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DORSET’S Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) is calling on residents, societies and town and parish councils to “have your say” by responding to the Council before the October 13 deadline.
Dorset Council has launched a consultation on where new housing should be sited for the next 17 years.
CPRE spokesperson Mike Allen says: “We all know that our communities need some development to support the economy and community – both market and truly affordable homes. Dorset CPRE supports communities in securing the right housing in the right numbers in the right places with the right infrastructure to meet local needs.”
“We want truly affordable new homes that meet local need
in Dorset, but not overdevelopment in the form of bland estates built only to fulfil excessive central government targets – with no recognition of Dorset’s beautiful landscapes, fragile eco-systems and precious countryside that have been enjoyed for generations and are not ours to squander.”
“Dorset Council has already said that the compulsory annual target of 3,246 houses a year for Dorset is unachievable. The target compares with longstanding delivery of around 1,300 houses a year, and the previous government’s target of 1,793 a year [which the former Dorset Council Leader said was at the upper end of what is realistic and deliverable].”
The current consultation is about the hundreds of sites proposed for all this building.
Dorset CPRE doubts that enough of them will be in truly sustainable locations, close enough to essential services to offer the genuine alternatives to car travel that National Planning Policy requires.
Green Belt land – supposedly established permanently to prevent urban sprawl – may be sacrificed, swallowing villages and closing green gaps.
In addition, Dorset Council is proposing to alter the boundaries of existing settlements under a new “Flexible Settlement Policy” to help local builders find smaller sites. This would allow development to take place outside current village and town boundaries.
The CPRE is urging residents to respond to the Council’s consultation before the October
13 deadline.
“The 2021 Local Plan consultation led to over 9,000 responses,” says Mike Allen.
“People said that they wanted housing on a modest scale which respects and safeguards our countryside and heritage. This consultation is an opportunity to look again at proposed development sites and to comment on their suitability. Communities and local societies know better than the planners about their area’s landscape, nature, heritage and local economy, as well as infrastructure such as roads, schools and surgeries. Local evidence will be vital in establishing whether particular sites are sustainable and suitable for development, or not.”
Find out more at www. dorset-cpre.org.uk
LOOK out for criminals trying to trick you out of your life savings, says Action Fraud.
Last year, there were 519 reports of pension fraud and £17,567,249 was lost to the scammers, Action Fraud reports.
There are some simple steps you can take to protect yourself against Pension fraud…
Secure your online pension account: the account you use to manage your pension should have a different password to all of your other accounts. Use three random words to create a strong and memorable password, and enable 2-step verification (2SV).
Ignore unsolicited calls about your pension: cold calling about pensions is illegal and a sign of a scam. If you’re thinking about changing your pension arrangements, you should get financial guidance or advice beforehand.
Don’t be rushed into making an investment: legitimate organisations will never pressure you into investing on the spot. Always treat investment opportunities with extreme caution if there is pressure to invest (for example: time-limited offers), downplayed risk of losing your money, or promised returns that sound too good to be true.
If you’re worried about a potential pension scam or you think you may have been contacted by a criminal, report it to Action Fraud at actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040.
THE Save Strut Style fashion show at The Exchange in Sturminster Newton next month will provide a showcase for local charity shops.
The show takes place during Sustainable Fashion Week (September 27 to October 5).
The Save Strut Style fashion show is on Wednesday, October 1, at 7pm, and tickets, priced £5, are available from: Vale Family Hub, The Boutique, Dorset
Blind Association, Twice But Nice, Weldmar Hospice Charity Shop, Blandford Hospital Charity Shop and Dapper Chaps.
Young people are being challenged to create an outfit from textile waste.
A workshop is scheduled at The Sherborne on Saturday, September 20, 10am-4pm.
To take part, email defashion. dorset@gmail.com
ON August 25, 1940, the largest single bombing raid on an English airfield during WW2 hits RAF Warmwell.
The raid was carried out by about 300 Luftwaffe JU88s on the strategically important airfield of RAF Warmwell, which was part of the south coast defence for the Battle of Britain, which was to come later that month.
Well-known historian John Smith, from Rockbourne in Hampshire, will talk on the subject on Friday, October 10, at 6.30pm at Moreton Village Hall near Dorchester (DT2 8RE).
His talk forms part of the celebration of the stained glass window in Holy Trinity Church Warmwell, installed last year to the memory of the personnel of RAF Warmwell, some of whose graves can be found in the Commonwealth War Graves in the churchyard.
Tickets are £10 from David Walsh, 07770 343441 or davidpwalsh1802@gmail.com, or on the door if not sold out.
All proceeds to Holy Trinity Warmwell and a donation to SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity.
THREE author visits are on the menu at Shaftesbury Library next month as part of the Big Tasty Read.
The national campaign celebrates how food shapes people’s lives by highlighting books – including fiction, memoirs and cookbooks – that explore culture, community and storytelling through cuisine.
Award-winning author and The Sunday Times columnist, Mark Diacono, will be talking about how cookbooks get written and produced and how he wrote Abundance – his latest book – on Substack, on Thursday, October 2, between 4.30pm-5.30pm.
Sarah Rudder, owner of the Kitchen Table shop in Shaftesbury (pictured), was one of the panel who read and selected books for the Big Tasty Read booklist.
She will be talking about how cooking has influenced her life and led her to open her shop on Thursday, October 9, between 4.30pm-5.30pm.
Josie Lloyd, The Sunday Times number one bestselling author of more than 20 women’s fiction novels, will be talking about how she has been inspired to combine recipes and cooking into her new crime series, Miss Beeton’s Murder Agency
She is at the library on Tuesday, October 14, between 3.30pm-4.30pm.
LONG-DISTANCE
runner Luke Ballard has paced the length and breadth of Dorset in his fundraising efforts.
Having previously run from Salisbury to Chapman’s Pool in 13 hours (raising £2,875 for the Alzheimer’s Society), this year he took on his toughest challenge yet – a 104km solo run across Dorset from Lyme Regis to Melbury Abbas, crossing Dorset’s 10 tallest hills.
Luke completed this solo run in 18 hours, starting at 1.30am and finished at 7.30pm.
He ran to raise money for Dorset-based charity In Jolly Good Company, which provides support to people experiencing loneliness and isolation.
“We started following the organisation last year and were amazed at how much they do in Dorset,” explains Luke.
“The clincher for us was how open they were to all people and especially the Dementia aspect, which is close to our hearts due to my partner Rachel supporting her mum for eight years with this devastating illness.”
Sarah Rampton, the founder of In Jolly Good Company, was at the finish line with Luke’s family to congratulate and thank him (pictured).
The total Luke has raised so far stands at £3,460 and the family are desperate to get past the £3,500 mark – donate now at www.justgiving.com/page/ luke-ballard-uts50-tthd100km
Opening Hours
Monday–Friday: 9am–5pm Saturdays by appointment only. Closed Sunday
by Hilary Daniels
A LOCOMOTIVE cut through a ribbon at Shillingstone Station on September 18, to commemorate the formal opening of its 400-metre length of new track.
It was witnessed by the High Sheriff of Dorset, Callum Bremner JP, Simon Hoare MP and local county and parish councillors, together with about 70 of the current North Dorset Railway volunteers.
Gavin Collins, chair of North Dorset Railway, noted the many achievements at the station in 2025, itself a special year as the 200th anniversary of rail passenger travel.
The High Sheriff described the station’s restoration as a symbol of what can be achieved by a community coming together with vision and enthusiasm, and congratulated the volunteers on their persistence, teamwork and dedication.
“May the line ahead be bright,” he said.
Simon Hoare, who represents North Dorset in the House of Commons, spoke of the time he was first invited to Shillingstone, thinking the volunteers had a great plan but doubting it could be accomplished, and how pleased he was to have been proved wrong.
He noted the importance of the station to the local community and economy and looked forward to the line going even further both north and south.
First onto the new track, and cutting the ribbon, was NDR’s own diesel locomotive Ashdown, waved off by the station’s youngest long-term volunteer, 13-year-old Joe Bond (pictured right).
Acquired in September 2020 thanks to a member’s generous donation, the loco was built in 1959 for the Manchester Ship Canal and is now the only one of its kind in preservation (pictured top right).
Next came a Wickham Trolley, on long-term loan to NDR. Also built in 1959, it was originally designed for making track inspections.
Its full restoration was completed earlier this year, the only modern modification being the addition of seatbelts.
Last, but by no means least, a Class 62 Yankee Tank steam loco (pictured bottom right), built in 1960 in Croatia and owned by the Project 62 group, which is currently based at Shillingstone Station.
It was purchased from a Slovenian steelworks in 1990, dismantled on site and transported to Swanage Railway, where it
was rebuilt and altered to comply with British standards.
After seeing service at various heritage railways, it was brought to Shillingstone in January 2016 for major maintenance and restoration.
After many delays, including Covid lockdowns, the loco was granted its all-important boiler safety certificate in August this year.
Shillingstone Station closed in March 1966 when the original Somerset and Dorset Railway line was axed as part of the Beeching cuts.
The track was ripped up within weeks of closure, but the station building survived, and is the only remaining example of the Dorset Central Railway standard design.
It was rented out for various purposes until 1998, but by the turn of the millennium was in a poor state.
A group of residents and enthusiasts formed The North Dorset Railway Trust (TNDRT), which was finally granted a 99-year lease on the station in June 2005.
Several name changes later, North Dorset Railway, as it now is, was granted an additional lease on a 400-metre length of former trackbed, and tracklaying was completed in June this year.
In August, planning permission was granted for North Dorset Railway to change its status from museum to an operational railway with museum.
It is hoped that passenger rides can begin in the autumn of 2026.
The station is open Wednesdays and
FANCY a spot of quizzing?
The Dorchester Committee of the Children’s Society is organising a quiz night on Saturday, October 11, at St George’s Church Hall, Fordington, Dorchester (DT1 1LB).
Entry is in teams of six, but if you don’t have a team, don’t worry, you can join a committee team.
Tickets are £10 each, to include a ploughman’s supper and can be booked through Jane Culliford on 01305 264360. Doors open at 7pm for a 7.15pm start.
Please bring your own drinks.
THERE’S more to the school’s history than you might think…
On the weekend of October 4-5, from 10am-4pm, there will be an exhibition about the evacuees who joined Okeford Fitzpaine village school between 1939 and 1946.
This will be set up in the village hall (DT11 0RE) as the school building has now been sold.
Organisers would appreciate people sharing their memories of the school, especially if they attended after the 1970s. Light refreshments will be available.
Donations to Village Hall funds.
BOOK lovers in Sturminster Newton are now able to visit their local library outside of staffed hours thanks to a new initiative.
The library on Bath Road has only 18 staffed hours each week, limiting visits to the site.
But thanks to extended access, means people will be able to access library services outside of these staffed hours.
People are now able to borrow books, return items, use free Wi-Fi and computers, or even hire rooms for community events from 8am to 8pm Monday to Saturday, regardless of whether staff are present.
Users are able to enjoy the extended access if they are over the age of 16, are a full library member, complete an induction course, agree to the terms and
conditions and the library code of conduct and read the CCTV processing notice.
The launch event welcomed councillors, library staff and enthusiastic users, all eager to see the system in action.
Next in line is for the upgrade is Sherborne and Gillingham libraries, which will both offer the service later this year.
A YOUNG nature enthusiast from Mere will be inspiring other children to discover the wonders of the natural world at Wincanton’s Wild & Green Community Fair this weekend.
Six-year-old Nula Shackleton (pictured) will lead a bug hunt at the nature-themed fair, which takes place at The Balsam Centre on Saturday (September 27) from 10am-2pm.
The daughter of a Balsam Centre staff member, Nula came up with the idea herself as a way to help other children see nature through her eyes.
Her mother, Shaula Maitland, said: “Connecting with nature is a way of life for Nula. She is passionate about encouraging others to fall in love with it too!”
Alongside Nula’s Bug Hunt, the free family-friendly fair will feature a wide range of
activities, including pond dipping, nature crafts and a plant swap, and a nature-themed storytime with well-known children’s author Angela McAllister.
A Nature on Your Doorstep photography exhibition, showcasing young
photographers’ work, will be judged by local professional Charles Gervais, who will also lead a special workshop for competition winners.
The event will also spotlight sustainability and reuse, with One Planet Wincanton’s Repair Café, helping to fix broken household items, and Donate IT running a tech amnesty for phones, tablets and laptops, to be refurbished and distributed to schools, groups and families in need.
There will also be a clothes bank for under-fives, encouraging parents to reuse children’s clothing rather than buying new, and practical advice on sustainable living, from greener food choices to eco-friendly travel.
This year’s event will build on the success of The Balsam Centre’s first Wild & Green
LOTTERY funding will help protect a Vale town’s museum and expand the audience for local history.
Dorchester’s Shire Hall Trust has received a £244,960 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Shire Hall is a Grade I listed Georgian assize court and cells in the heart of Dorchester, Dorset.
It is a rare architectural gem, being one of the best-preserved buildings of its kind, and remains almost unchanged since it first opened in 1796-7.
Since 2018, the building has housed the Shire Hall Museum, a social justice museum focusing on the impact Dorset has had on social justice history worldwide.
Rose Wallis, Chair of the Shire Hall (Dorchester) Trust said: “We’re so grateful to the Heritage Fund for supporting us to look towards Shire Hall’s future. This gives us time to engage with the future planning process and explore new sustainable opportunities that will ensure its future as a heritage and visitor centre. It’s thanks to
National Lottery players that this vital work can take place to ensure a brighter future for Shire Hall Museum.”
Shire Hall Museum brings over 200 years of justice and injustice to life. An interactive ‘living’ museum, it uses real-life stories and iPad guides to let visitors walk in the footsteps of those whose lives were changed by their experiences on this very site.
The Hall’s courtroom is best known as the site of the trial of the Tolpuddle Martyrs, who were sentenced to transportation to Australia in 1824. The backlash that followed their harsh punishment, which saw thousands marching through the streets of London calling for justice, was a pivotal moment in the formation of the modern-day Trade Union movement.
Shire Hall Museum is open 10am – 4pm from Monday to Saturday. Tickets are £10.50 for adults, £9.50 for concessions, £25 for a family. The price includes an annual pass giving you free return visits for a year.
Community Fair in 2024, which offered the same lively mix of workshops, hands-on activities, exhibitions and discussions.
Izzie Koch, project manager at The Balsam Centre, said: “We’re really excited about this year’s fair, and especially the enthusiasm shown by children like Nula and the young people who have entered our Nature on Your Doorstep photography competition.
“People in Wincanton have told us they want opportunities to share ideas on how we can all support biodiversity and reduce our impact on the planet. This event will give them the chance to do just that.”
The Wild & Green Community Fair is free to attend and open to all. For more information, visit www. balsamcentre.org.uk/wild-andgreen
ORGANIST Gordon Amery will be giving a concert at St Gregory’s Church in Marnhull next weekend. Gordon has been a church organist since his was 13.
Following the closure of Gillingham Methodist Church at the end of 2023, Gordon became organist at St Gregory’s.
In June 2004, St Gregory’s launched its organ restoration appeal and Gordon spent much of his spare time organising concerts to fund the restoration.
Over the years he has organised many types of concerts covering not only classical music but also folk and jazz genres.
Gordon will be playing a selection of music by English composers, ending with Percy Whitlock’s striking Plymouth Suite.
The concert is on Sunday, October 5, at 3pm and admission is free but donations in aid of church funds will be welcomed. Refreshments will be provided following the concert.
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After a busy summer, many of us feel mentally drained. We make so many decisions each day, the constant overload can leave us too tired to think about anything, let alone ourselves and our wellbeing.
You might want to become healthier, but can’t commit when it means more decisions, more choices and not knowing where to turn for help you can trust. So, make life simple. LiveWell Dorset is here to take the stress out of feeling better this autumn.
It offers free support to any adult living in the county who wants to manage their weight, quit smoking, get more active or cut down on drinking. No hidden cost, no catches.
Taking that first step is easy, with an experienced team to gently guide you through a full range of free options like slimming group vouchers, activity plans, smoking quit kits (vapes, patches, gum) and LiveWell’s amazing 1-2-1 coaching.
Get personalised advice and the perfect package to help you break down any barriers, build confidence and see results - beginning with small, clear, achievable goals. No quick fixes, just a lifestyle change that lasts.
Register now for your autumn reboot: online at www.livewelldorset.co.uk or by phone 0800 840 1628.
IMMERSE yourself in the full Stone Age experience at a weekend of tool-making and butchery at the Ancient Technology Centre, Cranborne, this October.
You will use Stone Age tools and methods to butcher a deer. You will tan skins and use parts of the animal for cordage and tools. You will also cook and preserve parts of the deer following Stone Age methods.
“Deer are one of the UK’s most under-used resources,” says Jen Heath, director of Castle Hill Heritage Skills CIC. “Every season more than 350,000 deer are culled in an effort to keep the growing population under control.
“In the Stone Age, hunting was a job for the whole tribe, with youngsters and women as beaters running out prey.
“The whole of the deer was processed. The skin was tanned for clothing and shoes, the
bones shaped into tools and jewellery, and all edible parts consumed.”
On the weekend course, which runs from 11-12 October and costs £215, you will be taught by real-life cavewoman Memma. You will stay in a Viking longhouse and using ancestral skills, you will honour the whole animal.
All profits are ploughed into the Ancient Technology Centre.
To find out more and book, visit www.
castlehillheritageskillscic.co.uk
ONE of the National Trust’s most treasured artworks will be making its first stop on a nationwide tour at Kingston Lacy.
And the Trust is inviting visitors to experience the power of ‘slow looking’ and ‘mindful engagement with art’ when they view Self-portrait wearing a feathered bonnet, by Rembrandt van Rijn.
The painting will be on display in the house at Kingston Lacy – first in the Spanish Room, shown alongside 17th century masterpieces by Murillo and Velázquez, until November 16, and later in a newly-created, accessible exhibition space from January 12 to March 22, 2026. The painting’s year-long journey through National Trust properties will also see it visit Cheshire and Warwickshire,
before returning to its permanent home at Buckland Abbey in Devon.
The average museum or gallery visitor spends just eight seconds looking at each artwork, but the Trust is challenging that norm by offering seating and audio guides with meditative prompts encouraging viewers to linger with Rembrandt’s masterpiece.
“Slow looking is about more than just taking your time,” said Amy Orrock, National Trust curator.
“It’s a way of being present, of noticing the details and the emotions they generate that might otherwise pass us by. You’re not just seeing – you’re feeling, thinking, connecting.”
“This self-portrait is the perfect companion for a slow looking experience.
“It invites you to look closer, to wonder what Rembrandt was contemplating, and maybe to reflect on your own state of mind.”
The painting was once thought to be the work of a follower, but it was reattributed to Rembrandt himself after extensive conservation and
scientific analysis in 2013. Visitors will have the option to explore the painting’s history through audio guides featuring insights from conservators, art historians and even imagined reflections from Rembrandt himself, or to simply sit quietly and enjoy spending time with a masterpiece of Dutch art.
were presented by the mayor of Shaftesbury Virginia Edwyn-Jones (centre) to (left to right): Rosie Turner, Louise, Grace, Aya, Aubrey, Fenella and Ellie, with Des Aner at the back
STUDENTS from Higher Green Farm Arts in Twyford, Shaftesbury, are celebrating after collecting their Bronze Arts Awards.
The awards, which are part of a wider framework of alternative qualifications, are handed out by Trinity College London.
The students, many of whom are home-educated and find regular school attendance very difficult, showed their creative skills in a portfolio of work that demonstrated their interest in art.
They have been attending Higher Green Farm Arts for guided learning sessions that boost their confidence and self-esteem. Find out more at www.highergreenfarmarts.co.uk
Central Dorset Citizens
Q: I’m starting to book tickets for Christmas events, but I’ve seen stories in the news about people being left out of pocket if these are cancelled at the last minute. How can I get a refund if this happens to me?
A: Keep an eye on the organiser’s website and social media for the latest updates. You won’t be entitled to a refund if you change your mind about going but if an event is cancelled your refund rights will depend on how you bought the ticket.
If you bought your ticket from an official seller and the organiser cancels, moves or reschedules the event, you should get a refund. The official seller is the best point of contact to ask about how to get your money back.
If you’re having no luck getting a refund, check online to see if the seller is a member of the Society of Ticket Agents and Retailers. If so, you can use STAR’s complaints procedure. STAR members should receive a refund at face value if the
event is cancelled and the organiser has agreed to refunds (www.star.org.uk/all-members).
You’ll probably only get the face value of the ticket back. Some sellers might refund postage if the event is cancelled before tickets are sent. If you had to pay booking or card fees, you might not get those back.
If the official seller isn’t a member of STAR, check how you can solve an ongoing consumer problem with a business seller. You may also be able to get your money back another way, such as through your credit card company (www. citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/get-morehelp/Solve-an-ongoing-consumer-problem).
If you bought your ticket from a ticketreselling website, refunds will depend on the site's terms and conditions.
If you bought from a private seller and the event is cancelled or rescheduled, it is unlikely you will be able to recover your money. We still recommend you contact the seller.
Be aware of scams. If your event is
cancelled and someone gets in touch to offer their services to try to recover money on your behalf, be alert and make sure that you're looking out for the signs of a potential scam (www.citizensadvice.org.uk/ consumer/scams/check-if-something-mightbe-a-scam)
For more information on getting a refund, take a look at the Citizens Advice website www.citizensadvice.org.uk/ consumer/event-tickets/getting-a-refund-onan-event-ticket
When choosing a care home, families often ask the same question: will my loved one feel at home here? At Bramley Care, with our three homes across Dorset and Wiltshire, that sense of home is at the heart of everything we do. Unlike modern, purposebuilt care facilities that can sometimes feel clinical, our homes Bramley House in Mere, Millbrook House in Child Okeford, and The Old Rectory in Stalbridge are full of history, character and warmth. Each is unique, but all share the same ethos: residents don’t live in a “facility” they live in a real home, with rooms they can personalise, lounges filled with light and laughter, and gardens
designed for enjoyment, not just display.
Step into Bramley House and you might find friends chatting in the orangery as the smell of home baking drifts from the kitchen. At Millbrook House, Georgian elegance meets beautifully landscaped grounds a perfect place to sit with a book or enjoy the changing seasons. At The Old Rectory, with its historic charm, residents gather in cosy lounges or stroll through the walled gardens filled with vibrant blooms. These are homes made for living, not just existing.
But what truly makes Bramley Care special are the little things: a favourite recipe
recreated by our chefs, a birthday celebrated in style, a morning spent gardening, or simply the reassurance of a familiar smile. In Garden View, Bramley House’s specialist dementia wing, this homely and intimate atmosphere is especially powerful - creating calm, dignity and comfort every day.
A house becomes a home when people feel safe, valued and understood. Across all three of our homes, families tell us that’s exactly how they feel. Because care isn’t just about providing support - it’s about belonging, community and love.
That’s what makes a Bramley Care home a home.
Bramley care run three luxury residential care homes, each offering compassionate and specialist residential and dementia care. Our homes have been tastefully converted from former large country residences. Each carefully adapted to enable professional care within an environment that really does look and feel like a real home. Each of our homes offer:
Light and airy en-suite bedrooms bursting with charm, most with wet room or bath facilities
Beautifully appointed lounges, orangery’s and dining rooms
Safe and secure, beautifully landscaped walled gardens
A dedicated, caring and professionally trained team
Delicious home cooked food Activity coordinators who offer a varied entertainment programme
A care planning app that allows loved ones to follow the day-to-day care of residents
Each home has its very own salon to ensure you can look and feel your very best.
CHRISTENING gowns and vintage memorabilia from a private collection will go on display at Bishopstone Village Hall (SP5 4AD) later this month. The display is mainly of gowns from the collection of more than 700 pieces of Ayrshire and other Whitework, including outstanding examples.
It will feature the collector’s family gown made by Canadian nuns in 1885 for the children of her great-great-grandfather, Alexander McKenzie Ross – a civil engineer who in 1853 was appointed chief engineer for the Grand Canadian Trunk Railway and a designer of the Victoria Bridge at Montreal.
Another gown was worn in
1880 by Captain Lawrence Oates – known as Titus – an Antarctic explorer who died during the Terra Nova expedition in 1912.
Other antique and vintage items relating to children from the 1850s onwards will also be on show, including bonnets, shoes, dolls, highchairs, prams, books, Bunnykins china and more.
The event is on Saturday and Sunday, September 27-28, from 11am-4pm, and entry is £10, with funds raised going to The Friends of Bishopstone Church Roof Appeal.
For more information, email annewheelwright@gmail.com Tea and cakes will be for sale.
ROBERT Plummer, now a Dorset poet, has enjoyed an interesting and peripatetic life before eventually washing up as a resident of Wimborne.
An indifferent scholar at the Lancaster Royal Grammar School, Robert left at 16, after which he had various jobs, such as tyre fitter, textile worker, and door-to-door salesman, then ended up working for Heathcote-Amory on Savile Row. Seeking further adventure, he enlisted in the Royal Air Force as an aircraftsman second class before being commissioned and, during a 36 year career, rose to the rank of group captain.
In his career, he enjoyed two NATO posts and visited all the NATO nations. He then worked for a charity in the City of London, sourcing surplus goods
from industry for use by UK-wide charities.
On final retirement, he lived in southern France for eight years. He now lives in Colehill,Wimborne.
Robert has always written poetry, but considerably more so in these later years. He is a long-time member of the Sherborne library poetry group and also of the more recently formed Wimborne Library poetry group. Robert says that both groups pay tribute to these libraries for the way they so graciously and kindly host them.
