 8IN1 COOKER. never been used. £25. Tel:

LG DOG/ANIMAL CRATE: 114x74x74cm with carpeted removable tray. £20 ono. Buyer to collect - Wincanton.

WHITE MELAMINE BEDROOM FURNITURE. Collection of dressing table, bedside cupboards, wardrobe etc. old, but good condition.

SEA FISHING REEL, Penn Rival 7000. 2 spare spools and

RECLINING CHAIR manual

LAKELAND SLOW COOKER

FLYMO ELECTRIC LAWNMOWER inc. spare blades. Buyer collects from Hazelbury Bryan. £25.

VACUUM CLEANERS WANTED, Must be working, will collect, all makes and models, especially Shark, GTEC, Dyson, Call Andrew 07799-417711

OLD BOOKS BOUGHT. Will call by appointment entirely without obligation. Bristow & Garland 07392-602014

MODEL RAILWAYS WANTED. Cash paid for model railway collections. Small or large items. Anything considered. Call Dennis 01722 741031.

DRIVER WANTED

To deliver magzines for The New Blackmore Vale and The Somerset Leveller.

Battery EVs pass longevity and reliability test

THE lifespan of electric cars and vans is an oft-cited reason for not owning one.

However, a new study has revealed battery-powered electric vehicles (BEVs) are just as reliable – and can run for longer – than traditional vehicles.

According to the research, published in Nature Energy, BEVs can match the longevity of traditional petrol and diesel cars and vans.

Teams from the University of Birmingham, London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), University of California San Diego, and University of Bern in Switzerland revealed that, on average, BEVs now have a

lifespan of 18.4 years and can travel up to 124,000 miles –more than the traditional petrol car from the same generation.

The researchers analysed nearly 300 million UK Ministry of Transport (MOT) test records spanning 2005-22, which track the condition and legality of vehicles on the road and used the data to estimate vehicle lifespans.

While it was found early BEVs were less reliable than internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs), advances in technology have seen newer BEVs reaching comparable lifespans, even under more demanding conditions.

BEVs exhibited the fastest improvement in reliability, with

a 12% lower likelihood of failure for each successive year of production, the study showed, compared to 6.7% for petrol vehicles and 1.9% for diesel vehicles.

For vehicle longevity, Tesla led the way among BEVs. For petrol and diesel vehicles, Audi and Skoda topped the list.

Co-author of the research, Robert Elliott, Professor of Economics at the University of Birmingham, said: “BEVs offer significant environmental benefits, especially as Europe switches to a more renewable energy mix.

“Despite higher initial emissions from production, a long-lasting electric vehicle can quickly offset its carbon footprint, contributing to the fight against climate change – making them a more sustainable long-term option.

“Our findings offer consumers reliable data to make informed decisions about their vehicle purchases, while policymakers can use our insights to shape regulations and incentives that promote the adoption of durable and environmentally friendly vehicles and plan ahead their end-of-life treatment.”

Fellow co-author, Dr Viet Nguyen-Tien, from the LSE, added: “Our findings provide critical insights into the lifespan and environmental impact of electric vehicles.

“No longer just a niche option, BEVs are a viable and sustainable alternative to traditional vehicles – a significant step towards achieving a net-zero carbon future.”

gearbox, sold as seen, engine light on, sometimes ok, sometimes limited power, MOT 30th Nov 25 with no advisories, leather, 201,000 miles .........................................................£700

2007 (57) BMW 318 Touring 2.0TD M Sport Estate 5dr. 143bhp, diesel, manual gearbox, sold as seen, MOT 28th July 25, plenty of service history, not perfect but a very cheap M Sport, 128,800 miles .....................................................................£1800

2015 (65) Ford Fiesta 1.0T Titanium X 5dr. 125bhp, petrol, manual gearbox, Free yearly road tax & upto 60mpg economy, parking sensors, reverse camera, partial leather, heated seats, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, hill holder, new cambelt kit has just been fitted, 72,800 miles ...............................................................Due in soon

2021 (21) Ford Puma 1.0T ST Line X MHEV SUV 5dr. 155bhp, self-charging petrol hybrid, manual gearbox, partial leather, sat nav, parking sensors, cruise control, hill holder, auto lights & wipers, front scanner, road sign assist, heated front screen, 50mpg economy, 47,300 miles ......................................................................................£14950

2017 (17) Ford Focus 1.0T ST Line Nav 5dr. 125bhp, petrol, manual gearbox, stunning looking car with full factory dress up kit & factory wheel upgrade, appearance pack, sat nav, hill holder, road sign assist, cambelt has been replaced, 50+ mpg economy, only 22,600 miles ...............................................................................£10450

2018 (68) Ford Kuga 2.0TDCi ST Line SUV 5dr. 150bhp, diesel, manual gearbox, high seating, big boot, stunning looking ST Line, sat nav, road sign assist, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, parking sensors, auto parking system, hill holder, partial leather, 62,000 miles .................................................................................Due in soon £12450

2014 (14) Ford Transit 2.2TDCi 350 Trend L2 H2 12 Seat Minibus 5dr. 125bhp, diesel, manual gearbox, 11 seats plus driver, 3 front seats, 9 rear seats, hill holder, Bluetooth, sliding side door with electric step, double rear doors, only 75,500 miles .................................................................£13000 + VAT = £15600

2020 (69) Ford Tourneo Custom 2.0TDCi Titanium 320 L1 H1 Automatic 9 Seat Minibus 5dr. 130bhp, diesel, automatic gearbox, 8 seat plus driver, reversable seats for conference or forward facing, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, heated front seats, park sensors, cambelt replaced, 97,000 miles ......................£21500 + VAT = £25800

2017 (67) Honda Jazz 1.3 EX Automatic 5dr. 102bhp, petrol, automatic gearbox, parking sensors, reverse camera, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, hill holder, only 27,500 miles ......................................................................................................£12750

2016 (66) Mazda 3, 2.0 SE-L Nav Automatic 5dr. 120bhp, petrol, automatic gearbox, sat nav, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, parking sensors, road sign assist, heated seats, hill holder, 75,900 miles ..................................................................£8450

2018 (68) Nissan Navara 2.3DCi Takna 4x4 Double Cab Pickup 4dr. 190bhp, diesel, manual gearbox with switchable 4 wheel drive, sat nav, parking sensors, 360 cameras, heated leather, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, hill holder & descent control, only 31,500 miles .....................................................£14500 + VAT = £17400

2014 (63) Peugeot 2008 1.2VTi Allure SUV 5dr. 82bhp, petrol, manual gearbox, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, park sensors, partial leather, new cambelt kit, £35 road tax, 50mpg, 82,700 miles .......................................................Due in soon £5250

2014 (14) Skoda Yeti 1.2T S Station Wagon 5dr. 102bhp, petrol, automatic gearbox, high seating, big boot, high ground clearance, only 53,000 miles..Due in soon 2017 (17) Volkswagen Polo 1.2TSi Match Edition 5dr. 90bhp, petrol, manual gearbox, parking sensors, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, hill holder, 45,500 miles ...............................................................................................................£9850

Battery EVs are matching petrol and diesel-powered cars for longevity and reliability

Driving dangerously?

Most drivers don’t know if their tyres are illegal

UK drivers are putting themselves at risk of avoidable road collisions and hefty fines by not regularly checking the condition of their tyres and not knowing when a tyre becomes illegal and unsafe, research conducted by the RAC with charity TyreSafe has found.

Only 39% of drivers know that the minimum tyre tread allowed by law is 1.6mm, meaning a majority (61%) may be driving on one or more dangerous, illegal tyres which would put them at risk of being given three penalty points and fined £2,500 per tyre.

But perhaps of more concern is the fact that as many as a quarter of drivers (26%) only check tyre tread when they remember to do it or directly before taking a car for its MOT, while 5% never do and wait for their car to fail its annual roadworthiness test before taking any action.

