Edition 151
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FULL STORY: PAGE 20 OLYMPIC CONTENDERS Two Dorset swimmers ready for the deep end Page 3
LIFE AFTER SERVICE New podcast explores challenges for veterans Page 16
Forget the World Cup - one Vale village has its own sporting star producing quality roses!
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What’s inside this issue…
• Main pic: Volunteers painstakingly refresh iconic local landmark page 10 • Above: Staff and pupils celebrate positive Ofsted inspection page 24 • Left: Dana is ready to revolutionise mobility aids via her Confetti Club page 6
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EDITORIAL 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
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Dorset swimmers look to Olympics TWO talented Dorset swimmers are heading to the Special Olympics Great Britain National Summer Games in Birmingham this August. Jake Binns, 22, and Sam Craddock, 18, will represent Dorset at the national event, having trained extensively under Jake Binns (left) and Sam the guidance of Wild Sharks Swim Club Craddock are prepped and under coach Lorah Wild. ready for the Special Olympics Shaftesbury-based Jake, who is undeterred by Down’s syndrome, has spent eight years working towards selection. have shown clear development in training. Swimming has played a significant role in “Both Jake and Sam are excited about building his confidence and independence as the Special Olympics and this is showing well as his sporting ability. through in their training sessions. They “I have been trying to get to the Special bring enthusiasm and a willingness to learn Olympics for eight years,” said Jake. “I to improve both their strokes and times,” love to swim and it helps my confidence she said. and makes me feel proud.” “With Jake, his butterfly has really come Sam is also preparing for his first on, and getting the push off right has been a national appearance and is excited to great focus. Sam is massively improving his represent his club and community in freestyle and reaching forwards in his Birmingham. stroke. It’s already a triumph to see.” “I am excited for the competition and to To support the athletes, a fundraising be in the Olympics,” he said. “I am going to evening – Cheese, Wine & Champions – is do my best swimming and try really hard to being held at The Kitchen Table Dorset on make people proud.” Thursday, July 9. Coach Lorah Wild said both swimmers The evening will feature a structured
cheese and wine tasting alongside a silent auction with prizes including a luxury three-night stay in Beer, Devon, and a large hamper of artisan food and drink donated via the Great Taste Awards. Local wine, food and travel writer Fran Bridgewater promises to take guests on a fun and flavour-filled journey through the world’s great wine regions, discovering why some of the most memorable food experiences happen when exceptional wines and artisan cheeses come together. Artisan cheeses, including Dorset Blue Vinny, will be supplied by Shaftesbury market stalwart Carolyn Hopkins of The Truckle Truck, and carefully paired with a curated selection of wines, from sparkling and crisp whites through to an elegant red to a lusciously sweet finale. Funds raised from the evening, along with wider community donations, will directly support travel, accommodation and competition costs for Jake and Sam as they prepare to compete in Birmingham. Contributions can be made via the official fundraising page www.gofundme. com/f/lets-get-these-lads-to-the-specialolympics-in-august26.
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The last dance at Hatch House AFTER 18 summers, the Covent Garden Dance Company will take its final bow beneath the stars at Hatch House. There is a particular magic to watching ballet outdoors. For 18 years, the Covent Garden Dance Company has conjured exactly this at Hatch House, the handsome Wiltshire estate that has become, each late July, one of the country’s most enchanting stages. Audiences have long called it the ‘Glyndebourne of Dance’, and this summer, on July 24, 25 and 26, the Company returns for one final season before moving to Charlotte’s Lake. That it should be a farewell lends every moment a particular poignancy. The cast assembled for this final season at what director Matt Brady calls “Their ancestral home” is, as ever, world-class. Headlining the programme is Paris Opera Ballet superstar Myriam Ould-Braham, joined by her husband and performing
partner, Mickaël Lafon. Royal Ballet principal Joseph Sissens and rising star Viola Pantuso (pictured), the Chicagoborn Royal Ballet artist, add to the cast of what promises to be an unforgettable occasion. Myriam Ould-Braham is looking forward to performing in this final year at Hatch House. “I would like the audience to feel, above all, a unique
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moment, like a bubble of happiness. A moment of sweetness, out of time, that touches them and marks their evening.” This summer will see the return of another rising star, Zai Calliste (pictured). Dancing at Hatch in 2025 was his first professional performance after being accepted in to the English National Ballet company last September. True to the Company’s long-held belief in nurturing talent as well as celebrating it, the final season also makes room for the next generation.
The local Dorothy Coleborn School of Dance will premiere a new work inspired by the gardens themselves, a fitting gesture that brings together performers at different stages of their artistic development. Guests will also enjoy a gourmet dinner, accompanied by fine wines and champagne, all within the grounds of one of the county’s most beautiful houses. But this year’s experience is one never to be repeated – for there will be no 19th season at Hatch House. For those who have returned year after year, and for those who have always meant to come, this is the season not to be missed. The last opportunity to watch some of the finest dancers of their generation perform beneath the stars in the walled garden of Hatch House. Tickets for all three nights are available now at www. coventgardendance.com, by email at production@ coventgardendance.com, or by telephone on 01749 813313.
Town Twinning to host garden party
MEMBERS of Shaftesbury Town Twinning Association are set to hold a barbecue garden party. The event – £10 members, £12 non-members, children half price – is tomorrow (Saturday, July 4), at 4pm in Pound Lane. Bring your own bottle and a chair.
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Recognising a friend to many VOLUNTEERS, supporters and community leaders recognised the contribution of John and Pauline Miller to Sherborne Voluntary Ambulance (SVA) at an event at Sherborne Boys School – and welcomed a new manager and a new vehicle. Among those attending were the mayor of Sherborne, councillor Jaresh Jaganathan, and the Honourable Charlotte Townsend representing the Lord Lieutenant’s Office. John Miller’s journey with the charity began after a life-changing accident in 2000 left him unable to continue commercial driving. Speaking at the event, SVA chair Dr Charles Middle said: “His loss was our gain.” Undeterred by his injury, Mr Miller began volunteering as a driver – a role that soon grew into something much bigger. Over the following 24 years he developed the service, organising trips for passengers to destinations ranging from Longleat and Exmouth to local pubs, garden centres and countryside outings. He later took on the role of manager, becoming, in Dr Middle’s words, “a friend, support and lifeline” to many in the community – particularly elderly, isolated and vulnerable residents. After stepping back from his A30 from Sherborne managerial role, he will continue driving, with hopes of
reaching 25 years of service. Tribute was also paid to his wife, Pauline, whose behindthe-scenes support has been vital over the years. “Behind every great man there is a great woman,” Dr Middle said, noting that the couple’s home in Thornford had long served as a hub for the charity. The evening also marked a new chapter for the SVA with the appointment of Steve Guise as manager. Guests warmly welcomed Mr Guise and his wife Sam, as he takes on the responsibility of leading the charity into its next phase. A highlight of the event was the introduction of a new ‘big red bus’ – funded through years of fundraising and community generosity – which will help ensure the charity can continue its work well into the future. The SVA, which has been running for 49 years, provides transport and social outings for people across Sherborne and the surrounding area, helping to tackle loneliness and isolation. Dr Middle thanked volunteers, trustees, donors and supporters, and encouraged others to get involved. “We are always looking for new drivers and trustees,” he said. For more information, contact Steve Guise on 07947 620378 or email steve. sherbornesva@gmail.com.
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MEMBERS of Cerne Sheep Group enjoyed an evening viewing rare breed sheep, cattle and goats at Dewlish Manor Farm during their June meeting. rom Dorchester They then enjoyed a 'veritable banquet' at Parsonage Farm, Dewlish, put on by Sue Britton and her family. Members will visit East Burton Dairy, near Wool, on Monday, July 13. Will Hyde will show them his flock of Dorset Down Sheep – the oldest flock of Dorset Downs in the country. Interested? Contact jill_hole@outlook.com.
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Community space A NEW community space has opened at Gillingham Community Church. It includes a fully accessible self-contained community room and a range of smaller rooms available for hire for various activities. The building was strengthened and disabled access and facilities significantly improved as part of the project. Some limited parking is available.
Free books!
by Hilary Daniels THERE are times when you really can have too much of a good thing. North Dorset Railway is struggling to cope with the number of books donated over the years by wellwishers and needs to clear some storage space. So, over the weekend of July 4-5, bring a bag and load up your summer reading. Mostly railway history, but there will also be novels, biographies, children’s books, cooking and gardening books, and all free of charge – though if you feel like making a donation to support the railway, it would be very welcome and go towards the maintenance and development of the station. And when you’ve bagged your books, why not grab something tasty from the cafe and linger in the station’s gardens for a quiet read? On both days the station is open 10am-5pm and entry is free, as always.
Repair not despair VOLUNTEERS at Blandford Repair Cafe can fix everything from electrical items and bikes to clothes, ceramics and much more. The event next runs at Blandford Scout Hut in Eagle House Gardens on Saturday, July 18, then on September 19, October 17, November 21 and December 12, all from 1.30pm4pm – last repair 3.30pm.
Members of Marnhull WI met North Dorset MP Simon Hoare on a visit to Parliament. He shared what it was like to be in politics and an MP
Let your creativity flow THE lottery has come up for a Shaftesbury woman who wants to support disabled and neurodivergent young people through free creative workshops. Dana Halliwell, 28, has launched The Confetti Club CIC and been awarded £15,000 to deliver a six-month programme. The workshops will be for young adults aged 18-30 who use mobility aids, including crutches, walking sticks and walking frames. Participants will be able to personalise the aids using colourful vinyl wraps, stickers and decorative materials, encouraging confidence, creativity and self-expression. The idea for The Confetti Club came after Dana built a social media audience of more than 150,000 followers by sharing creative mobility aid transformations online. She said: “When I first started using
The Repair Cafe will be on the road in August. Drinks and cakes are available and the cafe is a good place to socialise and meet new people. Anyone who can help out as a volunteer, or local businesses that can donate a raffle prize, are asked to email blandfordrepaircafe@gmail. com.
mobility aids, I struggled with how clinical and visible they felt. “Creativity became a way for me to rebuild confidence and reconnect with my identity. “I wanted to create something that would help other disabled young people feel less alone and give them permission to take up space proudly.” The workshops, expected to get underway later this year, will offer peer-led sessions in which participants can connect with others. Remote creative packs will also be available for those unable to attend in person. The National Lottery Community Fund, which distributes money raised by National Lottery players to community projects across the UK, provided the funding. For updates and sign-up information, visit @takemetotheconfetticlub on Instagram/TikTok or email takemetotheconfetticlub@gmail.com.
Hidden gems MORE than £2,300 was raised for local and national charities and good causes through this year’s Blandford Hidden Garden, held in June. 20 private gardens, large and small, in Blandford's Georgian town centre and outlying areas were opened and more than 230 visitors took the opportunity to explore part of the town not usually seen. Proceeds from ticket sales went to local charities chosen by the organisers, the Blandford Environmental Trust, and those opening their gardens raised funds for a cause of their choice by offering refreshments or plants for sale. Beneficiaries included local causes, like the Blandford Information Centre, Andy’s Man Club and Dorset Climate Action Network, and nationwide ones including Dementia UK. The date has been set for next year’s event, which will be on Sunday June 6. To take part, or for further information, email blandfordhiddengardens@gmail.com.
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War heroes
HISTORIAN Dr Simon House will be giving a talk on My Dad the Underground Saboteur at Dorchester Townswomen’s Guild’s next meeting. Dr House is an independent military historian who gives talks about resistance movements and his father’s role in auxiliary units. Visitors are welcome – entry £4 – at the meeting at Dorchester Community Church, Liscombe Street, Poundbury, on Monday, July 13, at 2pm. For more information, phone 01305 262302.
Council hopeful that library will open soon
IT is hoped Sherborne Library, which is closed for safety works, could reopen on Monday, August 3. Dorset Council has set the target date with work on site restarted following the removal of asbestos and fire safety work. Library services have been available from the foyer at Digby Hall while the library is closed. Temporary services are being extended at Sherborne Arts Centre – particularly for the Summer Reading Challenge, providing more space for activities and events.
Thanks for the support
ORGANISERS would like to thank everyone who supported a coffee morning at Shaftesbury Town Hall in aid of ‘Operation Day Room’ at Westminster Memorial Hospital. The event raised £325.59.
Open garden
ENJOY the beautiful gardens at Shaftesbury’s Westminster Memorial Hospital and help raise money for its operation day room appeal. The gardens will be open to visitors from 2pm-4pm on July 16 and 17, with tea and cake available in exchange for donations.
Family history HOSPITAL Blues – Dorset VADs and Red Cross nurses in the First World War – is the subject of a talk at The Exchange in Sturminster Newton. Luke Mouland will give the talk, presented with the Blackmore Vale group of the Somerset and Dorset Family History Society and Sturminster Newton Heritage Trust – on Wednesday, July 15, at 7.30pm. Entry is £4 and hot and cold drinks will be available.
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Village puts on a good show LOTS of exhibits and plenty of entertainment is promised at Marnhull Village Show next Saturday (July 11). The show at Marnhull Village Hall and Recreation Ground starts at noon. A bar, ice cream from Misha’s Hand-Crafted Ices and a barbecue from new Blackmore Vale Inn landlords Sarah and John will be on offer. The village hall and marquees open at 12.30pm, when all the show entries and prize winners will be on display, and tea and cake will be on offer in the hall. The prize giving ceremony is at 3.30pm. Entertainment includes sea shanties from the Shaston Shantyers (pictured), songs from Marnhull Community Choir and music from local folk musicians. Weather permitting, a display of classic cars and motorbikes will be on show, which means
only disabled parking will be available in the hall car park. Marnhull Garden Club will be selling plants for charity. St Mary’s PTFA will be putting on activities for children and youngsters – and the young at heart – can make felt poppies for the poppy cascade Marnhull Craft Club is making to decorate the village war memorial for Remembrance Day. Entry is free and everyone is
welcome. All vegetable, fruit and flower entries must have been grown within 10 miles of Marnhull, and entry forms must be submitted by 5pm on Tuesday, July 7. More info is available on the Facebook Page – Marnhull Village Show – along with the show schedule, or email marnhullvillageshow@gmail. com.
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Cream teas and charity THE Dorchester branch of the Children’s Society is preparing to host its annual cream tea. This year, it will take place on Thursday, July 16, from 2.30pm-4pm in St George's Church Hall, Fordington (DT1 1LB). A team of friendly waitresses will be serving visitors freshly baked scones, accompanied by the traditional elements of cream and jam, and a cup of tea. The atmosphere is warm and everyone is welcome – bring a friend or make some new ones! Tickets cost £5 per person and are available on the door.
Listed church needs a new roof TUCKED away in the timeless landscape of the Halstock Vale stands St Juthware Church, a small, Grade II listed rural church with a story that stretches back to the fifth century – and a very present-day crisis in its roof. Today, rainwater is finding its way through a huge hole in the roof, threatening the fabric of the historic building. Undaunted, though, local parishioners are launching fundraising efforts to finance major repairs – hoping that by telling the church’s story, they can rally support from the wider community. The church is dedicated to St Juthware, who is recorded to have lived in the fifth century. She is remembered for her generosity towards the poor and to pilgrims travelling along the Pilgrim’s Way, which still runs right outside the church today. Falsely accused by her brother of
dishonourable conduct, Juthware was ultimately beheaded by him – a punishment to have arisen from resentment of her kindness and charity. The building itself is a tapestry of English history in stone and tile, boasting a 15th century tower, in which hang 16th century bells. But perhaps the church’s greatest artistic treasures are the Minton Encaustic tiles, the work of AW Pugin, the
noted Victorian architect and designer associated with the Houses of Parliament. Several tombs in the churchyard are also Grade II listed, bearing witness to generations who lived and died in the parish. Among them are war graves, solemn reminders of the local men who served and fell in conflict, tying this remote corner of the countryside to the wider history of the nation. The village street in which the church stands is lined with many more Grade II listed buildings, some reaching back to the 16th century, creating a remarkably intact historic setting. The church community is organising a series of fundraising events for the urgent repair work and is inviting the wider public to see what is at stake. St Juthware is honoured with her own Feast Day on July 12 and this year the parish is planning a three-day festival of flowers, music and food to celebrate the occasion.
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Embracing nature at Kingston Lacy PUPILS from Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Primary School in Wincanton enjoyed an outdoor Learning Experience Day at Kingston Lacy with the National Trust. During the visit, children explored the differences between wild and garden plants, took part in a plant scavenger hunt and created natural drawings inspired by their surroundings. Kingston Lacy, near Wimborne, is a historic
National Trust estate known for its extensive gardens, woodland and wildlife-rich landscapes, offering pupils opportunities to explore nature beyond the classroom. Our Lady of Mount Carmel recently achieved CAFOD’s LiveSimply Award in recognition of its commitment to sustainability and caring for the world. The visit also reflected the school’s wider approach to science learning,
encouraging pupils to investigate, observe and question the world around them through practical experiences. Danuta Girton and Sheila Loftus, headteachers at Our Lady of Mount Carmel, said: “It was wonderful to see the children so engaged in their learning throughout the day. They approached every activity with curiosity, enthusiasm and creativity, and were a real credit
to the school during their visit to Kingston Lacy.” Helen Taylor, chief executive of the Dunstan Catholic Educational Trust, of which the school is part, said: “Experiences like this help children develop a deeper understanding and real connection with the natural world while bringing classroom learning to life in meaningful and memorable ways.”
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Chalking up a new chapter
BRITAIN’S most iconic chalk hill figure is getting a refresh. At 180 feet tall, the Cerne Abbas Giant dominates the chalk hillside above Cerne Abbas, where his outline is now being carefully restored using around 17 tonnes of fresh chalk by National Trust staff, volunteers – and members of the public whose donations recently helped secure the future of the surrounding landscape. It also follows just a few months after an extraordinary nationwide fundraising appeal enabled the National Trust to purchase significant areas of land around the Giant, protecting the wider landscape for nature, archaeology and public access. The appeal, backed by Sir Stephen Fry, reached its £330,000 target in just 60 days, with donations flooding in from across the UK and as far afield as Australia, Japan and Iceland.
Together with gifts, grants and legacies, this money has helped secure more than 130 hectares of land around the Giant, home to rare wildlife including the endangered Duke of Burgundy butterfly, and a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest. The land offers a once‑in‑a‑lifetime opportunity to create a connected mosaic of habitats, restoring nature and improving access, says the Trust. “This re‑chalking feels especially meaningful,” said Hannah Jefferson, general manager for the National Trust at West Dorset & Cranborne Chase. “For centuries, people have cared for the Giant by renewing him in chalk. Now, thanks to thousands of people coming together through the appeal, we can care not just for the figure itself, but for the extraordinary landscape that surrounds him.”
Re‑chalking the Giant is a rare and highly skilled operation, carried out roughly once every decade. The steep chalk hillside is vulnerable to erosion, meaning the chalk must be packed tightly by hand to keep out water and prevent weeds from taking hold. The Cerne Abbas Giant’s origins long puzzled historians,
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sparking theories ranging from a Roman Hercules to a satirical depiction of Oliver Cromwell. In 2021, however, National Trust commissioned scientific analysis transformed understanding of the figure, revealing that the Giant was probably first carved in the late Saxon period, between 700 and 1100 AD.
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Excellent rates of pay, from £13.45 per hour up to £15.39 Excellent of pay, from £13.45 per hour up to Leader £15.39 with NVQrates progression or up to £17.53 as a Team with progression or up to £17.53 as a Team Leader PaidNVQ travel time between visits Paid time between 40ptravel per mile if using yourvisits own car 40p per mile if using your carworking 30+ hours Company car available forown those
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info@bramleycare.com | bramleycare.co.uk Shaftesbury 855844 Sherborne 01935 677655 Bramley House, Mere | Millbrook House, Child Okeford | The Old Rectory, Stalbridge |01747 Bramley Home Care, Shaftesbury and Sherborne Bramley House, Mere | Millbrook House, Child Okeford | The Old Rectory, Stalbridge | Bramley Home Care, Shaftesbury and Sherborne
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
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GARTELL LIGHT RAILWAY: APPROACHING THE END OF THE LINE
T
his is a situation I have been trying to avoid, but the time has come to announce that our Open Day on 26th October 2026 will be the last for the Gartell Light Railway.
Age has caught up with us all, and the amount of work required to keep the locomotives, coaches, platforms, permanent way, and all other aspects of the railway running must not be underestimated. This work has been carried out by our hardworking team of volunteers, including the unsung heroes in the buffet who have kept us and our visitors fed and watered. I would also like to thank all the volunteers, past and present, who have helped make the railway what it is today. I hope you are all proud of how the railway looks now. I feel I must mention four volunteers who have been with us for most of the journey. Ian Matthews, a school friend of mine, helped me lay the original track in the engine shed and build the set of green coaches. John Penny (CJ, as we know him) has been responsible for the extensive signalling and the general daily operations. Shortly afterwards, Sheila and her late husband Graham joined us; they tended the gardens and parked the cars. Sheila also provided refreshments for us on working days and looked after the buffet. From Christine and myself, a huge thank you to you all.
ADVERTISING FEATURE
We are saying goodbye to approximately 45 years of work, from the time construction began through to the open days, which started in 1991. In those early days, my late father parked the cars in the works yard and my late mother sold the tickets for the train rides. Chris thought I was mad to start this project, but I am incredibly grateful for her endless support and hard work behind the scenes, as well as that of our family, whose unseen efforts have helped make the railway what it is today. Thank you all. We do intend to keep things operational for a while for special events, just to keep the railway alive a little longer, without the commitment of regular open days. Finally, I must thank our visitors for their support of the railway over the years. We have met some lovely people along the way, and hopefully we will go out on a high. Once again, to all our volunteers, past and present, many, many thanks. You have made the railway what it is today. John Gartell
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
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Supporters sought for family charity HOME-START Blackmore Vale (HSBV), a charity that supports families across the Vale, has said a fond farewell and a huge thank you to some long-standing supporters. In celebrations that took place at the Tithe Barn at the Hinton St Mary estate, trustees thanked Val Pitt-Rivers, who is retiring from the role of patron. She held the role since the charity was founded locally in 2010. Caroline Salt (trustee) expressed her heartfelt gratitude for everything Val had done – tirelessly promoting the charity’s work, chairing AGMs and being a sounding board for staff and trustees. The event was also an opportunity to acknowledge the work of Barbara Turnbull, a volunteer who is retiring after 15 years. Her dedication, compassion and generosity have made a profound difference to 22 families over those years. Val is succeeded as patron by Professor Michael Dooley, current Lord-Lieutenant of Dorset. HSBV is recruiting volunteers to support families at home or within groups. It needs trustees, presently a team of eight, who believe in the charity and take responsibility for governance, fundraising and developing the service. If you can find a couple of hours per week, please get in touch with Chelsey Gowen, scheme manager, at chelsey.gowen@ homestartblackmorevale.co.uk, 01935 726438 or 07568 745982. All volunteers are provided with full training and supervision from the HSBV staff team.
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
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One-of-a-kind
by Hilary Daniels UNIQUE is a much-abused word, but the Wickham railbus which arrived at Shillingstone Station last week, truly deserves that description, and is set to become an important addition to North Dorset Railway’s rolling stock when it goes into service as a 48-seater coach. But it didn’t start life carrying passengers, and that is what makes it unique. Its builders, Wickham & Co, only ever built five four-wheeled railbuses for passenger use, none of which survives. However, a sixth was built, specifically for the vital work of track inspection, and this now belongs to North Dorset Railway. In the late 1950s automated track inspection was in its infancy and didn’t match the accuracy of manual measurement, which was time-consuming and held up normal rail operations. An electronics company, Elliott Brothers, came up with a design and the vehicle was then built by Wickham & Co as a dedicated ‘Track Recording Coach’, going into service in early 1959. The on-board equipment could record track measurements on special photo-sensitive paper and display the previous record alongside, making signs of deterioration instantly apparent, and all at speeds of up to 30mph. This was a big deal. Now, at Shillingstone, the plan is to start restoration in spring next year. North Dorset Railway is aiming to be operational – carrying passengers – later this year or early next. The railbus can be seen at the station, which is open to visitors on Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday and most Bank Holiday Mondays, 10am-4pm, and entry is free – though donations are always welcome!
Family pride A PRIDE Day aimed at families will return to Wincanton next weekend, for the third year running. The Balsam Centre’s Family Pride Day aims to bring together families from across South Somerset to recognise and celebrate diversity in any form, as well as the common ties that connect us all. The event is supported by 2BU-Somerset, a specialist support service serving the needs of young lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ+) people across Somerset. The day is free to attend. Organisers hope local people will once again come together to celebrate everything that makes their family unique and special. Balsam Centre chief executive Emma Brown said: “Pride is about celebrating who we are, supporting one another and bringing people together. “At the Balsam Centre, we know how important it is to create spaces where everyone feels welcome, valued and able to be themselves. “We are proud to support our LGBTQ+ community, allies and people from all backgrounds. “Now in its third year, Family Pride Day is a wonderful opportunity for families, friends and neighbours to come together and celebrate love, inclusion and respect.” Family Pride Day is at The Balsam Centre in Wincanton on Saturday, July 11, 10am-2pm. Entry is free. Find out more at www.balsamcentre.org.uk/events-1/family-prideday.
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
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Humans & heroes FORMER Coldstream Guards officer Harry Bucknall, from Blandford, is shining a light on the dark side of life after service for wounded military veterans. He is hosting a new podcast, Human Not Heroic, which looks at the physical and psychological challenges veterans face for the rest of their lives. He delves into the impact of injury, limb loss and loss of purpose in the podcast, devised and supported by Blesma, The Limbless Veterans, charity. The podcast features Neil Heritage, who served in the Royal Signals for 11 years before being the victim of a suicide bomber in Iraq, which resulted in both his legs being amputated above the knee. He reveals the mental and physical rollercoaster journey from injury to independence that took him from hospital wards to mountain summits and
achievements that helped redefine the possibilities of disability. Former Coldstream Guardsman Mark Smith lays bare his mental health battles and how he conquered them to become a counsellor to veterans and their families Harry, who served for 12 years in Northern Ireland, Bosnia and Hong Kong before becoming an author and podcast host, said: “I am in conversation with people who have been at the coal face of service and, although humour and banter are never far away, they are talking about some quite dark moments. “It is my job to give them the freedom and confidence to talk about their experiences, both tough and inspiring. “It is important to focus on what happens when the spotlight is off and veterans have to face the rest of their lives with a disability, dealing
Mydentist Stalbridge are taking on new private patients with Dr Patel. Jinesh Patel qualified as a dentist in Mumbai in 2004 and has been practising dentistry in the UK since 2006. He holds a Master’s degree in Advanced General Dental Practice from King’s College London. Over the past 18 years, Jinesh has worked in both NHS and private practices in Gillingham and Salisbury, gaining a wealth of clinical experience. Jinesh is highly proficient in all aspects of general dentistry and is particularly valued for his calm demeanour and gentle approach. His reassuring manner and soft-spoken nature help even the most nervous patients and children feel at ease. Alongside general dentistry, Jinesh has a special interest in dental implants, facial aesthetics, and smile design. He is passionate about helping patients achieve healthy, functional, and confident smiles through personalised treatment plans. Outside of dentistry, Jinesh lives in Salisbury with his wife and two children. In his spare time, he enjoys reading and has a keen interest in politics, sports and international relations. If you’re looking for a caring and experienced dentist, Dr Patel would be delighted to welcome you to the practice and help you achieve your dental goals, whether that’s maintaining your oral health or transforming your smile.
