The New Blackmore Vale - Issue 154

Edition 154

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Friday, August 14, 2026

The New Blackmore Vale www.blackmorevale.net

Tractors old and new take part in charity drive for hospicecare WORKING LUNCH Women’s Institute marks a busy summer in the Vale Page 22

TRACTORS ROLL FOR HOSPICE

THE HEAT IS ON Runners endure record weather in half marathon Page 10

FULL STORY:

PAGE 20

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CREATIVE COMMUNITY Town celebrates next year as Dorset culture capital Page 3

What’s inside this issue…

• Main pic: The Countryside Regeneration Trust has an action-packed summer planned page 5 • Above: Bryanston Riding for the Disabled marks anniversary page 9 • Left: Shaftesbury dancers sweep the board at national level page 6

Announcements Antiques & Collectables Arts & Entertainment Church Events Farming Field & Stream Food & Drink Health & Wellbeing Home & Garden Items For Sale

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

61-64 41-43 44-46 40-41 46-47 78-81 77 66-67 68-69 48-53 76

Letters Local Services Motoring Pets Politics Property Puzzles Recruitment Sport Wanted

32-33 53-60 70-71 72-73 36-39 82-86 34-35 64-65 74-75 76

ADVERTISING Debi Thorne Sales Director Debi.thorne@blackmorevale.net 07714 289409 Rachelle Cooper Classified Adverts Manager adverts@blackmorevale.net 01963 400186

ONLINE : www.blackmorevale.net ADDRESS: 3 Alfred's Way, Wincanton, Somerset, BA9 9RU

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

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Sherborne officially unveiled as the Dorset Town of Culture 2027 SHERBORNE has been officially crowned the Dorset Town of Culture 2027.

The historic town has been recognised by the Arts Development Company, which hailed its “vibrant creative community” and a “bold vision” set out in its bid for the accolade.

In the town’s bid for the title, officials vowed to “showcase, strengthen and share its unique cultural identity while creating a lasting legacy that benefits residents and visitors alike”.

“The programme aims to open up new opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to engage with arts and heritage, fostering collaboration, innovation and pride,” a Dorset Council spokesperson said.

“This programme also aligns closely with Dorset’s Cultural Strategy, particularly the priority of creating vibrant places, using culture to strengthen communities and enhance quality of life.”

The win means in 2027, Sherborne will

deliver a programme of events highlighting both its history and its forward-looking ambitions, Dorset Council went on.

“From festivals and exhibitions to community-led initiatives, the year will bring people together, uncover hidden talents and strengthen partnerships across

Dorset,” they added.

“Sherborne’s historic character, defined by its iconic Abbey and medieval streets, provides a stunning backdrop for cultural activity.

“Alongside this rich history, Sherborne boasts a thriving arts scene. Festivals, galleries and creative enterprises are at the heart of Sherborne’s community life.”

Events set to feature include the Sherborne Travel Writing Festival and Sherborne PRIDE, alongside exhibitions at The Sherborne venue and the upcoming World Book Day Children’s Reading Festival in March 2027.

The town chiefs said they are “already laying the groundwork for 2027, with plans to establish a Community Cultural Partnership that will guide and support the programme”.

“This collaborative approach will ensure that the Town of Culture year reflects the voices and aspirations of the whole community.”

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New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Photo © David Martin / geograph.org.uk

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Action-packed autumn EAST Dorset Heritage Trust promises an autumn calendar of events to pique the interest of even the most seasoned historian.

A programme of talks includes ‘One Century – Two Pandemics’, ‘A Spy Descended from Royalty’ and ‘Jack the Ripper’. One, about the life of a falconer, includes live birds of prey, up close!

Organisers are looking forward to a coach trip to The Newt in Somerset, and a November visit to Hook Court near Sherborne.

Guided walks through the stunning countryside of East or West Dorset offer the chance to fill your lungs and stretch your legs.

Crafty types can take their pick from crochet, painting or pottery throwing courses, all starting in September. One-off workshops include lino print, gel print, willow weaving, sea

glass art and needle felting.

Preparations for a crafty Christmas ramp up in November.

The annual quiz, held in December, is always a fun afternoon of laughter and camaraderie.

Modern languages, creative writing, literature appreciation and IT sessions also feature.

Gift vouchers are available for that certain someone who’s impossible to buy for!

Call in to Allendale House (Wimborne, BH21 1AS) to pick up a paper copy of the autumn programme, or find out more online at www.edht.org.uk.

Email info@edht.org.uk or call 01202 888992.

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Stay connected with your rural crime team DORSET Police’s rural crime team will continue to be out and about this month, enabling you to meet local officers, discuss concerns, and receive advice on protecting your property, livestock, machinery and land.

The team is continuing its regular community contact points every Wednesday, with pop-up visits in August.

These are a chance to share concerns with your local rural crime team, get practical crime prevention advice and hear about current local issues and police activity.

Community contact points

are held regularly at: • First Wednesday of the month, 2-3pm at Mole Country Stores, Dorchester.

• Second Wednesday of the month, 2-3pm at Co-op, Alderholt.

• Third Wednesday of the month, 2-3pm at Mole Country Stores, Gillingham.

• Fourth Wednesday of the month, 2-3pm at Holme for Gardens, West Holme.

A pop-up summer contact point is happening on Thursday, August 27, from 2-3pm at Dike & Sons, Stalbridge.

People poetry SHAFTESBURY writer and host of the town’s ‘Words Underground’ poetry reading sessions, Richard Foreman, is launching his new book, Beholders – a collection of 38 poems on the subject of people and their works.

The launch will take place on August 29, between 2pm and 4pm, in the Garden Room at Shaftesbury Museum.

Richard will read from the book at 2.30pm and 3.30pm.

With wine, soft drinks and nibbles available throughout, it’s a drop-in affair, with opportunities to buy the book and, if you wish, to get it signed.

Richard Foreman reads from Beholders at Shaftesbury’s 2026 Fringe Festival

Come and hear for yourself poems whose range of human topics stretches from car park attendants to kora players, eccentric Elizabethans to peculiar Spanish waiters.

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Summer of fun down on the farm THE Countryside Regeneration Trust (CRT) has announced a varied programme of summer events at Bere Marsh Farm, near Shillingstone, inviting local people to enjoy wildlife, farming and the countryside through hands-on activities, guided walks and community events.

A Cyanotype workshop will take place on Saturday, August 15, from 10.30am3.30pm. This is a photographic printing method that produces images with a distinctive Prussian-blue colour.

Prints are made by applying a lightsensitive solution to paper and then placing objects on top to mask the UV light from the prepared paper. When the paper is exposed to UV light the areas turn blue.

A creative workshop teaching willow weaving garden sculptures runs on Sunday, August 16, from 9.30am to 4pm with willow artist and basket maker Yanina Stockings.

Participants will learn how the willow is grown, harvested and processed, and learn several key weaving techniques to produce their own garden sculpture. Some of the willow available to use was planted in 2021 at Bere Marsh Farm.

On Thursday, August 27, from 10am1pm, an inaugural Moth Tetra Pak printing workshop will take place with Arty Genny at the farm’s Threshing Barn. The printmaking workshop will give participants the opportunity to observe the 25 moth species recorded at Bere Marsh Farm and select ones they would like for their prints.

Tetra Pak is the brand of carton packaging used for milks and juices, among other things. The interior of the carton is foil-lined and makes a versatile printing plate. The bonus is being able to upcycle something that is usually discarded with the rubbish.

The summer programme concludes with

the Farmers and Makers Market on Saturday, September 5, from 11am-3pm, showcasing local produce with The Buzz Café open selling tea, coffee and soft drinks as well as cakes made by CRT volunteers.

Farm estate manager Hannah Bosence said: “We are delighted to be able to offer such a varied summer programme of events this season. These activities are a great way for people to connect with nature, learn more about how the farm is managed for wildlife, get creative and enjoy spending time outdoors.

“We’re really excited about our new Tetra Pak session, as well as all the other events we have on through the summer.

We’re also excited about welcoming lots of producers to our farmers and makers market.”

The CRT will also continue its weekly Friday Farm walk, a free event from 2pm-3pm, led by Hannah and other experts.

Booking is not necessary, just turn up on the day.

Bere Marsh Farm is owned by the Countryside Regeneration Trust, a charity working to promote nature-friendly farming.

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New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

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blackmorevale.net Berwick St John Country Fayre 2024 PHOTO: Spencer Mulholland

Ready to ramble?

GILLINGHAM Walking Festival (GWF) is a week of guided walks of varying lengths, open to all and free to everyone.

This year’s festival takes place from August 29 to September 5, organised by Walkers are Welcome. Walk leaders are all volunteers.

More information can be found on the Gillingham Walkers are Welcome website www.gillwalkersarewelcome.chessck. co.uk/WalkingFestival.

Fair’s (country) fair Dancing all the HUGE crowds from across the country and even further afield are expected at the biennial, weekend-long Berwick St John Country Fair.

The event, on Saturday and Sunday, September 19-20, features steam engines, vintage tractors, dog show, rural crafts, beer and tea tents, heavy horses and classic cars.

Southern Counties Auctioneers will also be conducting a live auction.

Ahead of the fair, an evening of live music – and a beer tent – will be on offer on Friday, September 18, 6pm-11.30pm.

A dedicated committee of volunteers runs the fair with support from village residents and the local community.

The event is held between the village of Berwick St John and

the A30 at SP7 0EX (what3words/// vote.awakening. glides) and entry is by donation in aid of the Stars Appeal, Salisbury Hospital’s charity.

The fair is open 10am11.30pm on the Saturday and 10am-4pm on the Sunday.

This year the Stars Appeal aims to raise £2 million to fund projects across the hospital.

That includes new equipment such as a mammogram machine for the Breast Unit, enhancements to buildings, and ongoing projects across the hospital, including support for people with cancer, a dedicated play assistant on the Children’s Unit and Stars Appeal Wi-Fi. For more information about the fair, visit www. berwickstjohncountryfayre. co.uk.

way to the top DANCERS from the Caron Parry School of Dance in Shaftesbury stepped up to success at the 50th iteration of an annual dance competition featuring some of the best dancers from across the UK. Samuel Turner, 16, and Samantha Pearcey, 18, entered 12 events and won every one over two days of the six-day Dance Promoters Association Summer Festival, featuring the UK Closed Championships, at Bournemouth International Centre.

Summer Hart (pictured centre) also made all her finals dancing in the under-14 category.

A walk around… Hanford Photo © Mike Faherty / geograph.org.uk

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

THIS is a short walk of less than three miles but includes some steep hills, natural wildlife and wonderful views. I recommend taking with you a stick to assist on the hills, a set of pictures to enable you to identify butterflies as they flutter by and a sketch pad and pencil so you can sit and really appreciate the landscape as you draw it.

Start at the small car park at Nutcombe Wood where there’s a National Trust notice board with a map of the area and useful information. Join the bridleway heading south east up the hill – this is Hod Hill, with an Iron Age hill fort on top, later added to by the Romans. You’ll be on access land, so you don’t have to stick to the path but can zig zag your way up the slope if you find that easier.

When you reach the ramparts of the fort, turn left and head east along the parish boundary which follows the ramparts. After a while you might like to pause, appreciate and sketch the view to the north. Then carry on to the bend where you join a slope down heading south east. You’ll soon come to a fence which you follow

until you meet an entrance/exit, where you can join a bridleway that takes you downhill to the north.

Near the bottom it runs close to the main road for a while and then crosses the minor road back to Hampton.

Cross the road and head uphill, northwards. At the top of the field, where a power line runs overhead, turn left going steeply uphill until you’re getting close to a barn at the top. There are good views of Hod Hill.

Turn left and follow the Stour Valley Way downhill alongside a wild flower meadow down to the road at Keeper’s Lodge where you turn right – within a furlong your car will be in sight.

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

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Have your say on the Road closure future of policing in Dorset A BUSY Somerset road is to close later this month for roadworks – affecting a popular bus route.

Travellers are being warned of disruption when Station Road, in Wincanton, closes between August 17 and 21 to allow Wessex Water to carry out connection works.

Ahead of the closure, bus operator South West Coaches has warned passengers of changes to the 667 service.

“During this closure, services will not serve Mount Carmel School, Station Road, and Wincanton Market Place,” a spokesperson said.

“Passengers can use the alternative stop at Wincanton Memorial Hall.”

Anyone with questions about the bus route in Wincanton should contact South West Coaches on 01935 475872.

“Apologies for the inconvenience,” the spokesperson added.

Winter is coming

BLACKMORE Vale Lions Club is collecting money for two projects in Ukraine, in preparation for another winter at war.

The first is to purchase and deliver certified woodburning and multi-fuel stoves (each one costs about £125).

The second is Baby Life Line Midwife Home Birth Bags. These enable midwives to be fully equipped to help babies arrive anywhere (each one costs about £1,000).

To make a direct donation to BV Lions please leave your details on 0345 833 7423 or https:// bvlions.yolasite.com.

DORSET police and crime commissioner David Sidwick has launched a survey to gather the views of Dorset residents on the future of policing in the county.

It follows the Government’s announcement that it will consider changes to the way

policing is organised across England and Wales.

“Any future decisions should take account of the views and priorities of local communities,” said David. “I would encourage residents, businesses and community groups across Dorset to take a few minutes to

share their thoughts.”

Responses will help build a picture of public opinion and ensure Dorset’s perspective is reflected in conversations.

The survey is open until September 7 at www. surveymonkey.com/r/ PoliceReformDA.

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New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

National Trust / Sophie Bolesworth

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Step into summer with the NT GARDENS and historic properties across Dorset are looking tip-top and ready to welcome visitors…

Kingston Lacy

Stourhead

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/wiltshire/ stourhead Walks and talks tours: Stretch your legs on a guided walk around Stourhead’s wider estate and enjoy routes that highlight the beauty of changing seasons.

25 September, 11am-1pm. Free event (normal admissions apply). Booking not required.

Wellbeing wanders: Meet new people and join a gentle health and wellbeing walk in beautiful surroundings. Enjoy the social atmosphere and make a connection with nature.

Tuesdays and Thursdays (until November), Times on website. Free event.

Booking required.

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

Until November, 9.30am-4.30pm. Price: £2 per trail booklet (normal admissions apply). Booking not required.

Tree zodiac exhibition: Inspired by an ancient Celtic zodiac rooted in the 13 lunar months, each associated with a different tree or plant, Luke Adam Hawker has created a series of 3 intricate etchings that explore personality traits drawn from the character and symbolism of each species.

Until November, 9.30am-4.30pm. Free event (normal admissions apply). Booking not required.

Trust 10: Stourhead’s Trust10 10k trail run

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

September 27, 9am-11am. Free event.

Booking not required.

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

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

Forage and cook course: A crash course that covers everything from identification, to preparation and cooking of wild food from Stourhead’s beautiful wider estate.

September 20 and 27, 10am-4pm. £70pp (normal admissions apply). Booking required.

Kingston Lacy

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/ kingston-lacy Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution Trail: Calling Pokémon fans new and old! Get active outdoors on the Pokémon Trading Card Game Mega Evolution Trail. Team up as a family to search the woodlands for each Mega Evolution Pokémon, discover their powers and complete your own challenges.

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

Kingston Lacy social walks: Discover the ever changing Kingston Lacy woodlands and countryside and have the opportunity to meet new people on these gentle strolls, ranging from 3-4 miles (around 1.5 hours).

September 15, 10am-11.30am. Free event. Booking required.

Japanese garden tours: Discover how Japanese horticulture techniques extend beyond the traditional tea garden, and experience this beautiful English interpretation of a Japanese garden.

September 30, 11.30am-12.30pm and 2-3pm. Free event (normal admissions apply). Booking not required.

Rani Lacy: revealing an Indian treasure: Explore the culture, craftsmanship and creativity surrounding one of the National Trust’s greatest treasures: the Visakhapatnam cabinet.

September 1 to October 23, 10.30am3pm. Free event (normal admissions apply).

Booking not required.

Kingston Lacy

Japanese tea garden experience: Enjoy an exclusive tour of the Japanese Tea Garden with one of Kingston Lacy’s gardeners, before sitting down to enjoy tasters of Japanese tea in this peaceful spot.

September 12, 11am-12noon and 1-2pm. £25pp (normal admissions apply). Booking not required.

Hardy’s Cottage

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/ hardys-cottage Hardy’s Cottage to Max Gate (return): A free guided walk from Thomas Hardy’s birthplace to Max Gate, the house Hardy designed, built and lived in until he died.

September 19, 10.15am-3pm. Free event.

Booking required.

Max Gate

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/ hardys-house-max-gate Walking in the paw prints of Wessex: Walk some of the pathways loved by Thomas Hardy and his pet dog. This walk was a favourite of Thomas Hardy, which he regularly did with his faithful companion, Wessex the dog. Join NT volunteers for a 2.5-mile stroll through the countryside near Hardy’s home, Max Gate, to the resting place of William Barnes, the Dorset poet.

Individuals and families welcome, dogs are optional but must be kept on a short lead!

September 29, 1.30pm-3.30pm. Free event. Booking required.

Clouds Hill

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/ clouds-hill TE Lawrence walk: Learn about TE Lawrence and visit important local landmarks which are connected to his life on a 4.5 mile walk around Moreton to Clouds Hill.

September 10, 10am-1.30pm. Free event (normal admissions apply). Booking required.

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

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Teddy bears stage library takeover

CHILDREN can take part in a teddy bears’ picnic at Shaftesbury Library today (Friday, August 14).

They can bring their favourite teddy to a fun-filled summer picnic at the library, sharing stories and rhymes with their cuddly companions. Don’t forget the snacks!

From 11am-noon, the picnic is suitable for children of any age, but those under eight must be accompanied by an adult.

For more details email shaftesburylibrary@dorsetcouncil. gov.uk or phone 01747 852256.

Back in the saddle

Photo: Roy Hartwell HALF a century on from the founding of Bryanston Riding for the Disabled by Val Cowley, volunteers past and present, together with riders and friends, gathered at The Bryanston Powerhouse to mark the group’s anniversary.

The group is rare, because it specifically caters for adult riders of all abilities from across Dorset. It meets on Monday mornings at the Bryanston School equestrian centre, and is actively seeking more volunteers to help with sessions, as well as anyone who can provide and transport a suitable horse for their use each week.

Call Peter Gray on 07775 741116 for more information.

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What a scorcher! Half marathon dodges flood only to hit heatwave

by Tim Otter

IF anyone knows an effective weather dance to ward off torrential rain in the lead up to February 2027’s Blackmore Vale Half Marathon, will you please do it now to prevent flooding the course again.

Postponing and rearranging the event from February until the first available date – July 12, believe it or not – two years on the trot is a major undertaking for a small organisation like the Blackmore Vale Lions. It’s very difficult for the runners too, playing havoc with their preparation, and all the other moving parts, including race staff, officials and helpers.

Over 170 runners took part on a scorching hot day, with not much breeze either, in and around Bishop’s Caundle. To their eternal credit all who

started the half marathon and associated fun run completed them. The race started earlier to reduce exposure to the heat of the day, and lots of heat mitigation measures were in place to safeguard the runners.

More water stations, water spray guns and cold sponges around the course, and at the finish – towels soaked in cold water and lots of cool energy drinks to take the heat away and rehydrate.

In the circumstances, the times were impressive. The men’s winner was Joshua Cole of Bournemouth AC in a time of 1hr 18m 58s; the ladies winner was Victoria Pie of Egdon Heath Harriers in 1hr 33m 02s – both really creditable times.

The team prizes (best three runners) went to Egdon Heath Harriers (ladies) and Twemlow

Egdon Heath Harriers Ladies with Samantha and their prizes

Track Club (men).

The Lions would like to thank the runners, our sponsors, the parish council and residents of Bishop’s Caundle and surrounding villages for putting up with the

intrusion on a quiet Sunday morning and allowing us to use the facilities.

Then there are the volunteers and helpers who made the whole thing happen.

Their efforts and contributions are indispensable.

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One of Dorset’s finest dining experiences…

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Where exceptional food is part of exceptional care.

For many people considering residential care, one of the greatest concerns is that mealtimes become something to endure rather than enjoy.

At Millbrook House, we believe mealtimes should be one of the highlights of every day.

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Having trained in a prestigious AA Rosette hotel before owning and running his own successful restaurant for over two decades, Kris brings the standards, creativity and passion of professional dining to every meal he prepares.

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• Wines, beers and spirits for those who wish to enjoy them • Freshly percolated coffee served throughout the day

From beautifully cooked British classics to Mediterranean, Italian and contemporary dishes, every menu is freshly prepared using quality ingredients and, whenever possible, vegetables, herbs and fruit grown in our own gardens.

Every menu is thoughtfully prepared around individual tastes and dietary requirements, without ever compromising on flavour, presentation or choice.

More than a meal... an experience.

“Knowing how much residents look forward to mealtimes and seeing them enjoy the food makes every day worthwhile.”

Kris – Head Chef

At Millbrook House, dining is about so much more than food.

Mealtimes are an occasion, bringing residents together to enjoy wonderful food, good company and moments that create lasting memories.

Experience It for Yourself Join us for a complimentary lunch and personal tour.

Every day our residents enjoy: • Restaurant-quality dining, every single day • Fresh seasonal vegetables, many grown in our own gardens

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• A tempting dessert trolley filled with homemade puddings • Freshly baked cakes and treats available throughout the day

Experience our restaurantquality dining, meet our friendly team and discover why so many families choose Millbrook House.

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New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

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Blandford nursing home marks 35 years of care with a special party A DORSET nursing and residential home welcomed families, friends and locals for a celebration marking more than three decades providing care.

Residents and staff at Colten Care’s Whitecliffe House, in Blandford Forum, held an afternoon party to mark its 35th anniversary serving the market town.

The fun took place in the courtyard of the home, off Whitecliff Mill Street, with Frank Sinatra tribute act, Swinging Sinatra, providing the soundtrack.

Two long-standing Whitecliffe House colleagues, Cheryl Jay and Patricia Johnson, were each honoured for more than 21 years’ service, with team members singing a song specially dedicated to them.

Among the guests were

Blandford Mayor, Councillor Colin Stevens, plus representatives from both his chosen charity, Nourish Foodbank, the Community Larder, and Blandford Museum.

While the museum representatives shared stories, photographs and memorabilia, Nourish manager Florentyna Taylor was presented with 10 boxes of donated food items

collected by Whitecliffe House families, friends and staff. A raffle at the event also raised £250 for the charity.

Florentyna said: “To find a table full of donations was incredibly touching. We felt so welcomed and truly appreciated for the work we do.”

The Mayor, who was accompanied by Mayor Consort Chris Stevens, his wife, said: “It

Bryanston, a Dorset School with a Different Way of Thinking ADVERTISING FEATURE

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ost schools teach young people what to think. Bryanston teaches them how to think, built on the belief that independence of mind is the true purpose of learning.

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Step onto campus and the first thing you notice is how little the pupils resemble one another.

There’s no uniform, no mould, no expectation to conform. Dancing shoes sit beside rugby boots and Doc Martens. A broad curriculum and enrichment programme give pupils room to explore, from entrepreneurship one term to music, art or sport the next. Self-expression is celebrated; there’s no template for a Bryanstonian, only the expectation you’ll find your own way.

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That same warmth runs through pastoral life. House parents and tutors get to know each pupil well enough to notice when something’s wrong before it becomes a problem, and to celebrate the small wins too. When things do go wrong, care follows a restorative approach, exploring what happened, why, and how it can be put right, treating mistakes as part of growing up.

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was a really happy event. The entertainment was fantastic, and we were delighted to be invited and to show our support.”

Among the Whitecliffe House residents at the party was Stella Symes, who said: “I had such a wonderful afternoon.

Everyone was chatting and reminiscing and the food was lovely.”

Keith Dawson, the son of a resident, described the celebration as “excellent”, and added: “It gave everyone the opportunity to meet new people, enjoy great food and drink and spend time together.”

Home manager, Emma Williams, said: “It was a really lovely occasion and a great way to celebrate our service to Blandford and the wider area since we first opened back in 1991.”

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Sixth Form Information Sessions Tuesday 8 September (online) Saturday 12 September Wednesday 30 September A Level, International Baccalaureate, CTEC courses

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New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

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New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

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Cultural contributions ARTSREACH past and present staff, trustees, artists, colleagues and village volunteers gathered at Buckland Newton village hall to bid farewell to Yvonne Gallimore, who retired at the end of July, after nearly 30 years with Dorset’s rural touring arts charity.

Yvonne has been involved with every aspect of Artsreach, not only curating exhibitions and helping to discover exciting new groups and performers for the touring programme, but also working tirelessly on the children’s workshop programmes, nurturing longterm projects, such as the William Barnes celebration with music, poetry and Dorset food (now the annual Barnes Tea).

Kerry Bartlett, the current executive director of ArtsReach, said: “Yvonne has always firmly

Yvonne Gallimore with Kerry Bartlett, executive director of ArtsReach

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New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

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Exploration of historic horse power

VISITORS have just weeks left to experience The Tank Museum's Warhorse to Horsepower exhibition before it closes.

