The New Blackmore Vale

Celebrating 20 Years

THE COVENT GARDEN DANCE COMPANY HATCH HOUSE this July for

BALLET THE STARS 2026

Covent Garden Dance celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2026, marking two decades of presenting world-class ballet and dance in some of the most distinctive settings in the UK and internationally.

Since its founding in 2006, the company has established a clear and enduring identity: bringing world-class dancers, choreographers and musicians from the leading international companies into intimate, carefully curated environments, and pairing performance with exceptional hospitality. From its first performance to 120 guests in 2006 the production has evolved into a recognised international platform, with sold-out weeks creating a loyal, global audience.

TICKETS START AT £185 and include a three course gourmet dinner with paired wines and all performances.

Gardens open at 5.30pm, performance finishes at 11:30pm. Gardens close at 1am.

Photo by Svetlana Loboﬀ

Paris

We invite you to come and join us in the beautiful 17th Century walled Dutch garden at Hatch House to enjoy a spectacular evening of ballet and dance. The garden is covered for the event to create a magical dinner theatre. The company of internationally acclaimed dancers will perform three 30 minute sections of dance, each section between a dining interval. The walled garden theatre seats 430 guests each night, at tables of 10 (up to 12). Smaller parties, as well as single ticket holders, can be catered for.

International Principal Dancer

and many more!

Stroll, pre-show, through the gardens with your aperitif in hand from the beautiful Café Folle. Then, surrounded by the scents of summer flora, you will be invited to take your seat at your table to enjoy the evening’s performances within the magical walled garden.

Post show you are invited to return to Café Folle to enjoy the evening further with friends, cocktails and dancing until your carriages collect you. This is an unmissable highlight of the summer calendar.

Photo by Alexander Kabanov

Paul Jones - Editor in Chief

We love hearing your news and views. Get in touch with us by emailing newsdesk@blackmorevale.net or calling 01963 400186

Lloyd Armishaw Publisher newsdesk@blackmorevale.net 01963 400186

Lorraine Drake Distributor lorraine_drake@icloud.com 07850 529937

Your chance to name the Air Ambulance’s second helicopter

DORSET and Somerset Air Ambulance’s (DSAA) second helicopter has touched

at Henstridge Airfield – and with it comes a new naming campaign.

The new helicopter joins the charity’s existing aircraft, Pegasus (fondly known as Peggy), which has a track record across the two counties for making a real difference to the outcomes of emergency patients. Peggy helps the DSAA’s team of critical-care doctors and paramedics deliver advanced pre-hospital care on scene and en-route to hospital, in time-critical situations.

With two helicopters, the charity expects to reach over 150 more patients each year. It currently operates from 2am to 7am, 365 days a year, with the potential to reach even more patients through extended operating hours in the future.

Thousands of people and businesses in the local community have helped make the arrival of the second helicopter a reality, raising £670,000 so far towards the charity’s £1million 2ndHeli Appeal.

In recognition of that support, the charity wants to give the community the opportunity to name ‘their’ helicopter when it launches a naming campaign on Tuesday

(June 30).

Supporters can sign up to the charity’s e-newsletter to be among the first to find out how to take part by visiting: www. dsairambulance.org.uk/enews.

Charles Hackett, CEO of Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, said: “Seeing the helicopter arrive at Henstridge is a proud and emotional moment and marks a major step forward in our ability to reach even more patients when they need us most. We are incredibly grateful for the extraordinary generosity of our supporters, whose kindness and belief in our mission have made this milestone possible.

“As we prepare for the aircraft to begin operations, we want to thank everyone who has helped bring it into service. This is a helicopter made possible by our community, and it feels only fitting that the community will soon help to give it a name.”

More information about Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance can be found by visiting www.dsairambulance.org.uk

Story workshop

CHILDREN will help local author and storyteller Kirsty Heap create a story based on local shops, Shaftesbury landmarks and favourite foods at the town’s library tomorrow (Saturday, June 20).

The event, from 11am-noon, is suitable for children aged four and over. Children under eight must be accompanied by an adult.

For more information, contact Shaftesbury Library on 01747 852256 or shaftesburylibrary@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk

Bells appeal

PARISHONERS have raised £85,000 from donations and grants towards a £123,000 target to restore the bells at Lydlinch church.

The parish of just 400 people is hoping to see work get under way next year, with the removal of the bells booked for January. Meanwhile, fundraising continues with this year’s Tea in the Garden at the Old Rectory, Stock Gaylard (DT10 2BG) on Sunday, June 28. Last year’s event raised £3,000 for the Bell Fund.

To ensure the bells are rung

regularly, several parishioners are having bell ringing lessons at another church under the guidance of the Mere Branch of the Salisbury Diocesan Guild of Ringers.

As part of the restoration, a sixth bell given by the Keltek Trust will be added to augment the peal. For a substantial donation this bell could be named – one of the bells dating back to 1681 has the name of the then churchwarden on it. Anyone interested should email the treasurer at Lydlinch churchdorset@gmail.com.

Fun & fizz

THE TeamTorri charity, which supports families in Dorset, Wiltshire and Somerset affected by childhood cancer, is set to run another fundraising event.

T& FIZZ is the order of the day at the event at School Farm, West Orchard, Shaftesbury.

The event on Friday, July 3, gets under way from 1.45pm.

It includes afternoon tea –with Champagne option – live saxophonist, live singer, charity auction and raffle, along with a full bar and pop-up shop.

Guests are invited to ‘dress to impress’ with tickets available from £45 to £60.

The event continues in the evening with a barbecue, bar and live band, from 6pmmidnight, tickets £10.

Natalie Stranger, of Gillingham, founded TeamTorri and it became a registered charity in September 2025.

Her daughter, Torri, was diagnosed with leukaemia in

2018 and after over five years of treatment Torri passed away in July 2023 aged 13.

TeamTorri has raised more than £200,000, which has been shared with local charities and organisations which treat children with cancer and support loved ones.

The charity would welcome anyone who would like to join it in helping local families in need.

For more information and tickets, visit www.teamtorri.org or email teamtorri@mail.com

Come together

A CHARITY summer fair will bring a host of local organisations to Wincanton’s memorial hall.

Organisers promise a fun-filled day for all ages, featuring a bouncy castle, ice cream van and charity stalls.

Somerset and Dorset Animal Rescue, Got Your Six, Matt’s Respites, Little Sunbeams Pre-School and Wincanton Carnival are among the Vale charities in attendance.

“We wanted to create an event that brings people together while celebrating the fantastic charities and community groups that make such a difference locally,” said the organisers.

“There will be something for everyone to enjoy, and we look forward to welcoming families from across Wincanton and the surrounding villages.”

Free to enter, the Charity Summer Fair will be at Wincanton Memorial Hall on Saturday, July 4 from 11am-3pm.

Natalie Stranger with Torri

Help is available

HEALTH advice and guidance will be freely available as a range of support agencies and healthcare providers come together for the second health fair of the year in Sherborne.

Do you need advice on advanced care planning or power of attorney? Do you want to improve your balance or falls risk? Are you caring for a friend or relative? Need advice on quitting smoking or weight management? Have questions about the menopause? Have you or do you know someone who has been the victim of a crime or traumatic experience?

Sherborne’s team of social prescribers will be connecting visitors with a local network of community resources, groups and activities that can enhance your quality of life.

Meet the volunteers at Sherborne Health Walks, who lead regular walks around the area.

Dawn from Yoga Sherborne will be offering free accessible yoga sessions throughout the afternoon.

The pharmacy team will be on hand for blood pressure checks, advice on managing your cholesterol and help with medication management.

Agencies offering health and advice will include Livewell Dorset, Victim Support, STARS (Sexual Trauma and Recovery Service), Dorset Menopause, Dorset Healthcare, Sherborne Military Veterans and Age Friendly Dorset and Help and Care – provider of the HOPE Programme in Dorset, offering friendly, practical courses that help adults build confidence, improve wellbeing and take charge of their health.

Barefoot racer’s half marathon

A YOUNGSTER from Thomas Hardye School in Dorchester is planning to run a half marathon – barefoot – to help fund a trip to Tanzania.

Joe de Figueiredo Cowell, 13, will be doing the 13.1-mile run in Tolpuddle to raise sponsorship for a Camps International trip in August 2027.

Barefoot shoe brand nacktshoes.com is sponsoring his training and he will be sporting a t-shirt with local business sponsors when he does the run.

Joe has family links with Tanzania as his maternal grandparents were married and lived there for a time.

He will be running his half marathon in Tolpuddle, his

Joe says local people have been very encouraging and supportive.

Joe will be using the festival field for the half marathon and hopes to make his run a community event.

He would like anyone, young or older, to go along and run some laps with him – wearing shoes, of course! Refreshments will be available.

Steam Train Trips

·Sunday 29th June

·Sunday 27th July

·Monday 25th August

·Sunday 28th September

·Sunday 26th October

Steam train every hour from 10.00 until 16.00

Be alert to scams

DORSET Police are warning residents about courier fraud scams.

Criminals may contact you pretending to be from the police or your bank. They will give a believable story, such as:

• Your bank account is at risk

• There is a fraud investigation into activity on your account

• Your money or valuables need to be kept safe from loss or theft

They may then ask you to put bank cards, cash, jewellery or gift cards into an envelope or package. Still pretending to be the police or your bank, they will arrange for a courier to collect it from your home. They may ask you for a password (to make it sound official).

This is a scam. Remember:

• Police and banks will NEVER ask you to do this

• They will never ask for your PIN or full banking details

• They will never send a courier to collect money or valuables How to protect yourself

• Hang up immediately

• Using a different phone, call your bank’s fraud department on 159

• Do not hand over any items to a courier

• Report the incident to Report Fraud on 0300 123 2040

Find out more about a real-life case of courier fraud in Dorset on Channel 4’s Special Ops: To Catch a Criminal (series 2, episode 3) available on streaming services now.

Check now for free school meals from September

CHANGES to free school meal entitlements mean more children will be eligible come September.

Families across Dorset are being encouraged to check now whether their children will be eligible for free school meals from the September 2026 school term.

From this autumn, all children whose parent/carer receives any level of Universal Credit will be entitled to free school meals, regardless of how much their household earns.

This removes the current £7,400 annual

income cap and means more children will be able to have free school meals.

Free school meals can save families up to around £495 on school lunches per child per year, while also ensuring children receive a healthy, filling meal during the school day.

To prepare for the change, parents or carers will need to apply or reapply, even if their child already receives free school meals this school year.

Check eligibility and apply using the online checker at www.dorsetcouncil.gov. uk/free-school-meals.

A walk around… Goathill

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

GOATHILL is a tiny parish to the east of Sherborne. It’s population is about a score and it has few rights of way, none of them linking up, so this exploration is a series of ‘there and backs’, which is ok as the view is always different in the opposite direction.

Nearly all the buildings are of the local stone with hardly a brick to be seen. Start at the church, which is usually closed, then walk north up the road for just over a furlong to reach the county boundary, then return to the church and turn left, west, through Goathill Farm.

You’ll soon enter a large field via a kissing gate. The path runs along the edge of the field for about half a mile. Most of it is bounded by barley but at the far side are several acres of wild flowers, mainly oxe-eye daisies.

You’ll meet a line of ancient oaks on the parish (formerly county) boundary. When you’ve hugged the largest, return to the church and turn right, south, forking right at a junction. The

Songs of praise

ORGANISTS, other musicians and singers will be tackling all 847 hymns in the Ancient & Modern hymnbook in a musical marathon at St Gregory’s Church in Marnhull this weekend.

The Great Hymnathon Challenge gets under way today (Friday, June 19) and will continue until Sunday.

Each hymn will be played for two minutes with the challenge expected to take about 34 hours.

Most congregations only regularly sing a small number of hymns and the event aims to give an airing to those rarely heard.

So it will feature lesser-known treasures that have not been heard for years, alongside classics such as Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer and Jerusalem

Visitors are invited to drop in at any point during the marathon, whether for a few minutes or several hours, and sing if they want to.

Tea, coffee and refreshments will be available, and hymns can be sponsored in support of church funds. You’re invited to choose the hymns that mean the most to you, with the five most popular selections featured in an All-Age Worship Service on Sunday at 10am, bringing the Hymnathon to a conclusion.

For more information and to vote for a favourite hymn, visit the church’s website at www.stgregorysmarnhull. org.uk or follow Music at St Greg’s on Facebook.

inaccessible Goathill Wood of the Sherborne Castle Estate is on your right. Just around a bend, at a low spot, you might notice where the boundary stream crosses over/under the road.

About turn and return to the junction. Turn right, uphill, passing a row of houses. Less than 100 yards past the last house you arrive once more at a parish boundary so admire the view and return. Just before the junction, opposite the lowest house is the entrance to a bridleway heading east uphill through a pleasant wood. After about a furlong, once again you’ll find some old oaks on the county boundary.

Turn back, returning once again to the church, having walked nearly four miles.

Welcome return for village fete

TOMORROW, Saturday, June 20, all the fun of the fete makes a welcome return to Gussage All Saints.

Villagers are hosting their annual fete from midday until 3pm, in the beautiful grounds of Gussage House (Village Street).

Stalls will include bric-a-

Local interest talk

STURMINSTER'S

Forgotten Cattle Shows (1832-1880s) is the subject of a talk at The Exchange in Sturminster Newton.

Jacqui Wragg will give the talk, presented by the Blackmore Vale group of the Somerset and Dorset Family History Society and Sturminster Newton Heritage Trust, on Wednesday, June 24, at 7.30pm.

Entry is £4 and hot and cold drinks will be available at the bar.

School festival

THE Luccombe Hub SEN School in Milton Abbas will benefit from a fundraiser next month.

Hub Fest will include live music from Longdog, Echohead and The Hubsterz, and karaoke. It also includes alpaca walking, horse demonstrations, birds of prey, animal feeding, craft stalls, novelty dog show, cake stall, games and competitions, barbecue and licensed bar.

Hub Fest, at the hub, is on Sunday, July 5, from noon-6pm.

brac, plants and produce, cakes and a tombola. There will be a barbecue and cream teas to satisfy your hunger and fuel the maypole dancers.

Funds raised will support Gussage All Saints’ Grade I listed church and the community village hall.

Can we avert catastrophe?

THE People’s Emergency Briefing, a 50-minute documentary film that details the risks of the climate and nature crises, is set to be screened in Child Okeford.

The film is based on a presentation UK experts made in November last year to

politicians on how environmental breakdown threatens food security, the economy and national health. It will be screened at St Andrew’s Church on Friday, July 3, at 6.45pm for 7pm start.

There will be a 45-minute discussion after the film.

Summer planting inspiration

PICK up inspiration from the beautiful gardens around the Vale, open in July as part of the National Garden Scheme – find the full list of open gardens at findagarden. ngs.org.uk.

Black Shed

Blackmarsh Farm, Dodds Cross DT9 4JX

Over 200 colourful and productive flower beds showcase a sophisticated selection of cut flowers and foliage. The flower farm supplies florists and the public for weddings, events and occasions throughout the seasons. Traditional garden favourites, including delphiniums, larkspur, foxgloves, scabious and dahlias grow alongside more unusual perennials, foliage plants and grasses, creating a stunning and unique display. A warm welcome and generous advice on creating your own cut flower garden is offered. Easy access from a gravel car park and wide grass pathways make it suitable for wheelchairs.

Open Sunday July 26 (1pm-5pm). Admission £5, children free.

Broomhill

Rampisham DT2 0PT

A former farmyard transformed into a delightful, tranquil garden set in two acres. Clipped box, island beds and borders packed with shrubs, roses, grasses and unusual perennials. A less formal area with

large wildlife pond, meadow, shaded areas, bog garden, late summer border. Orchard and vegetable garden.

Open Sunday July 19 (2pm-5pm).

Admission £5, children free.

Hilltop

Woodville, Stour Provost SP8 5LY

Summer at Hilltop is a gorgeous riot of colour and scent, the old, thatched cottage barely visible among the flowers. Unusual annuals and perennials grow alongside the traditional and familiar, boldly combining to make a spectacular display, which attracts an abundance of wildlife. Always something new – the unique, gothic garden loo is a great success.

Open every Sunday, July 19 to August 16, (2pm-6pm). Admission £4.50, children free.

Glenholme Herbs

Penmore Road, Sandford Orcas DT9 4SE

Paths meander through large, colourful beds inspired by Piet Oudolf and featuring a wide selection of herbs and salvias along with grasses, verbena and echinacea. Planted with wildlife in mind and alive with pollinators, the garden also features a beautiful natural swimming pond.

A mixture of grass and firm gravel paths..

Open July 25-26, (10am-4pm).

Admission £5, children free.

Tumblins

Bulbarrow Lane, Winterborne Stickland, Blandford Forum DT11 0ED

A three-acre hilltop garden with extensive views. Includes a swimming lake, orchards, kitchen garden, mixed borders and unusual trees – Wolemia nobolis, Ginko biloba and Monterey pine.

Roses and hydrangeas thrive. The swimming lake is surrounded by a mass planting of hemerocallis, providing a wall of orange in the summer.

The mini arboretum and fernery are different to other parts of the garden offer contrast with the gravel garden, which has a tropical feel with palms, banana, bromeliads and tetrapanax.

Open Sunday, July 26, (10.30am4.30pm). Admission £5, children free.

3 Park Farm Close

Martinstown, Dorchester DT2 9TW

A quirky, child-friendly one-acre garden with distinct sections. Lower section consists of a large scale model canal with operational locks and a 1:20 model village. Visitors may operate boat and locks. The middle section has two large ponds surrounded by a ‘beach’ area, trees, shrubs and flower beds. The top section consists of a large wildflower maze and vegetable patch. Treasure trail for kids.

Sunday, July 5, (1pm-5pm). Admission £5, children free.

Stafford House

Dorchester DT2 8AD

A limited number of tickets have been made available for this private opening, hosted by Lord and Lady Fellowes. Head gardener, Pip Poulton, will give a talk and guided tour of the gardens and grounds. There will then be the opportunity to explore the grounds and gardens.

Friday, July 3, (10am-12.30pm). Admission £25, children free. Pre-booking essential, please visit ngs.org.uk for information and booking.

Black Shed

Hilltop

Glenholme Herbs

Broomhill

3 Park Farm Close

Town hall talks

SEVERAL

interesting talks have been given upstairs in the town hall on Saturday mornings since the refurbished Corn Exchange in Blandford opened at the start of the year.

Subjects for the free-to-enter talks have ranged from the history of Blandford Camp to Shelia Na Gig, the female figures found in the stonework of older churches.

Repair Café offers food and fast fixes

NEED something fixing? Then the volunteers at Netherbury Repair Café may be able to help.

It is running events at the village hall on Sundays June 28 and July 26, 10am-noon – just take along any spare parts, if needed.

Homemade cakes and good coffee and tea will also be on offer.

For more information, phone Lisa Willis on 07870 950 666, email info@repaircafenetherbury.org or visit www. repaircafenetherbury.org

The talks, which start at 10.30am, have been an enjoyable start to the weekend and it is proposed to continue running them once a month, keeping them free, if possible.

starvation, as was the case in many other countries. We were slimmer and fitter but not starving!

Anyone who has heard of or knows of a good speaker is asked to get in touch with Blandford Town Council. Keep an eye on noticeboards

Blackmoor View Cottage, Sherborne

Meeting of the mayors

TWINNERS from Blandford celebrated 40 years of friendship with their counterparts from Mortain Bocage in northern France on a two-day exchange trip.

The visitors, who included the Mayor, Jacques Lemonnier, attended the annual Mayormaking ceremony at Blandford Corn Exchange where gifts were exchanged to mark the anniversary.

Outgoing Blandford Mayor Hugo Mieville presented Mr Lemonnier with a framed tile from the newly refurbished Corn Exchange, while a framed drawing of a pommier was given to Blandford Forum Town Council.

Speeches were made in both languages stressing the links between the two towns.

Later, after a procession to Mortain Bridge, the new Mayor of Blandford, Colin Stevens, and the Mayor of Mortain gave speeches.

Roger Carter, chair of the Blandford Mortain Twinning Association (BMTA), said: “It was wonderful to host the first ‘official’ exchange weekend since before Covid – especially significant because of the 40th anniversary of the original charter between the two towns.

“The mixture of formality and informality was perfect, and we shall have many happy memories of the weekend, despite the hail, wind and rain that somewhat put a dampener on the Blue Bridge ceremony.

“We exist to promote a wide range of ties between individuals and groups both in Blandford and Mortain. The weekend also served to swap ideas to pursue this common aim.”

Members of the French party, who were hosted by families in Blandford, also visited a local brewery and Blandford

Museum.

They also dropped in to see the Repair Café where they were treated to an English cream tea and were told about the café’s efforts to reduce waste going into landfill, raise awareness about repairability and raise funds for local charities.

Repair Cafés are uncommon in France and Mr Lemonnier said: “The Repair Café is a very inspiring place. Such cooperation between people helps to improve social cohesion and community life. This is a real example of a useful initiative to help repair items that would otherwise go to waste.”

re-establish the exchange as an annual event.

The BMTA is organising a walk along the trailway on Saturday, July 18, with lunch at the White Horse Inn. New members are welcome to join the event.

A small delegation of BMTA members will visit Mortain Bocage in September to help

More details can be found at www.blandfordmortaintwinning. org.uk

Why care could be the most rewarding career you’ll ever choose

When people think about a career, they often look for three things: purpose, flexibility and opportunity. A career with Bramley Care offers all three. At Bramley Care, our teams support older people to remain independent, maintain their dignity and enjoy the highest possible quality of life in their own homes. Whether it is helping someone start their day, supporting them with daily tasks or simply providing companionship and reassurance, the difference our carers make is profound.

