The New Blackmore Vale - Issue 135

What’s inside this issue…

or calling 01963 400186

newsdesk@blackmorevale.net 01963 400186

07850 529937

‘Henge plans hit rocks

COUNCIL leaders across Wiltshire, Somerset, Dorset and Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) have united to heavily criticise plans to revoke planning consent for the Stonehenge tunnel.

The government announced plans last month to scrap planning permission for the A303 Amesbury to Berwick Down scheme, which would have seen eight miles of dual carriageway created alongside a tunnel near one of Wiltshire’s most prominent landmarks.

The controversial scheme aims to alleviate traffic around Stonehenge.

Plans were initially put on ice in July 2024 as the newly elected Labour government at the time said it agreed “not to move forward with projects that the previous government refused to publicly cancel despite knowing full well they were unaffordable”.

This comes despite more than £160 million already being spent on the project.

The development consent order (DCO) for the scheme still remains in place – but the government has now published plans to revoke the order.

This would mean that if the project was

ever revived the entire approval process, which has taken years to achieve, would have to restart from the beginning.

In a joint statement, the leaders of Dorset, Somerset, Wiltshire and BCP Councils, councillor Nick Ireland, cllr Bill Revans, cllr Ian Thorn and cllr Millie Earl, said: “Revoking the DCO for the A303 Stonehenge Tunnel is a damaging and shortsighted decision that disregards years of planning, consultation and investment.

“This is a major step backwards for the Wessex area and beyond.

“Wessex and the wider region needs infrastructure investment to unlock our strategic growth ambitions in key sectors that are nationally important, improve connectivity and support communities.

“The A303 is a vital strategic corridor and this scheme represented a once-in-ageneration opportunity to address congestion, improve safety, protect heritage and deliver environmental benefits as part of our wider connectivity requirements to unlock our potential.

“We urge the Government to reconsider and work with us on a solution that delivers for our region that will deliver growth.”

And the council leaders aren’t the only ones critical of the move.

MP Simon Hoare (North Dorset/ Conservatives) described the plans as “a blow to the south west” and has written to the Secretary of State for Transport, Heidi Alexander (Swindon South/Labour) to let his feelings be known about the plans.

He said: “A future government may wish to resurrect this project and it would be heart-breaking if the process to secure consent had to be begun from the very beginning…

“Therefore, and while still urging you to rethink your decision and actually deliver the A303 improvements, can a way not be found to legally mothball the DCO?”

Christmas spirit

RAILWAY enthusiasts will be kicking off the festive season at the old station in Spetisbury this December.

The station will be open from 10am-2pm on Sunday, December 14, for seasonal refreshments. A selection of railway books, DVDs and other gifts will be for sale.

Live entertainment will be provided by the Blandford Ukelele Group at 12.45pm.

Entry by cash donation; online donations can be made at www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/spetisbury. Find out more at www.spetisburystationproject.wordpress.com.

Choral greats

WINCANTON Choral Society will be performing Schubert’s Mass in G and Britten’s Ceremony of Carols on December 14.

Despite dying at the young age of 31, Schubert is considered one of the great composers in history. Britten had a somewhat longer life, dying at 63. However, today that is considered fairly young too.

A composer, conductor and pianist, he was a central figure of 20th-century music with a

wide range of works.

The choir will also include a varied selection of carols, including some for audience participation.

The concert will be held in Wincanton Catholic Church on Sunday, December 14, at 7.30pm.

Tickets, priced £15 (under 18s free), are available from www.ticketsource/ wincantonchoralsociety or on the door.

For more information call 01749 860457.

Lydlinch bell appeal update

by Sally-Anne Barrett

THE NBVM published a short article on the Lydlinch Bell Restoration Project earlier this year and as a result we had a number of donations and a successful tea in the garden, held in aid of the bell appeal.

We have now raised £55,000 so are half way to our goal of £100,000, which in the timescale is wonderful. There have been many generous local donations for which we are extremely grateful and a very substantial grant from the Llewellyn Edwards Bell Fund.

The bells – which were immortalised by William Barnes in his poem Lydlinch Bells – will hopefully commence the restoration next year.

In addition to the actual bell restoration, there are some tower alterations to be undertaken to create bell hatches. For the last restoration in 1909 they simply removed the west window of the tower and dropped the bells out!

Recently BBC Radio Solent visited the church to record the

bells, during which our organist Keith Watts read part of the William Barnes poem. It is hope that the recordings made will form part of a programme near Christmas. If anyone would like to support this project please see our Just Giving page: Lydlinch church bells restoration project.

Candlelit concert

STANCHESTER Quire will present its Christmas Concert by Candlelight at Holnest Church (DT9 5PU) on Friday, December 5 at 7pm.

Donations welcome; tickets are available from Graham on 07974 329508. Seating is limited; booking is advisable. Proceeds will be split equally between Stanchester Quire and Friends of Holnest Church. Find out more at www. stanchesterquire.org or email friendsofholnest@gmail.com

This wonderful arch of poppies was created by Julie Balmer, Debbie Barker and Cilla Vining for Lydlinch church

Save our parish council!

RESIDENTS of Ansford are being encouraged to have their say on a proposal to create a joint council with Castle Cary.

Opponents of the plan claim the merger will mean council tax rises with no clear benefits to residents, and a loss of independence around planning and housebuilding. They’re also concerned that the loss of the parish council could mean that Ansford loses its independence of spirit and identity.

To find out more and have your say on the future of Ansford Parish Council, visit https://ansford-pc.gov. uk

WHEN NBVM reader Rachel picked up an old picture frame in a local charity shop, she had no idea she’d find herself at the heart of a mystery.

“I bought an old picture frame at the Weldmar Hospice outlet in Shaftesbury on October 11,” explains Rachel.

“When I removed the picture that was in there, I uncovered the most wonderful old photo of a soldier.”

The photograph is dated 1928, and attributed to Bealing & Son, Shaftesbury.

“I called the hospice, but sadly the frame was not gift-aided so they can’t trace who donated it.”

Rachel set out to uncover the mystery of the soldier in the picture, but to no avail.

“After a bit of research, I found that Bealing & Son were

a photography company on Salisbury Street.

“I’ve been to the museum on Gold Hill and looked through all their information and photos in the hope of finding a match, but with no luck.

“I just want to find out who he belongs to, because he needs to be reunited with his family.”

If you can help, email rachelab67@gmail.com

Clockwise from top left: Rachel’s mystery soldier; the picture that he was hidden behind; the photo is attributed to Bealing & Son, Shaftesbury

Thousands raised to save historic churches

THIS year’s sponsored Ride + Stride event has raised more than £100,000 to help carry out repairs at churches across Dorset.

Hundreds of cyclists and walkers took to the county’s roads and footpaths to visit churches and chapels in the Dorset Historic Churches Trust (DHCT) fundraiser.

Many opened their doors to offer a warm welcome, refreshments and encouragement along the way in the event in September.

The Tarrant Valley was one of the most popular routes for Ride + Stride participants due to its many fascinating historic churches – and acclaimed Dorset apple cake at Tarrant Rawston!

“We are thrilled by this year’s outstanding result,” said DHCT chair, his honour David Grant.

“Our heartfelt thanks go to everyone who took part – from the cyclists and walkers to those volunteers who opened churches, baked cakes and offered hospitality.

“Your enthusiasm and generosity make a real difference.”

The annual Ride + Stride for churches is DHCT’s principal source of funds and all proceeds directly benefit Dorset’s historic churches.

Grants will help preserve and repair places of worship throughout the county, many of which face urgent structural challenges and limited resources.

David added: “Without the support of Ride + Stride, many of our historic churches simply couldn’t carry out the desperately needed repairs that keep them safe, open and welcoming to their communities.”

Santa’s in town!

THE Portman Hall in Shillingstone is getting set to stage its annual Christmas fair – and welcome its VIP guest, Santa Claus.

The event will feature creative craft stalls and tables full of gifts, along with a main raffle and a raffle to win a Christmas hamper, along with a treasure hunt.

Visitors can also guess the name of the reindeer to be in with a chance of winning prizes.

Light lunches, cakes and other refreshments will be available, and activities will be laid on for younger visitors.

The event is on Sunday, November 30, from noon-4pm, with Santa Claus and his Head Elf arriving at 1pm.

Santa will welcome children to hear their Christmas wishes in his cosy grotto in the festively decked out hall.

The Portman Hall’s committee is raising funds to completely refurbish the venue’s kitchen and is keen to hit the fundraising target as soon as possible.

Decision to be made on future of Dorset day centres next year

A DECISION on how to move forward with day centres across Dorset will be taken in March 2026, Dorset Council has said.

The way in which day care services for vulnerable adults in the county are delivered could change as the council looks to create a network of core hubs in each area that will support activities via a ‘hubs and spokes’ model.

The propose shake up was re-evaluated following protests and feedback from users and families, who said centres should be left alone as users have made connections with other members and any changes could increase the risk of isolation.

Dorset Council had a consultation about the plans earlier this year, which ended in June.

The council’s people and health overview committee was due to consider the outcomes of

the three-month consultation at its meeting on 3 November. However, due to the unavailability of key members, this meeting was cancelled.

It will now be considered in February and the authority said it will provide members with the opportunity to help shape the future of day opportunities ahead of cabinet’s decision in March.

A spokesperson said: “We will continue discussions with a range of organisations involved in the future of our day services. This will ensure that users can look forward to a new model of opportunities, designed to give more choice and flexibility around community activities and greater partnership working across our communities.

“The new model is part of Dorset Council’s Communities for All programme, working with the voluntary sector, such

as community groups and charities to support people in their local areas. Our formal response to the consultation will be published very shortly.”

The consultation featured a series of public meetings at Care Dorset centres. There were also online sessions, focus groups and surveys in libraries and public buildings. In total, more than 1,500 responses were received, including two petitions.

Taking into account the 354 responses to the specific survey, the consultation found that:

• 66% used a traditional day service

• 65% identified the importance of being with friends and taking part in interesting activities

• 26% said having a familiar building mattered, but more said they wanted to be independent and learn new

skills

• 14% said they did not have any formal support

• 12% stressed transport was a problem

Most travelled five miles or less to their day opportunities, usually with help from family or community transport.

A council spokesperson said: “The feedback received had been both valuable and insightful, and it will play a key role in shaping the future of day opportunities.

“We remain committed to working closely with communities, individuals and partners to ensure that services reflect the needs and aspirations of those who use them.

“We accept that change does bring uncertainty but that our vision is for more services – the services that people want and need, to be delivered locally, wherever possible and practicable.”

Ride + Stride participants receive a warm welcome at All Saints Church, Tarrant Monkton

Don’t despair – repair

THE elves at the Blandford repair cafe will be busy with those last-minute fixes in the run up to Christmas (and beyond)!

The cafe’s wonderful volunteers can fix electrical items, bikes, clothes, ceramics and much more.

They will be hard at work at Blandford Scout Hut, Eagle House Gardens (DT11 7BT) from 1.30pm-4.30pm on Saturday, December 13.

Pop in with anything you need fixing and someone will take a look at it. Even if

Town landmark grand unveiling

BLANDFORD’S Corn Exchange is reopening following a £3.5m refurbishment.

To celebrate, there will be a series of free events and entertainment at the Corn Exchange and town hall on Sunday, November 30, from 12pm-5pm.

In the Shambles, from midday, visitors can enjoy a demonstration of Georgian cookery, clay modelling workshops and a magic mirror photo booth.

The council chamber is hosting a rod puppet workshop, while at the town hall, historic displays have been created by the town museum, the Fashion Museum and the town’s Mace Bearer.

At the Corn Exhange, visitors can enjoy an afternoon of eclectic music and dance. The WI will be serving free hot drinks and cakes from the Corn Exchange kitchen all afternoon, while the Wandering Olive and South Coast Bar will be selling fresh food and drinks in the Shambles and Market Place.

you’ve nothing needing doing, the cafe is well worth a visit – it sells homemade cakes, hot drinks, and is a great place to socialise and meet new people.

Volunteers are always needed, whether that’s on the frontline of fixing, running the cafe or providing the delicious bakes. There’s a raffle held every time the cafe meets, which needs prizes from local businesses too.

If you can help in any way, email blandfordrepaircafe@gmail.com

Ho Ho Ho!

FATHER Christmas is coming to the Blackmore Vale.

He will be at The Hub in Stalbridge on Saturday, December 13, and Henstridge village hall on Saturday, December 20.

His grotto will be open from 10am-12.30pm and 1.30pm-4pm on both days. Santa’s helpers from the Blackmore Vale Lions Club will be collecting on the door on both days.

Hand-crafted tribute to the fallen

A BEAUTIFUL handmade war horse sculpture has taken pride of place at a care home in Sturminster Newton.

In the lead up to the world gathering to pay its respects to fallen armed forces on November 11, residents at Colten Care’s Newstone House care home pulled out all the stops to make the day as special as possible.

Residents teamed up to create a striking 40cm by 30cm shiny black sculpture of a war horse, made of clay fashioned around a metal frame and inspired by an image they saw online.

It is positioned along with a soldier in a small field of bright red poppies, also made of clay, and has been dubbed ‘Blackie’ by some residents because of its colour.

Among those who worked on the sculpture is Ian Loftus, an

ex-racehorse trainer who took an expert interest in guiding the look and proportions of the horse’s legs.

He was joined in the sculpting and painting by former Merchant Navy serviceman Tony Stock, while the poppies underneath the horse were made by fellow residents Joyce Ware, Sylvia Pearce and Muriel Haskell.

Tony said: “The poppies really added to the whole design and we were all very pleased with how it turned out.”

Companionship team member Ruth Telford, who worked with the residents on the project, said: “We wanted to do something different for Remembrance this year.

“The idea of making a model war horse, especially with Ian’s professional eye for equine proportions, proved just right.”

It’s a most wonderful time of the year…

FIFEHEAD Magdalen’s Christmas fair will once again raise funds for the upkeep of the village’s tiny, 14th-century church.

Villagers and parishoners will be at the village hall (SP8 5RR) from midday on Sunday, November 30, offering home-made produce, gifts, handmade wreaths, hot turkey rolls and refreshments.

Life-saving tech and training

by Mark Ashley-Miller

THE village of Lillington, south of Sherborne, is on a popular walking route.

Thanks to a local farming family and a grant from Voltalia Solar Energy, the village is now fully equipped to help any passers-by in need of CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation), but that is not all…

Thanks to retired GP, Dr Geoff Percival, the villagers are also fully trained in how to use a modern defibrillator as part of CPR.

The formal unveiling of a refurbished K6 red phone box and modern defibrillator was preceded by some hands-on CPR training in St Martin’s church and was well attended by old and young.

A brass plaque in the phone box remembers Alec Evans, one of a well-known farming family,

who died in 2022. It states “Often seen, sometimes heard, always listened to”. Alec, together with his dog Poppy, was a common sight in the lanes around the village and is much missed by the village and the farming community of Dorset.

Learning to live simply

PUPILS and staff from Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Primary School in Wincanton have achieved a LiveSimply award.

The award is championed by international aid charity CAFOD.

The school worked on its LiveSimply Action plan for 20 months with the pupil eco council and chaplaincy taking a leading role in developing how to live simply, sustainably and in solidarity with communities around the world experiencing poverty.

A year 6 pupil said: “It’s really important to do our best to help others. We have raised money to help children in other countries who do not have the things we have.

“We like litter picking around the school and in Wincanton – we all need to help the world.”

Activities also included a ‘no electricity day’.

Sheila Loftus, co-headteacher at the school who led the LiveSimply journey, said: “We are so proud of how hard our children and families have worked to raise money, save energy and to develop lifelong skills of how to live simply, sustainably and in solidarity with others.”

Newstone House residents Ian Loftus, left, and Tony Stock at work on the war horse sculpture Picture: Newstone House/Colten Care

The Evans family outside the phone box housing the new defibrillator

Running a farming business presents unique challenges - from business growth and succession planning to potential commercial and probate disputes.

Many farmers also face the complex responsibility of preserving agricultural land and property for future generations.

At Blanchards Bailey, we understand these concerns. With deep roots in Dorset for over a century and a Legal-500 accredited

agricultural team, we provide tailored, expert legal support to the farming community.

Our local professionals combine specialist knowledge with a practical understanding of this unique way of life, providing trusted guidance through every stage of your farming operations.

Residents’ fury over digestor plan for farmland near Shaftesbury

PLANS to build an anaerobic digestor on land near Shaftesbury have received mixed reactions - with the town council among objections to the proposal.

1st Estate Biomethane Ltd has submitted plans to build and operate a biogas facility on land at Wessex Farm, Sherborne Causeway, which they say will digest biomass, by-product feedstocks and organic agricultural waste.

Anaerobic digestors are sealed tanks that use microorganisms to bread down organic waste to create biogas – a renewable fuel.

The application said the facility would generate up to 9.9 million cubic metres of biomethane annually, equivalent to the gas demand of around 8,500 homes, while supporting farms by providing a sustainable outlet for organic agricultural wastes and producing a nutrientrich digestate to reduce reliance on synthetic fertilisers.

But the proposed facility has been described as a potential “disaster for residents and wildlife living in the Blackmore Vale”.

One neighbour who has lived in the area for the past 60 years, D Hopkins, said the area is a haven for wildlife and highly

populated by bats, owls and newts.

Another neighbour, Michael Barclay, said the community is not happy with “our beautiful country being morphed into something akin to the desolation of Mordor”.

He said: “My specific objections to this application are based on the impact of the facility on the views north-west from Shaftesbury on Castle hill.

“The views from our town are intrinsically linked to its success, character, and future. While here may be many objections to this proposal, in matters of detail, the centre of the matter is the continued degradation of our countryside into an industrial wasteland.

“At some point – this may be it – or if not this, then in combination with the proposed industrial estate north of Enmore green you will face a reckoning.”

He added: “We may have flares, odious emissions, an increase in unpleasant HGV loads. For all of this material degradation of our quality of life and countryside the people of Shaftesbury get nothing.

“Do not take the tax payers of Dorset’s consent for granted. If this makes our lives worse, we will close it down. We are

being pushed too far.”

Concerns have also been raised over the potential impact on the busy A30, but the plans state the proposal would generate an insignificant volume of additional traffic.

Shaftesbury Town Council objected to the plans at a meeting of its planning and highways committee on October 7, raising issue it was not consulted earlier in the process.

The council also raised concerns that a noise impact assessment was not carried out by the applicant, with fears residents on the northern slopes of the town would be most affected.

They also raised issue with the lack of information about the volume of HGV traffic that could be generated, as well as little consideration to the possible impact of odour from the proposed plant.

Motcombe Parish Council echoed the concerns in its formal objection to the plans, which came after around 55 residents attended a meeting to express their anger over the scheme.

A residents’ petition against the plans has been launched, while the parish council has requested an extension to the response time to the application.

One commenter said: “I am very disappointed that those directly affected by this application have not been contacted. I think that any renewable energy source should be applauded.

“However, I strongly object to this proposal as it will have a huge impact on the natural beauty of the area, a lot of which falls under the banner of a conservation area, will increase road traffic, noise levels and create terrible odours, and be a horrendous blot on the landscape.”

Councillor Valerie Pothecary (Gillingham/Conservatives) has requested the plans should be brought to the Northern Planning Committee for discussion.

The company behind the plans said: “The selected location is adjacent to gas grid infrastructure, close to sources of agricultural feedstocks and waste as well as being distanced from human receptors and various ecological, heritage, landscape and other potential environmental sensitivities.”

n To view and comment on the plans, visit the planning section of Dorset Council’s website and search reference P/ FUL/2025/04692.

How the proposed anaerobic digestor could look, if approved

Picture: David Williams Landscape Consultancy

*Packed lunch included in these trips

*CARDIFF CHRISTMAS SHOPPING - DV955

Saturday 6th December - £69pp

SECRET XMAS LUNCH & ENTERTAINMENT - DV953

Sunday 30th November - £89pp

BEAMISH LIVING MUSEUM AT XMAS - Holiday Inn, Washington - SB557 13th-15th December (two nights) - From £325-£355pp

KEW GARDENS AT CHRISTMAS - DV963 Wednesday 17th December - £94pp

LIMITED TICKETS AVAILABLE FIRST COME FIRST SERVED. WEST SOMERSET RAILWAY - FESTIVE QUANTOCK BELL - FIRST CLASS

DINING TRAIN - Four course Christmas meal while travelling from Bishops Lydiard to Williton & Return - 7pm-9.30pm Christmas Carols along route, from your seat in the train - Dress Code Smart - DV957

Saturday 20th December - £139pp

CHRISTMAS IN PAIGNTON - ESPLANADE HOTEL4 nights B&B eve meals - SB556 23rd-27th December - From £729-£789pp

2026 TRIPS

SECRET SUNDAY LUNCH - DV958

Sunday 25th January - £65pp

SECRET SUNDAY LUNCH - DV965 Sunday 22nd February - £65pp

MALVERN SPRING FESTIVAL - Flower show - DV962 Sunday 10th May - £89pp

SUNDAY LUNCH SPECIAL - Best Western Rembrandt 2 course meal & Abbotsbury Swannery - DV961 Sunday 28th June - £94pp

ABBA VOYAGE - Q.E. PARK STRATFORD - 13pm mat - DV966 Sunday 19th July - £145pp

ANDRE REIU - bp Pulse Arena NEC - DV960 Saturday 19th September - £179pp

Step Into the Magic at Shirley Allum – Late Night Shopping & Shaftesbury’s Christmas Light Switch-On!

Themost enchanting night of the year is nearly here! Join us at Shirley Allum on Monday 24th November as Shaftesbury comes alive with festive cheer for the Christmas Light Switch-On and a special evening of late-night shopping.

We’ll be open from 9:30 AM to 7:00 PM, giving you plenty of time to explore our beautifully curated collections and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

At Shirley Allum, we believe shopping should feel like a treat – and this season, we’ve filled our boutique with handpicked treasures to delight every taste and budget. Whether you’re searching for the perfect gift or a little indulgence for yourself, you’ll find it here.

Spend over £50 and receive a FREE gift – our way of saying thank you for shopping local (one per customer, while stocks last).

What’s in store this Christmas at Shirley Allum?

- Joma Jewellery – elegant, meaningful pieces that make perfect stocking fillers

- Katie Loxton – stylish bags and accessories with a personal touch

- Cyberjammies & Dressing Gowns – cosy, luxurious loungewear for chilly nights

- VILAGALLO – bold, colourful fashion to brighten your winter wardrobe

- Estheme Cashmere – sumptuously soft knits for timeless warmth and style

- Jeans, trousers & boots – a fabulous selection to refresh your everyday look

Our friendly team is here to help you find just the right piece – and ensure its beautifully packaged for someone special (even if that someone is you).

Why not sign up to our Rewards Programme?

Earn points every time you shop, enjoy surprise treats just for being you, and unlock exclusive offers and early access to new arrivals. It’s our way of making your Shirley Allum experience even more rewarding. Sign up today, whether instore or online and begin collecting your exclusive rewards.

So come along, enjoy the lights, and make a night of it with us. Let’s celebrate the season in true Shaftesbury style!

We can’t wait to welcome you in-store and share the joy of the season.

FASHIONS & LINGERIE

the MAGIC of CHRISTMAS at Shirley Allum Monday 24th Nov 9:30am – 7:00pm Join

*One per customer, while stocks last .

Puddletown gets a new website

A DORSET village is celebrating the launch of its first community website.

Created by a small team of women looking to bring the community together, www. puddletownvillage.co.uk was launched to much acclaim.

Site creator Sarah Wheldon taught herself web design from scratch for the project, looking for a ‘creative outlet’ to support her recovery from cancer.

The idea came about thanks to Diana Hooper, who has researched the Puddletown archive and her family history.

Realising that 2025 marked 300 years since Puddletown vicar Rev Dawnay conducted a survey of the village, Diana felt a new snapshot of modern-day village life was needed.

For Sarah, the community hub section, filled with news,

events and recent photos, fulfils this aim, as does the site’s local business directory.

“It took a long time to gather information from everyone, but it was definitely worth it,” says Sarah.

“I was amazed by the different skills and professions there are in the village.”

Diana is excited about the potential of the website’s history section, which features photographs from the turn of the 19th century. She is looking forward to discovering more photos from members of the community.

It is hoped that www. puddletownvillage.co.uk will become the go-to place for local events, news and groups.

The website is funded by donations and is supported by The Puddletown Society

Novel tale

DORSET-BASED adventurer, Paul Weston, has released a new novel, Diamond Rock. Set in 1805, mainly in the West Indies, the plot is woven around the campaign which culminated in the Battle of Trafalgar.

The novel was inspired by Paul’s discovery of shattered French cannons in undergrowth at Anse a la Barque on the west coast of Guadeloupe.

Uniquely, Paul Weston has visited all of the locations used in the book in his own boat – rolling down the trade wind passage across the Atlantic to the West Indies, beating up past Diamond Rock just south of Martinique, anchoring among the mangroves in Guadeloupe’s Grand Cul de Sac Marin.

This, combined with his seafaring background on merchant ships as well as his own boats, allows him to offer a plausible literary rendering of daily life at sea in the early 19th century, and gives an insight into how Royal Navy officers, often very young men, were able to act on their own initiative and carry out such astonishing and audacious acts of war.

Diamond Rock is the fifth book in the Paul Weston Naval Historical Fiction series, all available on Amazon now.

Mere remembers

Words and pictures by George Jeans

ON a wet winter’s morning, the Mere town clock chimed to mark the start of two minutes’ silence at 11am, on Sunday November 9.

The bugler, Mary Burfitt, sounded the Last Post and finished with Reveille

The Remembrance Service in Mere was very well attended by over 200 people, as was the church service afterwards.

The service was organised by Churches Together in Mere and District. The town council chair Sandra Catley and many other local people laid wreaths.

Delays to new recycling centre system

A CONTROVERSIAL rollout of a new booking system for recycling centres in Dorset will now come in early 2026 – not later this year as previously planned.

The new system will be introduced at tips in Dorchester, Wimborne, Shaftesbury, and Sherborne and will require people to book a 30-minute slot online or by the phone before entry.

Dorset Council also said that visitors from other counties will be asked to pay a “small fee” per visit.

Councillor Jon Andrews, Dorset Council’s cabinet member for place services, said: “We’re taking a little extra time to make sure the system works smoothly for everyone.

“This is about delivering a better experience for residents and ensuring the service remains fair, cost-effective, and environmentally responsible.”

The council claims the new system will

help prevent misuse of recycling centres by visitors from outside the county or businesses avoiding commercial charges –making sure Dorset taxpayers aren’t footing the bill for waste that isn’t theirs to manage.

But many residents reacted strongly to the plans when your New Blackmore Vale first reported on the booking system.

Criticisms have been raised of the plans as many residents complained the new system would alienate the elderly and

increase incidents of people fly-tipping waste.