The exhibition explores the vital role horses played during the First World War and the transition to mechanised warfare.

Since it opened, over a million visitors have explored the essential role horses played during the war, with stories brought to life through a series of horse sculptures that guide visitors through the exhibition.

Highlights include the Hornsby Tractor, the Museum's oldest vehicle. This pioneering steam-powered tracked vehicle from the early 1900s was trialled by the War Office and helped demonstrate the potential of tracked technology for military use.

Exhibitions manager, Luke Clark, said: “Our Warhorse

exhibition has proven popular among families and history fans over the last 12 years. Through pictures, vehicles, and familyfriendly tableaux, visitors have been able to learn about this vital era in the development of mechanised armour.

“The last day to visit Warhorse to Horsepower will be on August 31.

“Work on our new exhibition, Age of Experimentation, will begin at the start of September.

This new exhibition explores one of the most innovative and transformative periods in armoured warfare through hands-on STEM engagement, rare vehicles and immersive stories.”

Age of Experimentation will open in January 2027 and focuses on the years 1919-1939, a time when the future of the tank was anything but certain.

Tanks had proven their worth on the battlefields of the First

World War, but with the widespread belief that trench warfare was a thing of the past, military leaders were forced to reconsider the role of armoured vehicles.

Luke continued: “The interwar period saw the creation of some of the most unusual vehicles ever built. Here at The Tank Museum, we are uniquely

positioned to tell this story through our collection of prototype and one-of-a-kind vehicles.”

Alongside a final visit to Warhorse to Horsepower, visitors can enjoy Tanks in Action on weekdays at 1pm, vehicle rides and explore the Museum’s exhibitions. Prebook your entry tickets and save 20% at www.tankmuseum.org.

5 & 6 SEPT 2026

DISCOUNT ENDS 30 AUGUST

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

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News

20 years of the Oak Fair 29th & 30th August

C

ADVERTISING FEATURE

elebrating the 20th event this year The Oak Fair champions countryside, woodland, timber, traditional craft and above all, conservation.

With over 200 exhibitors showing everything from handcrafted wooden furniture to industrial machinery, the Oak Fair provides a platform for rural crafts and countryside conservation, offering something for everyone.

Demonstrations include the ever-popular chainsaw carving, falconry, heavy horse logging, and the daredevil stunts of the Adams Axemen display. Get involved with hands on activities including scything, willow sculpture and archery, and children’s activities including bushcraft skills, face painting, tree climbing and tractor & trailer rides.

29th & 30th August, 10.00am Stock Gaylard Estate, DT10 2BG Early bird tickets: £15 adults, £3.50 children, children in prams go free, £11 concessions. www.theoakfair.com

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New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

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Summer Summer Fair Fair at at Canford Canford School School -15th 15th and and 16th 16th August August 2026 2026 ADVERTISING FEATURE ADVERTISING he Wessex Event FEATURE Company are delighted to be holding our 9th Summer Fair

T T

Wessex Event Company are delighted to beSchool holding 9th Summer Fair inhethe beautiful house and grounds of Canford onour Saturday 15th and in the house Sunday 16hbeautiful August this yearand grounds of Canford School on Saturday 15th and Sunday 16h August this year Bring the whole family for a fabulous day out, there is something for Bring the whole family for a fabulous day out, there is something for everyone. everyone.

Over 120 stands selling a host of artisan foods, crafts, plants, wellness, home Over 120 stands sellingboth a host of artisan foods, crafts, plants, wellness, home and garden accessories, inside the magnificent school and outside in the and garden accessories, both inside the magnificent school and outside in the beautiful grounds. beautiful grounds.

Chill out in our Street Food Area, enjoying mid morning snacks, lunches and Chill out in ourincluding Street Food Area, enjoying mid morning snacks, lunches and afternoon treats, Bratwurst, Thai, Greek, Indian, Hot Potatoes, Pizzas, afternoon treats, including Bratwurst, Thai, Greek, Pizzas, Dorset Lamb, Churros, Crepes and Ice Cream washedIndian, down Hot withPotatoes, coffee, tea, soft DorsetorLamb, Churros, Crepes andthe Icefairs Cream down coffee, drinks something stronger from Bar. washed While you sitwith and eat and tea, relaxsoft drinks stronger from thelocal fairsartists.

Bar. While you sit and eat and relax you willorbesomething entertained by fabulous you will be entertained by fabulous local artists.

Our children’s entertainments will include rides, games and face painting, Our children’s entertainments willrugby include rides, and faceCircus painting, climbing wall, caving tunnel, crafts, tots.

Thegames very popular Skills climbing wall, tunnel, rugby tots. The very popular Circus Workshop is oncaving both days for crafts, children to participate in and learn some of Skills the Workshop on both days as forthe children participate in andTots learnfor some the magic of the iscircus, as well MagictoMan and Tumble the of very magic of the circus, as well as the Magic Man and Tumble Tots for the very young young Disney Princesses and Superheroes will also be joining in the fun..

Disney Princesses and Superheroes will also be joining in the fun..

Watch the Falconry displays and marvel in the grace and agility of these Watch the Falconry wonderful birds or preydisplays and marvel in the grace and agility of these wonderful birds or prey The cost of entry is just £5 for Adults, with children under 16, £1, making The of entry just £5 forfamily Adults, with children under 16,days £1, out making this onecost of the most is affordable, friendly, value for money you thisfind one in of the the area mostthis affordable, will summer.family friendly, value for money days out you will find in the area this summer.

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

We would like to thank our sponsors Save Energy and The Blackmore Vale would like to thank our sponsors Save Energy and The Blackmore Vale forWe their support. for their support.

A jolly good catch up Words and photos: George Jeans, Mere ZEALS village barbecue was organised by the Zeals Hall Committee. It included drinks and a tombola, with gentle music providing the perfect background to a very pleasant late summer’s afternoon and evening.

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* *the * *whole * family A fun day for A fun day for the whole family Over 100 stalls, Food, Drink, Home and Garden, Live Music and Kids entertainers

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New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

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New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

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Tractor-tastic!

Words and photos: George Jeans, Mere TRACTORS in north Dorset gathered on a glorious summer afternoon in memory of the late Carol Adams, a girl with a sunny smile and bubbly personality, originally from Mere.

By kind permission of the Harris family, the run formed on the B3081, New Road, just off the A303 between Bourton and Wincanton. Visitors enjoyed drinks and a raffle while waiting for the amassed vehicles to depart.

Approximately 50 tractors, old and new, chugged the route in aid of Weldmar Hospicecare, returning for an early evening barbecue.

blackmorevale.net Tonker, husband of the late Carol Adams, raising money for Weldmar Hospicecare

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

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Comealong alongand andjoin joinFern FernBrook Brook Lodge’s Lodge’s Come ADVERTISING FEATURE FEATURE MemoryCafe CafeSessions Sessions ADVERTISING Memory

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eopleliving livingwith with eople dementia in Gillingham dementia in Gillingham are invited to join the are invited to join the Memory Cafe sessions held Memory Cafe sessions held at Fern Brook Lodge care at Fern Brook Lodge care home. home.

Thehome, home,ononFern FernBrook Brook The Lane,hosts hoststhe theevent eventevery every Lane, Thursday morning from 10am Thursday morning from 10am to 12pm for people living with to 12pm for people living with dementia and their carers, dementia and their carers, whichisisalso alsoattended attendedby byFern Fern which Brook Lodge residents.

Brook Lodge residents.

Thesessions sessionsare aresupported supported The AgeUK UKNorth, North,South Southand and bybyAge West Dorset and offer the West Dorset and offer the opportunitytototalk talktotoother other opportunity like-minded people, as wellasas like-minded people, as well joining in singing and games. joining in singing and games.

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dailyprogramme programmeof ofevents events daily to bring residents together to to bring residents together to socialise and build friendships. socialise and build friendships.

Residentshave haveaachoice choiceof of Residents private and communal lounges private and communal lounges anddining diningrooms roomsto torelax relax and indoors,asaswell wellas asThe TheBrook Brook indoors, communityspace spacewhich whichhosts hosts community a range of events open to the a range of events open to the local Gillingham community. local Gillingham community.

Carehome homeresidents residentsalso alsohave have Care access to a large garden area access to a large garden area withwide, wide,flat flatwalkways walkwaysand and with raisedflower flowerbeds bedsto tomake make raised them accessible to everyone. them accessible to everyone.

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Words and photos: George Jeans, Mere THE ‘tallest weed’ was decided at the Upper Deverills’ summer FernBrook BrookLodge Lodgeprovides provides Fern fete, flower and dog show, with a nettle romping home to victory. residential, respite and residential, respite and Visitors enjoyed homemade cream teas and china smashing, not dementiacare. care.AAdedicated dedicated dementia necessarily at the same time. activities team organises a

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Fern Brook Lane | Gillingham| SP8 | SP8 4QD Fern Brook Lane | Gillingham 4QD 01747 449812 | care-south.co.uk 01747 449812 | care-south.co.uk Proud be part of Care South, a not-for-profit charity leading provider Proud to betopart of Care South, a not-for-profit charity andand leading provider of of residential, dementia nursing as well as care at home services across residential, dementia andand nursing care,care, as well as care at home services across thethe south of England.

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New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

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Royals, Romans and roundhouses

by Sheila Chapman

JULY was a busy month for the ladies of Blandford Evening WI, as they rubbed shoulders with Royals and got up close with Vikings.

At the beginning of the month a group of newer members descended on the Ancient Technology Centre (ATC) in Cranborne to tour the authentically constructed ancient buildings, from the Mesolithic thatched shelters of the hunter gatherers, through the Bronze and Iron ages round house, the Roman period forge and garden, the Saxon sunken house and the Viking longhouse.

Some of the ladies could remember their children visiting when at school!

Later in the month, the visit to the recently refurbished Corn Exchange by King Charles and Queen Camilla was a great event for the town. Three of our members – Maggie Putt, Gail DelPinto and myself, who are also members of the town council, were on duty providing refreshment to those awaiting the royal couple. We were presented to the Queen, and later as their majesties were leaving, the King spotted the WI aprons and came over to see what refreshments were on offer

– much to our surprise and delight!

The month ended with annual Dark Ages weekend at the ATC and as usual the ladies served sustenance to Viking and visitor alike.

Two members found friendly Saxons to give them sword and shield lessons, while Oswulf the Leech (a Viking doctor) gave instructions on how to make a poultice for a sword cut out of a crushed earth worm or a cure for an eye infection from leeks!

Once again Blandford Evening WI ladies had a hard-working, but enormously enjoyable weekend at the Centre and are already looking forward to the last weekend

in September when the ATC will be open to the public and children of all ages for the Apple weekend, when the Medieval apple press will be in full working mode.

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New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

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Summer camp

PHOTO: Sparkly Owl GIRLS in Mere Guides, along with youngsters from other units, had fun in the sun at a camp on the outskirts of Torquay.

Body boarding and other water-based activities were on offer at Goodrington, along with other activities, including a silent disco and grass sledging.

Local youth organisation Seeds for Success lent its minibus for the trip.

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Watching Their Friend Lose Her Savings Changed Everything

By Chris Tennant Legacy Planning Consultant, Oakwood Wills

P

eter and Anne enjoyed a comfortable retirement in Dorset. Their mortgage was paid, they had savings and hoped their home would eventually provide an inheritance for their children and grandchildren.

Then a close friend, Margaret, developed dementia and required residential care.

They watched as substantial care fees began eating into savings she had spent a lifetime building. As costs continued, difficult decisions also had to be made about her home.

Driving home after visiting Margaret, Anne asked Peter: “We’ve worked all our lives for our home. Could the same thing happen to us?”

That question changed their approach to estate planning.

They wanted to understand whether steps taken well in advance of needing care, as part of genuine estate planning, could provide greater protection for their home and family wealth.

Following professional advice, Peter and Anne reviewed their Wills, arranged Lasting Powers of Attorney and considered placing their home into a properly structured Living Trust.

A Living Trust can provide valuable asset protection and, depending upon the circumstances, can help protect the family home where future care costs become an issue. Carefee planning must, however, be undertaken correctly. Local authorities can challenge arrangements where avoiding care charges was a significant reason for transferring assets, particularly where care needs were already foreseeable.

Their planning also provided greater protection against probate delays, divorce, bankruptcy or creditors affecting their children’s inheritance.

Their experience taught them one important lesson: The time to consider protecting your home is while you’re fit, healthy and planning for the future — not when a care crisis has already arrived.

Book Your FREE Home Protection Review During your personal home visit we’ll help answer questions such as: • Could your home be vulnerable to future care costs?

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• Are there simple steps you can take now to better protect your family and your estate?

There is no obligation—just clear, practical advice in plain English.

Book your FREE Home Protection Review We come to You - In the Comfort of Your Own Home Call Oakwood Wills today on 07832 331594 Email: info@oakwoodwills.co.uk www.oakwoodwills.co.uk Wills • Living Trusts • Lasting Powers of Attorney ADVERTISING FEATURE

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New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

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Young musicians perform stunning finale at popular week-long course MUSICIANS of all ages and abilities took to the stage as part of the 55th Wessex Band Summer School.

The tuneful gathering is the longest running musical course of its kind and enjoyed its emerald anniversary with a day of concerts at The Exchange, in Sturminster Newton, as the finale.

During the Saturday performances, audiences were treated to a variety of music, from soulful melodies to dramatic film scores and everything in between, culminating in a massed bands performance of Philip Sparke’s Music for a Festival.

Wessex Band Summer School is a week-long course for brass, which sees wind and percussion players given experience and tuition under the

expert direction of musical director Michael Fowles – from The Foden’s Brass Band – and world-renowned staff.

Students are given the chance to test themselves playing a wide range of music, while “having fun and making new friends”.

After the day-long finale, Michael said: “It’s been a brilliant course. I’m staggered with how fast the bands improved.

“It really is a full week of friendship, with bonds forged where people don’t see each other all year then meet up for the course and it’s as if it were yesterday.”

The non-residential course is held at Sturminster Newton High School, with students able to camp on-site, while some choose to stay in other

accommodation nearby.

Wessex Band Summer School is made up of three bands, a training band for players up to grade 4 standard, a wind band and a brass band, both for players of grade 4 upwards.

Each year, the course welcomes players from all over the country.

The 56th course will return to Sturminster Newton from July 26 to 31, 2027, with an early bird offer available on bookings made before December 31, 2026.

For more details on the 2027 Wessex Band Summer School, and to book a place, visit www. wessexband.com.

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Metabolic minute: Calming the stress response when your body forgets how to rest

by Dr Rebecca Hiscutt PhD RD

WIRED but tired – do you find your mind racing at midnight, but are barely able to keep your eyes open by mid-afternoon?

This combination is a sign that your stress response has become chronically activated and is struggling to switch off.

Here’s what happening inside your body… Stress hormones raise your blood sugar for quick energy. When this happens frequently, and your blood sugar swings up then down, your energy and mood fluctuate too. When you stay stressed for long enough it gets harder to bring you back to calm.

But it is possible to calm that stress response – the vagus nerve is the main route back to balance. It runs through your throat and is the main nerve of the parasympathetic nervous system, the part of you built for rest and repair. When the vagus nerve is working well it can switch

from sympathetic (flight or fight) to parasympathetic easily. A few simple habits help strengthen your vagus nerve: • Steady your blood sugar first. Protein, fibre and natural fat at meals reduce the blood sugar swings that can trigger stress hormones.

• Hum, or lengthen your exhale. The vibration stimulates the vagus nerve directly, and breathing out longer than you breathe in shifts the body out of alert mode.

• Walk after meals. Just 10 minutes helps muscles absorb glucose and breaks the stress-and-blood-sugar loop. Regular walking also strengthens vagal tone over time, the same calming measure that improves with humming.

• Protect a wind-down window. Dim the lights and step back from screens an hour before bed, so your nervous system gets a clear cue that is it time to rest.

Beginning with one or two small actions

that can compound – a few minutes of humming or slow breathing each day, alongside steadier meals – can be enough to nudge the system back towards rest.

Dr Rebecca Hiscutt is a registered dietitian with a specialist interest in metabolic health and women’s health, based at Wincanton Health Centre.

Photo by Jeppe H Jensen on Unsplash

26

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

27

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Centenary of countryside protection JOIN supporters of the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) for a special event celebrating 100 years of charitable work in aid of the countryside.

Set against the stunning backdrop of Milton Abbey, midway between Blandford and Dorchester, the early evening event will be opened by journalist and broadcaster Kate Adie, president of Dorset CPRE, who will chair what promises to be a lively panel discussion: What is the future of the countryside?

The panel debate will include Mary-Ann Ochota, National CPRE president, Cllr Nick Ireland, leader of Dorset Council and George Hosford, leading Dorset farmer and agricultural advisor to Dorset CPRE. Dorset CPRE president Kate Adie said: “Throughout Dorset, we’re becoming more and more aware of the impact of planning for the countryside, which sometimes rides roughshod over known local concerns and expertise. It’s not nimbyism. I don’t have to remind anyone that Dorset’s landscape is special and our treasure.”

The discussion on the future of the countryside will be followed by canapés and wine. Guests will have the option to

take a 40-minute self-guided walk along the Milton Abbas Experience Trail.

Dorset CPRE chair Jez Hughes said, “Thousands of people have contributed to the achievements of CPRE – volunteers, members and supporters – working locally and nationally to protect the countryside.

Whether you’re a long-standing member or just curious to learn more about our work, we would love to see you at our celebratory event. The debate promises to be thoughtprovoking, and it will be a wonderful

occasion to mingle inside stunning Milton Abbey, explore the breathtaking landscape designed by Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown and reflect on 100 years of CPRE.” CPRE has spent 100 years protecting the countryside and rural communities from damaging development and urban sprawl.

In its first century, CPRE has achieved some big wins, the results of which many now take for granted; the charity was instrumental in creating England’s national parks and green belts and shaping the modern planning system.

Tickets for the event are £20. Book online at www.dorset-cpre.org.uk/getinvolved/events/centenary-celebration.

Dorset CPRE also plans to celebrate the milestone anniversary by planting hundreds of trees this autumn, including endangered species like Britain’s rarest native timber tree, the black poplar. Planting more trees is essential to offset climate change, restore wetlands and replace trees in Dorset afflicted by disease, such as ash dieback.

The charity has launched a £7,000 public crowdfunder to plant up to 250 trees: https://justgiving.com/campaign/dcprecentenary-tree-appeal.

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New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

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blackmorevale.net

Our loose Canon A much-overlooked feast prompts an appreciation of awe and wonder to be found all around

by Canon Eric Woods EIGHT days ago, on a Thursday, a very important Christian festival was celebrated by (I suspect) very few people. I mean the Feast of the Transfiguration of our Lord, which is always celebrated on the sixth day of August. It is also my wife’s birthday, which means that for me at least it has to be carefully remembered – or I’m toast! But because most Christians aren’t very good at going to church on weekdays, Transfiguration (rather than Sandra’s birthday) tends only to be noticed when it falls on a Sunday. And that’s a pity.

Yet in one way, I suppose, the forgetting of Transfiguration is not inappropriate. Everyone in Nazareth knew the carpenter’s son, Jesus, that strange young man with the touch of God, but few saw him for who he really was, the most dear and precious Son of God. But there, on the mountain top, a few friends had their eyes opened to the truth about him as he stood in front of them radiant with the glory of heaven – and they were transfixed by that transfiguration, as for a moment their ordinary, humdrum, everyday world was penetrated by the divine, by the light and the power and the glory of God. And the real glory of the Gospel is that for those of us with eyes to see and ears to hear and hearts to understand, that glory

transfigures us, you and me, whenever we open ourselves to God and realise afresh that Earth’s crammed with heaven, and God’s glory is very near, and let our lives be caught up in the wonder and the majesty and the mystery of it all.

Whatever your religious faith, or lack of it, it’s important that you hold onto, and allow to develop, that innate capacity for wonder and awe which we all possess. Yes, some of us are readily caught up in the wonder and awe found in the Divine. I have long valued the insight of the 17th century Welsh poet and physician Henry Vaughan, who wrote “There is in God, some say, a deep but dazzling darkness”. That has fired my spiritual life for years.

But what inspires me won’t necessarily inspire you. Some discover deep wells of wonder and awe in music, or art, or poetry. Others in the natural world or the contemplation of the universe. Even that doughty old atheist, the philosopher and mathematician Bertrand Russell, showed a deep affinity with the mystical when he wrote: “Mathematics, rightly viewed, possesses not only truth, but supreme beauty – a beauty cold and austere, like that of sculpture… sublimely pure, and capable of a stern perfection such as only the greatest art can show.

The true delight, the exaltation, the sense of being more than man, which is the touchstone of the highest excellence, is to be found in mathematics as surely as in poetry.”

I don’t particularly relate to that – maths was never my strong point – but when he wrote it, Russell was nearer to God than he knew.

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New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

News

blackmorevale.net

FIDDLEFORD RIDGE I STURMINSTER NEWTON

TO HELP YOU MOVE, CHOOSE FROM: 5 % Deposit Paid | Stamp Duty & Moving Fees | Or 5% Cash Back Discover Fiddleford Ridge, a stunning collection of 2, 3 and 4 bedroom homes in Sturminster Newton. Surrounded by beautiful countryside and with everyday amenities just moments away, Fiddleford Ridge offers the perfect balance of peaceful living and modern convenience.

To help make your move even easier, selected homes are available with a £35,000 Your Way incentive, giving you the flexibility to use it in the way that suits you best.

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New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

News

blackmorevale.net

Open gardens for early autumn PICK up inspiration from the beautiful gardens around the Vale, open in August and September as part of the National Garden Scheme – find the full list of open gardens at findagarden.ngs.org.uk.

salvias, grasses and hot plants thriving.

Every plant is grown for pollination and year-round interest. Tall grasses and varied fruit trees.

There’s a greenhouse, and butternut squash scrambling through and up the hedges.

Open Saturday and Sunday 29 and 30 August (1pm-5.30pm). Admission £7, children free.

Open Wednesday, September 3, (10am5pm). Admission £12.50, children free.

Knoll Gardens

Knoll Gardens

Manor Farm Hilltop

Manor Farm

Hilltop

Woodville, Stour Provost SP8 5LY Summer at Hilltop is a gorgeous riot of colour and scent, the old, thatched cottage barely visible among the flowers. Unusual annuals and perennials grow alongside the traditional and familiar, boldly combining to make a spectacular display, which attracts an abundance of wildlife. Always something new – the unique, gothic garden loo is a great success.

Open Sunday, August 16, (2pm-6pm).

Admission £4.50, children free.

Hampreston, Wimborne BH21 7LX. Traditional farmhouse garden designed and cared for by three generations of the Trehane family for over a 100 years. Noted for its herbaceous borders and rose beds within box and yew hedges. Mature shrubbery, water and bog garden. Excellent plants for sale at openings.

Open Sunday, September 6 (1pm-5pm).

Admission £7, children free.

Stapehill Road, Wimborne BH21 7ND A prairie-style garden featuring naturalistic plantings of ornamental grasses interspersed with an array of flowering perennials.

Grand specimen trees and beautiful shrubs offer shady spots to take in the open vistas.

On Tuesday, September 1, owner Neil Lucas will be guiding a tour of the gardens (tickets must be pre-booked at www.ngs.org. uk). The tour will focus on the garden’s changing seasonal highlights, from some of the spectacular individual plants to mass plantings of Knoll’s acclaimed grasses.

Open Friday, September 18, (10am-5pm).

Admission £8.95, children £6.95.

Museum of East Dorset

Museum of East Dorset Athelhampton House Ardhurst

Ardhurst

Nash Lane, Marnhull DT10 1JZ This garden is organic and has been ten years in the making. A plantsman’s garden with deep perennial borders, large netted vegetable area and water harvesting, and all a work in progress.

It’s a riot of colour in August, with

Athelhampton House

Athelhampton, Dorchester DT2 7LG The award-winning gardens at Athelhampton surround the Tudor manor house and date from 1891. The Great Court, with 12 giant yew topiary pyramids, is overlooked by two terraced pavilions. This glorious Grade I architectural garden is full of vistas with spectacular planting, ponds with fountains and the River Piddle flowing past.

23-29 High Street, Wimborne Minster BH21 1HR Behind the Museum of East Dorset is a tranquil walled garden tucked away in the centre of Wimborne. Colourful herbaceous borders and heritage orchard trees line the path, which stretches down to the mill stream. This year the NGS has three evening garden lectures taking place at the Museum – visit www.ngs.org.uk for details.

Evening openings (6pm-8.30pm) Friday, September 11; Friday, October 16; Friday, November 20. Admission £15, children free.

31

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New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Letters

blackmorevale.net

Not too late to object to 500 homes IN the short story The Withered Arm, by Thomas Hardy, the character Gertrude Lodge roams around Casterbridge – Dorchester – exclaiming ‘Oh – a reprieve – I hope not!’