At the bidding of his fellow poets he has had a book published of 53 poems from his collection, called In Verse Reflections. He says that his poems do not fit any particular genre, type or style and the
collection is delightfully diverse: at times whimsical, sometimes philosophical and even theological and in the ‘conflict’ section reflects his time in the military.
In Verse Reflections is available from Amazon and Google for £7.99, and as an e-book from Kindle at £3.99.
MAKE do and mend will be the message of a workshop being held at Shaftesbury Library during Sustainable Fashion Week 2025.
Seasoned makers and curious beginners alike are invited to join Jennifer Morisetti of Defashion Dorset for a felting and decorative darning workshop.
The event is being held on Friday, October 3, between 2pm-4pm, and participants are asked to take a jumper to mend, although materials will be provided.
For more information, email shaftesburylibrary@ dorsetcouncil.gov.uk or phone 01747 852256.
Fern Brook Lodge care home residents cuddled a range of animals while visiting Madjeston Animal Park.
Residents from the care home in Gillingham met a host of farm animals during the outing, including goats, chickens, pigs, and alpacas for some ‘fur-therapy’.
Fern Brook Lodge care home was filled with the sound of uplifting music, helping to fulfil a resident’s special wish.
Jim, who lives in the care home in Gillingham, spoke to the care home team about his wish to listen to sea shanties in memory of his grandad. In response, the home arranged for Shaftesbury Sea Shanty Group to perform a range of songs for Jim and the other residents to hear and sing along to.
Jim said: “It was a wish come true as my grandad was a coxswain at Poole Lifeboat Station and I can remember him singing sea shanties.”
was organised by the care home’s dedicated activities team, who run a daily programme of events to encourage residents to socialise and make friends. Activities enjoyed by the residents are based on their interests and hobbies, as well as enabling them to try something new.
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, while continuing to pursue their own passions and interests.
Fern Brook Lodge, which is part of the not-for-profit charity, Care South, provides residential, respite, and dementia care.
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.
The home also runs a ‘Make a Wish’ initiative which encourages residents to share the hobbies and experiences they once enjoyed, or have always dreamed of trying, but could not pursue without the home’s support. The dedicated team then works to bring those wishes to life.
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.
Fern Brook Lodge 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.
Scan the QR code to find out more, hear from residents and meet the Home Manager.
Fern Brook Lodge care home was filled with the sound of uplifting music, helping to fulfil a resident’s special wish.
Jim, who lives in the care home in Gillingham, spoke to the care home team about his wish to listen to sea shanties in memory of his grandad. In response, the home arranged for Shaftesbury Sea Shanty Group to perform a range of songs for Jim and the other residents to hear and sing along to.
Words and pictures by George Jeans
Jim said: “It was a wish come true as my grandad was a coxswain at Poole Lifeboat Station and I can remember him singing sea shanties.”
The ‘hands-on’ experience was organised by the care home’s dedicated activities team, who run a daily programme of events to encourage residents to socialise and make friends. Activities enjoyed by the residents are based on their interests and hobbies, as well as enabling them to try something new.
GILLINGHAM, Mere and Shaftesbury Lions celebrated its 46th Charter with an evening at the Royal Chase hotel in Shaftesbury.
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, while continuing to pursue their own passions and interests.
Fern Brook Lodge, which is part of the not-for-profit charity, Care South, provides residential, respite, and dementia care.
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.
President Andrew Snell welcomed guests including councillors from Mere, Gillingham and Shaftesbury, Rotary and Gillingham Town Twinning Association. The toastmaster for the evening was Lion Martin Wingrove of GMS Lions Club.
The home also runs a ‘Make a Wish’ initiative which encourages residents to share the hobbies and experiences they once enjoyed, or have always dreamed of trying, but could not pursue without the home’s support. The dedicated team then works to bring those wishes to life.
Fern Brook Lodge 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.
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.
AWARD-WINNING fundraising festival Teddy Rocks has revealed the first wave of acts set to take the stage at next year’s extravaganza.
Since its first outing in 2011, Teddy Rocks festival has raised over £800,000, with funds directed towards children’s cancer charities, helping children and families who are going through treatment, and research into childhood cancer. Returning bigger and bolder,
confirmed acts include The Hoosiers, Dreadzone, Elvana (the world’s finest Elvis-fronted Nirvana tribute) and the ultimate Coldplay tribute – Viva La Vida.
The festival takes place at Charisworth Farm, Blandford, from Friday, May 1, to Sunday, May 3. Tickets are available now and selling fast, with sales three months ahead of where they were at this point in 2024.
Visit www.teddyrocks.co.uk for more information.
SHAFTESBURY Library’s Reading Together group meets on Thursday, October 2, between 1.45pm and 3.15pm. It continues on alternate Thursdays after that.
The group will be reading together a selection of stories and poems, listening to the ideas of others and sharing their thoughts, experiences and memories.
Prebooking is not essential, but you can contact the library for further information and to confirm your place – 01747 852256 or shaftesburylibrary@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk.
PICK up inspiration from the beautiful gardens around the Vale, open in October as part of the National Garden Scheme.
Edmondsham, Wimborne BH21 5RE
With six acres of mature gardens surrounding an historic house and a 12th century church, there’s plenty to explore.
This large Victorian walled garden is productive and has been managed organically since 1984, including ‘no dig’ vegetable beds.
Wide herbaceous borders are packed with autumn colour. The garden boasts mature trees, box balls and topiary cloud a traditional potting shed, cob wall, sunken greenhouse.
Open Wednesday October 1, 8, 15 and 22 (2pm-5pm). £4, children £1.
Ryme Intrinseca, Sherborne DT9 6JT
This large and lovely farm garden has been created since 1960 by the late Jo Earle for year-round interest. Deep borders surround the lawns near the house, filled with a variety of roses, unusual shrubs and trees, clematis and other climbers. Spring bulbs through to autumn colour. A wonderful range of tree species, some quite rare and planted a long time ago – particularly oaks. There’s also a large vegetable garden.
Dogs on short leads welcome in some woodland areas.
Frankham is a working farm which includes woodland walks underplanted with spring bulbs and camellias. It has a groundlevel tea room.
Open Sunday, October 12 (12-5pm). £7, children free.
MORE than 120 people attended a community event about metabolic health hosted by Wincanton Health Centre. The evening featured talks from the centre’s GPs, Dr Campbell Murdoch and Dr Rob Taylor, who shared insights on metabolic health and how changing daily habits can improve overall wellbeing.
Metabolic health is a timely and important topic that affects us all in different ways. Symptoms such as constant tiredness, difficulty losing weight, high blood pressure, joint pain, depression, and anxiety
and more can often be linked to poor metabolic health.
For those looking to take action, the Metabolic Health 28-Day Plan may be a great starting point – more information can be found at healthshelf.org. Some people on medications and with health conditions will need to speak to a medical professional before making any changes.
Wincanton Health Centre looks forward to hosting more events in the future to empower the community towards better health and wellbeing.
Bridport DT6 5LH
River valley garden in a process of transformation.
Spacious lawns, wildflower meadows, and primula fringed streams leading down to a lake.
Walk over the stream with magnificent hostas, gunneras and horizontal Cryptomeria japonica ‘Elegans’ around the lake.
Admire the mature wellingtonias, ancient wisterias, rhododendrons and planting around the house.
Kitchen garden renovation underway. Slape Manor is one of the inspirations behind Chelsea 2022 gold medal winning and Best in Show Garden designed by Urquhart and Hunt with Rewilding Britain.
Open Sunday, October 5 (1pm-5pm). £15, children free.
Admission includes optional guided tour on first come first served basis. Home-made teas for sale.
Dogs on short leads welcome.
Entries may be subject to change – check www.ngs.org.uk for the latest information.
THE Art Stable at Child Okeford is set to present a solo exhibition of paintings and prints by Sally McLaren, whose works capture the spirit and subtle rhythms of the natural world. Her work draws inspiration from the chalk downs, wild
Shaftesbury: 01747 851 476
Longmead Industrial Estate, Shaftesbury SP7 8PL
Steeped in three generations of history, Bakhtiyar of Stockbridge and London has long been a respected leader in the Persian and Oriental handwoven carpet trade. Headed by internationally renowned carpet expert Masoud Mazaheri-Asadi.
Spend time with Bakhtiyar’s specialists and you will quickly discover their passion and love for the craftsmanship of the carpets they source. Masoud is often called upon by auction houses, insurance firms and institutions to identify and value carpets and invited to share his expertise with media outlets such as the BBC.
We would be remiss to say that is all they do, carrying out general repairs for clients, whilst also working with many historic organisations to clean and restore carpets, bringing them back to life, in some cases removing 200 year old stains.
Bakhtiyar believe that no rug is ever a lost ruin, beyond repair. As Persian Poet Rumi once said “where there is ruin, there is hope for treasure”. Their team of highly skilled cleaners and restorers carry out repairs using the traditional knotting methods to fully restore rugs to their former glory, taking wool dated from the same period as the rug, to perfectly match the rest of the piece.
Friday 3rd to Sunday 5th of October 2025
Open 10.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. daily
Join Masoud Mazaheri-Asadi, third generation and internationally renowned Persian and Oriental carpet specialist, together with his son Koroush and immerse all your senses in the delights of hand woven carpets, runners & flat weave kelims at our three day selling exhibition.
Home viewings can be arranged during and after the exhibiton.
Taste the delicious home-cooked food of Persia over a leisurely lunch, with all proceeds raised in aid of the Alzheimer’s Society.
Directions: Approach the exhibition at Luccombe Farm from Winterborne Whitechurch (A354), using the Milton Abbas Road. (AA signposted)
Ample parking is available and the Mintern Barn is wheelchair accessible.
SHERBORNE Abbey supported Dorset Historic Churches Trust’s annual Ride + Stride event with Eric Jager – pictured in yellow gilet – jogging around all the churches in the Sherborne benefice, and Mike Keating – who admits to being in his mid-80s – walking the 25 miles from Tisbury back to Sherborne to raise sponsorship. The trust provides grants to the many churches throughout Dorset which do not have sufficient local funds to deal
with repairs to the fabric of their buildings.
Shaun Leavey, Deanery area representative for Sherborne and Melbury, said: “Once again Sherborne Abbey and many other nearby churches opened their doors to those taking part in Ride + Stride and provided refreshments.
“We were lucky that the weather was generally kind during the day, and very much hope that when the sponsorship results come in the trust will have raised enough funds to continue grant-aiding the wonderful heritage of church buildings we are lucky enough to have in Dorset.
“Our thanks go to all those who so generously participated, and in particular those like Eric and Mike who did the hard slog in aid of this important charity.”
Placing your main residence into a living trust can provide effective protection against potential future care costs. If you were to require long-term care, the property held within the trust is ring-fenced, ensuring that it is safeguarded and that your intended inheritance is preserved for your loved ones.
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Transferring ownership of your home—and potentially other assets—into a living trust can help to shield those assets from a variety of risks. These include potential claims from creditors, the financial ramifications of divorce or remarriage, and claims associated with care costs. By utilising a living trust, you can ensure that your estate remains secure and less exposed to unforeseen claims.
Care Fees Protection: With average care fees hitting £2,000 per week and typical stays ranging from 3 to 7 years, these expenses can quickly deplete most estates. Our custom-tailored solutions offer a lifeline. While many believe protection is impossible, we’ve developed a tailored legal strategy fully compliant with UK law to safeguard your assets, including protection against care fees.
A living trust can also play a central role in estate planning, especially in terms of minimising inheritance tax liabilities. Assets placed within a trust may be excluded from your taxable estate upon your passing, which can reduce the amount of inheritance tax your beneficiaries may be required to pay.
Upon establishing a living trust, you typically appoint yourself as the trustee. This means you continue to maintain control over your assets, managing and using them as you see fit. Should you decide to move house, the trust remains in place and extends its protection to your new home.
Wills: Don’t leave your loved ones squabbling over vague wills! Oakwood Wills specializes in drafting crystal-clear documents that leave no room for ambiguity. No more family feuds. Just smooth, conflictfree asset distribution that honours your final wishes. Lasting Power Of Attorneys: Statistics don’t lie – the chances of incapacity rise with age. With our Lasting Power of Attorneys services, you can appoint trusted individuals to make financial and healthcare decisions on your behalf. No more court approvals, no more uncertainty in times of crises – just peace of mind knowing your interests are in safe hands.
For a complimentary consultation, reach out to Oakwood Wills.
Tel: 07832 331594 or Email: info@oakwoodwills.co.uk
The effectiveness and suitability of a living trust will depend on your personal circumstances. Oakwood Wills offers a complimentary consultation in the comfort of your own home. For further information, you can call 07832 331594 or email info@oakwoodwills.co.uk.
IF your child has just started school or your financial situation has changed, it’s worth checking if they’re eligible for free school meals.
You could save up to £490 per year per child, and ensure that your children receive a healthy, filling lunch every day.
School meals comply with School Food Standards, which help ensure children get the energy and nutrition they need across the whole school day.
Sharing meals together can help children to socialise, make friends and develop healthy eating habits.
If your child received free school meals last year, you do not need to reapply. All approved pupils will remain eligible until at least the end of the 2025/26 school year.
In Dorset, children eligible for free school meals can access free holiday clubs during the
summer, Christmas and Easter school holidays. They’ll also receive holiday food vouchers until at least March 2026.
All children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 automatically receive free school meals.
However, if you receive qualifying benefits, it’s still important to apply. This ensures your child can access additional support like holiday activities and vouchers, and their school receives Pupil Premium.
Dorset Council’s online eligibility checker is confidential. Schools do not see any financial information, and most families won’t need to submit paper evidence.
Find out if you qualify at www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/w/ free-school-meals
If you have any concerns or questions, call 01305 221090 or email freeschoolmeals@ dorsetcouncil.gov.uk
A DORSET charity is working with families in the crucial early years of a child’s life, to aid bonding and form healthy habits.
Becoming a parent is one of life’s most important journeys – but it can also be one of the hardest.
Dorset-based charity DorPIP (Dorset Parent Infant Partnership) works with families during the vital first 1,001 days – from pregnancy through to a child’s second birthday.
This is a time of rapid development for babies, when the foundations for lifelong mental health and wellbeing are laid. Strong, nurturing relationships between parents and their little ones make all the difference, but many families struggle with the everyday pressures of parenthood.
DorPiP provides a safe, confidential space for parents to explore their experiences and feelings, always with a focus on strengthening the parent-infant bond.
It offers specialist parent-infant therapy, infant massage courses and antenatal groups, and training for professionals helping those who work with families to better understand infant mental health.
If you or someone you know could benefit from some support, or if you’d like to help in any way, please visit www. dorpip.org.uk
STAR of hit BBC television show The Great British Sewing Bee, Patrick Grant (pictured), is coming to Dorset for the Planet Wimborne Green Festival.
He will be appearing at When Less is More, the finale event of the festival, at Queen Elizabeth School on Saturday, October 18.
Patrick has 20 years’ experience in the fashion industry and has strong views on clothes – how many consumers buy, how they value them, what they are made from, and who made them and where.
Doors open for When Less is More at 4.15pm, with Patrick’s talk at 5pm. There will be refreshments, stalls to browse and the opportunity to buy a signed copy of Patrick’s latest book, Less
Tickets are £12 adults and £2 18s and under – 13s and under must be accompanied by an adult – and are available online via Planet Wimborne’s website, www.planetwimborne.org, or by cash payment at Wimborne’s Fair Ground shop in the Corn Market.
DORSET Police has launched two new mobile police stations, which will tour the Vale this October and beyond.
The vehicles are operated by police community support officers. You’ll be able to report crime, anti-social behaviour, intelligence or suspicious incidents, receive crime prevention advice or raise any policing-related concerns.
One vehicle, based at Dorchester, will visit the Cornhill Market area on the first Tuesday of the month (October 7) and Sherborne Co-op at Westbridge Park on the first Thursday (October 2).
His campaigning clothes brand, Community Clothing, supports local clothing and textile manufacturers across the UK.
At When Less is More, he will be sharing his passion for radical change in the fashion and clothing industry, and encouraging people to buy fewer, better things and be happier in the process.
As in previous years, festival week features a host of green-themed events and activities for all ages.
The official opening is on the Minster Green on Saturday, October 11, at 10.30am, with local green groups exhibiting and the ever-popular apple pressing in full swing.
For details of all events, see the Planet Wimborne website, www.planetwimborne. org, or Facebook page.
Meanwhile another vehicle, based at Ferndown, will visit Shaftesbury Lidl on the second Thursday (October 9).
The vehicles will be at each location between 11am and 1pm each day but times are subject to change – outside of these events they will be attending various engagement events across the county.
Updates on any change to these times can be found at www.dorset.police.uk/MPS
Choosing care for a loved one is never easy, but live-in care from GoodOaks Homecare offers a reassuring solution. Instead of the upheaval of moving into residential care, live-in care enables people to remain in the comfort of their own homes, supported day and night by a professional carer.
GoodOaks specialises in personalised, one-to-one care. Carers are carefully matched to clients, ensuring not only skilled support with daily needs such as personal care, meal preparation, and housekeeping but also genuine companionship. This relationshipfocused approach helps clients feel safe, valued, and independent.
As a leading private provider, GoodOaks is regulated by the Care Quality Commission and known for its high standards and innovative training. Families benefit from peace of mind, knowing their loved one is supported by a trusted, compassionate professional who understands their routines, preferences, and lifestyle. Whether short-term support is needed after a hospital
stay, or long-term care for more complex conditions, GoodOaks offers flexible, tailored options. While costs vary, families find the benefits continuity, dignity, and comfort at home immeasurable.
Live-in care with GoodOaks is more than practical help. It’s about preserving independence and quality of life, while delivering care with kindness and respect.
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DORSET’S Police and Crime Commissioner, David Sidwick, is encouraging residents to take part in his annual survey, which gathers insights into Dorset residents’ views on policing in their area.
He updated his Police and Crime Plan last year, after being re-elected for a second term, and wants to take stock of its impact so far.
The survey asks residents how safe they feel in their communities, how connected they feel to Dorset Police and whether they believe police resources are being used effectively in their area.
Mr Sidwick said: “As your voice in policing, I want to know what matters to you and what types of crime are impacting your community.
“Your feedback will help me understand what’s changed since last year and shape the direction of my work moving forward.
“Building confidence in policing is essential – especially in today’s world where misinformation and inaccurate commentary can snowball.
“I know trust is earned and that’s why by completing this year’s survey, you’re helping to hold policing to account.
“Your opinion truly matters and I thank you for taking the time to share it.”
To take the survey, visit www.surveymonkey.com/r/PCCPress.
All houses great and small! A worry-free service from planning, packing to completion.
Words by Rose Heesom; pictures by George Jeans MERE Gardening Club held its horticultural show at the Grove Building in Mere.
The entries were judged by Steve Hawkins, Sue Billington and Les Manwaring.
There were 48 classes covering vegetables, fruit, flowers, homecraft, handicraft, photography and wines.
The overall winner was Holly Baker, who was awarded the Banksian Medal for the most points, by Les Manwaring (pictured).
There were some amazing vegetable displays and still an abundance of floral displays including roses and hydrangeas. Well done to everyone who entered and made the show a success.
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CHARITIES in Dorset are encouraged to apply for funds from Hendy Foundation, which last year donated over £50,000 to 27 charities in the south of England.
Launched in 2018, Hendy Foundation provides grants to local charitable projects, people and charitable organisations. It is the charitable arm of the family-run motor business Hendy Group.
Charities have until Monday, 29 September to apply for one of this year’s grants, drawing from a pot of over £60,000.
A panel of volunteer Hendy Foundation trustees will determine which charities are eligible to receive support this year. All successful applicants can expect to receive funds before the end of 2025.
To be considered for Hendy Foundation’s 2025 grants, charities should make a submission via www.hendyfoundation.org/ grant-request
Food poverty charities need to apply from a specific fund at www. hendyfoundation.org/food-poverty-grantrequest
CHETTLE-BASED podcaster seeks music fans for heartfelt chats.
Music fan Richard Morris, AKA the grumpy cyclist, is looking for ordinary people to share the stories behind their musical loves.
“I love music of all genres,” explains Richard. “After listening to other podcasts of people having conversations with ‘well-known artists’, the idea was me (probably being a bit nosey) talking to regular people of their life involving music.
“Each episode is a journey through the personal soundtracks of my guests. We explore emotions, memories, life-changing records, live experiences, guilty pleasures, deep critiques and unforgettable musical moments. No script, no agenda – just real conversations about the music that shapes our lives.”
Richard publishes new episodes Sundays on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Overcast and Castbox.
With such a busy schedule to fill, Richard is always on the lookout for people
Retirement isn’t one-size-fits-all.
Whether you’re just starting to think about life after work or already counting down the years, a tailored plan can help turn “what if” into “what’s next.”
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willing to chat on record.
“If music means something to you, I’d love to hear your story.”
If you’d like to get involved, contact Richard on 07964 958251, rccijmorris@ hotmail.com, or find him on Facebook – The Grumpy Cyclist Talks Music.
AtLeweston Prep School, childhood is celebrated as a time of exploration, discovery, and growth. We believe education should spark curiosity and inspire confidence, which is why every pupil is encouraged to see learning as an adventure. This September marks an exciting new chapter with the expansion of our Early Years provision, alongside enhanced learning environments and activities for Nursery and Reception, this development ensures even our youngest learners can enjoy a nurturing and inspiring start to their educational journey.
Leweston Prep offers an education that is both exciting and personal, where progress is valued over perfection and every child is supported to thrive at their own pace. Our dedicated teachers create a learning environment where pupils feel confident to ask questions, take risks, and embrace challenges with enthusiasm.
Opportunities extend far beyond the classroom. With Forest School sessions, gardening projects, and swimming in our on-site pool, children are encouraged to take their learning outdoors and develop a real sense of independence and resilience. The co-curricular programme is equally diverse, offering everything from sailing to skateboarding, giving every pupil the chance to discover new passions and skills.
Leweston Prep is more than a school – it is a vibrant community where childhood is enriched by opportunity, friendship, and fun. Our small class sizes and supportive ethos mean that every child is known, valued, and encouraged to grow in confidence both academically and personally.
We warmly invite families to experience this unique approach for themselves during Leweston’s upcoming Visit Week, 6-10 October. Come and see how your child could flourish in an environment where learning is an adventure and every day is full of possibility.
admissions@leweston.dorset.sch.uk | 01963 211054 | www.leweston.co.uk
Learning is an adventure, why not share it with us? Join our Visit Week and discover the opportunities available to your child. 6 - 10 October
WIMBORNE Rotary members took to the catwalk to raise money for Dorset families affected by cancer.
The Rotarians held a fashion show at Merley house, and donated £400 from the proceeds to the Dorset Cancer Care Foundation (DCCF).
Wimborne Rotary president Brian Dryden presented the donation to the charity’s co-founder and chair Eve and Chris Thomas at the group’s latest lunch meeting held at the Willett Arms, Wimborne.
Brian said: “Our charity fashion show was organised by our member Joy Dennett with the help of her friend Ingrid Sumner.
– a suggestion which all our members were very keen to support.”
THE Poppy Appeal in Sherborne is set to remember the sacrifices of Armed Forces personnel in conflict.
The appeal will be launched on Thursday, October 23, at 11am on the Parade in Sherborne.
A quiz night fundraiser will be held at the Parachute and Tap Bar, Sherborne, on Wednesday, October 29, at 7.30pm – teams welcome.
Visitors to a pop-up poppy shop in Person’s Yard can pick up their poppy, browse commemorative items and meet the volunteers behind the scenes on October 25, November 1 and November 8.
Volunteers will be collecting for the appeal in Sherborne town centre on Thursday, October 30, and Thursday, November 6.
“Some of our own members and their partners had a chance to join the models on the catwalk. We also had a very successful raffle, and the show raised more than £1,000 for local charities.”
Brian continued: “Joy is a long-time supporter of the DCCF and suggested the charity could be a beneficiary of the event
The DCCF was set up by three Dorset nurses in 2012 and helps people undergoing cancer treatment to meet the cost of items such as accommodation, household bills, and hospital transport.
For Wimborne Rotary new member enquiries please email: dandvmeaden@ btinternet.com
Poppy boxes will be available at local businesses and public venues throughout the appeal.
Volunteers are needed to support Poppy Appeal activities. To volunteer, contact Andrew Norton, at andrewrbl@ outlook.com or on 07769 407130.
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Flags convey messages and allegiances, and are too precious to be abused
by Canon Eric Woods
I AM a great respecter of flags. They are not just symbols – they can be languages in their own right. Think of the signal which Horatio Nelson sent from his flagship HMS Victory as the Battle of Trafalgar was about to commence on 21 October 1805: ENGLAND EXPECTS THAT EVERY MAN WILL DO HIS DUTY. The fleet read that message in flags, and obeyed.
celebrations such as Patronal Festival.
Things became yet more interesting when a Scot in the congregation asked if he could give us a Saltire to fly on St Andrew’s Day (November 30) closely followed by the offer of the red dragon of Wales for St David’s Day (March 1). Not to be outdone, an Irishman who lived near the vicarage and became a good friend donated the Cross of St Patrick to be flown on St Patrick’s Day (March 17). Sadly that wasn’t flown this year or last. I’m sure it was just an oversight.
But – and it is a big “but” – a flag has to be flown in the right place at the right time for the right reason. Otherwise it can become a messenger of prejudice or hate.