As our Home Care service continues to grow across North Dorset and South Wiltshire, we are looking for compassionate,

reliable individuals to join our team. Previous experience is not essential. What matters most is kindness, empathy and a genuine desire to help others. The practical skills can be taught; the right values cannot. Care is often misunderstood as “just a job”, but it can offer a genuine and rewarding career. At Bramley Care, we invest heavily in our staff through training, development and recognised qualifications. We have our own dedicated training centre, providing hands-on, practical learning in realistic care scenarios and we actively support team members to progress their careers. We offer both flexible part-time

and full-time opportunities, making care an excellent option whether you are looking for work around family commitments, a change of career or a long-term profession.

With pay starting from £13.45 per hour and opportunities to progress to £17.53 per hour as qualifications and responsibilities increase, alongside paid travel time, mileage payments and company cars for eligible staff, there has never been a better time to join our growing team.

Most importantly, working in care provides something many jobs cannot - the knowledge that what you do genuinely matters.

If you have ever considered a career in care, we would be delighted to welcome you to our Home Care Recruitment Open Day and show you what makes Bramley Care different.

Start a career in care with real progression

Looking for a rewarding career where you can grow, develop and make a difference every day?

Bramley Care is expanding and we are recruiting full-time Home Care Assistants to join our team. WHAT WE OFFER:

Competitive carer pay from £13.45 per hour up to £16.47 per hour (based on NVQ level) or £17.53 as a Team Leader

Paid travel time between visits

Company car available for full-time staff

Full training provided with ongoing support

Funded NVQ qualifications with clear pay progression

Dedicated training centre with hands-on, practical training

Whether you are new to care or experienced, we provide the structure and support to build a

We are a growing organisation with a strong reputation for quality care, investing in our people and supporting career progression.

Metabolic Minute: small changes lead to noticeable improvements

by Megan Perrin, health coach

WHEN people think about improving their metabolic health, they often focus on diet plans, exercise programmes or motivation. While these factors are important, there is another powerful influence that is often overlooked: your environment.

Metabolic health refers to how effectively your body regulates key processes such as blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol, energy production and body weight. Good metabolic health helps reduce the risk of conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease and obesity. It can also support better energy levels, sleep quality, mood and overall wellbeing.

Many of our daily habits are shaped by the environment around us. We tend to choose what is easiest, most convenient and most visible. This means that small changes to our surroundings can make healthy choices feel more natural and less reliant on willpower.

One simple strategy is to make healthy options easier to access. Keeping a water

bottle on your desk, putting your trainers by the door, or preparing healthy meals in advance can encourage better choices throughout the day. If healthy foods are the easiest option, you are more likely to choose them.

The opposite is also true. Making less healthy choices less convenient can reduce temptation. For example, storing treats out of sight, or keeping sugary drinks out of the house can help create an environment that supports your goals.

Physical activity is another important part of metabolic health. You do not need a

gym membership to move more. Leaving your walking shoes by the door, scheduling a daily walk, setting reminders to stand up regularly, or keeping exercise equipment visible can all encourage movement. Even short bursts of activity throughout the day can benefit blood sugar control and overall health.

Our social environment also plays an important role. Support from friends, family members, or a peer group can help keep us motivated and accountable. At Wincanton Health Centre, we run peer support groups on the first and third Monday of each month from 5-6pm, as well as an online group every Wednesday from 1.15pm-2pm. Patients registered with the practice are welcome to join.

Remember, improving metabolic health is not about being perfect. It is about creating an environment that makes healthy choices easier to repeat. Small changes, carried out consistently, can build into meaningful improvements in your health over time.

Photo by

Becca Tapert on Unsplash

Our loose Canon

Slavery has taken many forms through history, and continues today by

Canon Eric Woods

I WAS ordained deacon in Bristol Cathedral at the end of June 1978. Our first home was in Colston Parade, behind the wonderful church of St Mary Redcliffe to which I had been appointed assistant curate. I must admit that I didn’t pay much attention to the “Colston” bit: I was much more impressed by the blue plaque to Samuel Plimsoll, a politician and social reformer who was born in the Parade in 1824. You must have heard of the “Plimsoll line” – a line on a ship’s hull indicating the maximum safe draught for the vessel in various operating conditions. It was to save many an overloaded and unseaworthy vessel putting to sea, simply for the owners to claim the insurance when it sank. Plimsoll became known as the “Seaman’s Friend”.

Edward Colston, meanwhile, was still hailed in 1978 as one of Bristol’s greatest philanthropists. Born in Bristol in 1636, he became an English merchant trading in wine, fruits and cloth. He founded and endowed schools, hospitals and alms-houses and was a generous benefactor of other charitable causes, including churches. In 1680, he became involved in the slave trade through his work on the committees of the Royal African Company, which held a monopoly on the English trade in African slaves. He was deputy governor of the company in 1689-90. It is uncertain how much of his wealth stemmed from the slave trade, but he clearly endorsed it. In June 2020 the Black Lives Matter movement toppled his statue

SHIRLEY ALLUM

in the city and threw it into the harbour.

I remain plagued by a number of questions. First, how appropriate is it to judge a 17th century figure by the moral standards of the 21st century? Second, should “the mob” ever be allowed to decide whose statue stands and whose falls – what’s happened to democracy?

Third, in the 17th and 18th centuries, more than 300,000 white people were shipped to America as slaves. Urchins were swept from London’s streets to labour in the tobacco fields, where life expectancy was no more than two years. Do not the lives of this “White Cargo” matter too?

Fourth, in the same period, slave traders from North Africa regularly raided South Wales and the South-West of England to capture white people to work as slaves in Morocco and adjoining countries. Meanwhile, imported slave-grown cotton was processed – most notably in Lancashire – by armies of boys, girls and women working in slave conditions. Isn’t it important to realise that, in the history of slavery, every race and creed and colour has been both oppressor and victim?

Fifth, would anyone really want to disagree with Dr Olivette Otele, Britain’s first black woman professor of history (at Bristol!) and now a professor at the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London, that the pulling down of statues gives the false impression that the problems have been dealt with? Whilst they stand, they encourage debate. Once they have gone, the issues are easily forgotten.

Finally, what about modern-day human trafficking and slavery? I haven’t heard much about that from the protesters. What are they doing to combat it? I suggest they take a long hard look at the website www.A21.org

FASHIONS &

LINGERIE

19th June

first 5 swimwear customers will receive a

Photo

The story of one Ukrainian family

As the war in Ukraine grinds into its fourth year, we follow the story of one family forced to resettle in the Vale by

Olena

MY family and I left Ukraine for six months – but we have been living here for almost four years now. We have come a long way.

I work at a local deli. It was difficult at first because of the language barrier, but I like it. I discovered the best part of Great Britain for myself – the people. People are compassionate and friendly, kind, with a wonderful sense of humor.

I work hard, because I can’t do otherwise. I try to provide quality service, and most importantly, I get the opportunity to make someone’s day a little bit better, to bring a smile and satisfaction to customers. This makes me happy.

My daughter graduated from a Ukrainian online school with high marks. She was a prefect at a local school here in Dorset, and gained good exam results. She started working part-time at 16 to help support us.

Currently, Liliia is a student at the University of Bristol. She is independent and responsible. I’m proud of her as a mother and also we are very good friends.

Markiian was very quiet and slept badly the month after we arrived. But with Allan’s respect and long walks with his gentle dogs, he became calm, responsible, cheerful and kind, it seemed that he forgot all the fears that we experienced.

My son is finishing primary school. He speaks perfect English and is one of the strongest students in the class. With my help, he also continues his studies online at

the Ukrainian school.

We rent a lovely house in Sherborne. I have many friends, sometimes I feel surrounded by a family. I realise how lucky I am. I could be very happy if it weren’t for the thoughts of the war in Ukraine and the family that I can’t see often.

I start every morning reading news from Ukraine and I end every day praying for peace in my country. Often I want to call my mother; I can’t believe she’s gone. But I see her in my dreams, and at least there I can talk to her and give her a hug.

Even though I feel I have found a real home and true friends, I know we are not in the UK forever. We have our visas only until end of October 2026. I don’t know what is going to happen after that. It is difficult not to be able to plan and be uncertain about our future. I prefer not to think about it and live for today.

There are many scars on my soul, with the unrelieved pain of losing my mother and the trauma of the war. But I am stronger. I recognise how much I love life, every minute of it. I love every day, even it seems dark. When the day is dragging on under

Olena (left), Allan, Markiian and Liliia

Services included:

• Property repairs and general maintenance

• Gutter cleaning and maintenance

• Painting and decorating

• Internal and external plastering

• Wall and floor tiling

• Bricklaying

• Brickwork repairs and repointing

• Bathroom renovations

• Loft insulation and boarding

• Internal refurbishments

• General carpentry and joinery

• Internal and external door installation

• Timber and wooden structures

• Skirting boards, coving and architraves

Hospice donation

A DORSET couple have said a heartfelt ‘thank you’ to the staff at Weldmar Hospicecare.

Toni and Mark Lawrence lost their son Josh after a short battle with a rare type of cancer. “He was 34 years old when he passed in 2025 and has left a void in many lives, especially ours,” they said. In the time since their loss, Toni and Mark have been fundraising for the charity, which provides specialist end-of-life care for adults with a life-limiting illness, and support for their loved ones. They were pleased to present the fundraising team with more than £62,000, and extended their thanks to everyone who donated.

WWilma, who grew up in Italy, shared her dream of travelling back to the country that was once her home. Inspired by her story, the team at the home, based on Fern Brook Lane, which is run by not-for-profit charity Care South, created a special celebration to mark Italy’s National Day earlier this month.

ilma, who grew up in Italy, shared her dream of travelling back to the country that was once her home. Inspired by her story, the team at the home, based on Fern Brook Lane, which is run by not-for-profit charity Care South, created a special celebration to mark Italy’s National Day earlier this month.

The day brought a little piece of Italy to Fern Brook Lodge, with residents enjoying an Italian-themed experience and welcoming opera singer, Gigi, who helped to temporarily transform the home into a theatre.

The special visit was arranged as part of Care South’s ‘Make a Wish’ initiative which 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.

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.

Residents have a choice of private and communal lounges and dining rooms to relax indoors, as well as The Brook community space which hosts a range of events throughout the year. Care home residents also have access to a large garden area with wide, flat walkways and raised flower beds to make them accessible to everyone.

Fern Brook Lodge hosts its own Memory Cafe sessions every Thursday morning from 10am to 12pm for people living with dementia and their carers. It is supported by Age UK North, South and West Dorset and there is no need to book – just drop in on the day.

Opera singer Gigi performed at Fern Brook Lodge residents for Italy’s National Day

Fern Brook Lodge resident, Wilma, with opera singer Gigi

Opera singer Gigi performed at Fern Brook Lodge residents for Italy’s National Day

Fern Brook Lodge resident, Wilma, with opera singer Gigi

Step into summer with the NT

GARDENS and historic properties across Dorset are looking tip-top and ready to welcome visitors…

Stourhead www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/wiltshire/ stourhead

Walks and talks tours: Accompany one of Stourhead’s knowledgeable volunteers on the original route taken by the Hoare family and their guests, and learn the history of this fascinating place.

June-August, 11am-12.30pm and 1.30pm-3pm. Free event (normal admissions apply). Booking not required. Wellbeing walk: Meet new people and join a gentle health and wellbeing walk in beautiful surroundings. Enjoy the social atmosphere and make a connection with nature.

Tuesdays and Thursdays (June to December), 1.45pm-3.45pm. Free event. Booking required.

Drawn to trees: Step into the landscape garden and discover a new outdoor trail created in collaboration with artist Luke Adam Hawker, inspired by his evocative book The Last Tree: A Seed of Hope

June 1 to August 31, 9.30am-4.30pm. Price: £2 per trail booklet (normal admissions apply). Booking not required. Tree zodiac exhibition: Inspired by an ancient Celtic zodiac rooted in the 13 lunar months, each associated with a different tree or plant, Luke Adam Hawker has created a series of 3 intricate etchings that explore personality traits drawn from the character and symbolism of each species.

June to August, 9.30am-4.30pm. Free event (normal admissions apply). Booking not required.

Trust 10: Stourhead’s

is a challenging, multi-terrain run involving some public roads. Beginning and ending at Stourhead house, the trail takes in pasture, woodland and an Iron age hillfort with King Alfred’s Tower marking the mid-way point.

June 28, July 26 and August 23, 9am11am. Free event. Booking not required. Outdoor cinema Dirty Dancing: Sing along to the iconic soundtrack, soak up the atmosphere, and enjoy this classic movie, starring Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey, in a magical outdoor cinema setting.

July 3, 7.30pm-9.15pm. Standard tickets from £17.37. Booking required.

Summer of play: Endless fun at the Stableyard and the Summer of Play Meadow. Scramble up the mighty straw castle, aim for gold at the archery range, or race through the meadow maze to find the hidden camp.

July 4 to August 31, 10am-4pm. Free event (normal admissions apply). Booking not required.

Outdoor cinema Elvis Presley in Concert: Featuring incredible performances from across Elvis’ legendary career, this spectacular show brings together his greatest hits, iconic stage presence, and the energy that made him a global phenomenon.

July 4, 7.30pm-9.15pm. Standard tickets from £17.37. Booking required

Kingston Lacy

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/ kingston-lacy

Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution Trail: Calling Pokémon fans new and old! Get active outdoors on the Pokémon Trading Card Game Mega Evolution Trail. Team up as a family to search the woodlands for each Mega Evolution Pokémon, discover their powers and complete your own challenges.

June-September, 9.30am-5pm. Free event (normal admissions apply). Booking not required.

Introduction to wood engraving: This one-day workshop is perfect for beginners looking to learn a new technique, or for those who wish to build on their existing skills. You will be taught the principles of designing for wood engraving, methods of engraving into a block of end grain wood, and how to print from your finished block.

June 27, 10.30am-4pm. Price: £85 per person. Booking required.

Kingston Lacy social walks: Discover the ever changing Kingston Lacy woodlands and countryside and have the opportunity to meet new people on these gentle strolls,

ranging from 3-4 miles (around 1.5 hours).

June 20, July 8 and August 4, 10am11.30am. Free event. Booking required. Japanese garden Tours: Discover how Japanese horticulture techniques extend beyond the traditional tea garden, and experience this beautiful English interpretation of a Japanese garden.

June 24, 11.30am-12.30pm and 2-3pm. Free event (normal admissions apply). Booking not required.

Outdoor theatre Romeo & Juliet: The Duke’s Theatre Company presents Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, inviting audiences to rediscover the world’s most famous star-crossed lovers.

June 24, 7pm-9pm. Adults: £20, concessions: £18.50 (age 16 and under). Booking required.

Hardy’s Cottage

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/ hardys-cottage

In the footsteps of Hardy’s childhood: Explore the landscape of Thomas Hardy’s imagination in this guided walk through Thorncombe Wood. Follow Hardy’s footsteps in his Wessex landscape including Rushy Pond, the Roman Road and Rainbarrows.

June to August, 12.15pm-1.45pm. Free event (normal admissions apply). Booking not required.

Max Gate

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/ hardys-house-max-gate

Walking in the paw prints of Wessex: Walk some of the pathways loved by Thomas Hardy and his pet dog. This walk was a favourite of Thomas Hardy, which he regularly did with his faithful companion, Wessex the dog. We also know that visitors to Thomas Hardy at Max Gate would often accompany him on this walk, which takes you to the resting place of William Barnes. June 30 and July 28, 1.30pm-3.30pm. Free event. Booking required.

Kingston Lacy

Local Slimming World Consultants Take

Part in Race for Life ADVERTISING FEATURE

Local Slimming World Consultants

Tracey, Sarah, Sally and Gail recently took part in the Race for Life event in Poole, raising money for Cancer Research UK and supporting a cause that touches so many lives.

The event took place on a beautifully warm day and was filled with love, laughter, encouragement and an incredible sense of community. Thousands of participants came together to walk, jog and run in support of lifesaving cancer research, creating a truly inspiring atmosphere from start to finish.

For the four consultants, taking part was about much more than crossing the finish line. It was an opportunity to support those affected by cancer, remember loved ones, celebrate survivors and help fund vital research for the future.

The event also highlighted the amazing generosity of the Slimming World community. Over the last 13 years, Slimming World members, consultants and supporters have raised over £30 million for Cancer Research UK.

This remarkable achievement reflects the kindness, dedication and community spirit that runs through every Slimming World group. Every step taken, every pound raised and every act of support has helped make a difference in the fight against cancer.

The consultants would like to thank everyone who donated, cheered them on and helped support this fantastic cause. Together, we really can make a difference.

Repair café gets mayoral praise!

THE team of volunteers behind Blandford’s Repair Café was delighted to receive a certificate of appreciation from the outgoing mayor, Cllr Hugo Mieville, this month.

“In recognition of the incredible service this volunteer organisation offers the community with special recognition for Carole de Saram and Tamsin Holloway. Users not only receive expert repairs or advice, but they also receive a warm welcome and a friendly atmosphere,” said the mayor.

The certificate was collected on the group’s behalf by deputy town crier Mike Lofthouse, who is also a member of the Repair Café (pictured).

Organisers would like to extend a huge thank you to the wonderful team of volunteers who offer their time, support

and kindness to make the Blandford Repair Café a success.

The Café will be at the Blandford scout hut (DT11 7BS) tomorrow (Saturday, June 20) from 1.30pm-4pm (last repairs at 3.30pm); then on July 18.

Potential volunteers should email blandfordrepaircafe@ gmail.com

Blandford

Corn Exchange

Blandford Corn Exchange

Tuesday 7pm

Sarah 07880730481

Blandford Corn Exchange

Wednesday 8.30am, 10am, 11.30am, 5.30pm, 7pm

Tracey 07776309982

Blandford

Methodist Church

Thursday 5.30pm, 7.30pm

Tracey 07776309982

Gillingham

Social Club, Hardings Lane

Tuesday 5.30pm, 7pm

Sally 07968979810

Gillingham

Youth & Community Centre

Tuesday 9.30am, 11am

Lorraine 07771013728

Shaftesbury

Royal Chase Hotel

Thursday 7.30am, 9am, 10.30am

Lorraine 07771013728

Shaftesbury

Royal Chase Hotel

Thursday 5.30pm, 7pm Gail 07748643783

Thursday 5.30pm, 7pm

Gail 07748643783

Sherborne

Raleigh Hall, Digby Road

Tuesday 5.30pm, 7pm

Sally 07973665167

Tisbury Hinton Hall, Church Street

Sherborne

Raleigh Hall, Digby Road

Wednesday 9.30am

Sally 07973665167

Sturminster Newton

The Exchange

Monday 5.30pm, 7pm

Gail 07748643783

Puddletown

Village Hall

Thursday 7pm

Julie 07871821928

Wincanton

Memorial Hall

Julie 07871821928

Wednesday 5.30pm, 7pm

Evelyn 07825 556871

Yeovil

Tisbury Hinton Hall, Church Street

Evelyn 07825 556871

Sally 07968979810

*When you commit to 6 or 12 weeks of group support. At participating groups. Offer available 14th June to 4th July 2026. Visit our website for terms and conditions. free membership plus free weeks when you join today!

Monday 7pm

Evelyn 07825 556871

Park House, 44 The Park

Yeovil Park House, 44 The Park

*When you commit to 6 or 12 weeks of group support. At participating groups. Offer available 14th June to 4th July 2026. Visit our website for terms and conditions.

Friday 8am, 9.30am

*When you commit to 6 or 12 weeks of group support. At participating groups. Offer available 14th June to 4th July 2026. Visit our website for terms and conditions.

Friday 8am, 9.30am

Julie 07871821928

you commit to 6 or 12 weeks of group support. At participating groups. Offer available 14th June to 4th July 2026. Visit our website for terms and

Sally 07973665167 *When you commit to 6 or 12 weeks of group support.

Offer available 14th June to 4th July 2026.

for terms and conditions.

Protect Your Home Before It’s Too Late

You have worked hard for your home, savings and family security. The question is: are they properly protected?

A professionally drafted Will makes sure your wishes are followed, your loved ones are provided for, and your estate passes smoothly to the people you choose. Without one, your family could face unnecessary delay, cost and disagreement.

Lasting Powers of Attorney are just as vital. If illness, accident or age-related incapacity strikes, LPAs allow people you trust to manage your finances, property and health decisions immediately, without the stress and expense of applying to court.

into a trust, it

be ring-fenced, reducing exposure to care fees, creditor claims, or unexpected life events such as divorce. It can also help minimise inheritance tax, allowing more of your estate to pass to your loved ones. Importantly, you remain in

Many homeowners are unaware that their property could be used to fund care costs later in life. A living trust may help protect your home and preserve your estate for your family. By placing your property into a trust, it can be ring-fenced, reducing exposure to care fees, creditor claims, or unexpected life events such as divorce. It can also help minimise inheritance tax, allowing more of your estate to pass to your loved ones. Importantly, you remain in

control. As trustee, you continue managing your assets as normal, and if you move home, the trust continues.

For homeowners, a Living Trust can offer an additional layer of protection. When set up correctly and for genuine estate-planning reasons, it can help protect your home from probate delays, family disputes, remarriage, divorce, creditors and, where deliberate deprivation has not occurred, future care-cost assessment.

Oakwood Wills offers free home no obligation consultation, providing clear, friendly advice tailored to your situation, so you can plan with confidence and peace of mind.

Oakwood Wills provides clear, fixed-price advice in plain English.

To contact Oakwood Wills please contact us on the details below.