Conversely, I would strongly argue that there must be a reprieve at all costs and a stop to the proposed development to the north of Dorchester.

Furthermore, the ‘execution’ of the proposed landscape by the water meadows stretches from Charminster to Stinsford and will be a complete blot on the area comprising of 4,500 houses – a development larger than Poundbury.

The concept is not only ill conceived but is ‘cultural vandalism’ of the literary and archaeological heritage of the county town of the highest order.

Recently, the 27th International Thomas Hardy Society Conference and Festival was held in Dorchester and members were appalled at the potential loss and pure sacrilege of this site.

The delegates were not against housing but felt that this area was completely inappropriate for development.

The land not only features in the works of Hardy but also hosts eclectic wildlife and nature.

Ultimately, it is not too late to change and to halt this absurd development.

Consider Michael Henchard in The Mayor of Casterbridge when he stands at Ten Hatches Weir and sees his doppelgänger floating in the River Frome and thus he reflects and changes direction.

The landscape from Ten Hatches will soon become a concrete jungle if this proposal is not contravened and challenged.

Please do voice your objections to the first 500 homes submitted for planning permission to Dorset Council by August 28, 2026, with your concerns around potential

flooding, traffic, infrastructure, archaeology, literary heritage and impact on tourism.

Please write to planningpolicyconsult@ dorsetcouncil.gov.uk United we STAND together.

In solidarity.

Mark Damon Chutter Chair and academic director The Thomas Hardy Society

Expanding airports as wildfires burn

WILDFIRES are devastating swathes of Europe.

Lack of rain in this country means our farmers have little or no grass to feed their cattle.

Owing to the heat – and pesticides – our insect population is declining, with the hot weather making it much harder for bees to survive, so there will be a decrease in the pollination needed to enable plant life which we rely on for food.

People are sweltering in their homes, and air conditioners will increase energy demand.

Yet people who now complain about the cost of living somehow expect – or at least, hope for – a government that will bring it down, despite increased fuel prices thanks largely to two major conflicts.

Let’s not hold our breath – it’s not going to happen.

Of course, fuel prices aside, the other problems could have been prevented if politicians had listened to voices from the emerging environmental movement of the 1970s.

But such people were dismissed as unrealistic idealists or long-haired hippies in string vests and ju-ju beads. (I must admit to having had long hair, a Ringo Starr moustache and occasionally wearing a string vest, but drew the line at ju-ju beads.)

So, instead of thinking of environmental boundaries, the politicians continued to run the country on economic principles.

The trouble is that economics discounts the environment and the future at such a high rate as to virtually ignore them – as long as we can make a profit now, future generations can take responsibility for themselves.

So now we are paying the cost of discounting the future – and it shows every sign of costing more to put things right – if that is even possible – than it would have done to pay attention to the environment in the first place.

But returning to my earlier list of symptoms, it’s reassuring to know that the politicians have an answer to global warming – expand Bristol, Heathrow and Gatwick airports to permit thousands more flights to thousands more destinations.

Of course, airline companies will offset carbon production by planting a sapling for every flight. At least, that seems to be the economic solution.

Can our local politicians come up with a better idea?

Colin Marsh Gillingham

Non-stop flow of traffic

TRAFFIC in Blandford and Blandford St Mary has become a nightmare.

Working in my kitchen in Blandford St Mary one day, I counted 32 vehicles passing in two minutes!

This goes on from around 7am until late evening every day, some cars travelling at great speed, and even overtaking other vehicles beyond the Tesco roundabout into town.

So many houses have been built, and still more are about to be built, it is a nightmare.

Where on earth are they all heading, there are no banks, and few shops anymore – they can’t all be going to work.

On the King’s visit recently, vehicles were allowed to travel up Sheep Market Hill, which made a lot of sense.

Could this not be made permanent, as once in the queue of traffic through the town there is no escape – traffic would still be able to travel down Church Lane.

It makes far more sense than the present system.

It worked far better when there were two lanes of traffic travelling through town, not just a single lane.

Who draws up these plans which never seem to work?

H Rawles Bournemouth Road, Blandford St Mary

Bus fares price cap and potholes

I AM quite outraged at the recently appointed Prime Minister and his price cap on bus fares.

What about those living in rural areas where public transport is practically nonexistent – where a car becomes a vital component of rural life regardless of where you live?

Recently my car had to undergo its annual MOT, which fortunately it passed, but once home I fully read the report.

An amber warning indicated that one of my wheels required attention.

Exploring this further with the garage, I was informed that the entire wheel would need to be replaced at a total cost of £850 and, being a pensioner on a limited income, this news was quite a shock and dilemma.

Not going ahead with the procedure could put myself and others at risk, so I consented to have a replacement fitted next week.

99% of this damage can be put down to road surfacing and potholes, and I was informed that I should file a claim to the county council.

My response was ‘which one’ – Wiltshire, Dorset or Somerset – I have no evidence.

On a regular basis, driving on country roads where you have no choice to get from A-B,

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Letters

blackmorevale.net a large vehicle comes along, or tractor with a trailer of hay, and there is no option but to pull in to the nearside.

Invariably this is rough and uneven or, after heavy rain, the pothole or road surface is not visible anyway.

Andy Burnham needs to consider that Britain’s roads are now comparable in most areas – possibly not in the North West – to developing countries.

B Borwell North Dorset

Family fun day was a triumph

I WOULD like to extend my thanks to all our partners who supported the North Locality Family Fun Day, organised by the North Shaftesbury Network Family and Best Start Hub, at Gillingham Recreation Ground.

A special thank you goes to Jamie Keast and Home-Start, who have supported this event every year for the past seven years, and to our wonderful community partners at RiversMeet.

Thank you also to the many local charities, organisations and volunteers whose contributions helped make the day such a success.

What began as a small family fun day in 2019, attended by about 100 children, has grown significantly over the years.

The event is now supported through the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme, known locally as Schooled Out. Each year, the dedicated teams across the North Family Hub Network in Gillingham and Shaftesbury work hard behind the scenes to organise and deliver a fantastic day for local children and families.

Free family events such as this, particularly during times of financial hardship, are more important than ever.

They provide opportunities for families to spend quality time together, create lasting memories, strengthen relationships and foster a sense of belonging within their

33

community.

For many families, these experiences would otherwise be difficult to access during the school holidays.

This year, we welcomed more than 500 attendees and provided meals for 150-plus children eligible for Free School Meals and Pupil Premium funding.

A special mention must also go to the Fostering Team and, of course, Ocean Blue, who was undoubtedly the crowd favourite!

For anyone who didn’t have the pleasure of meeting Ocean Blue, she is a goat and certainly stole the show!

Thank you all for helping to create such a fantastic day for local families.

We hope to see you again at the Coombe House Partnership HAF event on Tuesday, August 25, at 11am.

Following the school holidays, our usual timetables for Gillingham and Shaftesbury Family Hub and Best Start Hub Network POints will resume.

Details can be found at Gillingham Library; RiversMeet; Shaftesbury Family Hub Network Point, Wincombe Lane; Northlocality Facebook page.

Helen Shorrocks Team manager, Family Help, North Locality, Dorset Council

Wild animals not for humans to own

THE recent story about a monkey found on a London bus hides a deeply troubling reality about wild animals kept as ‘pets’.

Primates, reptiles and other wild animals are not domesticated companions.

They have evolved over millions of years to live in complex social groups, roam vast territories and express a wide range of natural behaviours.

No household, however well-intentioned, can meet these needs.

Primates, for example, are

Thanks for keeping town looking good

looks its best.

I recently saw how striking the entrance to the garden of remembrance was and decided to make a photograph of it.

I also want to acknowledge the effort so many people invest into making our town and other towns look so lovely.

Charlie Waite Via email

highly intelligent, social individuals who rely on lifelong family bonds and stimulating environments.

When kept as companions, they often suffer from chronic stress, behavioural problems and poor physical health.

Many are taken from their mothers at a young age, causing lifelong trauma for both parent and infant.

The ethical concerns extend beyond the individual animal.

This trade in exotic animals fuels demand, encouraging irresponsible breeding and, in some parts of the world, illegal capture from the wild.

Even where animals are captive bred, treating them as novelty pets sends the damaging message that wild animals exist for our entertainment rather than as individuals with their own lives and interests.

As these animals grow older, stronger and more difficult to care for, many are abandoned, surrendered to already overstretched sanctuaries or even killed because their needs are impossible to meet.

Wild animals are not ours to

own.

Like all animals, they deserve lives free from harm and exploitation.

Their place is in the wild wherever possible, or in accredited rescue sanctuaries that can meet their complex needs – not in our homes.

Fleur Disney Senior communications manager, Animal Aid

I AM a landscape photographer and have lived for 42 years with my wife Jessica in the hamlet of Eccliffe on the River Stour.

I have always admired the effort that many individuals from our town council put into ensuring that Gillingham

Grateful for help of Good Samaritans

I WOULD like to say a big thank you to the very kind people who stopped to help when I fell in the Market Place, Blandford, on Saturday, August 1.

They were so quick to check that everything was okay and help get me to my feet.

A driver passing also stopped to help.

It’s at times like these that you truly see the best in the human spirit.

Luckily, apart from a grazed hand and a heavily bruised knee, I am okay. Thank you.

Name and address supplied

34

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026 BLACKMORE VALE

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36

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Politics

blackmorevale.net

MP calls for more support for young carers MID Dorset and North Poole MP Vikki Slade has launched a national campaign calling on the Government to require every school in England to appoint a dedicated young carers champion.

Backed by a public petition, the campaign would ensure every school has a trained member of staff responsible for identifying young carers and leading the school’s approach to supporting them.

Young carers are children and young people who provide unpaid care for a parent, sibling or loved one affected by illness, disability, mental ill health or addiction.

While many take on responsibilities far beyond their

years, campaigners estimate there could be up to one million young carers across the UK, with many remaining unidentified and unsupported.

Vikki Slade said: “No child should see their education suffer because they are caring for someone they love.

“Across the country, young carers are helping parents get dressed, administering medication, looking after siblings and providing emotional support, all while trying to keep up with school and the pressures of growing up.

“Too many are struggling in silence because their circumstances have gone unnoticed.

Vikki Slade MP at the recent MYTIME carers campaign event

PHOTO: MYTIME Young Carers

“A young carers champion in every school would be a simple but life-changing step, ensuring there is someone responsible for identifying young carers and making sure they get the support they need.

“We can no longer accept a postcode lottery of support.

“Every young carer deserves to be recognised, understood and given the chance to thrive.”

The campaign comes as schools face increasing pressure to identify and support young carers following changes to the Ofsted inspection framework.

However, campaigners say

too many children are still falling through the cracks because support varies between schools.

The petition calls on the Government to make young carers champions a requirement in every school, helping ensure young carers are identified earlier and can access support both inside and outside the classroom.

Those wishing to support the campaign can sign the petition by visiting www.change.org and searching ‘Appoint a Young Carers Champion in every School in England’.

READER’S PICTURE

New Blackmore Vale reader Andrew Terry took this photo of a hummingbird hawk moth on a buddleja in his garden in Shaftesbury

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

37

Politics

blackmorevale.net

Food shortages an imminent threat TURNS out I was wrong to think that food shortages would be the major wake-up call regarding the severity of the climate crisis.

Instead, for many people, it has been holiday disruption due to wildfires, with Europe now identified as the fastest warming continent. But spoiled holidays aside, the fact remains that food shortages pose an imminent threat. The NFU president recently announced concern at reduced farming production this year, due to the unprecedented combination of flooding, drought and heatwaves. In the UK, we import half the overall food we consume, and 86% of the fruit. Our over reliance on imported food places us in an extremely vulnerable position, with countries that supply us now experiencing their own production difficulties as global warming brings more extreme weather patterns everywhere.

Media reporting has generally

Ken Huggins on behalf of the Green Party in North Dorset failed us, with climate change barely getting a mention when extreme weather events are covered. When the leader of the Green Party, Zack Polanski, recently called for an emergency response to the extreme heat crisis, the BBC interviewer swiftly changed the subject to a totally irrelevant social media fake storm that had been whipped up by Nigel Farage

seeking to deflect attention from his own questionable sources of political funding.

Too many politicians these days seek only to divide us, in a selfish effort to cling to their power and influence. Our species is facing an existential crisis on a scale never seen before, and now more than ever we need to come together to implement the solutions, solutions we’ve known about for many decades, but have totally failed to implement with the required urgency.

As the multiple impacts of global warming become increasingly impossible to ignore, it is natural for us as individuals to react to the news with anxiety. Unfortunately, that anxiety triggers internal responses that hinder our ability to think calmly and clearly, and can leave us feeling powerless and unable to respond positively to the situation. Thankfully,

there is a solution!

The People’s Emergency Briefing is a UK film that brings together national experts, presenting the facts regarding nine topics that include weather and climate change, food security and national security.

The film is intended to be watched by groups of people who share their responses afterwards and discuss appropriate actions to take. This communal sharing creates a more positive response to the challenges we face and motivates us to be part of the solution.

Thousands of screenings have already been held in the UK, and many more are planned. To find one near you, have a look at https://www.nebriefing.org/ screening-map or contact me if you’d like to discuss arranging a screening for your own community, sports or social group, or business.

importing vaccine from Europe just to keep pace with demand, back orders are being fulfilled with no clear timeline, and some practices cannot say when, or even whether, stock will become available. There is a national shortage, and the impact is hardest on the farmers who can least afford to wait.

Meanwhile, farmers are being forced to wait up to three weeks for blood test results. The current response is not keeping pace with the scale and severity of the outbreak, and the testing and reporting process must be significantly accelerated and simplified. Farmers need rapid sampling, fast laboratory turnaround times and a straightforward reporting process that allows informed decisions to be made without delay. Every day matters when dealing with a fast-moving disease affecting large numbers of livestock.

I’ve heard directly from

farmers living this crisis in real time. One told me: “This will probably bankrupt some of us, especially if fertility is affected moving forward to next year.

Combined with no grass from the drought and stock already struggling, it’s a disaster, and it’s happening very fast.”

I have recently written to the Secretary of State demanding real action and support for farmers who will face losses, movement restrictions and reduced market access as a result of this disease outbreak.

That means securing vaccine supply, setting out a clear timetable for reviewing restricted zone boundaries, and providing the biosecurity advice and funding farmers need to build resilience against future outbreaks. Warm words are not enough – farmers need a plan with clear unambiguous timeframes.

To contact me, email sarah. dyke.mp@parliament.uk

Blue Tongue: Farmers need a plan THIS summer’s record temperatures are fuelling a sharp rise in confirmed Blue Tongue cases across the south west, a serious hotspot for this midgeborne virus, with the latest Defra figures showing 266 BTV-3 cases across Devon, Cornwall and Somerset in the 2026 to 2027 Blue Tongue season.

Several of these confirmed cases have already resulted in animal deaths, and the true scale of the outbreak in our region is likely far greater than the official figures suggest given the well-documented limitations of the current self-reporting system. Leaving farmers once again to shoulder the burden of an outbreak the government’s own data cannot properly track.

Vaccination is the most effective tool farmers have to protect their livestock and their livelihoods, so I would encourage all farmers across the region to speak with their vets to

Lib Dem MP for Glastonbury & Somerton Sarah Dyke determine the best course of action to protect their animals.

But the choice to vaccinate only works if there is a supply of vaccine. I have spoken this week to vets across Somerset, and the picture is stark.

Practices have told me they are struggling to keep vaccines in stock, with waiting lists of clients described to me as ‘as long as my arm’.

Wholesalers are now

38

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Politics

Two tough years for farmers MANY young people in North Dorset will be, with varying degrees of trepidation, awaiting GCSE and A-level results. I know, as I have two daughters in that situation. So, let me start by wishing all of them the very best of luck. I hope you secure the grades you need and want.

On the subject of young people, hasn’t North Dorset young boxer Ruby White done us all proud? After only a very short call up time to the England Commonwealth squad she stormed in and secured a tremendously impressive silver medal. I first met Ruby through her parents, who run Elses butchers in Stalbridge. It was at the time of Covid. She was running around the town delivering meat and foodstuffs to local residents preferring to stay at home. That was a wonderful glimpse of a young girl – as she then was – working hard for her community.

Showing dedication and commitment. An impressive

Conservative MP for North Dorset Simon Hoare young person now in every way and her best is yet to come.

We are either finished or close to the end of harvest time.

What a terrible two years our farmers have had. Input prices through the roof as Middle East pressures stoked fuel and fertiliser prices. Two winter wheat near wipe out wet winters. Two slow to get growth going dry and cold springs

blackmorevale.net

followed by excessively hot and dry summers which dwarf 1976 in impact terms. Our livestock farmers are feeding in the absence of pasture, adding to costs and pushing and reducing supply for the winter months.

Most will be lucky to have had one silage cut. Blue Tongue adds to the anxieties of animal health, alongside Bovine TB. Arable farmers are seeing a second record low harvest and the balance sheets are looking decidedly unblack. The spectre of Ms Reeves’ Family Farm Tax remains at the feast. I want to thank and encourage them while saluting their plucky resilience and determination. Without them our rural economy slides downwards, our environment and landscape look a lot different and our UK food security is substantially weakened, resulting in reliance on out-of-our-control international supply chains, making us vulnerable.

The extreme weather patterns

described above point to a wildly changing climate.

Changes which cannot be ignored or wished away. Rather they must be faced into and addressed with urgency. We are now seeing the real domestic productivity and public service demand pressures and impacts a changing climate brings.

Greater calls for NHS health care from elderly and vulnerable. Shops and eateries closing due to heat and people not leaving their homes. Some Shaftesbury retailers described some days as being Covid-like in terms of footfall. Increased Fire Service costs due to flood or wildfire. Hosepipe bans.

Animal welfare impacts.

Reduced chilled foodstuffs on supermarket shelves due to power demands. Power supply and transport disruptions. While the debate of the solutions to climate change continue, I hope what we have all experienced in recent months illustrates this is not some abstract issue.

Somerset, I regularly meet unpaid carers doing an incredible job. They look after husbands, wives, parents, children and neighbours, often around the clock. Many juggle caring with work or family life, and many tell me they simply feel exhausted.

They don’t do it for recognition, but they deserve far more support than they currently receive.

Any reforms must start with them. Family carers need proper rights, access to respite care and a system that recognises the enormous contribution they make every day.

At the same time, we need a care system that is fair. No one should be denied the care they need because of their income, and no family should face losing their home or a lifetime of savings simply because a

loved one needs long term care.

Getting this right would also help our NHS. Too many people remain in hospital after they are medically fit to leave because the right care isn’t available closer to home. That isn’t good for patients, their families or NHS staff.

I know there will be difficult conversations ahead, but continuing with the current system simply isn’t an option.

People are tired of hearing that social care reform is coming ‘soon’. They want action, and they want politicians to work together to deliver it.

Families across Somerset have waited long enough. If Parliament can put politics aside and focus on finding lasting solutions, we have a real opportunity to build a care system that is fairer, simpler and gives people the dignity and support they deserve.

Social care: Time for lasting solution FEW issues matter more to families than social care.

Most of us will need it at some point in our lives, whether that’s for ourselves, an ageing parent, a partner, a child with additional needs or another loved one. Yet despite how important it is, social care has too often been pushed into the ‘too difficult’ pile by successive governments.

Recently, Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced plans to reform the system.

Like many people, I hope this time is different.

The reality is that we’ve been here before. Since 1997, there have been 22 attempts to reform social care. Families have heard plenty of promises, but too many are still struggling to get the support they need.

That’s why I welcome the decision to bring different political parties together. The

Lib Dem MP for Yeovil Adam Dance Liberal Democrats have argued for cross-party talks on social care for years because lasting reform will only happen if politicians stop treating it as a party-political issue. This is about people, not politics.

Across Yeovil and South

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Church

blackmorevale.net

Back in the saddle for Ride + Stride

by Jeff Thomas IN 2021 I became Ride + Stride church rep for All Saints, Wyke Regis. I was also churchwarden and an enthusiastic cyclist and, although we had no great track record of previous involvement, I felt this was a project we could embrace and get a lot of fun from, while raising money for two very good causes – Dorset Historic Churches Trust and ourselves!

So that year, having pressganged my son Simon into joining the All Saints cycling team – of two – and with additional support from a small team of walkers, we got our first post-pandemic Ride + Stride campaign underway.

In 2022, I teamed up with Michel Dillistone, our parish treasurer, to cycle around 22 churches between Portland and Abbotsbury.

Then, in 2023, with our cycling team now four strong – welcome Bernard Verkooijen and Stuart Holden – and the walking team as keen as ever, we held our first Ride + Stride cream tea afternoon at the church as a way of bringing the riders and striders together afterwards and further enhancing the day’s fundraising potential. We even managed to squeeze in a couple of guided tower tours to add to the fun.

Our 2023 ride took in 23 churches in and around the Isle of Purbeck, while in 2024 we cycled to Beaminster and back through West Dorset via 24 churches.

No prizes, therefore, for guessing how many churches we visited last year! Although injury reduced our cycling team to three, and despite two punctures, we still managed to

visit 25 churches from Blandford to Wareham via the Tarrant valley. Our walkers were just as active, the cream tea afternoon every bit as busy, and a new initiative was an offer to start the day with a hearty breakfast at our sister church, St Edmund’s, Lanehouse.

Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors and supporters, we raised more than £2,500 – our best year yet and about twice our 2021 total!

So, while I have always thought of Ride + Stride as an enjoyable non-competitive fundraising event – more like a self-guided pilgrimage with a lunchtime pub stop – I guess that in wanting to do just one more church and raise a little bit more sponsorship each year, we’ve started competing with ourselves! Nonetheless, earlier this year we were happy for our efforts since 2021 to be recognised by the award of the trust’s Morshead Trophy.

Planning for this year’s cycle ride is well underway. We take it in turns to devise a route of about 40 miles which, so far as possible, avoids villages we’ve visited in previous years. We are also hoping that our cycling team of four will become five, but this has yet to be confirmed!

However, while our precise route for 2026 has yet to be finalised, I can tell you we’ll be tackling the north east corner of Dorset, starting from Gillingham.

Ride + Stride is now firmly established on the Parish of Wyke Regis events calendar. As well as all the fun and fundraising, Ride + Stride day is an opportunity to demonstrate the warmth of our welcome to visitors, and parishioners are

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All Saints, Wyke Regis, riders – Jeff Thomas (left) and Simon Thomas – at All Saints, Wyke Regis, riders – from left, Bernard Verkooijen, Michael Dillistone and Stuart Holden – at the top of Povington Hill – between East Lulworth and Kimmeridge – in 2023

3 202

DHCT

5

All Saints, Wyke Regis, riders – from left, – Bernard Verkooijen, Michael Dillistone and Jeff Thomas – at All Saints, Tarrant Monkton, in 2025

202

increasingly happy and willing to support it in any way that they can. n Ride + Stride, this year on Saturday, September 12, is Dorset Historic Churches Trust’s principal source of funds.

has for 65 years grant-aided maintenance work for churches and chapels.

The priority has always been to assist with weatherproofing to preserve Dorset’s heritage for future generations.

GOT A STORY? Then email newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

40

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 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, 2.30pm3.30pm, term times only.

Tuesday – Footprints, activities playtime for pre-school children, 10am-11.30am and 1.15pm-2.45pm, term times only. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday – small groups meet at homes at 7.30pm.

• 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 Family Service.

blackmorevale.net • 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: Talk by Reg Pengelly on Thomas Hardy’s Work on Friday, August 21, 7pm for 7.30pm start. Free entry but donations welcome to help with urgent repairs to the church.

Refreshments and raffle.

Parking in school.

• 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 Benefice: August 16 – St Peters, Holy Communion 9.30am; St James Holy Communion 9.30am; Motcombe Breakfast Church 10am; Evening Worship 6pm; Compton Abbas Holy Communion 11.15am; Enmore Green Morning Worship 11.15am. August 19 – St Peters Holy Communion 10.30am.

August 23 – St Peters Holy Communion 9.30am; Motcombe Holy Communion 9.30am; Melbury Abbas Holy Communion 11.15am; Enmore Green Morning Prayer 11.15am; West Orchard Morning Prayer 11.15am; St James Reflective Communion 6pm. August 26 – St Peters Holy Communion 10.30am.

• 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: Sunday, 8am Holy Communion, 9.30am Parish Eucharist and 6pm Choral Evensong. Monday to Saturday, 8.30am Morning Prayer; The Sepulchre Chapel.

Mondays, 9am CW Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel.

Tuesday, noon CW Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel.

Wednesday, 10.30am Holy Communion with Homily; The Lady Chapel (alternates CW and BCP). Thursday, noon BCP Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. Friday, 9am Ecumenical Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. First Friday of the month, 9am Requiem Holy Communion; The Sepulchre Chapel. Third Friday of the month, 11am Remembering the Fallen. Saturday, 9am CW Holy Communion; The Sepulchre Chapel.

• Sherborne Abbey: Friends outing to Gloucester Cathedral on Wednesday, September 16.