Just a third (33%) said they check tyre tread at least every month, with 17% saying they do so every other month and a similar proportion – 15% – only

UNWANTED VEHICLES

bought for cash ●Mot failures ●Nonrunners

●Unfinished projects ●end of life scrap vehicles

●minimum of £200 paid for complete vehicles. Call Ryan on 07474 737577

VANS, CARS, 4x4's MOTOR HOMES, CARAVANS, MOT FAILURES RUNNER & NON RUNNERS, FARM MACHINERY or just in your way ANYTHING CONSIDERED WANTED

Please call James anytime on 07389705470

checking them about every six months.

In 2024, the RAC logged in the region of 340,000 tyrerelated breakdowns.

Previous research for the RAC Report on Motoring found that a fifth (19%) of drivers have tried to save money by delaying necessary repairs, or either reduced or stopped servicing their vehicles altogether due to cost – which suggests money worries as a result of the cost-of-living crisis may be having an impact on the safety of many vehicles on the roads today.

RAC road safety spokesperson, Rod Dennis, said: “Driving on tyres that aren’t sufficiently inflated is incredibly dangerous because tyres are the only connection between a vehicle and the road.

“The safety risk spikes during the winter when wet and potentially snowy roads mean tyres have to work harder than ever to retain grip.”

He added: “Checking tyre tread takes just moments yet doing so has the potential to

OLD, INTERESTING & CLASSIC CARS wanted pre 1990s Any condition including unfinished projects Cash/Transfer. Please

save lives on the roads.

“We’re encouraging every driver to get into the habit of doing so as often as possible, and at least once a month.

“Tyre tread depth gauges are cheap and easy to use, but an even lower cost alternative is to take a 20p piece and place it into the main grooves of each tyre in several different places.

“If the outer band of the coin is visible, then there’s a very good chance the tyres are unsafe, illegal or both, and it’s

2016 SILVER NISSAN NAVARA. Ex con. Full SH. MOT July 25. Sunroof, heated front seats full leather interior. 60k miles. £13,250 ONO +VAT.

1989 CHARLSTON 2CV 62k miles. 1 previous owner, garages past 19 years. MOT 9months left. Good condition, new seat covers, fully serviced every year. Worth viewing. 4k ono. Ring Stan: 01749-346838

time to get them checked them out.

“Ensuring tyres are inflated to the correct pressures is just as important as checking the tread.

“Those pumped up too much can cause tread in the centre of tyres to wear down faster, while those underinflated is likely to lead to uneven wear around the edges. “Always check the vehicle handbook for the right pressures based on the load being carried in the vehicle.

“It’s worth remembering these are often also printed on a sticker either on the inside of the driver’s door, in the fuel filler cap, or next to an electric vehicle’s charging socket and can vary between front and back, and vary when carrying lighter or heavier loads.”

ALFA GT FOR SALE, 2004, low milage, good condition, new MOT Phone

FORD FIESTA, 1600 Zetec, Diesel, 2007, Blue, 4door, 95k, recent cam-belt with Full Service. 4 new tyres, many new parts, same owner since 2009. MOT July 25. £1650.

STORAGE FOR CARAVANS, boats and cars at Enford Farm near Blandford. 01258 450050 /

New for 2025 - Subaru at Wool and Bovington Motors

With a history dating back to 1921, Wool and Bovington Motors Ltd has been a part of Dorsets motoring landscape for over a century. A proud fourthgeneration family run franchised dealership, Wool and Bovington Motors is delighted to become the dedicated Subaru dealer for Dorset and beyond. Situated in the heart of the Isle of Purbeck, our experienced team is here to help you select, maintain and enjoy your new lifestyle companion.

Alongside our Ford, Renault and Dacia authorised workshops and bodyshop we will now bring you world class hybrid, all-wheel drive, adventure ready vehicles that are designed for the thrills and realities of rural living.

Iconic Subaru has a proven track record for safety, reliability and endurance. Visit us now to see and drive the legendary all new sixth generation ‘Forester’ SUV launching in February 2025. Explore new trails and terrains in the award-winning crossover ‘Outback’ Estate, the compact ‘Crosstrek’ hatchback or the revolutionary all electric ‘Solterra’ automatic.

As an introductory offer all new Subaru purchases made before the 31st of March will receive 3 years complimentary servicing, courtesy of Wool and Bovington Motors.

As we gear up to welcome Subaru into our showroom, we hope you can join us for the journey.

Start your ‘Safe, Tough, Fun’ adventure now, call our team to book a test drive today on 01929 462248

Follow us on our ‘Dorset Subaru’ Facebook and Instagram pages to stay up to date with offers and events. www.wbmgroup.co.uk

Tough yet refined, the all-new Forester is made for those who don’t just explore the outdoors—they embrace it. With Permanent Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, improved X-MODE, and 22cm of ground clearance as standard, it delivers unmatched stability, control, and traction on any terrain. More than just an SUV, the all-new Forester is built to take you further—whether that’s off the beaten track or simply making the most of every journey.

Boost for Rockies’ survival hopes

by Avril Lancaster Shaftesbury

2

Exmouth Town 1

CAMERON Beard’s injury time goal gave struggling Shaftesbury a much-needed win over promotion challengers

Exmouth Town at Cockrams.

Luke Burbidge gave Shaftesbury a 1-0 lead five minutes before the break before Exmouth Town top scorer Thomas Bath levelled at the back post eight minutes into the second half.

Visiting keeper Frankie Philips made two outstanding saves from Brett Pitman and Burbidge, and Callum Shipton hit the post for the visitors with

Cup

BOWLS

by Jon Wright

FOOTBALL

a fierce drive.

The result boosts Shaftesbury’s survival hopes.

Cinderford Town 3

Shaftesbury 1

CINDERFORD Town started the day at the bottom of the Pitching In Southern League Division 1 South but continued their recent good form with this win at the Causeway Ground.

Some curious refereeing decisions included a penalty awarded after 18 minutes which Cinderford’s top scorer, Alex Bonthron, put away.

Ronan Moore had a header

disallowed and Brett Pitman was felled in the box for Shaftesbury, but no penalty was given.

The home side went further ahead on the hour when Bonthron knocked the ball back to Marley Thomas, who hooked it over Shane Murphy into the net.

Moore was bizarrely sent off having only appeared to be booked once.

Pitman set up Luke Burbidge to head in for Shaftesbury in the 64th minute before Ismail Yakubu finished the scoring after a corner to seal the game for the Foresters with eight minutes left.

win highlight of club’s season

MERE Bowls Club’s annual dinner and prize presentation took place at the Old Brewery in Gillingham with cups being awarded for all the club competitions.

The club’s big achievement last year was winning the Westbrook League Harold Ford Cup.

The final was played against Downton Bowls Club and at Salisbury.

Mere won by 38 shots to 23 with the team made up of Les, Don, Richard and Chris, John F, Ron, Trevor and Marie.

Younger players attended, including Shaun Tealey, who won awards.

GOLF

WINCANTON Golf Club results: Seniors Roll Up Back 9

Stableford – January 31: Winners – John Westaway/Kevin Francis/ Chris Dibben/Harry Eden – 53 points. Monthly Stableford –February 2: 1 David Amann 41, 2 David Whitehand 36 ocb, 3

Adam Smith 36, 4 Mike Case 36. Seniors Monthly Stableford –February 4: 1 Kees Schouten 38, 2 Trevor Mills 36 ocb, 3 Kevin George 36. Seniors Front 9 Stableford – February 4: 1 John Wolstenholme 15, 2 Pete Starkey 14 ocb, 3 Keith Williams 14. Seniors Roll Up Back 9 Stableford – February 7: Winners – John Westaway/David Ivey/Rick Graham –47 points. Monthly Stableford – February 8: 1 Steven Ireland 35, 2 Brian White 33, 3 Jim Phillips 31.

