The New Blackmore Vale - Issue 128 by The Blackmore Vale Limited

What’s inside this issue…

EDITORIAL

newsdesk@blackmorevale.net 01963 400186 Lorraine

lorraine_drake@icloud.com 07850 529937

Walking homeless, for the homeless

A DORSET man has braved the elements in a hair-raising 858-mile walk to raise money for a homeless charity.

Nick Brooke, who’s 72, set off with nothing but a bivvy bag and the barest essentials, challenging himself to sleep rough spending no more than £13.30 a day, while trekking across the country.

“My son, Orlando, began working for The Soup Kitchen in 2021,” explained Nick.

“He has seen over 300 people daily relying on their meals and support.

“In 1999, Orlando and I completed the Three Peaks challenge on a tandem bicycle, from Dorset to Ben Nevis, totalling 860 miles. I wanted to do this challenge again but on foot; a ‘Six Peaks’ challenge including peaks in the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, and Isle of Man.

“It wasn’t going to be easy carrying a 12kg pack with just a bivvy bag, clothes and essentials (no sleeping bag or tent), but for a 72-year-old man it could prove fatal. I was prepared to die, while totally homeless, living on no more than is available to homeless people; £13.30 per day covered my food, shelter and expenses.”

Nick set off on May 30 and finished on July 1, a 33-day journey totalling 858 miles.

“On my last night, the rain was predicted to clear off Ben Nevis before nightfall. I planned to sleep halfway up the mountain and then finish the climb and see dawn from the summit. With less than an hour of daylight left, the rain was heavier than ever,

the wind chill so severe and my bivvy bag had filled with water.

“I was fast slipping into hypothermia (the temptation being to sleep to escape the cold) and knew I had to get back down the mountain or linger and die. I had to get out of my bivvy bag, repack my backpack and get into my shoes. My knees were knocking, my fingers locked with cold.

“It was 1am when I got down and found the visitor centre toilet still open, where I was able to warm up with tea. Around 3:30am I climbed Ben Nevis again, having barely slept for 10 minutes.

“There was wonderful scenery along my journey, the occasional hour of perfect weather; my daughter, Sophie, joining me on Offa’s Dyke; Orlando joining me in the Wicklow Hills, and so many people to talk to, who could see the purpose of walking homeless, for the homeless.

“The homeless still face a life and death struggle every day, with little help or respect. Please help support The Soup Kitchen and the incredible work they do.”

Nick aims to raise £10,000 for the Soup Kitchen – you can contribute to his target at www.justgiving.com/page/nick-brooke-1

National treasure trove of adventures

FALL into autumn with the National Trust’s programme of activities at Kingston Lacy. Please check www.nationaltrust. org.uk/visit/dorset/kingston-lacy for opening days and times:

Kingston Lacy cycle rides

Would you like to take up cycling again, have lost confidence, or would just like to ride with other people using traffic-free trails or quiet country lanes?

Every Thursday from September to November, 10am-11am

Price: Free. Booking not required.

Formal garden tours

Meet a volunteer guide for a guided tour of Kingston Lacy’s Formal Garden. Experience the carefully planned, cut and planted areas of the formal garden from the beautiful displays on the south terrace to the historic planting of lime avenue and nursery wood.

Various dates throughout September and October, 11.30am-12.30pm and 2pm3pm.

Price: Free event (normal admission prices apply).

Booking required.

Nordic walking at Kingston Lacy

Nordic walking is an enhancement of ordinary walking. When trained in the right technique to use the poles effectively, it increases use of the upper body and enables you to work harder but it feels easier!

Every Tuesday from September to November, 10am-11am.

Price: £5. Booking required.

Kitchen garden tour

Meet a volunteer guide for a tour of Kingston Lacy’s kitchen garden.

At the end of the 19th century, the kitchen garden was the crowning glory of the whole garden and a pleasure ground forming the climax of the ornamental route.

Find out why this was the Bankes family’s place to escape and discover home-grown seasonal produce, ready to use in the café.

September 3, 11.30am12.30pm and 2pm-3pm.

Price: Free (normal admission prices apply). Booking required.

Henrietta’s garden

Celebrate the 20th anniversary of the restoration of Henrietta Bankes’ vision of the Japanese Garden, filled with cherry blossom, bamboo and acers.

September 4 -27, 9.30am4pm.

Price: Free (normal admission prices apply). Booking not required.

Willow-weaving workshop

A relaxing and creative session in which you will learn to make your own charming willow basket. Perfect for storing craft supplies or giving as a thoughtful handmade gift.

September 6, 10.30am2.30pm.

Price: £45 (normal admission prices apply). Booking required.

Henrietta’s house and garden tour

Discover how Henrietta Bankes, an influential member of the family, made her mark at Kingston Lacy in the house and garden and feel like one of her

guests.

September 9, 9.45am11.15am.

Price: £10 (normal admission prices apply). Booking required.

Kingston Lacy social walks

Discover the ever-changing Kingston Lacy woodlands and countryside and have the opportunity to meet new people on these gentle strolls, ranging from 3-4 miles.

September 10, 10am11.30am.

Price: Free. Booking required.

Autumn at Kingston Lacy, slow looking

Take time to pause and take in the beautiful surroundings of Kingston Lacy. Discover autumn colour in the garden and visit the house to spend some time taking a deeper look at the art on display.

September 12 to November 9, 9.30am-4pm.

Price: Free (normal admission prices apply). Booking not required.

Age Concern North Dorset Sturminster Newton ‘Supporting Later Life’

Behind bars

PRISONS and the people they contain are very emotive subjects.

Lock them up and throw away the key? Support prisoners so they understand being part of society is a privilege?

Everyone has a view.

Most people in prison are there because they made a bad choice. That choice is made within a complex mix of influences, including their socio-economic background, upbringing, current environment, the lack of a role model, poor education, mental health issues…

Sometimes we all need help, sometimes we all need guidance. Sometimes it takes courage to ask for and accept this, and a

willingness to want to change.

From 5pm-8pm on August 29, friends, staff and exprisoners from Guys Marsh prison will be at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton. The event, ‘A Glimpse Behind Bars’ will showcase what goes on at Guys Marsh prison. It is an opportunity to see for yourselves the dedication and hard work that ensures those men coming out can integrate and contribute to society.

It also intends to show how prisoners are committing to amend for their choices.

Come along and enjoy a warm welcome, a free drink and opportunity to see for yourself what actually goes on behind the wire at Guys Marsh.

Summer fete is an all-weather attraction

THIS year’s fete at Donhead St Andrew is supporting Wiltshire and Dorset Air Ambulance Services, Salisbury Hospice, Tisbus, Happy Gathering and St Andrew’s Church.

Donhead St Andrew’s all-weather fete is on Bank Holiday Monday, August 25, from 1pm to 4.30pm on Stoney Hills Field, Sands Lane, Donhead St Andrew (SP7 9LL).

It includes the classic car and bike show and the hotly anticipated dog show.

Come hungry – there’s a non-stop barbecue, beer and cider on tap, cream teas. Music will be provided by The Sunset Cafe Stompers.

An array of stalls includes bric a brac and tools, cakes and home produce, plants, clothes, handbags, toys and games, jewellery, books, pictures and frames .

To keep visitors entertained there will be Punch and Judy shows, alpacas, sideshows and country pursuits.

Take a gamble on the bottle tombola and a live auction of seasoned logs.

Come along whatever the weather – a large part of the Fete is under cover.

Picture perfect

PHOTOGRAPHER David

House held two sessions at Sturminster Newton Mill about wildlife photography.

He talked about binoculars, ‘scopes’, cameras and techniques he has used for many years.

Gemma, from Wessex Photo in Sturminster, also attended. Visitors could try all the equipment on display and get expert advice.

David had many albums of beautiful photos, sending visitors away with lots of ideas.

When science meets beekeeping...

by Robbie Baird, North Dorset Beekeepers

THE word ‘beekeeper’ might conjure up a picture of people dressed in white suits and veils, tending their hives in the middle of a field, perhaps with white smoke drifting away from their smoker (which is used to manage bees during an inspection).

Others will picture the golden honey which the honeybee has shared with us humans for thousands and thousands of years, and its sweet, complex taste. It’s the very picture of an enjoyable hobby and craft.

For many beekeepers, that’s where it stops, and that’s just fine – an enjoyable hobby and the friendships that grow around a shared interest at the local beekeeping association or club. But for an increasing number of beekeepers, delving deeper into the world of the honeybee, exploring its biology and related sciences, becomes an irresistible fascination.

Citizen science projects have become effective ways to gather huge amounts of data from across the country, feeding into research work that’s managed with scientific and academic rigour. Many beekeepers already participate.

Honey samples can be sent to the National Honey Monitoring Scheme (www. honey-monitoring.ac.uk) where scientists determine what’s in each – water content and pesticide residues, as well as completing a pollen DNA analysis that tells us which flowers the bees have been visiting for food.

Over time, this data shows important trends, leading to conclusions about the well-being of our environment, which feeds into plans to protect it for future generations.

DEFRA’s National Bee Unit (www. nationalbeeunit.com) operates Beebase, an online source of information about the honeybee. Many beekeepers provide data about their own bees – information about the number of colonies in their apiaries,

diseases affecting their bees, as well as colony failures and winter survival rates.

All of this builds to a national picture of honeybee health, helping the agency plan its work to manage and control bee pests and diseases.

The latest citizen science project to come our way involves propolis. You’ll already know that bees collect pollen and nectar from flowers, bringing those back to feed the colony. They also collect water and propolis.

Actually, more correctly, the bees collect sticky material exuded by tree buds, sap flows and other plant sources. They then make what we call propolis by mixing it with saliva and beeswax to create an amazing material – sticky above 19°C, but hard and brittle at lower temperatures.

The bees use propolis to plug gaps, stick things together, improve thermal insulation, and as an antifungal and antibacterial material. They’ll even coat an invading animal like a lizard or a mouse with it if it dies inside the hive!

Propolis is a fascinating material, and its exact composition varies from place to

place and between colonies.

This new project is being run from the Engineering Department at Lancaster University, and it will study the biophysical characteristics of the material, and how these properties vary by region and the composition of its component parts. North Dorset Beekeepers has fitted three of our hives with a mesh which the bees see as a target with lots of gaps to be filled with propolis. After a few weeks, these have now been removed and sent off to become part of the research project. Who knows what we’ll find out and where that light lead once the analysis is done!

Does any of this make you think you’d like to know more about the world of the honeybee? Well, just as this year’s Beginners Course is drawing to a close, North Dorset Beekeepers are already taking bookings for the 2026 Beginners Course that will start in March.

If you’d like to add your name to our list, just head over to our website for more information (www.northdorsetbeekeepers. org.uk/beginners-course). Exact dates will be finalised shortly.

Musical programme at town church

ST GREGORY’S Church, Marnhull, has a varied season of musical events to look forward to over the next few months. Its Autumn Series of concerts, held on alternate Sundays at 3pm, begin with an organ recital by John Radford, organ advisor for the Salisbury

Diocese, on August 24.

A concert featuring Jon Pickard on the rare harp guitar will follow on September 7.

The church will welcome composer and organist David Bednall – of Dr Who fame – to give a special organ recital on September 21.

Other highlights include a visit by Salisbury Cathedral Girls Choir on Monday, September 22, at 7pm, and a folk evening with Brian Willoughby and Cathryn Craig on Saturday, October 18, at 7pm.

Admission to the concerts is

free – apart from the harp guitar and folk concerts which will be ticketed – but donations towards church funds will be welcomed. For further details on all the concerts see the Music at St Greg’s Facebook page or call organist, Gordon Amery, on 07817 379006.

Arrest after attack during burglary

A MAN has been arrested after two men reportedly broke into a property near Stalbridge and attacked the occupant, leaving them with serious injuries.

Dorset Police said entry was forced to the property and that the occupant was assaulted.

A man from Templecombe in Somerset has now been arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary and he has been

Bike crash death

A 74-YEAR-OLD man has died after a crash involving two motorbikes near Dorchester.

The incident occurred on the A35 in Winterbourne Abbas.

A 74-year-old man, from Exmouth, Devon, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Sergeant Mike Burt, of the Roads Policing Team, said: “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the man who sadly died in this collision.

“We know there were a large number of witnesses to this incident, and I am appealing for anyone who saw what happened and has not already spoken to police to please come forward.

“Also, I am keen to speak to any motorists who captured dashcam footage of the manner of driving of other motorists involved or of the moments leading up to the collision to please contact us. You may have vital information to assist our enquiries.”

Anyone with information about the crash should contact Dorset Police via www.dorset. police.uk, by email to scit@ dorset.pnn.police.uk, or by calling 101, quoting incident number 55250118032. They can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or on 0800 555 111.

released on police bail. Police are still trying to locate another man who is believed to be involved. He reportedly left the scene in the direction of Duck Street, past Stalbridge Primary School and towards Station Road.

Detective Inspector Darren Stanton, of Dorset Police, said:

“We are continuing with our investigation, and enquiries are

ongoing to locate a second man we suspect of being involved in this alleged aggravated burglary.

“I would ask local residents and motorists driving in the area to please review their doorbell, home CCTV and dashboard cameras to see if they have captured anything of relevance to our investigation.

“We fully recognise the concerns expressed by members

of the local community regarding recent incidents in Stalbridge.

“We remain committed to providing a visible police presence in the area and exploring all viable lines of enquiry.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, using reference number 55250110959.

Fond farewell

THE longest serving member of staff at Milton Abbey School has retired after 40 years’ service.

Hugo Mieville arrived in 1985 as a French teacher, before becoming head of Languages, master in charge of football and Athelstan Housemaster during the 1990s.

He also took on senior roles including director of cocurricular, senior master and, since 2016, Milton Abbey Association (MAA) manager. Hugo has served under six headmasters and, outside the school, is Mayor of Blandford. A spokesperson for the school said: “Generations of

Miltonians, pupils, parents and staff, have benefited from Hugo’s wisdom, care and dedication.

“He has been a guiding hand, a supportive colleague and a master educator in the truest sense.

“His kindness, deep knowledge and thoughtful leadership have left an indelible mark on all who have worked with him.

“As he steps into retirement, we thank Hugo for his lifetime of service, friendship and unwavering ‘duty to the common good’.

“A remarkable Miltonian, through and through.”

Blackmore accounts assistant, Katie Kelly, receives her Printing Charity Rising Star Award from Lord Black of Brentwood at the House of Lords

Rising star

ACCOUNTS assistant Katie Kelly, who works for Shaftesbury print firm Blackmore, has received an award at the House of Lords.

Katie was presented with The Printing Charity’s national Rising Star Award by the charity’s President Emeritus, Lord Black of Brentwood.

The award celebrates young talent and supports individuals aged 18-30 looking for personal development or training in the

print, paper, publishing, graphics and packaging sectors.

Katie underwent a rigorous entry process, including a tough interview stage, to be awarded the Rising Star Award.

She will put the award’s funding prize towards an AAT Level 2 Accounting course. Managing director at Blackmore, Andrew Robbins, said: “We are delighted that all Katie’s hard work and dedication have been recognised.”

A walk around… Compton Abbas

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

THIS is a short walk of less than four miles around the parish of Compton Abbas. It avoids the gigantic hills but still gives some pleasant views over parts of the Vale.

Start at the church, which is fairly modern, having been built in 1868. It’s rather large for a parish with a population of only about 200, but I suppose more of them went to church in those days.

Next to the church is a telephone kiosk with a notice board displaying the history of the parish and also a number of local walks to try.

From there, take a footpath heading south for a short distance to meet a road on a bend. Turn right and take a path heading west between pleasant gardens to meet the main road.

Cross with care to join Hawkcombe Lane, which is almost opposite.

It is a pleasant undulating walk taking you west for about a mile to meet a road that takes you north a short distance to Twyford where you join a footpath on the right that takes you eastwards across a field close to a hedge and then enters another field which

you cross diagonally uphill to a stile at the top.

This takes you onto Drones Lane, a byway that’s relatively easy going and giving good views of the nearby hills.

After nearly a mile you meet the main road again, which you cross and proceed downhill to East Compton.

Around the bend at the bottom you’ll discover the tower of the old church, which is all that remains of it.

Having visited it, rejoin the road that takes you west through the village. As you’re nearing the main road again you can join a short sheltered path that takes you past the church hall and back to where you started.

Photo

Hugo Mieville has retired from Milton Abbey School PHOTO: Milton Abbey School

Cameras at the ready for children’s nature photo comp

THE Balsam Centre in Wincanton has launched a nature photography competition to encourage children and young people to discover and celebrate the wildlife and green spaces around them.

The competition invites budding photographers from South Somerset in three age categories – Under-fives, six to 10 years, and 11 to 16 years – to take a closer look at the natural world on their doorstep, whether it’s in the garden or local park, a flowerpot or window box, or even a grass verge, and capture it through their own lens, tablet or phone.

Every entrant will be presented with a certificate recognising their creativity and enthusiasm at The Balsam Centre’s Wild & Green Community Fair on Saturday, September 27, where a selection of the entries will also be on display as part of a special exhibition.

Additional prizes are on offer for the winners of each age category, and for the six–10 and 11–16 categories, both winners and runners-up will be invited to take part

in an exclusive nature photography workshop at the Wild & Green Community Fair, led by Charles Gervais of Wincanton-based Both Hemispheres Photography.

Charles is a professional photographer whose portfolio includes images of luminaries such as Michael Bublé and King Charles III.

When he’s not working with portrait clients, or covering local events like the Glastonbury Festival, he and his camera can be found in the countryside around Wincanton shooting landscapes, timelapse movies and wildlife photos.

school holidays, when parents and carers are often looking for things to do with their children.

“This competition is all about helping children and young people to slow down and really notice the wild, beautiful things growing and living all around them,” said Izzie Koch, project lead at The Balsam Centre.

“It’s timed to coincide with the long

“You don’t need a fancy camera to take part – a phone will do nicely.

“We can’t wait to see what they find!”

The competition closes on Sunday, August 31.

Full details of how to enter can be found at www.balsamcentre.org.uk/naturephotography-competition

The Balsam Centre’s Nature on Your Doorstep photography competition celebrates the nature that’s all around us. PHOTO: Charles Gervais

News

Taking a slow tractor to Land’s End

YOUNG Dorset mechanic Billy Kitcher is giving the beach a miss this year and spending his holiday driving a vintage tractor from John O’Groats to Land’s End in aid of mental health charity #Willdoes.

Billy’s 900-mile plus journey in his 1954 Fordson Major tractor – with no cab and a top speed of 22mph – could take up to two weeks.

#Willdoes (www.willdoes. co.uk) was set up in memory of Will Paddy, who grew up near Swanage and passed away at the age of 14.

Billy, 23, from Chideock, will be setting off on his road trip on Monday, September 8, accompanied by friends Bill Parsons and Jack Macey, both on their tractors. Local businessman Peter Andrews is transporting the three tractors to John O’Groats to get the boys under way.

“I woke up one morning and thought, ‘why not?’. I’ve got two weeks off work, can’t afford to go abroad and I’ve always wanted to see more of Scotland,” said Billy.

“So, I figured, if I’m going to do something, I might as well do it for a good cause.”

Billy’s tractor – a classic of British farming heritage –averages just 18mph, making it more of a slow-motion adventure than a race.

But for Billy, the pace suits the purpose.

He said: “I take part in the Christmas tractor run every year for #Willdoes.

“I know people who struggle with mental health, and it’s something close to my heart.”

Billy, whose grandparents were farmers, has spent time working on farms and is aware of the challenges the rural community faces.

lunch included in these trips

STEAM RAILWAY & CRUISE - DV948 19th August - £96pp NEW TRIP

BARGE & TWO COURSE MEAL - Tiverton Hotel - DV940 23rd August - £93pp SUNDAY LUNCH SPECIAL - Highcliffe - Cliffhanger Restaurant - DV942 31st August - £64pp

WINDSOR CASTLE & RIVERCRUISE - DV949 26th August - £110pp

SUNDAY LUNCH SPECIAL - IOW - Brunswick Hotel Shanklin - DV937 7th September - £99pp

SUNDAY LUNCH SPECIAL - LOOE CORNWALL - Portbyhan Hotel - DV945 5th October - £60pp

WAVERLEY PADDLE STEAMER, TWINKLING THAMES & FLOODLIT TOWER BRIDGE - Includes 2 course meal Southend Holiday Inn - DV947 12th October - £134pp

CARDIFF CHRISTMAS SHOPPING - DV955 8th December - £69pp SECRET SUNDAY LUNCH - DV954 26th October - £60pp

LONGLEAT FESTIVAL OF LIGHT/SAFARI/2 course meal - George Inn Longbridge Dev - DV956 15th November - £124pp

THURSFORD CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR - Cliftonville Hotel - SB553 Sat 22nd - Mon 24th November - From £410-£460pp

LONDON XMAS SHOWBOAT CRUISE - Doubletree Hilton Hotel - plus visit to Windsor on route to home - SB552 Sun 7th - Mon 8th December - From £310pp - £370pp

CHRISTMAS IN PAIGNTON - Esplanade Hotel - SB556 23rd - 27th December - From £729 - £789pp

A recent survey by the Farm Safety Foundation found that 94% of farmers consider poor mental health to be the biggest issue in the industry today.

Billy also hopes his journey might catch the attention of Jeremy Clarkson, of Amazon Prime’s Clarkson’s Farm, whose recent work has brought national focus to the mental health crisis in agriculture.

“I’d love Clarkson to notice – I’ve got an old-school tractor, a bit of grit and a great cause,” he said. “What’s not to like?”

Billy is currently seeking business sponsors, fuel support and donations to help fund his journey and raise money for #Willdoes. To support him, visit his JustGiving page (www. justgiving.com/page/billkitcher-1).

Poetry night is back at Shaftesbury venue

A POPULAR poetry night, which includes open-mic spots, is making a welcome return next month.

‘Words Underground’ returns to Shaftesbury on September 5, from 7pm to 9pm, with two guest poets.

Once again it will take place in the Nuns’ Passage, the cellar venue below the town centre’s King Alfred’s Kitchen café.

Featured readers will be Jeremy Hilton and Kate Scott.

Jeremy is an 80-year-old writer, poet and retired social worker, living in Bridport.

He has published his poetry in magazines and anthologies worldwide since the mid-1960s, and has 14 small-press collections to his name, most recently Fulmar’s Wing Between 1995 and 2012, he edited and published the international poetry magazine, Fire

Kate is also based in Bridport.

Poems from her poetry collections Stitches and Escaping the Cage have been broadcast on BBC Radio 4, and her short fiction on Radio 4 Extra. She is a distinguished writer for both TV and radio, and author of a series of books for children.

There will be five or six short open readings slots, and possibly another musical interlude. No charge for entry, but there will be a call for donations to help cover costs. Capacity is limited, so early arrival is advised.

Villagers display creative talents

Pictures and words by George Jeans, Mere

STOURTON flower and produce show (Stourton show) was held on August 3 in the Memorial Hall.

Competition entries followed the traditional themes of flower arranging, cookery, art and photography. The show dates back over 100 years, when it was first held over three days at Stourhead House.

Many trophies were for winning – including one trophy dated 1947 – and there were correspondingly many entries.

Although held indoors, the weather was very kind and attracted entrants and the public out. Audrey Hoare presented the silver cups and trophies.

Norman Rose won for his hand crafted metalwork.

Nick Hoare won for his cake of Alfred’s Tower, which took on the appearance of the leaning tower of Alfred after the show. Chris Topham, who helped organise the show, was surprised to have won for his art.

There was a barbecue for the entrants following the show at 5pm.

Summer sunshine

Pictures and words by George Jeans, Mere

a very pleasant summer’s late afternoon and evening. A catch up for all.

ZEALS village barbecue was

Cooking up a storm for patients

YEOVIL Hospital’s catering team is in the spotlight after receiving awards for their dedication and commitment to continuous improvement.

The team has been awarded exemplar status by NHS England, for retail services delivered at the hospital.

To achieve this, the team needed to meet 12 standards set by the Soil Association, and use an innovative approach to improving meal provision.

The team made improvements to menu design and waste management, providing nutritious and appealing meals that cater to the diverse needs of Yeovil Hospital’s community.

The team has also introduced several sustainability improvements, including:

• A waste reduction initiative that targets food waste at all stages of meal provision

• Using technology to

introduce real-time waste tracking

• Biodegradable, recyclable meal packaging

• Using fresh herbs from the hospital’s herb garden

• Menus written in advance by the chefs, using British ingredients from local suppliers

• Moving to more sustainable, local and traceable products with Red Tractor

Yeovil’s team also scooped the Hospital Catering Award at the Public Sector Catering Awards 2025.

The judges looked for how nominees were meeting the challenge of malnutrition and dehydration, innovation in menus and meal delivery, and the development of a patientcentric strategy.

In addition, colleagues from the catering team were shortlisted for the Team of the

of facilities

has also won the special contribution award at the Public Sector Catering Awards, held last month, for having a significant influence on the provision of catering

services.

And the team doesn’t plan on stopping there… The innovations continue, with plans to develop and roll-out a QR code system for patients to look at the coming week’s menu, with pictures and nutritional information, later this year.

Year Award.

Mathieu Eke, head

– hotel services at Yeovil Hospital,

Colleagues in the catering team at Yeovil Hospital

Put on your dancing shoes

GENTLE exercise for the over-60s is coming to The Exchange in Sturminster Newton this autumn.

Dorset rural arts charity Artsreach has teamed up with Pavilion Dance South West to launch a 12-week dance course.

Yvonne Gallimore, Artsreach assistant director, said: “As the winter months approach, we all tend to spend more time indoors, and for older people this may mean greater feelings of loneliness and isolation.

“We are, therefore, very grateful to both the Britford Bridge Trust and Dorset Community Foundation, whose support has enabled us to coordinate a series of classes designed to suit older people living in north Dorset.”

A specially trained teacher from Pavilion Dance South

West will lead the classes, which launch on Thursday, September 25, and cost £6. No dance experience is necessary and post-class refreshments and social time are included.

Those not mobile enough to attend alone are asked to take a carer for more support.

To find out more, email yvonne@artsreach.co.uk, or to book, contact The Exchange on 01258 475137.

SATURDAY & SUNDAY, 6TH-7TH SEPTEMBER

One of the best haunted house plays - it’s Agatha Christie meets The Haunting

Community cash

Pictures and words by George Jeans, Mere THE village of Kilmington cleared a profit of over £1,000 at a charity barbecue one evening this summer.

The money raise will help keep St Mary’s Church for all to enjoy.

With good food, good music and a summer drink, it was a very pleasant summer’s evening. Young Arthur Hames (pictured above) performed well as compere for the raffle.

A step up on the career ladder

A NEW full-time job has been created for a local young person and it’s not your typical role, say employers…

Three small, pioneering organisations based in Somerset and Dorset – This Living Place, Wessex Community Assets and Dorset Community Energy – have teamed up to create a shared role that offers one young person the chance to build skills, earn a salary, and contribute to positive change in their community.

The job, communications and engagement coordinator, is part of a national programme called the Youth Environmental Service. It’s designed to support young people into environmental careers, especially those who might not otherwise get the chance.

From visiting solar-powered village halls to helping tell the story of local flax-growing projects, the role promises to be hands-on and community-focused.

It’s also a first-of-its-kind prototype: a shared position between three rural organisations serving the Vale, aimed at showing how smaller community organisations can work together to create full-time, paid jobs that keep young talent rooted in the region.

The organisations involved hope this pilot is just the beginning, inspiring more collaborative roles like this across the countryside.

If you know a young person in Somerset or Dorset who’s passionate about the environment, storytelling, or their community and looking for a job – encourage them to apply.

You’ll find all the details and the deadline for applications at www.thislivingplace.co.uk

Singing for health

TRY the benefits of singing in a group at a free taster session this September.

The group, Harmony for Health, is led by community musician Paula Fleming and supported by Sounds Better CIC. Paula already runs a group in Mere, but is testing the water with a free taster session at Riversmeet Leisure Centre in Gillingham on September 1 at 11am.

The group is for people with lung conditions, breathing issues (including breathlessness and asthma) and long covid, as well as anyone living with loneliness and stress. For more information visit www.paulaflemingcommunityarts. uk or contact Paula on 07887 863996.

Fire safety day

A BLANDFORD-BASED fire safety company is hosting a fundraising day on Friday, September 12.

Fireline Ltd is currently celebrating its 25th anniversary. As part of its celebrations, the company is hosting a charitable fire safety awareness day at its offices.

The event will include fire safety training sessions offered in exchange for donations, a barbecue, and a range of communityfocused activities – all to raise funds for Hannah’s Holiday Home Appeal, a fantastic charity providing respite holidays for children with cancer and life-limiting illnesses.