01963 363485 | stalbridgedental-rec@mydentist.co.uk
Host of the podcast Human Not Heroic Harry Bucknall (right) with guest Neil Heritage
with stump care, balance and other health issues while also working and being part of a family. “These are the issues that rarely see daylight, yet it is critical to understand them if we are to support our veterans for their sacrifices.” The podcasts are available on YouTube and Spotify. Harry added: “My aim is to
provide interviewees with a safe environment to discuss things they may not with others, and it is good that their insights can reach a wider audience through the podcast. “It is a privilege to be doing this series for Blesma, which is such an effective organization.” To learn more about Blesma, visit www.blesma.org.
Icon of the air FORMER British Airways stewardess and advertising icon Roz Hanby spoke about flying aboard Concorde and the golden age of air travel when she visited Mere School. She spent a day sharing stories from her career with Year 2 pupils as part of this term’s ‘Journey’ topic, in which pupils have learnt about the development of aviation. The youngsters took part in a range of activities. Each child had their own passport – complete with photograph – which was stamped after every activity as they travelled ‘around the world’ throughout the day. Silver Class has also visited the Fleet Air Arm Museum and welcomed two parent pilots, Captain Houldsworth and Captain Packham, who shared their knowledge and experiences of aviation with the children.
Former British Airways stewardess Roz Hanby with her niece, Mary Hanby, wearing Roz’s original British Airways uniform
Roz Hanby was the face of British Airways’ Fly the Flag advertising campaign over a seven-year period starting in the mid-1970s through to the 1980s. A spokesperson for the school said: “The visit from Roz Hanby was a wonderful culmination of the children’s learning and a memorable experience that will stay with them for years to come.”
New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
News
blackmorevale.net
Sherborne Castle Roars to Life as Alfa Romeo Headlines the 2026 Show ADVERTISING FEATURE On Sunday 26 July, the tranquil lakeside grounds of Sherborne Castle will once again become the backdrop to one of the South West’s most anticipated summer events: the Sherborne Classic & Supercar Show. Now firmly established as a highlight of the regional calendar, the show returns for 2026 with more cars, more character, and more to discover than ever.
This year’s featured marque is Alfa Romeo, celebrating the Italian brand’s rich heritage of design, engineering and motorsport passion. From elegant post-war classics to modern performance icons, the Alfa Romeo display promises to be one of the most photographed and talked-about areas of the show. Visitors can look forward to exploring over 1,500 vehicles, ranging from beautifully preserved pre-war machines to rare icons, modern supercars and the latest performance models. Whether you’re a lifelong petrolhead or simply enjoy a great family day out, the variety and atmosphere make this a standout event for all ages. A major attraction this year is the arrival of The Smallest Cog, the restoration workshop founded by Richard Hammond. Making their debut at Sherborne, the team will be bringing four of Hammond’s own cars, each with its own story and fan following. Among them is the legendary 1968 Ford Mustang “Bullitt”, the elegant 1962 Jaguar E-Type, the much-loved 1961 Opel Kadett “Oliver”, and the striking 2024 Mustang Dark Horse. Their presence adds a unique blend of celebrity provenance, craftsmanship and motoring passion that is sure to draw crowds throughout the day. Across the showground, visitors will find bustling owners’ club displays, specialist exhibitors, artisan traders, delicious local food stalls and a full programme of children’s activities. The relaxed, festival-style atmosphere makes it the perfect setting for families, friends and enthusiasts to enjoy a summer Sunday in one of Dorset’s most picturesque locations. The event also continues its proud tradition of supporting local charities, with funds raised helping community causes across Dorset and Somerset — a reminder that behind the gleaming bodywork lies a genuine commitment to giving back. With star cars, stunning scenery and a warm community spirit, the Sherborne Classic & Supercar Show 2026 promises a day to remember. Tickets are available now, with early booking recommended. For further information please visit classic-supercars.co.uk
Fern Brook Lodge care home celebrates Care Home Open Week ADVERTISING FEATURE
F
ern Brook Lodge care home residents danced to live music, enjoyed afternoon tea and took part in a wedding-themed reminiscence session for Care Home Open Week. The home, which is based on Fern Brook Lane in Gillingham, welcomed residents, their families and the local community to gather for a day of activities in Jan from Rural Rhymes and honour of the national awareness campaign. Reminiscing led a session The day began with a morning reminiscence session at Fern Brook Lodge for Care Home Open Week led by Jan from Rural Rhymes and Reminiscing, focusing on weddings and celebrations from years gone by. Residents embraced the theme by dressing up and sharing memories from their own experiences. In the afternoon, residents enjoyed a traditional afternoon tea prepared by the home’s head chef before being entertained by musician Les Chaffe. Residents and visiting family members spent the afternoon dancing, singing and enjoying the celebrations together. Fern Brook Lodge provides residential, respite and Fern Brook Lodge dementia care. A dedicated activities team organises a residents enjoyed a wedding-themed session daily programme of events to bring residents together with Jan from Rural to socialise and build friendships. Rhymes and Reminiscing 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.
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A Care South home for residential and dementia care
Living Well with Dementia Dementia may change how someone experiences the world, but it doesn’t diminish their value or opportunity to have and enjoy meaningful relationships. With the right care, understanding and support, people living with dementia can continue to live well - maintaining purpose, identity and connection. Contact us today to see how we can help create a new home for you or a loved one at Fern Brook Lodge:
01747834020 | care-south.co.uk Fern Brook Lane | Gillingham | SP8 4QD Proud of Care a not-for-profit Proud toto bebe partpart of Care South,South, a not-for-profit charity and leadcharity and provider residential, ing provider ofleading residential, dementiaof and nursing care,dementia as well as care at home services across theassouth and nursing care, as well careofatEngland. homeRegistered services Charity No. 1014697. * Correct at time of print. across the south of England. Registered Charity No. 1014697. *Correct at time of print
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
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blackmorevale.net
Bespoke Roofing Services
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
Metabolic Minute: how steady energy supports a steady mood by Dr Rebecca Hiscutt, registered dietitian at Wincanton Health Centre
DO you ever get a post-lunch slump? Mid-afternoon you are flat, foggy and looking for something sweet to give you a boost. You might take this as lack of willpower or needing a ‘treat’ to give you a boost. But often it is your blood sugar. When we eat a carbohydrate-heavy meal, (such as a sandwich and crisps), glucose rises quickly in the blood. The body responds with a surge of insulin to bring it back down, and this spike can then overshoot. The dip that follows can show up as tiredness, irritability, poor concentration and cravings. Your brain depends on a steady glucose supply, so it feels these swings quickly. The good news is that small changes steady the curve and can make a big difference to how you feel during the day, giving you more consistent energy. These are some of the habits we look at with our patients who are working on improving their metabolic health:
Rethink how you build your plate. Include protein first, then vegetables or salad and some natural fats. Then add carbohydrates if desired. The proteins, fat and fibre will slow the rise in blood glucose and smooth your blood sugar levels. Start the day savoury. Experiment with a savoury breakfast – an omelette with your favourite fillings or last night’s leftovers hold you steadier than cereal or toast. If you don’t feel like savoury, Greek yoghurt can work well.
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Walk after eating. A 10-minute walk lets your muscles soak up glucose from your meal and soften the glucose spike[*]. This can be especially helpful after dinner as insulin works less well later in the day. So a short walk, or a few squats, can steady blood sugar before bed and may help you sleep. Watch the liquid sugars. Sweet drinks and fruit juices raise blood sugar fastest of all, with nothing to slow them down. None of this is about cutting out the foods you love or eating perfectly. It is about giving your body a gentler ride, so your energy and mood stay more level through the day. Try it for a week and pay attention to your afternoons. Many people find the day feels easier and smoother. * Reference Hijikata Y, et al. Positive impact of a 10-min walk immediately after glucose intake on postprandial glucose levels. Scientific Reports, 2025. www.nature.com/ articles/s41598-025-07312-y.
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
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Youngsters all-a-flutter during visit! DOZENS of children were treated to a “magical experience” with a trip to a butterfly farm. Around 60 young people from Abbey Primary School visited Clive Farrell’s butterfly farm and at Ryewater Nursery in a trip organised by Sherborne Castles Rotary Club and the Let’s Help Our Primary Schoolchildren charity. Jo Maidment, of Sherborne Rotary, said: “It was lovely see the children’s enchantment with the whole ethos of Ryewater Nursery. Sitting in the ‘electric chair’ surrounded by children’s exited chatter was the highlight of the day.” Lisa Thompson, head of Abbey Primary, said: “What a fabulous, magical experience that our children will remember for a life time. “Our guide’s obvious passion and enthusiasm for nature absolutely made the day.”
Mr Farrell, founder of the attraction, added: “The teachers and helpers were magnificent and the children were exceptional. Indeed, it was a joy to have them here. “Rotary has facilitated a wonderful and educational day for the children.”
Youngsters and staff during their visit to the nursery and butterfly farm
Bowls and blooms! Pictures and words by George Jeans WHILE the world’s best footballers are gathered in the US for the World Cup, Mere is celebrating international sporting recognition of its own. Village bowls player Les Mainwaring has been chosen to represent his country by Bowls England – putting Mere in the spotlight on the international green. However, far from letting his new-found recognition go to his head, Les was spotted cutting roses for table decorations for Hidden Gardens of Mere weekend.
Around 350 people-plus came to see the gardens, while around 250 people attended the Mere Model Railway Exhibition over the same weekend. A total of 10 layouts in two halls were set up at the Lecture Hall. Thomas the Tank Engine was present, nipping around the track. Some layouts were so realistic, they looked like full-size landscape. One layout had a miniature camera on the train, being displayed on a monitor, which gave the appearance of a real-life train journey and impressed visitors.
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Mere bowls player Les Mainwaring has been chosen to represent his country by Bowls England – after cutting his roses!
The Gardening Club and Mere Model Railway Modellers thanked all for coming. It was a great weekend for all.
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
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Ansford aces Ofsted
ANSFORD Academy is celebrating its latest Ofsted report in which inspectors said ‘pupils flourish’ at the school. The academy, part of the Midsomer Norton Schools Partnership (MNSP) Trust, was inspected under the new Ofsted 2026 report card framework in February. Inspectors found that “every pupil is welcome and supported at this school”, and that “pupils and staff alike enjoy coming to school”. Behaviour was praised in the report, inspectors saying: “Pupils behave well. They work hard, concentrate on their learning and conduct themselves sensibly around the school site.” Inspectors added: “Pupils are able to learn in classrooms where disruption is very rare”. Head teacher Karl Musson said: “We are incredibly proud of this report. It captures the hard work and dedication of our staff and students. Many homeowners are unaware homeowners are unaware “We endeavour to provide an environmentMany ‘pupils thatwhere their property could be used that their property could used flourish’ and take advantage of the varied sporting and to fund care costs later inbe life. to fund care costs later in life. A living trust may help protect creative clubs and events the school offers them. A living trust may help protect your home and preserve your “We look forward to our students achieving another your home and preserve estate for your family. your estate forthat your record-breaking set of GCSE results this summer will By placing yourfamily. property into a By placing property into a trust, it can your be ring-fenced, enable them to follow their dreams.” trust, it can be ring-fenced, reducing exposure care fees, MNSP Trust chief executive Alun Williamsreducing said: exposure “I am to to care fees, creditor claims, or unexpected delighted that the very significant improvement at claims, Ansford creditor unexpected life events such or as divorce. lifecan events such minimise as divorce. Academy has been formally recognised. This improvement is It also help It can also help minimise inheritance tax, allowing more the result of a fantastic effort from leaders, teachers, support inheritance tax,toallowing more of your estate pass to your staff and, of course, pupils.” of your estate to pass to your
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
News
Our loose Canon What future for our glorious sacred spaces, which need upkeep and repair… by Canon Eric Woods MY eye was caught last month by no fewer than three articles about England’s cathedrals appearing in the national press in the same week. First came George Lapshynov. His article in The Times began “If England lets its cathedrals crumble, it will be everybody’s loss.” Well, how could I not agree? But he argued that people walk into cathedrals for all sorts of reasons which often have little to do with faith or worship, and that is a good thing. Cathedrals “are among the last institutions left in national life that can still draw together people of all ages, classes, politics and beliefs, under one roof…. They are civic spaces, cultural landmarks and public sanctuaries.” Inevitably this leads to a demand that the State – ie the taxpayer – should shoulder the bill for the upkeep and repair of all our cathedrals. Incidentally, he doesn’t make clear if he is only speaking of England’s 42 Anglican cathedrals, or also of the 20 Roman Catholic cathedrals, or additionally of cathedrals belonging to other rites, not least the Orthodox. Here alarm bells begin to ring. The bill for the maintenance of these cathedrals is staggering, but can anyone believe that the State could or would shoulder it? And what about the over 12,000 Anglican parish churches which are listed buildings – some of them originally cathedrals themselves, such as Sherborne Abbey, and some of them larger than many cathedrals, such as Beverley
blackmorevale.net Minster, and Christchurch Priory here in Dorset? Less than a week later, also in The Times, Simon Jenkins tried to tug Mr Lapshynov back to earth. Author of England’s 1000 Best Churches, Jenkins is one of the stoutest ambassadors for these sacred spaces, despite being an unbeliever himself: “a gothic cathedral can move me to tears.” But he is surely right to suggest that there is no way the State will step in to pay the bills: “I am certain that in their present mood of state philistinism any plea for help will fail.” He suggests there would be more mileage in tasking local authorities to support the cathedrals and churches; they are magnets, bringing tens of thousands of visitors and tourists to their towns and cities, greatly boosting the local economy. It’s standard practice in Germany, Scandinavia and elsewhere. It’s surely worth a pilot. Meanwhile, in The Spectator, Laurie Graham makes a more nuanced point. The relationship between cathedrals and the public has been changed by commercialisation. “People pay serious money to enter: £31 for [Westminster] Abbey, £27 for St Paul’s, and York’s a bargain at £20.” Cathedrals nowadays host anything from black tie dinners to Flog It. Have their deans never read Jesus accusing religious leaders of turning the Temple into a “den of thieves”? All of this, and so much more, have turned visitors into customers. And customers have different demands and expectations – and sometimes an ugly sense of entitlement. The last cathedral I visited had a group of noisy young men sauntering around, smoking and wearing their caps. In the words of R S Thomas, “I … felt the draft that was God, leaving.”
Collaboration and determination STURMINSTER Newton High School is celebrating after its recent Ofsted inspection, which recognised the school as meeting the expected standard across all key areas and praised the strong sense of community, positive behaviour and high aspirations for students. Inspectors highlighted the school’s “calm and orderly atmosphere”, the respectful relationships between pupils and staff, and the inclusive culture that ensures pupils feel safe, supported and valued. The report also praised leaders for placing “the interests of pupils and their families at the forefront of their actions”. The report recognised the school’s broad and ambitious curriculum, effective support for pupils with SEND, strong safeguarding culture and extensive opportunities for personal development, enrichment and leadership. Headteacher Mike Motteram said: “This report marks an important milestone for us as a school. In recent years, we have worked tirelessly to build a culture rooted in high expectations, inclusivity and care, and it is fantastic to see this validated by Ofsted. “We are delighted that the inspectors
recognised the strong sense of community at the heart of our school. This report reflects the hard work, care and commitment shown every day by our staff, students and families. “Our journey over recent years has been one of collaboration and determination. We have focused on building a school where every child feels safe, valued and inspired to succeed.” Inspectors also acknowledged the improvements made by school leaders over the past two years, noting that leadership
had “stabilised” and developed a “strong sense of community” within the school. The report praised the school’s work to support pupils’ mental health and wellbeing, the quality of careers education and the wide range of extracurricular activities available, including sports clubs, drama productions, volunteering opportunities and the Ten Tors Challenge. Ofsted also recognised the school’s strong safeguarding culture, saying that safeguarding standards are met and that pupils feel safe and well cared for.
Photo: Rob Farrow / geograph.org.uk
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
blackmorevale.net
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
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. • 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
blackmorevale.net Family Service. • Lufton Church: Prayer Book services every Sunday at 6pm. Sung Mass on the third Sunday. See www.lufton.co.uk for details. • Milton-on-Stour Church: Hymns and Pimm’s evening, with organ played by Simon Bending, Friday, July 10, 7pm for 7.30pm start. Free entry but donations welcome to help with church running costs. Pimm’s and other refreshments, and raffle. Parking in school alongside. • 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. Sherborne Quakers: One hour of silent prayer or meditation every Sunday at 10.30am at Raleigh Hall, Digby Road DT9 3NL. Contact Nick Jackman at sherbornequakers@gmail.com • Stour Vale Benefice: Sunday, July 5 – 9.15am Parish Communion, St Andrew’s, Todber; 10am Morning Worship, St Mary’s, West Stour; 11am Parish Communion, Christ Church, East Stour. Sunday, July 12 – 9.30am Parish Communion, St John the Baptist, Buckhorn Weston; 10.30am Morning Worship, St Michael & All Angels, Stour Provost; 11am Morning Worship, All Saints, Kington Magna; 6.30pm Parish Communion, St Mary Magdalene, Fifehead Magdalen. • St Benedict’s, Gillingham: Sunday Mass, 11am. • St Gregory’s, Marnhull: Sunday services 8am and 10am. Other services, visit www. stgregorysmarnhull.org.uk • St James, Longburton: Cream tea on Saturday, July 25, 3pm-4.30pm to celebrate St James’s Day. Suggested donation £5. • 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 Thomas’, Lydlinch: Second Sunday, Holy Communion 11am; third Sunday, Evensong 6pm; fourth Sunday, Matins 11am. • Sturminster Christian Fellowship: Service every Sunday at 10.30am. • Two Rivers Benefice: Sunday July 5 – 10.45am Together Communion at St Mary’s Church, Tarrant Rushton. Sunday July 12 – 9.30am Communion at St Mary’s Church, Blandford St Mary; 11am Family Service at All Saints Church, Tarrant Keynston; 11am Morning Worship at All Saints Church, Langton Long. Sunday July 19 – 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 St Mary’s Church, Tarrant Rushton; 11am Morning Worship at All Saints Church, Langton Long. • West Camel Independent Methodists: All Saints Church (BA22 7QB). Sunday, July 5, 4pm – United Sunday @ Four with tea. Sundays, July 12, 19 and 26, 6pm. A warm and friendly welcome is assured. Contact: Geoff.mead@yahoo. com or phone 01935 850838.
New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
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History
blackmorevale.net
Colonel John Blashford-Snell and his team were asked to remove a mobile crane which had been run into the harbour at Famagusta in Cyprus in 1960. Right a sketch from the Colonel’s notebook
A tricky moment underwater
SERVING as a Royal Engineer in Cyprus in 1960, I received a phone call from the Famagusta port commandant. “John, we’re in trouble” he said. “Some idiot has just run our mobile crane into the harbour. It’s blocking the slip and we’ve no crane big enough to lift it. We have a large landing craft arriving tonight and we need access to the slip.” It seemed the only way to move it was to pass a cable beneath the crane and then partially sink a ‘Z’ craft on either side, fasten the cable to them and refloat the craft. The only snag was that the crane was lying in liquid mud. As the squadron’s diving officer, I summoned our team and raced to the port. Securing the crane’s jib to the dockside, one of our divers, Sapper Ellis, and I slid into the murky water. I took a hosepipe to enable me to ‘tunnel’ through the mud. Ellis handled the steel wire cable which we were to pass beneath the machine. The mud closed about us as we felt
by Colonel John Blashford-Snell CBE. John is a former British Army officer, explorer and author. He also founded Operation Raleigh and the Scientific Exploration Society our way through the tangled mass of struts and cables. It was pitch black. Communicating by a system of hand signals, we descended slowly. When we reached a more solid lump, I hosed it away. I guessed we were right beneath the crane when I felt a slight increase in pressure on my ears. My depth gauge was invisible, but I realised at once what was happening. The crane was sinking deeper into the mud, pushing us down beneath it. I stopped moving and held my breath. I heard the clatter of Ellis’s valve stop also. The slow, relentless movement of the
steelwork was obvious. Only our efforts beforehand had masked it. Why on earth is the crane moving? I thought to myself but now was not the time to sort that out. We had to get out of this death trap with all speed. I tried to go forward but came upon an impenetrable barrier that was probably a wheel. The choice was to go down and try and come up beyond it or go back the way we had come. At least I knew the way back was clear, and in an instant I decided that was the way out. The mud was getting thicker and movement against it was an effort. I reached out to Ellis and gave the signal for ‘going back and up’. He seemed to understand and I felt him move away. Inside my suit, I was sweating with the effort of forcing my way through the clinging mud. My supply valve seemed to be giving me more air than I needed – probably the mud was affecting it. I was still clutching at the hose, although I had rather forgotten about it. Now it was vital for survival. Suddenly the crane gave a jerk which frightened me stiff and made me realise that I must move faster. I slid one shoulder under the hose and passed the nozzle down towards my feet, then gripping it between my knees and hands, I began to tunnel backwards, following my lifeline. Something tightened around my
thigh. It felt a little like a small octopus that had taken a fancy to me when working on a wreck the previous week, but I couldn’t move against it and as I struggled, it tightened. I felt it, coarse and rough. It was simply a loop of rope that I had stuck my foot through. Laboriously I went forward, freed my leg and started back again. It seemed like minutes, but it was probably only a few seconds before I found my nylon cord rising. Feeling above, I began to ascend. Once I hit a loose cable and a surge of panic returned – was I still under the crane? The water was jet black and I saw nothing until I surfaced. As the mud drained from my face mask, Ellis came into view beside me. “You okay, Sir?” he said. “Yes, but I’m not sure I’d like to repeat that!” I replied. “Sorry about that,” shouted the port officer. “One of the straps slipped on the jib but you’d have been all right – we had another on anyway.” “Thanks for telling me,” I murmured into my mouthpiece. We got the cable under at the second attempt. 65 years later, when my 26-year-old granddaughter Amber started training as a commercial diver, I told her some of the challenging moments I’d experienced underwater and recommend caution!
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026 BLACKMORE VALE
THE NEW
P3
MAGAZINE
Edition 151 Edition 90
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RESULT
-13
×1/3
×6
-19
+46
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
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For the
RESULT
×1/3
+53
-27
÷2
+113
For the solutions, solutions, turn turn to to page page 86
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Politics
blackmorevale.net
Report criticises children’s services THE quality of some services for very vulnerable children in Somerset ‘has deteriorated’, according to a new report. Ofsted has rated Somerset Council’s children’s services as ‘requires improvement’ after an inspection which took place between April 27 and May 1 this year. The inspection, led by His Majesty’s Inspector Alison Smale, rated the authority’s children’s services in four areas, giving a rating for each. They were: n The impact of leaders on social work practice with children and families: Requires improvement n The experiences and progress of children who need help and protection: Requires improvement n The experiences and progress of children in care: Requires improvement n The experiences and progress
of care leavers: Good The report said since the last inspection, in 2022, which saw services rated as ‘good’, “the quality of some services for very vulnerable children has deteriorated”. “Many children continue to benefit from strong practice, and care leavers benefit from good services,” it went on. “Leaders have made significant efforts to be an active and committed corporate parent.” However, it found “some children’s experiences and progress” was “inconsistent”, and “multi-agency child protection strategy discussions do not always take place when children are at risk of, or have experienced, significant harm”. “Most child and family assessments take too long, due to workload pressures, meaning the needs of vulnerable children and their families are not always
understood soon enough,” the report went on. Inspectors said “inconsistent management oversight and direction” meant actions were delayed or did not match some children’s “needs and risks”. The report also noted how “efforts to create sufficient homes for children have not been effective”, while staff face demanding workloads which “undermine … workers’ ability to ensure that some children receive the right timely help and support”. Responding to the inspection’s findings, the council highlighted positives, and said it was “already taking decisive action to address these concerns”, including expanding foster carer recruitment and support, and securing increased benefits for carers. Lead member for children, families and education at Somerset Council, Councillor
Council spends a little less than planned
DORSET Council has recorded its first-ever budget underspend since becoming a unitary authority in 2019, in what leaders are describing as a major turnaround in the authority’s finances. A report shows the council finished the 2025/26 financial year £169,000 under budget from a total spending plan of £417 million. While the underspend represents a tiny fraction of the overall budget, it marks the first time the council has spent less than planned since it was formed seven years ago. Council leaders said the result follows a year of tighter financial controls, stricter spending management and efforts to tackle growing budget pressures.
Heather Shearer, said: “I would like to pay tribute and thank the many children and young people, the families, our staff and our partners who all contributed to the Ofsted assessment. “The overall rating is disappointing, and we will of course address those areas highlighted for improvement. “But there is so much positivity in this assessment that we can be rightly proud of too, including the dedication and positive impact of our teams, especially for our care leavers and young carers. “We remain fully committed to building on these strengths, listening to the voices of children and families and working with our partners to ensure every child in Somerset has the opportunity to thrive.” She said expanding foster carer recruitment and support was ‘key’. The improved position also means the council’s overall financial risk rating has fallen from “high” to “medium”, while reserves have increased, giving greater protection against future financial shocks. For residents, the stronger financial position is intended to help safeguard key services, including adult social care, road maintenance, waste collection and community facilities. The council has also reviewed its long-term capital investment programme, removing projects that have stalled and focusing funding on schemes that are ready to be delivered. Planned investments include projects across Dorset, with work earmarked in towns including Shaftesbury, Blandford, Wimborne, Bridport, Weymouth and Swanage. Future spending will focus on areas such as highways, coastal protection, schools, transport infrastructure and community buildings. The council is now preparing a new three-year financial plan.
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Politics
blackmorevale.net
Heatwave: Make schools fit for future DURING last week’s heatwave, the UK’s record for the hottest day in June was broken in Yeovilton, with temperatures reaching 36.4 degrees Celsius right here in the Glastonbury and Somerton constituency. Unfortunately, extreme heat is no longer a rare event. It is becoming an increasingly common feature of our summers, but the UK’s existing infrastructure is simply not equipped to cope. Soaring temperatures are putting immense stress on the NHS; causing drought-stressed fields and compromising livestock welfare; and disrupting children’s education, with schools across Somerset closing their doors to students as the Met Office extended its red heathealth warning across the south west. Children cannot be expected to learn effectively in sweltering classrooms, particularly while many are already sitting important exams at this time of year. Staff should not have to work in unsafe temperatures
Lib Dem MP for Glastonbury & Somerton Sarah Dyke either. Research shows that overheating is already a significant problem in England’s schools, with 32% of schools reporting overheating in at least one building. Without adaptation measures, extreme heat could make learning extremely difficult for up to eight days each year by the end of the century, while rising temperatures could result in the equivalent of up to 12 lost learning days annually. This is why I stood up in Parliament last week to ask the Government about the
immediate steps it was taking to safeguard school staff and students during this heatwave, and prevent education being similarly disrupted in future. The Government must recognise that climate resilience is now an essential part of our education infrastructure and must be built into our wider community infrastructure. The Minister’s answer was extremely disappointing. When classrooms are breaching safe working thresholds by over 10 degrees, it’s not enough merely to suggest alterations to dress codes and cutting back on PE lessons. Nor should head teachers and school leaders be expected to tackle this heatwave alone. We need urgent investment to retrofit schools, improve ventilation and cooling systems, and ensure pupils can continue learning safely during future heatwaves, and I will keep calling on the Government to stop turning a blind eye to the new reality of summer in the UK and commit to these crucial measures.
