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The project has played a key role in supporting people facing food insecurity across Blandford and surrounding villages.
The Larder, part of Faithworks’ wider Foodbank initiative, was launched in 2023 to provide an alternative to emergency food parcels at Nourish Foodbank.
Gyda, Nourish’s longest-serving volunteer, has seen it grow from the early days of Blandford Foodbank – having opened with just 150 jars of donated curry sauce – into a thriving hub offering wider support.
Jo first came to Nourish for a food parcel; she later moved onto the Community Larder, completed cookery and money courses, accessed additional support and became a volunteer. Now back in work, she no longer needs the Larder.
She said: “I cannot thank Nourish enough. When I was struggling mentally and financially, they were there for me, not just to help with food but to offer advice, support and a listening ear…
“I haven’t used Nourish for a few months now because I’m in a better place mentally and financially, but I know that if times are hard, they’ll be there to help me again.”
Nourish Community Larder and Foodbank aims not only to provide immediate relief but long-term empowerment.
Through partnerships with local businesses and volunteers, the Larder enables people to shop for affordable food with dignity – shifting away from the traditional emergency parcel model and focusing on choice and ongoing support.
Volunteers like Gyda offer both practical and emotional support, helping residents move towards stability.
Community Larder coordinator Emma said: “Our goal is to offer more than just food – we want people to feel empowered and confident in managing their food security.
“The Larder is about choice and treating people as individuals.”
Since opening in 2023, the Larder has supported more than 250 residents, with more than 50 moving on to manage independently last year alone.
Gyda added: “It’s not just about food. It’s about giving people choice and dignity, so they leave with their heads held high.”
Nourish can only provide this help thanks to vital food and financial donations.
Anyone who would like to become a regular donor, can visit https://bit. ly/4qAqVSp or donate via faith-works.org. uk/locations-across-dorset/nourishblandford
Alternatively, individuals can keep up to date with its latest food needs by downloading the Bank the Food App from Google Play or the Apple Store.
PUPILS in the Sherborne area will receive medals in sports competitions staged this year thanks a donation of £650 from local business The Abbey Friar.
The sponsorship ensures that children from eight local primary schools – Sherborne, Sherborne Abbey, Thornford, Buckland Newton, Trent, St Mary’s in Bradford Abbas, St Andrew’s in Yetminster, and All Saints in Bishops Caundle –will receive medals as they take part in 16 tournaments across the academic year.
The competitions cover a wide range of sports, including football, netball, cross-country, rugby, dodgeball and swimming.
Executive headteacher, Ian Bartle, said: “We are extremely grateful to The Abbey Friar for its generous sponsorship.
“Community support like this makes a real difference and ensures we can recognise the effort and enthusiasm of every child who takes part.
“These competitions are about inclusion, enjoyment and personal achievement, and the medals will provide a wonderful reminder of their hard work.”
The Abbey Friar is run by brothers Martin and Stephen Walsh and Stephen said: “It is a pleasure to invest in our local future sporting stars!”.
Pupils Mac and Ollie, who had received medals at a recent dodgeball competition, said: “We want to say a big thank you to The Abbey Friar for sponsoring these medals.
“It makes us feel really proud to win one and be able to show it to our friends at school and in assembly.”
The schools would like to extend their thanks to The Abbey Friar for its support.
£350,000 of resurfacing work is being carried out at 10 Dorset Council car parks with the work set to be completed by the end of March.
Surfaced car parks included in the programme are: East Street, Bridport – entrance and first section; Park Street and Governors Lane in Weymouth; Durngate Street, Dorchester and Old Market Yard – road leading to Swan Yard; and Culverhayes – entrance road from Long Street – in Sherborne.
Parking bay layouts will also be updated with bays being widened to fit modern and wider vehicles.
MUSIC at St Greg’s has announced its programme of musical events for 2026.
This year’s concerts at St Gregory’s, Marnhull, range from organ recitals to the magic of silent films brought to life through live improvisation.
The first event is a live organ improvisation to the classic silent movie The Phantom of the Opera, presented by David Bednall, on Saturday, March, at 7pm. Tickets priced £12 can be ordered by calling 07817 379006 or online at wegottickets.com/event/689597
For more details call Gordon on 07817 379006
by David Willey
OUR region is covered with beautiful historic buildings –over 10,000 in Dorset alone are ‘listed’ and most of these are not, as we so often assume, grand properties, but modest private homes.
These properties come with challenges: thatched roofs, cob walls, limewash, old mortar and reams of legislation.
Tolpuddle Old Chapel Trust has received a grant from Historic England to enable it to discover what building owners need to help them look after listed and period properties.
The Trust was set up to preserve the chapel, a listed building that was on the at-risk register (pictured before repairs and restoration began).
The chapel was important not just because of its interesting cob architecture, but also because it was built by some of the men who went on to become the Tolpuddle Martyrs.
The building is now an amenity for the village.
Sessions have already been held at the chapel to help owners understand the listed building process, how to gain consent for certain work and how to best commission contractors and craftsmen to ensure you get best value.
The project hopes to find out what would be of most value to owners in the future and whether a regular programme of meetings, demonstrations and hands-on events would be of interest. Future activities will be advertised on the chapel’s website www. tolpuddleoldchapeltrust.org.
A SHAFTESBURY man is aiming to raise over £500 for Macmillan Cancer Support by having his head shaved.
David Tancock will be publicly shorn at GG’s barber shop on Bell Street, on Friday, March 13.
He was inspired to take the plunge after losing friends and family to cancer.
“I also wanted to show our sons that little gestures can make a big difference, in helping people who are suffering with cancer.
“I chose Friday 13th, as it’s a date I don’t normally cherish and to be honest, I am not looking forward to having a
David prepares to bid goodbye to his mane
complete head shave, but if it can help raise much needed funds and awareness then it worth doing.”
Help David hit his target by donating at www.bravetheshave. macmillan.org.uk (search his name under ‘Shavers’).
BOTH Shaftesbury’s independent bookshops, FOLDE Dorset and The Kitchen Table, have been shortlisted as south west regional finalists in the Independent Bookshop of the Year category at The British Book Awards.
Both have grown in scale and visibility, with FOLDE expanding within its original building to a space that now includes High Street frontage and The Kitchen Table moving to a larger, more prominent space nearby.
includes winning the regional prize in 2024.
Together, they have helped put Shaftesbury on the map as a small town with a big love for books and community.
For FOLDE Dorset, this year’s recognition marks the third consecutive year of being shortlisted for the award, which
Founded in 2021 by Amber Harrison and Karen Brazier, FOLDE has become a cornerstone of Shaftesbury’s cultural life – a bookshop dedicated to celebrating a shared love of nature and fostering a deeper connection between books, people and the Dorset landscape.
Just a few doors away, The Kitchen Table opened in August
2023 with a simple belief – that a bookshop can be a cultural hub, and food writing deserves the same seriousness, joy and conversation as any other genre. Specialising in cookbooks, culinary memoirs and what it affectionately calls ‘kitchen fiction’, the shop also stocks a curated range of cookware and
pantry ingredients, making it a unique destination for food lovers across the region.
Amber Harrison, co-founder of FOLDE Dorset, said: “We’re thrilled to be recognised alongside our friends at The Kitchen Table and so many other inspiring independent bookshops.
Sarah Rudder, owner of The Kitchen Table, added: “We are absolutely delighted to be shortlisted for this award.
“The Kitchen Table exists because people still want and need places that are human, generous and rooted in connection.
“Bookshops are cultural spaces – for ours, food is the universal language that brings our customers and us together.
For Shaftesbury, the double nomination is a proud moment
THE Royal Signals Museum in Blandford has opened a new exhibition looking at the Cold War era.
The exhibition covers the period after the Second World War when the United States and its western Allies were in global confrontation with the Soviet Union.
The Cold War saw an arms race for nuclear weapons and the emergence of the doctrine of Mutually Assured Destruction.
In response, mass peace demonstrations urged governments to invest in ‘Bread not Bombs’.
The period on which the exhibition – The Cold War, in the Shadow of the Bomb –focuses, came to define the second half of the 20th century.
Royal Signals Museum director Fritha Costain said: “Cold War themes will be brought vividly to life through personal testimonies from soldiers who served on the front line, and anti-nuclear activists who opposed the US air base at Greenham Common.
“The displays will highlight the crucial and often unseen role of the Royal Corps of Signals, whose communications expertise was vital in an age when seconds could mean the difference between peace and nuclear war.
“The exhibition offers visitors a
compelling insight into a tense and transformative period of modern history –and the people who lived it.”
The exhibition was set to be opened for invited guests by Kate Adie, former chief news correspondent for BBC News, and Dick Strawbridge, a retired Lieutenant Colonel in the Royal Signals known for presenting Channel 4’s Escape to the Chateau
Kate Adie said: “The Cold War, in the Shadow of the Bomb brings back powerful memories of living in this turbulent period.
“The displays are poignant and thought provoking with an exciting immersive
quality.
“I strongly encourage people to visit and experience the exhibition for themselves.”
Dick Strawbridge said: “Despite there being no direct engagement between the superpowers, the Cold War consumed vast resources and was conducted between two fiercely opposed ideologies, and under the threat of Mutually Assured Destruction.
“With both sides looking for any advantage, the Cold War period was defined by extraordinary technological progress.
“The Royal Signals Museum has managed to capture both the anxiety and the ambition that defined the age.”
THE Tolpuddle Martyrs will be the subject of a talk at the Bow Room at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton.
Anne Brown will look at the background to their story, the punishment they endured and the changes they made to their local area and to society as a whole.
The talk to the Blackmore Vale Group of the Somerset & Dorset Family History Society is on Wednesday, March 18, at 7.30pm.
SHAFTESBURY library is hosting a series of talks by authors and illustrators as part of its National Year of Reading events.
Local author Angela McAllister will be sharing her favourite folk tales from around the world on Thursday, March 5, (4.30pm-5.30pm). This session is suitable for older children and adults.
Horrible Histories illustrator Martin Brown will be at the library on Saturday, March 7, (11am to midday).
In an event that’s a must for all budding artists and history buffs, Martin will talk about his drawing of history with all the “nasty bits left in”. A fun and fascinating experience for anyone who loves this popular children’s series.
This event is suitable for children aged four and over. Children under eight years old must be supervised by an adult at all times.
For more information contact Shaftesbury Library on 01747 852256 or shaftesburylibrary@ dorsetcouncil.gov.uk
BLANDFORD’S Hidden Gardens will be on display again this summer.
The organisers of this year’s event, the Blandford Environmental Trust, are inviting anyone who would like to open up their garden this year to get in touch.
Proceeds from ticket sales go to local charities chosen by the organisers, and those opening
their gardens can also raise funds for a charity or organisation of their choice by offering refreshments or plants for sale.
Last year 17 gardens were open, nearly 340 tickets were sold and £3,000 was raised for over a dozen different charities.
There is no inspection, standard, size or style requirement, although
environmentally friendly garden planting is welcome and encouraged.
The event is on Sunday, June 7, and the gardens are usually open to the public between 11am and 5pm.
To enter your garden or find out more, email blandfordhiddengardens@ gmail.com by Saturday, March 14.
BOOK lovers can now use Gillingham Library 12 hours a day, six days a week.
Dorset Council has launched ‘extended access’ at the library, allowing it to open 8am to 8pm Monday to Saturday, even when staff are not present.
Library users can borrow and return books, use free wi-fi and computers, and hire rooms for community activities.
Individuals aged 16 and over will be able to access the building outside normal opening hours with their library card and use services independently.
The new system was launched last month with councillors, library users and staff attending a demonstration on how the technology works.
The library will be staffed 18 hours a week, providing support for those who need it.
Cllr Ryan Hope, portfolio holder for Customer, Culture and Community Engagement at Dorset Council, said: “Libraries are key community assets, growing beyond book loaning, with the
spaces being used for meeting, studying, IT, events and socialising.
“This is a big step forward in our commitment to enhancing library access and services, and we know the residents will benefit significantly from this expansion of opening times.”
Gillingham Library is the third in Dorset to offer extended access, alongside Sturminster Newton Library and Verwood Library.
Sherborne Library will also offer extended access going forward.
Library users, staff and councillors at the official opening at Gillingham Library
THE long-awaited Gillingham Community Shuttle Bus was set to run for the first time yesterday (Thursday, February 26).
The once-a-week Thursday service will run as a pilot for six months, now that funding is in place, following a public consultation and a drop-in event in April last year.
The service will provide access to the town for people in Wyke, Peacemarsh and Miltonon-Stour, using existing bus stops.
Passengers need to be registered with Dorset Community Transport to use the bus
GUSSAGE All Saints village hall is hosting a talk on cyber and scams tomorrow (Saturday, February 28).
Hannah Bird, Dorset Police cyber crime protect and prevention officer, will cover telephone and cyber scams, warning signs and preventative measures.
Visitors are welcome from 10.45am for an 11am start.
Plenty of free parking is available and no booking is required.
– it is free to do so – and then call and book the door-to-door service.
National Bus Passes are not valid, with the fare £2 a trip for adults, £1 children, dogs free.
The service will be reviewed in five months to assess demand, but if the once-a-week pilot goes well, it may be extended to other days.
To request a simple form to register, phone 01258 287987 – or it can be downloaded from the ECT website –ectcharity.co.uk/Dorset/plusbus-in-dorset
VILLAGERS celebrated and Glastonbury and Somerton MP Sarah Dyke turned out for the reopening of the village shop in Henstridge.
PO Stores at The Cross had been closed for three months before being taken on by new proprietors Lesley and Andy Scard and Helen and Barry Howlett.
Henstridge WI chair Mary Frith cut the ribbon and Frances Eustace played the bagpipes to happy, cheering customers at the reopening ceremony on Saturday,
ORGANISERS of the friendly indoor market at Blandford Corn Exchange are encouraging shoppers to pop in.
The market runs every Thursday with regular stallholders and some sellers who go along as often as they can.
Items for sale include jams and chutney, cards, knitting, yarn ornaments, reading glasses, jewellery and clothes for children.
Drinks, cakes and many other cooked items are served all day.
Stallholder also set up outside when the weather is dry.
Later this year the market will be raising funds for Blandford Hospital.
February 14. It is hoped the Post Office at the shop will reopen in a few weeks’ time.
The new proprietors look forward to welcoming customers, old and new, 8am-6pm Monday to Saturday and 9am1pm on Sunday.
Q: I bought a dress from an online marketplace but it never arrived. When I finally managed to contact the seller, they said that it wasn’t their problem. I didn’t get my money back. Is there anything I could have done?
Raise awareness of where consumers can go if they need more advice and help with an issue.
Citizens Advice consumer service data shows that complaints around clothing and footwear grew from 14,620 complaints in 2024 to 17,744 complaints in 2025, with trader websites and apps being the purchase method for the majority of clothing and footwear complaints.
by
A: Lots of people experience problems with buying goods online. In fact, the aim of this year’s Consumer Awareness campaign is to help consumers #ShopAware when online shopping, focusing on buying clothes and footwear online.
The campaign has four aims:
• Raise awareness on how to shop wisely, what to look out for, and what to do if things go wrong
• Educate consumers on their rights, particularly when shopping from online marketplaces
• Empower consumers to seek a remedy if things go wrong
Our three top messages to consumers are Do your research
Before you buy anything, read reviews on different websites and read any terms and conditions.
Know your rights
It’s the seller’s responsibility to make sure your item is delivered to you. If it’s missing, ask for a redelivery or check if you can get a refund.
When you buy an outfit online, you usually have 14 days of ‘cooling-off period’ to change your mind and get a refund.
New clothes and shoes don’t match the online advert? You may have legal rights if your item is damaged or broken, unusable,
not what was advertised.
If you’ve been ghosted by a seller – for example, a new dress that never arrived – there are steps you can take to get your money back if you paid by card or PayPal. Take action if something goes wrong You might be entitled to a refund, repair or replacement.
Contact the Citizens Advice consumer service if you need more help with a consumer problem. You can call Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133 or visit online at www.citizensadvice. org.uk/consumer/get-more-help/if-youneed-more-help-about-a-consumer-issue
by Dr Rebecca Hiscutt
WELCOME to the first Metabolic Minute, a fortnightly column from the Wincanton Health Centre metabolic health team.
I’m a dietitian, and I regularly see patients struggling with exhaustion, aches and brain fog.
Many are unaware that underlying insulin resistance and inflammation are putting their bodies in a state of internal war, draining the energy they need to thrive.
What is metabolic health?
Think of your metabolism as your body’s engine. When it’s healthy, your body efficiently turns food and oxygen into easily accessible energy. When your body is struggling, that energy is locked away, leaving you feeling depleted.
Recent data suggests that up to 80% of people in the UK have poor metabolic health.
Conditions like Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, joint pain, PCOS and cardiovascular disease are all closely linked
to metabolic health.
At our practice, we’ve found that when you fix the ‘engine’, the symptoms often take care of themselves.
We see patients transform their lives by understanding their bodies. One person struggled for years with joint pain and afternoon slumps. By making small, specific metabolic changes, they didn't just lose weight – they regained the energy to play with their grandchildren and saw their inflammation markers plummet within weeks.
We see examples of improvements like this multiple times a day, every day in our work. It’s why we’re so passionate about improving metabolic health.
Your journey starts here
We want to share what we’re learning and seeing at Wincanton. Over the coming months, we will share evidence-based ‘quick wins’ to help you reclaim your spark, including:
• The 30-second string test: A simple home check for hidden health risks.
• Unlocking trapped energy: Why you feel tired after a full night’s sleep.
• The metabolic kitchen: No-fuss meals to stop the 3pm crash.
• The Menopause Connection: Using blood sugar stability to clear the clouds. Metabolic health is about creating the right environment for your body to thrive. We look forward to helping you fuel your life, one change at a time, one minute at a time.
We have never had a more immediate method of mass communication – with it comes danger by
Canon Eric Woods
CALENDARS were different in those days, but February 1455 – 571 years ago – is generally held to be the month during which Johannes Gutenberg began to print the Bible on a moveable printing press for the very first time. He had invented the press around 1450 in the city of Mainz, on the River Rhine, and his invention is generally hailed as the precursor of all modern printing – the effect of which cannot be underestimated.
Of course by then there had been printing of a kind for many centuries. Over 1,000 years earlier the Chinese were using wood-cuts to print on cloth, and the same technique was later used on paper. I remember using wood-cut blocks to print headed notepaper and cards when I was a boy. But moveable type was a different matter, and once proper printing presses had been invented there was no stopping the huge output of printed books, tracts and posters which soon dominated political and religious debate – and conflict. Our own William Caxton was said to have introduced a printing press into England in 1476. The days of the painstaking production of documents by laboriously hand-written ink on vellum were passing. The results were extraordinary, in so many ways. Although he began with such literary ‘greats’ as Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales, Caxton’s presses were soon being copied all over England and used
to produce copies of the Bible in English (the “vulgar tongue”) as well as the tracts and sermons of Protestant reformers. Their opponents soon hit back. The War of Words had begun, since replicated all over the world, right down to the posts on social media so beloved of some present world leaders.
In the process, as you can imagine, spelling became increasingly standardised. We all know about the number of different ways in which Shakespeare signed his name with quill and ink. Even more startling were the number of variations in which Sir Walter Raleigh, of Sherborne Castle, wrote his name: Raleigh, Raliegh, Ralegh, Raghley, Rawley, Rawly, Rawlie, Rawleigh, Raulighe, Raughlie or Rayly. Try them on your tongue. You will see why the “correct” pronunciation in Sherborne is held to be Rawley. It comes fifth out of 11 in the above list, assuming the first four didn’t have that “Raw” sound.