Find out more and donate at www.localgiving.org/fundraising/ Fireline

Luxury residential care at The Old Rectory

From our excellent home cooking to individually decorated private rooms and above all real loving care… life is tailored to you.

The Old Rectory is a beautiful residential care home that specialises in dementia care. Tastefully converted from a former rectory and carefully adapted to make it safe and secure for residents giving them the freedom to have a full and active life. We offer a caring and welcoming environment that is a true home in every sense of the word, where people with dementia are respected as individuals.

Residential care Day care Respite care

Convalescent stays

Have your say on plan for Marnhull

MARNHULL locals are being urged to submit their thoughts on the draft neighbourhood plan for the village.

A neighbourhood plan is a community-led document that sets out the type of future growth each area needs.

It can help decide what areas should be developed, or not, and allows residents to have a greater influence over planning decisions, including shops, homes and offices – including what they could look like.

Marnhull’s neighbourhood plan has been developed by residents and has been agreed by the parish council.

It has now been submitted for independent examination, but before this can happen, Dorset Council has to launch a consultation on the draft plan.

This gives the local community the opportunity to provide feedback by Friday, September 19.

If the neighbourhood plan is approved following examination, and supported by a local referendum, it will be used to inform decisions on planning applications in consultation with the National Planning Policy Framework and the adopted Local Plan.

Councillor Shane Bartlett, Dorset Council’s portfolio holder for planning, said: “It takes a tremendous amount of work in order to put together a Neighbourhood Plan. I congratulate all involved in getting to this stage.

“While Neighbourhood plans have to align with the Local Plan and the National Planning Policy Framework document, they are an important part of the planning process.

“The plans give local communities a real say in how their area should change over time.

“I would therefore encourage

anyone with an interest in the future development of Marnhull to view the plans and submit any feedback they may have.”

People who live, work or run a business in the Marnhull parish area have until Friday, September 19 to submit comments. The plan and comments will then be passed on to an independent examiner.

Anyone commenting on the plan should let the council know if they wish to be kept informed of the progress of the neighbourhood plan.

A paper copy of the Neighbourhood Plan will be available for viewing at:

• Sturminster Newton Library (open Monday 10am to 3pm, Tuesday 2pm to 5pm, Thursday midday to 6pm, and Friday and Saturday 10am to 1pm).

• St Gregory’s Church, New Street, Marnhull (open daily 9am to 4:30pm).

You can request a copy by email or post by emailing neighbourhoodplanning@ dorsetcouncil.gov.uk, phoning 01258 484224, or writing to Spatial Planning, Dorset Council, County Hall, Dorchester DT1 1XJ.

A set of paper copies of the consultation documents will be charged at £26 plus £5 postage and packing.

Photo

Jonathan Hutchins

Secure Your Home. Safeguard

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

Your Legacy. Discover the Power of a Living Trust

Advertising Feature

Your home is more than just bricks and mortar — it’s the foundation of your family’s future. But without the right legal protections, it could be vulnerable to rising care costs, probate delays, and unnecessary inheritance tax. At Oakwood Wills, we help you shield your assets with one powerful tool: the Living Trust

Why Consider a Living Trust?

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Minimise Inheritance Tax Liability. A Living Trust can be a valuable tool in inheritance tax planning. By legally transferring ownership of your home and selected assets into the trust, they may fall outside of your taxable estate.

Avoid Probate: When a property is in a Living Trust it is not subject to Probate

Free swimming lessons for people living with dementia

DEMENTIA charity Dementia Friendly Gillingham has secured free swimming sessions at Riversmeet for people who have memory loss, or any form of dementia, with their carer or loved one.

Staying active is important after a diagnosis of dementia. Research suggests that swimming can help reduce anxiety and improve the mood of people with the condition, as well as providing inclusive, effective, low-impact exercise.

support and take a break from their caregiving responsibilities. They will also be able to enjoy a drink and a chat upstairs in the restaurant area.

Riversmeet Leisure Centre and Dementia Friendly Gillingham have ensured these sessions safe, supportive and inclusive. They take place at times when the pool is quieter, with trained staff and carers on hand to assist participants.

Maintain Full Control of Your Assets. When you set up a living trust, you remain as one of the trustees — often alongside trusted family members. This allows you to manage and use your assets as normal, with surviving trustees stepping in only if you lose capacity or pass away, ensuring a smooth transition with no court delays.

Personalised, In-Home Consultation – Free of Charge

Oakwood Wills offers complimentary consultations in the comfort of your own home or via online meetings.

Call us today on 07832 331594

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.

The swimming sessions will also offer a valuable opportunity for carers to socialise, receive

‘Swimming for Memories’ sessions start on Monday, September 1, from 2pm-3pm, and every Monday at the same time, until October 27.

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

Email: info@oakwoodwills.co.uk

Loco passes the test

by Hilary Daniels

PROJECT 62, the loco restoration group based at Shillingstone Station, has good reason to smile.

It’s official: steam loco 30075 has passed its all-important boiler inspection and now has its vital ‘ticket’.

And just for the fun of it, it ran a few metres towards the station, the first steam loco to do so since 1966.

As anyone who has ever tried to track down a leak will know, liquid will always find an unexpected way out, usually as inconveniently as possible.

Steam, basically just liquid under pressure, is even worse, so this year has seen a series of frustrating steam tests where one problem solved just revealed another, like a loco-based game of ‘whacka-mole’.

But eventually the team got the upper hand, and when an official boiler inspector said he’d be ‘in the area’ they, quietly confident, invited him in. It paid off.

The Project 62 group formed in the 1990s with the aim of buying and restoring a Class 62 ‘Yankee Tank’, most of which were built in Yugoslavia but to a US

wartime design.

This 1960 loco was bought with only 25,000 miles on the clock and dismantled on site before transport to the UK.

Its first base was at Swanage Railway, where it was reassembled to British standards before joining the fleet.

In later years it spent some time at East Somerset Railway, near Shepton Mallet, and the Mid-Hants Railway.

When time came for a major overhaul, Project 62 brought it to Shillingstone Station, the group’s new permanent base.

Work was interrupted by the Covid

Fern Brook Lodge residents host novelty dog show

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Residents at Fern Brook Lodge were delighted to see a host of four-legged friends trotting into the care home’s garden for their novelty dog show.

Open to the local community, the event was held as part of the Gillingham care home’s summer fayre event. It also featured a range of stalls, live entertainment and food cooked by Phil, the home’s Head Chef.

Judging was undertaken by the Mayor of Gillingham, Cllr Fiona Cullen, with some of the home’s residents who also handed out prizes to the award-winning pooches during the fun-filled day.

Fern Brook Lodge, which is part of the not-for-profit charity, Care South, provides residential, respite, and dementia care. The care home’s dedicated activities team runs a daily programme of events to encourage residents to socialise and make friends.

Visitors can enjoy complimentary cakes and hot drinks, while experiencing the warm and friendly atmosphere at the home’s Welcome Wednesdays sessions which run each week from 2pm to 4pm.

Fern Brook Lodge also hosts Memory Café sessions every Thursday morning from 10am to 11am for people living with dementia and their carers. There is no need to book - just drop in on the day.

lockdown but boosted by the construction of a loco shelter where volunteers could operate whatever the weather.

Some work still needs to be done, including some cosmetic touches.

The plan is for the loco to remain at Shillingstone until the end of September, when it will go to another heritage line to earn its keep, and the revenue will go towards the restoration of 30076.

But that’s another story.

“From Self-Doubt to Self-Belief: My Journey with Slimming World”

By Hazel Martin

AADVERTISING FEATURE

fter using Slimming World previously, I had taken a break and returned to Slimming World in October 2024, and as of now, I’ve already lost three stone, with just one stone left until I reach my target. It feels incredible to be this close.

The results aren’t just physical; they’re emotional too. For most of my life, I felt like “the fat one” — the one who struggled to find clothes in high-street shops, who always felt a bit self-conscious and, if I’m being honest, often ugly. I never lacked the motivation to exercise — I’ve always done it in some form — but being bigger made it harder to enjoy and keep up with others.

What makes Slimming World so different — and so effective — is that you never feel hungry and have the freedom to enjoy real food. It’s a sustainable way of living that lets you eat well and feel satisfied, all while losing weight.

Joining a Slimming World group was one of the best choices I’ve made. I knew I needed support — not just facts and figures, but people who understood. From the very first session, I found a friendly, fun, and supportive group that made me feel welcome, respected, and valued. Our Consultant leads with heart, and hearing about others’ achievements — whether it’s a pound or three lost — motivates me week after week.

I’m also a big believer in Body Magic, it’s not about running marathons; it’s about small, easy steps to increase activity. And here’s a huge bonus: when you reach your target, you receive free lifetime membership. That ongoing support at no cost is such an incentive to maintain your weight and continue living healthily. This is the really important part to me once I reach target this time.

Slimming World didn’t just help me lose weight — it helped me gain confidence, strength, and control. And if I can do it, truly, so can you.

Hazel will be the new consultant in Wincanton from 3rd September.

“From Self-Doubt to Self-Belief: My Journey

one who struggled to find clothes in high-street shops, who always felt a bit self-conscious and, if I’m being honest, often ugly. I never lacked the motivation to exercise — I’ve always done it in some form — but being bigger made it harder to enjoy and keep up with others.

A day out of town on two wheels

A GROUP of intrepid explorers from the Wincanton Wheelers escaped Somerset for a day out at the seaside.

Leaving the safety of Ilminster, the group took the scenic route to Lyme Regis via Charmouth.

haul to the top and a series of rollercoaster lanes before the metropolis of Chard was attained.

A paddle in the sea to cool off was followed by an extended refreshment stop for fish and chips, pasties, sandwiches and coffee.

The Chard to Ilminster Stop Line cycle path was the perfect warm down before arriving in Ilminster – downhill, a tail wind and in the shade.

Wincanton Wheelers is an active and friendly club, with a real mix of riders of all ages and from towns in the area.

Slimming World didn’t just help me lose weight — it helped me gain confidence, strength, and control. And if I can do it, truly, so can you.

The return journey via Rocombe Bottom featured a

Hazel will be the new consultant in Wincanton from 3rd September.

Find out more at www. wincantonwheelers.co.uk

Slimming World

Sherborne

Blandford

Raleigh Hall

Methodist Church

Digby Road

Tuesday 7pm

Wednesday 9.30am

Julie 07871 821928

Sally 07973665167

Blandford

Methodist Church

Sturminster Newton

Puddletown

Shaftesbury

Village Hall

Royal Chase Hotel

Thursday 7pm

Julie 07871821928

Thursday 7.30am, 9am, 10.30am

Tisbury Hinton Hall

Church Street

Lorraine 07771013728

Shaftesbury

Gillingham Social Club

Hardings Lane

Monday 7pm starting from 1st September

Tuesday 5.30pm, 7pm

Sally 07968979810

Evelyn 07825 556871

Sherborne

Raleigh Hall

Digby Road

Wednesday 9.30am

Sally 07973665167

Puddletown

Royal Chase Hotel

The Exchange

Thursday 5.30pm, 7.30pm

Tracey 07776309982

Monday 5.30pm, 7.30pm

Gail 07748643783

Blandford

British Legion

Wincanton Memorial Hall

Thursday 5.30pm, 7.30pm

Gail 07748643783

Wednesday 5.30pm, 7pm

Hazel 07967 591652

New consultant from 1st

September

Sherborne

Raleigh Hall

Digby Road

Sturminster Newton

The Exchange

Monday 5.30pm, 7.30pm Gail 07748643783

Wincanton

Memorial Hall

Wednesday 5.30pm, 7pm

Hazel 07967

Gillingham

New consultant from 3rd

September

Wednesday 8.30am, 10am, 11:30am

Tracey 07776309982

Youth and Community Centre

Tuesday 9.30am, 11am

Lorraine 07771013728

Tuesday 5.30pm, 7pm

Sally 07973665167

Luccombe Hub forced to move

A SPECIAL educational needs (SEN) school in Dorset will have to relocate its alternative provision following the unplanned termination of its occupancy at a community farm.

Luccombe Hub, an Ofsted-registered and independent specialist school, has been asked to vacate the Longmead Community Farm premises near Milborne St Andrew by September 26.

This follows what the school described as unsuccessful negotiations of an “unsustainable” new lease.

“We are deeply saddened by this decision,” said Henri Monier-Williams, principal of Luccombe Hub.

“Our team has worked tirelessly to build a nurturing, safe space for our vulnerable learners. It’s heartbreaking to leave behind a site we helped restore and believed could serve the community for years to come.”

The Hub said the move comes despite two years of investment, renovation, and partnership building, during which time Luccombe Hub staff and local supporters helped rebuild the Longmead site from near financial collapse.

“Before Luccombe Hub’s involvement,

the Longmead property was unusable,” a spokesperson said.

They added that the termination of the partnership will also render the site’s caretakers homeless, despite requests for them to be given more time to find suitable accommodation.

But Longmead said the hub declined an option to stay at the site until the end of December this year and that “some financial support” was actually offered to the hub to help them carry out improvements.

A Longmead Community Farm spokesperson said they wish Luccombe Hub “every success” in their new location and thanked the hub for their time with them.

This comes, however, as they said a “mutually acceptable agreement” could not be reached.

“Luccombe Hub operated from our premises under a 12-month licence, which informally continued beyond its expiry in July 2024 while we explored the possibility of a longer-term arrangement,” they said.

“A lease was offered with terms intended to support Luccombe Hub’s operational needs, but unfortunately, a mutually acceptable agreement could not be reached.

“As part of these discussions, Longmead Community Farm extended an offer for Luccombe Hub to remain on site until the end of December 2025, including continued use of the caretaker’s accommodation. This offer was declined.

“Longmead Community Farm remains committed to supporting families in crisis and providing inclusive opportunities for children and young people. Our programmes continue to grow, and we welcome new collaborations that align with our values.

“We wish Luccombe Hub every success in their new location and thank them for their time with us.”

Luccombe Hub is working closely with local authorities to maintain EHCP support, attendance, planning, and transport logistics for its learners.

“Our priority remains the students,” Henri added. “We’re doing everything possible to ensure continuity of education, therapy, and care through this transition.”

A spokesperson added: “Luccombe Hub extends its thanks to their staff, local community, families, partners, and education authorities for their ongoing support and understanding.”

Homes plan would expand village

78 HOMES could be built on the northern edge of a Dorset village.

Applicant AJC Group is trying to develop an 8.8-acre field to the west of Castle Lane in Okeford Fitzpaine, and has now submitted a planning application to Dorset Council.

This comes after a consultation was launched about the plans, which your NBVM previously reported on.

The new homes, if approved, would sit north of the newly built AJC Group homes at Commerwicke. The developer has proposed building 66 houses and 12 flats.

The houses would be a mix of 21 two-bed, 39 three-bed and six four-bed houses and the flats would feature four one-beds and eight two-beds.

40% of the homes would be classed as affordable – the policy required level.

Access to the site has been proposed from Castle Lane into the northeast section of the development, and a pedestrian link has been proposed between this development and Commerwicke.

Main concerns raised through consultations with the public include the impact on the local infrastructure, exacerbating the existing difficulty residents

face in accessing healthcare, GPs and dentists and the loss of green spaces.

“The proposals provide good quality living accommodation in a well-considered and high-quality residential environment,” the plans said.

“Residents will occupy well-designed, good-sized properties with allocated parking, private garden areas to the houses and access to an abundance of open space for all properties.”

A NBVM reader, John Woollen, previously questioned why this “lovely little village” is facing expansion plans.

He said: “[There is] no mention of providing a primary school to the perfectly good one that was so arbitrarily closed, to

accommodate all these new children who will undoubtedly be housed in the ‘affordable’ housing.

“These aside from the children from the as-yet unsold houses in Shillingstone Lane. No mention either regarding any new medical facilities being provided for the already overwhelmed practices in our adjoining villages.”

Okeford Fitzpaine Parish Council is encouraging residents to have their say on the plans.

It said: “The more specific people can be, the better, as it helps the planners see what else needs to be considered and changed.

“Rest assured, the parish council will be discussing this application and will be giving a response at the next parish council meeting.

“We are also aware that new housing targets are about to be imposed with the new government directive, and this will include Okeford Fitzpaine.”

To view the plans in full, visit the planning section of Dorset Council’s website and search reference P/FUL/2025/03574.

Feedback can also be left on the Castle Lane development website – www.castlelaneokefordfitzpaine.co.uk

Our loose Canon

Preserving valuable paperwork for generations to come is a highly skilled job

by Canon Eric Woods

I RECENTLY had occasion to contact the Dorset County Archivist, Sam Johnstone, about a large archive currently in the care of the Dorset History Centre – formerly known as the County Record Office. You have probably passed it many times without knowing it: if you are travelling along the Bridport Road from Dorchester’s “Top o’ Town” to, say, the Dorset County Hospital, it is on the right, just past The Keep Military Museum.

Sam was his usual helpful self, and was able to give me several pointers for my researches. I have long been a keen supporter of the Dorset History Centre, not least because I visited it many times during my 27 years as Vicar of Sherborne. The Abbey’s extensive archive is housed there. So too are the archives of the late-lamented Almshouse, and the early records of Sherborne School. And there are local government and court records and gaol registers; family and estate records and those of local societies and schools; maps, plans, wills and diaries; photographs and local newspapers – and of course church records, including baptisms, marriages and burials. There is a splendid reading room where members of the public can call up records and peruse them, and the Centre is hard at work making digital copies of its documents, especially the most fragile which do not benefit from being handled. The oldest document it holds is

dated 965. As the Centre says, ‘A thousand years – a million stories.’

I have been fortunate to visit the temperature, humidity and light-controlled storage facility at the Centre, where there are eight miles of shelving! Most fascinating of all is the Conservation Laboratory, where I saw a highly-skilled conservator gently separating a pile of legal documents which had suffered terrible water and mice damage. Modern techniques allow much that appears to have been lost to be salvaged, and preserved for future generations. I learned that the Centre seeks to identify documents in private hands which would benefit from being lodged in a more suitable and secure environment – they would love to hear from you if you have boxes of old records collecting dust! (The clergy, I am afraid to say, are sometimes the worst offenders, with precious church records stored in damp vestries).

All this work costs a great deal of money, and county record offices have been as hard-hit by cutbacks in funding as most other branches of local government. The Dorset History Centre has responded by creating the Dorset Archives Trust, a registered charity which helps to fund new conservation projects, the cataloguing of archival collections and the purchase of both vital equipment and records which come onto the market. There are talks, workshops and visits arranged for members. I am very glad to be a member myself, and was for some years a Trustee. Perhaps you might consider joining too, and doing your bit to help preserve what the Trust aptly describes as “Dorset’s disappearing history”? For more information go to www.dorsetarchivestrust.org or email enquiries@dorsetarchivestrust.org

Photo by Aditya on Unsplash

Village party to mark VJ Day

by Kay M Ridout

IT is now 80 years since the end of the Second World War, which ended on VJ Day, August 15, 1945.

Shillingstone, which was awarded the title Bravest Village in the First World War for the number of young men who risked or gave their lives for their country, also played its part in the Second World War, so it is only right that we commemorate this historic date.

The village ‘Hut’ which was the hub of Shillingstone’s social life before the new village hall was built in 1956, was used by the Home Guard, before being requisitioned for billeting purposes in 1939.

The Hut was eventually handed back to the village in 1941, and in February of that year, a dance was held to ‘see the Northumberland Fusiliers on their way’.

As the war raged on, the Hut continued to ‘do its bit’.

The committee held dances to raise money to purchase gas masks and numerous donations were sent to charities including Mine Sweepers Wool Fund and The Empire Air Raid Distress Fund.

As televisions were not yet popular or

affordable in the 1940s, dances were much needed social events to lift the morale of the community while it awaited news of its brave loved ones.

Sadly, only a few residents are left who can recall that dark and worrying time.

One resident, who was a young child in 1945, was Cyril Allen who said: “I remember VJ Day very well, as it meant that my father, Hector, could finally come home after being away for a very long time.”

So, in honour of all those who gathered on VJ Day with music, cake and bunting, not only to celebrate the end of the war, but to remember those who never made it home, we will also share music, cake and bunting, as we take a moment to contemplate the sacrifices made by everyone who lived through the Second World War.

Therefore, Shillingstone Parish Council is proud to say it will be supporting the commemorative, celebratory and remembrance event being held at the Old Ox Inn, Blandford Road, Shillingstone, on Saturday, August 16.

We are extremely lucky to have secured

the talents of Dan Baker who is holding a family friendly open mic afternoon from 1.30pm-5.30pm.

Activities will be on offer for children, as well as the chance to win a special Second World War themed cake baked by Kim Suter.

Donations from the open mic and money raised from the cake raffle will go towards maintaining Shillingstone’s war memorial. A very fitting cause given the occasion. The landlords of the Old Ox Inn, Shaun and Marcia Hannam, will be selling food from their barbecue stand from 12.30pm. The bar will be open serving all the usual array of refreshments.

Everyone is welcome to share the day with us, whether you are a local or not, as the Second World War affected everyone’s family in one way or another.

If you have memories of the war, or have been entrusted with memories from loved ones, please feel free to come and share. We would love to hear them. Let us make some happy memories together.

For more information, contact Rachel McNamara, Shillingstone Parish Council chair, on 07969 760052.

Thrills, spills and tanks

THE Tank Museum at Bovington is offering welcome respite for stressed parents and bored children this summer holiday.

With live tank displays, thrilling pyrotechnics and the opportunity to get in the arena and participate in a battle demonstration, The Tank Museum offers an unforgettable day out for the whole family this summer holiday.

As well as interactive exhibitions telling the story of the tank and the crews that served in them, the museum unleashes its tanks in an outdoor arena every lunchtime during the summer holidays.

Between 1pm and 1.30pm (Monday to

Thursday) until August 28, visitors can watch armoured vehicles roar around the arena. There’s also the chance to meet the crew and get close to the vehicles later.

Watching not enough? Book a ride in a real tracked vehicle – a Cold War M548 troop carrier, which runs on biofuel!

On top of this, there will be familyfriendly tours, trails and STEM-themed activities to inspire inquisitive young minds. Plus, there’s a tank-themed outdoor playpark and indoor soft play for mini-tank enthusiasts to explore.

Pre-book your tickets online to save 15%. Visit The Tank Museum’s website to find out more: www.tankmuseum.org/ events/summer-holiday

Dance your way to fitness

IMPROVE your fitness while having fun, enjoying social interaction and polishing your mental acuity – such are the claims made on behalf of American square dancing.

Seize the chance to see for yourself as square dancing comes to Spetisbury village hall (DT11 9DT) on Thursday, October 2, from 1.45pm4pm. There’s a free cream tea up for grabs too!

“The benefits of dance are well documented and the resulting physical and mental effects are impressive,”says organiser Angela Brackstone.

An established group already dances at the hall, so this is an invite to anyone interested but inexperienced. There’s no need to come with a partner, or to wear specific clothing. The taster session is free, thereafter £4 per session.

To find out more, call Angela on 01202 731012.

Friendship on your doorstep with Platinum Skies

At Platinum Skies, we see every day how friendship transforms lives. The connections made in our communities bring laughter, support, and a renewed sense of purpose, alongside proven health and wellbeing benefits, from reducing stress to boosting confidence.

Homeowners enjoy a vibrant social calendar with activities for all interests and abilities. From art classes and fitness groups to book clubs, quizzes, live music, and seasonal events, there are countless opportunities to meet like-minded people and build meaningful friendships.

“It’s vibrant, friendly, supportive - and full of different people with different interests,” says Jane, a homeowner

at Chapters in Salisbury, whose passion is open-water swimming. “It’s always been important to me to belong, and here, I’ve found new friendships that add to that sense of family.”

You can take part in as much or as little as you like - there’s never any pressure. However, the chance to connect is always on your doorstep, whether it’s an impromptu coffee and catch-up in the Bistro or simply sharing a smile with a neighbour.

“I don’t think I imagined I’d live in a retirement village,” Jane says, smiling. “But if I could’ve painted a picture of an ideal retirement, it would be pretty close to this.”

With flexible, affordable homes and welcoming shared spaces, Platinum Skies offers a lifestyle that’s not only secure and comfortable but filled with warmth, choice, and companionship.

At Platinum Skies, it’s your retirement your way.

To find out more, or to secure a place at our Discovery Evening at Finch House on 21st August, call 01722 626 385 or visit platinumskies.co.uk/salisbury

New scheme gives consumers confidence in local businesses

DORSET residents

seeking trustworthy tradespeople can now turn to a reliable source for peace of mind.

The Buy With Confidence scheme, operated by Dorset Council’s Trading Standards team, offers a vetted list of local businesses committed to fair and honest trading.

doing right by its customers.

Landscape photo competition open for entries

TIME is getting short for young people to enter a photography competition being run by Shire Hall Museum in Dorchester.

The competition, My Dorset: Urban Landscape, is a chance for budding photographers to show off what makes their hometown special.

categories, with gift vouchers to be won in each category.

A panel of judges chosen by the museum team will shortlist the entries with those making the list displayed in the Shire Hall Café for visitors to choose their favourite.

From plumbers and electricians to gardeners and pet groomers, all businesses listed in the scheme have undergone a series of stringent checks.

These include a review of trading history, financial background, complaint records, customer references, and –where applicable – criminal record checks for those working in or around people’s homes.

“This scheme is about giving people peace of mind,” said Councillor Gill Taylor, cabinet member for Public Health and Protection at Dorset Council.

“When you see the Trading Standards Approved logo, you know that business has been independently verified through the Buy With Confidence scheme and is committed to

“We encourage local businesses to join the scheme as a way to set themselves apart and demonstrate to potential customers that they take fair trading and customer service seriously.”

The scheme is not-for-profit and designed to protect consumers while supporting ethical local businesses.

Once approved, businesses are continuously monitored to ensure they maintain the high standards required to remain in the programme.

Residents can search for approved businesses in their area by visiting www. buywithconfidence.gov.uk.

Businesses interested in joining the scheme can apply online and will be guided through the vetting process by Dorset Council’s Trading Standards team.

Organisers say that could include everything from capturing a favourite building, monument or shop front to photographing abstract patterns, colours and shadows and ways that nature lives side by side with the man-made environment.

The competition is open to youngsters aged five to 16 and is open until Friday, August 22.

It will be split into three age

The winner in each category will also have their image professionally printed and exhibited in the museum, as well as it being featured on social media.

Photographs should be submitted by a parent or guardian and they are advised to read all submission details and terms and conditions on the museum’s website, www. shirehalldorset.org, beforehand.

Surviving Gaza

THE work of an internationally renowned Palestinian artist is set to be showcased in Dorchester as part of the Festival of Palestinian Culture.

The exhibition, ‘Surviving Gaza: An Exhibition by Malak Mattar’, is hosted by Loving by Nature.

Mattar, who was born in the Gaza Strip in 1999, pursued a Masters of Fine Art at Central Saint Martin’s in London.

The exhibition runs from Monday to Saturday, August 25-30 – 10am-4pm, apart from 10am-2pm on Monday – and is part of the week-long Festival of Palestinian Culture.

The festival features a vibrant day in Borough Gardens including traditional music, food and cultural activities.

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From the Vale to the battlefield

A CONVOY including a 4x4 from the Blackmore Vale will be making its way to Ukraine this September.

Miranda Roberts will be driving a 4x4 across Europe from the Vale with Convoy4Ukraine.

The vehicle will be packed with humanitarian aid and medical supplies.

“During a stint living abroad, I met people who were affected by the Ukrainian war and other conflicts,” Miranda said.

“Getting to know the names and faces of people who can’t see their families and constantly worry about their safety compels you to act and hope that one little action can contribute to a much larger movement.

“The supplies that are delivered are not only used for saving lives (portable ultrasound

devices and tourniquets) but are also used for maintaining a sense of the pre-war everyday. We donate children’s books to schools, for example.

“Normally, we fundraise for both vehicle maintenance costs and aid supplies, but we have reached our vehicle maintenance fundraising target for the next convoy… We are now focusing on sourcing funds and supplies.

“We may have the incredible fortune of living in a tiny, peaceful corner of the world but we can help share that peacefulness with others.”

If you would like to show your support, please visit: https://gofund.me/c641f51b where you can donate directly to Miranda’s campaign.

To find out more about Covoy4Ukraine, visit www. convoy4ukraine.com

Fun day will put classic tractors to the test for farmers’ charity

A GROUP of tractor-mad friends have organised a day of charity fundraising on behalf of the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI) www.rabi.org.uk

The charity provides guidance, practical care and financial support for those in need within the farming community.

The six friends are all from various agricultural backgrounds, and wanted to give something back during what has been a challenging year for farmers.