Book your free consultation today.

�� Call us today on 07832 331594

Tel: 07832 331594

Email: info@oakwoodwills.co.uk

info@oakwoodwills.co.uk

Help Protect Your Home Help Protect Your Home from Care Fees with a Living Trust from Care Fees with a Living Trust

Top scout

YOUNG Caitlin Clark, a member of 2nd Templecombe Scout Group, got to meet former astronaut Major Tim Peake after winning the highest youth award in UK Scouting.

Caitlin met him and Chief Scout Dwayne Fields during the Scouts Day of Celebration and Achievement at Windsor Castle, where Scouts paraded their banner in the Quadrangle.

Caitlin was presented with the King’s Scout badge and certificate, the highest honour for Scouts aged 16-24, by Nicki Tanner, District Explorer Scout Commissioner, at the Templecombe group’s recent annual meeting.

Thank you for the music

A spokesperson for Blackmore Vale Lions, which supports the Scout Group, said Caitlin helps younger scouts with their badge work, teaches camp craft and helps organise events, including the car park and finish area at its Blackmore Vale Half Marathon.

Caitlin has achieved many badges, was part of an exhibition to Iceland and organised all the travel for the group on its recent trip to Australia.

THE recently formed Stour Vale Singers have made a donation to The Bird in Hand pub in Henstridge as a ‘thank you’ after acquiring a large and valuable collection of music scores.

Members of Durweston Choral Society, which closed in 2025, had accumulated the scores over 33 years and offered them to any local choir that wanted them.

The Bird in Hand had a strong connection to the choral society and has recently been purchased by the Henstridge community.

Kids go Free to the Chalke History Festival – 22-28 June

The Chalke History Festival, 22-28 June - the UK’s leading celebration of history – returns to its stunning venue in Broad Chalke this month, bringing the past vividly to life through a rich programme of top-class talks, wide-ranging discussions, striking performances and dynamic living history experiences.

Sponsored by Evelyn Partners, this year’s event promises to be one of the stand-out occasions of the summer calendar, attracting the very top names and boasting a lineup of leading historians, household names and expert commentators whose views and analysis of both historical events and current world affairs are second to none. Alongside a tantalising line up of talks, discussions and debates, the programme for fans of getting up close and personal with history through immersive experiences, theatrical performances, hands-on activities and live music is more varied and eye-catching than ever before. Even better, all children, 15 and under go free to Chalke.

Plenty of VIP names will be speaking and mingling with the crowds, with some attending the festival for the first time, include Mary Beard, James Naughtie, Anne Applebaum, Alexander Armstrong, Harriet Walter, Anthony Scaramucci, Alan Titchmarsh, Antony Beevor, Tracy Borman and Tony Robinson.

Elsewhere on the festival site, visitors will have a feast of different activities to choose from. As well as the reconstruction of a magnificent late Iron Age Romano-British chariot by a team of artisans using ancient techniques, Abs Wisdom will delight with his Wizzo’s Rip-Roaring History old-time circus sideshow. There will be plenty of activities to keep the kids entertained too, including: the Rattlebox Theatre and Angel Heart Theatre with their blend of puppetry, storytelling and larger-thanlife characters; historic garden games like sack races, rolling hoops, skittles, and croquet; plus, interactive workshops offering tablet weaving and medieval calligraphy, and a chance for the little ones to try their hand at sword-fighting, archery, or axe-throwing.

Chalke would not be Chalke without that little bit ‘extra’ that makes the festival so special. From exquisite meals in the fine dining tent, mouth-watering local produce, street food and ice creams, thirst-quenching drinks at the Chalke Valley Tap, to vintage clothing and jewellery in the Emporium, the festival promises a truly wonderful day out. And it doesn’t stop there. The midsummer evenings provide a chance to swap ideas with fellow history buffs over a glass of something chilled by the firepit or dance the night away to ABBA’s Angels or The Brass Funkeys.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Those who choose to glamp or camp under the stars will be glad the commute home is only up the hill, a matter of minutes away.

The Chalke History Festival, 22-28 June, will take place at Church Bottom, Broad Chalke, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP5 5DP. Book now www.chalkefestival.com

Anthony Scaramucci and Living Historians at Chalke History Festival. Photo: Martin Cook

Crowds listening to Living Historians at Chalke. Photo: Ash Mills.

On your bike!

THIS year’s North Dorset Cycle Ride, organised by Shaftesbury Rotary Club, was a success despite last-minute route changes.

The event, which took place on a dry but windy and chilly day, raises money for Prostate Cancer UK, the main beneficiary, and other local charities.

It features rides of 50 miles, 25 miles and a family cycle ride, setting off from Park Walk in Shaftesbury, but the route for the longest ride had to be changed because Shaftesbury Road between Motcombe and Mere was closed.

The new route allowed the cyclists to enjoy the countryside from Stourhead to Maiden Bradley and Kingston Deveril.

A feed station was on offer at the Nadder Centre in Tisbury, before the long slog back through the Donheads and the finish at Gold Hill in Shaftesbury.

The 25-mile ride was similar to the original planned route, taking off through Motcombe, Sedgehill and Semley.

The family cycle ride saw the skills/fun section take place at Barton Hill skate park utilising the ramps there.

Shaftesbury Rotary Club would like to

thank First Milk/BV Dairy, which sponsored the event and helps with the organisation. It would also like to thank Lidl in Shaftesbury for its donations of cereal bars, biscuits and bananas, and the Nadder Centre for the use of its facilities.

The club would also like to thank Bamboo Coffee and Shaftesbury Chiropractic for their donations.

For more information about Shaftesbury Rotary Club, visit www. shaftesburyrotaryclub.org.

The next North Dorset Cycle Ride is on

Sunday sessions

THE Tolpuddle Old Chapel welcomed the BBC’s former chief news correspondent Kate Adie as part of its successful Sunday Sessions programme.

The veteran journalist shared stories from the many locations around the world where she reported major news events during her broadcasting career.

Following the talk, audience members were invited to ask questions, leading to an engaging and lively discussion.

The Sunday Sessions has proved successful and plans are underway to bring the popular series back for another season later in the year.

Ian Cray and Lorraine Tillbrook, volunteers for the Tolpuddle Old Chapel Trust, said the events had been warmly received by the local community and visitors alike.

For further information, visit www. tolpuddleoldchapeltrust.org.

Sudoku 3D puzzle

Cryptic crossword

Across 8 Gale’s blowing around middle of July for flier off coast (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.

Killer Sudoku Pro

9 Work on involuntary movement regarding sight (5)

10 Being averse to a large edible cow’s kidney, say (5)

11 Tiro’s cooked much of leading Italian dish (7)

12 Data pitiably manipulated – showing a flexible attitude? (12)

16 Greek character with tip, legal, within confines of locality for a great number (12)

Down

1 A huge number seen around southern suburb of Birmingham (5)

2 For cultivation, I’d offload with nothing lost spring flower (8)

3 Fellow for all to see having the reverse of magnetism – like a sated diner? (4,2)

4 Smear most of advertisement (4)

5 A snob, I remade Japanese art (6)

6 Declare short piece of data (4)

7 A hanger-on marks abbreviation (7)

13 Tool in a Western lake (3)

20 Fail getting low ball right away (2,5)

23 Accept a duke with German (5)

24 Manufacture only Northern man-made material (5)

Accept a duke with German (5) 24 Manufacture only Northern man-made material (5)

14 One’s considered close hint (8)

15 Visualize statement by a 90s anti-drugs campaigner? (7)

25 Fool blocks ring – characterizing modern alarms? (7)

Across

Gale’s blowing around middle of July for flier

(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.

17 Apprentice at home with depression (6)

18 Alter set of clothes (6)

19 Motionless apparatus for a whisky manufacturer (5)

21 Unattractive entrances to university grow larger yearly (4)

1 A huge number seen around southern suburb of Birmingham (5)

22 Bike trip in Isle of Wight town, we hear (4)

2 For cultivation, I’d offload with nothing lost spring flower (8)

3 Fellow for all to see having the reverse of magnetism – like a sated diner? (4,2)

4 Smear most of advertisement (4)

5 A snob, I remade Japanese art (6)

6 Declare short piece of data (4)

7 A hanger-on marks abbreviation (7)

13 Tool in a Western lake (3)

14 One’s considered close hint (8)

15 Visualize statement by a 90s anti-drugs campaigner? (7)

17 Apprentice at home with depression (6)

18 Alter set of clothes (6)

19 Motionless apparatus for a whisky manufacturer (5)

21 Unattractive entrances to university grow larger yearly (4)

22 Bike trip in Isle of Wight town, we hear (4)

A cure for the lost youth of today

MUCH is made in the media of the fecklessness of today’s youth.

Many bemoan the fact that young people spend too much time interacting in the virtual space rather than meeting people their own age and learning to grow in the real world.

There exists an organisation in this country which seeks to provide the youth of today –boys and girls 12 to 18 years old – with the opportunities to grow into well adjusted, confident and valuable members of our society.

The Army Cadet Force (ACF) is perhaps this country’s oldest youth organisation, and it has a well proven track record of providing guidance and a sense of purpose to often misguided youth.

Joining the ACF does not mean joining the armed services, although many young adults see the benefit of doing so, but nonetheless the values and standards for the ACF are invaluable in positively shaping the world of tomorrow.

There are ACF detachments across the whole country with about 20 in Dorset alone, and currently more than 500 of our young people attend these

detachments.

The University of Nottingham recently carried out research which identified the huge positive benefit to the wellbeing and career opportunities of both young people and adult volunteers who spent time as part of the ACF.

The ACF uses a militarystyle syllabus teaching selfreliance, self-discipline and respect for others.

In addition, those joining can gain qualifications in first aid – Emergency first aid at work – the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme and management qualifications.

All of which enhance the young person’s CV when joining the employment market.

The ACF is a fun, challenging environment which helps grow the person through finding and building on their talents – including those in the digital world.

The ACF relies on adult volunteers – no prior cadet or military experience required.

To find out more about how the ACF can help you and your young adults, visit armycadets. com

Graham Whittaker Via email

Blind charity reaches ou t

HERE at The Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB), we’re gearing up for our biggest volunteering opportunities of the year so far.

This June, we’re asking people to take just an hour of their time to help make a vital difference for blind and partially-sighted people in their area.

Reading and books are crucial to children with vision impairment and blind and partially-sighted adults. Books in accessible formats like audio and large print help to open up a world of information and learning and open doors to the imagination which would otherwise remain hidden.

As RNIB’s library services manager, I am writing to encourage you to take part by visiting your local library between June 1-14 to check what books are available for blind and partially-sighted readers.

It only takes a few minutes to ask the library staff and find out whether their library shelves include large print, braille or audiobooks.

We’d then love you to share what you find with us using our quick online form or by calling our library team.

This simple action will help RNIB build a far clearer picture of accessible library services across the UK and support our work to ensure everyone can enjoy reading in a format that works for them.

I would be grateful if readers who would like to take part could complete our quick form online at https://tinyurl. com/7xh99ppz, or if you are unable to do so online, contact our library team by phoning 0303 123 9999.

For this opportunity RNIB is working alongside The Big Help Out – a UK-wide event which runs from June 5-8 and sees millions of volunteers turn

out to help community causes.

The first two weeks of June also marks Hi-Vis Fortnight –an event organised by charities Share The Vision and RNIB which celebrates library services for blind and partiallysighted people and highlights the importance of books in accessible formats.

By taking just a little time to support us, you will be helping improve access to reading resources for blind and partially-sighted people in communities across the country.

Thank you!

Lara Marshall Library services manager, RNIB

Get

out and about with Nature Buddies WITH summer just around the corner, now is the perfect time to get out and enjoy the fresh air and all that Dorset’s beautiful countryside has to offer.

If you, or someone you know, would like to get outdoors but doesn’t want to do it alone, or needs a little extra support, a Nature Buddy could help.

The Nature Buddies Network is a Dorset-wide project offering free, friendly support to help people spend more time in nature.

Spending time outdoors has been shown to boost mood, reduce stress and improve wellbeing, and Nature Buddies help people take part in outdoor activities in a safe and supportive way.

The scheme works with local organisations and activity providers to train volunteers as Nature Buddies, a friendly face to welcome new people along and participate in the activity alongside them.

Activities range from walks and nature watching to gardening and conservation tasks, offering plenty of opportunities to get outside, try something new and enjoy good company.

Over the rainbow: New Blackmore Vale reader Colin Crees took this photo at Keynsham during the cricket club’s match against Midsomer Norton

An online Activity Finder makes it easy to search for Nature Buddies opportunities across Dorset – www.dorset-nl. org.uk/nature-buddies-activities

– or contact Kate Townsend for more information on 01305 228246 or at kate.townsend@ dorsetcouncil.gov.uk

The Nature Buddies Network is coordinated by Dorset National Landscape and supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Kate Townsend Project coordinator

Community centre exists to be used

AS the president and one of the trustees of Sherborne West End Community Association, I have often been asked who owns the West End Hall and Club.

My reply has always been: “You do – as the name implies, our ‘community’ of which you are a part”.

If you live in the west of our town, you are part of the community, and if you become a member of the association, you can have a say in how the association – often referred to as the club – is managed and run.

The building and the land it stands on was granted to the community in 1970 by West Dorset District Council by a deed of trust and the community hall was made a registered charity –No: 301175 – on October 16, 1970.

The association now rents the parcel of land to the west of the hall and the car park to the east from Dorset Council.

The association’s administration officers are made up of a president, chair, vice-chair, treasurer and a committee of a maximum of 15 members.

The legal responsibility for the overall management and policy making of the charity and the association is the board of trustees, made up of five to seven members.

The license to sell alcohol is usually held by the chair and the

running of the bar is overseen by a bar manager and a designated premises supervisor appointed by the council.

Officers of the association are elected each year at the annual meeting and voted on by members. So, no one person owns the association.

The community hall is used by groups and organisations from across the town and surrounding area, who can book time – by the hour or at regular times weekly – for a wide range of activities through the booking officer, and all who use the hall are encouraged to become an association member.

The hall can be booked for parties of up to 150 seated for a meal, a wedding reception, a birthday celebration, children’s parties or anything that our community would need such a space for a function.

I would remind you too that your hall is also our local polling station for local and national elections when our community can again have its say.

The association bar is open to members and their guests, even though non-members can use the facility, they pay a slightly higher price for their drinks.

Children are welcome until 9pm as a family group.

The Shorland Room – named after our current president – can be booked for smaller groups and private meetings.

As your president for the last 33 years, and having been the last chair of West Dorset District Council, I was instrumental in raising the £330,000 in 2017/18 to have the much needed extension built, making your community centre what it is today.

Like everything in this world, if you don’t use something, it will disappear –even your own community association.

So do come along, feel free to enjoy your community centre, its bar and even become a member.

Peter Shorland President and trustee

St John welcomes new volunteers

AS the country marks National Volunteers’ Week – June 1-7 – I would like to take this opportunity to thank the thousands of St John Ambulance volunteers who give their time to support their communities.

Whether providing first aid at public events, responding to emergencies or helping to train others, their commitment ensures that help is there when it matters most.

Our volunteers come from all walks of life and contribute in many ways.

Alongside those delivering frontline care, others support youth programmes, lead local networks, provide logistical and administrative support or help raise funds to sustain our work.

Each plays a part in strengthening the resilience of communities and building the confidence of others to act in an emergency.

We are always keen to welcome new volunteers and there are opportunities across the country for people to get involved, including as emergency responders, community first aiders, youth leaders, trainers, community volunteers and support volunteers.

Those who join us now will be part of our continuing work as we prepare to mark St John Ambulance’s 150th anniversary next year.

For those who may not wish to volunteer, donations are also vital in helping us train and equip our teams and reach more people with lifesaving skills.

To find out more about volunteering or supporting St John Ambulance, visit www.sja. org.uk

agricultural excellence of the area.

It is an historic show which has slightly lost its way with gimmicks.

More than ever is it necessary to highlight the role of agriculture, the farming life and livestock.

One of the iconic contributions this area makes is the dairy industry – milk and milk products and the internationally acclaimed Cheddar cheese.

Within 10 miles of the showground the names resonate nationally and internationally –Keen, Barber, Montgomery, Clothier, Godminister, Westcombe.

The show now values the inane over the excellent.

It is sad that it has, for economic reasons, dispensed with the famous and fabled cheese pavilion.

The area thrives on the economy of cheese and the national competition the show hosted has gone.

It diminishes itself by opting to exclude a major agricultural element.

Simply having a separate cheese show misses the point of what an agricultural show should be.

James Bishop Wincanton

I was surprised young men helped

I AM very sorry if Heather Bland – New Blackmore Vale, June 5 – found my letter of May 8 upsetting.

It certainly was not my intention.

I am a mother of four children and grandmother of 10, all of whom have been brought up to be kind and respectful to others.

Kevin Munday Chief Commissioner St John

Ambulance

No place for cheese at the big show

THE Bath and West Show exists to showcase the

However, I was genuinely surprised to have been helped with my bags and very grateful to these young men.

I originally sent the letter to the New Blackmore Vale titled The Kindness of Strangers. Lucy Peill Shaftesbury

Auction dates and valuation days

ACREMAN St Auctioneers & Valuers Sherborne is holding its two-day auction this month with an Antiques & Collectors sale on Thursday, June 26, at 10am, and Jewellery, Silver & Watches on Friday, June 27, at 10am.

Viewing is on Wednesday, June 25, 10am-4pm. The catalogue and bidding are available online through easyliveauction. com and thesaleroom.com

Thursday; Coins, Stamps, Books & Ephemera, Friday; Militaria, Friday; Textiles & Fashion, Mondays; Paintings & Contemporary Art, Monday.

Acreman holds regular valuation days for prospective sellers at its salerooms in Sherborne.

Valuation days 10am-3pm: Jewellery & Watches, Tuesday; Silver & Obje’t D’art, Tuesday; Toys & Collectables, Wednesday; Oriental & Asian,

Anyone unable to go in on the allocated days can phone or email to make an appointment and experts are also happy to make house visits if required free of charge.

Acreman

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

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

Pocket watch makes £3,800

CLARKE’S Auctions in Gillingham achieved some impressive results in its June sale held last weekend.

An early 20th century compactum wardrobe with exquisitely painted floral decoration sold for just under £2,500 to a UK internet bidder.

A late 19th century 18ct gold pocket watch by Nugent Wells & Son, a prominent firm of watchmakers, realised £3,800, including premium, and a highly collectable early 20th century Austrian cold-painted bronze table lamp by Franz Xavier Bergman achieved £1,100, hammer.

Jewellery and coins also performed strongly, with Maundy money sets, sovereigns and half-sovereigns selling within or above estimate.

Jewellery, gold and silver continue to perform exceptionally well at auction, making this an especially favourable time to consign.

Gold and silver prices have risen dramatically over the past year creating strong demand for quality pieces.

Unworn necklaces, rings, bracelets and other forgotten treasures at the bottom of a jewellery box could achieve far more than prospective sellers might expect.

Free valuations are available at the Gillingham saleroom and in the comfort of your own home.

For enquiries about consignments for upcoming sales, contact Richard Clarke or Karen Marshall on 01747 685592 at the salerooms, The Old Glove Factory, Buckingham Road, Gillingham SP8 4QF.

Collected interiors and antiques

A REMARKABLE collection assembled with passion, vision and an eye for history is set to go under the hammer as Duke’s Auctioneers presents Priory Works, Bridport: Collected Interiors and Antiques.

The sale showcases the carefully curated collection of Michelle and Stuart, who spent years acquiring antiques, decorative objects and curiosities intended to form the opening stock of a new antiques destination at Priory Works in Bridport.

Despite ambitious plans, prolonged planning challenges and changing personal circumstances meant the project could not be realised.

For Stuart, a former stuntman whose four-decade career included work as Russell Crowe’s stunt double in films such as Gladiator and Master and Commander, the collection represents a significant chapter after

Continued on page 34

‘Spanish Forger’s’ work for sale

TWO medieval illuminated manuscripts, identified as being late 19th century or even early 20th century fakes, attributed to The Spanish Forger, could sell for thousands of pounds when they are sold by Charterhouse in Sherborne.

“I must admit it is not very often we auction forgeries, but in this case we have made an exception as The Spanish Forger is now highly collected in his own right,” said Richard Bromell, from the auction house.

The Spanish Forger duped collectors, museums and institutions into buying his

A medieval illuminated forgery attributed to The Spanish Forger is estimated at £500-£1,000

medieval forgeries for many years.

Doubt exists about The Spanish Forger’s nationality, and some think he could be French, although the name has stuck.

The Spanish Forger’s works were subject to an exhibition at

Continued on page 34

Some of the items going under the hammer at Duke’s

WANTED Classic Cars & Motorbikes

For private collection Call 07885 373113 or 01278 431244

GENERAL AUCTION,OKEFORD FITZPAINE

village hall,Sunday 28th June.1pm viewing,3pm start. Entries invited.Details tel 07971 298562

Charterhouse sale

Continued from page 33

the Morgan Library, New York City, in 1978.

More recently, in 2009, the Victoria & Albert Museum acquired five works by The Spanish Forger for its collection for what it says about perceptions of the late 19th century.

The Spanish Forger’s manuscripts and all the other lots can be viewed at

charterhouse-auction.com where the auction, on Thursday, June 25, can also be followed live.

Richard Bromell and the team at Charterhouse, The Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne are available for valuations on single items, collections and complete house contents on 01935 812277 or via rb@charterhouse-auction. com

Duke’s auction

Continued from page 33

retirement.

For Michelle, a lifelong enthusiast of social history and antiques, it marks the culmination of a long-held dream.