Coach leaves Culverhayes car park at 9am and departs Gloucester by 6.45pm at the latest. Coach travel, cathedral tour and afternoon tea £38.

• St Benedict’s, Gillingham: Sunday Mass, 11am.

• St Gregory’s, Marnhull: Sunday services 8am and 10am.

Other services, visit www. stgregorysmarnhull.org.uk • St George’s Church, Damerham: Cream teas by the river every Sunday in August, 2pm-4.30pm, Damerham Village Hall (SP6 3HD).

• 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, August 16 – 9.30am Communion at St John the Baptist Church, Spetisbury; 9.30am All Age worship at St Mary the Virgin Church, Charlton Marshall; 11am Communion at All Saints Church, Tarrant Keynston; 11am Morning Worship at All Saints Church, Langton Long.

Sunday, August 23 – 9.30am Communion at St Mary the Virgin Church, Charlton Marshall; 9.30am Morning Worship at St John the Baptist Church, Spetisbury; 11am Communion at All Saints Church, Langton Long.

• West Camel Independent Methodists: All Saints Church (BA22 7QB). Sundays August 16 and 23, 6pm. Sunday, August 30, 6pm – United Service.

Contact: Geoff.mead@yahoo. com or phone 01935 850838.

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

blackmorevale.net

Advertiser’s announcement

Guns market still ‘very buoyant’ HOLTS Auctioneers is just concluding its summer auction cycle, which has proved another great success.

The UK and international market for sporting and historic guns is still very buoyant.

Each Holts auction cycle normally generates a hammer value of about £2 million with some very interesting and often valuable guns consigned, some at local valuation days.

Holts, which is based on the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, is a specialist auction house catering for antique and modern firearms, militaria and related accessories.

The Holts team is now valuing and accepting consignments for its autumn auctions with valuation days throughout the region.

The next local ones are on Thursday, August 27, at the NFU Mutual Sturminster Newton, and Wednesday, September 9, at the GWCT, Fordingbridge.

For a full list of venues, see the Holts website, www. holtsauctioneers.com

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

Advertising made

simple

01963 400186 adverts@blackmorevale.net

WE BUY RECORDS, COLLECTIONS LARGE AND SMALL Call BILL 07967 816506 or 01747 811100 Email: bill@tunes.co.uk

Antique & Classic Clock Repairs & Restoration Longcase Clocks a speciality Antique Clock sales

An EM Reilly & Co .410 sidelever hammer shotgun estimated at £800-£1,200, which recently sold for £3,500 hammer

To book an appointment or discuss a valuation or home visit, contact David Thurgood on 01297 306123 or by email at westcountry@holtsauctioneers. com

HOLTS

AUCTIONEERS OF FINE MODERN & ANTIQUE GUNS

FREE VALUATION DAY

For guns, militaria, edged weapons and related items Thursday 27th August NFU Mutual The Creamery Station Road, Sturminster Newton Dorset, DT10 1BD

41

Clocks Unlimited

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

Next Sale

European Ceramics & Glass; Clocks & Instruments; and Antique Furniture & Objects Saturday 12th September 2026 For a full list of our specialist sales please see our website

Wednesday 9th September The GWCT Burgate Manor Fordingbridge Hampshire, SP6 1EF

To book an appointment, arrange a free valuation or home visit please contact: David Thurgood 01297 306123 westcountry@holtsauctioneers.com WWW. HOLTSAUCTIONEERS.COM

A 17th century manuscript recipe & remedy book.

SOLD FOR £18,000

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

42

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Antiques & Collectibles

blackmorevale.net

Advertiser’s announcement

Coming auctions at saleroom...

ACREMAN St Auctioneers & to the address below.

Valuers Sherborne will be The auction house can take in holding a two-day auction this everything from single items to month. complete collections and can The Antiques & Collectors help with advice and valuations auction, including Oriental, to anyone downsizing or who Furniture & Paintings, is on needs to deal with a whole Thursday, August 27, at 10am, house. with Jewellery Silver & It can also arrange full house Watches on Friday, clearances at August 28, also at competitive rates.

10am.

Acreman Viewing is on Auctioneers & Valuers Wednesday, August at 121 Acreman 26, 10am-4pm.

Street, Sherborne DT9 The catalogue and 3PH is open Monday bidding is available to Friday 9am-4pm.

A ballet shoe online through Anyone who has signed by Margot easyliveauction.com anything they would Fonteyn was and thesaleroom.com recently for sale like to consign can Acreman is contact Gill Norman accepting consignments for its on 01935 508764 or 07908 upcoming sales and is happy to 333577 or by email at auction@ advise on anything prospective acremanstreet sellers may be considering for antiques.co.uk auction.

Photographs can be emailed

ACREMAN ST. AUCTIONEERS & VALUERS SHERBORNE

GENERAL ANTIQUES & COLLECTABLES Thursday 27th August 10am

JEWELLERY, SILVER & WATCHES Friday 28th August 10am

Viewing

Wednesday 26th August 10am-4pm

Margot Fonteyn’s signed ballet shoe Est. £300 - £500

High prices for gold and silver CLARKE’S Auctions has become a respected name in the south west, offering a fresh and modern approach to buying and selling at auction.

Combining professional valuation services with a strong online presence attracts buyers from across the UK and abroad.

Gold, silver, jewellery and coins continue to be among the strongest performing categories at auction with jewellery and collectable items consistently selling above estimate. Now is the perfect time to consign as gold prices have risen dramatically over the past few years, while silver has also seen significant gains, creating strong demand for quality pieces.

Regular monthly sales feature a varied selection of antiques and collectable items, jewellery and fine art, attracting interest

from established collectors and first-time buyers. Single-owner collections remain highly desirable, often attracting considerable interest due to their consistency, quality and provenance.

Clarke’s Auctions has extensive experience in handling such collections and has successfully sold a wide range of consignments including gold coin collections, vintage and modern jewellery, and railway memorabilia.

For enquiries about consignment into Clarke’s September 11-12 sale, probate or insurance valuations, or full or part house clearances, 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 Saturday12th 10th August Friday 11th September Viewing Wednesday 7th and Thursday 8th from 9.00am to 4.30pm

An 18th-19th century AngloIndian ivory inlaid vizagapatam desk Sold for £4,600

Catalogue available to view through thesaleroom.com & Easyliveauction.com We are still accepting items for our upcoming auctions

An original Fry & Sons 'Fry's Pure Concentrated 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, August 14, 2026

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Clock highlight of interiors sale DUKE’S auction house presents antique and modern gifts of distinction within September’s Interiors & Design auction.

Step inside Duke’s everevolving emporium, where history, artistry and craftsmanship come together in the auction on Thursday, September 3.

Featuring a carefully curated selection of fine art, period furniture and decorative objects, the sale offers everything from classical paintings and intriguing miscellanea to exquisite porcelain, silver and contemporary design.

Each lot has its own story, bringing timeless elegance and character to any interior.

Advertiser’s announcement

A highlight is an exceptional Atmos Royale Clock – pictured – which is estimated to sell for £1,500-£3,000.

Celebrated for its ingenious engineering and refined design, it is a striking example of enduring craftsmanship.

More than an auction, Duke’s Interiors & Design is a celebration of exceptional objects and their enduring appeal.

Experienced collectors or those searching for a unique statement piece will find this sale offers the opportunity to acquire treasures that will be admired for generations, continuing their remarkable stories in new homes.

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Antiques & Collectibles

Dave Angel cars and more THE classic cars, spares and automobilia from lifelong classic car collector and enthusiast Dave Angel is being sold by Charterhouse next week.

“Growing up I often called into Dave’s legendary scrapyard, Angel Autos on Wardon Hill, Evershot, Dorchester, where 40 years ago I would source parts for my trusty Triumph Herald,” said Richard Bromell, from the auction house.

“Sadly, Dave passed away last year, and the family have decided now is the time to let his collection come to auction and be available for new custodians.”

Dave was well known in classic car and collecting circles.

While his business scrapped or recycled thousands of cars over the decades, he held onto parts he knew would become difficult

19th August

to find. He also restored many cars to a high standard over the years and enjoyed many classic car trips.

The collection includes classic cars, automobilia, spares and even Dave’s trusty Brian James trailer, mostly being sold without reserve.

Viewing will be onsite at the Angel family property in Rampisham, near Dorchester DT2 0PR on Tuesday, August 18, 10am-4pm, with the auction being held live online at The Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne, on Wednesday, August 19.

For more information about this single owner auction, contact Richard Bromell at Charterhouse, The Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne on 01935 812277 or via cars@ charterhouse-auction.com

20th August

19th August

August Auction Programme

The Dave Angel Collection Wednesday 19th Coins, Stamps, Militaria & Toys Thursday 20th Antiques & Interiors Friday 21st Viewing, Lots & Live Bidding on our Website

Specialist Valuation Days in Sherborne A U C T I O N

|

2 8

M A Y

|

2 0 2 6

VIEWING: Tuesday 26 May 9.30am - 5pm Wednesday 27 May 9.30am - 5pm The Dorchester Fine Art Salerooms, Copper Street, Brewery Square, Dorchester DT1 1GA

www.dukes-auctions.com www.dukes-auctions.com

Pictures, Books, Maps & Postcards 19th Jewellery, Watches, Gold & Silver 20th Chinese & Japanese Ceramics & Bronzes 21st

Classic Car Auction 19th November Classic Bike Auction 26th November Further entries now being accepted

The Long Street Salerooms Sherborne DT9 3BS 01935 812277 • www.charterhouse-auction.com

44

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Arts & Entertainment

blackmorevale.net

Art for all on village trail THE popular Child Okeford Art Trail is back for its sixth year later this month with 23 talented artists and craftspeople exhibiting in their own homes, studios and community spaces.

The trail gives visitors the chance to explore the village and view and purchase a diverse collection of paintings, prints, crafts and pottery.

Several new and exciting artists are taking part this year.

Barry Hulme, who is at the community centre, paints warm, beautiful watercolours, covering a range of subjects from landscapes to luminous

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interiors, coastal scenes to city centres.

He is a winner of the Society for All Artists Amateur Artist of the Year, and his work has been chosen as Best Professional Landscape & Woodland scene for the Society for All Artists.

Local artist Holly Berlyn will be exhibiting for the first time, also in the community centre.

She specialises in fine liner pointillism, a technique which uses only dots to create a work.

Her artworks are inspired by nature and often involve insects, animals and botanicals.

The village hall will host 11 artists, and local charity SERO – which raises money for Julia’s House Children’s Hospice – will offer light refreshments, homemade cakes and sandwiches there throughout the four days.

Barry Hulme creates a coastal watercolour and (above) Rose Hatcher

Julie Little will be selling her paintings, with all proceeds adding to hall funds.

Villager Nick Selby Bennet, at the village hall, will also be exhibiting for the first time. His sporting and rural cartoons are inspired by events and country folk.

Jesse Marshall, a jeweller who says she has a ‘wildly overactive imagination’, and lovingly handcrafts magical works from silver and gold, will also be at the village hall.

Rose Hatcher is also joining in the art trail. She is best known for using silk fibres to create colourful images of

unlikely botanical specimens but she also makes ‘rubbish’ jewellery, using beach finds or locally salvaged scrap, all set off with semi-precious stones or vintage beads. She also does weaving and bookbinding.

The event promises something for everyone with a wide variety of artists, from painters to jewellers, photographers to potters and much more.

The art trail runs from Friday to Monday, August 28-31, 11am to 4pm daily.

Leaflets with details of all participants are available from a variety of locations.

PLEA S KE E CHEC EP KIN OUR G WEBS ITE

THEATRE CLOSED FOR MAINTENANCE 2nd - 27th August Box Office remains open for ticket sales SNAKE OIL & FRIENDS A NIGHT IN NASHVILLE Get ready for a heartwarming, feelgood Country Rock and Tex Mex show with Snake Oil Band and Friends.

Sat 5th Sep 7.30pm Tickets £17.50

CLASS OF ‘55

Step back in time and relive the golden age of rock and roll as The Class of ‘55 reunites for one unforgettable night celebrating the legendary sounds of Buddy Holly and Jerry Lee Lewis!

Fri 28th August 7.30pm Tickets £28.50

G4: PHANTOMS OF THE POPERA

Sun 6th Sep 7.30pm Tickets £69.50 meet and greet £35 standard

SPACE COWBOY: THE ULTIMATE TRIBUTE TO JAMIROQUAI

Sat 29th Aug 7.30pm Tickets £28.50

LIPSTICK ON YOUR COLLAR THE 50’S & 60’S SHOW!

Thurs 10th Sep 7.30pm Tickets £28

PLEA S KE E CHEC EP KING VOODOO ROOM: O U R A NIGHT W E B SCLAPTON OF HENDRIX ITE

AND CREAM

Weds 2nd Sept 7.30pm Tickets £24.50

ELIO PACE LIVE

Fri 11th Sep 7.30pm Tickets £32.50

PLEA S KE E CHEC EP KIN OUR G WEBS ITE

THE SEARCHERS AND HOLLIES EXPERIENCE Thurs 3rd Sept 7.30pm Tickets £22.50

ZZ TOPPD

Sat 12th September 7.30pm Tickets £22

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

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Host of big names at literary festival DOWNTON Abbey creator Julian Fellowes, actress Alison Steadman, Wild Swans author Jung Chang and former Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt will headline the upcoming Dorchester Literary Festival.

The event, which runs from October 17-24, brings together award-winning novelists, historians, broadcasters, politicians, explorers and environmentalists for eight days of conversation, debate and storytelling.

It will welcome 35 speakers to Dorset with a programme that ranges from world history and politics to fiction, memoir, nature, food, adventure and current affairs.

Julian Fellowes will reflect on a career spanning Oscarwinning screen writing, best selling novels and one of Britain’s most successful television dramas.

Much-loved actress Alison Steadman will discuss her candid memoir Out of

Character, offering audiences an intimate look behind one of Britain’s most distinguished acting careers.

Internationally acclaimed author Jung Chang returns with Fly Wild Swans: My Mother, Myself and China, a deeply personal account of three generations of women living through modern Chinese history.

Former Chancellor Jeremy Hunt will explore Britain’s economic future in a timely discussion inspired by his new book Can We Be Rich Again? while leading educator Sir Anthony Seldon appears in two thought-provoking events, examining political leadership and a compelling walk to Auschwitz.

History lovers are particularly well served this year. Andrew Lownie lifts the lid on Britain’s most controversial royal dynasty in Entitled, while Damien Lewis, Jonathan Fennell and David Lascelles reveal remarkable

Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes

Arts & Entertainment untold stories from the Second World War. Current affairs remain firmly on the agenda. Journalist Martin Sixsmith investigates Vladimir Putin’s hidden wealth in Suing the Kremlin, while broadcaster and journalist Samira Ahmed, commentator Simon Jenkins and psychologist Frank Tallis offer fresh perspectives on politics, society and ageing well.

The festival celebrates the natural world with environmentalist Tony Juniper, explorer Charlie Walker, meteorologist Laura Tobin, travel writer Brian Jackman and geologist Anjana Khatwa.

Fiction lovers will enjoy best selling novelist Victoria Hislop discussing her latest novel inspired by Greece, The Wine Dark Sea, and Kathy Lette talking about her hilarious new novel Sisterhood Rules.

Dorchester Literary Festival emphasises conversation.

Rather than traditional lectures, audiences enjoy in-depth interviews led by an experienced team of broadcasters, journalists and authors. Throughout the week, speakers will be interviewed by respected names including Kate Adie, Danny Danziger, Steve Harris, Jenny Devitt, Vanessa Berridge, Michael McCarthy, Sam Fraser and Lulu Taylor, creating insightful and entertaining discussions that have become a defining feature of the festival.

Festival director Janet Gleeson said: “Every year we aim to create a programme that brings together internationally renowned authors alongside

Jung Chang is returning to Dorchester Literary Festival PHOTO: Zhang Xiaohong

fascinating new voices, covering subjects that entertain, challenge and inspire. We are delighted to welcome such an extraordinary collection of speakers to Dorchester this October.”

Alongside its acclaimed programme of author events, the festival includes children’s activities, workshops, poetry and schools’ events. The festival also continues to support Weldmar Hospicecare, raising funds through its events and collections.

Tickets go on sale to Festival Friends from August 17, with general booking opening on August 31. Early booking is recommended, as many events sell out well in advance.

For the full programme and booking information, visit www. dorchesterliteraryfestival.com

Lie of the land 35 years on...

FOLK-ROCKERS the Levellers – pictured – are coming to City Hall in Salisbury before a UK and European tour this autumn.

The dates come 35 years after the release of their platinum-selling second album Levelling the Land.

That album, released in

1991, features the hit singles One Way, 15 Years and Far From Home.

The band will be playing songs from the album, along with other fan favourites from their extensive catalogue.

Levellers are in Salisbury on Friday, September 4.

PHOTO: Steve Gullick

45

46

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Arts & Entertainment

Events

blackmorevale.net

TAUNTON APPRENTICESHIP EVENING 2027 - Hosted by Queen’s College - Contact Jack Frampton: jsf@queenscollege.org.uk

Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.

LYN’s BINGO on August 17th Marnhull Royal British Legion. Sodom Lane (DT10 1HR). Eyes down 7pm.

TUNA FISHING 2 places available from Looe, Cornwall on 1st & 2nd Sept.

2 nights accommodation, 1 day fishing. Transport and tackle provided, £485 per place. Phone 07365-785559

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adverts@blackmorevale.net

A lantern parade through Dorchester concluded Women of Dorset’s production of Unearthed PHOTOS: Jayne Jackson

Lanterns light streets for show’s finale THE final performance at Dorchester Arts of Unearthed, which celebrated women from Dorset’s past, ended in the cast and audience taking part in a lantern parade through the town, singing songs from the play as they walked.

The parade ended at the statue of celebrated Dorset writer Sylvia Townsend Warner, portrayed by actor Helga Brandt in the production.

Unearthed, written by Stephanie Dale and directed by Penny Levick, followed contemporary young woman Sam as she is swept into a gathering of women from Dorset’s past.

Through their stories, she discovers courage, resilience and a new appreciation of her own place in history.

Women of Dorset’s play, featuring a cast and community chorus of more than 40 women aged from nine to 82, included dance, live music and song.

It had three sold-out nights at Dorchester Arts before moving on to Lighthouse Poole for two

Saturday 29th August. Henstridge Airfield. BA8 0TN. Gates open 10.00am

CYBER, CODES & SECRET AGENTS ROYAL SIGNALS MUSEUM Blandford, Dorset.

DT11 8BJ

01258 482 248

Sam is swept up into a gathering of women from Dorset’s past

performances.

Folk musician, actor and storyteller Tim Laycock said: “Unearthed – what a huge achievement. What a wonderful and beautiful play Penny and the company have made!

“It’s really special, visually stunning, completely compelling and has incredible harmony singing – a real piece of community theatre.”

GOT A STORY? Then email us at newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

“Having seen the reviews, we decided to give this place a try, thank goodness we did, what a gem!”

GROUPS WELCOME e: visit@royalsignalsmuseum.co.uk

Interactive History, Science and Technology.

Open weekdays 10 - 4.30 Saturdays 11 - 4 Royal Signals Museum Blandford, Dorset Dt11 8RH

e: visit@royalsignalsmuseum.co.uk www.royalsignalsmuseum.co.uk

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Events

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CAR BOOT SALE, Nunton Recreation Ground, Nunton, SP5 4HW. August 23rd, Sellers 7.30am. Cars £5, Small vans £8, large vans £15. Buyers 8.30am. Adults 50p. Refreshments. www. newsandnotes.net/event-list SHAFTESBURY EMPORIUM SUNDAY 2nd August 10-4pm Friday 14th & Saturday 15th August 9-4.30pm Town Hall Shaftesbury Free Entry. Please bring cash!

Supporting DSAA & Weldmar Hospice Next events: 11th & 12th September.

www.arrive-in-style.co.uk or tel:

01747 826282

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TARRANT GUNVILLE HORSE AND COMIC DOG SHOW: Saturday 15th August 8.30am – 4.30pm, Eastbury Park, DT11 8JQ. £7 per car

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CAR BOOT SALE, 23rd August, Burtons Community Orchard, Shillingstone, DT11-0TX. Sellers 9am, Buyers 10am, Cars £5. Vans & Trailers £8.

47

BANK HOLIDAY MONDAY

31ST AUGUST 2026, 1PM - 4.30PM STONEY HILLS FIELD, SANS LANE, SP7 9LL (just off A30)

01963 400186

BBQ | Teas & Cakes | Beer & Cider | Ice Creams Bottle Tombola | Auction of Logs

A TALK BY REG PENGELLY

Bric a Brac | China | Glass | Toys | Games & Records Home Produce | Books | Plants | Paintings & Frames Fashion Accessories & Jewellery

About Thomas Hardy’s Work Milton-on-Stour Church Friday 21st August 7pm for 7.30pm start Entry is free but please donate, if you can, to help with urgent repairs to our Church.

Reg will have available copies of his book about Hardy’s novels. They will be discounted at £10 (£15 on Amazon) so please bring some cash with you.

Refreshments & Raffle Parking in School alongside just follow the road sign

Punch & Judy | Merry-Go-Round Family Fun & Sideshows | Country Pursuits & Crafts

The Sunset Cafe Stompers ANNUAL DOG SHOW

3.30pm | Register from 1.00pm

CLASSIC CAR & BIKE SHOW

1.00pm - 4.30pm | Arrive before 12 noon

FORDINGBRIDGE Fryern Court Road, Fordingbridge, SP6 1ND

Entry Adults £ 5

Children £ 2

Fun fo r a l l the fa mily!

Gates open at 9 am

t i cTICKETS ke t s Steam engines £20£20 Adult AdultDay Day Ticket Ticket Under 12’s 12’sare areFREE FREE heavy horses Under £5 Adult Entry 5pm £5 Adult Entryafter after 5pm Vintage vehicles Early Bird Early BirdDiscounts Discounts bars • Fun fair Available on our website Available on our website SHOPPING • food Steamandvintagefest.co.uk Steamandvintagefest.co.uk 07702804604 804604 07702 live music 5PM Steamandvintagefest@gmail.com Steamandvintagefest@gmail.com

Open Garden Hatch House

Sunday 30th August, 11 am to 4.30 pm Hatch House, Newtown, Tisbury SP3 6PA Featuring Lady Rumbold's & Mrs Fairhurst’s Celebrated Pre-loved Clothes Marquees

www.salisburyhospicecharity.org.uk Kindly sponsored by Registered charity no 1123314

48

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Home & Garden

A cottage garden nice and easy...

GARDENERS do not need years of experience, a big budget or even much of a plan to grow a cottage garden that looks like it belongs on a postcard. The secret is a handful of hardworking flowers that quite literally plant themselves by scattering seed at the end of summer and popping back up, often somewhere new, the following year.

For beginners, it means a border that grows fuller and more beautiful every season, without the pressure of getting everything right first time.

The team at British Garden Centres has put together this guide on the best self-seeding plants for the garden.

Foxgloves NOTHING says cottage garden quite like the foxglove, with its tall spires of bell-shaped blooms rising above the border. A single plant scatters thousands of seeds when its pods dry and crack open in late summer, drifting on the wind to fill new corners the following year.

Aquilegia ALSO known as granny’s

blackmorevale.net

bonnets, aquilegias produce nodding, delicate flowers in spring and tend to settle happily into a favoured spot, returning faithfully year after year, making it a reliable choice for a selfseeder that stays roughly where it’s planted.

Verbena Bonariensis THIS tall, airy variety produces clusters of purple flowers that seem to float above the border, flowering well into autumn. It self-seeds freely and weaves through other cottage garden staples, adding height without bulk, and pollinators love it.

Nigella ALSO called love-in-a-mist for its feathery foliage, nigella produces striking seed pods that stay attractive long after the flowers fade. It’s best left to self-seed where it falls, since it develops a long taproot and dislikes being moved once established.

Calendula CALENDULA, or pot marigold, is one of the most forgiving self-seeders around, tolerating poor soil and thriving in full sun.

Its cheerful blooms last for months, and fresh seedlings tend to appear the following spring with little effort.

Poppies POPPIES bring a burst of vivid colour and drift unpredictably around a garden year to year, since they resent being transplanted once settled. Left undisturbed, they’ll pop up in delightfully unexpected places each summer.

Cornflowers CORNFLOWERS offer that classic cottage-blue colour and self-seed readily in sunny borders. Like poppies, they’re best sown directly and left to find their own spot.

Larkspur OFTEN mistaken for its cousin delphinium, larkspur brings tall spires of blue, pink and white to the back of a border, dropping seed that germinates the following spring readily.

Feverfew FEVERFEW’S small, daisy-like flowers are a magnet for pollinators and self-seed generously throughout a border and are reliable, lowmaintenance colour that fills gaps without any encouragement.

Forget-Me-Nots FORGET-ME-NOTS carpet

– is home, created the Open Garden alongside her friend, Elspeth Vernon.

“When our children were little, my friend and business partner Elspeth and I spent our summers at Hatch House,” she said.