All sharing an interest in classic and vintage tractors, it was decided that a working and dyno day would be fun for all.

Visitors will be able to see the tractors at work ploughing and cultivating, with a dyno machine (kindly provided by CJ

The 50th Anniversary of The Great Congo (Zaire) River Expedition 1974

Presentation by Colonel John Blashford Snell CBE

Saturday 20 Sept 2025 7:00pm - Bourton Village Hall, SP8 5BJ

Tickets £15

Doors and bar open at 6:30pm

Ticket price includes finger food

Ticket purchases available online siltonvillage.co.uk/event/blashfordsnelltalk

Proceeds to The Society of Friends of Silton and Bourton Village Hall

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Cox) testing the tractors’ horse power.

Gates open at 8am for a 10am start on August 24 at Todber (DT10 1JY) by kind permission of the Miller family. Members of the public are welcome to come and spectate. Refreshments will be available throughout the day and a fantastic selection of raffle prizes will be up for grabs.

Organisers would like to thank everyone that has donated raffle prizes so far, and Pearce Seeds for sponsoring the event, as well as CJ Cox for supplying the dyno for the day.

For more info call Andrew on 07824 994308 or email gillinghamdistricttractorclub@ outlook.com or search for Gillingham and District Classic Tractor Club on Facebook or Instagram.

The Hand in Hand Lodge of Oddfellows

is organising the following social activities and everyone is welcome to join in.

A Monday afternoon of tabletop games at PIP Café

Poundbury 2pm-5pm. £5.00 for members and non-members. Refreshments included. Come and play or learn to play: Scrabble; Rummikub; Bananagram; chess; backgammon; mah jong; canasta. Dates include: 13th October, 10th November, 8th December, 12th January 2026 and 9th February 2026.

The Blue Pool & Nature Reserve Visit

Wednesday 17th September £16.00. Visit to The Blue Pool and nature reserve near Wareham to include refreshments. Meet at The Blue Pool entrance at 10am.

Apple Picking

Apple picking at Lower Muckleford Farm, DT2 9SW. Saturday 4th/Sunday 5th October 10am start. Ploughman’s lunch provided. This is a free event.

Bournemouth Pavillion - Fawlty Towers the Play

Wednesday 15th October 7.30pm. Fawlty Towers is now a brand-new stage play adapted by comedy legend John Cleese.

Dorchester Literary Festival

Dorford centre. Saturday 25th October 4.30pm. Martin Clunes presents his book ‘Meetings With Remarkable Animals’.

Tincleton Gallery DT2 8QR

Friday 6th September 7.30pm. An evening of Jazz Music with Roger Beaujolis on Vibraphone and Rob Palmer on guitar. Drinks and nibbles will be served. Tickets £20.00

Please contact Rosemary Rogers rosemarywdt2@gmail.com or phone 07788436797 for more information and to book your place at the above events

(L to R) Friends Sam Aylett, Kristy Aylett, Tom Chandler, Jared Hallett, Kevin Trevett and Andrew Gould

st-margarets-hospice.org.uk

Wings and Wheels Henstridge Celebrates 25th Anniversary

Henstridge Airfield is gearing up for a spectacular celebration as Wings and Wheels marks its 25th anniversary! This much-loved event returns with a dazzling display of classic cars and vintage aircraft, offering visitors the rare chance to walk around parked aircraft during lunchtime.

With something for everyone, the show boasts a vibrant mix of trade and craft stalls, delicious food and drink, and a relaxed garden party atmosphere. Whether you’re a motoring enthusiast, aviation admirer, or just looking for a great day out, there’s plenty to enjoy.

Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome, and parking is free for all visitors.

Don’t miss this unique celebration of engineering, community spirit, and summer fun. Wings and Wheels Henstridge is a true highlight of the local calendar!

Outdoor events can be affected by the weather.

A Taste of France in the New Forest

TheSummer Brocante will be bringing a range of beautiful French vintage treasures and Brocante to Moyles Court School, nr Ringwood on Bank Holiday Monday 25th August. A chance to shop at a beautifully curated Interiors and Lifestyle Event with a wonderful collection of 40 Exhibitors.

This pretty historic location in the New Forest will showcase independent artisans and interior businesses, offering antiques, flowers, painted furniture, ceramics, jewellery, vintage finds, textiles, lifestyle gifts and homewares.

Local artisan foodies will offer fresh coffee, light lunches, wood fired pizza and crepes all day in the pretty courtyard within the Brocante.

parking

For more details or to buy tickets, please visit: www.dorsetbrocante.co.uk

The gates open at 10am on Bank Holiday Monday 25th August, where you will find the stalls set out on the lawns and in the courtyard. Entry is £7.50 for adults, U14 are free. Tickets can be bought in advance or on the gate. Dogs on leads are welcome and there is free parking on site and accessible facilities.

Moyles Court is located between Ringwood and Salisbury, just off the A31 and A338.

For more details or to book advance tickets, please visit www.thedorsetbrocante.co.uk

Sherborne Toy ColleCTorS Fair

POP-UP auction

Saturday September 13th

Digby Memorial Hall, Digby Road

9.30 a.m. to 1.30 p.m. £3 entry (8.30 early-birds £5)

Enquiries: mobile 07736 666414

Hosted by Pastimes of Sherborne - dealers in classic toys for 40 years.

Over thirty tables laden within a huge array of childhood classics down from the loft… Magical names like Britains, Hornby, Tri-ang, Lego, Dinky, Meccano, Corgi, Barbie, Action Man, Star Wars, Subbuteo, Scalextric and many more.

Dealers will also buy so bring along toys of your own and a select TEN of these will feature in a new…

*POP-UP Auction. This will be held at the end of show 1.00 pm sharp. (Items should be entered before 11.30 a.m.)

DONHEAD ST ANDREW

BANK HOLIDAY MONDAY

25TH AUGUST 2025, 1PM - 4.30PM

STONEY HILLS FIELD, SANS LANE, SP7 9LL (just off A30)

BBQ | Teas & Cakes | Beer & Cider | Ice Creams

Bottle Tombola | Auction of Logs

Bric a Brac | Tools | Home Produce | Books | Plants

Clothes | Handbags | Pictures & Frames

Toys, Games, Gifts, Jewellery, DVDs & Records

Punch & Judy | Family Fun & Sideshows | Alpacas Country Pursuits

The Sunset Cafe Stompers

3.30pm | Register from 1.00pm 1.00pm - 4.30pm

Haynes Motor Museum to host the John Haynes Classic Motor Show

Haynes Motor Museum is hosting the inaugural John Haynes Classic Motor Show on Sunday 7th September, celebrating 40 years since John Haynes OBE founded the Museum. The event will honour his legacy and passion for motoring, offering a full day of entertainment for enthusiasts, families and the local community.

Families can explore the Discovery Zone, supported by Thales, featuring hands-on workshops, engaging demonstrations and interactive STEM activities. Designed to inspire curious minds of all ages, the zone includes organisations such as Ariel, School of Thought, Team Bath Racing and Haynes Heritage Engineering.

The show will also feature a Live Stage with talks, debates, a classic car display and awards, plus special appearances from Wheeler Dealers’ Edd China and The Gadget Show’s Jon Bentley.

At the heart of the event is The Machines and Their Manuals display, showcasing vehicles alongside their Haynes Workshop Manual and personal connection stories. Highlights include a 1960 Austin Healey ‘Frogeye’ Sprite Mk1, a DeLorean DMC12 and a 1961 Jaguar E-type Series 1.

Alongside hundreds of classic cars, motorcycles and car club displays, visitors can browse an outdoor market with local food, craft and automotive exhibitors, featuring Jeremy Clarkson’s Hawkstone Bar, Purbeck Ice Cream, Barcelona Spirit Brands and Cartec UK.

As an Arts Council England accredited museum and registered charity, all proceeds will support the Museum’s charitable missions.

JOIN US FOR LUNCH, Sherborne Community Kitchen, only £7. Every Thursday and Friday at the Raleigh Hall. Doors open from 11.30 tea, coffee. Lunch served 12.30. To book: 07561-067381

CHARITY AFTERNOON

TEA to help families affected by childhood cancer. Wednesday, 10 September, from 11am4pm. At Henstridge Airfield near Shaftesbury, Tickets start at £45 per person, with all proceeds going to charity, To book tickets contact teamtorri@mail. com or visit https://www. eventbrite.co.uk/e/t-fizztickets-1461620860339

MOVING HOUSE

GARAGE SALE. Saturday 16th August 10am-12. Bosca, Pound Lane, Gillingham.

SHAFTESBURY

EMPORIUM, Friday 15th & Saturday 16th August, 9 - 4.30pm, Town Hall

Shaftesbury, Lots of wonderful locally crafted & consumable items for sale. Free Entry, Supporting DSAA & Weldmar Hospice

Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.

LYN’S BINGO at Marnhull Royal British Legion DT10 1HR on August 25th. Eyes down 7pm.

GILLINGHAM HANDMADE PRESENTS

Crafts on the Meadow, Saturday 23rd August10-3, On the Town Meadow in Gillingham SP8 4AA. Pop along and have a browse around the wonderful handmade stalls

Blandford Fashion Museum

Lime Tree House, 11 The Plocks, Blandford Forum DT11 7AA

Power Dressing 1770 - 1990

Plus other displays covering 200 years of fabulous fashion

Tearoom and gift shop

GILLINGHAM HANDMADE PRESENTS

Handmade at Stourhead, Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th August 10-5, Stourton Memorial Hall, Stourhead, Wiltshire, BA12 6QD, pop along and have a browse around the wonderful handmade stalls, free entry to the fair.

FRIENDS OF GUYS MARSH

Discover what actually goes on behind the wire at Guys Marsh

Explore the steps to rehabilitation: The butterfly farm project | Sustainable recycling project Education | Horticultural activities and more

AN EVENING FEATURING ARTWORKS FROM PRISONERS, DRINKS AND CANAPES FRIDAY 29TH AUGUST BOW ROOM, THE EXCHANGE, STURMINSTER NEWTON 5PM - 8PM

Blandford

Art Society

Members’ Exhibition 2025

Pimperne Village Hall

Newfield Rd, Pimperne DT11 8UZ

Monday; Thursday; Friday & Saturday

Opening Hours: 10am - 4pm

www.blandfordfashionmuseum.co.uk

Preview Evening with drinks and nibbles

Newfield Rd, Pimperne DT11 8UZ

Please join us for the Friday, 22 August, 5pm - 7pm

Pimperne Village Hall

Please join us for the

Saturday 23 August, 10am - 4pm Sunday 24 August, 10am - 3pm. Free entry.

Preview Evening with drinks and nibbles

Friday, 22 August, 5pm - 7pm

www.blandfordartsociety.weebly.com

Saturday 23 August, 10am - 4pm Sunday 24 August, 10am - 3pm. Free entry

www.blandfordartsociety.weebly.com

Arts & Entertainment

Choir sets its sights on new singing year

WINCANTON Choral

Society’s new singing year begins at King Arthur’s School in Wincanton on Monday, September 8.

Members will have wonderful memories of a successful year celebrating their 35th anniversary.

The new year promises to be just as exciting, with a

Come and Sing Choral workshop on Saturday, October 18, based on the Faure Requiem and Cantique de Jean Racine, taken by talented musical director, Neil Moore, and accompanied by the very talented Jacquelyn Bevan.

Details of the day will be released shortly.

The first concert of the year

is a Christmas concert on Sunday, December 14, at Wincanton Catholic Church, when the group will sing Britten’s Ceremony of Carols, Schubert’s Mass in G and Christmas carols.

Another quiz night is planned for February after the success of a happy evening at the same time this year.

The society’s second concert is planned for May, when it is hoped to perform Karl Jenkins’ The Armed Man – A Mass for Peace

More details will be available when the new singing year gets under way.

The final occasion of the

current singing year will see society members serve cakes and snacks on Saturday, August 23, in Stourton Memorial Hall BA12 6QE –the venue is in the courtyard on the way to Stourhead lake and gardens.

More details about the society are available from wincantonchoralsociety.co.uk, facebook.com/wincanton choralsociety or phone 01749 860457.

CLIMATE justice is the theme of a new exhibition being held at the Shire Hall Museum in Dorchester.

The exhibition is billed as ‘a powerful and thoughtprovoking journey through art, climate and inequality’. It features the work of four Dorset-based artists – David Metcalff, Antje Rook, Caz Scott and Morgan Willey.

Nature Enclosed: An Environmental Justice Art Trail runs until Saturday, September 6.

Wincanton Choral Society will give a Christmas concert at Wincanton Catholic Church

Star names aplenty at town’s literary festival

BESTSELLING

authors, celebrated speakers and creative talent are in store when Yeovil Literary Festival is held this autumn.

Festival events will take place across Yeovil at venues including Westlands Entertainment Venue, Yeovil Library, St John’s Church and Waterstones.

Adam Burgan, one of the festival directors and director of culture, events and promotions at Yeovil Town Council, said: “This year’s line-up is one of our most ambitious to date.

“We’re thrilled to be welcoming such a wide variety of voices and talents to Yeovil.

“The response so far has been fantastic, and we can’t wait to share the full festival experience with audiences this October.”

Among the first names

Fungi and fun guys

INTERACTIVE games, playful music and lots of laughs for all the family are promised when The Mushroom Show comes to Dorset.

Mushroom enthusiast Augustine Fogwoode is on a quest to make sure everyone knows about the brilliance of fungi – their scientific superpowers and amazing abilities.

But it’s just her and her puppet friend Goldie. She might just need a few more

confirmed for 2025 are:

n Sebastian Faulks, the award-winning author of 19 books that include Birdsong, A Week in December and The Fatal Englishman. He is at a pre-festival event at St John’s Church on Wednesday, October 22, 7.30pm.

n Michael Palin, the beloved actor and writer, will be discussing his new book Michael Palin in Venezuela, which looks at what life is like in one of South America’s most culturally rich, vibrant but also troubled nations. He is appearing on Friday, October 24, 8pm.

n Joanna Page will be recalling tales from her journey from a small village on the outskirts of Swansea to the sets of the all-time greatest movies and television shows such as Love Actually and Gavin & Stacey

fun-guys to make it happen… The show, suitable for ages five-plus, is at Litton Cheney Community Hall on Monday, August 18, at 2pm, and Alderholt Village Hall on Tuesday, August 19, at 11am. Further information and tickets are available online at www.artsreach.co.uk.

Arts & Entertainment

She is in Yeovil on Saturday, October 25, 2pm.

n Rose Ayling-Ellis will be delighting younger readers with her first book, Marvellous Messages!, which travels through time and uncovers the fascinating story of communication. She is visiting on Sunday, October 26, 6pm.

n Dame Mary Berry will be celebrating her 90th birthday in a very unique and special way by sharing her new illustrated book that highlights 90 of her very best recipes that have been

perfected over a lifetime of cooking. She is appearing at a post-festival event on Wednesday, November 26, 7.30pm.

The festival line-up will also include Sir David Suchet, Sandi Toksvig, Amanda Barrie, Jung Chang, Abir Mukherjee, Alison Steadman, Dr Richard Shepherd, Larry Lamb, Huey Morgan and Billy Bragg.

Yeovil Literary Festival draws audiences from across the UK and runs from Thursday to Monday, October 23-27.

Showcase for art group members

MEMBERS of Wimborne Art Club are staging the second of two pop-up exhibitions at the Church House.

The one-day show will showcase members’ work, with a varied selection of subject matter and styles on show to suit everyone’s taste.

Wimborne Art Club is celebrating 50 years of being ‘passionate about art’.

Founded in 1975, the idea was to provide a forum for members to share their enthusiasm for painting, which still holds true today.

The club has served as a hub for artists of all ages and levels,

fostering creativity and camaraderie.

Meeting every second Thursday, members are offered a variety of activities, including painting demonstrations and workshops in various mediums and subject matter.

The club organises various events, including exhibitions displaying the work of its members and engaging with the wider community.

To find out more, or to pop in for a taster session, visit wimborneartclub.org.uk

The exhibition on Saturday, August 23, is open from 10am-4.30pm.

Joanna Page and Larry Lamb will be at the Yeovil festival

The Mushroom Show is suitable for children aged five-plus

Sudoku 3D puzzle

Across

6 One right, a leading question for ME national (5)

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

7 Give up work about Hebridean island mostly (6)

9 Happen to quarrel (4,3)

10 Proportion on a reasonable basis – not half (5)

11 Former PM in secluded enclosure (4)

13 Take up the time of copper probing fraudulent copy (6)

15 Fellow left out delicate scrap (5)

Down

1 Most ancient aristocrat with complicated ties (8)

2 Guide first person in small piece of ground

3 Mention of US writer showing anger (5)

4 Draw a dry group on rickety cart (7)

5 Ingenuity about opening to rigorous legal document (4)

6 Information on liberal bachelor amid banishment lacking adaptability? (10)

16 Trainee worker enthralled by winter negotiations (6)

17 Oddly sour mood in Asian sport (4)

20 Heading west, visit round island to see tree (5)

22 Distinctive number accepting a foreign injection in Asian language (7)

23 Fine fabric manufactured in slum (6)

24 Mark element in protocol only (5)

Killer Sudoku Pro Place numbers 1 to 9 once each into every row, column and bold-lined 3x3 box. No digit may be repeated in any dash-lined cage, and all the digits in any cage must add up to the value shown in that cage.

8 Old boy into getting massage – using this? (4,6)

12 Family absorbed by hiking (3)

13 Measure of resistance over monarchy (3)

14 Posh Greek character with fur of an impractical kind? (8)

15 Spot fellow by park and returning deer (7)

18 Firm character in part of book (5)

19 Slate batsman’s innings (5)

21 Large pair brought up as obtrusive (4)

461 affordable homes nothing to crow about

IN the article about affordable housing – New Blackmore Vale, July 18, there seems to be an element of crowing from Dorset Council in the words of Gill Taylor, cabinet member for Health and Housing, who seems to say that 461 affordable homes is something to be proud of. Really?

May I point out that 60% of people in Dorset have an income of under £20,000 –Dorset Council’s own figures. Said income needs social housing.

The waiting list – now called the Housing Register – is about 6,000 deep.

There are about 6,000 to 8,000 second homes in Dorset. The hills are being plastered with housing, and they are not for people with low to moderate incomes.

‘Affordable’ housing with the maintenance costs thrown in are just not affordable at 80% below local prices.

I believe some in Swanage are now sold on the open market as no one could afford them.

It is not for builders to solve this problem – they serve their shareholders.

How is it that everyone and his dog is investing in property because it makes money, but the country, in the guise of the Government and local councils, just won’t go there.

To me, it’s the key to the economic improvement the country needs.

It really is the elephant in the room.

One has to ask why?

I really believe now that too many of the establishment have vested interest in property and are scared to rock the boat.

It’s time they were held to account.

It’s despicable that it is such a low priority that a large

minority of people don’t have a decent roof over their heads.

It is the least they can expect from their own country and county.

Diana Garner Blandford Forum

Doctors’ 22% rise was too generous

I ENTIRELY agree with the Loose Canon’s view – New Blackmore Vale, August 1 – on the strikes by the resident – or, as my partner prefers to call them, the absentee – doctors.

It was extremely naive of the incoming Labour Government to award them an unconditional 22% pay rise, far in excess of what others in the public sector – even the very obviously overpaid train drivers – were receiving, and to think they would not come back for more.

It was mainly so that they could smugly claim they had succeeded in ending the strikes where the hopeless Tories had failed.

The hopeless Tories at least realised the claim was quite simply unaffordable, and that meeting it would only encourage other unions to make similarly inflated claims –precisely the position Wes Streeting and his colleagues have now reached a year later.

Roger White Sherborne

Friends reunited at art exhibition

TWO random artists standing looking proudly at their own paintings in the Sherborne Art exhibition at Digby Hall.

One painting above each other. Josie Chadwick’s portrait and Eliza Parker’s tree landscape.

We admired each other’s

work, like you do, and, of course, everyone else’s wonderful efforts in this lovely show.

We got chatting and casually asked where we lived and it turned out neither of us lived in Sherborne – Josie lives in Taunton and Eliza in Zeals.

“Taunton? Where do you live in Taunton?” Eliza asked Josie, “as I came from Taunton originally.”

Eliza left at 15 years old.

“Which school did you go to?” asked Josie. “Bishop Fox’s,” answered Eliza.

And when we established which class, what year and what our maiden names were, we could not believe we had been classmates and buddies 55 years ago and now ended up not just being in the same exhibition, but by complete fluke, our paintings were hanging one above the other!

A bizarre and happy coincidence.

Eliza Parker Via email

No to another layer of local government

AS a firm supporter of democracy and devolved government, I read the article on the meeting of the Four Counties and Baroness Taylor of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government – New Blackmore Vale, July 4 – with interest and despair.

England, the largest unit of the UK, was short-changed in the original Devolution Act being the only country denied an elected assembly.

The last thing we need is yet another layer of government with a Mayor and tick box management in the control of the metropolitan blob.

The regions are all different with differing aims and requirements, so we need regional assemblies.

The assemblies should be democratically elected by the people.

The present local government system is no longer a public service, but a self-service authority controlled by the centre in the centre’s interest.

Colin Winder Wincanton

Boom Radio is worth a listen

IN response to Michael Tarrant’s letter – New Blackmore Vale, June 6 –regarding disappointment in BBC music playlists, I highly recommend Boom Radio, broadcasting through DAB and online.

Ask: ‘Alexa, play Boom Radio’.

There is also a sister channel – Boom Light.

If you have ever wondered where your favourite DJ is, chances are they are playing their favourite music – often with an anecdote to accompany the track, on Boom Radio.

Enjoy!

Frances Box Via email

Books delivered to your door

DO you, or someone you know, love reading but find it difficult to get books from the library due to health or mobility issues? It can be long term or over a shorter period, for example post-op, or just for the winter.

The Dorset, Hampshire and BCP Home Library Service is here to help – books, ordinary or large print and audio books are chosen individually for each person and delivered every three or four weeks from your local library by Royal Voluntary Service volunteers or county council volunteers.

Some libraries can even

supply jigsaws on loan. This service is free and provides you not only with a regular delivery of books but also a visit by a trusted volunteer who you get to know over time.

All our volunteers are DBS checked and carry ID badges. Interested?

Please contact Royal Voluntary Service in the Dorset and BCP area by phoning our Dorchester office on 01305 236666 or email dorsethomelibraryservice@ royalvoluntaryservice.org uk

You can also contact your library directly.

David Tozer Service assistant

Fringe festival was extra special

WHAT a fabulous weekend!

The Shaftesbury Fringe this year was extra special – not least because of the glorious weather – with new venues and even more events, which

attracted a massive audience, who came from far and wide.

The sheer volume of events reflects the vast amount of preparation and hard work put in by Rob Neely and his pink-shirted team.

The town owes a huge vote of thanks to everyone involved.

Just one thing to bear in mind for next year – move the big tent events from Trinity to Castle Hill.

Not only did their music ‘spill over’ into the Abbey Garden, which was annoying, but we are blessed with the wonderful space that is Castle Hill, so let’s use it – and introduce all visitors to that side of Shaftesbury.

John and Maggie Pierce Shaftesbury

IRCs simply too expensive

I READ Dr Andrew Murrison’s article – New Blackmore Vale, August 1 –

with much interest.

I am a retired nurse caring for my husband with Parkinson’s and have been an advocate for Integrated Retirement Communities (IRCs) for many years.

Unfortunately, the cost of most of these places is totally out of reach for most people aged 65 or over.

Specifically, the Centre for Ageing Better reports that nearly 11 million people are aged 65 and over, with more than five million being 75 and over.

The number of people aged 85 and over is more than 1.4 million.

The average retirement income for a single pensioner in the UK is £13,884 annually, while couples have £29,172 a year, so their pensions would not even cover the rent.

At Chantry Court – which Dr Murrison mentions – the rent for a one- or two-bedroom flat is between £2,400 and £2,900 a month.

Yes, you did read that right! If you could afford to buy a property, the annual service charge is more than £8,000.

Dr Morrison will have his work cut out getting more people into IRCs unless they become more affordable.

Sue Hester Shepton Montague

£10m savings and Sherborne tip

THE easiest way for Dorset Council to save £10 million is to ask the people who have been dishonest and employed by the council to return the money they have wasted.

The council can also save money by not wasting it in changing activities at the Sherborne tip.

A booking system is not needed and it can put an ANPR system in and charge anyone who is not a Dorset resident for using the facilities. Howard Gosling Nether Compton

New Blackmore Vale, August 15, 2025

Church

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

• Blandford Methodist Church: Sundays – services at 10.45am. Thursdays – coffee and 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.

• Bell Street United Church, Shaftesbury: Sundays –services at 10.30am. Second Sunday of the month, All Age Service. Everyone welcome.

• Blandford Evangelical Church: Sunday – 10am Family Service, including classes for three-18 year olds. Monday Fellowship – weekly, 2.30pm-3.30pm, everyone welcome, term times only. Tuesday – Footprints, an activities playtime for preschool children, 10am-11.30am and 1.15pm-2.45pm, term times only. 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.

• 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 with a bring and share supper.

Rendezvous Community Cuppa – third Monday each month, 10.30am-12.30pm.

• Cream teas by the river: Every Sunday in August, 2.30pm-4.30pm, Damerham Village Hall SP6 3HU. In aid of St George’s Church, Damerham. Bric-a-brac, home grown produce.

• Digby Memorial Church Hall: 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.

• 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.

• Lufton Church: 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.

• 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 Quakers: One hour of silent prayer or meditation every Sunday at 10.30am at Raleigh Hall, Digby Road DT9 3NL. Everyone welcome. Contact Nick Jackman at sherbornequakers@ gmail.com.

• Friends’ outing to Exeter Cathedral: Tuesday, September 16. A tour of Exeter Cathedral, afternoon cream tea and Evensong. £35. Details and booking form from the parish office. Phone: 01935 713777, email Chris.Hamon@ sherborneabbey.com. Everyone welcome, you do not need to be a ‘Friend’.

• Gaia exhibition: Luke Jerram’s Gaia exhibition is at Sherborne Abbey from August 29 to September 12. The exhibition includes author events, discussions, workshops, musical performances and educational programmes. For further information and event bookings, visit Sherborne-tc. gov.uk/gaia-luke-jerram

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

• 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 Sunday, Holy Communion 11am; third Sunday, Evensong 6pm; fourth Sunday, Matins 11am.

• Two Rivers Benefice: Sunday, August 17: 9.30am –Communion at St John the Baptist Church, Spetisbury; 9.30am – Family Service at St Mary’s Church, Charlton Marshall; 11am – Morning Worship at All Saints Church, Langton Long; 11am –Communion at All Saints Church, Tarrant Keynston. Sunday, August 24: 9.30am –Communion at St Mary’s Church, Charlton Marshall; 9.30am – Morning Worship at St John the Baptist Church, Spetisbury; 11am – Morning Worship at All Saints Church, Langton Long; 11am – BCP Communion at St Mary’s Church, Tarrant Crawford. Coffee and cake – Spetisbury, 10am-11.30am, first and third Monday each month. Coffee and cake – Blandford St Mary, 10am-11.30am, Wednesday, August 21. ‘Crafternoons’, 2pm-4pm, first Thursday of every month (£3 including refreshments). Coffee stop –Charlton Marshall Parish Centre, 10.30am-12.30pm, Tuesday to Friday.

• West Camel Independent Methodists: Meet at All Saints Church, BA22 7QB. Sundays, August 17 and 24, 6pm –Evening services. Sunday, August 31, 6pm – United Service. Contact: Geoff.mead@ yahoo.com or phone 01935 850838.

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

Economy has echoes of mid-1970s

LAST year Sir Keir had to truncate his summer holidays as riots broke out. The mood of the country hasn’t improved since. Neither have the spirits of the Chancellor – witness her tearfulness during Prime Minister’s Questions last month. And with good reason. If I were Chancellor, having to work out what to do in the autumn budget, I’d be downhearted too. The metrics are all pointing in the same direction – downwards. A report last week from the National Institute of Economic and Social Research found that Rachel Reeves needs another £41.2 billion in tax if she’s to fund existing commitments without breaking her own borrowing rules.

Why? Because the economy is flatlining while the ratio of people who receive money from the state to the people who pay it continues to shrink, spinning the economy into a doom loop.

The solution on which we’ve relied since 1945 is economic growth. That way, tax receipts went up, enabling State spending, including on electorally obliging things like

Conservative MP for South West Wiltshire

Dr Andrew Murrison

benefits and the NHS. In the absence of growth, we either cut spending or raise tax rates or borrow. The longer it goes on, the higher the taxes, the deeper the cuts, the bigger the credit bill.