While bittersweet, the auction offers collectors the chance to acquire pieces chosen for their craftsmanship, character and stories.

Michelle, now established within Bridport’s antiques community, plans to continue her journey with a smaller venture in the town.

The live auction is at Duke’s Dorchester Fine Art Saleroom on Wednesday, August 12, with viewing and collection in Bridport.

The ogre and the princess

WIMBORNE Musical Theatre Society (WMTS) is set to present Shrek the Musical at the town’s Tivoli Theatre.

The show tells the story of a grumpy but loveable ogre’s hilarious attempts to rescue the feisty Princess Fiona and reclaim his swamp.

Along the way, he’s joined by the fast-talking Donkey, faces off with the villainous Lord Farquaad, and discovers that true love and friendship really does come in all shapes and sizes.

The show is filled with dazzling costumes, laugh out loud moments and a host of quirky fairytale creatures – and proves being different is what makes someone special.

Shrek the Musical features favourite songs like I’m a Believer, Freak Flag and I Know it’s Today

Director Duncan Trew said: “We are delighted to be bringing this iconic and

uplifting story to life in Wimborne and it’s fantastic to be working alongside such a gifted cast and crew.

“This extends to our two junior cast teams – local young performers who are truly shining in their roles and are sure to steal the spotlight!

“Rehearsals have been an absolute joy, and we cannot wait for audiences to share in the fun!”

Direction is assisted by Hilary Baker, with musical direction from Matt Timms and choreography by Suzi de

Some of the 40-strong cast of Shrek the Musical

Villiers and Kiera Rickford.

The cast features more than 40 talented children and adults, including Jack Hosking-Ellis, Selina Rumbold, David Swain, Alan Colclough, Lauren Ferger-Andrews, Jemma Cable and Charlotte Squibb.

WMTS will stage evening performances from Thursday to Saturday, June 25-27, plus a Saturday matinee.

To book, phone the box office on 01202 885566 or visit www.tivoliwimborne.co.uk

Tickets are £22 adults and £18 under 16s.

BIZET’S Carmen is coming to Montacute House in Yeovil when the Reduced Opera Company and the Bluebirds Theatre Company present a boldly reimagined version of the opera sung in English.

The story is set inside a vast cloth factory – the world of charismatic textile worker, Carmen, looking for life beyond the drudgery of the factory floor; of Don Jose, a lonely security guard drawn into her rebellious underworld; and of celebrity fashion designer Escamillo, full of bravado and iconic bull-ring style.

The open air performance is on Saturday, June 27, at 7pm.

Arts & Entertainment

Doctors in the house

CLASSIC songs from the jazz era up to the 1960s will be on offer when Dr Jazz play at St Mary’s Church in Charminster.

The concert, in aid of church funds, will include everything

from Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong to Duke Ellington and Frank Sinatra and more.

Dr Jazz formed in early 2022 when recently retired GPs Des Ling, from Queens Avenue Surgery, Dorchester, and Adrian Clarke, from Fordington Surgery, Dorchester, got together to discuss their new retirement hobby of playing musical instruments – Adrian on double bass and Des on guitar.

Soon after, Jon Orrell, another recently retired GP,

from Royal Crescent Surgery, Weymouth, joined them on horns – saxophones, trumpet, trombone.

Since then, the trio have performed throughout West Dorset at private parties, charity events, weddings, residential homes, pubs, restaurants, fetes and fairs, usually joined by one or more other musicians, depending on the size of the venue – up to seven for a large gig.

Most of the time, working

medic Dr David Prior plays saxophone with the band, and for the concert at Charminster Church on Friday, June 26, at 7pm, Alistair Dean will be joining them on keyboards.

The band will be happy to take requests – if they can find the music!

Tickets for the Medicine for Your Ears concert are priced £10, including interval drinks and nibbles, and are available from 01305 213403 and 07795 347408/07818 508011.

Like Les Mis but with less misery!

REVOLUTION, romance and razor-sharp comedy are promised in an open-air retelling of The Scarlet Pimpernel at Winterborne Stickland and Halstock.

This fast-paced new show is presented by a cast of three from Cornwall’s Ha Hum Ah Productions.

France is burning, the guillotine is busy and Marguerite Blakeney is stuck in England with her idiot husband, a man so relentlessly foolish, it’s starting to feel strategic…

However, when ruthless revolutionary Chauvelin – head of the French Republic’s Committee of Public Safety, but with a very loose grip on the word ‘safety’ – threatens her brother’s life, Marguerite is dragged into a world of spies, secrets and very sharp blades.

Will she betray the mysterious Scarlet Pimpernel or let her brother face the guillotine? What do you do when every choice costs you the person you love?

The actors tear through revolutions, opera houses,

The Scarlet Pimpernel is at Winterborne Stickland and Halstock

seedy Dover pubs and glittering ballrooms using nothing but a mountain of wigs and sheer

nerve.

Expect quick-fire gags and high-octane multi-rolling in this sharply modern, joyously theatrical retelling of Baroness Orczy’s swashbuckling classic.

Think Les Mis, but with less misery!

The Scarlet Pimpernel is at Winterborne Stickland Sports and Community Club on Friday, July 3, and Halstock Village Hall field on Saturday, July 4, both at 7pm.

Further information and tickets are available online at www.artsreach.co.uk

Nell Gwyn: Her life and times

NELL! The Musical is coming to the picturesque grounds of Charlton House, Charlton Mackrell, this summer.

The show is an original stage production celebrating the life and times of Nell Gwyn –orange seller, comedic actress and famed mistress of 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 the king.

Nell is played by Georgina Sweet whose credits include Ariana the Good Witch in The

Wizard of Oz, Wendy in Peter Pan, Heather Chandler in Heathers: The Musical, Alaura Kingsley/Carla Hayward in City of Angels and Helen Walsingham in Kipp, the new Half a Sixpence musical.

Jordan Lee, who takes on the role of King Charles II, has played Sebastian in Twelfth

Night, Ralph Rackstraw in HMS Pinafore, the Caterpillar in Alex in Wonderland, and Motel in Fiddler on the Roof. Nell! The Musical runs on Friday and Saturday, June 26-27.

Tickets can be purchased via the link at www.nellthemusical. co.uk

Stravinsky and jazz on piano

MESSUMS West in Tisbury is set to stage an intimate evening of live piano music with Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring and Jazz: Composition in Real Time performed by internationally acclaimed musicians.

The Rite, composed on the eve of the First World War,

stands at a precise dividing line between the old world and the new.

Gillian Moore, associate artistic director of music and performing arts at the Southbank Centre, London, will give an introductory talk on the piece. She wrote the book The Rite of Spring, which explored the

cultural climate that created the composition.

The Rite will be performed by two piano duetists, Pip Eastop and Bruce Nockles.

It will be followed by Jazz: Composition in Real Time, played by acclaimed pianist Gareth Williams.

He will play solo improvised

versions of jazz and Broadway favourites, with a few surprises thrown in.

Williams has been receiving increasing critical and public acclaim since the 1990s and won the piano category in the 2013 British Jazz Awards.

The concert is on Saturday, June 27, at 6pm.

Arts & Entertainment Events

Musical play inspired by Chaucer’s tale

THE Rude Mechanical Theatre Company is returning to Dorset this summer with The Wife, its original musical play inspired by Chaucer’s Wife of Bath

The production, first performed in 2003 and later transferred to London, returns in a newly reimagined version with an expanded musical score.

Set on the spring roads from Southwark to Canterbury, the play centres on Alyson of Bath, a woman who has survived by wit, appetite and sheer force of character in a world stacked against her.

Before telling her tale, she speaks of her five husbands, a life lived through necessity as much as desire.

Her story unfolds into a fable

of courtly love, punishment and transformation, as a young knight is sent in search of the answer to a question that refuses to settle.

The Wife is performed outdoors by a small ensemble of actor-musicians, and blends song, verse and physical comedy into a vivid piece of storytelling.

Laughter, argument, music and tenderness sit side by side, while deeper questions surface about love, power and what it takes to endure.

The production is at Worth Matravers on Friday, June 19; Abbotsbury on Saturday, June 20; Bradford Abbas on Thursday, July 2; Stourpaine on Saturday, July 4; and Child Okeford on Saturday, July 25.

Hungarian girls’ choir in concert

A WORLD class choir from the Kodály Music school, Kecskemét, Hungary, is making a return visit to Bruton to give a concert.

The Aurin Girls’ Choir has an outstanding reputation and has won numerous first prizes and gold medals for its performances, including at the World Choir Games in China and at the Llangollen International Eisteddfod.

The choir has visited England many times,

delighting audiences with its singing.

On this visit it will also be giving a workshop for local school children.

The concert at St Mary’s Church on Monday, June 29, at 7.30pm will include a wide variety of choral music –sacred motets, contemporary pieces, Hungarian folk songs and lighter pieces.

Tickets can be booked on 07794 425670 or at brutonchoralsociety.org.uk

‘TEA IN THE GARDEN’ AT THE OLD RECTORY, Stock Gaylard, DT10 2BG. Sunday 28th June, 2:30pm - 5:00pm. Entrance £8 includes tea. in aid of Lydlinch Church bells restoration.

COME AND ENJOY AFTERNOON TEA at Wimborne St Giles Village Hall BH21 3ND on Sunday 21 June from 2.30 - 5.00 pm All funds raised will go to Sixpenny Handley Village Hall CIO Information: www.sixpennyhandley villagehall.org

MAIDEN NEWTON ART EXHIBITION

Friday June 19th 6pm til 9pm Saturday June 20th 10pm til 4.30pm Village Hall near station. Demonstrations throughout the day refreshments all day Saturday and Tombola. (Friday eve wine and nibbles)

NDLD PRE-LOVED POP-UP, Saturday 20th June, 1-3pm, Child Okeford Community Centre, DT11 8EW

CAR BOOT SALE, Nunton Recreation Ground, Nunton, SP5 4HW. June 28th, Sellers 7.30am. Cars £5, Small vans £8, large vans £15. Buyers 8.30am. Adults 50p. Refreshments. www.newsandnotes.net/ event-list

SPETISBURY CHURCH & VILLAGE, FETE and Dog Show, Saturday 27th June, 12 – 4 p.m. At Spetisbury Manor DT11 9EB, Everyone welcome, £1 adults, children under 16 free

THE PILGRIM SINGERS present, Summertime and All That Jazz. A Charity Concert in aid of Food for Families in the Sudan, in the Balsam House Gardens, Wincanton, BA9 9HT, Sunday 5th July 3pm, open for picnics from 1pm, Tickets £15 (under 18s free), Available: on the door, from choir members, Wincanton Post Office,, or contact 01963 33695, Strawberries & Cream and Pimm’s included, Marquee cover

LYN’s BINGO on June 22nd Marnhull Royal British Legion. Sodom Lane (DT10 1HR). Eyes down 7pm.

FLOWERS-OF-HATCH, PYO Flowers, in the beautiful Nadder valley SP3 6PH. typified.defaults. longer. What’s picking? see flowersofhatch.co.uk

or tel: 01747 826282

FUN DOG SHOW, 1-4pm 27th June. Alec’s Field, Hazelbury Bryan. Free bouncy castle. Entry forms from Red Barn or jillendellion@hotmail.com

11 5 40 64 22 BINGO!

Stalbridge Hall Thursday 25th June

Doors open 6.30pm Eyes down 7.30pm In aid of hall funds 90

The choir from the Kodály Music school PHOTO: Mark Pickthall

Church

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

• Blandford Methodist Church: Sundays – services at 10.45am. Thursdays – coffee and chat 10am-noon. Fridays –lunch club for over-55s from noon. 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, 2.30pm-3.30pm, term times only. Tuesday –Footprints, activities playtime for pre-school children, 10am11.30am 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, October 7, coffee morning 10.30am-1pm in the 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.

• 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.

• 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 Broadstone: Alumni Soundscapes, tea, scones, jam and cream, Sunday, July 5, 4.30pm-6.15pm. Information on the Broadstone Music Series website.

• St John’s Church, Enmore Green: Service every Sunday at 11.15am; parish communion 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 6pm.

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

• St Peters Benefice: Sunday, June 21 – St Peters, Holy Communion 9.30am, St James Holy Communion 9.30am, Compton Abbas Holy Communion 11.15am, Enmore Green Morning Worship 11.15am, Motcombe Evening Worship 6pm. Sunday, June 28

– St Peters Holy Communion 9.30am, Motcombe Morning Prayer 9.30am, Melbury Abbas Holy Communion 11.15am, Enmore Green Morning Prayer 11.15am, West Orchard Morning Worship 11.15am, St James Teatime Church 4pm, St James Reflective communion 6pm.

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

• Stour Vale Benefice: Sunday, June 21 – 8.45am Breakfast Church, Buckhorn Weston Village Hall; 10am Family Service, St Andrew’s, Todber; 10.30am Parish Communion, St Mary’s, West Stour; and 6pm Evensong BCP, Christ Church, East Stour. Sunday, June 28 –9.15am Parish Communion, St Michael & All Angels, Stour Provost; 10.30am Morning Worship, St John the Baptist, Buckhorn Weston; 11am Parish Communion, All Saints, Kington Magna; and 6.30pm Holy Communion BCP, St Mary Magdalene, Fifehead Magdalen.

• Sturminster Christian Fellowship: Service every Sunday at 10.45am.

• Two Rivers Benefice: Sunday, June 21 – 9.30am Communion at St John the Baptist Church, Spetisbury; 9.30am All Age Worship at St Mary the Virgin Church, Charlton Marshall; 11am Communion at All Saints Church, Tarrant Keynston; 11am Morning Worship at All Saints Church, Langton Long. Sunday, June 28 – 9.30am Communion at St Mary the Virgin Church, Charlton Marshall; 9.30am Morning Worship at St John the Baptist Church, Spetisbury; 11am Communion at All Saints Church, Langton Long; 11am Morning Prayer at St Mary’s Church, Tarrant Crawford.

• West Camel Independent Methodists: All Saints Church, BA22 7QB. Sundays June 14, 21 and 28, 6pm evening worship. Sunday, July 5, 4pm – United Sunday @ Four with tea. . Contact: Geoff.mead@ yahoo.com or phone 01935 850838.

Step forward on student transport

IN recent weeks, many families across Yeovil and South Somerset have contacted me, worried about how their children will get to school and college in the coming academic year.

In a rural area like ours, simply reaching education each day can already be a logistical nightmare for families. It is not hard to understand the shock and distress, then, when some parents received letters suggesting that, from September, their child’s transport could be altered or even withdrawn.

The root of the issue lies in new national requirements aimed at improving accessibility on buses and coaches, ensuring disabled passengers can travel safely, comfortably and with dignity. This is an objective I wholeheartedly support. Since being elected, I have consistently pushed for better accessibility across our

transport networks and will continue working to remove the barriers that too many people still encounter.

However, while the intention behind these rules is absolutely right, the availability of vehicles that meet the full standards has not kept up with what is needed for school and college transport. As a result, some families have been left facing the very real possibility of losing services

they depend on day in, day out. This is not acceptable.

I have been working with Liberal Democrat colleagues, both in Parliament and at Somerset Council, to raise these concerns directly with ministers, underlining both the urgency and the real impact on families in our community. We pushed for a practical and balanced solution that would uphold the principle of accessibility without putting students’ education at risk.

I am pleased the Government has now taken action by introducing a new four-year exemption arrangement for school and college transport. This will allow services to continue operating under longer-term approvals, bringing much-needed certainty for families and transport providers alike.

Crucially, this does not mean stepping back from improving accessibility. Transport

operators will still be expected to strengthen their fleets and ensure suitable vehicles are available where needed, at no additional cost to families. What it does mean is that progress can continue in a realistic and manageable way, without disrupting students’ journeys in the meantime.

This is an important step forward, and I know it will come as a relief to many families locally. Young people should be able to look ahead to the next academic year with confidence, not doubt.

There is still more work to do, and I will continue to press for progress so that accessible transport becomes the standard across all services.

If you are continuing to experience difficulties or have concerns about your child’s journey to school or college, please do get in touch with my office. I will always stand up for you and your family.

Defence is government’s first duty

IF we weren’t already, following the resignations of the Defence Secretary and the Minister for the Armed Forces last week, everyone is now aware of the basic and simple mantra – the first duty of government is the protection of the State of her citizens. It is simple and it is true. There is, frankly, no point whatsoever, in having an excellent health system, first class education, the cleanest of environments, the most buzzing of sustainable economies. If you cannot defend it, then what’s the point.

We are also familiar with phrase – to govern is to choose. According to the Ministers’ resignation letters and media statements, the Treasury has chosen NOT to prioritise defence and the Prime Minister deems himself too feeble or impotent to overrule the Treasury. This has become the defining hallmark of Sir Keir’s

Conservative MP for North Dorset

Simon Hoare

Premiership. It does seem strange and worrying that the government in Treasury forecasts can anticipate almost to the penny what the welfare budget will be in 2031 but cannot predict the defence budget beyond a 12-16-month window. So much for discharging the first duty of government.

Following the Defence resignations we had a series of Ministers telling the country in various broadcast studios that the Defence Investment Plan (DIP) is a thing of detailed beauty that, rather like Ronseal, does exactly what it says on the tin. They could not understand what all the fuss was about. We would all be happy with it when we saw it. And it is the seeing it which is important. The Ministers who were defending it as being the best thing since sliced bread had NOT seen it whereas the two Ministers who had, deemed it unfit for purpose and resigned. Truly seeing is believing!

The following day the Treasury was telling the country that money was tight and it had to prioritise. I think we all knew and know that. However, it did manage to make an announcement that £4.5 billion is to be spent to construct safe

road crossings and cycling routes. Well, that is good news of itself BUT when money is tight surely the first allocation of resources must be in our defence – particularly when the USA is retreating in its commitment to European security and NATO?

The next government – and I hope and believe it will be a Conservative one – is going to make those difficult choices on the economy and where spending is prioritised. We have already said we will restore the two-child benefit cap and there is further work to do in welfare reform. My Party is a supporter of the Welfare State but as the first envisioned safety net below which nobody can fall. For too many it has become an unescapable cocoon from which there is no exit. There is nothing kind or caring about having such a system. It, and other functions of government, need root and branch modernisation.

Lib Dem MP for Yeovil

Adam Dance

£50m boost for flood defences

THIS week brought fantastic news for Somerset, with the announcement that our county will receive £50 million in new Government funding to strengthen flood defences and improve resilience against future flooding.

I am incredibly proud to have played a leading role in securing this investment. Since being elected as Liberal Democrat MP for Glastonbury and Somerton, tackling flooding has been one of my top priorities, and I have consistently raised Somerset’s challenges with Ministers in Westminster.

Earlier this year, I repeatedly challenged the Flooding Minister in Parliament and urged her to visit Somerset to see the scale of the problem for herself. Following that pressure, she came to Somerset, met local stakeholders and visited communities and farmland affected. During that visit, I secured a commitment from the

Lib Dem MP for Glastonbury & Somerton Sarah Dyke

Minister to explore additional support for Somerset’s flood resilience.

This week’s announcement is the result of that sustained campaigning and demonstrates what can be achieved when Somerset’s voice is heard loud and clear in Westminster.

For too long, communities across Somerset have faced the devastating consequences of

flooding. Homes, businesses, roads, farmland and critical infrastructure have repeatedly been put at risk, causing enormous disruption and uncertainty for local people.

While securing this funding is a major milestone, my work does not stop here. I will be actively scrutinising how this £50m is spent to ensure it reaches the communities that need it most and delivers long-term protection.

Over many years, I have worked closely with Somerset Council, Internal Drainage Boards, the Environment Agency, farmers, landowners and local residents to champion joined-up approaches to flood management. I am hopeful that this money will mean that communities and stakeholders are able to work together to support sensible nature-based solutions, improve water management across river catchments and build resilience

before flooding occurs.

Flooding is not simply an environmental challenge. It is also a matter of food security, economic resilience and national security. Protecting homes, businesses, transport links and agricultural land is essential if we are to build a stronger and more resilient Somerset.

As Liberal Democrat Rural Affairs Spokesperson, I see flooding as one part of a wider challenge facing our countryside. Alongside this work, I am continuing to champion my Good Food Bill, which aims to strengthen food security, support British farmers and increase the use of locally produced food. Over the summer, I will also be developing the Liberal Democrat vision for the countryside, focused on supporting rural communities, tackling climate change and protecting our food supply for future generations.

25 years on from winning seat...

IN the small hours of June 8, 2001, at the count in Trowbridge, I became the Member of Parliament for Westbury.

It was an odd election, postponed by a month thanks to foot-and-mouth, a catastrophe seared into the history of rural Wiltshire. Tony Blair was returned to Downing Street with another huge majority and the great argument of the day was whether to join the euro. A quarter of a century on and having not only not joined the euro but left the EU, we’re still arguing about Europe.

I had left the Royal Navy the previous October after 18 years as a medical officer, though I remained a reservist, and still am. Two years later, having broken ranks with my party to oppose Mr Blair’s war, I was recalled for a stint as a medical officer with the Army in Iraq. Wiltshire, home of the British

Conservative MP for South West Wiltshire

Dr Andrew Murrison

Army, understands service better than most, and defence has been the thread running through my time in politics. Never has it had such salience in national politics as now, with the resignation of the Defence Secretary and Armed Forces minister whose resignation letters excoriate Sir Keir’s leadership and his willingness to undertake the first

duty of government – the defence of the nation. We learn that a miserable sum is to be earmarked for defence at the same time as an extra £4.5 billion has been found for new cycle paths. I have to ask, what on earth is going on?