Beyond the classroom, my Liberal Democrat colleagues and I are urging the Government to prepare the country for more extreme weather by investing in cooling measures for hospitals and care homes. Ministers must also open air-conditioned public buildings – such as libraries, leisure centres and community facilities – as ‘cool hubs’ during periods of extreme heat to protect vulnerable residents. But it’s not enough merely to mitigate the impacts of these extreme weather events – we must tackle them at their source. As Liberal Democrats, we will keep demanding urgent action to combat the climate crisis, protecting people and the planet from the devastating impacts of global warming. As always, I want to hear from you. If you have been struggling during the heatwave or have another issue I can help with, or wish to register your interest to attend one of my regular advice surgeries, please don’t hesitate to contact me at sarah.dyke.mp@parliament.uk
robotics. Perhaps the minister has been watching just a little bit too much Clarkson’s Farm? While the Government pretends to support farmers, it certainly is backing cyclists. An astonishing £4.5 billion over five years has been found for new cycle paths. I love cycling, but I love freedom more. £4.5 billion would go a long way to building the Armed Forces needed to deter Putin’s aggression. At a time of great national danger, with the Defence Secretary and the Armed Forces Minister walking out while excoriating the Prime Minister for being ‘unable’ and the Treasury for being ‘unwilling’ to bankroll national defence properly, we have to make better choices. I raised this in the Commons. The truth is you can’t spend eye-watering sums on nice-to-
have things like cycle paths while saying there’s no money for essentials like defence. Politics is all about tough choices, priorities, trade-offs. Wiltshire, home of the British Army, knows the difference between a nice-to-have and the first duty of government. I don’t begrudge anyone a decent cycle path, but bicycles won’t keep this country safe. Good to meet up with National Highways in Mere to discuss the A303 and the North-South strategic study on Friday. They are good people but so much depends on northfacing ministers sparing a few crumbs for us in the south west. On a more positive note, it was a genuine pleasure to attend the opening of the smart new Integrated Care Centre in the county town.
Hard times, hard choices THANKS to Jeremy Clarkson, we’re now all farming experts, at least of the armchair variety. One of the big problems Jeremy has highlighted is farm input costs. Fertiliser, for example, has gone up by 60% in a decade. That’s the difference between scraping a profit and making a loss. I raised the cost of fertiliser with the Environment Secretary in the House of Commons recently. I asked how the Government would honour the pledge it made at the Oxford Farming Conference to support farmers during difficult harvests and supply shocks. A supply shock has arrived – a third of the world’s fertiliser is stuck on the wrong side of the Strait of Hormuz. The answer I got amounted to a vague hint that tech might come to the rescue –
Conservative MP for South West Wiltshire Dr Andrew Murrison ‘more efficient use’ of fertiliser and ‘more innovative practices’, too. As if farmers are not already using their gold-dust fertiliser as efficiently as possible, or innovating and diversifying as much as the bank will allow. Not all farmers are barley barons with access to high-tech and
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
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blackmorevale.net
Gender identification is a minefield PERHAPS, due to a natural impulse not to offend, I have, in the main, kept away from issues surrounding gender identification. It is a minefield. Passionately held views on all sides of the argument. Say the wrong thing and one is accused of ignorance at best and bigotry at worst. This can sometimes be used as a tactic to impose a silence from questioning voices. That is wrong. We need a big, proper national debate. I have met a number of my constituents who are Trans or who are on the path to full transition. They have compelling and often deeply emotional stories. So, whatever one’s views on these issues, my overarching hope is that we can have these conversations with respect and tolerance. However, respect and tolerance cannot mean silence. Disagreeing with someone does not mean that the debate or conversation does not take place. It is the tone and language that is important. I
Conservative MP for North Dorset Simon Hoare want to comment on a couple of issues that have come up recently. First, puberty blockers. Last week we had a vote in Parliament to stop the Government’s proposal to have a controlled test on pre-puberty children who have questions about the gender identification. My teenage years are long
behind me. However, with three teenage children of my own and meeting many of their friends, as well as visiting schools across North Dorset, I know just how confusing early teenage years can be for many. I do not believe our children should be used as medical guinea pigs. I voted to stop the Puberty Blocker trials. Alas, my side of the argument lost. Our young people need love, support and advice. They do not need chemicals that suppress their reproductive functions. I fear we will look back on this period with head-shaking bewilderment. All because science can does not mean science should. Readers of this column might be interested to know that of their number only one Lib Dem MP and three Labour voted to stop the trials. I also happen to be a Rule of Law supporter. If our Supreme Court comes to a conclusion, as it did with regard to the applicability of certain aspects of the Equality
Act as it relates to the use of facilities such as loos and changing rooms by people who have transitioned, are in the process of transitioning or those who have no plan to transition, who like to cross-dress but retain a fully functioning male sex organ. Decisions of the Supreme Court are not some legal pick ‘n’ mix. The Government, thankfully, realises this, and guidance and further law changes are expected to give legislative force to the Court’s judgement. I will support it. As a husband and father of three daughters I want them to feel secure in whatever environment they choose to be in. Providers of facilities can provide respectful spaces such as gender neutral for those who wish to use them. While no one should feel embarrassed, everyone must feel safe. My fellow Conservatives and I will support the Government as it delivers on the Court’s judgement.
for not only unexpected parliamentary and mayoral by-elections, but many local council ones as well – newly elected councillors from the May elections are resigning all over the UK! Spare a thought for party staff also – having to work on additional by-elections, as well as leadership election visits and events and do their day jobs, too. These summer months when parliament is in recess, is usually when preparations for annual political conferences go into overdrive and MPs have a short break and then crack on with community and constituency casework, events and visits. Imagine the level of distraction, the physical, emotional and psychological toil created by these uncertain times? Reassurance can be sought in the fabric of constitutional compliance, however.
Organisations have procedures and rules, every committee and report a terms of reference to keep all involved focused on the end goal. If there is a big question to be asked of a government, the answer lies in the ruling party’s constitution and a key part of the fabric of any political party’s constitution is its membership and how much the membership is involved and respected. Bypassing a membership body could have repercussions. If a membership fragments, what happens to the foundations of the organisation? Short term, who will be paying the subs – another headache for the treasurer? Who will be knocking on the doors – a headache for the organisers? Politicians come and go in all sorts of ways, but what I’m sure of, is that politicians are human beings – we all are. Keep keeping on everyone. Let’s go to work!
Thank you for your service, PM WHENEVER I sit down to write this column, common themes crop up – respect, kindness, language, communications, the media, parliamentary procedure, homelessness, ambition and loyalty, young people and equality – are roughly my top 10! Hit up the online Archive section of the New Blackmore Vale and New Stour and Avon magazines to refresh your memory in the Candice Library and feel free to associate any of them with the political movements of the past few weeks! Looks like my 2024 election campaign pitch of ‘collaboration’, ‘doing politics differently’ and making politics ‘work for you’ were ahead of their time! Thank you to Sir Keir for your service – public service is hard. The will was there to fight, but the circumstances did not allow for it. Could another pick
Candice JohnsonCole, on behalf of Dorset Labour up the baton? We’ll have to wait and see! Beep, beep, beep! ‘What’s that?’ I hear you ask! That’s an election fund lorry reversing, containing the fundraising reserves that every political needs for future campaigns. The second political figure I would hate to be right now is a political party treasurer at a party headquarters, having to shell out
New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
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Politics
blackmorevale.net
Time to cure ills of NHS dentistry HARDLY a day passes without someone raising the same, deeply worrying concern with me – they simply cannot access an NHS dentist. The strength and consistency of that feeling is precisely why I brought forward a crossparty debate in Parliament this month. What I am hearing from residents is deeply concerning. People describe calling practice after practice, only to be turned away each time. Parents tell me about the anxiety of being unable to secure treatment for their children, while others recount living with persistent pain because they have no alternative. Some people become so desperate they attempt to deal with dental problems themselves. That should never happen in a modern healthcare system. When residents begin to consider travelling significant distances, or even going abroad, just to access routine dental care,
Lib Dem MP for Yeovil Adam Dance it is a clear sign the system is not meeting basic expectations. Dental care should not depend on how far someone can travel or how much they can afford, it should be readily available within their own community. Local dentists are equally frustrated. Many are working tirelessly, doing everything they can to support their patients, yet
still finding themselves overwhelmed. Increasingly, they are dealing with urgent and complex cases that could have been prevented with earlier intervention. This growing pressure is not the fault of those delivering care on the front line – it is the result of longstanding structural problems that have gone unaddressed for too long. It is now the responsibility of Government to act decisively. The current model for NHS dentistry no longer reflects today’s realities. It limits capacity, struggles to support more complex treatments and does not adequately enable practices to prioritise the needs of their local populations. These challenges have been widely recognised and repeatedly highlighted over many years. What has been missing is a sense of urgency and political will to deliver meaningful reform. Encouragingly, during the debate in Parliament, there was
broad agreement across parties that the status quo cannot continue. There is a shared understanding of the scale of the problem. The question now is whether that consensus will translate into action at the pace that patients urgently need. For me, the principle is simple. Access to dental care should be local, reliable and fair. It should not come down to persistence, luck or personal means. There are examples of progress. I was pleased to help secure improvements for practices in Chard and Crewkerne, demonstrating that change is possible. However, local successes cannot compensate for a national system that is fundamentally falling short. People have waited long enough. The Government must now deliver the comprehensive reform that NHS dentistry so clearly, and urgently, requires.
interesting times is an understatement. I also sat on the Rail Bill Committee seeking to improve the delivery of a nationalised rail network. Pushing for improvements to the London to Exeter line and the Heart of Wessex Line, as well as mandating minimum levels of service across the UK rail network, including better wi-fi, toilets, accessibility, seats, plugs and catering. More locally I secured a pilot project for a salmon restoration scheme in our vital chalk stream, supported the reopening of the maternity unit at Yeovil, helped reopen the pharmacies in Lyme Regis and Bridport, worked on improved accessibility at Dorchester South train station, brought together parties to find solutions for Newell House after the fire there, supported our farmers in their campaign against the ‘Family Farm Tax’
and a host of other things. My team and I have also resolved more than 22,000 pieces of casework. We’ve helped children get Education Health and Care Plans, secure school places and transport, pensioners get their benefits, shelter and support for abused spouses, homes for homeless people, emergency evacuation for people stuck in the conflict zones, families to get home from far flung places, passports issued, driving licences returned, parking tickets overturned, potholes filled and thousands of other unique and often very complex cases. At the heart of all of which is a human being who just needs help. It has been a roller-coaster two years. Often very trying, often very frustrating, but ultimately always rewarding. So, two years on I would once again like to say a huge thank you for the huge honour of serving you.
Rollercoaster years as new MP THIS weekend marks exactly two years since I was elected. Ironically, it will be marked by the imminent arrival of a new Prime Minister, one who did not even stand at the last election let alone get elected on the Labour manifesto. He will no doubt face pressure over the summer to seek his own mandate from the electorate and we could face another general election before I see in my third anniversary as an MP. So much for the promise of stable government. So, it seems an appropriate time to look back at the last two years of what has been the greatest honour of my life, representing the people of West Dorset. I have sat on two select committees during this time – the Foreign Affairs Committee and the National Security Strategy Committee. This has coincided with a Trump Presidency, the Mandelson
Lib Dem MP for West Dorset Edward Morello Affair, increased geopolitical insecurity, wars in the Middle East and Ukraine, the publishing of the National Security Strategy and the Defence Review, as well as increased hybrid war attacks on the UK. To say it has been
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
Letters
blackmorevale.net
Defence: A question of priorities I SEE Simon Hoare is still peddling his nonsense in the New Blackmore Vale – June 19. When money is tight, most countries prioritise educating their children, keeping the lights on, maintaining infrastructure and growing the economy. Defence matters, of course, but a nation isn’t made stronger by hollowing out everything it’s supposedly protecting. His argument seems to be: “There’s no point having a first-class education system, a clean environment and a sustainable economy if you can’t defend them.” Fair enough. But since we don’t exactly have a first-class education system, a particularly clean environment or a notably sustainable economy compared with much of the rest of Europe, perhaps we’re putting the cart before the horse. After all, it was his party’s former Prime Minister who gambled the country’s future on an EU referendum largely to settle a Conservative Party civil war and fend off UKIP. The result was years of political paralysis, slower growth, weaker public finances and a queue of problems we’re still standing in today. So perhaps the question isn’t
why defence spending matters. It’s why defence spending must always jump to the front of the queue while schools, hospitals, infrastructure, housing and economic growth are told to wait patiently at the back. At this rate, we’ll have a wonderfully defended country, just as soon as we can find something left worth defending. Mark Holderness Blandford Forum
There’s a steam train coming in…
A STEAM train excursion is scheduled to pass through the Blackmore Vale on Thursday, July 9, hauled by Merchant Navy steam loco No. 35028 Clan Line. The train will head to Yeovil before returning to London via Weymouth. This ‘The End of Southern Steam’ trip is scheduled to reach Tisbury at about 12.25, pause at Gillingham between 12.36 and 12.57 before proceeding through Templecombe at 13.09 and Sherborne (platform 2) at 13.18. The loco will then be serviced at Yeovil Junction from 13.27 on the Heritage Platform. Probably the best place to see it will be at Sherborne as it
thunders through at about 75mph. At Templecombe, the speed will be nearer 40mph to allow for the points as it changes tracks, and at Gillingham, the loco will stop for 21 minutes, well beyond the end of platform 2. Timings on the day can be checked on Realtime trains by searching for one of the above stations and clicking on the train that originated from London Victoria that passes through at the above times. Mike Bignell Sherborne
Fibre broadband roll-out complaints UNDER the Government’s Gigabit Project, Wessex Internet, with government subsidies, is rolling out fibre broadband to rural Dorset and beyond. Necessary we are told to give us ultra speed broadband when the old copper analogue system is no longer available. Wessex Internet’s website says it prides itself on working with communities to keep disruption to a minimum and to maintain the rural aspect of an area.
However, I recently attended a consultation meeting at Durweston Village Hall to be told that the roll-out is happening and that notice is in place for the erection of new poles. No planning permission is needed – work will start at the end of summer and will take 12 weeks. The use of existing BT poles is not viable. And the channelling of new cables underground, although perfectly possible, would be too costly and would involve more work. Well, I’m sorry, but I am not at all happy about that. One road in particular in Durweston, with no poles or cables in front of the houses at present – although soon to be redundant pylons at the rear – will have new poles up to 14 metres high in front of them. Each pole with about 14 cables. Why is this allowed in an area of Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – or anywhere – to be fair? It’s all about cost-cutting, but to what end? Please write to Wessex Internet if you can lend support to this issue. B Brindley Via email
READER’S PICTURE
New Blackmore Vale reader Ginny Radley took this photo on the Summer Solstice of the sun coming up at 4.58am on Melbury Down
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
blackmorevale.net
Advertiser’s announcement
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 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.
Antiques & Collectibles
ORIGINAL MOTORING & MOTOR RACING memorabilia wanted by established local dealer - Tel 07771 518629 WANTED Classic Cars & Motorbikes For private collection Call 07885 373113 or 01278 431244 Graham
WE BUY RECORDS, COLLECTIONS LARGE AND SMALL Call BILL 07967 816506 or 01747 811100 Email: bill@tunes.co.uk
ADVERTISE HERE * FOR JUST PER WEEK
£45
Call us on 01963 400186 or email adverts@blackmorevale.net
Book online: blackmorevale.net Email: adverts@blackmorevale.net Next Sale
Pictures, Books & Prints; and Antique Furniture & Objects Saturday 11th July 2026 For a full list of our specialist sales please see our website
RETIREMENT CLEARANCE SALE Large stock to clear Trade enquiries welcome For more info and appointment to view contact Jon 07796 531000 Part or entire stock for sale 07796 531000 frenchlifestyleantiques.co.uk The Antiques Barn, Unit 7 and 8, Woodrow Dairy, The Common, Hazelbury Bryan, DT10 2AH
*
*Based on our fortnightly rate for a 5x2 advert (Not including VAT)
A rare mediaeval parchment bookmark
SOLD FOR £8,800
For free verbal valuations please contact
Head Office & Salesrooms: Station Road, Semley, Shaftesbury SP7 9AN 01747 855122 www.semleyauctioneers.com Offices in Semley, Wiltshire; Wimborne, Dorset; and South Kensington, London
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
Antiques & Collectibles
blackmorevale.net
Advertiser’s announcement
Auction dates and Chinese porcelain valuation days carries high hopes ACREMAN St Auctioneers & Valuers, Sherborne, is holding a two-day auction this month with the Antiques & Collectors sale on Thursday, July 30, at 10am, and Jewellery, Silver & Watches on Friday, July 31, at 10am. Viewing is on Wednesday, July 29, 10am-4pm. The catalogue and bidding are available online through easyliveauction.com and thesaleroom.com. Acreman holds regular valuation days where prospective sellers can take in items for its specialists to evaluate. Valuation days are held 10am-3pm: Jewellery & Watches, Tuesday; Silver & Obje’t D’art, Tuesday; Toys & Collectables, Wednesday; Oriental & Asian, Thursday; Coins, Stamps, Books &
This Liberty’s Arts & Crafts dressing table sold for £450 hammer at Acreman
Ephemera, Friday; Militaria, Friday; Textiles & Fashion, Monday; Paintings & Contemporary Art, Monday. 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
ACREMAN ST. AUCTIONEERS & VALUERS SHERBORNE
GENERAL ANTIQUES & COLLECTABLES Thursday 30th July 10am
JEWELLERY, SILVER & WATCHES Friday 31st July 10am
Viewing
Wednesday 29th July 10am-4pm
Liberty’s Arts & Crafts dressing table. Hammer £450
CLARKE’S Auctions in Gillingham has about 800 lots of antique and collectable items in its midsummer sale this weekend. The garden section includes an impressive consignment of heavy cast iron Campana garden urns, a large sturdy bespoke oak table and benches, garden statues, teak garden tables and teak benches, a pair of lead lobed planters with lion mask decoration, obelisks and a large two-part folding teak table with matching set of chairs and cushion stand. The furniture section features a fine Dutch marquetry and inlaid bombe commode, a Scandinavian naïve painted dresser, a pair of French Empire-style striped upholstered salon chairs, a small Dutch marquetry and inlaid window
seat and a country house-style sofa. A finely decorated 18th century Chinese enamel and gold foil dish and bowl, possibly from the Imperial Palace Workshop, is also for sale. A similar Qing Dynasty box with the same decoration is illustrated in the Complete Collection of Treasures of the Palace Museum. This is expected to generate online interest and is estimated at £1,500-£2,000. Another piece of Chinese porcelain, a 19th century Chinese famille rose bough pot is estimated at £300-£500. For enquiries about consignment into upcoming sales phone Richard Clarke or Karen Marshall on 01747 685592 at the salerooms at The Old Glove Factory, Buckingham Road, Gillingham SP8 4QF.
Clarke’s Auctions
Auctioneers & Valuers
Antiques && Collectibles Sale Antiques Collectables Friday 9th & Saturday Friday 10th & Saturday10th 11thAugust July A 19th century English school naïve oil on canvas painting of a cow. Sold for £1,300
Catalogue available to view through thesaleroom.com & Easyliveauction.com We are now accepting consignments for our upcoming sales
An original Fry & Sons 'Fry'savailable Pure Concentrated Colour catalogue at the-saleroom.com and easyliveauction.com Cocoa' enamel sign. Sold for £1,600.
For all enquiries please contact Gill Norman on 07908 333577 or 01935 508764 auction@acremanstreetantiques.co.uk
Units 1 & 2Factory, KingsettleBuckingham Business Park,Road The Old Glove Gillingham, SP8 4QF
Clarke’s Auctions offerFactory, free home visits and verbal valuations. The Old Glove Buckingham Road Now accepting items for this and 4QF future sales Gillingham, SP8
01747 685592
enquiries@clarkesauctions.co.uk 01747 685592 01747 855109 enquiries@clarkesauctions.co.uk www.clarkesauctions.co.uk enquiries@clarkesauctions.co.uk
New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
blackmorevale.net
Signs and automobilia collected over 30 years
Advertiser’s announcement
A SINGLE-OWNER auction of enamel signs and automobilia in Somerset was nearly a total sell out with only a couple of lots unsold. “The enamel signs and automobilia had been collected over the past 30 years,” said Richard Bromell, from the auction house. “The collection was displayed in a couple of barns with the walls and ceiling being almost completely covered.” Top lot was a rare pictorial Ransomes, Sims & Jefferies enamel sign, which sold for £1,900. Elsewhere in the auction of
400 lots, an AA yellow and black enamel sign which hung outside Nether Stowey garage for years, sold for £1,100; a Shell plastic forecourt sign sold for £950 to a buyer in Denmark; and a vintage petrol pump made £820. Overall, this single-owner collection totalled nearly £55,000 – just over double what the owner hoped for. Richard Bromell and the team at Charterhouse, The Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne, are available to value classic and vintage items – phone 01935 812277 or email rb@ charterhouse-auction.com
Collect-
ed Inte-
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Antiques & Collectibles
The AA enamel sign which hung outside the garage in Nether Stowey for years sold for £1,100 in the single owner auction
22nd July
16th September
20th August
Specialist Valuation Days in Sherborne
AUCTION | 12 AUGUST | 2026
Model Trains, Cars, Dolls & Toys 6th Chinese, Japanese & Asian Art 7th Jewellery, Watches, Gold & Silver 8th Coins, Medals, Militaria & Stamps 9th Enamel Signs & Automobilia 10th
A SINGLE OWNER BRIDPORT COLLECTION
Classic Car Auction 19th November Classic Bike Auction 26th November
PRIORY WORKS
www.dukes-auctions.com
Entries now being accepted
The Long Street Salerooms Sherborne DT9 3BS 01935 812277 • www.charterhouse-auction.com
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
Arts & Entertainment
blackmorevale.net
Top-tier folk at the village hall ACCLAIMED folk musician Rachael McShane and her band The Cartographers – pictured – are coming to Dorset for three live performances celebrating the very best of contemporary and traditional folk music. Rachael, a renowned singer, cellist, fiddle and viola player from the north east of England, rose to prominence as a founding member of the award‑winning folk big band Bellowhead. Alongside her work with that
ht ale V e GUITAR TEACHER 1st Lesson Free Friendly, patient, humorous tutor with plenty of guitars in garden studio in a pretty village.
Please mail andypalmer.guitar@gmail.com or call 01258 817063
internationally acclaimed ensemble, she has built a successful solo career, releasing her debut album No Man’s Fool in 2009 and later signing to Topic Records, the world’s oldest independent record label. Rachael is also the leader of The Cartographers, a band that brings together the talents of guitarist Ian Stephenson – Kan, Baltic Crossing – and melodeon player Julian Sutton – who has performed with artists including Kathryn Tickell and Sting. Together, they create a rich and vibrant sound, combining expressive vocals with intricate instrumental arrangements. Blending traditional folk roots with contemporary influences, their music is both powerful and playful, bringing new life to familiar material while introducing original compositions full of energy and
Rachael McShane with Ian Stephenson and Julian Sutton
warmth. Known for their engaging stage presence and musical chemistry, The Cartographers have built a loyal following through live performances and critically acclaimed recordings. Rachael McShane and The
Cartographers are at the village halls at Studland on Saturday, July 18, Marnhull on Sunday, July 19, and Buckland Newton on Sunday, August 23. Tickets and full details about the concerts are available online at www.artsreach.co.uk
DORSET Art Society is holding its summer exhibition in Wimborne. The artists’ showcase is in Church House from Saturday, July 25, to Saturday, August 1, open daily from 10am-5pm. PLEA S KE E CHEC EP KIN OU G W E B SR ITE
HIT ME HARD & SOFT (12A) BILLIE EILISH RECORDED CONCERT SCREENING
THE DRIFTERS
Fri 3rd July 7.30pm Tickets £16.50 £15 Concs
THE BOURNEMOUTH YOUTH THEATRE PRESENT: WE WILL ROCK YOU Sat 4th July 7.30pm Tickets £18.50
THE TULSA TIME BAND PRESENT THE DOM WILLIAMS EXPERIENCE
ALL OR NOTHING EXPERIENCE THE MUSIC OF SMALL FACES
TOTALLY BLONDIE
Thurs 9th July 7.30pm Tickets £23.50
Fri 10th July 7.30pm Tickets £27
Sun 5th July 7.30pm Tickets £35
Sat 11th July 7.30pm Tickets £24
PLEA S KE E CHEC EP KIN OUR G WEBS I T E 7.30pm Mon 6th & Tues 7th July
TUNER (15)
PLEA S KE E CHEC EP KIN OU G W E B SR ITE
ABSOLUTE BENSON | A TRIBUTE TO GEORGE BENSON PERFORMED BY SIMON FAULKNER AND URBAN INTRO
Matinee Weds 8th July 1.30pm Adult £9 evening £8 matinee Child under 16 £7
Weds 8th July 7.30pm Tickets £23
THE SHEEP DETECTIVES (PG)
HITS OF MOTOWN
13th, 14th & 15th July 7.30pm Matinee 14th July 2.30pm Adult £9 evening £8 matinee Child under 16 £7
STARRING ROY G HEMMINGS (FORMERLY OF THE DRIFTERS)
Thurs 16th July 7.30pm Tickets £27.50
New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
blackmorevale.net
Woman of the present, women of the past EXTRAORDINARY stories of Dorset’s remarkable women are being told in one of the most exciting new theatre productions coming to the county this summer. Months of research, writing, workshops and casting have gone into Unearthed, by the theatre collective Women of Dorset. Now the cast of 45 women aged between eight and 82 are preparing to bring it to the stage. Written by Stephanie Dale, who also wrote the 2023 community plays performed in Dorchester and Poole, it is the story of Sam, a contemporary young woman who finds herself caught up in an extraordinary party. Plied with cake and tea by women from Dorset’s past, she comes to realise that her life is perhaps not as drab and unfulfilling as she previously thought. Stephanie said: “From the outset, Women of Dorset was created to celebrate women who have lived, survived and thrived from across our county. To be moving into the production phase of this project is thrilling. “The cast and community
chorus are a wonderful gathering of women from across the county, and the costumes and music look and sound magnificent – it’s going to be magical.” Unearthed is directed by Penny Levick, who was also heavily involved in Dorset’s most recent community plays. She said: “There aren’t words to express how thrilled I am to have started the rehearsal phase. The cast are brilliant, and it is inspiring to see the play take shape and come to life off the page.” Activist and photographer Jayne Jackson is creating the play’s look and atmosphere, and the costumes are being made by students at Arts University Bournemouth. The pivotal role of Sam is taken by Tilda Samson, who recently took her A-levels at Thomas Hardye School in Dorchester. She said: “It’s a big – and slightly scary – project but I’m looking forward to it. I see a lot of myself in Sam, especially her worries about our modern world and her overall sense of
IN July 2024 Richard Nye, a composer living and working in Sturminster Newton, found himself being interviewed live on air by the New Yorkbased Composer’s Voice. This was followed by a performance of the first movement of his work The Fragmentalist, sung by Dr Andrew White – pictured – Professor of Voice at the
University of Nebraska at Kearney. Two years on almost to the day, Dr White, on tour in the UK, will give The Fragmentalist its first complete, three movement performance at St Michael’s Church, Mere, on Sunday, July 12, at 5pm. The Friends of St Michael’s recital is free to enter with a
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Arts & Entertainment
More than 40 women from all over Dorset are taking part in Unearthed
humour and attitude. While, unlike the others, Sam’s not yet lived her big moment, she is vital in bringing all the women – and the story – together.” Staging a production of this size would usually cost about £70,000, but, as with all industries, the world of arts is experiencing a financial squeeze. Women of Dorset has launched a crowdfunder to enable the cast and crew to put on the best possible show. Stephanie said: “Unearthed is a fierce and celebratory new community play about ordinary and extraordinary historical women from across our county. “We want to illuminate the stages and streets of Dorchester and Poole with the faces of women past and present and celebrate their achievements – and we are hoping people will
help us achieve this. “Donations will ensure that the community benefits from the highest production values and works with a professional creative team, highlight the importance and need of working together as a community and celebrate and reclaim forgotten stories of women’s achievements from across the county.” The crowdfunder can be accessed at https://gofund. me/137cb67ad Tickets are on sale for Unearthed, which can be seen at Dorchester Arts on Friday and Saturday, July 24-25 at 7.30pm with a 2.30pm Saturday matinee, and at Lighthouse Poole on Friday, July 31, and Saturday, August 1, at 7.30pm. For Dorchester Arts tickets visit dorchesterarts.org.uk or phone 01305 266926, and for Lighthouse tickets visit lighthousepoole.co.uk/event/ unearthed/ or phone 01202 280000.
retiring collection. Alongside the première of Richard’s piece, Andrew will also showcase new works created for the Fifteen Minutes of Fame series, music written specifically for his voice by composers from all over the world.