I took a keen interest in the flags flown from Sherborne Abbey tower during my 27 years as Vicar. For example, at first we obeyed the ruling of a former hereditary Earl Marshal of England, the 16th Duke of Norfolk, that Anglican churches in England should only fly the “George” as the CofE was not the Church of Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland. Fair enough, but when that rule was relaxed, we invested in a Union Jack to fly on occasions of national importance (such as Remembrance Sunday) and kept the George to mark Christian festivals, such as Easter, Christmas and saints’ days. We also had the Abbey’s own flag – its coat of arms – for special Abbey
These flags are of quite a size: 12 feet long or else they won’t be seen flying from the top of the Abbey tower. I won’t tell you about a Royal visitor to the Abbey who had his Standard sent to me to fly on the day of his visit: it was three feet long and looked like a pair of football shorts!
So: the right flag flown from the right place at the right time for the right reason. Which makes me very worried about the proliferation of Jacks and Georges throughout England or, worse still, daubed or painted in public places. The irony is that many of those who flaunt the Jack fly it upside down – which means they are in distress! But our national flags are too precious to be hijacked to serve this partisan cause or that. They are meant to be symbols of unity, not of disunity. We must resist the angry minority who seek to steal the symbols of our national identity and our national pride.
PS: Apologies for a typo in my last column. My mistake! I retired from Sherborne Abbey in 2020, not 2000. I’m not that old!
LYN’S BINGO at Marnhull
Royal British Legion
DT10 1HR on October 6th.
Eyes down 7pm.
Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.
CLASSICAL GUITAR CONCERT
Gary Ryan, Professor of Guitar at RCM
Supported by The Gryphon School Recorder Consort
SATURDAY OCTOBER 11th at 6.30pm
St. Laurence Church, Holwell. DT9 5LB
Tickets £15/£12 from Bishops Caundle Shop or Email: budgells@hotmail.co.uk 01963 23428
Friday 3rd & Saturday 4th October
Book your tickets now! www.shaFTesbury-oktoberfest.co.uk
JUMBLE SALE Buckhorn
Weston hall, (SP85HF), Saturday 4th October 2.30. Cakes-Raffle-Teas
SIXPENNY HANDLEY
AUTUMN CRAFT FAIR
Village Hall, Common Road SP5 5NJ
Saturday 13 September
10.30 am - 2.00 pm, FREE entry. Crafts | Hot & Cold Snacks | Homemade Cakes Information: 6dhandleyhall@gmail.com
STALL HOLDERS WANTED. For Christmas Fair. Shaftesbury 23rd November. Contact: Linda on 01747-228503 / Tracy on 07950-957319
JUMBLE SALE
SATURDAY 11TH
OCTOBER 12pm The Weston Village Hall DT11 0QA, £1 entry includes draw ticket for £25 M&S Voucher. Tea, coffee and cake Contact 07786-011321
ART CLASS
Intermediate and mixed abilities welcome.
Dates: 16 Oct 20 Nov 11 Dec
Venue: Stourpaine Village Hall. Please enquire: marionrroberts167@gmail. com
‘HELL-SHIP TO HIROSHIMA’
A talk by Air Commodore Martin Sharp MA OBE (RAF retired) about his father’s experience as a Japanese prisoner from 1942 to 1945.
Milton-on-Stour Church, Friday 10th October 7:00 for 7:30 p.m. start
Free entry, but please donate to help run our church. Refreshments & Raffle Parking in School alongside
Thursday 2nd October 2025
6pm - Welcome in the Main Hall
Explore the school’s excellent facilities with a guided tour, and learn how we will support your child through their educational journey.
All welcome, we look forward to seeing you there!
Gillingham School, Hardings Lane, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4QP
Web: https://www.gillingham-dorset.co.uk/ Phone: 01747822222
GILLINGHAM HANDMADE PRESENTS Handmade at Stourhead, Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th October 105, Stourton Memorial Hall, Stourhead, Wiltshire, BA12 6QD, pop along and have a browse around the wonderful handmade stalls, free entry to the fair.
THE ILE VALLEY FLOWER CLUB, Floral Demonstration, Friday 14th November, Broadway Village Hall close to Ilminster, Lucy Ellis from Bratton Titled The Colours of Christmas. Starts 2.30pm, Refreshments on arrival. Tickets £15. Cheryl 01460-75025 - Jacky 01460-67149
· 28th Sep & 26
· 10am - 4.30pm
· Multiple Steam Engines
Running
· Model Tramway Display
Mere Literary Festival returns in October 2025 and it is bigger and bolder than ever before!
Running for a full week between 13th - 19th of October, the Festival tickets are on sale NOW and based on the quick sell-out of one of our speakers already, do not delay in booking your seats!
Full details of all our 20 great events can be found on our website www.mereliteraryfestival.com
So if you like contemporary or historical fiction, military history, travel, gardening, cookery, poetry, folklore, radio drama, walking or exploring - get your tickets now!
3parent
At Sunninghill, every child is known, nurtured, and encouraged to thrive. From small class sizes to a vibrant programme of opportunities beyond the classroom, our pupils grow in confidence, character, and curiosity.
The best way to experience what makes our school so special is to come and see it for yourself. Join us at our upcoming Open Morning, taking place on Friday 3rd October 2025, or contact us to arrange a personal one-to-one tour at a time that suits you.
BRYANSTON sixth-form pupil, Alfie A I, has become the youngest player ever to represent Dorset men’s first team, making his county cricket debut shortly after turning 16.
Alfie, who joined Bryanston in 2022 on the school’s High Performance Sports Programme (HPSP), has been part of Dorset Cricket’s Emerging Players Programme (EPP) since the age of 13.
Alfie will travel to Australia in January as part of a student exchange to Toowoomba Grammar School, Queensland, where he will spend four months further developing his cricket.
Bryanston and Cricket Dorset Ltd formalised a partnership last year to create a high-quality training centre for the EPP.
Alfie has represented Bryanston at both cricket and rugby.
Josh Digby, Bryanston’s head of cricket, said: “Alfie’s dedication and maturity are outstanding.
“He makes the most of every opportunity, whether in training, the classroom or competition, and his county debut is a reflection of the hard work he has put in.
“We are incredibly proud of him.”
The school has offered coaching expertise, strength and conditioning sessions and extensive match experience.
Alfie’s parents said: “We’re so grateful for the opportunities and encouragement Alfie has had at Bryanston.
“The coaches and staff have gone above and beyond to support him both on and off the pitch.
“To see him make history for Dorset and head to Australia for a term to continue his development is incredibly exciting for our whole family.”
Alfie’s debut broke the previous Dorset record set by Scott Currie, who has since gone on to play in The Hundred and for Hampshire CCC.
BRYANSTON Prep’s young equestrians shone at the prestigious NSEA Grassroots Championships at Hickstead.
The Team National Grassroots 60cm Championship title was secured by Jess F, riding Storm and Laddie; Sofia A, riding Seb; and Paola A, riding Storm.
Individual successes followed, with Paola A winning 1st place in the 50cm class against a field of more than 70 competitors.
Max H also impressed with an 8th place finish in the 40cm National Championships.
The first day also brought a string of top 15 finishes: Alice H – 4th in the 40cm; Frankie L – 8th in the 40cm; Max H –10th in the 40cm; Edward L – 5th in the 40cm (out of 61); Aggy B – 9th in the 40cm (out of 61); Ollie S – 13th in the 40cm (out of 61); Bertie B – 10th in the 50cm (out of 70).
Consistency was the hallmark of the team’s performance, achieving 19 clear rounds out of 22 on the second day.
Riding teacher, Charley Camp, said: “This success was not only about the riders but also about the community behind them.
“Parents and pupils alike pitched in – from making coffee to mucking out –ensuring the weekend ran smoothly.
“Their dedication and support were invaluable. Thank you.”
WRITER, broadcaster and entertainer Pam Ayres is bringing her show to Yeovil’s Westlands Entertainment Venue this autumn.
She will be performing poems from her latest book Doggedly Onward: A Life In Poems
The book reflects on six decades of making the nation laugh, and occasionally cry, with her unique and heartfelt work.
Pam first appeared on television in 1975 when she entered – and subsequently won – the Opportunity Knocks talent show.
Since then, she has performed to audiences across the globe, and in 2004 she was appointed an MBE for services to literature and entertainment.
In 2022, and again in 2024, Pam appeared at Glastonbury Festival.
On television, Pam has appeared recently on Alan Titchmarsh’s Love Your Weekend, This Morning, Would I Lie To You and two popular series for Channel 5, The Cotswolds with Pam Ayres and The Cotswolds and Beyond with Pam Ayres.
Having grown up in Stanford in the Vale in rural Oxfordshire and now living near Cirencester in Gloucestershire, Pam has been surrounded by British countryside her whole life.
Much of her poetry, written and spoken work, is about the natural world.
Pam is passionate about natural history, wildlife, farming and regenerative agriculture, and when she is not performing, enjoys painting, knitting, gardening and practising piano, which she is proud to have
started learning at the age of 75.
She is the author of numerous best-selling poetry collections, including The Works, With These Hands, Surgically Enhanced, You Made Me Late Again!, Up In The Attic, and Pam Ayres on Animals, the UK’s bestselling poetry book of 2021.
She is one of only a few authors to have had their books included in The Sunday Times bestseller charts in almost every decade since the 1970s.
Shortly after its release in 2024, Pam’s latest book, Doggedly Onward: A Life In Poems, topped the bestseller list on Amazon.
Pam is at the Westlands Entertainment Venue on Sunday, November 9, at 3.30pm.
THE John Maddocks Jazzmen, who play traditional/New Orleans jazz, are set to give a concert at St Mary’s Church in Beaminster.
The concert, organised by The Friends of St Mary’s, is on Saturday, October 4, at 7.30pm.
Tickets, available from Bridport Tourist Office, are £15 (£3 under-16s).
DORSET arts charity, Artsreach, is partnering with Gillingham School next month to present two touring productions for the local community.
Bobak Champion will present a hilarious and heartfelt story of one man’s journey to Iran to discover his cultural heritage, featuring a mix of live music, spoken word, breakdancing and comedy.
The audience will join Bobak meeting a cast of weird and wonderful characters, from women defiantly running the first – and last – ever Tehran marathon, to stumbling into an underground breakdance battle
on his journey of self-discovery.
I’m Muslamic Don’t Panik is in the Studio Theatre on Tuesday, October 7, at 7pm, and audience members can enjoy a chat with Bobak after the show, along with traditional Persian tea and Kolompeh date biscuits.
Circus company Nikki & JD will present Fireside, an outdoor show combining circus, dance, theatre, fire and live music in a modern re-telling of the ancient epic, Beowulf, on the Pavilion Field at Gillingham School on Tuesday, October 21, at 6pm.
Artsreach director, Kerry Bartlett, said: “We were thrilled
to be able to secure dates to bring these two productions to Dorset as they tour around the UK this autumn.
“It’s particularly exciting to be presenting both shows in Gillingham, as the touring artists will also be delivering workshops for local students and we know what an impact activity such as this can have.
“I hope the local community will support the school as it hosts these performances –available to see in Dorset for one night only!”
Further information and tickets for both events are available online at www. artsreach.co.uk
DORSET folk singer Alastair Braidwood will be joined by his friend and mentor, respected folk musician Tim Laycock, when they mark the changing of the seasons in their show To Yollow Autumn Turn’d Alastair, and Tim – recent recipient of an English Folk Dance and Song Society gold badge – are actors and storytellers, as well as musicians and singers.
They are best known for their unaccompanied close-harmony singing woven into short stories.
Readings, songs and
traditional tunes to toe-tap along to, all from the Westcountry, will come together to create a seasonal evening that educates as well as entertains.
They are performing at Athelhampton House on Friday, October 3 – with the option of an apple-based pre-show dinner – and the Drax Arms in Bere Regis on Tuesday, October 28, as part of Bere Regis Folk Nights.
The performances are part of a tour to celebrate their first album together, Friends & Neighbours, and tickets are on sale via each venue.
MICHELL, Pfeiffer & Kulesh are an all-female close harmony folk trio that brings together the exciting talents and exquisite voices of award-winning songwriters Odette Michell (UK), Karen Pfeiffer (Germany) and Daria Kulesh (Russia). This autumn the trio are set to perform three live concerts in Dorset, launching rural arts charity, Artsreach’s, autumn season.
Performing on guitar, bouzouki, accordion, dulcimer,
shruti box, percussion, Irish flute and recorders, their three-part vocal harmonies bring to life spellbinding folk tales, expertly woven together with a vibrant international twist.
Their debut album, Flowers, was released in 2024 to great acclaim, leading to a nomination for Band of the Year at the 2024 FATEA Awards.
Audiences can expect a concert featuring songs known and new, presented in exquisite,
innovative arrangements. Michell, Pfeiffer & Kulesh are at the village halls at Ibberton on Friday, October 3; Cranborne on Saturday, October
and
4; and Shipton Gorge on Sunday, October 5.
Tickets and full details are available online at www. artsreach.co.uk
composer Matthew Coleridge is set to conduct the 10th anniversary performance of his acclaimed choral work, Requiem, at Sherborne Abbey.
The concert will celebrate one of the UK’s best-loved new choral works a decade after its first performance in Bridport.
Requiem has gone on to be a global success, with Classic FM hailing it as a ‘modern choral classic’, and listeners regularly voting it into the top 100 of the station’s annual Hall of Fame chart.
An invited choir of more than 100 singers will perform this beautiful and deeply-moving music, joined by local cello superstar Guy Johnston, soprano soloist Amy Carson and professional orchestra Southern Sinfonia.
“I’m thrilled to be performing my music in Sherborne for the first time,” said the composer.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity to thank everyone who has
supported my career as a composer, and to give many of my listeners a chance to hear this music in the flesh for the first time.
“It will be especially powerful with a big choir, stunning orchestral accompaniment and world class soloists, so hopefully there won’t be a dry eye in the abbey by the end!”
The concert on Saturday, October 4, at 7pm will also feature Matthew’s latest choral work, The Breath of Life
A joyful and uplifting cantata for choir and orchestra, it draws on sacred and secular texts in celebration of life, creation and the world around us.
The music brims with rhythmic energy, lyrical beauty and emotional depth.
Concert-goers will have an opportunity to grill the composer during an interval question and answer session, as they find out about his inspirations and how he creates
such appealing and vibrant music.
Tickets are available online
IT’S the Economy, Stupid!, which reveals the heart, humour and humanity behind economics, is coming to Dorset. It is based on a true story of a family caught up in the 1990s recession.
Joe Sellman-Leava and Dylan Howells – pictured –calculate how their lives were shaped by the economies they grew up in, uncover how economics wins elections and ask why the force that dominates people’s lives is so complicated using paper bags, an old board game and a pinch of magic.
It’s the Economy, Stupid! has been praised for making economics accessible and entertaining, while connecting a deeply personal story to the financial realities individuals face today, revealing the true cost of low financial literacy in a money-dominated world.
The Worklight Theatre show premiered with a sold-out, critically acclaimed run at the Edinburgh Fringe last year, before embarking on a national tour, which has continued in 2025, before transferring to London’s Soho Theatre.
It’s the Economy, Stupid! is at the village halls at Buckland Newton on Friday, October 10; Briantspuddle on Saturday, October 11; and Burton Bradstock on Sunday, October 12.
Tickets and more details are available online at www. artsreach.co.uk
at www.matthewcoleridge.com/ concerts with limited numbers available on the door.
LOCAL artist Louise Luton is returning to Fisherton Mill in Salisbury with a new collection of paintings celebrating both the beauty on our doorstep and the adventures that take her further afield.
Wild World is Louise’s third solo exhibition at the gallery, following two previously successful safari-themed shows.
This time, alongside Louise’s much-loved elephants, lions and tigers, visitors will be treated to British favourites such as Highland cows, stags and hares, as well as floral landscapes inspired by the Wiltshire countryside, Cranborne Chase and the Dorset coastline.
Wild World runs from Saturday, October 4, to Saturday, November 15.
MIKE Madgwick – New Blackmore Vale, August 29 – is astute in noticing the huge variations in attainment at A-level across the country but the conclusions he draws miss the essential reason for these differences.
Had he looked beyond the results he might have noticed that the two high achieving counties he quotes, Surrey and Rutland, are among the wealthiest in the country while the very low achiever, the Isle of Wight, is one of the poorest.
This pattern holds true regionally with very low attainment in some of those regions which rank as the poorest in northern Europe.
Conversely it is highest in the south east where wealth is highest – London being by GDP per capita the wealthiest city in Europe.
The main reason for this is that the biggest single factor influencing attainment is not intelligence or aptitude but parental income.
This is not as it might sound like the opinion of the leftleaning, self-appointed Liberal elite, but the result of meticulous statistical research by well-respected organisations such as the Institute for Fiscal Studies.
Put quite simply, the higher the parental income, the better the child’s attainment and consequently life chances are likely to be.
Paul Johnson, director of the Institute for Fiscal Studies, said: “In 2019, at the end of primary school, 47% of pupils who were eligible for free school meals reached the expected standard in reading, writing and maths, compared with 68% of other pupils.
“Follow the money,” he added. “In fact, right across the income distribution, the richer your parents, the better you do at school.”
The parental income effect is made worse in poorer areas because there schools have
difficulty in attracting and retaining the best headteachers and teaching staff.
As a result, many are in a malevolent, downward spiral.
Such schools end up with unsatisfactory OFSTED ratings, which simply make recruitment and retention of staff even more problematic.
It is difficult to see what can realistically be done to raise achievement for so many of our children, but the most effective intervention could well be from the cradle, or even before birth.
We are often hearing how ill-prepared many children are at the start of reception and it is evident that by 11 many are already failing to reach the expected standard.
Good evidence is emerging of the benefits of the Sure Start initiative, which supported young children and their parents from the beginning.
This is now showing that there is raised attainment at 11 and 16, as well as other benefits, in areas around Sure Start Centres, indicating that early support and intervention could be a cost-effective and beneficial approach to the issue.
Brian South Shaftesbury
IN response to your correspondents’ concerns about modern policing and school standards – New Blackmore Vale, August 29 – here are four – summarised – headlines from local and national newspapers: Why are our schools failing youngsters so badly?; I looked for a policeman in vain; Young people today need a dose of discipline. They are turning into hooligans. The police can’t deal with them; Youth of today – poorly educated, interested only in themselves etc.
There are hundreds of these to choose from.
Some date as far back as the Ancient Egyptians.
The above come from the ‘golden age’ of the 1950s.
For some reason the past gets better and the present worse as we all get older.
Your correspondent’s denigration of local schools is especially unfair.
How many has he spent time in or taught in?
As the London Challenge showed all too clearly, attainment is directly related to funding for adequate staffing, career progression, creating aspiration, supporting families in poverty, Special Needs and training.
Rural counties are not funded as well as more urban areas with higher tax revenue such as Surrey.
Your correspondent’s reduction of this complex issue to grammar schools ignores the fact that no-one ever asks for the return of secondary moderns!
And very few ask for higher taxes.
By far the worse standard of education I ever encountered was in my grammar school in the 1960s, and the grammar I started teaching in in the early 1970s where fights and disruption were everyday events.
I have seen nothing as bad in 35 years as a teacher and senior leader!
There never was a golden age. If there had been, why did no-one notice at the time??
Kevin Banks
Via email
I ENDED my previous letter with a quotation from the 19th century philosopher, economist and MP, John Stuart Mill, who said: “When all this growth has ceased, in what state do we expect to find ourselves?”.
Having questioned for over 50 years the wisdom of making economic growth our priority, I was pleased to find that Radio 4
was broadcasting a play entitled, The Limits to Growth.
The report of this title was published in 1972 by a team from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and it described the findings of a computer simulation of various global growth trends.
A review of its findings 50 years later found that things were going very much as expected – diminishing resources, increasing pollution etc.
Of course, the report’s predictions were pooh-poohed by politicians and economists who all seem to believe infinite growth is possible.
None of our local representatives seem any more sympathetic.
I encourage them and other readers to listen to the dramatised story of the report on BBC Sounds.
They still – just – have time to catch it, as it is available for 28 days from its broadcast at 3pm on Saturday, August 30.
John Stuart Mill might have been the first person to question growth, but obviously not the last.
Colin Marsh, Revd Gillingham
HAVING read the recent articles about housing targets both in this magazine and in national newspapers, I would like to give my view as a local 17-year-old.
I agree with what Simon Hoare MP said in his column about the Local Plan – New Blackmore Vale, August 29.
I would urge as many as people as possible to get involved with consultation events and have their voices heard.
However, having spoken to many people my age, they don’t seem to be that interested.
I find this concerning as it means their voices won’t be
heard on issues which will impact them significantly in the years ahead.
So, if you are a young person reading this, make sure to get involved.
The future of our county is at stake.
Despite not being interested in the nitty-gritty of planning proposals and housing developments, friends I talk to are interested in buying a place of their own, starting a family etc.
This is why we need to build more houses but, importantly, there are two prerequisites before we build them.
First, they must be built in the right places after careful consideration and consultation, to protect our wildlife habitats and productive farmland.
We can’t simply let Angela ‘Three Homes’ Rayner destroy our green and pleasant land.
Second, quality must be prioritised over quantity.
Houses must be built to last.
They should be spacious and in keeping with the Dorset countryside, using local stone and local craftsmen.
These prerequisites to house building allow new houses – and the new families moving in – to be integrated into the community in a slower, more organic way.
It is the only way to protect our beautiful county from Labour’s complete disregard for our heritage.
Elliott Wagner Hale Via email
MANY who know me personally will also know that I come from a service family.
Both my parents served in the Royal Navy for the whole of their working lives.
My uncle was an officer in the Navy until recently.
My grandfathers both served – one at sea, the other with the Staffordshire Regiment.
It is a source of immense personal pride that this is what so many in my family have
dedicated their lives to.
As I look around the world today, I see more danger and insecurity for our country than there has been at any other stage in my lifetime.
Our Armed Forces are a vital insurance policy we hope never to have to use in earnest.
But to perform that function, they need the funding, the political support and the personnel to remain credible to those that would do us harm.
I strongly believe that my own generation now needs to do its own part – to stand up and be counted, as previous ones have, and demonstrate a willingness to defend the things we all hold dear.
As a relatively healthy young man, I did not believe it would be right for me to simply leave that responsibility to others.
So, to that end, I have decided to join the Army Reserve.
The immediate commitment is manageable.
I will be at Sandhurst for 10 weeks while I complete officer training, but thereafter, the minimum annual service requirement is 27 days.
But that, really, is secondary. Once trained, I can be deployed should the country call upon volunteers in the future.
I have begun discussing this with residents, and many have been very supportive, for which I am grateful.
Being a county councillor is an immense privilege, and I take my obligations to residents extremely seriously.
In the short period in which I am away for training, I will still be able to work on their behalf, but I am also conscious that until I return at the start of December, I will inevitably be less available.
I will therefore be donating a proportion of my councillor stipend to important causes in the ward.
Since I was elected, I have done my best to support the associations and voluntary organisations that make living in our area so special and distinctive.
These are the bodies who I have chosen to direct the small but hopefully welcome funds towards.
One of my most abiding childhood memories is watching my parents march with other service personnel and veterans down New Street in Marnhull on Remembrance Sunday.
In more recent years, my mum has led the parade as branch president of the Royal British Legion.
I hope very soon I will be able to march alongside them.
Cllr James Vitali Via email
ALTHOUGH I follow no organised religion myself, I have great respect for Our Loose Canon, Eric Woods, and his column.
In it he has highlighted, on many occasions, the need for tolerance and open-minded acceptance, and the fact that we are all human and have the same needs and struggles in life that most people have, regardless of where we are from or where we live.
Simply, that we have more in common with each other than the things that divide us.
Important to remember when judging others in such divisive and challenging times.
These are beliefs and values that, as far as I can see, are shared by all religions and free-thinking, reasonable people.
Unlike the hatred and racism we are seeing that thrives on lies, ignorance and intolerance.
Name and address supplied Via email
I WOULD like to express my enormous pleasure at reading the latest gem from Our Loose Canon – New Blackmore Vale, September 12 – including the accompanying pictures of two hands almost touching each other.
(I know that is not a new image, but you have refreshed it for us.)
The Voltaire quotes are well-known and the wonder of using them again to apply to today’s culture is perfect.
Susanna Thatcher Via email
IF you visited Burton Bradstock Village Hall during the recent Festival of Music and Art, you would have been impressed by the high standard of the art exhibition, with its wide range of art in a variety of media for sale by westcountry artists.
Framed artwork, folios and greetings cards were displayed together with work by four ceramicists, a maker of glassware and a wood worker.
With such a beautiful layout, the hall had a lovely welcoming atmosphere.
The presence of the artists themselves, assisting the volunteer stewards, added to visitors’ enjoyment.
Some came several times to enjoy just ‘being there in this lovely space’, as one wrote in the visitor book. Just making time to listen to the music, to relax, to be inspired.
The success was due to all the hard work of chair, Wendy Hart, and her organising committee.
Their vision and efforts over the year made this inspiring art exhibition the success it was with increased visitor numbers and sales, despite being one day shorter than usual.
One of their successful approaches is to replace a sold framed picture immediately with another by the same artist to keep the exhibition new and interesting. Visitors constantly see a fresh look.
As in previous years, profits from sales go towards running costs of the annual music and art festival, and donations are made to local art in education charities.
Across
1 Attack sharply tiny rogue in US city circle (3,4)
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.