The development of printing rolled on, and continues still. As I type this on my laptop, I am simultaneously doing the work of author, editor and compositor. At the press of a button I become the printer. But of course I will use another button to send the completed article to the NBVM. Never has written communication been so efficient, so extensive – and so dangerous. On the rare occasions when I receive an aggressive or abusive email, I now make it a rule never to reply immediately. I sleep on it. The Book of Proverbs, in the Old Testament, had it right, hand-written all those centuries ago:
A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger. The tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright: but the mouth of fools poureth out foolishness.
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SOCIABLE suppers in Martinstown have coined in thousands of pounds for a charity that supports bereaved children and young people across Dorset.
Martinstown Circle Suppers raised a record £9,100 in its 10th year of fundraising for Mosaic.
The donation was handed over to Mosaic chief executive Jo Revill at a cheque presentation evening attended by past and present Circle Suppers members (pictured).
The long-running village initiative sees villagers hold suppers and social events that bring people together while raising money for a different local cause each year.
This year’s programme included 19 suppers, alongside other fundraising activities.
The £9,100 total is the largest amount raised in a single year in Martinstown Circle Suppers’ 10-year history and takes the group’s overall fundraising to £46,000 for local charities.
Chair Cathie Seigal said: “We are absolutely delighted to be able to raise £9,100 for Mosaic.
“We are so grateful to everyone who has attended, donated and encouraged us along
the way.”
Organisers have confirmed the return of the Martinstown Garden Fete at The Manor on Saturday, July 18.
This year’s fundraising will support Dorset Lookouts, an initiative backed by The Farming Community Network (FCN). Set up by Dorset farmers, it trains volunteers to support people in the farming community, recognise early signs of stress, anxiety and other early signs of mental ill health, and, when needed, signpost them to appropriate services.
RETIRING to Wincanton from Essex in 1994, after a long career with Ford Motor Company, Frank Foster established a small business making picture frames.
He was co-opted onto Wincanton Town Council in 1996, becoming mayor after a unanimous vote in 2002. His aim was “to put the ‘win’ back into Wincanton”.
When Wincanton was ceremonially twinned with Ankh Morpork, a fictional city featuring in Terry Pratchett’s Discworld books, Frank was in favour of the idea.
On the day, a motley collection of wizards and witches marched down Wincanton High Street to the Town Hall, led by Frank in elaborate mayoral robes, hired from Salisbury theatre.
When Frank stepped down as mayor of Wincanton in 2003 he was honoured with the title governor general of Ankh Morpork. He left Wincanton 2015 to live closer to his daughter in Winchester. Frank Foster died peacefully at home on February 11, 2026, after a long illness.
MORE than 30 revellers banging pots and pans to ward off evil spirits gathered for a wassail at Quiet Corner Farm in Henstridge.
They joined the Wassail Queen around one of the oldest trees for the ceremony, traditionally held to bring about a good harvest.
The event was staged on January 17 – during a brief break from bad weather – the traditional date to 'wake the trees up from their deep slumber, scare away evil spirits and wish the trees good health’.
'Wassail' is Norse for 'be well'.
The orchard was illuminated by a number of bonfires thanks to the generosity of Stalbridge Timber.
After the ceremony, wassailers enjoyed a bite to eat and mulled apple juice at the barn.
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Transferring ownership of your home—and potentially other assets—into a living trust can help to shield those assets from a variety of risks. These include potential claims from creditors, the financial ramifications of divorce or remarriage, and claims associated with care costs. By utilising a living trust, you can ensure that your estate remains secure and less exposed to unforeseen claims.
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A HOSPITAL team providing palliative and end of life care has been recognised for its work supporting patients and their families.
remember loved ones.
The garden also hosts a magnificent memorial tree, which bears the names of people who have lived and died in the nursing team’s care.
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The nursing team at Shaftesbury’s Westminster Memorial Hospital, led by senior sister Kate Norris, sister Holly Brown and matron Ali Low, has picked up four awards in the last six months.
The awards have come as a result of the team’s changes to the hospital’s end-of-life suite, known locally as the JLU suite.
The hospital also hosts a Grief Encounters Cafe – where family members can meet other people also going through a recent bereavement, share stories and offer support.
“We are immensely proud of the awards the team has won this year,” said senior sister Kate Norris.
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.
With support from local companies and in-house fundraising led by Jayne Simpson, it has developed a bereavement garden – a safe space for families to reflect and
“But the biggest prize for us all is seeing the community access services that will help and support them through a difficult and overwhelming time.”
Tel: 07832 331594 or Email: info@oakwoodwills.co.uk
DID you know that four multi-million-selling music artists were schoolfriends in Wimborne?
Or that Wimborne was home to a classical composer who studied with Vaughan Williams?
And that more than one folk singer has celebrated Wimborne in song?
Music fans can find the answers to all these questions and more on a new walking trail around the town.
The walking tour allows music lovers to find out about Wimborne’s musical heritage –
the artists, venues and events that make the town a creative place.
The trail also includes several hostelries to provide refreshments on the way round.
The trail, created by Adrian Newton from Wimborne Contemporary Arts, is Planet Wimborne’s first contribution to 12 trails – one a month – being produced by local organisations for Wimborne 2026 Town of Culture.
To download a pdf file of the Wimborne Music Trail, go to www.evergreenmusic.uk/ wimborne-music-trail
A SOCIAL group for women aged 18 to 45 is officially back in Shaftesbury and Gillingham – and it’s already creating a buzz.
Michaela Skillings set about relaunching the Shaftesbury and Gillingham Ladies’ Circle in December, kicking things off with a relaxed pottery painting session that brought women together to laugh, chat and try something new.
Since then, the group has continued to grow, creating a welcoming space where women can take a break from busy lives, build friendships and enjoy exciting experiences.
Recent events have included a line dancing session led by Lorah Wild, founder of TheWildCo.
Two wellbeing events are also coming up – a face yoga and self-care session with HolisticWorks, and a herbal balm-making workshop with medical herbalist Nicola Bradshaw, with more activities planned.
The group complements the already thriving Gillingham and Shaftesbury Round Table for men aged 18 to 45.
The Round Table is well known for its adventurous and social events, including
archery, go-karting, golf and escape room challenges, alongside charity fundraising and community projects.
It gives men the opportunity to build friendships while enjoying exciting shared experiences.
The Ladies’ Circle is part of Ladies Circle Great Britain and Ireland, a national organisation for women aged 18 to 45 focused on friendship, fun and giving back. For women aged over 45, Tangent Club offers similar opportunities to stay social and connected.
To find out more, search for Shaftesbury & Gillingham Ladies Circle or Shaftesbury & Gillingham Round Table on Facebook.
A GROUP of theatre lovers has launched a crowdfunding campaign to support its summer production.
Pudding Lane Productions is staging Nell! The Musical in June 2026.
It hopes to raise £7,500 towards costumes, wigs and props, as well as insurance and toilet hire, via a crowdfunding campaign at www. crowdfunder.co.uk/p/nellthemusical
This original stage production celebrates the remarkable life and times of Nell Gwyn, orange seller, comedic actress and famed mistress to King Charles II.
Nell grew up in a bawdy house, moved to the theatre to become an orange seller and from there caught the eye of theatre impresarios, diarist Samuel Pepys, Lord Buckhurst and King Charles II.
The premiere will take place on June 26 and 27 in the picturesque grounds of Charlton House, Charlton Mackrell.
Buy tickets and find out more at www.nellthemusical.co.uk
THE land surrounding the iconic Cerne Abbas Giant has been secured by the National Trust following a fundraising appeal.
The purchase will protect the cherished landscape for nature, heritage and future generations.
The appeal, launched in early December last year and backed by Sir Stephen Fry, asked for public support in raising £330,000 toward the purchase and care of a 340-acre site around the chalk figure.
Supporters locally and around the world responded with donations, from £1 to £32,000, helping the National Trust hit its target in just 60 days, and purchase the parcels of land, equivalent in size to 190 football pitches.
Donations came in from 20 countries, including Australia, Japan and Iceland.
Philanthropic gifts, grants and bequests more than £2 million had kickstarted the project, with the appeal providing the final piece of the puzzle to enable the land purchase to go ahead.
Hannah Jefferson, general manager for West Dorset & Cranborne Chase, said: “Entering 2026, it’s amazing that we now have this opportunity to do so much more around the Cerne Abbas Giant.
"We were able to hit the
target thanks to the generous donations made via the appeal, gifts from major donors, legacies, support from local businesses as well as grants, all knitting together to make this once-in-a-lifetime acquisition possible.
“We can now set about creating a patchwork or mosaic of habitats to help species adapt and thrive.”
Among these are 36 butterfly species, including the endangered Duke of Burgundy butterfly, which survives at just six sites in Dorset, and whose numbers are in decline across the rest of England.
By joining up parcels of land around the Giant’s lair, including a 59.5-hectare (147-acre) Site of Special Scientific Interest, the National Trust will create 77 hectares (190 acres) of new habitat.
Work has already begun to recruit a local area ranger, who will lead National Trust staff, contractors and volunteers on next steps.
The team will also be looking to work in partnership with organisations including Butterfly Conservation.
Hannah added: “Now that the land is in our care, we’ll be getting to know the site and its opportunities, talking to the community about their aspirations and local
and applying for any relevant, additional grants to help us invest further in nature.”
In early summer, the Giant himself will be re-chalked, with help from 10 appeal donors who won the experience as part of a Crowdfunder prize draw.
The donors will join staff and volunteers to pack some 17 tonnes of chalk into the Giant’s vast outline, keeping weeds at bay and ensuring he remains visible from miles around for years to come.
The land purchase will also unlock new opportunities for archaeology, building on analysis in 2021 which found that the Giant was probably first carved in the Early Medieval period (770–1100 AD).
Archaeologist Steve Timms said: “The acquisition will provide an opportunity for archaeological research and investigation on a landscape scale.
“This will not only help us manage the land in the most appropriate way but also answer questions about the development of settlement and ritual activity over the area over several millennia.”
The appeal will remain open, with further contributions helping the National Trust to restore the chalk grassland, plant trees and improve access across the landscape.
Donations can be made at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ cerne-giant-appeal.
A YEOVIL school has been recognised by the secretary of state for education for its positive impact on the community.
Headteacher of St Michael’s Academy, Matt Vella, was presented with the letter from Bridget Phillipson by Adam
Dance MP (pictured).
“We are delighted to receive this recognition,” said Matt.
“Our pupils are flourishing due to the hard work and dedication of our wonderful team. We are proud to serve our wonderful community and look forward to future success.”
by Bruce Grant-Braham
FRIDAY 13th may be regarded by some as unlucky, but for the Wimborne branch of the National Women’s Register (NWR) it was anything but.
Their team, “Not Wise Really” (pictured) won a quiz organised in aid of Holt’s village and parish halls, taking home the first prize of wine and chocolates.
In a close fought contest, Not Wise Really were victorious. Quizmasters Peter and Marian Eldrett kept 100 villagers under control and helped to raise over £650 for the two halls.
Our chair, Maryanne Pike, and her team did a fantastic job organising the quiz and bringing so many people together in the local community.
Watch out for more events in the future as there are some great ideas in the pipeline.
THE Tank Museum at Bovington has purchased the medal group of a Second World War tank commander photographed with Winston Churchill.
The group of eight medals belonged to Lieutenant Colonel Stewart Inglis Howard-Jones from the Royal Tank Regiment (RTR), who served in Normandy and commanded a battalion at the Crossing of the Rhine.
Joining the army as a Private in 1933 to indulge his love of sports, HowardJones earned his commission in 1938 and quickly established teams in 8th Battalion, Royal Tank Corps.
His actions in Normandy in 1944 earned him a Military Cross, where he ‘led his Squadron with such skill and daring that they were able to destroy three Panther tanks, one Tiger and one MKIV German tanks, without hardly losing a man.’
The recommendation goes on to detail his ‘personal courage in every attack’ which ‘undoubtedly led to the success of many of these brilliant actions.’
The medal group also contains his Distinguished Service Order for successfully ferrying troops across the
Rhine without losing a single vehicle,
‘regardless of heavy enemy shell and mortar fire’.
His actions enabled the success of the infantry’s assault and ensured they could make quick contact with airborne forces dropped ahead of them.
The same month, Churchill was carried across the river in one of Howard-Jones’ vehicles, along with other tank greats Field-Marshal Montgomery and MajorGeneral Hobart.
Later in the war, Howard-Jones was one of the first Allied soldiers to enter Belsen concentration camp.
Howard-Jones stayed with the RTR after
the Second World War, continuing his sporting career, and retired in 1961.
The Dorset charity tells the story of tanks and the people who served in them and houses the best collection of armoured vehicles in the world.
The medal group, as well as a larger collection from HowardJones, was purchased at auction with support from the Arts Council England/V&A Purchase Grant Fund.
“Thanks to purchase grants and public donations, our museum is able to grow our collection and widen the stories we tell,” said collections manager Marjolijn Verbrugge.
“With this collection, we will be able to tell his story and through him the story of bravery and dedication of the soldiers of the Royal Armoured Corps' amphibious vehicles.”
The group will be able to be viewed by the public as part of The Tank Museum’s ongoing redisplay of its medal collection.
A‘Proud Scot’ living in a Gillingham care home had the ‘best day of her life’ during an activity organised to celebrate her heritage.
Dorothy, who lives in Fern Brook Lodge care home, which is run by not-for-profit charity Care South, was thrilled to be surprised by Lyndon Wall, a member of Ringwood Pipe Band, as well as piping solo. Wearing traditional Scottish dress, Lyndon played a range of tunes for Dorothy’s entertainment including Scotland the Brave and Auld Lang Syne.
Dorothy said: “It was the best day of my life. It was a thrill and a privilege to meet the piper. He was such a lovely gentleman. I came over to England at the age of 12 but went back to visit a few times. Scotland is in my blood. I will always be a proud Scot.”
The special visit was arranged as part of Fern Brook Lodge’s ‘Make a Wish’ initiative. It encourages residents to share hobbies and passions they once enjoyed but are now unable to pursue without the home’s support. The care home team then works to bring the special wish to life.
Lyndon previously visited the home as part of Fern Brook Lodge’s Burns Night celebrations in January, which saw him piping in the haggis. Residents then got the chance to try the haggis while raising a glass of whisky and listening to poetry written by Robert Burns.
Sara Maynard, Home Manager at Fern Brook Lodge care home,
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said: “It was our pleasure to enable Dororthy to feel connected to her Scottish routes by welcoming Lyndon into the home. Dorothy’s eyes lit up as soon as he walked into the room. At Fern Brook Lodge, we love ensuring that every resident can enjoy their passions, hobbies and interests with our support.”
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.
Fern Brook Lodge hosts Memory Café sessions every Thursday morning from 10am to 12pm for people living with dementia and their carers. There is no need to book - just drop in on the day.
by Hilary Daniels
2026 is the Chinese year of the Fire Horse, which only comes around once every 60 years, so the last time it occurred was 1966. Coincidentally, the same year the old Somerset and Dorset railway line was closed. And on Saturday and Sunday, March 7-8, exactly 60 years since its closure, a ‘fire horse’ or two will be steaming up at Shillingstone station.
‘Fire horse’? How else would the ancient Chinese have described a steam engine? In this case the newly refurbished loco belonging to Project 62, the restoration group based at Shillingstone station. Or possibly a traction engine, which will also be at the station for this weekend of celebration.
Built in 1863, Shillingstone station building escaped demolition when the line closed in March 1966, but was semi-derelict by the time a group of locals and enthusiasts was granted a lease from what was then Dorset County Council. The group, which later became the charity, North Dorset Railway, has been busy ever since.
Project 62 came to the station 10 years ago and began a complete overhaul of its
Yugoslavian-built ‘Yankee Tank’, so called because its basic design was the brainchild of the US Army Transport Corps, used widely across Europe during the Second World War and the years which followed.
Volunteers will be on hand throughout the weekend to chat to visitors about the work that has been done and what is planned for the future. Guided tours of the station and the fully rebuilt signal box will be on offer, the ever-popular cafe will be open as usual and a wood-fired pizza oven will add to the options.
Entry is free, although donations will be gratefully received. The station is open both days 10am-4pm.
STROKE survivors are being invited to go along to the Blackmore Stroke Club, which meets at Charlton.
Members can enjoy a home-cooked lunch, quizzes, exercises and a variety of speakers and entertainment.
The friendly club endeavours to supply transport, if needed, and partners and carers are welcome.
Blackmore Stroke Club meets at the New Remembrance Hall, Charlton, near Shaftesbury (SP7 OPL), on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month from 11am-2pm.
For more information, phone Judith Sargent on 07900 634846 or email judithsargent@btinternet.com
Welcoming Residents
Residential, Dementia, Respite Care
The best way to understand what makes our home special is to visit. Alongside our friendly, supportive carers who take the time to truly know each resident, we offer exceptional facilities — from our Coffee Club Café and on-site Pub to Private Dining, a Wellness Salon, Entertainment Suite and beautifully landscaped gardens, all designed to enhance daily life. Call today to enquire and book your personal tour.
Wendy Perkins, Home Manager
• 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. Monday Fellowship – weekly, 2.30pm3.30pm, term times only. Tuesday – Footprints, activities playtime for pre-school children, 10am-11.30am and 1.15pm-2.45pm, term times only. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday – small groups meet at homes at 7.30pm. The church is in Albert Street. Phone 450689.
• Castleton, Sherborne, St Mary Magdalene (DT9 3SA): First, third and fourth Sundays, Sung Mattins; second and fifth Sundays, Holy Communion. All services are BCP at 11.15am.
• Chalbury Church: Fourth Sunday of the month, 10am Holy Communion.
• Cheap Street Church, Sherborne: Prayer time –9.45am Thursday; Thought for the Day – 10.30am Thursday. Sunday service at 10.30am. Monday Music second Monday of the month at 6.15pm with a bring and share supper.
Rendezvous Community Cuppa – third Monday each month, 10.30am-12.30pm.
• Friends of Sherborne Abbey: Wednesday, March 25, coffee morning 10.30am-1pm in church hall.
• 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, Marnhull: Sunday Mass, 9am and 6pm.
• Riverside Church: Blandford Scout Hut, Eagle House Gardens, Blandford DT11 7BS. Free Easter Eggstravaganza, Saturday, April 4, 2-4pm. Phone: 07476 792029.
• Sacred Heart, Tisbury, and All Saints’ Wardour Catholic Parish: Sunday Mass – Sacred Heart, Tisbury, 9am, coffee after Mass; All Saints’ Wardour 10.30am.
• Shapwick: Third Sunday of the month, 9.15am Holy Communion.
• Shaftesbury Quakers (Society of Friends): Meets for one hour each Sunday from 10.30am at the Quaker Meeting House, Abbey Walk, Shaftesbury SP7 8BB.
• Sherborne Abbey: Monday to Saturday, 8.30am Morning Prayer; The Sepulchre Chapel. Mondays, 9am CW Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. Tuesday, noon CW Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. Wednesday, 10.30am Holy Communion with Homily; The Lady Chapel (alternates CW
and BCP). Thursday, noon BCP Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. Friday, 9am Ecumenical Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. First Friday of the month, 9am Requiem Holy Communion; The Sepulchre Chapel. Third Friday of the month, 11am Remembering the Fallen. Saturday, 9am CW Holy Communion; The Sepulchre Chapel.