Cameron Beard gets on the end of another chance created by Luke Burbidge in the game against Cinderford

PHOTO : Tim Lancaster

PHOTOS: Jon Wright

Blandford have promotion in their sights

by Paul Cross

WITH eight games to go and the latest fixture conceded by the opposition, Blandford Hockey took the opportunity to reflect upon their season so far.

Nine months ago, re-forming Blandford Hockey seemed to be

HOCKEY

nothing more than a pipe dream. Now, not only has this become a reality, but Blandford sit second in the table.

With the recent confirmation that two teams will be promoted

Back to the era of the Three Ws

by Paul Pearson

AUTHOR and journalist at The Guardian, Peter Mason, told Dorset Cricket Society about his book on Clyde Walcott, one of the famous 3Ws – Worrell, Walcott and Weekes – of the West Indian cricket team of the 1950s and 1960s.

Clyde was born into a black middle class family in Barbados in 1928.

The 3Ws were all born within a mile of each other, although it was many years before they played cricket together.

Clyde became one of the great batsmen with a Test average of more than 56, which would have been more if he had not kept wicket in the early part of his career.

He played in the Barbados League from the age of 12 and by 20 was playing for the West

CRICKET

Indies.

In 1957 he was appointed vice-captain for the tour of England and he captained the side in the final Test.

Clyde then scored five centuries in six Tests against Australia and he retired after a final series against Pakistan.

In 1954, while still playing Test cricket, he was appointed a cricket organiser in Guyana

from Forest League 1, Blandford are currently 11 points clear of third-placed Southampton Otters, meaning that their head-to-head matchup next month could effectively seal promotion for the new upstarts.

They would be matching the Ladies’ side, who, with four games to go, are one win from promotion themselves.

Blandford’s success is due to a combination of strong recruitment, bringing together players from across Wessex, high quality coaching, a positive, supportive ethos that has united new and experienced players alike – and undoubtedly the best teas in the league, courtesy of the White Horse at Stourpaine.

With chances of promotion growing by the week, Blandford are looking to continue their growth with the formation of a second Men’s team.

Players of any experience and gender are welcome to join the club by contacting BSHC2007@hotmail.com

where he built a structure for cricket which produced many stars, and improved schooling and social welfare.

In 1970 he returned to Barbados, rising to be head of the Barbados Employers Association.

Clyde was also manager of the West Indies when they won the first Cricket World Cup in 1975.

This led to him being involved with the ICC which he made more professional and commercially orientated.

He was later chairman, until stepping down in 2000, retiring back to Barbados where he died in 2006.

GOLF SKITTLES

Barbadian cricketers (from left) Frank Worrell, Everton Weekes and Clyde Walcott, photographed while on tour with the West Indies cricket team in 1951-52 PHOTO:

Blandford are 11 points clear of third-placed Southampton Otters

Recruitment

CARER/PA FOR FRIDAY MORNINGS, other times in addition are possible if wanted. Tisbury area. Varied role, personality more important than qualifications: cheerful, can-do, dynamic! Non smoker only. 07790-524241

MILBORNE PORT PARISH COUNCIL

is looking to appoint a self-reliant Community Projects Officer for 12 hours per week, on a temporary 12-month contact (with a view to extending), working with Officers, Councillors and community partners, with responsibility for the coordination and delivery of the Parish Council projects. Also supporting local volunteer groups, including applying for grant funding on their behalf. Find the full Job Description and Application Form on our

TRUSTEE VACANCIES

7-15 hrs/month

The Balsam Centre Balsam Park Wincanton BA9 9HB 01963 31842

www balsamcentre org uk

The role of our Trustees is to ensure that the Balsam Centre is fulfilling its mission to help people lead healthy, happy lives, supporting our Executive Team and other Board colleagues as much as holding them to account The Balsam Centre is proud to have an excellent reputation for the quality of our work, which is based on clear values and a special way of doing things Our Trustees are stewards of our mission, reputation, quality, values and operating model

We now have vacancies for Trustees to lead on finance, clinical services, strengthening the voice of the community in our work, and bringing the experience of people who use our services to the Board You will have significant experience in the area of the role you are applying for but the most important qualification is that you care deeply about the people of Wincanton and surrounding towns and villages

For role descriptions and details of how to apply, visit www.balsamcentre.org.uk/currentvacancies

CHILD OKEFORD BLANDFORD FORUM DORSET DT11 8HN www.hanfordschool.co.uk

CHILD OKEFO RD BLANDFORD FORUM DORSET DT11 8HN www hanfordschool co uk

Come and join our staff body at our vibrant and happy prep school for girls (aged 7-13) set in the beautiful Dorset countryside:

Come and join our staff body at our vibrant and happy prep school for girls (aged 7-13) set in the beautiful Dorset countryside:

SENIOR RESIDENT MATRON

SENIOR RESIDENT MATRON

We are seeking a caring and empathetic Senior Resident Matron with strong inter-personal skills and a can-do attitude, who will be an excellent role model for our pupils. The successful candidate will make a significant contribution to the pastoral welfare of the pupils and will have the capacity to support and understand young people in all aspects of their development, especially their emotional, academic and pastoral needs. They will expect and embody high standards of behaviour, courtesy and care.

We are seeking a caring and empathetic Senior Resident Matron with strong interpersonal skills and a can-do attitude, who will be an excellent role model for our pupils. The successful candidate will make a significant contribution to the pastoral welfare of the pupils and will have the capacity to support and understand young people in all aspects of their development, especially their emotional, academic and pastoral needs. They will expect and embody high standards of behaviour, courtesy and care.

Trainee teachers can work and learn

THE region’s only part-time course for primary school teaching is now accepting applications for its next intake.

Castleman Learning Network (CLN) – part of Dorset’s Castleman Academy Trust of schools – has developed the course to allow students to continue to work.

It was created with assistance from The University of Worcester, the institution from which the trainees qualify.

More than 70 teachers have trained with CLN – completing PGCE and QTS qualifications – since it was granted Teaching School status in 2010. But there was a demand for a more flexible course for those who could not take a year out to train.

The first intake of teachers on the part-time course began in January and will be ready to enter the classroom from July next year. The second intake will begin training next January and about 20 places are available.

It takes 19 months – five terms – to qualify and the trainees spend two days a week in schools near where they live and one day a week in Poole being trained.

The timetable enables them to work in their present jobs for two days a week so they can keep earning.

The training centre is based at Arena Poole. To find out more about the training courses, visit https://www.castlemanlearning. co.uk/

SKILLED GROUNDWORKER WANTED:

To work within the family business, both Agricultural & Domestic work carried out. Applicants must be able to work within a team & have experience with concreting/drainage & all other aspects of groundworks. Good Rate of pay for the right applicant, must be

RESPITE SUPPORT WORKER.

Do you need someone to support your loved one whilst you attend appointments. Or assistance with shopping or accessing the community. Anything considered. DBS. For friendly chat,

GENERAL GARDEN AND FARM HELP NEEDED IN STOUR PROVOST. MUST BE CAPABLE AND ABLE TO USE CHAINSAWS, LAWNMOWERS, STRIMMERS ETC. AND DRIVE A SMALL TRACTOR. CHEERFUL DISPOSITION AND GOOD REFERENCES ESSENTIAL. 2/3 DAYS PER WEEK.

The successful applicant will be required to work weekends and evenings as required and have significant overnight responsibility. Accommodation will be provided.

The successful applicant will be required to work weekends and evenings as required and have significant overnight responsibility. Accommodation will be provided.

To start September 2025.

To start September 2025

To learn more about this opportunity please call the School Office on 01258 860219 or visit our website: www.hanfordschool.co.uk

To learn more about this opportunity please call the School Office on 01258 860219 or visit our website: www.hanfordschool.co.uk

Application deadline: Thursday 6 March 2025

Application deadline: Thursday 6 March 2025

Note : Please apply using our own application form and send direct to head@hanfordschool.co.uk and not through third parties.