5 Governor, some chap as happens (5)
9 Firm politician with skill accepts advice largely showing consistency (13)
10 Be subject to rude line at work (8)
11 Smear expert around university (4)
12 One investigating film on city trader initially in seedy bar (9)
16 Austere period permitted around November (4)
Down
2 Acacia initially over spring gets to proliferate (6)
3 Troublemaker with fellows in rental property produces tool (9)
4 Small drink followed by a litre in sum (5)
6 Trouble in railway (3)
7 House with barrel overturned provides large bath (3,3)
8 Mind target (6)
Killer Sudoku Pro
17 Enduring type wrong about Thailand (8)
11 Suited professionals with appeal close to many showing variety (9)
19 Make a distinction after definite reforms (13)
21 Article on revolutionary financial backer (5)
22 British sailor only confused in decadent place (7)
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.
13 Arab chieftain hosting first of guests, European exile (6)
14 Kindly guide’s lead in African country (6)
15 Articles proving worthless also in military parade (6)
18 Scottish jockey’s obsessive behaviour (5)
20 Provide nourishment endlessly for payment (3)
House with barrel overturned provides large bath (3,3)
Mind target (6)
Suited professionals with appeal close to many showing variety (9)
(6)
jockey’s obsessive behaviour (5)
(3)
• 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.
• Digby Memorial Church Hall: The Mothers’ Union in Argentine: A Powerpoint presentation by Shelley Stokes on Friday, September 26, in the Griffiths Room.
• Digby Memorial Church Hall: Harvest lunch on Sunday, September 28, to celebrate Harvest Festival and to support the Almshouse Project. Tickets £12.50 for adults and £5 for children.
• George’s Church, Damerham: Nearly new sale, Damerham Hall SP6 3HD, Saturday, October 11, 2pm. Entrance 50p, raffle,
refreshments.
• 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.
• Milton-on-Stour Church: Hell-Ship to Hiroshima, a talk by Air Commodore Martin Sharp MA OBE (RAF retired) about his father’s experience as a Japanese prisoner from 1942-45, Friday, October 10, 7pm for 7.30pm start. • Our Lady of Lourdes & Saint Cecilia, Blandford: Sunday, 9am Holy Mass; Monday/ Wednesday/Thursday/Friday, 9.10am Morning Prayers, 9.30am Holy Mass; Tuesday, 6.10pm Evening Prayers, 6.30pm Holy Mass; Saturday, 9.30am Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament/Confessions; 5.30pm Vigil Mass of Sunday.
• 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.
• 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
• St Gregory’s, Marnhull: Sunday services 8am and 10am. Other services, visit www. stgregorysmarnhull.org.uk.
• St James’ Church, Shaftesbury: Organ recital by Stephen Binnington, Sunday, September 28, 3pm. Varied programme. Donations appreciated for church funds.
• 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 Mary’s, Beaminster: Jazz concert with the John Maddocks
Jazzmen on Saturday, October 4, at 7.30pm, in aid of the church. Tickets, from Bridport Tourist Office, are £15 (£3 under-16s).
• St Nicholas, Durweston: Family Communion Service every first Sunday of the month 11am; Evening Service every third Sunday of the month 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, September 28 – 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. Sunday, October 5 – 10.45am Together Communion at St John the Baptist Church, Spetisbury. Coffee and cake –Spetisbury, 10-11.30am, first and third Monday each month; coffee and cake – Blandford St Mary, 10-11.30am, October 23; crafternoons – first Thursday of every month, 2-4pm. £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. Sunday, September 28, 6pm, evening service; Sunday, October 5, 4pm, United Sunday @ Four with tea. Contact: Geoff.mead@ yahoo.com or phone 01935 850838.
• Witchampton Church: Third Sunday of the month, 10am Holy Communion.
• Woodlands Methodist Church: Jumble sale in Verwood Memorial Hall, Saturday, October 11, at 9.30am. New entrance charge of 50p. For more details, phone Brian on 01202 822066.
ATTENTIVE readers – yes, of course, that’s you – will remember that I referenced the Government’s Bus Services Bill in my last article. I was pleased to be able to vote in favour of an Amendment that would have let those with disabled bus passes use them earlier in the day than currently allowed. If we are serious about encouraging as many people that can work into work, then any help with transport issues should be welcomed.
It was therefore surprising and disappointing that the Government blocked the Amendment and voted it down. Unfortunately, the Amendment I had co-sponsored, which would have set a cap on student bus travel costs, was not selected for debate or vote. When pressed on the principle, the Government stated it was opposed to the idea. Two practical ways to aid social mobility and learning vetoed by the Government. Strange indeed.
Following the wettest winter and a tinder-dry summer, the services of Dorset & Wiltshire
Fire & Rescue Service have never been in more demand. More than 900 heath, grassland and agricultural fires alone, as well as the fatal fire at Lady Baily Residential Park in Winterborne Whitechurch. Funding is an issue for the Service and the leaders of it try to innovate to save as much as possible but a core, reliable service is required by us all.
I therefore raised the issue at a recent Prime Minister’s Questions raising the challenge of delivering a service across two predominantly rural counties. I requested a meeting
with the Minister to discuss the issue. I was pleased with the PM’s response, and a meeting is now arranged for mid-October where the Fire Chief and I will present our case for a more localised approach to funding. I shall update as the picture clears.
The quote attributed to Voltaire but actually penned by Evelyn Hall in her biography of Voltaire where she summarised his viewpoint to: “I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it,” has been prominent following the assassination of American MAGA commentator, Charlie Kirk. Mr Kirk was just 31 and leaves a widow and two young children. May he rest in peace. To the astonishment of my children, I had not heard of him before that fateful shot was fired. Now, having done so, I disapprove of much of what he had to say and certainly nearly all of how he had to say it. However, and like Hall/Voltaire, I too would defend to the death his right to say whatever he had to say.
Elon Musk was regrettably
right, although devastatingly he did not see his own role in the situation – ‘physician heal thyself’ springs to mind – that we are on the cusp of if not violence then certainly turbulent change.
We have the collision point of Left/Right wing sloganising, wedge-driving, division creating Populism running headlong into the extremes of Woke and Cancel Culture. Both are alien to our UK way of life and doing of politics. Unless we all do something about it, I fear it will become embedded. Robust debate and the locking of horns in the battle of ideas is good. It is healthy democracy. Politics should be passionate. We can do all of this without the belittling, rudeness, shouting down, cancelling, drowning out and intimidating that is the seed corn of the Left or Right Populist. Speak freely. Think creatively. Be provocative. But always let words be our weapon of rebuttal never the bullet to silence those with whom we do not agree. That way lies anarchy, tyranny and horror.
I WAS pleased to recently welcome Ed Davey, Leader of the Liberal Democrats, to Somerset. Together we visited Ilminster, where we joined a baby sensory class and spoke with new parents about their experiences.
It was a joyful morning, surrounded by babies exploring the world around them, but it was also a chance to hear directly from families about the worries they face. The temporary closure of Yeovil District Hospital’s maternity unit earlier this year has caused real anxiety, not only for expectant parents but for the dedicated staff who want to deliver the best care possible. Since May, I have been pressing both the Trust and the Government for answers.
Families deserve honesty, clarity and, above all, safe local care. I am pleased the NHS has now committed to reopening the unit and has promised to share a timeline in October. This is welcome progress, but families cannot be expected to wait in uncertainty. Clear
communication and a detailed plan are needed to rebuild confidence.
At the same time, Yeovil has been named as one of 14 hospitals included in a new national review of maternity services. For some, this may sound worrying, but I see it as an important opportunity. This review will look closely at why past recommendations have not always led to improvements, and it will put the voices of parents and staff at its heart. I am also pleased that the Health Secretary has listened to the concerns I and others have raised in Parliament by ensuring Yeovil is part of this process. The message from local families is simple. They want a safe, reliable maternity service close to home, where they know
their concerns will be listened to. Travelling long distances while in labour, or feeling uncertain about the quality of care, should never be part of anyone’s experience.
Ed Davey and I also spoke about the wider picture. Good maternity care is not only about the day of birth. It is about giving children the best start in life, supporting parents with confidence, and ensuring our NHS has the staff and resources it needs.
I will keep pushing for Yeovil’s maternity services to be restored safely and swiftly. Every family deserves that reassurance, and every child deserves the very best beginning in life. That is what I will continue to fight for in Parliament and in Somerset.
IT’S been a busy few weeks since Parliament returned from summer recess and I have been busy advocating for Glastonbury and Somerton. Recently I spoke in the Second Reading of the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill, making the case for rural areas to provide greater powers for communities struggling under national policies and to bring more decision making powers into local people’s hands.
However, I fear this Government is eroding local people’s voices, and the decision to close all 153 local Healthwatch boards in England is an example.
Healthwatch Somerset represents the independent patient voice, providing a valuable service, and acts as a bridge between NHS Somerset Foundation Trust, primary care providers and the Somerset ICB.
As many know, Somerset is currently undergoing a major reorganisation of health
services, partly in conjunction with the new 10-year plan. Somerset’s stroke services are being reorganised with the closure of the Hyper Acute Stroke Unit in Yeovil, 14 inpatient beds in West Mendip Community Hospital have also been removed, while the Special Care Baby Unit and Maternity Unit in Yeovil is closed until at least the end of the year.
I have been vocal on all these issues, campaigning against the decision to remove the inpatient beds at West Mendip, without proper consultation, and have long advocated for better maternity services in Somerset.
The combined impact of these changes is concerning to many residents, with my inbox constantly full of correspondence from constituents outlining how this could impact them. In the absence of communication from NHS Somerset Foundation Trust, rumours have spread, only heightening people’s anxieties. But Healthwatch Somerset can step in and help fill that void, reassuring the community while feeding back to local health leaders.
We have directly benefited from its action in Glastonbury and Somerton. When one of the final two pharmacies in Glastonbury closed, Healthwatch was able to speak to residents, patients and NHS
England to provide local views and support the opening of a new pharmacy in the town. Not only is it able to provide support to patients and the community, it can also communicate with those that work within local health services in a confidential manner.
It is for the reasons I have outlined above that I wrote to the Secretary of State, Wes Streeting, to demand that he reconsider this decision and publish an impact assessment.
Without the independent patient voice being able to provide input and relay communities’ thoughts and feelings, I fear mistakes may be made and trust eroded. I am eagerly awaiting a response from the Government and will continue to campaign on this important issue.
As always, if you would like to reach out to me regarding an issue you may have, please write to me at sarah.dyke.mp@ parliament.uk
CHARKIE Kirk, a prominent political activist of the right, was shot dead on September 10 as he debated with an audience of other young people on a university campus. A few months previously a US State Senator had been murdered and President Trump himself was nearly killed last year. All of a sudden being a politician seems one of the higher risk occupations. I’m painfully aware of the killing four years ago of my friend and colleague Sir David Amess MP, cut down as he conducted his regular constituency advice surgery. The American constitutional right to bear arms was conceived when it was necessary for members of a citizens’ army to have muskets to repel the British. The need for that ceased when George III pulled his redcoats and it’s difficult to see what use over-powerful and semi-
Dr Andrew Murrison
automatic weapons are other than to cause domestic murder and mayhem and to dissuade freedom of speech and expression poor Charlie Kirk was exercising when he was tragically shot in the neck. Freedom of speech is protected by freedom from physical violence. So I’m pleased we have sensible gun laws in this country that keeps
them in the hands of those who need them and those who have been checked out. Vicepresident JD Vance is welcome to point out the error of our ways but, as a God-fearing man who knows his scripture, he should beware beholding the mote in his brother’s eye before the beam in his. I love America and – most – Americans, but I’m very glad to be a Brit living here.
The US State visit does appear to have gone swimmingly. Aside from the pomp and pageantry, I was pleased to see news of a deal between the two countries to accelerate the construction of nuclear reactors – Small Modular Reactors are especially exciting. Cheap and quick to build, they hold out the prospect of safe, affordable and clean energy. In the meantime, as Trump says, we need to keep drilling. The alternative is the
very un-green prospect of importing LNG. That’s great for virtue signalling but rubbish for making an actual difference to carbon emissions and curbing our escalating heating bills. Well done to all involved with the Wiltshire Business Show in Trowbridge, our county town, last week. I enjoyed taking part in panel discussions. It was hugely useful to be able to take the temperature of local businesses. I want to be boosterish but the general sense is one of retrenchment as a result of NI hikes and the Employment Bill. No-one’s taking people on right now, fearing more to come in the Budget on November 26. Gloomy news from the Bank of England has not helped. That said, our local economy, for a variety of structural reasons, has traditionally been more resilient than most. Reasons to be cheerful.
ELECTION duties complete. I’m back!
The Houses of Parliament rose for summer recess, returned for autumn and rose again for conference recess – and hasn’t the period in between been eventful politically! Comings and goings – mostly goings! – promotions and demotions; reshuffling and uncoupling!
You’d be forgiven if you missed the fulfilment of key Labour Party manifesto pledges, some major new laws and government initiatives – signing a £150 billion US trade deal; creating thousands of new jobs; supporting working parents with 30 hours of government-funded childcare places; no rise in interest rates; the Hillsborough Law has been passed; the Workers’ Rights Bill – passed; Renters Rights Bill – passed; half a million more children receiving free school meals; school breakfast clubs roll-out; government investment in local buses, trains and crumbling school buildings; cutting red
tape to get Britain building the homes needed to replace those lost from council home sell-offs. I need to catch my breath before diving headlong into the majority political party autumn conference season – back-toback – the Liberal Democrats have been in Bournemouth, Labour are in Liverpool and finally the Conservatives in
Manchester.
Great to have a majority party conference back in Bournemouth, as they are really important for the local economy, and if the media follow too, a crucial opportunity to showcase the best of what the south west coast has to offer.
A conference the size of the Liberal Democrats, or bigger, has the potential to bring in millions of pounds for local businesses, however, to grow these figures, businesses must embrace the conference and delegate culture. Businesses, investors and residents should view conferences as a business opportunity and not an inconvenience.
Complete change of subject.
Last year I went into town on St George’s Day expecting to take part in some kind of celebration and see everywhere decked in the flag of England –perhaps the odd Union flag. There was no celebration and only one flag up in a high street window.
What of St George’s Day this year? There wasn’t even the one flag up in the high street shop window!
So, I hope it is understandable that the summer lamppost flag hoisting campaign was viewed by many as not only mistimed as a display of patriotism, but also a tad intimidating and not filled with love!
In July and August, I was subjected to unprovoked race-based verbal abuse on three separate occasions – the first time this has happened to me in my 24 years residing in BCP and Mid-Dorset. A coincidence? Maybe.
Remember after the conviction of serial killer GP Harold Shipman? Did that prevent you from trusting and visiting your GP? No? Me neither! My GP and practice are great!
We would not view with suspicion and condemn every GP due to the actions of just one GP would we?
Oh, it feels good to be back!
PARLIAMENT is shortly to break for party conferences and this year the Liberal Democrats will be in Bournemouth, which is always wonderfully convenient for me, and a great opportunity to show off the delights of Dorset as a whole to visitors and the media. Without wanting to give away any top secret details, I can say –drumroll please – there will, of course, be an Ed Davey stunt.
This week I’ve held meetings with NHS Somerset about the timeline for the reopening of Yeovil maternity unit. While Yeovil may be outside my constituency, the closure of the unit has put increased pressure on Dorset County Hospital. While it is clear it will not meet its six-month deadline, I am relieved the plan is now in place to reopen as soon as possible. It is hoped at the beginning of
Edward Morello
next year. I will keep the pressure on them to not let the timeline slip any further.
I also met with First Bus about adjusting the proposed winter timetable to ensure it meets the need of students to
get to classes on time. As well as to take issue with the frankly outrageous demand for subsidies it has made to Dorset Council to keep even the bare minimum of service running. I have written to the Secretary of State for Transport on the same issue. I have also proposed amendments to the Bus Services Bill currently going through Parliament that would force bus companies to prioritise the needs of rural communities, ensure trains and bus timetables are linked and provide concessionary travel for 16 and 17-year-olds in full-time education or training.
I’ve also been busy trying to resolve the issue with Jhoots Pharmacy in Lyme Regis and Bridport. Our pharmacies are not the only ones affected –there are problems with Jhoots across the UK. I have raised my
concerns about the loss of service in Lyme Regis with NHS Dorset, NHS England and with the relevant Minister. I have also been in contact with Jhoots directly. However, my main focus is on getting a service returned to Lyme Regis as quickly as possible. I am still working on it and hope we can find a solution quickly.
Last week I had the great honour of being one of the UK Parliamentary representatives at the Gibraltar National Day celebrations in Gibraltar, along with members of the other two parties and a Foreign Office Minister. It was a wonderful event, and great to see how our country is celebrated by our overseas citizens. Their pride in our country, our flag and our Britishness was a timely reminder of what positive patriotism can look like.
Antiques & Collectibles
Advertiser’s announcement
antique weapons from a single owner collection made good prices in Clarke’s Auctions’ two-day September sale.
A 19th century Turkish Kilij-Pala sword with older Persian blade and horn handle sold for £1,600 –including premium – a 19th century Chinese Export mother of pearl box containing mother of pearl gaming counters also fetched £1,600, and a beautifully painted 19th century Indian gilt metal mounted Mughal portrait miniature on an ivory brooch depicting the Mughal Emperor Akbar Shah II fetched £680.
In the jewellery section, two Suffragette jewellery pieces set with precious stones representing the colours of the Suffragette movement both sold well and a heavy 9ct gold
curbed necklace made £1,120.
Clarke’s is busy preparing for its October 10-11 sale which includes a large quantity of hunting and sporting related items from a local farmhouse deceased estate, including horse racing related engravings and paintings, and silver items.
Silver hunt-related items include an impressive silver trophy cup engraved with ‘S. & W. Wilts Hunt Cup’ dated 1933 and a large silver salver engraved for the Wylye Valley Hunt Point to Point Races, dated 1924.
Clarke’s is taking entries for this sale and future sales, including its bonanza three-day Christmas sale being held between Christmas and New Year.
Anyone who has anything
Continued on page 50
Auctioneers & Valuers
ACREMAN St Auctioneers and Valuers, Sherborne, has two days of auctions in September.
Specialist Modern, 20th century and Fine Art Paintings is on Thursday, September 25, at 10am, and General Antiques and Collectors at noon; and Jewellery, Silver and Watches is on Friday, September 26, at 10am.
The catalogue and bidding is available online through easyliveauction.com and thesaleroom.com
Acreman is now accepting items for its October auctions – General Antiques and Collectables on Thursday, October 30; and Jewellery, Silver and Watches on Friday, October 31.
The auction house holds valuation days at its premises at 121 Acreman Street, Sherborne
DT9 3PH where prospective sellers can take in items for its specialists to evaluate.
Valuation days 10am-3pm: 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. Photographs can be emailed to auction@acremanstreet antiques.co.uk
If you have anything you would like to consign, contact Gill Norman on 01935 508764 or 07908 333577.
Antiques & Collectables Next Sale Friday 10th & Saturday 11th October
Antiques & Collectibles Sale Friday 9th & Saturday 10th August
An original Fry & Sons 'Fry's Pure Concentrated Cocoa' enamel sign. Sold for £1,600.
A late 19th century Richard’s Chronosphere Terrestrial Globe. Sold for £850 hammer.
Clarke’s Auctions o er free home visits and verbal valuations. Now accepting items for this and future sales
The Old Glove Factory, Buckingham Road Gillingham, SP8 4QF 01747 685592 enquiries@clarkesauctions.co.uk
oil painting by Peter D Fried Thursday 25th
Units 1 & 2 Kingsettle Business Park, 01747 855109 enquiries@clarkesauctions.co uk
e Old Glove Factory, Buckingham Road Gillingham, SP8 4QF 01747 685592 enquiries@clarkesauctions.co.uk
For all enquiries please contact Gill Norman on 07908 333577 or 01935 508764 auction@acremanstreetantiques.co.uk
A NEAR 70-year-old milk float is one of the more unusual lots entered into the Charterhouse auction of classic and vintage cars next month at Haynes Motor Museum.
“I am pleased to say we still have milk delivered to our home three times a week, although it is in a much more modern milk float!”, said Richard Bromell, from the auction house.
First registered in 1956, this rare Austin-Morris J Type – pictured – rolled off the production line with a cab and a chassis and was then fitted with the specialist milk float back by a company in Poole.
Coward Brothers Dairy in Shaftesbury used it for many years.
It even made guest appearances in the hugely popular Heartbeat series on
television.
This British-built and designed Austin-Morris J Type milk float, estimated at £12,000£14,000, will no doubt appeal to collectors of light commercial vehicles and museums alike.
Charterhouse is inviting further entries for the specialist vintage and classic car auction on Thursday, October 23. For help and advice, contact Richard Bromell at Charterhouse in Sherborne on 01935 812277 or email Richard at cars@charterhouse-auction. com
DUKE’S Auctioneers welcomes the return of its muchanticipated Sporting & Natural History sale on Thursday, October 2, at 10.30am.
The auction house will once again transform into a vibrant emporium of curiosities, showcasing a captivating selection of paintings, rare fishing paraphernalia, antique taxidermy, traditional sporting attire and other fascinating wonders from the natural world.
Originally from a prestigious Scottish shooting lodge, this striking piece is estimated to sell for £1,500-£2,500.
A collection of hand-painted Fochaber’s wooden salmon also features – each one inscribed with the date and location of the catch – expected to reach between £10,000 and £15,000.
Among the standout lots is a magnificent Edwardian antler armchair – pictured – crafted from red stag and fallow deer antlers, and featuring a leatherpadded seat and back.
Whether you’re a collector or simply intrigued by the heritage of field sports and the natural world, the sale offers a rare opportunity to acquire extraordinary items.
To arrange a free and confidential valuation with one of Duke’s specialists, contact enquiries@dukes-auctions.com or phone 01305 265080.
insurance valuations or full or part house clearances phone Richard Clarke or Karen Marshall at The Old Glove Factory, Buckingham Road, Gillingham SP8 4QF on 01747 685592
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by Sally Gregson
IT seems such an exaggeration to call what we do to persuade hyacinths and other early bulbs, ‘forcing’. They hardly need any encouragement to grow and flower. It’s the flowering time that we try and control. As gardeners all we have to do is to plant the bulbs at that correct time.
In early December supermarkets and garden centres like to sell pots of blue, pink and white hyacinth that are at just the right stage to open their flowers at around Christmas-time, but for any other coloured hyacinths, or any other bulbs, it’s up to the gardener to prepare them.
There are lesser-known colour-ways of hyacinth –beetroot-red ‘Distinction’, pale yellow H. ‘City of Harlem’ or
palest apricot ‘Gipsy Queen’, whose bulbs are available online. They could be ‘forced’ into flower at the darkest time of year when the Christmas festivities are over, spring is far away and there can seem so little to gladden the heart. Prepare the pots by midOctober using ordinary potting compost. Place the bulbs close together without touching, with their pointy tops showing by about 1-2cm above the soil line. Water the pots thoroughly, drain them and place them in a cold, dark place – about 35 centigrade – for at least 12 weeks. If the bulbs start to pull themselves out of the soil in the meantime, gently push them back and put on a layer of grit to weight them down without covering them entirely. Grow the bulbs on until the shoots have reached about
Hyacinths come in a wide variety of colours
2.5cm, then move them to a light, cool but frost-free spot. A spare bedroom windowsill is ideal. They will flower within days of being brought into the warmth.
Other bulbs can be treated similarly. Little pots of diminutive Iris danfordiae start flowering very early in the year. Their perfume is remarkable. And the flowers of I. histrioides
are like coloured dragonflies perched on a shoot drying their wings. Try I. h. ‘George’ with huge purple and green flowers, or I. reticulata ‘Harmony’ in a delicate pale blue with a good perfume. All these species have very short stems and want to flower early in the year. They will fill a windowsill like bright butterflies. Spring cannot be far away.
by Sally Gregson
WITH autumn and winter fast approaching, most gardeners’ thoughts turn to tidying up and cutting back the herbaceous beds and borders. All that top-growth is a precious resource for a gardener with a compost heap or three.
The onset of autumn is a good time to start constructing them in a quiet corner of the garden. Each should be at least a cubic metre in dimension. Research has found that smaller heaps do not work properly. And if you have room for three bins, use one to put on the garden, one to rot down and one to fill with material for composting.
Ideally that material should comprise:
n Green garden cuttings, not too many woody pieces, and cut up smaller than the width of the heap
n Uncooked vegetable waste
n Annual weeds that are not seeding
n The tops of perennial weeds with their seedheads and roots cut off
n Grass cuttings mixed with any of the above
n Fallen leaves
n Torn-up
dandelions, docks, bindweed, ground elder etc
n Seeding weeds
newspapers and brown paper
And should not include:
n Perennial weeds –
n Meat and fish scraps and bones – which just attract rats
n Coal ash –although wood ash in moderation is fine
n Diseased plants
n Animal litter
n Plastic – such as nappies
n Glossy magazines
And the heap may well need watering in very dry weather. The male members of the family could be advised to recycle their beer onto the
heap – uric acid is the main constituent of commercial compost accelerators.
A cubic metre of compost will take several months to rot down to the texture of Christmas cake, so by early spring it will be ready to dress the borders in the garden.
There is never enough to go round, so prioritise the vegetable garden, and once we have had enough rain, put it on the sunny garden. Not only will homemade compost add lots of nutrients, it will improve the texture of the soil. Next year, come rain or shine, the border soil will be in good heart, and ready to withstand constant downpours or another drought. Or, it is hoped, just a ‘normal’ English summer.
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AS much of the garden seemingly goes into decline in late autumn, there is a tendency to head out and tidy everything up in the shrub and herbaceous borders.
It’s your garden and you are entitled to do this but spare a thought for the wildlife that might still be enjoying such plantings.
Because of this they make quite long growth which ends up waving around in the autumn and winter winds.