• Sherborne Abbey: The abbey shop is seeking more volunteers. Anyone interested should speak to Chris Hamon.
• Sherborne Abbey: Sherborne Chamber Choir with The English Cornett and Sackbut Ensemble on Saturday, March 14. The splendour of 16th and 17th century Venice brought to life in music by Gabrieli, Monteverdi and their contemporaries.
• Sherborne Quakers: One hour of silent prayer or meditation every Sunday at 10.30am at Raleigh Hall, Digby Road DT9 3NL. Everyone welcome. Contact Nick Jackman at sherbornequakers@ gmail.com.
• St Benedict’s, Gillingham: Sunday Mass, 11am.
• 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.
• 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, 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 Thomas’, Lydlinch: Second Sunday, Holy Communion 11am; third Sunday, Evensong 6pm; fourth Sunday, Matins 11am.
• Sturminster Christian Fellowship: Service every Sunday at 10.45am.
• Two Rivers Benefice: Sunday, March 1 – 10.45am Together Communion at St Mary the Virgin Church, Charlton Marshall. Sunday, March 8 –9.30am Communion at St Mary’s Church, Blandford St Mary; 11am Family Service at All Saints Church, Tarrant Keynston; 11am Morning Worship at All Saints Church, Langton Long. Coffee and cake – Spetisbury, 10am-11.30am, first and third Monday each month. Coffee and cake –Blandford St Mary, 10am11.30am, March 19.
Crafternoons – first Thursday of every month, 2pm-4pm, £3 including refreshments. Coffee Stop – Charlton Marshall Parish Centre, 10.30am-12.30pm, Tuesday to Friday.
• West Camel Independent Methodists: All Saints Church (BA22 7QB), Sundays 4pm. The friendly, growing church extends a warm welcome to everyone. Contact Geoff. mead@yahoo.com or phone 01935 850838.
Local, friendly, family business. CAD drawings available on request.
Contact Philip on: 07902 003573 welderobrien@gmail.com
BIRDS are increasingly short of nesting holes in urban environments. The loss of trees, natural borders and traditional nesting sites means supporting our avian visitors has never been more critical. The team at British Garden Centres has put together a comprehensive guide to choosing the right nestbox to help our feathered friends thrive.
NOT all nestboxes are created equal, and selecting the right one is crucial for attracting specific birds. Nestboxes generally fall into two categories – those with an entrance hole, which protect from predators, and openfronted boxes. Look for nestboxes with holes for smaller birds like the tit family, nuthatches, redstarts and sparrows. A 25-28mm hole is ideal for tits and tree sparrows, while a 45mm hole suits larger birds like starlings, doves, jackdaws and blackbirds. Open-fronted boxes attract robins, wrens, wagtails and song thrushes.
Material matters too, so choose nestboxes made from insulating material like wood to combat the unpredictable UK weather, with walls at least 15mm thick. Look for nestboxes that have an internal floor that is a minimum of 130 square
centimetres to provide ample space for nesting. It is important that the boxes have drainage holes in the bottom and a sloped roof to keep them dry.
Positioning your nestbox
BIRD boxes should be mounted high up, away from predators like cats, on walls, tree trunks, fences and pergola posts. Boxes with holes are best placed around 3 metres high in trees, ideally camouflaged by foliage, while open-fronted boxes can be at head height. Avoid direct sunlight and face nestboxes north or east, and make sure you space out multiple boxes if you have them to prevent territorial disputes.
Nestbox maintenance
CLEANING bird boxes at the end of each nesting season prevents disease spread. October or November is ideal for cleaning nestboxes.
Choose nestboxes with an accessible roof or side hatch. Always wear rubber gloves, use boiling water for cleaning and compost any old nesting
material you find. Make sure you thoroughly inspect boxes for damage and avoid disturbing active nests during breeding season.
INSTALLING a nestbox is just the first step in creating a bird-friendly garden, and there are many other ways you can attract our feathered friends to your outdoor space. Plant for birds by choosing native hedging such as hawthorn and holly, which provide natural nesting sites and food, along with berry-producing shrubs that offer autumn nutrition and sunflowers that provide natural feeding opportunities.
As well as plants, it is ideal to provide year-round food through supplementary feeding, which is particularly important during the breeding season. Hang feeders that offer sunflower hearts, mealworms, suet products and peanuts to support birds’ nutritional needs. Water is also essential, so maintain a shallow birdbath that is regularly cleaned
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to attract numerous species and help maintain their feather condition.
You can reduce hazards by using window decals to prevent collisions, keeping cats indoors during dawn and dusk when birds are most active, avoiding pesticides that can harm birds and their food sources. Finally, leaving areas wild by allowing seed heads to stand, creating log piles and letting lawn patches grow longer to encourage
invertebrates that nestlings depend on for food.
Paul Williams, bird care buyer at British Garden Centres, said: “Engaging with nature and helping the birds in your garden live healthy lives is an important aspect of our living environment. Introducing a nestbox to your garden can significantly improve a bird’s quality of life and is just as essential as a feeder or bird bath in your outdoor space.”
SPRING is nearly here – and with Brits estimated to hold more than £1,000 worth of unused items in their homes, now is an ideal time to declutter.
Victoria Benini, interior expert and buyer at Harbour Lifestyle shares, answers some common questions. What should you not declutter your house with?
“Avoid using large, disposable plastic bags – they often lead to landfill waste. Opt instead for reusable bags, shipping boxes or crates. These are not only eco-friendly but also make it easier to sort items into categories – donate, recycle or keep – without creating more rubbish.”
What should I remove first when decluttering?
“Start with items you use the least, or those that have expired, like old magazines, broken gadgets or unworn clothes. These decisions are easier to make and build momentum. By starting with the simplest areas – like a ‘junk’ drawer or an
overstuffed cupboard – you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment, which can motivate you to tackle trickier spaces later on.” What is the golden rule of decluttering?
“Keep what you love and use – let go of what no longer serves a purpose. You want to create a home that reflects your current life, values and needs. Sentimental keepsakes or items with practical use have their place, but holding onto things out of guilt or ‘just in case’ will only weigh you down. When deciding whether to keep something, ask yourself – does this item add joy, utility or meaning to my life? If the answer is no, it’s time to let it go.”
“Decluttering often stirs up sentimental memories and decision fatigue. It’s not just a physical task, it’s an emotional one, too. The key to overcoming this is to break tasks into smaller, manageable chunks.”
THE Romantic poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge once exclaimed ‘water, water, everywhere’ in The Rime of the Ancient Mariner (1798).
This line is rather apposite in describing the meadows to the north of Dorchester which have been proposed for development for 4,500 houses.
The flooding in this area has been significant and this land is clearly not suitable to be developed.
Furthermore, for Dorset Council to continue with a plan of this stature in the light of the recent flooding is utterly insensitive to our environment and constantly changing climate.
Indeed, ‘Noah’s Ark’ springs to mind in the context of this deluge.
Surely, the ‘genesis’ of this proposal was always destined for controversy as the land also embodies an eclectic range of heritage assets of national and international importance.
Ultimately, I would urge Dorset Council to think again.
Could there be alternative solutions to meeting the housing targets set by the Government.
AS farmers we are encouraged, using public funds, to improve the environment through various schemes, funded by the taxpayer.
The uptake has been very encouraging but in implementing some of the ideas, such as tree/hedge planting to offset environmental degradation, we have actually increased it.
Back in 1992, when we planted 3,500 trees, we used tree guards that 30-plus years down the line I am still picking up.
Long forgotten piles we should have been more
This land is sacred and should be conserved for future generations within Dorchester at all costs.
Caveat Durnovaria, this development proposal is literally and metaphorically ‘not waving but drowning ‘.
Mark Damon Chutter Chair and academic director
The Thomas Hardy Society Dorchester
CATS Protection is calling on the public to sign its open letter after the Government’s new Animal Welfare Strategy failed to include any regulation of cat breeding – a decision that puts
careful to clear.
Looking back, why did we go down the route of using them when we were organic and knew they were bad for the environment?
Even picked up they would just end up in landfill.
On my bicycle I see this method is still used instead of just planting more hedges/ trees to compensate ones lost.
The photos show a new hedge not only using plastic tree guards but being planted through mypex, a woven plastic, that even after decades will still be there, and when it does break down will pollute the soil and water course – the Stour.
I also include a photo of a
New Blackmore Vale reader
Caroline GibbonsSmith sent in this photo of a solitary tree at the The Trough in Yeovil
cats at growing risk of harm.
Harmful and extreme breeding practices, including the emergence of breeds such as the so-called Bully cat, are increasing.
Without regulation, anyone can breed kittens with no welfare standards, leading to serious health, behavioural and welfare problems.
We are dismayed the Government has chosen to leave cats behind.
By failing to address harmful breeding practices, the Government has effectively sanctioned the continued escalation of dangerous trends, allowing sick and suffering cats to be bred.
It sends a troubling message – that cats do not matter enough
recently trimmed hedge – I would love to know the optimum height for a hedge to be useful for birds to nest in.
Farmers are being recommended to cut their hedges every other year
to receive the same protections as other animals.
We urgently need public support to demand meaningful action.
Please help us advocate for cats by adding your name to the open letter at www.cats.org.uk
Madison Rogers Associate director of Advocacy and Campaigns
ON the first Friday in March every year, a wave of prayer is held around the world using the same service.
This year the service has been prepared by the Christian women of Nigeria and reflects aspects of life there.
The services are organised locally and involve Christians from all denominations joining together.
A service in Shaftesbury will be held at St Peter’s Church in High Street on Friday, March 6, at 11am.
Further information about the event can be found at www. wwpd.org.
Rosemary Saxey Via email
instead of annually on a rotation so there is variety of growth.
It should be something mindful to follow in our gardens as well.
Gold Hill Organic Farm Child Okeford
Across
1 Former female tennis player with change of direction gets to lose vitality (7)
Place 1 to 9 once into every black-bordered 3x3 area as well as each of the 54 rows indicated by the coloured lines. Rows don’t cross the thick black lines.
5 A hotel resident overlooking street is fit (4)
9 Noted US general holding line for crowd (7)
10 Note largely sumptuous characteristic of old architectural order? (5)
11 Loosen a French piece of neckwear (5)
12 Become comfortable in finest leather (6)
14 Warm again backward woman’s brewed tea (6)
Down
2 Pursuit to entertain a frequented joint (5)
3 After getting converted own mostly keen faith (2,3,4,2)
4 Slip by group ignoring book on mission (6)
6 Heavily built thug bringing men trouble in Georgia (7)
7 Cut piece of brisket cheerfully (4)
8 Get a load of papers for hearing (7)
10 Fluid rests uneasily around top of shoulder giving pain (11)
16 Young woman enthralled by Arab island and Asian sheep (6)
18 A rising movement in the sea too (2,4)
19 More secure having dispelled fears (5)
22 Greek that is beginning to feel aspect of bereavement (5)
23 Leading description of revolutionary activist? (2,5)
24 I’m surprised by first sign of knowledge in tech obsessive (4)
25 Contain at home tip about daughter (7)
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.
13 Fighter with speed gets to change abode
15 Inhospitable house with set of steps in wall
17 A hero transfixing Britain – and the Britain old (6)
20 Supply excessively nosh to cover lunch’s opening (5)
21 A medal wanting name gets one eagerly excited (4)
A LIFETIME collection of fishing items is going under the Charterhouse gavel in its specialist Country Pursuits auction in Sherborne.
“The owner has been a collector all his life and a keen fisherman from an early age,” said Richard Bromell, from the auction house.
“But with interests changing and looking to spend more time abroad he has decided now is the time to let others else enjoy his collection, with the exception of the very first fishing reel he purchased which has been given to his daughter.”
books and just about anything relating to fishing.
However, perhaps one of the more unusual items is a 19th century taxidermy otter –perhaps a nod to one of the greatest fish-catchers known!
Items in the collection include Victorian fishing reels, rods, creels, gaffs, pictures,
With lots estimated from £50 to several hundreds of pounds there is something for everyone whether new to collecting or a seasoned collector. Further entries are now being invited for this hunting, shooting and fishing specialist auction on Wednesday, April 1. 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
ACREMAN St Auctioneers & Valuers, Sherborne, had a positive start to the year with its January auctions.
Gold and silver jewellery prices are still very high, so lots keen buyers resulted in good prices.
Antique silver cutlery sold for £5,500 hammer, an 18ct gold cased wristwatch made £4,100, an 18ct fancy link bracelet achieved £1,500 and a string of Victorian natural pearls £3,600.
The General Antiques & Collectors auction also saw good prices achieved.
The star lot was a very rare, circa 1755, Lewis Evans silk map, Middle British Colonies in America, which sold for £18,000 hammer.
The map came from a Dorset family and had been passed
down through the generations. Allan Wallwork studio pottery vases made £1,300. This month’s auctions are General Antiques & Collectors on Thursday, February 26, at 10am, and Jewellery, Silver & Watches on Friday, February 27, at 10am.
Viewing is on Wednesday, February 25, 10am-4pm.
Acreman is holding its first Garden & Architectural Auction on Thursday, March 26, and in May is staging a Modern & 20th Century Art Auction.
Anyone who has anything they would like to consign should contact Gill Norman on 01935 508764 or 07908 333577 or email auction@acreman streetantiques.co.uk or pop into the auction house’s premises at 121 Acreman Street, Sherborne DT9 3PH.
DUKE’S
Auction House is inviting collectors and design enthusiasts to its upcoming Interiors & Design sale, a thoughtfully curated celebration of craftsmanship, character and timeless style.
The sale, spanning Georgian elegance to mid-century statement pieces, brings together an eclectic selection of decorative arts and furniture, each chosen for its quality, individuality and enduring appeal.
A highlight is an oil painting by Colin Burns – born1944 – Feeding on the Stubble,
depicting pheasants foraging across a golden wheat field, rich in movement, texture and rural atmosphere.
Whether drawn to stately antiques or bold conversation pieces, Duke’s Interiors & Design sale on Thursday, February 26, at 10.30am offers a rich source of inspiration and the opportunity to acquire objects that bring story, style and craftsmanship into the home.
CLARKE’S Auctions is busy preparing for its next Antiques & Collectables sale on Friday and Saturday, March 13-14.
An impressive single owner collection of ladies modern gold and silver dress rings and costume jewellery has recently been consigned.
Clarke’s saw strong results in its February sale with a private collection of Formula One motor racing memorabilia belonging to the late Peter Stayner, head of Partner Management for McLaren Formula One Racing, selling well.
All except one lot sold and most for above estimate, with a black and white team photograph of Ayrton Senna and a presentation board, both signed by Senna, fetching £1,200 hammer.
Other interesting lots included a 19th century child’s boneshaker-type bicycle which sold for £3,100 hammer, a pair of Meissen figurines which made £800, a Royal Worcester miniature porcelain six-person tea service by William Roberts achieved £2,600 and a 15ct gold necklace with four gold coins sold for £4,000.
The colour catalogue for Clarke’s March sale will be available online from Saturday, March 7.
Enquiries regarding consignment into this sale or future sales, probate or insurance valuations, full or part house clearances can be made to Richard Clarke or Karen Marshall on 01747 685592 at the salerooms at The Old Glove Factory, Buckingham Road, Gillingham SP8 4QF.
Auctioneers & Valuers
Antiques & Collectibles Sale
Antiques & Collectables
Friday 9th & Saturday 10th August
Friday 13th & Saturday 14th March
Colour catalogue available from the 7th March at the-saleroom.com and easyliveauction.com
Viewing Wednesday 11th, Thursday 12th & Friday 13th March from 9.30am to 4.30pm
A pair of 18th century Meissen porcelain figures. Sold for £800.
An original Fry & Sons 'Fry's Pure Concentrated Cocoa' enamel sign. Sold for £1,600.
Clarke’s Auctions o er free home visits and verbal valuations.
The Old Glove Factory, Buckingham Road Gillingham, SP8 4QF
Now accepting items for this and future sales
Units 1 & 2 Kingsettle Business Park, 01747 855109 enquiries@clarkesauctions.co.uk
e Old Glove Factory, Buckingham Road Gillingham, SP8 4QF 01747 685592 enquiries@clarkesauctions.co.uk
01747 685592 enquiries@clarkesauctions.co.uk www.clarkesauctions.co.uk
I WAS delighted to be invited to attend the reopening of the Village Shop in Henstridge recently. In November last year, the stores and its associated Post Office closed with no notice, leaving residents shocked and disappointed. But thanks to the hard work of the new proprietors, Lesley, Andy, Helen and Barry, the shop’s doors have reopened as a Community Interest Company – run by Henstridge residents, for Henstridge residents. While the store is fully stocked and open for business, the Post Office and National Lottery services will be resuming soon.
Post Office branches play a vital role in our local communities and high streets, with millions of people depending on them. But, across the UK, the Government is bearing down on the Post Office, with its recent Green Paper threatening more than 6,000 branches – most of which are rural or part-time. Rural
communities and small rural businesses are disproportionately affected by the centralisation of Post Office services, especially our more vulnerable residents and those with limited transport options. Against this onslaught, it’s so often the commitment of local residents which really counts to keep our communities connected, but the Government must take action to set the Post
Office on a sustainable longterm footing. To support this, the Liberal Democrats have put forward proposals for mutualisation of the Post Office which would give subpostmasters more independence and control of their business. In addition, we believe that Post Offices should be supported to play a more active role in our local economies – acting as community banking and government hubs and continuing to provide DVLA services.
Unfortunately, Post Offices aren’t the only services at risk, though. A couple of weeks ago, I was disappointed to hear that next year, Lloyds Bank intends to close its branch on the other side of the Glastonbury and Somerton constituency, in Street.
Lloyds is the only remaining bank with physical premises in Street and should the proposed closure go ahead in March 2027, residents will be forced to travel
to Bridgwater or Wells to visit a Lloyds branch or rely on mobile banking. For elderly and disabled residents, this will significantly restrict access to cash and banking services, while local businesses will struggle to deposit their daily takings and may consequently be forced to refuse cash payments and customers.
I have launched a petition and written to Lloyds Bank urging it to keep its Street branch open. Please visit my website to sign – www. sarahdyke.uk – and if you struggle to access mobile banking, please take the time to fill out my Digital Connectivity Survey under ‘Campaigns’.
As always, I want to hear from you. If you have been struggling to access crucial services or have another issue I can help with, or wish to register your interest to attend one of my regular advice surgeries, please don’t hesitate to contact me at sarah.dyke.mp@parliament.uk
IF you have driven along Fosse Way near Dinnington recently, you will know just how bad some of our roads have become.
I visited the area after local business owner Matt from Dinnington Docks got in touch about the shocking number of potholes. While I was there, I saw first-hand the impact. One resident had blown a tyre after hitting a pothole. Another driver had pulled over to check the damage underneath his car. These are not minor surface cracks. They are deep, dangerous and costly.
For Matt, the problem is not just inconvenience. It is affecting his livelihood. Customers are understandably reluctant to drive along a road that risks damaging their vehicles. When rural roads deteriorate, it hits local businesses as well as families. And this is not an isolated
issue. To put it into perspective, in January 2025 Somerset Council received about 2,000 pothole reports. In January 2026, that figure rose to almost 7,000. That is a huge increase in just one year.