Big Band, Moonlight Swing Band and Dr Jazz. Classic cars, refreshments, stalls and a grand raffle will also be on offer. All proceeds will go to the Fortuneswell Cancer Trust supporting cancer patients in Dorset. Everyone is welcome at the event, which gets under way at noon. For more information, email thefortuneswell cancertrust@gmail.com
Friends present Professor of Voice
SWINGTIME in the Borough Gardens, Dorchester, on Sunday – July 5 – will include entertainment by Bridport
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
Arts & Entertainment
Opera for the newcomer and the expert, too BATH Opera will perform Donizetti’s comic opera The Elixir of Love at the Memorial Hall, Wincanton, next weekend. The opera tells the story of the shy Nemorino, who believes a mysterious love potion will help him win the heart of the witty and independent Adina. The travelling salesman Dulcamara, however, may not be quite the miracle worker he claims to be. This joyful production is sung in English and accompanied by piano and runs for about 90 minutes with an interval. The Elixir of Love is a relaxed and accessible introduction to opera for those
Art around every corner
STURMINSTER Newton Art Weeks will turn the town into a giant open-air gallery when it returns for a sixth outing from tomorrow (Saturday, July 4). The Art Trail will see more than 30 artists exhibiting their work across 40 venues in the town. Everything from colourful canvases and intricate drawings to striking photography and mixed media creations will be on show. One of the event’s highlights will be the ever-popular Art Race in the Railway Garden on Sunday, July 5, at 3pm, in which artists have just 20 minutes to create a masterpiece
new to the art form, as well as an enjoyable evening for seasoned opera lovers. The Wincanton dates form part of Bath Opera’s wider summer tour, which takes in venues across Bath, Somerset and Wiltshire. Wincanton has become a popular stop on the tour for the last five years, where audiences have given Bath Opera’s productions a warm welcome. Bath Opera prides itself on offering high quality performances at affordable prices, while also supporting emerging young singers. It performs The Elixir of Love in Wincanton on Friday and Saturday, July 10-11, at 7.30pm. from scratch. Artists will compete in three rounds, while spectators cheer them on, vote for their favourites and bid to take home the finished artwork. Organisers will also once again showcase artwork from students at William Barnes School. Printed Art Trail brochures are available from businesses around the town, making it easy for visitors to follow the route. The Art Trail is made possible thanks to the support of SturAction – Sturminster Newton Community Benefit Society Ltd – the charitable organisation that raises funds for the benefit of the town. Through donations and the success of its popular shops – The Emporium, The Boutique – Preloved, The Marketplace and 1855 Sturminster Newton – SturAction helps support a wide range of community projects. Sturminster Newton Art Weeks runs until Sunday, July 19.
Events
blackmorevale.net
DORSET CHAMBER CHOIR, SUMMERTIME. Choral Music by English composer from the 16th to 20th centuries. Sat 25th July 7pm. St Mary’s Church, Church Street, Sturminster Marshall, BH21 4BU. Tickets £12 (under 18’s free) from choir members, our website, or at the door. 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 BUCKHORN WESTON FETE, and FUN DOG SHOW, Saturday 11th July at 2.30pm, WINCANTON SILVER BAND, PlantsCakes-Toys, Bottle StallBooks, White Elephant, Coconut Shy-Teas, Face Painting-Sports A HYMNS & PIMM’S EVENING With our organ played by
SIMON BENDING Milton-on-Stour Church Friday 10th July
SYDLING ST NICHOLAS CHURCH FETE. SATURDAY 11th JULY 2-5pm. Punch & Judy, Fun Dog Show, BBQ, Bar. Fun for all the family! £2 entry, under 16s free HILLSIDE PARISHES FETE, FLOWER & DOG SHOW, Village Hall, Ibberton, DT11 0EL, Sat 1st August, 1.30 pm Bar/ BBQ, 2 pm Stalls & Dog Show WINCANTON COMMUNITY HOSPITAL SUMMER FETE. Saturday 11th July, 2-4pm. Stalls & Attractions. FREE Entry for all! FRIDAY 7TH AUGUST, 6.30pm Organ Recital at Folke Church. Organist, Max Bailey, Music Director, Holy Trinity, Sloane Square. £12 with wine. 01963-23436 SHAFTESBURY EMPORIUM Friday 10th & Saturday 11th July 9 - 4.30pm Town Hall Shaftesbury Lots of locally crafted & consumable items for sale. Free Entry Please bring cash! Supporting DSAA & Weldmar Hospice Next events: 2nd, 14th & 15th August! LYN’s BINGO on July 6th Marnhull Royal British Legion. Sodom Lane (DT10 1HR). Eyes down 7pm.
ROLLS ROYCE FOR HIRE
7pm for 7.30pm start Free entry but please donate if you can to help run our church.
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Shaftesbury & The Fringe 17-19 July, 2026
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Shaftesbury & The Fringe 17-19 July, 2026
Shaftesbury & The Fringe
Barnes inspires arts festival
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COMMON Arts at the Fringe will present a contemporary arts festival inspired by Dorset dialect poet William Barnes, starting next week in Shaftesbury. Sculpture, drawing, audio and video works by Zara McQueen, Rebecca Newnham, Fran Quinlan and Lizzie Sykes, curated by Aliceson Green, will be shown around the town. The work is said to reflect landscape, community and the ‘persistence of the past within the present’.
10 and out for Jacob
COMEDY classics are in store when Jacob Hulland performs his favourite songs and sketches from the 1930s to the 1970s at Shaftesbury Fringe. This will be Jacob’s tenth
Open 7 days a week.
01747 853896
s.p.thornton@btinternet.com 2, The Commons, Shaftesbury SP7 8JX
The opening event at Gold Hill Museum will include a William Barnes poetry reading and music by Tattie Bogle. As well as the installations, there will be various walks, a birdsong walk, poetry readings and children’s art workshops. The arts festival runs from Saturday to Sunday, July 11-19, concluding alongside the Shaftesbury Fringe from Friday to Sunday, July 17-19. For artwork locations, and dates and times of events, visit www.aliceson.co.uk/commonarts-at-the-fringe appearance at the fringe and his last as he is moving to Surrey next year. The show will include Dave Allen’s whisky witticisms, Laurel and Hardy’s lonesome larks, Ken Dodd’s diddy ditties and Ronnie Corbett’s armchair chat! Jacob is at The Kitchen Table in Bell Street on Saturday, July 18, at 7.30pm, and Pamplemousse in Bell Street on Sunday, July 19, at 2pm. Entry is free of charge.
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Shaftesbury & The Fringe 17-19 July, 2026
Shaftesbury & The Fringe
Roll up, roll up for all the fun of the Fringe! by Rose Ouston Vice-chair, Shaftesbury Fringe SHAFTESBURY Fringe is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year! Can you believe it? Back in 2016, we were just a small group of local people setting up this festival to showcase the incredible talent in our local community, right here in Shaftesbury. Over the past 10 years, Shaftesbury Fringe has blossomed into something truly special. We’ve grown in size and scope, but we’ve never forgotten our roots. We’re still a completely open-access festival, where anyone can come and perform. Our seven amazing volunteers on the committee
don’t vet any acts – it’s up to the venues to decide who they want to host, and the acts to reach out to them. We just make sure everything runs smoothly, like arranging the toilets and getting insurance. Last year, we set a record we thought we’d never break again. But this year, we’ve even exceeded that! We’ve got almost 350 performances from 189 acts, with 86 new ones joining us. That’s a lot of amazing talent to discover! We’ve got 41 venues, from a hotel’s assembly rooms to a local funeral parlour, and we’ve managed to squeeze in every pub, coffee shop and hall on the way, even including some outdoor venues in the town.
Shaftesbury Fringe Festival began in 2016 and over the last 10 years has blossomed into something truly special
The programme is now a whopping 80 pages long, and there’s a well-used app and website that give you a full picture of everything we’ve got to offer. We’ve grown not only in size but also in genres. We’ve got every kind of music and drama you can imagine, plus comedy and a busking stage. We’ve even added street performances – the High Street is closed on the Saturday and Sunday to give the crowds a chance to enjoy them – a thriving children’s offer, including our beloved Snail Trial, an Art Village and an Art Trail around the town.
Shaftesbury has always been a great place to eat and drink, and during the Fringe, we’ve made sure to supplement the local places to cater to all the visitors. Park Walk and the Trinity grounds have pop-up food and drink stalls, so you can enjoy a delicious meal or a refreshing drink while you explore the town. So, mark your calendars for Shaftesbury Fringe from Friday to Sunday, July 17-19. We started small, but we’re thrilled to share how we’ve grown and we can’t wait to see you there! Come and experience the magic of Shaftesbury Fringe for yourself!
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Shaftesbury & The Fringe 17-19 July, 2026
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Shaftesbury & The Fringe 17-19 July, 2026
Shaftesbury & The Fringe
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Shaftesbury & The Fringe 17-19 July, 2026
Show offers taste of things to come MUSIC, drama, comedy, storytelling and spoken word are promised at the Shaftesbury Fringe preview show at the town’s arts centre. The show serves as a taster for the festival bringing together a variety of acts from across the event in a fast-paced, joyfully unpredictable showcase. A spokesperson for the Shaftesbury Fringe said: “Whether you’re a seasoned fringe-goer or just curious to dip your toe in, this is your chance to sample what the festival has to offer. “Discover new talent, catch a glimpse of shows that might become your favourites, and experience the energy and creativity that makes the fringe so special. “One night. Multiple acts. Endless possibilities.
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Shaftesbury & The Fringe 17-19 July, 2026
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Shaftesbury & The Fringe 17-19 July, 2026
Get a shift on to find the snails DOZENS of snails will be hidden in Shaftesbury in the run up to the Shaftesbury Fringe – and the person who spots the most will win a prize. To enter, collect a form at Shaftesbury Library in Bell Street, The Potting Shed in Swans Yard, The Dorset Store in High Street or Folde Dorset
at Goldhill House, where the forms can also be submitted. 40 snails will be hidden on Monday, July 6, and completed entry forms giving the snails’ names and locations should be handed in by Monday, July 20. Forms are also available on the Snail Trail page at www. shaftesburyfringe.co.uk
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CAR PARKING SHAFTESBURY High Street is closed to traffic on Saturday, July 18, from 7am-10pm and on Sunday, July 19, from 7am7pm. There is free parking on Saturday, but normal time restrictions apply. Apart from the Shaftesbury car parks listed below, additional free parking is available at Barton Hill for the entire Fringe.
Angel Lane car park: 24 hours, 59 spaces, four disabled, one motorcycle. Charges 8am-6pm, maximum stay 10 hours. Barton Hill recreation ground: 7.30am-10.30pm, 400 spaces. The entrance is on the A350 Christy’s Lane between Lidl and the Ivy Cross roundabout. Barton Hill car park: 24 hours. 74 spaces, five disabled. Free, maximum stay 72 hours. Bell Street car park: 24 hours, 152 spaces, 10 disabled. Charges 8am-6pm, maximum stay four hours. Coppice Street: 24hours, 26 spaces, two disabled. Charges 8am-6pm, maximum stay 24 hours. New Road car park: 24 hours, 65 spaces, maximum stay 24 hours.
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
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blackmorevale.net
CLASSIFIED ADS TETRAD BROWN LEATHER ARMCHAIR. Crocodile leather to back and front, brass castors to front. £900 ono. Tel: 01258-821174 DINING TABLE, 150cm, extends to 220cm. (Oakland Furniture) Excellent condition, £190. Tel: 01258-722454 Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.
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GARDEN HOE made by Kent & Stowe almost new £10 Gillingham 07963-319751
BODYFIT FOLDING magnetic exercise bike. Little use £20 01963-31810
PONDI POND VACUMN cleaner, multi-use, instruction manual, very little use. £50. GWO Tel: 01747-631081 PANASONIC VIERA, (model number TX-32LXD700) LCD TV, Dolby HD, 32” with remote, plus instructions. £45 ono. Tel: 07483-875814 2&3 SEATER GREY/BLACK settees £50 Tel 07840-725705 POSTMAN’S BIKE, £35,Gillingham 01747-824240 SOLID WOOD COFFEE TABLE good condition 24”x33” £40 Tel:07835-126852 HEDGE TRIMMER, Stiga HT100e ,Inc battery &charger.9 months .£20. 07951-132253 DOUBLE GLAZED WINDOW 1004mm X 630mm frosted glass, 2 opening lockable windows good condition. £25. 07842-213958. MENS HAIR GROOMING KIT. Wahl in zipped carry pack. Never used, new condition. instruction leaflet. New price approx £80. For sale at £35. 01747 854294
LARGE DOG CRATE. Collapsible. 104 x 65cm. Height 70cm. £15. Sherborne. Call 07506 422573 BUCKET STYLE ARMCHAIR beige/whie upholtrey good condition £20 07763-439869 18” WHITE TEDDY BEAR, still in package, never used. £20. Tel: 01749-830241 LEFTOVER INKJET CARTRIDGES 9 x Epsom16 fit WF2010 -2760 printers. £15 All in date. Tel: 01258 472720. PANASONIC COLOUR TV TX-322LZD81 very good working order. collect in Blandford. Tel: 01258-450271 PANASONIC VIERA. Smart, FHD. TV, Model TX-40AS640B LCD 43” with remote, mains lead and operating instructions, £50 Tel: 01258 820344 DINING ROOM Table & Six Chairs, Solid wood & in good condition, Table size 6ft x 3ft, Table legs removable. £45. Tel: 07875 193975 LARGE QUANTITY OF MAINLY MILITARY and Non Fiction Books Reasonable Offers Considered (£40 for 30 books) 07549 659598
MURANO GLASS Collection of Vintage Clowns, Cockerels, Pheasants. A1 condition. Prices start from £40 each. BA9 Area alw1998@hotmail.co.uk WINNIE THE POOH TRAVEL COT. Hardly used. Excellent condition. £20. Mattress to fit £15. 07801-479155 RECORD WOOD VICE No.52.5E 9inch wide jaws opening out to 18inches.In gwo. £40. 01963 204533 SCHWALBE MAD MIKE BMX 20’’ knobbly tyres in near new condition. £16 the pair 01747-840960 BA126PH OLD FRENCH POT BELLIED CLOCK case. 7 ft tall. Tatty, no workings. FREE. 01258 817978 WEDDING / PARTY SHOES 2 pairs size 5 jewelled and sequinned kitten heels, excellent condition leather lined. One pair black and another pink both pairs for £10. Red leather court shoes, leather sole and leather lined Bruno Magli good condition, Size 39. £8. Tel. 07845 107859
CAR DOG RAMP. Suitable for large dog. Bifold, non-slip, strong, lightweight. Unused. £20. Gillingham 07922 487573 OAK BUREAU, carved with heads and shields, interior pigeon holes, 2 drawers, 2 cupboards, lockable, 27” wide. £20. Tel: 01747-811702 IKEA DOUBLE SOFA BED metal frame mattress + fitted cover ( stone) used 5 times, excellent cond. £50 no. 01747-822874. PROVENTE COAL EFFECT calor gas fire. FREE. Please text: 07771-349263 SERIOUS READERS black floor lamp dimmable G.W O. £50 07899-691847 ITALIAN BROWN LEATHER sofa-bed, good condition, FREE. Tel: 01258-722454 SUN-LOUNGER, as new, £20. Tel: 07933-790004 BICYCLE QUALITY KNOBBLY TYRES 20 x 1.75 £16 pair Panier top mounting bag £6 new 07519-714565
Advertising made
simple
01963 400186 adverts@blackmorevale.net
WANTED MAN LOOKING FOR MATURE LADY, 40-50, serious relationship, call or text: 07980-036250 CIGARETTE CARDS WANTED. Bought for cash. Fair prices paid. Phone Kevin. 07907-888672 HiFi EQUIPMENT INCLUDING TURNTABLES, HiFi separates, If its gathering dust or been left up in the loft or you have been left with items in a house clearance then please give Andrew a call on 07799-417711 OLD BOOKS BOUGHT. Will call by appointment entirely without obligation. Bristow & Garland 07392 602014
WANTED
AIR RIFLES & AIR PISTOLS FOR PRIVATE COLLECTION ANY MAKE OR MODEL, ANY CONDITION
Tel: 07970 742471
New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
Home & Garden
blackmorevale.net
Take a seat for scents of season by Sally Gregson IN this long, but hot summer, many gardeners give themselves a break from watering duties by visiting special gardens. If you are keen on growing herbs with your vegetables, this year is an especially good one to admire herb gardens. Many of the plants we today call ‘herbs’ were brought here by the Romans for their own use in cooking, medicine, dyeing or just keeping the house smelling fresh. And these herbs are native of the Mediterranean – those that would have grown around the homes of ancient Romans. Hence, these herbs are especially happy here in this year’s hot summer. Many herbs are grown for their aroma when crushed rather than the perfume carried on the air. There are very few plants that will endure being
continually sat upon. Chief among those usually chosen is chamomile, Chamaemelum nobile. So, to plant up a ‘cushion’ of perennial chamomile it is better to choose the non-flowering C. nobile Treneague. This makes dense rosettes of low foliage without any flowers and seems to fit the bill. Also, it’s fairly easy to maintain so long as the soil stays well-drained. If, after a long, wet winter there are bare areas of the seat where the plants have died out, simply lift out replacements where the foliage is densest and engineer a new planting plan. When the plants are all in place, sprinkle them with handfuls of sharp grit to increase the drainage and help the spreading plant to put down new roots. The seat should be ready to go by late spring, although too
How to take summer herb cuttings by Sally Gregson
ON a cool, preferably damp, day, it comes as a pleasure to take a few summer cuttings of herbs for the vegetable garden. Cuttings taken in mid-summer should have made enough root to be able to pot up before the autumn takes hold. Herbs such as thyme, rosemary, lavender and sage should all root easily and quickly at this time of year. On a cooler day, take a sharp pair of secateurs to cut off non-flowering side shoots, about 10-15 cm long. Remove the lower leaves where they might touch the compost and take out the tip of the cutting. It should
be about 10cm long. Taking out the tip helps to prevent the cutting from drooping and encourages the side shoots to develop. The tip of any plant produces a hormone that suppresses the growth of side-shoots. So, for a wellshaped finished plant, it’s better to allow those side-shoots to develop. Dip the cuttings in hormone rooting powder, or if that is unavailable, try gently rubbing the cut ends with a piece of onion. Onion juice has a natural anti-fungal compound which will help prevent rotting and damping-off.
51
A bed of Chamaemelum nobile in the herb garden at Sissinghurst
much enthusiastic sitting may stress the plants a little too much. An alternative would be to use varieties of creeping thyme, Thymus serpyllum. This plant is perhaps even less happy to be sat upon, but with restraint the Using a thin stick as a dibber, insert the finished cuttings into an 11cm pot of cuttings compost comprising half grit, half commercial compost. Put the pot somewhere shaded, water it well to settle in the cuttings and label it with the name, date and number of cuttings inserted. Stand it in a clear plastic bag and blow into it to hold the plastic away from the cuttings while you tie up the top. The touch of damp plastic might cause them to rot. The cuttings should have rooted in a couple of weeks or so. A stage at a time, open the plastic bag daily. Once they have made plenty of root, pot the individual successful cuttings into 9cm pots filled with commercial potting compost mixed with a little grit. If the roots have filled the pots by September, they can be planted out or left out of winter rain until spring.
seat would look lovely with the different flowers making a tapestry cushion. Perhaps a warning about bees and their attraction to thyme flowers might put some people off languishing for too long. But the perfume would be glorious.
Watering in cuttings
GOT A STORY? Then email newsdesk@blackmorevale.net
52
New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
Home & Garden
blackmorevale.net
SKIP HIRE
GARDEN SERVICES
Clive Smith Waste Transfer Note.qxp_Layout 1 01/10/2020 09:33 Page 1
Dorset Gardens of Steve Manuel
Clive Smith Ltd. SKIP HIRE
SKIP HIRE Waste Transfer Note
Smiths Triangle, Fifehead, St Quinton, Sturminster Newton, DT10 2AW (Also disposal site) www.clivesmithskips.co.uk Email: clivesmithskips@hotmail.co.uk
Tel: 01258 860 166 Mobile: 07974 822243 Waste Carriers Number: CBDU112820 Permit Number: EPR/JB3101KP VAT Reg Number: 634 6316 44
Ticket No:
CUSTOMERS ORDERING VEHICLES OFF THE PUBLIC HIGHWAY DO SO ENTIRELY ON THEIR OWN RESPONSIBILITY
IT IS DANGEROUS TO TRANSPORT AN OVERLOADED SKIP, THIS INCLUDES BOARDS TO INCREASE THE SIZE OF THE LOAD. THE DRIVER MAY REFUSE TO REMOVE AN OVERLOADED SKIP AND/OR AN EXTRA CHARGE WILL APPLY TO COVER COSTS.
• No Asbestos • Do not move skip • No Plasterboard/Gypsum • No Fires in Skip • No Sludge • NO Fridges/ Freezers • Tyres • Gas Bottles • Toxic Solvents • Paints and Liquids
PLEASE NOTE
PLEASE NOTE
ALL AREAS COVERED ONLY • AVAILABLE • LEVEL LOADS ALL SIZE OF SKIP PLEASE RING
Date ________________
CLIVE SMITH (See Condition 17 overleaf).
Vehicle Registration
Driver
Customer
Address
07814064266
www.dorsetgardenservicesstevemanuel.co.uk sjmanuel@btinternet.com 1 Green Lane, Crossways, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 8BP
ANYTIME
01258 860 166 or 07974 822 243 S.I.C Code: 38110
Skip Size
Description
DATE
2 Yrd
Mixed Con, Brick
170107
4 Yrd
Concrete
170101
DELIVERY
6 Yrd
Soil & Stone
170504
8 Yrd
G Mixed Waste
170904
EXCHANGE COLLECTION
By signing this form I confirm I have fulfilled my duty to apply the Waste Hierarchy as required by Regulation 12 of the Waste (England and Wales) Regulations 2011. PRINT NAME __________________________________ WHITE - OFFICE
Do you want your garden to look gorgeous and vibrant? Contact Dorset Garden Services for expert garden maintenance services at competitive prices.
SIGNATURE ________________________________
LES BENHAM
YELLOW - CUSTOMER
TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS (SEE REVERSE)
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
KITCHENS
K KI TI TCCHHE ENNS S KITCHENS
Trade kitchens made you ourlocal local workshop Trade Trade kitchens kitchens made made for for for youyou in our ininour local workshop workshop Trade kitchens made for you in our local workshop Coombe Hill Workshop, Blandford Road, Coombe Bissett, Coombe Workshop, Blandford Road, Coombe Bissett, 4LN4LN Coombe Coombe HillHill Workshop, Hill Workshop, Blandford Blandford Road,Road, Coombe Bissett, Bissett, SP5 4LN SP5SP5 4LNSP5 Coombe Hill Workshop, Blandford Road, Coombe Bissett, SP5 4LNCoombe 07747 536631 hamish@raylym.co.uk www.raylym.co.uk 07747 536631 hamish@raylym.co.uk www.raylym.co.uk www.raylym.co.uk 07747 07747 536631 536631 hamish@raylym.co.uk hamish@raylym.co.uk www.raylym.co.uk 07747 536631 hamish@raylym.co.uk www.raylym.co.uk
Est. 1955, Sandford Orcas, Sherborne
Bespoke Stone Worktops Discover 350+ stone samples in our Showroom. Eaton Stonemasons specialise in the supply and installation of quality Quartz, Marble, Granite and Sintered Stone Worktops, suitable for your home and business.
Eaton Stonemasons 18 Westminster Road Wareham, Dorset BH20 4SP
@eaton_stonemasons_ltd Eaton Stonemasons Ltd
Family run nursery selling a large range of Herbs, Salvias and Pelargoniums Open March-October | Tuesday-Saturday | 9am-4pm
Scan the code to book in your showroom visit!
sales@eatonstonemasons.com
@glenholmeherbs 07814 461385
01929 550653
www.glenholmeherbs.co.uk
Find us on Google Maps
53
New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
Home & Garden
blackmorevale.net DRYSTONE WALLING AND LANDSCAPING www.yenstonewalling.co.uk 01963 371123 / 07751 278363
M & A J Landscaping ~ Fencing ~ Walling ~ Patios/Steps ~ Concreting/Tarmac ~ Tree work ~ Garden maintenance malcgin@hotmail.com 07399-521377
TOOLS WANTED. Cash waiting. 01747 416022
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
WINDOWS & DOORS ES
07851 498248 01747 828460 damorytreecare@yahoo.com
CO
ND GEN
2
• Fully qualified & insured tree surgeon • All aspects of tree surgery, hedge cutting & stump grinding • Competitively priced • Free no obligation quotes
N IO
SE
A
T
01258 313110
20
0
or view our gallery at www.lovedoorsandwindows.co.uk
for a FREE home appointment
W
Call for a free quote on
01747 859 209 / 07429 680 959
LOCAL FAMILY COMPANY CALL US TODAY
ISHED IN
NO
Family run Door and Window installations and repairs company with 20 years’ experience We’ll help you fall in love with your home again at an affordable price
BL
TA
ER
www.AshleyBlindsUK.com
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.
YOUR LOCAL SPECIALIST DRIVEWAY CONTRACTORS
Groundworks & Concrete
Block Paving
Natural Stone & Patio
Tarmac
Resin Bonded Surfacing
Fencing
TRY BEFORE YOU BUY!
Surgery.Reductions. Reductions. Felling. TreeTree Surgery. Felling. Hedge Trimming. Stump Grinding. Hedge Trimming. Stump Grinding. Woodchip supplies. Woodchip supplies. Family run business since 1946 Tel:business 01963 250005 Family run since 1946 Mobile: 07976250005 934 252 Tel: 01963 Mobile: 07976 934 252
Try our products in your space by using the Visualiser Tool on our website.
Simply upload an image of your property and choose any swatch you fancy to generate your design.