Note : Please apply using our own application form and send direct to head@hanfordschool co uk and not through third parties In terviews from 10 March 2025

Interviews from 10 March 2025

Hanford is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment.

Hanford is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment.

These posts are all subject to enhanced DBS checks. Hanford School is part of Sherborne Schools Group. Charity Number 1081228 & Company Number 04002575

These posts are all subject to enhanced DBS checks

Hanford School is part of Sherborne Schools Group Charity Number 1081228 &

AFTER SCHOOL CLUB

PLAYLEADER based in Tisbury 3.15pm-6pm termtime. Contact: zealsafterschoolsclub@gmail.

WANTED OFFICE ADMIN/ SECRETARY for farm office,16 hrs a week near Blandford. A knowledge of accounts and account software preferred and must be willing to learn and work out of the

HAIRDRESSER NEEDED! Self employed. Experienced and colour confident.

Clients available! Reception@hyggehairbarn.co.uk 07525 838554

SIGMA ENGINEERING

Vehicle Mechanic/Engineer

Required for work on classic road and race cars.

Engine building, repair, diagnostics, etc. Machining experience useful. Gillingham.

Email: info@sigmadorset.co.uk

GARDEN CENTRE MANAGER for Plant World Ltd

Plant World Ltd, Milton On Stour, is looking for a Garden Centre Manager. Full time and some weekends. Previous experience in a Garden Centre essential. Fork lift licence preferrable. For more information call Connie 07785 373388.

Tree Surgeon / Grounds Person

Tree Surgery. Reductions. Felling. Hedge Trimming. Stump Grinding. Woodchip supplies.

Family run business since 1946

Tel: 01963 250005 Mobile: 07976 934 252

Minimum 2 years experience

Full or Part Time

Contact B&G Down

Milborne Port 01963 250005 07976934252

We are seeking a highly organised and detail orientated individual to join our team.

Bright Seeds Ltd are looking for a Full Time Warehouse

We are seeking a highly organised and detail orientated individual to join our team.

Bright Seeds Ltd are looking for a Full Time Warehouse Assistant

Assistant

Part-time role (10-14 hrs per week) to maintain all aspects of the subcontract ledger in our finance department. CIS knowlege beneficial.

For further details and job description, please email:

MAIN DUTIES INCLUDE: Sales order processing Inputting of goods shipments Answering telephone queries Invoicing/Credit Control Taking card payments

MAIN DUTIES INCLUDE:

Sales order processing

Main Duties: Packing Orders • Processing Mixtures Working as part of a team

Main Duties: Packing Orders • Processing Mixtures

Inputting of goods shipments

Answering telephone queries

Salary

Working as part of a team

Invoicing/Credit Control Taking card payments

D.O.E on experience

Salary D.O.E on experience

A knowledge of Sage 50 Accounts is beneficial

A knowledge of Sage 50 Accounts is beneficial

To apply please send your CV to sam@brightseeds.co.uk

Transport will be necessary due to location of workplace. Please email your CV to sam@brightseeds.co.uk

To apply please send your CV to sam@brightseeds.co.uk

Transport will be necessary due to location of workplace. Please email your CV to sam@brightseeds.co.uk

Event Manager - Part-time NORTH CADBURY COURT

We are looking for an experienced, energetic and efficient Event Manager to join our dedicated team on a part-time basis, helping to plan and deliver flawless luxury events with exceptional attention to detail.

About us

North Cadbury Court is a unique house offered as an exclusive use venue for residential hire, weddings, special occasions and corporate events. If you are a team player and would like to be part of this stunning and beautiful historic venue, please get in touch.

For more information and a job pack, visit: https://www.northcadburycourt.com/careers/

Wincanton Primary School

Station Road, Wincanton, Somerset, BA9 9EL Headteacher Mr G Wilson (NOR 397) Telephone: 01963 32132 Email: office@wincantonprimaryschool co uk

Website: www wincantonprimaryschool co uk

Supervisor

15 hours per week (3 15pm-6 15pm) Monday-Friday Or 20 hours per week (2 15-6 15pm) Monday-Friday

Grade 14 (£12 64-£13 05) per hour

Term Time with some cleaning during the school holidays

We are looking for a Supervisor Cleaner who loves cleaning, to lead the cleaning team at our friendly school The successful candidate will be required to:

• Be responsible for locking and securing the school at the end of the day;

• Manage a small cleaning team, to ensure that all areas of the school are being cleaned correctly;

• Over see stock/resources and the ordering and organisation of;

• Clean classrooms, toilets and general areas around the school

We’d love to hear from you if you have: a positive can-do attitude; excellent attention to detail; are able to lead a team and allocate duties; and have a good knowledge and understanding of COSHH

Application forms are available on our school website https://www wincantonprimaryschool co uk/vacancies/ and should be returned by email to office@wincantonprimaryschool co uk, for the attention of our Headteacher, Mr Graeme Wilson

Please stipulate the number of hours you are interested in applying for Closing date: 12 noon on Monday 24th February 2025

The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and

Adventures in the lost port of Paphos

by John Blashford-Snell

WHEN the EOKA terrorist campaign in Cyprus ended in 1959 I was leading a team of Royal Engineers divers and was approached by the local commissioner, an enthusiastic historian. “It would be good training for your divers”, he said, “to investigate the lost port of Paphos for the Antiquities Department.”

So, our 20-strong team met the curator in Paphos Museum. The day was hot and archaeology was not a subject close to the hearts of the Sappers. They shuffled and sniffed as his lecture was delivered in broken English. He droned on: “Each year many young virgins came from all over the Mediterranean to be indoctrinated by the priests at the sacred temple of Aphrodite at Kouklia”. The soldiers' eyes brightened. “It needed many ships and a great port was built here,” our host explained. “At the temple was a 15ft phallic symbol, like this,” said our friend, tapping a replica. “Bet there were no shortage for ordination in them days,” muttered a Sapper.

Using a Royal Engineers Z craft Z11 as a support vessel, we set about seeking evidence of the huge port believed to have been submerged by an 11th century earthquake. The crystal clear water revealed numerous ceramic artefacts littering the sea-bed around remains of ancient wrecks and we even found four large 18th century cannon.

Colonel John Blashford-Snell CBE is a British explorer, former British Army officer and author. He founded the Scientific Exploration Society and Operation Raleigh, which later evolved into a global youth development programme

real archaeological treasure. My fellow diver had returned to the ship and as I surfaced clutching the slab, a strong current propelled me towards a wave-swept reef. The valve on my scuba set went ‘clunk’. We had no reserves in those days. With regret, I dropped the heavy artefact and my weight belt, struggling to swim, but Z11 was 200 metres away. The razor sharp rocks grew closer and red clouds crept over my vision. I feared the worst. Then a voice behind me called “Do you need help?” A

journalist covering the story in a boat pulled me aboard, 20 metres from the crashing waves. A lucky escape! There were others, too, including a close encounter with a 6ft wide stingray in an underwater cave.

Lt John Blashford-Snell leads the Royal Engineers diving team, Paphos 1958-60 (above); the giant cannon, found by Royal Engineers divers off Paphos, together with numerous artefacts from Grecian wrecks (below); and the Operation Aphrodite expedition area (left)

distraction.

Discreetly, I explained the problem. “Oh, but they are only boys,” she smiled. “What would you like me to do?” “Well, perhaps you could wear a one-piece bathing costume,” I suggested. “Which piece would you like me to wear?” she replied.

Operation Aphrodite, as it was known, continued over three years, making many exciting finds, although I'm not sure we identified the legendary harbour.