Somerset has one of the largest road networks in the
country. Maintaining rural roads is more expensive than in compact urban areas. We face heavy agricultural traffic, large vehicles and increasingly extreme weather. Yet councils have faced years of funding pressures and highways budgets have not kept pace with the scale of the challenge.
I was pleased to receive assurances that the worst potholes in Dinnington will be repaired. But the reality is they should never have been allowed to reach that state in the first place. Too often, we are stuck in a cycle of patching up roads rather than properly resurfacing them, which costs more in the long run.
We also need to make sure potholes are reported through the proper channels. Somerset Council relies on residents flagging issues so they can prioritise repairs. If you spot a
pothole, please report it via the council’s website. And if you have reported it and feel nothing has happened, do send my office the reference number so I can chase it up.
Ultimately, this comes back to funding and long term planning. I will continue pressing central government to provide councils like Somerset with the fair, sustained funding they need to properly maintain our rural roads.
Our villages and market towns depend on safe, reliable roads. Whether you are commuting, running a business, taking children to school or simply visiting friends, you should not have to worry about damaging your car every time you set off.
Fixing our roads is not glamorous. But it matters deeply to daily life in rural Somerset.
WHY are successive governments failing us so badly, time and again? Surely the primary duty of any democratically elected government is to protect the people it serves, but successive UK governments have failed to do just that.
The First Past The Post (FPTP) electoral system is not genuinely democratic, it simply ensures that time after time we end up with a government that has only been voted for by a minority of the electorate. Consequently, we have swung between Labour and Conservative governments that are apparently more focussed on serving short term vested interests, rather than the overall long term good of our country.
It’s no coincidence that many of the public figures who strongly oppose action on the environment receive funding one way or another from sources
with fossil fuel interests.
Proportional representation can’t come soon enough.
The most serious recent example of the failure to protect our country lies with the present Labour government, which has not adequately acknowledged and taken steps to deal with the severity of the environmental
crisis that is clearly now upon us. Worse, the Government has effectively hidden the truth from us.
Its failure to engage with and promote the National Emergency Briefing (NEB) in November last year, and the subsequent lack of reporting on the event by most of the media, effectively withheld vital information needed by the general public to counter claims that there isn’t really a problem, or that we’ve got plenty of time to avoid disaster, or that the UK is only a small part of the problem and therefore bigger countries should sort things out.
As the effects of the worsening environmental situation become ever more impossible to credibly deny, there is a growing pushback by politicians and citizens who understand the perils we face, and who are increasingly determined to ensure that we do
not suffer the worst possible consequences. Surveys show that a large majority of people are now concerned about the changing climate and the degradation of the natural world we all depend on. This majority must increasingly dominate the conversation and drive the decision making.
Too often the claim is that we cannot afford to deal with the problem right now – but as all those here in the south west whose homes and businesses have been hit by this winter’s extreme flooding have learned, the costs of action are outweighed many times over by the costs of inaction. A film of the NEB is being prepared for showing around the country, probably in April/May, so look out for a showing close to you. It will arm you with the information you need to be motivated to be part of the solution.
I AM very grateful to those who have emailed me in response to my call for reports of localised flooding. This information is going to be very useful as I seek to pull together interested parties and those with responsibility, for example, Wessex Water, Dorset Council and the Environment Agency to try to ensure that the fullest picture is understood and that a programme of remediation works can be formed and delivered.
I have already had a useful meeting with local representatives and Dorset Council concerning the bridge at Hammoon and further meetings are being scheduled regarding Milborne St Andrew, Winterborne Whitechurch and Pimperne.
As a Member of Parliament, we have no power to ‘direct’ in these situations, but we do have the power to convene – to bring people together to work towards enduring solutions. I shall
Simon
continue to fulfil this role in order to represent and serve my local communities. Please continue to contact me at Simon. hoare.mp@parliament.uk or at the House of Commons, London SW1A 0AA. While it is a recognised fact across Westminster and Whitehall that the cost of delivering public services is
higher in rural than it is in urban areas, the funding formulae and calculations still fail to take it into account. Costs are higher because the populations are smaller and further flung and journey times are longer.
When my Party was in Government, we introduced the Rural Services Delivery Grant which topped up local government funding to better reflect and respond to rurality. The Labour Government not only scrapped it but has raided the coffers to further subsidise the big cities. This is biased and shortsighted. The approach needs to change. I shall continue to make the case for rural North Dorset and our needs.
Rural service funding pressures may make themselves felt if the proposed closure of eight fire stations goes ahead. While only one of these, Cranborne, is in the North Dorset constituency, the closures of Cranborne and Mere will
have a negative response time impact on much of the constituency. Greater pressure will be placed on stations and crew at Gillingham, Blandford and Verwood. We will see a reduction of personnel and of fire and rescue kit. I have met with Fire chiefs to interrogate the plans and conversations are ongoing. I will not sit by idly if the safety of North Dorset residents is to be compromised. If you want to protect local fire station provision, take part in the Fire & Rescue Services’ Public Consultation. Full details can be found at www.dwfire.org. uk where you can ‘Take the Survey’. Alternatively, request a form be posted to you by calling 01722 691000. Details of consultation engagement events can also be found on the website. The consultation closes on Friday, May 15, and a decision taken in late June. A good response from North Dorset may force a rethink.
YEARS ago, when Dorset and Wiltshire combined their Fire and Rescue services to save administrative costs, I pointed out that organisational change risked the relatively small retained stations close to the border in favour of larger centres of population. Now that money is again tight, the combined fire service is consulting on the future of eight of its stations, including Mere.
Now, the part-time fire personnel based out of the Mere station cover a large crossborder rural hinterland in addition to the town itself. The A303 is right on its doorstep, useful at the weekend when there was a significant incident on our stretch of the west country’s ‘highway to the sun’.
Let’s see the full facts on the eight stations under threat but closing the Mere station has to be a completely bonkers idea. I’m also concerned that it will
mean that retained firefighters will be even more difficult to recruit and retain.
There’s a lot of hot air about the behaviour of the odious Mr Mountbatten Windsor being the prelude to the end of monarchy. It is not. The institution is strong and has served this country well. The King and the Prince of Wales deserve our support and admiration as they
seek to modernise the institution they lead and deal with errant relatives.
You have to have a heart of stone not to feel for his Majesty, a man in his late 70s who is not exactly in the pink of health. The King’s quiet dignity, sense of duty and sure-footedness are very much in the tradition of his remarkable mother, our late Queen.
If there is something positive to take from the Andrew scandal, it is that demonstrably no-one – however high or mighty – is above the law in this country. We should be immensely proud of that.
Meanwhile, Number Ten is collapsing faster than a badly baked soufflé. All the key officials and now the Cabinet Secretary have left. The latter has been replaced by a controversial person who ministers are celebrating as the first female to take the most senior post in the civil service.
She’ll need to be more than that.
Big focus on Westbury over half-term with a meeting to discuss traffic management on Bratton Road, government plans for strategic road improvements that may bring the much-needed western Westbury bypass imminently and activity in advance of a big vote at county hall next week that’ll heavily influence whether plans for the loathsome incinerator go ahead.
I’ve banged on about the Chagos surrender deal before and will continue to until it is notched up as yet another Government U-turn. The ‘deal’ ministers have cooked up makes no sense at any level other than in the heads of left-liberal, hand-wringing, UK-loathing human rights lawyers.
Unfortunately for us, the high priest of this brotherhood is holed up in Downing Street calling the shots – for the time being.
CANADIAN pianist Sarah Hagen shines a spotlight on the lives and works of forgotten female composers from the 18th and 19th centuries in Wonder Women.
She is bringing her production to Dorset as part of a 13-date UK tour next week.
Hagen guides audiences through the music and histories of composers such as Clara Schumann, Cécile Chaminade and Agathe Backer Grøndahl –women whose contributions to the classical canon have often been overlooked.
Her extensive international career has taken her across
Canada and throughout Europe, including Sweden, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy and the UK – and twice to Carnegie Hall in New York City.
She has been honoured as Artist of the Year by both Ontario Contact and the BC Touring Council.
Sarah Hagen’s Wonder Women is at Chetnole Village Hall on Friday, March 6; Litton Cheney Community Hall on Saturday, March 7, both at 7.30pm; and St Christopher’s Church, Winfrith, on Sunday, March 8, at 3pm.
Tickets are available online at www.artsreach.co.uk
THE Duke, set to be performed at three Dorset venues, weaves together the tragi-comic fate of a family heirloom, the quandary of a scriptwriter stretching his integrity and an unfolding disaster as thousands of children flee their homes.
It blends fantasy and reality in a playful, thought-provoking show that explores what truly matters in a world of crisis.
The Duke was originally created by Shôn Dale-Jones in 2016 in response to the refugee crisis that exploded following conflict in Syria and was re-written and revived in 2025.
It received The Scotsman’s Fringe First Award when it premiered at the Edinburgh Fringe in 2016 and was made into a radio play for BBC Radio 4 in 2018, achieving Pick of the Week.
Dorset rural arts charity
Artsreach presents The Duke at Portland’s Royal Manor Theatre on Thursday, March 12, at 8pm; West Stafford Village Hall on Friday, March 13; and Burton Bradstock Village Hall on Saturday, March 14, both at 7.30pm.
Tickets are available online at t www.artsreach.co.uk
CAKE concerts, developed for people living with dementia, are being held at venues around Dorset.
The concerts feature members of the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra – the Teatime Trio, on flute, harp and cello – performing popular classical and light film music.
Members of the audience, whether they are in the community or in care and residential homes, enjoy cake
and refreshments as the music plays.
The remaining concerts are at The Mowlem, Swanage, on Thursday, March 5; The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, on Wednesday, March 11; and Woodlands Village Hall on Wednesday, March 18, all at 11am.
Tickets include tea and cake, and carers’ tickets are also available.
Full details can be found at www.artsreach.co.uk
TOE-TAPPING rhythms and soulful melodies are promised when the Mark Harrison Band play three gigs in Dorset.
Scriptwriter at work in The Duke
PHOTO: Brian Roberts
Mark Harrison is an established multi-awardnominated singer-songwriter and guitarist.
He is joined in the band by Charles Benfield on double bass and Ben Welburn on drums and percussion.
The blues and roots trio have performed at top theatres, arts centres and festivals, and recorded eight albums.
The Mark Harrison Band play the village halls in Broadmayne on Friday, March 6, Shillingstone on Saturday, March 7, and Corfe Castle on
and guitarist
Sunday, March 8, all at 7.30pm. Tickets are available online at www.artsreach.co.uk
MUSIC fans can step back into the decade of big hits, big hair and even bigger anthems this summer when 80s Classical comes to Lighthouse Poole.
The show features some of the decade’s most iconic voices in Nik Kershaw, Johnny Hates Jazz and T-Pau’s Carol Decker, all backed by Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra.
Johnny Hates Jazz frontman, Clark Datchler, added: “I’ll never forget the first time I felt the sheer emotional power of the orchestra of Opera North behind me as the introduction to Shattered Dreams began, during the very first 80s Classical in Leeds back in 2019.
“It was absolutely overwhelming and as the tears welled up in my eyes, I
became aware I was participating in an historic event.
“Therefore, I am both honoured and delighted that Johnny Hates Jazz will be returning in 2026 for a fourth time, continuing our 80s Classical journey as it spreads its wings from Leeds to other cities around the UK.
“It is a truly life-affirming experience for both audiences and performers alike, and I can’t wait to see you there!”
T’Pau frontwoman Carol Decker said: “Once again, I am delighted and privileged to be invited to take part in another spectacular 80s Classical show.
“Any time I’m invited to do so it’s the highlight of my year and I highly recommend it to people. It’s just beautiful hearing your favourite 80s classics played classically!”
Kershaw said: “There’s
nothing quite like sharing a stage with a full orchestra. It elevates the artist, the songs and the audience with it.
“I’m thrilled to be playing a
part in spreading the 80s Classical experience.”
80s Classical is at Lighthouse Poole on Saturday, June 5.
LOVERS of cathedral choral music are in for a treat when a choir from Salisbury Cathedral gives a concert at St Andrew’s Church, Fontmell Magna.
The event, featuring a choir of 16 boys and seven adults, is
to celebrate the recent completion of work on the north and south aisles of the church.
All proceeds from the concert on Monday, March 2, at 7pm will go to the church’s fabric fund to help pay for
GENERAL Medical Emergency Ward 10, coming to three Dorset venues next week, pays comic homage to television’s doctors-and-nurses dramas.
It gleefully re-imagines the worlds of Holby City, Casualty,
ER, Grey’s Anatomy, Doctors and many more, celebrating the drama, intrigue and emotional rollercoasters of the onscreen hospital.
The show is presented by Dyad Productions and
continuing work at the church. Light refreshments will be served from 6.15pm and the concert will last 75 minutes with no interval.
Admission is strictly ticket only to be purchased
beforehand – price £15 – from Fontmell Village Shop, Iwerne Minster Village Shop, The Cricketers, Shroton, or from Robert Wellen – robertwellen@ btinternet.com or 01747 811070.
Company Gavin Robertson with Artsreach, Dorset’s rural arts charity.
General Medical Emergency Ward 10 is at the village halls at Halstock on Wednesday, March 4, and Sydling St Nicholas on Thursday, March 5, and Winterborne Stickland Pamela Hambro Hall on Friday, March 6, all at 7.30pm.
Tickets are available online at www.artsreach.co.uk
THE Bristol based acoustic chamber folk trio Three Cane Whale are bringing their evocative, landscape inspired music to Dorset on a three night tour.
The trio, featuring members of Spiro, Get The Blessing and Scottish Dance Theatre, are known for intricate musicianship.
Audiences can expect a stage
alive with over a dozen instruments – from mandolin, harmonium and acoustic guitar to the more unusual, including the bowed psaltery, the baroque esque E flat trumpet and the shimmering Finnish kantele.
On this Dorset tour, the trio will perform music from their 2024 album Hibernacula, alongside favourites from their
extensive back catalogue.
Three Cane Whale are at Ibberton Village Hall on Thursday, March 12; Powerstock Hut on Friday,
March 13; and Woodlands Village Hall on Saturday, March 14, all at 7.30pm.
Tickets are available online at www.artsreach.co.uk
FOLK music and folk yarns will be on offer next week at East Knoyle Village Hall.
A trio on accordion, fiddle and mandolin and clogs will be performing on Tuesday, March 3, 2pm-4pm.
The event is free to enter but anyone who would like to go along should book with Jan Knight on 01747 830132 or email knights ofknoyle@hotmail.com
CONNECTION, Stourview Close, Sturminster Newton, DT10 1JF. March 7th 2pm. Cafe open from 12pm.
Jumble Sale at Verwood Memorial Hall now March 14th at 9.30am
LYN’s BINGO on March 2nd at Marnhull Royal British Legion. Sodom Lane (DT10 1PR). Eyes down 7pm.
FLOURISH RESET RETREATThe Ultimate Mind-Body-Soul Tune-up! March 23rd–27th, 2026 | Launceston Farm, north Dorset. Yoga, Meditation, Nutrition, Breathwork, Sound healing https://thewelllifelab.systeme.io/flourishretreat
by Sally Gregson
ROSEMARY undoubtedly belongs to the whole gamut of medicinal plants that the Romans brought here hundreds of years ago. It is a native of the Mediterranean regions like lavender, sage and silver-leaved Santolina. And as such it flourishes in hot, dry conditions, over mild, not to say, hot summers. Its Latin name, Rosmarinus, means ‘sea dew’, indicating its tolerance of salty air and love of sunshine.
It is mentioned in ancient ‘herbals’ but does not appear in later writings until about the 14th century when Friar Henry Daniel wrote a work about rosemary indicating that it was a new introduction to England. Famously there were long and bitter winters in the medieval
period, including a mini-Ice Age. The cold and especially wet weather could easily have dealt a death blow to the few rosemary bushes growing bravely in English monastery gardens.
Rosemary was the symbolic flower of Queen Philippa (1394-1430), daughter of King Henry IV and Queen of Denmark, Norway and Sweden, and wife of King Edward III. She founded Queen’s College, Oxford, where a boar’s head stuffed with rosemary is brought into the dining hall every year in her honour.
And, of course, there is William Shakespeare’s verse on a ‘tussie-mussie’ in Hamlet after the killing of Ophelia’s father.
“Here’s rosemary, that’s for remembrance: pray you, love,
remember. And there’s pansies, that’s for thoughts. There’s some fennel for you, and columbine (fennel symbolised flattery, columbines unchastity). There’s rue for you, and here’s some for me; we may call it herb of grace o’ Sundays. O, you must wear your rue with a difference. (Rue was for repentance, contrition and grief). Here’s a daisy: I would give you some violets but they withered all when my father died.” (Daisies stood for wantonness, faithlessness; and violets, when blue were for
by Sally Gregson
AFTER all that winter wet, the ground is, it is hoped, moist through to the lower levels – in just the right state to lift and divide the garden’s ornamental grasses. Although it always looks so promising, dividing named grasses is a job best left until the spring. Grasses grow away very much better than in the autumn.
And after all that winter wet, the clumps are looking very bedraggled and windswept. So, for named grasses that can’t be propagated by seed, lift the individual clumps and knock all the spare soil off the root-ball. Using a sharp pair of secateurs, trim the old, brown stems, the
spent flower stalks and any brown leaves and discard them onto the compost heap. Then divide each clump into as many parts as you need, making sure each top has roots attached. Prepare the area where the new young plants are to go with plenty of garden compost and sharp grit to enhance the drainage, and make a hole a bit larger than the size of the potential root-ball. Fill each with a division and back-fill the hole with more grit and garden compost. Firm the soil around the new plant as little as possible and water it all in. Label it and if you dislike ‘tombstones’ in the garden, push the label right into the soil so
that just the tip is showing.
This method is suitable for named grasses of all sizes from tall, elegant Miscanthus sinensis, through Hakonechloa macra Aureola with its golden variegation, to tufts of blue Festuca Miscanthus is a ‘statement’ grass that rarely seeds at all in this country; the Hakonechloa is related to bamboo but it does not ‘run’ or self-seed; and the little Festuca is intolerant of wet winters. If a plant has been brought into the cold greenhouse for a dry winter, it will divide easily. So, it is the job of the gardener to keep each of these grasses looking good.
And all grasses look better
loyalty, when white for innocence. But they had withered). So, Shakespeare’s message of flowers was really quite bitter – not a positive, romantic one.
And lastly there is the story of Queen Anne of Bohemia. Rosemary was her symbol. She married King Richard II in 1382. Unusually, she was much loved by her king. When she died, King Richard threw rosemary into her open grave and this romantic gesture must have caught the public imagination for centuries.
planted in groups, and some are especially lovely with flowering neighbours – try growing tall perennial asters alongside the miscanthus, or purple-headed Allium Purple Sensation with bronze Carex buchanani. The garden borders will look modern and beautiful with plenty of movement every time the wind blows.
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with Mike Burks, MD of The Gardens Group
IT’S good to get some encouragement at the early part of the gardening year and this can be provided by the performance of some early spring-flowering shrubs.
Forsythia might be a little out of fashion but it’s still a wonderful plant, and the favourite is a variety called Lynwood, but a more recent addition is Forsythia Week End.
This is more compact in its growth and so suitable for smaller, modern gardens.
On bare stems in February and March, large bright yellow flowers appear which shine out even in the dark days.