Dorset Council says the new scheme would save taxpayers money. It currently pays £435,000 to Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council so Dorset residents can use their recycling centres – but BCP residents have been using Dorset’s sites for free.

The new system will mean nonDorset residents will have to pay a fee to visit a recycling centre in the county to help cover the cost of their waste disposal and site maintenance.

The new booking system will reportedly save up to £100,000 at both the Shaftesbury and Sherborne sites alone.

But implementing the new system will cost £120,000, with an ongoing maintenance cost of £20,000 a year.

A petition opposing the implementation of the booking system in Shaftesbury has reached 1,960 signatures.

Help to stay warm this winter

A CAMPAIGN to help elderly and vulnerable people in Dorset stay warm this winter has launched.

The 15th Surviving Winter appeal has been started by the Dorset Community Foundation. The appeal, run in partnership with Citizens Advice in Dorset, distributes £200 grants to pensioners and people aged 60 and over with a disability, who are living in fuel poverty.

The Surviving Winter funding also helps the Citizens Advice energy team identify people at risk so they can offer

the grants, as well as a range of other support.

Community foundation chief executive, Grant Robson, said despite the reintroduction of the government’s Winter Fuel Payment this year, the appeal, which last year raised more than £50,000 and helped hundreds of people, is still needed.

“Every year in Dorset an average of 590 people die of cold-related illness because they can’t afford to heat their homes properly,” he said.

“Our partners at Citizens Advice tell us that they are seeing older people who are too

scared to have their heating on at all in winter or are skipping meals because they are so worried about not being able to pay their fuel bills.

“In 2025, in one of the richest economies in the world, we think that is unacceptable.”

Dan Fancy, trainee Energy Team manager at Citizens Advice, said although energy prices have dropped slightly this year, they are still 50% higher than in 2021 – and many older people are already in arrears on their bills before winter sets in.

Donate to the appeal at dorsetcommunityfoundation.

org, or send a cheque or bankers draft, made payable to Dorset Community Foundation, to The Surviving Winter Appeal, Dorset Community Foundation, The Spire, High Street, Poole, BH15 1DF.

People can also donate through a BACS Transfer via: Charities Aid Foundation Bank, Sort Code: 40-52-40, Account Number: 00083897 (use reference SW) or on 01202 670815.

If you need energy support from Citizens Advice, call 01929 775500 or email energy@ edpcitizensadvice.org.uk

Safeguard

Shielding Your Home from Care Costs with a Living Trust

How a Living Trust Protects Your Estate

Protection from Care Costs

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

POTENT PINES CHRISTMAS TREES

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.

Asset Protection

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

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.

Inheritance Tax Planning

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.

Trust Administration and Control

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.

Personalised Advice

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.

Community assembles to combat climate change

DORSET’S third community-led ‘conference of the parties’, Dorset COP, has been declared a success.

The one-day event saw representatives attend from both BCP and Dorset Council as well as the Mayors of Sturminster Newton and Shaftesbury.

Mayor of Shaftesbury, Cllr Virginia Edwyn-Jones, commented: “It is always so powerful to hear people speak, rather than just read their ideas; it really does provide a far more meaningful understanding.

“We are blessed in Shaftesbury by having such a qualified, expert cohort of committed professionals who genuinely want to effect change by engaging with local government.”

Jennifer Morisetti, chair of Sustainable Dorset, opened the event by paying tribute to the late Jane Goodall, who proved that one person really can make a difference, and thanked the pioneering environmentalists in the county who laid the foundations for the effective work that continues.

Cllr Carole Jones, founder of the Vale Family Hub, Sturminster Newton, spoke of the challenges faced by struggling families in North Dorset and the success of the Hub in creating a caring, sharing and thriving community that also tackles food waste, while Howard Johns, founder of People Owned Power, delivered a speech setting out clear reasons to become part of the energy revolution with street by street solar. River Pollution was presented by

Tanya Bellows, Julie Leah and Kim Creswell, while Transport, also particularly pertinent in rural north Dorset, was opened by Nick Ireland, leader of Dorset Council. And a blueprint for creating Nature Friendly Towns was presented in The Nature Recovery workshop by Sustainable Shaftesbury Advisory Committee.

Jennifer concluded: “This was an exciting day for environmental groups and individuals combining forces to tackle the biggest challenge of our time.

“I would like to thank all the speakers and attendees for their enthusiasm. To continue the workshop conversations, to follow up on outcomes and to volunteer please contact connect@sustainabledorset. org.”

Photos by

Richard Clarke, Clarkie Photography

Tickets on Sale Now for Spectacular

Christmas at Stourhead 2025 ADVERTISING FEATURE

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Stourhead’s world-famous Palladian house and gardens, this much-loved festive experience promises a magical evening for all ages. Whether you’re searching for Christmas things to do near Bath or Christmas events in the South West, this unmissable experience is worth the visit.

The National Trust’s iconic Stourhead estate is preparing to dazzle visitors once again as its enchanting Christmas light trail returns from Friday, November 28, to Wednesday, December 31.

Visitors can expect a brand-new array of dazzling installations for 2025, including the mesmerising Star Show, a shimmering Sea of Light, and spectacular lasers dancing across the night sky.

The National Trust’s legendary landscape glows anew with neon baubles by Output Arts, towering stars and the majestic Christmas Cathedral stretching across the lake.

A highlight for 2025 is Celestial Grove, a new installation filling the tree canopy with shifting colours and choral soundscapes, turning one of England’s most famous gardens into a living symphony of light, nature and music.

These new additions join the returning favourites, from the twinkling tunnel of light to the breathtaking display of colour-changing reflections stretching across the lake.

With its stunning new installations and magical atmosphere, Christmas at Stourhead is set to be one of the must-visit festive events of the season.

Your very merriest Christmas starts here. Limited capacity with timed entry. Plan now to secure the date and time of your choice.

For full pricing, ticket information and bookings visit: https://www.mychristmastrails.co.uk/events/christmas-at-stourhead

Contemporary or traditional kitchens manufactured to order

Gillingham Showroom 01747 833 789

Unit 21, Kingsmead Business Park, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 5JG

Opening Hours Monday–Friday: 9am–5pm Saturdays by appointment only. Closed Sunday www.solsticekitchens co.uk

Our loose Canon

In the Christian calendar, it is the time for taking stock, for hopefulness and the future

by Canon Eric Woods

I AND my contemporaries, the 70-somethings of this world, grew up under the shadow of the mushroom cloud. It is 80 years since the dropping of atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. We have all seen those hideously beautiful photographs of nuclear explosions, mostly from the tests which were so common when I was a boy and a teenager, in the Nevada desert, on Bikini Atoll, Christmas Island and the rest.

Only now am I beginning to realise what a powerful effect that period had on my generation. I am not sure that we expected, consciously or unconsciously, to see middle age, and I am convinced that does much to explain the hedonism and licence of the 1960s, and the decades which followed.

For my part, it has given me an affinity with the great reformed pastor of the 17th century, Richard Baxter, when he wrote: “I preached as never sure to preach again ... as a dying man to dying men.” “‘Momento mori”: remember that you must die. The bell tolls for you and for me. Not for nothing did the New Cambridge Modern History dub the 20th century ‘The Age of Violence’. And it is pretty clear that the 21st will be known as ‘The Age of

Terrorism’. Nowhere is immune, from attacks large and –comparatively – small; from genocide on a large scale to a multitude of knife crimes all over the globe. Once again the words of St Peter in his Second Epistle take on urgent meaning: “The Day of the Lord will come; it will come, unexpected as a thief. On that day the heavens will disappear with a great rushing sound, the elements will disintegrate in flames, and the earth with all that is in it will be laid bare.”

In two days’ time we reach the last Sunday of the Christian year, a day for taking stock. In the old Prayer Book the Gospel of the Day is the feeding of the five thousand, with its gathering of the fragments. In the new, it is the Feast of Christ the King, with its confident assertion that “Jesus Christ ascended to the throne of heaven that he might rule over all things as Lord and King”. Somehow we have to square that daring declaration with the collected fragments of this year’s brokenness and pain. So we are bidden to look at the pain and the evil, the violence and cruelty and conflicts in our world. But we discover that these are not the only realities. Christ our Lord is the supreme realist, and we may believe him when he says: “How blest are those of a gentle spirit; they shall have the earth for their possession. How blest are the peacemakers; they shall be called the children of God.”

So we look eagerly and expectantly at the things which are unseen and eternal, for we believe that our light affliction, which is but for the moment, works for us an eternal weight of glory. And for that, thanks be to God.

Photo by

Christmas Fair at Bryanston School

22nd & 23rd November

After four years of running our hugely successful Bryanston Summer Fair, Wessex Events invite you to join us at our second Bryanston Christmas Fair on the 22nd and 23rd November.

With over 90 stands inside and out, selling food, drink, crafts and homeware gifts, this is the perfect place to start your Christmas shopping.

New this year will be our wooden reindeer making workshops

Local musicians Phil Smith, Shelley Edwards and Max Ellmore will be playing and singing throughout the weekend.

We also have our Street Food Area, where you can enjoy mid morning snacks and lunches, including Bratwurst, Thai Street Food, Dorset Lamb burgers and Crepes. All washed down with coffee, tea, soft drinks or gluwein.

There is also lots for children to enjoy. Our children’s entertainment area will include a Frozen themed room, where kids can meet, and have their pictures taken with Elsa and Anya, who will be joined by Superheroes. They can also enjoy our craft room where they can make Christmas decorations, or have their face painted. In association with our sponsorship partner, Meyers Estates, our children’s areas will be raising money for this years charity.

As well as parking on site we are also running a Shuttle bus from Marsham car park, Blandford Town Centre starting at 10.00am and running all day.

The cost of entry is just £4 for Adults, with children under 16 free,

So come early, stay late and enjoy a wonderful Christmas shopping day in the most beautiful of settings.

We would like to thank our sponsors , Taylor Wimpey. The Blackmore Vale Group and Meyers Estate Agents, for their support of this event.

From the archives

WORK to preserve the William Barnes Archive will begin this month, following the William Barnes Society’s successful campaign to raise £35,000 in support of the project at the Dorset History Centre.

The archive, which contains 65 boxes of letters, manuscripts and papers relating to the Dorset-born poet and scholar, was deposited at the Dorset History Centre in 2018 by the Dorset Museum and Art Gallery, which still owns the collection.

Sam Johnston, manager of the Dorset History Centre, outlined plans for the project at the society’s annual general meeting.

He confirmed that archivist Ruth Burton will lead the work, drawing on earlier cataloguing efforts by volunteers when the collection was housed at Dorset Museum and Art Gallery.

“By the summer of 2026, we’ll have a fully searchable

online catalogue that anyone can explore and enjoy,” Mr Johnston said.

Claire Dixon, executive director of the Dorset Museum & Art Gallery, said: “We are looking forward to being able to inform new displays and stories both in our galleries and online, made possible by this new online archive.”

The project will run from November 2025 to July 2026, and will involve collaboration between the Dorset History Society, William Barnes Society and local volunteers.

The Dorset History Centre will share updates as the project progresses through its public newsletter and monthly lunchtime series, From the Stacks, where archivists highlight items from Dorset’s collections. Sign up for updates at www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/ libraries-history-culture/ dorset-history-centre

Museum marks the end of the season

BLANDFORD Fashion Museum is holding an end of season celebration open day to mark a successful year curating culturally important clothing.

The free entry event on Saturday, November 29, from 10am, will include a small selection of craft stalls and a final chance to see some of the museum’s current displays.

Blandford’s Mayor, Cllr Hugo Mieville, will draw the museum’s ever popular Christmas raffle and visitors can get a free mince pie when they buy a drink in the museum’s award-winning traditional tea room.

The museum will close after the event until Monday, February 16, 2026, to allow the costume and display team to dismantle some of the displays, clean and pack costumes away and prepare the exhibition rooms ready for the new 2026 exhibitions.

15 Months for the Price of 12 – Join Now and Play Through to February 2027

There’s never been a better time to join Sherborne Golf Club as a full 7-day unlimited golf member!

Join before 1st December 2025 and enjoy 15 months of unlimited golf for just £1,490 – that’s three extra months completely free.

Our top-rated Dorset course offers stunning 360° views, friendly daily roll-ups, and a welcoming community that makes it easy to get involved from day one. We also have exciting plans for 2026, including a new Trackman driving range.

Join by 1st December 2025 play until 28th February 2027.

Email: sgcmanager@sherbornegolfclub.co.uk Call: 01935 814431

Hospital helpers

WIMBORNE Rotary has made a donation of £500 to the Friends of Victoria Hospital, Wimborne.

At a recent meeting, Rotarians welcomed Anne Salter, chair of the Friends of Victoria Hospital, and treasurer, Jenny Leeder.

Wimborne Rotary president, Brian Dryden, handed over the donation of £500, saying, “Victoria Hospital is a precious asset to all in the local community and without the work of the Friends over many years it would not be what it is today.”

Jenny Leeder receives the donation cheque for £500 from Wimborne Rotary president, Brian Dryden

Biking for good

WELLS Classic Motorcycle Club makes large donations to charity every year, and this was no exception.

At its AGM, as well as awards to its members (including the memorable ‘cockup award’) it presented Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance (DSAA) with a cheque for £3,000 and the EVS Freewheelers Blood Bikes with £800.

This brings the totals donated to date to more than £40,000 to the DSAA and £4,350 to the Blood Bikes.

The donations come from the club’s 2025 Tortoise and Hare fund, and are made possible by the support that the club receives from its sponsor and advertisers, entry fees and donations.

Find out more at www.wellsclassicmotorcycleclub.weebly. com

Wartime stories

THE Somerleigh Court care home in Dorchester remembered the fallen and those who served in two world wars and other conflicts in a service in the home’s grounds.

The service, attended by about 25 residents, included a reading by John Isherwood, the husband of one of the residents and a former member of the armed forces.

The Last Post and the Reveille were played, and

silhouettes of soldiers were put up on display in the gardens crafted by the care homes maintenance team.

Home residents gathered over the period of Remembrance to share their memories of wartime or of serving in the armed forces.

Residents unable to attend the service watched live coverage from The Cenotaph screened in the home’s three lounges.

Natty knitters

RESIDENTS at Colten Care’s Abbey View care home in Sherborne got knitting during Remembrance season.

Members of the knit and natter group added poppies they crafted to a cascade at the entrance featuring a wooden war horse and soldier gifted by the local Countrymen’s Club.

Resident and keen knitter Joyce Withey said: “It was such a pleasure to help to refresh our amazing poppy cascade net. The display looks great and is such a fitting tribute for Remembrance Day.”

Colten Care’s chief operating officer, Elaine Farrer, said: “Remembrance is an opportunity for our residents and their families to reflect on their experiences and share their memories.

“Spending time with each other, and in the community, to produce displays means that everyone can talk about the meaning behind the poppies.

“This is an equally important commemoration for those of our colleagues who have served, or have families who have served, in the armed forces.”

Nature buddies help you outside

IF you’ve ever wanted to spend more time outdoors but felt unsure about how to start, help is at hand.

The Nature Buddies Network is a Dorset-wide initiative helping people to enjoy nature and improve their health and wellbeing.

Spending time in nature can lift your mood, ease stress, boost your immune system and improve your physical wellbeing.

Whether you’re feeling isolated, anxious or lacking the confidence to get outside alone, Nature Buddies can help.

Managed by Dorset National Landscape in partnership with Volunteer Centre Dorset, and supported by The National

Lottery Heritage Fund, the project matches trained volunteer Nature Buddies with people who could benefit from free, friendly support to enjoy the outdoors.

Nature Buddies can accompany you on a walk, help you visit local green spaces, support you while you try an outdoor activity or take part in nature-based activities with you at home.

If you or someone you know could benefit from a Nature Buddy, visit www.dorset-nl.org. uk/project/nature-buddiesnetwork to find out more. Alternatively, call Kate on 01305 228246 or email kate. townsend@dorsetcouncil.gov. uk

Joyce Withey and her daughter Nicola Williams with poppies knitted at Abbey View

Photo

Christmas comes early in Rotary appeal

MEMBERS of Wimborne Rotary Club, together with family and friends, have been busy packing gifts into shoeboxes in support of the Wessex Rotary Shoebox Scheme.

Their efforts have resulted in 75 boxes being delivered to the scheme, which ensures gifts reach disadvantaged children in Romania, Moldova, Montenegro and Ukraine.

Rotarian Dave Sumner coordinated the project. He said: “As always people have been very generous in donating gifts and their time to prepare the full shoeboxes.

“From video feedback we have seen it is clear the gifts are enthusiastically and gratefully received by the children.”

A true legend

THE Hanford Prep school community came together to celebrate a true Hanford legend – head groundsmen Robert Jarvis, who has clocked up 50 years of service at the school.

The girls and staff put on a special service in the school chapel for Robert including his favourite hymn, Onward, Christian Soldiers

The service included a violin recital by Tabitha H and a special prayer for Robert. He received a painting of the school and grounds by artist Susanna MacIness, whose daughters attended Hanford.

steering us towards a sensible, practical solution.

Hilary Phillips, head of Hanford Prep, said: “Robert has given 50 years of brilliant, dedicated service to Hanford and is still giving!

“He has worked for six different heads and patiently put up with all our different ideas and requests, while gently

“His no-nonsense approach to getting things done is a lesson to us all.

“He has shown patience with the girls and staff and there’s no-one who knows Hanford better than he.

“We are very lucky to have him here at the school.”

In the picture (from left) Rotarian Dave Sumner, Ingrid Sumner, Pat Dryden and Wimborne Rotary president, Brian Dryden, with some of the shoeboxes collected

Man of steel

A 6-METRE tall steel statue of a First World War soldier has gone on display in Ypres in Belgium with the help of Sherborne-based Dorset Forge & Fabrication.

The Hauntings, created by Slovak sculptor Martin Galbavý, will be on show in the town closely associated with the Great War until next month.

The sculpture was first unveiled in St Stephen’s Green, Dublin, in November 2018 to mark the centenary of the end of the First World War.

Winter exhibition

WIMBORNE Art Club is holding its annual winter exhibition at Pamphill Village Hall, Wimborne, this weekend.

The exhibition showcases the work of the club's members and includes crafts, cards and paintings, all for sale. Coffee, tea and mince pies will be available.

The exhibition runs on Friday, November 21, (1-4pm), and Saturday and Sunday, November 22-23 (10-4pm).

Entrance and parking is free of charge.

Life and lovers of Hardy

THE launch of a book by Giles Keating about the author Thomas Hardy was extremely well attended at Waterstones in Dorchester.

The book, 10 Lovers 50 Poems, explores the polyamorous relationships Hardy had with an eclectic range of women including his second wife Florence Hardy and the first actress to play ‘Tess’ in 1924, Gertrude Bugler.

The book includes his turbulent marriage to first wife Emma Gifford, Tryphena Sparks and Eliza Nicholls.

Mark Damon Chutter, chair and academic director of the Thomas Hardy Society, interviewed Keating at the event.

Mark said: “The book is a great addition to Hardy studies

All aboard: a trip down memory lane

THE Bridport Branch Railway, which closed 50 years ago this year, is celebrated in a new book published by Bridport Museum.

Railway Memories: All Aboard The Bridport Line is the result of interviews with about 40 people about how they used the line and its quirks.

Tegwyn Jones, a volunteer at the museum, edited the memories and collected recollections from local history books and museum archives.

He said: “It's been a fascinating exercise, which would not have happened without the willing participation of a lot of people.

“The conversations threw up a lot of great stories which will go into museum archives for future researchers – a lot more material than I could get into this book.

“This time last year, the museum published a book on Quirky Bridport that proved so popular we had to print two more editions.

“Encouraged by this, I felt a book on the human aspect of the Bridport branch railway might be really interesting for locals and visitors alike.

“The sales of the book will provide some useful income for the museum.”

Michelle Caesar, museum manager, said “This anniversary year, the museum has run several initiatives to engage with local people and visitors about the Bridport branch railway.

“The exhibition we are running at the moment has been popular, and this book, Railway Memories, is part of that effort.

“Its publication is at an ideal time as it will make a welcome

Christmas gift. It's a great way to support the museum and find out more about the town's fascinating history.”

Railway Memories: All Aboard The Bridport Line, is available from Bridport Museum, Toller Post Office and the Marquis of Lorne pub at Nettlecombe from the end of November. It is hoped it will be stocked by other shops in the town in the new year.

and there are videoed performances of the poetry on YouTube which accompany the text – this an example of making Hardy’s poetry accessible to everyone alongside conveying the performativity of his work to a wider audience.”

Art club

DORCHESTER Art Club’s Christmas card competition winner was Christine Messenger.

Her design will be used for the club’s Christmas card mail out this year and Christine will receive some copies for her personal use.

The club meets weekly at St George’s Church Hall, Fordington, between 2-4pm.

Its new term starts again on Thursday, January 8, 2026 – for further information phone 01305 264568.

Giles Keating of Athelhampton with Sarah Gregson of Poxwell Manor

Gillingham care home team walk 50 miles for

Children in Need

Twalked 50 miles to fundraise for Children in Need.

relatives of the Gillingham home’s residents took turns to put in the miles on the treadmill in aid of the great cause.

home’s residents, as well as visitors who joined Fern Brook Lodge’s weekly Memory Café event, held in partnership with Age UK North, South & West Dorset.

osemary, who lives in the home, said: “It was fun. Charity begins at home and the Fern Brook Lodge team were very eager to take part. It certainly brought a smile to my face.”

Bikers blessing

Words and pictures: George Jeans

Dorothy, who also lives at Fern Brook Lodge, said: “The team are wonderful. They are so dedicated to helping others.”

THE Armed Forces Bikers & Veterans Charity laid a wreath at Mere War Memorial and experienced a bike blessing.

Gillingham care home team walk 50 miles for Children in Need

The team at Fern Brook Lodge care home have collectively walked 50 miles to fundraise for Children in Need.

Various team members, visitors, and relatives of the Gillingham home’s residents took turns to put in the miles on the treadmill in aid of the great cause.

They were cheered on by some of the home’s residents, as well as visitors who joined Fern Brook Lodge’s weekly Memory Café event, held in partnership with Age UK North, South & West Dorset.

Rosemary, who lives in the home, said: “It was fun. Charity begins at home and the Fern Brook Lodge team were very eager to take part. It certainly brought a smile to my face.”

Dorothy, who also lives at Fern Brook Lodge, said: “The team are wonderful. They are so dedicated to helping others.”

A padre and Mere vicar the Rev Michael Molano were present for a bike blessing alongside the wreath laying, as were the Mere Town Council chair and vice-chair.

Fern Brook Lodge provides residential, respite and dementia care. A dedicated activities team organises a daily programme of events to bring residents together to socialise and build friendships.

You do not need to ride a motorcycle or be a veteran to join.

The home also hosts its own Memory Café sessions every Thursday morning from 10am to 12pm, supported by Dementia Friendly Gillingham, for people living with dementia and their carers. There is no need to book – just drop in on the day.

Fern Brook Lodge provides residential, respite and dementia care. A dedicated activities team organises a daily programme of events to bring residents together to socialise and build friendships.

The home also hosts its own Memory Café sessions every Thursday morning from 10am to 12pm, supported by Dementia Friendly Gillingham, for people living with dementia and their carers. There is no need to book – just drop in on the day.

Food

Mealtimes are a very important part of life in a Care South home and even more so at Christmas! We offer a varied menu and make sure there is always something for everyone to enjoy.

Fun Christmas is always a very exciting period for our homes with plenty of events and activities for family and friends to get involved in too. Friendship Christmas is the perfect time to strengthen relationships with loved ones. Being able to get together with others

is always a very exciting period for our homes with plenty of events and activities for family and friends to get involved in too.

THE SWANS TRUST AGM will be held at the Shaftesbury Arts Centre at 6pm on the 26th November. All welcome.

GARDEN OF DELIGHTS Presents to buy handmade by artists. SPRINGHEAD Fontmell Magna SP7 0NU. Fri 5th-Sun 7th December 10am-4pm. Free entry.

TOP BRASS AND WIND CONCERT BAND, St Marys Church, Gillingham. Saturday 29th November, 6.30-9pm. Featuring Dorset Mutineers Shanty Singers, FREE entry, Donations to Food Bank and NORDDIS Charities, Gillingham.

11 5 40 64 22 BINGO!

CHRISTMAS Stalbridge Hall Thursday 27th November

90

Doors open 6.30pm Eyes down 7.30pm In aid of hall fund s

SIXPENNY HANDLEY Community Cinema

The Penguin Lessons Village Hall, Common Road SP5 5NJ Friday 21 November | 6.30 for 7.00 pm £6 | Bar & snacks | Information: 6dhandleyhall@gmail.com

THE PILGRIM SINGERS PRESENT:

A charity concert in aid of North Dorset Women’s Refuge,GAUDETE! Sun 7th December 7PM, St Luke & St Teresa’s Church, BA9 9DH, Refreshments included, Entry by ticket £12 (under 16’s free) Tickets available from Wincanton Post Office, choir members, on the door, or contact 01963 33695

2ND TEMPLECOMBE SCOUT GROUP. Christmas Bingo

Saturday 6th December

Eyes down 7.30pm Templecombe Village Hall

CRAFT AND COFFEE MORNING. Saturday November 29th 10am-12pm. Witchampton Village Hall.

JOIN US AT ST NICHOLAS CHURCH Henstridge — an evening of candlelight, music and festive cheer on Friday 5th December 6:30pm

THE PILGRIM SINGERS’ Christmas Concert is on 7th December at 7.00 pm at St. Luke’s Church Wincanton. Tickets £12 to include refreshments, Under 16’s free.

LYN’S BINGO at Marnhull

Royal British Legion DT10 1HR on December 1st. Eyes down 7pm.

EXHIBITION. The natural Beauty of British hardwoods. Stourprovost village hall, 6-7 December 10-4, light refreshments.

HORSINGTON FARMERS MARKET. 6th December 10-2pm.

ARTSREACH & Notnow Collective. Pepper & Honey Sixpenny Handly Village Hall, Common Road SP5 5NJ Saturday 29 November | 7.00 for 7.30 pm Tickets & information: artsreach.co.uk | Bar & snacks

CHRISTMAS FAIR, Saturday 29th November. An event for all the family. Santa’s Grotto, BBQ, Gifts Stalls & lots lots more. Wincanton Community Hospital, BA9 9DQ, Fundraising for Wincanton Hospital & The Local Community.

CHRISTMAS FAYRE

Shaftesbury Town Hall. Sunday 23rd November, 10.30-2pm.

Father Christmas (free), Refreshments, Raffles Various Stalls. In Aid of The Somerset & Dorset Air Ambulance and Cancer Research.

Sherborne Toy ColleCTorS Fair

December 13th 2025.

Digby Memorial Hall, Digby Road.