Reflecting on my 25 years, one of the biggest jobs I have been given was Prime Minister’s Special Representative for the Centenary of the Great War. Working with so many dedicated people and organisations at home and abroad over seven years to honour and remember the sacrifices of the past and educate new generations about the war was a huge privilege. As was being asked to write the reports Fighting Fit (2010) and A Better Deal for Military Amputees (2011) by Prime Minister David Cameron. Their recommendations were rolled out with impressive speed and are benefiting the Armed Forces

community to this day, including, of course, in Wiltshire.

I answer to the people of South West Wiltshire, the successor constituency to the Westbury seat I was first elected to in 2001. Over 25 years, with my small team, I have been involved in dozens of issues locally and have dealt with thousands of items of casework. And the battles go on – from large infrastructure issues like incinerators and bypasses to making sure we are not forgotten by the Treasury in our small corner of south west England. It is an honour and a privilege to have represented the place that Jenny and I call home for a quarter of a century. I hope the residents of Trowbridge, Westbury, Warminster, Mere and the surrounding villages will allow me to continue to serve them. Another 25 years would be nice!

Let’s be cautious on fire stations

NEWS has been circulating online that the fire stations at Charmouth and Maiden Newton have been saved from closure. Without wanting to pour cold water on the celebrations I think it is important to state clearly the facts to avoid confusion and potential disappointment.

In order to manage a £1.2 million shortfall in central Government funding, the Fire Chief had proposed closing eight stations across Dorset and Wiltshire, including the two mentioned above.

After intense lobbying of Ministers by MPs of all parties from both counties, the Fire Minister has signalled she would support the local Fire Authority increasing the precept – the part of our council tax dedicated to funding the fire service – to cover the financial shortfall. She has also confirmed that the Department will be reviewing the central Government funding model,

which it is hoped would mean more money at the next funding round.

As a result of this information the Fire Chief has submitted a new plan to the Fire Authority that would keep six of the eight stations open and merge the remaining two with

nearby stations.

Based on this there have been numerous reports that Charmouth and Maiden Newton will stay open. However, we are not there quite yet. It still requires the Fire Authority to agree to the precept increase. The Fire Authority will meet on June 20 to make a decision. I hope you will forgive me if I keep the bubbles in the fridge until then.

This Wednesday the Railway Bill will come before Parliament again. I had the pleasure of sitting on the bill committee for six weeks and while the Government has rejected all our amendments, the Minister has agreed to my demand for environmental reporting to be included in Great British Rail reports to Parliament.

When the Bill goes to the Lords, we will reintroduce our amendments, especially our ‘Passenger Charter’ which

It’s Net Zero, stupid

WHOEVER came up with the idea of attacking environmental action by calling it ‘net stupid zero’ clearly either has a genuine lack of knowledge about the crisis that is hammering on our door, or –more likely I suggest – a corruptly cynical ambition to prop up short-term fossil fuel money-making at the expense of our long-term future – a future that will inevitably affect every single one of us, no matter where we live or the circumstances we live in.

This is where the People’s Emergency Briefing film is having a major effect, by informing audiences of the realities of the situation and suggesting things we can all do, including making our politicians aware that over 80% of us are keen for the government to take action.

If you haven’t seen it yet, then screenings are listed at

Ken Huggins on behalf of the Green Party in North Dorset

https://www.nebriefing.org/ screening-map. If there hasn’t been a screening near you, then feel free to contact me and we’ll explore some possibilities.

The term ‘Net Zero’ refers to a state where greenhouse gases are removed from the atmosphere as fast as they are emitted. At that point global

would guarantee basic services on all trains, including working toilets, a guaranteed seat on long journeys, high speed wi-fi and food and drink. I hope the Government will see sense in adopting it.

On Friday, I convened a meeting of Sherborne councillors and Dorset Council officials to discuss improving the flow of information to residents about the situation at Newell House after the recent fire. I know everyone is saddened by the damage to the historic landmark and wants a permanent solution that will see the building restored. However, there are personal and commercial sensitivities around what happens next, and while everyone is working hard to find a solution, there is a limit to what information can be shared publicly. That said, I am committed to ensuring that everyone is updated as often as possible.

warming will slow significantly, but it will not stop completely because greenhouse gases are very long lived. CO2, for example, lasts for centuries, so to reverse global warming we will also have to remove much of the greenhouse gases we have emitted in the past. This is not as simple as planting more trees, and the time pressure means we will also have to devise other means of so-called carbon capture and storage.

So, achieving Net Zero will only be the first step towards recovering the previously stable climate that was essential for our human society to flourish. It will require deep cuts in emissions by shifting to sustainable energy and reducing energy use by improving energy efficiency.

These and other actions are included in the policies promoted by the Green Party. They are not uncomfortable,

costly or painful measures, especially when compared to the alternative which would be to continue business as usual and literally cook our planet. These measures will improve lives, for example by making our houses more comfortable and cheaper to live in, and improving our health by cleaning the air we breathe. There are many benefits we can look forward to, and it is evidently beyond stupid to oppose Net Zero.

It’s not surprising that some newly elected Reform councillors have discovered that it’s best to continue spending on ‘green’ projects because they produce benefits for their communities, create jobs and save money. The Confederation of British Industry, for example, has reported more than one million and rising well paid jobs in the green economy. That’s Net Smart Zero for you.

Lib Dem MP for West Dorset

Edward Morello

Home & Garden

Water thoughtfully in hot spells

by Sally Gregson

AFTER weeks of unseasonal high temperatures we may be forgiven for thinking we have moved to the tropics. And those hot days came just at the time when plants, re-emerging from a long winter, needed quieter sunshine and cooler temperatures.

It may be very tempting to try to grow some seriously exotic vegetables and flowers, but common sense, that heartless teacher, would remind us gardeners that the weather could just as easily be unseasonally cold. It’s difficult to plan. We have to remain on our toes.

Perhaps the most appropriate course of action now is to prioritise the watering. This is especially true with vegetables. Very many of our favourite summer vegetables are made up

mostly of water – courgettes and marrows, peas and beans of all shapes and sizes, and tomatoes and salad crops. It’s important to ensure they each get a good drink at the end of every hot day if they are to keep growing and cropping all summer.

Try to avoid feeding vegetables while there is so little rain. There is a danger that the dilution of soil water will be made stronger than the plant’s own natural water and thus reverse the process of osmosis – where stronger solutions are diluted by the weaker – and the

Torbay Palms love the heat

by Sally Gregson

SO far, this summer is proving one of the hottest experienced in southern England. You could be forgiven for thinking our climate had switched to ‘sub-tropical’ instead of our customary mild and damp mixture of sunshine and showers. And maybe it will still conclude with continuous rain and thunderstorms. But in the meantime, raining or not, this summer we can enjoy the magnificent flowering of all our trees and shrubs.

These hot temperatures are just right for growing Torbay Palms, or cordyline. Cordyline australis is the toughest, and bears sword-shaped leaves in painterly shades of pink, cream and green. The variety C. australis Torbay Dazzler has strong, cream margins to the leaves, with a pink cast in the centre. In a hot summer it will

produce clouds of white flowers followed by little berries. In a warm, well-drained position it will make a small tree up to about 2m after 15 to 20 years. Sometimes, you find when moving to a new house, a cordyline is in the garden

natural juices in the plants are pulled out by the water in the soil that has been made too concentrated by adding too much fertiliser.

And to ensure that the plants’ roots don’t move up to the surface to take advantage of the little water, try to give each plant a thoroughly good soak. Inverting a plant pot next to the point where it emerges from the soil, and pouring the water into each inverted pot ensures it reaches the roots rather than evaporates on the surface.

Don’t forget to water the compost heap too, if all your labours are not to be in vain. It too is a living entity which needs water, at least the microbes that do all the work need to be kept a little moist. And pick your crops little and often. Don’t let the poor plant struggle to keep itself

Cordyline australis bears swordshaped leaves in painterly shades of pink, cream and green

elbowed into a sunny place in the garden, and after a few years becomes a winter stalwart, producing lots of spear-like leaves in gorgeous shades of pink, purple, cream and green.

already. Often what has happened is that, years previously, a small one has been chosen as a house plant for a sunny window and has outgrown its allotted space and its pot. The outed, small tree then seems to have been

All seems well. But after a cold, wet winter, cordylines can get untidy and unsightly. In an especially cold winter, a strong wind might damage the leaves and by spring the tree will need a little attention if it is to look good the following summer. Cordyline leaves are very slow to drop off naturally, resulting in a tall trunk with a collar of dead, brown leaves bent right back. Cut off all the damaged leaves at the point they emerge from the trunk with a pair of loppers, and it will emerge afresh from your attentions like a princess, looking happier and beautiful once more. It is just crying out for new companions.

A gardener checks the moisture of the soil before watering

PETER PORT UPHOLSTERY

A Local Family Run Business based in Shaftesbury, Offering awide range of services including foam cut to size and Re-stuffing of feather cushions. 01747-228384 Peterportupholstery@googlemail.com.

LANGTON NURSERIES

(C W Abbott & Son)

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

Garden Property Maintenance

All Hedge/tree work/rubbish clearance Gravel Driveways/Pressure Washing Patio and Fencing Work Fully Insured/Free Quotes 01258 458849/07788 907343 lesbenham@yahoo.co.uk / check a trade

Home & Garden

HUSSEY CARPET AND FLOORING, South Street, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 4AP Domestic and Commercial Carpets,Vinyl,Luxury Vinyl Tiles, Laminate and Wood Flooring. Contact Chris Hussey 07885-273470 husseyflooring@gmail.com

Tel: 01963 250005

Mobile 07976

SP5 4LN 07747 536631 hamish@raylym.co.uk www.raylym.co.uk

JOINERY

Home & Garden

WANTEDDave buys all types of tools

Call 01935 428975

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

For all your fencing and decking needs

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

Sherborne Fencing Ltd

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A FRIENDLY FAMILY RUN BUSINESS FOR ALL YOUR GARDENING NEEDS

Stockists of new Alko, Mountfield, Stiga, Weibang and Echo.

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

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Unit 1, Brickyard Lane, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4JL

TOOLS WANTED. Cash waiting. 01747 416022

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GARDENING SERVICES

LAWN MOWING, strimming, hedge cutting etc. Contact Billy 07849-571742

MAN WITH MICRO-DIGGER & 1.5TON DIGGER, stump grinder, Garden clearance, patios, fencing, decking, landscaping, driveways 30+ years’ experience

Contact Ken 07882 441873

TREEWISE

Experts in all aspects of TREE SURGERY, HEDGECUTTING & STUMP REMOVAL

NPTC qualified & fully insured No job too small, Friendly, personal advice and free quotations. Make a wise choice and call David Merefield today on 01747 850906 / 07966 522361

HOUSE CLEARANCE

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L.DAVIS AND SONS

Fencing, and garden design Concrete bases, patios, gravel, garden clearance and much more. We also deliver compost, pots, bark, logs and other gardening products. 01458-241230 or 07950-261510

HOME MAINTENANCE SERVICE including grass and hedge cutting. Please call John.07779-401026

OUTDOORS

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

QUALITY SEASONED HARDWOOD for sale

Barn-stored Any size of load. If you want anymore help contact Andy 07773-254174

SEASONED HARDWOOD LOGS

£200 transit load £110 half load 01258-880892 07980-036250

LOGS R US Tipper Load £200 Half Tipper Load £100 dumpy bag £90 All hardwood 07790 404593 01258 818081

North Dorset Tree Surgeons

Registered Waste Carrier Tel: 01258 440838 or 07853 275379 enquiries@back2market.com

North Dorset Tree Surgeons

ASBESTOS REMOVAL

Garages, Sheds, Lean to’s, Roofing and Cladding Collection and Dismantling BY Registered Hazardous Waste Carrier Call 07973 444620

JAMES AYRES TREE CARE

Specialist Tree Workers

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

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

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All types of blinds supplied and fitted for home, office, conservatory or commercial premises. We

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Get in the Garden

Home & Garden

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

GARDENING is good for you! I heard the other day that planting a tree uses more muscles than a workout in the gym, that you’ve probably paid for too! For me, as well as the occasional opportunity to plant trees, I get up early and help the delivery team load the vans every morning. This not only gives me an insight – without pages of computer reports – into what products are popular but gives me a fantastic early morning workout without gym membership helping to heave 70 bags of compost into the vans!

But gardening is good for us in many other ways. The first of these is that it is an occupation that can be peaceful. Carrying out what seem to be menial tasks like watering, weeding and dead heading allows the mind to wander off and make sense of the day’s problems. I was speaking to someone the other day who finds that fishing does the same for him, but I think the tangling of the line and the fear of catching something would keep the stress levels up for me!

Research has recently shown that contact with wellmaintained garden soil, teeming with micro-organisms, can trigger the release of serotonin in the brain. This is a natural anti-depressant, which also strengthens the immune system. Therefore, gardening is good for physical and mental well-being in a world where our screen time and virtual experiences can dominate. As an industry, we should be doing more to shout about this.

Gardening regularly is proven to be good in many other ways too, including helping reduce stress, burn calories and release endorphins – ‘the happy hormones’ that relax us and make us feel content. Studies have even suggested it can help reduce the risk of dementia.

Getting outdoors and being close to nature in the garden is also great for mindfulness. In our restaurants and farm shop, we are witnessing a growing trend for more vegetarian and vegan-based dishes, as the nation nourishes both the body and soul.

The government has been encouraging us to eat five a day for some time, although now that should be seven and, if you are Japanese, 15 a day! But it’s actually 15 different colours of vegetables and fruit that is the key thing, which is perhaps why so many varieties of vegetables are now available in ‘Rainbow’ ranges.

It’s not just being outside in the garden that can have health benefits. House plants too are excellent for improving the conditions in which we live.

Research has shown house plants can help de-stress us and detox our homes and can filter out chemicals from the atmosphere. They also help improve air quality, relax and revive you mentally and physically, and can help reduce dust, which saves on housework. The right indoor plants could reduce susceptibility to stress, allergies, asthma, fatigue, headaches and respiratory congestion.

They are proving increasingly popular with younger customers, who want easy-care gardening solutions combined with a healthy edge. That, and the tendency for new homes to have small or no gardens, and the increasing number of rented houses and flats, has also boosted this trend.

Even tech firms advertising gadgets on television for university-bound students to have in their digs, feature house plants on desks alongside the technology.

For me, though, another health benefit is that gardening is a pastime that can be something that brings together communities. We go around speaking to garden clubs in towns and villages in the area and such groups are important in bringing people together. They also help those, perhaps retired, who may not see many people day to day, have a friendly chat about the vagaries of growing cabbages or something else! So, get out there – mow the lawn, weed the border, tend the soil and have a chat over the fence! It’s good for you!

•

CLEANING CHIMNEYS

Martin Simmonds

Chimney Sweep

Manual and Power Sweeping, Stove Servicing and Maintenance, Camera Inspections, Property Maintenance 07368 250305/01747 590799

Manual and Power Sweeping, Stove Servicing and Maintenance, Camera Inspections, Property Maintenance. 07368 250305 / 01747 590799

NVQ Qualified. APICS Registered Friendly, Reliable Service longthorpeindustries@gmail.com

NVQ Qualified, APICS Registered Friendly, Reliable Service longthorpeindustries@gmail.com

STOVES OVEN CLEANING

Ovens,Ranges, Aga’s, etc. Independent Family Run Business Covering The Blackmore Vale Area Tel 01935 592461 Mob 07875 272401 www.shinystoves.com

Joseph Crocker Computers

Custom built gaming & office PCs Desktop & laptop repair Help with mobile devices

General computer and IT

OR TOO

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ETHERINGTON BSc(Hons). PC/Mac, Repairs, Networks, Websites, Tuition. Free local callout. 07855-287150 01963-362403 www.dcenet.co.uk

I’m Phil Hudson, your local tech

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

LISA PAINTING & DECORATING 20+ yrs experience. Excellent references. 01749 850827 / 07767206785

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

T: 07968845623 E: richbartlettflooring@outlook.com

GARETH TANNER

G.O.T. DECORATING City and Guilds qualified Interior/exterior Decorating Free Quotes no VAT Tel 07736644452 go. tanner93@gmail.com

PAUL WEST

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

NEIL PIERCY

PLASTERING ALL TYPES OF PLASTERING, FLOOR SCREEDING & RENDERING. WINCANTON & 20 MILE RADIUS. HELPFUL ADVICE & FREE QUOTATIONS CALL NEIL: 07974-185923 or 07811-211586

Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.

CARPENTER/ TRADESMAN seeks contracts in North Dorset, Please phone Hugh on 07813-864334

Maintenance

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60th WEDDING ANNIVERSARY

Rob’s Clearance

• House, shed, and site clearance

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• Recycling carried out • Good/interesting items bought for cash

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WINDOWS & DOORS

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60th Wedding Anniversary

Sandra & Robin Cuff

of Motcombe were married at St. Andrew’s Church, Fontmell Magna on June 18th 1966

Sandra & Robin will be celebrating with a charity event on June 27th in support of ‘Young Lives vs Cancer’

“Wishing my lovely husband a special thank you for 60 years and hopefully many more. I love you now as I did then” - Sandy

PUBLIC NOTICES

JOYCE VINER Deceased

Pursuant to the Trustee Act 1925 anyone with a claim against or an interest in the Estate of the deceased, late of 8 Rixon Close, Sturminster Newton, Dorset, DT10 1BS, who died on 21/03/2026, must send written details to the address below by 20/08/2026, after which the Estate will be distributed with regard only to claims and interests notified

Farnfields Solicitors, The Square, Gillingham, SP8 4AX Ref: MW/93065-0001

MARY ROSE POPE Deceased

Pursuant to the Trustee Act 1925 anyone with a claim against or an interest in the Estate of the deceased, late of Coppice House, The Street, East Knoyle, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP3 6AJ, who died on 03/03/2026, must send written details to the address below by 20/08/2026, after which the Estate will be distributed with regard only to claims and interests notified

Farnfields Solicitors, The Square, Gillingham, SP8 4AX Ref: MRW/ 93013-0001

LICENSING ACT 2003

The family of the late Michael John Taylor (Mike)

wish to express their sincere thanks to all relatives, friends and neighbours for their kind expressions of sympathy, beautiful floral tributes and generous donations to Salisbury District Hospital Stars Appeal received during this difficult time. Special thanks to Salisbury District Hospital, Doctors & Staff at Abbey View Medical Centre, Shaftsbury and Carers & Staff at Wisteria Care, Gillingham for their exceptional care & support. Thank you to everyone who attended the service to celebrate Mike’s life.

Notice is hereby given that Damory Garage Limited has applied to Dorset Council for the variation of a Premises Licence in respect of: The Cross Stores, The Cross, Child Okeford, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 8ED. The variation application seeks to amend the permitted hours for the sale by retail of alcohol for consumption off the premises to: Monday to Sunday: 07:00 to 23:00. The application may be inspected by appointment at the offices of Dorset Council Licensing Authority or via the Council’s public licensing register. Any person wishing to make representations regarding this application must give notice in writing to Dorset Council Licensing Authority no later than 8 July 2026. It is an offence, under Section 158 of the Licensing Act 2003, knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with an application. A person doing so may be liable on summary conviction to an unlimited fine.

IN MEMORIAM

GEMMA PALMER

Another year gone by, in our thoughts and hearts every day. Love and miss you, Mum & Dad. xx

GEMMA PALMER

Mum, we miss you and think of you all the time. Love Lilia, Macey and Evie. xxx

MARTHA ELIZABETH WAGLAND (Liz)

17th June 2025

Always remembered by Husband George, Sons Kevin & Nigel, Daughter-in-law Vicky And Grandchildren Luke, Eleanor, Matilda & Samuel.

DEATHS

Ken Sherlock

Passed away peacefully at home on the 17th May aged 85. He was a much loved husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. Private family service.

MICHAEL PLACE

died on 22 May 2026. Remembered with love by Raine and Fiona. Funeral Service at St Peter’s Church, Stourton Caundle on Monday 29th June at 1pm. No flowers, donations to Dementia UK or Church Fabric Fund. Enquires to WS Brister & Son, Sherborne. Tel: 01935 812647

Bown

Margaret Georgina

Passed peacefully on 28th May, aged 101 years. Beloved wife of the late Harry, sister in law, aunt and friend to many. Funeral service will take place at St Mary Magdalene, Thornford Church on Thursday 25th June at 12:00 noon. Enquiries c/o Brister & Son Funeral Directors Tel: 01935 812647

MARY THERESE CHESTERFIELD

On 2nd June 2026 peacefully at home aged 89 years. Of Shaftesbury. Funeral service takes place at Salisbury Crematorium on Thursday 25th June at 11:00am No flowers please but donations if desired to Royal Air Force Association, 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

DEATHS

JOE KENDALL

Passed away peacefully on 3rd June 2026 At Yeovil District Hospital

Aged 81 Years, A much loved Brother to Susan, Uncle, Great Uncle and Friend.

Funeral Service to take place at Yeovil Crematorium On Monday 29th June at 2.00pm. Donations if desired to the Injured Jockeys Fund c/o Harold F Miles Funeral Directors Folly Lane, South Cadbury BA22 7ES or online at www.haroldfmiles.co.uk

Ray

Malcolm Raymond James

Formerly of Holton, Gillingham and Sherborne. Passed away peacefully at Yeovil District Hospital on the 5th June 2026. Aged 93 years.