“Those days were filled with pony rides, visits to Longleat, endless walks and the bustle of cooking and laundry for six lively children.

“It was busy, it was joyful and it became the backdrop to an

idea that has since grown into something very special.

“One summer, we decided to open the gates of Hatch’s beautiful 17th century Dutchstyle walled garden to raise a little money for charity.

“At first, all we offered was a gentle walk among the flowers.

The takings were modest, but the seed had been planted.

“The following year, we added tea, cakes and clothes – a mix of surplus from our own wardrobes, our London shop and glamorous cast-offs from my mother-in-law, strung up on a ladder by our gardener, Cyril Eldridge.

“This simple gesture became a treasured tradition that raised far more than we ever

borders in soft blue each spring, often appearing in gaps gardeners did not know were there, and are particularly good at filling awkward spots beneath shrubs.

Expert tip The key to managing selfseeding flowers lies not in stopping them from spreading but in editing the results each spring. Gardeners are encouraged to let a handful of plants go to seed at the end of the season, then thin out the excess seedlings once they emerge.

Self-seeding essentials For immediate impact this summer, potted verbena bonariensis, calendula, and aquilegia are widely available and can be planted straight into borders and are among the few self-seeders reliably sold as young plants rather than seed.

For next year’s display, pick up seed packets for foxgloves, honesty, poppies, cornflowers, nigella, sweet rocket, larkspur and feverfew. Most are best sown in late summer, between August and September, so anyone sowing now is right on schedule. And for the frugal gardener, the simplest option costs nothing – leaving a couple of whatever is already flowering to go to seed for the same effect.

Garden, fashion, furniture and more THE popular annual Hatch House Open Garden event will be held at the end of the month in support of Salisbury Hospice Charity.

Garden lovers will be able to take in the walled garden, while enjoying a host of other attractions.

The day began as a simple idea between friends – a walk through the walled garden to raise money for charity – and has since blossomed into a muchloved tradition.

From tea and cakes to stalls of secondhand treasures, the Hatch House Open Garden is a gathering that supports the community in a meaningful way.

Lady Holly Rumbold, for whom Hatch House – pictured

imagined.”

Since those early days, the event has flourished. Now supported by Virginia Fairhurst, Joanna Jacobs and the Tisbury Fundraising Committee, the event welcomes visitors to browse secondhand treasures that tell stories of their own.

Furniture, books, bric-a-brac, jewellery and, of course, the fashion which has become synonymous with the event.

Every ticket sold on the gate, every purchase made, supports end-of-life and palliative care for local people.

The event runs on Sunday, August 30, 11am-4.30pm, at Hatch House, Newtown, Tisbury. Entry costs £5 for adults, £2 for children.

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

blackmorevale.net

Plants to pep up last of summer salads

by Sally Gregson AS our scorching hot summer draws to a close, it’s worth thinking about using the last warm days to grow some salads to pick and eat in a few weeks’ time. The tomatoes may still be producing some fruit outside or in the greenhouse, but if you have a little space there are one or two really flavoursome crops to try in the closing months of the season.

To spice up the last of the summer salads, try sowing a row of some of the oriental leaves such as pak choi or mizuna. Pak choi can be picked as if it were lettuce – a few young leaves at a time. The plants will keep growing at this cooler time of year, free of flea beetle which normally

A pak choi seedling sprouts in soil

devastates them. If they do persist, they might even produce bulb-like bases to the clumps.

Delicious cut and stir-fried! And mizuna is a Japanese leaf that withstands and grows even in quite cold conditions. They, too, are delicious used in stir-fries.

Cresses grow well at this latter end of the season.

American cress is similar to watercress. It does need to be kept cool and moist. But if it grows well, its leaves are peppery and lift the flavour of dull lettuce leaves. And Greek

49

Home & Garden cress is a delicious leafy salad with a fresh taste and it packs quite a kick. Pick it young and spicy.

Chervil is an old-fashioned herb/salad with a marked aniseed flavour traditionally served with fish. Chopped finely, it combines well with parsley, chives and lemon to make a herb crust for fillets of sea-bass. Its pretty ferny leaves look good in the greenhouse or outside. Sow a row now and keep it well watered to prevent it from running to seed, which will terminate the crop.

In many ways autumn salads are easier to germinate and grow than summer lettuces, which often refuse to germinate in hot weather. Oriental leaves make a delicious salad to serve as the last of the tomatoes ripen.

And if you’ve been growing cucumber, doubtless you will be relieved to find another green salad to spice up those crunchy slices.

Top tips for saving seeds this season

by Sally Gregson THIS extraordinary year has been especially remarkable for the number and variety of flowers that have wowed their audiences, followed naturally by the number of fruits/nuts/ seeds.

To reap this wonderful harvest, pick the seeding heads while they are ripe and dry.

Most will be rattling in their pods. Some may need to be taken from the parent plant and dried in the house. Others will simply require scattering where they are.

For those that are ripe – the aquilegias, foxgloves, Oenothera etc – cut off the dry heads and pop each variety into a separate paper bag marked with the name of the plant and date of harvest. It is frightening how quickly and easy it is to

mistake seed of a special aquilegia from its neighbour.

When you tip them out onto a piece of paper on the kitchen table, they look exactly the same as any other seed you have carefully harvested.

Clean the seed of all the debris – the dried casing, stem and leaves, if necessary. If the seeds are still slightly moist, dry them out in a labelled paper envelope overnight. If the whole stem is still slightly green, fix a paper bag around the heads and pin the stem to a dark, dry part of the ceiling. Leave it for a couple of weeks before tackling the next, cleaning stage.

Spread a large sheet of paper on the table and tip out the saved seed-heads. The seeds often separate themselves from the debris, but otherwise sort the viable, shiny seed from the

Save seeds for planting next spring

chaff, and tip them out into a small paper envelope marked with the name and date of harvest. Seal it and place the envelope into a plastic storage box in the fridge. This will maintain the humidity level, at a cool temperature. Fridges are usually about 4˚ - 5˚ c. That’s an ideal temperature for storage.

But some seeds can just be sprinkled where they fall, such as opium poppies – Papaver

somniferum; Oenothera; forget-me-not; and many grasses such as Stipa tenuissima whose thin seedlings are easy to spot in the spring. If you have no plans to ‘improve’ the soil with an over-wintering mulch, simply scatter the setting seeds in situ. Otherwise store them until the spring before sowing in the hopefully damp ground.

And wait. Fingers crossed for another floriferous spring.

GOT A STORY? Then email newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

50

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Home & Garden

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SKIP HIRE

Clive Smith Waste Transfer Note.qxp_Layout 1 01/10/2020 09:33 Page 1

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:

PLEASE NOTE

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

Date ________________ ALL AREAS COVERED ONLY • AVAILABLE • LEVEL LOADS ALL SIZE OF SKIP PLEASE RING

CLIVE SMITH (See Condition 17 overleaf).

Vehicle Registration

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Customer

Address

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

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KITCHENS

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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

Station Road Gillingham Dorset SP8 4PZ

01747 822080

info@kingsmeresurfacing.co.uk www.kingsmeresurfacing.co.uk

HAMBLEDONS Premium Outdoor Services • 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

MADE TO MEASURE BLINDS & CURTAINS CARPETS & VINYL FLOORING

VIEW OUR NEW WEBSITE – www.sewards-blinds.co.uk Come & visit our showroom:

Unit 2, Old Market Centre, Station Road, Gillingham, SP8 4QQ

North Dorset Based 01258 721552 07833 475565

hambledons.net info@hambledons.net Get In Touch For a Free Quote

CONTACT US ON: 01747 708406

FOR MORE INFORMATION

51

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Home & Garden

blackmorevale.net

Tree Surgery & Garden Maintenance

Hedge Cutting, Tree Shaping/ Pruning, Felling, Tree Removal & General Maintenance

07398222325

vincentandsontreeservices@gmail.com

CO

ND GEN

2

M & A J Landscaping ~ Fencing ~ Walling ~ Patios/Steps ~ Concreting/Tarmac ~ Tree work ~ Garden maintenance malcgin@hotmail.com 07399-521377

01258 313110

SE

W

for a FREE home appointment

20

0

LOCAL FAMILY COMPANY CALL US TODAY

ISHED IN

NO

DRYSTONE WALLING AND LANDSCAPING www.yenstonewalling.co.uk 01963 371123 / 07751 278363

BL

TA

N

PALRAM CANOPY SKYLIGHT SHED (Complete-Unassembled) 2x2.3m Retail = £650 Bargain @ £150 07947 358970

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

IO

BRICKLAYER LOOKING FOR SMALL JOBS patios garden walls pointing 10 mile radius of Shaftesbury call 07530-908310

UPKEEP, PROPERTY & GARDENING MAINTENANCE. Tel: 07725-112160

A

T

EX-DISPLAY SHEDS, Stables/field shelters, summerhouses, offices, workshops, agricultural 01935 891195

TOOLS WANTED. Cash waiting. 01747 416022

ES

WALK BEHIND FLAIL MOWER and operator hire.

Neglected area clearance 07432-773151

ER

www.AshleyBlindsUK.com

HOUSE CLEARANCE Plus Sheds, Attics, Garages & Gardens Quality Items Offset Registered Waste Carrier

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

www.

.com

(Established 1997)

GARDEN SERVICES Dorset Gardens of Steve Manuel Do you want your garden to look gorgeous and vibrant?

Contact Dorset Garden Services for expert garden maintenance services at competitive prices.

07814064266

www.dorsetgardenservicesstevemanuel.co.uk sjmanuel@btinternet.com 1 Green Lane, Crossways, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 8BP

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

52

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Home & Garden

blackmorevale.net

PRECISION TURFING, Tel: 07496-863806. email precision-turfing@hotmail.com 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

HANDYMAN SERVICES Available. Call Gavin.

Tel: 07495-892240 WANTED Dave buys all types of tools Call 01935 428975 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

Call For

A Free cooperg685@gmail.com

Quote

07754 821 232

A FRIENDLY FAMILY RUN BUSINESS FOR ALL YOUR GARDENING NEEDS

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

Reliable

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. www.gillinghamgardenmachinery.co.uk

01747 859564 Unit 1, Brickyard Lane, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4JL

The New Blackmore Vale Magazine Display ads must be booked by Wednesday the week prior to publication, with final copy submitted by the Friday.

GOOD QUALITY SEASONED HARDWOOD for sale Barn-stored Any size of load. If you want anymore help contact Andy 07773-254174

Classified ads may be accepted after this, HOWEVER these will be subject to space.

SELF DRIVE DIGGER AND DUMPER HIRE 01258 861647 HEDGE CUTTING AND LAWN MOWING SERVICES, ShaftesburyBlandford & local villages.

Please call Trevor 07970-012130

L.DAVIS AND SONS Fencing, and garden design Concrete bases, patios, gravel, garden clearance and much more. We also deliver compost, pots, bark, logs and other gardening products. 01458-241230 or 07950-261510 ASBESTOS REMOVAL Garages, Sheds, Lean to’s, Roofing and Cladding Collection and Dismantling BY Registered Hazardous Waste Carrier Call 07973 444620

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

LOGS BLACKMORE VALE LOG SPLITTING - Your local mobile service 07760 469411

DEADLINES

JACKS AFFORDABLE TREE CARE 07936-498493

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, August 14, 2026

blackmorevale.net

Home & Garden

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

WELL ROTTED HORSE MANURE £60.00 a transit load.

Contact Roger on 07885 826396 or 01202 826502

PRECISION FENCING & GATES

• Installation • Repair • Maintenance Feel free to give us a call on 07355-295534 or email at Precision-fencing@hotmail.com

Local Services AIR CONDITIONING

Don’t spend another year suffering at home in the heat Install a dedicated Worcester Bosch air conditioning unit Installed by a professional with waranty and peace of mind

Annual maintenance contracts available

Phone: 07971 865496 Email: okefordheating@yahoo.co.uk

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

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.

To place your

CLASSIFIED ADS

The New

Blackmore Vale

Magazine

book online: adverts@blackmorevale.net LES BENHAM

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

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

KEEP IT LOCAL!

01747 852111 • info@bvblinds.co.uk • www.bvblinds.co.uk

53

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 SW BUILDING & RENOVATIONS LTD. All aspects of building and plumbing catered for.

Tel: 07970 437786 e: swbuildandrenovation@gmail.com

54

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Local Services

blackmorevale.net

ARCHITECTURAL, BUILDING & ELECTRICAL ALL IRONWORK. Handrails.Gates. Railings.

Repairs. Restoration.

01258 880301

ELECTRICIAN

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

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

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

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 SIMON’s REPOINTING JOBS! Repointing houses and exterior walls in lime mortar, rebuilding natural stones. NO VAT! Contact 07745-625617 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.

Contact Us to advertise

01963 400186

•General building •Extensions/Renovations •Loft conversions •Oak frame buildings •Groundwork/Landscaping •All your property needs

Mobile: 07979 527379 | Email: alanlewisaml@aol.com

TRADITIONAL BUILDING & RESTORATION 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

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

55

Local Services

blackmorevale.net

ARCHITECTURAL, BUILDING & ELECTRICAL

Find Us Online

www.blackmorevale.net

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

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

Architectural Services Planning & Building Applications for New Build, Extensions and Conversions

01747 822162

Our advice is always free

enquiries@bell-architectural.co.uk

T F PLANT

Sand, gravel, cement and topsoil supplied

Trade & DIY. Supplied loose or collected.

Small or large loads also bulk bag materials & small handy bags.

Muck-away service of inert materials Trusted family-run business, ring for enquiries

01747 826107

TF Plant, 8 Brickfields Industrial Estate, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 4JL

FREE

CHIMNEYS

TE & QUO VEY SUR E IT S

K.SANSOM CHIMNEY SWEEP Brush & vacuum. APICS registered 01963 370038 From houses and farm buildings to factories, schools and industrial sites, we deliver expert demolition across all sectors. Site clearance, scrap collection and licensed asbestos removal, handled safely and in full compliance.

ALL TYPES OF DEMOLITION COVERED Farmyard, residential & industrial demolition

Licensed asbestos removal

Call or text Louie Smith: 07977 509294 www.bemacross.co.uk

mail@bemacross.co.uk

STEVE ADAMS CHIMNEY SWEEPING HETAS registered woodburner and flue installer. Birdguards and cowls 07932 655267

56

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Local Services

blackmorevale.net

CHIMNEYS

CHIMNEYS Martin Simmonds Chimney Sweep Established in 1978

Chimney Sweep • Property Maintenance Fireplace & Stove Servicing  :01258 455947

NVQ Qualified. APICS Registered

07368 250305 / 01747 590799 Friendly, Reliable Service NVQ Qualified, APICS Registered longthorpeindustries@gmail.com Friendly, Reliable Service

NACS certificates issued Chimneys and Flues Extremely clean service Fully insured (£5m) CCTV

01258 455251

Tel: smokin.nicely@hotmail.co.uk smokinnicely.co.uk

longthorpeindustries@gmail.com

:phoenixchimneys1@gmail.com

Find Us Online

Manual and Power Sweeping,

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

Stove Servicing and Maintenance,

Smokin Nicely Chimney Sweeps

www.blackmorevale.net

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

COMPUTERS / Wi-Fi & TECH Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.

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

DEREK ETHERINGTON BSc(Hons).

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

COMPUTER MAINTENANCE & REPAIRS Purchase advice, Virus Removal, New PC Setup/Installation, Internet Connection, Upgrades, Computer/Software Tuition Call Gregg on 01963 370713

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Local Services

blackmorevale.net

COMPUTERS / Wi-Fi & TECH

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.

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

PHILIP STIRK Painting, Decorating & Property Maintenance Free Quotations/No VAT Tel. 01747 825725 or mob: 07984 524446 Email: philipstirk@btinternet.com

Call me now on 07805 783147 DECORATION, FLOORING & CARPENTRY Call 01963 400186 to advertise in Local Services 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

CAMILLE ELIZABETH PAINTER AND DECORATOR

DUST FREE SANDING SYSTEM Fully Qualified - 20+ Years Experience camillepainting1@gmail.com | 07759 644755

57

Place your classified advert today CLASSIFIED

COUNTRY CARPENTRY Doors, repairs, general maintenance etc Call Nick on 07887 358570

M & M Painting & Decorating.

30 years experience.

Fully insured, clean & tidy. References available. FREE no obligation quote.

Tel: 07921-783296 / 01305-849380

Painting & Decorating Local Quality Painter & Decorator.

35 Years Experience FREE Estimates. No VAT

Call Richard on

Tel: 01258 880670 Mob: 07825512627 01963 400186

‘Your home in safe and capable hands’

ITALIAN LANGUAGE LESSONS

LOCKSMITHS & GARAGE DOORS Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.

Italian Courses

24/7 Locksmiths & Garage Door Repairs

throughout the year

- Residential Lockouts - Garage door repair specialists - New garage doors & automation - Lock repair and replacements

Classes and private tuition Contact

CHRISTINE JEWELS

01935 425958

www.italianlanguageservices.co.uk

Dorset com Doors .com

07979 978 751 drew@dorsetdoors.com

58

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Local Services

blackmorevale.net

LOCKSMITHS & GARAGE DOORS 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

PLUMBING, HEATING & DRAINAGE

Tel 07969443979

Boiler Servicing, Repairs & Installs Gillingham, Shaftesbury, Mere & surrounding areas

D&T Plumbing and Heating Reliable, professional service for all your plumbing & heating needs.

GASTECHPLUMBING.COM

01747 854887 07525 755696

07783 994377

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

PEST CONTROL

MUSIC

SPECTRUM PEST CONTROL

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.

PLUMBING, HEATING & DRAINAGE

MJ HPPS LTD Plumbing and Heating Contractors

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.

Office: 01747 829222 Mobile: 07900916810 Email: mike@mjheat.co.uk Book online: blackmorevale.net

FOR ALL YOUR DRAINAGE NEEDS

• Blocked Drains • Drain Repair/Relining • CCTV Surveys for Drains • Drainage Investigation • Septic Tank Installation/Repair • Sewage Treatment Plant Installations/ Services 24 HOUR DRAIN CLEARANCE Office: 01747 859203 Mobile: 07453 319391 Email: Info@wefix-drains.co.uk

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

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

Established 1980

www.dorsettreatmentplants.co.uk

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Local Services

blackmorevale.net

ROOFING QUALITY ROOFING! Strip and retile old renovation, repointing and rebuild chimneys, lead works, gutters and facias, torch on flat roofing and repairs. No VAT! Contact Simon at 07745-625617

59

SECURITY

Place your classified advert today CLASSIFIED

01963 400186

Tom the Roofer All Roofing Services & Repairs All Aspects Of Roofing Undertaken

Based in Wincanton Contact Chris

01747 854887 07525 755696

valesideroofing@hotmail.com Find us on

EXPERT TAILORED LOCAL SUPPORT TRUSTED SINCE 1982 INSTALLATION SOLUTIONS We’re here when you Over 40 years of Professional & reliable Designed for your needs need us experience

Book online: blackmorevale.net

• Felt Roofing Specialist • Tiling, Slating and UPVC • Velux Windows • No Job Too Small • Insurance Work • Leadwork

STAIR LIFTS

Friendly Service Free Estimates Mobile 07973 248319 scott@scottmilesroofing.co.uk

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.

S A L E S / R E N TA L S • I N S TA L L AT I O N S E R V I C I N G • R E PA I R

FREE D AN QUOTESATES ESTIM

01258-450879 | 07855-402799 Clangley12@aol.com

Advertising made simple 01963 400186 adverts@blackmorevale.net

For honest, independent advice, get in touch:

01749 346 900 / 01803 678 073 www.suttonsstairlifts.co.uk

Covering Bath, Bristol, Somerset, Wiltshire, Dorset and Devon

60

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Local Services

blackmorevale.net

STORAGE

WASTE & HOUSE CLEARANCE

STORAGE CONTAINERS TO RENT £30 a week .

Wincanton, 07891 855580

SKIP HIRE ALTERNATIVE We do all the Work!

Please call Paul on 01258 440838 or 07853 275379

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

BLACKMORE VALE -MACHINE OR HAND LAY -OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE -LOCAL AUTHORITY APPROVED -PRIVATE & COMMERCIAL WORKS UNDERTAKEN -ALL ASPECTS OF SURFACING, ROADS, DRIVES, FOOTPATHS & DROP KERBS

JOBS GROUP

HOUSE CLEARANCE 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 C&G SURFACING LTD, THE DEPOT, LONGCROSS, ZEALS

www.

TILING

G&M T I LI N G WAL L & FLO O R TI LE R 35 years experience Member of the Guild of Master Craftsmen Fully insured FREE estimates | No VAT

Call Graham on

07973 430681

Advertising made

simple 01963 400186 adverts@blackmorevale.net

TREE SURGEON

NOW ON Facebook

.com

WINDOWS & DOORS 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

01963 400186 | adverts@blackmorevale.net 01963 400186 | adverts@blackmorevale.net

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

blackmorevale.net

PUBLIC NOTICES TERRENCE EDWARD COOPER Deceased

Pursuant to the Trustee Act 1925 anyone with a claim against or an interest in the Estate of the deceased, late of 73 Forest View Drive, Wimborne, BH21 7NY, who died on 05/11/2025, must send written details to the address below by 29/10/2026, 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/COO0086/0003

TIMOTHY CHARLES WHITLOCK Deceased Pursuant to the Trustee Act 1925 anyone with a claim against or an interest in the Estate of the deceased, late of Lingen House, Hanford, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 8HH, who died on 29/01/2026, must send written details to the address below by 15/10/2026, 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: STE/WHI0593/0001 EDNA EVELYN CROFT Deceased Pursuant to the Trustee Act 1925 anyone with a claim against or an interest in the Estate of the deceased, late of Nazareth Lodge, Penny Street, Sturminster Newton, Dorset, DT10 1DE, who died on 27/03/2026, must send written details to the address below by 15/10/2026, after which the Estate will be distributed with regard only to claims and interests notified.

Farnfields Solicitors, The Square, Gillingham, SP8 4AX. Ref: LHL/93000-0001 TERESA KAREN QUICK Deceased Pursuant to the Trustee Act 1925 anyone with a claim against or an interest in the Estate of the deceased, late of 8 Nether Mead, Okeford Fitzpaine, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 0TP, who died on 08/05/2025, must send written details to the address below by 15/10/2026, 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: LMM/ALL0248/0001

Goods vehicle operator’s licence: Mr Michael Dibble of Dubbins Farm, Holnest, Sherborne, Dorset, DT9 5PU is applying for a restricted licence to use Dubbins Farm, Holnest, Sherborne, Dorset, DT9 5PU as an operating centre for 2 goods vehicles and 1 trailer.

Owners or occupiers of land (including buildings) near the operating centre(s) who believe that their use or enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner at Quarry House, Quarry Hill, Leeds, LS2 7UE, stating their reasons, within 21 days of this notice. Representors must at the same time send a copy of their representations to the applicant at the address given at the top of this notice. A Guide to Making Representations is available at www.gov.uk/object-hgv-operator-licence.

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Announcements THANK YOU WINNIFRED JONES 103 years old. The family wish to thank everyone who attended the funeral service, on 6th August. My lovely Mum. She will be sadly missed by family and friends. Rest in Peace

SUSAN CAROLE HAWKINS The family would like to thank everyone for their kind messages and for attending Sue’s funeral, it was a great comfort. Also, thank you for the donations received for Sue’s chosen charities.

DIAMOND WEDDING ANNIVERSARY

Diamond Wedding Anniversary Steve House

20th August 1966-2026 Happy 60th anniversary Darling.

Wish you were here to celebrate. Miss you always.

Love Pauline xx

DEATHS MAYNARD Alfred Henry Charles - ‘Alf’ Peacefully on 18th July 2026 in Dorset County Hospital, aged 93 years, of Stalbridge Weston.

Dearly loved husband of Mavis. Much loved and loving dad, grandad, brother and friend.

Private cremation has taken place. Donations if desired, in memory of Alf for Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance Trust can be made online at peterjacksonfuneralservices.co.uk

David A’Court Passed away peacefully on 17rd July 2026. Aged 93 years.

Dearly loved husband to Jean and Dad to Samantha and Andrew. Funeral Service to be held at Poole Crematorium on Friday 21st August 2026 at 12.00pm.

Please dress smart for David. Family flowers only please.

Donations, if desired for the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, may be made online by visiting www.close-funeral.co.uk or cheques payable to the charity c/o Colin J Close Funeral Service, Peel Close, Salisbury Road, Blandford DT11 7JU. Tel: 01258 453133

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New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Announcements

blackmorevale.net

DEATHS Patricia Cronshey Suddenly at home on 27th July 2026, aged 84 years.

Wife of the late Roy. Missed by her many friends.

Funeral Service at The Barn Harbour View Crematorium, Randalls Hill, BH16 6AN on Thursday 27th August 2026 at 3.00pm No flowers please, donations for Marie Curie may be sent to Woods and Tapper Funeral Service, 6 Albert Road, Dorchester DT1 1SF www.woodsfuneralservices.co.uk

EDITH ALICE BROWN Passed peacefully at The Mellowes, Gillingham aged 85 on 17th July. Graveside Service to take place at Stourton Caundle Cemetery on 21st August at 12pm.