Hosted by Pastimes of Sherborne - dealers in classic toys for 40 years. All enquiries call 07736 666414

Hard times for the local pub

IN years of running The Langton Arms at Tarrant Monkton I have never known it this bad.

In 2004 we suffered a devastating fire. Rebuilding after that should have been the hardest challenge of my career, but it wasn’t.

We survived Covid closures and we survived the shock of energy prices following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Our electricity bill alone jumped from £25,000 to £68,000 in a single year.

Realistically, we should have closed then. We were on our knees.

Over the past six weeks, the British Institute of Innkeeping and our suppliers have urged us to write to our MPs pleading for meaningful support for the hospitality industry.

The truth is simple – the numbers no longer add up.

We pay: 20% VAT, while supermarkets pay around 2%; high business rates; National Insurance; an ever-increasing living wage; and rising food, drink and energy costs.

The system is stacked against small independent pubs and restaurants.

When I asked our MP two years ago why no support was coming, I was told that businesses that close are not considered ‘well run’ by the Government. That response still devastates me.

Recently, a local resident suggested I invite television’s ‘Hotel Inspector’ to tell me ‘what I was doing wrong’!

It shows how disconnected people are from reality – this is not about poor management, the entire hospitality sector is collapsing.

Our small village now has many Airbnbs, all competing directly with our six rooms –yet they pay no business rates, no VAT and no commercial waste or staffing costs.

The council tells me the Government is ‘trying to sort it’ but by the time anything

changes it will be too late for many of us.

Across the country, pubs are standing empty, boarded up and left to rot.

These buildings once held communities together.

They were – and still should be – part of our national identity.

Instead, we are witnessing a national catastrophe.

Government, past and present, has failed to recognise the value of a good community pub.

If action doesn’t come soon, many more irreplaceable businesses will vanish forever.

Barbara Cossins Via email

Drivers, please respect the cobbles

DORSET born and bred, I returned from Surrey 10 years ago.

Before my retirement, I was a frequent visitor to my parents and would enjoy the delights of Shaftesbury, returning to old haunts of my youth.

Gold Hill is a jewel in Shaftesbury’s crown, steeped in history – not just the Hovis advert – dating back to Saxon times, something to cherish.

I was appalled on Saturday, while enjoying the views and a hearty breakfast in The Salt Cellar, at a car, I presumed a taxi, driving up Gold Hill and dropping some tourists.

Is this a sign of the times?

I understand the need for local deliveries, but a polite request to drivers – please respect these ancient cobbles, the Hill is easily accessed from the High Street.

Protect our heritage.

Val Bell Via email

Dorset Conference of the Parties

I WOULD like to apologise to Sturminster Newton residents and visitors for any inconvenience caused on Saturday, November 1, due to the Dorset COP.

When planning this grassroots climate gathering, it was difficult to judge how many people would attend.

I hope the large numbers didn’t cause too much disruption in the town.

Thank you to the speakers and facilitators, 35 in all, who ran workshops and gave informative and motivational talks which ensured the day was such a success.

Thank you also to the staff and volunteers at The Exchange and Marnhull Green TEAMS and other volunteers for their assistance and to the Vale Pantry for providing an excellent lunch.

And thanks too to Clarkie Photography for the amazing photos.

World events over the past few months have highlighted the need to put politics aside and work together to make the changes needed to save wildlife, reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and create resilient communities.

We need to be generous with our creative ideas. This isn’t a competition, there is no prize for coming first – we will win or lose together.

We need everyone onboard, so if you would like to join us please contact connect@ sustainabledorset.org

Jennifer Morisetti Chair, Sustainable Dorset

Dogs an add-on for the ‘young elite’

OH! How I do agree with Martin Hobdell’s poem – New Blackmore Vale, October 24. There are now dogs, everywhere

And of the consequences no-one cares.

Dogs are the latest add-on, must-have for the so called ‘young elite’

To complement their two kids, tattoos and botoxed cheeks. They cannot have just any mutt, It has to be a pedigree pup. Why would anyone want to pick up poo?

What a mindless thing to have to do.

At the latest calculation

There are 13 million dogs in this nation.

An annual license fee of £500 is my suggestion, Helping the Chancellor with her imminent debt collection. For sure, Guide, Sniffer, Police, Companion and Sheep dogs have their place,

Shop’s wonderful Remembrance tribute

I WAS passing Allum & Sidaway jewellers in Gillingham and was struck by its wonderfully impressive Remembrance window display.

is truly wonderful to see so many of the current generation still recognising the event. Charlie Waite, Eccliffe

But so many of these canine carnivores are, in my opinion, a waste of space.

Sue Delves- Broughton Via email

Steam train to carol service

A WELCOME visitor to Sherborne and the Blackmore Vale on Wednesday, December 3, will be Merchant Navy steam loco No. 35028 ‘Clan Line’ hauling a special train to and from London for passengers to attend a carol service in the abbey.

The train is scheduled to arrive in Sherborne at 1.15pm and head back at 4.50pm.

The loco will be serviced in between at the excellent Yeovil Junction Steam Centre.

Passengers will have the privilege of seeing the wonderfully decorated abbey but, sadly, The Longest Yarn Exhibition will have moved on after November 27.

The collection of 80 tableau depicting scenes from the Second World War in wool is brilliant, and I recommend everyone tries to visit it. The skill and attention to detail is astonishing.

Mike Bignell Sherborne

Prison deaths show system is failing NEWS that prison deaths hit their highest 12-month total this century should be a wake-up call.

This year there have been 411 deaths in custody – almost a quarter self-inflicted, up 9% on the previous year.

This reflects a system failing to keep people safe and should be a concern for everyone in our communities.

If we are serious about reducing deaths in prison, we must confront the conditions driving this crisis.

Overcrowding fuels violence and distress. Mental health support remains wholly inadequate, despite high levels of need.

And too many people are left

without access to purposeful activity or education, often locked in their cells for up to 22 hours a day.

Prisons must be places where individuals are supported to rebuild their lives and prepare for life on the outside, not environments which destroy wellbeing and further traumatise vulnerable people.

We must end the inhumane practice of only letting people out their cells for a mere few hours a day and increase focus and investment in meaningful support, training and work opportunities in prison.

This will not only save lives but better prepare those in custody when they are released into our communities.

Helen Dyson Interim chief executive, Nacro, the social justice charity

Social groups reaching out

ROUND Table is a social group for young men with a history of fun and fundraising in the community.

41 Club is an older group which seeks to support Round Table while arranging a range of activities for the age group.

Recently, a team of eager members from local clubs have banded together to bring both clubs back into activity.

Some of these people live in Wimborne and will form the nucleus as the clubs grow together.

Both groups will offer regular meetings with varied programmes of activities around Wimborne and the local area.

So, if you are keen to get out and meet people of a similar age for fun and activities we can offer the right group for you.

We will shortly be promoting our meeting dates on social media so please look out for Wimborne Round Table and Wimborne 41 Club on Facebook.

You can email us via wimborne@roundtable.org.uk and wimborne41 club@gmail. com

We look forward to seeing

you and telling you more about us.

Further information can also be found at roundtable.co.uk/ about and 41club.org/ about41-club.

Paul Clarke Wimborne

Charity calls for help in shops

AT the British Heart Foundation (BHF), we are looking for budding elves to spread Christmas cheer and lend an elfing hand in their local BHF shop.

Our volunteers are vital over the festive period, and they can get involved in a variety of tasks – from unleashing their creativity and decorating the shop, to helping organise donations and preparing them for the shop floor, to simply being a friendly ear for customers who might feel lonely at this time of year.

In return for our wonderful volunteers’ generosity, they can expect to make new friends, learn new skills and receive great in-store discounts – handy for any Christmas shopping!

Not to mention hot drinks, snacks and a fantastic festive welcome.

You’ll also be helping us raise vital funds to support the charity’s lifesaving research, which helps keep families together for Christmases to come.

So why not put your best elf forward and have a go at volunteering with the BHF? To get involved, pop into your local shop or visit our website.

Jo Wright

Retail volunteering operations manager British Heart Foundation

Reeves should read Bard’s Richard II

HAVING recently re-read Shakespeare’s Richard II, I think Rachel Reeves could learn a thing or two from it before the next Budget.

Richard II is about a foolish king who makes errors of judgment which lead to his

deposition by Henry Bolingbroke – later Henry IV. King Richard loses the support of the common people because he raises taxes to exorbitant levels. Sound familiar?

Lord Ross explains how Richard has lost support from the commoners and the nobles, and how England is suffering because of Richard’s misrule. “The commons hath he pill’d with grievous taxes, / And quite lost their hearts: the nobles hath he fined / For ancient quarrels, and quite lost their hearts.”

Furthermore, Sir John Bagot explains how high taxes have made the common people angry with Richard’s rule: “And that’s the wavering commons: for their love / Lies in their purses, and whoso empties them / By so much fills their hearts with deadly hate.”

Yet perhaps the most poignant monologue is spoken by the ailing John of Gaunt: “This royal throne of kings, this sceptred islem This earth of majesty, this seat of Mars, This other Eden, demi-paradise (...) Is now leased out Like to a tenement or pelting farm That England that was wont to conquer others Hath made a shameful conquest of itself.”

Rachel, don’t make the same mistake Richard made.

Elliott Wagner-Hale Via email

Pets against noisy fireworks

ON Saturday night our humans got together to have dinner.

Unfortunately, they had to put the music on so loud because there were lots of fireworks outside banging and hissing and we were trembling.

It’s not just us dogs that don’t like this awful noise – what about military veterans with PTSD, humans who are neurodiverse, and horses, farm animals and wildlife.

When will this stop?

Yours anxiously, Betty, Izzy, Pepe and Alfie St James Street, Shaftesbury

The Wessex Event Company presents...

Sudoku 3D puzzle

Cryptic crossword

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

Device on instrument in

Killer Sudoku Pro

venue (5)

Criminal is near and come into view (6) 9 Explain condition in English comedian (7) 10 Preserve song in college (3,2)

11 Kick compartment in car (4)

13 Busy performer I have contracted (6)

15 Language in university with appeal (5)

16 Indication of smoothness in bars? (6)

17 Love Virginia, first of ladies in shape (4)

1 A pair of lines with a diary encapsulating nationalist over time? (3,5) 2 Type raising passions (5) 3 Lecherous figure brooded over year (5) 4 A French article in dictionary shows way speaking (7)

5 Reject study ending in controversy (4)

6 Set of words round a club require analysis amid change (10)

20 Drive back here Peloponnesians? Not altogether (5)

22 With no end of waste, money’s spent round US city – or something similar? (7)

23 Discuss letter about club (6)

24 Police informer is second name disclosed (5)

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

8 Dispel item for tinkering with road regulation (5,5)

12 English musician renovated houses (3)

13 Ring up mostly to get support (3)

14 Bell, say, in opening over river (8)

15 A Latin I fancy? (7)

18 Escort American crowd with day gone

19 Bite shown in good US comic writer (5)

21 Former PM gets place around middle of week (4)

Reject study ending in controversy (4)

Set of words round a club require analysis amid change (10)

Dispel item for tinkering with road regulation (5,5)

English musician renovated houses (3)

(3)

(8)

(5)

(5)

Items for sale

CLASSIFIED ADS

Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.

MOBILITY SCOOTER

QUINGO ULTRA, 2025. As new. £800.

Tel: 07973-794346

DRILL MILLING MACHINE for sale, £900 offers welcome 01258 473598

MOTORCYCLE TRAILER

Motolug S7 (SE similar)

£250 vgc Tel: 01747 821064

FREE CLASSIFIED ADS

ALL CREATURES GREAT & SMALL-DVDS - Series 1 volumes 1 & 2, 6 DVDS overall, £5.00, 01258-456000

WHITE PADDED EASYCLEAN headboard. £15. Buyer Collects. Tel: 07354-825081

AIWA XT003FM TUNER, with Triax FM aerial. four elements. VGC. £10. Tel: 07963-319751 (Gillingham)

SIX STRING GUITAR, lovely Xmas present , bargain £30 Tel: 01747-822422

AIRREX WHEELCHAIR, ex-condition. £48. Tel: 07943 844356 (Blandford Forum)

ASSORTED PORCELAIN DOLLS. Aprox.26. Ideal for Christmas present or collector. £35. Tel: 07833-641242

LONG HANDLED EXTENDABLE hedge cutter. Electric. As New. £50. Tel: 07886-538350

500 PIECE PUZZLES £1 each or 15 for £10. 01935-671764

CORT ACOUSTIC GUITAR with bag. VGC. £40. Tel: 01258820641 / 07545-065503

2 NEW CONCRETE GRAVEL BOARDS with York stone design. 6 ft long, 1 ft high. £40 Tel 07721 530520.

JOIE EVERY STAGE 0-1-2-3

CAR SEAT, Immaculate condition. 0 to 36kg or up to 12years. £50, Tel: 07752 246816

GO-PAK FOLDING TABLE

- 48” X 29” £20.00 Table top artist easel unused £20.00. 07720-942996 01458-241771

TALL FREEZER HOTPOINT 6 compartments. Prime condition. £20 01258-470523.

COOKING ESSENTIAL

medium size air fryer, green. Never used, with dishes. £40 01935-817782

COSY HOMES PINK

BEDROOM RUG. 4ftx5ft3”. Never used £20. 01935-817782

BOSH 650 UNIVERSAL

ROTAK 2 years old electric lawn mower. £45 buyer collects. Reason for sale no longer required. Contact 07531-561966

TWO PAIRS M&S FULLY LINED red & gold pencil pleat curtains - 2.13m x 2.76m (some slight fading one edge) and 1.62m x 3.32m Good condition £50. 07971 607386

2 CONSTELLATION 2 Wheel

Brown Suitcases VGC, 24”” x 16”” x 9”” £15 each, £25 pair, 01985 216546 / 07539 528059

SCALES ELECTRIC. Sealed box. £50 Ask for Ken. 01747-870824.

CASIOTONE CD/S100 digital keyboard. Never used £50. Tel: 01747-826330

ROLLATOR WITH SEAT £40. Walking Aid. Foldable. Great condition. Gillingham Dorset 07588-562300

HAYTER HARRIER 41 petrol mower, Regularly serviced since 1992, £45, 01747 859973

LIBERACHY STYLE MENTAL Guilt Candlelabra. £40 pair. Tel: 01747-837834 (Gillingham)

GENTS DINNER SUIT. 48 chest, trs 40W x 33L. VGC any offers please. Call 07767622159 Blandford

WHEELCHAIR. Lightweight folding.Excellent condition. Hardly used. £40. 01258-817300

DOLLS HOUSE KIT, Boxed, Full instructions and esquisite dolls furniture. Create an heirloom. £30. Tel: 01747-841206

DYSON VACUUM CLEANER

CITY. DC26 Hardly used, £15. Tel: 01202-694000 (Broadstone)

RECORD G CRAMPS, all straight & true.1,10”.3,5” 5,6” .2,8”.all £5-00 each.phone 01935 475451.

EXERCISE BIKE - Confidence Fitness exercise bike. Great condition. £45. Collection BA9. Phone 07814 559096.

TUXEDO WHITE MEDIUM

size. Good condition £10, Waistcoats medium size . Assorted, 5 off. £8 each. 07731-580011

FREE - WINDSURFER

‘STARTER’ board and two sails. Near Shaftesbury. Buyer collects,WhatsApp Anne 07970-065554

SET OF BRASS PONY HAMES £40 in good condition. 01747 854395

BLUE GLAZED GARDEN

POTS,various sizes, All four £20, 07951-132253, Sparkford

4 HEAVY IRON HINGES suitable for garage or field gates £40 Ono Tel 01747-822422

BOXX 3-GUN SAFE, Internal lockable compartment, Made to BS7558/92, £45, Tel; 01747 821064

PINE BOOKCASE £20.00, 07909-524497

TRAVEL COT/PLAY PEN with mattress and bedding. used twice. £35. Tel: 01258-818017

BOXED TOY CARS/VAN VARIOUS. As new £2 each. 12toy tin houses £1 each.07706-939286

CHILD SEAT for 9 - 36kg child. Model “Joie Elevate” £1001747 853942

ANTIQUE MAHOGANY small drop leaf table clawfeet and castors 21”hx29”w extended vgc £15 01747-835680

VINTAGE HAND SINGER

sewing machine in wooden case. Very good condition and in working order. £45 ono Gillingham 07966-967709

CALOR GAS HEATER & BOTTLE. £50. Tel: 07933 633424

LADIES WALKING BOOTS

‘Head Exploration’. Waterproof, Size5, never worn, still in box. Ideal Xmas gift. £25. Tel: 01747 830000

CHINA AFTERNOON TEA SET

“Colclough Rhapsody in blue” six place setting. Excellent condition £45.00. Stalbridge. 07840-223907

VERY LARGE BIRD CAGES, as new. Very good condition. £25. 01747-811916.

LEFT HANDED GOLF CLUBS. 15 inc. Lynx,Hippo,Taylor Made,Calloway £50 Tel:01935 813564

COT BED WITH MATTRESS. Excellent Condition. £35.00. 01747-854292

AUDIOBOOKS JOB lot 80+ kids/teens/adults cds/playaways £45 01747-855091 evenings

REUSABLE NAPPIES large quantity, mix of traditional terry squares and shaped. £45 07790-243989

VERY OLD COMODE OAK CHAIR, with china pot. £45 ono. Tel: 01747-840835

SHINANO ULTEGRA 14000 reel, ideal beach or carp. £50. Tel: 07907-044084

HOTPOINT UPRIGHT 5 drawer frost-free freezer. Good working order. £30. (nr Sherborne) Tel: 01963-210591

LARGE LOUNGE CHAIR, 3’3” Wide, 3’0” Deep, 2’5” High. Very good condition. Very comfortable. £50. Tel: 07952-750711

11 REALLY NICE JIGSAWS, mostly 1000 pieces some 500. £24 ONO. 01963-23412.

SELECTION OF OUTSIDE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS near Sturminster Newton £50. 07968-894482

SINGER OVERLOCKER (Lidl £129.99) unused with threads £50 Tel: 07542-058600

WANTED, VINYL LP/ ALBUMS from the 60’s, 70’s, 80’s and 90’s. Whole collections bought, Rock, Pop, RnB, Jazz, Soul. NOT easy listening or Classical, Call Andrew 07799-417711

CIGARETTE CARDS

WANTED. Bought for cash. Fair prices paid. Phone Kevin. 07907-888672

OLD BOOKS BOUGHT. Will call by appointment entirely without obligation. Bristow & Garland 07392 602014

Hoosiers returning for Teddy Rocks

THE Teddy Rocks Festival has officially revealed the first wave of acts set to take the stage at Charisworth Farm, Blandford, next year.

The festival promises another weekend of music, community and family fun in aid of the fight against childhood cancer.

The festival has raised more than £800,000 since 2011, with funds directed towards children’s cancer charities, helping children and families going through treatment, and research into childhood cancer.

n Viva La Vida – the Coldplay tribute, delivering stadium anthems under Dorset skies.

Festival founder, Tom Newton, said: “The Hoosiers were the first ever big name act Teddy Rocks ever confirmed, and they headlined the first greenfield festival in 2016.

Acts on the line-up include:

n Elvana – the Elvis-fronted Nirvana tribute, bringing their legendary mash-up show.

n The Hoosiers – chart-topping indie-pop heroes best known for hits like Goodbye Mr A and Worried About Ray. n Dreadzone – the dub/dance pioneers guaranteed to get crowds moving.

“Next year will be 10 years since we put on the first ‘proper’ Teddy Rocks – not taking place in a pub – so bringing them back for 2026 is an amazing celebration of how far we’ve come.

“There’s loads more exciting announcements to come, and we’ve got some tricks up our sleeve for the Friday main stage line up, too.”

The weekender also includes lots of family-friendly activities, a range of food and drink providers, and fairground rides.

The festival runs from Friday to Sunday, May 1-3, 2026.

All things bright...

ART in the community will be celebrated in this year’s Art in Poundbury winter exhibition, Bright and Beautiful

The event will showcase 140 local artists, and hundreds of original works, prints and cards will be for sale.

Art in Poundbury will raise funds for the Dorset County Hospital Charity and Arts in Hospital.

The centrepiece of the exhibition will be a community art piece, a flock of birds,

handmade by groups from local schools, youth clubs, older living communities, businesses and Weldmar hospice. It will soar across the exhibition hall and each bird, created using the outline of the maker’s hand, will carry a personal message of hope.

The Bright and Beautiful exhibition is at the Jubilee Hall, Poundbury, from Saturday, November 22, to Sunday, November 30, 10am-4pm.

Arts & Entertainment

SONGS from the stage and screen, plus seasonal favourites, are promised when the Encore Singers give an autumn concert at the United Church, Dorchester.

The concert is on Saturday, November 29, at 7.30pm and entry is free of charge, with a retiring collection in aid of The Leprosy Mission.

John Wayman, from the group, said: “Why not go to the Christmas lights switch-on in Brewery Square until 7pm, then come up to our concert to get warm?”

Charles is coming to the Cheese & Grain in Frome

Funk and soul house party

DJ, actor and radio broadcaster Craig Charles will be coming to the Cheese & Grain in Frome later this month.

Charles has made his name as one of the UK’s most respected names in funk and soul through constant live shows and radio work.

He has entertained crowds with his infectious energy and unbeatable beats for over 30 years from the stages of Glastonbury to the airwaves of BBC 6 Music.

He brings his Funk & Soul House Party DJ show to Frome

on Friday, November 28. Special guests The Beatles Dub Club will be coming along for the ride this time around.

DJ Chris Arnold and his live brass section will take music fans on a magical mystery tour of a collection of covers, remixes and tracks that sample The Beatles.

Expect to hear funk, soul, reggae, ska, latin, hip hop, dub, house and even drum and bass and the music created by John, Paul, George and Ringo.

Tickets are available from www.cheeseandgrain.com

A WALK around Dorchester is inspired by novelist, poet and musicologist Sylvia Townsend Warner.

Walkers are invited to meet at the Town Pump at noon on Saturday, November 29, for an hour-long walk. Townsend Warner, who lived for a large part of her life near Maiden Newton, is known for such works as Lolly Willowes, The Corner That Held Them, and Kingdoms of Elfin

A statue of Sylvia will be unveiled in Dorchester on Sunday, December 14.

The walk is free of charge and for more details and to book email Mark Damon Chutter at chuttermark@gmail.com

The Hoosiers headlined Teddy Rocks in 2016

Craig

Arts & Entertainment

Opera for newbies and old hands

OPERA newbies and aficionados alike will enjoy A Night at the Opera coming to Yetminster next month.

Soprano Callie Gaston, tenor Roger Paterson and pianist Elspeth Wilkes will serve up a variety of well-loved opera arias and duets followed by musical theatre classics.

Audiences wanting a relaxed introduction to opera can revel in the romance of Puccini, the passion of Gounod and the heartbreak of Verdi.

Each piece is set in context by the performers, so no prior knowledge is necessary.

Callie and Roger, who trained at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and Royal Conservatoire of Scotland respectively, tour all over the world to perform.

Gaston has previously appeared in Dorset as part of

Opera Holloway.

A Night at the Opera is presented with Dorset rural arts charity Artsreach at Studland Village Hall on Thursday, December 4, and St Andrew’s Church, Yetminster, on Sunday, December 14.

Tickets and full details are available online at www. artsreach.co.uk

European folk

THE Firelight Trio, who are set to perform three concerts in Dorset, play European folk music that is evocative, inventive and endlessly exciting.

Band members have over 25 years of experience as professional musicians in bands including Moishe’s Bagel, Gavin Marwick’s Journeyman and more.

Phil Alexander on accordion, Gavin Marwick on fiddle and Ruth Morris on Swedish nyckelharpa weave a rich tapestry of lively Swedish

polskas and Scottish reels, lilting French waltzes, toetapping klezmer and dazzling original tunes.

Firelight Trio, who hail from Scotland, are in Dorset with rural arts charity Artsreach.

They play halls in Winterborne Stickland on Friday, November 21, Burton Bradstock on Saturday, November 22, and Cerne Abbas on Sunday, November 23, all at 7.30pm.

Tickets and more details are available online at www. artsreach.co.uk

FIVE-TIME Olivier Award winner Imelda Staunton – The Crown – joins forces with her real-life daughter Bessie Carter – Bridgerton – for the very first time, playing mother and daughter in Bernard Shaw’s incendiary moral classic Mrs Warren’s Profession Vivie Warren is a woman ahead of her time. Her mother, however, is a product of that old patriarchal order. Exploiting it has earned Mrs Warren a fortune – but at what cost?

Filmed live from the West End, this new production explores the clash between morality and independence, traditions and progress. It is screened at Shaftesbury Arts Centre on Sunday, November 30, at 7pm.

A Night at the Opera is coming to the village hall at Yetminster

A second chance at love

CELEBRATIONS for the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth continue with Dorchester Drama’s adaptation of Persuasion. Her final complete novel, published posthumously and set in the west country, is a tale of love rejected but rekindled and told with Austen’s trademark social observation and wit.

This production, which has been pared back but retains all the charm of the original, was adapted by former Dorchester Drama alum Jo Bradley.

Persuasion is the story of Anne Elliot who is unexpectedly thrown back together with her spurned suitor, Capt Frederick Wentworth, after eight years apart. Now aged 27, Anne is considered ‘ancient’ and fears the good captain will overlook her in favour of a younger bride.

But will true love find a way?

Gemma Higgins plays the role of Anne while Sean Colledge brings Wentworth to

Music, song and laughter

SERO, which raises money for local causes and Julia’s House Children’s Hospice, is holding a concert featuring acclaimed bass-baritone

Geoffrey Horton at Child Okeford Village Hall.

Horton (pictured) will present an evening of music, song and laughter for all ages in Songs from the Heart following a sell-out concert for SERO two years ago.

life.

Gemma said: “Playing Anne has been an epic experience. She’s every woman who has ever taken a risk on love, felt the uncertainty of trusting her life to someone or felt that nervous spark of being in love for the first time.

“This is my first performance with DD and I’m thrilled that the directors have trusted me and the rest of the cast have been so welcoming and supportive.”

Sean said: “Wentworth is battling the agony of previous rejection with the joy of falling in love all over again with another of Austen’s brilliant

He has also performed internationally with choral societies as a guest soloist.

His programme will contain a mixture of popular songs and ballads interspersed with anecdotes and tales from his long career.

He will be accompanied by James Smith and joined by Angela Beattie (mezzosoprano), with whom he has recently worked in raising funds for Neuroendocrine Cancer UK.

He has sung major operatic roles, appeared in musicals and directed everything from opera to pantomime.

The concert is on Saturday, November 22, at 7pm and tickets priced £15 include light refreshments. A bar and raffle will also be available.

To purchase tickets, email serocharity@gmail.com, or phone Julie on 01258 861218 or 07749 486733, or Kate on 01258 863695 or 07725 245066.