Much loved Husband of Evelyn. Father, Grandfather and Great Grandfather. Funeral service at St John the Baptist’s Church, Buckhorn Weston on Wednesday 1st July at 12noon. Family flowers only. Donations if desired to St Johns Church. These may be left after the service or sent c/o Harold F Miles Funeral Directors, Folly Lane, South Cadbury BA22 7ES, www.haroldfmiles.co.uk

Anne Elizabeth RUTTER

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Anne Elizabeth Rutter (nee Brady) who died peacefully with her family on 1st June 2026 at the age of 98. A private funeral service will be held for the immediate family. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial service to celebrate her life on 19th June 2026 at 1500 at Shaftesbury Friends (Quaker) Meeting House, Abbey Walk, Shaftesbury Dorset SP7 8BB. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to a dementia charity. Dress code – not black. Mum loved to wear colours.

MICHAEL JULIAN BOTTERILL

On 6th June 2026 peacefully at Fernbrook Lodge, Gillingham aged 77 years. Of Shaftesbury.

A much-loved partner to Vivienne, also a loving Dad, Brother, Uncle, Grandad and friend to many.

“An outstanding guitarist and generous musician”

A celebration of Michael’s life to take place at St James Church, Shaftesbury on Tuesday 7th July at 11:00am No flowers please but donations if desired to Alzheimer’s Society 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

Margaret Sherwood (nee Fripp)

DEATHS

Sadly passed away on 28/05/2026, Beloved wife to the late Bill Sherwood and Mum to Mark & Gary, Nan to Jenna, Alex and Daniel & Great Nan to Rose & Ava. There will be a private service 06/07/2026 and donations to Air Ambulance via margaret-ann-sherwood.muchloved.com

David Anthony Dobbins

Peacefully on 4th June. David aged 82 years. Dearly loved Husband of Mindra, Dad of Paul, Andrew, Tony and Matthew. Much loved Pa and Great Grandfather. Funeral Service at The Church of Our Lady, Marnhull on Monday 22nd June at 11am. Family flowers only please donations if desired for Click Sargent or Crispen Community Club, Street. Please wear a splash of yellow. C/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, Henstridge.

Jillian Mary Neal

of Marnhull. Passed away peacefully at home on 9th June, aged 87. Beloved wife to the late John and mum to Rebecca & Adrian. Adored nanny by all the grandchildren. She will be dearly missed by all her family and friends. Funeral service takes place at Higher Ground Meadow, Corscombe DT2 0QN 26th June at 1.00pm. Everyone will be warmly welcomed. No black please. Donations in memory of Jill are invited in aid of Dorset Wildlife Trust. These can be left on the day or sent to the funeral directors above.

COFFIN

John Frank

Peacefully on 2nd June 2026 at home in Milborne Port, aged 73 years. Dearly loved Husband of Myra Bella. Much loved Dad of Ade and Garry. Loving Grandad to Poppy, Ruby, Rosie and Alfie. Funeral service at St. John’s Church, Milborne Port on Thursday, 25th June at 12.00pm. Followed by interment. Donations if desired, in memory of John for St. Margaret’s Hospice can be made online at peterjacksonfuneralservices.co.uk

Evelyn Dora Dare 1932 - 2026

Evelyn passed away peacefully at home on the 5th June 2026 following a short illness. She was the most wonderful Mother, Grandmother and Great-Grandmother and will be sadly missed. She is now reunited with her one true love, her beloved husband Terry.

A service is to be held at Yeovil Crematorium on Friday the 10th of July at 12:40pm, Family flowers only, donations in Memory of Eve for Weldmar Hospice care can be sent c/o A .J. Wakely & Sons, 16 Newland Sherborne DT9 3JQ

ALAN BRYAN BURR

On 5th June 2026 peacefully in Salisbury District Hospital aged 89 years. Of Shaftesbury. A loving husband to Mary, loving Dad to Andy, who will be sadly missed by all family and friends. Funeral service takes place at Salisbury Crematorium on Thursday 2nd July at 11:00am. No flowers please but donations if desired to 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

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Please

Woodside Court, Woodside Dairy Yard, Sparkford BA22 7LH Email: info@wsbrister.com 01963 850165 www.wsbrister.com

•

CHEERFUL CARER/ MULTITASKING PA for Mondays near Tisbury 07790-524241

CARER REQUIRED, for elderly lady. Gillingham. Mon-Fri, 2hrs, am only. No weekends. Personal care and meal preparation. Tel: 01747-685879

SITUATIONS WANTED

CLEANING SERVICES

OFFERED. Please ring 07396-949160

Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.

GROUNDSMAN/GARDENER to join a friendly and hardworking team. Enjoy landscaping, Horticulture, and outdoor maintenance, then join us in Mid Dorset. Competitive salary. Email: headgardener25@gmail.com

OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR for busy independent Town and Country Letting Agency in Sherborne. Experience essential with a can-do attitude to join a small team. Full time Mon-Fri / occasional Saturday mornings, own car essential. Call Joe Meier 07970 870227

ESTATE GROUNDS MAINTENANCE OPERATIVE

Mid Dorset – Full-time, Permanent Versatile person required for grounds maintenance on a small private estate with Grade I listed house. Grass cutting, hedge trimming, gutter and ditch clearance, and general building upkeep. Three-bedroom cottage available for the right applicant. Part-time cleaning work (approx. 15 hrs/wk) also available for partner. Experience, driving licence, and a willingness to turn your hand to anything essential. Salary dependent on experience. Apply to justin@langhamfarm.co.uk

GARDENER

Cook Required | Thu-Sun | Up to £42,000

an experienced private cook, a recent culinary graduate, or a talented cook looking to develop their career in a private household setting. Experience catering for dinner parties or events would be advantageous but is not essential. Due to the rural location, you must have a full driving licence and access to a vehicle. Accommodation is available. For further details and to apply, please email your CV to: familycookrecruitment@gmail.com

PART-TIME OFFICE ASSISTANT ADMINISTRATOR

We are seeking a highly organised and tech-savvy Office Administrator to join a small, friendly team supporting a diverse rural business portfolio in north Dorset.

This is a varied and interesting role with flexibility for the right person. To apply, please send your CV and a short covering email outlining your experience to: forwarddevelopmentsltd@gmail.com

Parish Clerk - Shillingstone

Parish Clerk required for Shillingstone Parish Council, mainly working from home, 12 hours a week. The job gives great flexibility as to when the hours are worked.

The successful applicant will be required to provide professional support and guidance in respect of all aspects of the Council’s work including acting as the Council’s Responsible Financial Officer. A copy of the job specification is available on our web site www.shillingstone-pc.gov.uk

We are looking for an enthusiastic and self-motivated person with good interpersonal, verbal, written and IT skills, ideally with some experience, although a full handover will be given by the current Clerk. The Clerk will be required to attend monthly Parish Council meetings which are usually held on the first Thursday of each month (no meeting in August).

The successful candidate will either have, or be prepared to obtain within a reasonable timescale, the Certificate in Local Council Administration (CiLCA) qualification. Salary scale is LC2 (18-32) currently between £ 16.35 to £22.20 per hour, depending on experience. Please apply with a copy of your CV to David Green Clerk to Shillingstone Parish Council by e-mail: clerk@shillingstone-pc.gov.uk

The closing date for applications is 3rd July 2026.

Do you enjoy driving?

We’re recruiting for part-time School Minibus Drivers in your area

Could this be your ideal part-time job?

We’re seeking drivers for our school services starting in September. Choose between part-time, split-shift term-time vacancies, and casual/relief shifts in your area. No previous experience is required as comprehensive training is provided. You will need a D1 entitlement on your licence (check reverse of photocard) or a PSV entitlement.

Dorset Community Transport is a charity providing minibus services throughout Dorset. Join us to make a difference to people in your community.

To find out more or apply, visit ectcharity.bamboohr.com/jobs

If you have questions, please call us on 01258 287 986.

Why are so many neurodivergent

by Nicole Asghar

THIS is a question I often get asked. The short answer is society often views difference as a disadvantage, so the messages we receive about ourselves are rarely positive, encouraging or kind.

I’m also asked by therapists why there are more referrals for autistic individuals nowadays. The short answer is we are, and we’re not. More people are diagnosed/self-

identified now, meaning they can give language to their experiences, and autistics are struggling more than ever before because life is becoming increasingly demanding of our nervous systems, our cognition and our sensory systems.

Neurodivergent people have always existed. They were not ‘created’ recently due to advances in technology, people having children later in life or

Arthritis: Stopping the coffee and upping the herbs

by Fiona Chapman

I HAVE been trying to give up coffee – again – which I find incredibly hard. At least not having it first thing in the morning has been achieved and maybe the odd very small cup, once or twice a week after breakfast and well before noon might be the answer!

I have been wondering if it has been contributing to arthritis in my hands. It definitely makes the body more acidic, which is a

very bad thing. It raises cortisol levels, depletes magnesium and really should probably be avoided.

Some people don’t seem to be affected by it at all – lucky them I say!

I have been thinking about more herbs that can help with arthritis and am going to try some Smilax ornata or Sarsparilla – pictured – a vine from Central and South America and the Caribbean. The rhizome

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taking paracetamol. Autistic, ADHD, dyslexic and dyspraxic brains have always been part of humanity, needed for as long as we can remember. There are theories that neurodivergent people were once advantageous to tribes. Many autistic people are night owls who enjoy quiet, uninterrupted time, perhaps serving as nightwatch in earlier times.

ADHDers are often creative,

is used in herbal medicine. In the old days it was used to flavour root beer – and pirates took it for its antimicrobial and cleansing properties to treat venereal diseases!

It is known as a blood purifier because of its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It contains steroidal saponins which bind to toxins in the gut and endotoxins in the liver and stop them being absorbed into the bloodstream.

It is also diuretic, so will help rid the body of toxins, including uric acid – which contributes to arthritis and particularly to gout – through the kidneys.

energetic and dynamic thinkers – qualities that could have been highly rewarding at a time when tribal living required new solutions, new locations and adaptability.

In modern life, especially in the West, our systems are built on neuronormative standards – societal norms that narrowly define the ‘right’ way to think, function, move, feel and communicate.

We know that autistic and

is said to alleviate dry and itchy skin, and its detoxing properties help with eczema and psoriasis.

It is nutritive and a tonic and is said to be very helpful for menopausal women with night sweats and fatigue.

It is also good for the skin and

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Any herb or plant that contributes to detoxing the body is useful for many reasons, as our bodies are so full of toxins. Some are made inside from the chemical reactions constantly happening in the body, or a stagnating liver recycling hormones and toxins around our bloodstream, and many come from outside – the air we breathe, the diets we have, the stress we feel, an unhealthy lifestyle – so it is very important to give the liver and kidneys a helping hand.

I am hoping that stopping the coffee and upping the herbs might at least delay the onset of arthritis in my hands. Time will tell!

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

people in therapy?

ADHD individuals do all of this differently – therefore, it is easy to understand why living in these nervous systems becomes exhausting, painful and often full of suffering.

Up to 66% of autistic adults have considered ending their life at some point, and autistic children have considerably more thoughts of wanting to die than their peers.

Neuronormative standards feel relentless, unforgiving and like

a constant puzzle to solve.

This is where neuroaffirming therapy comes in. Imagine stepping into a room that welcomes you, completely unmasked, where your experiences aren’t seen as ‘strange’, ‘different’ or ‘rude’. Imagine being in a space where all the societal rules are put down.

Connecting with a neurodivergent therapist can feel like a sigh of relief, and

Meditations in nature: Beneath the shadow of Glastonbury Tor

by Susanna Curtin

RSPB Ham Wall opened in 1994 on land reclaimed from former commercial peat workings. It was designed to re-establish a thriving wetland habitat to attract bitterns. These are very shy, secretive birds that belong to the heron family. They have pale, buff-brown stripy plumage covered with dark streaks and bars that make them blend seamlessly into the reedbeds. Located just a few miles west of Glastonbury, the reserve is a watery wonderland due to the number of species that can be found here, but particularly, as it has been instrumental in bringing our bitterns back from the brink of extinction.

Having got here early, I am writing this from my favourite bird hide. It was here that I saw my very first bittern, and where I have had the most up-close and personal encounters with hobbies – the sleek, swift-like, summer visitors that slice through the air to snatch dragonflies on the wing. In the winter months, this same spot has also been the perfect place

for some, it is a lifeline.

A good place to start finding a neuro-affirming therapist is through local support groups. Recommendations are always helpful, and the BACP directory shows if they specialise in neurodivergence.

All therapy should feel like a safe space, but if you are neurodivergent, we often need an extra layer of safety – we need relational safety, and that is often best found in other neurodivergent individuals. People often feel we speak the same language. A welcome

change. Help is out there – you are not alone.

If you need someone to talk to outside of therapy, Samaritans is open 24/7. The number to call is 116 123. If you’d like to share your thoughts on this, I’d love to hear from you.

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

from which to enjoy dramatic starling murmurations, alongside hunting marsh harriers, hen harriers, great white egrets and glossy ibis.

Despite choosing a busy Sunday for my visit, this perfectly placed open hide is strangely quiet today and I have managed to secure the best seat in the ‘house’, on which I am staying put. Although I am at my happiest while walking, I have learned, over the years, to sit quietly and wait to really appreciate the biodiversity of this special place. My bird list today is already testimony to the magic such patience can bring.

My main reason for visiting today is to hear the bitterns, and already there have been a couple of males calling their profound, resonant, foghorn booms from deep inside the reeds. But scanning the skies with my binoculars, I have also seen some hobbies. These are super graceful, high-speed raptors. About the size of a kestrel, they are a cross between a peregrine falcon and a swift, and built entirely for aerial dominance. They have long, narrow,

sickle-shaped wings that taper to sharp points, paired with a square, relatively short tail. Their upper wings are a dark slate-grey or blue-grey, and they have a brilliant white throat and cheeks, that are contrasted sharply by a dark crown and a thick, black-looking ‘moustache’ stripe extending down beside the beak, giving them the stern, hooded look common to many falcons. From underneath, they are heavily marked with brown streaks and have ‘rusty trousers’ on their thighs. However, their most remarkable feature is their confident flight. They are incredibly playful and aggressive aviators as they chase down dragonflies, martins or swifts with breathtaking ease, and eat them on the wing.

As I scan over the water, my eyes are soon greeted to the marsh harriers, two males and one female, locked in some intricate aerial display. They have a totally different flight pattern to hobbies with beautiful long wings and finger-like wing tips that provide their lift and stability. And then, floating serenely on the water, the most gleeful sight of the day; a great crested grebe with her two chicks riding safely on her back. Great crested grebes are among the UK’s most elegant waterbirds. With their distinctive black head plumes, rich chestnut neck frills, and vivid red eyes, they are unmistakable during the breeding season. Their courtship displays are among the most celebrated in the bird world as

pairs perform elaborate rituals of synchronised head-shaking, mirroring each other’s movements and presenting gifts of water weed as part of their bonding display. But it is watching them with their young that leaves the strongest impression on me. In their first days of life, great crested grebe chicks ride on their parents’ backs. Nestled against their mother or father, they are safe from predators and the elements. Watching these two chicks peek out cautiously from the safety of their parent’s feathers is one of those quiet, memorable moments that reminds me why I love these birds so much.

In time, I venture out from the hide and am rewarded with a bittern flying across the reedbed, followed by four great white egrets standing statuesque as they wait for fish. Shortly afterwards, a grass snake glides effortlessly over the water. Its head remains perfectly upright and motionless while the rest of its body ripples behind in graceful undulations.

The late afternoon air is filled with the songs of Cetti’s, sedge and reed warblers, along with the rich notes of blackcaps. As the evening visitors begin to arrive and take my place along the paths, I realise it is time to head home. The day has delivered not only everything I had hoped to see, but much more besides. As I leave, I find myself already planning a return visit. n Dr Susie Curtin (email curtin. susanna@gmail.com).

Best in the west: Search on for the top chefs and home cooks

THE search has begun for the region’s best chefs, with entries now open for South West Chef of the Year.

Now in its 22nd year, the contest was co-founded by renowned chef Michael Caines MBE DL, chef/patron of the Michelin-starred Lympstone Manor.

Michael said: “We’re once again on the hunt for the very best chefs and home cooks from across our region.

“Year after year we’re blown away by the culinary talent that exists and the incredible skills on display from our competitors.

“Whether it is the young students who enter the Junior Chef category, or the professionals who are at the top of their game, this is an opportunity to celebrate the many skilled and creative people in our industry.

“The competition has become a real highlight in the culinary calendar. It is a fantastic platform to showcase the amazing food and drink from the south west, of which we are very proud.

“It’s also an opportunity for our many high-quality hospitality venues to raise their profiles.”

Entries are open in the following categories:

n Professional Chef – any age, working as a sous chef/pastry chef or above or as a private chef

n Young Professional Chef –aged 18-24, working in any role in the kitchen up to and including junior sous chef n Student/Apprentice Chef – aged 16-19 and at college or in an apprenticeship n Home Cook – aged 16-plus, never having worked or trained in the catering industry.

The Junior Chef category closed in May, having opened earlier in the year.

Competitors in all categories must live or work in Dorset, Somerset, Devon, Cornwall, Gloucestershire or Wiltshire.

Competitors are provided a list of seasonal ingredients and challenged to create their own unique dishes, with an emphasis on locally sourced produce.

Finalists then demonstrate their skills in front of an expert judging panel, led by Michael Caines and featuring some of the south west’s most acclaimed chefs, including Nathan Outlaw, Paul Ainsworth, Elly Wentworth, Chris Cleghorn and Hywel Jones.

Last year’s overall winner was Lewis Brown from the acclaimed Fowey restaurant, Narla by Charlie Walters.

Lewis said: “Entering South West Chef of the Year is a great opportunity to show your skills and individual style while also competing against some of the south west’s best up and coming chefs.

“It’s a great experience to be judged by some of the region’s top chefs and industry leaders and it is a great way of getting your name out there. It certainly looks good on your CV, no matter where you are in your career.

“Good luck to everyone that enters – stay calm enjoy the experience and if you don’t succeed, keep pushing and try again.”

This year’s competition culminates on Tuesday, October 27, with the Professional and Student/Apprentice Chef finals at Exeter College.

The day concludes with an awards presentation dinner at Exeter Golf and Country Club, where guests will enjoy a four-course meal cooked by judges and former winners.

For more information and to enter, visit www.southwestchef. co.uk

Open Wednesday to Saturday 10 - 5

Judges taste the competitor dishes at last year’s South West Chef of the Year PHOTO: Steve Haywood Photography

Lucky Marcel scores perfect marks at awards

ORGANIC cheesemaker

Feltham’s Farm, at Horsington Marsh, near Templecombe, won both the Best English Cheese and Best Cow Cheese trophies at the 10th edition of the Artisan Cheese Awards with its newest cheese, Lucky Marcel.

The small, lactic-style cheese with a vermiculated rind, scored a perfect 100/100 at this year’s judging, which saw a recordbreaking 643 entries judged by 80 experts at St Mary’s Church in Melton Mowbray.

Lucky Marcel, a homage to two of co-founders Marcus Fergusson and Penny Nagle’s favourite French styles, St Felicien and St Marcellin, was first developed in 2024.

When young, the yeastripened cheese is firm, lactic

and fresh, but it ages quickly, breaking down to become softer and more liquid, with the flavour profile intensifying along the way.

Feltham’s Farm won eight prizes at this year’s competition, across categories including Organic, Cow, So and Fresh.

Gold accolades were awarded to the Queso Frescoinspired fresh cheese La Fresca Margarita; the soft, blue, ale-washed cheese, Rebel Nun; and Lucky Marcel.

La Fresca Margarita also collected two Silver prizes, while Gert Lush – Feltham’s Farm’s west country take on a Camembert – secured two Bronze awards.

Marcus Fergusson, co-owner at Feltham’s Farm, said: “Lucky

Penny Nagle, co-founder of Feltham’s Farm, with the Best English Cheese trophy, alongside Matthew O’Callaghan, founder and organiser of the Artisan Cheese Awards

PHOTO: Martin Ellio mepics.me/Artisan Cheese Awards

Marcel is a small and delicate cheese, but it punches far above its weight. The quality of the milk is absolutely essential – we lovingly hand-ladle every pot.”

Penny Nagle, co-owner at Feltham’s Farm, said: “The judges really responded to the delicate simplicity of Lucky

Marcel, and we are delighted that they are also recognising how simple cheese is often the hardest to make really well – this win is tribute to Shaun and the cheesemaking team here, as well as our single source milk partners Bruton Dairy and Godminster.”

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

Why you shouldn’t throw a stick for your dog

by Lynn Broom BVSc, GPCert(ExAP), AdvDipAAB, MRCVS

WHILE throwing a stick for

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associated with them.

Sticks can cause mouth injuries and can even cause life-threatening oesophageal and tracheal damage. This typically occurs when the dog runs on to the stick if it gets stuck in the ground or lands awkwardly. I have even seen a significant mouth injury from a dog which was carrying a stick and tripped causing the stick to catch on the ground and push it back into the dog’s mouth.

Typical signs are the dog becoming subdued and drooling, and the saliva may have blood in it. Even labradors will usually refuse to eat following one. Wounds are typically under the tongue and may not be visible in a conscious mouth examination.

Apart from the wound itself, pieces of stick may break off and remain in the deepest part of the wound, even if investigated and flushed. These pieces may then migrate through the soft tissue,

sometimes over a period of months or years, and cause an abscess to form. This often occurs somewhere on the neck. They may burst out on their own or cause a recurring abscess until explored and the cause is found. Sometimes the underlying cause is never found.

Injuries to the back of the throat are difficult to investigate and repair. Damage to the epiglottis, glottis, trachea and oesophagus may cause lasting damage. On occasion these injuries will be lifethreatening if a major blood vessel is ruptured or if irreparable damage occurs.