We’ve been here before, of course – in the mid-1970s. It didn’t end well. The IMF had to step in – they were my politically formative years.

Unsurprisingly the then government was booted out at the next opportunity – the general election of 1979 – and the rest is history.

Now, as then, we’re

READER’S PICTURE

overspent at the bank. We can’t go on like this. The fact that a fifth of all new car sales in Britain are not to businesses or individuals but to the Motability welfare scheme tells us why. Now, Motability may be transformative in the lives of the most disabled but is it reasonable that someone with relatively minor mental health issues or, for example, common skin conditions, can get all or part of the cost of a new car covered by taxpayers? Why have the numbers of sicknessrelated benefit claimants rocketed since covid and not come down as they have elsewhere in Europe? Are Brits really sicker than their neighbours or is there a structural problem with our benefits system?

I get a lot of correspondence from working people who are incensed about those they perceive as gaming the system or even cheating. Those that do undermine confidence in a welfare system conceived by a benevolent society as a safety net for those in need. It is the growing number of claimants and the size of claims that are bearing down on the working

population. The weight is becoming just too great for a stagnant economy to bear.

Captain Keir’s every attempt to even slightly change course founders thanks to the wreckers on his own benches. Wedded to welfare rather than work, they still seem to think another shake of the money tree will loosen up some more cash from business or those perceived as well off. That road is leading to a bond crisis in which nobody wants to lend the UK money except at exorbitant rates paid for by more tax and borrowing. Trouble is our debt is already worth 97% of the entire economy. Our tax burden is already at its highest since the war. Attempts to shave money off politically easy targets like farmers and private schools shuts down small businesses, evaporates tax take and destroys jobs. That much has become abundantly clear in our area already.

Candice Johnson-Cole’s column will return next month after the forthcoming BCP Talbot Woods and Branksome ward by-election.

Politics

Women step up in world of sport

THIS year’s summer of sport has begun with the Lionesses’ fantastic comeback triumph in the UEFA Women’s European Championships in Switzerland. The Lionesses have made history by securing back-toback victories in this tournament in 2022 and again this year. Their success has been spearheaded by the likes of Leah Williamson and Chloe Kelly, while the breakout of the young star Michelle Agyemang, will no doubt continue to encourage girls to take up sport.

Research from Women in Sport has shown that 38% of girls now dream of becoming top athletes – when girls see people like them reflected at the top of sport, they can see that they belong. This is why it is so important that we continue to support women’s sport and make sure there are equal opportunities.

This summer of women’s

sport has only just kicked off, though, with The Hundred cricket tournament that features an equal billing for both women’s and men’s teams having started last week. While the Women’s Rugby World Cup will begin towards the end of this month, where the Red Roses will look to win their third World Cup title.

Since I entered Parliament

Two-state

AS much as possible I like to use this column to discuss local issues, however given the number of emails I have received from concerned residents I thought I would use this opportunity to address the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

I have the privilege of being a member of the Foreign Affairs Committee. We recently published our report on the Israel-Gaza conflict. As well as taking evidence from dozens witnesses in person, and dozens more in written submissions, we also visited Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories.

Our recommendations to the Foreign Secretary included the immediate formal recognition of the Palestinian state, the immediate release of the remaining Israeli hostages, the expulsion of Hamas from Gaza, for international aid

two years ago, I have been passionate about increasing the opportunities for girls not only to pick up playing a sport, but to be able to continue it through their teenage years and into adulthood, whether at a professional level or just as a hobby.

We know the huge benefits that playing sport brings, both physically and mentally, but research has found that more than one million teenage girls who once considered themselves ‘sporty’ disengage following primary school. This is mostly due to a fear of feeling judged by others, lacking confidence, pressures of schoolwork and not feeling safe outside.

For myself, playing rugby at university, being the founder member of North Dorset Women’s Rugby Football Club and subsequently playing National Premiership One for Blackheath has given me

solution

organisations to have unfettered access to deliver aid into Gaza, and for regional allies to support the rebuilding of the Gaza strip. You can read the full report and our recommendations on the House of Commons website.

Since our report was published three weeks ago, Israel continues to block aid at

friends and experiences I will treasure forever. So, it is for these reasons I feel a duty to help remove the barriers girls face today, so they too can continue to play whatever sport they choose as they move through life.

I am keen to engage with existing local clubs or anyone who is looking to establish opportunities in Glastonbury and Somerton to shine a light on and amplify girls’ and women’s sport. So, I will soon be holding an event in the constituency that brings together schools, grassroots clubs, professional athletes and governing bodies to create a visible and accessible pathway for female participation in sport.

If you would like to be involved in this event or would like to reach out to me regarding any other issue you may have, please write to me at sarah.dyke.mp@parliament.uk

is the only way

the borders of Gaza, although it has allowed some airdrops. Enough aid to feed the starving people of Gaza cannot be delivered by air, so it is vital the UN be allowed access by land routes immediately and be given responsibility for distribution.

Hamas has released videos of two of the hostages in clearly malnourished state. This was a clear and deliberate provocation, which has understandably enraged Israeli sentiment. Netanyahu has responded by threatening the full and permanent occupation of Gaza. Neither of these things will help deescalate the conflict or support efforts to achieve a ceasefire.

It is against this backdrop that the Prime Minister has said that under certain conditions the UK will join France in recognising Palestine at the UN General Assembly in

September. This is a long overdue step and given France and Britain’s historic roles in the Middle East would be a powerful statement. One I support. At the same time, we must recognise that our ally Israel no longer listens to us. Therefore, the UK must concentrate its diplomatic efforts on convincing the US administration, the one country Israel does listen to, to exert all the pressure it can on Netanyahu to end the bloodshed and allow aid into Gaza. At the same time, we must work with our Arab allies to convince Hamas to release the hostages and withdraw from Gaza. They cannot have any role in the future of the Palestinian people. Distant though it might seem, a two-state solution is the only way Israelis and Palestinians can ever live side by side in peace. I remain hopeful it can be achieved.

Lib Dem MP for Glastonbury & Somerton Sarah Dyke

Lib Dem MP for West Dorset

Edward Morello

Developers could do better

IS it any wonder that residential development has such a poor reputation? While I am a firm supporter of delivering the right kinds of new housing opportunities, in the right places, that meet the needs of North Dorset, I despair of the post development legacy of too many projects.

I am currently assisting a number of residents with persistent snagging problems within their new homes. Some of these are not minor cracks and splits but incorrect plumbing, lagging and flooring. Basic stuff you might think but apparently not. Too many developments leave lamentably poor landscaping, road and pavement finishes and open common areas so bereft of character that no-one wishes to use them.

Developers receive legions of complaints from their new occupiers but precious little seems to get done until they are roused into action by yours truly. It should not be like this. Word of mouth is the very best

Conservative MP for North Dorset

Simon

Hoare

advertisement for a business. Self-praise is never any recommendation. Still less, warm fuzzy website word salads. Developers will enhance their chances of securing planning permissions and sales *if* they get the basics right and respond promptly when they do not. Until they learn that lesson, I am on hand to help put things right.

I received an interesting email from a constituent the

other day which asked a simple yet complex question: what makes me tick and what sort of country did I want the UK to be?

I bet your first response would be – that’s an easy one. You then might sit with pad and pen in hand and swiftly find yourself chewing the pen top as you try to distil an answer. So, here’s my offer of an answer to my correspondent.

My family and public service make me tick. Motivate me. Get me out of bed in the morning. Laziness, the waste of opportunity, bad manners all make my blood pressure rise. I believe that my faith helps me, but it does not limit my response to current issues.

On the second point about my vision for our country. I strive for a nation where we all understand not just our Rights but our Responsibilities. Where innovation and risk are rewarded. Where our values of democracy and the Rule of Law are readily understood and appreciated and where we use

Local patients deserve more

LAST week, I joined my colleague Gideon Amos, MP for Taunton and Wellington, to visit the maternity unit at Musgrove Park Hospital. The visit came at a critical time for maternity services in Somerset, following the closure of Yeovil Hospital’s maternity and special care baby unit earlier this year.

The staff at Musgrove are working tirelessly, but it was clear to both of us that the closure in Yeovil has added huge pressure. More mothers are now travelling further for care, and staff are having to manage higher demand in a building that is already stretched.

The Government has promised a new maternity and children’s unit for Musgrove –but it is not scheduled until 2033. That is simply too long to wait. Mothers, babies and dedicated NHS staff cannot be left to cope with the

consequences of delayed investment for the next eight years. We need an urgent plan to ensure safe, accessible maternity care across Somerset now, not in the next decade.

At the same time, I have submitted a second formal ‘call-in’ request to the Secretary of State for Health, Wes

both to promote the UK on the global stage.

I certainly want more honesty with you the voters with regard to the complexity of the challenges we face as a nation. I want us to be safe and secure in all aspects of those terms and, yes, that means proper custodial sentences and knowing that those who live here have a right to be here. I want to see a warmer appreciation of the role of business and enterprise as it leads to the money for our vital public services. I want us all to see education as an investment not an expenditure. I want opportunity to be open to all irrespective of geography or background. I would like us to continue to be a kind and caring society where we look out for each other and see that we have a role in doing so.

Above all else, I want the UK to be somewhere which the world admires, seeks to emulate and of which we are proud to be a part and honoured to call home.

Streeting, over the decision to close the Hyper Acute Stroke Unit (HASU) at Yeovil District Hospital.

Since my first request was rejected, new data has emerged that paints a deeply concerning picture. Figures from the South Western Ambulance Service suggest that, under the new plans, only 13% of stroke patients in Yeovil would receive treatment within the vital 180-minute window if taken to Taunton – compared to 74% who are treated on time at Yeovil today. These are not just statistics – they represent people’s lives, recoveries and chances of avoiding lifechanging disability.

Viable alternatives, such as trialling a five-day-a-week unit in Yeovil, have not been properly explored. Public opposition continues to grow, with more than 12,000 people

signing the petition to keep the unit open, alongside support from neighbouring MPs and more than 30 Somerset councillors.

This decision, like the maternity closure, is part of a worrying pattern for our local NHS – services being moved further away without clear evidence that the alternatives are better for patients. As your MP, I will continue to fight for decisions to be based on safety, fairness and real-world outcomes, not just spreadsheets and central targets.

Whether it’s maternity care, stroke services or community hospital beds in Crewkerne, my message to ministers is the same – Somerset deserves the same standard of care as anywhere else in the country – and that means timely investment, genuine consultation and putting patients first.

Lib Dem MP for Yeovil

Adam Dance

& Collectibles

Stickback chair a star of sale

CLARKE’S Auctions’ recent sale saw good prices achieved with a late 18th century primitive Welsh stick back chair being one of the stars of the sale.

These types of chairs are related to the long benches and stools that were the main seating of many homes in years gone by.

They were made from timber taken from hedgerows and constructed not necessarily by

full-time furniture makers but by laymen and the owners of the furniture themselves.

Many chairs had short legs, implying they were used around the hearth as opposed to a dining table, and they are still popular with collectors today.

The market is constantly evolving and there is a growing demand for striking designer pieces and timeless antiques.

The younger generation are leaning toward the minimalist

A steel and wrought iron club fender sold for £500

Auctioneers & Valuers Units 1 & 2 Kingsettle Business Park, 01747 855109 enquiries@clarkesauctions.co.uk Antiques & Collectibles Sale Friday 9th & Saturday 10th August

look, while the older generation are downsizing and simplifying their collections.

Despite shifting trends, high-quality gold and fine jewellery remain in vogue.

So for anyone who has pieces of jewellery they no longer wear, now might be the perfect time to have them appraised.

Clarke’s is taking entries for its September sale and anyone who has anything they would like advice about can call them to arrange a home visit or a visit to its salerooms in Gillingham.

The team at Clarke’s is there throughout the week – call them on the number below to make an appointment to chat with a valuer.

For enquiries about consignment into any of Clarke’s future sales, probate or insurance valuations, full or part house clearances, phone Richard Clarke or Karen Marshall on 01747 685592 at the salerooms at The Old Glove Factory, Buckingham Road, Gillingham SP8 4QF.

Little live steam train rolls up

AN 0 gauge live steam locomotive is being sold in Charterhouse’s four-day auction of collectors’ items, antiques and interiors.

“The train forms part of a small collection of 0 gauge locomotives, carriages and rolling stock from a property near Yeovil,” said Richard Bromell, from the auction house.

“The owner has not steamed up or run any of the trains for some time and has decided to let a new owner

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

& Collectables Next Sale Friday 12th & Saturday 13th September The Old Glove Factory, Buckingham Road Gillingham, SP8 4QF 01747 685592 enquiries@clarkesauctions.co.uk An American five-piece sterling silver teaset by Amston. Sold for £1,160.

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

enjoy them all.”

The collection includes 0 gauge live steam and clockwork models made by Bassett-Lowke and Hornby.

Dating to pre- and postSecond World War, the collection has been run and played with over the past 80-90 years by its owners and carefully returned to its boxes after use.

Further entries for the auction, from Wednesday to Friday, August 27-29, and Monday, September 1, are now being accepted.

For valuations, help and advice on single items or complete collections, contact Richard Bromell at Charterhouse in Sherborne 01935 812277 or rb@ charterhouse-auction.com

Beachcomber made finds into art

Among

artwork by the late Martin Scorey.

A devoted beachcomber, Scorey salvaged driftwood from the Hampshire shore, transforming these wayfaring fragments into art with reverence and imagination.

His work includes folk art carvings of animals, paintings and pieces in metal – each one a testament to his talent and his deep connection to the natural world.

These creations feel both intentional and organic, imbued with a quiet majesty that lingers.

They embody the very spirit of the Interiors Sale – a confluence of the natural and the artistic, the decorative and the rare, fused together to create truly distinctive decorative pieces.

To learn more about buying, selling or exploring the world of Duke’s – from Interiors to the titanic auctions of October—visit dukes-auctions. com

Martin Scorey (1961-2021) a folk art ‘blue fish’ in the Interiors Sale

Collection of taxidermy for sale

ACREMAN St. Auctioneers & Valuers, Sherborne, is holding a two-day sale at the end of the month.

The General Antiques & Collectors auction on Thursday, August 28, at 10am includes a collection of taxidermy featuring a rare cased passenger pigeon, sailfish beak, large antique cased group of British birds, butterflies and so on.

A Jewellery, Silver & Watches sale will be held on Friday, August 29, at 10am.

The catalogue and bidding is available online through easyliveauction.com and thesaleroom.com

Acreman holds regular valuation days where prospective sellers can take in items to the saleroom for its specialists to evaluate.

Valuation days run from

10am-3pm as follows: Jewellery and Watches – Tuesdays and Saturdays; Silver and Obje’t D’art – Tuesdays and Saturdays; Toys and Collectables –Wednesdays and Saturdays; Oriental and Asian – Thursdays and Saturdays; Coins, Stamps, Books and Ephemera – Fridays and Saturdays; Militaria –Fridays and Saturdays; Textiles and Fashion – Mondays and Saturdays; Paintings and Contemporary Art – Mondays and Saturdays.

Anyone unable to go along on the allocated days can phone or email to make an appointment and house visits can be arranged if required.

The auction house is accepting consignments for its upcoming sales and is happy to advise prospective sellers on anything they are considering for auction.

Photographs can be emailed to auction@ acremanstreetantiques.co.uk

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

It can provide valuations and advice to anyone downsizing or who needs to deal with a whole house and can arrange a full house clearance at competitive rates.

Acreman Auctioneers & Valuers, 121 Acreman Street, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3PH is open Monday to Saturday 9am-4pm.

Anyone who has anything they would like to consign can contact Gill Norman on 01935 508764 or 07908 333577 or by email auction@ acremanstreetantiques.co.uk

Acreman’s premises in Sherborne

Home & Garden

Piece of blue heaven for the patient gardener

by Sally Gregson

AGAPANTHUS are the epitome of summer. Their pure blue colour seems to speak of cloudless skies, of sunshine and hot days. And they are especially enjoying this summer’s strong, bright conditions.

It can be difficult to remember that these South Africans are not quite so hardy in our variable climate.

Evergreen forms are especially vulnerable to winter wet and storms, but they are ideal for a large container in the summer sun. Bring it in out of the rain for the winter period and water it sparingly.

Deciduous forms are much tougher, however, in our occasionally freezing winters, and are recommended to plant in a dry sunny spot in the garden. A wise gardener inserts a label near the crown, well

before winter, to remind eager spring weeders of its presence. And the gardener gives each outdoor-grown specimen a mulch in winter for added protection and to feed the flowers.

It is possible to make more

Choosing bulbs for next spring

by Sally Gregson

WE gardeners are ever optimistic. It may have been a difficult year, but while our gardens bake under the relentless summer sun, it’s time to start thinking, planning and ordering bulbs for spring. If you want spectacular pots and baskets, or if you just want a glorious display next year, it’s time to get in an order for the newest and the best of bulbs.

Mail-order bulb companies offer an increasingly wide selection of cultivars and newly discovered plants. With climate change a definite part of our lives, it might be worth taking a look at bulbs we have previously thought would only survive the winter under protection.

Among those specials we have all just heard about

recently, is a selection of camassias being bred and selected for different colour forms. A pink camassia seems to be everyone’s dream. And some breeders are happy to sell bulbs from their trials. If not pink, cream and mauve forms are available. But the pink gene is in their make-up, so you may find a blushing beauty among the seedlings.

New forms of narcissus always tempt, too. Narcissus ‘Every Day’ is a clear crisp white with a bi-coloured gold and white corona; or diminutive N. ‘New Baby’ with a lemonyellow corona with a darker edge, is small enough to be planted in a tiny pot. You could even pot one into a secondhand teacup from the local charity shop and give it to someone you

All agapanthus come readily from seed sown in spring under glass, however, so restraint is called for. As seedlings, the darker forms can often be differentiated by a deep blue stain at the base of the seedleaves, and usually the paler forms have a paler caste to the foliage.

Prick the seedlings out for the following three or four years, every spring, into increasingly large pots. One of the most difficult problems is keeping the pots of seedlings free of weeds. The grass-like foliage in the early stages makes true seedlings especially hard to spot, but the agapanthus seedlings have tiny bulbils at the base of each stalk.

and divide the crowns with the aid of a hand-axe in early spring. It’s just as violent as it sounds, however, and the plant might take a year out to recover. But with named forms of agapanthus, division is the only way.

Pot the seedlings on each spring, and after about three years they should reward patience with flowers in the whole spectrum of blue from opalescent white through hyacinth to deep cobalt, the colour of a stormy African sky. They will be a fine reward for all that patience.

love for Christmas.

Hyacinths are the classic bulb to give for the new year, preferably already growing away in a decorative pot. After all the festivities are over, a beautiful, heavily scented hyacinth seems to cheer the spirits on those dark winter days. This year different colours are available ranging from deep

navy-blue H. ‘Dark Dimension’ to H. ‘Yellow Hyacinth Stem’ in the eponymous daffodil colour. Ordering bulbs before the end of the summer means you need not worry about spring. Your bulbs will arrive in good time to put them in containers or the dry, parched garden, leaving you to get the garden ready for another year.

The purple blue flowers of an Aganpanthus Orientalis plant

Camassias and tulips look beautiful

Groundcover plants for ease

GROUNDCOVER plants are becoming increasingly popular because they offer a simple, low-maintenance way to make your garden look fuller and healthier.

These plants grow close to the ground, quickly covering bare soil to help stop weeds, retain moisture and prevent erosion.

Whether you have a sunny slope or a shady corner, groundcovers are perfect for filling tricky spots where other plants might struggle.

British Garden Centres has put together its top groundcover plants that will thrive in the garden.

Cranesbill geraniums: Renowned for their resilience and attractive foliage, these geraniums are hardy and create dense mounds of intricately

veined leaves and purple or white flowers in late spring. They thrive at the front of sunny borders and tolerate poor, dry soils, making them a favourite for low-maintenance gardeners who want ground cover in their gardens.

Erigeron: Commonly known as Mexican fleabane, this perennial has dainty white and pink daisy-like flowers blooming from May to November. Erigeron is a low maintenance ground cover option for sunny spots, rockeries and wall crevices. Its spreading habit ensures continuous colour and attracts pollinators throughout the summer, making the garden abuzz with beneficial insects.

Campanula: These bellflowers offer cascades of blue or purple blooms from June to

September. Their trailing habit makes them ideal for walls, containers and shady corners, providing a profusion of flowers and softening hard edges. Look for Campanula portenschlagiana and Campanula carpatica for groundcover.

Lily of the Valley: A classic choice for shady borders and woodland gardens, lily of the valley spreads quickly and produces fragrant, bell-shaped white flowers in late spring. It thrives in moist soil and is perfect for underplanting and groundcover, particularly in darker nooks of your garden.

Periwinkle: This evergreen groundcover is prized for its rapid growth and ability to thrive in dry shade. With pretty blue or purple flowers in spring and summer, periwinkle is ideal for challenging sites where other plants struggle.

Heuchera: Heucheras are grown for their colourful, evergreen foliage, ranging from green to deep purple. They

Home & Garden

form attractive clumps and make excellent groundcover in shady areas or the front of borders, with spikes of tiny summer flowers that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Bergenia: Fondly known as Elephant’s Ears, Bergenia’s large, shiny leaves and pink or purple spring flowers make it a fantastic choice for dense groundcover. It tolerates both shade and drought, providing year-round interest with its evergreen foliage when other plants have faded.

Heather: Heathers are evergreen, low-growing shrubs that flourish in acidic soils and sunny locations. With flowers ranging from white to deep red, calluna heathers provide colour from late summer through winter and are beloved by pollinators, who will feast on this popular ground cover plant. Plant with other heathers, such as erica and daboecia, to have flowers and cover all year round.

Home & Garden

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GARDENING SERVICES AND GENERAL MAINTENANCE

Lawn mowing, strimming, hedge cutting, Shed Clearances etc. Contact Billy 07849 571742

MAN WITH MICRODIGGER & 1.5TON DIGGER, stump grinder, Garden clearance, patios, fencing, decking, landscaping, driveways 30+ years’ experience Contact Ken 07882 441873 / 01963 32034 FOR MOWING AND STRIMMING, including large areas of

Limeworks and Repointing 07738111953 mark@markstonemasonry.co.uk

A FRIENDLY FAMILY RUN BUSINESS FOR ALL YOUR GARDENING NEEDS Stockists of new Alko, Mountfield, Stiga, Weibang and Echo.

Come and see our range of garden machinery including lawn mowers, chainsaws, hedge cutters, battery products and more. Servicing, repairs, and parts for all major brands.

Call David on: 07786-658708

ROTTED HORSE MANURE £60.00 a transit load. Contact Roger on 07885 826396 or 01202 826502

Somerset & Dorset. Gutter clearing. Pressure washing. uPVC cleaning. Window cleaning. Roof cleaning. Fully insured. Call/message Nick 07870-498616

Garages, Sheds, Lean to’s, Roofing and Cladding Collection and Dismantling BY Registered Hazardous Waste Carrier Call 07973 444620 or 01722 414478 PETER PORT UPHOLSTERY A Local Family Run Business based in Shaftesbury, Offering a wide range of services including foam cut to size and Re-stuffing of feather cushions. 01747-228384 Peterportupholstery@googlemail.com.

www.gillinghamgardenmachinery.co.uk 01747 859564 Unit 1, Brickyard Lane, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4JL JAMES AYRES DORSET TREE CARE Specialist Tree Workers All kinds of trees expertly felled, topped and pruned. Hedge cutting. All rubbish cleared. Licensed waste carrier. Fully insured. Tel: 01747 850129 / Mob: 07951 284639

load £110 half load 01258-880892 07980-036250 LOGS R US Tipper Load £200 Half Tipper Load £100 dumpy bag £90 All hardwood 07790 404593 01258 818081

Home & Garden

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

Tel: 01963 250005

Family run business since 1946

Mobile: 07976 934 252

Tel: 01963 250005

Mobile: 07976 934 252

North Dorset Tree Surgeons

We carry out all aspects of tree surgery, hedge cutting and stump grinding. Ash dieback specialist. Fully insured and NPTC qualified.

We carry out all aspects of tree surgery, hedge cutting and stump grinding. Ash dieback specialist.

Fully insured and NPTC qualified.

Call Will today on 01747 854517 or 07872 970741

Call Will today on

01747 854517 or 07872 970741

Professional Experienced Reliable

Lady Landscaping

Home & Garden

Prepare your garden for late summer: Tips from The Blooming Wild

Plant

Nursery Keep your garden thriving this season

summer fades and the days turn cooler, late summer brings new opportunities to enhance your garden. This is the ideal time to plant new perennials like Asters, Echinacea, and Rudbeckia. These late flowering perennials not only bring vibrant colours to your borders but also support pollinators as other sources fade.

The Blooming Wild Plant Nursery

Your local Plant Nursery specialising in: Herbaceous perennials, Ornamental grasses & Native Wildflowers.

All plants are grown in peat free compost. Ideal to attract bees, butterflies, and wildlife to your garden, or outdoor space.

NOW OPEN Wed - Fri: 9.30am-4.30pm Sat 10am-4pm

01963 371060 | www.plantwild.co.uk

Cabbage Lane, Horsington, BA8 0DA

M & A J Landscaping

~ Fencing ~ Walling ~ Patios/Steps ~ Concreting/Tarmac ~ Tree work ~ Garden maintenance malcgin@hotmail.com 07399-521377

TOOLS WANTED. Cash waiting. 01747 416022

Redwood

Garden Machinery WANSTROW Free estimates, parts at cost 07890 308488

JAMES AYRES DORSET TREE CARE Specialist Tree Workers

All kinds of trees expertly felled, topped and pruned. Hedge cutting. All rubbish cleared. Licensed waste carrier. Fully insured. Tel: 01747 850129 / Mob: 07951 284639

LANGTON NURSERIES (C W Abbott & Son)

Fruit Trees and Ornamental Trees, Perennials & Shrubs, Terracotta pots, Wild Bird food 20kg £14.50, Stockists of Kings, Franchi and Fothergill Budget Seeds, Potting Compost. Open daily 10am– 3 pm. Langton Long Blandford Forum Dorset DT11 9HR. Telephone 01258-452513.

Autumn is also a great time to divide overgrown perennials such as daylilies and peonies. Dividing plants helps rejuvenate them and ensures vigorous growth next season. Don’t overlook Ornamental grasses: planting varieties like Calamagrostis or Festuca now allows them to establish strong roots before winter, adding texture and movement to your beds.

Autumn is perfect for planting spring bulbs—think Crocuses, Daffodils, and Snakeshead fritillaries. These will provide a burst of colour and important nectar for emerging pollinators come spring.

Leave the seed heads on late-flowering plants like Sunflowers and Teasels. Not only do they add winter interest, they also provide birds with essential food as temperatures drop.

For advice and inspiration, visit The Blooming Wild Plant Nursery. Our team will help you prepare your garden for the coming seasons.

ORGANIC PIG FEED - No GM, 25kg bags, £17 each 01258-920133

EX-DISPLAY SHEDS, Stables/field shelters, summerhouses, offices, workshops, agricultural 01935 891195

SELF DRIVE DIGGER AND DUMPER HIRE 01258 861647

GREENHOUSES

Supplied/Erected

Alloy TenColours

Spares-Repairs-Glass Chris Abrams 01258-452632

DRYSTONE WALLING AND LANDSCAPING www.yenstonewalling.co.uk 01963 371123 / 07751 278363

JACKS AFFORDABLE TREE CARE 07936-498493

DOUGLAS FIR SLEEPERS - 8”x4” x 8ft, useful & resilient, £29 each 01258-920133

WOOD CHIP - 45mm screened, small bags / bulk 01258-920133

WALK BEHIND BRUSHCUTTER AND OPERATOR HIRE. paddock,orchards and neglected area clearance 07432 773151

STALBRIDGE SMALL STORAGE CONTAINER TO LET, 12ftx10ft in private yard with very easy access. £70/ month. 07969-390713.

SMALL FENCING JOBS. New or repair. Special Low Rates for OAP’s. No VAT. Phone Phillip on 07716-207150

OUTDOORS

TREES R US DORSET Hedges, Patios, Turf & Fencing call Peter 07976-667130

•

Local Services

J& C Handyman Services

LR LANDSCAPING, Patios, Garden walls, Fencing. Call Luke: 07476-533581

SW BUILDING & RENOVATIONS LTD. All aspects of building and plumbing catered for. Tel: 07970 437786 e: swbuildandrenovation@gmail.com Plumbing

Shed

Flat

Shelves & curtain rails

Door hanging & skirting boards Guttering and facia clearing and replacement Fencing Pointing etc...