MARK WILLIAM HOSKINS It is with deep sadness Mark of Newtown Farm, Kington Magna.

The family would like to acknowledge and thank all those who have supported and helped through the last few years.

There will be a memorial announced at a later date.

Ann Banks (of Holton)

Passed away peacefully on the 31st July, aged 93 Years.

A much loved Mother to Sarah, Richard, Jo and Holly.

An adored Grandmother and Great Grandmother.

Funeral service takes place at St Nicholas Church, Holton on Friday 21st August at 2pm. Donations in memory of Ann are invited in aid of The Salvation Army and The Samaritans.

These may be left after the service or sent c/o Harold F Miles Funeral Directors Folly Lane, South Cadbury BA22 7ES

Philip Willis Passed away peacefully at Abbey View Care Home on 29th July aged 99 years.

Funeral service will be held at Yeovil Crematorium on Wednesday 19th August at 12 p.m.

Family flowers only. Donations in memory of Phil to Royal Marines Charity and may be sent to Peter Jackson Funeral Services, The Old Reading Room, Shaftesbury Road, Henstridge. BA8 OPP.

Nicki Whitmarsh

ELISABETH HENRIKA KRIBBEL

Nicki of Bourton and formerly of Gillingham, sadly passed away on 26th July at Salisbury Hospital, aged 59 years.

Much loved partner, sister, auntie and great friend to so many.

Funeral Service at Christ Church East Stour on Wednesday 2nd September at 12.30pm. Wear a splash of colour for Nicki.

Family flowers only please, but donations if desired for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, Anthony Nolan Trust and British Heart Foundation, 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

Passed away peacefully on 28th July 2026, aged 93 years.

Much loved sister, aunt and great-aunt.

Beloved partner of Colin. For 35 years devoted member of the nursing profession. Funeral service takes place at Salisbury Crematorium on Tuesday 25th August at 11:00am No flowers please but donations if desired to Arthritis UK, may be made online at www.mhfd.co.uk or sent to Merefield & Henstridge F/D, Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 0BU. Tel: 01747 853532

JOAN WINTERS IAN LINDSAY SWARBRICK On 2nd August 2026 peacefully at home, aged 77 years of Iwerne Minster. A much loved husband to Pip, Dad to Matt and Grandad to Thea and Ollie. “Will be forever in our hearts” Funeral service takes place at St Mary’s Church, Iwerne Minster on Monday 24th August at 12 noon. No flowers please but donations if desired to Parkinsons UK and Friends of The Strays of Greece may be made online at www.mhfd.co.uk or sent to Merefield & Henstridge F/D, Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 0BU. Tel: 01747 853532

Passed away peacefully at Yeovil & District Hospital on Monday 3rd August 2026, aged 85 years. Much loved wife to the late Fred, mum, gran, great-gran and sister.

Joan’s Service will be held at St. Peter & St. Pauls Church, Wincanton on Wednesday 2nd September 2026 at 11.00a.m. followed by burial at Wincanton Cemetery.

Donations, if desired, to Yeovil Hospital Charity.

All donations and enquiries to A. J. Wakely & Sons Funeral Directors, The Old Police Station, Carrington Way, Wincanton, BA9 9JS. Tel: 01963 31310 Please make cheques payable to Yeovil Hospital Charity.

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

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New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

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Recruitment

100 Lenthay Road, Sherborne DT9 6AG Email: info@wsbrister.com 01935 812647

Looking for work or RECRUITING? Join our jobs group on FACEBOOK

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

Blackmore Vale Jobs Group

www.wsbrister.com

PRACTICE MANAGER REQUIRED Glencairn House Clinic, Sherborne, is looking for a highly organised and motivated Practice Manager to join our team.

Hours are Monday to Friday 9am – 2pm.

The successful candidate will ideally have previous management and organisational experience, strong computer skills with a good working knowledge of Microsoft office and excel.

Previous experience in a medical or healthcare setting would be an advantage although not essential.

Is Harbour View the UK’s greenest crematorium?

Our solar farm generates the electricity needed to run our cremators

At our Home Farm we grow produce, keep chickens for eggs, and bees for honey

Our cremators filter and remove potentially harmful gasses produced during cremation

We built a bat hotel at Home Farm to support their conservation

We recover metals from our cremators and donate the proceeds to local charities

We forage stems and blooms from our own grounds to help create floral tributes

Yes, we believe it is!

From ‘Direct’ Cremation to complete funeral services, call 01202 630111 or visit www.harbourview.co.uk

For further information please contact info@glencairnhouse.co.uk or 01935 817442

Join Our Team at Clouds House Support Worker - Full and part time East Knoyle, Wiltshire

Make a difference in people’s lives.

We’re looking for caring, reliable individuals to support clients recovering from addiction at our residential treatment centre.

You’ll help promote wellbeing within a safe, structured environment. Full training provided - medication management and administration experience helpful but not essential.

Flexible shifts (days/nights/weekends) Salary £28,479 Training, pension & wellbeing benefits Apply now: www.forwardtrust.org.uk/recruitment We welcome applications from all backgrounds

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

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Recruitment

blackmorevale.net/jobs CHEERFUL PA/CARER to join team helping busy wheelchair user, flexible times, varied role, Tisbury area 07790-524241

CHEESE PRODUCTION staff required for small friendly business . hours to suit apply on 01963 32231 for further details

SECRETARY/RECEPTIONIST Due to unforeseen circumstances we are looking for a part time secretary/ receptionist in our Sherborne office to work from 2pm to 5.30pm, Monday to Friday Please send you CV to iandodds@lanhamandfrancis.co.uk

WINCANTON UNITED CHARITIES CLERK to the Trustees required part-time.

Clerical and Administrative duties for more information and job description please Tel: 07774-252785 or email addtohelp@gmail.com

HEAD CHEF NEEDED at The Old Ox Inn, Shillingstone’s community pub. Email info@theoldoxinn.co.uk to apply.

FULL TIME COOK WANTED for private family nr Shaftesbury Thursday to Sunday. Competitive salary Live-in accommodation may be available. Driving licence & own car essential. 07470 433803 familycookrecruitment@gmail.com

DOMESTIC HELP REQUIRED. 3 mornings housework per week, in large house. Cottage available. Mature couple preferred. 01258-830578 rhfarqu2000@live.co.uk

TOOLMAKER / MACHINIST required part time machining work on quality pre-war cars and motorbikes. XYZ knowledge advantageous. Flexible hours. Steve, 07931-642994

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.

BLACKMORE VALE

JOBS GROUP

NOW ON Facebook

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

Unit 5, Pulham Business Park, Pulham, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 7DX www . pulhamsteels . co . uk

WE HAVE CURRENT VACANCIES FOR...

Warehouse Personnel - for order picking

An award-winning prep school for ages 2-13, situated between Gillingham and Shaftesbury, Dorset

GARDENER

We are seeking to appoint a self motivated, efficient and experienced Gardener to join our grounds team.

This is a varied role which will involve assisting with the maintenance and development of the gardens and grounds on the 150 acre estate.

For full details of the role and application procedure, please visit our website; portregis.com/vacancies or scan the QR code below. Early applications encouraged.

Lorry Loaders - Steel Preservation Line & Saw Operatives HGV Driver - for multidrop deliveries

Applicants MUST be highly safety concious, accurate and reliable, with the ability to work as a team.

TRAINING WILL BE PROVIDED FOR ALL POSITIONS IF REQUIRED

Please apply by emailing your CV to:

Port Regis (Charity No: 306218) is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The successful applicants will be required to undertake an Enhanced DBS and safer recruitment vetting checks.

phil.cahill@pulhamsteels.co.uk neil.cahill@pulhamsteels.co.uk tony.bailey@pullhamsteels.co.uk Or call 01300 345110 for more details

66

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Food & Drink

blackmorevale.net

‘Cheffy’ steak a tasty treat THIS is a lunch I made for myself with whatever was left over in the fridge. Because of my work – ‘cheffing’ for my catering business – I’m lucky to sometimes find I have an end of steak from a job in the fridge.

Steak with olive oil and lemon on a handful beans with red onion Ingredients Steak of your choice – ask your butcher about the French cut, Bavette – skirt – or splash out on ribeye. Bring to room temperature before cooking – don’t use it cold straight out of the fridge if you can help it.

Half a red onion – finely slice so it’s ready prepared.

French beans – blanche in boiling salted water first for three to five minutes, leaving a bite to the bean but also cooked to your preference.

1 whole lemon – halved – you’ll

need both.

2tsp butter Extra virgin olive oil 1 whole garlic clove Maldon Salt – I don’t use anything else, it’s worth investing in it, it works its magic on flavours.

Black pepper – cracked or screwed.

Sprigs of rosemary or thyme.

Curly parsley – roughly chopped but ready prepped.

Method TAKE a good heavy-bottomed frying pan and turn the heat up high, and put the knob of butter in the pan along with a glug of olive oil, and give the pan a quick ‘figure of eight’ and a swirl by the handle to blend them together.

We are not shallow or deep frying, just kissing the pan to get that steak sizzling when it hits the surface.

01963 220 317 info@thequeensarms.com www.thequeensarms.com Find us in Corton Denham, just 4 miles from Sherborne

Blending the two fats together stops the butter from burning and the butter helps the olive oil get to a good high temperature, so it’s a win-win.

While the butter and oil are doing their thing, lightly rub a little olive oil on both sides of the steak. If you have cracked pepper, pat/dip it on both sides.

If it’s a pepper pot, just grind over the first side of the steak and do the same with a good two-finger pinch of Maldon salt.

You’re ready to go, but first throw in a fresh herb if you have any to hand – I’d preferably use thyme but as we’re going Mediterranean with this recipe, oregano leaves or a sprig of rosemary would also work well – along with a whole garlic clove and a half lemon face-down in the pan.

Immediately put the first salt and peppered side of the steak on – by now the pan should be searing hot to get that lovely char and caramelisation going straightaway.

Do not touch or prod the steak for at least a minute of two, depending how thick it’s cut and what cut you chose. But you can now pepper and salt the side facing you and again add your chosen herb.

Now flip the steak over, if it’s started to turn opaque on the side – I just use the prong of a fork when at home to do this.

Take the roasted half lemon out and set aside to cool slightly.

Baste the butter, herb and garlic over the steak and let it rest for however long you cooked it for.

(Mine is always rare).

As the steak rests, prepare the lunch plate with the blanched beans, scatter the onion slices, and drizzle over olive oil and a fresh lemon.

Now slice the steak on a board and arrange it across the salad, then pour over any meat juices and, finally, squeeze the sweet roasted lemon, too.

Garnish with fresh parsley, black pepper and lightly salt evenly all over from a height. It looks ‘cheffy’, but that’s the reason for it! n Annie Des Forges, wedding and event catering. DirectorChef-Food Writer; www. anniedesforges.co.uk; email annie@anniedesforges.co.uk; phone 07834 487381. Get in touch if you’d like to talk to me about catering or to just ask a food-related question. I’ll try and give you a recipe idea with any of the ingredients you’d like inspiration for.

t h g i r y Cop e l a V e r o m k c Bla

Sit out on our terrace, with views over Somerset and Dorset and try our light lunch menu.

Join us for a burger and a pint every Tuesday for £18.

Ask your butcher about the French cut, Bavette – skirt – or splash out on ribeye for this recipe

Open Seven Days a week for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner from 8 - 11pm.

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Home reared and local produced meats, veg, Deli, also clothing and gifts emporium.

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

blackmorevale.net

The ‘Four Cs’ of food safety FOOD safety is the first and most important step to eating well – and the ‘Four Cs’ rules to help people do so are easy to follow.

They concern cleaning, cooking, chilling and crosscontamination, the core elements of good food hygiene.

Here, a food safety training expert from High Speed Training explains those rules, which the Food Standards Agency says avert the most common food safety problems.

Cleaning REGULARLY cleaning hands, high-touch surfaces and equipment helps prevent the spread of harmful bacteria.

While detergents remove grease and dirt, disinfectants and two-stage sanitisers are required to destroy invisible pathogens.

Dr RichardAnderson says: “Inadequate cleaning practices are one of the most common reasons why food businesses are prosecuted, and so the

importance of thoroughly ensuring cleanliness must not be underestimated, not only in food establishments, but in home kitchens as well.”

Cooking THOROUGHLY cooking food kills harmful bacteria while undercooked food can cause food poisoning. While 70°C for two minutes is the standard advice, other time and temperature combinations will successfully kill harmful bacteria.

Dr Anderson says: “Regardless of which method you use to cook food, you must ensure that your food is cooked completely before serving, all cooking environments are kept clean as mentioned above, food is piping hot all the way through and kept out of the temperature danger zone. If you are reheating food, ensure it is heated properly until steaming.

aditional village pub A tr in t

Chilling PROPERLY chilling food stops harmful bacteria from growing.

Food should be kept out of the temperature danger zone to ensure it is safe to eat. The two main ways to chill food are by freezing it or putting it in the fridge.

Dr Anderson says: “The FSA notes that generally, the colder the temperature, the slower bacteria will grow, however that doesn’t necessarily mean it will stop bacteria from growing altogether. So, while chilling food will not kill bacteria, it does prevent the normal growth of any bacteria that may be present and delay the deterioration of food.”

Cross-contamination CROSS-CONTAMINATION occurs when bacteria spreads between food, surfaces or

he h eart of

Food & Drink equipment. It can have incredibly harmful consequences, it is not solely bacteria that can be spread via cross-contamination.

Contamination can also occur when allergens spread from one food to another, this is known as allergenic contamination of food.

Dr Anderson says: “One of the most likely ways for cross-contamination to occur is when raw food, such as raw meat, comes into contact with ready-to-eat food, such as a salad. Bacteria from the meat can spread to the salad, potentially causing food poisoning.

“To avoid crosscontamination, always keep raw food covered, store raw food separately from ready-to-eat foods, regularly wash your hands, especially after handling raw meat, fish, and poultry, and use different chopping boards for raw and cooked food.”

Dorset

A pub with warmth & atmosphere We are delighted that our renovation and expansion project has been well received by customers as have our food and beverage offerings. After a very long search, we now have a fully staffed kitchen and offer our full lunch and dinner menu every day from Tuesday lunch until Sunday lunch. We are closed after lunch on Sunday and all day Monday.

We offer a wide range of beers, cider, wines and spirits as well as a range of non-alcoholic options.

07783 009402 | email@ploughmanston.com | ploughmanston.com Shaftesbury Road, Manston, Sturminster Newton, Dorset DT10 1HB

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New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Health & Wellbeing

Eating right for better health

by Fiona Chapman WE have had some great family friends staying with us over the weekend. We were talking about health, old age, medicine and lifestyle. Our friend has gone

down the allopathic – modern, conventional – medical route for all his ailments, and his wife goes for looking after herself, so you can imagine some lively discussions.

I find it surprising that people have not yet picked up on the fact that an awful lot of our food and lifestyle is contributing to our ill health and that small tweaks can make all the

difference to health and wellbeing. You don’t need to see a doctor, a nutritionist or a herbalist to take control of your health.

High cholesterol, for example

long, slow breath in, and a full breath out and relax my shoulders and jaw.

Shifting my mindset can often come from shifting my physiology and body.

Sometimes this is enough to slow the thoughts – sometimes it means I get clarity on what I actually need – because it’s definitely not more thinking or worrying – as much as I feel it is!

Often what I benefit from is a mixture of movement and glimmers.

Glimmers are the opposite of triggers in our nervous system, and summer is full of them. A glimmer gives you a moment of joy, peace, connection or soothing. What are your glimmers of summer? If you’re

not sure, try this.

Take a walk along the beach or in a woodland and delve into your senses. What scents bring joy? What sights bring peace?

What textures bring soothing?

What sounds bring connection?

What tastes of summer bring pleasure? That cold drink or ice cream, or maybe a barbecue with friends?

One of my favourite glimmers is the feeling of lying down on my towel on hot sand after being in the sea. The air is cool on my wet skin, but the ground warms me while the sun shines down – bringing life and joy to this special season.

Capture as much of it in your mind as you can. n Nicole Asghar is a Dorsetbased therapist working online and around Bournemouth.

Specialising in neurodivergence, trauma and yoga. Get in touch via nicole@ourluminousminds. com or www.nicoleasghar.com

The present moment, glimmers and triggers

by Nicole Asghar “I THINK therefore I am”, as René Descartes discovered. He spent his career questioning and doubting the reality of existence, of the human body, mind and soul, concluding that the only certainty was the presence of doubt and thinking.

His questioning led him to the answer that many of us try to live by – that all we have in life is the reality we experience in the present moment, in the here and now.

We are not all philosophers, and therefore we need not doubt or analyse every aspect of human life – however, there are times when it can be useful. In therapy, we like to take a softer approach to introspection and

encourage self-reflection.

Self-reflection can be a useful way to manage low mood and anxiety.

It can look like asking questions such as: ‘What do I really need in this moment?’ and ‘Is this thought entirely true?’ It can be useful to capture some of our anxieties by writing them down and externalising them, then pausing to ask ‘what might support me with these worries?’

Anxiety can take us out of the present moment and create a loop of thoughts, feelings, sensations – and more analysis.

We can go over topics or think through every aspect that may or may not happen in the future.

When I am experiencing anxiety, I remind myself to pause – take a

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New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Health & Wellbeing

blackmorevale.net – you are immediately put on statins. But a change in lifestyle could counter the problem. Good fats – olive oil and oily fish like salmon, sardines and anchovies.

Butter – not spreads and eat it sparingly. Cook with olive oil – never get the pan too hot as you denature the fat, and it then becomes toxic, or cook with butter and olive oil. Cut back on cheese. Cut out crisps and chips and anything deep fat fried.

It is much easier to do this in the summer as you really only feel like salads, so a delicious raw beetroot, carrot, cabbage and onion coleslaw with lemon juice, herbs like basil and coriander, and a bit of good quality mayonnaise is a great

with berries. Bitter vegetables, rocket or olives before you eat anything is great as they stimulate the liver and gall bladder to release bile, which helps to digest any fats you are eating.

All this also applies for high blood pressure – cut out lots of

red meat, maybe eat it once a week. Cut out processed foods and eat lots of green leafy vegetables.

Don’t smoke, take exercise – I think you should get your blood moving and a bit of a sweat up every day – it does wonders for your mental health as well.

It is so empowering to rely on yourself and while allopathic medicine is great in some circumstances, it saddens me to see people just thinking that popping a pill will sort them out rather than taking responsibility for themselves. n Fiona Chapman is a naturopathic herbalist (email Pellyfiona@gmail.com).

vanished. Nevertheless, what an exhilarating sighting and one that I am still recovering from.

After all this, I was content to skim over the reef looking at the flowering japweed and searching for tiny blennies. My flippers gave me the speed and agility to drift effortlessly across the reef.

The shallow water, seagrass and rocky reef create an extraordinary richness of life, which is why I return here whenever I can.

By late morning, the sun has climbed higher in the sky, and I am warm under its intensifying heat. It is not long before the water is calling me in again. This time I don my flippers and reach for my bodyboard. With them I can glide effortlessly over the sea – something I have done with ease since childhood. It is remarkable how far I can go letting my thoughts wander as I follow the tiny diamond sprites of sunlight that dance across the water. The sky is the deepest blue, broken only by delicate flecks of cirrus cloud like feathered brushstrokes hanging quietly above the horizon. From out here, I look back at the land and the cliff face that folds down to the shore, its green flanks reaching out almost into the sea.

It reminds me of my formative years backpacking and camping in Greece, where the vegetation seemed to tumble straight into

the Aegean. Strange to think I am in Dorset, yet for a moment it feels remarkably similar.

Perhaps it is just the mood that this shoreline instils.

Occasionally I come across a stretch of water so perfectly calm that it resembles polished glass. It is always striking to drift from rippled water into these silent pools. They form where the breeze momentarily fails to disturb the surface, leaving it mirror-like beneath the summer sky. These unhurried hours feel increasingly rare, which is perhaps why I treasure them so deeply and try never to take them for granted.

Back on the beach I simply sit and listen as the waves fold over the shoreline in their soporific rhythm. Only when the tide turns does the music change. The breeze freshens, the waves grow larger and more insistent, and the pebbles rattle more loudly beneath the water. Then, as the tide eases once more, the gentler tempo returns. It is nature’s oldest metronome, keeping time long before we arrived and destined to continue long after we have gone. I have just enough time for one last snorkel before I return to the ordinary rhythm of everyday life, while the tide continues its own eternal measure. n Dr Susie Curtin (email curtin. susanna@gmail.com)

Oily fish like salmon, sardines and anchovies deliver good fats

healthy option. It is a bit of an effort to make – washing, peeling and chopping, but it can all be put in a food mixer and then a huge bowl kept for at least a week.

Oats are also very good for keeping cholesterol down.

Either porridge or overnight oats

Meditations in nature: Nature’s oldest metronome

by Susanna Curtin THERE are two experiences that make time seem almost meaningless because both have existed for millennia. The first is when I am stargazing, looking into the vastness of the universe, finding familiar constellations and inventing patterns among the stars. The second is where I am today – sitting on the shoreline of my favourite Dorset beach. There is a certain perspective to be gained from remembering that I am only a brief mortal in this vast universe. It is so peaceful here, with no one else around and only the tiny waves gently caressing the pebbles. I’ve already been snorkelling along the reef that fringes the bay.

Now back on shore, and slightly shivering, I am still in awe of the marine life I have just seen under the waves.

Earlier, close to the shoreline, where the water is shallower and warmer, there were hundreds of small fry, probably young sea bass sheltering in their nursery grounds. Then soon I was out into the deeper water and over

69

the bed of sea grass that was peacefully swaying with the current – the early morning sun illuminating its emerald-green fronds. Beyond the seagrass, slender, silvery sand eels formed tight, synchronised shoals that shimmered across the sandy patches before the reef.

Alongside them drifted shoals of grey mullet, or perhaps young wrasse.

Once out on the reef, there were red mullet and three large, magnificent ballan wrasse, their green, speckled skin glimmering as they swam surrounded by smaller corkwing wrasse. And beyond them, on the other side of the reef, five silvery sea bass skulking in the channels. But the highlight was a very brief sighting of a rather large conger eel, the first I have ever seen in British waters in daylight hours.

It rather made me jump. Conger eels are not the prettiest creatures to meet face to face, with their staring, shark-like eyes. But I had no sooner seen it before it reversed back into its crevice. I quickly dived down for another look, but it had

70

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Motoring

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New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Motoring

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Drivers call for more roads police

THE AA is calling for 1,000 more traffic officers, as figures released by the Home Office show that the number of roads policing units continues to fall.

As at March 31, 2026, 4,143 dedicated traffic officers were policing the roads across England and Wales.

That represents a reduction of six officers from 12 months ago, but a 1,094 fall from peak traffic officer numbers in 2016.

In a recent AA poll, more than half (55%) of motorists say drivers are getting away with acts of careless driving, such as middle lane hogging and tailgating, due to a shortage of roads police.

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other offences such as not wearing a seatbelt (47%), using a handheld mobile phone (46%) and drug-driving (43%) are going unpunished because of a lack of roads policing.

Some 88% say a more visible roads policing presence would make their communities safer, while 79% say crimes such as vehicle theft, drug dealing and human trafficking could be better tackled with more traffic units.

Jack Cousens, head of roads policy for the AA, said: “Drivers are telling us loud and clear that they want traffic offences to be dealt with, but the continuous fall in traffic police is making it easier for people to get away with offences.

“Be it drink or drug-driving, driving without insurance or using a defective car, too many people think it is going unpunished.”

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New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Pets

Grass seeds – beware the potential risks

by Lynn Broom BVSc, GPCert(ExAP), AdvDipAAB, MRCVS THIS time of year has many benefits with the sunshine and lovely long walks in the countryside. The downside is the risk of grass seeds becoming embedded somewhere in your dog.

Grass seeds act like a fishhook in that they travel in one direction only because of the point and associated barbs.

Once they have penetrated tissue they continue to track through it. They can enter almost any part of a dog’s body but some areas are more at risk than others.

A common site is between

the toes. Checking your dog’s feet after every walk will limit risk, as well as keeping hairy feet clipped during grass seed season. Seeds will gather in the hair and, if not removed, can penetrate the skin and enter the foot. The body reacts to this foreign body by becoming inflamed and forming pus to try to flush the invader out. This causes significant pain and swelling. Sealed sites will form a painful abscess while draining sites will ooze fluid. The amount of pus together with a large drainage hole may encourage the grass seed to be expelled but many will remain in place or track further in.

Exploration of the site may

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Loving homes needed for cats and kittens in our care.