Even with relatively minor damage these wounds are very painful and cause eating difficulties for several days afterwards.

Sticks can also embed in the dog’s eye, neck or chest causing potentially lifethreatening injuries and I have seen all of these at some point, some where the dog didn’t survive long enough to get to a vet.

If your dog needs to chase something, then a ball – large enough to avoid lodging in the dog’s throat – has fewer risks associated with it. Alternatively, plastic or rubber sticks are available.

If you suspect your dog has suffered a stick injury, then it is likely they will require veterinary treatment. The depth of the wound is often not apparent and should be explored to check for removeable stick remnants. Large areas of tissue damage will require suturing and specialist treatment may need to be sought for further imaging or repair of complex structures. Even minor wounds will require pain relief and may require antibiotics because the stick often drives dirt deep into the tissue.

If you want to reduce the risk of causing pain and distress to your dog and a potentially large vet bill, then please do not throw sticks for your dog.

Top five myths about cat behaviour

by Raychel Curson

CATS have a reputation for being mysterious, independent and sometimes a little unpredictable.

But a lot of what people believe about cat behaviour is actually based on myths – not facts.

These misunderstandings can lead to frustration for owners and unnecessary stress for cats.

Let’s clear things up and look at what’s really going on behind those whiskers.

n ‘My cat is aloof and doesn’t care about me’ CATS often get labelled as distant or unaffectionate, but this couldn’t be further from the truth.

Cats show affection in subtle ways – slow blinking, sitting nearby, following you from room to room or gently headbutting you.

They’re not ignoring you – they’re just communicating in a quieter language than dogs.

MID DORSET CATS PROTECTION C ats looking for new homes

The Mid Dorset branch of Cats Protection has a number of cats still needing veterinary care before being homed.

The group is also looking for people to foster cats and has other roles available in the branch.

Behaviour like this is usually about:

q Boredom

q Hunting instincts

q Attention-seeking

q Environmental needs –scratching, climbing, marking

n ‘A cat showing their belly wants a belly rub’

THIS is one of the most misleading signals.

A cat rolling over and showing their belly is usually a sign of trust – but not an invitation to touch.

Many cats will react quickly if their belly is touched because it’s a vulnerable area.

It’s more of a “look, I feel safe” than “please rub me.”

n ‘Cats are lowmaintenance and don’t need interaction’

n ‘If my cat purrs, they’re happy’ PURRING is often linked with contentment, but it’s not that simple.

Cats also purr when they are stressed, in pain or trying to self-soothe.

Think of purring as an emotional tool – not just a happiness signal.

To understand how your cat feels, you need to look at the whole body – posture, ears, tail and environment.

n ‘Cats act out of spite’ IF a cat scratches the sofa or knocks something off a table, it’s easy to assume they’re being naughty or ‘getting revenge’. In reality, cats don’t think in terms of spite or punishment.

CATS may be independent, but they are not low-need. They require mental stimulation, play, social interaction and environmental enrichment.

Without it, boredom can lead to unwanted behaviours like aggression, over-grooming or excessive vocalisation.

Cats are not cold, spiteful or simple – they are complex communicators with their own unique language.

Once you stop interpreting their behaviour through human assumptions, you start to see what they’re really saying.

And that’s when your relationship with your cat becomes much deeper, calmer and far more rewarding.

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)

To enquire about any of these roles or cats for rehoming, phone 07831 586114.

LOST CATS

If your cat has gone missing, Cats Protection offers practical steps to help bring it home safely.

Start by searching your local area thoroughly, checking sheds, garages and outbuildings where it might be hiding.

Create posters and share them in your neighbourhood and online communities.

Inform local vets and animal rescues in case someone has found your cat.

Ensure your cat’s microchip details are up to date, as this can be a vital tool for identification, and update the microchip database to advise your cat is lost.

For a detailed guide and additional advice visit the Cats Protection website or call us on 07831 586114..

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Motoring

ON ALL VEHICLES UP TO 3.5 TONNES INCLUDING HORSEBOXES AND MOTORHOMES

SUNRISE SERVICE & MOT CENTRE

Bodyshop open for all repairs and restorations, f rom small scratches to complete resprays, insurance work welcome.

MOTS , SERVICING AND REPAIRS ON ALL VEHICLES UP TO 3.5 TONNES INCLUDING HORSEBOXES AND MOTORHOMES

MOTS – class 4,5 and 7

Diagnostics

MOTS, SERVICING AND REPAIRS ON ALL VEHICLES UP TO 3.5 TONNES INCLUDING HORSEBOXES AND MOTORHOMES

Motor show’s £42,000 boost for blind charity

Bodyshop also available.

Air conditioning Valets

Bodyshop open for all repairs and restorations, f rom small scratches to complete resprays, insurance work welcome.

MOTs – class 4, 5 and 7

MOTS – class 4,5 and 7

Courtesy Cars

The DBA would like to thank all sponsors, exhibitors, volunteers and members of the public who supported the event.

Diagnostics Air Conditioning

Diagnostics Air conditioning Valets

MOTS – class 4,5 and 7

Collections within a 5 mile radius

Courtesy Cars

Concessions for Pensioners, Armed Forces and Emergency Services

Courtesy Cars

Diagnostics Air conditioning Valets

Concessions for Armed Forces and Emergency Services

Collections within a 5 mile radius

Courtesy Cars radius

THE Dorset Blind Association’s (DBA) 10th annual motor show, held at Lulworth Castle last month, raised more than £42,000 in support of people living with sight loss across Dorset.

Concessions ed Forces a es

The public turned out in strong numbers for the milestone event, with organisers estimating more than 8,000 visitors across the day, despite an unsettled weather forecast.

It wanted to give special thanks to returning Platinum Sponsor Blue Sky Financial Planning and Supercar Sponsor Daizun Investments.

15B Sunrise Business Park, Higher Shaftesbury Road

The show also welcomed 300-plus vehicles, ranging from classic and vintage models through to modern supercars, making it one of the largest displays in the event’s history.

The charity would also like to thank DBA patron James Weld and the Weld family for allowing the show to take place in the grounds of Lulworth Castle.

Blandford DT11 8ST Tel: 01258 459798

15B Sunrise Business Park, Higher Shaftesbury Road

Blandford DT11 8ST Tel: 01258 459798

Email info@sunriseservicecentre.com www.sunriseserviceandmotcentre.com

Email sunriseservicecentre@hotmail.com www.sunriseserviceandmotcentre.com

The show also delivered a full day of entertainment, family activities, food and drink, and artisan stalls.

Sam Baker, community relations officer at the DBA, said: “To reach our 10th motor show and raise over £42,000 is something we are incredibly proud of.

“The support from the public, sponsors, exhibitors, volunteers

Square Motors (Bosch Garage) Salisbury Road (A30) Shaftesbury SP7 8BU

2019 (19) Mitsubishi ASX 1.6 Juro 5dr.

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) Ford Focus 1.0T Titanium X Nav 5dr. 125bhp, sat nav, partial leather, heated seats, parking sensors, cruise control auto lights & wipers, hill holder, later type chain engine, 67,800 miles .............................................................. £9250

2012 (62) Ford Ka 1.2 Studio 3dr. 69bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, £35 yearly tax, 50+mpg, simple car with basic spec, cambelt replaced, MOT Nov 2025, private sale on behalf of a customer, 73,500 miles .......................................£2950

2014 (14) Ford Kuga 2.0TDCi Titanium X AWD 4x4 SUV 5dr. 163bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, 4x4, high seats, leather, heated seats, heated screen, sat nav, park sensors, auto park, reverse camera, sunroof, auto lights & wipers, cruise, lane aid, sign recognition, hill hold, electric tailgate, cambelt replaced, 92,500 miles .........£7450

2005 (55) Ford Focus 2.0 Ghia Automatic 5dr. Only 47,500 miles, cruise control, auto lights & wipers,, MOT April 2027, not perfect as its old, cheap low mileage automatic with only 47,500 miles £2850

2018 (18) Ford Transit Connect T200 1.5TDCi Van 5dr. 100bhp, material lined, bulkhead delete, 2 seats, parking sensors, roof rails, no vat to pay, 58,300 miles £8750

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

2020 (69) Ford Transit 2.0TDCi Trend 350 MWB MR L2 H2 11 Seat Minibus 5dr. 130bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, 10 seat plus driver, 2 front seats, 9 rear seats, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, parking sensors, heated front seats, hill hold, cambelt replaced, 90,200 miles.........................£19500 + VAT = £23400

£5500

2018 (18) Ford Transit Connect T200 1.5TDCi Van 5dr. 75bhp, ply lined, 2 seats, no vat to pay, cambelt kit replaced, 139,500 miles

2023 (72) Mercedes-Benz V-Class V220 2.0CDi Sport

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

Automatic 6 Seat MPV. 163bhp, Luxury travel, sat nav, 360 cameras, heated seats, rear heating, cruise control, 6 leather captain seats, auto lights & wipers, too much spec to list, simply stunning vehicle, 45,500 miles ...................... £39500

2016 (66) Mazda 3, 2.0 SE-L Nav Automatic 5dr. 120bhp, petrol, 6 speed automatic gearbox, sat nav, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, parking sensors, sign recognition, heated seats, hill hold, 75,900 miles...................................£8450

2006 (06) Mercedes-Benz CLK200 1.8 Kompressor Sport Automatic Convertible 2dr. 163bhp, petrol, 5 speed auto gearbox, recent new roof & shocks absorbers, full history, 15 stamps, heated leather, electric roof, auto lights & wipers, cruise, park sensors, MOT June 25, private sale on behalf of a customer, 77,500 miles ...........................................................................................................£4250

115bhp, high seating, big boot, reverse camera, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, partial leather, heated seats, hill holder, 82,500 miles .............................................................. £7950

2015 (65) Peugeot 308 1.2THP Allure Automatic 5dr. 130bhp, petrol, 6 speed automatic gearbox, sat nav, park sensors, reverse camera, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, hill hold, only £35 a year road tax, 50+mpg economy, cambelt has been replaced, 69,500 miles..............................................................DUE IN SOON

2019 (19) Suzuki Ignis 1.2 SZ3 5dr. 89bhp, great looking small car with low running costs, auto lights, parking sensors, 50,500 miles .............................................................. £6950

2023 (23) Volkswagen T-Cross 1.0TSi Black Edition

2019 (19) Renault Captur 1.5DCi Iconic Automatic SUV 5dr. 90bhp, diesel, 6 speed automatic gearbox, sat nav, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, parking sensors, hill hold, high seating, sliding rear seats, upto 67mpg economy, 20,300 miles .........................................................................................................£12250

5dr. 108bhp, high seating, decent boot, parking sensors, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, hill holder, 21,800 miles

£15250

2019 (69) Volkswagen Golf 1.6TDi Match Nav Estate

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

5dr. 113bhp, sat nav, parking sensors, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, hill holder, big load space, cambelt kit replaced, 76,800 miles £9950

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

and the wider car community has been absolutely fantastic.

“Over the last decade, this event has grown into something really special and it reflects the incredible community spirit we’re so fortunate to have around us here in Dorset.

“Every pound raised will make a real difference to blind and partially sighted people across the county, helping us continue providing vital support and services.

IFOR WILLIAMS P6e single axle unbraked trailer. Cage sides. Floor 6ft 6inches x 4ft. Good condition. Aluminium chequerplate tailboard. £1000.00. 07815 -46963

Yeovil

“We’re hugely grateful to everyone who helped make this year’s event such a success.”

Planning is already underway for the next DBA Motor Show in 2027.

Founded in 1918, the DBA has supported blind and partially sighted people across Dorset for over a century.

Funds raised through events such as the motor show help the charity continue delivering essential services, including practical support, social activities, equipment advice and wellbeing services to more than 1,000 members every month.

For more information, visit: www.dorsetblind.org.uk

Supporters can donate via text: £3 – text BLIND to 70331; £5 – text BLIND to 70970; £10 – text BLIND to 70191.

BLACK ASTRA 1800, SRI, recent MOT, 1 owner, engine and gear-box really good. Ideal for young person. Good car, all around! Recently spent £800. £2,200ono. Ring Donhead, 01747-828904.

Peacemarsh Garage

The Dorset Blind Association motor show at Lulworth Castle PHOTO: Stephen Faulkner

Golfers give £3,000 to good causes

MEMBERS of Wyke Amateur Golf Society have handed over thousands of pounds to two good causes.

The charitable society raises money with the help of local golf courses and through members taking part in competitions and raffles.

Last year it raised £3,000 and it was decided at the annual meeting to give £1,500 each Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance and Gillingham Car Link.

Charity representatives attended a presentation day at Henstridge Golf and Leisure where they met members and spoke about the organisations’ work.

Josie Dear, supporter engagement officer at the air ambulance said: “The Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance can only operate thanks to the generosity of supporters like Wyke Amateur Golf Society.

“We are hugely grateful for

Recognition after successful season

by Paul Cross BLANDFORD & Sturminster

Hockey Club have won the South Central Best Emerging Club award, recognising their success on and off of the pitch this season.

On the pitch, the teams achieved remarkable results, with the Men’s side securing a second successive promotion and a cup semi-final berth,

while the Women matched these achievements, before going one better, winning back-to-back league titles.

Off the pitch, Blandford were recognised for their family friendly ethos, their financial growth, thanks in part to sponsors The White Horse

their support and would like to thank everyone involved for helping us to continue deliver life-saving care across Dorset and Somerset.”

Gillingham Car link has more than 400 clients who use the service to go to and from

Representatives from Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance and Gillingham Car link each received £1,500 on their organisations’ behalf from Wyke Amateur Golf Society

medical appointments with hospitals, doctors and dentists.

Last year 22 volunteer drivers using their own cars clocked up more than 50,000 miles.

The golf society has raised more than £37,900 over the years for local good causes.

on and off the pitch earned

Pub, Stourpaine – itself winner of The Telegraph’s Best Pub competition; Apoq, Balling and Akuma and their commitment to giving anyone who wants to pick up a stick the opportunity to do so.

Following this success, the

club have committed to entering a new Men’s side into the regional leagues.

Anyone interested in sharing in this success, can contact the club at bshc2007@ hotmail.com or Paul on 07519 457523.

WINCANTON Golf Club results:

Seniors Roll Up 9 Hole Stableford, June 5: 1 Chris Mieville 21, 2 Kevin Bieda 19, 3 Cliff Hibberd 18.

Monthly Medal, June 6: 1 Phil Francis nett 72, 2 Terry Ings nett 73, 3 Mike Case nett 74.

The John Murphy Trophy, - June 12: 1 Alan White 20, 2 John Wolstenholme 19 ocb, 3 David Hallett 19.

HOCKEY

GOLF

Success

Blandford & Sturminster Hockey Club the South Central Best Emerging Club award

Isabella to represent England at Games

by Elizabeth Haynes

YEAR 12 Queen Elizabeth School, Wimborne, student

Isabella Haynes has been selected to represent England in the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow this summer.

Born prematurely at 28 weeks, Isabella, 17, and her twin sister faced a difficult start to life.

Just a week after she was born, doctors noticed severe bruising on her right leg and it was decided it had to be amputated.

She learned to crawl, climb and play and as she grew older began using prosthetic legs that changed as she developed.

She has three prosthetic legs – an everyday high-tech leg to help her walk comfortably, one designed for wet conditions and swimming events, and a special running blade for sports.

Swimming was the perfect sport for Isabella as it was gentle on her body and helped avoid blisters caused by prosthetics.

After learning to swim for fun, she joined Swim Bournemouth Club at the age of eight and under the guidance of their coaches, her talent quickly became clear.

Isabella now trains 14 hours a week in the pool, alongside gym sessions, balancing both para-swimming and able-bodied competitions.

Her dedication earned recognition from Team England, which followed her progress through regional, national and international competitions in Brazil, Peru and Luxembourg.

Isabella has now been selected to represent England at the Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow in the 100m breaststroke and 100m backstroke.

Isabella said: “I’m very excited, proud of myself, grateful for all the support and

Village club and Ducks and Drakes

Thanks to Ducks and Drakes the club have a sign at the entrance to the ground.

CHESELBOURNE Cricket Club have announced the continuation of their association with the Ducks and Drakes Cancer Trust.

The charity raises awareness of bowel cancer in young people aged 18 to 40 in Dorset and the UK, and supports bowel cancer patients and their families by providing specialist medical equipment and financial aid.

Cheselbourne CC are in central Dorset and are probably the most ‘village’ club playing competitive cricket in the county.

It includes the Ducks and Drakes logo and QR code, next match date and a panel for match ball sponsors, so visiting clubs should be in no doubt when they find the ground.

It may also encourage more local people to support the club on match days and beyond.

Cheselbourne CC are always on the lookout for new players, perhaps especially those who would like a more prominent role than they might find in the bigger town clubs.

The club would also like to hear from potential match ball sponsors – just £20 for the sponsor’s name visible to any passing car! Anyone interested can email cheselbournecc@ gmail.com

Club chair Andy Smith said: “We are very grateful to Ducks and Drakes and proud to support this vital charity whose work is very much aimed at the age group involved in local cricket.

“While the club exists on a shoestring, we are always

looking to improve both on and off the field to ensure the continuation of a cherished local amenity.”

Becky Howorth, whose brother Andrew Drake was the inspiration for the foundation of Ducks and Drakes, said: “We had no hesitation in funding the club board given our local association with the club, Andrew’s unique enjoyment of

cricket and the target audience of the charity.

“Sadly Andrew’s diagnosis came too late and our aim through Ducks and Drakes is to encourage people not to ignore symptoms or delay seeking advice.”

More information can be found at ducksanddrakes cancertrust.org.uk

CONTRIBUTED

KILMINGTON & Stourton Ladies softball cricket team – pictured – have announced a new sponsor.

Future Wealth Management of Gillingham have become the team’s sponsor, providing kit for the coming season, the first time in six years the squad are being supported by a

partner. Kilmington Ladies are playing in the Somerset League this season and won their first game.

Anyone interested in joining the club can meet the squad at a Monday evening training session – from 6.30pm – at their ground in Stourton.

Isabella Haynes, 17, goes to Queen Elizabeth School, Wimborne

The sign at the entrance to Cheselbourne CC’s ground

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To shear, or not to shear, that is the question...

by Tria Stebbing

JUST a short column this week as my other ‘proper’ job has to take priority. After months of dry sunny weather, we had a heatwave and summer arrived for four days! We gleefully booked Joe the shearer to come earlier this week, and yes, it rained.

We could have put the stock in a stable overnight to ensure they were dry, but it was a juggle between ‘would it rain’ and ‘would they just lie down and wee all over themselves’, making themselves just as wet? So, we kept them out and they got very wet in a thundery downpour, and we cancelled Joe.

All of the stock seem a bit wired this week. The rams are butting each other and the pecking order is clearly being

established or challenged again. The ewes, meanwhile, play jumping games in small groups. Amazingly, the new lambs can jump the height of the other lambs from a standing start, and it is a lovely sight watching them bonding and playing.

Humphrey the ram is now father to rather a lot of rams after visiting his ‘other ladies’ in the autumn. Interestingly, a lot of large single lambs this year – we would usually expect more multiples, twins and triplets. Was it the mild winter?

The orchids are out and making the area around the pond look spectacular – along with the flag Iris, they put on a great display. There is so much elderflower too this year, a bumper crop, but with no sign of baling it might all be drunk

before.

Much thought was put into making the small bales last week in the heat. It is a bit early for us as the grass is still growing well. The prospect of five days of sun and heat had to be weighed up with future growth and we decided to hold off.

We have been supporting another smallholder with her flock of Portland sheep, which are much smaller than our Zwartbles and with curly horns.

‘Raggy’ the robot could be a boon for farmers

A SMART robot designed to tackle a poisonous plant that can kill horses and livestock is being put to work in Dorset this summer.

Nicknamed ‘Raggy’, the autonomous farm robot has arrived at Dorset Innovation Park near Winfrith for final testing before beginning field trials across farms and open land around the county. Its mission is to spot and remove ragwort – a toxic yellow-flowering weed that poses a serious danger to grazing animals and creates a major headache for farmers and landowners. Usually, ragwort must be pulled by hand, a slow and labour-intensive job that can also carry risks for people and

the environment.

Raggy’s developers hope the robot could offer a safer, more efficient solution.

Developed by South West firm Robotriks, alongside Dorset Council, Telint and Neutral Networks, the electric-powered machine uses advanced cameras and AI-powered technology to identify ragwort and remove it mechanically at the root.

But it is not about wiping the plant out entirely, as Ragwort

Project partners with Raggy the robot at BattleLab, Dorset Innovation Park

also supports wildlife, including bees and butterflies, meaning control work is carefully targeted to areas where livestock are at risk.

Robotriks director Jake Shaw-Sutton said the robot was designed for “real-life farm conditions”.

“Raggy uses advanced machine vision and connected technology… to identify and remove ragwort mechanically at the root,” he said.

I am very tempted to start up a small flock, as they were much easier to handle. They are a traditional tan-faced Down breed originating from Portland, and the lambs are born with a russet red coat and fade to cream as they mature. The adaptability of the breed appeals – ideal for conservation grazing where some other breeds might struggle. I found the lambs incredibly gorgeous and am surprised I have held out this long!

“This approach reduces the need for harmful chemicals, supports healthier soils and protects animals and habitat.”

Dorset Council said its countryside rangers currently spend many hours manually removing ragwort from parks, reserves and open spaces.

Council leader Councillor Nick Ireland welcomed the trial. He said: “We are delighted this autonomous and environmentally sensitive solution is being tested, evaluated and developed on our land here in Dorset.”