Capt Wentworth (Sean Colledge) looks on as Anne Elliot (Gemma Higgins) discusses grief with Captain Benwick (Jonathan White)

protagonists.

“It has been great fun being part of this production.”

The cast includes Martin Stephen as Anne’s widowed father Sir Walter Elliot, Dee Thorne as Anne’s ‘second mother’ Lady Russell, Theresa Austin and Tilda Samson as Anne’s sisters Elizabeth and Mary. Colin Davidson plays William Elliot, Anne’s wealthy cousin and sometime suitor.

Playwright Jo Bradley said: “The work of adapting the novel was made very easy for me by the author herself. Jane Austen’s wit, her wry reflections on the human condition, her complex

Quire keeps it local

NOW in its 30th year, The Stanchester Quire, a community choir based in Leigh, near Sherborne, will be performing in West Dorset and South Somerset next month.

All of the old carols and

characterisation, and her asides which make the reader complicit in the telling of the story, all lend themselves to a staged retelling.”

Monica Hunt and Fran Sansom direct the production.

Monica said: “It’s been an enjoyable experience, with everyone really getting into their particular roles.

“It’s nice to be able to tell it in a way that doesn’t need a massive amount of staging and I think it will look great.”

Fran added: “I’m absolutely loving it! I’m doing a play with my mates and it’s one that I have wanted to do for a while.

“We have a fabulous cast and crew putting everything together and producing something amazing.”

Persuasion is at Dorchester Arts on Friday and Saturday, November 21 and 22, at 7.30pm with a Saturday matinee at 2pm. Tickets are available from dorchesterarts.org.uk, in person and from the box office on 01305 266926.

songs it sings have either been collected from, or written about, the south west of England, including from as close as Odcombe, near Yeovil, and Longburton, near Sherborne, and as distant as Padstow in Cornwall.

The choir will be performing at South Petherton, Holnest, near Sherborne, East Chinnock, Sherborne, The Newt and Thorncombe.

For details of all the concerts, visit its website, www.

stanchesterquire.org

Welcome to Pauline’s Patchwork , our family run business for all your patchwork needs! Come and see all the workshop samples for 2026 on the 3rd - 6th December.

Feel free to pop in and visit, or for any enquiries please contact us using the below details:

Budget speculation the new sport

WE go live and to print a few days shy of the Budget announcement, therefore you might be reading my column prior to the announcement, or fully aware of the content of our Chancellor of the Exchequer’s second Budget.

In the run up to the Budget, my mind has gone to my past columns, where I have explored issues around voter perception, political language, embracing the need to be flexible with an ability to adapt and the huge responsibility Rachel Reeves MP undertook when setting out the Treasury’s fiscal rules and why they were essential to reviving growth in the UK’s economy.

Back to the here and now – in all my time observing the UK’s political landscape, I have never witnessed the level of pre-Budget speculation that has occurred in the lead up to the Chancellor’s 2025 Budget,

Candice JohnsonCole, on behalf of Dorset Labour

nor a Chancellor under such intense scrutiny. Do not get me wrong, I expect journalists and finance specialists to set out their stalls and make their forecasts and meaningful predictions ahead of any Budget or Spring

Statement, but this year, things have felt very different.

The Budget speculation in the media especially has been extremely drawn out – there has been no let-up since the Government’s Spring Statement in March! What feels new to me is the constant questions to ministers and MPs – any minister or MP, regardless of department or rank – directly relating to the contents of a yet to be announced Budget.

No Government representative is going to publicly answer questions about details in the Budget before Rachel Reeves stands up at the Despatch Box to deliver it. A slip up can only end in tears – remember James Henry Thomas?! Continually asking questions to politicians who cannot possibly answer them – well – just gets a little bit tiresome for the voters, viewers,

listeners and consumers.

As a Labour Party candidate in the last election, it was required that the Manifesto lived rent free in my head for the duration of the campaign. I have had to work with many election manifestos, from all parties in fact, not only Labour Party ones. Can anyone recall one election manifesto that every pledge was delivered in full, to the letter – no amendments, no adjustments and no omissions? Answers on a postcard please!

Consensus on the doors during the campaign was that people were prepared to do their bit to re-build our public services and the economy. We all want a Budget that is fair. Voters want to see those with actual broad shoulders step up to the wicket and bat for the nation, regardless of the content of the Budget. Now is the time.

Dental care a right, not a privilege

OVER the past year, one topic has filled my inbox more than any other – the cavity of NHS dentistry in Somerset. Every week, I hear from people across the Glastonbury and Somerton constituency who are desperate for help, often in pain, and unable to find an NHS dentist. Some have resorted to pulling out their own teeth. Others have fallen into debt to afford private treatment. Many are forced to travel hundreds of miles just to get an appointment. It’s utterly unacceptable.

Currently, no NHS dentists anywhere in the constituency are taking on new patients. Which is why I recently pressed the Prime Minister directly in the House of Commons to take urgent action to end Somerset’s dental desert once and for all. I told him about one constituent, Jennifer, who had no choice but to extract her own teeth after

months of waiting in pain. No one should ever be compelled to make such an awful decision because they can’t access basic healthcare.

I’ve written to the Health

Secretary to demand immediate intervention and practical solutions to ease the crisis. I’ve also met the NHS Somerset Integrated Care Board to discuss flexible, communitybased options such as mobile dental clinics and using space at West Mendip Community Hospital for NHS dentistry. These are straightforward ideas that could make a real difference right now while longer-term solutions take shape.

The wider picture is equally worrying. Across the country, more than 100,000 children have been admitted to hospital for preventable tooth decay since 2018, and in Somerset, fewer than half our children saw an NHS dentist last year. Access to dental care should never be a postcode lottery.

That’s why the Liberal Democrats are leading the drive in Parliament to fix the broken NHS dental contract,

secure proper funding for rural areas like ours, and expand access through mobile and school-based dental units. Rural communities have been left behind for too long, and it’s time we restored fair access to healthcare for every resident.

Proper dental care is a basic right, not a privilege. I’ll keep fighting until every person in Glastonbury and Somerton can see a dentist without delay. I have launched a petition to help me apply pressure on the Government to take action. Please sign to add your voice if you’re able at www.sarahdyke. uk/campaigns/sarahs-dentistrypetition

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

Lib Dem MP for Glastonbury & Somerton Sarah Dyke

Jhoots, A303 tunnel, PCCs and more

INSTEAD of a thematic article this week I thought a punchier, bullet point approach might give you a flavour of what I have been up to:

n Continued to work with Ministers and local providers regarding pharmacy provision in Shaftesbury. Following my Question to the Prime Minister regarding Jhoots, I am pleased to say that HMRC and the Department of Work & Pensions are now involved to ensure the company pays the relevant tax and the former employees secure what they deserve. I am also aware of concerns regarding provision in Gillingham and am ‘on the case’.

n The Government has announced it is abandoning the consented plans to deliver the much-needed tunnel on the A303 at Stonehenge. I have written and spoken to the Secretary of State for Transport to advocate for at least keeping the planning permission alive rather than a future government

Conservative MP for North Dorset

Simon Hoare

having to start the time consuming and costly process all over again. I have submitted expert planning opinion to the Department to explain how this can be done.

n I attended several Remembrance events and I want to thank the town councils and Royal British Legions for all they did to make the services as

respectful and dignified as always. You may be interested to know that you do not have to be military to join the RBL. It does fantastic work to support those who have served all year round. I have joined the RBL and would urge you to consider doing so too – britishlegion.org.uk and follow the links.

n I was pleased to support House of Lords amendments to the Planning & Infrastructure Bill which would have given stronger safeguards to nature and our local, habitat-important, chalk streams. Perversely the Government rejected them, but I shall continue to make the case in Parliament as the legislation progresses.

n I was delighted to meet a young constituent and her mum from Stalbridge at a Parliamentary event organised to raise awareness of epilepsy and how it is accommodated in schools. Levels of support and understanding are patchy and I am writing to all North Dorset

schools on the subject.

n The Government has announced the abolition of Police & Crime Commissioners from 2028. In the Commons I urged the Minister to ensure that local police accountability is at the heart of whatever replaces them as this is so important in trying to ensure that local concerns are heard and addressed. I also called for the savings which the Government believes will be made to be earmarked for rural policing given the imbalance in the funding formula between urban and rural.

n I led a debate in the Commons regarding the need for urgent regulation and licensing of the funeral sector as the canon of evidence of bad practice grows. Most funeral directors are professional and appropriate. There’s always some rotten apples in any barrel and the absence of any form of statutory regulation means those who are rotten are free to carry on.

A fortnight in the Palace of Varieties

I OFTEN call Parliament the Palace of Varieties because no two weeks are ever quite the same, and this past fortnight was no exception. I attended Remembrance services, as I always do. The numbers seem to go up every year despite the inclement weather. Perhaps that gives us some reason to hope for the future.

As winter approaches, just as regularly as Remembrance Sunday, energy bills come to the fore of many constituents’ minds. The Government tells us we must transition from fossil fuels to renewables if we are to fend off climate change. That is all well and good, but it doesn’t bring down my constituents’ energy bills now, does it?

I said as much to a minister in the Commons chamber, reminding him of the plain facts – his constituents and mine are paying the second-highest

Conservative MP for South West Wiltshire

Dr Andrew Murrison

electricity prices in the world, and the industries and businesses on which they rely are paying the very highest electricity prices in the world. Those skyrocketing prices need to come down now. What use is saying: “You might pay less in 10-, 20- or 30-years’ time, just trust us?” Vague promises of

distant utopias will not do.

And nor does purchasing Labour’s New Jerusalem of Net Zero come cheap. The House of Lords Library reckons the final bill for the transition could come in at £1.4 trillion over 30 years. Trillion. All to eliminate less than 1% of global carbon emissions. Less than 1%.

So, Labour’s plan is to fork out about 40% of our national wealth to make not even the slightest dent in CO2 emissions, more of a light scratch, while promising it will bring down prices and create jobs without ever really explaining how.

The way to cut bills and create jobs is to go for shale gas, not to keep importing it from the US; to grant more oil and gas licences in the North Sea, not fewer; to build more nuclear reactors, especially small modular ones; and to channel power from solar farms in

Morocco along undersea cables, as the company Xlinks proposes. But no, this Government chooses differently.

Another choice this Government made last week was to abolish police and crime commissioners (PCCs) in England from 2028, giving their powers to new mayors. But not county mayors – regional ones. A new mayor of Wessex will cover our patch, though the boundaries have not been set. It seems likely county constabularies will have to be merged.

Fine by me if savings are made, and those savings translate into bobbies on the beat. But if it costs just as much and we lose PCCs like Wiltshire’s excellent Philip Wilkinson, what’s the point? Outcomes matter in law and order, not bureaucratic structures and processes.

Let’s give every child a fair shot

THIS week, I brought together campaigners, educators and charities in Parliament for a national roundtable on SEND and neurodiversity. Around the table were the British Dyslexia Association, Dyscalculia Network, Ambitious About Autism, Speech and Language UK and colleagues from Ed Davey’s team.

The focus was one simple but urgent question – how do we make sure every child who learns differently gets the support they need at school?

At the moment, far too many neurodivergent pupils go through school without having their needs identified or understood. It is estimated that about 80% of dyslexic children leave school without any formal diagnosis. That means hundreds of thousands of children are being failed by a system that expects them to fit a mould that

was never designed for them.

The discussion built on my Neurodivergence: Screening and Teacher Training Bill, which I introduced to Parliament in September. The Bill aims to make sure every primary school child is given a fair chance by

requiring the Department for Education to work with experts to create a national, light-touch universal screening programme for neurodivergent traits and proper teacher training to go with it.

A universal screener would not be about giving children labels. It would be about giving teachers the tools to recognise where a child is struggling – whether with attention, working memory or vocabulary – and making small, simple changes in the classroom that help every pupil to learn. Research shows that these kinds of adjustments do not only help neurodivergent children – they help all children.

We also discussed the need for better teacher training. Many teachers tell me they want to support pupils with dyslexia, ADHD or autism but simply have not had the right training or

resources. That lack of support leaves teachers overstretched and pupils misunderstood.

Looking beyond the Bill, there are real concerns about the future of SEND provision. Funding pressures mean councils are struggling to deliver the support families rely on. The next Government must step up – through a national dyslexia strategy, fair funding for schools and councils, and a proper plan to train and retain teachers.

As someone with severe dyslexia and ADHD, I know first hand what a difference early understanding can make. When children are seen and supported, they can flourish.

The roundtable this week was not the end of the conversation, but the start of a united effort to build a more inclusive education system – one that finally gives every child the fair start they deserve.

Govt must act on flood-risk data

THIS week I met DEFRA Minister Emma Hardy to press the case for Blue Flag status for rivers and chalk streams. She committed to investigate the viability of the proposal. I also pressed her to get the Government to come forward with a Rainwater Management Strategy, to improve rainwater harvesting and reduce flood risk. Having met the insurance provider Aviva last week and seen its flood-risk forecasts, it is an area where the Government must act fast, or we will see more homes in West Dorset being impacted. I have also contacted Dorset Council to ask that the Aviva data be considered as part of the Dorset Local Plan consultation. There is no point building more houses in high-risk areas. I raised both these matters again in the House of Commons this week. I was delighted by the news

Dem MP for West Dorset

that Allied Pharmacy has taken over Jhoots Pharmacy in Bridport and its commitment to making sure staff are made good on their backpay. I am still seeking a solution for Lyme Regis. I have been clear that

Jhoots should not be running pharmacies in West Dorset or anywhere else. I raised the issue directly with the Prime Minister at Prime Minister’s Questions on Wednesday. I urged him to find time in the parliamentary schedule for emergency legislation to give regulators and the Department of Health the powers needed to tackle owners and directors who are letting down staff and patients. He assured me the Minister for Care was working on ways to strengthen the powers of the regulators.

Last week I met Lyme Cobb Traders Group to discuss issues facing the hospitality sector, and especially charges relating to outside seating. While in Lyme Regis I also visited Woodroffe School to open its new SEND Hub. It was great to see the new facilities which will offer additional support and help

SEND students stay in mainstream education.

I’ve agreed to sit on the Bill Committee for the upcoming Railway Bill, which will provide plenty of opportunity to advocate for upgrades to the Salisbury to Exeter line. As well as electrification, more passing points and new carriages, I am also very keen we see the return of a buffet trolley!

Finally, last Sunday was one of my favourite times of the year – Remembrance Day. This year I attended the Dorchester Remembrance Parade and had the honour of laying a wreath on behalf of Parliament and West Dorset. At a time when foreign governments and even certain self-serving politicians are trying to undermine our democracy, it feels like a very apt time to remember all those who fought and died to defend our freedoms.

Lib Dem MP for Yeovil

Adam Dance

Lib

Edward Morello

• All Saints Church, Langton Long: Hot lunches to eat in or take away throughout the winter months – November to March inclusive – on the first and third Friday of the month, noon to 2pm. Donations welcome.

• 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 offers help to 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.

• Blandford Evangelical Church: Sunday – 10am Family Service, including classes for three-18 year olds. Monday Fellowship – weekly, 2.30pm3.30pm, term times only. Tuesday – Footprints, activities playtime for pre-school children, 10am-11.30am and 1.15pm2.45pm, term times only. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday – small groups meet at homes at 7.30pm. The church is in Albert Street. Phone 450689 for more information.

• Blandford Forum United Reformed Church: Sunday, December 7, @3pm Advent Communion Service; Sunday, December 14, @3pm carol service; Thursday, December 25, @10am Christmas Day service.

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

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

• Cheap Street Church, Sherborne: Members of Harry Guthrie’s Continuum Choir will perform carols and Christmas music on Friday, December 12, at 7pm. Adults £20, students

£10, children free. Tickets – cash only – from Winstone’s Book Shop.

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

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

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

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

• Lufton Church: Prayer Book services every Sunday at 6pm.

Sung Mass on the third Sunday. See www.lufton.co.uk for details.

• Our Lady 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.

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

• Shaftesbury Benefice: November 23 – St Peter’s, Holy Communion 9.30am; St Mary’s, Motcombe, Holy Communion 9.30am; Melbury Abbas, Holy Communion 11.15am; Enmore Green, Morning Prayer 11.15am; St James’, Teatime Church 4pm; St James’, Reflective Communion 6pm. November 30 – St James’ team service 10am.

• 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.

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

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

• St Margaret’s, Margaret Marsh (Shaftesbury Benefice) SP7 0AZ: Alternating first Sundays Mattins and Holy Communion, 11.15am.

• 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. Sturminster Newton Choral Society present A Feast of Carols on Saturday, December 6, at 7.30pm. Tickets £10 on the door or from 01258 820755.

• 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 Church, Stalbridge: All Sunday Services

start at 9.30am. Rector, Canon Richard – phone 01963 363367; email canonrick@icloud.com

• St Nicholas’ Church, Holton: Festive concert with the Cantus Amicis Singers on Sunday, December 7, at 4.30pm. Tickets £10, all proceeds in aid of the church. To book and pay, phone 01963 34821 or email lisaprior63@btinternet.com

• St Nicholas, Durweston: Family Communion Service every first Sunday of the month 11am; Evening Service every third Sunday of the month 4pm.

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

• St Simon & St Jude, Miltonon-Stour: ‘Reindeer Drive’ in church on Friday, December 5. Doors open 6.45pm for the first game at 7pm. Admission £5 adults and £2 children. Refreshments and raffle. Proceeds towards running the church.

• St Thomas’, Lydlinch: Second Sunday, Holy Communion 11am; third Sunday, Evensong 6pm; fourth Sunday, Matins 11am.

• Sturminster Christian Fellowship: Service every Sunday at 10.45am – 10.30am for coffee.

• Two Rivers Benefice: Sunday, November 23 – 9.30am Communion at St Mary’s Church, Charlton Marshall; 9.30am Morning Worship at St John the Baptist Church, Spetisbury; 11am Communion at All Saints Church, Langton Long; 11am BCP Communion at St Mary’s Church, Tarrant Rushton. Sunday, November 30 – 10.45am Communion at St Mary’s Church, Blandford St Mary; 4pm Reflective Advent at St Mary’s Church, Charlton Marshall.

• West Camel Independent Methodists: Meet at All Saints Church BA22 7QB every Sunday at 3pm. Email Geoff. mead@yahoo.com or phone 01935 850838.

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

Strong prices in jewellery sale

ACREMAN St Auctioneers & Valuers saw good results in its two-day October auction with its monthly Specialist Jewellery Sale doing particularly well – a 9ct ingot pendant on chain, hammer £1,400; a 9ct charm bracelet, £1,100; three Georgian silver and paste brooches, £2,100; and an 1871 sovereign on chain, £600.

The next auctions are on Thursday, November 27, 10am – General Antiques & Collectors and Friday, November 28, 10am – Watches, Jewellery & Silver. Viewing is on Wednesday, November 26, 10am-4pm.

On offer is a one-owner collection of more than 30 watches, including a gold-cased 1950s Precision Rolex.

Acreman is still accepting entries for these sales. The catalogue and bidding is

available online through easyliveauction.com and thesaleroom.com

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

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

Experts are also happy to make house visits if required.

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

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

JEWELLERY, SILVER & WATCHES Friday 28th November 10am GENERAL ANTIQUES AND COLLECTORS

Wednesday 26th November 10am-4pm

Bidders from around the world

CLARKE’S Auctions is preparing for its December sale, which takes place between Christmas and New Year.

The sale has traditionally been its most successful of the year, largely because very few auctions are held during that week and, as a result, it attracts thousands of bidders from the UK and around the world – many eager to treat themselves to something special. Historically, high prices have been achieved for lots in the sale.

many thousands of pounds have been achieved with jewellery, gold and silver consistently being the best sellers.

Past Christmas sales have seen anything up to 2,000 lots offered for sale and prices ranging from the hundreds to

Gold has seen an increase in price of 113% and silver an increase of 99% in the last five

Continued on page 44

Catalogue available to view through thesaleroom.com & Easyliveauction.com VIEWING

3 Georgian silver & paste brooches Hammer £2,100 Thursday 27th November 10am We are now accepting items for our November auctions

For all enquiries please contact Gill Norman on 07908 333577 or 01935 508764 auction@acremanstreetantiques.co.uk

A19th century French Boulle work scent bottle box. Sold for £430

Stories, style and craftsmanship

DUKE’S auction house invites collectors and design enthusiasts to its Interiors sale – a curated celebration of craftsmanship, character and timeless style being held next week.

From Georgian refinement to mid-century statement pieces, the auction brings together a diverse selection of decorative arts and furniture.

A standout highlight is a watercolour by Albert Moulton Foweraker (1873–1942), A Spanish Town (1931), signed lower left, 35cm x 53cm.

The work comes from the collection of the late Stephen Reginald Topp Wicks – a life-long Isle of Purbeck collector and dealer known for

Albert Moulton Foweraker’s A Spanish Town

sourcing eclectic and curious objects from his Boscombe shop.

The painting is Lot 4 and is estimated at £300–£500.

Whether your taste leans toward stately antiques or bold conversation pieces, Duke’s Interiors sale offers a world of inspiration and a chance to discover items that bring stories, style and craftsmanship into the home.

The auction is on Thursday, November 27, at 10.30am.

Silver service for Christmas

A LARGE solid silver canteen of cutlery is one of the star lots in Charterhouse’s three-day auction on Thursday and Friday, November 27-28, and Monday, December 1.

“It is an extensive table service of Kings pattern cutlery just over 60 years old,” said Richard Bromell, from the auction house.

“I’m sure it would make the perfect addition for when a family gets together over Christmas and will even go through the dishwasher!”

The 113-piece silver table service – pictured –predominantly made in Sheffield in 1965, includes a selection of forks, spoons and even a pair of sugar tongs.

The owners inherited the canteen a few years ago but have now decided to let another

family enjoy it and have entered it into Charterhouse’s auction of silver jewellery, wine and Christmas gifts on Monday, December 1.

The canteen is estimated to sell for £4,000-£6,000.

Charterhouse is accepting further entries for its busy programme of specialist new year auctions starting with Pictures, Prints & Books, along with Decorative Arts & Design. Richard Bromell and the team at Charterhouse, The Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne, are available for valuations on 01935 812277 or via rb@ charterhouse-auction.com

BY LOCAL DEALER TEL 07771 518629

BILL 07967 816506 or 01747 811100 Email: bill@tunes.co.uk

& Classic Clock Repairs & Restoration

Longcase Clocks a speciality Antique Clock sales

Tel: (01935) 423233 Mobile: 07974 520545 bclocksunlimited@aol.com www.clocksunlimited.co.uk

years, making now the perfect time to part with necklaces, rings or bracelets that are no longer worn or single earrings and broken chains that have been languishing in the bottom of the jewellery box.

Clarke’s is accepting entries and would be delighted to assess collectable items prospective sellers may wish to consign. That could include small and interesting pieces such as snuff boxes, jewellery, portrait miniatures, coins and medals, Chinese ceramics, bronzes or jades, as well as

BUSBY

unusual ceramics or hidden treasures tucked away in a cupboard or drawer – items that could be sold to put the proceeds towards something more useful or enjoyable.

Anyone who has anything they would like advice on or to consign can call to arrange a home visit or a visit to the salerooms in Gillingham. For probate valuations, insurance valuations or full or part house clearances, phone Richard Clarke or Karen Marshall on 01747 685592 at The Old Glove Factory, Buckingham Road, Gillingham SP8 4QF.

Top tips to land Black Friday bargains

SHOPPERS unite - Black Friday is coming!

Retailers are preparing their best offers - and bargain hunters are readying their readies to bag some delicious deals on the biggest shopping day of the year.

The last Friday in November has become a pivotal purchasing period - with many taking the opportunity to tackle their Christmas gift list early.

But before you start spending, what is the best way to bag that bargain of a lifetime?

Here are some top tips on how to make sure you make the most of the discounts on offer.

* Make a list of what you need to buy

Being prepared - and targeting specific items - is a good way to ensure you don’t get swept up in shopping fever. Make your Christmas lists now - and stick to them when the big day comes.

* Budget in advance

Another thing you can do before hitting the shops, is make sure you know how much you want to spend.

It is easy to be blinded by big signs offering seemingly huge discounts - but stay within your limits to ensure you don’t end up with a bad case of buyer’s

regret.

* Do your research

With your pre-prepared list in hand, it’s worth having a look around now at things you may want to buy. You can compare prices, models, read reviews and guides, which means you could have a list of specific brands and models to look out for on Black Friday.

This is particularly relevant when it comes to things like technology and electrical goods.

If you know how much they cost now - you will know what a good deal looks like.

* Don’t panic buy!

It is extremely easy to get caught up in buyer fever on Black Friday. However, remember many retailers run their promotions over a number of days, at least across the last weekend of the month, so you have time to take a breath, think about your buy before taking the plunge.

Sherborne, Dorset DT9 4SL

01935 850776 | theroseandcrowntrent.co.uk

The Rose and Crown is a beloved gathering place for residents and visitors alike, with seasonal menus, local events, and a commitment to exceptional dining experiences.

BOXING DAY

MEET & TREAT

A DAY AT THE RACES

Join us for a day at the races, hosted by Amelia & Mal. 10:30am - Breakfast baps & fizz at the pub

11:30 - Travel to Wincanton

12:30-16:30 - Watch the ponies run

17:30 - Home to the R&C for a buffet & drinks

For more info email hello@theroseandcrowntrent.co.uk

Numbers must be confirmed by Nov 30th

A set menu will be available for the event, other guests can also enjoy drinks and bar snacks at the pub.

Festive Menu 2025

2 course £50 | 3 course £65

Prosecco or plum & cranberry fizz Crispy burrata, mulled pear, chestnuts

Gin-cured Chalk Stream trout, champagne & lemon crème fraiche, caviar, dill & chive blini

Goose rillettes, baked apple, port syrup, toasted pumpernickel

Rose & Crown roast turkey, with all the trimmings

Roasted aubergine & chickpea fattah, yoghurt garlic & tahini dressing, toasted almonds, tomato, pomegranate

Pan roasted halibut, triple cooked Jerusalem artichoke, sea vegetables, Nyetimber velouté, nasturtium oil

Orange, fig and cinnamon baked cheesecake, cranberry & fig compote

Yule log, with Cointreau soaked sponge fingers & Belgium chocolate Christmas pudding panna cotta, almond biscotti

Tea & Coffee

31ST DECEMBER 2025

CASINO | MUSIC | FEASTING ~ DRESS TO IMPRESS ~

£120 Full feasting dinner, with fizz

£35 Cocktails & canapés all night PM - Canapés & cocktails 8PM - Dinner

9PM - Casino & disco

Midnight - Fizz & sparklers

Bargain Hunters Assemble: How Black Friday Went Global

BLACK Friday, may now be known for stampedes, sleepless bargain hunters and enough discount emails to break an inbox, but its beginnings were far less glamorous. The American shopping extravaganza started life in 1950s Philadelphia, where police officers coined the term “Black Friday” to describe the chaos that descended the day after Thanksgiving. Crowds flooded the city for both shopping and the annual Army–Navy football game, creating traffic jams, packed pavements and general retail mayhem. Retailers weren’t thrilled with the gloomy nickname, but it stuck— probably because it perfectly captured the atmosphere.