Station Road Gillingham Dorset SP8 4PZ
01747 822080
info@kingsmeresurfacing.co.uk www.kingsmeresurfacing.co.uk
54
New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
Home & Garden
blackmorevale.net
WANTED Dave buys all types of tools Call 01935 428975
SELF DRIVE DIGGER AND DUMPER HIRE 01258 861647
GUTTERS CLEARED
For all your fencing and decking needs
• • • • • •
Windows, Fascias, Soffits, Gutters cleaned, Repairs, Free Estimates 07788-376752
Sherborne Fencing Ltd
TREEWISE
GC GARDEN CARE
Experts in all aspects of TREE SURGERY, HEDGECUTTING & STUMP REMOVAL
Tree Pruning/Cutting Lawn Mowing Weed Control Hedge Cutting Driveway/Patio Cleaning Landscaping Low Maintenance Gardens Fencing Stump Grinding
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
Closeboard, panels & sheds supplied and fitted. Gates made to measure.
Tel: 01935 814272 Mobile: 07814 246332
Garden & Property Maintenance
Call For
A Free cooperg685@gmail.com
Quote
07754 821 232
HOUSE CLEARANCE Plus Sheds, Attics, Garages & Gardens Quality Items Offset Registered Waste Carrier
Tel: 01258 440838 or 07853 275379 enquiries@back2market.com www.
.com
PADDOCKS AND LARGE AREAS OF GRASS MULCHING, short to very tall grass, call David on: 07786-658708 MAN WITH MICRO-DIGGER & 1.5TON DIGGER, stump grinder, Garden clearance, patios, fencing, decking, landscaping, driveways 30+ years’ experience Contact Ken 07882 441873 / 01963 32034
A FRIENDLY FAMILY RUN BUSINESS FOR ALL YOUR GARDENING NEEDS
Stockists of new Alko, Mountfield, Stiga, Weibang and Echo. Servicing, repairs, and parts for all major brands. Come and see our range of garden machinery including lawn mowers, chainsaws, hedge cutters, battery products and more.
JACKS AFFORDABLE TREE CARE 07936-498493 2 GENUINE STADDLE STONES, £250 each. Tel: 01258-820848 WALK BEHIND FLAIL MOWER and operator hire. Neglected area clearance. 07432-773151 EX-DISPLAY SHEDS, Stables/field shelters, summerhouses, offices, workshops, agricultural 01935 891195 BRICK LAYER, Looking for small jobs. Garden Walls, Fencing, Patios & Pointing. 10 mile radius of Shaftesbury. Tel: 07530-908310
GARDENING SERVICES LAWN MOWING, strimming, hedge cutting etc. Contact Billy 07849-571742 WELL ROTTED HORSE MANURE £60.00 a transit load. Contact Roger on
www.gillinghamgardenmachinery.co.uk
07885 826396 or
01747 859564 Unit 1, Brickyard Lane, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4JL
01202 826502
PRECISION TURFING, Tel: 07496-863806. email precision-turfing@hotmail.com
LOGS
rth Dorset Surgeons North Tree Dorset Tree Surgeons
e carry out allcarry aspects surgery, We outofalltree aspects of tree surgery, hedge cutting and cutting stump grinding. hedge and stump grinding. Ash diebackAsh specialist. dieback specialist. Fully insured andinsured NPTC qualified. Fully and NPTC qualified.
Call WillCall today ontoday on Will 747 854517 07872or 970741 01747or 854517 07872 970741
fessionalProfessional ExperiencedExperienced Reliable
HANDYMAN SERVICES Available. Call Gavin. Tel: 07495-892240
Reliable
BLACKMORE VALE LOG SPLITTING - Your local mobile service 07760 469411
GOOD 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
New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
Home & Garden
blackmorevale.net PRECISION FENCING & GATES • Installation • Repair • Maintenance Feel free to give us a call on 07355-295534 or email at Precision-fencing@hotmail.com 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 Tel: 01747 631471 www.ralphlandscaping.co.uk Mobile: 07921 637227
ASBESTOS REMOVAL Garages, Sheds, Lean to’s, Roofing and Cladding Collection and Dismantling BY Registered Hazardous Waste Carrier Call 07973 444620
(Established 1997)
Tree Surgeons TREE WORK
Felling Section felling Pruning/shaping Hedge cutting Scrub clearance Stump grinding Planting £10M public liability insurance
HARDWOOD LOGS AND WOODCHIP FOR SALE
ASH DIE BACK SPECIALISTS LANDSCAPING
Fencing Patios Sleeper walls All hard landscaping
Vale Tree Surgeons Limited www.valetreesurgeons.com Tel: 01747 228484 Mob: 07770 833734
Need some inspiration?
All types of blinds supplied and fitted for home, office, conservatory or commercial premises. We also supply patio awnings (electric and manual), shutters, curtains and poles.
FREE
No obligation quotes
Come and visit our SHOWROOM! KEEP IT LOCAL!
01747 852111 • info@bvblinds.co.uk • www.bvblinds.co.uk
01963 401424 www.wrightfires.co.uk @wright.fires 7 Market Place, Wincanton, BA9 9LL
HAMBLEDONS Premium Outdoor Services
MADE TO MEASURE BLINDS & CURTAINS CARPETS & VINYL FLOORING
WE SUPPLY & INSTALL MOTORIZED & MANUAL PATIO AWNINGS Come & visit our showroom:
Unit 2, Old Market Centre, Station Road, Gillingham, SP8 4QQ
CONTACT US ON: 01747 708406
55
FOR MORE INFORMATION
• Hedge Cutting & Maintenance • Hedge Reduction & Removal • Hedge & Tree Planting • Fencing & Gates • Decking & Pergolas • Sheds & Garden Buildings • Concrete & Garden Building Bases • Drainage & Soakaways • Gravel Driveways & Paths • Retaining Walls • Turfing • Devegetation & Site Clearance • Security Bollards • Commercial & Domestic Welcome
North Dorset Based 01258 721552 07833 475565
hambledons.net info@hambledons.net Get In Touch For a Free Quote
56
New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
Local Services
blackmorevale.net
ARCHITECTURAL, BUILDING & ELECTRICAL SW BUILDING & RENOVATIONS LTD. All aspects of building and plumbing catered for. Tel: 07970 437786 e: swbuildandrenovation@gmail.com
TRADITIONAL BUILDING & RESTORATION
BAILEY & SUN LTD. Groundwork, man and machine hire. Footings, ditchings, driveways, new build, drainage, extensions plus lots more. Call for a quote. 07546-762236. sun@baileyandsun.co.uk.
Traditional builders specialising in older and listed properties
• External & internal lime works, pointing & rendering • Full restoration service • Bespoke extensions, disabled & granny annex conversions - from planning to completion • Cob work - new & repairs • Oak timber framining
Call Dave Welsh 07492181788 or 07838654468 www.repointdorset.co.uk tradbuildrest@gmail.com
COVERING ALL ASPECTS OF BUILDING: New Builds | Extensions | Renovations Brickwork | Stonework | Carpentry Barn & Loft Conversions | Landscaping
30+ YEARS EXPERIENCE 07588804253 | 07791432215 Elevatebuild@outlook.com
G ROSE PLASTERING. For all your Plastering needs Experienced and reliable Phone Gavin 07766-243762 L R MASONRY GENERAL BUILDER, Stone work, Brick work 07971-982565 llewie30roberts@gmail.com
B.LUCAS General builder
25+ Years Experience, City & Guilds Qualified
Extensions, Renovations, Alterations, New Build, Plastering, Floor and Wall Tiling, Brickwork, Blockwork, Stonework and Patios, Fencing and Decorating.
FREE estimates 07809 362919
•General building •Extensions/Renovations •Loft conversions •Oak frame buildings •Groundwork/Landscaping •All your property needs
Mobile: 07979 527379 | Email: alanlewisaml@aol.com
New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
57
Local Services
blackmorevale.net
ARCHITECTURAL, BUILDING & ELECTRICAL ASA ARCHITECTS. All drawings for planning and construction. 07770 421624. Free consultation Based in Shaftesbury. Works throughout Dorset. www.asa-architect.co.uk. andystrange@btinternet.com
ALL IRONWORK. Handrails.Gates. Railings. Repairs. Restoration. 01258 880301
ELECTRICIAN
Limited Fully Insured, Free Survey Failed Double Glazed Units UPVC Windows and Doors Shower Screens, Balustrades T: 01747 631899 / 07708 180306 e: shaftesburyglass@gmail.com w: www.shaftesburyglass.co.uk
Providing reputable electrical services for over 30 years. Prompt service at reasonable rates. Shaftesbury Based.
8am - 8pm
Call Alan: 07442 026385 Email: alanaac1@aol.com
T F PLANT
Sand, gravel, cement and topsoil supplied
J&C Handyman Services
Plumbing Door hanging & skirting boards Painting & decorating Guttering and facia clearing Shed erecting & repairs and replacement Flat pack furniture Fencing Shelves & curtain rails Pointing etc... No job too small. Please call with your requirements.
01963 364457 07368 516658 dorsethandyman26@gmail.com www.jchandymanservices.com
Trade & DIY. Supplied loose or collected. Small or large loads also bulk bag materials & small handy bags. Muck-away service of inert materials Trusted family-run business, ring for enquiries
01747 826107
TF Plant, 8 Brickfields Industrial Estate, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 4JL
The New Blackmore Vale Magazine DEADLINES
Display ads must be booked by Wednesday the week prior to publication, with final copy submitted by the Friday. Classified ads may be accepted after this, HOWEVER these will be subject to space.
Concrete & Floor Screed Mixed On site Any Quantity Delivered Sand Gravel Stone Cement Blocks etc Supplied Loose or in Big Bags Good Quality Top Soil in Stock
Now available... Rockery Stone
Competitive Rates 01747 853687 or 01747 855630 www.hardimanconcrete.co.uk
Call 01963 400186 to advertise in Local Services
Bryan G Paulley Ltd Oil Tank Services Domestic & Commercial
REPLACEMENT TANKS INSTALLATIONS RE-SITING TEMPORARY TANKS EMERGENCY PUMP OUTS BUNDED /SINGLE SKIN METAL TANKS/FUEL STATIONS ABOVE GROUND OR BELOW MOLING SERVICE FOR BELOW GROUND UTILITIES COMMERCIAL BOILER REMOVAL
CALL NOW FOR YOUR PERSONAL QUOTATION
Tel: 01963 363870
24hr Emergency, Leaking Tanks or Oil Spills 07836 502683
58
New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
Local Services
blackmorevale.net
BATHROOMS
CHIMNEYS
Bathroom & Kitchen Fitter
Martin Simmonds Chimney Sweep Manual and Power Sweeping,
Independent and Experienced Fitter.
Stove Servicing and Maintenance,
requirements.
NVQ Qualified. APICS Registered
Manual and Power Sweeping, Stove Servicing and Maintenance, Inspections, Property Maintenance Work undertaken can also Camera Camera Inspections, include any wall or floor tiling 07368 250305/01747 590799 Property Maintenance.
Fully insured.
07368 250305 / 01747 590799 Friendly, Reliable Service
For free Quotation, please contact: Tel: 07896 338902 Email: mattleach91@gmail.com
longthorpeindustries@gmail.com
NVQ Qualified, APICS Registered longthorpeindustries@gmail.com Friendly, Reliable Service
K.SANSOM CHIMNEY SWEEP Brush & vacuum. APICS registered 01963 370038
CHIMNEYS Smokin Nicely Chimney Sweeps NACS certificates issued Chimneys and Flues Extremely clean service Fully insured (£5m) CCTV
01258 455251
Tel: smokin.nicely@hotmail.co.uk smokinnicely.co.uk
STEVE ADAMS CHIMNEY SWEEPING HETAS registered woodburner and flue installer. Birdguards and cowls 07932 655267 Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.
CLEAN • RELIABLE • FULLY INSURED O p en f i res | L og bu rn ers | Fl u e s Sweeps from £60 | NACS Registered
07795 803461
lcmchimneysweep@outlook.com Sherborne & surrounding villages
Quote
“VALE” when booking
Established in 1978
Chimney Sweep • Property Maintenance Fireplace & Stove Servicing :01258 455947
:phoenixchimneys1@gmail.com
SOLID FUEL INSTALLATIONS LTD
Accredited installers of Wood burning & Multi fuel stoves, Chimney liners, twin wall flues, fireplace conversions, replacement hearths, chimney restoration & rebuilding, dealing with water ingress, cowlings, bird guards. Fully Insured, long term established.
01749 677440 – 07921074602- solidfuel3@aol.com www.solidfuelinstallationsltd.co.uk
CLEANING
SHINY 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
Place your classified advert today CLASSIFIED
01963 400186
59
New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
Local Services
blackmorevale.net
COMPUTERS / Wi-Fi & TECH DEREK ETHERINGTON BSc(Hons). PC/Mac, Repairs, Networks, Websites, Tuition. Free local callout. 07855-287150 01963-362403 www.dcenet.co.uk
Joseph Crocker Computers Custom built gaming & office PCs Desktop & laptop repair Help with mobile devices General computer and IT advice
NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL 01963 23669 07484 690824
josephcrockercomputers.co.uk
COMPUTER MAINTENANCE & REPAIRS Purchase advice, Virus Removal, New PC Setup/Installation, Internet Connection, Upgrades, Computer/Software Tuition Call Gregg on 01963 370713 Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.
Get connected. Stay connected. WiFi • Email • FaceTime • WhatsApp Skype • Google • eBay • Amazon Facebook • Twitter • Instagram
R Laptop R Tablet R Smartphone R desktop PC
• Friendly, patient, and knowledgeable help • Keep in touch with family, friends and colleagues for free over the Internet • Sell online easily, quickly and reliably
• Buying advice, setup and installation
I’m Phil Hudson, your local tech expert and trouble-shooter. I’ll come to you and sort things out, at a time that suits you. Or you can drop off your machine at my workshop for quick, efficient care and maintenance.
Call me now on 07805 783147 DECORATION, FLOORING & CARPENTRY PAUL WEST DECORATING SERVICES and wall-paper specialist. Also handyman. 35years experience. Free quotes. 07773-459168. paul.west945@gmail.com
GARETH TANNER G.O.T. DECORATING City and Guilds qualified Interior/exterior Decorating Free Quotes no VAT Tel 07736644452 go. tanner93@gmail.com
Call 01963 400186 to advertise in Local Services
DECORATION, FLOORING & CARPENTRY LISA PAINTING & DECORATING. 20+ yrs experience. Excellent references. 01749 850827 / 07767-206785
Contact Us to advertise
01963 400186
M & M Painting & Decorating. 30 years experience. Fully insured, clean & tidy. References available. FREE no obligation quote. Tel: 07921-783296 / 01305-849380
Painting & Decorating COUNTRY CARPENTRY
Local Quality Painter & Decorator.
Bespoke Carpentry Quality Craftsmanship Door & Window Repairs
35 Years Experience
Built-to-measure alcove units, shelving, wardrobes, doors, flooring, storage solutions and more expertly crafted to suit your home.
FREE Estimates. No VAT
Dorset based.
Mob: 07825512627
Contact Nick 07887 358 570 Nick.elliott1@sky.com
Call Richard on
Tel: 01258 880670 ‘Your home in safe and capable hands’
LES BENHAM PAINTING SERVICES Property Maintenance Domestic/Commercial Inside or Out. Fully Insured/Free Quotes 01258 458849 / 07788 907343 lesbenham@yahoo.co.uk / check a trade
DRONE PHOTOGRAPHY AERIAL DRONE PHOTOGRAPHY. Prices start from £40, http://www.wessexwing.co.uk
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£45
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
Local Services ITALIAN LANGUAGE LESSONS
blackmorevale.net
LOCKSMITHS & GARAGE DOORS
PLUMBING, HEATING & DRAINAGE
MJ HPPS LTD Plumbing and Heating Contractors
Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.
Italian Courses Classes and private tuition
throughout the year Contact
CHRISTINE JEWELS
01935 425958
www.italianlanguageservices.co.uk
General Plumbing Oil/Natural Gas/LPG Installations Bathroom and Kitchen Installations New Boilers and Cylinders Underfloor Heating & Renewables Landlord Safety Certificates All workmanship guaranteed, along with manufacturers’ warranties.
24/7 Locksmiths & Garage Door Repairs
Dorset com Doors .com - Residential Lockouts - Garage door repair specialists - New garage doors & automation - Lock repair and replacements
07979 978 751 drew@dorsetdoors.com
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Plumbing, Heating, Drains
LOCKSMITHS & GARAGE DOORS 588592
Somerset, Dorset & Wiltshire
Contact us for a free quote!
Repairs, Services, Upgrades, Automation & New Door Installations. High quality doors at low prices from a family run business with excellent service! www.grp-garagedoors.co.uk
Gas Safe registered plumbers. 1-hour response. No call-out charge.
Mobile: 07917774376
Tel 07969443979 P L U M B I N G & H E AT I N G
Professional | Trusted | Reliable
Sectional Doors / Roller Doors / Up and Over Side Hinged / Personnel Doors Spares & Accessories Installation / Servicing Automation / 2 into 1 Conversions Insulated Garage Doors Call 01963 363782 or 01258 472830 www.dorsetgaragedoors.co.uk
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PIANO TUNING, repairs, sales of reconditioned pianos.Julian Phillips BA CGLI. 01258 471194
Wasps, Rodents, and all other pests humanely dealt with. All forms of bird and rodent proofing undertaken. Technician. Member of the British Pest Control Association T: 01258 721462 M: 07379 405080
Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.
• Oil and Gas Heating Installations • Boiler Replacement and Servicing • Landlord’s Gas Safety • Bespoke Plumbing and Bathroom Design okefordheating@yahoo.co.uk
Mobile: 07971 865496
ABBEY DRAINAGE UNBLOCKING DRAINS
• Sinks • Toilets • Sewers •Downpipe • Installation of new drains • Manholes and gully’s • Repairs to existing drains • CCTV Surveys • HP Jetting • No dig Relining NO CALL OUT CHARGE
Call David: 01747 640188 07587238563
New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
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Local Services
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PLUMBING, HEATING & DRAINAGE
D&T Plumbing and Heating
Boiler Servicing, Repairs & Installs Gillingham, Shaftesbury, Mere & surrounding areas
GASTECHPLUMBING.COM
Reliable, professional service for all your plumbing & heating needs.
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07783 994377
Septic Tanks, Treatment Plants & Soakaways Problems with your sewage system? Need to replace your septic tank?
Speak to your local experts 01747 823731 or 07970 484890
Call 01963 400186 to advertise in Local Services Established 1980
FOR ALL YOUR DRAINAGE NEEDS
www.dorsettreatmentplants.co.uk
• Blocked Drains • Drain Repair/Relining • CCTV Surveys for Drains • Drainage Investigation • Septic Tank Installation/Repair • Sewage Treatment Plant Installations/ Services
ROOFING
24 HOUR DRAIN CLEARANCE Office: 01747 859203 Mobile: 07453 319391 Email: Info@wefix-drains.co.uk
Tom the Roofer
REMOVALS
All Roofing Services & Repairs All Aspects Of Roofing Undertaken
+
Based in Wincanton Contact Chris
01747 854887 07525 755696
valesideroofing@hotmail.com Find us on
Removals throughout Dorset and beyond
• Felt Roofing Specialist • Tiling, Slating and UPVC • Velux Windows • No Job Too Small • Insurance Work • Leadwork Friendly Service Free Estimates Mobile 07973 248319 scott@scottmilesroofing.co.uk
Call us now – 0808 175 1966 ◆ Complete packing services ◆ Overnight and long term storage and delivery ◆ UK wide removals ◆ Fine art, wine cellars, specialist items ◆ In person or remote video surveys ◆ European removals
Excellent
sales@armishaws.com | www.armishaws.com Wincanton Business Park, Wincanton, Somerset, BA9 9RU
CHRIS LANGLEY FLAT ROOFING BLANDFORD Specialist in Hi-performance felt & GRP. All of our work is GUARANTEED. All types of roofing professionally carried out. PERSONAL SUPERVISION OF ALL ORDERS.
FREE D AN QUOTESATES ESTIM
01258-450879 | 07855-402799 Clangley12@aol.com
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
Local Services
blackmorevale.net
STORAGE CARAVAN & MOTORHOME SECURE INDOOR STORAGE facility near Wimborne. Please phone Tora Snell for more details 07887 687344
WASTE & HOUSE CLEARANCE
SHIPPING CONTAINER (20ft) storage facility near Wimborne. Please phone Tora Snell for more details 07887 687344
SKIP HIRE ALTERNATIVE We do all the Work! Please call Paul on 01258 440838 or 07853 275379
Book online: blackmorevale.net
TARMAC / SURFACING
Rob’s Clearance • • House, shed, and site clearance Rubbish removed
• Recycling carried out • Good/interesting items bought for cash • Friendly and reliable
01747 839751 or 07956 414896
HOUSE CLEARANCE
-MACHINE OR HAND LAY -OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE -LOCAL AUTHORITY APPROVED -PRIVATE & COMMERCIAL WORKS UNDERTAKEN -ALL ASPECTS OF SURFACING, ROADS, DRIVES, FOOTPATHS & DROP KERBS
Plus Sheds, Attics, Garages & Gardens Quality Items Offset Registered Waste Carrier
Tel: 01258 440838 or 07853 275379 enquiries@back2market.com
CONTACT US FOR A FREE QUOTE ON 01747 820234 OR EMAIL INFO@CGSURFACING.CO.UK
www.
WINDOWS & DOORS
C&G SURFACING LTD, THE DEPOT, LONGCROSS, ZEALS
TILING
THE HANDYMAN
Inside/Outside work Electrics Plumbing Painting/Decorating Tiling
Email:
Charles.white40@aol.co.uk
.com
G&M TILI N G WALL & FLOOR T I L E R 35 years experience Member of the Guild of Master Craftsmen Fully insured FREE estimates | No VAT
Call Graham on
07973 430681
Call: 07788 724616 or 01935 712046
TREE SURGEON LOCAL TREE SURGEON Yeovil based reasonably priced. For a no obligation quote call: 07985-160422 stctreeservices.co.uk Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.
BLACKMORE WINDOWS AND DOORS. Locally based company in Stalbridge with 25 years experience. All your window and door needs undertaken, from repairs to replacement. Contact Terry on 07514224712 or find me on Facebook and WhatsApp. FREE QUOTATIONS.
90,000 readers could 90,000 be looking at readers could be your advert looking at your right now advert right now
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
Announcements
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PUBLIC NOTICES Due to the high cost of fuel, Matt and Theresa are now offering ecofriendly deliveries at T F Plant Hire JULIAN RONALD FORDER Deceased Pursuant to the Trustee Act 1925 anyone with a claim against or an interest in the Estate of the deceased, late of Burts Farm, Minchington, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 8DH, who died on 14/11/2024, must send written details to the address below by 04/09/2026, after which the Estate will be distributed with regard only to claims and interests notified. Blanchards Bailey LLP, Bunbury House, Stour Park, Blandford Forum, DT11 9LQ. Ref: HST/FOR5027/0003
TOWN AND COUNTRY PLANNING ACT 1990 NOTICE UNDER ARTICLE 13 OF THE APPLICATION FOR PLANNING PERMISSION Location: Land East of Common Mead Lane, Gillingham, Dorset Notice is hereby given that Gillingham Town Council is applying to Dorset Council for planning permission for: Change of use from agricultural land to cemetery use, including soft and hard landscaping and associated works, with access from the unnamed road off Common Mead Lane to the sewage works. Any person who wishes to make representations about this application should write to: Gillingham Town Council, The Town Hall, School Road, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4QR. by 24 July 2026
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THANK YOU The Family of the late OLIVE ARNOLD would like to thank all friends and family for all of their kind cards and donations to the Alzheimer’s Society, which raised £271. Thank you to everyone who attended the service to celebrate Olives life.
C W ABBOTT & SON, LANGTON NURSERIES, BLANDFORD FORUM. Thank you to so many valued customers and friends who attended Tony’s funeral at Langton Long. The Nursery is temporarily closed. We apologise for the inconvenience but look forward to welcoming you back soon. All enquiries: langtonadmin@allhallowsfarmhouse.co.uk
ROY JOHN COLLIS DECEASED Ruby Pauline and Amy-Louise wish to express their thanks to everyone who attended Roys’ funeral, donations to The Injured Jockeys Fund to date total £700.00. Grateful thanks to Harry Mandy Dave and Luke at Peter Jackson Funeral Services for all their support at such a difficult time. Thank you to Alisha and the team at The Udder Farm Shop. Thank you for all the cards and flowers and to everyone that has visited, phoned and offered help. A special thank you to Brian Down, Pat Sealy, Liz Cox, Poppy Hansford and Helen at Williams Florist Stalbridge.
IN MEMORIAM DAVE ROBERTS
PUBLIC NOTICE LICENSING ACT 2003 Notice is given that Child Okeford Parish Council, Trustee of the Queen Elizabeth II Playing Field Charitable Trust has applied to Dorset Council for a new premises licence under Section 17 of the Licensing Act 2003 in respect of Child Okeford Community Centre, Station Road, Child Okeford, DT11 8EL for the provision of alcohol for events generally between the hours of 12.00pm and 23.00pm, Monday to Sunday. Any interested party or responsible authority may make representations by e-mailing: licensing@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk or writing to, Licensing, Dorset Council, County Hall, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 1XJ within 28 days from the date of this notice. The licensing register and details of this application may be inspected by contacting the licensing Section during normal office hours via email or phone on 01305 838028. It is an offence under Section 158 of the Licensing Act 2003 to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with an application, the maximum fine on summary conviction is unlimited. 25th June 2026
27.11.1949 – 27.06.2024 Miss you, love you, your Louise x
DEATHS PATRICIA BILLEN ‘Pat’ Peacefully on 3rd June 2026 at Nazareth Lodge Care Home, aged 92 years, of Sturminster Newton. Dearly loved Wife, Mum and Grandma.Funeral service at St. Mary’s Church, Sturminster Newton on Friday, 10th July at 10.30am. No flowers please. Donations if desired, in memory of Pat for Save the Children can be made online at peterjacksonfuneralservices.co.uk
Find Us Online
www.blackmorevale.net
64
New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
Announcements
blackmorevale.net
DEATHS
DEATHS
JEANETTE HOUSE (CHIPS)
PRU CHAMBERLAIN
Passed away peacefully on 8th June after a short illness aged 88, was a much loved wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. Private family service
Ronald Tite of Stourton Caundle passed away peacefully at home on 14th June 2026, aged 90 years. Much loved husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. Funeral Service at St Peter’s Church, Stourton Caundle on Friday 10th July at 11.30am. Family flowers only please, but donations if desired for Somerset & Dorset Animal Rescue may be sent to Grassby & Close Funeral Service, 4 Innes Court, Sturminster Newton, DT10 1BB, Tel: 01258 471024 or made online by visiting www.grassbyclose-funeral.co.uk
BASTABLE Diana Hazel, Passed away peacefully with family by her side, on Monday 22nd June 2026, aged 86 years. A loving wife to the late Colin. Loving and caring mum to Deb and Tina and a wonderful nan and great nan. Funeral Service to be held at Salisbury Crematorium on Thursday 23rd July 2026 at 12noon. Family flowers only but donations if desired for Dementia Uk and or Cancer research UK, c/o I. N. Newman Ltd, Griffin Mews, High Street, Fordingbridge, Hampshire, SP6 1AX
ANDREWS Mary Georgina (née Guppy) Peacefully on 12th June 2026 at Blandford Grange Care Home, aged 95 years, of Hinton St. Mary. Much loved Wife of Chris. She will be much missed. Funeral service at Yeovil Crematorium on Tuesday, 7th July at 2pm. No flowers please. Donations if desired, in memory of Mary for Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance Trust can be made online at peterjacksonfuneralservices.co.uk
Passed away peacefully on 26th June 2026 at Wincanton Hospital, aged 83. Beloved Mother to Shane, Paul, Marie and Lee. Partner of Richard, Sister, Grandmother and Great-Gran. Private Cremation
VIN DRISCOLL Passed away at home on the 18th May. A much loved Husband, Dad, Grandad and Great Grandad. Celebration of Vin’s life will be held sometime later in the year. We would love you to join us. Date to follow.