BAILEY & SUN LTD. Groundwork, man and machine hire. Footings, ditchings, driveways, new build, drainage, extensions plus lots more. Call for a quote. 07546-762236. sun@baileyandsun.co.uk.

ASA ARCHITECTS. All drawings for planning and construction. 07770 421624. Free consultation Based in Shaftesbury. Works throughout Dorset. www.asa-architect.co.uk. andystrange@btinternet.com

CHIMNEYS

K.SANSOM CHIMNEY SWEEP Brush & vacuum. APICS registered 01963 370038

B.SNOOK CHIMNEYS, Brush, Vacuum, Sweep, Problem Chimney Solved, we also supply bird guards to chimney pots to keep out birds. Phone Donhead or leave message on answer machine: 01747-828904. Cover insurance 5 million.

Martin

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. 01749 677440 – 07921074602- solidfuel3@aol.com www.solidfuelinstallationsltd.co.uk

 :0125 8 455947 :phoenixchimneys1@gmail com

A CARPET

MACHINE or contact us for a cleaning quote. Yeovil based. http://www.beecarpetclean. com 07961-021022

01935 592461

07875 272401 www.shinystoves.com

end of

etc. Call Louise on 07377 973097

• Friendly, patient, and knowledgeable help

• Keep in touch with family, friends and colleagues for free over the Internet

• Sell online easily, quickly and reliably

• Buying advice, setup and installation

I’m Phil Hudson, your local tech expert and trouble-shooter. I’ll come to you and sort things out, at a time that suits you. Or you can drop off your machine at my workshop for quick, efficient care and maintenance.

PAUL WEST DECORATING

SERVICES and wall-paper specialist. Also handyman. 35years experience. Free quotes. 07773-459168. paul.west945@gmail.com

PHILIP STIRK

Painting, Decorating & Property Maintenance

Free Quotations/No VAT

Tel. 01747 825725 or mob: 07984 524446

Email: philipstirk@ btinternet.com

Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.

M & M PAINTING & DECORATING. 30 years experience. Fully insured, clean & tidy. References available. FREE no obligation quote. Tel: 07921-783296 / 01305-849380

City and Guilds qualified Interior/exterior Decorating

Free Quotes no VAT Tel 07736644452 go.tanner93@gmail.com

repairs, general maintenance etc Call Nick on 07887 358570

and Carpentry

PEST CONTROL

PLUMBING, HEATING & DRAINAGE

Health & Wellbeing

grass with its tiny seed heads swaying and dancing in the breeze, there is the occasional harebell and patches of devil’s bit scabious. Hawkweeds, ragwort and viper’s bugloss are also present in places.

Meditations in nature: From sofa to summit

by Susanna Curtin

IT has been a challenging week. Some disappointing news, a parking ticket and a miscalculated decision have left me in a low, contemplative mood. This heavy feeling is mirrored by the dull, overcast weather. But as this evening draws nigh, the sun finally breaks through the blanket clouds, its brilliance lighting up the countryside in a blaze of rich colours. Unexpectedly, with a sudden burst of energy, I am inspired to get off my sofa and within 30 minutes, I find myself here, nearly at the summit of Hambledon Hill. To the north, south and east of me, the steely, blue-slate grey clouds remain, hovering heavily over the distant downs, but to the west, the sun’s rays intensify the hues of the late summer fields and the leafy green woods. Everything looks bright and dazzling. A blustery wind whips past my ears as I steadily gain height until eventually I am on top of

one of the neolithic long barrows in which once had laid the remains of a young warrior killed by an arrow and adorned with artefacts and pottery. Perhaps, nearly 5,000 years ago, his feet had trod the very paths that I have followed, and his eyes had looked across the realm that lies before me. This prominent landmark rises steeply to 190 metres above the Blackmore Vale and is one of the best-preserved Iron Age hillforts in the country – noted for its archaeology, wildlife and the stunning panoramic views that stretch across into the neighbouring counties of Somerset and Wiltshire. Over the 24 years I have lived in Dorset, it has been one of my ‘go to’ places to lift my spirits, and it never fails. Within minutes of striding up the gnarly, tree-root ladened path, any dark thoughts that bother me are replaced by the joy and excitement of the wide-open space that greets me as I reach

the top.

As well as the beautiful scenery, this famous chalk outcrop is known for its 28 species of butterfly, including the brilliant Adonis blues, dark green fritillaries and green hairstreaks. Plant lovers also flock here to enjoy the early purple, bee, pyramidal and common spotted orchids that furnish the steep escarpments in May and June. While I come for the butterflies and flowers, I particularly like the different perspective afforded by looking down upon the wings of the red kites, buzzards and kestrels that course the ramparts.

This evening, however, only a kestrel is on patrol. His head is pointing downwards into the wind, while his elegant wings hold firm, defiant against its force. Beneath my feet, the hot, dry summer has scorched the ground and tall, straw-coloured grasses are all bent towards the prevailing wind. Hidden among the stems of the little quaking

Having undertaken my usual circuit, I sit on the edge of the west-facing earthworks and watch the sun draw to its finale. Sunsets are so beautiful at this time of year due to the long angle of the sun and the existence of atmospheric particles which cause the shorter wavelength colours of blue and violet to scatter, leaving the longer wavelengths of orange and red, making the sky turn to crimson. I sit among the grasses and watch this changing spectacle until only vestiges of apricot skies remain amid the charcoal grey. Eventually, the heavy clouds dominate once more, and I pick up my belongings to leave now that the charm has faded, and the atmosphere has changed. In the returning gloom, the winds from the past whisk up my imagination. For this ancient site has a rich history of seasonal gatherings and settlements throughout the ages. It has been a trading frontier, a homestead, a battleground and a ceremonial place for the dead. Food was grown, pottery made, children born and battles won, all within the confines of this impressive fortress.

As the darkness gradually creeps in around me, the deer are emerging from their daytime hideaways, a distant tawny owl issues its haunting call, and the kestrel gives up its hunting for the day. I, too, must be on my way. I bid farewell to the ghosts that linger on this ancient monument and make haste down the tree-lined path to the car. So glad to have made the effort, and to have cleared my mind and filled it with the beauty and magic of this iconic Dorset landmark.

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

Hambledon Hill is noted for its archaeology, wildlife and stunning panoramic views

Holidays for rest – and exploration

by Nicole Asghar

WITH the holidays in full swing, I’ve been reflecting on the magic of childhood summers – no school, no alarms, fewer rules. Just long, unstructured days filled with freedom to explore and follow interests. As adults, this kind of time can feel unfamiliar, even indulgent. Yet it’s something we often long for without knowing how to reclaim it.

Pottering about, having no plans or letting time unfold without an agenda might seem wasteful in our productivityfocused culture. But maybe we’ve just forgotten how to enjoy free time.

This isn’t quite the same as

doing nothing, which we can all find challenging at times. It’s more about giving ourselves permission to drift, explore and be led by our interests without pressure or urgency. Everyone’s version of the ideal holiday looks different, but the shared goal is often the same –recuperation.

Rest and recuperation both activate our parasympathetic nervous system – our body’s ‘rest and digest’ mode. It’s the opposite of being ‘on’ all the time. And it’s essential for real recovery, especially from stress or burnout. We can’t feel truly restored when we’re always in reactive mode, constantly responding to external demands.

But here’s the thing –recuperation doesn’t have to mean doing nothing at all. It can come from gently engaging in things that light us up – those little sparks of interest we often overlook. Following your curiosity can lead to a flow state, that beautiful space where time disappears, focus deepens and we feel both calm and energised. Holidays are the

perfect setting for this. So, I invite you to notice what gently calls you – a book, an instrument, a craft project, a long walk, a topic you want to dive into. Maybe it’s something creative or something active. Perhaps it’s simply lying in the grass watching the sky. Whatever it is, follow that pull and let your holidays be shaped not just by rest, but by exploration. It really can be the little things that bring us ease and enjoyment, summer holiday or not. Enjoy everyone! n Nicole Asghar is an integrative therapist supporting adults and children online and in Bournemouth and Poole. She specialises in neurodivergence and trauma, weaving in yoga and movement to support reconnection to self and others. (Visit www.ourluminousminds. com; email nicole@ ourluminousminds.com).

Power of the ‘mother of herbs’

by Fiona Chapman

AS I have been walking the dogs, I see that the Artemesia vulgaris or mugwort is just about ready to harvest. It has been described as the ‘mother of herbs’, this is mainly because it was, and still is, widely used to treat women.

It has been used for centuries and was revered by both the Romans and the Greeks and has a long history of use. It was dedicated to Artemis, who was the Roman Goddess of the moon and from where the name derives, and Diana, who was, among other things, the Greek Goddess of the half-moon. Both cultures associated the moon with fertility and childbirth. This was probably because the lunar cycle resembles the female menstrual cycle and, although it has never been proven, many women will say they cannot sleep when the moon is full.

In medieval times, it was hung above doorways for protection from evil and it is still used today for smudging, cleansing and banishing

negative energy. It has long been associated with magical properties, helping seers look into the future, and was used on St John’s Day – since named the summer solstice – in protective rosaries. Those who wanted to see what their fiancé’s future might be, passed a sprig through the St John’s Day feast fire.

It is still an important herb for the female reproductive system and is used for fibroids, endometriosis, thrush and irregular periods. It is also a nervine, so good for sleep, mental exhaustion and depression. It has bitters in it, which stimulate the gall bladder and pancreas to produce bile, which rids the body of toxins and helps with digestion, flatulence and regulates bowel movements. This is all good for cleansing the blood, so it is also used for arthritis and gout.

It can be picked – when the flowers are just about to come out – and dried and made into a tea, but pregnant women should not take it as it can cause the uterus to contract, and those on

Warfarin or anti-coagulants should also avoid it. It is said that it helps with warts if you rub them with the fresh leaf and it can be used in lotions for itchy skin. It is the ‘Moxa’ in acupuncture – burnt over acupuncture points in the body – to stimulate circulation. It

grows in abundance and spreads quickly. I shall be prowling the footpaths with my clippers and picking some to make into a nice tea for the winter.

n Fiona Chapman is a naturopathic herbalist (email Pellyfiona@gmail.com).

A craft project – or perhaps an instrument, a book or a long walk – can provide ease and enjoyment

Decadent but simple nibbles

IF you can buy fresh crab meat from a mobile fishmonger or supermarket fish counter, or pasteurised crab in a pack, crab canapes with lime and parsley on a Parmesan crisp are a delicious bite.

They seem rather decadent but are simple nibbles to make.

Fresh and delicious, enjoy them with a glass of rose or chilled Gewürztraminer on a summer evening.

Fresh Dorset crab on Parmesan crisps

Serves: 6 (makes 12 bites)

Ingredients

150g fresh white Dorset crab meat

1 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice (plus extra wedges to serve)

1 tbsp finely chopped curly parsley

100g finely grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh edible flowers, for garnish (optional but beautiful)

Chilled rosé wine or Gewürztraminer, to serve Method

MAKE the Parmesan crisps

Pre-heat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan)/400°F/Gas 6.

Line a baking tray with baking parchment.

Spoon teaspoon-sized mounds of the grated Parmesan onto the tray, leaving space between each. You should get around 12.

Gently flatten each mound with the back of a spoon to form thin rounds.

Bake for five or six minutes or until the cheese has melted and turned golden and crisp. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely on the tray.

Prepare the crab topping IN a bowl, gently mix the fresh

as a picture: Crab canapes on a Parmesan crisp

Dorset crab meat with the lime juice and chopped parsley.

Season lightly with salt and pepper if desired. Keep it light – let the crab shine.

Assemble

Once the Parmesan crisps are cool and crisp, top each one with a small spoonful of the crab mixture.

Arrange them on a pretty serving platter, garnished with a

few fresh edible flowers for colour and elegance. Chef’s tip

Make the Parmesan crisps ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. Assemble just before serving to keep them perfectly crisp.

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

THE BENETT ARMS SEMLEY

Pub and Letting Rooms

17th century free house situated in the picturesque village of Semley

Weekly Specials

Happy Hour Tuesdays! - All starters half price from 6-7pm

Steak Night - Two 6oz Sirloin Steaks for £25, every Wednesday

Fish Fryday - Fresh beer-battered Haddock & homemade chips, every Friday

Pizza Nights - Pizza direct from our pizza oven, every Friday & Sunday evening Sunday Roasts - Home Cooked Sunday Roasts with 3 meats to choose from, Sundays 12:30-2:30pm

Pretty

Masterchef’s Dr George at food festival

MASTERCHEF contestant and full-time doctor George Williams will be hosting a Dorset-inspired cookery demonstration at this month’s Wimborne Food Festival.

George will showcase three quick and easy late-summer recipes using ingredients from Wimborne’s shops, each cooked using a different kitchen essential – a sizzling creation from the frying pan, a flavourpacked oven-baked dish and a speedy, wholesome air fryer special.

The keen chef, who runs supper clubs and private dining events, said: “It’s been a joy to connect with so many wonderful independent food and drink retailers around Wimborne to create these

Dorset dishes.”

George, known for his poise under pressure, will also share stories from the MasterChef kitchen, including why medicine is less nerve-wracking than being a television contestant.

Audiences can expect culinary tips, real-life anecdotes and a taste of George’s signature humour.

Wimborne Food Festival will feature a host of free culinary talks, cooking demonstrations, food stalls and live music around the town.

The event, on Saturday, September 20, from 11am-4pm, is organised by Wimborne BID and Dacombes of Wimborne.

Venues include Willow Walk, near Waitrose, Wimborne

Square, Minster Green and Church Street and East Street, which will be closed to traffic for cafe culture and pop-up events.

A free festival programme with full timetable is available from local businesses and East Dorset Information Centre on the High Street.

More information can also be found at www.wimborne.info/ wimborne-food-festival.

Williams will serve up Dorset-inspired recipes at this year’s Wimborne Food 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.

Open Wednesday to Saturday 10am-5.30pm. 01258 450050 Chicken feeds etc available.

Half a lamb £90 |

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

George

PHOTO: Wimborne BID

Announcements

THANK YOU

Norman Buckland

Valerie and family would like to express their sincere thanks to everyone who attended Norman’s funeral, also for cards, messages of sympathy and donations given in his memory, including the Grove Medical Centre, and Abbey View. Please accept this as our personal thanks.

PUBLIC NOTICES

Licensing Act 2003

Notice of application for the VARIATION of a PREMISES LICENCE. Name of applicant:

Prickly Pear Productions Limited

Address of Premises: 45 High Street, Bruton Post Code: BA10 0AW, DESCRIPTION OF VARIATION BEING SOUGHT:

First floor area added to extent of licensed premises, renovation of internal and external areas of the premises, earlier starting time sale of alcohol, other entertainment activity and films. Date by which Responsible Authorities and other persons may make representations: 29 August 2025

A summary of the application can be viewed online at www.somerset.gov.uk on the ‘Recent licence applications’ page. The Council keeps the licensing register in digital form. You can ask to be sent a copy of the full application by email by phoning 0300 123 2224 or by emailing licensing.south@somerset.gov.uk

Any person wishing to make a representation do so in writing to the licensing authority, giving in detail the grounds of objection, with 28 days of the date of this notice. Representations can be emailed to licensing.south@somerset.gov.uk

It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with an application, the maximum fine for which a person is liable, on summary of conviction, is a level 5 on the standard scale.

PUBLIC NOTICE LICENSING ACT 2003

Notice is given that PCC Church of St Mary the Virgin has applied to Dorset Council for a new premises licence under Section 17 of the Licensing Act 2003 in respect of Vicarage School Room, Queen Street, Gillingham for the provision of alcohol generally between the hours of 1100-2200 hours, Monday to Sunday. Any interested party or responsible authority may make representations by e-mailing: licensing@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk or writing to, Licensing, Dorset Council, County Hall, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 1XJ within 28 days from the date of this notice. The licensing register and details of this application may be inspected by contacting the licensing Section during normal office hours. It is an offence under Section 158 of the Licensing Act 2003 to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with an application, the maximum fine on summary conviction is unlimited. DATE: 8 August 2025.

PUBLIC NOTICE IN MEMORIAM

BRIAN S.A SHEARS

17th January 1938 – 19th August 2004

Devoted husband of Pat. Gone but not forgotten.

DEATHS

SINGER ROBERT JAMES “Bob”

Aged 88 years of Sparkford. On 12th July 2025. Suddenly but peacefully at Yeovil District Hospital. A much loved Dad, Grandad, Great Grandad, Brother, Uncle and Friend. Funeral Service at Yeovil crematorium on Thursday 21st August at 10am. Family Flowers only please. Donations in memory of Bob are being invited for The British Heart Foundation, C/o Harold F Miles, Funeral Director, South Cadbury, BA22 7ES, Tel: 01963 440367

PATRICIA ANN AXTON

On 27th July, 2025, peacefully in Westminster Memorial Hospital, Shaftesbury, aged 83 years. Much loved Mum, Grandmother, Great Grandmother, Sister, Aunt and Friend. Private family cremation service. Donations in her memory for The Friends of Westminster Memorial Hospital and Weldmar Hospicecare may be made online at www.mhfd.co.uk or sent to Merefield & Henstridge F/D, Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 0BU. Tel: 01747 853532. Please make any cheques payable to the individual charity of choice

DEATHS

SHEILA AUDREY TROTT

On 28th July 2025, peacefully in Yeovil District Hospital, aged 87 years. Of Castle Cary. Much loved by all her family and friends. Funeral service will take place at All Saints Church, Castle Cary on Wednesday 27th August at 12.00noon followed by interment. Flowers welcome or donations for Cancer Research UK may be made online at www.mhfd.co.uk or sent to Merefield & Henstridge F/D, Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 0BU. Tel: 01747 853532.

David Caines

Peacefully on 26th July 2025.

David aged 85 years of Stalbridge, formerly of Sherborne. Devoted to his Family and Friend to many. He will be greatly missed by Pat, Deb, Andrew, Darren, Jo, Ryan and Partners, and by his beloved Grandchildren, Great Grandchildren and four-legged Friend Holly. Funeral service at Yeovil Crematorium on Thursday 21st August at 10.40am. Family flowers only please, donations if desired for The Alzheimer’s Society. C/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, The Old Reading Room, Shaftesbury Road, Henstridge, BA8 0PP.

Barbara Ethel Winder

3/1/1932 to 21/7/2025

It is with deep sorrow we announce the death of Barbara, who passed away peacefully at Canford Chase Nursing Home. Barbara was the beloved wife of Thomas Winder (deceased), mother of Karen, Bridget and Louise, grandmother to Gayle and Robert and great grandmother of Tom, Joe, Chloe, Emilia and Joshua.

Mum will be sadly missed by all her family and friends. Barbara’s funeral will be held at Bournemouth Crematorium on 18th August 2025 at 12.30. Family flowers only. Tom and Barbara spent many happy hours cruising Poole Harbour in the Dolphin boats for disabled people. Donations please to the Friends of Dolphin Charity

CROOKES

Alan Boyd

Peacefully on 22nd July 2025 in Yeovil District Hospital, aged 89 years, of Henstridge.

Much loved Partner of Janet. Dearly loved Stepfather, Grandfather, Great Grandfather and friend.

Funeral service at St. Nicholas’ Church, Henstridge on Thursday, 28th August at 12.00pm. Followed by private cremation. Family flowers only please. Donations if desired, for Arthritis Action can be made online at peterjacksonfuneralservices.co.uk Alternatively, cheques made payable to the charity may be sent: C/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, The Old Reading Room, Shaftesbury Road, Henstridge, BA8 0PP. Tel: 01963 362570

Roberts, Gill of Gillingham Dorset

passed away on 19th July at Salisbury Hospital aged 76 years. Much loved wife to Fred. Devoted Mother, Nanny and Friend to many. Donations if desired to JustGiving page in memory of Gill to Salisbury District Hospital Stars Appeal

Diana Rosemary Wilkings

Peacefully on 29th July 2025, aged 93 years. Much loved mother to Caroline, Kate, Richard and Cassandra, grandmother and great-grandmother. Burial Service at Higher Ground Meadow, Natural Burial Ground, Corscombe, Dorset on Thursday 21st August at 1.00 pm. All who knew Diana are welcome to attend.

JEAN NICHOLSON

Passed away peacefully at home in Stalbridge on 3 August 2025 at the age of 90. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends. Funeral service and interment will take place at St. Marys Church, Stalbridge on Tuesday 19th August 12.00 noon. All enquiries to A.J. Wakely & Sons, 16 Newland, Sherborne, DT9 3JQ.

NORCOTT Gary

Aged 87 years.

Passed away peacefully in his sleep at home at St. Martin’s House, Gillingham. Beloved husband of Jackie, father of Dawn, Joanne, Jackie, Stephanie and Karen and grandfather to 9 grandchildren.

He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. Funeral service at St. Mary’s Church, Gillingham on Monday 18th August 2025 at 11.00am. Family flowers only please. Donations in memory of Gary for St. Mary’s Church may be sent c/o A. J. Wakely & Sons, The Old Police Station, Carrington Way, Wincanton, BA9 9JS. Tel: 01963 31310. Please make cheques payable to St. Mary’s P.C.C.

WATSON

Judith Mary (Jude)

On 1st August 2025 peacefully at The Willows, Sherborne aged 78 years.

Much Loved wife of Peter, mother of Jess and Sarah, granny of Imogen, Theo, Jack and Beth. Sister of John, Jeremy and the late Richard. Funeral service will take place at Yeovil Crematorium on Wednesday 27th August 2025 at 12:40pm. The family would like the funeral to be a celebration of Jude’s life, so please feel free to wear something colourful. No flowers please, but donations if desired for St Margaret’s Hospice, may be sent c/o A. J. Wakely & Sons, 16, Newland, Sherborne DT9 3JQ

Announcements

DEATHS

RIGGS, BERYL

Devoted wife of the late Dudley Riggs and loving mum to Christine and Judith will be greatly missed by both family and friends. Beryl died peacefully at home, two days after her 95th birthday on the 25th of July. Her funeral will be held at Lesley Shand, Blandford at 2pm on the 19th of August and will be followed by refreshments. Family flowers only please, donations to Parkinson’s UK would be greatly appreciated.

PINSENT

Jean G. Pinsent (nee McMicking)

Died peacefully on 1st August 2025 aged 91. She was a much loved mother to Katherine, Emma, Thomas and Matthew and a grandmother and great grandmother. She was married to Ewen who died in 2020 in Child Okeford. Jean lived a life of love, kindness and generosity - she was serene, gentle and calm and a perfect foil for Ewen’s enthusiasms and eccentricity. As their gravestone will say, they were indeed ‘one another’s best’.

NELSON Irene Elizabeth

17.07.1927 - 10.07.2025

Peacefully on 10th July 2025 at St. Denis Lodge Care Home, Shaftesbury, aged 97 years. Beloved wife of the late Leslie. Dearly loved Mother of Geoffrey, Philip and Helen. A loving Grandmother and Great Grandmother, who will be dearly missed.

Funeral service at Salisbury Crematorium on Wednesday,20th August at 12.00pm. No flowers please. Donations if desired, for British Heart Foundation can be made online at peterjacksonfuneralservices.co.uk Alternatively, cheques made payable to the charity may be sent: C/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, Harwood House, Newbury, Gillingham, SP8 4QJ. Tel: 01747 833757

LYE – REGINALD FRANK

(Formerly of Blandford St Mary, Blanford Forum)

Passed away peacefully at home on 22nd July 2025, aged 105. A devoted husband of the late Cissie and a much-loved father to Malcolm, Ann, Reggie, Charles & Jacqueline. He will be greatly missed by all his family and friends. Funeral Service to be held at Bournemouth Crematorium on Thursday 21st August 2025 at 12:30pm. Family flowers only, please. Donations, if desired, for The Royal British Legion, Blandford may be made online at: www.funeraldirector.co.uk/reginald-lye or sent c/o: Ives & Shand Funeral Service, 568 Ashley Road, Parkstone, Poole, Dorset BH14 0AG. Tel: 01202 716500

BRIAN MICHAEL GODDARD

82 years of Gillingham. Died peacefully at Shaftesbury Westminster Hospital. Thank you to the staff for your care. No funeral at his request

JOHN QUINTON SAINSBURY

John, formerly of Hartgrove and Sturminster Newton. Passed away peacefully on 26th July aged 92. A Dearly loved Dad, Grandad and Great Grandad. Funeral Service at Yeovil Crematorium on Friday, 22nd August at 11.20am. Please wear a splash of colour. Family flowers only please, donations if desired for the Alzheimer’s Society. C/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, Harwood House, Newbury, Gillingham, SP8 4QJ. Tel: 01747 833757

WADMAN Jean

Passed away peacefully at home on Sunday 20th July 2025, aged 90 years. Funeral service will be held at Yeovil Crematorium on Thursday 21st August 2025 at 11:20a.m. Black clothes are not expected. Family flowers only please. Donations, if desired, for Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance by retiring collection or forwarded c/o A. J. Wakely & Sons Ltd, The Old Police Station, Carrington Way, Wincanton, BA9 9JS. Tel: 01963 31310. Please make cheques payable to the charity.

Michael George Hatcher

Peacefully on 20th July 2025. Michael aged 82 years of Wincanton. Much loved Dad, Grandad and Great Grandad. Known by many loved by all. Funeral service at St Peter & St Paul Church, Wincanton on Tuesday 26th August at 11am. Family flowers only please, donations if desired for The Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance Trust & Mill Street Social Club.

C/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, The Old Reading Room, Shaftesbury Road, Henstridge, BA8 0PP.

SHORT

Raymond John ˈRayˈ - (Herbie)

Passed away on 28th July 2025 in Yeovil District Hospital, aged 85 years, of Sturminster Newton. Beloved Husband of Judy. Much loved Dad of Amanda and loving Grandad to Martha. Private Cremation. Followed by Service of Thanksgiving at St. Mary’s Church, Sturminster Newton on Tuesday, 19th August at 2pm. All welcome. Donations if desired, for Sturminster Newton Football Club. Cheques made payable to Sturminster Newton Football Club may be sent:

C/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, The Old Reading Room, Shaftesbury Road, Henstridge, BA8 0PP. Tel: 01963 362570

TREVETT Pamela Joan

Passed away peacefully at home on 31st July. Aged 92 years. Beloved wife of the late Oliver Trevett. She will be sadly missed by her family and friends. Funeral Service to be held at St Nicholas Church, Winterborne Clenston on Friday 29th August at 11.30am. Family flowers only please, but donations, if desired for Alzheimer’s Research UK, may be made online by visiting www.close-funeral.co.uk (Via the Much Loved Link) or cheques payable to the Alzheimer’s Research UK, c/o Colin J Close Funeral Service, Peel Close, Salisbury Road, Blandford DT11 7JU. Tel: 01258 453133

Independent Family Funeral Directors

When your family suffers the loss of a loved one, we are here to support, guide and reassure you - every step of the way Call Teresa or Daniel on 01935 812647

Lenthay Road, Sherborne DT9 6AG

Email: info@wsbrister.com

www.wsbrister.com

Recruitment

PART-TIME OFFICE/ADMIN’ ASSISTANT for a small but growing brewery. This is an office based role with skills required to include: an excellent ‘phone manner; maintaining our customer base; basic book-keeping; general admin duties. Experience of setting-up a new office would be ideal but not essential. 3 days per week or the equivalent with hours tbc for suitable applicant. To apply for the position contact adrian@woodsheddingbrew.com.

Based on 30-acre care farm

Salary Range: £14 - £15.50 an hour

Between 30-37 hours a week

Start Date: November 2025 or soon after

The role can be offered as Full Time, Part Time (minimum of 30 hours) or Term Time Only as a degree of flexibility over the hours may be possible for the right candidate.

Based in rural West Dorset, Future Roots is a long- and well-established provider of complimentary education and re-engagement services for children and young people. Working with schools and Local Authority Children’s Services we use a farm environment and our animals to

Students gain insight into maritime careers

STUDENTS explored different routes into maritime-related careers and ‘jobs of the future’ when they visited Portland Port.

The group of Wey Valley School pupils met staff and toured facilities during the trip organised by the Sail Training Trust (STT) Portland in partnership with the Andrew Simpson Foundation as part of its maritime education programme.

Highlights included a tour of a tug boat and the chance to see the port’s £26 million deepwater berth, the marine office and historic military areas.

Claire Pearce, from the Dorset Clean Energy Super Cluster, was also on hand with a

presentation to explain how renewable energy projects could create skilled jobs during development and operation.

Bill Reeves, chief executive of Portland Port, said: “I hope the visit opened the students’ eyes to the many exciting and worthwhile careers in the maritime industry both now and in the future.

“It was a pleasure to welcome the students and give them the opportunity to see what we do here and talk to our staff about their roles and the varied career paths they have taken.”