Also flowering on bare stems is the dwarf Japanese cherry Prunus incisa Kojo No Mai with the wonderful common name of Dance of the Butterflies.
With leaves yearround, the Osmanthus delavayi flowers early in the year with lots of small white flowers which are beautifully scented.
The small evergreen leaves are glossy and serrated. It will eventually get to 6ft or more but can be pruned to keep it under control.
Often forgotten now, are the flowering Brooms or Cytisus.
These shrubs are relatively short lived and come in a variety of sizes and flower colours.
The normal colour is bright yellow from varieties such as Cytisus Allgold, but there are some wonderful shades of creams, reds and oranges which make a great splash of colour.
The variety Lena is a favourite of mine growing to around 4ft with orange and yellow pea flowers in midspring.
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Although it loses its leaves in the winter, the stems are wonderfully twisted, zig-zagging to make a great ‘bonsai’ shape.
The white flowers come in clusters of simple, single flowers and sit along the stems on their own, followed by soft green leaves.
These are smallgrowing shrubs that can be grown in pots, so that the shape can be admired, but they’ll also do well in a border.
Not grown for their flowers but for their leaf colour in the early spring is the dwarf Spirea, such as Goldflame and Goldmound.
These have very striking powerfully coloured yellow and orange young leaves.
Later in the year there are flowers too, but the early spring foliage gives one great heart that spring is soon its way.
Seed Potato’s £4.99 per 2.5kg, onion sets, shallots, seeds, summer bulbs, compost and so much more. Shop local, pay less WILLIAMS FLORIST & GARDEN CENTRE, STALBRIDGE 01963 362355 SELF
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registered woodburner and flue installer. Birdguards and cowls 07932 655267
Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.
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DEREK ETHERINGTON BSc(Hons). PC/Mac, Repairs, Networks, Websites, Tuition. Free local callout. 07855-287150 01963-362403 www.dcenet.co.uk
Purchase advice, Virus Removal, New PC Setup/Installation, Internet Connection, Upgrades, Computer/Software Tuition Call Gregg on 01963 370713
PAUL WEST DECORATING SERVICES and wall-paper specialist. Also handyman. 35years experience. Free quotes. 07773-459168. paul.west945@gmail.com
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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
I’m
Pursuant to the Trustee Act 1925 anyone with a claim against or an interest in the Estate of the deceased, late of 3 Cranborne Drive, Shaftesbury, Dorset, SP7 9HA, who died on 21/11/2025, must send written details to the address below by 28/04/2026, after which the Estate will be distributed with regard only to claims and interests notified Farnfields Solicitors, 4 Church Lane, Shaftesbury, SP7 8JT Ref: LHL/92290-0001
Who were under the age of 12 years on 1 January 2026
PARENTS of children resident in Blandford Forum only (not periphery villages) who have a child/children who were under the age of 12 years on 1 January 2026 are invited to apply for consideration of a grant from the TED George Fun - The Blandford Children’s Fund.
For an Application Form, please telephone 01258 451810 in the first instance or write or email to:
The Clerk to the Trustees, Blandford Forum Almshouse/General Charities
Barnes Homes, Salisbury Road, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 7HU Email clerkbfc@googlemail.com
Completed applications to be returned by Midday Friday 20th March 2026
TED George Fund - The Blandford Children’s Fund (Administered by the Trustees of The Blandford Forum Almshouse/General Charities) Registered Charity No. 230853
The Blandford Forum Almshouse Charity complies with Data Protection Regulations
Pursuant to the Trustee Act 1925 anyone with a claim against or an interest in the Estate of the deceased, late of 42 Sweetmans Road, Shaftesbury, Dorset, SP7 8EH, who died on 01/10/2025, must send written details to the address below by 28/04/2026, after which the Estate will be distributed with regard only to claims and interests notified
Jackie Cuff c/o Farnfields Solicitors, 4 Church Lane, Shaftesbury, SP7 8JT
Ref: JCC/91908-0001
Are you passionate about supporting your community?
The Almshouse Association, the national body representing almshouses, is seeking dedicated individuals to serve as trustees. The current opportunity is in Shaftesbury and is a fantastic opportunity to contribute your skills and experience to a unique form of housing and community support.
Almshouses provide affordable, community-focused housing for people in need. As a trustee, you’ll play a vital role in ensuring the almshouse continues to thrive and serve its residents.
does being a trustee involve?
• STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP: Guiding the Almshouse in fulfilling its mission.
• GOVERNANCE: Ensuring the Almshouse operates effectively and legally.
• FINANCIAL OVERSIGHT: Managing resources responsibly.
• COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: Representing the Almshouse within the local community.
We welcome applications from individuals with a diverse range of skills and backgrounds. A genuine interest in supporting older people and a commitment to the values of the Almshouse Association are key. Next Steps: If you are interested in applying to be a trustee, please make contact with Roger Booth, contact details above. We look forward to hearing from you!
sadly passed away on 2nd February 2026 aged 69. Her funeral will be held at Salisbury Crematorium on Monday 23rd March 2026 at 1 pm
On 7th February 2026, peacefully in his sleep, at Salisbury District Hospital aged 88 years. Of Shaftesbury.
Husband of the late Beryl, Dad to Susan and Rosalind, Grandad to Alex, Lauren, Eleanor and Thomas and Great Grandad to Roley, George and Roscoe. Funeral service takes place at Salisbury Crematorium on Tuesday 3rd March at 1.00pm. Family flowers only please. Donations in his memory for Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance 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.
of Bruton passed away peacefully in hospital on 8th February 2026, aged 86 years.
Dearly beloved wife of the late Sid. A loving Mum, Nannie Roses, Great-Nannie KitKat and a dear sister. Funeral Service takes place at St. Leonard’s Church, Pitcombe, on Friday 27th March at 1.30pm, followed by interment in the Churchyard. Family flowers only please. Donations in lieu if desired, made payable to R.N.L. I. may be sent to Trotman Funeral Directors, Ashdene, Frome Road, Cranmore, Shepton Mallet, BA4 4QQ. Tel. 01749 - 880271
On 9th February 2026 aged 80 years. Of Wardour. He will be fondly remembered and sadly missed by all family and friends. Funeral Mass will take place at The Chapel of All Saints, Wardour Castle on Monday 2nd March at 10.30am followed by interment in Wardour Cemetery. No flowers please, but donations in his memory for Cancer Research UK may be made online at www.mhfd.co.uk or sent to Merefield & Henstridge F/D, Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 0BU. Tel: 01747 853532.
Passed away peacefully on 4th February 2026 aged 70, after a long illness bravely fought. Beloved brother of Kevin and Una, Uncle to Abbie and Joanne Will be sadly missed by his family and friends Funeral at St James Church, Alderholt on Thursday 5th March at 11am Family flowers only but donations if desired to Parkinsons UK and can be made online at oharafunerals.co.uk
Or C/O Nicholas O’Hara Funeral Directors, 5 The Old Pottery, Manor Way, Verwood BH31 6HF
Peacefully passed on 14th January 2026. Philip John Stringer, aged 83 years, formerly of Hilfield and Portland, Dorset. Dearly loved Dad and Gramphy. Cremation and reflection at Yeovil Crematorium on Friday 6th March at 11:20am. Service of reflection at Yeovil Crematorium on Friday 6th March at 11.20am. Donations in Philips’s memory are invited for The RNLI. C/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, The Old Reading Room, Shaftesbury Road, Henstridge.
Peacefully on 8th February 2026 in Yeovil District Hospital, aged 81 years, of Gillingham. Formerly of Marnhull. Beloved Husband of Pat. Much loved Dad of Carol. Loving Grandad to Isabel and Logan. Funeral service at Yeovil Crematorium on Friday, 13th March at 11.20am. Family flowers only please. Donations if desired, in memory of Rod for Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance Trust can be made online at peterjacksonfuneralservices.co.uk
Passed away peacefully on the 10th February 2026 aged 66 years. Dearly loved Husband of the late Annie. Much loved Brother, Uncle and Great Uncle. Funeral service at Yeovil Crematorium on Friday 13th March at 12.40pm. Family flowers only please, donations if desired for Fortuneswell Cancer Trust and MS Society Yeovil and Sherborne Branch 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
Sadly passed away on 5th February, 2026. Dearly loved Husband, Father, Father-In-Law, Step-Father and Grandad Tractor. Private Funeral. A wake and celebration of his life will be held on 6th March.
Donations if desired in memory of Nigel to Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance, or Greyhound Lifeliine.
Peacefully at home in Bagber on 31st January 2026, aged 79 years. Beloved Husband of Moira.
Dearly loved Father of Mark, Victoria and Richard. Loving Grandad, Brother and Father-in-law.
Private committal. Service of Thanksgiving at St. Mary’s Church, Stalbridge on Thursday, 5th March at 2.00pm.
Donations if desired, in memory of Tony for either Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance Trust or British Heart Foundation can be made online at peterjacksonfuneralservices.co.uk
Display ads must be booked by Wednesday the week prior to publication, with final copy submitted by the Friday.
Classified ads may be accepted after this, HOWEVER these will be subject to space.
When your family suffers the loss of a loved one, we are here to support, guide and reassure youevery step of the way
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Newell, Sherborne DT9 4EZ Tel: 01935 813479
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Peel Close, BLANDFORD FORUM Tel: 01258 453133 www.close-funeral.co.uk
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ORGANISERS of this summer’s Great Dorset Chilli Festival, at the Stock Gaylard Estate, near Sturminster Newton, are encouraging entries for its popular chilli plant growing competition.
Seeds, which need to be sown now to be ripe for the festival, are being provided by Sea Spring Seeds, based on the Dorset Coast.
Chilli seed grower Matt Simpson, of Simpson’s Seeds, will be the judge.
It will be providing a limited supply of Rooster Spur chilli seeds, a viciously hot chilli which gives an abundant harvest.
Sea Spring once picked 3,238 chillies off one Rooster Spur plant!
But the competition will be for the best-looking chilli plant rather than for the number of chillies.
The winner of each chilli plant competition class will receive a £50 gift voucher from local instore and online cookware and gardening retailer Harts of Stur, based in Sturminster Newton.
For a copy of the rules and to claim seeds, email info@greatdorset chillifestival.co.uk
The 15th annual festival will showcase some of the best artisan foods from around the region and beyond, plus music, entertainment and competitions.
The festival is on Saturday and Sunday, August 1-2 – to find out more, visit www. greatdorsetchillifestival.co.uk
THIS elegant Rhubarb Fool, perfectly balances nostalgic simplicity with a sophisticated tang. It’s as good to look at as it is to eat.
Rhubarb fool (serves four)
600 grams of rhubarb, chopped 100 grams of caster sugar
300ml of lightly whipped double cream and a tablespoon of good crème fraiche
1 tsp vanilla extract or stem ginger juice
Crushed pistachio nuts for optional garnish or sprig of mint
Method
1 Gently cook down the chopped rhubarb with the granulated sugar for about 5-7 minutes, putting aside 100g of the bright pink rhubarb pieces to garnish the ramekins before serving.
double cream to a lovely soft luxurious consistency –don’t overdo it! – and fold in the thick crème fraiche for a bit of tang!
2 Now add the rhubarb mix to the cream with a metal tablespoon to cut and fold through gently using a half figure of eight, turning the bowl as you go.
Pour into four individual ramekins and put into the fridge for an hour to set. Garnish with a fresh sprig of mint or pistachio pieces for crunch and serve with bright chunks of reserved rhubarb – this gives a clue as to what your guests are about to eat!
3 Serve on a side plate with a teaspoon!
Take off the heat and decant into a clean cold pan or receptacle.
While it is cooling, whip up the
n Annie Austin, Director/Host & Concierge, Somerset Roadtrip. Email catering@ anniedesforges.co.uk; website www. anniedesforges.co.uk; phone: 07834 487381.
by Nicole Asghar
HAVE you ever asked yourself ‘why am I always so tired?’ and explained to people that you can get seven hours of sleep but still feel exhausted?
This might be due to what Dr Kristen Neff, a scientist who researches compassion, calls ‘lopsided caring’ – focusing more on others’ needs than your own.
Lopsided caring was certainly my norm. When I reached burnout, I had to confront the many causes of its development – one of them being an over-focus on others. Add undiagnosed ADHD and a pandemic, and things began unravelling. Yet, I thought I was
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doing the right thing, being selfless, giving to others and trying to reduce their suffering. I couldn’t see how prioritising others above myself was actually causing more harm than good.
Eventually, my body forced me to stop. I went from being a busy therapist, trainer and yoga teacher – yes, the irony is not lost on me! – to being bedridden with migraines, debilitating fatigue and other unpleasant symptoms.
The line from the book We’re Going on A Bear Hunt came to mind – I couldn’t go around burnout, I had to go through it. Once I accepted this, I began applying the advice I’d been
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‘Lopsided caring’ is focusing more on others’ needs than your own
given. Among many approaches, fierce selfcompassion helped shift my state of fatigue and busyness.
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So how is this fierceness different from ‘compassion’? Self-compassion is often gentle and soothing – Dr Neff likens it to soothing a crying child. Fierce self-compassion is the energy of a mama bear protecting her cubs.
When we put others’ needs before our own, or don’t know what our needs are, we risk abandoning ourselves and jeopardising our health. Studies show carers are more likely to miss medical appointments, stop medication, exercise less and eat poorly.
This is where compassion comes in, and the mixture of fierce and gentle selfcompassion. My approach to burnout requires both. The fierceness comes from accepting the uncomfortable reality that
we aren’t living compassionately at all. Compassion is based on the reduction of suffering, and if you are a lopsided carer, sadly, this isn’t happening.
In my next article – available in the issue out on March 27 –we’ll look further into these concepts and explore how fierce self-compassion can be the difference between worsening burnout symptoms or burnout recovery. In the meantime, if this is a topic you’re interested in, Kristen Neff has many wonderful podcasts and books that are very accessible.
If you have any questions, I’d love to hear from you. Feel free to get in touch.
n Nicole Asghar is a Dorsetbased therapist working online and around Bournemouth. Specialising in neurodivergence, trauma and yoga. Get in touch via nicole@ourluminousminds. com or www.nicoleasghar.com
by Dr Susanna Curtin
DESPITE the controversy, I have quite a soft spot for grey squirrels. To quote the ecologist Jason Gilchrist, they are “furry, funny, fast, chubby, whiskered and bushy tailed, expert climbers, nut eaters, and garden acrobats. Their only crime is that they are grey and not red”. As much as I love red squirrels, living here, it is only the greys that I see.
I have three of these defiant beings who regularly visit the ‘squirrel feeders’. For despite my best efforts, I have been unable to persuade these spirited rodents to leave my garden free for the birds. Believe me, I have tried everything to keep them off the feeders, but they have totally outwitted me with their invincible gymnastics and now they have the cheek to completely ignore my shouts, bangs on the window or running at them as fast as I can, while sounding ferocious. They simply retreat a little and sit beyond my reach twitching their voluptuous tails up over their backs, scolding me and staring me out until I tire of the game and go back indoors. At which point, they ‘persuade’ the birds off their feeders and return to fill their bellies with the sunflower seeds. Such wilfulness and determination, I cannot help but admire their audaciousness.
My approbation for them all began during a late February hike with my son on the edge of a Dorset forest. Here we watched a whole gang of grey squirrels squealing loudly and chasing one another as they raced up, down and around tree trunks in a complex game of hide and seek that we could
only admire from afar. Their antics made us laugh, and I think this was my turning point when I realised that grey squirrels, although an ecological disaster, are playful, intelligent and successful creatures worthy of at least some admiration, despite being one of the most controversial, despised and legally culled mammals in the UK.
Although these greys have a lot to answer for, it is worth remembering that it was us who first imported them from North America in 1876, when a pair were released, by wealthy Victorians in Henbury Park in Cheshire, to add an ornamental and exotic feel to their stately gardens. This pair unsurprisingly soon disappeared from sight, after which more were introduced. First to Bushey Park in North London, then to Richmond Park and Regents Park, and then to Woburn in 1890. If that wasn’t enough to upset the ecological balance, there were more
Being opportunistic feeders, they thrive everywhere from urban parks and gardens, woodlands and even city centres. The reds, in contrast, are ‘specialists’ – they are shy and retiring, and nowhere near as visible. They like to stay high up in the trees more than be on the ground, and therefore rely on woodland corridors and continuous canopies, thus avoiding people and predators wherever possible. Unlike the greys, they prefer coniferous forests or plantations where there is larch or spruce, as they are highly adapted to the high energy small seeds found in their pine cones. However, they also need access to mature mixed woodlands for alternative food sources, and it is this that may bring them into direct competition with the greys, which generally seek trees with larger, more calorific seeds such as acorns.
releases all over the country in 1902 and 1929 in order to ‘brighten up’ the English countryside. It was not until 1937 that their import was banned. Ever since then, we have been trying to exterminate them, for they are named in the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s international list of the 100 worst invasive non-native species that not only destroy trees and crops, but have also contributed to the demise of our native red squirrel – which in contrast is a beguiling, dainty creature that is adored by everyone. It is not that the greys hunt down the reds – they are not malicious. Instead, they outcompete them and inadvertently carry a virus called squirrel pox which is harmless to the carrier, but deadly if passed to their more delicate cousins.
Grey squirrels are ‘generalists’. They are bigger and stronger than our native reds and are far more adaptable.
Given that the only animals that hunt grey squirrels are foxes and pine martens, we have become their main predator, and several measures are in place to wage war on this unfortunate invader, especially in the vicinity of red squirrel populations. We kill tens of thousands of them each year by trapping them, poisoning them, shooting them and bludgeoning them to death. In order to save red squirrels, grey squirrels have to die, thus creating a moral tug-of-war between individual animal welfare and protecting a native species. I do not have any answers to this dilemma except to say that many people quite enjoy seeing them in parks and gardens, and if they were all gone, we would likely have no squirrels in the Vale at all given the fragility of the reds and a lack of their preferred habitat. It was not the greys’ choice to come here – they were quite happy in the oak-hickory forests of eastern North America. It’s just another example of the consequences of man’s interference with nature.
“LEADERS have developed an inclusive culture with a clear commitment for all pupils to achieve, belong and thrive,” said schools watchdog Ofsted, following its recent inspection of Sherborne Primary School.
The school has become one of the first in the UK to be inspected under the new Ofsted framework, whereby schools no longer receive a single overall judgement such as ‘Good’ or ‘Outstanding’.
Instead, inspectors issue a report card, grading schools on a five-point scale across eight separate performance areas.
Sherborne Primary met the expected standard in five key areas: attendance and behaviour, early years, inclusion, leadership and governance and personal development and wellbeing, as well as meeting the safeguarding criteria, with inspectors highlighting this as a real strength.
Inspectors praised the school’s positive culture of behaviour, high expectations for attendance, inclusive ethos and ambition for children.
The report said: “Leaders have created a positive culture of behaviour within the school.” It went on: “Pupils at
Sherborne Primary enjoy being part of this caring community. They feel they belong and know they are safe.”
Two areas were identified as ‘needing attention’ –achievement, and curriculum and teaching.
Inspectors recognised that both areas were already priorities within the school’s development plan.
Head of School, Felicity Griffiths, said: “We are extremely pleased that this inspection recognises Sherborne Primary as a safe, inclusive and caring school.
“While we are delighted with the areas where we met the expected standard, we are equally confident about the improvements already under way in achievement and teaching.”