At the base of the plant where the trunk meets the ground this can cause a gap to appear into which water can collect and then freeze in the hard winter frosts leaving an ‘ice lolly’ effect.
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The seed heads from late summer and autumn flowering are great food sources for birds and small mammals, and the debris is a place of refuge for many insects and larger creatures such as hedgehogs.
By leaving the structure of these plants you will also be able to enjoy the wonderful features that occur with the autumn mists and then the early frosts.
Cobwebs formed between plants make extraordinary frameworks and are revealed in such conditions.
These displays may only be seen by early risers, but they can be quite spectacular.
Some important work does need doing, including the pruning of shrubs, such as buddleia, mallow and fruit, including raspberries.
Buddleia – the large, flowered type – and mallow flower on the
This then suggests that the stems need hard pruning but if all the branches are removed it will expose the centre of the plant, where next year’s growth is gathering, to the cold in a tough winter.
The dilemma caused can be solved by a halfway house approach where the branches are pruned by about a third before the winter and then another third in early spring.
Autumn raspberries, too, will need to be hard pruned after the fruiting finishes, which involves cutting all the hard ‘canes’ on which the fruit has been forming back to the ground.
This leaves the soft ‘spawn’ which will grow the following spring and summer and to fruit once again late in summer and into autumn.
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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
GARDEN AND PLANTING DESIGN. Wildlife gardens and meadows. Expert gardening, plant care and advice. Extensive plant knowledge. Call Stephen and Claire at Manyberries 01963 441454. www.manyberries.co.uk
SOLID SUPERKING WOODEN BED FRAME and optional mattress £250
Tel: 07702-032322
A GARDENER AVAILABLE to work for 2days per week in Blandford area. 20 years experience.
Tel: 07989-166624
EX-DISPLAY SHEDS, Stables/field shelters, summerhouses, offices, workshops, agricultural 01935 891195
FENCING ALL TYPES
undertaken, domestic, farm, equestrian, new work or repair. Also chainsawing, fallen or dead trees, hedging, coppicing etc.
07968-049218
Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.
JACKS AFFORDABLE TREE CARE 07936-498493
WALK BEHIND BRUSHCUTTER AND OPERATOR HIRE. Paddock,orchards and neglected area clearance 07432 773151
VARIOUS GAZEBOS/ MARQUEES (4), outside tables (6) and outside chairs (22) for sale either together or separately.
Tel: 07702-032322
ALL GARDEN
WORK. All types of garden maintenance, improvements, tidy-ups and structural repairs. Qualified, insured and over 20 years experience. Call Jo on 07706-417594, 01747-824484
SELF DRIVE DIGGER AND DUMPER HIRE
01258 861647
TREES R US DORSET Hedges, Patios, Turf & Fencing call Peter 07976-667130
LOGS
BLACKMORE VALE LOG SPLITTING AND CHIPPING
- Your local mobile service07760 469411
SEASONED HARDWOOD LOGS
£200 transit load
£110 half load 01258-880892 07980-036250
GOOD QUALITY
SEASONED HARDWOOD for sale
Barn-stored Any size of load. If you want anymore help contact Andy 07773-254174
SEASONAL LOGS.
Barn dry. Mainly Ash. 20 miles radius of Sherborne. Preferably evenings01935 815534.
LOGS FOR SALE
transit tipper load £260
Half transit tipper load £160 Dumpy bag £100 TEL: 07450-435993 or 07846-345294
LOGS R US
Tipper Load £200
Half Tipper Load £100 dumpy bag £90 All hardwood 07790 404593 01258 818081
MAN WITH MICRO-DIGGER & 1.5TON DIGGER, stump grinder, Garden clearance, patios, fencing, decking, landscaping, driveways 30+ years’ experience
Contact Ken 07882 441873 / 01963 32034
A GREAT OPPORTUNITY FOR A CARING GARDENER to maintain a small wildlife meadow in Shaftesbury Town overlooking The Black More Vale. On average a day a month. Call - 07768-876255 or email perkins.andrew@gmail.com
HUSSEY CARPET AND FLOORING, South Street, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 4AP Domestic and Commercial Carpets,Vinyl,Luxury Vinyl Tiles, Laminate and Wood Flooring. Contact Chris Hussey 07885-273470 husseyflooring@gmail.com
Garages, Sheds, Lean to’s, Roofing and Cladding Collection and Dismantling BY Registered Hazardous Waste Carrier Call 07973 444620 or 01722 414478
Local, friendly, family business. CAD drawings available on request. Contact Philip on: 07902 003573 obrienp307@gmail.com
Established over 40 years
Phone: 07979 210 074 / 01747 855 280
E: andy@sandsltd.biz w: www.sturgessandsturgess.com
Handrails.Gates. Railings. Repairs. Restoration. 01258 880301
L R MASONRY GENERAL BUILDER, Stone work, Brick work 07971-982565 llewie30roberts@gmail.com
JOHNSTON BUILDING AND PROPERTY MAINTANCE. Mere 07704-419195
G ROSE PLASTERING.
For all your Plastering needs
Experienced and reliable Phone Gavin 07766-243762
HANDYMAN, reliable and experienced Call Chris 07413 678076
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.
gravel, cement and topsoil supplied
Trade & DIY. Supplied loose or collected.
Small or large loads also bulk bag materials & small handy bags.
Muck-away service of inert materials
Trusted family-run business, ring for enquiries 01747 826107
TF Plant, 8 Brickfields Industrial Estate, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 4JL
JAYS CARPETS
FREE ESTIMATES
Open 7 days week
Supply/fit Carpets Vinyls Underlay Gripper Doorbars Next Day Fitting Available Professional with over 20 years experience. www.jayscarpets.com 07790340846
STEVE ADAMS CHIMNEY SWEEPING HETAS registered woodburner and flue installer. Birdguards and cowls 07932 655267
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 5million.
CHRIS THE SWEEP Friendly and fully insured. Evening and weekend appointments available. 07725-112160
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
Manual and Power Sweeping, Stove Servicing and Maintenance, Camera Inspections, Property Maintenance 07368 250305/01747 590799
Manual and Power Sweeping, Stove Servicing and Maintenance, Camera Inspections, Property Maintenance. 07368 250305 / 01747 590799
NVQ Qualified. APICS Registered Friendly, Reliable Service longthorpeindustries@gmail.com
NVQ Qualified, APICS Registered Friendly, Reliable Service longthorpeindustries@gmail.com
Upgrades, Computer/Software Tuition Call Gregg on 01963 370713
• Plastering rendering exterior decorating
years experience. Fully
clean & tidy. References available. FREE no obligation quote. Tel: 07921-783296 / 01305-849380
07984 524446
philipstirk@ btinternet.com
BEIGE RISER RECLINER CHAIR. Ex.condition. Motcombe area. £300. ono. Tel: 01747-855719
MIGHTY MAC, Leaf vacuum/Mulcher, 9hp. Almost new condition. £500. Tel: 01747-828036
VOLT HYBRID ELECTRIC BIKE. Very low mileage Genuine Reason For Sale. £700 ONO. Tel: 01747-824447
TWO ELECTRIC BIKES not used much, batteries need attention but are still usable. £250 each or £450 for both. Wincanton 07984-008563.
IMAX THERMO SEA FISHING SUIT. Penn and Orvis Fishing Rods & Reels. VGC, Offers considered. Tel: 07549-194494 / 01747-811739
Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.
MEN’S LEATHER BRIEFCASEBlack. £5. Tisbury 07960 914925.
TOWER CORDLESS CLEANER. £5. Tel: 01963-350118
COWORKER AIR FRYER unwanted gift £45. Tel: 07931-177614
BRASS ORNAMENTS, for fireside. £10. Tel: 07791-847767
5 GENTS T-SHIRTS. Various colours. Size small 38-40 chest. Wrong size purchased. £12. 01202-861588
2 PAIRS WIDE LEG LINEN TROUSERS with elasticated waist, denim blue and stone size L/XL £12 each. 07956 123595
8ft CHRISTMAS GARLAND with battery lights £12, 4 bags (100 pieces per bag) Christmas tree baubles £7 each. 01747 824482.
WAX WATERPROOF GILET worn once 52” chest Double zip 4 pockets £20 Gillingham 07769 708992
34 SOUTHAMPTON MATCH DAY programmes as new ranging from 1999 to 2003 and Matt Le Tiissier testimonial £40 Ono 07971-118899 Shaftesbury
CHILD BED, GOOD QUALITY; size 190cm x 82 cm. Wooden frame with2 mattresses both in good condition. £30. Tel: 07866-214074
SLIDE PROJECTOR AND SCREEN. £40 Tel 01747 838574
SKY BOX WITH CONTROLLER good working order £5. 01747 853294
FOLD UP BED, 2ft 6” with headboard. £40. Tel: 01725-552358
LARGE ROUND WALL CLOCK. Still in box. Brand new. £10. 07886-538350
VERY LARGE RUCSAC with items inside for army cadets/air cadets. With all extras for Duke of Edinburgh. Excellent condition. £30. 07833-641242
RECUMBENT EXERCISE
BIKE- Confidence make .Hardly used.£50.00 o.n.o. Wincanton. 07840-986402
HP COPIER/SCANNER, Needs some attention, new black cartridge and part used colour cartridge £20, 01258 860111
LOVELY 6 STRING GUITAR
Palma pl50 cost over £100 absolute bargain £35 01747-822422
A SET OF 13 PAPER BACKS by Colin Dexter. Inspector Morse Mysteries. plus 2 others, £10. Tel: 01935-507375
QUALCAST 15” ELECTRIC MOWER for sale £20. tel 01258 454021, mob 07712-729098
BABY POND GOLDFISH, born in pond. FREE to collect. Tel: 01749-346838 Stan
DOUBLE FRENCH BED FRAME with rails. Green padded head & foot board, lovely wood. £30. Tel: 0744 361 5332
SCH STURDY HEAVY WEIGHT ROLLER for Ride on Mower. With attachment for carrying ballast on weight tray. £45. Kings Stag, 01258-817300
DINING ROOM CHAIRS. Set of four. Teak finishes. Solid timber. Fabric seats. Clean & tidy condition. £40-00. Please Tel: 0196333160
COLLAPSIBLE
LADDER,extends to 3.3 metres, used only once. £50. Telephone 07791-916017
ELECTRIC HEDGE TRIMMER AHS 45-16 VGC TEL.07719-409647 £30
5.5mtrs (18ft) ROBUST STAINLESS steel slide. (no stand) collection only. Tel: 01963-32535
VINTAGE SINGER SEWING MACHINE no 28 in very good condition with ascessories and instruction manual and case £20 01747 835680
JIGSAW PUZZLES x 12 good condition 500 & mainly 1000 piece puzzles £15 lot 01747 835680
HORSEWARE MIO TURNOUT
RUG, no fill with neck cover 6’6” vgc. £20 Tel. 07543679877 Blandford area
VINTAGE WOODEN, TRAVEL
TRUNK, metal clasps, Shabby Chic, inside needs TLC. Collection only Milton on Stour. £25. Tel: 07887-863996
ELECTRICAL HOT PLATE -
Tchibo. 850 watt. New in box. Half price £20. Telephone 01935 814404 ( Sherborne)
FREE BOW FRONTED GLASS display cabinet. Also other items of furniture etc. From £5-£45. Tel: 01747-840835
SOLID GOLDEN PINE BEDSIDE chest of 3 drawers. W: 19 1/2” H: 25” D: 19 1/2”. £30. 07860-969868.
1000 PIECE PUZZLE like new, £2.50 each,wasgis,ravens etc, 01747 851296, Speak loud clear slowly hard of hearing
CHILDS PINE BED and mattress nearly new from’Strictly Beds and Bunks UK’ £50, 07933-739312
ELEPHAS HOME MOVIE PROJECTOR As new. £30 Tel: 01747 860884
EKCO HOSTESS FOOD WARMER, Table Top, 4 glass dishes with lids £50. Tel 01747 812419
SOLID PINE ROUND TABLE, on pedestal and two matching chairs. All quite good condition £25. Tel 0781 8345464
HOSTAS x 3, well established variegated plants in 30cm pots £12 each. Buyer collects. W.Whitechurch. 07704-574835 3-4 SEATER LEATHER-LOOK SOFA, as new. £45. Tel: 01258-452749
14 x 1000 4 x 500 JIGSAW puzzles job lot £30 Shaftesbury 01747 855091 evenings
ELNA LOTUS COMPACT
SEWING machine plus oil and cleaning brush, VGC. £45 07749-810627
MODERN WOODEN PIANO stool with storage in seat, Buyer collect £20 01747830656
2 x PAIRS SAMUEL WINDSOR handmade leather gents shoes size 10. 1 pair brown brogues, the other black dress shoes. £50. Tel: 07842 120313
10 x 1000 PIECE JIGSAWS, various makes and themes. £20 Tel 01747 826085
2 SEATER MULTIYORK SOFA with loose cover & cushions. 32” high 56.5” long 31” wide. Wareham 01929-555031 £30
SOMEONE WHO LOVES TYPING! To type up hand written manuscript into word document. Must have sense of humour. Good rates of pay. Tel: 07929-184132
00 or N Guage. Trains, Carriages, Rolling Stock. Good Prices Paid and we collect. Call Andrew 07799-417711
OLD BOOKS BOUGHT. Will call by appointment entirely without obligation. Bristow & Garland 07392 602014
PETER ROBERT BROWN Deceased
Pursuant to the Trustee Act 1925 anyone having a claim against or an interest in the Estate of the deceased, late of Stourcliffe, Common Mead Lane, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4RE, who died on 08/06/2025, must send written particulars to the address below by 27/11/2025, after which date the Estate will be distributed having regard only to claims and interests notified Farnfields Solicitors, The Square, Gillingham, SP8 4AX Ref: 91332-0001
50 Years. Golden Wedding Anniversary.
On Saturday 27th September, 1975 at Somerton Congratulations & Love from the Family. xx
Passed away peacefully on 10th September 2025 in Yeovil District Hospital, aged 92 years, of Stalbridge. Beloved Dad, Gramps and friend. Private cremation. A Celebration of Colin’s life will take place at Stalbridge Hall on Monday 20th October, 10.00am - 1.00pm.
Colin devoted his time to Stalbridge Hall for 50 years.
Donations if desired, for Dorset & Somerset Air ambulance Trust and Stalbridge Hall. 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
At the age of 88, Jean of Milton Abbas, Dorset, formerly of Llangeitho and Aberystwyth, sadly died on Sunday, 7 September 2025. Loving wife of Mostyn, caring mother of Mark, kind stepmother to Alex, Bruce & Jane and cherished sister of Marian & Keith. A primary school teacher at Taliesin, Penparcau and Plascrug, in Aberystwyth until retiring and moving to Dorset. A valued member of “Knees Up” in Blandford for many years.
Public funeral service at 2pm on Thursday, 25th September 2025 at Lesley Shand Blandford Service Chapel, 28 East Street, Blandford Forum, Dorset DT11 7DR with a memorial service to follow in Llangeitho in late 2025 / early 2026. Family flowers only.
Donations in memory of Jean towards Friends of Yeatman Hospital, Sherborne or Dementia UK. Details: c/o Peter Short, Lesley Shand Funeral Services 01258 453425 or www.funeraldirector.co.uk/funeral/jean-rowlands-phelps
Of Gillingham. Passed away at home on September 4th 2025, aged 90 years.
A loved and loving lady who will be sadly missed but fondly remembered by all her family and friends. Funeral service to take place at Yeovil Crematorium on Thursday 2nd October at 10:40. Family flowers only please.
Donations for Children in Need via: marjorierennard.muchloved.com or by cheques made payable to Children In Need, C/o The Co-operative Funeralcare, 2 High Street, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 4QT
Aged 93 years of Bourton, On 30th August 2025. Peacefully at Yeovil District Hospital. A much loved Dad, Grampy, Great Grandad, Brother, Uncle and Friend. Funeral Service at Yeovil crematorium on Monday 13th October at 12noon. Family flowers only please. Donations in memory of Dennis are being invited for Silton Surgery, C/o Harold F Miles, Funeral Director, South Cadbury, BA22-7ES, Tel: 01963-440367
Of East Stour. Passed away peacefully at Yeovil District Hospital on 22nd August 2025 aged 86 years. Much loved and sadly missed.
Funeral service to be held at Yeovil Crematorium on Friday 3rd October at 14.40. Family flowers only please, but donations if desired can be made to Shelter by using this link: annmorphew.muchloved.com
On 18th September 2025, peacefully in The Cedars Nursing Home. Aged 86 years, of Shaftesbury. Devoted Husband of Sue, a proud Father of eleven and a loving Grandad, who will be greatly missed and forever in our hearts. Funeral service takes place at St Peter’s Church, Shaftesbury on Wednesday 15th October at 12.00 noon. Donations in his memory for the Stroke Association and Salisbury Hospice Charity 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.
Passed away peacefully at home September 8th 2025. Much loved Mum, Nan, Sister and Friend x
On 25th August 2025, peacefully in Salisbury District Hospital aged 90 years. Of Shaftesbury.
Beloved Mother of Vicky, Philippa, Andrew, William and James. Grandmother of Thomas, Ben, Oliver and Alice.
A Service of Thanksgiving will be celebrated at St John’s Church, Enmore Green at 12.00 noon on Thursday 9th October. Donations in her memory for Enmore Green Church may be made in the retiring collection, 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.
Peacefully on 5th September 2025, aged 64 years, at home surrounded by her loving family.
Beloved daughter of Vic Chaffey, dear sister of Colin, devoted wife of Malcom, and cherished mum to Debbie, Ricky, Vikki and Shane. A much-loved nanny to Tia, Ruby, Kelci, Max and Louie. Julie will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her. Funeral service to take place at Yeovil Crematorium on Thursday 2nd October at 12.00 noon. Family flowers only please. Donations in memory of Julie may be made to St Margaret’s Hospice.
Passed away peacefully on 16th September 2025 in Yeovil District Hospital, aged 96 years, of Templecombe. Reunited with his beloved Wife, Margaret. Much loved Father, Grandfather, Great Grandfather, Brother-in-law, Uncle and friend.
Funeral service at Yeovil Crematorium on Tuesday, 14th October at 12.40pm. Family flowers only please. Donations if desired, in memory of Jeff for Somerset Sight and St. Margaret’s Hospice can be made online at peterjacksonfuneralservices.co.uk
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
Frances of Stalbridge passed away peacefully on 3rd September 2025 at the Yeatman Hospital, aged 81 years. Much loved wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Funeral Service at Yeovil Crematorium on Friday 3rd October 2025, at 3.20pm. Family flowers only please, but donations if desired for Macmillan Cancer Care and The Stroke Association, may be sent to Grassby & Close Funeral Service, 4 Innes Court, Sturminster Newton, DT10 1BB, Tel: 01258 471024 or made online by visiting www.grassbyclose-funeral.co.uk
On 17th September 2025, peacefully in Ashton Manor N/H, Farnham, aged 92 years. Formerly of Motcombe. Wife of the late Julian, Mother to Nicholas, Henrietta and Dominic, Grandmother to Theo. Funeral service takes place at St Mary’s Church, Motcombe on Tuesday 7th October at 12.00 noon. No flowers please. Donations to PCC of Motcombe can be made online at www.mhfd.co.uk or sent c/o Merefield & Henstridge F/D, Ridgemount, Pitts Lane,West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 0BU. Tel: 01747 853532.
17/07/1944 - 15/08/2025
Died suddenly on August 15th. Greatly loved by his family and hugely enjoyed by all his friends, he had a wonderful life in different parts of the world and he will be sorely missed. A private cremation will be followed later by a Mass of Celebration on Friday October 17th at 11am at St Mary’s RC Church, Old Mill Lane, Marnhull, DT10 1JX No black clothes please and no flowers. Donations if wished to DePaul UK (charity for Youth Homelessness) Sherborne House, 34 Decima St. London SE1 4QQ
Of Motcombe, passed away unexpectedly on Monday 1st September, 2025. A truly special lady who will be missed by so many. A Service of Thanksgiving will be held at Motcombe Methodist Church on Monday 6th October at 12:30pm If you wish to make a donation in memory of Margaret, it will be divided equally between Langley Trust and Motcombe Methodist Church and may be made in the retiring collection, 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.
Peel Close, BLANDFORD FORUM Tel: 01258 453133
Peel Close, BLANDFORD FORUM Tel: 01258 453133
www.close-funeral.co.uk
www.close-funeral.co.uk
GRASSBY & CLOSE
GRASSBY
Innes Ct, STURMINSTER NEWTON Tel: 01258 471024
www.grassbyclose-funeral.co.uk
Innes Ct, STURMINSTER NEWTON Tel: 01258 471024 www.grassbyclose-funeral.co.uk
GRASSBY
GRASSBY
27a High Street, SHAFTESBURY
Tel: 01747 440815
27a High Street, SHAFTESBURY
www.grassbyshaftesbury-funeral.co.uk
Tel: 01747 440815
www.grassbyshaftesbury-funeral.co.uk
J Wakely
&
Funeral
Independent Family Funeral Directors
Independent Family Funeral Directors
Independent Family Funeral Directors
Independent Family Funeral Directors
Family Funeral Directors
Choice of Hearses available including our Land Rover Hearse
Independent Family Funeral Directors
When your family suffers the loss of a loved one, we are here to support, guide and reassure youevery step of the way
Choice of Hearses available including our Land Rover Hearse
Choice of Hearses available including our Land Rover Hearse
Choice of Hearses available including our Land Rover Hearse
Choice of Hearses available including our Land Rover Hearse
– 24 Hour Service –
– 24 Hour Service –
Independent Family Funeral Directors
Independent Family Funeral Directors
Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817
– 24 Hour Service –
– 24 Hour Service –
Choice of Hearses available including our Land Rover Hearse
available including our Land Rover Hearse
– 24 Hour Service –
Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817
– 24 Hour Service –
Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817
Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310
Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817
Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310
Hour Service –
Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817
Please call Teresa or Daniel for an appointment
Pre-payment plans available
Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310
Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817
Pre-payment plans available
Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310
Please contact Richard Wakely, or a member of our dedicated team for any advice or guidance.
Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310
Please contact Richard Wakely, or a member of our dedicated team for any advice or guidance.
Pre-payment plans available
Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310
Choice of Hearses available including our Land Rover Hearse
Tel: 01963 31310
Choice of Hearses available including our Land Rover Hearse
Pre-payment plans available
– 24 Hour Service –
Pre-payment plans available
Please contact Richard Wakely, or a member of our dedicated team for any advice or guidance.
Pre-payment plans available Tel: 01935 816817
contact Richard Wakely, or a member of our dedicated team for any advice or guidance.
Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817
Pre-payment plans available
Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817
Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310 – 24 Hour Service –
Please contact Richard Wakely, or a member of our dedicated team for any advice or guidance.
Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310
contact Richard Wakely, or a member of our dedicated team for any advice or guidance.
Pre-payment plans available
Pre-payment plans available
member of our dedicated team for any advice or guidance.
Please contact Richard Wakely, or a member of our dedicated team for any advice or guidance.
Please contact Richard Wakely, or a member of our dedicated team for any advice or guidance.
CLASSIFIED ADS Place your ad today
100 Lenthay Road, Sherborne DT9 6AG Email: info@wsbrister.com 01935 812647
Classified Ads call 01963 400186
Woodside Court, Woodside Dairy Yard, Sparkford BA22 7LH Email: info@wsbrister.com 01963 850165
www.wsbrister.com
SUPPORT FOR YOU. Experienced, reliable, personal assistant. Available to support you in your own home. Support with shopping, appointments, meal preparation and domestic duties. Over 40 years experience. Current DBS. Tel: 01747-840357 / 07535-034810
An opportunity has arisen to join a small garden team in a very beautiful and extensive private garden in Somerset. The successful applicant will either have varied experience and/or good horticultural instincts with an active desire to learn more. Salary will realistically reflect experience and potential.
Please contact Kay Brewer at: kayfbrewer@gmail.com
EXPERIENCED
GARDENER WANTED 1 day a week (flexible). Near Child Okeford. 07730128082.
WANTED. FARM WORKER, on dairy farm in Sturminster Newton. Tel: 01258-472050
RELIEF MILKER REQUIRED, every other weekend. Family farm near Sturminster Newton. 220 cows. Excellent rate of pay. Call 07944-392177
VACANCY FOR PARISH CLERK/RESPONSIBLE FINANCIAL OFFICER, KILMINGTON (WILTSHIRE)
PARISH COUNCIL, Six meetings a year plus occasional extra planning meetings. Average of 12 hours per month. Salary in line with Local Authority (NJC) salary scales depending on experience. Must have experience of Word, Excel and Outlook. A council laptop and training will be provided. A job specification can be obtained by contacting parishclerk@kilmingtonwiltshire.org. Closing date for expressions of interest 31 October with interviews the following week.
TEMPLAR TRANSPORT - HGV CLASS 1 DRIVER required. Experience preferred, various shifts available covering weekends/days, full and part time positions available, possible overnights required. Please contact Tom mobile No 07739-618069
SKILLED SITE CARPENTER
Experienced (1st & 2nd Fix). Full time
Highfield House Residential Care Home for elderly people in Castle Cary.
We are seeking candidates who have experience in working with
people who had a passion for providing excellent standards of care and support in a warm and friendly setting. We will provide Full and Ongoing Training and Support.
For Further details please contact Rachel on 01963 350697 Or email – manager@highfieldhouse.net
Isuzu FA Trophy 2nd
Qualifying Round
Shaftesbury 2
Falmouth Town 2
(Shaftesbury win 4-1 on penalties)
by Avril Lancaster
TWO early goals from Jack Lovell put Shaftesbury in the driving seat early on.