Spotting an inscribed marble slab, I stupidly ignored my low air reading and went down 20 feet to retrieve what might be a

We badly needed a marine archaeologist to direct our work. There were none in Cyprus, but an attractive lady archaeologist flew in from Athens. Wearing a yellow bikini, she set up shop on the deck of our vessel. These soldiers rarely met any of the opposite sex and worked enthusiastically, but after a time, I realised the lady was, unintentionally, becoming a

In the 16th century, the Turks ruled Cyprus, garrisoning a fort on the Paphos foreshore, with a giant cannon threatening the Greek townsfolk. During a short-lived revolution, the oppressed people seized the fort and removed the gun. It was said that returning to power, in spite of inflicting some brutal torture, the Turks failed to locate their cannon. There were many rumours about it and a local policeman told us that snorkelling in a nearby bay, he had seen the breech of a large gun emerging from the sand. The site was too shallow to get Z11 over it, so we blasted a way through the rocks and using our Scammel recovery truck, winched it ashore. It was indeed massive, nearly 8ft long. How the Greeks got it there, goodness knows. Possibly they

used a boat to carry it away from the fort. In triumph we transported it to the museum. In the 1970s, when photographing the gun, now on display at the Police HQ, I was arrested for filming a Cypriot weapon! Years later, I stopped at a petrol station on the A303 in Somerset and met the owner.

“I'll never forget hauling up that great cannon,” said former Royal Engineer, Colin Kantharia, of Mere. He had been in the crew of Z11!

Signed copies of John Blashford-Snell’s recent book, From Utmost East to Utmost West are available for £20 including UK postage. Contact jenny@ ses-explore.org for further details.

Field & Stream

Counting lambs before they ‘hatch’

by Tria Stebbing

ON a dry breezy morning in early February, we were up early to prepare for Alex the scanner to visit.

The recent rainfall has ruined any chances of driving across the paddocks to set the equipment up, so the ewes need to be moved into a holding pen nearer the firm trackway. Not all the sheep in the flock needed scanning, so we could have tried just shepherding out the pregnant ewes – the Dutch Spotted, along with the castrated rams, did not on this occasion need to join the party. It only takes one sheep to decide to go the wrong way for the others to follow, so we made the decision to run them all across the fields. It went remarkedly well, probably because the area we were headed for had more grass to munch. It is a great feeling walking in front, shaking that bucket of sheep nuts, with the stream of sheep following you close behind.

Unbelievably, we were in the holding area and set up ready when Alex arrived. It takes a while to prepare the scanning

area – it all needs unloading from a truck, setting up and positioning, before we try to coax the first ewe through. All of this is being done while trying not to stress the ewes, who could abort if they become too distressed.

The first ewe to show interest in walking through the gate to the scanner was Bramble. This caused a few moments of mirth as clearly not pregnant, as we kept the Dutch Spotted back, she was clearly on a mission to see if she could get herself stuck in the gate instead.

Alex has been scanning our flock for quite a few years now, and some of the ewes being scanned today were once the images on the screen themselves, the flock perpetuating with time.

We have a history of twin births and this year is no different. Eight scanned and, true to form, six expecting twins, and two expecting large singles.

It was also really useful to know that gorgeous Clownie, who we thought had visited Humphrey first, clearly did. Her lambs look big already and she

Ilchester Estate

‘flouted

conditions’ over chalk stream

THE Ilchester Estate has paid out nearly £28,000 after it persistently took more water than it was licensed to.

The estate has a licence from the Environment Agency (EA) to abstract water from a spring on the headwaters of the chalk stream Dorset Frome at Evershot.

This water is used to supply houses, offices, gardens and farms that make up the Ilchester Estate.

The estate pays the EA £120 for its licence each year and

will probably be the first to kick lambing 2025 off.

Happy faces all round and many thanks once again to Alex from Four Daughters Contracting for coming out to our small flock and giving us the knowledge we need to ensure that the nutritional requirements are met, and the heads up to look out for Twin Lamb disease as well as the usual pregnancy traits.

Not everyone scans, but for us it gives us a head start in setting pens up, being prepared and knowing how many lambs to expect. When you are on your own in the middle of the night with a ewe that has already lambed and appears to

Dorset was in a drought.

The estate has now paid a variable monetary penalty of £19,777.69, plus costs of £8,298.60, to the EA. The penalty came after the EA had previously warned the estate to stop over-abstracting water.

be struggling to get comfortable, knowing there is another in there to come out, you cannot put a price on, it can be the difference between life and death.

So, well done Humphrey and Lychett, the proud fathers to be. We shared the news with the owners of Clover and Cupcake, who it is likely are also carrying twins, and the other ladies that visited from Stourpaine. We will have a busy Easter, and we can’t wait.

Bramble update: I have combed the boundary fence and extensively cut back the undergrowth. She still likes to graze the area, we think looking for early shoots of ivy.

“Where companies or individuals hold licences to take water from them, they cannot ignore the conditions attached and take as much water as they like.

then sets its own charges for supplying the abstracted water to businesses and residents on the estate.

Despite the licence allowing the estate to abstract up to 66.6 cubic metres of water a day, an investigation by the EA found that between December 2022 and July 2023 the authorised licence limit had been exceeded by a total of nearly 7,500 cubic metres – around three Olympic size swimming pools worth of water. This came at a time when

The EA said the estate was advised in 2018 of how an increase to its permitted abstraction levels could be applied for.

Instead, the estate said steps would be taken to reduce the amount of water being taken, but amounts abstracted continued to be above the permitted level each year through to 2023.

Senior environment officer for the EA, Carolyn Lane said: “Chalk streams are stunningly beautiful, but ecologically sensitive, watercourses.

“In this case, the Ilchester Estate not only deliberately flouted the conditions, they did so during a drought, when it is likely that damage will have been done to the river and the surrounding environment it supports.”

The headwater reaches of the Dorset Frome have been endorsed as a Flagship Chalk Stream catchment by Wessex Water.

It is one of only 200 chalk streams in the world, of which 85% are in the UK. The streams contain mineral-rich pure water and are havens for wildlife.

Alex from Four Daughters Contracting scans Gale for lambs

Friars Moor moves to new home

A WELL-KNOWN vet has moved into new, state-of-the-art facilities.

Friars Moor Livestock Health held a grand opening drinks reception at its new base, in West Stour, on February 6.

Vet and director, Yoav Alony-Gilboa, performed the

honours, cutting the ribbon to officially open the new facilities in the presence of hundreds of customers and friends.

“The evening was a great success and was supported by more than 200 of our clients,” a spokesperson said.

“The building was thrumming with energy and conversation, and delicious catering was supplied by

Victoria O’Brien.”

Clients were taken on tours of the new facilities and got to see the new laboratory, meeting rooms, pharmacy and more.

“This new headquarters allows us to continue to support our amazing clients, their families and their farming businesses well into the future,” the spokesperson added.

Lambing – preparation is key

by Celeste Spinks, vet intern at Friars Moor Livestock Health

WITH lambing season around the corner – if it hasn’t started already – it’s never too soon to get organised and make sure you have everything you need to ensure this busy period goes as smoothly as possible and your lambs get the best start possible.

Check your ewes

Ensure vaccinations, for example, clostridial vaccines, are up to date.

Body condition score your ewes – aim for 2.5-3/5 at lambing.

Keep an eye out for common pre-lambing issues such as twin lamb disease – stock up on twin lamb drenches and injectable calcium – and prolapses –ideally use a harness rather than a spoon/retainer – and seek

veterinary advice if necessary. Stock up on supplies

Ensure your lambing kit includes:

Disposable gloves – arm length and short; lubricant – you can never have enough; lambing ropes and/or head snare; clean towels for drying lambs; clean scissors – cut the umbilical cord four inches from the naval if required; iodine for navel dipping; colostrum – fresh, frozen or powdered, such as Immucol; milk replacer, jugs, whisks and bottles/teats/tubes/ large syringe, syringes and needles, eartags, eartagger, castration rings and applicator and marker spray; Metacam for pain relief and a broad-spectrum antibiotic, for example, Alamycin.