Fast-forward to the 1980s, and U.S. retailers tried to give the term a PR makeover. A more cheerful explanation began

circulating: Black Friday supposedly marked the moment shops moved from operating “in the red” to “in the black”, finally making a profit before Christmas. Whether or not it was true, it certainly did the trick. The day quickly morphed into a full-blown retail holiday

brimming with blockbuster deals, doorbusters and, in some cases, dubious decision-making at 5 a.m.

The UK joined the fun much later. Amazon brought Black Friday across the Atlantic in 2010, tempting British shoppers with online flash sales. At first,

the event felt like an American curiosity, but it didn’t take long for British retailers to realise its potential. By the mid-2010s, chains including Tesco, Asda and John Lewis had all jumped aboard, and the UK witnessed its own share of midnight queues and trolley scuffles—though most of today’s action has sensibly migrated online.

So why did Brits embrace it? Simple: retailers loved the chance to boost pre-Christmas sales, consumers were already used to shopping online, and no one wants to miss out on a good bargain, even if it means battling a virtual queue longer than the M25.

Home & Garden

Making a raised bed

by Sally Gregson

SOON, while the summer garden is sleeping, it will be time to work out plans for next year. After a summer of intense heat, it is tempting to think our climate has changed to a drier, hotter one. But, as the weather pundits tell us, it could equally be wetter and stormier.

On heavy ground, one answer is to raise the soil level of the borders. Raised beds are not just a relief to aching backs, they enhance healthy growth. Water in general retains its temperature longer than the surrounding air, and this applies to soil water. Wet soil could mean a later start to spring, and well-drained, dry soils warm up sooner.

We could take a tip from a great garden designer, Piet Oudolf, who raised all the borders of the new garden, Oudolf Field, that he designed

around the Hauser & Wirth art gallery in Bruton, Somerset. The soil was heavy, wet clay, so lifting the level of all the borders was well worth the extreme effort.

First, it is important to improve the drainage by breaking it up with a fork to prevent the formation of a ‘pan’ – an impermeable, solid layer. Then add plenty of grit and sharp sand loosely mixed with topsoil, to the desired depth. Consolidate this and prevent the invasion of weeds, by laying plain cardboard over the whole area, and covering it with a mixture of well-rotted manure and mushroom compost. By the time winter has worked its magic and spring has returned, you should have an area that will be perfect for planting.

The edges of the bed could be formally enclosed or left to drift into the surrounding paths.

Small, formal beds are usually best framed with an edge, to accentuate their shape, and prevent the soil from washing away in a torrential downpour.

At Oudolf Field, the edges are left proud of the surrounding paths and well planted to

prevent erosion. The loose, relaxed feel to the planting is Piet Oudolf’s intention. And the year-round beauty of all those plants thriving in the correct conditions brings a contented smile to every visitor, and gardener.

How to grow tasty asparagus

by Sally Gregson

IT is definitely a delight to indulge in home-grown asparagus, pulled from the border and steamed straight away. They just need lots of creamy butter, black pepper and salt. And now is a good time to order the crowns while they go into dormancy.

Connoisseurs of asparagus recommend the variety ‘Backlim’ for its fat, green spears, or try ‘Pacific Purple’ for coloured stems.

In a new vegetable garden, it should be easy to put aside an area specifically for asparagus. They don’t like company, especially that of pernicious weeds such as dandelion, docks and ground elder.

When the crowns arrive, they should be kept in a bucket or tray of sand out of the damaging frosts – young plants are vulnerable to freezing

temperatures, especially if they have started to push up in a warm parcel. Decide on an undisturbed location for a dedicated asparagus bed and prepare it by first clearing the soil of perennial weeds. Then fork in lots of well-rotted manure mixed with mushroom compost

Connoisseurs of asparagus recommend the variety ‘Backlim’ for its fat, green spears, or try ‘Pacific Purple’ for coloured stems

to make the soil friable, easy-draining. And leave the border undisturbed over the winter.

Come February, as the soil starts to warm up, a haze of green weed seedlings will need to be cut off with a hoe, at least once. It’s a sign that the soil is ready to plant the asparagus

crowns. Give each asparagus crown plenty of room – about 30cm wide and about 15cm deep should allow space for the developing crowns to expand. Make a mound of soil in the centre and place the crown on top with the roots spread out around. Cover the plant with about 5cm of soil firmed in gently.

Keep the plant watered during dry weather, and as the new spears extend, fill the trench up with more soil until it is full by the following autumn. The juicy spears should be ready for pulling after about three years.

The last piece of advice is perhaps the hardest – it is always important to stop pulling the shoots by the end of June. Allow the plant a little natural growth for the remainder of the summer. And enjoy the fruits of your labour, and your patience.

The borders at Oudolf Field, taken in autumn

The

Get in the Garden Houseplants for Christmas

AT Christmas our awardwinning houseplant departments are at their busiest and the range of plants available is wonderful.

The classic Christmas houseplant is, of course, the Poinsettia. The best-known variety has bright red bracts but now there is a vast array of other colours including white, pink, cream and marbled with the foliage also available in a variegated form, too. These best quality plants are compact and bushy. They are sensitive plants and like an even warm temperature away from draughts, and don’t like getting too wet. They will go on for many weeks but to get them to colour up again the following year requires dedication and attention to detail as the bracts colour up only after several weeks of 12 hours light and 12 hours dark a day.

Cyclamen also are a seasonal favourite, and it used to be straightforward with there being distinct hardy and indoor types. Now many varieties can be used as autumn and early winter bedding plants too. The indoor types like cool conditions and must be watered from the base to keep them in good form. What the plant doesn’t drink after a quarter of an hour can be tipped away, leaving the plant in a dry saucer. The flower colours are stunning from purest white to darkest reds and purples, and the range of sizes too is from miniatures through to the very large.

The adage of small pot meaning large amounts of flowers is well described by indoor flowering Azaleas. These varieties are potted into

relatively small pots, which forces the plant to flower profusely. If looked after correctly, then the flowering time can be very rewarding. Care must be taken not to let the plant dry out at any stage, as this will cause flowers to abort just as they open, which is very frustrating.

Orchids are a Christmas favourite and despite being more and more popular still have mystique and an exotic feel. They are easier to look after than many believe, with the Cymbidium needing fairly cool conditions with Phalaenopsis and Cambrian liking it slightly warmer. The Cymbidium are larger growers and have large flower spikes which can last for a very long time. Phalaenopsis have a more sophisticated look to the flower which again lasts a long time and they will re-flower, too.

Lots of bulbs are around, including Hyacinths with their glorious colours and powerful scent. These come from ‘prepared’ bulbs planted in early September. Our growers grow them as individual pots and then group together those at the same stage to ensure even flowering. We have them as planted bowls but also in individuals if you are doing your own arrangement.

Other bulbs include the powerfully scented Paperwhites, a form of Narcissi, which are so easy to grow and great value, too. And with free gift-wrapping and delivery too, should you wish, houseplants make wonderful presents not just at Christmas but at any time of the year.

latest gardening news, hints and tips, with Mike Burks, MD of The Gardens Group

We

Home & Garden

North Dorset Tree Surgeons

North Dorset Tree Surgeons

We

Closeboard, panels & sheds supplied and fitted. Gates made to measure. Sherborne Fencing Ltd Tel: 01935 814272 Mobile: 07814246332

Blewiscontracting@gmail.com

OSBORNE’S

GREENHOUSES

Supplied/Erected Alloy TenColours Spares-Repairs-Glass Chris Abrams 01258-452632

GUTTERS CLEARED

• Windows,

• Fascias,

• Soffits,

• Gutters cleaned,

• Repairs,

• Free Estimates 07788-376752

HEDGE CUTTING AND LAWN MOWING SERVICES, ShaftesburyBlandford & local villages. Please call Trevor 07970-012130

FOR SALE XMAS TREES

Sizes None Drop’s. Traditional, Holly, Holly Wreath’s, Mistletoe. Next to Railway Bridge Motcombe. Open 7 day’s a week. From 27th November. T el 01747-850129.

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

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

LANGTON NURSERIES (C W Abbott & Son)

Christmas Trees, Freshly Cut and Pot Grown. Holly Wreaths. Open daily 10am– 3 pm. Langton Long Blandford Forum Dorset DT11 9HR. Telephone 01258-452513.

•

TOOLS WANTED. Cash waiting. 01747 416022

M & A J Landscaping

~ Fencing ~ Walling ~ Patios/Steps

~ Concreting/Tarmac ~ Tree work

~ Garden maintenance malcgin@hotmail.com 07399-521377

WANTEDDave buys all types of tools Call 01935 428975

DRYSTONE WALLING AND LANDSCAPING

www.yenstonewalling.co.uk 01963 371123 / 07751 278363

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

PRECISION FENCING & GATES

• Installation • Repair • Maintenance

Feel free to give us a call on 07355-295534 or email at Precision-fencing@hotmail.com

LANGTON NURSERIES (C W Abbott & Son)

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

PETER PORT UPHOLSTERY A Local Family Run

Business based in Shaftesbury, Offering a wide range of services including foam cut to size and Re-stuffing of feather cushions. 01747-228384 Peterportupholstery@googlemail.com.

LES BENHAM

Garden Property Maintenance All Hedge/tree work/rubbish clearance Gravel Driveways/Pressure Washing Patio and Fencing Work

Fully Insured/Free Quotes 01258 458849/07788 907343 lesbenham@yahoo.co.uk / check a trade

JAMES AYRES

DORSET TREE CARE Specialist Tree Workers

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

Wednesday 3rd December

CHRISTMAS GIFTS & DECORATIONS LAUNCH and Coffee Morning from 10am-1pm In aid of Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance

20% OFF ALL DAY

Orders now being taken for Christmas Trees, Holly Wreaths, Posies and Door Wreaths Gifts, Bouquets, Table Arrangements & Plants

Free delivery in the local area Christmas week

Williams Florist, Station Rd, Stalbridge, Dorset, DT10 2RQ

Tel: 01963 362355 | williams-florist.co.uk | Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm | Sat 9am-1pm Christmas opening times will vary | Large free car park opposite

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

SELF DRIVE DIGGER AND DUMPER HIRE

01258 861647

HANDYMAN SERVICES

Available. Call Gavin. Tel: 07495-892240

FOR CHAIN-SAWING, WOODLAND CLEARANCE, coppicing, jet-washing, hedge-cutting, pruning and general garden/estate maintenance. Call David on: 07786-658708

TREE CARE 07936-498493

WALK BEHIND FLAIL MOWER and operator hire. Paddock, orchards and neglected area clearance 07432 773151

DOWNSIZING 2 single beds , matching pine headboard’s & mattress. Nearly new. £120.00 buyer collects . Shaftesbury 07909-524497

DIY – it’s a waiting game for some...

MANY Britons struggle with procrastinating on DIY tasks around the house. A loose doorknob, a shower with weak water pressure or an attic that’s been waiting for flooring for years.

These are the kinds of small jobs that keep coming up, but you always have to force yourself to do them.

And if even that’s difficult, it’s no surprise that the idea of a property that’s a fixer-upper is not an appealing prospect for more than half of Britons.

LOGS

SEASONAL LOGS.

Barn dry. Mainly Ash. 20 miles radius of Sherborne. Preferably evenings01935 815534.

LOGS FOR SALEMoisture Tested - Various Quantity AvailableContact: 07765-930317

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

SEASONED HARDWOOD LOGS

Small and Large Loads

Tel: 07973 871708 Evenings: 01935 825506

BLACKMORE VALE LOG SPLITTING AND CHIPPING

- Your local mobile service07760 469411

LOGS R US

Tipper Load £200

Half Tipper Load £100 dumpy bag £90 All hardwood 07790 404593 01258 818081

LOGS FOR SALE

transit tipper load

Half transit tipper load Dumpy bag (Delivered FREE in and around Sherborne) TEL: 07450-435993 or 07846-345294

According to a survey by Plasticsheetsshop, over half of Brits postpone a task at some point. About half do this occasionally and more than one in three (34%) do it very often.

A small group does take immediate action – 3% tackle every task as quickly as possible. In addition, 13% indicate they only postpone a task if it’s a truly unpleasant one.

The difference between men and women is striking. 41% of women say they regularly postpone DIY tasks, compared to just 27% of men.

The biggest reason? Not wanting to start. For almost one in three (31%) of Britons, motivation is simply nowhere to be found.

Uncertainty about their own

DIY skills also plays a role –31% don’t know how to begin. A lack of time is in third place – 22% say they are too busy with work or other obligations.

For 14%, money is the biggest obstacle – they currently lack the financial means to tackle a project and therefore put it on the back burner.

The fact that DIY isn’t for everyone is also clear from attitudes toward fixer-uppers. As many as 61% of the Britons wouldn’t even consider one.

Still, there is also a group that sees potential – almost one in 10 (9%) have already bought a fixer-upper and another 9% even think it’s a great idea. In addition, a third of those surveyed have considered taking on such a challenge.

The survey found 41% of Brits postpone a task for an average of a few weeks. In contrast, 27% tackle the job more quickly, only putting it off for a few days.

For 24%, the task is put off for even longer – they postpone it for an average of a few months. And then there’s the ultimate procrastinator – 8% wait longer than a year before they finally start the job.

The least favourite task? Maintenance (38%), such as painting or a major clean-up of the garage.

T F PLANT

Architectural Services

llewie30roberts@gmail.com

J& C Handyman Services

ARCHITECTURAL, BUILDING & ELECTRICAL

GENERAL MAINTENANCE SERVICES, Painting & Decorating, Carpentry, Interior/Exterior. For free quote call Tim 07793 837073

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

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.

Davies & Sons - Builders

registered woodburner and flue installer. Birdguards and cowls 07932 655267

K.SANSOM CHIMNEY SWEEP

Brush & vacuum. APICS registered 01963 370038

CHRIS THE SWEEP Friendly and fully insured. Evening and weekend appointments available. 07725-112160

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 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

SOLID FUEL INSTALLATIONS LTD

of

burning & Multi fuel stoves, Chimney

conversions, replacement hearths, chimney

& rebuilding, dealing with water ingress, cowlings, bird guards. Fully Insured, long term established. 01749 677440 – 07921074602-

STEVE ADAMS CHIMNEY SWEEPING HETAS

Design and build websites that cater to the needs of small to medium size businesses. Ongoing maintenance for new and existing websites. Small friendly team provides personal service. Contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation. Tel: 07877 924765 Email: info@dewlish.digital Web: dewlish.digital

www.dcenet.co.uk

inspection repair to current regs

• Log burner flexi liner installations

• Fireplace alterations drone surveys

• Cherry picker & scaffold if required

• Thatch property wood burners

• Plastering rendering exterior decorating

DECORATION, FLOORING & CARPENTRY

GARETH TANNER

Please contact Nick 07914-360571

EXCELLENT PAINTING AND DECORATING services available. 16 years of experience. Call Craig on 07522-603159

COUNTRY CARPENTRY

Doors, repairs, general maintenance etc Call Nick on 07887 358570

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

G.O.T. DECORATING City and Guilds qualified Interior/exterior Decorating Free Quotes no VAT Tel 07736644452 go. tanner93@gmail.com

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

PAUL SPILLER PAINTER & DECORATOR, Interior & Exterior. Est. 1984. 01258-471037. 07903-069556.

UNBLOCKING DRAINS

BARBARA LILIAN WARD Deceased

Pursuant to the Trustee Act 1925 anyone with a claim against or an interest in the Estate of the deceased, late of 19 Wilverley Gardens, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 7LE; Castleman House, Fairfield Bungalows, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 7HS, who died on 25/03/2025, must send written details to the address below by 22/01/2026, after which the Estate will be distributed with regard only to cla ims and interests notified Meggie Crane c/o Blanchards Bailey LLP, Newborough House, 3 Queen Mother Square, Poundbury, DT1 3BJ Ref: LMM/WAR0022/0005

Trustees Wanted

Cancer Charity. Help enable families affected by cancer get a mini break Matt’s Respite Retreats (Wincanton) seeks passionate volunteer Trustees. mattsrespiteretreats.org.uk, No experience necessary, Just a few hours a month can make a real difference. email: contact@mattsrespiteretreats.org.uk Tel: 07951-061040.

Closing date: Mon 15th December

IN MEMORIAM

DAVE ROBERTS

– 27.06.2024

On your 76th Birthday. Deep in my heart you will always stay. Loved and remembered every day. Love Louise x

GEMMA PALMER

Happy Birthday Mum. As time passes you remain in our hearts. Love you always. Lilia, Macey and Evie xxx

GEMMA PALMER

On what would have been your Birthday. Love and miss you everyday. Always thinking of you. Love Mum and Dad xx

DEATHS

Reginald Legg

Passed away peacefully on 8 November, with his wife Eileen by his side holding his hand.

Kevin Roy Dixon

Passed Away Peacefully at home in Bournemouth

On 01.11. 2025

Aged 69 Years

He will be Sadly Missed by All That knew Him The Funeral Service will be held on Thursday 4th December at St. George’s Church in Bourton at 12pm

Deborah Eileen Gatehouse

Passed away peacefully at home on 4th November 2025. Deborah (Debbie) aged 70 years of Zeals. Much loved Wife of David, Mum of Nick and Emma and Grandmother to Sophie. Funeral Service at St Martin’s Church, Zeals on Wednesday 26th November at 12noon. Family flowers only please, donations if desired for Cancer Research UK or St Margaret’s Hospice Care. C/O LC Hill and Son Funeral Directors, Water Street, Mere, Warminster BA12 6DZ

REED Dorothy

Passed away peacefully at Maiden Castle House, Dorchester on Saturday 1st November 2025 aged 97 years. A loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother. Funeral service to be held at Poole Crematorium on Thursday 4th December 2025 at 12:00pm. Colourful clothing please. Family flowers only please. Donations in lieu of flowers for Dementia Friendly Purbeck may be sent to Albert Marsh Funeral Directors, St Michaels Road, Wareham BH20 4QU, Tel: 01929 552107 www.funeraldirector.co.uk/dorothy-reed

ELAINE BRINE

Of Castle Cary

Passed away peacefully on Saturday 1st November 2025, aged 84 years. Much loved Wife to the late Geoffrey, Mum, Nanny, Sister, Auntie and Mother-in-Law. Funeral service will be held at Yeovil Crematorium on Tuesday 25th November 2025 at 11.20a.m. Family flowers only. Donations, if desired, to Alzheimer’s Society. All donations and enquiries to A. J. Wakely & Sons Ltd, Funeral Directors, The Old Police Station, Carrington Way, Wincanton, BA9 9JS. Tel: 01963 31310.

TORY ANNE

After a long and very full life, Anne passed away peacefully on the 9th November 2025 at the age of 97 years. Loving wife to Percy, mother to Christopher, Martyn and Amanda, grandmother and great grandmother. She will be greatly missed by all.

A Thanksgiving Service will be held at St Bartholomew’s Church, Shapwick on Tuesday 2nd December 2025 at 11.30am.

Seward

Robert James ‘Bob’

Passed away on the 6th November, aged 84 years. A dearly loved Dad, Grandad, Brother and friend to many. A gathering to celebrate his life will take place at The Green Man, Kings Stag, on Friday 5th December, at 1:30pm.

Enquiries c/o W S Brister & Son Funeral Directors Tel: 01935 812647

MARTIN ALAN SPARKES “Ginger”

on 2nd November 2025, suddenly in St Denis Lodge Nursing Home, aged 76 years. Of Shaftesbury. Much loved partner to Shirley and dad of Peter. He will be sorely missed by all his family and friends. Private cremation service.

Many thanks to all the staff at St Denis Lodge for their care and attention to Martin. Donations in his memory for Friends of Westminster Memorial Hospital 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

Jennifer Humphries

peacefully passed away at home on the 31st October aged 89 years young . Jennifer was much loved and will be sadly missed. She was a devoted wife to the late Gordon Humphries, Mother, Granny and Great Granny. Jennifers funeral is taking place at Yeovil Crematorium on Tuesday 25th November at 2pm.

The family would like to request bright colours to be worn. The wake is taking place at The Arrow Pub, The Forum, Yeovil, BA21 3TL for anyone that wishes to attend. Donations will be received on the day to Dementia UK. Any enquires please contact Bracher Brothers Funeral Directors, Newbury, Gillingham, SP8 4QL - 01747 822494

DEATHS

ALLARD

Henry ‘John’

Peacefully on 10th November 2025 in Yeovil District Hospital, aged 84 years, of Mere.

Dearly beloved Husband, Father and Grandad. Service details to follow on Funeral Directors Website. Donations if desired, in memory of John for St. Michael’s Church, Mere can be made online at peterjacksonfuneralservices.co.uk

MARTYN TURK

Of Sturminster Newton

Martyn passed away on 2nd November 2025 at Dorset County Hospital aged 61 years.

Much loved Dad, grandad and friend to many. Funeral Service at Yeovil Crematorium on Friday 12th December at 11.20am and at the Sturminster Newton Football Club, DT10 1EW following. Family flowers only please, but donations if desired for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance and 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

KIERON O’DONNELL

23rd November 1970 to 9th November 2025

Beloved son of Alison and Graham, loving partner to Dawn and father of Star.

Dearly loved by Nic, Josh and Kierons grandchildren. Kieron passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family and will be greatly missed. A funeral service will take place at Yeovil Crematorium on Thursday 27th November at 12:40 pm. Family flowers only, donations if desired to Weldmar Hospice care Enquires to Bracher Brothers, Funeral Directors, 01747 822494

SMITH

Patricia Alice ‘Pat’

Passed away peacefully at Trinity Manor Care Home, Sherborne on Friday 7th November 2025, aged 93 years. Beloved wife to the late Stephen. She will be sadly missed by all who knew her. A service to celebrate her life will be held at Yeovil Crematorium on Thursday 4th December at 11:20am. Donations in lieu of flowers in memory of Pat are for The Cinnamon Trust and Weldmar Hospicecare. All donations and enquiries to A.J. Wakely & Sons, 16 Newland, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3JQ. (Please make cheques payable to the charities) Or donate online at www.ajwakely.com

MARGARET ANNE RIGGS

Passed away suddenly after a short illness on Wednesday 5th November 2025, aged 92 years. Beloved Stepmother and Aunt and will be deeply missed by all the family. Funeral service will be held at St Marys Church in Motcombe, followed by interment. on Tuesday 2nd December 2025 at 11.00 am Family flowers only.

WRIGHT David John, Major (Retd)

Royal Anglian Regiment Died 5th November 2025 aged 84. Husband of Pam, father of John and Bill, grandfather of Rose, Henry, Florence, Tom and George. Funeral service 12 noon Thursday 11th December 2025 at Salisbury Crematorium. No flowers please, donations if desired to Royal British Legion and Alzheimer’s Society Enquiries, Bracher Brothers Funeral Directors 01747 822494 Newbury, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4QL.

RICHARD CURTIS

‘Dick the Fish’

Suddenly, but peacefully at home in Stalbridge on 1st November 2025, aged 86 years.

Much loved Husband, Dad, Grandad, Great Grandad and friend to many. Funeral service at St. Mary’s Church, Stalbridge on Friday, 12th December at 12.00pm, followed by interment. Donations if desired, for either Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance Trust or Smile With Siddy can be made online at peterjacksonfuneralservices.co.uk or 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

Cynthia Joy Collis Née Cawley

Passed away peacefully at Yeovil District Hospital on the 11th October 2025.

Beloved wife of her late Husband Peter, Mum, Mum In-law, Granny, Great Granny and a deeply loved member of her large extended family, she will be sadly missed. Funeral service to take place at Yeovil Crematorium on Friday 28th November at 11.20am.

Please wear a splash of colour. Family flowers only please, donations if desired for Dorset Wildlife Trust can be made online at peterjacksonfuneralservices.co.uk or 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

DEATHS

EAVIS

David Colin

Passed away suddenly on 4th November 2025 aged 82 years. Much loved husband of Carol, loving dad to Jackie, Mark, Tracie and Lou and a very cherished grandad. Dave will be sadly missed by all his family and friends. Funeral to be held at Buckland Newton Church on Tuesday 9th December at 11am. Family flowers only please. Donations in Dave’s memory for SANDS (Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Charity) or Cats Protection can be made payable to the charity and sent c/o Grassby Funeral Service, 8 Princes Street, Dorchester, DT1 1TW or online at www.grassby-funeral.co.uk

Rosemary Octavia Suter

Née Love

Peacefully on 9th November 2025, at home in the Cedars Nursing Home, Shaftesbury, aged 96 years. Formerly of Gillingham and Queen Oak. Wife of the late Maurice. Much loved Mum of Sandy and Steve. Funeral service at St. Martin’s Church, Zeals on Monday, 8th December at 12.00pm, followed by interment. Family flowers only please. Donations if desired, in memory of Molly for Dementia Friendly Gillingham can be made online at peterjacksonfuneralservices.co.uk Alternatively, cheques made payable to the charity may be sent: C/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, Harwood House, Newbury, Gillingham, SP8 4QJ. Tel: 01747 833757

HISCOCK, Allen

Of Buckland Newton

Passed away peacefully at Casterbridge Manor on the 13th November surrounded by his family. Allen was a much loved Dad, Granddad, Great Granddad, Brother and Friend to many. Funeral Service at 11am on Thursday the 11th December at The Church of the Holy Rood, Buckland Newton Donations in Allen’s memory for Cancer Research U/K and Welmar Care. All enquiries c/o Stoodley & Son, The Old Bank, 37 Market Square, Crewkerne TA18 7LP. Tel: 01460 73229

Family run Funeral Service

Family run Funeral Service

Brister & Son

COLIN J. CLOSE

COLIN J. CLOSE

Peel Close, BLANDFORD FORUM Tel: 01258 453133 www.close-funeral.co.uk

Peel Close, BLANDFORD FORUM Tel: 01258 453133 www.close-funeral.co.uk

•

•

GRASSBY & CLOSE

GRASSBY & CLOSE

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 www.grassbyshaftesbury-funeral.co.uk

27a High Street, SHAFTESBURY Tel: 01747 440815

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

Please call Teresa or Daniel for an appointment

100 Lenthay Road, Sherborne DT9 6AG Email: info@wsbrister.com 01935 812647

www.grassbyshaftesbury-funeral.co.uk

Woodside Court, Woodside Dairy Yard, Sparkford BA22 7LH Email: info@wsbrister.com 01963 850165

www.wsbrister.com

Recruitment

Family Funeral Directors

We’ve provided compassionate and

funeral services for over 100 years.