Ken Stevens 1941-2026 Passed away peacefully on Sunday 21st June 2026 in Blandford Hospital aged 84. A loving husband to Judy. Dad to daughters Brigette, Beverley and Mandy. Grandad to Ben, Gareth, Damon and Justin. Greatgrandad to Gabriella and Tommy. Memorial service at 12.30 on 22nd July 2026 at Blandford United Reformed Church. Followed by a gathering at Stourgate Blandford St. Mary. No flowers please. Donations if desired to Blandford Hospital and Dementia UK. Made online via www.funeraldirector.co.uk/funeral/ken-stevens or directly to Lesley Shand Blandford
SMITH John Tyson Peacefully on 19th June 2026 in Yeovil District Hospital, aged 83 years, of Stalbridge. Beloved husband of Jill. Much loved father of Lizzie, Nick, Sarah and Will. Loving grandfather and brother. Missed by all who knew him. Funeral service at St. Mary’s Church, Stalbridge on Tuesday, 14th July at 11.00am, followed by interment. No flowers please. Donations if desired, in memory of John for R.N.L.I can be made online at peterjacksonfuneralservices.co.uk
CHIVERS Charles James (Jim) Of Castle Cary
LUFFMAN Eleanor Irene Peacefully on 8th June 2026 in Salisbury District Hospital, aged 95 years, of Gillingham. Formerly of Shaftesbury. Dearly loved Wife of the late Ron. Much loved Mum of Claire and Jayne. Loving Grandmother and Great Grandmother. Funeral service at St. Mary’s Church, Gillingham on Thursday, 9th July at 12.00pm, followed by interment. No flowers please. Donations if desired, in memory of Eleanor for Stars Appeal can be made online at peterjacksonfuneralservices.co.uk
Passed away peacefully at Yeovil District Hospital on the 13th June aged 75 years. Beloved Husband to Maxine, Dad to Chris and Mark and an adored Grandad to Mollie. He is much loved and will be missed by all his family and friends. A celebration for Jim’s life will take place on Friday 10th July at All Saint’s Church Castle Cary at 12noon. Donations in memory of Jim are invited for The Fire Fighters Charity and Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. They may be left after the service, or forwarded to Harold F Miles Funeral Director, Folly Lane, South Cadbury BA22 7ES. or online at www.haroldfmiles.co.uk
New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
FUNERAL DIRECTORS H E L P I N G YO U E V E RY S T E P O F T H E WAY H E L P I N G YO U E V E RY S T E P O F T H E WAY
Your Local Local Your Funeral Professionals Professionals Funeral • Unattended funerals starting • Unattended from £995 funerals starting from £995 • Tailored and unique • Tailored unique Attendedand Funerals Attended Funerals • Prepaid funeral plans • Prepaid funeral plans also available also available • Local knowledge and expertise • Local expertise with aknowledge reputationand for quality with a reputation for quality that is second to none that is second to none • Reassurance that your • Reassurance your loved one willthat be looked loved one utmost will be looked after with care and after with utmost care and professionalism professionalism
Proudly serving your local community
01747 860 361
Water Street, Mere, Warminster, Wiltshire BA12 6DZ
Call us for immediate support, advice, or to find out more about our prepaid funeral plans. We are here to help 24 hours a day. "
www.lchillandsonfuneraldirectors.co.uk
@
BRACHER BROTHERS FUNERAL DIRECTORS BRACHER BROTHERS FUNERAL DIRECTORS Newbury, Gillingham Newell, Sherborne Newbury, Newell, SP8 4QL Gillingham DT9 4EZSherborne SP8 4QL 822494 DT9 4EZ 813479 Tel: 01747 Tel: 01935 Tel: 01747 822494 Tel: 01935 813479 Available 24 hours a day. Available 24 hours a day. Find us at: dignityfunerals.co.uk/local
Find us at: dignityfunerals.co.uk/local
Pricing is correct at time of print and is subject to change. Price stated is for an Unattended Funeral. Pricing is correct at time of print and is subject to change. Price stated is for an Unattended Funeral.
Brister&Son Independent Family Funeral Directors When your family suffers the loss of a loved one, we are here to support, guide and reassure you every step of the way Please call Teresa or Daniel for an appointment 100 Lenthay Road, Sherborne DT9 6AG Email: info@wsbrister.com 01935 812647 Woodside Court, Woodside Dairy Yard, Sparkford BA22 7LH Email: info@wsbrister.com 01963 850165 www.wsbrister.com
Still a family run business, serving Dorset communities since 1861 Colin J. Close Funeral Service Peel Close, BLANDFORD FORUM Tel: (01258) 453133 www.close-funeral.co.uk
Grassby & Close Funeral Service Innes Ct, STURMINSTER NEWTON Tel: (01258) 471024 www.grassbyclose-funeral.co.uk
Grassby Funeral Service 27a High Street, SHAFTESBURY
Tel: (01747) 440815 www.grassbyshaftesbury-funeral.co.uk
• Service Chapels • Direct Funerals • Memorial Masons
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Recruitment STALBRIDGE AND MARNHULL VETS requires someone bright and cheerful for the role of receptionist, animal care assistant and cleaner. Three days a week plus extra days to cover holidays. Flexibility and experience with dogs and cats (and humans) preferred. Send covering letter and CV to reception@smvets.co.uk. Café Staff Community Connections is looking for a part time staff member to join our friendly café team. Previous café experience would be desirable but not essential. 15 hours per week between the hours of 9am-2pm over 3 mornings with flexibility to work additional hours if required. A great opportunity to work for a small charity who support the local community. Please contact: 01258 471359 | manager@communityconnections.online
Cyber Security Analyst Suitable for a recent graduate with a Cyber Security Degree working for a North Dorset Cyber Security Company Full-time position on initial 12 months fixed term contract Located in North Dorset
Independent Family Funeral Directors
Apply in writing with CV and covering letter to: sysdevgradsdorset@protonmail.com
GARDENER
We've provided compassionate and dignified funeral services for over 100 years together.
Required to help with an established garden in the Mere area. We are looking for someone with experience and a good understanding of plant care and horticulture practice. No mowing required. This position is all year for one to two days a week.
Tel: 01747 832280 Direct Cremation
Bespoke Cremations & Burials Sherborne:
01935 816817
Pre-Payment Scheme Available Wincanton:
01963 31310
www.ajwakely.com
Recruitment MOTHER’S HELP WANTED FOR SUMMER HOLIDAYS. 18/7 - 21/8. 2 hours a day Monday to Friday near Sturminster Newton. Tel 07970 642775 / 07770 488703
Small friendly manufacturing company in Semley, now recruiting for the following Full-time positions; Metalwork Machinery Operator Training provided, opportunity to gain experience in sheet metalwork processes, (press-brake & laser cutting) and other machining disciplines as the role progresses. Experience preferred but not essential. Assembly Technician Will suit someone with an interest in electrical and mechanical assembly, needs a good eye for detail. Experience or knowledge/understanding beneficial, but not essential.
Enquiries & Applications - 01747 851060
PARISH CLERK/RESPONSIBLE FINANCIAL OFFICER ABBAS AND TEMPLECOMBE PARISH COUNCIL
SITUATIONS WANTED
Part time – 9 hours per week. Work from home, good administration and IT skills. Prior relevant experience an advantage but training will be provided. Starting date late August to allow for briefing/handover. Application form and job description available from the Clerk – email clerk@abbasandtemplecombe-pc.gov.uk
CLEANING SERVICES OFFERED. Please ring 07396-949160
New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
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Recruitment
blackmorevale.net/jobs 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
GENERAL MAINTENANCE, GARDENER & STORES SUPPORT ASSISTANT JPL Telecom Ltd is a local telecommunications and property rental company based in Todber. We are looking for a reliable and practical all-rounder who enjoys a varied role and takes pride in their work. About the Role: This is a hands-on position involving a mixture of property maintenance, gardening, and occasional support within our local telecoms stores. Key Responsibilities: General property maintenance, including: Basic woodwork repairs, Painting and decorating, General repairs and maintenance tasks, Gardening duties (approximately 2 days per week), including: Strimming, Weeding borders, General grounds maintenance, Providing cover and support in our stores during staff holidays and sickness absence. Assisting with the handling and supply of telecommunications products as required.
GARDENER NEEDED to help with weeding in moderate sized garden. Tel: 01258-473838 IT Engineer Seeking an IT Engineer to support staff and infrastructure worldwide working for a North Dorset Electronics Company Full-time position on initial 12 months fixed term contract Located in North Dorset Apply in writing with CV and covering letter to: sysdevgradsdorset@protonmail.com
Co-ed Boarding and Day Prep and Pre-Prep School Overnight Matron
Required for September 2026
The ideal candidate will: Have experience in general property maintenance, Enjoy gardening and outdoor work, Be practical, self-motivated, and willing to undertake a variety of tasks, Be flexible and happy to support different areas of the business when needed, Hold a full driving licence and have access to their own transport (preferred).
A warm and caring person is required to work as part of our medical and matron team, to assist with the medical needs of children aged 7-13 who board at Sandroyd. No specialist qualifications required, but an ability to work independently is essential. This is a sleeping duty, although there may be a requirement to be up during the night. Single accommodation is provided.
Hours: Flexible working hours are available, although the role would ideally suit someone able to work 4–5 days per week, typically 8:30am – 5:00pm.
6.45pm - 7.15am Monday - Saturday | Term time only £19,000 per annum
Pay: £14.50 – £18.00 per hour, depending on experience.
For further details, please visit the school website or contact: Rupert Burnell-Nugent, Sandroyd, Rushmore, Tollard Royal, Nr Salisbury, SP5 5QD Tel: 01725 516329 | bursar@sandroyd.com | www.sandroyd.org
If you are looking for a varied role within a friendly local company and enjoy a mix of maintenance, gardening, and customer-facing work, we would love to hear from you.
CONTACT: ashley.anderson@jpltele.com
Join our team
Sandroyd is committed to safeguarding the welfare of children. Applicants must be willing to undergo the appropriate child protection screening before appointment.
Do you enjoy driving? We’re recruiting for part-time School Minibus Drivers in your area
Could this be your ideal part-time job?
Bramley Care Group, are recruiting for the following The Old Rectory Stalbridge
Part-time Cook/Chef Part-time Activities Assistant Senior Care Assistant (3 nights per week) Part-time Housekeeper Part-time Kitchen Assistant
For more information, please visit bramleycare.co.uk/job-vacancies-at-bramley-care
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.
info@bramleycare.com | bramleycare.co.uk
Shaftesbury 01747 855844 Sherborne 01935 677655 Bramley House, Mere | Millbrook House, Child Okeford | The Old Rectory, Stalbridge Bramley Home Care, Shaftesbury and Sherborne
Making journeys possible
www.dorset-ct.co.uk www.dorset-ct.co.uk SB-REC-7/2025 SB-REC-7/2025
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
Health & Wellbeing
Meditations in nature: Tracks of time on a Cretaceous coastline by Susanna Curtin IT is a windy, chilly June day as I stroll along a southern beach on the Isle of Wight. I am on a quest to find the traces of the dinosaur tracks for which this island is so famous. I cannot remember when my fascination for fossils and dinosaurs began. These days, children are introduced to dinosaurs at a remarkably young age, as they make for such engaging storybooks and toys. My generation, however, often first encountered them at the natural history museum in Kensington where the replica of Dippy, the 21-metre-long skeleton of a Diplodocus greeted us as we passed through the Romanesque arches of the museum’s entrance hall and came face to face with this towering creature. From then on, this fascination has led me to all the famous fossil sites in Dorset and to the Isle of Skye where, a few years ago, I went in search of dinosaur tracks preserved in rocks from the Middle Jurassic. This is a poorly represented period that makes the dinosaur finds on Skye rare and scientifically unique. And now I am here in this
squally weather on an island which is one of the most important dinosaur sites in Europe. Its footprints and fossils date from the Early Cretaceous, some 45 million years after the Middle Jurassic, and its cliffs continue to reveal fragments of a landscape lost in deep time. 125 million years ago, southern England lay on a similar latitude to where North Africa resides today. It was a subtropical floodplain within a large river valley, and a perfect habitat for dinosaurs. There were swamps and marshes, lakes and lagoons, forests filled with conifers, enormous tree ferns and giant 100ft tall horsetails – plants we still have to this day, although considerably smaller. The rocks that have preserved the remains of dinosaurs were formed by the mud and river sediments laid down over millennia. This is known as the Wessex Formation – a rock sequence primarily composed of brightly coloured mudstones and sandstones. Outcrops include the Isle of Wight and the Isle of Purbeck, both places that are rich in
DarPod PODIATRY and Chiropody, For home visits please ring: 07943-194611
fossils. Here on the Isle of Wight, more than 25 species of dinosaur have been discovered and more turn up as the cliffs continue to erode. These fossilised finds represent every major group of dinosaur, as well as crocodiles, turtles, small mammals, lizards, fish, flying reptiles and plant life. It is thought the reason so many dinosaur fossils are found here is because there were flash floods and storm surges that killed animals in sudden death events. They were then rapidly buried in oxygen-poor sediments that slowed their decay by compacting tightly and eventually allowing minerals to replace bone. Today, old layers of mud and sandstone are constantly being washed into the sea while winter storms and tides expose fresh surfaces. Together, they reopen records of the past. Unfortunately for me, the perfect tide times do not coincide with my visit to the Island. For it is on a low spring tide where hundreds of dinosaur footprints can be seen. But now, as the wind picks up speed and the tide races in, I am looking desperately for an Iguanodon print. Iguanodons were hefty herbivores that grew up to about 10 metres long. The trackways they have left suggest they
blackmorevale.net travelled in herds and moved on both two and four legs as they browsed on the vegetation. It is often said that the joy in life is the anticipation of ‘having’ or ‘seeing’ something rather than actually ‘finding’ or ‘having’ it, but right now I disagree, for I am desperate to find a footprint before the tide covers the beach. Then, there before my eyes is the perfect print. Although the seawater is already splashing around it, it is undeniably the distinctive three-toed shape of a dinosaur. Rather than a print, I can see now that it is actually a cast. The animal first pressed its foot into soft mud, leaving a deep impression, then floodwaters later filled this hollow with sand. Time worked its magic, and over millions of years, the surrounding mud compressed into a soft mudstone that has eroded away, while the sand inside the footprint impression hardened into sandstone and has remained. Although this creature lived millions of years ago, a timescale I cannot begin to fathom, the footprint it left behind is disarmingly simple. One step. One movement. One living body passing through a particular place at a particular moment. Yet seeing it before me now compresses the immensity of deep time into something almost intimate. The footprint suggests a story – a creature with its own purpose crossed this ground, and I now stand where it once passed. The rocks still bear the memory of that brief encounter. Soon the tide will erase the print from sight, and I too will move on, leaving my own footprint in the sand. n Dr Susie Curtin (email curtin. susanna@gmail.com)
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
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Health & Wellbeing
blackmorevale.net
The mighty oak, the healing tree by Fiona Chapman WE are surrounded by the most beautiful and majestic Oak trees. Once you really start noticing them, you see how many there are. Oak bark is a herbal medicine, Quercus robur. As you can probably imagine, it is full of tannins and is extremely astringent, so is used for drying up secretions. If taken internally, it should be taken with care and not used as a long-term
medicine. It should be taken away from any medications or supplements, as the tannins can interfere with absorption. A tincture or decoction is best used externally in a cream or douche. It is good for sinus congestion and catarrh and can be used as a gargle for tonsillitis or laryngitis. It will tone up lax muscles, so can be used in a douche for vaginal or anal prolapse, and a cream for toning varicose veins and
haemorrhoids. It will help stop bleeding, so can be used for nose bleeds, burns and cuts, and its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory actions help with skin infections, including athlete’s foot and ringworm. Where I use oak a lot is as a Bach Flower remedy. This is the essence of the tree, and I find it very effective. The remedy is for the apparently strong, resilient type,
who inside may struggle with exhaustion and depression and has lost their sense of joy, believing that working and supporting is their role, forgetting that life can be enjoyed! For those in this state, taking oak can gradually bring their lighter side back to them. It works gently but effectively. n Fiona Chapman is a naturopathic herbalist (email Pellyfiona@gmail.com).
by Kay Parkinson MOST people who struggle to say no do not think of themselves as people-pleasers. They see themselves as kind, considerate, reliable. Someone who shows up for others, who does not make a fuss, who keeps things running smoothly. The identity feels positive. The cost, over time, often does not. People-pleasing is rarely simply a habit. It is usually a strategy, one that made sense at some point, often in childhood, when keeping others comfortable felt important to our safety, belonging or sense of worth. When saying the wrong thing, taking up too much space, or expressing a need came with a cost, learning to read the room and manage other people’s feelings became a way of staying safe. These strategies tend to persist long after the circumstances that shaped them have changed. Understanding this can shift the question from “why can’t I just say no” to something more compassionate – of course this is hard. The nervous system learned that prioritising others was the safer choice. Unlearning that takes time and patience, not simply willpower. Alongside this sits a quieter emotional layer. Saying no can bring up shame, a sense that you are being difficult, selfish or letting someone down. For many, that feeling is familiar and
persuasive, even when it is not entirely accurate. The toll of consistently overriding your own needs is real. Physically, chronic people-pleasing is associated with elevated stress, the body carrying the tension of what the mouth did not say. Emotionally, resentment can build quietly in the gap between what was agreed to and what was wanted. Relationships can become less intimate, because the version of you that others experience is the managed one rather than the real one. Learning to set a boundary, to say no, or that does not work for me, is not the same as becoming difficult or unkind. A boundary is an honest expression of what you can and cannot do, what you will and will not accept. Offered calmly and clearly, most boundaries are better received than people expect. The anticipation is often worse than the reality. It can help to start small. Practise in lower-stakes situations. Decline something you do not have capacity for. Ask for what you need in a straightforward way. Over time, this builds evidence it is safe to do so. That the relationship holds. That you are still valued. It is also worth noticing the difference between guilt and genuine wrongdoing. Feeling guilty after setting a boundary does not mean the boundary was wrong. For those unused to
prioritising their own needs, guilt is often simply the feeling of doing something unfamiliar. In time, it passes. If this pattern has been present across your life, it may be rooted in something deeper. Therapy can offer a space to explore where it began and what it has cost you, and to begin to find a different way of relating to
yourself and others. n Kay Parkinson is an MBACP (Accred) therapist and EMDR practitioner specialising in trauma, loss and shame, as well as pregnancy and birth experiences. She leads Place to Talk Therapies, a Dorset-based practice offering one-to-one and couples support locally and online (www. placetotalktherapies.co.uk).
Why saying ‘yes’ can take a toll
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
Food & Drink
blackmorevale.net
Cue the quiche for lunch in a hurry IT’S handy to have a quiche or two in the freezer in case someone pops in for lunch – or for a picnic at short notice. Choose your own fillings but don’t forget that some ingredients need to be cooked first – including bacon, onion and mushrooms – before pouring over the mixture. INGREDIENTS For a 12-inch flan tin: For speed and ease, fresh bought shortcrust pastry from a supermarket’s dairy section 6 eggs 300ml tub double cream 2 baby leeks sliced and cooked gently in a frying pan, then cooled, ready for use 300g freshly grated Cheddar
and 100g grated Parmesan Fennel bulb sliced vertically Fresh thyme twigs stripped down Salt and pepper METHOD ROLL out the shortcrust pastry to a square shape. Dust the rolling pin and board in flour to prevent the pastry sticking. Flop the pastry sheet over the rolling pin and gently unfurl it over the flan tin. Gently push, with clean fingers, the pastry into the side flutes and trim off the edges. Now dot your chosen ingredients, mine being fennel and leek, over the pastry base. Whisk together the eggs and double cream – I use my
aditional village pub r t A i
n the
Having a quiche in the freezer is useful if you have unexpected guests
electric hand whisk – fresh thyme leaves, a good pinch of Maldon salt and fresh ground pepper. Pour the mixture into the pastry case, then top with grated Cheddar and Parmesan. Place in a pre-heated oven at 200 degrees. Turn the tin 180
hea rt o f
degrees halfway through for an even golden crust. Cook for 20 minutes or so. n Annie Austin, Director/Host & Concierge, Somerset Roadtrip. Email: annie@ anniedesforges.co.uk; website: www. anniedesforges.co.uk; phone: 07834 487381.
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07783 009402 | email@ploughmanston.com | ploughmanston.com Shaftesbury Road, Manston, Sturminster Newton, Dorset DT10 1HB
New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
Motoring
blackmorevale.net
AA chief hits out over potholes, smart motorways and roadworks MOTORISTS are paying billions into the Treasury while too many roads remain dangerous, badly repaired and roadworks poorly coordinated, says AA president Edmund King. He says the country risks treating roads as a ‘peripheral issue’ when they are fundamental to everyday life and the economy. He was speaking on The Logbook, the YouTube channel sponsored by AA Cars. Mr King said: “Our country without roads is nothing. 90% of freight goes by road and 86%
of passenger journeys are by road. If we didn’t have the roads, the country would be at a standstill. There would be no goods in our shops, no exports and people wouldn’t get to work. This isn’t a peripheral issue – this is the number one issue.” On potholes, King said drivers were paying the price for a failed ‘patch and run’ approach, where holes are filled badly and return within weeks. “It is the number one transport issue for 96% of drivers. At the AA we see it first-hand. Last year our patrols
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AA president Edmund King (right) with interviewer Rob Cubitt, managing director of Cubitt Cars
were called out to 617,000 pothole-related incidents – punctures, damaged wheels, steering and suspension damage. For drivers, it is the worst feeling – dark nights, wet roads, puddles, you can’t see the pothole and then you hear the bang.” Mr King called for councils and central government to move away from reactive repairs and towards proper road maintenance, resurfacing and
better use of technology. “You can’t just keep filling in holes if the road has gone. You need to resurface that section of road. In the long term that is more cost-effective because you are called out less often, there are fewer compensation claims and the repair lasts longer. It is not rocket science to fix the roads, and yet we are doing a bad job of it.” The discussion also Continued on page 72
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
Motoring
blackmorevale.net
Are you thinking of selling your car or van? Contact Jason at Crews Car Sales in Shaftesbury on 01747 854789.
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AA chief hits out
Continued from page 71 addressed smart motorways, which King described as a ‘massive scandal’ after emergency refuge areas were moved much further apart than in the original design without consultation. King said: “This is the massive scandal of ‘smart’ motorways. The original concept had refuge areas much closer together. Then the goalposts were moved. If you break down between those refuge areas, you are a sitting duck. “You are at the mercy of technology spotting your vehicle, at the mercy of a red X appearing, and at the mercy of another driver obeying it. Crashes happen – and they have happened.” King said The AA had campaigned with families
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affected by ‘smart’ motorway deaths and had pushed government to stop new schemes and add more emergency refuge areas, but warned the underlying concept remained flawed. “For me, the concept is still wrong. If you are relying on technology, that technology has got to be precise and effective. It is not. Why are we putting drivers in that situation? Because they have cut corners on costs.” On roadworks, King said too many schemes showed a lack of coordination between councils and utility companies, with newly resurfaced roads sometimes dug up again weeks later. “It is that lack of coordination that is so frustrating. A road gets resurfaced and then the gas or water companies come along and dig it up again. Local authorities have powers they can use, including lane rental systems, but too often they are not used effectively.”
Five Square Motors (Bosch Garage) Salisbury Road (A30) Shaftesbury SP7 8BU
2019 (19) Mitsubishi ASX1.8 1.6Kompressor Juro 5dr. 2006 (06) Mercedes-Benz CLK200 Sport Automatic Convertiblehigh 2dr. 163bhp, petrol, speed auto gearbox, recent new rooflights & shocks 115bhp, seating, big5boot, reverse camera, auto & absorbers,cruise full history, 15 stamps, heated leather, electric roof, auto lights wipers, wipers, control, partial leather, heated seats, hill &holder, cruise, park sensors, MOT June 25, private sale on behalf of a customer, 77,500 82,500 miles .............................................................. £7950 miles ...........................................................................................................£4250 2016 (66) Nissan Qashqai N-Connecta 2015 (65) Peugeot 308 1.2THP Allure1.2DIG-T Automatic 5dr. 130bhp, petrol,SUV 6 speed automatic gearbox,sat sat nav, sensors, camera,cruise auto lights & wipers,hill 5dr. 113bhp, nav,park auto lightsreverse & wipers, control, cruise control, hill hold, only £35 a year road tax, 50+mpg economy, cambelt has holder, parking sensors, reverse camera, road sign assist, only been replaced, 69,500 miles..............................................................DUE IN SOON 43,500 miles .............................................................. £8350 2019 (19) Renault Captur 1.5DCi Iconic Automatic SUV 5dr. 90bhp, diesel, 6 speed (19) automatic gearbox, sat nav, cruise control, auto lights parking 2019 Peugeot 2008 1.2 Signature 5dr.& wipers, 82bhp, sensors, hillkit hold, high seating, sliding rear seats, upto 67mpg economy, 20,300 cambelt replaced, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, hill miles .........................................................................................................£12250 holder, sat nav via car play, mirror screening, parking sensors, 2017 (17) Vauxhall Astra 1.4 SRi 5dr. 100bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, 33,700 miles .............................................................. £8250 auto lights & wipers, parking sensors, cruise control, pre-collision assist, sign recognition, hill Vauxhall hold, Bluetooth, 63,600 miles 2014 (14) Mokka 1.4T..............................................£6950 SE SUV 5dr. 140bhp, park sensors, auto lights & wipers, cruise control,diesel, heated 2016 (66) Vauxhall Mokka 1.6CDTi SE 4x4 SUV 5dr. 136bhp, 6 speed manual gearbox, 4 wheel drive, high seating, big boot, leather seats, heated leather, heated steering wheel, MOT Nov.heated bargain clearance steering wheel, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, parking sensors, hill hold, car, 104,500 miles ...................................................... £2000 performance & economy, upto 60mpg, 65,500 miles ....................................£7250 WE BUY CARS & VANS SO IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING TO SELL GIVE WE BUY CARS & VANS SO IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING US A CALL, WE PAY GOOD PRICES & CONSIDER MOST VEHICLES
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
Motoring
blackmorevale.net
Feeling the heat? A word of warning... DRIVERS seeking to cool down by sitting in stationary vehicles with their air-con are running the risk of a fine for breaking vehicle emissions laws, the RAC is warning. In the midst of last week’s heatwave, many people were looking for creative ways to keep cool. But remaining in a vehicle with its engine idling causes air pollution and is punishable with a fine of up to £110 for people who refuse to switch off after being asked.