Have plenty of clean dry straw for bedding, pens with hay racks and water – at least one per 10 ewes, an infrared lamp/warming box and lime/ disinfectant if lambing indoors. Recognising the signs of lambing

Early signs that a ewe is close to lambing include:

Behaviour: Restlessness, loss of appetite separating from the flock, stargazing, pawing at the ground/nesting.

Anatomy: Swelling of the vulva, milk drop – swollen teats, vaginal discharge. What to do during lambing Most ewes lamb without complications and intervening too early can do more harm than good, however, you may need to

assist if necessary.

Observe

Allow the ewe to progress naturally but monitor for prolonged or difficult labour – more than 30 minutes of active straining without any progress. Better to call sooner rather than later if you’re concerned! Assist only when necessary

Make sure you’re clean! Wash your hands before and after and wear gloves.

Lubricate well before examining the ewe.

Check whether the lamb is correctly positioned – ideally front legs and head first as if the lamb were diving out of the ewe – and the cervix is dilated enough for the lamb to be delivered. If concerned give us a call!

Post-lambing care

Check the ewe has milk and ensure lambs receive 200ml of colostrum within two hours of birth – if needed, top the lamb up with colostrum milked from the ewe or a powdered replacement, for example, Immucol.

Dip the lamb’s navel in iodine to prevent infection. Check lambs for hypothermia, watery mouth, joint ill and ewes for mastitis. Have a plan for triplets/ quadruplets and orphan lambs. If you encounter any issues or are unsure how to proceed, don’t hesitate to call us for advice or assistance.

Friars Moor Livestock Health vet and director, Yoav Alony-Gilboa, cuts the ribbon to open the state-of-the-art new premises at West Stour (left)

Farmer admits mistreating livestock

FARMER Daniel Hayward has received a suspended prison sentence after he admitted mistreating animals.

Hayward, of Bratton, Wiltshire, was sentenced to 10 months imprisonment, suspended for 12 months, banned from keeping all animals except cattle, cats and dogs for five years and ordered to complete 250 hours of unpaid work at Swindon Magistrates Court.

He must also pay £3,600 costs and a victim surcharge after admitting welfare offences. It comes after an investigation by Wiltshire Council led to the 33-year-old being charged with 21 offences relating to the care of sheep, livestock record keeping requirements and the incorrect storage of carcasses between April 2023 and February 2024.

When officers from the council’s Animal Health and Welfare team visited land in Great Cheverell in April 2023 they found about 30 sheep, including ewes with young lambs, with no access to drinking water.

On a separate visit, multiple decaying sheep carcases were found in and around buildings used by Hayward.

Further animal welfare

inspections by the animal health officers and vets from the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) were conducted between April and May 2023.

In total, six sheep were found to be in such poor condition that they required immediate euthanasia, while others needed veterinary treatment.

As the investigation continued, Hayward stored sheep carcasses incorrectly, allowing other animals and birds access, with the stench of decay causing a nuisance locally, the court was told.

It was also discovered he was continuing to commit serious animal welfare offences, with five further sheep requiring immediate euthanasia during a revisit from officers and an APHA vet.

Hayward was also charged with failing to comply with legal requirements relating to recording and reporting movements of sheep used to ensure traceability of his flock.

In addition, he had failed to notify the Secretary of State that he was keeping sheep on land at Worton and Great Cheverell and did not provide officers with copies of his animal movement and animal medicine records when required.

Pneumatic fittings

Air brake fittings

Hose clamps

Hydraulic Hoses

Mobile

Quick release couplings

Pressure wash hoses + lances

Up to 1 ½ “Hose stocked

Variation of oils

EVERY WEDNESDAY WEEKLY SALES OF PRIME CATTLE CULL CATTLE DAIRY CATTLE & CALVES. PRIME, STORE & CULL SHEEP ********************************************************************

EVERY FRIDAY – SALE OF STORE & BREEDING CATTLE ********************************************************************

TENDERS INVITED FOR GRASS KEEP, available from April to November 2025, in two fields, water, fenced. Just off the A303 Gillingham turning. Please email stoketristerpc@gmail.com. Closing date 28th February 2025.

TYRES AROUND LTD

Mobile Service

WEDNESDAY 27th NOVEMBER CHRISTMAS FATSTOCK SHOW CLASSES FOR HANDLED & UNHANDLED PRIME CATTLE. BARREN COWS. PRIME LAMBS. PRIME PIGS & CALVES FATSTOCK SHOW DINNER FRIDAY 29th NOVEMBER

EVERY WEDNESDAY WEEKLY SALES OF PRIME CATTLE CULL CATTLE DAIRY CATTLE & CALVES. PRIME, STORE & CULL SHEEP ********************************************************************

EVERY FRIDAY – SALE OF STORE & BREEDING CATTLE ********************************************************************

OF STORE & BREEDING CATTLE

WEDNESDAY 4th DECEMBER SALE OF REARED CALVES ********************************************************************

WEDNESDAY 27th NOVEMBER CHRISTMAS FATSTOCK SHOW CLASSES FOR HANDLED & UNHANDLED PRIME CATTLE.

Agricultural Specialist Over 35 year’s Experience NIGEL MARTIN 07921 929891

WEDNESDAY 19th FEBRUARY FORTNIGHTLY SALE OF PIGS

WEDNESDAY 11th DECEMBER FORTNIGHTLY SALE OF PIGS ********************************************************************

BARREN COWS. PRIME LAMBS. PRIME PIGS & CALVES FATSTOCK SHOW DINNER FRIDAY 29th NOVEMBER

MONDAY 16th DECEMBER SALE OF TB RESTRICTED CATTLE ********************************************************************

WEDNESDAY 26th FEBRUARY SALE OF REARED CALVES

WEDNESDAY 4th DECEMBER SALE OF REARED CALVES ********************************************************************

WEDNESDAY 11th DECEMBER FORTNIGHTLY SALE OF PIGS ********************************************************************

WEDNESDAY 18th DECEMBER LAST MARKET BEFORE CHRISTMAS SALE FOR ALL SECTIONS INCLUDING REARED CALVES, PIGS & STORE CATTLE ********************************************************************

MONDAY 16th DECEMBER SALE OF TB RESTRICTED CATTLE ********************************************************************

MONDAY 17th MARCH SALE OF TB RESTRICTED CATTLE FOR ADVICE ON ALL CLASSES OF STOCK PLEASE CALL

MONDAY 30th DECEMBER SALE FOR ALL SECTIONS EXCEPT PIGS ******************************************************************** FOR ADVICE ON ALL CLASSES OF STOCK PLEASE CALL

BRADLEY TOWELL 07496 263916 TOM ROGERS 07384 462288

WEDNESDAY 18th DECEMBER LAST MARKET BEFORE CHRISTMAS SALE FOR ALL SECTIONS INCLUDING REARED CALVES, PIGS & STORE CATTLE ********************************************************************

BRADLEY TOWELL 07496 263916 TOM ROGERS 07384 462288 TREVOR ROWLAND 07968 480401 LESTER WILLIAMS 07778 646031 ROSS WHITCOMBE 07815 985737 CLIVE PEACH 07970 620859 ANDREW FRIZZLE 07977 136863

TREVOR ROWLAND 07968 480401 LESTER WILLIAMS 07778 646031 ROSS WHITCOMBE 07815 985737 CLIVE PEACH 07970 620859 ANDREW FRIZZLE 07977 136863

MONDAY 30th DECEMBER SALE FOR ALL SECTIONS EXCEPT PIGS ******************************************************************** FOR ADVICE ON ALL CLASSES OF STOCK PLEASE CALL

TOWELL 07496 263916 TOM ROGERS 07384 462288

ROWLAND 07968 480401 LESTER WILLIAMS 07778 646031 ROSS WHITCOMBE 07815 985737 CLIVE PEACH 07970 620859 ANDREW FRIZZLE 07977 136863 Frome Livestock Market, Standerwick, Somerset, BA11 2QB 01373 830033 info@fromelivestock.com

JDG Structural Steel Ltd

Steel frame buildings for agricultural, industrial and equestrian enterprises

Pre-cast concrete wallings panels supplied and erected

Roller shutter doors supplied and fitted

All steel frames are designed, fabricated & erected to conform to current CE markings

Tel: 01747 811711

Mob: 07860 570258

Email: johnguttridge@aol.com Email: Info@jdgstructuralsteel.co.uk.