Recruitment

Integrated

Make a difference in people’s lives.

We’re looking for caring, reliable individuals to support clients recovering from addiction at our residential treatment centre.

You’ll help deliver clinical and therapeutic treatment programmes and promote wellbeing within a safe, structured environment. Full training provided — experience helpful but not essential.

Flexible shifts (days/nights/weekends)

Apply now: www.forwardtrust.org.uk/jobs or email CV to louise.hodgson@forwardtrust.org.uk We welcome applications from all backgrounds

CHRISTMAS POULTRY PROCESSORS wanted between Wincanton & Bruton. 07812-009364.

TEMPORARY JOB. Curtain and blind maker for/at Private House nr Shaftesbury. Flexible hours. Experience important (until Christmas-January optional). Please call 07795-632144.

CEDARS NURSING HOME. We are looking for a chef manager to work in our care home. This is a full time position. Please call 01747 852860 for more details.

VOLUNTEER SOUGHT for any 2 days per week to assist with breading butterflies in tropical greenhouses. Interesting, unusual and rewarding. Some gardening experience would be valuable. Work with senior butterfly breeder. Situated DT9-5PL (Nr Sherborne) Tel: 01963-210645

BLACKMORE VALE JOBS GROUP

EVERSHOT FARMS LTD

A SSISTANT HERDSPERSON REQUIRED Located between Portesham and Abbotsbury

An opportunity is available in West Dorset on a 520 cow, high yielding modern dairy unit.

We are looking to recruit an assistant Herdsperson to join our dairy team.

Duties include but are not limited to:

• Milking/Herd management/record keeping/yard work,

• Maintaining high standards of cleanliness and animal welfare following farm protocols,

• General farm tasks,

• Foot trimming an advantage.

In return we offer:

• A competitive salary and pension,

• Regular time off,

• Accommodation available on request.

Experience with livestock is essential. In addition, candidates must be self-motivated, have practical communication skills and be a team player.

Please send your CV farms@ilchester-estates.co.uk

When your brain won’t let something go

by Kay Parkinson

FROM awkward hugs to lawn-judging neighbours, our brains tend to fixate on the little things, and it can be challenging to let them go.

Have you ever experienced a moment when something minor happens, like someone cutting you off in traffic, your partner responding ‘fine’ in a certain tone or a friend making a casual comment and find yourself replaying it while brushing your teeth, walking the dog or even shopping at the supermarket? This isn’t a sign that you’re oversensitive – it’s simply your brain doing what brains are naturally inclined to do. Scientists have discovered that both humans and mice tend to hold onto emotional responses long after the initial moment has

passed. To investigate this experience, they used a test familiar to anyone who has been to the optometrist – a puff of air directed at the eye, similar to what occurs during a standard eye pressure test. This procedure is quick, safe and painless, but it often causes most people to flinch and blink.

The first reaction is purely physical – however, many also experience a secondary emotional response. You may tense up, feel mildly annoyed or brace yourself for the next puff of air. Remarkably, even months or years later, many individuals still recall that sensation when they return for their next eye exam.

This emotional aftermath is what the researchers were focusing on. The brain

reactivates as if replaying the moment and retains that feeling. In everyday life, this is akin to how a minor awkward encounter, or a passing criticism, can linger in your mind long after it has occurred.

It is clever in its own way. If something uncomfortable happens repeatedly, your brain wants you to remember and be ready. That is brilliant for avoiding danger. It is less brilliant when the thing you are avoiding is a mild embarrassment at the school gates, your boss adding to your to-do list at 4.55pm or your neighbour giving your lawn a look as though it has personally offended them.

The issue is that our brains struggle to distinguish between actual threats and situations that were merely awkward or annoying. They store all these experiences in the same mental space. As a result, we end up carrying around the emotional weight of these experiences for hours or even days, even when they don’t warrant such a burden.

While what worked for mice might not be applicable to us – we can still find ways to help our brains let go more easily. This could involve taking a brisk walk, sharing a laugh with someone who understands us, listening to music that lifts our mood or taking a slow breath while reminding ourselves: “It’s over. I am safe now.”

Practising self-compassion means recognising when we are still stuck in the emotional aftermath of past events. It’s not about pretending those moments didn’t happen, it’s about acknowledging: “Thank you, brain, for trying to protect me, but I am alright now.” Our brains will always react to life’s small jabs. The skill lies in learning to thank the messenger and then letting them go.

n Kay 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.

‘Overnight brekkie’ is super-healthy

by Fiona Chapman

I ALWAYS find breakfast a nightmare. I have never been able to find anything I actually

want to eat. It is too early to cook, and I refuse to cook three meals a day! Cereal doesn’t do it for me, and toast just goes

after about five minutes, and I am so greedy about butter it is not a healthy option, so better not to have it at all!

• Cleaning & Housework

• 1 to 1

Fully

So, my daughter persuading me to have ‘overnight oats’ has been a revelation. No cooking involved, well, not in the morning, and full of goodness, roughage, fibre, protein, herbs and sustaining.

I am perhaps rather late to this concept, but for those who have not come across it, I thought I would share it.

First, I am lucky enough to have an apple tree that this year has been laden with fruit, so I have made lots of apple puree – an apple a day keeps the doctor away! I put about five tablespoons of apple puree into a container, then about eight to 10 tablespoons of organic oats – extremely good for the nervous system, lower cholesterol, provide fibre and

minerals. Then a couple of handfuls of pumpkin seeds which help to regulate blood pressure and are full of magnesium and other minerals; sunflower seeds, again packed with minerals, good for heart health and balance blood sugar. Almonds, lots of antioxidants and good for the gut; walnuts contain Omega 3 and are great for the brain; cashew nuts, which again help with cholesterol and blood sugar. Sprinkle a tablespoon of cinnamon, excellent for stabilising blood sugar, and/or ginger powder, excellent for the circulation and getting the blood moving. Then fill the container with filtered cold water to cover all the ingredients well. Pop in the fridge, leave overnight and longer and eat all week for breakfast. Amazing! If you like yogurt, you can add some kefir,

Meditations in nature: All for the love of trees

by Susanna Curtin

FROM winter through to spring, summer and autumn, trees journey with us through time, their demeanour changing with each seasonal shift. The dark skeletal forms of their branches in winter eventually give way to the fresh, bright leaves that turn our landscape green in spring. This is followed by their fullness and splendour in summer, and then to the rich autumnal shades that are gracing their leaves now in this fall. Whatever the season, their beauty and wonder is impossible to ignore.

In the fullness of summer, their leaves are designed to capture as much sunlight as they can, as light is their main energy source. Through photosynthesis, light is turned into sugar which is then stored in the tree’s roots, trunk and branches. In the autumn, as the sunlight hours diminish and the tree needs to conserve energy for the winter, it sends hormonal signals to its leaves to break down the pigments and the valuable nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, which are then redistributed to the roots and trunk, ready for use in the spring. The colourful but depleted leaves are discarded and blow like confetti to the ground where they become shelter and food for invertebrates and nourishment for the ground below.

Now, in November, trees are preparing themselves for their winter slumber – a type of

which is excellent for the gut. If you have a sweet tooth, add some local and organic raw honey and it will help with hay fever and allergies. It is so easy to eat, and the nuts are vastly improved by soaking and not nearly so hard to chew – something I find hard to do in the morning – they are

hibernation called dormancy. Their metabolism slows right down. The buds that are formed in the summer are sealed up tightly with protective scales which will soften and depart when the spring’s light and warmth returns. To avoid the deadly effects of freezing weather, a tree will also change its chemistry. The formation of ice crystals can block water transport through their interiors and burst their cells open. But by replacing some of their water with the sugars and proteins they have stored, they lower the freezing point of the moisture they contain, and the formation of ice crystals is prevented –such a clever example of biochemical engineering.

Many people have a deep affiliation for their favourite trees. It is not just for their aesthetic appeal but also for what they have come to represent to us, such as childhood memories, picnics under their branches or just that they have become familiar landmarks that we see regularly while walking or driving. Their continued presence can make our world feel safe and unchanging. The word to describe this affiliation is ‘dendrophilia’, which literally means the ‘love of trees’. For as long as I can remember, I have cherished certain trees on my ‘patch’. It all began with the weeping willows in my childhood garden, under which

also much more digestible. You can also add lovely dark berries, which are full of antioxidants. It is an extremely healthy breakfast that can help with weight loss and is really rather delicious!

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

we would hide or make camp, and the ‘lightning tree’ that would save our house on the hill from the bolts of frequent thunderstorms. Now, living here in this beautiful county, I love to revisit my favourite trees from time to time or share them with like-minded people.

And so, on this blustery November day, I am with an old friend visiting an ancient woodland near home where I have discovered several ‘special’ trees. I have mapped out a route which takes us under the boughs of each of them – an enormous oak, two ancient beeches, one of which is at least 500 years old, and an ash tree that has an incredible story to tell. As we walk together amid the spiced tones of autumn colours, there is a rich musty smell of decay and fungi. Flocks of rooks skirt the woodland, playing in the breeze, while a jay feverishly collects acorns, caching them away in a winter larder.

The oak and the beech trees are our first stop before we sit beneath the thick enormous

boughs of the beech for our alfresco lunch. The skies have darkened and as we don our rain gear, the clouds burst with stair-rods. Undeterred, and enjoying the sounds and smells of the downpour that drips from every surface, we go to find the ash tree and marvel at its story.

We think that once, probably about 50 years ago, a large, very old, coppiced ash tree was felled. It toppled towards the downward slope of the hill. What was left in the middle of the stump rotted away, and then, over time, 12 young trees, connected by the same root system, sprouted from the base of the old tree, growing into genetically cloned versions of their parent with their tall, perfectly straight trunks reaching towards the light. This is one of the most magical places in this ancient woodland, and even as grown adults we delight in entering the circle, looking up at the sky beyond the canopy and making a wish.

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

Malthouse Care Home Bay Road, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4EW

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

Pub named in food guide’s UK top 100

THE Queen’s Arms at Corton Denham has been named as one of the top 100 pubs in the UK in this year’s Good Food Guide It received further praise from The Times’ food editor, Hannah Evans, who chose it as one of her top 10 from the list.

The Queen’s Arms has been up and running five years and attracts locals and those from further afield who can stay in one of its 10 bedrooms.

The pub’s style and décor is elegant but informal – and dogs are welcome with dog bowls and treats and five dog-friendly bedrooms.

The pub also has a small coffee shop for passers-by to

enjoy a cup of coffee and a bacon roll.

The owner, Doune Mackenzie-Francis, trained at culinary academy Ballymaloe in Ireland before working at Leith’s School of Food and Wine.

She aims to use local and British seasonal ingredients and local and British beers, ales and ciders.

“It’s an incredible accolade to receive, on what has been quite a journey,” says Doune.

“We opened just after lockdown and were met with huge challenges, from staffing the kitchen through to supplier increases.

“To be a new arrival to all this was daunting, but we knew the bones of what we had was great, and we weren’t going to give up.

“I had a front of house team who worked tirelessly to ensure this, and the breakthrough came for us after we found and hired Rich Townsend, our head chef.

“It was Rich’s first head chef role and he threw himself into

the challenge as he saw the potential of the pub had and wanted to be part of the journey.

“He has built up an incredible kitchen team and fantastic menu that hits all the right notes, from pub classics through to elevated classic British cuisine.”

The pub hosts a number of events such as, Day of the Dead, Fish Over Fire and many more.

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

We offer a wide range of beers, cider, wines and spirits as well as a range of non-alcoholic options.

The Queen’s Arms at Corton Denham is this year’s Good Food Guide

Familiar flavours combine in elegant dish

Pan-fried pork loin with caramelised apples, leeks and shallots

CELEBRATE autumn with this comforting yet elegant dish, pairing perfectly caramelised apples, leeks and shallots with tender pan-fried and reasonably priced pork fillet.

The rich, cider-infused cream sauce ties together these familiar, fresh flavours, making it an ideal choice for a dinner party or a cosy week-night meal. Serves 4 Ingredients

1 large fillet of pork tenderloin cut into medallions

2 shallots, finely diced

2 leeks, trimmed and sliced into fine ribbons

2 apples, peeled, cored and sliced

100ml cider

200ml chicken stock

200ml double cream

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh herbs – like thyme or parsley – for garnish

Method

1 Prepare the pork loin: Season the pork medallions with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork medallions and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

2 Caramelise shallots, leeks and apples: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil, if needed. Add the diced shallots, sliced leeks and apple wedges. Cook over medium heat for

| ploughmanston.com

about 3-4 minutes until they are soft and caramelised.

3 Deglaze with cider: Pour in the cider and let it reduce for about 1-2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.

4 Add chicken stock and cream: Add the chicken stock and bring it to a simmer. Then pour in the double cream and let the mixture cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

5 Combine and serve: Return the pork medallions to the skillet and warm them through for a minute. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.

An ideal choice for a dinner party or cosy weeknight meal

Parmencita potatoes pair beautifully with the creamy sauce and pork. Roast some small, diced potatoes with olive oil, rosemary, garlic and a bit of sea salt until they're crispy and golden.

A simple, fluffy jasmine or basmati rice would also work well. Cook the rice in a bit of chicken stock for extra flavour and it'll soak up that lovely creamy sauce nicely.

n Annie des Forges, Director/ Chef, The Table Bruton. Annie Austin, Director/Host & Concierge, Somerset Roadtrip. Email annie@thetablebruton. com.

The Great British Bake Off is looking for new contestants

So, would you like a Hollywood Handshake?

BUDDING bakers across Dorset and Somerset are being encouraged to test their skills in the iconic Great British Bake Off tent.

The hugely popular television show is seeking the next wave of amateur bakers willing to push themselves and show off their talents.

The GBBO casting team said: “Are you a bread head, whisk wizard or cake king?

“If you – or someone you know – is a Star Baker in the making, we want to hear from you!

“This could be your chance to bake in the iconic white tent…and, who knows – maybe that next Hollywood Handshake

could be yours!”

Applications are open to UK residents aged 16 or over by January 1, 2026.

Casting teams are looking for enthusiastic bakers who have a range of experience in making bread, biscuits, pastry and more. Individuals are asked to share as much about themselves and their baking journey as possible, with photos and videos also wanted.

Successful applicants will be contacted by the casting team by February 13, 2026. Applications should be sent by email to applyforbakeoff@ loveproductions.co.uk or by visiting www.applyforbakeoff. co.uk

UK Removals

All houses great and small! A worry-free service from planning, packing

Storage

European Removals

Our friendly team will help guide you through the process from beginning to end.

Emergency Storage

24-hour to long term contracts, our advanced containerised system makes storage simple.

We’ll collect and deliver to and from your location to give you one less thing to deal with.

Motoring

ON ALL VEHICLES UP TO 3.5 TONNES INCLUDING HORSEBOXES AND MOTORHOMES

SUNRISE SERVICE & MOT CENTRE

SUNRISE SERVICE & MOT CENTRE

Bodyshop open for all repairs and restorations, f rom small scratches to complete resprays, insurance work welcome.

MOTS , SERVICING AND REPAIRS ON ALL VEHICLES UP TO 3.5 TONNES INCLUDING HORSEBOXES AND MOTORHOMES

MOTS – class 4,5 and 7

Diagnostics

MOTS, SERVICING AND REPAIRS ON ALL VEHICLES UP TO 3.5 TONNES INCLUDING HORSEBOXES AND MOTORHOMES

Gritting crews ready to react

HIGHWAYS crews in Dorset are on standby ready to keep roads safe as the temperature drops.

Almost 100 crew members are on standby 24/7 to grit roads across the county to keep routes safe and passable this winter.

residents, businesses and emergency services can travel safely, whatever the weather,” he said.

Air conditioning Valets

Bodyshop also available.

Bodyshop open for all repairs and restorations, f rom small scratches to complete resprays, insurance work welcome.

MOTs – class 4, 5 and 7

MOTS – class 4,5 and 7

Courtesy Cars

“As the gritting crews are also responsible for other highways maintenance, there may be times when gritting takes priority, which could delay other routine work.

Diagnostics Air Conditioning

Diagnostics Air conditioning Valets

MOTS – class 4,5 and 7

Collections within a 5 mile radius

Courtesy Cars

Concessions for Pensioners, Armed Forces and Emergency Services

Courtesy Cars

Diagnostics Air conditioning Valets

Concessions for Armed Forces and Emergency Services

Collections within a 5 mile radius

Dorset Council’s gritting network covers 684 miles of road across 23 main gritting routes. These are treated when road surface temperatures are forecast to fall below 0.5°C.

Concessions ed Forces a es

Courtesy Cars radius Conc med Forces es

During prolonged cold spells, additional community routes serving smaller villages and hamlets are also treated to help keep rural Dorset moving.

“I thank them all for their commitment. Whether it’s the middle of the night or during the day, they ensure that the roads are as safe as possible.”

He is asking travellers to be patient and courteous if they find themselves behind a gritter.

Councillor Jon Andrews, cabinet member for place services, said the team is ready to respond when temperatures drop.

15B Sunrise Business Park, Higher Shaftesbury Road

Blandford DT11 8ST Tel: 01258 459798

“They step away from their regular highways duties to help keep Dorset moving, ensuring

15B Sunrise Business Park, Higher Shaftesbury Road

Blandford DT11 8ST Tel: 01258 459798

Email info@sunriseservicecentre.com www.sunriseserviceandmotcentre.com

Email sunriseservicecentre@hotmail.com www.sunriseserviceandmotcentre.com

2016 (65) Audi A5 Coupe 1.8TFSi S Line Nav 2dr. Sat nav, park sensors, cruise control, leather, heated seats, road sign assistance, Bluetooth, 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

“Our crews are out in all weathers to keep you safe. Please take care, reduce speed and keep a safe distance from the next vehicle,” he said.

“Remember, even if gritters have been out, roads can still be

FREELANDER 2 TD4

2012 2.2 Diesel 99000 miles. £9,975 Tel:07805437031

2014 (14) Ford Transit 2.2TDCi 350 L2 H2 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..................................................................£9000 + VAT = £10800

2017 (17) Ford Ka+ 1.2 Zetec 5dr. £35 road tax, 56mpg economy, city pack, parking sensors, cruise control, Bluetooth, 1 owner & only 29,300 miles...................................................................................£7450

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

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, Bluetooth, £35 tax, 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

2014 (64) Ford B-Max 1.0T Zetec 5 Seat MPV 5dr. New cambelt wetbelt kit, high seating, big boot, sliding rear doors, park sensors, £35 tax, 1 owner & only 57,900 miles....................................................£5250

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

2021 (21) Ford Puma 1.0T ST Line X MHEV 5dr. 155bhp, sat nav, parking sensors, cruise control, main beam assist, road sign assistance, Bluetooth, partial leather, 47,800 miles.........................................£13250

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

2018 (68) Ford Kuga 2.0TDCi ST Line SUV 5dr. High seating, big boot, sat nav, Bluetooth, road sign assist, cruise, park sensors & auto park, reverse camera, partial leather, 61,800 miles...............................£11750

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

2013 (63) Mercedes B180 1.8CDi SE Automatic 5dr. High seating, big boot, parking sensors, park assist, cruise control, £35 road tax, 67mpg, full history & only 47,600 miles..........................................£7450

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

2016 (16) Peugeot 208 1.2 Allure 5dr. New wetbelt cambelt kit, £20 road tax, 60mpg, cruise control, parking sensors, Bluetooth, only 38,500 miles...............................................................................................£6250

2019 (19) Renault Captur 1.5DCi Iconic Automatic SUV 5dr. 90bhp, diesel, 6 speed automatic gearbox, sat nav, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, parking sensors, hill hold, high seating, sliding rear seats, upto 67mpg economy, 20,300 miles .........................................................................................................£12250

2023 (73) Vauxhall Vivaro 2.0TD 3100 Pro L2 Van 6dr. Sat nav, reverse camera, cruise control, air con, twin side doors, ply lined, bulkhead, exceptional condition, 21,300 miles, selling for a customer..........................................................£17250 + VAT = £20700

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

2020 (69) Volvo V60 2.0TD D3 Momentum Plus Estate 5dr. Heated leather, memory seat, sat nav, cruise control, parking sensors, Bluetooth, electric tailgate, cambelt kit replaced, 106,500 miles...................£11750 WE BUY CARS & VANS SO IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING TO SELL GIVE US A CALL, WE PAY GOOD PRICES & CONSIDER MOST VEHICLES

01747 854789

Rock salt (grit) needs traffic to help it work, creating an effective solution as vehicles drive over it.

The council is encouraging drivers to pay extra care if they are one of the first motorists on a freshly gritted road Rain or water run-off can also reduce the effectiveness of salt, so drivers are urged to remain cautious, even on treated routes as it cannot be guaranteed there will be no ice.

WINTER 2024-25 IN NUMBERS

n Gritting crews were called out 79 times from November 2024 to April 2025 as they carried out 1,167 individual treatments and spread 2,407 tonnes of salt.

n The busiest month was January, when crews went out 35 times, laying a total of 1,247

tonnes of salt.

n In November 2024, heavy snow showers brought parts of the county to a standstill. In response, seven snow ploughs were deployed to tackle the severe conditions and help reopen key routes.

n The 23 main gritting routes, known as the precautionary network, include: A, B and well-used C roads, routes to hospitals, emergency services and key transport hubs, roads serving large schools and industrial estates as well as primary bus routes and main roads through towns and villages with more than 750 residents.

n When snow falls, the priority ploughing network ensures key north-south and east-west routes are cleared first, before moving on to the wider network.

A gritting crew on standby PHOTO: Dorset Council

How to medicate your pet

by Lynn Broom BVSc, GPCert(ExAP), AdvDipAAB, MRCVS

WE often have to give medication to our pets which can include preventative measures, such as wormers, treatment for diseases, such as antibiotics, or supplements, such as for arthritis support. But some pets are quite resistant to treatment!

If you have an amenable pet, the most effective way to give tablets is to put them straight down your pet’s throat. Tipping

your pet’s head back encourages their mouth to open. Hold their upper jaw with one hand, keeping your fingers outside their teeth, and push the tablet quickly into the throat at the back of the tongue with your other hand. This should cause automatic swallowing, but you may need to hold their mouth closed afterwards. Following the tablet with a small amount of water can encourage swallowing. Giving a treat after can make it a more positive experience.

their food in one go. Checking the bowl after and ensuring no access to it by other pets is essential to ensure the correct pet receives the treatment! There may be an alternative to tablets such as products which are applied to the skin or long-acting injections. Be aware of products applied to the skin which may be less effective if you have recently washed your pet or if you wash them after application. Do not allow your pet into rivers after application because products, particularly flea medications, can be very toxic to fish and insects.

It is important that a course of antibiotics is completed to prevent bacterial resistance developing. Medications given for long term conditions should be administered in the same way at the same time daily to allow accurate dosing following monitoring blood tests.

If you are applying creams to the skin, it is essential that they are not immediately licked off. Some are rapidly absorbed and licking only needs to be restricted for five to 10 minutes but others must not be licked at all. It is also important that licking is prevented if it is a skin lesion being treated.

Tablets can be difficult to administer. Choosing tasty tablets, if they are available, can help. ‘Tricking’ your pet into taking them by giving several treats in a row followed by the treatment can work. Coating the tablet in something tasty like liver paste can disguise its flavour and make it more like a treat. Hiding it in a small amount of your pet’s favourite food can work but avoid mixing it in their normal food unless they always clear

If you are struggling to medicate your pet, discuss your concerns with your vet to see if an alternative exists such as an oral liquid instead of a tablet or a tasty chew rather than a tasteless tablet. Paracetamol is very bitter, and even amenable dogs may refuse a tablet, but a liquid flavoured form can make it more acceptable.

Ensuring your pet gets their medication is going to be essential at some time in their life and it is important that you ensure they receive the dose required.

Tablets can be difficult to administer, and choosing tasty tablets, if available, can help

MID DORSET CATS PROTECTION C ats looking for new homes

n For details, please call the helpline on 01258 858644 or visit our website,www.cats.org. uk/middorset

n Farm and stable homes needed for outside cats

and

five, semidomesticated black and white boys looking for a home where they get to sleep indoors but prefer the great outdoors

The ins and outs of physical praise

by Raychel Curson

IT feels wonderful to stroke, cuddle and hug our dogs – it’s such a natural human impulse. Touch makes us feel good. But did you know that not all dogs enjoy physical contact? For some, being touched can feel uncomfortable or threatening.

Although dogs are constantly communicating with us through their body language and behaviour – we often don’t ‘hear’ what they’re saying, simply because we don’t know what we are looking for. When their subtle signals are missed or ignored, dogs can become stressed and start to show displacement behaviours –licking, turning away, yawning, freezing and may start mouthing or even zooming around.

In this moment, the dog is not being ‘naughty’ – but just trying their best to cope with something that feels unnatural for them. And when all other ways of coping fail, sometimes biting becomes their last resort.

When working with these dogs, it all starts with listening, finding their baseline – what they like, what they tolerate and what they truly don’t – and then,

from there, building a two-way conversation and positive associations to help them feel safe during grooming, vet visits or everyday handling. Equally important is learning to respect who they are as sentient beings. We shouldn’t force touch just because we want it.

n From a social perspective, dogs can value two very different things:

n Being close – sharing space, leaning against you, lying next to you on the sofa.

Physical contact – being stroked, cuddled or hugged. Some dogs love closeness but not touch, and they’re often misunderstood. They want to be with you, just not handled by you – and that’s perfectly okay. Some dogs even change their minds mid-fuss – they think they want it until they don’t. That’s okay too. Harley is one of these dogs, she will lie next to me and enjoy closeness, but cuddles are not her thing and we respect that. Sonny is a very cuddly dog, but examinations – especially around his ears since his chronic issues – is different for him and can stress him out.

If you’re living with a dog

who seems uncomfortable with touch, grooming or handling, please know you’re not alone – and your dog isn’t ‘difficult’. They’re simply communicating in the only way they know how. With patience, understanding and the right approach, things can improve. If you’d like support understanding your dog’s body language or guidance on creating a safe, positive plan

for touch or cooperative care, I’d love to help.

Reach out for a chat –together, we can help your dog feel heard, respected and safe in their own skin.

n Raychel Curson BSc (Hons) MA CCAB APBC-CAB FABC ABTC-CAB is owner of Pet Peeves Animal Behaviour & Teaching. Email raychel@ petpeevessomerset.co.uk

n Maddie, 10, sweet shy lady could be homed with Tabatha

n Tabatha, 10, gorgeous shy lady could be homed with Maddie

n Rachel, five months, timid girl needing the right person to give her a chance

n Tim, six, handsome black boy who’s a little shy

n Bubbles

Derek,

Off-form Blandford salvage draw

by Paul Cross Blandford 1

Southampton University 3s 1

BLANDFORD had the better of the early exchanges when they travelled to a surprisingly sunny Eastleigh, but a lack of warm-up showed, with balls that would normally stick to sticks bouncing off and blunting their attacking prowess.