The driver does not need to be in the vehicle for an offence to be committed – meaning those that leave their engines running to cool their cars before they set off for a journey could also be caught out. The standard penalty for engine idling is a fixed penalty notice of £40 from a police officer or a penalty charge notice of £80 from a civil enforcement officer. Both fines are halved if paid quickly. But some councils have used powers to impose larger
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fines of up to £110. RAC senior policy officer Rod Dennis said: “Air conditioning is a game-changer in modern vehicles, making otherwise uncomfortable journeys by road a genuinely pleasant experience. “We even advise those driving vehicles without air-con to consider delaying any non-essential trips this week until the heatwave passes. “But while we’re all FORD FIESTA. Red £1600, 0782 4475372 OLD, INTERESTING & CLASSIC CARS wanted pre 1990s Any condition including unfinished projects Cash/ Transfer. Please Phone Paul - 07890 096907
desperate to stay cool, just sitting in the car with the engine and air conditioning running and going nowhere isn’t advisable. “Due to the air pollution this causes, you risk a fine from a police or civil enforcement officer.” In 2019, a government consultation was set to be launched on introducing higher fines for drivers who idle, but this never took place.
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
Pets
blackmorevale.net
Top five myths about dog behaviour by Raychel Curson DOGS have lived alongside humans for thousands of years, yet myths about their behaviour still cause confusion, frustration and sometimes completely unnecessary training struggles. Let’s clear up some of the biggest misunderstandings so you can better understand what your dog is trying to tell you.
1 My dog is being stubborn THIS is one of the most common assumptions – but dogs aren’t stubborn in the human sense. What looks like stubbornness is usually confusion, fear, distraction or lack of training clarity. If a dog isn’t responding, it’s often because the request isn’t clear
Why does my pooch not like getting in the car? by Lynn Broom BVSc, GPCert(ExAP), AdvDipAAB, MRCVS THERE are several reasons why your dog may not want to get in the car and the approach to each cause will vary in order to resolve it. The issue is usually negative association. This may be due to nausea, anxiety, pain, a previous upsetting event or association with an unwanted destination.
A common cause, particularly with puppies, is travel sickness. If the puppy or dog associates the car with nausea, they will be reluctant to get in it. Using antinausea medication and changing where the dog travels within the car will help the underlying cause, but the dog will need to be taught a positive association to realise they no longer feel sick in the car. Anxious dogs may find cars and travel makes them more
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enough or rewarding enough, not because they’re being difficult on purpose. 2 They feel guilty when they look guilty THAT ‘guilty face’ after a chewed shoe? It’s not guilt – it’s body language responding to your tone and mood. Dogs read human emotions very well. What you’re seeing is often
appeasement or stress, not an understanding of past wrongdoing. 3 A wagging tail means a happy dog NOT always. Tail wagging is communication, not a guaranteed sign of happiness. The speed, height and stiffness of the wag matter. A slow, stiff wag can actually signal tension
anxious and using retraining to create positive association, along with medication where needed, can help change their behaviour. An event may happen that the dog then associates with car travel such as a car crash or even being stung by a bee while inside the car. Retraining the association needs to take place to return it to a positive experience. Older dogs that have become arthritic may find car travel painful if they have to jump in or out, or due to bumpy roads causing pain during the journey. Using pain relief either regularly or prior to journeys will help. Creating a positive association will vary from dog to dog. For instance, anxious dogs may need to start with just being near the car until they do not display fearful behaviour. Treats, favourite toys and positive speech can all help. Only move closer to the car or into the car once the dog is happy with the previous step.
Just putting the dog in the car, giving them a treat and taking them back out until they are no longer fearful allows progression. Starting the engine but not driving anywhere then driving very short distances allows progress. If at any stage fear is shown, go back a step until they are happy again. A short journey back home or to a favourite walk will increase positive association. Try not to just put your dog in the car when going to the vets, for instance, otherwise they will always associate the car with negativity. Even if you have resolved the underlying cause, you will need to help your dog realise that they will no longer feel nausea, pain or fear with gradual acclimatisation. Use positive reinforcement such as treats where appropriate. It can be a long slow process, and backward steps can occur but, with perseverance, many dogs will learn to enjoy car journeys if they can relate positively to the experience.
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
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that are still fooling people today or uncertainty. 4 Dogs act out of dominance THE old dominance theory has largely been debunked. Most behaviour we label as ‘dominant’ – pulling on lead, jumping, ignoring commands – is about excitement, lack of training or emotional state – not a dog trying to take control of
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Pets
the household. 5 Punishment works best for bad behaviour PUNISHMENT may stop behaviour temporarily, but it doesn’t teach what to do instead. Positive reinforcement is far more effective for long-term
learning and building trust between you and your dog. Once you strip away the myths, dog behaviour becomes much easier to understand. Dogs aren’t trying to challenge us – they’re trying to communicate with
us in the only way they know how. The better we interpret that communication, the stronger and happier the relationship becomes. 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)
MID DORSET CATS PROTECTION
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..
FOUND CATS If you have found a stray cat, Cats Protection has helpful guidance to ensure the cat gets the care it needs. First, check if it is in distress or injured and contact a vet if necessary. Look for an ID tag or take the cat to a vet to check for a microchip. If the owner cannot be identified, share details about the cat locally via posters, social media and community groups. Cats Protection advises against assuming all stray cats are lost, as some may simply be exploring. For full guidance, visit the Cats Protection website or call us on 07831 586114.
Cats 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. To enquire about any of these roles or cats for rehoming, phone 07831 586114.
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
Sport
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Clubs out to catch some ‘newbies’ JURASSIC Juniors will be hosting an open day in association with Gillingham & District AA and Sturminster & Hinton AA tomorrow (Saturday, July 4). The event, at Lodden Lake, near Gillingham, is open to
ANGLING juniors and adults who want to have a go at fishing for the first time. The hosts will provide any angling ‘newbies’ with all the equipment and bait they need.
The explanation on the invite is simple: “No experience is necessary, just weatherappropriate clothing and enthusiasm.” Free parking and toilets will be available, and food and drinks can be purchased.
All junior coaches are DBS checked, safeguarding and first aid trained, and certified Angling Trust coaches will attend. To book, visit the Angling Trust website, www. anglingtrust.net/fishing-events
Lower weights than expected
by Graham Howard SUMMER finally arrived for the second round of the Jurassic Juniors Angling Club (JJAC) points series with Harbourbridge Lakes in Chickerell looking resplendent in the sunshine. 12 anglers were fishing but, with only six booked in for the competitive event, big points were available even for a low finish. The non-competitors were taking part in coaching sessions according to their skill levels. The warm weather had stimulated some of the fish into late spawning, which had an affect on the fish, keeping final weights lower than expected. Most fish were caught on either pole or feeder methods, and using those to the best effect
win with 25lb 4oz and second place. Third was claimed by a now injury-free Josiah Wells-Parkes, who weighed in 14lb 8oz. More information about all JJAC events is available on the website at www.jjac.co.uk or by emailing Graham at graham. jjac@gmail.com Fishery information at www. harbourbridgelakes.co.uk
GOLF
Josiah Wells-Parkes, Kenzie Toulson and Jack Copp
on the day were Kenzie Toulson with his winning weight of 26lb 7oz.
Former Junior champion, Jack Copp found himself just one good fish short of the match
FOOTBALL
Outstanding Services as a Welfare Officer – Ami Budhdeo; Grounds Team of the Year – Weymouth FC; League of the Year – Dorset Youth League; Coach of the Year – Female Pathway – Stacie Smith; Coach of the Year – Male Pathway – Daniel Elphick; Coach of the Year – Disability Pathway – Jamie King; Match Official of the Year – Paul Gibbons; Positive Award Behaviour Award - Play Positive Stay Positive Club of the Year – Dexter Sports Youth; Lioness Award – Ali Clarke; Bobby Moore Award – Derek ‘Kip’ Hansford; Spencer Miles Award – Nominees – Mike Smith, Bev Bowers, Rod Pope; Spencer Miles Award – Winner – Bev
Awards recognise grassroots
DORSET County FA’s annual Grassroots Awards have celebrated and thanked all the volunteers who support the sport at a local level. More than 70 people from clubs across the county attended an awards night at Dorchester Rugby Club. There were more than 12,000 nominations across the country in this year’s awards, including 165-plus nominations in Dorset – with one category receiving 60 submissions. Kevin Miller, from Team Fee Pay, this year’s awards sponsor, thanked the county’s volunteers. He said: “Award ceremonies
are so important because they shine a light on the countless volunteers, coaches, officials and club leaders of all generations who give so much of themselves to the game. “Their dedication is the foundation upon which grassroots football is built, and it was wonderful to see so many deserving individuals recognised and celebrated.” Award winners: New Volunteer of the Year – Chris King; Young Volunteer of the Year – Charlie Callaway;
WINCANTON Golf Club results: Monthly Stableford – June 13: 1 Jo Brickwood 38, 2 David Whitehand 33 ocb, 3 Mike Case 33. Seniors Monthly Stableford – June 16: 1 Andy Blandford 35, 2 Kevin George 34 ocb, 3 Pete Starkey 34. Seniors Monthly 9 Hole Stableford – June 16: 1 Jim Bunce 19, 2 Derek King 17 ocb, 3 Harry Eden 17. Seniors Roll Up Front 9 – June 19: 1 Keith Williams 21, 2 Chris Dibben 19, 3 Simon Lenton 17. Monthly Stableford – June 20: 1 John Burns 42, 2 James Thow 38, 3 Jim Phillips 36. Seniors Roll Up Front 9 – June 23: 1 Harry Eden 19, 2 Phil Francis 18 ocb, 3 Pete Starkey 18, 4 George Wagland 18. Seniors Monthly Medal – June 26: 1 Kevin Bieda nett 70 ocb, 2 Steven Ireland nett 70, 3 George Wagland nett 71. Seniors Monthly 9 Hole Medal – June 26: 1 Jon Reed nett 32, 2 Keith Williams nett 35, 3 Alan White nett 37.
New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
Field & Stream
blackmorevale.net
Summer 50 years ago was notable for the huge number of ladybirds
Fond memories of the scorching summer of ’76 by AJ Selby “The lack of rain and withered pastures severely impacted food production, leading to a shortage of potatoes and poor grass growth for livestock.” – NFU 1976 Review FOR those of us of a certain age, probably mid to late 50s and older, four words evoke a glorious youth and a never forgotten time: “The Summer of ‘76.” Of course, I realise that for older people at the time, the heat was very challenging, but I want to look at it from a personal perspective as someone working on the farm in their late teens living a completely carefree life for a few glorious months that none of us who experienced it will ever forget. The seeds for the drought of 1976 were sown the previous year when we had a hot summer lacking rain. The 1975/76 winter was fairly dry too, so groundwater and reservoir
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levels were already low. A glorious May followed with underdogs Southampton winning the FA Cup in bright sunshine – Coleman ‘one nil’ – and this was followed by an astonishing Formula One season with playboy James Hunt not only winning the British Grand Prix at a baking hot Brands Hatch but the World Championship, too. The summer of cricket on pitches as dry as dust saw England humiliated by the West Indies, culminating in Viv Richards scoring 291 not out at the Oval and bowler Michael Holding at his fastest putting England to the sword. All this was to come as I started work on the local dairy farm after leaving school in early June. Grass was already in short supply and so to eke out the grazing the farm bought in brewers grains – moist, waste barley from beer making – which were tipped in the yard
from a 20-ton lorry, and from this pile my morning task after milking was to shovel the grains onto a low trailer, drive out into the field, set the tractor into first gear on low revs and – health and safety look away now – jump off the moving tractor, hop on to the back of the trailer and shovel the grains back onto the ground as the tractor crept forward across the field and the cows lined up to feed. As the summer progressed, I had a break from the cows to go and help with the harvest and this involved a team of young lads throwing bales, which were in blocks of eight in the field, onto a trailer with the man on top neatly stacking the bales for transport back to the farmstead. As the layers became higher, so we grabbed a pitchfork and hoisted the bales until the load was complete. My school chum Clive cycled seven miles each way daily to work with us, and we are still friends now. Once the loads were full, we would jump on top of the bales on the trailer and lie down while the tractor driver drove back to the yard. We learnt how to tie trailer ropes, how to work as a team and how to make the load safe, and we ran around in boots and shorts and not a lot else.
Back in the yard we filled the barns with the straw bales, initially throwing then off the trailer but as the stack grew higher in the Dutch barns we used a petrol-generated elevator. This meant dropping them one at a time onto the elevator where it went up into the higher part of the barn. Stackers in the barn by this stage were sweating buckets due to the heat and humidity, and the lack of air flow at the top of the barn. We didn’t care – we were young, working outdoors in glorious weather, having a laugh and, although we didn’t realise at the time, making memories. Once harvest was over, then came the stubble burning, which I have written about before. Back in the real world, the crisis in domestic water supplies saw many areas install standpipes in the street to help locals get fresh water. People would queue up with buckets at the standpipe awaiting their turn – I just can’t see that happening today. In late August I can remember being told to grab a sack and walk up one of the hedge lines which was full of plum trees – these were loaded with as many plums as I’ve ever seen. One of the things that everyone remembers about that summer was the ladybirds. Estimates vary that there were between 40 and 60 billion of these around in July and you would often have 30 or 40 just land on you in the garden or at the beach, and they used to give you a little nip, just enough to make you want to brush them off. In August, Dennis Howell was appointed Minister for Drought, and lo and behold a few days later, as the month turned to September, it started to rain. I sometimes find it hard to believe that this was half a century ago but whenever I hear certain songs, I am transported back to that glorious time when life was carefree and fun, and for me, it would never be quite the same again.
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
Farming
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Farm diary: Garden open days, silage and farm competition… by Ruth Kimber THE good old British weather seems to be a thing of the past. Climate change is delivering more challenges – we now have ‘weather events’, rather than just ‘weather’! The rain was welcome to growers of all descriptions, arable, grass and gardens. It is the season of garden open days and in our village 10 gardens opened. We enjoyed a lovely summer Sunday afternoon welcoming people to our garden and then visiting our neighbours. It is a nice way to spend a few hours. For many charities it is an opportunity to raise money, too, and we are still receiving donations from people unable to support us on the day. We took advantage of a small weather window to take the second cut silage. It was touch and go as to whether we could beat the rain, but as it turned out we completed the job just before the rain came. It makes a huge difference to the quality of the resulting silage, which in turn
Hay has to have a good ‘nose’ to tempt the animals
affects the production of milk, growth rates of the young stock and beef. Not to mention palatability – the cattle need to like it! We are hoping to make some hay and again it has to be nice and dry with a good ‘nose’ to tempt the animals. Before the days of silage, if rain came and spoilt the hay, farmers could be left with a barn of fusty, damp and dusty bales,
not much good for producing milk or beef. But the ability to make the quick decision to bale and wrap the crop in ‘iffy’ weather has saved many a day. However, the use of plastic is something we try to avoid. Preparations are underway to make the barn ready for the day-old turkey poults and to secure the barn from rodents, crows, jackdaws and magpies. The barn has to be free of
Mummy and Aunty back from retirement home by Tria Stebbing LIKE the humans that keep them, animals grow old. Have you ever wondered what
happens to them? This week we have collected our most senior sheep, 63, Mummy, and 64, Aunty, from ‘Senior’ sheep, 63, Mummy (left), and 64, Aunty
their retirement home to have them on standby for the shearer. 63 and 64 were part of our starter flock, purchased from Wendy at
draughts and spotlessly clean. I was once again part of the judging team for the Farming & Wildlife Advisory Group’s (FWAG) coveted Barn Owl Award. At this regional south west stage, county-level winners of the Otter Award compete to move forward, with the ultimate regional winners advancing to the national Silver Lapwing Award. We travelled from Cornwall to Gloucestershire judging each county’s winner. Needless to say, the standard was high. The farming was convincing in terms of food production and provision of habitat for nature. The farms were all very different, as they are – land type, height above sea level, farming type, arable, livestock, and one of the farms produced trees and hedging plants. It is interesting and a real privilege to see these farming businesses at depth. It was a very close thing, but when all the judges’ marks were added together, Gloucestershire won. Semley. Twin sisters, they came to us together and now live out their old age as always – together. 63 and 64 are now in their tenth year. We stopped breeding from them two years ago – 63 was plagued by sciatica hips and 64 was becoming very grumpy and difficult to lamb. They have given us the best lambs, the wide white blazes on their noses a characteristic they have passed down to the younger generation. Both pedigree, they are well marked and personable. In fact, from the moment 63 came home with us, she wanted head rubs and attention, which, if I am honest, is probably why they are the last two left of the original eight. Those 10 years saw us humans navigate Covid, Brexit, the passing of the Queen, the Continued on page 80
New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
Farming
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What can we learn from dung beetles? by Lucy Hepworth, Vet, BVSc MRCVS, Friars Moor Livestock Health AN adult sheep produces 800kg of dung a year. That’s a lot of potential organic fertiliser for the soil, and a lot of dung to remove from the pasture as to
not limit grazing! A farm with a healthy dung beetle population will benefit from: n Sheep dung disappearing fast to increase grazing available. Favourable conditions – 70% of the pat has disappeared within a
Vet Lucy Hepworth
few days. n The first thing dung beetles do is to drink the liquid dung, drying out pats, making them less hospitable for gut worm larvae. n Mites that live on dung
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beetles will eat nuisance fly eggs and nematode larvae. n Increase in biodiversity as dung beetles are popular food for birds and bats. n Increased soil organic matter and aeration, promoting healthier soils which grows more grass and is more drought tolerant. n Reduced GHG emissions Wormers and fly treatments will impact dung beetle populations. Fly treatments will percolate fat in skin and spread through the body into the gut into dung. Group 3 treatments – clear drenches, ivermectins, moxidectin – can persist in the environment for up to eight years. What you can do on your farm or smallholding n Reduce treatments in the flock while optimising ewe fertility and lamb growth. Look at your farm maps alongside regular WEC this grazing season. n Be more product aware when you need to treat ewes or lambs. n Discover what dung beetle populations look like on your farm with a Dung Beetle For Farmers Survey. Get in touch with the Friars Moor Livestock Health team if you would like to find out more.
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New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
Farming
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blackmorevale.net Continued from page 78 war in Ukraine and much more. In sheep terms, they now see hotter summers, warmer winters and I am sure they cannot remember the last time they saw snow. For me, the sheep are my mindfulness, my grounding in an otherwise mad world that is out of control. Unconditional love, as long as your pocket is filled with ginger biscuits! Their offspring are scattered all over the country, having been sold on to start new flocks, their rams now sowing the seed far and wide, as well as being shown locally and winning prizes. 63 and 64 continue to ‘give’ and in return we keep them up together, feet trimmed, fleece shorn, and Clik’d and wormed regularly. They live in a small wildflower meadow in our home village, complete with a shed and raised beds to snooze on. The owner lives in the village and previously had goats on her land, which were great company and provided a reason to get up and be active in the morning.
Sadly, over time, the goats passed away and the paddocks became empty and unused. A chance conversation led to 63 and 64 taking up residence, and they are now treated like Queens, fed treats, and give unconditional love back. We collected them earlier this week in the trailer to wait for the shearer – for them an annual excursion to the bigger flock of youngsters and to see their great-grandchildren. Like humans, they can recognise and process faces, remembering at least 50 sheep faces for over two years, and can recognise individual bleats, as every sheep has its own unique bleat. When back in the main flock, they stay together, not socialising too much, but enough to appear sociable. I wonder how many of us can see ourselves in 63 and 64? Shearing has now been booked and cancelled due to the unpredictable weather several times, but fingers crossed for this Friday.
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Farming
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Show names main sponsor CORNISH Mutual has been named main sponsor of the 2026 Melplash Show, one of Dorset’s best-known agricultural events. The show brings together farmers, rural businesses and the wider community to celebrate the very best of local agriculture, livestock and food production. Peter Hardwill, president of the Melplash Agricultural Society, said: “We are delighted to welcome Cornish Mutual as our main show sponsor for 2026. This long-established organisation shares our values and has a genuine passion for supporting farmers in our area. We look forward to working with them and introducing RAGWORT PROBLEM? Call: Simon 07929-995747 WANTED land to buy in Dorset 07810 472347
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visitors to their team at the show. I am extremely proud of the work the Melplash Agricultural Society does to support our farming community by promoting local agriculture and educating the public about farming, livestock and food production. Cornish Mutual’s support plays an important part in helping us achieve our charitable aims, and we are extremely grateful.” Peter Beaumont, chief executive of Cornish Mutual, added: “The Melplash Show is a key event for Dorset. It brings people together, creates space to share knowledge and helps keep farming at the heart of rural life. Our simple but important role is to stand alongside farmers across the region every day, helping protect what they’ve built and supporting them, whatever comes next. We’re proud to be part of this community, so supporting the Melplash Show as main sponsor is important to us.”The Melplash Show is on Thursday, August 27. R&W FENCING Agricultural paddock and stock. 01258-880892 07980-036250 SHIPPING CONTAINERS FOR SALE / HIRE Tel: 01258 472288 Mob: 07977 936109 New and second hand containers - blue/green - all with box locks
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Friday 20th June STANDING STRAW AUCTION GomershayON-FARM Farm, Stalbridge, Sturminster Newton AUCTION Thursday 17th October at 11.00am Genuine DispersalWednesday of 2 Tractors,28th Telehandler, Parlour, Poly-Tunnel, June at24:24 6.30pm Silverlake Farm, Sherborne, DT9 6SN Grassland & Livestock Equipment, Workshop Items, etc Bindon & Pinhay CARAVAN REMOVAL SERVICE,
The Grain Store, Heathfield, Rousdon, Dorset Genuine Dispersal of& Combine, Self Propelled Sprayer, old,2021 unwanted boat removal, cars, trailers, vans, Merlo TF caravans 42.7 CS Turbo Farmer (2,690hrs), 2010 Case Puma 140 4 Tractors, 2 JCB tractors, Telehandlers, Forklift, Pick-Up, 830ac of Standing Straw etc. Garden machinery, scrap (10,939hrs), International 674 with Loader, 24:24 metal. FullwoodYard, Afimilkgarden, Parlour, Arable Machinery & Livestock Equipment • 461ac Wheat Cotswold Flush, Fullwood Auger Master Feeders, Ambic Teat Sprayer, 2000 garage removal clearances undertaken, dismantling and gas • 237ac Winter Barley Fullwood 12,500ltr Bulkcall Tank, ND Jeanes Bulkor Bin, Rowlands 20t High 2017 Claas LexionFabdec 650 Combine with Vario 77015t Header, Shelbourne Reynolds cutting service. Please 01935-873169 07368-380477
• 132ac Oats Discharge Bin, Mollasses Stand, 2018 Anka Pro FootSprayer, Trimming Crush, 2010 RSD20 Stripper Header,Tank 2011&Bateman RB17 (3,708hrs) 2019 Massey Marshall QM2 Silage Trailer, 2005 Joskin 11000ME Slurry Tanker, 2017 Keenan Ferguson 7720S Dyna6 (2,320hrs) & 7718 Dyna6 (2,880hrs), 2016 New Holland VA2-18 Feeder Wagon,Friday 2020 Aerworxx 10-30m Aerator, Lely Splendimo 280F 30th June at 122012 noon T7.210 (3,610hrs) & T7.200 (4,365hrs) Tractors, JCB 531-70 (2,145hrs) & Mower, 2012 Pottinger Lion 301Durweston 3m Power Harrow, Browns Flail Topper, 2002 1997 527-58 Telehandlers, 2010 Isuzu Rodeo Pick-Up, Doosan Pro5 18 Forklift, Major 700 Road Brush, Ifor Williams TA510G Livestock Trailer, 2021 Merlo 8ft www.blackmorevale.net Travellers Rest Farm, Durweston, Blandford, Dorset McConnel 8.2mShear & 6.3m Cambridge Rollers, Twose & Watson Rollers, Bucket, Wylie Grab, 25ft Single Axle Bale Trailer, Single10’ LegTandem Mole Plough, 6,220 acresNZ of Standing Straw KRM Sola Ares 2713 Drill, Vaderstad 6m Cultivator, Kuhn HRQuicke 4004 Hyd. Folding Teagle Tomahawk 4040 Bale Shredder, Mixit PTO Lagoon Stirrer, 210 Loader •Trailed 2,442ac Wheat Power Harrow, KV DXA Discs, KV LD85 5f Rev Plough,Shallow Kuhn VariBucket, Logic Contact 2004.7m Weed Wiper, 2009 Joskin 4300/209SDH Disc •McConnel 2,006acof3m Winter Barley Injector,153 Feed Large Quantity Electric Fencing Stakes, Reels & Fencers, Master 5fTrailer, Rev Plough, Shakerator, Kverneland TL Geospread Quantity Feed Troughs, Various FeedSpring Buckets, Mobile Milker,Topper, Hook onBomford Buckets, • 1,557ac Barley FertiliserofSpreader, McConnel Magnum Euro 280 Hyd Offset Wydale Teat Feeders, Parlour Parlour Fans, Calftel Group Various • 178ac Oats Hawk 6m Hedgecutter, KuhnMatting, FC313 TG Mower Conditioner, 2 x Hutches, Stewart 16-21L Field & Yard Gates, 32mm•Water ParlourRape Quantity of Astro Turf, 37ac Oil Seed Grain Trailers, Marshall BC25 BalePipe, Trailer, CattleSpares, Hurdles, Attachments (Q-Fit), Grass flail and scrub Emergency Bulk Tank, Concrete Water Troughs, 60ft x 30ft Poly Tunnels. Machine Spares, flail available for theWorkshop Items, Weights, etc.