WANTED

Cows Cows Cows All Grades Also, Bulls plus Organic Cattle Farm Assured or Non-Assured No V.A.N Number, No Problem! Payment on the day - Farm purchases Haulage Arranged

Brookfield Livestock Marketing Ltd 7 Days a week. Tel: 07811 381 159

HAYLAGE AND HAY 2024 good quality June made also small bale wheat straw. Collect or delivered. Blandford area. Call Jerry

QUALITY

Quality hay from well

hay . All June made. 3ft, 4ft and 6ft bales. Collect or delivered.

HEDGE TRIMMING AND HEDGE LAYING.

SHEEP KEEP WANTED. For a flock of ewes and

HEDGE LAYING, Hedge and woodland planting, coppicing. Experienced crew

R&W FENCING. Agricultural paddock and

CARAVAN REMOVAL

SERVICE, old, unwanted caravans, cars, trailers, vans, etc. Garden machinery, tractors, scrap metal. Yard, garden, garage removal clearances undertaken, dismantling and gas cutting

VINTAGE & CLASSIC TRACTORS wanted for parts.

BARN/SHED WANTED TO RENT. Any size for rearing cattle. 07496-811338.

MOBILE CRIMPING AND ROLLING. All cereals, pulses and maize, up to 20 tonnes per hour. Call Andy 07979-758907.

APPROX 220 CONCRETE

RAILWAY SLEEPERS for sale

£20 each plus VAT

We can deliver for an extra charge. Phone Roger on 01202 826502 or 07885 826396.

SHIPPING CONTAINERS FOR SALE

Tel: 01258 472288 / Mob: 07977 936109

New and second hand containers - blue/green - all with box locks

Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.

We provide a friendly, local service at competitive prices. Based at Redlynch near Bruton, we supply Car, Commercial, Agricultural, Plant & 4x4 tyres and offer a 24hr breakdown service. We won’t be beaten on price. Call us on 01749 813957 or 07971 012628 or find us at www.southwesttyreservices.co.uk

Symonds &Sampson

Spring Update

Thursday 6th March | 7pm Udder Farm Shop, East Stour, Gillingham, SP8 5LQ

You are invited to an informative evening with supper and the opportunity to enjoy a spring update on topics including:

Symonds & Sampson Farms & Land market update Agricultural rents and tenancies

Friars Moor Livestock Health Efficiencies through Technology Old Mill Post-budget Farm IHT planning

Please confirm any dietary requirements with your RSVP.

PROPERTY AUCTION FRIDAY 28 FEBRUARY & THURSDAY 27 MARCH 2025

PPROPERTY AUCTIONS FRIDAY 25 OCTOBER 2024 & FRIDAY 15 NOVEMBER 2024 AT THE DIGBY CHURCH MEMORIAL HALL, SHERBORNE AT 2:00PM AND VIA LIVESTREAM

2:00PM THE DIGBY HALL, HOUND STREET, SHERBORNE AND VIA LIVESTREAM

Penzance

£40,000

North Perrott Guide

£45,000

Wincanton

Guide £50,000

Witchampton Guide

£50,000

3.01 acres (1.22 ha) of gently sloping pasture land with direct road access. Freehold.

Axminster | 01297 33122 Guide

A freehold commercial investment opportunity with scope for a range of uses in a prominent location close to the town centre, harbour and promenade. RV £5,200. Freehold.

Yeovil | 01935 432526

W. Steepleton

Guide £150,000

0.19 acres of amenity land with scope for a range of uses (STPP/consents), adjoining residential properties. Freehold.

A ground floor retail unit forming part of an attractive Grade II Listed building with frontage to Market Place and North Street. RV £3,400. Leasehold 980 years remaining.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Puddletown

Guide £150,000

A linked barn for demolition with extant planning permission to construct approx. 1865sqft of barn-style accommodation. Freehold.

A mid-terraced 2 bedroom cottage in need of updating, with a good size rear garden, located in this highly soughtafter village, close to Dorchester. CTB B. Freehold.

Pallington Guide £350,000

38.42 acres (15.55 hectares) of fertile, workable arable land with good accessibility. Conveniently split into three workable parcels. The land has previously been used to grow salad crops and is understood to be very productive, more recently the land has been in a combinable crop rotation. This Autumn, the land has been drilled with a cover crop. Freehold.

Dorchester | 01305 251154

Dorchester | 01305 236237

Dorchester | 01305 261008

East Stour

Weymouth

Guide £250,000

Batcombe, Dorchester Guides £40,000 to £115,000 20.70 acres (12.01 ha) tucked away in a quiet rural position in 3 lots.

Guide £72,500

Verwood Guide £125,000

1.38 acres with a derelict barn in a residential location falling within the main urban development area on the Local Plan. Freehold.

A former town centre takeaway premises of 1,077 sqft with a 2 bedroom flat above with prior approval to convert to a single residential dwelling. RV £3,100. Freehold.

Wellington Tiverton | 01884 218911

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Totton, Hants

Guide £80,000

4.36 acres (1.76 ha) of permanent

pasture with a mains water supply situated on the outskirts of Totton within the New Forest National Park. Freehold.

Winfrith Newburgh Guide £170,000 20.42 acres (8.26 ha) of level, productive permanent pasture land adjacent to Tadnoll and Winfrith Heath. Freehold.

Salisbury | 01722 334323

Dorchester | 01305 236237

Warminster

Guide £150,000

A mixed-use investment opportunity comprising 4 bedsits and a commercial unit currently occupied by a barbers in the town centre. Freehold. RV £3,600. CTB A.

Winterborne Houghton Guide £400,000 42.94 acres (17.38 ha) of productive arable land. Free draining loam soil over chalk, two road access points, a cattle handling race, outstanding views and private water supply. South east aspect suited to vines and solar. Freehold.

Sturminster | 01258 473766

Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244

Shillingstone

Shaftesbury Guide £95,000

Lot A – 15.02 ac arable capable pasture land with a gentle south facing slope£115,000

A spacious 3 bedroom semi-detached property, sitting in a generous plot, in need of modernisation throughout, ideally located for Gillingham and Shaftesbury. CTB C. Freehold.

Lot B - 3.57 ac pasture and woodland including an old brick pumphouse - £40,000

A detached split-level property situated close to local amenities and within easy reach of the town centre, beaches and harbour, with scope for use as an HMO. CTB D. Freehold.

Lot C – 11.11 ac pasture and strip of woodland with stream frontage - £90,000 Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244

Sturminster | 01258 473766 Guide £225,000

Poundbury | 01305 251154

A charming 1 bedroom property forming part of a Grade II* Listed building, ideal as a buy to let investment or bolthole. Leasehold with 50% share of freehold.

Milborne Port Guide £150,000 An attractive period property for renovation enjoying a generous garden sitting on the outskirts of Milborne Port. Freehold.

Chilcompton Guide £195,000

A partially built 5 bedroom detached house, with double garage and gardens. PP was granted under application reference 2022/1683/FUL. Freehold.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Langtree Tiverton | 01884 218911

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

|

Sherborne | 01935 814488

Hurcott Guide £200,000 A period detached cottage in need of general improvement throughout, set in spacious gardens of 0.21 acres (0.08 hectares). Freehold.