The former Wimborne Town player scored almost straight after the kick-off and Leighton Thomas set him up to head in the second goal 10 minutes later.
The very windy conditions made it difficult for both teams, but Falmouth Town struck back when Jack Webber netted from
close range on 32 minutes.
Luke Barner levelled the tie when he drilled the ball home in the 72nd minute.
Both sides had chances in the closing stages but with no more goals the tie had to be decided by penalties.
It was Shaftesbury’s second penalty shoot-out in a week and Alefe Santos DAbadia, Lovell, Harry Baker and Jack Hoey all scored, with Kian Thomas converting for Falmouth Town.
Ben Taylor saved the second kick from Harrison Jewell and sent the home side through to the next round.
Emirates FA Cup 2nd Qualifying Round replay
Frome Town 1
Shaftesbury 1 (Frome Town win 5-3 on penalties) by Avril Lancaster
THE old adage ‘magic of the cup’ is rampaging through the lower leagues, as fans and players get swept along a footballing wave.
Jack Hoey got the crowd bouncing after slotting home
Toby Holmes’ ball into the box with just two minutes on the clock to put Jim Milligan’s Shaftesbury team ahead.
Hoey had another chance after Frome’s keeper Kyle Philips spilt a through ball and hit the post.
Toby Holmes then forced Philips into a last ditch save as the visitors applied early pressure.
Frome Town had several chances as the game swung in their favour and levelled when George Dowling barged into the area to fire past Ben Taylor in the 29th minute.
The second half saw the Rockies’ Charlie Rayfield sent off for stopping a clear goalscoring opportunity.
Frome then had Theo Lynden sent off in the 63rd minute.
The Rockies defended heroically and took the game to extra time and ultimately the penalty spot, but the Robins put away all five kicks, David Duru sending them through to face AFC Totton in Hampshire in the next round.
MERE Mortals Petanque Club dominated the Nadder & Stour Petanque League’s finals day at Broad Chalke PC.
Colin and Anne Senneck won the League Doubles KO for the third year in a row, and the League Triples KO, when they were joined by Geoff Troman, on a very wet day.
Mere Mortals also won the Nadder division of the league for the first time with Tisbury
Tossers runners-up, but just lost out in the division challenge to Royal Oak Seedlings who took the League Trophy.
Mere Mortals meet all through the year at the old swimming pool site, next to Mere Primary School, on Tuesdays from 6pm – until the clocks change; Wednesdays at 2.30pm; and Saturdays at
WINCANTON Golf Club results.
Seniors Monthly Stableford, September 9: 1 Kevin Bieda 37 ocb; 2 Pete Starkey 37; 3 Dave Shean 36 ocb; 4 Jon Reed 36. Seniors Nine-Hole Monthly Stableford – September 9: 1 Alan Rogers 20; 2 Philip Dewar 17 ocb; 3 Derek King 17. Seniors Roll-Up Stableford – September 12: Winners: John Westaway/Cliff Hibberd/Rick Graham – 51 points.
Monthly Stableford –September 13: Jim Phillips 35; 2 Jim Stephen 33 ocb; 3 David Ivey 33.
Seniors Monthly Medal –September 16: 1 Andy Blandford nett 71 ocb; 2 Kees Schouten nett 71; 3 John Westaway nett 72.
Seniors Monthly Nine-Hole Medal – September 16: 1 Malcolm Faulkner nett 37; 2 Derek King nett 40 ocb; 3 Harry Eden nett 40.
Seniors Roll-Up Stableford back nine – September 19: Winners: Pete Starkey/Philip Dewar/Andy Blandford – 51 points.
10.30am.
Newcomers and groups are always welcome to go along and play petanque on the club’s four-lane terrain.
Boules and instruction are provided, and fun is guaranteed, say the club – contact Colin on 01747-706008 or email colin2423@sky.com
The Nadder & Stour League is sponsored by Stone Daisy Brewery.
Blandford & Sturminster Men’s Hockey 3
Salisbury 4s 1 by Paul Cross BLANDFORD Men, having through a quirk of fate achieved a double promotion, entered a new league against familiar foes.
Salisbury 4s were Blandford’s nemesis last season, beating them home and away, ultimately pushing Blandford into second place.
However, it quickly became clear that Blandford had spent the summer, not only upgrading their kit, – thanks to generous sponsorship from The White
Horse, Stourpaine – but also their side and, despite an early scare, quickly put Salisbury under unprecedented pressure.
It didn’t take long for the pressure to pay off.
Finn Hardiman won a short-corner, driving down the left and goading the Salisbury defence into a clumsy tackle.
The ensuing short-corner broke to his dad, Gaz, who stepped past the charging Salisbury defence, before calmly slotting the ball into the back of the net.
Blandford continued to press,
and nine minutes later another drive from Finn led to another short, giving Blandford the chance to double their advantage.
Up stepped captain Matty Lewis, who let rip an absolute rocket, to make the score 2-0.
Two minutes later and Blandford put the game beyond doubt.
A rare attack from Salisbury was stifled and quickly cleared to the midfield dynamos, Mitchinson and Lewis.
The latter played the ball into the D, into the path of Finn Hardiman, who slotted the ball inside the right post to give
Blandford and Sturminster Ladies 5
Salisbury 3s 1 by Hannah Waters
THE hockey season is well and truly underway for Blandford and Sturminster Ladies.
Just five minutes into their first match with Salisbury 3s, Caroline Smith scored the season opener, sweeping in a cross from the right to give Blandford Ladies the upper hand.
Less than a minute later, Susan Boveniser put her name on the score sheet, with her trademark reverse sweep,
TRIATHLETE Daisy Davies, 23, who lives just outside Sherborne, has become the youngest female winner in the European Elite Long Distance Triathlon Championships in Almere, Netherlands.
The event, which has been running for over 40 years, brings professional triathletes together from across Europe. The mammoth race consists of a 3.8km swim, 180km bike and 42.2km run. Despite blustery conditions, Daisy completed the course in
putting the score at 2-0. Salisbury 3s rallied, scoring from a short corner that deflected on the back post.
The goal brought Salisbury back into the game, but Blandford Ladies showed their depth, making some tactical substitutions.
With an array of strong defenders to choose from, Lauren Hayes was brought forward from her usual spot in the defensive line and placed in an unfamiliar position on the left wing. Her debut goal made
an incredible in 8hrs 30mins – 53 minutes swim, 4-36 bike, 2-56 run – in what was her first race over the longdistance format.
Daisy, who trains 30 hours a week while working parttime as a lifeguard at Oxley Sports Centre, has been competing in triathlons since she was 16.
She is supported by Apex Brewery and OffCamber Cycles.
Blandford a 3-0 win against an apparently shell-shocked Salisbury.
However, Salisbury were down, but not out.
A rare moment of Blandford complacency allowed Salisbury to sneak a goal back, quickly moving the ball up the pitch and into the Blandford net.
Four goals in a frenetic opening 17 minutes gave promise of more to come.
However, a stoic rearguard action from Salisbury and a lack of fluidity from Blandford resulted in plenty of action, but no final product and the game ended 3-1.
the score to 3-1.
Then it was time for the captain, Linda Smith, to have her say.
After some failed attempts to score from short corners, Blandford were finally warmed up, and Jenny Smith injected a ball like a bullet to her mother.
Linda passed to Susan, who rapidly returned it, allowing Linda to deflect the ball into the top left corner of the goal. The score at half time: 4-1.
The second half saw continued pressure from Blandford as Salisbury valiantly attempted to keep the scoreline
down.
To conclude a phenomenal opener, Linda ensured she finished the first game as top goal scorer.
Jenny sent a long hit into the D, which Linda picked up. The shot rebounded off the Salisbury goalkeeper and Linda followed up, finishing the game 5-1.
Player of the match was Lydia Harvey, in her Blandford and Sturminster Ladies debut, for some fantastic runs down the right side.
It was a great opener from last season’s Forest 1 league and Southwest Vase winners.
by Susanna Curtin
BY the time you read this, September will be nearly over. I must confess that although I love every twist and turn of our seasons, September is not one of my favourite months. Instead, it is a time I associate with the letting go of summer. As I child, I remember feeling quite glum at the prospect of my freedom being curtailed by my return to school, and troubled by the shorter evenings and the imminent migration of our iconic summer swallows who gather together in preparation for their long, impending journey south. So too, the chiffchaffs, willow warblers, whitethroats and blackcaps that graced the summer hedgerows. I still feel a sadness now at the thought of their departure. I know their place will be taken by the chattering fieldfares and redwings which will soon be our new companions for the winter but, even so, I will miss their presence along my walks. Despite these departures and the shortening days, the thing I
value most about September is its dramatic skies. Gone is the hazy humidity of high summer and in its place there is softer, mellow light, longer shadows and colourful sundowns as the sun rises and sets at a steeper angle.
I can’t remember the very first time I looked up at the sky with wonder, as a child’s eyes are so absorbed by their surrounds that the sky is just a ‘taken-for-granted’ thing. Yet I do recall that, for me, the sky became part of the fabric of my everyday very early on in four important ways – looking for shapes and symbols in the clouds with my grandmother, stargazing with my stepfather, bird watching with an aunt and flying in a light aircraft with my brother.
Up in the troposphere with him, I learned the truth about clouds and how they are highly complex organisms –sometimes benign and friendly, other times violent and monstrous. Many people assume that clouds are just
water vapour made from the restless evaporating particles that escape the earth from rivers, seas, lakes and vegetation. But if clouds were just vapour, then we wouldn’t be able to see them. It is only when the water particles rise, cool and condense back into liquid water, or ice crystals, that clouds are formed and they become visible.
I clearly remember the anxiety of taking off in the cramped confines of a twoseater Cessna through low-lying cloud. It felt as though we were on a fairground ride, bouncing around at the will of the Gods, clouds crashing past the windows at speed, solid but not solid, frightening, and uncontrollable with their feathering greyness, and then, at last, blueness again as we cut through the malevolence. Ever since these early days of flying, I have always loathed passing through them. Even now on passenger jets, the ascents and descents through the clouds gets me scrunching my toes and surreptitiously gripping the arms of my seat as the aircraft judders through air pockets, areas of differing pressures and ascending air currents. A huge sense of relief floods through me when peace and blueness is restored, and the clouds sit prettily beneath me.
But from the ground, the clouds in September can be totally beguiling and extremely variable. Just this week, there have been thunderstorms, rainbows, large, rounded mountainous clouds against a paling blue sky, and the heavy, grey, low-lying stratus that disappear by the evening. Then,
of course, there is the drama at the end of the shortening days, when vibrant sunsets with their deep orange glow and pink and purple streaks adorn the skies to the west.
For someone who has her head in the clouds, September 2025 has been a remarkable time for celestial evening events. It all began with sightings of the Northern Lights after a solar storm at the beginning of the month. Then on the 7th, I watched the total lunar eclipse from the cold, breezy summit of Okeford Hill with an equally shivering crowd armed with cameras – all of us mesmerised as we watched the Earth’s shadow retreat from the full moon. Through my binoculars, I could clearly see the Moon’s craters and mountain ridges against the sun’s dark shadow, depicting the dramatic surface of our cold satellite planet. Finally, Saturn was at its brightest on September 21 and the 22nd marked the autumn equinox when day and night are of equal length as the sun sits directly above the equator.
Whether it is day or night, I am constantly attuned to the sky above me, and I am not alone in this fascination. We have always been innately curious about the sky. Not only for its awe-inspiring beauty, but also for the sense of mystery and wonder it evokes about our place in the universe. When we gaze into its vastness and complexity, it affords us a sense of perspective and reminds us of our connection to this infinite universe.
n Dr Susie Curtin (email curtin.susanna@gmail.com).
by Kay Parkinson
REST should be simple. When you’re tired, you simply stop. Yet, for many people, the moment they slow down, an inner voice starts to chime in: “You should be doing something.” This voice can be so persistent that even enjoying a cup of tea becomes uneasy, as if you’re breaking an unspoken rule.
This discomfort with resting often stems from past conditioning. Perhaps you grew up in a household where idleness was frowned upon, where being still meant you were ‘wasting time’. Maybe your work environment glorified long hours and constant availability, turning exhaustion into a badge of honour. Over the years, this message becomes ingrained – rest must be earned and only comes after you have
‘done enough’.
The problem is that in a culture that glorifies busyness, achieving enough is rarely satisfied. We constantly move the goalposts, pushing through physical exhaustion and emotional strain until the idea of stopping feels unsafe. The result? Rest becomes something foreign – a luxury rather than a necessity.
I remember the first time I blocked out an entire afternoon with no agenda. I envisioned sinking into blissful relaxation. Instead, I found myself pacing the house, feeling restless and vaguely guilty. I kept mentally listing all the things I could be doing. It took time and a lot of self-compassion to realise that rest is a skill, and like any skill, it can be relearned.
A part of this relearning involves reframing what rest
means. It isn’t just the absence of productivity – it’s an essential component of it. Athletes incorporate rest days into their training because recovery makes them stronger. Nature follows a similar rhythm – fields lie fallow to yield better crops, and trees enter dormancy to bloom again in spring. Our bodies and minds follow similar cycles, whether we acknowledge them or not.
If doing ‘nothing’ feels impossible, you might start with active rest – read for pleasure, do slow stretching, journal or take a gentle walk. Over time, you can experiment with deeper forms of stillness, such as sitting in the garden without your phone, lying down and simply noticing your breath, or having a quiet evening without screens.
It’s important to ask yourself whose approval you are still seeking when you resist taking a
break. Often, our urge to keep pushing forward stems from the desire to meet old expectations set by parents, former bosses or even our own perfectionist tendencies. Recognising this can be the first step in giving yourself permission to rest. Rest is not a luxury – it is essential maintenance. It provides the necessary pause that makes the next step achievable. By honouring your need for rest, you’re not only taking care of yourself, you’re modelling a healthier rhythm for those around you, whether they are children, friends or colleagues. The truth is, we show up better for life when we are not running on empty. Rest is not a reward for living – it’s part of living well.
n Kay Parkinson is a therapist specialising in trauma, emotional neglect and the impact of shame on identity and self-worth. Kay’s work focuses on transforming shame through the lens of authentic honour. Visit: www.placetotalktherapies. co.uk.
FEW dishes capture comfort and elegance quite like a steaming bowl of French onion soup – it’s deliciously rich and easy to make at home.
Ingredients (serves 4)
6 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
50g unsalted butter
2 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 tsp sugar (helps caramelisation)
1 tbsp plain flour
200ml dry white wine
1.5l good-quality beef stock –or half beef, half chicken for lighter flavour
2 sprigs fresh thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
For the topping
1 baguette cut into thick slices
200g Gruyere cheese, grated
100g Comte cheese, grated
Caramelise the onions
In a heavy pot, melt the butter with olive oil over a medium heat.
Add the onions and cook slowly for 30-40 minutes, stirring often, until they turn deep golden brown.
Add garlic and sugar halfway through to boost sweetness and colour.
Build the base
Sprinkle flour over the onions, stir well and cook for two minutes to remove raw taste.
Deglaze with white wine, scraping up all caramelised bits from the bottom of the pot.
Simmer
Pour in the stock, add thyme and bay leaf.
Simmer gently for 30 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove thyme and bay leaf before serving.
Prepare the croutons
Toast the baguette slices until crisp and golden.
Assemble
Ladle hot onion soup into oven-safe pots or bowls.
Place a toasted baguette slice on top.
Mix the Gruyère and Comte, then generously cover the bread and edges of the soup with the cheese.
Gratinate
Place under a hot grill (broiler)
until the cheese is bubbling, golden and slightly crisp at the edges.
To serve
Bring the pot straight to the table while bubbling hot. Each spoonful should give you a mix of sweet, rich onion broth, the crunch of crouton and melted strands of Gruyère and Comté. n Annie des Forges, Director/ Chef, The Table Bruton. Annie Austin, Director/Host and Concierge Somerset Roadtrip.
We
We offer a wide range of beers, cider, wines and spirits as well as a range of
MORE than 1,800 children, many of whom would normally receive free school meals, took part in healthy lunchtime cookery classes during the summer holidays with The Friendly Food Club.
The charity, which encourages healthy eating through fun cooking, runs regular sessions at Sturminster Newton’s Vale Family Hub and is now urging Dorset businesses and charitable foundations to sponsor more of the ‘invaluable’ workshops.
“During the six-week holiday period our tutors delivered dozens of cooking sessions across the county as part of the Dorset and BCP Council Holiday Activity and Food (HAF) programmes,” said Liz Guilmant-Cush, chief executive of The Friendly Food Club (FFC).
“Children and young people learned to chop, peel and cook ingredients for their own healthy lunch in Sturminster Newton, Poole, Somerford and Weymouth, to name just a few, and as always their response was overwhelmingly positive, with many experiencing the fun and freedom of cooking for the first time, as well as the chance
to learn more about nutritious food choices and even discover new foods they might never have tried before.
“We are now appealing for more local businesses and charitable trusts with an interest in the wellbeing of their communities to come forward and sponsor healthy cooking sessions for children and families in their respective areas.”
Nearly one in two people across Dorset and BCP live with ‘food insecurity’, which can
mean worrying about running out of food, skipping meals to feed others or eating less nutritious food because of a lack of money.
“In sponsoring a cooking session, businesses can help bring people together, build their cooking skills, confidence and resilience to help break the cycle of food insecurity and protect the future health of our children in Dorset,” added Liz.
Vale Family Hub manager, Kim Voizey, said: “We have been hosting the FFC for
around three years and what they offer children is amazing.
“Whatever the size group, their tutors make it look effortless, and the children learn so much about healthy food and cooking while simply thinking they are having fun and eating lovely food.
“I’d love to see children all over benefiting from their cooking-based education. I think it’s invaluable.”
Jude Allen, HAF coordinator for Dorset Council, agrees. She said: “Our collaboration with The Friendly Food Club has made a real difference in our communities – offering children and families access to nutritious meals, hands-on cooking workshops and practical learning opportunities.
“Through these sessions, children have not only developed essential cooking skills and a better understanding of healthy eating, but they’ve also had a great time doing it.”
During 2025/26 the Friendly Food Club is rolling out an Early Years programme across BCP as well as offering accessible cooking sessions and working with more families across the county.
Businesses, organisations or individuals interested in funding Friendly Food Club sessions in their community are asked to email liz@thefriendlyfoodclub. org or visit www. thefriendlyfoodclub.org
THOUSANDS of car lovers attended the first ever John Haynes Classic car meet at Sparkford.
The rally celebrated 40 years of the Haynes Motor Museum and the life and legacy of the
founder from whom it takes its name.
The museum welcomed more than 3,000 enthusiasts, families and visitors to the event, which boasted five zones for petrolheads.
Hundreds of classic cars and a live stage line-up were on offer, alongside an Owners’ Car Zone, which showcased 300-plus classic cars and 11 car clubs.
Highlights included the MG SV car club and 1959 Aston Martin DB Mk III.
The Best in Show award went to a unique and meticulously-restored Volvo Amazon Estate.
The dedicated Motorcycle Zone generated extra excitement, with The Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club, Riders Motorcycles of Bridgwater and Maeving Electric Motorcycles creating an engaging display of twowheeled history and innovation.
Speakers on the stage included Edd China, Jon Bentley and Danny Hopkins, who shared stories and inspirational insights from the motoring world.
Meanwhile, the work of Mr Haynes was celebrated in the Machines and their Manuals zone, which featured dozens of vehicles paired with their Haynes Workshop manual.
Among the star exhibits were a Datsun 240Z, Ford Cortina Mk2 1600E and the judges’ favourite, the Morris Marina
1300L.
Elsewhere, the Outdoor Market hosted food stalls and traders offering everything from alloys to jewellery, alongside live music from the band Hopeville.
The Discovery Zones combined hands-on activities, educational displays and restored cars from the Haynes Heritage Engineering workshop.
Organisations such as Automotive Youth and Ariel Motor Company played a key part, sharing knowledge and showcasing engineering innovation.
Chris Scudds, chief executive of Haynes Motor Museum, said: “It was an absolutely fantastic day. We’ve celebrated a shared passion for the motorcar and motorbike, automotive history, John Haynes’ life and legacy, and the museum’s anniversary in a brilliant way.
“It’s been relaxed and friendly and everyone has had a great day. We are grateful to all who braved the weather – it was wonderful to see so many people inspired by the event, and we are already looking forward to next year.”
The John Haynes Classic will return on Sunday, September 6, 2026. For more details on the museum and the rally, call 01963 440804 or visit www.johnhaynesclassic.co.uk
A range of zones were on
ALMOST 100 drivers were convicted of drink-driving each day over a three-year period, according to new data.
Road safety charity IAM RoadSmart analysed information from the DVLA – obtained through a Freedom of Information request – which showed thousands of drivers were penalised for the offence between 2022 and 2024.
Drivers aged 25 to 39 were the most frequently penalised for drink-driving, with about 48,000 people in that age bracket receiving endorsements, followed by 40,000 drivers aged 40 to 65.
In contrast, 15,000 drivers aged 17 to 24 were penalised and 3,000 over-65s received points on their licence.
Drivers caught over the limit face automatic licence revocation, potential imprisonment and unlimited fines.
A DR20 endorsement for drink-driving also remains on a driving licence for 11 years, and a repeat offence within a decade triggers a longer disqualification period.
The research by IAM RoadSmart estimated the total financial burden of a drink-driving conviction could reach £80,000, including factors such as loss of income, legal fees, driving fines, alternate transport cost and increased insurance costs in the future.
compared to its findings five years ago.
Fatalities linked to drinkdriving have also climbed over the past decade, peaking in 2022 at the highest level in 13 years.
After Government statistics showed the number of drinkdrive fatalities has increased by 7% since 2013, RAC road safety spokesperson Rod Dennis, said: “These disturbing figures show the twin evils of driving under the influence of drink and drugs are behind a frightening number of lives lost on the UK’s roads every year.
The data also revealed an increase of 15% in convictions
“It’s simply unacceptable that an estimated 260 people a year lose their lives as a result of drinkdrivers. It remains the case that the proportion of road deaths where drink-driving was a cause is at a similar level to the late 1980s. Drugs, too, are playing an increasing role in fatalities and are now behind a record number of fatal collisions.
“A new approach to tackling these repugnant crimes is desperately needed. We hope this will be a key part of the Government’s forthcoming road safety strategy.
“We’ve consistently been calling for a change in approach when it comes to reducing alcohol-related road deaths, as it’s clear the status quo isn’t working.
“RAC research shows drivers are supportive of courts being given the powers to mandate the fitting of alcohol interlocks –‘alcolocks’ – to offenders’ vehicles to prevent them driving drunk again. This has the potential to reduce drink-drive casualties, especially among habitual offenders.
“Since 2022 we have urged the Government to consider mandating all new vehicles have interfaces that allow alcolocks to be fitted easily.
“We are also supportive of police being given the powers to immediately disqualify any driver who fails a drink or drugs test at the roadside.”
We pay good prices and consider most vehicles, Quick, Easy, Same day payment and we complete all the paperwork for you.
In the modern era of internet scams, fraudulent buyers & sellers, legal implications, fluctuating vehicle values and your DVLA obligations as a registered keeper of a vehicle, it can be a difficult and sometimes worrying prospect to sell your vehicle privately.
You may not have the time to deal with potential buyers, or you may not want them visiting your house, buyers will often try to push you for the lowest possible price, advertising will often be expensive, does that person have valid insurance to test drive your car, there are many things to consider so why put yourself under pressure.
If you are considering parting ways with your car or van, contact Jason Crew at Crews Car Sales in Shaftesbury for a FREE no obligation quotation.
Crews have been established for over 70 years and have been offering a friendly, quality assured service through 3 generations of the Crew family.
Crews will normally be able to offer a better price than many other well know car buying companies, once we have looked at your vehicle, the price we offer is the price we will pay
Crews don’t charge fees for payment and they also complete all associated paperwork for you, even obtaining a refund on any un-used road fund licence (Tax) that is paid back directly to you from the DVLA.
Most vehicles will be considered for purchase but please remember, a nice clean & tidy vehicle with a good service history is always going to be worth more than a vehicle that requires a lot of work.
Crews will always be honest with valuations and will try to offer you the best possible deal.
The process is simple and easy, get in touch with Jason at Crews on 01747 854789, please have your vehicle registration number and current mileage available so that we can start the process of a valuation. If you are pleased with your valuation guide price, the whole process can be completed very quickly once we have seen your vehicle and confirmed it’s value, so contact Crews today.
Crews can be easily found, located on a main road site at Five Square Motors, (Bosch Garage), Salisbury Road (A30), Shaftesbury, Dorset. SP7 8BU, we are just ¼ mile from the Royal Chase roundabout in Shaftesbury.
Wouldn’t usually travel over 200 miles to look at a car but spoke to Jason on the phone a couple of times & he seemed to be honest about the car I was interested in so thought it worth going & so glad I did.