Blandford, sporting new kit, courtesy of Akuma and Apoq, were showing signs of lethargy, bu that was fortunately matched by their student counterparts.

The home side’s usual efficiency in front of goal seemed to be lacking as they squandered the opportunities Southampton served up.

HOCKEY

The first half definitely underwhelmed, though Blandford had keeper Clint Thrower to thank for keeping the game scoreless going into the break.

At half-time it seemed that whichever team woke up first would take the three points. However, both teams hit the snooze button.

Then, after an innocuous Southampton ball at the edge of the D and an errant shout for the keeper to ‘leave it’, the ball trickled into the back of the net. 60 minutes in and Blandford’s grip on top spot and their unbeaten record were

at risk.

Luckily, this alarm call wasn’t ignored. Blandford began to show the form that has put them top of the league, pressing Southampton and winning the ball higher up the pitch.

The defenders began to dictate play, with centre-back Chris Nobles pushing the ball through the centre of the park and Paul Cross starting to look dangerous on the ball.

On the 65th minute, Paul Cross picked up the ball on the right-hand side, drifted inside and hit a dangerous ball into the D. A smart finish from Gareth Hardiman levelled the game.

School appoints new coach

BRYANSTON School has appointed highly respected coach Josh Digby as its new head of cricket.

Josh brings over 20 years of coaching experience to the role and holds the ECB Level 4 Specialist Coach qualification, the highest coaching award in the English game.

He is currently head coach of Dorset Women, works with the Hampshire Women’s Academy and has previously led the Emerging Players Programme. His experience also includes assisting with the Dorset Men’s 1st XI and coaching for Hampshire Cricket across county age-group and academy

levels.

A former Dorset Men’s 1st XI player for eight years, Josh has also spent time working with Hampshire’s men’s and women’s first teams and gained exposure to the elite environment of The Hundred through involvement with Southern Brave.

Josh is already a familiar figure at Bryanston, having served as a performance cricket coach at the school for the past two years. He says the opportunity to work more closely with pupils was central to his decision to take on the

role.

“The biggest attraction was working with the players on a full-time basis and building those relationships further,” he said. “The passion to improve and get better really struck me in the pupils I was coaching. This is where I felt I could make a big difference and help them progress.”

Bryanston’s director of sport, Rory McCann, said: “We look forward to the next chapter of our cricket programme under Josh’s leadership.

“His wealth of experience, passion for player development, and commitment to both boys’ and girls’ cricket, alongside our

Five from five for Rockies

by Avril Lancaster Shaftesbury

1

Westbury United 0

SHAFTESBURY made it five wins in a row with Leighton Thomas on his return turning to fire the game’s only goal in the 35th minute.

Shaftesbury had hit the bar first through Jack Hoey and Thomas on the rebound.

Westbury put some pressure

FOOTBALL

on in the second half with their best chance coming when substitute Sam Francis brought out a brilliant save from Ben Taylor.

Shaftesbury held out for the three points in a very close game.

Shaftesbury 2

Larkhall Athletic 0

SHAFTESBURY made it four wins in a row with a hardfought win against in-form Larkhall Athletic at Cockrams.

Harry Baker latched onto a brilliant run and through ball from Lewis Brown to tuck away his 14th goal of the season under Liam Armstrong early in the second half.

Harry Morgan’s flick on freed Alefe Santos DAbadia to

While Southampton’s pace meant they were always a threat, it was Blandford who had the best of the final five minutes.

Another ball into the D from Cross deflected up and was nearly turned in by Chris Nobles. But it wasn’t to be and the game ended 1-1.

The draw drops Blandford down to second place. But, having played the top five clubs, they have every chance of regaining top spot over the next few weeks.

Blandford and Sturminster Hockey are now the only club in Great Britain that have both their Men’s and Women’s sections unbeaten.

strong partnership with Dorset Cricket and our growing group of scholars, will ensure all our pupils can thrive, perform at the highest level and develop a lifelong love for the game.”

put away the second a minute from time for his sixth goal of the season.

Shaftesbury beat Westbury

Josh Digby is Bryanston’s new head of cricket

Taya makes her mark in Dublin

BRAZILIAN Jiu-Jitsu star Taya Jones, 12, has once again made her mark on the international stage, winning gold at the IBJJF (International Brazil Jiu-Jitsu Federation) No-Gi European Open at the NAC Sport Ireland Campus in Dublin.

Taya, who trains in Frome, dominated the competition from start to finish, winning all her matches by arm bar submission.

She displayed remarkable control and confidence, overwhelming her opponents in every exchange and finishing the final bout in under one minute with her signature arm bar.

The victory marks Taya’s second European title, following her gold medal performance at the IBJJF Junior (Gi) European Championships in Lisbon, Portugal, in October 2024, where she competed in the grey belt division.

However, this latest triumph represents a new milestone – her first European gold in the yellow belt division, and in the No-Gi style of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

In Gi Jiu-Jitsu, athletes wear a traditional kimono-style uniform that allows grips on the jacket and trousers to control and submit opponents.

In No-Gi, competitors wear shorts and a rashguard, focusing more on speed, body control and grip strength without the use of clothing for holds.

MARTIAL ARTS

Jones, 12, trains at

Both styles share the same core techniques but demand different strategies and adaptations.

GOLF

Taya was promoted to solid yellow belt – from yellow-andwhite – on the winners’ podium by her coach, Callum Swift, recognising her outstanding technical progress and competitive spirit.

Callum said: “Taya continues to impress with her focus, discipline and humble attitude. Winning two European titles across Gi and No-Gi is an incredible achievement for any young athlete.”

Taya is travelling to Abu Dhabi to compete in the AJP Tour, where she will represent her academy and country on another prestigious international platform.

Taya trains out of Gracie Barra Frome, part of the global Gracie Barra Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu team.

WINCANTON Golf Club results.

Seniors Roll-Up Back 9 – November 7: Winners: Pete Starkey/David Hallett/Kees Schouten: 51 points.

Monthly Stableford – November 9: 1 Adam Smith 37, 2 Richard Czemerda 35, 3 John Burns 33.

Seniors Monthly Stableford – November 11: 1 Andy Blandford 38 ocb, 2 Kevin George 38, 3 George Wagland 37.

Seniors 9 Hole Monthly Stableford – November 11: 1 Dave Shean 20, 2 Geoff Lye 16, 3 Robin Price 15.

Club achieves league first

MERE Bowls Club did this season what no other club in the Westbrook League have done before by winning the league title, Gala Day and the Harold Ford Cup, the latter for a second successive year.

The final day of the outdoor season included the Aussie Pairs, a game with sometimes difficult rules to follow.

It was invigilated by Alan Inwood, who kept a list of infringements, and eventually won by Les Manwaring and Ron Heesom. 16 players took part.

That was followed by the Narine Trophy, a match between the greenkeepers and the ladies, won by the greenkeepers.

The day ended with an indoor barbecue.

Charlie’s Bath chance

MILTON Abbey School student Charlie G is stepping up in the world of rugby.

The fourth former has been selected to join the Bath Rugby Under-15 Foundation Phase Programme following a series

BOWLS

The greens team are now beginning work preparing the green for next season, which begins at the end of April 2026.

The indoor bowls season is now under way at the Clarrie Dunbar Indoor Bowls Club at Standerwick with 10-12 players regularly turning out each Monday.

of trials and training sessions.

Charlie will now train weekly under Bath Rugby Club coaches and compete against other development squads until May, when he hopes to secure selection for the Bath Rugby Under-16 squad.

RUGBY

Taya

Gracie Barra Frome

Aussie Pairs competitors at Mere Bowls Club

Milton Abbey’s Charlie G in action

Aussie Pairs winners Les Manwaring and Ron Heesom

Belle is pregnant and a new puppy in the home

by Tria Stebbing

THE TB test came back fine and Sebastian redeemed himself by behaving a bit better this time for the vet. Afterwards the vet checked over Belle and we were delighted to find out she is due to calf in February. This will work well with our late lambing as we can concentrate on Belle and getting her the best care possible for her and her calf. Humphrey has returned from his party in the paddock in Shaftesbury. He stayed with Wendy’s ewes for a month, so fingers crossed he has ‘done his thing’. We have rested him this week before putting him in with ours, so lambing will be in April next year.

All of this at the same time as

introducing a new puppy to the family home. Our beloved Stock Guardian dog passed away recently, leaving a depressive black hole in our lives.

The rain arrived and it is hard to believe that those scorched brown paddocks are the same muddy, soggy, inaccessible patches of grass that are now becoming really challenging. The wet conditions impacting on the sheep’s feet, the moisture getting trapped in the hoof with the mud, making perfect breeding conditions for bacteria. The ewes are in great condition and are on some of that lush grass flushing through before going to the ram.

It is a quiet time at the field,

Bird flu, milk price cuts and NFU memories

by Ruth Kimber

OUR dairy cows are still out by day, unknown on our wet clay land, but after such a dry summer and the late autumn flush of grass, a few more days will help winter fodder supplies. The silage, hay and straw stores will last longer, the slurry store will fill slower.

Just as well as another milk price cut has been announced for December. In our case it adds up to 6.25p a litre, a huge drop, but other milk producers are suffering even bigger cuts. They say it is because of a glut of milk worldwide. Who knows what and who to believe anymore.

Then another blow, all poultry has to be housed, due to bird flu. Our turkeys really

a good time to cut hedges and to service the tractor and baler, as before we know it another season will arrive. The sloes are still on the branches, and I am tempted to harvest another batch – one lot is on the way already but there are just so many this year. I picked the rose hips and have a freezer supply to feed to

where they feed in the daytime, not just when the land is ploughed. They are highly successful breeders and have adapted to our modern lifestyle – and known to carry the virus, they are part of the bird flu story.

enjoy the freedom of the field – thank goodness their barns are big enough to cope with them being indoors during the day as well as at night.

The first of the flock will be ready for Thanksgiving in a couple of weeks and we are taking orders for them and Christmas.

We heard of a flock near Exeter of 10,000 chickens and ducks being infected. All have been slaughtered. Such a waste and a real worry for the farmer concerned. The migration of wild birds plays a part in spreading the virus, made worse by the relatively new change in gulls’ habits.

They have become residents of cities, refuse dumps and are regularly seen on farm land

Europe has seen a big increase in bird flu and as winter migration continues, so the threat increases.

I attended a leaving do in Taunton this week for Mel Squires (Hall) who rose up through the ranks of the NFU to become regional director and latterly worked at head office.

This got me reminiscing, as I met many of my old colleagues. My time as chair included a foot-and-mouth outbreak, TB breakdowns on farms around the south west, changing rules and regulations with animal movements and products, mapping and the effect of various government payment schemes. All these and more aspects of agriculture were part of the job.

I started my NFU work as an

The ram lambs have learnt to find shelter in the strangest place

the sheep over winter – they are a great source of vitamin C in the colder months.

If you get stuck behind a tractor hedge cutting, please remember that they can only do it at this time of year. They also have an obligation to keep the hedges next to the highways trimmed – be patient!

officer for the Yeovil branch becoming chair, having attended branch meetings, which involved chairing meetings, arranging speakers or trips for our monthly meetings, together with Somerset County meetings. I progressed to being voted as Somerset County chair, which meant visiting the county groups and attending meetings and bringing forward ideas, queries and grumbles to the regional board. I also had to attend national meetings, firstly in London, then in Stoneleigh, Warwickshire. This brought me into contact with many people, farmers, NFU staff, speakers and politicians, even meeting the late Queen Elizabeth II. I travelled with the NFU in the south west and beyond, Ireland and Brussels. It brought lots of opportunities and quite a lot of work!

Our son, Tom, took up the NFU batten a few years later and our names both appear on the NFU board of Somerset chairman record plaque hung in the Taunton office.

Parasite diagnostic technology

by Becca Price Friars Moor Livestock Health

LAST year the practice invested in a new Ovacyte Worm Egg Counting (WEC) machine, which uses AI to look at a sample, identify and count the number of worm eggs and cocci present. Previously to this each sample was looked at through the microscope by one of the vets or lab techs and counted manually – quite a laborious process! When carrying out WECs, we can detect a number of different worms – strongyletype, nematodirus, moniezia and cocci. Testing for lungworm and fluke can be done in house but are run differently. One of the good things about utilising such technology is the ease of data collection, allowing us to look for trends through the seasons, but also on individual farms. During the warmer months, when we would usually expect parasite burdens to be higher and of more significance, we would recommend a pooled WEC of each group of animals every four to six weeks and then treating if needed after discussion with your vet. This

allows us to treat groups of animals as needed but also allows us to build up an idea which pasture is clean and dirty.

As we try and reduce the number of anthelmintic treatments needed – to reduce the likelihood of resistance developing, protect the environment and save some money! – understanding the ‘risk’ of different pasture is increasingly important to develop a more holistic approach to parasite control.

We are increasingly carrying out pasture mapping. Depending on what each parcel of land has been used for – youngstock, arable rotation etc – we can categorise them into high, medium or low risk grazing. This can be represented visually by colour coding a map of the grazing you have available to help decide where certain groups

Graphs showing WEC results from our West Stour in-house lab

5cm of grass, so it’s clear this could have been a contributing factor with the summer we had!

of animals are going to graze next.

An example of this would be using a field not grazed by sheep in the last year and was instead a new ley after forage or arable crop, to graze your most vulnerable animals – young lambs.

The graphs represent all WECs done over the last 14 months – alpaca and goat WECs will be included within the sheep graph – and as would be predicted we see significantly lower WECs over the colder winter period around about January/February.

This summer we have seen some very high WECs, especially in the small ruminants. This is likely a combination of the warm dry weather, lack of grass growth and overgrazing. 80% of parasites are found in the first

Some of the counts are off the top of the chart – sometimes this can be an indicator of Haemonchus, or Barber Pole worm. Haemonchus is a blood-sucking parasite which can cause a severe anaemia leading to severe losses. Up until recently we look at the results in context to raise suspicion – very high WECs, lack of scour and pale mucus membranes or the samples could be sent externally.

A recent upgrade to the Ovacyte machine allows us to differentiate between strongyles and haemonchus, enabling us to make these diagnoses with more certainty once a high strongyle count has been seen.

(Justin J Frampton) R.F.D.13D New or Secondhand Shot & Air Guns, Rifles and Repairs. Game, Coarse & Sea Angling Equipment

3 West Street, Blandford Forum, Dorset DT11 7AW jay@conyers.biz www.conyers.biz

Tel: 01258 452307

Mob: 07973 642278 Est 1886

As the graphs show, last year WECs remained high well throughout autumn and start of winter, so it is important to remain vigilant. The winter is a good time to meet your vet and review parasite control plans before lambing begins in spring. Please get in touch with the practice if you would like guidance on creating parasite control plans.

Andrew Lee Vegetation Management

Grass flail and scrub flail available for the management of scrub, brambles, grass etc.

Working on slopes of up to 50 degrees with operator.

Contact Mobile: 07850489782 Email: andrewlee01@btinternet.com

Hydraulic Hose Specialists and Stockists to the Agriculture, Forestry, Automotive and Transport Industry

Pneumatic fittings

Air brake fittings

Hose clamps

Hydraulic Hoses

Quick release couplings Pressure wash hoses + lances Up to 1 ½ “Hose stocked Variation of oils Mobile service

hoses@ardiesels.co.uk

WANTED COWS COWS COWS

Farmers short of winter fodder? Sell your surplus cows NOW to achieve higher prices.

• All Grades

• Also, Bulls plus Organic Cattle

• Farm Assured or Non-Assured

• No V.A.N. Number, No Problem!

• Payment on the day - Farm purchases

• Haulage Arranged Tel: 07811 381159 Brookfield Livestock Marketing Ltd 7 days a week.

Equestrian

SMALL BALE WHEAT STRAW collect/delivered Tel: 07980-147019 / 01747-870360 http://www.dorsethorsetransport.com Type 2 DEFRA Approved. Tel 07470 496074

HAYLAGE & HAY. All June made. 3ft, 4ft and 6ft bales. Collect or delivered. Call Mark 07860 759996 or 01300 345293. www.henleyhaylage.co.uk

Cote Farm Works, Kilmington, Warminster, Wiltshire BA12 6RF

Protecting your business from the unexpected

As unpredictable weather becomes an increasing challenge, ensuring your farm and business are protected has never been more important. Last winter’s severe storms were a stark reminder of how quickly conditions can change and how vital the right insurance can be.

For one holiday park manager in the South West, that message hit home after a tornado tore through the site. “It rocked this business to the core,” said Adrian Tribe of Trevornick Holiday Park. “You’d never think so much could change in just thirty-seven seconds.”

Roofs were torn from lodges and caravans destroyed in the violent winds. “What you’re always worried about is, when you need your insurer, they’re not there. On that fateful morning, you think, let’s see if the proof is in the pudding. And I have to say there was not a single issue. Cornish Mutual was impeccable.”

Help arrived within hours, with the loss adjuster on site the same day. “Clear communication made all the difference, as well as knowing what we could do and what they would pay for.” Thanks to swift collaboration and Adrian’s determination, the park was fully operational again within just a few months.

Extreme weather events like this are becoming more frequent. Adding storm cover to your policy is essential to safeguard assets such as buildings, machinery and equipment against losses caused by violent winds and excessive amounts of rain, hail or snow. Reviewing your policy before winter could make all the difference when the unexpected happens.

For advice on protecting your farm and business, contact your local Cornish Mutual Field Insurance Advisor or call 01872 277 151.

Forthcoming Dairy Sales

GREENSLADE TAYLOR HUNT

GTH Farm Sales

GTH Farm Sales

Telephone: 01278 410250. Email:

Telephone: 01278 410250. Email: livestock@gth.net

SEDGEMOOR AUCTION CENTRE

SEDGEMOOR AUCTION CENTRE, NORTH PETHERTON, SOMERSET, TA6 6DF (M5, J24)

Others £96. Overall Ave £67.10. BREEDING EWES (204) to £143 (2x). FRIDAY 30TH BREEDING EWE SALE (459) to £122. GOATS (11) to £187. Overall ave £92.64. RAMS (12) to £225 (2x). Others £136. FRIDAY 30TH STOCK RAM SALE (72) to £610 for a powerful shearling. Others £470.

Telephone: 01278 410250. Email: livestock@gth.net

NORTH PETHERTON, SOMERSET, TA6 6DF (M5, J24)

Further details at www.gth.net

Tuesday 10th November at 10.30am with the Heifer Calves

SEDGEMOOR AUCTION CENTRE, NORTH PETHERTON, SOMERSET, TA6 6DF (M5, J24) Further details at www.gth.net

The West Country’s Gateway to National Abattoirs Returns for Monday 2nd November 2020

Forthcoming Dairy Sales

The November Collective Dairy Sale of 305 DAIRY CATTLE

Forthcoming Deadstock Sale

n 87 Freshly Calved Cows & Heifers from Beneknowle, Bettiscombe (x14) Birchwood (x18 Dispersal) Clevian, Dinnaton, Dorset (x11) Hinton, Huntlodge, Lilylane, Peacehay & Rothereld Farms LLP (x12, Crossbreds)

DECEMBER

Thurs 11th

Forthcoming Machinery Sale

SEDGEMOOR AUCTION CENTRE COLLECTIVE MACHINERY SALE. Collective Auction of Tractors, Vehicles, Agricultural Machinery and Miscellaneous Items. ** FURTHER ENTRIES INVITED **

n 16 Incalf Cows from Rothereld Farms LLP (Crossbreds)

n 37 Incalf Heifers from Dayhouse, PT & JC Hinds (Pedigree), Rothereld Farms LLP (Crossbreds) & J & J Waldron

Forthcoming Dairy Sales

n 3 Holstein Bulls from Beneknowle & Woodstone

n 8 Bulling Heifers from Greathill & Mr D Thorner

n 40 Yearling Heifers from Sutton Hall Farms

PRIME CATTLE (93) Steers UTM av 187.4ppk to 213.5ppk & £1,327.28. Others 209.5ppk, 209.0ppk, 208.0ppk & 206.5ppk. Others £1,293.63, £1,287.00, £1,283.12, £1,280.30 & £1,261.77. Heifers UTM av 180.7ppk to 214.5ppk (2x) and £1,310.50. Others 204.5ppk, 204.0ppk, 199.0ppk (2x) & 197.0ppk. Others £1,233.42, £1,205.05, £1,201.20, £1,168.50 & £1,138.32. BARREN COWS (56) Continental av 118.5ppk to 119.5ppk and £808.40. Others 117.5ppk. Native Beef av 103.6ppk to 126.5ppk and £906.75. Others 124.5ppk & 118.5ppk. Others £882.97 & £861.77. Dairy av 97.8ppk to 113.5ppk and £966.89. Others 112.5ppk & 109.5ppk. Others £945.73 & £914.63. FINISHED SHEEP (654) Lamb ave 202.94ppk to 231.0ppk and £115.00. Others 230.0ppk, 220.0ppk & 219.0ppk. Others £113.00, £108.00 (5x) & £106.50.

SEDGEMOOR AUCTION CENTRE. The Dispersal Sale of 220 NMR Dairy Cows & Heifers for Thornhill Fm Dorset Ltd (Removed from Thornhill Farm, Sturminster Newton, Dorset for convenience of sale).

Forthcoming Special Sales

n 52 Heifers Calves from Hinton, Pensdown, Thakeham & Mr D Thorner

SEDGEMOOR AUCTION CENTRE. The Christmas Cracker Show and Sale of Calved Cows, Heifers & Youngstock. ** FURTHER ENTRIES INVITED **

To Include The Dispersal Sale of 62 HOLSTEIN AND FRIESIAN DAIRY COWS AND HEIFERS

For full rules on market attendance and up to date sales list please refer to our website and/or Saturday market report.

NOVEMBER: Sat 7th

Sedgemoor Auction Centre

;

Comp: 47 Dairy Cows & Heifers Inmilk &/or Incalf; 12 Incalf Heifers & 3 Maiden Heifers

n NMR HERD AV: 8039 KGS. 4.11%BF; 3.34%P; SCC=127

n HERRINGBONE Parlour; CUBICLE Housed

; 6 Dumpy bags

North Petherton, Somerset, TA6 6DF (M5, Junction 24). Telephone: 01278 410278 www.gth.net TOTAL STOCK FOR THE WEEK 5674

Monthly Catalogued Sale of Organic Store Stock 10am Ring 2: Saturday 7th November Monthly Catalogued Sale of 125

;

n CLOSED HERD for 13 years

Stock from across the West Country, sold to buyers from throughout the Nation

For GDW Isaac & Son (Removed from Beer Farm, Broadhembury, Honiton, Devon)

** Further Entries Accepted ** A 10% Buyers Premium (+ VAT) will be charged on all lots subject to a cap of £250 (+ VAT) per lot. Buyers not known to the Auctioneers are required to provide photographic ID to obtain a buyers number. Payment by cash and debit card only. Live bidding on MartEye, please register in advance at gth.marteye.ie

Suckler Cows, Calves, Heifers & Bulls Approx 12.30pm Ring 1

Returns for Saturday 15th November 2025

Entries to date include:-

Sedgemoor Auction Centre

The large selection of high yielding milkers and dispersal sale cattle (including Pedigree, Commercial and Crossbred) coupled with all types of dairy youngstock makes this one of our most comprehensive sales to date just when dispersals are starting to slow down across the country. Please note that Social Distancing will be in place and we ask that only one purchaser per farming business attend. Online Bidding Available on Marteye.

North Petherton, Somerset, TA6 6DF (M5, J24) Telephone: 01278 410278 www.gth.net TOTAL STOCK FOR THE WEEK 5535

n The dispersal sale of 50 Incalf Suckler Cows (Sim, Ch, Lim, He & AAx) all pd’d to calf Feb onwards to Ped Charolais bull for NB Needham & Sons, Old Henley Farm, Dorchester (changing farming policy).

Stock from across the West Country, sold to buyers from throughout the Nation Returns for Saturday 25th January 2025

n 3 Bulls – Ch, He & Lim

DAIRY CATTLE (85) Heifers to £2600. Others £2550. Cows to £2550. Others £2450 (2x). (1160) STORE CATTLE & STIRKS - FORWARD STORES (865) Steers to £2710 (HEX). Others £2660 (BRBX) £2420 (AA) & £2380 (BRBX). Heifers to £2400 (LIMX). Others £2390 (LIMX) £2360 (LIMX) & £2340 (SIMX). GRAZING COWS (17) to £2120 (LIMX). SUCKLERS (3) Cows & Calves to £2000. STIRKS (295) Steers to £1640 (LIMX). Others £1580 (LIMX) £1560 (LIMX) & £1540 (AA). Heifers to £1520 (BRBX). Others £1450 (HEX) £1410 (BRBX) & £1350 (HEX). CALVES (400) - Beef Bulls to £710 (3x BRBX). Others £700 (2x) (BRBX & CHX) £690 (LIMX) & £670 (3x AA). Heifers to £590 (3x AA). Others £580 (3x CHX) £550 (BRBX) & £540 (CHX). Black & Whites to £375 (HF). (3783) SHEEP - STORE LAMBS (2324) to £168. Others £157, £152 & £146. Overall Ave £123.47. CULL EWES & RAMS (1248) Ewes to £255. Others £228 & £222. Rams to £279. Overall Ave £131.82. BREEDING EWES (135) to £260. Overall Ave £172.40. GOATS (50) to £170. Overall Ave £130.14. STOCK RAMS (26) to £440. Overall Ave £204.55. (170) PIGS – STORE/FAT PIGS (45) to £220. WEANERS (113) to £62 (7x). CULL SOWS & BOARS (4+8) Sows to £120. Boars to £85.

NOVEMBER: Thurs 19th

SEDGEMOOR AUCTION CENTRE Dispersal Sale of milking and incalf heifer portion of the 9,160 kgs CIS recorded dairy herd being 200 Holstein Friesians for MB & LC Haskell (Removed from Beaulieu Wood Farm, Dorchester, Dorset for convenience of sale).

n 42 Continental Cows & Calves – 6 Ped Lim cows & calves

n 14 Native Cows & Calves

n 58 Incalf Cows & Hfrs – 1 Ped Lim & 1 Ped He

The West Country’s Gateway to National Abattoirs Returns for Monday 17th November 2025

For further information contact Meg on 01278 410278

Sat 7th Fortnightly Sale of Pigs 11am

Sat 14th ***CANCELLED*** Collective Catalogued Sale of Purebred Poultry **CANCELLED***

PRIME CATTLE (81) Steers UTM av 353.1ppk to 369.5ppk & £2,769.58. Others 367.5ppk (2x) 365.5ppk (2x) & 363.5ppk. Others £2,635.26, £2,622.19, £2,559.64. Heifers UTM av 335.2ppk to 373.5ppk & £2,432.53. Others 366.5ppk, 362.5ppk & 360.5ppk. Others £2,315.70, £2,293.83 & £2,189.88. Steers OTM av 322.6ppk to 365.5ppk & £2,679.75. Heifers OTM av 331.7ppk to 339.5ppk & £2,301.81. BARREN COWS (64) Continental av 240.8ppk to 286.5ppk & £2,475.36. Native Beef av 234.6ppk to 250.5ppk & £1,821.05 Dairy av 221.0ppk to 275.5ppk & £2,323.92. OVERAGE BULLS (9) av 243.4ppk to 283.5ppk & £3,288.60. FINISHED SHEEP (395) Lambs (395) av 319.59ppk to 335.0ppk & £171.00. Others 334.0ppk (2x) 330.0ppk (2x) & 328.0ppk (2x). Others £166.00, £160.50 & £156.50.