ST NICHOLAS CE Primary
School in Child Okeford has been praised as a community where pupils and adults are flourishing, following a SIAMS (Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools) inspection.
Inspectors praised the school’s strong culture of love, inclusion and dignity, noting that positive relationships are at the heart of the community.
Headteacher Jill Watson said “[The inspector’s] report truly captures the essence of our wonderful school.”
St Nicholas Primary is a member of Sherborne Area School’s Trust (SAST).The report recognised SAST’s bespoke and supportive approach to monitoring and
TOPICS ranged from Herd Mentality to Resident Doctors’ Pay in Shaftesbury Rotary Club’s Youth Speaks competition at Shaftesbury School.
Teams from Shaftesbury School, Gillingham School, The Blandford School and Sturminster Newton High School took part.
The event was divided into two sections – Intermediate, for students aged 11–13; and Senior, for students aged 14-17.
The students argued their points in front of a judging panel of Simon Hoare MP, retired local GP Dr Andrew Weir, retired teacher Julie Turner and town councillor and musician Conor Smith.
They also had to do so in front of an
audience and within a time limit, and fielded questions from a questioner.
The winning team in the Intermediate competition was Phe Crossley, Connie Irwin and Lily Scully from Gillingham School, whose topic was ‘Should We Wear Uniform in Schools?’
The winning team in the Senior Competition was Amelie Hayes, Malak Hammoud and Jasper Davy, also from Gillingham School, whose topic was ‘Should Assisted Dying Be Allowed in the UK?’.
improvement and inspectors noted that Trust and school leaders worked together with courage and compassion, enabling the school to remain focused on inclusion, particularly for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities.
The school’s curriculum was praised for being ambitious and inclusive, underpinned by the school’s Christian values, while collective worship and religious education were recognised as strengths that enrich pupils’ spiritual development and understanding of the world.
Inspectors also commended the school’s strong sense of community, where pupils, staff and families felt supported, valued and nurtured.
The winners progress to the district competition.
Shaftesbury Rotary Club runs Youth
Speaks in partnership with other local Rotary Clubs and with Shaftesbury School. The competition will be run again next year – to find out more or to get involved with Rotary, contact hello@ shaftesburyrotaryclub.org.
by Hannah Waters Southampton 3s 3 Blandford and Sturminster Ladies 2
BLANDFORD Ladies’ long winning run came to an end against a youthful Southampton side, but they remain 8 points clear at the top of South Central Division 3.
The visitors set the press hard from the first whistle on a cold and grey day.
Jenny Smith ran to the 22 and her mother and captain, Linda, swept from the right over to the left post and called for the ball.
Jenny saw Linda was open and made the pass. Linda stopped the ball on her reverse, then switched it and swiped on the reverse hit into the back board of goal.
Blandford managed to win a couple of short corners. Linda took the first with her power hit, but the Southampton defence kept it out.
For the second short corner, Jenny pulled out, Linda took the hit and angled it to the right, taking Southampton by
surprise, and the ball snuck through the defenders’ legs and into goal.
At half-time, Blandford were 2-0 up and it was decided to change to a more defensive formation.
However, Southampton’s young and quick team countered by pushing lots of players higher up the pitch and loading the attack to match Blandford’s defensive change.
This resulted in a converted Southampton short and a slick field goal to level the scores.
The youth of Southampton’s team meant they managed to
by Suzy May
Gillingham Men’s 2s 5
Alton 0
TABLE-TOPPING Gillingham maintained their dominant form with a comprehensive victory over a youthful Alton side.
Alton proved to be a well-matched challenge until
ORGANISERS of The Heron Half Marathon, run by serving members of the Royal Navy Athletics Association, are inviting entries.
The race, which follows the first edition of the event last year, is on Sunday, June 28, and starts and finishes at RNAS Yeovilton.
The route is a fast and flat, taking runners out onto roads surrounding the air station, and so is ideal for first-timers and those chasing a personal best.
Entry is through Eventrac –visit www.eventrac.co.uk and search ‘heron half’. Entries close on Sunday, June 14.
the deadlock was broken at the 25-minute mark.
Thomas Milligan opened the scoring in spectacular fashion, latching onto a pinpoint pass to loop a reverse flick over the goalkeeper.
Gillingham quickly capitalised on their momentum as Matt Lewis struck a clinical
short corner before adding a second from close range to make it 3-0 by half-time.
Alton emerged in the second half with renewed fighting spirit, but the Gillingham defence remained resolute with crucial tackles and interceptions.
A long pass from the
by Avril Lancaster
Shaftesbury 3
Bristol Manor Farm 1
SHAFTESBURY needed two goals in the last 20 minutes to see off a resilient Bristol Manor Farm at Cockrams.
Jim Ward opened the scoring with his first Shaftesbury goal after 16 minutes before Kian Hill levelled with a smart finish 10 minutes before the break.
Hill was superb for the visitors.
Tom Hewlett came on in the second half and set up Lewis Brown to crack in an angled drive to put Shaftesbury ahead.
make some lovely interceptions in the midfield, which saw them get a third goal and put Blandford on the back foot.
The game was paused, however, for about 20 minutes, when one of the Southampton umpires collapsed – he was doing well and being taken good care of the next day.
After moving to a second pitch, Blandford played some wonderful hockey in the final nine minutes, with most of the match played in Southampton’s D, but could not find an equaliser.
opposition’s half found Gary Stevens, who expertly controlled and fired a reverse hit into the back of the net.
Josh Williams completed the rout when he reacted quickest to his own rebound from a shot on goal.
The result ensures Gillingham remain at the top of the South Central Men’s Division 6 South with just four games to play.
WINCANTON Golf Club results.
Hewlett then found Toby Holmes, who laid the ball into the path of Harry Baker to tuck away his 17th goal of the season.
Wincanton seniors roll-up stableford – February 13: Winners – John Westaway/ Kevin Bieda/Tim France/ Andy Blandford – 74 points. Monthly stableford 10 holes – February 15: 1 David Amann 21 ocb, 2 Nigel Orr 21, 3 Richard Czemerda 20. Seniors stableford limited holes – February 17: 1 Tim France 23 ocb, 2 Kees Schouten 23, 3 Kevin Bieda 22 ocb, 4 Andy Blandford 22, 5 Pete Starkey 22.
Seniors roll-up stableford limited holes – February 20: Winners – Kevin George/ John Westaway/Philip Dewar/Rick Graham – 86 points.
by Lynn Broom BVSc, GPCert(ExAP), AdvDipAAB, MRCVS
AS Brits we instinctively want to help animals, particularly those that appear sick or need help. While risks associated with this in the UK are relatively low significant life-threatening infections are associated with animals elsewhere. Our food hygiene standards are also generally higher than many other countries.
There is a current outbreak of Nipah Virus in Asia – currently India but previous outbreaks include Malaysia, The Philippines and Singapore. This is primarily a disease of fruit bats and infection is transferred via direct contact with sick animals and their secretions and via fruit contaminated with their urine, faeces or saliva. This virus has an up to 75% fatality
rate.
Ebola virus originates in African fruit bats but also infects primates and some other mammals. It is spread by contact with secretions and, once infected, humans can transfer it from person to person. Up to 90% of human infections are fatal.
Rabies is an ever present infection in many countries, although significant steps have been taken to reduce its incidence. The dumb form can cause affected wild animals to lose their fear of humans, increasing the risk that humans may pet them. 99% of infections occur from dog bites or scratches but all mammals can become infected. Mortality rate is 100% once symptoms appear but it can be prevented with vaccines and immediate post bite/scratch treatment.
Avian influenza – bird flu – is an ongoing risk. While the current serotype H5N1 is a relatively low risk to humans, previous outbreaks of other serotypes such as H7N9 have caused significant human infections and high mortality in China. The virus readily evolves and the current H5N1 outbreak
has adapted to affect a wider range of species, including cattle in the USA, raising concerns regarding potential food chain exposure and future adaptation.
Bacterial infections not endemic in the UK include Brucellosis and Plague. Brucella in cattle was eradicated in cattle in 1985 although there was an isolated outbreak in 2004 of unknown origin. An upcoming source of Brucella is the import of infected dogs from sites in Europe and the Government is considering control measures. Brucella causes abortion in affected animals, including humans. Plague is relatively rare with only 1,000-2,000 cases being reported worldwide, mainly in Africa, Asia and South America, with sporadic outbreaks being reported.
Parasitic infections include Echinococcus, Toxoplasmosis and Taenia. These infections are common in Eastern Europe and infection is often transferred in undercooked meat. Echinococcus and Taenia are types of tapeworm and food hygiene controls in the UK make them relatively rare here. Toxoplasmosis is present in the UK and is typically spread in cat faeces but in other countries it is a significant health risk and is spread though undercooked meat, particularly lamb, pork and venison. It can cause abortion in pregnant women. It is recommended that you take simple precautions and remember that the risks here may be different to the countries we are visiting and act accordingly.
by Raychel Curson
YOU open the door to greet a guest, and before you can say ‘hello’, your dog launches themselves at them like a furry missile of excitement. Sound familiar? If your dog loves jumping on people, you’re definitely not alone – and don’t worry, your pup isn’t being rude or naughty on purpose.
Why dogs jump
Jumping is usually a friendly behaviour. Dogs jump up because they’re excited, they want attention or they’ve learned that jumping gets a reaction – even if it’s a frustrated one. To your dog, jumping is just their way of saying, ‘I’m so happy to see you!’ Unfortunately, not everyone appreciates muddy paw prints on their clothes. Tips to stop the jumping
Ignore the jump, reward the calm
As hard as it is, turn away and avoid eye contact when your dog jumps, act disinterested. The moment all four paws are on the floor, reward them with praise or a treat on the floor. This teaches them that calm behaviour gets attention – not jumping. You can even mark the moment they are on the floor with a ‘YES’ before giving them a treat
Teach a new ‘greetings’ rule
Ask your dog to sit before anyone pets them, or touch cue before their get attention. Consistency is key here. Practise with friends
Recruit patient friends or family members to help you practise calm greetings. Repetition helps your dog understand what’s expected.
Burn off extra energy
A dog with pent-up energy is more likely to jump. Walks, playtime and mental games can work wonders.
What not to do
Don’t yell or push your dog away: Even negative attention can feel like a reward to an excited dog. Yelling or pushing may also make them anxious or more jumpy.
Don’t be inconsistent: Letting your dog jump sometimes but not others sends mixed signals. Everyone in the household should follow the same rules – at least until they learn not to jump as a default.
Don’t punish after the fact: If you scold your dog seconds after they jump, they won’t understand why. Dogs learn best in the moment.
Stopping jumping isn’t about punishment – it’s about teaching better manners with patience and love. With consistency, positive reinforcement and a little humour, your dog will learn to greet people politely. And one day, you’ll open the door to a calm, wagging tail instead of a flying furball.
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
,5 and 7 Diagnostics
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2016 (65) Audi A5 Coupe 1.8TFSi S Line Nav 2dr. Sat nav, parking sensors, cruise control, leather, heated seats, road sign assist, Bluetooth, auto lights & wipers, hill holder, 92,900 miles £7950
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
2019 (19) Mitsubishi ASX 1.6 Juro 5dr. Medium sized SUV, high seating & ground clearance, big boot, reverse camera, heated seats, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, Bluetooth, hill holder, 82,500 miles £8450
2019 (19) Citroen Grand C4 Space Tourer 2.0HDi Flair Automatic 7 Seat MPV 5dr. 7 seats, flat fold seats, high seating, big boot, sat nav, park sensors, reverse camera, sunroof, electric tailgate, massage seats, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, hill holder, road sign assist, collision safety systems, 59,500 miles ..................................................................................................£12450
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2018 (18) Fiat Panda 4x4 0.9T Twin Air 5dr. Rugged 4-wheel drive, good ground clearance, Bluetooth, hill holder, city steering switch for extra light steering when needed, great performance & economy, 50,600 miles £8950
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
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2018 (18) Kia Ceed 1.6CRDi GT-Line 5dr. Sat Nav, reverse camera, parking sensors, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, hill holder, road sign assist, Bluetooth, 60+mpg, 46,500 miles £9650
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
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2023 (23) Volkswagen T-Cross 1.0TSi Black Edition 5dr. High seats, park sensors, auto lights & wipers, collision safety systems, Bluetooth, hill holder, sliding rear seats, adjustable boot floor, 21,800 miles £15950
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 WE BUY CARS & VANS SO IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING TO SELL GIVE US A CALL, WE PAY GOOD PRICES & CONSIDER MOST VEHICLES
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£12250
career and grow with the business.
This is a full time position with working hours of 0700 - 1715 Monday to Thursday, with the benefit of a four day week. Occasional overtime is available as required and is paid at time plus 50%. Competitive salary dependant upon experience. If you are interested in this role, we would be delighted to discuss your application. andy@technicaltubes.com |
GARDENER AVAILABLE – 1 FULL DAY PER WEEK
(South of Sherborne)
Gardener seeking a regular customer who could use a full day or more of garden care each week. Garden maintenance, plant propagation, growing vegetables.
Clive: 01935 872203 or 07709 092610
jobseekers and employers
The Role:
BCA Automotive is looking for a Vehicle Fabricator / Semi Skilled to join our team at our Henstridge Depot.
You will be responsible for ongoing repairs and modifications to our existing fleet, with occasional.
Involvement in larger fabrication projects. Reporting to the Head of VMU Operations.
Your key responsibilities will include:
Fabricating steel components
Welding steel and aluminium (various thicknesses and grades)
Grinding, cutting and carrying out structural repairs
• Ensuring compliance with company Health & Safety standards
Maintaining a clean, organised and safe working environment
About You:
Previous experience repairing/fabricating truck bodies and trailers
Time served / qualified welder-fabricator
MIG welding experience (essential)
Strong verbal and written communication skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Full UK Driving Licence
Apply Now:
If you have the skills and experience, we’re looking for, we’d love to hear from you. Apply today and become part of the BCA Automotive team.
Contact Details - For application forms, please contact below: Clive Bellamy - 07648 02118 clive.bellamy@bca.com
PA/CARER FOR BUSY WOMAN in wheelchair, two days a week plus periodic weekends (morning only). Flexibility and cheerfulness needed! Tisbury area. 07790-524241
HEAD HOUSEKEEPER VACANCY. Minterne House, Minterne Magna, Dorset DT2 7AU. Monday to Friday. Minimum 4 hours daily; subject to increase. For details contact enquiries@minterne.co.uk
FULL TIME LIVE IN CARER WANTED for elderly lady near Tisbury. Nursing experience an advantage. Must be driver, non-smoker, DBS, experienced, excellent references. Other staff, no cleaning, some cooking, time off covered by relief carer. Need to be fit and well, a lot of up and down stairs. Permanent position, rotation of carers possible. 07810-481481
WANTED EXPERIENCED LANDSCAPERS to join our team. Positions from Labourer through to highly skilled, to work on prestigious contracts through Dorset. Previous experience required and references. 07792-892999.
Tiler/Plasterer
Floor & wall tiling/plastering.
Experience in other general building items an advantage. Employed/self-employed.
Full time/part time.
Please apply through our Office:
T: 01963 824444 E: info@hhpltd.co.uk W: builders-south-west.co.uk
Montgomery Cheese, North Cadbury, Somerset
An excellent opportunity has arisen to join our team, making cheese in Somerset. We are looking for someone full time, to work alongside our dedicated and enthusiastic team who make our internationally renowned, award winning cheese.
You will be responsible for assisting in the day to day production of both cheddar and Ogleshield with the opportunity to grow and develop new dairy products within the business.
Cheese making experience is not essential as full training will be given to the successful candidate. A food hygiene certificate would be preferred but not required.
A high attention to detail and positive work ethic is a must for this role. Heavy lifting is part of the job, so you will need to be physically fit and capable with a high standard of hygiene and cleanliness.
We are offering a competitive salary with a company pension.
Please apply with your CV to office@montgomeryscheddar.co.uk
by AJ Selby
‘Water, water everywhere nor any drop to drink?’ – Samuel Taylor Coleridge, The Rime of the Ancient Mariner
WHAT an astonishing, and soggy, start to the year with rain every day from the beginning of January to the middle of February, as I write. Mild, of course, but I do prefer a proper winter, cold and dry for a spell, a chance of some bright winter sunshine and a fair share of rain, but the growing trend seems to be of wet, mild and overcast, which doesn’t lift my mood.
In early February we booked a bird-watching boat trip up the Exe estuary from Exmouth, some three hours gently motoring up one side and back down the other of this very wide body of water. As it’s tidal, you can see the confluence of salt and fresh water mixing on the ebb and flow, and the exposure and covering of various sandbars out in the middle and sandbanks along the shoreline.
The trip was enjoyable in a relaxing way even for nonbirders, but the fabulous mix of waders, wildfowl and birds of prey meant we always had something to watch through our binoculars. There were, of course, lots of common species
such as black-headed, great black-backed, herring and common gulls, cormorant and shag, and brent geese, but no less enjoyable for their abundance.
Probing the mud with bills of different lengths to search for different species of invertebrate food were lots of waders, including as many avocets as I have ever seen in one place. These birds were once quite rare and became the symbol of the RSPB when colonies were protected at the RSPB Minsmere reserve in Suffolk over half a century ago. I had rarely seen them in flight, so to watch small flocks of 20 or 30 take off as the boat passed them was a real treat. Their wing and body patterns in the air of just black and white against a dull grey sky was quite enchanting. Across the mud flats we saw solitary shelduck and curlew, which was in contrast to the flocks of dunlin, oystercatcher and redshank – the latter whirling away as we got close in a skittish formation, their trill warning call floating over the water. I have always loved oystercatchers with their smart black and white plumage –black on top and white underneath – making them look
by Tria Stebbing
IT feels a bit like spring outside – one day last week the sun actually put in an appearance! How lovely to see the cows on the hill enjoying the warmth on their backs for one day. Belle is now uncomfortably with calf and spends her days chewing cud, waiting, as are we. Babybel has gone off to his new farm, behaving so well and getting into the trailer without
like a correct butler. Their bright red arrow-straight bill and pink legs the only colour contrast, and they too cry peep-peep as they take off in alarm.
From time to time a bird would pass the boat swimming away from us as though on a mission – a red-breasted merganser and we saw several. At the far end of the estuary, we watched a goldeneye diving and resurfacing, and not far away a pair of great-crested grebes. On our return we noticed more waders in the mud, including common sandpiper, greenshank, knot and lapwing, as well as both bar-tailed and black-tailed godwits.
The boat trip is comfortable with an open upstairs – outside – deck and a warmer but no less agreeable lower deck with a small cafe. The craft chugs along at a genteel pace giving viewers ample time to watch the birdlife and note the species seen. There is a running commentary from the bridge with an experienced birder spotting the various birds and where to look, the overview of the boat being described as a clock with noon straight ahead, 9 o’clock to port, 3 o’clock to starboard and other points on
the clock-face also indicated. This meant that watchers could switch from one side of the boat to the other to see a particular species.
It was all very well run but not even the crew could have anticipated the highlight just before the halfway point in the journey. We were watching a flock of avocets, some 40 or more in number, just 30 yards from the starboard side where we were sitting, feeding on an exposed sandbar when suddenly and without warning they took to the skies in some confusion. What they had seen but we hadn’t, was a peregrine falcon hurtling towards them out of the dark of the trees on the riverbank. It flew into the midst of the flock as they swung behind the boat just 20 yards from us, the peregrine twisting and turning to try to grab a bird in its talons. On this occasion the falcon came away empty handed but what a sight that was to see this wonderful predator spearing into a flock and so close to us observers.