Mr Reeves gave students an overview of how the port operates on a daily basis during the behind the scenes tour.

The eight-strong party of 13 to 15 years olds were given a tour of the port’s marine office by marine officer Gary Fooks.

Port project engineer Rueben Stroud gave the students a presentation about his role. He embarked on an apprenticeship after contacting the port directly about job openings and is now taking a degree through the business.

Commercial assistant Josh Jenvey, who also approached the port personally about vacancies, told students about the level 3 business administration apprenticeship he took through the port and Weymouth College.

Environment and planning officer Joe Roberts explained how he graduated with a degree before working at the port.

In her presentation, Claire told pupils about the career possibilities from clean energy projects proposed for the area and Portland’s potential as a strategic hub for such technologies.

Recruitment

Portland Port has signed memorandums of understanding with leading European renewable energy developers Source Galileo to develop opportunities around its PortWind offshore wind project proposed in the English Channel and with UK Energy Storage (UKEn) for green hydrogen storage.

Portland Port employs 57 people in a variety of office and shoreside roles, including marine engineers, marine officers, apprentices, pilot boat and tug crew, maintenance, security, port police, administration and accounting, commercial and business development, asset management and landside services.

Separate businesses based at the port employ nearly 50 people in such sector areas as marine engineering, marine services, refuelling, cargo import and export, boat building, renewable energy, aquaculture and subsea communications..

GFW WANTED on dairy and beef farm between Wincanton and Bruton. 07812-009364

PART-TIME PERSON

WANTED to help with general farm work. 07811-837061

CARER REQUIRED FOR DISABLED GENTLEMAN. Some weekends and some weekday evenings. Fifehead Saint Quintin DT10 2AP 01258-818195.

FARM WORKER WANTED on dairy farm in Sturminster Newton. Telephone 01258 472050

CLEANER WANTED

FULL-TIME PERMANENT DRIVER ROLE

We are seeking a reliable and skilled HGV Class 2 Driver to join our team. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of vehicle operation, ensuring timely and safe delivery of goods. This role requires excellent communication skills.

The hours are 8:00am - 4:30pm (1 hour for lunch), although a degree of flexibility is required, Monday to Friday. Salary negotiable but dependent on experience.

Benefits:

If you are dedicated, safety-conscious, and ready to contribute to our organisation, we would love to hear from you.

Please send your CV to: cwright@blackmore.co.uk

SITUATIONS WANTED

LIVE-IN CARER/COOK/DRIVER available. Part-time considered. Long Term. Tel: 07867-978558

Items for sale

CLASSIFIED ADS

COLORWAY ELECTRIC BIKE, brand new. never used. Tools and bags to go on the back. £00 ono 01963-362242

RISER RECLINER, blue and black vinyl, easy to clean. Hardly used. £300 ono. 07825 523442

FOR SALE

GUITARS, AMPS PRIVATE

SALE - MOVING ABROAD

Amps: Fender Hot Rod Deluxe, Fender Champion 100, Marshal MG 50fx, Marshall Valvestate.

Guitars: Fender Special Squire Strat, Prs se std 24 08, Epiphone Les Paul, all in excellent condition.

Also available original rare Fender tilting Amp stand. Large Fender tilting Amp stand, Large Fender shop display stand. Call Jon for more details & prices 07796 531000

INVACARE LEO SCOOTER

2 new batteries, hardly used. £700 ONO. 01963-824607

WELLIS MARS HOT TUB, with cover and steps. Very good condition, selling owing to illness. Tel: 07939-427299

SEASONAL LOGS.

Barn dry. Mainly Ash. 20 miles radius of Sherborne. Preferably evenings01935 815534.

POWER PLUS CULTIVATOR (ROTAVATOR)

140cc engine. 3 yrs old, only used twice £398 new. Will accept £130. Tel: 07714 289410

FREE CLASSIFIED ADS

1962 OLD COUNTRY ROSE COFFEE SET. Excellent condition. £20 Tel. 01935 509227

BLACK CAST IRON 3 TIER, 6,5,4, tealight stand, 140cm diameter, 85cm high. Buyer collect £20 01747-830656

WEBER BARBECUE

MasterTouch £30 Tel:07890-545587

FAMILY SIZED BRAND NEW PADDLING POOL, still boxed. 6ftx4ftx2ft when inflated. £10 07886-538350

VERY OLD SINGER SEWING MACHINE in a wooden carrying case £20. 07833-641242

PINE COFFEE TABLE WITH DRAWER £20. Electric scarifiers £10. 01963-32508.

SMALL HIGH BACKED RECLINER/FOOTSTOOL, brown leatherette finish. Excellent condition. £50. 07964-307869

STEAM TRAIN BOOKS and items £15 07791-847767

EGG CODDLERS ROYAL WORCESTER and wedgewood, small and large size. Price from £5 each. 01963-33464

DOUBLE BELFAST SINK £50 and various kitchenalia. 07717-596779

ASSORTED COLLECTION OF EGYPTIAN ORNAMENTS and printed papyrus, £45.00 o.n.o. Tel: 01747 824482.

GARDEN PARASOL double width 4mtr x 2.5mtr winding handle. green with heavy base. £50. Tel: 01747 854294

GRAVITY RANDALL ALUMINIUM LADDER with two 13 ft. sections plus wall spacer. Excellent condition.£50 Tel.01747 811611

BOXES (Cardboard-Strong:up to 12kg) FORTY - ideal storage/ moving: £15 STREETText 075 16 41 00 23

49” SMART TV, £40, great condition, 07736-561824

KING SIZE BED STORAGE In base. Good condition. Must go. 01747 823827

SMALL HIGH BACKED RECLINER/FOOTSTOOL, brown leatherette finish In excellent condition, surplus to requirements £50, Phone 07964 307869

STRIPE FLEX HEAVY DUTY TARPAULIN 4-5m x 6.00m.new packed, another small one.£1000.call 01935 475451.

FREE WORKING WASHING MACHINE. John Lewis. Surplus to requirements since house move, good working order. Zeals Tel: 07491-151273

10 x 1000 PIECE JIGSAWS, various makes and themes. £20.00. Gillingham location. Tel: 07842 120313

PAIR OF BEDSIDE CABINETS for sale 62cm high by 56deep and 52wide. In good condition and cream wood grain colour. Telephone 07485 107859. £20 the pair

TABLETOP BARBECUE with OVEN/Smoker&Chimney, NEW Never Used, £25 ONO Tel 07449-116144

FREE MAHOGANY OVAL TABLE and 8 Victorian chairs. 07918-627092

COOK ESSENTIALS 5LITRE AIRFRYER in green with dishes, never used. £40. 01935-817782.

BLACK AND DECKER BATTERY OPERATED STRIMMER + Lawn Edger. VGC. With Battery Charger. £30. 01258-821259

ICONS OF OUR TIME BOOK SERIES. Book of Steve McQueen pictures perfect condition like new £1 07707-112910.

LOVELY PALMA PL60 flamenco guitar cost over £100 good condition with case now £45 Tel 01747-822422

GENUINE HONDA CRV 20022006 boot liner in very good condition. £ 35 . (Yeovil) 07805-160770.

FOOD PROCESSOR Kenwood Chef £45. In very good condition. Tel. 01747-811611

9 LARGE CUT HAND STONE PIECES to make ornamental circle. £40. 01963 23229

“N” GAUGE MODEL RAILWAY village on base board 122cm x 70cm.Gaugemaster dual rail control. £40. Tel 01747 824455

ELECTRIC BEKO EYE LEVEL

DOUBLE OVEN SIA LPG gas hob. Extractor hood. Free to collect only. Contact 01963 846153

MARKS & SPENCER LADIES

SANDLES, size 5, wide fit, new never worn, cost £49.50. £25. Shaftesbury, 07773 657363

MAHOGONY DINING TABLE, Approx 5ft X 3ft, splits in 2. £48 ono Tel: 01747-840835

PC MONITOR-LG22EA53, £20. Tel: 07764-958430

EX VILLAGE HALL STACKING TABLES. £5 each. Tel: 07968-894482

TWO SINGLE DIVAN BEDS complete with bedding all clean very little use. £50 the pair. Stalbridge 07526-050486

LARGE QUANTITY OF WHITE AND BLUE TILES, 6”x6”. £20. Will split. 07785 534524

OLD ROCKERY dismantled approximately 60 substantial stones to be taken away free or donation to charity. Cann 01747 852661

NEW LAMINATED FLOORING, in packaging, 8 planks, 8mmx186mmx1285mm, =1.9sqrmtrs. Red Alder, Scratch & Impact Resistant £14. 01747 824240, Gillingham

ELECTRIC BEKO EYE LEVEL

Double Oven, SIA LPG gas hob, Extractor hood, Free to collect only, Contact 01963 846153

DFS LARGE SWIVEL CUDDLE CHAIR and a Large cream DFS footstall new condition free of charge.Tel: 01747-821096 or 07970-568679

SELECTION OF 40+ COMIC BOOKS including Giles, Andy Capp and The Gambols. All in good condition - £10. Phone 07767-622159 Blandford

WANTED, Model Railway items, including 00 and N Guage, Trains, Models, Coaches, Wagons etc. Call Andrew on 07799-417711

LIVE-IN COMPANION/ COOK/DRIVER AVAILABLE. Part-time considered. Long Term. Tel: 07867-978558

GENTLEMAN (62) would like to meet a lady for friendship at first. Genuine replies please. 07581320432. Sturminster Newton.

WANTED OVERLOCKER. 01747-851783

CARER weekdays only, starting 1 Sept for publisher/ writer couple -Woolston area one with Alzheimer’s. Beautiful bedroom, small sitting room and semiprivate bath. Normal caring duties. Driver’s License required. (3 weeks on/3 weeks off) Email pagemouse@aol.com

OLD BOOKS BOUGHT. Will call by appointment entirely without obligation. Bristow & Garland 07392 602014

Learners face 22-week wait for driving test

THE number of driving test centres with average waits of 24 weeks has increased by 60% since the start of 2025.

New data, from a Freedom of Information request to the DVSA by AA Driving School, shows the number of driving test centres with the maximum wait of 24 weeks has risen to 80.8% – as of May 5, 2025.

Since January the number of test centres with 24-week waits rose from 161 – January 6, 2025 – to 258 – May 5, 2025.

Overall, average waiting times for a driving test have reached a new high, with learners typically facing waits of 21.9 weeks as of May 5.

But new measures brought in at the start of April to tackle waiting times may be starting to

show green shoots of progress.

There were 122,000 more driving test bookings in the DVSA’s system for June this year than in June 2024.

While the number of bookings in the system does not initially make it quicker for people to secure a test slot, it does signal hope there is an increased capacity in test delivery on the horizon – in turn this should start to bring waiting times down.

5,487 more driving tests were conducted in June 2025 compared to June 2024. This is the first increase in the number of tests conducted in 2025 when compared with

Higher test booking numbers give rise to hopes of improvement in situation

the same month in 2024.

More changes are expected this year following the results of a DVSA consultation into alterations to the driving test booking process.

Emma Bush, managing director of AA Driving School, said: “With the vast majority of driving test centres now showing waits at the maximum the system will allow, the situation cannot get much worse.

“New measures designed to

start bringing down waiting times were implemented at the start of April by the DVSA.

“There are signs of recovery, though, putting both the industry and learners on tenterhooks for more signs of improvement in the coming months.

“While we would expect these changes to take a few months to show a positive impact, it is still disappointing to see that learners are continuing to face an uphill battle when it comes to booking their driving test.”

Motoring

‘Be prepared’: Driving over the Bank Holiday

THE AA is advising motorists to spend 10 minutes checking their vehicle before heading off on what is likely to be one of the busiest weekends of the year on the roads.

The August Bank Holiday weekend, from Friday, August 22, to Monday, August 25, is expected to bring significant delays on major motorways such as the M5 –towards the south west, M6 –towards the Lake District and Scotland, and M4, as well as key A-roads like the A30, A303 and A82.

will the Reading and Leeds festivals over the Bank Holiday weekend, and the British Moto GP at Silverstone from August 29-31.

Routes to coastal destinations, ferry ports, major airports and popular tourist attractions such as theme parks are expected to be significantly busier than usual.

Shaun Jones, AA patrol of the Year, said:

“Before setting out drivers are advised to check their vehicle.

TAKE 10 MINUTES

Pre-trip vehicle checks

n Tyres: Check for age, correct pressure and adequate tread depth.

n Fluids: Top up oil, coolant and screen wash.

n Lights and wipers: Ensure all lights are working and wipers are in good condition.

n Battery: If your car has been idle for a while, consider getting the battery tested.

n Fuel and charge: Make sure you have enough fuel or electrical charge for your journey or plan in where you can stop to fill up or recharge. Plan your route

for correct pressure, and tread depth, but also for their age on any vehicle which hasn’t been used recently.

n Use a route planner to map out your journey in advance. Avoid peak travel times

n Early mornings (before 9am) or late evenings (after 7pm) tend to be quieter.

n Midweek travel is often less congested than weekends. Stay calm and take breaks

n Take a break every two hours

n Stay hydrated and eat light meals

n Share driving duties if possible

n Regular breaks help maintain concentration and reduce fatigue.

to avoid setting off during peak hours if possible.

The start of the domestic football season this month is also likely to increase traffic, as

“Spending 10 minutes could save you time on your journey by helping to prevent a breakdown.

“Check you tyres – not just

2014 (14) Ford Ka 1.2 Zetec 3dr. £35 road tax, air con, panoramic sunroof, cambelt has been replaced, only 66,500 miles..................£3650

2017 (17) Ford KA+ 1.2 Zetec 5dr. 85bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, parking sensors, cruise control, hill hold, air con, Bluetooth, upto 56mpg economy, small exterior with a spacious interior, 76,900 miles ....................................£6450

2011 (60) Ford Fiesta 1.4 Titanium 5dr. Cruise control, Bluetooth & USB, climate control, auto lights & wipers, parking sensors, cambelt has been replaced, only 68,100 miles...................................................£4250

2012 (62) Ford Ka 1.2 Studio 3dr. 69bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, £35 yearly tax, 50+mpg, simple car with basic spec, cambelt replaced, MOT Nov 2025, private sale on behalf of a customer, 73,500 miles .......................................£2950

2018 (18) Ford Focus ST3 Nav 2.0T 5dr. Sat nav, parking sensors, cruise control, heated leather Recaro seats, style pack, road sign assistance, 250bhp, stunning car in Stealth Grey, 61,500 miles.............................................................................................£15000

2014 (14) Ford Kuga 2.0TDCi Titanium X AWD 4x4 SUV 5dr. 163bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, 4x4, high seats, leather, heated seats, heated screen, sat nav, park sensors, auto park, reverse camera, sunroof, auto lights & wipers, cruise, lane aid, sign recognition, hill hold, electric tailgate, cambelt replaced, 92,500 miles .........£7450

2021 (21) Ford Puma 1.0T ST Line X 5dr. Partial leather, sat nav, parking sensors, cruise control, collision detection, road sign assistance, 47,200 miles.................................................................................£13750

2020 (69) Ford Tourneo Custom 2.0TDCi Titanium 320 L1 H1 Automatic 9 Seat Minibus 5dr. 130bhp, diesel, 6 speed 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

2018 (68) Ford Kuga 2.0TDCi ST Line SUV 5dr. Sat nav, road sign assist, cruise control, park sensors & auto park system, reverse camera, partial leather, 61,800 miles.........................................................£11750

2020 (69) Ford Transit 2.0TDCi Trend 350 MWB MR L2 H2 11 Seat Minibus 5dr. 130bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, 10 seat plus driver, 2 front seats, 9 rear seats, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, parking sensors, heated front seats, hill hold, cambelt replaced, 90,200 miles.........................£19500 + VAT = £23400

2014 (14) Ford Transit 2.2TDCi 350 Trend 12 Seat Minibus 5dr. 3 front seats, 9 rear seats, removable rear seats, standing head room, skylight, ideal for day van or camper conversion, 75,500 miles................................................................£10500 + VAT = £12600

2014 (64) Kia Venga 3, 1.6 Automatic (Sat Nav) 5dr. 123bhp, petrol, 4 speed automatic gearbox, high seating, decent boot, sat nav, parking sensors & reverse camera, electric sunroof, partial leather, heated seats, cruise control, sign recognition, hill hold, only 38,800 miles........................................................£7850

“Top up your oil, coolant and screenwash.

“Make sure you’ve got enough fuel or electrical charge if you drive an EV.

“We strongly advise drivers

“Leaving early in the morning or later in the evening can make a huge difference to your journey time and stress levels.

“Build in plenty of breaks to keep everyone refreshed and safe on the road.”

2012 (12) Peugeot 508 1.6THP SR 4dr. Sat nav, cruise control, Bluetooth & USB, climate control, road sign assist, only 43,900 miles...............................................................................................£4500

2006 (06) Mercedes-Benz CLK200 1.8 Kompressor Sport Automatic Convertible 2dr. 163bhp, petrol, 5 speed auto gearbox, recent new roof & shocks absorbers, full history, 15 stamps, heated leather, electric roof, auto lights & wipers, cruise, park sensors, MOT June 25, private sale on behalf of a customer, 77,500 miles ...........................................................................................................£4250

2018 (68) Renault Clio 1.5DCi GT Line Nav 5dr. Sat nav, cruise control, partial leather, parking sensors, cambelt kit has been replaced, 63,200 miles...................................................................................£7950

2015 (65) Peugeot 308 1.2THP Allure Automatic 5dr. 130bhp, petrol, 6 speed automatic gearbox, sat nav, park sensors, reverse camera, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, hill hold, only £35 a year road tax, 50+mpg economy, cambelt has been replaced, 69,500 miles..............................................................DUE IN SOON

2017 (17) Toyota Hilux 2.4D-4D Invincible Double Cab 4x4 Pickup 4dr. Switchable 4 wheel drive, 5 seats, reverse camera, cruise control, road sign assist, No VAT to pay, only 51,800 miles........................£19500

2019 (19) Renault Captur 1.5DCi Iconic Automatic SUV 5dr. 90bhp, diesel, 6 speed automatic gearbox, sat nav, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, parking sensors, hill hold, high seating, sliding rear seats, upto 67mpg economy, 20,300 miles .........................................................................................................£12250

2023 (73) Vauxhall Vivaro 2.0TD 3100 Pro L2 Van 6dr. Sat nav, reverse camera, cruise control, air con, twin side doors, ply lined, 21,300 miles, selling on behalf of a customer...............£18250 + VAT = £21900

2017 (17) Vauxhall Astra 1.4 SRi 5dr. 100bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, auto lights & wipers, parking sensors, cruise control, pre-collision assist, sign recognition, hill hold, Bluetooth, 63,600 miles ..............................................£6950

2011 (11) Kia Venga 2, 1.4TD 5dr. Clearance car, sold as seen with MOT until July 2026. high seating, great value low-cost motoring, £35 road tax, poor paint on 1 door, not perfect, full history, 130,500 miles.................................................................................£1500 WE

2016 (66) Mazda 3, 2.0 SE-L Nav Automatic 5dr. 120bhp, petrol, 6 speed automatic gearbox, sat nav, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, parking sensors, sign recognition, heated seats, hill hold, 75,900 miles...................................£8450

2016 (66) Vauxhall Mokka 1.6CDTi SE 4x4 SUV 5dr. 136bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, 4 wheel drive, high seating, big boot, heated leather seats, heated steering wheel, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, parking sensors, hill hold, performance & economy, upto 60mpg, 65,500 miles ....................................£7250

& CONSIDER MOST VEHICLES

2008 MOT, park

Hundreds more charging points

AN additional 1,217 public electric charge points have been provided in the south west in the past year.

Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood says the region now has 5,829 public charge points – 26% up on July 2024.

The news follows an announcement that drivers will soon enjoy discounts of up to £3,750 on new electric cars.

thousands more people, alongside making it easier to charge at home so more drivers can run their EV for as little as 2p a mile.

There will also be £25 million to help more drivers charge at home and save up to £1,500 a year when switching to electric.

Lilian Greenwood said: “Just last week we announced record discounts to help make EV ownership a reality for

CITROEN C1. 2010. 110K miles. 5 door. Economical. £800 Tel: 07964 093151

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BMW, Z3, SPORTS CAR, 2002, 109k miles, VGC, Silver, NEW MOT. £2,750. Tel: 07968-894482

2003 LAND ROVER

DISCOVERY TD5 auto silver 145000 miles good condition & good runner height adjustable towbar mot Nov 2025 £4250 0 7966 214311

SUBARU JUSTY RED 2008 998cc 99,929miles petrol, very good condition. Low insurance, no tax. MOT November. £995 ONO. 07453-250928.

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“Today’s charge point figures show that, alongside lowering upfront costs, we’re also making fantastic progress towards expanding our charging network across the south west, helping put range anxiety firmly in the rear-view mirror.”

There are now more than 82,000 public charge points across the UK.

Britain was the largest EV market in Europe in 2024 with sales up a fifth on the previous year.

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Please call Jon 07796 531000

When will we make your pet sick?

by Lynn Broom Longmead Veterinary Practice

PETS, especially dogs, are prone to eating unsuitable items. If we are aware immediately and induce vomiting quickly this can fully resolve the problem. However, there can be factors which affect decision making around this.

Items such as tablets, chocolate or raisins are best removed as rapidly as possible by inducing vomiting. If this is carried out soon after ingestion it is unlikely that secondary problems will develop. However, some medications are rapidly absorbed and additional investigations, such as blood tests or medications, may be needed. The longer the time since ingestion, the more risk some or all of the potential toxin may be absorbed and have negative effects. It is often a balance of risks and treatment may be started because of the

JACK RUSSELL CROSS BORDER TERRIER

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unknown degree of risk, especially if it is not known exactly when the dietary indiscretion occurred.

It is not appropriate to induce vomiting with certain substances such as bleach because of the risk of further oesophageal damage developing. Large foreign bodies, in comparison to the patient’s size, may cause further problems if vomiting is induced. For instance, whole raw potatoes can obstruct the oesophagus on the way back up causing acute life-threatening symptoms. Endoscopy may allow certain items to be broken down into more manageable pieces that can then either be removed or be allowed to pass through normally.

The risk of subsequent small intestinal obstruction from large items and certain shaped items may be high. However, it is amazing what will pass through a dog’s gut without issue!

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Unless it is known that an item will cause a problem it is common to wait to see if symptoms of obstruction develop before committing to surgery to remove it. It is, however, important to act quickly when a known foreign body gets stuck to prevent significant gut damage.

In one week, which I renamed ‘Sock Week’, I had three dogs who had swallowed socks. One had surgery to remove the sock after symptoms developed – the owner did not know it had been swallowed; one returned a sock after vomiting was induced having been seen to swallow it; and one had endoscopy to remove a sock from their stomach after it failed to return after vomiting was induced. All three recovered uneventfully.

We know that corn cobs are a commonly found foreign body causing small intestinal

obstruction. After known ingestion it is a judgement call as to whether vomiting is induced, especially if the dog is small, in view of the risk of possible oesophageal obstruction. We also don’t know how much the cob was chewed prior to ingestion – making it less likely to cause an obstruction – or how many pass through the gut without issue – we are usually only aware of the ones that get stuck! It may simply be a case that the dog is closely monitored, and the cob is removed surgically if symptoms develop such as vomiting.

It is important that we as vets discuss all the pros and cons of inducing vomiting and offer subsequent tests and treatment as well as signs to look out for so that you can make an informed decision as to how to best manage your pet’s situation.

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Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.

Dogs are prone to eating unsuitable items, including socks

MID DORSET CATS PROTECTION C ats looking for new homes

n Loki and Freya, 11-weekold kittens looking for a home together

n Nancy and Dean. 13-week-old kittens needing extra socialising

n Caspian, two, and Milo, one, looking for a home together

n Minty and Cracker, 13-weekold kittens looking for a home together

n Maddie, 10, shy lady looking for a country home

n For details, please call the helpline on 01258 858644 or visit our website, www.cats.org.uk/ middorset

n Cats’ Protection is also looking for homes for farm cats

for

n Cole, 17, grumpy old gentleman looking for a quiet place to retire

Is your dog a guarder?

by Raychel Curson

RESOURCE guarding is a common but often misunderstood behaviour in dogs.

It occurs when a dog becomes possessive over things they value – such as food, toys, treats, or even a favourite person, resting spot or room. When a dog guards a resource, they may growl, snap, stiffen or even bite if they feel it’s being threatened or taken away.

While this behaviour can be alarming, it’s important to remember that resource guarding is natural. In the wild, guarding valuable resources was a way for animals to survive.

However, in a home environment, this behaviour can become a safety concern, especially if it escalates. What causes resource guarding?

DOGS may guard for various reasons, including fear of losing access to something they treasure, anxiety or a lack of trust in their environment. Some dogs are more prone to guarding due to past experiences, such as competing for food in a shelter or rescue setting. Even wellcared for dogs can develop guarding behaviours if they feel insecure.

Common signs

n Growling or snapping when someone approaches while they’re eating or chewing

n Freezing or stiffening over an

item

n Hiding treasured objects

n Staring intensely at people or other pets near a valued resource

How to respond

It’s essential not to punish your dog for guarding. Punishment can increase anxiety and make the behaviour worse. Instead, try to create positive associations around sharing and build trust with calm, respectful training methods.

Management is also key— avoid taking things away forcefully, and give your dog space when they’re enjoying a valued item. If the behaviour is new, worsening or putting someone at risk, it’s time to seek professional help. Need help with resource guarding?

RESOURCE guarding can be complex and potentially dangerous if not addressed properly. Every dog and situation is unique, so tailored support is important. If your dog is showing signs of guarding and you’d like guidance on how to manage or resolve it, feel free to contact me. I’m here to help you and your dog build a safer, more trusting relationship.

n Raychel Curson BSc (Hons) MA CCAB APBC-CAB FABC ABTC-CAB is owner of Pet Peeves Animal Behaviour & Teaching. Email: raychel@ petpeevessomerset.co.uk.

n Mitzy, 13. Sweet indoor girl

n Tabatha

10, shy lady looking

a home in the country. Could be homed with Maddie

Sport

Baker on target as Rockies dominate replay

Emirates FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round replay Shaftesbury 5

Baffins Milton Rovers 0 by Avril Lancaster

THE Rockies made a fast start in this replay following a 1-1 draw in Hampshire.

Baffins keeper Dylan Kramer made two superb saves but was unable to prevent Jack Lovell lashing in the opening goal in the 13th minute.

Jack Hoey claimed the second goal following good work from Alefe Santos DAbadia and Luke Burbidge.

Hoey turned in a second ball that had deflected off Lovell in the penalty area.

Former Moneyfields keeper Kramer denied Lovell and Toby Holmes with further stops to keep the Rockies at bay going into the break.

Rockies manager Jim Milligan used his bench and the effect was immediate with Harry Baker scoring with his first touch and adding a fourth goal.

FOOTBALL

(Saturday, August 16).

Baffins Milton Rovers 1 Shaftesbury 1

Emirates FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round by Avril Lancaster

Lovell’s goal after five minutes. In an untidy match, the home side applied pressure with Chad Cornwell pushing up to create an opening for Danny Burroughs, who perhaps should have scored.

Liam Farrugia returned to Shaftesbury’s side in the cup draw against Baffin Milton Rovers for his 109th appearance

PHOTO: Shaftesbury FC

Moss Jackson-Collis used his pace up front and Leighton

Thomas his strength, and the match ended with Thomas lashing in the fifth goal to earn a home Preliminary round tie with Thatcham Town tomorrow

THE Rockies will have to go again after a difficult afternoon in Hampshire against Velocity Wessex League Premier Division opponents Baffins Milton Rovers.

Rovers levelled in the second half when Lewis Beale’s 54th minute finish cancelled out Jack

Toby Holmes had a couple of good chances and Jim Ward hit a piledriver that just cleared Dylan Kramer’s bar immediately after Beale squared the tie up.

Neither side could find a winner and will have to try again for the right to earn a Preliminary round tie at home to Thatcham Town.

Thatcham defeated Petersfield Town in Berkshire 2-0 to progress to the next round.

Charity day coins in the cash

by Nic Boyd

WHEATHILL Golf Club held their annual charity mixed bowmaker fundraiser in aid of Cancer Research UK.

The event was well supported by members of the club and the local community.

RJ Autos of Martock and Clearway Motorhomes of Lydford both sponsored holes on the course.

The club also received donations of raffle prizes from Cineworld, Cross Keys Inn, Fondo Lounge, Glastonbury Ales, Godminster Cheese,

GOLF

Haynes Motor Museum, Lucy Neal – Holistic Therapist, Shell Garage Lydford, Middlewick Spa, Strode Theatre, Thatchers Cider. The Newt, Keinton Stores, Wyke Farm as well as many generous prizes from members.