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2016 (65) Audi A5 Coupe 1.8TFSi S Line Nav 2dr. Sat nav, parking sensors, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, full leather, heated seats, road sign assistance, Bluetooth, lovely sports coupe, 92,900 miles...............................................................................................£8650
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
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
2011 (60) Ford Ka 1.2 Grand Prix 3dr. Rare limited edition, unique, parking sensors, air con, Bluetooth, USB, £35 tax, 50mpg, £2000 spent to get this car to the highest standard, cambelt kit replaced, 74,500 miles...............................................................................................£3500
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
2014 (14) Ford EcoSport 1.5TDCi Titanium X Pack SUV 5dr. High seating, leather, X pack, parking sensors, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, Bluetooth, £35 tax, 60mpg, cambelt kit replaced, 87,800 miles...............................................................................................£5450
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
2015 (15) Ford C-Max 1.6TDCi Titanium X 5 Seat MPV 5dr. High seating, big boot, partial leather, heated seats, panoramic roof with blind, auto lights & wipers, xenon lights, cruise control, parking sensors, Bluetooth, cambelt kit replaced, 70,500 miles..................Available soon
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
2018 (68) Ford Kuga 2.0TDCi ST Line SUV 5dr. High seating, big boot, sat nav, Bluetooth, road sign assistance, cruise control, parking sensors, automatic parking system, reverse camera, partial leather, auto lights & wipers, 61,800 miles.......................................................£11750
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
2014 (14) Ford Transit 2.2TDCi 350 Trend 12 Seat Minibus 5dr. 3 front & 9 rear seats, removable seats, skylight, Bluetooth, standing head room, ideal day van or camper conversion, 75,500 miles..................................................................£10500+VAT = £12600
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
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
2014 (14) Nissan Qashqai 1.6DCi Tekna SUV 5dr. High seating, big boot, sat nav, road sign assistance, reverse cameras, parking sensors, auto park assistance, heated leather, auto lights & wipers, main beam assist, cruise control, Bluetooth, panoramic roof, blind spot assistance, £35 tax, 110,800 miles....................................................Available soon
2012 (12) Peugeot 508 1.6THP SR 4dr. Sat nav, cruise control, Bluetooth, USB, climate control, road sign assistance, quiet and smooth saloon car with only 43,900 miles...................................................£4500
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
2022 (72) Suzuki Ignis 1.2 SZ5 MHEV 5dr. Self-charging petrol hybrid, high seating, sat nav, reverse camera, auto lights, cruise control, Bluetooth, compact SUV with character, only 3,700 miles.............£14650
2012 (12) Toyota Verso S 1.3 T Spirit Automatic 5 Seat MPV 5dr.
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
High seating, big boot, spacious 5 seat MPV with automatic gearbox & only 54,300 miles.............................................................Available soon
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
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
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DRIVERS will face a month of delays from next week while safety improvements are made to the A30 near Sherborne, where four people have died in crashes between 2014 and 2025.
The Over Compton junction has been highlighted as a particular hotspot, after Charlotte Avis died when another vehicle crossed into her lane in 2022.
Former MP for West Dorset Chris Loder called for speed cameras following her death, describing the area as an unofficial racetrack between Sherborne and Yeovil.
Now, in an effort to prevent future deaths, Dorset Council is carrying out safety improvement works.
This includes no longer allowing right turns, U-turns and straight-over movements for vehicles entering or exiting Marl Lane and Old Compton Lane at the junction, with only left-in and left-out movements permitted.
The Loscombe Crossroads will also close, with temporary safety barriers installed and road signs refreshed.
Pedestrian and cycle access across the A30 will remain open.
The new road layout will remain in place for 18 months, after which the council will
FOR
boats and cars at Enford Farm near Blandford. 01258 450050 / 07704 813025 OLD, INTERESTING & CLASSIC CARS wanted pre 1990s Any condition including unfinished projects Cash/Transfer. Please Phone Paul 07890 096907
decide whether the changes should be made permanent.
Work will start on Monday (September 29) and is expected to last four weeks.
While work is carried out, the area will see reduced speed limits, lane closures on the A30, short term closures on Marl Lane and Old Compton Lane and advanced warning signs to help drivers plan ahead.
Councillor Jon Andrews, cabinet member for place services, said: “We were deeply saddened by Charlotte’s death and extend our heartfelt condolences to her family and friends, as well as to all those affected by other incidents where people have been killed or seriously injured at this junction.
“We are taking this action to prevent further tragedies and make the A30 safer for everyone.
“We are conducting a feasibility study to explore the introduction of average speed cameras along this stretch of the A30.
“This would help ensure compliance with the new 60mph speed limit and support long-term safety improvements.
“If we do not see a significant reduction in speeding and collisions, further measures may be considered.
“These could include changes to other junctions along the A30 between Sherborne and Yeovil.
“Thank you for your patience while we carry out this important work. Please drive carefully wherever you are.”
PANCREATITIS is inflammation of the pancreas. It can be acute – sudden onset –or chronic – long-term – and can vary in its severity and the
causes. Acute pancreatitis is traditionally associated with a high-fat meal such as a lamb bone or a stolen pack of butter.
It can also be induced by certain drugs and can be a flareup of chronic pancreatitis. The cause is also often not known. Symptoms involve nausea and pain, leading to lethargy, lack of appetite – and drinking – and vomiting, and often affected dogs will take a praying position – see photo –due to abdominal pain in the region of the pancreas. The inflammation develops due to the enzymes produced by the pancreas, which usually travel to the duodenum – first part of the small intestine – in an inactive state, becoming activated within the pancreas and starting to digest the pancreatic tissue.
Severe cases can lead to diabetes mellitus because the pancreas produces insulin and damage to the insulinproducing cells can lead to high blood glucose. If the inflammation is significant, it can cause irreversible damage to the pancreas and surrounding tissues leading to a poor prognosis and can sadly lead to the affected dog dying.
Most cases of acute pancreatitis are treatable with pain relief, anti-nausea medications and intravenous fluids to maintain hydration until the patient wants to eat and drink again, which can take several days. Mild cases may respond to pain relief and anti-nausea medications only. Long term, a low-fat diet is required to prevent flare-ups.
Chronic pancreatitis can cause intermittent nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and reduced appetite. Changing to a low-fat diet can resolve the symptoms.
Suspicion of pancreatitis can be based on history such as a stolen fatty food or a known prescribed medication and/or typical symptoms. Symptoms of anorexia, nausea or vomiting and pain in the front of the abdomen are suspicious of pancreatitis. A generalised blood test may show high levels of lipase and amylase –both enzymes produced by the pancreas – and a further test for Specific Canine Pancreatic Lipase can confirm diagnosis, together with other tests. If caught quickly and treated effectively most dogs with acute pancreatis will fully recover, but sadly, even with appropriate treatment, some dogs will succumb to the severity of the initial inflammation.
n Tabatha, 10, shy lady looking for a home in the country. Could be homed with Maddie
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
IF your cat has gone missing, Cats Protection offers practical steps to help bring it home safely. Start by searching your local area thoroughly, checking sheds, garages and outbuildings where it might be hiding. Create posters and share them in your neighbourhood and online communities. Inform local vets and animal rescues in case someone has found your cat. Ensure your cat’s microchip details are up to date, as this can be a vital tool for identification, and update the microchip database to advise your cat is lost. For a detailed guide and additional advice visit the Cats Protection website or call us on 01258 858644.
IF you have found a stray cat, Cats Protection has helpful guidance to ensure the cat gets the care it needs. First, check if it is in distress or injured and contact a vet if necessary. Look for an ID tag or take the cat to a vet to check for a microchip. If the owner cannot be identified, share details about the cat locally via posters, social media and community groups. Cats Protection advises against assuming all stray cats are lost, as some may simply be exploring. For full guidance, visit the Cats Protection website or call us on 01258 858644.
by Raychel Curson BRINGING
a new cat home is exciting, but it can also be stressful for both you and your feline friend.
Cats are territorial by nature, and like to feel in control, so introducing them to a new environment requires patience and a thoughtful approach. Here are some tips to help make the transition smoother and more comfortable for your new friend.
n Prepare a safe space BEFORE bringing your cat home, set up a quiet, comfortable room where they can feel secure.
Include essentials such as a litter box, food and water bowls, scratching post, toys and a cozy bed.
This safe space will allow your cat to adjust gradually without feeling overwhelmed.
n Give them time to adjust DON’T rush the introduction process.
Let your cat explore their safe room at their own pace.
Some cats may come out right away, while others may hide for a few days.
Patience is key – avoid forcing interaction.
n Use scent to your advantage CATS rely heavily on scent for comfort and recognition.
Rub a soft new unused cloth on your new cat and place it around the house so they can get used to their own scent in the environment.
If you have other pets, exchange bedding or toys between them to help familiarise scents before face-to-face meetings.
n Slow introductions to other pets
IF you already have pets, introduce them gradually.
Start with closed-door
interactions, then progress to short, supervised visits.
Keep early interactions positive and calm, rewarding good behaviour with treats, play and praise.
n Provide plenty of resources
TO prevent territorial disputes, make sure each cat has access to their own litter box, food bowls and resting spots.
The general rule is one litter box per cat, plus one extra.
n Be patient and positive ADJUSTING to a new home takes time.
Offer reassurance, gentle play and positive reinforcement. Over time, your new cat will feel comfortable, confident and at home.
n Final thoughts
INTRODUCING a new cat is a process that requires time, patience and understanding. By creating a safe environment, respecting their space and managing introductions carefully, you’ll set the stage for a happy, harmonious relationship.
With love and care, your new cat will soon feel like a cherished member of the family.
If you experience any issues, please feel free to reach out for support and guidance.
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).
by Tria Stebbing
HARVEST has come early from the hedgerow. I am a firm believer that nature provides a remedy for all sorts of things, and the animals are benefiting from the abundance of fruit this season.
Some of the flock continue to suffer from something like Sweet Itch during the summer months. The mosquitoes bite and the sheep react to the bite, causing a nasty inflamed patch of eczema-looking skin.
It is difficult to treat, as anything rubbed into the skin to alleviate the itching is rubbed off by the scratching. It seems to be more prominent in the black breeds, so it is no surprise that every summer one or two are affected.
Gale, an older ewe, is affected every year, despite changing where she is housed, treating early in the season and so on – we have tried everything, even questioning if it is becoming a welfare issue keeping her going through the summers she is badly affected.
We are currently treating Gale with rose hips. Rich in Vitamin C, B1, Vitamin E, potassium, calcium and high linolenic acid. Known also as an anti-inflammatory, they are enthusiastically being eaten as treats.
The hedgerows are crammed with them, and some research suggests they might even be able to reduce methane in cows – win, win.
I may never know if my regime of incorporating rose
aches and pains, they are helping him through the day.
The surplus apples are also a useful supplement, especially enjoyed by the Highland cows on the hill.
Locals use the flock to graze paddocks of wildflowers. The home village has a wildflower corridor of nature’s finest tapestry. Before being topped, the grazing benefits the land as well as the sheep.
Again, some of the species growing in the paddocks contain high levels of tannins, which are great for gut health and reducing worm burdens. High mineral content of grazing can also benefit the flock.
Low grazing by the sheep will also benefit the sward, often preferring the flowers, their by-product producing natural fertilisers.
By returning the sheep to the meadows in the autumn they are grazing and trampling the flower seeds into the soil.
Last week we moved the mature ewes and Dutch Spotted onto a new paddock, walking them between sites, through the village.
hips is beneficial as the colder weather kills off the mosquitoes causing the issue.
Neil, the ram lamb that started life with Sheep Ill, is also being supplemented, as his joints are mildly deformed, and I like to think that if he has
So much could have gone wrong, but unbelievably they walked in line, following each other in an orderly manner, only stopping for a random munch on an overhanging branch.
Moments like this, walking behind the flock, taking in the moment, are what makes the winter months and mud bearable.
MORE than half of south west shoppers would pay more for British higher welfare labelled products rather than settle for cheaper alternatives, a survey has revealed.
A YouGov poll carried out for RSPCA Assured found that 65% would buy British products.
The findings come as RSPCA Assured supported this month’s Back British Farming Day by urging those who eat meat, fish, eggs or dairy to
choose trusted higher welfare labels.
This includes free-range, organic and RSPCA Assuredlabelled products.
Charlotte Thomas, regional assessment manager at RSPCA Assured, said: “Every time you choose a product with a higher welfare label, you help ensure farmed animals live better lives.
“With this one simple choice, you’re saying no to cages, no to fast-growing chickens, no to inadequate
enrichment and bedding, no to routine antibiotic usage and more.
“You’re also protecting those British farmers who adhere to higher welfare standards from unfair competition from cheaper, lower welfare imports.”
Higher welfare farming ensures animals live free from unnecessary stress and suffering and goes beyond minimum legal standards, provides enriched environments, space to
move, access to veterinary care, freedom to express natural behaviours and more.
More than 1,800 RSPCA Assured-labelled products are available in supermarkets and on menus across the UK.
“However, globally billions of animals are still kept in cages, overcrowded sheds or barren pens with little opportunity to move freely or express natural behaviours,” an RSPCA Assured spokesperson said.
by Friars Moor Livestock Health
THE importance of mobility scoring in lameness control programmes has been well established, with research having repeatedly demonstrated that in the absence of formalised mobility scoring, lameness detection tends to be very poor, with early cases going undetected and therefore untreated.
This is of great importance as it has become increasingly recognised that prompt identification and treatment of lameness is key to success. A 2016 study demonstrated sixweek cure rates as low as 25% when cows had been lame for at least two weeks at the time of treatment. This is contrasted to a similar study the previous year which found significantly higher cure rates in cows mobility scored every fortnight and treated within 48 hours of being identified as lame.
The cure rates in this study were highest when cows were treated with use of a block on the sound claw and a three-day course of Ketofen in addition to therapeutic trimming.
However, mobility scoring is not without its drawbacks. Not only is it time consuming, especially in large herds, but it is also subjective, with potential for inconsistency and variation between different scorers. It is also infrequent, as few farms would score more often than every two weeks and many score only quarterly or less. Research has demonstrated that repeatability between scorers can be improved with training, which, of course, is the principle on which Register of Mobility Scorers (RoMS) accreditation is based.
Given its widespread adoption in the UK dairy industry, it’s perhaps surprising that until recently, there has been little work to investigate how accurate mobility scoring actually is. However, there have been a couple of studies on this published in the last two years.
Siachos et al. 2025, found mobility scoring had an average sensitivity of 60% and a specificity of 78%, whereas a similar study in Ireland – Logan et al. 2024 – found a sensitivity of only 35% but a higher specificity of 94%.
This means that the scorers in the UK study missed fewer lame cows than the Irish study but in over 20% the cows they scored, no obvious cause of lameness was found in the feet.
There may be several reasons why the figures from these studies differ, but it is probably worth noting that while both used the AHDB mobility scoring system, in Siachos et al. the researchers were all RoMS accredited, meaning they have undergone specific training and passed the RoMS exam.
The Irish study makes no mention of RoMS training and RoMS accreditation is not an industry standard in the Republic of Ireland at present.
An exciting new development is the use of automated lameness detection systems based upon artificial intelligence analysis of camera footage such as CattleEye and HerdVision.
Although these systems are very new to the market, they have the potential to overcome many of the problems associated with human mobility scoring such as variability between scorers and infrequent scoring.
Of the systems currently on the market, CattleEye currently has the most substantial scientific evidence base to support its use. Interestingly, work to date has suggested that CattleEye is not yet quite as accurate as experienced RoMS
scorers.
As the technology continues to develop, it would not be surprising if automated systems like this are able to out-perform human mobility scoring in the near future.
However, even if automated lameness detection were to remain less accurate than trained human observers, it may still offer advantages, such as the potential for continuous monitoring being able to track subtle changes over time and identify trends that would be impossible to detect with infrequent manual scoring.
Another very uniquely innovative technology to come to the market in recent years is the Hoofcount PediVue system.
PediVue consists of a camera situated behind a self-cleaning screen on the front of the foot bath to record passage of cows as they exit the bath. PediVue’s potential for automated mobility scoring remains unclear, however the system demonstrates an impressive ability to sensitively detect digital dermatitis, which under normal circumstances, is particularly challenging to detect as a majority of infected cows are not lame and therefore cannot be detected by mobility scoring alone.
Tel: 01258 452307
n Friars Moor Livestock Health (01258 472314; farmoffice@fmlh.co.uk; friarsmoorlivestockhealth. co.uk).
by Ruth Kimber
AT last, some useful rain – the fields, verges, hedges and gardens look very much refreshed. Now the hope of a good late cut of silage is possible. However, generally
forage will be very tight this winter, corn yields, including straw, are significantly down. As is maize. We have yet to cut ours, but it’s looking reasonable.
The autumn calving is well underway, with the farm
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children playing their part in helping to keep an eye on the prospective mothers. It’s a very busy time – the loads of straw being delivered have to be stacked away. Various maintenance jobs around the yards to complete before the cattle return for winter.
The fruit trees have been laden, now it’s the turn of pears to be stored, made into chutney and some bottled. Many given away, some sold for charity. The vegetable garden has done quite well. Runner beans are thirsty plants, so this year they haven’t produced so well, but I have made runner bean chutney and had beans to spare for family and charity sales.
Flowers have been wonderful, in particular our wildflower patch enhanced with cosmos has been bright and teeming with insects for weeks. We also have a big patch of teasles, which the finches will feast on for most of the winter.
The farm shop has been busy
during the summer, which can be a quieter time, and now the Christmas orders are starting to come in.
The turkeys are doing well and should soon be going out into the paddocks. Tom is being cautious and waiting to hear Defra’s instructions, as bird flu has been confirmed in Somerset.
Gate and fencing posts have taken a battering this summer, as the clay ground around them has shrunk – animals rubbing, machinery nudging has caused several areas needing attention.
We are off to France to stay with our farming friends, so will hear how they have fared with the weather this summer.
It’s several months now since the Budget last October. The shockwaves are still being felt across the industry and further afield in businesses. It’s with trepidation we wait to hear what’s in the store in November. My message to government: “Don’t bite the hand that feeds you.”
Asthe show season comes to an end, it has been fantastic to see so many of you either on the stands or in the livestock showing lines. I really enjoyed Honiton Show in August. I went to watch the young handlers classes before our stand was busy – there were 89 entries in the Sheep young handlers – I didn’t envy that judge!
Bluetongue discussions continue and we are strongly advising vaccination. It might seem like another costly job but the experiences in Europe make for grim reading.
I’ve been kept busy with the regular admin – worm egg counts galore and VAN renewals (please check before you get to the market!). I’ve also seen some severe pneumonia outbreaks in calves – Pasteurella and Mycoplasma infections causing deaths exacerbated by the hot weather. Building investigations, diagnostic testing, and creating both vaccination and treatment protocols for these calves will hopefully reduce future outbreaks.
Agricultural
students in the South West have the chance to secure financial support through Cornish Mutual’s Young Farmer Bursaries.
Further Education students can apply for £500 to support course-associated costs while Higher Education students are being offered £750. One bursary per level is available four colleges across the region.
“The bursaries are a fantastic opportunity for students to be supported in the early stages of their career,” said Tom Cunningham, Deputy Head of Agriculture & Environmental Science at Bridgwater and Taunton College. “Over the last few years, we have seen bursary recipients fund additional training and take up travel opportunities to get their foot into the industry.”
Peter Beaumont, Managing Director at Cornish Mutual, added: “Now in their fifth year and with competition growing annually, our Young Farmer Bursaries are vital in supporting the next generation. At Cornish Mutual, we are committed to standing alongside and supporting the farming community.”
To apply, Further Education students must outline, ‘Why I am studying agriculture’, while Higher Education candidates are asked, “How do you see the future of agriculture, and what role do you hope to play?” Submissions can take the form of a 500-word essay, a photo essay with 20 images, or a short video or podcast of up to two minutes.
Last year, Weymouth and Kingston Maurward College student Katie Burgoine received a Further Education bursary: “I plan to use the bursary to fund driving lessons so I can travel to local farms for work experience. I’d like to also gain either my AI or foot trimming ticket which could make me more employable and expand my horizons further.”
The deadline for entries is 14 November 2025, with details of how to apply at: www.cornishmutual.co.uk/cmfuturefarming/young-farmer-bursaries.
Steel frame buildings for agricultural, industrial and equestrian enterprises
Pre-cast concrete wallings panels supplied and erected Roller shutter doors supplied and fitted
All steel frames are designed, fabricated & erected to conform to current CE markings
Tel: 01747 811711 Mob: 07860 570258
WOOD CHIP - 45mm screened, small bags / bulk 01258-920133
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Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.
ORGANIC PIG FEED - No GM, 25kg bags, £17 each 01258-920133
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SERVICE, old, unwanted caravans, cars, trailers, vans, etc. Garden machinery, tractors, scrap metal. Yard, garden, garage removal clearances undertaken, dismantling and gas cutting service. Please call 01935-873169 or 07368-380477
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SHEEP KEEP WANTED. Anything considered. Tel: 07495-423751
DOUGLAS FIR SLEEPERS - 8”x4” x 8ft, beautiful & resilient, £29 each 01258-920133
FORDSON DEXTA
TRACTOR 1958 First registered to a Dorset farmer. Everything works and comes with a transport box. Very nice condition.Barn stored £5000 07966 247487
HAY AND HAYLAGE WANTED, small and large bales. We can collect. Tel 07768747967
R&W FENCING. Agricultural paddock and stock. Also part time help required. 01258-88089207980-036250
GUINEA FOWL FOR SALE. June/July 2025 hatched. Pearls, Lavenders and Tuxedos available. 07545-468700
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Mobile Grain Crimping and dry rolling Service. Cowco Southern. Call Ted: 07970-965040
Tel: 01258 472288
Mob: 07977 936109 New and second hand containers
•
•
•
Thursday 9th October
Friday 20th June
Friday 20th June
STANDING STRAW AUCTION
STANDING STRAW AUCTION
ON-FARM AUCTION
Gomershay Farm, Stalbridge, Sturminster Newton
Gomershay Farm, Stalbridge, Sturminster Newton
Bilshay Farm, Dottery, Bridport, DT6 5HR
ON-FARM AUCTION
ON-FARM AUCTION
Thursday 17th October at 11.00am
Thursday 17th October at 11.00am
Wednesday 28th June at 6.30pm
Wednesday 28th June at 6.30pm
Wednesday 28th June at 6.30pm
Genuine Dispersal of 2 Tractors, Telehandler, 24:24 Parlour, Poly-Tunnel, Grassland & Livestock Equipment, Workshop Items, etc
Dispersal Sale of Combine, Telehandler, Self Propelled Srayer, 3 Tractors, Arable & Livestock Equipment
Genuine Dispersal of 2 Tractors, Telehandler, 24:24 Parlour, Poly-Tunnel, Grassland & Livestock Equipment, Workshop Items, etc
Wednesday 28th June at 6.30pm Bindon & Pinhay
Thursday 17th October at 11.00am Silverlake Farm, Sherborne, DT9 6SN
Silverlake Farm, Sherborne, DT9 6SN
Silverlake Farm, Sherborne, DT9 6SN
Bindon & Pinhay
Bindon & Pinhay
Thursday 17th October at 11.00am Silverlake Farm, Sherborne, DT9 6SN 4 Tractors, 2 JCB Telehandlers, Forklift, Pick-Up,
830ac of Standing Straw
The Grain Store, Heathfield, Rousdon, Dorset 830ac of Standing Straw
Genuine Dispersal of Combine, Self Propelled Sprayer, 4 Tractors, 2 JCB Telehandlers, Forklift, Pick-Up, Arable Machinery & Livestock Equipment
Genuine Dispersal of Combine, Self Propelled Sprayer, 4 Tractors, 2 JCB Telehandlers, Forklift, Pick-Up, Arable Machinery & Livestock Equipment
Genuine Dispersal of Combine, Self Propelled Sprayer, 4 Tractors, 2 JCB Telehandlers, Forklift, Pick-Up,
Including: Claas Tucano 560 Montana Combine (19), New Holland T7.270 AutoCommand (23), New Holland T7.260 AutoCommand (17), JCB 542-70
The Grain Store, Heathfield, Rousdon, Dorset 461ac Wheat
• 461ac Wheat
• 461ac Wheat
• 237ac Winter Barley
• 237ac Winter Barley
2017 Claas Lexion 650 Combine with Vario 770 Header, Shelbourne Reynolds
461ac Wheat 237ac Winter Barley 132ac Oats
132ac Oats
• 132ac Oats
• 132ac Oats
AgriXtra Telehandler (21), Valmet 665 with Loader (97), Bateman RB35 Sprayer (13), Isuzu D-Max Pick-Up (06), Honda Fourtrax ATV (19), Master Drier MRM200 Grain Drier (11), McConnel PA6570T Hedgetrimmer (23), Sumo LDS 3m Subsoiler (21), Amazone KG 3000 Special 3m Power Harrow, Amazone AD-P 3000 3m Air Drill, Amazone KG 5001-2 Power Harrow (18), Claydon Hybrid 4m Mounted Drill (21), Amazone Cayros XS V 6f Rev. Plough (18), Dalbo 630 Cambridge Rollers, Smyth FM18 Silage Trailer, Perfect KM-270 Flail Topper, McConnel 9 Leg Shakerator, KRM M2 Fertiliser Spreader, Ifor Williams 10ft Livestock Trailer, 12ft Flatbed Trailer, Albutt A095-80GB Grain Bucket, Strimech Rehandling Bucket, Albutt Dung Grab, Grain Pedestals, IAE Crusader Cattle Crush, IAE Hay Rack, Thor Super Magik Log Splitter, etc.