For more details, please call our helpline 07831 586114 or visit our website: cats.org.uk/middorset Sponsored by Longmead Veterinary Practice Ltd

blackmorevale.net

Grass seeds can become embedded between dogs’ toes and in ears

locate the offending seed, but it is not uncommon for more than one to be present or for parts to break off. It is also not unusual for investigations to be fruitless, yet the seed is then expelled a few days later.

This is obviously frustrating for dog owners, but the foot is a complex mix of bones, tendons, ligaments, nerves and blood vessels, and investigations need to be balanced against causing more damage than the seed itself. It is also common for the seed to enter at one place and emerge or be found at a distant site due to tracking.

Another common site are ears. Some breeds such as spaniels are at a higher risk than others but any breed can be affected. Typically, sudden onset head/ear shaking during or following a walk suggests the presence of a grass seed in the ear canal. If very recent in a

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placid dog, these may be removed conscious.

Unfortunately, they are often painful and there is a risk of damage to sensitive structures requiring sedation or anaesthesia to allow safe removal. Seeds can quickly track through the ear becoming embedded in the sides of the ear canal or penetrating the ear drum and entering the middle ear. Attempts to remove them should be made as soon as possible after their entry to minimise further damage.

Grass seeds can penetrate skin anywhere on the body and, particularly spaniels, are prone to developing grass seed related abscesses on their flanks.

Inhaled grass seeds can cause pneumonia and intra-abdominal abscesses and can be difficult to identify and treat. They can enter tear ducts and even anal glands and, again, can be difficult to identify, locate and remove.

While the risk of grass seeds should not reduce your’s and your dog’s enjoyment of the countryside during grass seed season, you should be aware of the potential risks and take precautions where feasible to limit any risks involved and be aware of signs to look out for.

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New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Pets

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Cooling tips for cats: Helping your feline stay safe and comfortable in hot weather

by Raychel Curson CATS are experts at finding warm, cosy spots – but when temperatures rise, that natural preference can quickly become uncomfortable or even risky.

Unlike humans, cats don’t sweat effectively to regulate their body temperature, so they rely on behaviour changes and their environment to stay cool. As owners, we can make small adjustments that have a big impact on their comfort and wellbeing during hot weather.

Provide cool, shaded resting spots ONE of the simplest ways to help your cat is to ensure they always have access to cool, shaded areas. Cats often seek out tiled floors, shaded corners or cooler rooms naturally. You can encourage this by: q Keeping blinds or curtains closed during peak sun q Allowing access to downstairs or shaded rooms q Placing beds in cooler areas away from direct sunlight q Many cats will instinctively move to the coolest part of the house if given the choice.

Encourage hydration CATS are not always naturally big drinkers, so hydration is especially important in warm weather. You can help by: q Providing multiple water bowls around the house q Using ceramic or glass bowls – which stay cooler than plastic q Refreshing water regularly q Offering a pet fountain to

encourage drinking q Some cats also enjoy a little extra moisture in their diet through wet food.

Use cooling surfaces CATS often regulate their temperature by lying on cool surfaces. You can support this by: q Leaving bathroom tiles or kitchen floors accessible q Placing a damp towel in a favourite resting spot q Using a cooling mat if your cat accepts it q Slightly freezing a water bottle wrapped in a towel for them to lie near q Always let your cat choose whether to use these options Grooming helps more than you think REGULAR brushing helps remove excess undercoat, especially in long-haired breeds, allowing better air circulation through their coat.

This can make a noticeable difference during warm spells.

Cats are generally good at seeking out comfort, but they still rely on us to provide a safe environment during hot weather.

With shade, hydration, cool surfaces and a little awareness of their behaviour, you can help your cat stay relaxed, comfortable and safe – even on the hottest days. 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).

73

MID DORSET CATS PROTECTION 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. n Wilma, three, a gorgeous black girl looking for a special home where she can live life at her own pace. She has always been an indoor cat and isn’t particularly interested in interacting with people, so she’ll need a patient owner who is happy to give her the time and space she needs to settle and build confidence n Three feral kittens needing a new home on a farm, stable or smallholding type of environment

n Ronnie and Reggie, four months, looking for a home together. Project kittens needing time and patience from a new owner to bring them on

74

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Sport

blackmorevale.net

Fish prove a little ‘moody’ at Revels

Kenzie Toulson, winner at Revels (left) and Austin ScottKennedy, the winner at Orchard Lakes (far left)

ANGLING

by Graham Howard A VERY low turnout of only three juniors fished a points match at Orchard Lakes in New Milton – more juniors were taking part in a coaching session on a warm and sunny day by a pretty lake.

Big points were on offer for the Jurassic Juniors Angling Club championship and a guarantee of a podium placing.

In third place was Seth Hopkins with 16lb 13oz – which could have been more but Seth and his family had to leave before the end.

This may have handed second place to Jayce Hardware who claimed 25 points with 20lb 8oz.

But the runaway winner was Austin Scott-Kennedy with 63lb

14oz, showing his improvement over the winter break.

Five juniors fished at a lush Revels fishery, which had been on form in previous weeks.

But a dip in the weights on a senior match in the week should have been a warning.

The match included some

extremely good pegs, but the juniors struggled to find any fish, which seemed very ‘moody’ on the day.

Third place went to Josh Roe with 12lb 1oz, second was the ever-consistent Austin ScottKennedy with 13lb 9oz, but the winner was Kenzie Toulson

Runs galore in season finale RANSTON Evening Cricket League celebrated the league and cup winners and runners-up at the cup final held at Shaftesbury CC. In a high-scoring game on a lovely wicket, Stalbridge CC won the toss and put Marnhull CC into bat.

CRICKET A final score of 186 off 20 overs was a formidable target for Stalbridge who, despite a valiant effort, finished 14 runs short.

Medals were presented after the game to the two finalists and the league winners, Stalbridge,

and runners-up, Blandford CC. The Wednesday evening league are always looking for new clubs to join – prospective clubs can find out more by emailing terryjwarder@gmail. com Look out also for their new Facebook page coming soon.

Sturminster up for the cup STURMINSTER Utd FC have a new main sponsor in a big year for the club – We Heat South.

The club are returning to the FA Cup this season for the first time in 148 years and to celebrate had the trophy to show off.

And We Heat senior engineers Stan Udell and Matthew Jobbins had the chance to meet club chair Lee Bright and pose with

FOOTBALL one of the most iconic trophies in world football (right).

The company’s managing director Tom Oldham, who has played for Sturminster Newton, said: “We wish everyone at Sturminster Newton United the very best for the season ahead and look forward to being part of the club’s exciting journey.”

GOT A STORY? Email sports@blackmorevale.net

weighing in 19lb 2oz to take the 25 points.

Many thanks to Orchard Lakes and Revels Fishery for hosting these two events.

For more information about Jurassic Juniors go to www.jjac. co.uk or email graham.jjac@ gmail.com

GOLF WINCANTON Golf Club results.

Seniors Roll-Up Nine-Hole Stableford, July 24 – 1 Malcolm Faulkner 24, 2 Alan White 21, 3 Phil Francis 20.

Club Championship 2026, July 25-26 – Winner, Jim Stephen, Best Combined Gross 171; Best Combined Nett, Mike Case 142; Best Nett Day 1, Charlie King nett 71; Best Nett Day 2, Mike Case nett 70.

Seniors Roll-Up Stableford July 31 – 1 Chris Mieville 18 ocb, 2 Richard Strong 18, 3 Steven Ireland 17.

Monthly Stableford, August 1 – 1 Steven Ireland 41, 2 Jim Stephen 40, 3 Mike Doddington 37.

Seniors Roll-Up Nine-Hole Stableford, August 7 – 1 Geoff Lye 24, 2 Colin Jacobs 22, 3 Cliff Hibberd 21.

Ray Adsett Greensomes Trophy, August 8 – 1 Jim Phillips/Jim Stephen 47, 2 Phil Francis/Charlie King 43, 3 Mike Case/Tony Garrett 41.

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Sport

blackmorevale.net Rhomey Ashby Hammond denies Adulai Sambu at Cockrams.

Rockies go down in season opener Pitching In Southern League Division 1 (South) Shaftesbury 1 Bishops Cleeve 2

by Avril Lancaster TEN-MAN Bishops Cleeve came back in the second half to stun Shaftesbury in their season-opener.

The visitors had striker Jamal Lawerence sent off following a clash in the opening minute.

The Rockies opened the scoring in the 25th minute when Louis Sweeten got forward and the ball fell into the path of Dawid Regula to finish.

The Mitres remained composed and levelled when Matt Liddiard got away for Matt Bower to head home.

Then substitute Stephen

FOOTBALL Davis drilled a deflected shot past Ashby Hammond three minutes from time to seal the win.

Jack Hoey hit the bar for the Rockies just before the Mitres’ leveller and Ollie Hughes had an effort saved by Lewis Clayton.

However, the visitors deserve full credit for their win – Liddiard and Jake Lee were in excellent form at the back.

Pre-season friendly Shaftesbury 2 Chippenham Town 1 THE Rockies completed their pre-season schedule, gave several players more minutes

and ended with a win at a sun-drenched Cockrams.

The Bluebirds, relegated from National League South, will be looking to jump straight back up from the Pitching In Southern League Premier Division and manager Gary Horgan put out a side of those looking to impress and more experienced players.

Meanwhile, Shaftesbury manager Josh Staunton ensured everyone had minutes, but neither manager will read too much into the game.

Chippenham playmaker Henry Sady is known to Rockies fans from his time at Melksham Town and engineered play in an uneventful opening first 20 minutes until Joel Odel Larbi sneaked in to put the Bluebirds ahead.

Shaftesbury’s leveller came a minute later after the ball was bundled over the line past Harvey Rees, seemingly off a Chippenham Town defender – with the flag up, the goal was initially disallowed until referee Jordan White overruled his assistant.

The Rockies’ winner came when 70th minute substitute Alefe Santos DAbadia broke clear of the Bluebirds’ defence.

Another Shaftesbury substitute, Brandon Mundy, seemed to fall badly and was stretchered off after coming on in the second half.

Rockies players including Harry Baker, Harry Morgan and Dawid Regula had part games, giving youngsters such as Ryan King a start.

Former Hungerford Town midfielder Santos DAbadia is a jewel in the Rockies’ side.

Clubs welcome new players TEAMS in the Blackmore Vale Table Tennis League are welcoming new players ahead of the 2026/27 season, which begins in September.

The following clubs are inviting players to join their ranks and enjoy a friendly and welcoming environment.

75

TABLE TENNIS Competitive teams: Chalke Valley (Broad Chalke), Child Okeford, Compton Abbas, Motcombe, Stalbridge.

Teams for practice only: Child Okeford (Sunday

mornings), Chalke Valley (Broad Chalke – Sunday evenings).

For social: Stourpaine (Monday evenings), Gillingham (Friday afternoons), Cucklington.

Junior coaching: Stalbridge, Chalke Valley

PETANQUE

Nine out of 10 wins for Mortals

by Colin Senneck MERE Mortals in action during their final match of the league season at the Coppleridge Inn, Motcombe.

Mortals beat The Copplers 2-1 (38pts to 25pts).

Mere Mortals won nine of their 10 League matches with a points difference of plus 147 in the Ebble division of the Nadder & Stour Petanque League.

They look forward to challenging the other two divisions for the overall league title on finals day, Sunday, September 6, at Stalbridge.

(Level Two coach).

The league promotes good health, social events and an opportunity to meet likeminded, sporting friends.

For more information, contact Barrie Waterman at barriewaterman@hotmail. co.uk or on 01258 450669.

76

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Items for sale

blackmorevale.net

CLASSIFIED ADS DRIVE VENTURA MOBILITY SCOOTER 2 new batteries excellent condition complete with charger and cover. Hardly used, no longer needed. £500 07399-414136.

BSA AIRSPORTER . VGC. £100 Tel. 07970 742471

BRAND NEW PORTA POTTI 365 still in its original box; change of plans forces a sale. £75.

07395-316501

TETRAD BROWN LEATHER ARMCHAIR. Crocodile leather to front and back, brass castors to front. £775 ono.

Tel: 07762-597018 RETIREMENT SALE of quality tools, electrical, machines, pillar drills. By appointment only.

(Gillingham area) Tel: 07970-568679) CARPENTERS!! Due to a retirement, work-shop sale of wood-working machinery of various types. Tel: 01747-822836

FREE CLASSIFIED ADS DECORATIVE RADIATOR COVER toughened glass coal fire effect simply hangs over 122cmwide 64cmhigh £50 Tel: 07969-288043

REEBOK CROSS-TRAINER, electric programmable exercise routines, everything works as it should. VGC. £50. Tel: 07977-263794

NEW ZIMMER FRAME, delux model, never used. £50 , photos available .

07760-776792 Shaftesbury.

DUNLOP TYRE, 185x60x15. £35. (call between 12-6pm) Tel: 07793-050658

VINTAGE DRESSING TABLE, 1 mirror, 3 drawers, on casters.

Pink & White, glass top. £35.

Tel: 07833-641242 YOUNGMAN EXTENDING ALUMINIUM LADDERS. Max 8.3m Min 4.5m. Hardly Used. £50.00 01935 432781 Mob 07593 872451 FREE FOR COLLECTION. Cot Bed with Mattress. Bought For Grandchild. Hardly Used.

01747-854292

SINK - LEFT HAND DRAINER, 950mm x 508mm, s steel, brand new £45, Lydlinch 01258 503442 JAYBE GRAND FOLDING BED, never been used cost £183, accept £50 01935-812743.

EXERCISE BIKE - Confidence Fitness. Excellent condition. £45, collection BA9.

07814 559096.

ALUMINIUM RAMP, for doors and curves. Ideal for wheelchair, prams. £50.

Tel: 01747-631081

2 CIRCULAR TABLES. mahog 90cm diam. Pine 109cm.

Central pedestal tripod. £ 50 each. Mahog ch/drawers foc.

Photos 07774 680733

VINTAGE HAND PAINTED BELL CHINA coffee set £49 Tel 07765-800413

DOG CAGE, with tray, VGC. 24x17x20” £20.

Tel: 07860-148761

ALUMINIUM LADDER. 2 x 3.5mtr lengths max extension approx 7mtr. VGC £45. Gillingham 07922 487573 FOUR DINING CHAIRS sturdy used £30 ono Tel 01935 01935 813967

8x6 APEX FOREST GARDEN SHED, lockable single door.

VG condition. Need the space.

Bargain £50. Tel: 01935 83427 TORMEK WATER COOLED sharpening system £50, ono.

07855 557585

UPRIGHT FREEZER: Dimensions H=163 cms W=60 cms D=58 cms. 7 draws, G.W.O. £45. phone 07807 309572

MARLEY WESSEX SMOOTH BROWN roof tiles. As new.

80no in total. £1.50 each.

Sherborne 07512-626054

HENRY VACUUM CLEANER, Brand new. Never been used. £60. Can deliver locally.

Tel: 01747-706008

DOUBLE MATTRESS (4’ 6”) hardly used, as good as new, £30 Tel: 01935 817907

SMALL CARRY-ON SUITCASE, (Flightnight) meets all economy airline measurements. 55x36x25cm. never used. in box. £30.

Tel: 07510-516222

FOOT JOY MENS golf shoes, hardly worn. Size 8. £45.

Shaftesbury: 07773 657363 FREE ROCKING CHAIR. Good upholstery project.

Frame and rocking springs are good 07932-399746 Blandford

ELECTRIC QUALCAST 2000w CHAIN SAW. CABLE APPROX 7 meters. 15 inch chain.Very powerful saw. £35.

Call 01747 860413 FOR SMALL DONATION, you can have light beige riser recliner chair, slight damage to 1 wing otherwise everything fine. Collection Blandford 07515 364893 COMMODE (CHAIR MODEL), plus indoor walker adjustable height, both new never used.

Photos available £50.

07760 776792

FREE!

GARDEN TABLE, 4 chairs, VGC, £50. Tel: 01258-452749

LADIES GOLF CLUBS, bag, trolley , battery & charger £50 01747 859073 FISHER-PRICE ROARING RAIN Forest Jumperoo and bouncer play centre, hardly used. £25, 01935 872664 VICTORIAN PINE Wash Stand for repainting or stripping. £25.

07943 844356 Blandford

Classified Adverts

1 ad per contact number. Please limit to:

up to £50

15 words or less

household items only adverts@blackmorevale.net

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

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simple

01963 400186 adverts@blackmorevale.net

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

77

Field & Stream

blackmorevale.net

Boys flying high in the show ring

by Tria Stebbing SMALLHOLDING in a drought. An interesting and challenging time for anyone currently with paddocks, pasture, animals or crops. The green fields that have become brown parched dust bowls are throwing us a curve ball. The fly and biting insect population clearly love the weather, the animals not so much. The sheep have been treated for both flystrike and Blue Tongue virus – both are on the increase and both are horrible to see in livestock.

The sheep are lucky to have the option of several paddocks to graze in the village, and we are constantly moving them about so as not to stress out the limited growth we are lucky enough to have. During the day they crash out under the trees, not moving much at all, then graze when the temperature comes down.

Show season is in full swing and friends around us are busy showing their animals. So much preparation and commitment.

We choose not to show due to time constraints around working but you will, I am

sure, be excited to hear that Eddie and Harry are showing again this year. To re-cap, Eddie and Harry ‘borrowed’ our pedigree ram Humphrey two years ago to have some time with their ewes.

The boys show a great interest in maintaining the breed standard and promoting farming among the younger population. Already this year the boys – and their sheep – have excelled. Eddie had a 1st in the Young Handlers category (seven-eight years) with Misty, and Harry with Mistletoe came 5th in the nine-12 young handlers’ class at the Mid Devon show. What an incredible achievement, boys!

What is even more amazing is that Eddie had 22 in his class and Harry had 31.

Showing Zwartbles is particularly tricky as the breed standard laid down by the Association demands qualities such as fleece with a good crimp and uninterrupted blaze – the white stripe down the face – which should be reasonably straight. And the white tip on the tail must not extend more than halfway up

the length.

The little white socks our breed has are very confusing!

The sheep can have two or four, but if two, they must be on the hind legs. The sock must encircle the leg and touch the hoof in one or more places.

The boys to be good young handlers need to know their animals and know how to handle them appropriately. It goes without saying that we wish Eddie and Harry the best of luck at the Gillingham and Shaftesbury – do give them a

wave if you are there.

On a personal note, I am amazed at how many of you seem to read these columns and appreciate the ‘farming bought to the masses’ approach and explaining the why and how.

When I started writing for the New Blackmore Vale all those years ago, I did not think for one minute that people would ever get the concept that we are not farming on a big scale and that smallholders are as much a part of the picture as the big guys.

MOTORBOATS and jet skis will not be able to operate closer to the shore in Swanage and Studland following strong opposition to proposed changes to byelaws.

In a public consultation, 86% of respondents in Swanage and 73% in Studland opposed moving the 5-knot speed limit buoys nearer the shoreline, said Dorset Council.

The buoys will remain at 300 metres from mean high water in both bays.

A total of 437 responses were received during the eight‑week consultation on updates to watercraft byelaws,

including from sailing, rowing and swimming groups.

Now, a new draft byelaw is designed to improve safety on increasingly busy waters and protect sensitive marine habitats, including seagrass in Studland Bay. The consultation also saw more than 60% of respondents back extending the period when speed restrictions apply by one month, so the amended byelaw will now run from March 15 to October 30 each year.

The new rules will not apply to sailing boats and rowers.

Cllr Nick Ireland, Dorset Council leader and cabinet member for climate, performance and safeguarding, said: “We’d like to thank everyone who took part in this consultation. It shows just how much people value these bays and want them to be safe and well managed.

“We’ve listened carefully to what people told us. That means keeping the focus on motorised craft, extending the timing of speed restrictions and responding to strong views about the buoy positions.

“Our aim is to make it safer and easier for everyone to

enjoy the water, while protecting the natural environment that makes this part of Dorset so special.”

Dorset Council will now update the byelaw in line with consultation findings and submit it to the Department for Transport.

The proposals will also be considered by full council before being put forward for final approval by the Secretary of State.

Updating a byelaw typically takes about 18 months. If approved, the new rules are expected to come into force in 2027.

Young sheep enthusiasts Harry and Eddie

Motorboats will have to keep distance

78

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Farming

blackmorevale.net

Farmers rising to heat challenge

by Eleanor Livingstone BVSc MRCVS DBR of Friars Moor Livestock Health WITH the summer months in full swing, we are all appreciating the long days, although perhaps not so much the extreme heat! For stock and their keepers alike, the recent heatwaves have proved a challenge and leave us wondering what the rest of the summer may have in store.

In the short-term, strategies to maximise shade, considering housing during the heat of the day and where possible reducing stocking densities can all help.

We would encourage that feeding stock should be done in cooler parts of the day where possible and reducing handling during the heat of the day is also advisable.

We have seen some brilliant ideas from farmers trying to aid

their stock in keeping cool, especially homemade sprinklertype systems to increase evaporative cooling of the animals. Many farmers provided hose showers to cattle in the peak of the heatwave, and I suspect enjoyed the water splashing themselves!

If you are having any routine healthcare procedures undertaken in any future periods of extreme heat, please contact us and we will work with you where possible to try and avoid the hottest parts of the day.

In the longer term it leaves us all wondering whether more extreme weather events may become more normal and how we will combat these. How can we harness the potential of the excess rainfall we have within certain winter months?

Undoubtedly, a nuisance at the time, but a valuable resource as

the seasons change. We see more and more fans being installed – these are brilliant for aiding in air flow but very energy thirsty and thus solar panels are often installed alongside. How can we improve shade at grazing? Or water trough availability to maximise the use of shadier grazing areas. There are many questions that will be asked in the years to come about how to adapt our farming systems to future proof ourselves against climate change.

As the summer progresses, we look forward to the many social opportunities the agricultural shows provide us.

We will have our usual pitch at the Gillingham & Shaftesbury show on August 19-20, serving a barbecue lunch on both Wednesday and Thursday and tea and cake throughout the rest of the day.

We will also have hospitality at The Melplash Show in Bridport on Thursday, August 27, providing an opportunity for our more westerly clients to spend time with the team, and will see many more clients at the Dorset County show on Saturday and Sunday, September 5-6, where we sponsor the sheep shearing.

As a team it is a highlight of our year seeing so many clients and sharing some food and drink. We are fortunate to be immersed in such a tight knit agricultural community, and the summer show season is an opportunity to appreciate the best of this community. We wish all our clients showing animals the best of luck and look forward to enjoying a catch up with the multiple generations of families we are able to see all together on show days.

by Ruth Kimber STILL no rain and the situation here worsens – this is by far the driest summer in my memory.

1976 was very dry with parched fields and so on, but not on the current level. No rain is forecast, so all we can hope for is a thunderstorm or that the

forecasters have got it wrong!

When I was a schoolgirl, we looked forward to the long summer days and the build up to a thunderstorm and downpour.

Before the discovery of silage making and preservation, we made hay. The bales were small and had to be man-handled – the Continued on page 80

Childhood memories of making hay Calving & Calf Rearing Courses

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For more information or to book your place, please call the farm office on 01258 472314 or visit friarsmoorlivestockhealth.co.uk

Get in touch to book: farmoffice@fmlh.co.uk I 01258 472314 | friarsmoorlivestockhealth.co.uk West Stour I Sturminster Newton I Blandford I Closworth I Shaftesbury

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Dorset 1298 acres of Standing Straw • 599ac Wheat • 281ac Winter Barley • 119ac Spring Barley blackmorevale.net• 229ac Oats • 70ac Oil Seed Rape

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

79

Farming ADVERTISING FEATURE

Full catalogues available at symondsandsampson.co.uk 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

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

ignificant updates to England’s Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) regulations take effect on 6th August 2026, with ThursdayFriday 20th August at 5.30am 20th June STANDING STRAW AUCTION the formal introduction of the highly anticipated exemptions Gomershay Farm,Lane, Stalbridge, Sturminster Newton ON-FARM AUCTION Long Leys, Chedington Mosterton, Beaminster, DT8 3HL Thursday 17th October at 11.00am for small development sites of 0.2 hectares or less. Under GenuineEvening Dispersal of 2 Tractors, Telehandler, Poly-Tunnel, Wednesday 28th June at24:24 6.30pm Dispersal Sale of Tractor, Vans, FarmParlour, Machinery, On behalf of Spicer Partners Online bidding available the new rules, any project with a total red-line boundary area Silverlake Farm, Sherborne, DT9 6SN Grassland & Livestock Equipment, Workshop Items, etc Livestock Equipment Miscellaneous Bindon &and Pinhay of 0.2 hectares or less will be completely exempt from the The Grain Store, Rousdon, Dorset Genuine Dispersal ofHeathfield, Combine, Self Propelled Sprayer, Case 856XL 4wd with (88), Vauxhall Combo 1.7DI (05), Citroen 2021 TF 42.7 CS Loader Turbo Farmer (2,690hrs), 2010 Casebidding Puma 140 OnInc: behalf ofMerlo John Swain Limited Online available STANDING STRAW AUCTIONS 4 Tractors, 2 JCB(Retiring) Telehandlers, Forklift, Pick-Up, 830ac of Standing Straw mandatory 10% biodiversity uplift requirement, provided Berlingo (04), International Welger RP12674 Round SIP 185Fullwood Dum Mower, Ruscon 9ft (10,939hrs), withBaler, Loader, 24:24 Afimilk Parlour, Arable Machinery & Livestock Equipment Bowridge, Gillingham £1,250,000 Hazelbury Bryan £1,150,000 • 461ac Wheat Contact Greg Ridout: 01935 382909 / 07817 517467 the development doesGuide not contain priority habitat, suchGuide Cotswold Flush,PZ Fullwood Auger Master Feeders, Ambic Teat Sprayer, 2000 Rotary Topper, Haybob, Massey Ferguson Rear Discharge Spreader, Wednesday 25th June ON-FARM DISPERSAL AUCTION A fine period farmhouse in a quiet position boasting far reaching views.