The event raised £701 for Cancer Research UK.

66 members took part in the competition and the winners with 90 stableford points were Sue Moon, Colin Davis and Tim Dean.

Jack Hoey waits to take a free kick in the cup replay

PHOTO: Avril Lancaster

New leagues boost for smaller clubs

NEW tennis initiative the Blackmore Vale Singles and Doubles Leagues is set to bring local clubs and players closer together.

It is coordinated by the Lawn Tennis Association through the Barclays Local Tennis Leagues programme.

Previously, the nearest active leagues were only in cities or over an hour’s drive away.

The aim is simple, to create a welcoming, competitive environment where players

TENNIS

from across the Blackmore Vale area can enjoy regular matches, meet new people and feel part of a broader tennis community.

The league is open to all adult players – whether or not they belong to a club – and matches are arranged directly between players at mutually convenient times over a two-month period.

This format is a real

Club subject of new docuseries

MOVE over Ryan Reynolds –Salisbury FC are getting their own Welcome to Wrexham-style documentary.

The Whites From Stonehenge is described as an all-new docuseries that will follow the rise of the club from the threat of relegation from the National League South to ‘something bigger in football’.

The announcement of the docuseries follows a change in ownership at the club, as the new owner, the Kuwaiti entrepreneur and cryptocurrency mogul Ali Alhamad, impressed club chiefs with his ambition.

FOOTBALL

It comes off the back of the club retaining their place in the league on the final day of the 2024/25 season with fans and staff calling for further investment to help the club compete in the division.

A teaser trailer was posted on the club’s Facebook page earlier this month.

The series is being produced by Hammah Studios and follows similar successful series including Welcome to Wrexham, Sunderland ‘Til I Die and Birmingham City’s new Brady & The Blues.

opportunity for smaller clubs, such as Templecombe, who may not have enough members to field teams in traditional inter-club leagues but who do have enthusiastic, active players keen for more matchplay.

Players are grouped by their ITF World Tennis Number (WTN), a rating system that ensures fair, competitive matches.

The leagues remove barriers and make participation possible for everyone, regardless of club size.

Several local clubs, including Donhead, Marnhull, Pyt House, Chalk Valley and Shillingstone, are already

GOLF

involved, and it is hoped more will join.

The more players who take part, the more vibrant and rewarding this community league will become.

For those interested, registration is quick and easy via the Local Tennis Leagues app or by visiting https://lta. page.link/app.

Nicola Bayes, of Donmead Tennis Club, said: “We’d love to see this league become a long-term fixture, helping forge stronger links between local clubs, encourage friendly rivalry and give players of all levels more opportunities to enjoy the game we all love.”

New members shine

24 LADIES entered Wheathill Golf Club’s Paul Nicholls Greensomes competition.

The day started with misty rain but fortunately this cleared away in time to give a relatively dry round for everyone.

The Lady Captain presented two new members, Victoria Edmunds and Sue Longman, with the coveted prize after scoring a gross 61 points.

Golf simulator in plans for sandwich bar

A NEW golf simulator and sandwich bar could be coming to Shaftesbury if plans are given the green light.

The prospective tenants of Unit 2D at the Wincombe Business Centre in the town have submitted a change of use plan that would see a new business catering to golf lovers created in the area, aptly called Tee-Time.

The golf simulator would sit on the first floor and would be used by one person at a time on a pre-booked basis, while the sandwich takeaway bar would occupy the ground floor.

“The intention is that the takeaway will be available to customers using the golf simulator or, predominantly, to ‘walk-ins’ from others working at the Wincombe Business Centre,” the plans stated.

“There are no alterations proposed to the exterior of the building and visitors will be able to utilise the existing three car park spaces on-site,” it added.

Councillor Jack Jeans, of Shaftesbury Town Council, welcomed the plans.

“Golf is becoming very popular amongst many of our Shaftesbury residents,” he said. “There are no other facilities like this in the town and I think it would be a fantastic opportunity for our residents.”

Shots of fans at the Ray Mac in the teaser trailer PHOTO: Salisbury FC

Field & Stream

Slim pickings for the fold and the flock, but rich bounty in the hedgerows

by Tria Stebbing

THE animals are all quite settled now, and apart from ‘fly watch’ it allows us time to catch up on some field jobs that need doing before winter.

The fields themselves are parched and dusty – huge cracks have appeared in the soil and the thistles are on the rampage.

The most surprising find was that the hedgerows are full to the brim of berries and nuts.

The sloes are so abundant that the branches are

gravitating towards the ground – thoughts of copious amounts of gin instantly sprang to mind.

Wild rose hips, elderberries, yellow plums, apples and cob nuts are on the up, too.

The weather must surely contribute to this harvest – too dry and the sloes are small and shrivelled, too wet and cold and they do not develop. Clearly, we have had the right balance of warmth and water.

I am leaving the sloes as long as possible as folklore says they are better after the

first frost, so October/ November time. Mine will wait until I have room in the freezer to freeze them before use, thus making my own frost to suit my timeframe.

Freezing the fruit removes the bitterness and mellows the flavour by softening the skins. That same frost also splits the skins, so you do not need to prick all the skins to release the juice.

While out foraging, I found the blackberries are great this year, too, and make a cracking crumble with the apples that are ready.

The hay is safely in the barn, and we have been over and sheeted the front to protect it against showers. It is a nice feeling to have it in and ready for the change in season.

Grazing for the flock and fold is now very poor quality and they are quite literally picking at tufts of grass shooting up from dust baths.

Apples are supplementing their diet, along with a few spare vegetable and lick buckets.

For those Highland cow fans, Sebastian, Belle and

Babybel are up grazing a very steep hill in the village. It is rough, hilly terrain, which replicates badly what a Scottish hillside is like.

They enjoy foraging and Babybel is currently sporting a Dossan covered in ‘burrs’, the seed pods of the burdocks that cling to the hair making it impossible to remove.

He does look a bit silly with his sticky up fringe. I like to think he is intelligent enough to have done it to repel flies or similar, while secretly knowing he is just a ‘Doofus’. I have to hope it does not rain too hard as the growing conditions in his Dossan are perfect!

The fold remains close, although Belle and Sebastian have become much closer recently.

Sebastian’s horns are growing at a fast rate, making him have a real presence up on the hill. He does know, however, how to use them, and we are quick to observe that sudden tilt of the head when he has mischief in his eyes.

Running away from a Highland cow in this heat is not for the faint- hearted!

Babybel rocking the burrs in his Dossan

Hazelnuts growing in the field hedge

Making hay, back in the day…

by Ruth Kimber

AT last we have some rain! Not much as I write on July 21, but we are hoping for more. The countryside is looking so thirsty, with varying shades of brown cardboard-looking fields. Stock keepers are having to feed hay, silage or straw to supplement the lack of grass. Much of next winter’s forage is being used now, causing concern for the months ahead.

Thinking back to my childhood and before silage was a thing, my father would mow the hay fields in June, using a cutter-bar mower. Once the mowing was started, someone had to hand rake the back swathe to clear away the grass to allow the mowing machine to go around the outside of the field in the opposite direction to cut closer to the hedge, fence or ditch. This area had been driven over by the tractor, the finger bar part of the mowing machine with the knives ran alongside on the righthand side, it was four to five feet wide. These mowers would have originally been

horse driven. It would take all day to mow an eight-acre (3.6isha) field, using a Standard Fordson tractor. It was quite a wide tractor with big flat wide mud guards, and I used to sit on the left side so as not to accidently fall into the path of the mower – no cab or roll bars then. With modern equipment, an hour would have it done! 10, 20 even 30ft can be cut in one pass, with bigger more powerful tractors it is soon cut.

The pastures were a varied mixture of plants, lots of grass varieties, wildflowers including red clover, ox eye daisies, wild carrot, sweet dock, some thistles and several others. I liked to pick a posy of these for my mother.

The grass would be left to dry, then turned – a heavy crop would need tedding, meaning tossing it to allow the air to get underneath – finally the grass would be lined up ready for the baler. Baling the hay was always a tricky time – if the grass wasn’t really dry the knotters would play up, if very

Modern machinery has made the process of making hay easier

dry the dust and hay seeds could also play them up. The baler was a cantankerous piece of machinery, causing anguish and many injuries, even deaths, when farmers tried to correct a fault or make adjustments. The bales could be too long or short, too tightly tied or too loose, the problems were many. However, once the baler was working well, the bales popped out the back, dropping all over the place. Us children would roll them into groups to stack them up to guard against any rain. Then the bale sledge was invented. This collected the bales into groups of however many was required to make a stack, or deposited in a line of groups of bales. Sometimes a string would break, or a bale would turn topsy and become disfigured, often breaking the strings, filling the sledge with

loose hay.

Est 1886

Tel: 01258 452307 Mob: 07973 642278

The bales were manually stacked in piles of five, seven, eight or more, to allow the hay to cure and protect them from any rain, before they were pitched up by hand using a two-pronged pick onto a trailer. Then dad would throw a wagon line – a long thick rope – over the load and secure it by tying a ‘dolly’ knot. We were always amazed how he could throw a heavy rope over a high load. Paul also had the same skill years later. Then it was ready to set off to the barn. Depending on the trailer size, about 100 of so could be carried. We would beg dad to let us ride on top of the trailer. Once at the barn, the real manual labour started. The hay bales, weighing roughly half a hundredweight each (25kg), had to taken from the trailer and stacked in the barn. Making a secure heap was another skill whether on the trailer or in the barn – it was hot dusty work. It was a worrying decision – leave the hay out too long and risk the rain spoiling it or bring it in too quickly –‘lively or gay hay’ – and you risked a barn fire. There are many aspects to hay making which I will go into another day!

Equestrian

QUALITY HAYLAGE & HAY. All June made. 3ft, 4ft and 6ft bales. Collect or delivered. Call Mark 07860 759996 or 01300 345293. www.henleyhaylage.co.uk

C lassified

Water issues on meeting agenda

THE NFU has held a multiagency Water Summit to address the challenges that impact farmers’ ability to produce food – particularly water quality and availability.

Defra Secretary of State Steve Reed was among more than 60 attendees at the event which included industry experts, water companies, environmental NGOs and supply chain representatives.

stability and resilience of our farming businesses and ultimately impacts our food security.

“The knock-on effect is clearly highlighted in a survey of NFU members which reveals nearly two-thirds have experienced a severe weather event in the past 10 years that has affected their farming business in some way.

EVERY WEDNESDAY WEEKLY SALES OF PRIME CATTLE CULL CATTLE DAIRY CATTLE & CALVES. PRIME, STORE & CULL SHEEP

EVERY FRIDAY – SALE OF STORE & BREEDING CATTLE ********************************************************************

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

WEDNESDAY 4th DECEMBER SALE OF REARED CALVES ********************************************************************

WEDNESDAY 27th NOVEMBER CHRISTMAS FATSTOCK SHOW CLASSES FOR HANDLED & UNHANDLED PRIME CATTLE. BARREN COWS. PRIME LAMBS. PRIME PIGS & CALVES

WEDNESDAY 11th DECEMBER FORTNIGHTLY SALE OF PIGS ********************************************************************

MONDAY 16th DECEMBER SALE OF TB RESTRICTED CATTLE ********************************************************************

FATSTOCK SHOW DINNER FRIDAY 29th NOVEMBER

WEDNESDAY 4th DECEMBER SALE OF REARED CALVES ********************************************************************

The summit provided a platform for discussions on the challenges of water pollution, climate change and increasingly unpredictable weather patterns, the evolving regulatory financial pressures and lack of critical investment in water infrastructure, all in the context of the impacts on national food security.

“Now’s the time to start having open and honest conversations and treating water as a national strategic priority. For our part, that means rolling our sleeves up, taking the initiative and tackling these challenges head on.

WEDNESDAY 18th DECEMBER LAST MARKET BEFORE CHRISTMAS SALE FOR ALL SECTIONS INCLUDING REARED CALVES, PIGS & STORE CATTLE ********************************************************************

WEDNESDAY 11th DECEMBER FORTNIGHTLY SALE OF PIGS ********************************************************************

MONDAY 16th DECEMBER SALE OF TB RESTRICTED CATTLE ********************************************************************

MONDAY 30th DECEMBER SALE FOR ALL SECTIONS EXCEPT PIGS ******************************************************************** FOR ADVICE ON ALL CLASSES OF STOCK PLEASE CALL

NFU vice-president, Rachel Hallos, who hosted the event on her farm in West Yorkshire, said: “Water is our most precious resource. It’s absolutely vital to producing the food our country needs.

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 ********************************************************************

TREVOR ROWLAND 07968 480401 LESTER WILLIAMS 07778 646031

ROSS WHITCOMBE 07815 985737 CLIVE PEACH 07970 620859

ANDREW FRIZZLE 07977 136863

ROGERS 07384 462288 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 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

“But we’re facing increasing pressures on water, be it resources, flooding or quality. Whether it’s from vital nutrients that we use to grow food impacting water quality in rivers, often from agricultural runoff, or the cycle of drought and floods leading to poor harvests, it all undermines the

During the event, three breakout sessions were held looking at issues of investment, innovation and circular economy. An overriding message from attendees was the need for urgent investment in water infrastructure – as well as access to robust data and better planning systems that supports necessary infrastructure improvements on farms for slurry storage and reservoirs.

The Secretary of State said he will look at further actions within the updated Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) that will help farmers reduce water pollution.

Forthcoming Dairy Sales

GTH Farm Sales

Telephone: 01278 410250. Email:

Telephone: 01278 410250. Email: livestock@gth.net

SEDGEMOOR AUCTION CENTRE, NORTH PETHERTON, SOMERSET, TA6 6DF (M5, J24)

SEDGEMOOR AUCTION CENTRE

NORTH PETHERTON, SOMERSET, TA6 6DF (M5, J24)

Others £96. Overall Ave £67.10. BREEDING EWES (204) to £143 (2x). FRIDAY 30TH BREEDING EWE SALE (459) to £122. GOATS (11) to £187. Overall ave £92.64. RAMS (12) to £225 (2x). Others £136. FRIDAY 30TH STOCK RAM SALE (72) to £610 for a powerful shearling. Others £470.

Further details at www.gth.net

Tuesday 10th November at 10.30am with the Heifer Calves

The November Collective Dairy Sale of 305 DAIRY CATTLE

n 87 Freshly Calved Cows & Heifers from Beneknowle, Bettiscombe (x14) Birchwood (x18 Dispersal) Clevian, Dinnaton, Dorset (x11) Hinton, Huntlodge, Lilylane, Peacehay & Rother (x12, Crossbreds)

The West Country’s Gateway to National Abattoirs Returns for Monday 2nd November 2020

n 16 Incalf Cows eld Farms LLP (Crossbreds)

n 37 Incalf Heifers from Dayhouse, PT & JC Hinds (Pedigree), Rothereld Farms LLP (Crossbreds) & J & J Waldron

n 3 Holstein Bulls from Beneknowle & Woodstone

n 8 Bulling Heifers from Greathill & Mr D Thorner

n 40 Yearling Heifers from Sutton Hall Farms

n 52 Heifers Calves from Hinton, Pensdown, Thakeham & Mr D Thorner

PRIME CATTLE (93) Steers UTM av 187.4ppk to 213.5ppk & £1,327.28. Others 209.5ppk, 209.0ppk, 208.0ppk & 206.5ppk. Others £1,293.63, £1,287.00, £1,283.12, £1,280.30 & £1,261.77. Heifers UTM av 180.7ppk to 214.5ppk (2x) and £1,310.50. Others 204.5ppk, 204.0ppk, 199.0ppk (2x) & 197.0ppk. Others £1,233.42, £1,205.05, £1,201.20, £1,168.50 & £1,138.32. BARREN COWS (56) Continental av 118.5ppk to 119.5ppk and £808.40. Others 117.5ppk. Native Beef av 103.6ppk to 126.5ppk and £906.75. Others 124.5ppk & 118.5ppk. Others £882.97 & £861.77. av 97.8ppk to 113.5ppk and £966.89. Others 112.5ppk & 109.5ppk. Others £945.73 & £914.63. FINISHED SHEEP (654) Lamb ave 202.94ppk to 231.0ppk and £115.00. Others 230.0ppk, 220.0ppk & 219.0ppk. Others £113.00, £108.00 (5x) & £106.50.

Forthcoming Special Sales

For full rules on market attendance and up to date sales list please refer to our website and/or Saturday market report. NOVEMBER: Sat 7th

; and much more! More info at gth.net.

To Include The Dispersal Sale of 62 HOLSTEIN AND FRIESIAN DAIRY COWS AND HEIFERS

Comp: 47 Dairy Cows & Heifers Inmilk &/or Incalf; 12 Incalf Heifers & 3 Maiden Heifers

n NMR HERD AV: 8039 KGS. 4.11%BF; 3.34%P; SCC=127

n HERRINGBONE Parlour; CUBICLE Housed

n CLOSED HERD for 13 years

For GDW Isaac & Son (Removed from Beer Farm, Broadhembury, Honiton, Devon)

Monthly Catalogued Sale of Organic Store Stock 10am Ring 2: Saturday 7th November Monthly Catalogued Sale of 125

Suckler Cows, Calves, Heifers & Bulls Approx 12.30pm Ring 1

Entries to date include:-

Sedgemoor Auction Centre

The large selection of high yielding milkers and dispersal sale cattle (including Pedigree, Commercial and Crossbred) coupled with all types of dairy youngstock makes this one of our most comprehensive sales to date just when dispersals are starting to slow down across the country. Please note that Social Distancing will be in place and we ask that only one purchaser per farming business attend. Online Bidding Available on Marteye.

NOVEMBER: Thurs 19th

SEDGEMOOR AUCTION CENTRE Dispersal Sale of milking and incalf heifer portion of the 9,160 kgs CIS recorded dairy herd being 200 Holstein Friesians for MB & LC Haskell (Removed from Beaulieu Wood Farm, Dorchester, Dorset for convenience of sale).

n The dispersal sale of 50 Incalf Suckler Cows (Sim, Ch, Lim, He & AAx) all pd’d to calf Feb onwards to Ped Charolais bull for NB Needham & Sons, Old Henley Farm, Dorchester (changing farming policy).

n 3 Bulls – Ch, He & Lim

n 42 Continental Cows & Calves – 6 Ped Lim cows & calves

n 14 Native Cows & Calves

n 58 Incalf Cows & Hfrs – 1 Ped Lim & 1 Ped He

For further information contact Meg on 01278 410278

Sat 7th Fortnightly Sale of Pigs 11am

DAIRY CATTLE (103) Heifers to £3950. Others £3900 (3x). Cows to £2700 (2x). Others £2600. (830) STORE CATTLE & STIRKS - FORWARD STORES (577) Steers to £2540 (AA). Others £2530 (AA) £2460 (LIMX) & £2450 (2x) (AA & HF). Heifers to £2390 (AA). Others £2260 (AA) £2190 (HF) & £2040 (BRBX). GRAZING COWS (20) to £2090 (CHX). SUCKLERS (103) to £6300 for a 2021 Limx cow with a May born str calf. Bulls to £3400 for a Ch. STIRKS (253) Steers to £1940 (LIMX). Others £1780 (BRBX) £1740 (LIMX) & £1570 (HEX). Heifers to £1410 (BAX). Others £1400 (BAX) £1370 (LIMX) & £1310 (BAZ). CALVES (369) - Beef Bulls to £1000 (LIMX). Others £750 (2x AA) £720 (BRBX) & £700 (3x BRBX). Heifers to £855 (CHX). Others £720 (BRBX) £645 (BRBX) & £640 (LIMX). Black & Whites to £312 (HF). (3005) SHEEP - STORE LAMBS (1900) to £190. Others £179, £176 & £157. Overall Ave £105.20. CULL EWES & RAMS (1004) Ewes to £275. Others £265 & £238. Rams to £210. Overall Ave £118.95. COUPLES (1E & 1L) to £150. Overall Ave £75/life. BREEDING EWES (76) to £142. Overall Ave £116.98. STOCK RAMS (14) to £315. Overall Ave £176.50. GOATS (9) £130. Overall Ave £73.33. (46) PIGS – FAT PIGS (13) to £210. Overall Ave £183. BREEDERS (7) to £170. WEANERS (23) to £82. Overall Ave £72. CULL SOWS (3) to £60.

Sedgemoor Auction Centre

North Petherton, Somerset, TA6 6DF (M5, Junction 24)

Telephone: 01278 410278

TOTAL STOCK FOR THE WEEK 7143

Sat 14th ***CANCELLED*** Collective Catalogued Sale of Purebred Poultry **CANCELLED*** Thurs 19th ***CANCELLED*** Monthly General Sale of Antiques and Furniture ***CANCELLED***

Sat 21st Fodder Sale 1pm

Wed 25th Orange Market Dedicated Sale for bTB

Others £2650. (986) STORE CATTLE & STIRKS - FORWARD STORES (712) Steers to £2470 (AA). Others £2320 (BRBX) £2300 (AA) & £2290 (2x BRBX). Heifers to £2100 (LIMX). Others £2000 (BRBX) £1970 (AA) & £1960 (LIMX). GRAZING COWS (23) to £2340 (LIMX). STIRKS (274) Steers to £1400 (CHX). Others £1385 (CHX) £1210 (LIMX) & £1190 (AA). Heifers to £1370 (AA). Others £1235 (CHX) £1185 (B/SWISS) & £1180 (AA). CALVES (273) - Beef Bulls to £665 (BRBX). Others £590 (BRBX) £575 (AA) & £570 (BRBX). Heifers to £540 (AA). Others £535 (AA) £515 (BRBX) & £445 (BRBX). Black & Whites to £260. (3443) SHEEP - STORE LAMBS (2359) to £149. Others £145, £141 & £140. Overall Ave £102.04. CULL EWES & RAMS (909) Ewes to £218. Others £195 & £188. Rams to £215. Overall Ave £101.55. BREEDING EWES (25) to £180. Others £178. Overall Ave £148.58. COUPLES (56E & 72L) Doubles to £355 (£118.33/life). Singles to £275 (£137.50/life). Overall Ave £97.38/life. ORPHAN LAMBS (16) to £75. Overall Ave £43.38. GOATS (6) to £132. Overall Ave £105.67. (108) PIGS – STORE/FAT PIGS (60) to £175. BREEDERS (1) to £355. WEANERS (43) to £72. Overall Ave £46.19. CULL SOWS & BOARS (4+1) Sows to £60. The West Country’s Gateway to National Abattoirs Returns for Monday 27th January 2025 PRIME CATTLE (159) Steers UTM av 338.4ppk to 389.5ppk & £2,504.90. Others 384.5ppk, 377.5ppk & 370.5ppk. Others £2,487.74, £2,473.52 & £2,457.51. Heifers UTM av 338.2ppk to 388.5ppk & £2,374.68. Others 385.5ppk (2x) 374.5ppk & 368.5ppk (4x). Others £2,361.92, £2,339.98 & £2,333.14. Steers OTM av 267.5ppk to 329.5ppk & £2,102.40. Heifers OTM av 287.3ppk to 349.5ppk & £2,285.73. BARREN COWS (48) Continental av 177.5ppk to 225.5ppk & £1,558.21. Native Beef av 197.6ppk to 269.5ppk & £1,965.78. Dairy av 174.0ppk to 264.5ppk & £1,796.37. BULLS (3) av 153.5ppk to 171.5ppk & £1,529.78. FINISHED SHEEP (440) Hoggs av 321.70ppk to 336.0ppk & £188.00. Others 333.0ppk, 331.0ppk (2x) & 330.0ppk. Others £187.00, £182.00 & £180.00. (15) Lambs av 337.93ppk to 341.0ppk & £147.50. Others 329.0ppk & 321.0ppk. Others £126.00 & £112.00.

PRIME CATTLE (73) Steers UTM av 344.7ppk to 375.5ppk & £2,610.27. Others 374.5ppk, 372.5ppk (2x) & 369.5ppk. Others £2,454.78, £2,451.05 & £2,410.71. Heifers UTM av 337.9ppk to 392.5ppk & £2,362.85. Others 384.5ppk, 369.5ppk & 366.5ppk. Others £2,327.85, £2,258.38 & £2,149.04. Heifers OTM av 319.9ppk to 328.5ppk & £2,125.40. Steers OTM av 311.1ppk to 325.5ppk & £2,017.20. BARREN COWS (38) Continental av 252.2ppk to 303.5ppk & £2,358.20. Native Beef av 223.3ppk to 293.5ppk & £2,186.25. Dairy av 229.9ppk to 273.5ppk & £2,324.75.

Stock from across the West Country, sold to buyers from throughout the Nation Returns for

Forthcoming Special Sales

Saturday 31st October 2020

Monthly

DAIRY CATTLE (73) Heifers to £2080. Others £2020. Cows to £1840. Others £1720. (1184) STORE CATTLE & STIRKS - FORWARD STORES (933) Steers to £1365 (FLE). Others £1300 (AA) £1295 (LIMX) & £1270 (LIMX). Heifers to £1265 (CHX). Others £1235 (CHX) £1200 (LIMX) £1155 (LIMX) & £1150 (HEX). GRAZING COWS (2) to £615 (LIMX). Others £580 (LIMX). SUCKLERS (4) Cows & Calves to £850 (4x). STIRKS (247) Steers to £880 (LIMX). Others £870 (3x LIMX & BRBX) £855 (BRBX) & £835 (LIMX). Heifers to £818 (LIMX). Others £720 (BRBX) & £700 (AA). CALVES (408) - Beef Bulls to £400 (CH). Others £398 (BRBX) £390 (BRBX) & £388 (BRBX). Heifers to £300 (2x BRBX & CHX). Others £285 (CHX) £278 (BRBX) & £275 (LIMX). Black & Whites to £182. Others £165. (4675) SHEEP Store Lambs (2720) to £100. Others £99, £96 & £95. Overall Ave £74.88. Cull Ewes & Rams (1197) Ewes to £137. Others £133. Rams to £166.

Restricted Cattle. Store Cattle – 15 Months & Over, Prime Cattle & Barren Cows.Stock to be booked in with the market office by 18th November. Licences to be obtained from Truro Trading Standards on 03000 200301 or Sale commences 4.30pm Fri 27th Monthly

Forthcoming Fodder Sale

NOVEMBER: Sat 21st

SEDGEMOOR AUCTION CENTRE The Collective Fodder Auction of Hay, Silage and Straw. Entries to be in by Monday 9th November 2020.

We provide a friendly, local service at competitive prices. Based at Redlynch near Bruton, we supply Car,

Andrew Lee Vegetation Management

Grass flail and scrub flail available for the management of scrub, brambles, grass etc.

Working on slopes of up to 50 degrees with operator. Contact Mobile: 07850489782

SHIPPING CONTAINERS FOR SALE / HIRE Tel: 01258 472288 Mob: 07977 936109 New and second hand containers - blue/green - all with box locks

WANTED: Land to buy in Dorset. To grow trees and shrubs. Tel: 07810-472347

HEDGE PLANTING AND HEDGELAYING for more information contact James on 07930-262639

R&W FENCING. Agricultural paddock and stock. Also part time help required. 01258-88089207980-036250

CONCRETE GROOVING, Mobile Grain Crimping and dry rolling Service. Cowco Southern. Call Ted: 07970-965040

Cooper Classified Ads call 01963 400186

Bowridge, Gillingham

Mappowder

Guide £1,250,000

Hazelbury Bryan

Guide £595,000

Marnhull

Guide £1,150,000

A fine period farmhouse in a quiet position boasting far reaching views. Dating from 1737 the farmhouse offers 3 reception rooms, 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Outside is a wonderful stone barn with potential (stp), workshop, large garden and paddock, in total 4.13 acres. CTB E, EPC E, Freehold. Further land available.

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,

A character south-facing stone house in an excellent central village

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.

An extended and modernised period house combining character and charm with contemporary family living in a quiet location on a nothrough road with wonderful views, land and stables. In all about 2.40 acres. CTB F, EPC D, Freehold.

Guide £525,000

Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Holwell

Guide £825,000

Shroton Guide £435,000

This delightful 2-bedroom end-of-terrace cottage has been fully updated

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.

An exceptional detached 5 bedroom residence, finished to an impeccable standard. Set within beautifully landscaped gardens with stunning countryside views, in a highly sought-after village. CTB G, EPC B, Freehold.