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Genuine Online Timed Auction commencing Friday 26th June Friday 20th June STANDING STRAW AUCTION Gomershay Farm, Stalbridge, Sturminster ON-FARM AUCTION and finishing from 12pm on TuesdayNewton 7th July Thursday 17th October at 11.00am Firgo Farm, Tufton, Whitchurch RG28 7RE Genuine Dispersal of 2 Tractors, Telehandler, Parlour, Poly-Tunnel, Wednesday 28th June at24:24 6.30pm
On behalf of Spicer Partners
Online bidding available Silverlake Farm, Sherborne, DT9 6SN Grassland & Livestock Equipment, Workshop Items, etc
Bindon & Pinhay Dispersal sale of Combine, 2 Tractors, & Arable Machinery
The Grain Store, Rousdon, Dorset Genuine Dispersal ofHeathfield, Combine, Self Propelled Sprayer, 2021 TF 42.7 CS Turbo Farmer (2,690hrs), 2010 Casebidding Puma 140 On behalf ofMerlo John Swain Limited (Retiring) Online available STANDING STRAW AUCTIONS 4John Tractors, 2 JCB Telehandlers, Forklift, Pick-Up, 830ac of Standing Straw To include Deere S790i Hillmaster Combine (18) with 35’ (10,939hrs), International 674 with Loader, 24:24 Fullwood Afimilk Parlour, Arable Machinery & Livestock Equipment • 461ac Wheat Contact Greg Ridout: 01935 382909 / 07817 517467 Header, John Deere 6155R (17), Honda Fourtrax ATV (05), Horsch Cotswold Flush, Fullwood Auger Master Feeders, Ambic Teat Sprayer, 2000 Wednesday 25th June ON-FARM DISPERSAL AUCTION • 237ac Winter Barley LeebClaas 412,500ltr AXLexion Trailed Sprayer, Horsch Sprinter 6 STBin, Drill (22),Reynolds Cultus Fullwood Fabdec Bulk ND Jeanes 15t Bulk Rowlands 20t High 2017 650 Combine with Vario 770 Header, Shelbourne Pinhay and Bindon – Tank, The Grain Store, Heathfield, Rousdon • 132ac Oats Discharge Bin, Mollasses Tank &Bateman Stand, 2018 Anka Pro FootSprayer, Trimming Crush, 2010 300 Cultivators, Kverneland LD85 5f Rev. Plough, McConnel 3m RSD20 Stripper Header, 2011Saturday RB17 (3,708hrs) 2019 Massey Approx. 1,000ac of Standing Straw 29th July Slurry Tanker, 2017 Keenan Marshall QM2 Silage Trailer, 2005 Joskin 11000ME Shakerator, Kverneland Exacta-TL Geo Fertiliser Spinner, McConnel Ferguson 7720S Dyna6 (2,320hrs) & 7718 Dyna6 (2,880hrs), 2016 New Holland Buckham Down Farm, Beaminster DT8 3SH VA2-18 Feeder Wagon,Friday 2020 Aerworxx 10-30m Aerator, Lely Splendimo 280F Friday 27th June 30th June at 12 noon T7.210 (3,610hrs) & T7.200 (4,365hrs) Tractors, 2012 JCB 531-70 (2,145hrs) & PA 6565T Hedgetrimmer (18), Twose 12.4m Cambridge Rollers, Mower, 2012 Pottinger Lion 301 3m Power Harrow, Browns Flail Topper, Pinhay and Bindon – The Grain Store, Heathfield, Rousdon 2002 1997 527-58 Telehandlers, Isuzu Rodeo Pick-Up, Doosan Pro5 18 Forklift, Trailers, 2 no.Durweston Starfire 6000 Receivers, Johnand Deere Dispersal saleApprox. ofIfor 42010 Tractors, Farm Machinery, Bygones Major 700Attachments, Road Brush, Williams TA510G Livestock Trailer, 2021 Merlo 8ft 8,5000ac of Standing Travellers Rest Farm, Durweston, Blandford, Dorset McConnel 8.2m &John 6.3m Cambridge Rollers, Twose &Straw Watson Tandem Rollers, 6155RWylie (18),Shear Deere Ride Lawn Mower, Teagle Dual Bucket, Grab, 25ft455 Single Axle on Bale Trailer, Single10’ Leg Mole Plough, Miscellaneous 6,220 acres of Standing Straw KRM Sola Ares 2713 Drill, Vaderstad 6m PTO Cultivator, HRQuicke 4004 Hyd. Folding Teagle Tomahawk 4040 Bale Shredder, Mixit Lagoon Stirrer, 210 Loader 285 Flail NZ Topper (19), etc.Kuhn •Trailed 2,442ac Wheat Power Harrow, KV DXA Discs, LD85 5f Rev Plough, Kuhn VariBucket, Logic Contact 2004.7m Weed Wiper, 2009 Joskin 4300/209SDH Shallow Disc Including: 1995 Same Silver 80KV 4wd (6,800hrs), 1988 •McConnel 2,006acof3m Winter Barley Injector,153 Feed Large Quantity Electric Fencing Stakes, Reels & Fencers, Master 5fTrailer, RevExplorer Plough, Shakerator, Kverneland TL Geospread Same 70 4wd with Loader (4,700hrs),1973 Quantity ofSpreader, Feed Troughs, Various FeedSpring Buckets, Mobile Milker,Topper, Hook onBomford Buckets, • 1,557ac Barley Fertiliser Magnum EuroInternational 280 Hyd Offset Ford 4000McConnel (fully restored), 1976 454Hutches, 2wd, Various Wydale Teat Feeders, Parlour Matting, Parlour Fans, Calftel Group • 178ac Oats Our Agents will be at Hawk 6m Hedgecutter, Kuhn FC313 TG Mower Conditioner, 2 x Stewart 16-21L SM632mm DropWater Side Pipe, Silage Trailer, Markham 3t Tipping FieldMarshall & Yard Gates, Parlour Spares, Quantity of Astro Turf, • 37ac Oil Seed Rape Grain Trailers, Marshall BC25 Bale Trailer, Cattle Hurdles, Attachments (Q-Fit), Trailer, PortAgric 6’ Topper, TS59 & Poly TS90 Emergency Bulk Tank, Concrete WaterRansomes Troughs, 60ft x 30ft Tunnels. Machine Spares, Workshop Items, Weights, etc.
The Dairy Event
entries invited. & TS91 Ploughs, Further Krone AM242Z Mower Conditioner, Friday 7th July at 12 noon Feeders, Engines,2 Signs, Bygones, etc. onStationary Wednesday, October Wynford Eagle The Grain Store, Manor Farm, Wynford Eagle, Dorchester, suitable entriesfor welcome. On behalf of Testbourne (Change of Farming Policy) Please callFurther in toFarm ourPartnership stand refreshments Dorset 1298 acres of Standing Straw and to meet our rural and agricultural experts Contact Greg Ridout: 01935 382909/07817 517467 517467 Contact Gregcontact Ridout: 01935 382909/07817 Please Greg Ridout 07817 517467 • 599ac Wheat • 281ac Winter Barley • 119ac Spring Barley SALES | LETTINGS | AUCTIONS | PLANNING | NEW HOMES RESIDENTIAL | AGRICULTURAL • 229ac Oats | COMMERCIAL symondsandsampson.co.uk • 70ac Oil Seed Rape
Full catalogues available at symondsandsampson.co.uk
WeSSex MetalS SturMinSter neWton & Blandford area
Scrap Metal recycling
WANTED Scrap Metal, Cars, Heavy and Light Iron Farm and Factory Clearance Weighbridge On behalf of Spicer Partners
TOP PRICES PAID
Skips/HAIB lorry available for onsite collection
Tel 01258 860166 or 07974 822243 Online bidding available
82
New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
Property
blackmorevale.net ADVERTISING FEATURE
D O R S E T | D E V O N | S O M E R S E T | H A M P S H I R E | W I LT S H I R E | C O R N W A L L | L O N D O N
S
ymonds & Sampson’s collective property auction on 19th June raised an impressive £3 million for clients, as properties in Dorset, Devon, Somerset, and Wiltshire went under the hammer.
ON THE MOVE
Oddities among property laws... CONSIDER yourself an
With much interest in properties offered during the upstanding citizen? You could lead-in, Auction Partner Meredith Wallis expected a be breaking the law without Bowridge, Gillingham Guide £1,250,000 Hazelbury Bryan Guide £1,150,000 strong and she not disappointed. “Bidders were A fine period farmhouse insale a quiet position boasting far reachingwas views. Dating An extended and modernised period house combining character and Mappowder Guide £595,000 Marnhull Guide £525,000 even knowing it. from 1737 the farmhouse offers 3village reception rooms, 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. charm with contemporary family living quiet location a noA fine Grade II listed former Post House with attractive gardens, A character south-facing stone house in in anaexcellent centralonvillage Outside is a wonderful stone barn the with (stp), workshop, large garden and through roadawith wonderful views, land and stables. In alland about 2.40 workshop southa substantial barn/workshop and potential lovelyvariety views to the village church and offered, location with large oak-framed double garage, drawn to of lots and the geographical Armishaws Removals shines paddock, in totalcountryside. 4.13 acres. CTB E, EPC E, Freehold. Further land available. acres. CTB F, EPC D,E.Freehold. surrounding CTB E. Freehold. facing gardens. CTB Freehold. Sturminster Newton 473766 Sturminster Newton |473766 01258 473766 Sturminster Newton || 01258 472244 Sturminster |of 01258Symonds spread right across the ‘heartland’ & a light on little known property legislation. Sampson country, from East Devon to Salisbury, and You are legally required to prices remained strong throughout the sale. clearly display the house name
“The beauty of selling at our traditional style of auction or number on your property. is that when the hammer falls, we exchange contracts, The Town Police Clauses Act irrespective of whether the bids are in person, by of 1847 states that it’s illegal to telephone, or online.Guide With private Holwell £825,000 Bedchester treaty sales often Guide £810,000 hang clothes across a street. Shroton Guide £435,000 A North Cheriton OIEO An exceptional detached 5 bedroom residence, finished to an impeccable 4 bedroom house in a lovely rural location on a quiet lane with£400,000 Other laundry laws dotted standard. Set within beautifully landscaped gardens stunning wonderful far-reaching views and garden and grounds of onea acre. CTB This delightful 2-bedroom end-of-terrace cottage haswith been fully updated An attractive, double-fronted 3-bedroom period property away on taking 12 weeks or more to go through, an auction istucked countryside views, in a highly sought-after village. G, EPC B, D, Freehold. but retains great charm. It is situated in the heart ofCTB this most desirable an EPC idyllicF,country lane with character features throughout and views over Freehold. village. CTB D. Freehold. the neighbouring countryside. CTB C. Freehold. around the UK prevent drying good option.” Sturminster| Newton | 01258 473766 Sherborne | 01935 Sherborne 01935 814488 Sturminster | 01258814488 473766
clothes on balconies, hanging clothes in front gardens and hanging underwear in a Land communal garden. • Woodland at Nether Compton near Sherborne 36% It’s not just underwear in the above guide front garden that can get you in • Land at Langport on the Somerset Levels between D O R S E T | D E V O N | S O M E R S E T | H A M P S H I R E | W I LT S H I R E | C O R N W A L L | L O N D O N a twist, the same 1847 act made £5,700 and £7,000 per acre Guide £800,000 Okeford Fitzpaine Donhead St Mary Guide £775,000 it a legal requirement that pigs Nr Sturminster Newton Guide Price £1,100,000 Leigh OIEO £500,000 A particularly spacious family house with 3500 sq ft of accommodation An attractive and beautifully restored Grade II listed former farmhouse Tucked away down through lane is this extended and very well A tastefully 4-bedroom house with light andwith spacious • Land at Shaftesbury 83.6% above over three floors in aa no quiet location with wonderful far-reaching views with plenty improved of charm guide and original village character features along a 100’ kept in front of a property must presented 4 bedroom country home with stable yard & paddocks, in total accommodation, set in attractive gardens and backing onto farmland. over the Wiltshire/Dorset countryside. CTB G, EPD D, Freehold. garden in the heart of the village. CTB F, EPC Exempt, Freehold. 4.11 acres. CTB E.Freehold, No onward chain. CTB F. Freehold. • Development land at Crewkerne 12% above guide Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766 Sherborne | 01935 814488 be ‘shut out from such street by Sturminster | 01258 473766 Sturminster | 01258 473766 a sufficient wall or fence’. Cottages for renovation Old covenants can be pesky. • Beer, Devon R E S I D E N T£188,000 I A L | A G R I C U LT U R A L | C O M M E RC I A L Chancel Repair Liability – • Shillingstone, Dorset £397,000 dating back to the Medieval • Stour Row, Dorset £350,000 period – makes the homeowner Bowridge, Gillingham Guide £1,250,000 Hazelbury Bryan Guide £1,150,000 •thefarmhouse Sixpenny Handley, Wiltshire 6% above A fine period in a quiet position boasting far reaching views. Dating extended and modernisedguide period house combining character and Mappowder Guide £595,000 An Marnhull Guide £525,000 liable to contribute towards from 1737 farmhouse offers 3village reception rooms, 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. charm with contemporary family living quiet location a noA fine Grade II listed former Post House with attractive gardens, A character south-facing stone house in in anaexcellent centralonvillage Outside is a wonderful stone barn with (stp), workshop, largechurch garden and through roadawith views, land and stables. In alland about 2.40 workshop southa substantial barn/workshop and potential lovely views to the village and location with largewonderful oak-framed double garage, repairs to their parish church. paddock, in totalcountryside. 4.13 acres. CTB E, EPC E, Freehold. Further land available. acres. CTB F, EPC D,E.Freehold. surrounding CTB E. Freehold. facing gardens. CTB Freehold. Bungalows Sturminster Newton Sturminster Newton 01258 473766 Sturminster Newton || 01258 473766 472244 Sturminster | 01258 |473766 For property owners in • Netherbury, Bridport £310,000 London, it’s illegal to fire a • Verwood £300,000 cannon within 300 yards of any Commercial private dwelling. “Freddie! • Salisbury 27.5% above guide What have I told you about firing that thing at the Symonds & Sampson’s property auctions are held neighbours?!?” monthly throughout 2026, and we invite entries for It’s illegal to open mail Holwell Guide £825,000 Bedchester Guide £810,000 Shroton Guide £435,000 North Cheriton OIEO An exceptional detached 5 bedroom residence, finished to anin impeccable A 4 bedroom house in a lovely rural location onand a quiet lane with£400,000 ourSet upcoming auctions Sherborne, Wimborne, standard. within beautifully landscaped gardens wonderful far-reaching views3-bedroom and gardenperiod and grounds of tucked one acre. CTB This delightful 2-bedroom end-of-terrace cottage haswith beenstunning fully updated An attractive, double-fronted property away onaddressed to someone else, even countryside views, in a highly sought-after village. G, EPC B, but retains great charm. It is situated in the heart ofCTB this most desirable idyllicF,country lane with character features throughout and views over Axminster throughout the year.D,antheEPC ToFreehold. discuss how this fast Freehold. village. CTB D. Freehold. neighbouring countryside. CTB C. Freehold. if it arrives at your property.
Amongst the notable prices achieved were:
Sherborne | 01935 Sturminster | 01258814488 473766 and efficient method of sale might work for you, please do get in touch with Mark Lewis or Meredith Wallis on 01258 473766.
Sturminster| Newton | 01258 473766 Sherborne 01935 814488
Guide £800,000 Donhead St Mary Nr Sturminster Newton Guide Price £1,100,000 A particularly spacious family house with 3500 sq ft of accommodation Tucked away down through lane is this extended and very well over three floors in aa no quiet location with wonderful far-reaching views presented 4 bedroom country home with stable yard & paddocks, over the Wiltshire/Dorset countryside. CTB G, EPD D, Freehold. in total 4.11 acres. CTB E.Freehold, Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766 Sturminster | 01258 473766
Okeford Fitzpaine Guide £775,000 Leigh OIEO £500,000 An attractive and beautifully restored Grade II listed former farmhouse A tastefully 4-bedroom house with light andwith spacious with plenty improved of charm and original village character features along a 100’ accommodation, set in attractive gardens and backing onto farmland. garden in the heart of the village. CTB F, EPC Exempt, Freehold. No onward chain. CTB F. Freehold. Sherborne | 01935 814488 Sturminster | 01258 473766
R E S I D E N T I A L | A G R I C U LT U R A L | C O M M E RC I A L
While it’s not an offence to practise your BGT audition in the shower, if your singing disturbs the neighbours, you could be served a noise abatement notice under the Environmental Protection Act 1990. Leaving furniture or items outside your property, even those marked ‘free’ for people to take, is legally considered fly-tipping and could land you a fine. The Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005 makes it illegal to turn on a burglar alarm unless you have appointed a ‘nominated key holder’. This is aimed at preventing house alarms ringing continuously while the owner is away. Having a fancy dress moving in party? Better give the camo suit a miss. The Seamen’s and Soldiers’ False Character Act 1906 means it’s an offence to impersonate a member of the armed forces and can carry a three-month sentence. Under common law, property owners have a right to receive natural light through their windows ‘if they’ve enjoyed uninterrupted light for 20 years’. This prevents property developers or neighbours building anything that blocks your windows. More QI house facts can be found at Armishaws.com/blog Leaving furniture or items outside your property, even those marked ‘free’ for people to take, is legally considered fly-tipping
New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
83
Property
blackmorevale.net
D O R S E T | D E V O N | S O M E R S E T | H A M P S H I R E | W I LT S H I R E | C O R N W A L L | L O N D O N
Mappowder Guide £595,000 A fine Grade II listed former village Post House with attractive gardens, a substantial barn/workshop and lovely views to the village church and surrounding countryside. CTB E. Freehold. Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Marnhull Guide £525,000 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
Horsington Guide £1,850,000 An immaculately presented period 4-bedroom farmhouse in a private position with two holiday cottages, stone barns, a Dutch barn incorporating stables and pastureland. In all 26.25 acres Freehold. CTB F. EPC D. Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244
Shroton Guide £435,000 This delightful 2-bedroom end-of-terrace cottage has been fully updated but retains great charm. It is situated in the heart of this most desirable village. CTB D. Freehold. Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
North Cheriton OIEO £400,000 An attractive, double-fronted 3-bedroom period property tucked away on an idyllic country lane with character features throughout and views over the neighbouring countryside. CTB C. Freehold. Sherborne | 01935 814488
Iwerne Minster GuideOIEO £1,100,000 Nr Sturminster Newton Guide Price £1,100,000 Leigh £500,000 ATucked well-presented 5-bedroom bungalow with grounds and ponds situated in avillage peaceful position within this away down a nodetached through lane is this extended and very well A tastefully improved 4-bedroom house with light and spacious presentedvillage. 4 bedroom country home with stable yard & paddocks, in total accommodation, set in attractive gardens and backing onto farmland.use. popular Currently a commercial trout farm, but suitable for alternative commercial, lifestyle or residential 4.11 acres. CTB E.Freehold, No onward chain. CTB F. Freehold. In all 5.32 acres. Freehold. CTB F. EPC E. Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766 Sherborne | 01935 814488 Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244
R E S I D E N T I A L | A G R I C U LT U R A L | C O M M E RC I A L
84
New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
Property
blackmorevale.net
THURSDAY JULY S H I RAT E 2:00PM | C O R N WA L L | LO N D O N D O R S E T | D E V O N | PROPERTY S O M E R S AUCTION ET | HAM P S H I R E 23 | W I LT2026 AT MERLEY HOUSE, MERLEY HOUSE LANE, WIMBORNE, DORSET, BH21 3AA
Freehold land for sale: • 0.8 acres at Hayle, Cornwall – Guide £20,000 - £40,000 • 0.5 acres at Southover Dorchester £30,000 • 2.87 acres at Colehill, Wimborne – Guide £55,000 • 0.29 acres – Poole - Guide £60,000 • 3.29 acres at Penzance – Guide £80,000 • 5.78 acres at Gillingham – Guide £125,000 • 17.55 acres a Frampton – Guide £150,000 • Garage/workshop on 0.03 acres in Yarcombe – Guide £50,000
Swanage Guide £50,000 & £70,000
Bridport
Wimborne | 01202 843190
Bridport | 01308 422092
1 bedroom first floor flat of non-standard construction & 2 bedroom first floor flat of non-standard construction. Leasehold. New 125 year lease on completion. SC £2.60 pa. BI £90pa. SF £693.17 pa. CTB A. EPC C.
Guide £160,000
This well-maintained second floor apartment offers 2 bedrooms, a private balcony and off road parking. Leasehold. 977 year lease. SC £1454.50 pa. GR £250pa. CTB A. EPC E.
Mappowder Guide £595,000 A fine Grade II listed former village Post House with attractive gardens, a substantial barn/workshop and lovely views to the village church and surrounding countryside. CTB E. Freehold. Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Marnhull Guide £525,000 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
Isle Abbotts
Bishopstone
Guide £140,000
A spacious semi-detached 2 bedroom period cottage enjoying an idyllic rural setting and offering scope for further improvement. Freehold. CTB B. EPC E. Ilminster | 01460 200790
Isle Abbotts
Guide £160,000
A spacious semi-detached 3 bedroom period cottage enjoying an idyllic rural setting and offering scope for further improvement. Freehold. CTB C. EPC E. Ilminster | 01460 200790
Guide £225,000
A charming 2 bedroom mid terrace cottage requiring modernisation in a private rural location set in 0.21 acres. Freehold. CTB B. EPC G. Salisbury | 01722 334323
Bishopstone
Guide £250,000
A charming 2 bedroom end terrace cottage requiring modernisation in a private rural location. Set in 0.44 acres and benefitting from off road parking. Freehold. CTB B. EPC F. Salisbury | 01722 334323
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. Corfe CastleNewton Guide £250,000 Guide £250,000 Sturminster | 01258 473766Corfe Castle A delightful 2 bed cottage nestled at the foot of Corfe Castle, with garden and outbuilding. Grade II listed. Freehold. CTB C. EPC E.
A charming Grade II listed, 2 bed 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.
North Cheriton OIEO £400,000 An attractive, double-fronted 3-bedroom period property tucked away on an idyllic country lane with character features throughout and views over the neighbouring countryside. CTB C. Freehold. Buckland St Mary £360,000 Shillingstone Guide £495,000 Sherborne | 01935Guide 814488 Set in 2.39 acres on the edge of the picturesque Blackdown Hills, this individual detached property offers versatile accommodation, with 4/5 bedrooms. Freehold. CTB E. EPC E.
A substantial 5 bedroom property of over 3,876 sqft. with scope for modernisation, in gardens and grounds of about 0.65 acres. Freehold. CTB G. EPC E.
Wimborne | 01202 843190
Wimborne | 01202 843190
Ilminster | 01460 200790
Blandford | 01258 452670
Devizes Guide £140,000 Swanage Guide £225,000 Nr Sturminster Newton Guide PriceA £1,100,000 Converted in 2008 from a warehouse, mixed use property comprising a retail this office spacedown offersaano reception a 1 bedroom Tucked away through lane isunit thisand extended andmaisonette, very well situated area, meeting open plan offices, in the townyard centre, a potential presented 4 rooms, bedroom country home with stable &with paddocks, in income total kitchenette WCc. GIA 1,901 sq ft. of £20,000 per annum. Freeehold. RV 4.11 acres.and CTB E.Freehold, Freehold. No current RV. EPC E Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766£3,550. CTB A. EPC E (Shop) and D (flat). Devizes | 01380 710535
Wimborne | 012020 843190
Beaminster Guide £325,000 Weymouth Guide £700,000 Leigh OIEO £500,000 An attractive mixed-use, grade II listed A versatile character property with stunning investment a village seahouse views, offering for residential A tastefullyopportunity improvedcomprising 4-bedroom with potential light and spacious fully let restaurant and 3 gardens redevelopment STPP. Containing a 90-cover accommodation, set residential in attractive and backing onto farmland. bedroom flat.chain. Freehold. RVF.£11,750. No onward CTB Freehold. restaurant with outdoor seating and 2-bedroom CTB B. EPC B (restaurant) and D (flat). owner’s flat. Freehold. RV £58,500. CTB B. EPC C. Sherborne | 01935 814488 Dorchester Commercial | 01305 261008
Dorchester Commercial | 01305 261008
R E S I D E N T I A L | A G R I C U LT U R A L | C O M M E RC I A L
New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
85
Property
blackmorevale.net
D O R S E T | D E V O N | S O M E R S E T | H A M P S H I R E | W I LT S H I R E | C O R N W A L L | L O N D O N
Okeford Fitzpaine Guide £1,200,000 Mappowder Guide £595,000 A fine Grade II listed 18c farmhouse with notable historic extensions set A fine Grade II listed former village Post House with attractive gardens, within south and west facing gardens to the rear, Coach House and further a substantial barn/workshop and lovely views to the village church and parking on the edge of this excellent village. Freehold. CTB: G; EPC exempt. surrounding countryside. CTB E. Freehold. Sturminster Newton || 01258 473766 Sturminster Newton 01258 473766
Manston Guide £875,000 Marnhull Guide £525,000 A semi detached stone cottage, significantly extended with stunning A character south-facing stone house in an excellent central village views, large workshop, garden and land in a lovely rural location. location with a large oak-framed double garage, workshop and southIn all 1.35 acres. Freehold. CTB D; EPC D. facing gardens. CTB E. Freehold. Sturminster Newton|| 01258 01258473766 473766 Sturminster Newton
Marnhull Guide £750,000 Shroton Guide £435,000 An impressive and substantial bungalow in the heart of Marnhull This delightful 2-bedroom end-of-terrace cottage has been fully updated situated on a private road, whilst set back along its own driveway and but retains great charm. It is situated in the heart of this most desirable surrounded by its own gardens. Freehold. CTB G; EPC D. village. CTB D. Freehold.
Bourton Guide £650,000 North Cheriton OIEO £400,000 A handsome Victorian house with more recent rear extension offering An attractive, double-fronted 3-bedroom period property tucked away on spacious and well laid out family accommodation. an idyllic country lane with character features throughout and views over Freehold. CTB F; countryside. EPC D. the neighbouring CTB C. Freehold.
Sturminster Newton || 01258 473766 473766 Sturminster Newton
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766 Sherborne | 01935 814488
Lydlinch Guide £650,000 Nr Sturminster Newton Guide Price £1,100,000 An extended and versatile detached five bedroom house setwell back from Tucked away down a no through lane is this extended and very the road with the backdrop ofhome a private with&views of theinhills presented 4 bedroom country withgarden stable yard paddocks, total beyond. Freehold. CTB F; EPC E. 4.11 acres. CTB E.Freehold, Sturminster Newton Sturminster Newton || 01258 473766 473766
Sturminster Newton Guide £385,000 Leigh OIEO £500,000 A delightful and renovated cottage with low maintenance south facing A tastefully improved 4-bedroom village house with light and spacious garden, ideal for set entertaining, and parking onbacking a driveway. accommodation, in attractive gardens and onto farmland. Freehold. D;CTB EPCF.B.Freehold. No onwardCTB chain. Sherborne | 01935 814488 Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
R E S I D E N T I A L | A G R I C U LT U R A L | C O M M E RC I A L
86
New Blackmore Vale, July 3, 2026
Property
blackmorevale.net +
TO LET BUSINESS UNIT 1970 sq ft in Buckland Newton: 07977-773994 CHARMING 2 BEDROOM COACH HOUSE AVAILABLE rent free in exchange for taking daily care of animals. Also some dog walking and taking care of 2 dogs during the week and for longer periods whilst the owner is on holiday. This would suit a single person or a couple who are retired or someone working from home. Genuine love of animals essential, sorry, no pets. Beaminster area. Please message me on: 07837109417
Removals throughout Dorset and beyond
BEDSITS and ROOMS TO LET in Tisbury. Please call: 07887-973627
Call us now – 0808 175 1966
STORAGE BARNS, SHEDS AND CONCRETE PADS available for storage. Stalbridge, Henstridge & Templecombe. 07980-584550.
Advertising made
simple
01963 400186 adverts@blackmorevale.net
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138
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(from pages 28-29)
Edition 151
Sudoku 3D puzzle
Cryptic crossword
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S Y L P H A B I L I T Y I R E U O I R E C E I V E R T O G A L D E E T H E D G I E R A D O P T C Y U L A B U T S I C S O Y A E O R I D I S C O A S L E E P R I F T L T B O O R T W I L I G H T O E E C E I E M I N E N T W R E C K
9
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B Y D C E U P L E A S E E A T I N G E N F N C I S M U G I N S P E C T S I N O T Y A S Y M M E T R I E S H I R A P L A C E O F A R M S O I I B I RESULT R O U T I N E S G E A R M A E E A B E P O N Y M S E T T L E RESULT H T A S E E
T A A B L E A N U
R O A S U G A A R C G N W D N T I W R Y L R A E Y N Y A E A T S D I B A L G N N I H L K Y H L E R L A R N I I L R L C E E E D I G L D T N C S E O O N R K G I N N O A Y A O I W D D A A L L S I I W C R G O N U U P U A D I T T R A A A G A D R I Q I R B N I D E M R N T Y A S H L A E A T L A M I B T I N T T R D T O U I L T M E A I C R R T A D T C B N E I I T M E A A Y C R L C C O G D C L W S I E I T D I A U U W C E G G I R N A N C U E D I R G R R T R
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THE DORSET OPERA
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