Guide £485,000

An attractive 3 bedroom farmhouse and 1 bedroom annexe with potential to reconfigure in gardens, woodland, buildings and a paddock set in 5.57 acres. CTB E & A. Freehold.

Iliminster | 01460 200790

Wellington Tiverton | 01884 218911

Tarrant Gunville Guide £225,000-£250,000

A detached 2 bedroom cottage for complete renovation, situated in this highly sought after village within Cranborne Chase. Freehold. Blandford | 01258 452670

Wincanton Sturminster | 01258 473766 Guide £500,000

Belchalwell Guide £250,000 A detached bungalow on a 0.30 acre plot for modernisation/replacement (STPP) with a positive pre application response for a 4 bedroom house. Freehold.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Stalbridge Weston

Mappowder

Guide £850,000

Winterborne Kingston

Guide £650,000

Guide £595,000

Mappowder Guide £595,000

An imposing and well-presented detached 4-bedroom house with a large south-facing garden and far-reaching views in this sought-after hamlet.

A fine Grade II listed former village Post House with attractive gardens, a substantial barn/workshop and lovely views to the village church and surrounding countryside. CTB E. Freehold.

A fine Grade II listed former village Post House with attractive gardens, surrounding countryside. CTB E. Freehold.

Marnhull

Guide £525,000

Marnhull Guide £525,000

A character south-facing stone house in an excellent central village

A charming barn conversion situated in a private courtyard development with a mature rear garden and offered to the market with no forward chain.

facing gardens. CTB E. Freehold.

A character south-facing stone house in an excellent central village location with a large oak-framed double garage, workshop and southfacing gardens. CTB E. Freehold.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Sparkford

Shroton

OIEO £600,000

Shroton Guide £435,000

Guide £435,000

This delightful 2-bedroom end-of-terrace cottage has been fully updated village. CTB D. Freehold. Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766 DORSET |

This delightful 2-bedroom end-of-terrace cottage has been fully updated but retains great charm. It is situated in the heart of this most desirable village. CTB D. Freehold.

Offering contemporary living, this four-bedroom house has been beautifully designed with a focus on light and space. The property is thoughtfully appointed throughout, creating a warm and functional atmosphere.

Sherborne | 01935 814488

20 March | The London Office

Connect with London buyers at our forthcoming West Country Property Showcase.

Nr Sturminster Newton Guide Price £1,100,000

Nr Sturminster Newton Guide Price £1,100,000

Tucked away down a no through lane is this extended and very well

Contact your nearest office for further Information.

presented 4 bedroom country home with stable yard & paddocks, in total 4.11 acres. CTB E.Freehold,

presented 4 bedroom country home with stable yard & paddocks, in 4.11 acres. CTB E.Freehold,

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Blandford | 01258 452670

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Wonston

Guide £400,000

OIEO £400,000

A charming and updated Grade II listed thatched village cottage in the centre of Wonston, with Blackmore Vale views to the south.

An attractive, double-fronted 3-bedroom period property tucked away on

the neighbouring countryside. CTB C. Freehold.

An attractive, double-fronted 3-bedroom period property tucked away on an idyllic country lane with character features throughout and views over the neighbouring countryside. CTB C. Freehold.

Sherborne | 01935 814488

Sherborne | 01935 814488

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

North Cheriton

North Cheriton

OIEO £400,000

PROPERTY & LAND AUCTION

THURSDAY 27TH FEBRUARY 2024 AT 2PM AT THE SHRUBBERY HOTEL, STATION ROAD, ILMINSTER, TA19 9AR

Scan code for further details

55 NORTH STREET, WELLINGTON, TA21 8LY

Former County Council Property with a number of re-development opportunities. There is also potential for new builds to the rear (subject to obtaining the necessary planning permission).

Auction Guide: £200,000

Taunton Office: 01823 334466 landplanning.taunton@gth.net

14 ALSTONE ROAD, HIGHBRIDGE, TA9 3DT

A period house offering a substantial garden to the rear, garage/workshop, two sheds and views to the front and rear.

Auction Guide: £150,000 Yeovil Office: 01278 782326 residential.burnham-on-sea@gth.net

150 EAST REACH, TAUNTON, TA1 3HTA

A mid-terraced building arranged over ground and first floors which is currently in need of complete refurbishment. The site has a total area of 0.104 acres to include the main building, stores and garden

Auction Guide: £40,000 Taunton Office: 01823 334455 taunton.commercial@gth.net

5 CENTRAL ROAD, YEOVIL, BA20 1JL

An investment opportunity in the heart of Yeovil. The property comprises a two storey commercial premises with the ground floor currently let and first floor vacant.

Auction Guide: £70,000 Yeovil Office: 01935 423474 farms.yeovil@gth.net

SLADE COTTAGE, 38 HIGH STREET, WEST COKER, YEOVIL, BA22 9AR

A period end of terrace property in need of modernisation throughout. Three bedrooms, two reception rooms, off road parking and large garden.

Auction Guide: £200,000 Yeovil Office: 01935 415300 residential.yeovil@gth.net

SEVEN

HALWILL, BEAWORTHY, DEVON, EX21 5AE

A unique opportunity to acquire a three bedroom detached bungalow with double garage situated within its own plot in a rural location. Now needing renovation.

SALE AGREED PRIOR

FURTHER ENTRIES INVITED FOR WEDNESDAY 26TH MARCH 2025

For a free market appraisal or further information about selling by auction please contact: Jamie.batt@gth.net 01935 423474 at our Yeovil office

ACRES,

£950,000 Bruton

£330,000 Wincanton

£215,000 Wincanton

Thinking of moving?

Thinking of Moving in 2025?

We are enjoying a busy start to the year having registered many buyers looking to purchase a property in local towns and villages. If you are considering a move in 2025 we will be delighted to offer a free valuation and marketing advice on your property.

Having enjoyed a busy summer we still have many buyers registered with us wishing to purchase within the local towns and villages. If you are considering bringing your property to the market we would be delighted to hear from you.

Please call 01963 34000 to arrange an appointment or email wincanton@hambledon.net

Please call 01963 34000 or email wincanton@hambledon.net to book an appointment.

£288,000 Castle Cary

separate dining room, family bathroom, gardens and a garage. EPC Rating: C. Freehold.

£400,000 Bruton

£127,500 Henstridge

£250,000 Wincanton

A well presented semi-detached house situated at the end of a small close with an attractive landscaped rear garden on two levels. There is an entrance lobby with a cloakroom,

HOLIDAY TO LET

WONDERFUL CORNISH HOUSE, close to Porthcothan

Bay, near Padstow and Trevose Golf, still has availability for this summer. Sleeps 10 or 12 including shepherds hut. House

LAKE COMO, ITALY (Menaggio).

Available for rental from mid-May (minimum 5 night stay)

gorgeous recently refurbished cottage with stunning views of Lake Como. Sleeps 4. Garden and Terrace, fully equipped.

Very close to Italy’s second oldest 18 hole golf course.

PROPERTY

Selling an empty house?

Home Life Staging can furnish your sale property creating an inviting, homely feel to appeal to buyers. Get in touch to discuss your property’s potential on 07350877095 or info@homelifestaging.co.uk

Council backtracks on sale of Mayday

A MAJOR site in Frome will be sold to not-for-profit organisation Mayday Saxonvale, it has been decided. The former industrial site, in the heart of the town will now be developed to provide homes, commercial space and, potentially, a lido.

Somerset Council’s decision to sell to Mayday came after it previously voted to sell to developer Acorn.

However, a day after the decision, the developer withdrew from the scheme amid a community backlash.

At a meeting the council’s Executive on January 23, the decision was made to sell to Mayday, going along with the recommendation of officers.