Between trials, Raggy will be based at BattleLab, the NATOaccredited innovation hub at Dorset Innovation Park, which has become a testing ground for cutting-edge autonomous technology.

If successful, the robot could offer farmers a high-tech new weapon in the battle against one of the countryside’s most troublesome weeds.

The Portlands have a russet red coat as lambs

NSAID use in livestock

by Helen Rogers MA, VetMB, MRCVS, DBR Friars Moor Livestock Health

AS prey species, the expression of pain in livestock is a risky one, as it signals weakness to a predator. Why would you want to appear weak when surrounded by lions on the savannah?! Is this the reason injured ruminants always lie with their affected leg under them? I am often laughed at when describing why behaviours in ruminants have developed, but this knowledge helps us understand why ruminants appear so stoical, even if they are in pain. An indirect benefit of the industry focus on responsible use of antibiotics is that we have become much better at providing supportive care to livestock. NSAID use to provide pain relief and reduce inflammation, alongside fluid therapy to correct dehydration and encourage food intake, are now the go-to treatments when faced with off-colour ruminants. The dairy industry has embraced the use of both pain relief and fluid therapy, in part due to the ease of handling cattle, but it is really encouraging to see the beef and sheep industry moving in the same direction. Benchmarking use of antibiotics or pain relief within beef and sheep herds is very challenging, as we have to calculate the total average kg of

bodyweight on farm throughout the year! As a starting point for benchmarking this data, we have looked at mg of active ingredient of NSAIDs used on some of our suckler cow farms as a proportion of bodyweight on farm –estimated at the point at which this was at its highest. The graph shows the range of usage. In these suckler farms, the range of usage was influenced by factors such as an outbreak of pneumonia in weaned calves but also by the farmer’s perception of what would benefit from the pain relief and anti-inflammatory properties of NSAID drugs.

Many benefits are documented to using pain relief in calves. For example, in cases of neonatal diarrhoea, a single dose of meloxicam has been shown to make calves more likely to consume their entire milk allowance, eat more starter food and gain more weight when compared to calves treated with only antibiotics (Todd et al.,

2010). Similarly, in calves with bovine respiratory disease, the addition of NSAID alongside antibiotic treatment reduced lung lesions and increased average daily weight gain.

Some interesting work also suggests the benefit of providing pain relief to newborn calves, born with assistance. At our suckler cow benchmarking meeting we discussed this topic while comparing results of transfer of antibodies in colostrum to newborn calves. The farm with the best results has both an excellent policy around colostrum harvesting and supplementation, but also treats any calves suspected of having a more difficult birth with a single dose of meloxicam. We have no proof to directly link the two, but it was a great illustration of how holistic broad thinking can benefit our livestock and how differently we now view pain within the industry.

In adult cattle, the use of pain relief has increased hugely within our clients at Friars Moor Livestock Health. It is no longer reserved just for severe cases such as toxic mastitis or a bad calving. Some of this uptake has been around treatment and prevention of lameness. Some great work by Thomas (2015) shows that the combination of treating a lame cow with

Calf Rearing Fundamentals Friday 26TH June | 10:30am-3:30pm Hanford Farm, Blandford Forum, Dorset DT11 8HL

Calf Rearing Advanced Friday 10TH July | 10:30am-3:30pm Longmoor Farm, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 5QW

Calving Friday 24TH July | 10:30am-3:30pm West Stour, Shaftesbury Road, Dorset SP8 5SF

trimming, a block and NSAIDs is significantly more effective than trimming alone. Thomas’s 2016 paper illustrated the importance of providing this treatment promptly, as the effects were not significant in the chronically lame cow, albeit these cows should be provided with pain relief on welfare grounds.

Work illustrating how mobility improves through the use of pain relief is also fascinating. A 10% improvement in first lactation heifer mobility was found if heifers were treated at the point of calving with ketoprofen for three days and at every lameness event thereafter (Wilson, 2022). Again, this work challenges our perceptions of pain and inflammation and makes us think more broadly about how we should use pain relief within our ruminants.

The increasing use of technology means we are now capable of detecting painful conditions much earlier. Early detection allows us to use supportive treatments such as fluid therapy and pain relief at an early stage of the disease, while we determine what is wrong with the animal and whether further therapies are required. It will be interesting to see how supportive therapies evolve over the next few years and the benefit this provides to our livestock.

R&W FENCING Agricultural paddock and stock. 01258-88089207980-036250

WANTED: BUILDING TO RENT to rear up to 10 cattle with or without land. Shaftesbury/Gillingham/ Wincanton area. 07496-811338

HORSE PLOT FOR RENT 2 miles from Dorchester. Approx 2 acres. Well trained on chalk, water available, well fenced. 07976-619234

HOME BRED ABERDEEN ANGUS COWS with calves at foot and in calf cows for sale. Offers 01258 471861

CONCRETE GROOVING, Mobile Grain Crimping and dry rolling Service. Cowco Southern. Call Ted: 07970-965040

RAGWORT PROBLEM? Call: Simon 07929-995747

WANTED land to buy in Dorset 07810 472347

ALPACAS FOR SALE. LOCALLY BRED ALPACAS IN A MIX OF COLOURS AND AGES AVAILABLE. BREEDING FEMALES, PET MALES, YEARLINGS. STARTING FROM £250 CONTACT: ED 07852 731638

SHIPPING CONTAINERS FOR SALE / HIRE

Tel: 01258 472288 Mob: 07977 936109

New and second hand containers - blue/green - all with box locks

PEDIGREE ABERDEEN ANGUS BULLS (Wessex herd) March born yearlings and 2 year olds. Health scheme. Black or red bulls. Puddletown £3000 07770 794615 jake@wessexgrazing.uk

CARAVAN REMOVAL SERVICE, old, unwanted caravans & boat removal, 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

Andrew Lee Vegetation Management

Grass flail and scrub flail available for the management of scrub, brambles, grass etc.

Working on slopes of up to 50 degrees with operator.

Hydraulic Hose Specialists and Stockists to the Agriculture, Forestry, Automotive and Transport Industry

Pneumatic fittings

Air brake fittings

Hose clamps

Hydraulic Hoses

Quick release couplings

Pressure wash hoses + lances

Up to 1 ½ “Hose stocked

Variation of oils

Mobile service available

Blowfly strike: What to watch out for this summer

by Nim Panesar, veterinary surgeon, Synergy Farm Health

AFTER what seems like a very long and wet winter, the summer weather is finally upon us and with it the risk of blowfly strike or ‘flystrike’.

This is unfortunately a very familiar annual problem for sheep farmers and can have a big impact on health and welfare.

Blowfly strike is caused by larvae of the Common Greenbottle fly – Lucillia sericata – which feed on the tissues and release toxins, leading to pain, illness and can cause death.

A summary of important risk factors for flies landing and laying eggs on fleece, and the signs to watch out for that may indicate a sheep has flystrike, is shown here: Risk factors that attract flies

n Warm weather and summer rain – humidity

n Long tails

n Faecal soiling

n Footrot

n Head wounds in rams

n Thick-wooled breeds or unshorn sheep

n Preventative insecticide not applied

Key signs to watch for

n Isolation from the rest of the group

n Discoloured fleece

n Nibbling or kicking at affected area

n Lame sheep

n Toxic or severely ill animal

n Death

The signs can progress really fast, so vigilance is key. Stock should be checked twice a day minimum in the summer months.

Treatment for an acute case of flystrike should include: clipping the affected area, disinfection, application of a product that kills maggots –that is a cypermethrin or deltamethrin, topical/injectable antibiotics and pain relief.

Alpacas can also be affected by blowfly strike, and so the same principles of careful vigilance and risk management should be applied.

Please don’t hesitate to contact to your vet or RAMA team for advice on suitable products for the treatment and prevention of blowfly strike.

Speak to your vet during your annual health review to help you make a prevention strategy ready for next season.

Other useful resources that provide more information about the local blowfly risk and help choosing the right product for treatment/ prevention are:

n NADIS Parasite

Forecast blowfly risk alert

– https://www.nadis.org.uk/ parasite-forecast/ n SCOPS – https://www. scops.org.uk/externalparasites/blowflies/

Nim Panesar, of Synergy Farm Health, says Blowfly strike is a very familiar annual problem for sheep farmers

Getting the right people for the job

Summer is a busy time on farm, with contractors and temporary workers often helping get jobs done when time and favourable weather are in short supply. Bringing in additional support helps take some of the pressure off, but when people unfamiliar with the farm are involved, there is greater risk of misunderstandings, mistakes and accidents.

Every farm operates differently and even experienced contractors or workers should not be expected to automatically know how your farm operates. Traffic routes, livestock systems, machinery, buildings and working practices vary significantly between farms. What feels obvious to those working somewhere every day may not be to someone visiting for the first time.

This is why ‘being competent’ to do a job is about more than having the correct qualifications or previous experience. It is also about making sure people have the right information, training and understanding to carry out work safely in a specific environment.

A short induction before work starts can make a significant difference. Taking time to explain site-specific risks, clarify responsibilities and agree how work will be carried out helps ensure everyone understands what is expected from the outset.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Friday 20th June

STANDING STRAW AUCTION

Gomershay Farm, Stalbridge, Sturminster Newton

ON-FARM AUCTION

Wednesday 28th June at 6.30pm

Genuine Dispersal of 2 Tractors, Telehandler, 24:24 Parlour, Poly-Tunnel, Grassland & Livestock Equipment, Workshop Items, etc

Thursday 17th October at 11.00am Silverlake Farm, Sherborne, DT9 6SN

Bindon & Pinhay

Silverlake Farm, Sherborne, DT9 6SN

The Grain Store, Heathfield, Rousdon, Dorset

The Grain Store, Heathfield, Rousdon, Dorset 830ac of Standing Straw

Genuine Dispersal of Combine, Self Propelled Sprayer, Arable Machinery & Livestock Equipment

Genuine Dispersal of Combine, Self Propelled Sprayer, 4 Tractors, 2 JCB Telehandlers, Forklift, Pick-Up, Arable Machinery & Livestock Equipment

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

461ac Wheat

• 461ac Wheat

• 237ac Winter Barley

2017 Claas Lexion 650 Combine with Vario 770 Header, Shelbourne Reynolds

• 132ac Oats

132ac Oats

Friday 30th June at 12 noon Durweston

Friday 30th June at 12 noon

Durweston

Travellers Rest Farm, Durweston, Blandford, Dorset

Travellers Rest Farm, Durweston, Blandford, Dorset 6,220 acres of Standing Straw

• 2,442ac Wheat

2,442ac Wheat

• 2,006ac Winter Barley

• 1,557ac Spring Barley

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

• 178ac Oats

178ac Oats

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.

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.

Good health and safety management is often about simple habits and clear communication. Taking a few minutes to think ahead can help avoid problems later and create a safer working environment for everyone on site.

• 37ac Oil Seed Rape

Grain Trailers, Marshall BC25 Bale Trailer, Cattle Hurdles, Attachments (Q-Fit),

37ac Oil Seed Rape

Friday 7th July at 12 noon

Wynford Eagle

The Grain Store, Manor Farm, Wynford Eagle, Dorchester, Dorset 1298 acres of Standing Straw

The Grain Store, Manor Farm, Wynford Eagle, Dorchester,

Cornish Mutual’s Health & Safety service provides practical support to help farmers and rural businesses review contractor arrangements, manage risks and strengthen health and safety procedures. To find out more, visit https://www. cornishmutual.co.uk/what-we-do/health-and-safety

599ac Wheat

• 599ac Wheat

281ac Winter Barley

• 281ac Winter Barley

• 119ac Spring Barley

119ac Spring Barley

• 229ac Oats

229ac Oats

• 70ac Oil Seed Rape

Full catalogues available at symondsandsampson.co.uk

Full catalogues available at

STANDING STRAW AUCTIONS 2026

Friday 20th June

STANDING STRAW AUCTION

Gomershay Farm, Stalbridge, Sturminster Newton

ON-FARM AUCTION

Wednesday 24th June

ON-FARM AUCTION

Thursday 17th October at 11.00am

Pinhay and Bindon – The Grain Store, Heathfield, Rousdon

Thursday 17th October at 11.00am

Approx. 560ac of Standing Straw

Wednesday 28th June at 6.30pm

On behalf of Spicer Partners Online bidding available

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

Bindon & Pinhay

Silverlake Farm, Sherborne, DT9 6SN

Friday 3rd July

The Grain Store, Heathfield, Rousdon, Dorset 830ac of Standing Straw

The Grain Store, Heathfield, Rousdon, Dorset

STANDING STRAW AUCTIONS

Travellers Rest Farm, Durweston, Blandford

Approx. 8,800ac 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, Arable Machinery & Livestock Equipment

• 461ac Wheat

On behalf of John Swain Limited (Retiring) Online bidding available Contact Greg Ridout: 01935 382909 / 07817 517467

ON-FARM DISPERSAL AUCTION

Wednesday 25th June

• 237ac Winter Barley

Covering farms from Podimore, Yeovil, Sherborne, Blandford and surrounding areas, Salisbury, Warminster, Marlborough, Andover, Stockbridge and the New Forest

• 132ac Oats

Pinhay and Bindon – The Grain Store, Heathfield, Rousdon Approx. 1,000ac of Standing Straw

Saturday 29th July

Buckham Down Farm, Beaminster DT8 3SH

Fertiliser

Hawk 6m

& Yard

Hyd Offset

• 178ac Oats

178ac Oats

32mm Water Pipe,

• 37ac Oil Seed Rape

Coming Soon - Genuine Online Timed Dispersal

Workshop Items, Weights, etc.

Kuhn FC313 TG Mower Conditioner, 2 x Stewart 16-21L Grain Trailers, Marshall BC25 Bale Trailer, Cattle Hurdles, Attachments (Q-Fit), Machine Spares, Workshop Items, Weights, etc.

Friday 7th July at 12 noon

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.

Spares, Quantity of Astro Turf, Emergency Bulk Tank, Concrete Water Troughs, 60ft x 30ft Poly Tunnels. Further entries invited.

To include John Deere S790i Hillmaster Combine (18) with 35’ Header, 2 no.

Our Agents will be at The Dairy Event on Wednesday, 2 October

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.

John Deere 6155R (17 & 18), Honda Fourtrax ATV (05), Horsch Leeb 4 AX Trailed Sprayer, Horsch Sprinter 6 ST Drill (22), Vaderstad Carrier CR500 and Cultus 300 Cultivators, Kverneland LD85 5f Rev. Plough, McConnel 3m Shakerator, Kverneland Exacta-TL Geo Fertiliser Spinner, McConnel PA 6565T Hedgetrimmer (18), Twose 12.4m Cambridge Rollers, Trailers, Attachments, 2 no. Starfire 6000 Receivers, etc. Further details to follow.

Wynford Eagle

Further suitable entries welcome.

Please call in to our stand for refreshments and to meet our rural and agricultural experts

The Grain Store, Manor Farm, Wynford Eagle, Dorchester, Dorset 1298 acres of Standing Straw

The Grain Store, Manor Farm, Wynford Eagle, Dorchester, 599ac Wheat

Please contact Greg Ridout 07817 517467

Contact Greg Ridout: 01935 382909/07817 517467

• 599ac Wheat

• 281ac Winter Barley

• 119ac Spring Barley

119ac Spring Barley

• 229ac Oats

• 70ac Oil Seed Rape

229ac Oats 70ac Oil Seed Rape

KRM Sola Ares 2713 Drill, Vaderstad NZ 6m Cultivator, Kuhn HR 4004 Hyd. Folding

Spreader, McConnel Magnum Euro 280

Topper, Bomford

Hedgecutter,

KRM Sola Ares 2713 Drill, Vaderstad NZ 6m Cultivator, Kuhn HR 4004 Hyd. Folding

Grain Trailers, Marshall BC25 Bale Trailer, Cattle Hurdles, Attachments (Q-Fit), Machine Spares,

Teagle Tomahawk 4040 Bale Shredder, Mixit PTO Lagoon Stirrer, Quicke 210 Loader

Wydale Teat Feeders, Parlour Matting, Parlour Fans, Calftel Group Hutches, Various Field

Gates,

Parlour

Shaftesbury

Mappowder

Guide £725,000

| CORNWALL | LONDON

Marnhull

Guide £465,000

Guide £595,000

Mappowder Guide £595,000

Marnhull

Marnhull Guide £525,000

A fine Grade II listed former village Post House with attractive gardens, A character south-facing stone house in an excellent central village

A delightful house with flexible layout of accommodation in an enviable historic part of Shaftesbury, a short level walk from the High Street. Freehold. CTB E; EPC D.

surrounding countryside. CTB E. Freehold.

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

Stalbridge

Guide £445,000

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.

A modern detached 3 bedroom house, immaculately presented, with an elevated position in a central town location. Freehold. CTB D; EPC D.

village. CTB D. Freehold. DORSET | DEVON |

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

FOX VIEW, MILBORNE ST ANDREW

Open House Event

Saturday 27 June | 10am - 12pm

Nr Sturminster Newton Guide Price £1,100,000

An exclusive development of just seven individual detached houses offering the best of modern living within a quiet setting backing onto fields, yet close to the village amenities. 3 bedrooms from £425,000 | 4 bedrooms from £495,000 For further details, please contact 01258 452670

4.11 acres. CTB E.Freehold,

Tucked away down a no through lane is this extended and very well presented 4 bedroom country home with stable yard & paddocks, i 4.11 acres. CTB E.Freehold, Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

A delightful and extended stone built detached house in the heart of this vibrant village with parking and a single garage. Freehold. CTB D; EPC D.

facing gardens. CTB E. Freehold.

A character south-facing stone house in an excellent central village location with a large oak-framed double garage, workshop and southfacing gardens. CTB E. Freehold.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Guide £425,000

OIEO

A detached bungalow on a quiet no-through lane in need of modernising with extensive back garden of over a third of an acre. Freehold. CTB D; EPC E.

the neighbouring countryside. CTB C. Freehold.

An attractive, double-fronted 3-bedroom period property tucked away on an idyllic country lane with character features throughout and views over the neighbouring countryside. CTB C. Freehold.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Sherborne | 01935 814488

North Cheriton

OIEO £400,000

North Cheriton

Shroton

Stalbridge

PROPERTY AUCTION

DORSET | DEVON | SOMERSET |

DORSET

THURSDAY 23 JULY 2026 AT 2PM AT MERLEY HOUSE, MERLEY HOUSE LANE, WIMBORNE, BH21 3AA

Frampton

Guide

£30,000

0.50 acres (0.20 hectares) of attractive and secluded pastureland on the edge of the hamlet of Southover with stream frontage to the north. Freehold.

Dorchester | 01305 236237

Colehill

Guide

£55,000

2.87 acres (1.16 ha) of permanent pasture, scrubland and woodland conveniently located off Wimborne Road in Colehill. Freehold.

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Gillingham

5.78 acres of pasture arranged in 2 parcels, with a concrete block storage barn, and 3 stables. Mains water and electricity present. Freehold.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 472 244 Guide £125,000

Frampton Park

Guide £150,000

17.55 acres (7.10 hectares) of attractive and secluded pasture and woodland on the edge of Frampton Park with stream frontage to the north. Freehold.

Dorchester | 01305 236237

A fine Grade II listed former village Post House with attractive gardens, a substantial

and lovely views to the

Swanage

Wimborne | 01202 843190 Guide £50,000

and A character south-facing stone house in an excellent central village location with a large oak-framed double garage, workshop and south-

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

but retains great charm. It is situated in the heart of this mo

An attractive, double-fronted 3-bedroom period property tucked away on an idyllic country lane with character features throughout and views over

Corfe Castle

Guide

£250,000

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

A delightful 2 bedroom cottage nestled at the foot of Corfe Castle, with garden and outbuilding. Grade II listed. Freehold. CTB C. EPC E.

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Corfe Castle

Guide

£250,000

A charming Grade II listed, 2 bedroom cottage set in the heart of Corfe Castle, conveniently close to local amenities and looking onto St Edward the Martyr Church. Freehold. CTB D. EPC F.

Wimborne | 01202 843190

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,

Cannington

Guide £300,00 - £350,000

A delightful detached 3 bedroom character house set in 3.24 acres enjoying a beautiful rural location. Freehold. CTB D. EPC F.

Axminster | 01297 33122

Guide £360,000 An individual and spacious 4/5 bedroom detached property, set in 2.39 acres on the edge of the Blackdown Hills. Freehold. CTB E. EPC E.

Buckland St Mary Ilminster |

A tastefully improved 4-bedroom village house with light and spacious accommodation, set in attractive gardens and backing onto farmland.

Sherborne | 01935 814488

Marnhull

Shroton Gui

Listed village home

THIS Grade II Listed terraced property in Milborne Port, believed to date back to the 18th century, is for sale at offers in excess of £270,000.

The home has wellproportioned, light-filled accommodation over three floors and a wealth of period

features, plus countryside views, landscaped gardens and garage.

The property has been extended at ground floor level to provide a spacious kitchen, with a loft conversion creating a second bedroom.

The rest of the accommodation is made up of living room, utility area, main bedroom on the first floor and bathroom.

For more information, contact the agents, Symonds & Sampson’s Sherborne office, on 01935 814488.

LOW COST SECURE SELF STORAGE

You will be working from our Wincanton office calling local businesses to encourage them to showcase their services in our portfolio of well-loved local community magazines alongside our many hundreds of loyal clients.

You will have a confident and outgoing personality with great communication skills.

As someone who is self-motivated & with a professional attitude, you will be part of a successful team, with excellent earning potential.

No experience is needed, just a “can-do” positive outlook & friendly phone manner.