T7.210 (3,610hrs) & T7.200 (4,365hrs) Tractors, 2012 JCB 531-70 (2,145hrs) &
Friday 30th June at 12 noon
Friday 30th June at 12 noon Durweston
Friday 30th June at 12 noon
Durweston
Travellers Rest Farm, Durweston, Blandford, Dorset
Travellers Rest Farm, Durweston, Blandford, Dorset 6,220 acres of Standing Straw
Travellers Rest Farm, Durweston, Blandford, Dorset
6,220 acres of Standing Straw
2,442ac Wheat
• 2,442ac Wheat
• 2,442ac Wheat
• 2,006ac Winter Barley
• 2,006ac Winter Barley
2017 Claas Lexion 650 Combine with Vario 770 Header, Shelbourne Reynolds RSD20 Stripper Header, 2011 Bateman RB17 (3,708hrs) Sprayer, 2019 Massey Ferguson 7720S Dyna6 (2,320hrs) & 7718 Dyna6 (2,880hrs), 2016 New Holland T7.210 (3,610hrs) & T7.200 (4,365hrs) Tractors, 2012 JCB 531-70 (2,145hrs) & 1997 527-58 Telehandlers, 2010 Isuzu Rodeo Pick-Up, Doosan Pro5 18 Forklift, McConnel 8.2m & 6.3m Cambridge Rollers, Twose & Watson 10’ Tandem Rollers, KRM Sola Ares 2713 Drill, Vaderstad NZ 6m Cultivator, Kuhn HR 4004 Hyd. Folding Power Harrow, KV DXA 4.7m Trailed Discs, KV LD85 5f Rev Plough, Kuhn Vari-
T7.210 (3,610hrs) & T7.200 (4,365hrs) Tractors, 2012 JCB 531-70 (2,145hrs) & McConnel 8.2m & 6.3m Cambridge Rollers, Twose & Watson 10’ Tandem Rollers, KRM Sola Ares 2713 Drill, Vaderstad NZ 6m Cultivator, Kuhn HR 4004 Hyd. Folding Power Harrow, KV DXA 4.7m Trailed Discs, KV LD85 5f Rev Plough, Kuhn VariMaster 153 5f Rev Plough, McConnel 3m Shakerator, Kverneland TL Geospread Fertiliser Spreader, McConnel Magnum Euro 280 Hyd Offset Topper, Bomford
2021 Merlo TF 42.7 CS Turbo Farmer (2,690hrs), 2010 Case Puma 140 (10,939hrs), International 674 with Loader, 24:24 Fullwood Afimilk Parlour, Cotswold Flush, Fullwood Auger Master Feeders, Ambic Teat Sprayer, 2000 Fullwood 12,500ltr Fabdec Bulk Tank, ND Jeanes 15t Bulk Bin, Rowlands 20t High Discharge Bin, Mollasses Tank & Stand, 2018 Anka Pro Foot Trimming Crush, 2010 Marshall QM2 Silage Trailer, 2005 Joskin 11000ME Slurry Tanker, 2017 Keenan VA2-18 Feeder Wagon, 2020 Aerworxx 10-30m Aerator, Lely Splendimo 280F Mower, 2012 Pottinger Lion 301 3m Power Harrow, Browns Flail Topper, 2002 Major 700 Road Brush, Ifor Williams TA510G Livestock Trailer, 2021 Merlo 8ft Bucket, Wylie Shear Grab, 25ft Single Axle Bale Trailer, Single Leg Mole Plough, Teagle Tomahawk 4040 Bale Shredder, Mixit PTO Lagoon Stirrer, Quicke 210 Loader Bucket, Logic Contact 200 Weed Wiper, 2009 Joskin 4300/209SDH Shallow Disc Injector, Feed Trailer, Large Quantity of Electric Fencing Stakes, Reels & Fencers, Quantity of Feed Troughs, Various Feed Buckets, Mobile Milker, Hook on Buckets, Wydale Teat Feeders, Parlour Matting, Parlour Fans, Calftel Group Hutches, Various Field & Yard Gates, 32mm Water Pipe, Parlour Spares, Quantity of Astro Turf, Emergency Bulk Tank, Concrete Water Troughs, 60ft x 30ft Poly Tunnels.
2017 Claas Lexion 650 Combine with Vario 770 Header, Shelbourne Reynolds RSD20 Stripper Header, 2011 Bateman RB17 (3,708hrs) Sprayer, 2019 Massey Ferguson 7720S Dyna6 (2,320hrs) & 7718 Dyna6 (2,880hrs), 2016 New Holland T7.210 (3,610hrs) & T7.200 (4,365hrs) Tractors, 2012 JCB 531-70 (2,145hrs) & 1997 527-58 Telehandlers, 2010 Isuzu Rodeo Pick-Up, Doosan Pro5 18 Forklift, McConnel 8.2m & 6.3m Cambridge Rollers, Twose & Watson 10’ Tandem Rollers, KRM Sola Ares 2713 Drill, Vaderstad NZ 6m Cultivator, Kuhn HR 4004 Hyd. Folding Power Harrow, KV DXA 4.7m Trailed Discs, KV LD85 5f Rev Plough, Kuhn VariMaster 153 5f Rev Plough, McConnel 3m Shakerator, Kverneland TL Geospread Fertiliser Spreader, McConnel Magnum Euro 280 Hyd Offset Topper, Bomford Hawk 6m Hedgecutter, Kuhn FC313 TG Mower Conditioner, 2 x Stewart 16-21L Grain Trailers, Marshall BC25 Bale Trailer, Cattle Hurdles, Attachments (Q-Fit), Machine Spares, Workshop Items, Weights, etc.
KRM Sola Ares 2713 Drill, Vaderstad NZ 6m Cultivator, Kuhn HR 4004 Hyd. Folding Power Harrow, KV DXA 4.7m Trailed Discs, KV LD85 5f Rev Plough, Kuhn VariMaster 153 5f Rev Plough, McConnel 3m Shakerator, Kverneland TL Geospread Fertiliser Spreader, McConnel Magnum Euro 280 Hyd Offset Topper, Bomford Hawk 6m Hedgecutter, Kuhn FC313 TG Mower Conditioner, 2 x Stewart 16-21L
2021 Merlo TF 42.7 CS Turbo Farmer (2,690hrs), 2010 Case Puma 140 (10,939hrs), International 674 with Loader, 24:24 Fullwood Afimilk Parlour, Cotswold Flush, Fullwood Auger Master Feeders, Ambic Teat Sprayer, 2000 Fullwood 12,500ltr Fabdec Bulk Tank, ND Jeanes 15t Bulk Bin, Rowlands 20t High Discharge Bin, Mollasses Tank & Stand, 2018 Anka Pro Foot Trimming Crush, 2010 Marshall QM2 Silage Trailer, 2005 Joskin 11000ME Slurry Tanker, 2017 Keenan VA2-18 Feeder Wagon, 2020 Aerworxx 10-30m Aerator, Lely Splendimo 280F Mower, 2012 Pottinger Lion 301 3m Power Harrow, Browns Flail Topper, 2002 Major 700 Road Brush, Ifor Williams TA510G Livestock Trailer, 2021 Merlo 8ft Bucket, Wylie Shear Grab, 25ft Single Axle Bale Trailer, Single Leg Mole Plough, Teagle Tomahawk 4040 Bale Shredder, Mixit PTO Lagoon Stirrer, Quicke 210 Loader Bucket, Logic Contact 200 Weed Wiper, 2009 Joskin 4300/209SDH Shallow Disc Injector, Feed Trailer, Large Quantity of Electric Fencing Stakes, Reels & Fencers, Quantity of Feed Troughs, Various Feed Buckets, Mobile Milker, Hook on Buckets, Wydale Teat Feeders, Parlour Matting, Parlour Fans, Calftel Group Hutches, Various Field & Yard Gates, 32mm Water Pipe, Parlour Spares, Quantity of Astro Turf, Emergency Bulk Tank, Concrete Water Troughs, 60ft x 30ft
• 1,557ac Spring Barley
1,557ac Spring Barley
• 1,557ac Spring Barley
1,557ac Spring Barley
Grain Trailers, Marshall BC25 Bale Trailer, Cattle Hurdles, Attachments (Q-Fit),
Fertiliser Spreader, McConnel Magnum Euro 280 Hyd Offset Topper, Bomford Hawk 6m Hedgecutter, Kuhn FC313 TG Mower Conditioner, 2 x Stewart 16-21L Grain Trailers, Marshall BC25 Bale Trailer, Cattle Hurdles, Attachments (Q-Fit), Machine Spares, Workshop Items, Weights, etc.
Friday 7th July at 12 noon
Friday 7th July at 12 noon
Friday 7th July at 12 noon
Friday 7th July at 12 noon
Dorset
The Grain Store, Manor Farm, Wynford Eagle, Dorchester, Dorset 1298 acres of Standing Straw
The Grain Store, Manor Farm, Wynford Eagle, Dorchester, Dorset 1298 acres of Standing Straw
Dorset 1298 acres of Standing Straw
70ac Oil Seed Rape
70ac Oil Seed Rape
Full catalogues available at symondsandsampson.co.uk
Full catalogues available at symondsandsampson.co.uk
Thursday 16th October
Peggs Farm, Iwerne Minster, Blandford, DT11 8RA
Dispersal Sale of Combine, 2 Tractors, Arable & Livestock Equipment
behalf of Spicer Partners
On behalf of Spicer Partners Online bidding available
On behalf of John Swain Limited (Retiring) Online bidding available Contact Greg Ridout: 01935 382909 / 07817 517467
On behalf of John Swain Limited (Retiring) Online bidding available Contact Greg Ridout: 01935 382909 / 07817 517467
Including: Claas Maxi 108 SL Combine with Claas C510 Header (92), New Holland T6.160 (16), Massey Ferguson S6716 Dyna 6 with Massey Ferguson FL.4621 Loader (20), Kuhn Omnis 1000 Sprayer (21), Kverneland LD85 4f Rev. Plough, 2no. Marshall QM8 8.5T Grain Trailers, Kuhn FC243 GII Mower Conditioner, Kuhn BKE 280 Topper, Master Farm 12T Grain Dryer, Twose 6.3m Cambridge Rollers, Kuhn MDS 19.1D Fertiliser Spreader, Parmiter Force 10 Disc Harrows, Twin Axle Trailer, Marshall Dung Spreader, Teagle Tomahawk 808 Straw Chopper, New Holland 570 Baler, Lely Lotus Stabilo Tedder, Grays Buck Rake, BKT 270/95R48 & 270/95R32 Row Crop Wheels (NH Fitment), Parmiter Chain Harrows, Cousins Cultivator, 3 Leg Subsoiler, Massey Ferguson Wafer Weights, MF 39 Spring Tine Cultivator, Ferguson Steerage Hoe, MF 3f Plough, Flat 8 Bale Grab, Alo Grain Bucket, Alo Shear Grab, Read 15T Bulk Bin, Bradley PTO Driven Generator, Round Feeders, Feed Barrier Fronts, Galvanised Feed Troughs, Quantity of Gates, Grain Pedestals, Grain Fans, Quantity of Pheasant Rearing Equipment, etc.
Wednesday 25th June
Wednesday 25th June
ON-FARM DISPERSAL AUCTION
ON-FARM DISPERSAL AUCTION
Pinhay and Bindon – The Grain Store, Heathfield, Rousdon Approx. 1,000ac of Standing Straw
Pinhay and Bindon – The Grain Store, Heathfield, Rousdon
Approx. 1,000ac of Standing Straw
DISPERSAL AUCTION Saturday 29th July
Saturday 29th July
Saturday 29th July
Saturday 29th July
Buckham Down Farm, Beaminster DT8 3SH
Buckham Down Farm, Beaminster DT8 3SH
Friday 27th June
Friday 27th June
Pinhay and Bindon – The Grain Store, Heathfield, Rousdon
Pinhay and Bindon – The Grain Store, Heathfield, Rousdon
Approx. 8,5000ac of Standing Straw
Approx. 8,5000ac of Standing Straw
Dispersal sale of 4 Tractors, Farm Machinery, Bygones and Miscellaneous
Dispersal sale of 4 Tractors, Farm Machinery, Bygones and Miscellaneous
Our Agents will be at
Dispersal sale of 4 Tractors, Farm Machinery, Bygones and Ford 4000 (fully restored), 1976 International 454 2wd, Marshall SM6 Drop Side Silage Trailer, Markham 3t Tipping &
Krone
Dispersal sale of 4 Tractors, Farm Machinery, Bygones and Miscellaneous Ford 4000 (fully restored), 1976 International 454 2wd, Marshall SM6 Drop Side Silage Trailer, Markham 3t Tipping & TS91 Ploughs, Krone AM242Z Mower Conditioner, Feeders, Stationary Engines, Signs, Bygones, etc.
Introduced: Weaving 4.8m Tine Drill, Sumo Vaxio 4m Cultivator, Quantity of Pheasant Rearing Equipment
Including: 1995 Same Silver 80 4wd (6,800hrs), 1988 Same Explorer 70 4wd with Loader (4,700hrs),1973 Ford 4000 (fully restored), 1976 International 454 2wd, Trailer, PortAgric 6’ Topper, Ransomes TS59 & TS90 & TS91 Ploughs, Krone AM242Z Mower Conditioner, Feeders, Stationary Engines, Signs, Bygones, etc.
Including: 1995 Same Silver 80 4wd (6,800hrs), 1988 Same Explorer 70 4wd with Loader (4,700hrs),1973 Ford 4000 (fully restored), 1976 International 454 2wd, Marshall SM6 Drop Side Silage Trailer, Markham 3t Tipping Trailer, PortAgric 6’ Topper, Ransomes TS59 & TS90 & TS91 Ploughs, Krone AM242Z Mower Conditioner, Feeders, Stationary Engines, Signs, Bygones, etc.
The Dairy Event on Wednesday, 2 October
Dairy Event
Further suitable entries welcome.
Further suitable entries welcome.
Further suitable entries welcome.
Please call in to our stand for refreshments and to meet our rural and agricultural experts
Please call in to our stand for refreshments and to meet our rural and agricultural experts
Please contact Greg Ridout 07817 517467
Please contact Greg Ridout 07817 517467
Please contact Greg Ridout 07817 517467
Contact Greg Ridout: 01935 382909/07817
PROPERTY AUCTION THURSDAY 23 OCTOBER 2025 AT 2:00PM AT MERLEY HOUSE, WIMBORNE BH21 3AA AND VIA LIVESTREAM
Nether Compton £50,000
Stourpaine
Bere Regis
Guide £60,000
Guide £25,000
1.84 acres of arable land adjoining a residential development.
Yeovil | 01935 423526
Portland
A 0.13 acre (559 sqm.) parking area with a favourable pre-app response for a dwelling with parking and a garden. Freehold.
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
£65,000
A 0.15 acre building plot with planning permission for a pair of semi-detached 3 bedroom dwellings.
Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244
Poundbury | 01305 251154
East Stoke
Queen Camel
Guide £95,000
Guide
Woodlands £170,000 & £250,000
£50,000
13.49 acres and 20.48 acres of land in the desirable village of Woodlands.
Wimborne | 01202 843190
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.
Blandford
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
£35,000
2.50 acres of mainly pasture land with a hard standing yard area, accessed via Tin Pot Lane.
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. PROPERTY AUCTION FRIDAY 16 MAY 2025 2:00PM AT MERLEY HOUSE, WIMBORNE BH21 3AA & VIA LIVESTREAM
Holt, Wimborne Guide £80,000
Guide £150,000
Blandford | 01258 452670
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
Charlton Marshall
Point. Freehold.
Turnerspuddle
Guide £175,000
Guide £300,000
Dorchester | 01305 236237
Dorchester
Melplash
Bovington
Guide
£60,000
Guide £200,000
Guide £50,000
Witchampton Guide £50,000
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.
A leasehold ground floor 2 bedroom flat requiring clearing and refurbishment. Garden and garage. 999 year lease, 959 years remaining. GR £25 p/a. EPC D, CTB B.
Wimborne | 01202 843190
Dorchester | 01305 261008
Dorchester Commercial | 01305 261008
Wimborne | 01202 843190
Tarrant Rushton
Winterborne Zelston
Guide £250,000
Guide £185,000
A semi-detached 3 bedroom property in need of complete renovation,
Wareham Guide
23.55 acres of permanent pasture, with fishing rights along the River Stour, which borders the land. Freehold.
£110,000
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. PROPERTY AUCTION THURSDAY 24TH JULY 2025 AT 2:00PM AT DIGBY MEMORIAL CHURCH HALL, DIGBY ROAD, SHERBORNE, DT9 3NL
Wimborne | 01202 843190
Yeovil
Bournemouth
Swanage
Pallington Guide £350,000
38.42 acres (15.55 hectares) of fertile, workable arable land with good accessibility. Conveniently split into three workable parcels. The land has previously been used to grow salad crops and is understood to be very productive, more recently the land has been in a combinable crop rotation. This Autumn, the land has been drilled with a cover crop. Freehold.
Dorchester | 01305 236237
Dorchester | 01305 261008
9.13 acres of freely draining land, predominantly comprising pasture with an element of woodland, located between Wareham and Wool. Freehold.
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.
Blandford Forum | 01258 452670
Blandford | 01258 452670
Wimborne | 01202 882103
East Martin
Guide £295,000
Guide
Okeford Fitzpaine
Bournemouth
Bradworthy, Devon
£575,000
Guide
Guide £125,000
Guide £200,000
Verwood Guide £125,000
Guides £75,000, £80,000, £80,000
1.38 acres with a derelict barn in a residential location falling within the main urban development area on the Local Plan. Freehold.
Milton on Stour
Wimborne
Sherborne
Guide £225,000
Guide £165,000
Guide £150,000
Winfrith Newburgh Guide £170,000
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.
3 x 2 bedroom leasehold flats, all of non-standard construction and in need of refurbishment throughout, sold with new 125 year leases. EPCs D, CTBs A.
A Grade II listed building offering several uses/options with planning permission and LB consent for conversion to residential. Freehold. EPC-D.
A charming 2 bedroom ground floor
A 3 bedroom cottage in need of complete renovation, in a popular village and benefitting from off road parking. Freehold, EPC E, CTB D.
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.
Wimborne | 01202 843190
Yeovil | 01935 423526
Dorchester Commercial | 01305 236237
Wimborne | 01202 843190
Dorchester
Heath
Guide £275,000
Guide £190,000
Winterborne Houghton
A partially renovated and extended 2 bedroom bungalow with potential for upwards extension, subject to planning permission. CTB C, EPC E, Freehold.
Wimborne | 01202843190
Sturminster | 01258 473766
Sherborne | 01935 814488
Fifehead Magdalen
Guide £250,000
east aspect suited to vines and solar. Freehold.
Wimborne | 01202 843190
Dorchester | 01305 261008
Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244
Henstridge Guide £300,000
Fontmell Magna
Blandford
A charming semi-detached cottage in the heart of the village with 3 bedrooms, a large garden, and views over the village green. EPC F, CTB C, Freehold.
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.
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
Sturminster | 01258 473766
Fiddleford
Guide £395,000
£675,000
Batcombe, Dorchester Guides £40,000 to £115,000
20.70 acres (12.01 ha) tucked away in a quiet rural position in 3 lots.
A site extending to 0.97 acres with 3 redundant agricultural buildings with planning permission 3 x 3 bedroom bungalows. 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.
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 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 B - 3.57 ac pasture and woodland including an old brick pumphouse - £40,000
Lot C – 11.11 ac pasture and strip of woodland with stream frontage - £90,000
Wimborne | 01202 843190
Tiverton | 01884 218911 Guide £395,000
A detached 5-6 bedroom property in need of some updating, situated on a sought after road with excellent road and transport links nearby. EPC D, CTB F, Freehold.
Sturminster | 01258 473766
Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244
Wimborne | 01202 843190
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.
Shaftesbury Guide £95,000 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 Dorchester |
Blandford | 01258 452670
A charming Grade II Listed3 bedroom
Guide
£695,000
An equestrian facility comprising a substantial, detached 5 bedroom property with a separate 2-3 bedroom annexe, outbuildings, and 3.42 acres of paddocks and gardens, situated on the edge of the town close to amenities and road links. Also benefitting from outline planning permission for development of the site and full planning permission for a new, contemporary dwelling. A further 2.50 acres available as a separate lot.
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 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.
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Wimborne | 01202 843190
Sherborne | 01935 814488
Horton, Wimborne
Chilcompton Guide £195,000
Guide £450,000
Guide £400,000
Belchalwell
detached 6 bedroom farmhouse in
A partially built 5 bedroom detached house, with double garage and gardens. PP was granted under application reference 2022/1683/FUL. Freehold.
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.
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.
Somerford Road, Christchurch
Guide £650,000
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.
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Wimborne | 01202 843190
Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244
Iliminster | 01460 200790
Sherborne | 01935 814488
Wimborne | 01202 843190
£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.
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
DORSET | DEVON | SOMERSET | HAMPSHIRE | WILTSHIRE | CORNWALL | LONDON
DORSET | DEVON | SOMERSET | HAMPSHIRE | WILTSHIRE | CORNWALL | LONDON
Bowridge, Gillingham
Fifehead Neville
Guide £1,250,000
Guide £1,695,000 (whole)
Hazelbury Bryan
Shaftesbury
Guide £1,150,000
Guide £740,000
Mappowder Guide £595,000
Marnhull Guide £525,000
Planning consent for a detached 4 bedroom Country House, garage and stable block complex, an existing 4 bedroom barn conversion and free draining pasture land (42.51 acres). Available in 3 lots. CTB E, EPC C, Freehold.
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 delightful house with flexible layout of accommodation in an enviable historic part of Shaftesbury, a short level walk from the High Street. CTB E, EPC D, 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.
A character south-facing stone house in an excellent central village location with a large oak-framed double garage, workshop and southfacing gardens. CTB E. Freehold.
Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244
Shroton Guide £435,000
Shaftesbury
Guide £435,000
This delightful 2-bedroom end-of-terrace cottage has been fully updated
An immaculate ‘nearly new’ detached house with 3 en suite bedrooms and smart kitchen / dining room with access straight to the garden. CTB E, EPC B, 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.
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.
Sherborne | 01935 814488
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
We’re going to town
30 October | The London Office
Connect your property with London buyers at our forthcoming West Country Property Showcase.
Donhead St Mary
Guide £800,000
Nr Sturminster Newton Guide Price £1,100,000
Nr Sturminster Newton Guide Price £1,100,000
Contact your nearest office for further information.
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
Sturminster | 01258 473766
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Cheriton
Newton
OIEO £400,000
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.
An attractive, double-fronted 3-bedroom period property tucked away on
Sherborne | 01935 814488
Sturminster | 01258 473766
Sherborne | 01935 814488
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Sturminster | 01258 473766
£775,000 Charlton Musgrove
Wincanton
A substantial 4/5 bedroom detached house with a stylish self-contained annexe, enviably positioned within the grounds of Wincanton
An
£775,000 Wincanton
£259,000 Bourton
no forward chain. EPC Rating: D. Freehold.
We still have many buyers looking to purchase a property in the local towns and villages. If you are considering a move in 2025 we will be delighted to offer a free valuation and marketing advice on your property.
We are enjoying a busy start to the year having registered many buyers looking to purchase a property in local towns and villages. If you are considering a move in 2025 we will be delighted to offer a free valuation and marketing advice on your property.
Having enjoyed a busy summer we still have many buyers registered with us wishing to purchase within the local towns and villages. If you are considering bringing your property to the market we would be delighted to hear from you.
Please call 01963 34000 to arrange an appointment or email wincanton@hambledon.net
Please call 01963 34000 or email wincanton@hambledon.net to book an appointment.
Please call 01963 34000 or email wincanton@hambledon.net to book an appointment.
£650,000 Charlton Adam
outbuilding and log store. EPC Rating F. Freehold.
£225,000 Wincanton A delightful two bedroom semi-detached house offered for sale with no forward chain. Spacious living room, modern stylish kitchen/diner, family shower room, gas central heating, sunny aspect garden driveway and attached single garage. EPC Rating: C. Freehold.
£475,000 Wincanton
£595,000 Castle Cary
Charming four-bedroom bungalow tucked away in a secluded spot surrounded by a garden that wraps around it. Light and airy sitting room, wonderful family kitchen/breakfast room, utility room,
All
24-hour to long term contracts, our advanced containerised system makes storage simple.
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Andrew Tregay, Head of Planning at Symonds & Sampson is pleased to have recently gained planning consent on behalf of clients in North Dorset.
At Westbrook, near Gillingham, Class Q prior approval consent has been granted for two new dwellings. The scheme faced a number of challenges, including flood risk, drainage and ecology; however, working closely with trusted consultants and colleagues in our Survey & Design department, Andrew is pleased to report that all issues were successfully addressed and the consent granted.
Meanwhile, consent has been granted for two new dwellings to be built at Milborne Port. The application was a resubmission following an initial appeal dismissal and the imposition of nutrient neutrality requirements. Despite a sensitive location on the edge of the village and within the conservation area, a scheme was successfully presented addressing heritage, ecological and flood risk impacts.
Symonds & Sampson’s dedicated planning specialists have a wealth of experience within residential, agricultural and commercial sectors. For further information, please contact Andrew Tregay MPlan MRTPI, Chartered Town Planner and Head of Planning on 01258 444597.
FOAM REMOVAL FROM £995.00
If spray foam is fitted to your property it can mean that it may be unmortgageable, meaning when you come to sell your property the new owners may not be able to secure a mortgage due to the spray foam installed between your afters. If you have spray foam fitted in your roof, if left it can cause rafters and timbers to rot. The spray foam in your roof can be removed by our professional roofing team, rafters will be sanded down and wood filled and treated. Spray foam will be removed from your property and disposed of safely.
REPAIR
Do you have damp patches, stains on the ceiling, water coming into the property? DON’T DELAY! Call Worksmart today on 01963 530544 / 07958 662504. Someone will be with you within 12 hours.
I am a great believer in prevention is better than cure. So my team and I are offering a moss removal service which entails all moss removed and to re-point any defective cement works from ridge line and re-cement any broken gables.