Sedgemoor Auction Centre

North Petherton, Somerset, TA6 6DF (M5, Junction 24)

Telephone: 01278 410278

DAIRY CATTLE (75) Heifers to £3200. Others £2600 (3x). Cows to £3000. Others £2650. (986) STORE CATTLE & STIRKS - FORWARD STORES (712) Steers to £2470 (AA). Others £2320 (BRBX) £2300 (AA) & £2290 (2x BRBX). Heifers to £2100 (LIMX). Others £2000 (BRBX) £1970 (AA) & £1960 (LIMX). GRAZING COWS (23) to £2340 (LIMX). STIRKS (274) Steers to £1400 (CHX). Others £1385 (CHX) £1210 (LIMX) & £1190 (AA). Heifers to £1370 (AA). Others £1235 (CHX) £1185 (B/SWISS) & £1180 (AA). CALVES (273) - Beef Bulls to £665 (BRBX). Others £590 (BRBX) £575 (AA) & £570 (BRBX). Heifers to £540 (AA). Others £535 (AA) £515 (BRBX) & £445 (BRBX). Black & Whites to £260. (3443) SHEEP - STORE LAMBS (2359) to £149. Others £145, £141 & £140. Overall Ave £102.04. CULL EWES & RAMS (909) Ewes to £218. Others £195 & £188. Rams to £215. Overall Ave £101.55. BREEDING EWES (25) to £180. Others £178. Overall Ave £148.58. COUPLES (56E & 72L) Doubles to £355 (£118.33/life). Singles to £275 (£137.50/life). Overall Ave £97.38/life. ORPHAN LAMBS (16) to £75. Overall Ave £43.38. GOATS (6) to £132. Overall Ave £105.67. (108) PIGS – STORE/FAT PIGS (60) to £175. BREEDERS (1) to £355. WEANERS (43) to £72. Overall Ave £46.19. CULL SOWS & BOARS (4+1) Sows to £60. The West Country’s Gateway to National Abattoirs Returns for Monday 27th January 2025 PRIME CATTLE (159) Steers UTM av 338.4ppk to 389.5ppk & £2,504.90. Others 384.5ppk, 377.5ppk & 370.5ppk. Others £2,487.74, £2,473.52 & £2,457.51. Heifers UTM av 338.2ppk to 388.5ppk & £2,374.68. Others 385.5ppk (2x) 374.5ppk & 368.5ppk (4x). Others £2,361.92, £2,339.98 & £2,333.14. Steers OTM av 267.5ppk to 329.5ppk & £2,102.40. Heifers OTM av 287.3ppk to 349.5ppk & £2,285.73. BARREN COWS (48) Continental av 177.5ppk to 225.5ppk & £1,558.21. Native Beef av 197.6ppk to 269.5ppk & £1,965.78. Dairy av 174.0ppk to 264.5ppk & £1,796.37. BULLS (3) av 153.5ppk to 171.5ppk & £1,529.78. FINISHED SHEEP (440) Hoggs av 321.70ppk to 336.0ppk & £188.00. Others 333.0ppk, 331.0ppk (2x) & 330.0ppk. Others £187.00, £182.00 & £180.00. (15) Lambs av 337.93ppk to 341.0ppk & £147.50. Others 329.0ppk & 321.0ppk. Others £126.00 & £112.00.

NOVEMBER

Wed 26th

Thurs 19th ***CANCELLED*** Monthly General Sale of Antiques and Furniture ***CANCELLED***

Sat 21st Fodder Sale 1pm

Forthcoming Special Sales

TOTAL STOCK FOR THE WEEK 7143

Stock from across the West Country, sold to buyers from throughout the Nation Returns for Saturday 31st October 2020

Forthcoming Special Sales

For an up to date sales list please refer to our website https://www.gth.net/sedgemoor-auction-centre

Monthly Catalogued Sale of Organic Store Stock 10am Ring 2

DAIRY CATTLE (73) Heifers to £2080. Others £2020. Cows to £1840. Others £1720. (1184) STORE CATTLE & STIRKS - FORWARD STORES (933) Steers to £1365 (FLE). Others £1300 (AA) £1295 (LIMX) & £1270 (LIMX). Heifers to £1265 (CHX). Others £1235 (CHX) £1200 (LIMX) £1155 (LIMX) & £1150 (HEX). GRAZING COWS (2) to £615 (LIMX). Others £580 (LIMX). SUCKLERS (4) Cows & Calves to £850 (4x). STIRKS (247) Steers to £880 (LIMX). Others £870 (3x LIMX & BRBX) £855 (BRBX) & £835 (LIMX). Heifers to £818 (LIMX). Others £720 (BRBX) & £700 (AA). CALVES (408) - Beef Bulls to £400 (CH). Others £398 (BRBX) £390 (BRBX) & £388 (BRBX). Heifers to £300 (2x BRBX & CHX). Others £285 (CHX) £278 (BRBX) & £275 (LIMX). Black & Whites to £182. Others £165. (4675) SHEEP Store Lambs (2720) to £100. Others £99, £96 & £95. Overall Ave £74.88. Cull Ewes & Rams (1197) Ewes to £137. Others £133. Rams to £166.

Orange Market Dedicated Sale for bTB Restricted Cattle. Store Cattle – 15 Months & Over, Prime Cattle & Barren Cows. Sale commences 4.30pm. DEFRA general license (TB16E) required for stock coming from restricted holdings Fortnightly Sale of Pigs 9.30am For an up-to-date sales list please refer to our website https://www.gth.net/sedgemoor-auction-centre

Wed 25th Orange Market Dedicated Sale for bTB Restricted Cattle. Store Cattle – 15 Months & Over, Prime Cattle & Barren Cows.Stock to be booked in with the market office by 18th November. Licences to be obtained from Truro Trading Standards on 03000 200301 or Sale commences 4.30pm

DECEMBER Mon 1st

Monthly Seasonal Catalogued Sale of 300+ In Lamb Ewes 12pm Including a genuine flock reduction comprising 130 Suffolk Mule & Bleu du Maine.

Fri 27th Monthly Seasonal Catalogued Sale of Breeding Ewes & Ewe Lambs 3pm

Monthly Catalogued Sale of Suckler Cows, Calves, Heifers & Bulls 12.30pm Ring 1 Fortnightly Sale of Pigs 10am Fodder The next online timed auction closes Thursday 20th February (all fodder that is located on farm for collection) Fodder The next live auction at the Market will be on Saturday 22nd February (fodder on the lorry/trailer to be delivered from the market). Orange Market

Sat 28th Monthly Sale of Native Store Cattle 10am Ring 2

Forthcoming Fodder Sale

Sale of Suckler Cows, Calves, Heifers & Bulls 12.30pm Ring 1

NOVEMBER: Sat 21st

SEDGEMOOR AUCTION CENTRE The Collective Fodder Auction of Hay, Silage and

GENERAL FARM WORKER required on dairy farm. Sturminster area. Tel: 01258 472050 TRACTOR + HEDGE CUTTER, 07711-980871 SHEEP KEEP WANTED. Anything considered. Within 12 miles raduis of Wincanton. Tel: 07495-423751

R&W FENCING. Agricultural paddock and stock. Also part time help required. 01258-88089207980-036250

HELP WANTED ON SMALLHOLDING NEAR MERE

2hrs per day M-F. General livestock duties, sheep,chickens and horses. Must be reliable. Training will be given if required. Contact 07767 827132 or whatsapp

SHIPPING CONTAINERS FOR SALE / HIRE

Tel: 01258 472288 Mob: 07977 936109 New and second hand containers - blue/green - all with box locks

CONCRETE

GROOVING, Mobile Grain Crimping and dry rolling Service. Cowco Southern. Call Ted: 07970-965040

We provide a friendly, local service at competitive prices. Based at Redlynch near Bruton, we supply Car, Commercial, Agricultural, Plant & 4x4 tyres and offer a 24hr breakdown service. We won’t be beaten on price.

Call us on 01749 813957 or 07971 012628 or find us at www.southwesttyreservices.co.uk

News from the Vet Rounds by Jenny Clayton, Veterinary Surgeon, Synergy Farm Health

It has been a month of variety. We have seen acorn poisoning, grain overload, red water, grass staggers and an earlier than usual onset of pneumonia. E. coli was identified on a dairy farm in very young calves which meant calving pens needed cleaning more regularly. On another, Salmonella was found as a cause of scour in calves with the farmer noticing that they had seen a few abortions in the summer.

On several suckler units we have had disappointing PD results and this has led to more bull fertility checks. One bull failed so badly - it was the worst sperm morphology I have seen in 17 years! More bull fertility checks will be done in the coming weeks, but it is always better to check the bull before they are relied on. In other news, we congratulate our vet Tom Angel on passing his European Diploma exams! Tom is one of the few vets in the country to hold this prestigious qualification, and joins our elite group of RCVS recognised specialists (other Synergy Cattle specialists are Jon Reader, Alastair Hayton and Keith Cutler, our Small Ruminant specialist is Emily Gascoigne).

Occasionally, something sells at auction which exceeds all expectations. On Tuesday evening, Lot 6 in Symonds & Sampson’s online auction, a very genuine 1995 MF399 with just over 5000 hours on the clock, sold for almost double expectations.

Attracting many bidders, the virtual hammer eventually came down at an unprecedented £30,500 —an outstanding result that has since caught the eye of trade journalists, so you can expect to read more in due course.

The history of this particular tractor can be traced and runs full circle. The tractor was purchased new in 1995 by farmers in the Taunton area. They sold it to an East Devon farm in 2002, where it was the pride and joy of the farm’s tractor driver for many years, who later acquired it from his employers. He has now sold it through Symonds & Sampson Online Auction to the original owner, and it travels back to its original family farm near Taunton.

Symonds & Sampson can’t always promise such a yarn, but we can promise that machinery, equipment, fodder or whatever is entered in their online auctions will be marketed widely by our dedicated team of experts, and they’ll do all they can to sell as quickly, efficiently and successfully as they can on your behalf. For further information on buying and selling through our onsite and online auctions, please get in touch with Paul, James, Greg and all the team in Tiverton 01884 218911 or Yeovil 01935 382909.

DORSET | DEVON | SOMERSET | HAMPSHIRE | WILTSHIRE | CORNWALL | LONDON

Bowridge, Gillingham

Shaftesbury

Mappowder

Guide £1,250,000

Guide £725,000

Guide £595,000

Hazelbury Bryan

Marnhull

Guide £1,150,000

Guide £625,000

A fine Grade II listed former village Post House with attractive gardens,

A large detached Grade II listed stone building, a Shaftesbury landmark, a few minutes level walk from the town centre, now with consent for conversion to two residential dwellings. Freehold. CTB tbc; EPC exempt.

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 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.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

East Stour

Guide £825,000

Guide £495,000

Shroton Guide £435,000

A brand new detached stone house with 4 bedrooms, completed in 2025, in the middle of the village close to the park and a short distance to Gillingham. Freehold. CTB tbc; EPC C.

This delightful 2-bedroom end-of-terrace cottage has been fully updated but retains great charm. It is situated in the heart of this most desirable village. CTB D. Freehold.

An exceptional detached 5 bedroom residence, finished to an impeccable standard. Set within beautifully landscaped gardens with stunning countryside views, in a highly sought-after village. CTB G, EPC B, Freehold.

Sherborne | 01935 814488

Newton | 01258 473766

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766 DORSET | DEVON | SOMERSET | HAMPSHIRE | WILTSHIRE |

Sturminster Newton Guide Price £1,100,000

Nr Sturminster Newton Guide Price £1,100,000

Guide £450,000

Guide £800,000

A brick built detached bungalow requiring some improvement, set within environmentally important gardens and grounds.

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.

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,

A character south-facing stone house in an excellent central village

Guide £525,000

An attractive stone and brick detached house with an easy flow of accommodation, set in fine front and rear gardens with a double garage. Freehold. CTB F; EPC D.

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 473766

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Hazelbury Bryan Newton | 01258 473766

Sturminster | 01258 473766

Guide £450,000

A 4 bedroom house in a lovely rural location on a quiet lane with wonderful far-reaching views and garden and grounds of one acre. CTB D, EPC F, Freehold.

onward chain. CTB F. Freehold. This delightful 2-bedroom end-of-terrace cottage has been fully updated

A detached bungalow in need of modernising, with extensive back garden of over a third of an acre, on a quiet no-through lane. Freehold. CTB D; EPC E.

An attractive, double-fronted 3-bedroom period property tucked away on an idyllic country lane with character features throughout and views over the neighbouring countryside. CTB C. Freehold.

Sherborne | 01935 814488

Sturminster | 01258 473766

| 01935 814488

Newton | 01258 473766

Fitzpaine

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Sturminster | 01258 473766

Newton | 01258 473766

Guide £400,000

Guide £775,000

presented 4 bedroom country home with stable yard & paddocks, in 4.11 acres. CTB E.Freehold, An attractive, double-fronted 3-bedroom period property tucked away on

A tastefully improved 4-bedroom village house with light and spacious accommodation, set in attractive gardens and backing onto farmland. No onward chain. CTB F. Freehold.

An attractive and beautifully restored Grade II listed former farmhouse with plenty of charm and original character features along with a 100’ garden in the heart of the village. CTB F, EPC Exempt, Freehold.

A productive block of level to gently sloping arable land with direct road access extending to 37.38 acres (15.13 ha). For sale by Informal Tender with offers to be received by Wednesday 17th December 2025 at 12 noon.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244

Sherborne | 01935 814488

Sturminster | 01258 473766

North Cheriton

OIEO £400,000

Leigh OIEO £500,000

Nr

Okeford

Bedchester

Guide £810,000

Holwell

Donhead St Mary

Sturminster

Stalbridge

Sturminster

Okeford Fitzpaine

Sturminster

Freehold. CTB E; EPC C.

Blandford

&

15

Colehill

Stourpaine

Bere Regis

Guide £5,000

Guide £60,000

Guide £25,000

Upton

Guide £75,000

Wimborne | 01202 843190

PROPERTY AUCTION FRIDAY 12 DECEMBER 2025 AT 2:00PM AT THE DIGBY CHURCH MEMORIAL HALL, DIGBY ROAD, SHERBORNE DT9 3NL AND VIA LIVESTREAM

A single garage in a block of 3. Freehold.

A 0.13 acre (559 sqm.) parking area with a favourable pre-app response for a dwelling with parking and a garden. Freehold.

Guide £25,000

A block of 4 single garages. 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.

Portland Poundbury | 01305 251154

Wareham

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244

East Stoke

Queen Camel

A 0.16 acre site with 18 garages in 2 blocks. Freehold.

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Marnhull

Guide £30,000

A 142sqm. site with a block of 6 garages. Freehold.

Guide £95,000

Guide

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Stoborough

Guide £25,000

0.75 acres of amenity land on the edge of the village. Freehold.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Wincanton

£50,000

Guide £50,000

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.

A 311.5sqm. site with a block of 11 garages. Freehold.

Wimborne | 01202 843190

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

Fordington

Guide £50,000

2 detached garages in plot of 0.07 acres.

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

Dorchester | 01305 236237

Yeovil | 01935 432526

A detached barn of about 125 sqm. in just under 1.70 acres with off-road

An opportunity to purchase a parcel of permanent pasture in the village of Holt, extending to approximately 4.51

Charlton Marshall

Point. Freehold.

Milborne Port

Guide £300,000

Guide £50,000 6.21 acres on the edge of the town. Freehold

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Melplash

Dorchester

Sherborne

Guide £200,000

Guide £50,000

Witchampton Guide

Guide £50,000 214sqm. of land off Dalwoods. Freehold.

Sherborne | 01935 814422

£50,000

Sherborne

0.19 acres of amenity land with scope for a range of uses (STPP/consents), adjoining residential properties. Freehold.

Guide £200,000

A former village hall with parking situated on the main road in the heart of the village. GIA 175 sqm. Freehold. RV TBA.

A garage site with pp for 2 dwellings. Freehold.

Dorchester Commercial | 01305 261008

Sherborne | 01935 814422

Dorchester | 01305 261008

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Tarrant Rushton

Winterborne Zelston

Guide £250,000

Guide £185,000

Blandford

Yeovil

Bournemouth

Dorchester | 01305 236237

A 3 bedroom detached bungalow

23.55 acres of permanent pasture, with fishing rights along the River Stour, which borders the land. Freehold.

A mid terrace 2 double bedroom property in need of renovation throughout, with an enclosed rear garden situated close to the town centre. Freehold. CTB-C; EPC-D. PROPERTY AUCTION THURSDAY 24TH JULY 2025 AT 2:00PM AT DIGBY MEMORIAL CHURCH HALL, DIGBY ROAD, SHERBORNE, DT9 3NL

Wareham Guide £110,000

Wimborne | 01202 843190

£220,000 A semi-detached 2 bedroom cottage believed to date back to the 18th Century, located within

Guide £50,000

Guide £125,000

Guide £200,000

Verwood Guide £125,000

Wimborne

Crossways

1.38 acres with a derelict barn in a residential location falling within the main urban development area on the Local Plan. Freehold.

A grand, 4 storey (including basement) mixed-use Victorian building occupying a prominent corner plot on Lansdowne Crescent. RV: £53,500, £8,300, CTB A, EPC TBC. Freehold.

A workshop and showroom with street frontage and vacant possession with a flat above and separate garden already sold off on a long leasehold basis. Freehold. EPC D.

A Grade II listed building offering several uses/options with planning permission and LB consent for conversion to residential. Freehold. EPC-D.

Yeovil | 01935 423526

Dorchester Commercial | 01305 236237

Dorchester Commercial | 01305 236237

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Horton Heath

Piddlehinton

Guide £275,000

Guide £190,000

Guide £225,000

Guide £225,000

Guide £150,000

Guide £70,000

A spacious first floor flat requiring some

Winfrith Newburgh Guide £170,000

A semi detached, extended 4 bedroom period property for complete renovation with a generous garden adjoining Ferndown Forest. CTB C, EPC F, Freehold.

20.42 acres (8.26 ha) of level, productive permanent pasture land adjacent to Tadnoll and Winfrith Heath. Freehold.

A charming 2 bedroom ground floor apartment with parking conveniently situated in the town centre, with parking. Leasehold. Service Charge £4,269 pa. G Rent £30 pa. CTB-D; EPC-D.

Wimborne | 01202843190

Sherborne Sherborne | 01935 814488

Dorchester | 01305 261008

Dorchester | 01305 236237

Milborne Port

Fifehead Magdalen

Guide £250,000

Wool

Guide £225,000

Pallington Guide £350,000

Dorchester | 01305 236237

Sherborne | 01935 814422 Guide £200,000

9.13 acres of freely draining land, predominantly comprising pasture with an element of woodland, located between Wareham and Wool. Freehold.

Guide

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.

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.

38.42 acres (15.55 hectares) of fertile, workable arable land with good accessibility. Conveniently split into three workable parcels. The land has previously been used to grow salad crops and is understood to be very productive, more recently the land has been in a combinable crop rotation. This Autumn, the land has been drilled with a cover crop. Freehold.

Blandford Forum | 01258 452670

Blandford | 01258 452670

£225,000

Motcombe

Wimborne | 01202 882103

Guide £295,000

Upton

Okeford Fitzpaine

Guide

Bradworthy, Devon

£225,000

Wareham

Guide £395,000

Guide

20.70 acres (12.01 ha) tucked away in a quiet rural position in 3 lots.

A 3 bedroom semi-detached cottage on a quiet no-through lane, backing onto fields and with off-road parking. In need of some modernisation. Freehold.

EPC E. CTB C.

A partially renovated and extended 2 bedroom bungalow with potential for upwards extension, subject to planning permission. CTB C, EPC E, Freehold.

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Dorchester Dorchester | 01305 261008

Winterborne Houghton Guide £400,000 42.94 acres (17.38 ha) of productive arable land. Free draining loam soil over chalk, two road access points, a cattle handling race, outstanding views and private water supply. South east aspect suited to vines and solar. Freehold.

A detached 2 bedroom bungalow for modernisation/extension (STPP), with a garage and off road parking, in a convenient location. Freehold. EPC E. CTB C.

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.

Sherborne | 01935 814488

Sturminster | 01258 473766

Dorchester | 01305 261008

Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244

Dorchester | 01305 261008

Guide £350,000

A charming semi-detached 2 bedroom cottage with a separate 1 bedroom, single storey annexe with off-road parking and gardens. CTBs C & A, EPCs D & B, Freehold.

A detached 2 bedroom period property with scope for renovation and extension (STPP/consents), enjoying a large garden and a convenient location. Freehold. EPC F. CTB B.

Sturminster | 01258 473766

£240,000

Lot A – 15.02 ac arable capable pasture land with a gentle south facing slope£115,000

Batcombe, Dorchester Guides £40,000 to £115,000

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Tiverton | 01884 218911

Traditional stone barn set in 5.97acres. Positioned in a private location with residential conversion opportunity (STPP & relevant consents). Freehold. Guide

Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244

£250,000 A semi-detached 2 bedroom cottage in 0.89 acres offering character and charm throughout and enjoying views over the surrounding landscape. Freehold. CTB-C; EPC-E.

A former primary school measuring over 6,300 sq. ft./585 sq. m. in grounds of 0.54 acres, providing development potential, subject to planning permission. EPC D, Freehold.

Lot C – 11.11 ac pasture and strip of woodland with stream frontage - £90,000

Horton, Wimborne

An attached 3 bedroom property with scope for remodelling/refurbishment, conveniently located on the edge of Wareham with off-road parking and a rear garden. Freehold. EPC C. CTB C.

Lot B - 3.57 ac pasture and woodland including an old brick pumphouse - £40,000

Sturminster | 01258 473766

Yarlington Sherborne | 01935 814488

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Chilcompton Guide £195,000

Guide £450,000

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.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244

Henstridge

Fontmell Magna

Guide £300,000

Fiddleford

Guide £395,000

Guide £400,000

A substantial bungalow requiring renovation, providing potential for extension or replacement, subject to PP, in a rural position enjoying grounds of 1.60 acres. Subject to an AOC. CTB E, EPC F, Freehold.

A period detached cottage in need of general improvement throughout, set in spacious gardens of 0.21 acres (0.08 hectares). Freehold.

A 4 bedroom bungalow in need of modernisation throughout, with 0.62 acre grounds, multiple outbuildings and stunning views. Freehold. CTB-E; EPC-E.

of uses or re-development (STPP/consents. Freehold. EPCs G & C. CTB B. RV £6,100.

Iliminster | 01460 200790

Sherborne | 01935 814488

Guide £250,000

Shaftesbury Guide £95,000

A site comprising a detached 3 bedroom Woolaway bungalow with full planning permission for 3 dwellings. Freehold. EPC E. CTB B.

A former doctor’s surgery in 0.58 acres with prior approval for change of use to a residential dwelling under application P/PACD/2024/02991/. RV: £5,100, EPC C, Freehold.

A 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

Yetminster Sherborne | 01935 814422

Marnhull

Somerford Road, Christchurch

Guide £225,000-£250,000 A detached 2 bedroom cottage for complete renovation, situated in this highly sought after village within Cranborne Chase. Freehold.

Guide £420,000 A detached 3 bedroom property for modernisation, situated on a quiet no through lane on the outskirts of the popular village of Marnhull. Freehold.

£500,000 A residential development site measuring 0.87 acres with full, detailed planning permission for 7 residential dwellings (planning ref: 20/01206/ FUL). Further 1.13 acre field included. Freehold. CTB-D; EPC-F.

EPC D. CTB E.

Blandford | 01258 452670

Yeovil | 01935 423526

Sturminster | 01258 473766

Wimborne | 01202 843190

A charming Grade II Listed3 bedroom stone cottage for complete renovation, situated close to the centre of this highly sought-after village. CTB E, EPC Exempt, Freehold.

Milborne Port Guide £150,000 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.

CTB C.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Wimborne | 01202 843190 Guide £375,000

Sherborne | 01935 814488

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.

A substantial Grade II Listed property comprising 2-3 self-contained residences (10 bedrooms), with fine period features and private gardens, all

Belchalwell Guide £250,000 A detached bungalow on a 0.30 acre plot for modernisation/replacement (STPP) with a positive pre application response for a 4 bedroom house. Freehold.

£595,000 A detached 6 bedroom farmhouse in need of renovation and a courtyard of traditional and modern farm buildings, situated in a rural location on a no through lane and boasting far reaching views. In all 1.82 acres. Freehold.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Yeovil | 01935 382901

in Shaftesbury with garden and garage for long let. Unfurnished £915 PCM 07966 268466

SELF-CONTAINED ACCOMMODATION on quiet farm near Yeovil 01935 892476

SHORT-TERM (3.5m) COTTAGE TO LET in village Brixton Deverill. 2 bedrooms (1 double, 1 single), bathroom, sitting-room, kitchen-dining, outdoor office, 2-car parking. £650/m plus cost of metered electrics & oil (appox £100/m) 07984 801610

Flag day for schoolgirls

SCHOOL pupils at Milldown CE Academy in Blandford Forum have between getting creative with a flag design competition hosted by Taylor Wimpey Southern Counties.

The housebuilder challenged pupils to design a flag that would welcome visitors and residents to its development in Lower Bryanston, Bryanston Holt.

The pupils created a range of colourful entries and in the end it was a joint effort between year 3 youngsters Verity and Seren that took top prize.

The two winning pupils received a £50 Amazon voucher and the school received a £250 donation for taking part.

Verity and Seren’s design is now flying high at the Bryanston Holt development.

Laura King, deputy head at

Milldown CE Academy, said:

“The flag design competition brought together students from across the school for an afternoon of collaboration and creativity.

“The talented designers of the winning flag chose to use their prize money to purchase new toys for all children to enjoy during break times – an incredibly thoughtful gesture that reflects the caring and community-minded ethos we strive to nurture.”

Flag competitions winners, Verity (left) and Seren

LOW COST SECURE SELF STORAGE

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.

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.