For anyone who loves birdlife I heartily recommend a trip to Exmouth on a prebooked winter birding cruise. Nearly 30 species seen and a wonderful, relaxing afternoon.
fuss. He was greeted at his new home by his new field friends and gave us a happy goodbye as he trotted off to explore his new surroundings.
The ground remains waterlogged and it will be interesting to see how the grass recovers. As much as we are trying not to walk or keep the animals on it, it remains a challenge to navigate.
The grass can survive for 21
days but will be stressed, which impacts on the growing swards. Grass without oxygen will die and will need reseeding. The sheep can graze in small flocks, so cause less impact, not so the cows. Farming jobs that take minutes usually have become slapstick comedy moments, it is
Belle and Sebastian look on as Babybel leaves the field
hoped not to be repeated.
We keep our animals on a very steep hillside during the winter and slipping over has become a thing. Belle and Sebastian live at the top of the hill but as soon as they spy us bringing their hay, run down to Continued on page 72
by Ruth Kimber
FEBRUARY fill dyke! The January rainfall figure was 7.53in but in 2014 it was 8.7in – those years apart, the 12-year average is 3.92in.
In 2014 it went on to be a wet February with 8.02in of rain and an annual figure of 47.74in, 7 inches more than average. Last year, 2025, we recorded 32.34 inches.
As verges have not started growing and hedge trimming is still permitted – the season for hedge cutting is September 1 to the February 28 – sites of discarded rubbish are all too obvious.
So, too, are the sites where people have adopted an area to clear it away.
Some say putting out the bins can add to rubbish, as it can blow about, and that bin men sometimes spill it putting it in their lorry.
However, as evidence to the contrary, a bin lorry was seen
reversing and one of the crew getting out to retrieve spilt rubbish with a dustpan and brush. Well done those men, thank you!
The first of our autumn-born calves are now weaned and returned to the farm.
At a few days old, when they have had time to adjust to their food, their navels are dry and a general health check is passed, they leave the farm and go to a specialist calf rearer.
This has proved a good system – the calves thrive and grow and receive undivided attention and specialist care. They return to our farm, dehorned, vaccinated and completely weaned, ready for their next stage.
Paul and I like to get out for a walk, and while on a walk this week we spotted frogs’ spawn in a puddle.
Farm machinery will soon be parked outside the workshop for a service, ready for work in spring – when it stops raining and the land dries up enough to travel – although at the moment that seems a long way off.
It almost certainly won’t reach maturity but will provide lunch for something else!
Coping with dirty water, slurry and farmyard manure is a challenge for everyone who has cattle. Regulations to adhere to and weather
conditions make it tough. Producing food for the nation is the game, however financial restraints – in our case, milk price – and changing weather patterns, have made this doubly difficult.
We still believe in grass-fed, grazed cattle, but understand why many herds are housed all year round, where the extremes of the weather are not such a problem.
Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.
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2024 SMALL BALE HAY. 01258-820062
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GRAZING FOR DAIRY YOUNGSTOCK or Aberdeen Angus wanted. For the summer of 2026 near Wincanton. 07812-009364
CARAVAN REMOVAL SERVICE, old, unwanted caravans, cars, trailers, vans, etc. Garden machinery, tractors, scrap metal. Yard, garden, garage removal clearances undertaken, dismantling and gas cutting service. Please call 01935-873169 or 07368-380477
SHIPPING CONTAINERS FOR SALE / HIRE Tel: 01258 472288 Mob: 07977 936109 New and second hand containers - blue/green - all with box locks
GRAZING WANTED for sheep between Salisbury and Shaftesbury 07786-261967
BARN STORAGE 35’x40’. Ideal for tractors/cars collection. (No breakers/ mechanics/boy racers or junks) Located 6miles Blandford. Phone 07485-270366
CONCRETE GROOVING, Mobile Grain Crimping and dry rolling Service. Cowco Southern. Call Ted: 07970-965040
Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.
Grass flail and scrub flail available for the management of scrub, brambles, grass etc.
Working on slopes of up to 50 degrees with operator.
All types of Calves/Stirks TB restricted no problem Prompt response Best prices paid Same day payment Tel: 07956965688
Display ads must be booked by Wednesday the week prior to publication, with final copy submitted by the Friday.
Classified ads may be accepted after this, HOWEVER these will be subject to space.
by Tom Clarke, clinical director, Synergy Farm Health 2025 situation
THE 2025 Bluetongue season saw a significant rise in cases, driven overwhelmingly by Bluetongue strain BTV 3. By January 2026, a total of 272 cases had been confirmed since July 2025. Most English cases were BTV 3, with only isolated cases of strain BTV 8. Cases continued to emerge through late 2025 and early January 2026, with a large proportion of infections from overwintered virus multiplying up and recirculating. Infections increased later in the season due to the hot, dry summer being less favourable to midges, which only increased in number and activity in the wetter, less hot autumn period.
Infections from incursions of midges carrying the virus from Europe to the UK occurred mainly in the far south west and east of the country. Monitoring of clinically unaffected herds has shown varied results – 28% of herds in Somerset and Dorset had animals which had been exposed to the virus. This rose to 61% in Devon and 70% in Cornwall.
The take home message is that there is considerable variation in immunity between herds. On farms that have not vaccinated there is a real mixture of exposed and unexposed animals.
WHILE we cannot predict the weather for 2026, we know that there is a significant level of background virus circulating
within the UK. If climatic conditions in 2026 are more favourable for midges –compared to the hot, dry summer of 2025 – we can expect to see more BTV infections and earlier in the season. In addition, overall risk of further incursions of midges from the EU to the UK has been raised to medium level, so the potential for new infection arriving is also still a major factor to consider.
Vaccine uptake was relatively high in our region, and major outbreaks of milk drop in dairy herds and deaths/abortions in sheep flocks were minimal as a result. Given the risks in 2026 for BTV infection are the same or higher than in 2025, our advice continues to be to vaccinate to protect your livestock.
Continued from page 69
greet us. We have had some hilarious moments as they apply the brakes, skidding to a halt inches away from catastrophe – the fence!
The sheep graze like walking sponges, the lanolin in their coats providing a degree of protection. They too have enjoyed the brief window of dry weather.
Now looking pregnant we await with excitement what nature will provide us with. The Zwartbles ram crossed with the Dutch Spotted ewes should provide us with some very cute lambs this year. So pleased we went for late lambing.
Sheep management remains a priority with injecting the pregnant ewes against clostridial diseases such as Pasteurella, pulpy kidney and dysentery. This is given as an annual injection six weeks before birth to maintain
The licence for booster doses of the vaccine is currently undergoing authorisation, but trials show a reduction in clinical signs for 12 months and that an annual booster will extend protection for another year. For cattle, this means a single dose booster –compared to the two dose primary course – and for sheep, a single dose will also be effective as a booster.
Our Bluetongue webinar held in early February proved of interest to many clients and was a great success. A large number of farmers tuned in to hear the latest advice on vaccination, thoughts on the outbreak in 2025 and what is anticipated for 2026.
If you missed the webinar, you can watch by scanning the QR code with this article.
immunity and provide high levels of antibodies which can be passed on to the lambs via the first colostrum and milk.
We have struggled in recent years to buy the vaccine as it has been in short supply. Locally, we have formed a network of owners that pass on the precious opened bottle, as once opened it has to be used within hours. That farm vehicle you are following may well have a grubby cool pack wrapped around the precious vaccine on board, that has taken months to source because of shortages. Never a dull moment.
The mammoth hedge laying season is almost over now and the billhook once again will be cleaned off and sharpened, before being lovingly wrapped in its old bit of rag and put away. Bluebells will emerge from the base of the hedges that have lain dormant for many years, but with the new level of light, can now grow. It is marvellous how nature adapts to its ever-changing surroundings.
Spring might seem a while off yet after January’s stormy weather, but this is a good time to check your farm machinery is ready for the year ahead. Tractors, loaders, telehandlers and trailers need to be in a safe, reliable condition before workloads increase and time becomes more limited.
Farm vehicles and machinery continue to be a major cause of serious injury and fatalities on farm, particularly being hit by a moving vehicle. It is a stark reminder of the risks associated with everyday tasks when equipment is not properly maintained or used correctly.
Regular maintenance and servicing are essential in keeping vehicles safe and roadworthy, whether they are operating in the yard or travelling on public roads. Even machines used for short or routine jobs should be checked before use, as small faults can lead to serious consequences.
There are also simple, practical steps that can help improve day-to-day safety. Always ensure that the operator has had appropriate training before using the machinery. Wearing seatbelts, even for short journeys within the farm, and following the ‘Safe Stop’ procedure
whenever leaving a vehicle or when someone approaches machinery are important habits.
Trailers also need careful consideration. Those over 750kg should be fitted with working brakes and serviced regularly, while implements and attachments should always be lowered to the ground when not in use.
For those seeking further support, Cornish Mutual offers a dedicated Farm Health & Safety Service. Through on-farm visits, risk assessments and practical, tailored guidance, the service helps identify hazards, improve safety standards and support compliance in a way that is realistic and manageable.
To learn more about Cornish Mutual’s Health & Safety service and the support available, visit www.cornishmutual.co.uk/what-we-do/health-and-safety
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.
Friday 20th June
Friday 20th June
STANDING STRAW AUCTION
STANDING STRAW AUCTION
Saturday 7th March at 10.00am Higher Wooth Farm, Wooth, Bridport, DT6 5LE
Gomershay Farm, Stalbridge, Sturminster Newton
Gomershay Farm, Stalbridge, Sturminster Newton
ON-FARM AUCTION
Dispersal Sale of 3 Tractors, Farm Machinery & Livestock Equipment
Wednesday 28th June at 6.30pm
Genuine Dispersal of 2 Tractors, Telehandler, 24:24 Parlour, Poly-Tunnel, Grassland & Livestock Equipment, Workshop Items, etc
Wednesday 28th June at 6.30pm Bindon & Pinhay
Thursday 17th October at 11.00am Silverlake Farm, Sherborne, DT9 6SN
Thursday 17th October at 11.00am Silverlake Farm, Sherborne, DT9 6SN
Thursday 17th October at 11.00am Silverlake Farm, Sherborne, DT9 6SN
Genuine Dispersal of 2 Tractors, Telehandler, 24:24 Parlour, Poly-Tunnel, Grassland & Livestock Equipment, Workshop Items, etc
Wednesday 28th June at 6.30pm Bindon & Pinhay
Thursday 17th October at 11.00am Silverlake Farm, Sherborne, DT9 6SN
Bindon & Pinhay
The Grain Store, Heathfield, Rousdon, Dorset
830ac of Standing Straw
The Grain Store, Heathfield, Rousdon, Dorset 830ac of Standing Straw
Genuine Dispersal of Combine, Self Propelled Sprayer, 4 Tractors, 2 JCB Telehandlers, Forklift, Pick-Up, Arable Machinery & Livestock Equipment
Genuine Dispersal of Combine, Self Propelled Sprayer, 4 Tractors, 2 JCB Telehandlers, Forklift, Pick-Up,
Genuine Dispersal of Combine, Self Propelled Sprayer,
4 Tractors, 2 JCB Telehandlers, Forklift, Pick-Up, Arable Machinery & Livestock Equipment
Claas Lexion 650
The Grain Store, Heathfield, Rousdon, Dorset 461ac Wheat 132ac Oats
Including: Case JXU 105 with Case LRZ120 Loader, Ford 5610 with Chilton MX460 Loader, Ford 4000, Krone KW103-22 Vendro 470 4 Rotor Tedder (21) Kverneland PS04 Fertiliser Spreader, Kidd 280 Rotary Topper, Marshall MS75 Rotor Spreader, Marshall S6 Dropside Trailer, Slewtic Bale Squeeze, Bale Spike, Bateman Cattle Crush, Raised Cattle Feeders, Sheep Hurdles, 2 x Pig Arcs, etc
461ac Wheat
• 461ac Wheat
• 461ac Wheat
• 237ac Winter Barley
• 237ac Winter Barley
• 132ac Oats
• 132ac Oats
132ac Oats
Introduced: MF 690 Multipower, 1936 Fordson Model N, Kuhn single Rotor Rake, Claas Liner 390 S Rake, Kuhn Fertiliser Spreader, Redrock 1.6m Shear Grab, HiSpec 800 Muckspreader
Friday 30th June at 12 noon Durweston
Friday 30th June at 12 noon
Friday 30th June at 12 noon
Durweston
Travellers Rest Farm, Durweston, Blandford, Dorset
2026 is off to a flying start for Symonds & Sampson’s Agricultural Auctions department., with online listings proving to be invaluable for both marketing lots to a national and even international audience.
Travellers Rest Farm, Durweston, Blandford, Dorset
2021 Merlo TF 42.7 CS Turbo Farmer (2,690hrs), 2010 Case Puma 140 (10,939hrs), International 674 with Loader, 24:24 Fullwood Afimilk Parlour, Cotswold Flush, Fullwood Auger Master Feeders, Ambic Teat Sprayer, 2000 Fullwood 12,500ltr Fabdec Bulk Tank, ND Jeanes 15t Bulk Bin, Rowlands 20t High Discharge Bin, Mollasses Tank & Stand, 2018 Anka Pro Foot Trimming Crush, 2010 Marshall QM2 Silage Trailer, 2005 Joskin 11000ME Slurry Tanker, 2017 Keenan VA2-18 Feeder Wagon, 2020 Aerworxx 10-30m Aerator, Lely Splendimo 280F Mower, 2012 Pottinger Lion 301 3m Power Harrow, Browns Flail Topper, 2002 Major 700 Road Brush, Ifor Williams TA510G Livestock Trailer, 2021 Merlo 8ft Bucket, Wylie Shear Grab, 25ft Single Axle Bale Trailer, Single Leg Mole Plough, Teagle Tomahawk 4040 Bale Shredder, Mixit PTO Lagoon Stirrer, Quicke 210 Loader Bucket, Logic Contact 200 Weed Wiper, 2009 Joskin 4300/209SDH Shallow Disc
Travellers Rest Farm, Durweston, Blandford, Dorset 6,220 acres of Standing Straw
6,220 acres of Standing Straw
1997 527-58 Telehandlers, 2010 Isuzu Rodeo Pick-Up, Doosan Pro5 18 Forklift, McConnel 8.2m & 6.3m Cambridge Rollers, Twose & Watson 10’ Tandem Rollers, KRM Sola Ares 2713 Drill, Vaderstad NZ 6m Cultivator, Kuhn HR 4004 Hyd. Folding
• 2,006ac Winter Barley
• 2,006ac Winter Barley
Master 153 5f Rev Plough, McConnel 3m Shakerator, Kverneland TL Geospread Fertiliser Spreader, McConnel Magnum Euro 280 Hyd Offset Topper, Bomford
Euro 280
2017 Claas Lexion 650 Combine with Vario 770 Header, Shelbourne Reynolds RSD20 Stripper Header, 2011 Bateman RB17 (3,708hrs) Sprayer, 2019 Massey Ferguson 7720S Dyna6 (2,320hrs) & 7718 Dyna6 (2,880hrs), 2016 New Holland T7.210 (3,610hrs) & T7.200 (4,365hrs) Tractors, 2012 JCB 531-70 (2,145hrs) & 1997 527-58 Telehandlers, 2010 Isuzu Rodeo Pick-Up, Doosan Pro5 18 Forklift, McConnel 8.2m & 6.3m Cambridge Rollers, Twose & Watson 10’ Tandem Rollers, KRM Sola Ares 2713 Drill, Vaderstad NZ 6m Cultivator, Kuhn HR 4004 Hyd. Folding Power Harrow, KV DXA 4.7m Trailed Discs, KV LD85 5f Rev Plough, Kuhn VariMaster 153 5f Rev Plough, McConnel 3m Shakerator, Kverneland TL Geospread Fertiliser Spreader, McConnel Magnum Euro 280 Hyd Offset Topper, Bomford Hawk 6m Hedgecutter, Kuhn FC313 TG Mower Conditioner, 2 x Stewart 16-21L Grain Trailers, Marshall BC25 Bale Trailer, Cattle Hurdles, Attachments (Q-Fit), Machine Spares, Workshop Items, Weights, etc.
2017 Claas Lexion 650 Combine with Vario 770 Header, Shelbourne Reynolds RSD20 Stripper Header, 2011 Bateman RB17 (3,708hrs) Sprayer, 2019 Massey Ferguson 7720S Dyna6 (2,320hrs) & 7718 Dyna6 (2,880hrs), 2016 New Holland T7.210 (3,610hrs) & T7.200 (4,365hrs) Tractors, 2012 JCB 531-70 (2,145hrs) & 1997 527-58 Telehandlers, 2010 Isuzu Rodeo Pick-Up, Doosan Pro5 18 Forklift, McConnel 8.2m & 6.3m Cambridge Rollers, Twose & Watson 10’ Tandem Rollers, KRM Sola Ares 2713 Drill, Vaderstad NZ 6m Cultivator, Kuhn HR 4004 Hyd. Folding Power Harrow, KV DXA 4.7m Trailed Discs, KV LD85 5f Rev Plough, Kuhn VariMaster 153 5f Rev Plough, McConnel 3m Shakerator, Kverneland TL Geospread Fertiliser Spreader, McConnel Magnum Euro 280 Hyd Offset Topper, Bomford Hawk 6m Hedgecutter, Kuhn FC313 TG Mower Conditioner, 2 x Stewart 16-21L Grain Trailers, Marshall BC25 Bale Trailer, Cattle Hurdles, Attachments (Q-Fit), Machine Spares, Workshop Items, Weights, etc.
KRM Sola Ares 2713 Drill, Vaderstad NZ 6m Cultivator, Kuhn HR 4004 Hyd. Folding Power Harrow, KV DXA 4.7m Trailed Discs, KV LD85 5f Rev Plough, Kuhn Vari-
We have recently conducted entire dispersal sales online rather than on-site, with impressive results. Auctioneer George Russo reports that, in an Online Sale, an unreserved piece of machinery or vehicle is more appealing to prospective purchasers as it is portrayed to be more genuine, being sold directly from the farm.
2021 Merlo TF 42.7 CS Turbo Farmer (2,690hrs), 2010 Case Puma 140 (10,939hrs), International 674 with Loader, 24:24 Fullwood Afimilk Parlour, Cotswold Flush, Fullwood Auger Master Feeders, Ambic Teat Sprayer, 2000 Fullwood 12,500ltr Fabdec Bulk Tank, ND Jeanes 15t Bulk Bin, Rowlands 20t High Discharge Bin, Mollasses Tank & Stand, 2018 Anka Pro Foot Trimming Crush, 2010 Marshall QM2 Silage Trailer, 2005 Joskin 11000ME Slurry Tanker, 2017 Keenan VA2-18 Feeder Wagon, 2020 Aerworxx 10-30m Aerator, Lely Splendimo 280F Mower, 2012 Pottinger Lion 301 3m Power Harrow, Browns Flail Topper, 2002 Major 700 Road Brush, Ifor Williams TA510G Livestock Trailer, 2021 Merlo 8ft Bucket, Wylie Shear Grab, 25ft Single Axle Bale Trailer, Single Leg Mole Plough, Teagle Tomahawk 4040 Bale Shredder, Mixit PTO Lagoon Stirrer, Quicke 210 Loader Bucket, Logic Contact 200 Weed Wiper, 2009 Joskin 4300/209SDH Shallow Disc Injector, Feed Trailer, Large Quantity of Electric Fencing Stakes, Reels & Fencers, Quantity of Feed Troughs, Various Feed Buckets, Mobile Milker, Hook on Buckets, Wydale Teat Feeders, Parlour Matting, Parlour Fans, Calftel Group Hutches, Various Field & Yard Gates, 32mm Water Pipe, Parlour Spares, Quantity of Astro Turf, Emergency Bulk Tank, Concrete Water Troughs, 60ft x 30ft Poly Tunnels. Further entries invited.