Sherborne | 01935 814488

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Donhead St Mary

Guide £800,000

Nr Sturminster Newton Guide Price £1,100,000

Cerne Abbas 337 acres (in 5 lots)

Nr Sturminster Newton Guide Price £1,100,000 this

A particularly spacious family house with 3500 sq ft of accommodation over three floors in a quiet location with wonderful far-reaching views over the Wiltshire/Dorset countryside. CTB G, EPD D, Freehold.

presented 4 bedroom country home with stable yard & paddocks, in 4.11 acres. CTB E.Freehold,

Tucked away down a no through lane is this extended and very well presented 4 bedroom country home with stable yard & paddocks, in total 4.11 acres. CTB E.Freehold, Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Sturminster | 01258 473766

Andrew Tuffin | 01258 472244

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Sturminster | 01258 473766

Bedchester

Cheriton

Guide £810,000

A 4 bedroom house in a lovely rural location on a quiet lane with wonderful far-reaching views and garden and grounds of one acre. CTB D, EPC F, Freehold.

OIEO £400,000

An attractive, double-fronted 3-bedroom period property tucked away on

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

Sturminster | 01258 473766

Sherborne | 01935 814488

Okeford Fitzpaine

Leigh

Guide £775,000

OIEO £500,000

An attractive and beautifully restored Grade II listed former farmhouse with plenty of charm and original character features along with a 100’ garden in the heart of the village. CTB F, EPC Exempt, Freehold.

Guides £100,000 - £950,000

A unique parcel of downland and agricultural land adjoining and surrounding the Cerne Giant. The land presents a diverse opportunity of appeal to buyers with ecological, agricultural, archaeological and historic interests, as well as investors, both private and institutional. Includes 2 farm buildings.

No onward chain. CTB F. Freehold.

A tastefully improved 4-bedroom village house with light and spacious accommodation, set in attractive gardens and backing onto farmland. No onward chain. CTB F. Freehold.

Sherborne | 01935 814488

Sturminster | 01258 473766

North

PROPERTY

Gillingham

Bere Regis

Stourpaine

PPROPERTY AUCTIONS FRIDAY 25 OCTOBER 2024 & FRIDAY 15 NOVEMBER 2024 AT THE DIGBY CHURCH MEMORIAL HALL, SHERBORNE AT 2:00PM AND VIA LIVESTREAM

PROPERTY AUCTION THURSDAY 24TH JULY 2025 AT 2:00PM AT DIGBY MEMORIAL CHURCH HALL, DIGBY ROAD, SHERBORNE, DT9 3NL

PROPERTY AUCTION FRIDAY 16 MAY 2025 2:00PM AT MERLEY HOUSE, WIMBORNE BH21 3AA & VIA LIVESTREAM

Guide £10,000 96sqm of land with a building.

Guide £60,000

Guide £25,000

Lytchett Matravers

A 0.13 acre (559 sqm.) parking area with a favourable pre-app response for a dwelling with parking and a garden. Freehold.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

A former water tower in 0.23 acres.

2.23 acres of diverse broadleaf woodland and pasture adjoining the River Stour, with single bank fishing rights, accessible by foot, bicycle and horseback. Freehold.

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Avoncliff, Bath

East Stoke

Guide £20,000

Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244

Queen Camel

Guide £95,000

Guide £20,000 Former pumping station in 0.62 acres.

Guide £50,000

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Nether Compton

13.02 acres of wetland and woodland, rich in biodiversity, in a secluded, peaceful area south of the River Frome. Freehold.

Level pasture land and a traditional stone building set in 2.15 acres on the outskirts of the village of Queen Camel. Freehold.

Guide £25,000 6.82 acres of mixed woodland.

Yeovil | 01935 382901

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Stoke Wake

North Perrott Guide £45,000 3.01 acres (1.22 ha) of gently sloping pasture land with direct road access. Freehold.

Yeovil | 01935 382901

Sixpenny Handley

Holt, Wimborne

Guide £150,000

Guide £80,000

Guides £50,000 and £40,000 4.60 acres and 3.51 acres of pasture land.

Yeovil | 01935 432526

Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244

Weymouth

A detached barn of about 125 sqm. in just under 1.70 acres with off-road parking and paddock. Freehold.

Guide £50,000

An opportunity to purchase a parcel of permanent pasture in the village of Holt, extending to approximately 4.51 acres Freehold.

Blandford | 01258 452670

A former pumping station with potential for a variety of uses.

Wimborne | 01202 882103

Poundbury | 01305 251154

Hammoon

Guide £250,000

Winterborne Steepleton

Portesham, Dorchester

Guide £110,000

Guide £120,000

A peaceful, secluded bluebell wood set in an idyllic rural landscape.

About 26.31 acres. Freehold.

A former pumping station with potential for a variety of uses.

Sturminster | 01258 473766

Poundbury | 01305 251154

Charlton Marshall

Pen Selwood

14.05 acres of agricultural land with outstanding views over Chesil and the Fleet to White Nothe and to Start Point. Freehold.

Pallington

Guide £300,000

Dorchester | 01305 236237

Guides £175,000 and £25,000

Wareham

23.55 acres of permanent pasture, with fishing rights along the River Stour, which borders the land. Freehold.

A former water pumping station in 0.44 acres with full PP and 0.29 acres of woodland available separately. Freehold.

Guide £110,000

Blandford

Guide £225,000

Melplash

Dorchester

Guide £200,000

Guide £50,000

Witchampton Guide

£50,000

Dorchester

Yeovil

Bournemouth

Guide £170,000

Guide £125,000

Guide £200,000

Verwood Guide £125,000

Swanage

Wimborne

Guide £375,000

Guide £225,000

Guide £150,000

A centrally located Grade II Listed property currently arranged as 3 x 1 bedroom flats and walled gardens, requiring modernisation throughout. CTBs A, EPC Exempt, Leasehold.

A building plot with full planning permission for 2 x detached 4 bedroom dwellings, with off-road parking and gardens on the edge of the town. Freehold.

0.19 acres of amenity land with scope for a range of uses (STPP/consents), adjoining residential properties. Freehold.

A former village hall with parking situated on the main road in the heart of the village. GIA 175 sqm. Freehold. RV TBA.

Blandford | 01258 452670

Dorchester Commercial | 01305 261008

Dorchester | 01305 261008

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Winterborne Zelston

Tarrant Rushton

1.38 acres with a derelict barn in a residential location falling within the main urban development area on the Local Plan. Freehold.

A grand, 4 storey (including basement) mixed-use Victorian building occupying a prominent corner plot on Lansdowne Crescent. RV: £53,500, £8,300, CTB A, EPC TBC. Freehold.

A well-proportioned office space with an NIA of 1,320sqft. (122.5sqm.) providing an excellent opportunity for refurbishment. Freehold.

A Grade II listed building offering several uses/options with planning permission and LB consent for conversion to residential. Freehold. EPC-D.

Dorchester | 01305 236237

Yeovil | 01935 423526

Dorchester Commercial | 01305 236237

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Guide £185,000

Guide £250,000

Heath

A Grade II Listed investment opportunity:

Winfrith Newburgh Guide £170,000

Sturminster | 01258 473766

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Dorchester | 01305 236237

9.13 acres of freely draining land, predominantly comprising pasture with an element of woodland, located between Wareham and Wool. Freehold.

Motcombe

Wimborne | 01202 882103

Guide £295,000

A detached, extended 3 bedroom cottage for renovation, enjoying a rural position and delightful countryside views in 0.20 acres of gardens. CTB C, EPC G, Freehold.

A semi-detached 3 bedroom property for refurbishment with scope for extension and remodelling (STPP) in a convenient location on the A31. Freehold. CTB-C; EPC-E.

Guide £350,000

2 x ground floor 2 bedroom flats (Guides £80,000) and 1 x first floor 2 bedroom flat (Guide £75,000) all non-standard construction. All leasehold – 125 years. EPCs D. CTBs A.

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.

Blandford | 01258 452670

Swanage Wimborne | 01202 843190

Blandford Forum | 01258 452670

Okeford Fitzpaine

Guide £295,000

Swanage

Bradworthy, Devon

A retail unit and 4 flats with a courtyard garden and parking generating £36,000 per annum.Freehold. RV: £5,300. Flats CTB’s A. EPC Bands D and C.

20.42 acres (8.26 ha) of level, productive permanent pasture land adjacent to Tadnoll and Winfrith Heath. Freehold.

A charming 2 bedroom ground floor apartment with parking conveniently situated in the town centre, with parking. Leasehold. Service Charge £4,269 pa. G

Rent £30 pa. CTB-D; EPC-D.

A semi detached, extended 4 bedroom period property for complete renovation with a generous garden adjoining Ferndown Forest. CTB C, EPC F, Freehold.

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Wimborne | 01202843190

Sherborne Sherborne | 01935 814488

Dorchester | 01305 236237

Winterborne Houghton

Guide £275,000

Guide £190,000

Fifehead Magdalen

Milborne Port

Guide £250,000

A partially renovated and extended 2 bedroom bungalow with potential for upwards extension, subject to planning permission. CTB C, EPC E, Freehold.

A mid terrace 2 double bedroom property in need of renovation throughout, with an enclosed rear garden situated close to the town centre. Freehold. CTB-C; EPC-D.

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Dorchester Dorchester | 01305 261008

Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244

An attractive semi-detached 2 bedroom cottage for renovation with a generous garden situated in this much favoured North Dorset village. CTB E, EPC G, Freehold.

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

Sherborne |

Guide £350,000

Henstridge

Fontmell Magna

Guide £300,000

Bournemouth

Fiddleford

Colehill

Guide £395,000

Batcombe, Dorchester Guides £40,000 to £115,000

Guide £395,000

20.70 acres (12.01 ha) tucked away in a quiet rural position in 3 lots.

A charming semi-detached 2 bedroom cottage with a separate 1 bedroom, single storey annexe with off-road parking and gardens. CTBs C & A, EPCs D & B, Freehold.

A spacious 2 bedroom bungalow requiring full modernisation, with front and rear gardens and a single garage located in a nearby block. Freehold. EPC E. CTB C.

Lot A – 15.02 ac arable capable pasture land with a gentle south facing slope£115,000

Sturminster | 01258 473766

Traditional stone barn set in 5.97acres. Positioned in a private location with residential conversion opportunity (STPP & relevant consents). Freehold.

A charming Grade II Listed character property, just a short walk from the town centre’s amenities and the beach. Freehold. EPC E. CTB B.

Lot B - 3.57 ac pasture and woodland including an old brick pumphouse - £40,000

A former primary school measuring over 6,300 sq. ft./585 sq. m. in grounds of 0.54 acres, providing development potential, subject to planning permission. EPC D, Freehold.

Lot C – 11.11 ac pasture and strip of woodland with stream frontage - £90,000

Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244

Dorchester Dorchester | 01305 261008 Guide £200,000

Tiverton | 01884 218911

Sturminster | 01258 473766

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Guide £775,000

Winterborne Stickland

Guide £575,000

Horton, Wimborne

Chilcompton Guide £195,000

Guide £450,000

Sandford Orcas

A partially built 5 bedroom detached house, with double garage and gardens. PP was granted under application reference 2022/1683/FUL. Freehold.

A detached 3 bedroom bungalow with a double garage set in 7.24 acres of permanent pasture, to include a range of outbuildings. Freehold. EPC TBC. CTB E.

74.24 parcels of level and southfacing arable land, arranged in two parcels of 54 and 20 acres, with the added provision of a circa 1,200 sqft barn currently used for the storage of machinery. Freehold.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244

Shaftesbury Guide £95,000

A former doctor’s surgery in 0.58 acres with prior approval for change of use to a residential dwelling under application P/PACD/2024/02991/. RV: £5,100, EPC C, Freehold.

A semi-detached 3 bedroom property for modernisation with potential for extension or possible development (STPP). Garden and outbuilding. Freehold. EPC D. CTB B.

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.

Sturminster | 01258 473766

A lofty workshop with large and level fenced outside space. 0.66 acre plot on the Marsh Lane Trading Estate. Freehold. RV Workshop-£9,600 Yard£12,000; EPC-C. Dorchester Commercial | 01305 261008

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Wimborne | 01202 843190

A charming Grade II Listed3

Milborne Port Guide £150,000

Guide £400,000

Furzebrook, Wareham

A substantial bungalow requiring renovation, providing potential for extension or replacement, subject to PP, in a rural position enjoying grounds of 1.60 acres.

A 4 bedroom bungalow in need of modernisation throughout, with 0.62 acre grounds, multiple outbuildings and stunning views. Freehold. CTB-E; EPC-E.

Guide £595,000

A period detached cottage in need of general improvement throughout, set in spacious gardens of 0.21 acres (0.08 hectares). Freehold.

A detached 4 bedroom Victorian property and former coach house in 0.35 acres, with a range of brick outbuildings providing excellent scope (subject to planning permission), situated in a highly sought-after area of the Purbecks, close to Wareham and the coast. Freehold. EPC E. CTB F.

Iliminster | 01460 200790

Sherborne | 01935 814488

to an AOC. CTB E, EPC F, Freehold. Corfe Castle Wimborne | 01202 843190

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Guide £225,000-£250,000

Somerford Road, Christchurch

An attractive period property for renovation enjoying a generous garden sitting on the outskirts of Milborne Port. Freehold.

A period cottage in need of renovation, with full PP for an extension and to modify the access and create off-road parking. Enjoying a secluded position in 0.40 acres. Freehold. EPC G. CT Exempt.

A detached 3 bedroom character property in a village location with scope for improvement, sitting in a 0.66 acre plot less than 2 miles from Sturminster Newton. Freehold. CTB-F; EPC-F.

cottage for complete renovation, situated close to the centre of this highly sought-after village. CTB E, EPC Exempt, Freehold.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Sherborne | 01935 814488

£500,000 A residential development site measuring 0.87 acres with full, detailed planning permission for 7 residential dwellings (planning ref: 20/01206/ FUL). Further 1.13 acre field included. Freehold. CTB-D; EPC-F.

Bridgehampton Yeovil | 01935 423526

Guide £650,000

A detached 2 bedroom cottage for complete renovation, situated in this highly sought after village within Cranborne Chase. Freehold. Blandford | 01258 452670

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Weymouth Poundbury | 01305 251154

Guide £995,000

A site measuring 0.39 acres with full planning permission for an exclusive development of 9 x 2 bedroom apartments (8/22/0470/FUL), situated in the heart of Christchurch close to Avon Beach and Mudeford Quay. Potential for alternative schemes STPP. CIL: £98,735.93, Freehold.

A substantial 9 bedroom period property with a 2 bedroom coach house and self-contained flat, all with panoramic views over Portland Harbour. While both buildings require modernisation, the setting, character, and potential are exceptional. 1.09 acres. Freehold. CTBs E, B & C. EPCs D, C & D.

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.

A detached 6 bedroom farmhouse in need of renovation and a courtyard of traditional and modern farm buildings, situated in a rural location on a no through lane and boasting far reaching views. In all 1.82 acres. Freehold.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Chilthorne Domer Yeovil | 01935 382901 Guide £595,000

Horton

Weymouth

PROPERTY AUCTION THURSDAY 18 SEPTEMBER 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 AT DIGBY HALL, HOUND STREET, SHERBORNE & VIA LIVESTREAM

PROPERTY AUCTION FRIDAY 16 MAY 2025 2:00PM AT MERLEY HOUSE, WIMBORNE BH21 3AA & VIA LIVESTREAM

PROPERTY AUCTION THURSDAY 24TH JULY 2025 AT 2:00PM AT DIGBY MEMORIAL CHURCH HALL, DIGBY ROAD, SHERBORNE, DT9 3NL

Guide £25,000

Bridport Road

Guide £50,000

in biodiversity, in a secluded, peaceful area south of the River Frome. Freehold.

Level pasture land and a traditional stone building set in 2.15 acres on the outskirts of the village of Queen Camel. Freehold.

Guide £7,500

Wimborne | 01202 843190

North Perrott Guide £45,000 3.01 acres (1.22 ha) of gently sloping pasture land with direct road access. Freehold.

Yeovil | 01935 382901

Sixpenny Handley

0.15 acres and 0.11 acres of land offered as separate lots, with potential for a variety of uses (STPP/consents), in a convenient location 2.5 miles from Dorchester. Freehold.

Guide £150,000

Holt, Wimborne Guide £80,000

Dorchester Agricultural | 01258 473766

Yeovil | 01935 432526

A detached barn of about 125 sqm. in just under 1.70 acres with off-road

An opportunity to purchase a parcel of permanent pasture in the village of Holt, extending to approximately 4.51

Point. Freehold.

Marshall

Corfe Mullen

Pallington

Guide £300,000

Guide £100,000

Dorchester | 01305 236237

23.55 acres of permanent pasture, with fishing rights along the River Stour, which borders the land. Freehold.

3.85 acres of permanent pasture with mature boundaries and a timber field shelter, in a convenient location close to an extensive bridleway network. Freehold.

Wareham Guide £110,000

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Dorchester

Melplash

Guide

Guide £50,000

Guide £200,000

£15,000

Witchampton Guide £50,000

Yeovil

Hindon

Bournemouth

Guide £125,000

Guide £200,000

Guide £50,000

Woodlands

Wimborne

Sherborne

Guide £80,000

Guide £225,000

Guide £150,000

A former village hall with parking situated on the main road in the heart of the village. GIA 175 sqm. Freehold. RV TBA.

0.19 acres of amenity land with scope for a range of uses (STPP/consents), adjoining residential properties. Freehold.

A centrally located Grade II Listed property currently arranged as 3 x 1 bedroom flats and walled gardens, requiring modernisation throughout. CTBs A, EPC Exempt, Leasehold.

1.11 acres of sloping woodland and level river bank adjoining the chalk stream River Frome, in an accessible location on the edge of Grove Trading Estate. Freehold.

Dorchester | 01305 261008

Dorchester Agricultural | 01258 473766

Dorchester Commercial | 01305 261008

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Tarrant Rushton

Winterborne Zelston

Clifton Maybank

Guide £250,000

Guide £185,000

Guide £105,000

Guide £350,000

Dorchester | 01305 236237

9.13 acres of freely draining land, predominantly comprising pasture with an element of woodland, located between Wareham and Wool. Freehold.

Wimborne Agricultural | 01202 843190

A detached, extended 3 bedroom cottage for renovation, enjoying a rural position and delightful countryside views in 0.20 acres of gardens. CTB C, EPC G, Freehold.

A semi-detached 3 bedroom property for refurbishment with scope for extension and remodelling (STPP) in a convenient location on the A31. Freehold. CTB-C; EPC-E.

An agricultural stone and block building measuring 2927 sqft. with an adjoining 0.70 acre paddock, enjoying views over surrounding countryside. Freehold.

Blandford Forum | 01258 452670

Blandford | 01258 452670

Yeovil Agricultural | 01935 423526

Motcombe

Morden

Bradworthy, Devon

Guide £395,000

A grand, 4 storey (including basement) mixed-use Victorian building occupying a prominent corner plot on Lansdowne Crescent. RV: £53,500, £8,300, CTB A, EPC TBC. Freehold.

A Grade II listed building offering several uses/options with planning permission and LB consent for conversion to residential. Freehold. EPC-D.

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 storage barn measuring approx. 851 sqft, in a convenient location off the A303, benefitting from mains electricity and shared private access. Freehold.

Yeovil | 01935 423526

Dorchester Commercial | 01305 236237

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Dorchester

Heath

Episcopi

Guide £275,000

Guide £190,000

Winterborne Houghton

Guide £125,000 and £175,000

4.50 acres of predominantly level permanent pasture land located in the rural village of Woodlands, suitable for a variety of uses, subject to any required consents. Freehold.

Winfrith Newburgh Guide £170,000

A semi detached, extended 4 bedroom period property for complete renovation with a generous garden adjoining Ferndown Forest. CTB C, EPC F, Freehold.

20.42 acres (8.26 ha) of level, productive permanent pasture land adjacent to Tadnoll and Winfrith Heath. Freehold.

A charming 2 bedroom ground floor apartment with parking conveniently situated in the town centre, with parking. Leasehold. Service Charge £4,269 pa. G Rent £30 pa. CTB-D; EPC-D.

Wimborne Agricultural | 01202 843190

Wimborne | 01202843190

Sherborne | 01935 814488

Dorchester | 01305 236237

Fifehead Magdalen

Milborne Port

Taunton

Guide £250,000

Guide £135,000

A partially renovated and extended 2 bedroom bungalow with potential for upwards extension, subject to planning permission. CTB C, EPC E, Freehold.

2 x building plots measuring 0.36 and 0.86 acres, both with full planning permission for detached 3 bedroom dwellings. Freehold.

A mid terrace 2 double bedroom property in need of renovation throughout, with an enclosed rear garden situated close to the town centre. Freehold. CTB-C; EPC-D.

Dorchester | 01305 261008

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244

Yeovil | 01935 423526

An attractive semi-detached 2 bedroom cottage for renovation with a generous garden situated in this much favoured North Dorset village. CTB E, EPC G, Freehold.

A semi-detached 3 bedroom steel framed property in need of improvement with off-road parking and gardens, situated in a popular residential area. Freehold. CTB A. EPC E.

A charming 2 bedroom period cottage, situated at the end of a terrace in a quiet village location. Freehold. CTB-C; EPC-E.

Sturminster | 01258 473766

Sherborne | 01935 814488 Guide £200,000

Ilminster | 01460 200790

Guide £300,000

Guide £395,000

20.70 acres (12.01 ha) tucked away in a quiet rural position in 3 lots.

A 0.71 acre site with a substantial, traditional brick barn (2,806 sq ft), with full planning permission to create 2 x residential dwellings with off-road parking and gardens, situated in this highly sought after village. Freehold.

A charming semi-detached 2 bedroom cottage with a separate 1 bedroom, single storey annexe with off-road parking and gardens. CTBs C & A, EPCs D & B, Freehold.

Batcombe, Dorchester Guides £40,000 to £115,000

Lot A – 15.02 ac arable capable pasture land with a gentle south facing slope£115,000

Sturminster | 01258 473766

Traditional stone barn set in 5.97acres. Positioned in a private location with residential conversion opportunity (STPP & relevant consents). Freehold.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Tiverton | 01884 218911

Sutton Mandeville

A semi-detached 2 bedroom cottage in 0.89 acres offering character and charm throughout and enjoying views over the surrounding landscape. Freehold. CTB-C; EPC-E.

Guide £275,000

Lot B - 3.57 ac pasture and woodland including an old brick pumphouse - £40,000

A former primary school measuring over 6,300 sq. ft./585 sq. m. in grounds of 0.54 acres, providing development potential, subject to planning permission. EPC D, Freehold.

Lot C – 11.11 ac pasture and strip of woodland with stream frontage - £90,000

Sturminster | 01258 473766

Sherborne | 01935 814488 Guide £250,000

Yeovil

Guide £85,000

5.90 acres of productive agricultural land and woodland, in the heart of a popular village, with good highways access. Freehold.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244

Sutton Mandeville, Wiltshire

Guide £775,000

Planning your move?

Sandford Orcas

Horton, Wimborne

Chilcompton Guide £195,000

Guide £450,000

Guide £400,000

A substantial bungalow requiring renovation, providing potential for extension or replacement, subject to PP, in a rural position enjoying grounds of 1.60 acres.

A partially built 5 bedroom detached house, with double garage and gardens. PP was granted under application reference 2022/1683/FUL. Freehold.

Subject to an AOC. CTB E, EPC F, Freehold.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244

A period detached cottage in need of general improvement throughout, set in spacious gardens of 0.21 acres (0.08 hectares). Freehold.

A 4 bedroom bungalow in need of modernisation throughout, with 0.62 acre grounds, multiple outbuildings and stunning views. Freehold. CTB-E; EPC-E.

Iliminster | 01460 200790

Sherborne | 01935 814488

Shaftesbury Guide £95,000

A former doctor’s surgery in 0.58 acres with prior approval for change of use to a residential dwelling under application P/PACD/2024/02991/. RV: £5,100, EPC C, Freehold.

Guide £275,000

Alweston

A lofty workshop with large and level fenced outside space. 0.66 acre plot on the Marsh Lane Trading Estate. Freehold. RV Workshop-£9,600 Yard£12,000; EPC-C.

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.

A detached bungalow in 0.39 acres in need of modernisation throughout with scope to re-develop the plot, subject to planning permission/consents. Freehold. CTB D. EPC D.

Dorchester Commercial | 01305 261008

Sturminster | 01258 473766

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Yeovil | 01935 423526

We can help with your survey, valuation, planning or any other property advice 01258 473766

Bridgehampton

Guide £500,000

Guide £225,000-£250,000

Somerford Road, Christchurch

A detached 2 bedroom cottage for complete renovation, situated in this highly sought after village within Cranborne Chase. Freehold.

A residential development site measuring 0.87 acres with full, detailed planning permission for 7 residential dwellings (planning ref: 20/01206/ FUL). Further 1.13 acre field included. Freehold. CTB-D; EPC-F.

Blandford | 01258 452670

Yeovil | 01935 423526

Wimborne | 01202 843190

A charming Grade II Listed3 bedroom stone cottage for complete renovation, situated close to the centre of this highly sought-after village. CTB E, EPC Exempt, Freehold.

Milborne Port Guide £150,000

Guide £300,000

An attractive period property for renovation enjoying a generous garden sitting on the outskirts of Milborne Port. Freehold.

A detached 3 bedroom character property in a village location with scope for improvement, sitting in a 0.66 acre plot less than 2 miles from Sturminster Newton. Freehold. CTB-F; EPC-F.

Wimborne | 01202 843190

A charming 3 bedroom Grade II Listed property with character features, ample garaging, driveway parking and a quaint garden, all set within a sought after village location. Freehold. CTB E.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Sherborne | 01935 814488

Guide £650,000

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.

Belchalwell Guide £250,000

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Chilthorne Domer Yeovil | 01935 382901 Guide £595,000

rich

Charlton

Horton

Kingsbury

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24-hour to long term contracts, our advanced containerised system makes storage simple.

We’ll collect and deliver to and from your location to give you one less thing to deal with.

Quick fixes to help your house sell for more

MORE quick and easy tips to add value to your home before putting it on the market, from the experts at Armishaws Removals.

Would work

Spruce up doors, skirtings, stair posts, woodwork. Whether it’s repainting or sanding and varnishing, it’s a really easy and relatively quick job that can make your home look shiny and new.

Fix defects

A house that demands renovations, won’t command top price. That broken stair spindle, the stained carpet, anything that suggests a new owner needs to spend money will lower the price. Get them fixed.

Selling points

On your property listing, make sure your estate agent includes extra factors buyers are looking for – full fibre broadband, top performing schools, proximity to parks/dog walks/shops, areas that could be extended, walking distance of pubs/restaurants, little details can put you ahead of the competition.

House plants

If you’re not normally green fingered, head to your local car boot where you’ll find local people selling house plants at low prices. Then strategically place them in key rooms, focusing on points of entry. Don’t forget to water them between house viewings! Create lifestyle zones Create zones to reflect a lifestyle buyers want. A

barbecue outdoor party space, work from home area, workshop, hobby room, garden room. “…and this is where I practise my pole dancing.”

Shed or garage

These are two more easy areas to transform. Pick one, completely empty it, then invent a whole new use for it and set it up accordingly. A coat of paint, second-hand rug, a few shelves, and voila! An area that was a junk graveyard, has suddenly become extra living space.

Make rooms bigger When it comes to selling

Adding a room by converting the garage could add up to 20% to a home’s value

houses, size really does matter, so make rooms appear bigger. Remove/respace furniture and add large mirrors – easily found on Facebook Marketplace. Zoning rooms and strategic placement of rugs can also help make a room feel larger.

Convert the garage

If you’re looking for a bigger budget project, adding a room by converting the garage can increase the value by an estimated 10%-20%. Typically it’s the easiest and cheapest way to add square footage.

Get more house selling tips at Armishaws.com/blog

Land at landmark TO

AN iconic piece of land at Cerne Abbas, which partially surrounds the Cerne Giant, one of Dorset’s most iconic landmarks, is up for sale.

The land includes areas of ecological, agricultural and historic importance, and extends to 336 acres.

It is for sale as a whole or in five lots and is likely to attract a range of purchasers, drawn to the investment, agricultural, conservation and historic appeal.

It is accessible via a network of bridleways and footpaths, including from the village of Cerne Abbas itself.

Further land for sale includes fertile agricultural land, downland and a range of farm buildings, formerly a dairy, close to the edge of the village, which may be suitable for alternative or diversified uses STPP.

The highest part of the land is 240 metres above sea level and has views across the village and beyond.

.Lot one of the land is Access Land under the CRoW Act 2000 and a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

The land lies in the Dorset National Landscape Area – formerly AONB – and is widely interspersed with areas of woodland and mature hedges. It is for sale through Andrew Tuffin at Symonds & Sampson on 01258 472244.

The Giant is owned by the National Trust and not included in the sale.