Injector, Feed Trailer, Large Quantity of Electric Fencing Stakes, Reels & Fencers, Quantity of Feed Troughs, Various Feed Buckets, Mobile Milker, Hook on Buckets, Wydale Teat Feeders, Parlour Matting, Parlour Fans, Calftel Group Hutches, Various Field & Yard Gates, 32mm Water Pipe, Parlour Spares, Quantity of Astro Turf, Emergency Bulk Tank, Concrete Water Troughs, 60ft x 30ft Poly Tunnels. Further entries invited.
1,557ac Spring Barley
• 1,557ac Spring Barley
• 1,557ac Spring Barley
Offset Topper, Bomford Hawk 6m Hedgecutter, Kuhn FC313 TG Mower Conditioner, 2 x Stewart 16-21L
1,557ac Spring Barley 37ac Oil Seed Rape
37ac Oil Seed Rape
Grain Trailers, Marshall BC25 Bale Trailer, Cattle Hurdles, Attachments (Q-Fit),
37ac Oil Seed Rape
On behalf of Mr Bill Samways (Retiring)
Friday 7th July at 12 noon Wynford Eagle
Friday 7th July at 12 noon Wynford Eagle
Friday 7th July at 12 noon Wynford Eagle Dorset
Thursday 12th March at 10.00am Bishops Court Farm, Fluxton, Ottery St Mary, EX11 1RJ
“Comprehensive listings include photos and videos, providing a reassuringly full description of the lots, providing ‘buyer confidence’ which has been reflected both in terms of numerical value, and also in terms of bidders being located from a far wider field than would be expected to attend a sale in person.
The Grain Store, Manor Farm, Wynford Eagle, Dorchester, Dorset 1298 acres of Standing Straw
Friday 7th July at 12 noon Dorset 1298 acres of Standing Straw
The Grain Store, Manor Farm, Wynford Eagle, Dorchester, Dorset 1298 acres of Standing Straw
Dispersal Sale of Tractor, Excavator, Gator, Farm Machinery & Livestock Equipment
•
• 599ac Wheat
599ac Wheat
• 599ac Wheat
• 281ac Winter Barley
281ac Winter Barley
281ac Winter Barley 119ac Spring Barley
• 119ac Spring Barley 229ac Oats
• 119ac Spring Barley
119ac Spring Barley
• 229ac Oats
Including: New Holland T5.105 with Quicke Q46 Loader (17), Case IH 580 Super R Excavator (06), John Deere XUV865M Gator (24), Ritchie Combi Clamp fitted to 2023 Transport Trailer, Pottinger 4 Rotor Tedder, Muthing MU-L 280 offset Flail Topper (21), Claas Disco 2650 Disc Mower, Portequip 10t Bale Trailer (21), Marshall BC18 Bale Trailer, Bailey TAG Grain Trailer, Ifor Williams GX106 10’ x 6’ Plant Trailer, Ifor Williams LT105G 10’ Flat Bed Trailer, Rotowiper 2.5m Weed Wiper, 2 x Ifor Williams Livestock Trailers, IAE Sheep Scales, Ritchie Sheep Handling Equipment, John Shepherd Box Feeder & Feed Barriers, Bateman Cattle Crush, Feed Troughs, Gates, etc.
“Although Online Timed Auctions have their place and can still achieve good prices for our Vendors, we still firmly believe that a hybrid onsite auction with online bidding offers the full package and will our first option when a Vendor comes to us with a dispersal sale.”
70ac Oil Seed Rape
• 70ac Oil Seed Rape
Full catalogues available at symondsandsampson.co.uk
behalf of John Swain Limited (Retiring)
Full catalogues available at symondsandsampson.co.uk ON-FARM DISPERSAL AUCTION
Introduced: New Holland TS110 SLE, David Brown 995, Teagle SX3000 Fertiliser Spreader, Kverneland NG-S 100 3m Power Harrow On behalf A & D Carter (Ceasing the Partnership)
Symonds & Sampson looks forward to several significant on-site dispersal sales at farms in Hampshire, Devon, Somerset, and Dorset this Spring, as well as the South Dorset Collective Sale on 19th March and a new Axminster Collective Sale in May. Further collective sales are in the pipeline, planned for the New Forest in the Summer.
bidding available Contact Greg Ridout: 01935 382909 / 07817 517467
ON-FARM DISPERSAL AUCTION
Pinhay and Bindon – The Grain Store, Heathfield, Rousdon
Pinhay and Bindon – The Grain Store, Heathfield, Rousdon
The Agricultural Auctions team, Greg Ridout, Paul Heard, James Morrish, Harriet Andrews and George hold regular onsite livestock auctions, fodder sales, and sales of standing crops. If you have any machinery, equipment or items to sell, irrespective of size or location, they would be pleased to assist. Please contact George on 07494 588013.
Approx. 1,000ac of Standing Straw
Approx. 1,000ac of Standing Straw
Saturday 29th July
Saturday 29th July
Saturday 29th July
Buckham Down Farm, Beaminster DT8 3SH
Buckham Down Farm, Beaminster DT8 3SH
Friday 27th June
Friday 27th June
Pinhay and Bindon – The Grain Store, Heathfield, Rousdon Approx. 8,5000ac of Standing Straw
Pinhay and Bindon – The Grain Store, Heathfield, Rousdon Approx. 8,5000ac of Standing Straw
Dispersal sale of 4 Tractors, Farm Machinery, Bygones and Miscellaneous
Online Auction closing from 7pm Tuesday 3rd March
Dispersal sale of 4 Tractors, Farm Machinery, Bygones and Miscellaneous
Dispersal sale of 4 Tractors, Farm Machinery, Bygones and Miscellaneous
Including: 4 Tractors, 2 Diggers, Mule, Quad, Farm Machinery, Cattle Handling Equipment, Palax Log Processor, etc.
Dispersal sale of 4 Tractors, Farm Machinery, Bygones and Ford 4000 (fully restored), 1976 International 454 2wd, Marshall SM6 Drop Side Silage Trailer, Markham 3t Tipping & TS91 Ploughs, Krone AM242Z Mower Conditioner,
Including: 1995 Same Silver 80 4wd (6,800hrs), 1988
Including: 1995 Same Silver 80 4wd (6,800hrs), 1988
Viewing: Friday 27th March 12 Noon – 3.30pm
Our Agents will be at
Including: 1995 Same Silver 80 4wd (6,800hrs), 1988 Same Explorer 70 4wd with Loader (4,700hrs),1973 Ford 4000 (fully restored), 1976 International 454 2wd, Trailer, PortAgric 6’ Topper, Ransomes TS59 & TS90 & TS91 Ploughs, Krone AM242Z Mower Conditioner, Feeders, Stationary Engines, Signs, Bygones, etc.
Same Explorer 70 4wd with Loader (4,700hrs),1973 Ford 4000 (fully restored), 1976 International 454 2wd, Marshall SM6 Drop Side Silage Trailer, Markham 3t Tipping Trailer, PortAgric 6’ Topper, Ransomes TS59 & TS90 & TS91 Ploughs, Krone AM242Z Mower Conditioner, Feeders, Stationary Engines, Signs, Bygones, etc.
Marshall SM6 Drop Side Silage Trailer, Markham 3t Tipping & TS91 Ploughs, Krone AM242Z Mower Conditioner, Feeders, Stationary Engines, Signs, Bygones, etc.
Our Agents will be at on Wednesday, 2 October
Our Agents will be at on Wednesday, 2 October
The Dairy Event on Wednesday, 2 October
Collective Sale already including 3 Part Dispersal Sales with 5 Tractors, Telehandler, Arable Machinery & Livestock Equipment
Further suitable entries welcome.
Further suitable entries welcome.
Further suitable entries welcome.
Further entries invited
Please call in to our stand for refreshments and to meet our rural and agricultural experts
Please call in to our stand for refreshments and to meet our rural and agricultural experts
Please contact Greg Ridout 07817 517467
Contact Greg Ridout: 01935 382909/07817 517467
Please contact Greg Ridout 07817 517467
Contact Greg Ridout: 01935 382909/07817 517467
Please contact Greg Ridout 07817 517467
Contact Yeovil Office – 01935 382909
Mappowder Guide £595,000
Marnhull Guide £525,000
A fine Grade II listed former village Post House with attractive gardens, a substantial barn/workshop and lovely views to the village church and surrounding countryside. CTB E. Freehold.
A fine Grade II listed former village Post House with attractive gardens,
A character south-facing stone house in an excellent central village
A character south-facing stone house in an excellent central village location with a large oak-framed double garage, workshop and southfacing gardens. CTB E. Freehold.
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Shroton Guide £435,000
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.
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Nr Sturminster Newton Guide Price £1,100,000
Tucked away down a no through lane is this extended and very well presented 4 bedroom country home with stable yard & paddocks, i 4.11 acres. CTB E.Freehold, Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
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
DORSET | DEVON | SOMERSET | HAMPSHIRE | WILTSHIRE
PROPERTY AUCTION THURSDAY 19 MARCH 2026 AT 2:00PM AT MERLEY HOUSE, MERLEY HOUSE LANE, WIMBORNE, BH21 3AA AND VIA LIVESTREAM
DORSET | DEVON | SOMERSET | HAMPSHIRE | WILTSHIRE | CORNWALL | LONDON
Long Crichel
Guide
£15,000
76.91 sqm. (827sqft.) of land and a derelict building with a footprint of 45.33sqm (487sqft.), situated in an accessible location just 2 miles from the A354. Freehold.
Wimborne | 01202 843190
Lower Blandford St Mary
Guide £65,000
A versatile commercial property situated just outside the market town of Blandford Forum, with scope for redevelopment (STPP). Freehold. RV (04/26 - £2,500.
Dorchester Commercial | 01305 251008
Chard
Guide £25,000-35,000
2 x garages with yards and forecourts, providing scope as a commercial development opportunity (STPP). Freehold.
Axminster | 01297 33122
Christchurch
Guide £85,000
A bright and airy third floor flat, in good order, situated in a convenient location close to amenities, the beach and good transport links. Leasehold. CTB B. EPC C
Wimborne | 01202 843190
Wiveliscombe
Guide £35,000
A former BT storage hut with the benefit of planning permission for use as 1 holiday accommodation, in 0.03 acres. Freehold.
Tiverton | 01884 218911
Mosterton
Guide £35,000
An attractive single parcel of level pasture land with a timber outbuilding extending to 0.67 acres (0.27 hectares) bordering the village of Mosterton. Freehold.
Yeovil | 01935 423526
with a large oak-framed double garage, workshop and south-
Blandford Forum
Guide £95,000
A retail unit with a 2-storey 1 bedroom maisonette above, all in need of general improvement, in a prominent position in the town centre. Freehold. RV £5,200 (04/ 26) CTB A
Blandford | 01258 452670
Worth Matravers
Guide £280,000
A former WWII RAF radar base, previously converted to a 24-bed rural retreat centre, now providing scope for re-development opportunities, subject to planning permission. Freehold. RV £6,400.
Dorchester Commercial | 01305 251008
Shroton
This delightful 2-bedroom end-of-terrace cottage has been fully updated but retains great charm. It is situated in the heart of this mo
This but retains great charm. It is situated in the heart of this mo
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Sturminster
A detached 2 bedroom
Guide £225,000
for general improvement, with off-road parking, garage, and workshop, in a convenient location close to amenities and road links.
| 01202 843190
Nr
Seaborough, Beaminster
Guide £275,000
A spacious 3 bedroom detached bungalow with an Agricultural Occupancey Condition, enjoying a rural position in Seaborough, and far-reaching countryside views. Freehold. CTB D. EPC E.
Tucked away down a no through lane is this extended and very well presented 4 bedroom country home with stable yard & paddocks, in total 4.11 acres. CTB E.Freehold, Sturminster
Beaminster 01308 863100
An attractive, double-fronted 3-bedroom period property tucked away on an idyllic country lane with character features throughout and views over
Guide £250,000
A detached 2 bedroom split-level property for renovation, with potential for extension (subject to planning permission/consents), situated on a sought after road on the edge of Colehill. Freehold. CTB D. EPC D.
Wimborne | 01202 843190
A tastefully improved 4-bedroom village house with light and spacious accommodation, set in attractive gardens and backing onto farmland.
Guide £325,000
A charming Grade II Listed period property, in the historic village of Corfe Castle. In need of renovation throughout, offering good size rooms and character features and benefitting from a level garden and off road parking. Freehold. CTB E. EPC D.
Wimborne | 01202 843190
DORSET | DEVON | SOMERSET | HAMPSHIRE | WILTSHIRE | CORNWALL | LONDON
DORSET | DEVON | SOMERSET | HAMPSHIRE | WILTSHIRE | CORNWALL | LONDON
PROPERTY AUCTION THURSDAY 19 MARCH 2026 AT 2:00PM AT MERLEY HOUSE, MERLEY HOUSE LANE, WIMBORNE, BH21 3AA AND VIA LIVESTREAM
North Walls, Wareham
Guide £395,000
A detached Grade II Listed 5 bedroom period property offering 2,500sqft. of accommodation, currently arranged to provide two wings. Enjoying a unique location at the foot of Wareham’s northern Saxon Wall, the property is ideally
Wimborne | 01202 843190
Dorchester | 01305 251008
Mappowder Guide £595,000
Mappowder Guide £595,000
A fine Grade II listed former village Post House with attractive gardens, a substantial barn/workshop and lovely views to the village church and
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.
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
but retains great charm. It is situated in the heart of this mo
This delightful 2-bedroom end-of-terrace cottage has been fully updated but retains great charm. It is situated in the heart of this mo village. CTB D. Freehold. Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Nr Sturminster Newton Guide Price £1,100,000
Tucked away down a no through lane is this extended and very well presented 4 bedroom country home with stable yard & paddocks, i 4.11 acres. CTB E.Freehold, Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Tucked away down a no through lane is this extended and very well presented 4 bedroom country home with stable yard & paddocks, i 4.11 acres. CTB E.Freehold,
£525,000 A character south-facing stone house in an excellent central village location with a large oak-framed double garage, workshop and south-
A character south-facing stone house in an excellent central village location with a large oak-framed double garage, workshop and south-
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
YAMAHA DIGITAL KEYBOARD. NP-30S. Stand, power supply and music stand included. £95. Tel: 07754-612761
KIRBY G4 CARPET
HOOVER, with bags. VGC. Attachment with new carpet cleaner. Bargain. £60. Tel: 07834-258355
VINTAGE JONES
TREADLE SEWING MACHINE in oak finish, five drawer c/w accessories and instructions, in good condition.£95.00.
Buyer to collect, (Shaftesbury) Tel:01747-851598.
HATSAN AT44.10 .22 air rifle £200. 07918-627092.
BLUE GREENPOWER ELECTRIC MOBILITY SCOOTER fold-in & basket. Hardly used £700. 07496-255588.
SEALY HEATER INCLUDING BOTTLE AND BLOW TORCH £120. Dehumidifier £40. Gents cycle £25. Water trough 6ft £60 3ft £30. Gas room heater £60 plus new bottle. 12 volt electric fencer. £80 including 20 stakes. Choice of 2. 07918-627092.
PUPPY PLAYPEN. 6 panel indoor/outdoor use 165 long x 83 wide x 60 high Cms. £20 07976-531649
TURBO AIR HAIR DRYER, as new, unwanted gift £10. Tel 01747 823280
SNOW CHAINS. New in carry case. Clack and Go weissenfels with instructions. £40.00 Tel: 01747-812569
HAMA 58mm CIRCULAR POLAROID lense £12.00. ring 01258 820344
10ft METAL LADDER. £40 ono. Tel: 01747-853913
BLANKS FOR TURNING PLUS ELM suitable for chair making, £50 to clear or sell individually 07855 557585. VERY PRETTY CREAM METAL HEAD-BOARD, king-size, £40. T: 07713-759346
FOLDING HEATED AIRER, with cover (Lakeland) hardly used. £40. Tel: 01722-744287
GARDEN CONCRETE POTS
50 cm diameter x 26 cm high. 2 for only £10, Sparkford 07951-132253
2 CALOR GAS BOTTLES, £30. Tel: 01258-268921
SINGER ELECTRIC TREADLE SEWING MACHINE, Riser Chairelectric, 5ft Oval, wooden table, drop-leaf, Ariston under-counter water heater. FREE. Tel: 01258-820036
NEW WEDDING SHOES, Satin and Lace, Size 8, £25. 01305-568237
LADIES NAVY QUILTED
COAT. Large. New. Never worn. £25. Tel: 01747-590592
RELYON DOUBLE SOFA
BED . Used Mainly As Sofa. £45. Tel.. 07973 759593, 01749 342441 Shepton Mallet
WOODEN CHILD’S
BOOKCASE 40” by 32” £20 07588 053666
VINTAGE COFFEE TABLE oak with barley twist leg. 24” wide x 20” high. £35. Tel: 07769-578063
ALLUMINIUM 3 SECTION extension ladder. £50. Tel: 07754-612761
CHRISTOW 4 SECTION GARDEN TUNNEL, Plastic with zipped sections. H89.5 x W30 x D9cms, Brand new £25.00, 01747-825790
LARGE TOOLBOX
40”x14”x16” £20. Wooden desktop 5ft6”x 3ftx 1 1/4” £20. Bundle of wall ties £10. Offers 01747-840835.
SCALEXTRIC, Still boxed, slight damage to box. reasonable offers: Tel: 01747-870824
AIRLINE PILOT SHIRTS. SS, 15 in, white £5 ea, new 07812-719315
PILOTS SS WHITE SHIRTS. New, 15 inch, £5 each. 07812-719315
10 WINE GLASSES
mostly the same - £9.00 07961 020036
POST MID CENTURY CUPBOARDS & display cabinets. Good condition/dark wood/ideal for upcycling. Three base units with 3 cupboards and 3 drawers plus two stand on top glass fronted display units, Will split. £10 BUYS THE LOT!!! Can deliver for small fee. 01747 854850
SUITCASE LIGHTWEIGHT
SLAZENGER with wheels used once 17wx30hx9d inches. Excellent condition £20 07769-708992 Gillingham area.
WEATHERBEETA STABLE 6’3” half neck £12. Horsewear turnout, no fill with neck 6’6” £20. 07411-546494
ISABELLA DIRECTORS
CHAIRS. Pair of, brand new, unused, £40. Grey water waste tank, for caravan/ motorhome, VGC, £5. Tel: 07976-288930
EDWARDIAN STYLE WASH BASIN and lavatory. £50. Tel: 01747-840984
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
WANTED, VINTAGE TECHNOLOGY, Items prior to 2000, including HiFi Separates, Turntables, Camcorders, Early Digital Camera’s, Computer Consoles. Call Andrew on 07799-417711