Dating extended and modernised period house combining character and Mappowder Guide £595,000 An Marnhull Guide £525,000 • Approx.

237ac Winter Barley 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 Fullwood 12,500ltr Fabdec Bulk ND Jeanes 15t BulkLink Bin, Rowlands 20t High from Parmiter Chain Harrows, 7ft Ballast Roller, Box, Vicon Vari2017 Claas Lexion 650 Combine with Vario 770 Header, Shelbourne Reynolds Pinhay and Bindon – Tank, The Grain Store, Heathfield, Rousdon as mature native hedgerows.

If priority habitat is present, 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, • 132ac Oats Discharge Bin, Mollasses Tank &Bateman Stand, 2018 Anka Pro FootSprayer, Trimming Crush, 2010 paddock, in totalcountryside.

4.13 acres. CTB E, EPC E, Freehold. Further land available. acres.

CTB F, EPC surrounding CTB E. Freehold. facing gardens.

CTB Freehold.

Spreader, Ifor Williams TA510-G 12ft Livestock Trailer with Sheep Decks, RSD20 Stripper Header, 2011 RB17 (3,708hrs) 2019 Massey Approx.

1,000ac of Standing Straw Saturday 29th July then BNG still required irrespective ofD,E.Freehold. scale of the Sturminster Newton || 01258is 473766 Sturminster Newton |the 01258 473766 Sturminster Newton 472244 Sturminster | 01258 473766 Marshall QM2 Silage Trailer, 2005 Joskin 11000ME Slurry Tanker, 2017 Keenan Ifor Willaims TM125G 12ft Flat Trailer with Sides, Weights, Loader Ferguson 7720SBuckham Dyna6 (2,320hrs) &Bed 7718 Dyna6 (2,880hrs), 2016 New Holland Down Farm, Beaminster DT8 3SH development.

VA2-18 FeederGeorge Wagon,Friday 2020 Aerworxx 10-30m Aerator, Lely Splendimo 280F Friday 27th June 30th at 12 noon 2no.

Attachments, Mudge V12 June Shearing Machine, Walk In Creep

T7.210 (3,610hrs) & T7.200 (4,365hrs) Tractors, 2012 JCB 531-70 (2,145hrs) & Mower, 2012 Pottinger Lion 301 3mGrain Power Harrow, Browns Flail Topper, 2002 Pinhay and Bindon – Sheep The Store, Rousdon Durweston Feeders, IAE Creep Feeder, Shelter, 4ftHeathfield, & 6ft Hurdles, Hay18 Racks, Under the existing regime, the requirement to create a 1997 527-58 Telehandlers, Isuzu RodeoMachinery, Pick-Up, Doosan Pro5 Forklift, Dispersal saleApprox. ofIfor 42010 Tractors, Farm Bygones and Major 700 Road Brush, Williams TA510G Livestock Trailer, 2021 Merlo 8ft 8,5000ac of Standing Straw Troughs, Electric Fencing Equipment, Chainsaws, Power Tools, Workshop Travellers Rest Farm, Durweston, Blandford, Dorset McConnel 8.2mShear & 6.3m Cambridge Rollers, Twose & Watson Rollers, minimum 10% uplift in BNG has been causing considerable Bucket, Wylie Grab, 25ftMiscellaneous Single Axle Bale Trailer, Single10’ LegTandem Mole Plough, etc. Catalogue available on our website.

6,220 acresNZ of Standing Straw KRM Sola AresEquipment, 2713 Drill, Vaderstad 6m Cultivator, Kuhn HRQuicke 4004 Hyd. Folding Teagle Tomahawk 4040 Bale Shredder, Mixit PTO Lagoon Stirrer, 210 Loader headache and cost. If onsite BNG creation is not possible, then •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 credits have had to be purchased, with the current price range •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 for a single unit being in the region of £26,000 to £28,000.

Quantity of Feed Troughs, Various Feed Buckets, Mobile Milker, Hook on Buckets, • 1,557ac Spring Barley Fertiliser Spreader, Magnum EuroInternational 280 Hyd Offset Topper, Ford 4000McConnel (fully restored), 1976 454 2wd,Bomford Wydale Teat Feeders, Parlour Matting, Parlour Fans, Calftel Group Hutches, Various Holwell • 178ac Oats Our Agents will be at Hawk 6m Hedgecutter, Kuhn FC313 TG Mower Conditioner, 2 x Stewart 16-21L Guide £825,000 Bedchester Guide £810,000 Not only is this good news for small-scale residential SM632mm DropWater Side Pipe, Silage Trailer, Markham 3t Tipping Shroton Guide £435,000 North Cheriton OIEO An exceptional detached 5 bedroom residence, finished to an impeccable A 4 bedroom house in a lovely rural location on a quiet lane with£400,000 FieldMarshall & Yard Gates, Parlour Spares, Quantity of Astro Turf, • 37ac Oil Seed Rape Grain Trailers, Marshall BC25 Bale Trailer, Cattle Hurdles, Attachments (Q-Fit), standard.

Set within beautifully landscaped gardens wonderful far-reaching views3-bedroom and gardenperiod and grounds of tucked one acre.

CTB away on This delightful 2-bedroom end-of-terrace cottage haswith beenstunning fully updated An attractive, double-fronted property Trailer, PortAgric 6’ Topper, TS59 & Poly TS90 Emergency Bulk Tank, Concrete WaterRansomes Troughs, 60ft x 30ft Tunnels. development sites but who may be having countryside views, in a highly sought-after village.

G, EPC B,for farmers D, Freehold. but retains great charm.

It is situated in the heart ofCTB this also most desirable an EPC idyllicF,country lane with character features throughoutto and views over Machine Spares, Workshop Items, Weights, etc.

Freehold. village. CTB D. Freehold. the neighbouring countryside. CTB C. Freehold.

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 On behalf of the Late Alan Read The Grain Store, Manor Farm, Wynford Eagle, Dorchester, suitable entries welcome. bidding available Please callFurther inNotoInternet ourDorset stand for refreshments 1298 acres of Standing Straw517467 experts and to meet our rural and agricultural Contact Greg Yeovil Ridout: 01935 382909/07817 Please contact Greg Ridout 07817 517467 Contact Office – 01935 382909 • 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

On behalf of Spicer Partners

Online bidding available

Mob: 07966 244536

On behalf of John Swain Limited (Retiring) STANDING STRAW AUCTIONS Online bidding available

Contact Greg Ridout: 0193525th 382909 / 07817 517467 Wednesday June ON-FARM DISPERSAL AUCTION

Pinhay and Bindon –Hose The GrainSpecialists Store, Heathfield, Rousdon Hydraulic and 1,000ac of Standing Saturday 29th July Straw Forestry, Stockists Approx. to the Agriculture, Buckham Down Farm, Beaminster DT8 3SH Friday 27th June Automotive and Transport Industry Pinhay and Bindon – The Grain Store, Heathfield, Rousdon

Dispersal sale of 4 Tractors, Farm Machinery, Bygones and

Dispersal saleApprox. of 4 Tractors, Farm Machinery, Bygones and 8,5000ac of Standing Strawcouplings Pneumatic fittings Quick release Miscellaneous Air brake fittings Pressure wash hoses + lances Hose clamps1995 Same Silver Up to ½ “Hose stocked Including: 8014wd (6,800hrs), 1988 Same Explorer with Loaderof (4,700hrs),1973 Hydraulic Hoses 70 4wdVariation oils Ford 4000 (fully restored), 1976 International 454 2wd, Mobile service available Our Agents will be at

apply for planning permission forSturminster livestock buildings where Sherborne | 01935 | 01258814488 473766 they lie within 400 metres of an affected dwelling. Under the old rules they would have to employ an ecologist and find a solution for providing the BNG mitigation, often at considerable cost. Provided the new buildings fall under the 0.2 hectares threshold, then this requirement drops off. Under the existing permitted development rights for agricultural buildings, BNG is 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 exempt in any event, and this now creates a level playing field.

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 yardD, & Freehold. paddocks, in total over the Wiltshire/Dorset countryside.

CTB G, EPD 4.11 acres. CTB E.Freehold, Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766 Sturminster | 01258 473766

Okeford Fitzpaine Leigh

Guide £775,000 OIEO £500,000

attractive and beautifully restored Grade II listed former farmhouse A tastefully 4-bedroom house with light andwith spacious Where there have been recent An planning on sites of with plenty improved of charmapprovals and original village character features along a 100’ accommodation, setof in the attractive and backing farmland. garden in the heart village.gardens CTB F, EPC Exempt,onto Freehold.

No onward chain. CTB F. Freehold.

0.2 hectares or less and BNG mitigation conditions are included Sherborne | 01935 814488 Sturminster | 01258 473766 in the decision notice, then it may be worth considering making an application for a variation of condition to remove the BNG 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 obligationsR Eand thus potentially saving a considerable cost.

Edward Dyke, partner in Symonds & Sampson’s Sturminster Newton office comments, “At last some positive news on the Guide £1,150,000 Hazelbury Bryan An extended and modernised period house combining character and Marnhull Guide £525,000 planning front! This has been a long-known change that has finally charm with contemporary family living quiet location a noA character south-facing stone house in in anaexcellent centralonvillage through roadawith views, land and stables.

In alland about 2.40 workshop southlocation with largewonderful oak-framed double garage, acres.

CTB F, EPC D, facing gardens.

CTB E.Freehold.

Freehold. been enacted, and it will make an enormous difference to our Sturminster Newton 01258 473766 Sturminster | 01258 |473766 client base of farmers, landowners and small-scale developers.

It will save considerable costs in pulling together a planning application and should also speed the whole process up for securing planning permission.”

Guide £1,250,000 Bowridge, Gillingham A fine period farmhouse in a quiet position boasting far reaching views.

Dating Mappowder Guide £595,000 from 1737 the farmhouse offers 3village reception rooms, 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms.

A fine Grade II listed former Post House with attractive gardens, Outside is a wonderful stone barn with (stp), workshop, largechurch garden and a substantial barn/workshop and potential lovely views to the village and paddock, in totalcountryside.

4.13 acres. CTB E, EPC E, Freehold. Further land available. surrounding CTB E. Freehold.

Sturminster Newton Sturminster Newton || 01258 473766 472244

For advice on all aspects of planning and development, please contact Edward on 01258 472244, or one of our planning experts in your nearest office.

Holwell Guide £825,000 Shroton Guide £435,000 An exceptional detached 5 bedroom residence, finished to an impeccable standard.

Set within beautifully landscaped gardens This delightful 2-bedroom end-of-terrace cottage haswith beenstunning fully updated 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 Freehold. village. CTB D. Freehold.

Sturminster| Newton | 01258 473766 Sherborne 01935 814488

Bedchester Guide £810,000 North Cheriton OIEO A 4 bedroom house in a lovely rural location on a quiet lane with£400,000 wonderful far-reaching views3-bedroom and gardenperiod and grounds of tucked one acre.

CTB An attractive, double-fronted property away on D, Freehold. an EPC idyllicF,country lane with character features throughout and views over the neighbouring countryside. CTB C. Freehold.

Sherborne | 01935 Sturminster | 01258814488 473766

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 yardD, & Freehold. paddocks, in total over the Wiltshire/Dorset countryside.

CTB G, EPD 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

Marshall SM6 Drop Side Silage Trailer, Markham 3t Tipping Trailer, PortAgric 6’ Topper, Ransomes TS59 & TS90 & TS91 Ploughs, Krone AM242Z Mower Conditioner, Feeders, Engines,2 Signs, Bygones, etc. onStationary Wednesday, October

The Dairy Event

entriesfor welcome.

Please callFurther in tosuitable our stand refreshments and to meet our rural and agricultural Contactcontact Greg Ridout: 01935 382909/07817 517467 experts Please Greg Ridout 07817 517467

S ARESIDENTIAL L E S | L E T T I N G S || A U C T I O N S | P L A N N |I NCOMMERCIAL G | NEW HOMES AGRICULTURAL

RESIDENTIAL | AGRICULTURAL | COMMERCIAL

symondsandsampson.co.uk Cote Farm Works, Kilmington, Warminster, Wiltshire BA12 6RF

Email: hoses@ardiesels.co.uk

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

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New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Farming

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PEDIGREE ABERDEEN ANGUS BULLS (Wessex herd) March born yearlings and 2 year olds.

Health scheme. Black or red bulls. Puddletown £3000 07770 794615 jake@wessexgrazing.uk SHIPPING CONTAINERS FOR SALE / HIRE Tel: 01258 472288 Mob: 07977 936109 New and second hand containers - blue/green all with box locks

Andrew Lee Vegetation Management Grass flail and scrub flail available for the management of scrub, brambles, grass etc.

Working on slopes of up to 50 degrees with operator.

Contact Mobile: 07850489782 Email: andrewlee01@btinternet.com

WANTED

COWS COWS COWS

Farmers short of winter fodder?

Sell your surplus cows NOW to achieve higher prices.

• All Grades

• Also, Bulls plus Organic Cattle

• Farm Assured or Non-Assured

• No V.A.N. Number, No Problem!

• Payment on the day - Farm purchases • Haulage Arranged

Tel: 07811 381159

Continued from page 78 the field and my brother, sister and I had the job of rolling them into groups ready for our Dad and other men to put them into stooks or piles of seven, eight or nine to keep the rain off and allow them to continue to dry.

They were then ready to be collected up, again by hand, with the use of two-pronged pitch forks especially made for hay or straw bales, and ‘pitched’ up on to the trailer. The hay had to dry for fear of it heating up and then combusting.

It was then taken to the barn and unloaded, again by hand, and stacked away. This could be the hardest, hottest part of the job, with the bales having to be physically carried into the barn.

Us children would help to build the load on the trailer, being careful to knit in the bales, to make sure it would travel. We would leave a couple of bales’ space in the middle so we could ride up to the farm on top of the load, but had somewhere to duck

into as we passed the elm trees’ low branches.

My mother would pack us off to the hay field with cold tea, homemade lemon squash and ginger beer. At the end of the evening, we would tuck into a salad which was ready and waiting – hard work but happy times.

Various implements were introduced to help take some of the hand work out. A sledge on the back of the baler would collect the bales which could then be released in ready-made groups. However, sometimes the bales would get muddled up and a string would break, releasing all the loose hay. In one bale collector system, a man would travel on the sledge and make the piles and try to release them without falling over – this one was not very successful and certainly, looking back, pretty dodgy safety-wise.

It took the best part of a week to make hay from cutting to baling-stacking and putting away in the barn.

CALVES WANTED from 7 days old up to 150.

07725-112160

GUINEA FOWL FOR SALE. 7-8 weeks old.

Various colours available.

07545-468700

R&W FENCING Agricultural paddock and stock.

01258-880892 07980-036250 16 YEAR OLD BOY, TRACTOR LICENCE, looking for farm work. Well experienced, hard worker.

Tel: 07535-264218

WEIHRAUCH 35 0.22 Mint condition Weihrauch 35. Weihrauch 80. Weihrauch 57.

Selling due to ill health.

Tel 07970 742471

Brookfield Livestock Marketing Ltd 7 days a week.

WeSSex MetalS SturMinSter neWton & Blandford area

Scrap Metal recycling

WANTED Scrap Metal, Cars, Heavy and Light Iron Farm and Factory Clearance Weighbridge

EX HERDSMAN SEEKING RELIEF MILKING. AI and foot trimming trained. Based in Gillingham. Willing to travel within reason.

Also, can work in between milkings. Please call Nigel 07794 135812 ROUND BALE HAY, made well from £40 per bale.

Enford Farm near Blandford.

07704 813025 Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.

TOP PRICES PAID Skips/HAIB lorry available for onsite collection

Tel 01258 860166 or 07974 822243

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

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Farming

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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

Broad Oak Guide £1,825,000 (whole) Mappowder Guide £595,000 An animal lovers dream. A peacefully located smallholding with spacious 5 A fine Grade II listed former village Post House with attractive gardens, bedroom, 3,100 sq.ft farmhouse, stabling, kennels, quadruple garage and sand a substantial barn/workshop and lovely views to the village church and arena in 21.60 acres. Available in 2 lots. Freehold. CTB G; EPC D. surrounding countryside. CTB E. Freehold.

Sturminster Newton || 01258 472244 Sturminster Newton 01258 473766

Horsington Guide £1,600,000 Marnhull Guide £525,000 An immaculately presented period farmhouse in a private position with A character south-facing stone house in an excellent central village stone barns, stables, land, in all 5.91 acres, and income stream from a pair location with a large oak-framed double garage, workshop and southof holiday cottages. Further 20.34 acres available. Freehold. CTB F; EPC D. facing gardens. CTB E. Freehold.

Sturminster Newton|| 01258 01258473766 472244 Sturminster Newton

Bugley Guide £1,425,000 Shroton Guide £435,000 An interesting and diversified smallholding with two dwellings, two farm This delightful 2-bedroom end-of-terrace cottage has been fully updated buildings, a new pasture land, lakes and most an established but retains greatcamping charm. pod, It is situated in thefour heart of this desirablecarp fishery separately). In total 17.28 acres. Freehold. CTB: D, EPC: E. village.(available CTB D. Freehold.

Sturminster Newton || 01258 473766 472244 Sturminster Newton

Gillingham Guides £50,000 and £35,000 North Cheriton OIEO £400,000 3.79 acres (1.54 hectares) of level pasture land with old farm buildings, An attractive, double-fronted 3-bedroom period property tucked away on available as a whole and in 2 lots, 2.33 acres and 1.46 acres.

For Sale an idyllic country lane with character features throughout and views over by Informal Tender, offers by noon Friday 11th September. the neighbouring countryside. CTB C. Freehold.

JOIN US AT THE SHOWS

Visit us at the local agricultural shows this summer to meet our award-winning property experts, discuss the local market, and discover how our expertise helps Nr Sturminster Guide Price £1,100,000 connectNewton and create opportunities Tucked away down a no through lane is this extended and very well for buyers, and presented 4 bedroom sellers, country home withlandowners stable yard & paddocks, in total 4.11across acres. CTBthe E.Freehold, region.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244 Sherborne | 01935 814488

Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show 19 & 20 August

Dorset County Show 5 & 6 September

Melplash Show 27 August

The Dairy Show 7 October

Leigh OIEO £500,000 A tastefully improved 4-bedroom village house with light and spacious accommodation, set in attractive gardens and backing onto farmland.

No onward chain. CTB F. Freehold.

Sherborne | 01935 814488

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

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AUCTION I R E AT | C2:00PM O R N WA L L | LO N D O N D O R S E T | D E V O NPROPERTY | SOMER S E T | HWEDNESDAY A M P S H I R E26 | AUGUST W I LT S H2026 AT DIGBY MEMORIAL HALL, DIGBY ROAD, SHERBORNE, DT9 3LN

Poole

Guide £35,000

A former water pumping building. GIA approx. 483 sqft. in 0.04 acres, situated in a prominent position providing excellent scope for other uses (STPP).

Freehold.

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Shaftesbury

Guide £35,000

A former Wessex Water reservoir site measuring 0.23 acres with a building, enjoying a rural location adjoining farmland. Freehold.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Sherborne

Lot A - Guide £50,000 Lot B - Guide £25,000

A well-located building plot with full planning permission for a detached three-bedroom home, close to local amenities. Freehold.

Sherborne | 01935 814488

Longburton

Guide £9,000

A gently sloping and accessible 1.48 acre parcel of woodland with established hazel coppice and excellent amenity potential.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244

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

Yeovil

Hampreston

Guide £17,000

A block of mixed mature woodland extending to approximately 2.59 acres, comprising a variety of species, bordered by the River Yeo. Freehold.

Yeovil | 01935 382901

Wedmore

Guide £35,000

A single parcel of level pasture land extending to 8.41 acres, providing excellent habitat diversity and amenity appeal. Freehold.

Yeovil | 01935 423526

Guide £60,000

Woodland consisting of a mix of mature native tree species located on the outskirts of Wimborne Minster, extending to 2.41 acres. Freehold.

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Holwell

Lot A - Guide £100,000 Lot B - Guide £50,000

10.55 acres and 4.26 acres of pasture land available separately, both with direct road access. Freehold.

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.

Caundle Marsh Guide £125,000 Guide £450,000 Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766Henstridge Approx. 2.12 acres of pastureland with a modern agricultural building, with services available on site, no overage or restrictive covenants, and excellent access to Sherborne. Freehold

0.86-acre freehold commercial yard with 3,645 sq ft of workshops, secure gated access and three-phase power on Henstridge Trading Estate. Freehold

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.

Wincanton £150,000 Weymouth Guide £150,000 Sherborne | 01935Guide 814488 A substantial mixed-use property (GIA 2,769sqft), comprising a large retail area, first floor storage, and a 4 bed maisonette, in a prominent location. Freehold. RV £9,600, CTB B. EPC Flat G, Comm C.

A stylish 2 bed, 2 bathroom top floor penthouse enjoying views over Weymouth beach. Leasehold, 65 years remaining. SC £1939 pa. GR £200pa.

CTB D. EPC C.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244

Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Poundbury | 01305251154

Upton, Poole Guide £220,000 Holt, Wimborne Guide £250,000 Nr Sturminster Guide PriceA£1,100,000 A detached 2 bedNewton period property detached Grade II Listed 2 bed providingaway scopedown for renovation and lane iscottage for renovation withwell scope for Tucked a no through this extended and very extension (STPP/consents), enjoying a extension (STPP and presented 4 bedroom country home with stableand yardremodelling & paddocks, in total large garden and a E.Freehold, convenient location. consents), in 0.50 acres.

4.11 acres. CTB Freehold. CTB B. EPC F. Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766Freehold. CTB D. EPC G. Wimborne | 01202 843190

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Lattiford, Wincanton Guide £550,000 Leigh OIEO £500,000 An attractive Grade II listed cottage offering over 2,500 sq ft of characterful accommodation, including4-bedroom 5 beds, 2 baths andhouse 3 reception rooms.

Rich in period A tastefully improved village with light and spacious features and offering excellent scope for modernisation, the property enjoys accommodation, set in attractive gardens and backing onto farmland. an 6 acre plotCTB withF.a Freehold. range of outbuildings, including two annexes and Noapprox. onward chain. stabling. Freehold. CTB G. EPC F for house and both annexes.

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

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Property

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PROPERTY R E | atC2:00PM O R N WA L L | LO N D O N DORSET | DEVON | S O M EAUCTION R S E T | HTHURSDAY A M P S H I R24 E SEPTEMBER | W I LT S H I2026 AT DIGBY MEMORIAL HALL, DIGBY ROAD, SHERBORNE, DT9 3NL

Various Garage Sites: – Blandford – Single, freehold garage Guide £6,000 – 01258 452670 – Blandford – A block of 3 freehold garages Guide £10,000 – 01258 452670 – Stalbridge – 2 freehold garages in a residential area Guide £10,000 – 01258 473766 – Dorchester – 2 single garages in a block of 6 Guide £10,000 – 01305 261008 Mappowder – Blandford – 6 single garages in need of Guide £595,000 A fine Grade II listed former village Post House with attractive gardens, refurbishment a substantial barn/workshop and lovely views to the village church and Guidecountryside. £10,000 CTB – 01258 452670 surrounding E. Freehold.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766 – Alton Pancras – a block of 3 garages Guide £15,000 – 01305 261008 – Shaftesbury – a substantial block of 5 garages Guide £30,000 – 01258 473766 – Stalbridge – a block of 6 garages in a residential area Guide £35,000 – 01258 473766

Melcombe Bingham Guide £40,000

Fortuneswell

Dorchester | 01305 261008

Poundbury | 01305251154

A site measuring approximately 0.14 acres with vehicular access adjoining residential property. Freehold.

Guide £45,000

A site formerly comprising a pair of semi-detached dwellings which have been demolished. Great development potential (subject to relevant consents).

Freehold.

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

Fontmell Magna

Guide £185,000

A recently renovated detached bungalow of non-standard construction in a peaceful cul-de-sac in the middle of this popular village.

Freehold. CTB C. EPC E. Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

West Morden

Guide £195,000

An attached Grade II Listed 2 bed cottage with scope for modernisation, enjoying a low-maintenance garden with potential to extend via a garden licence. Freehold. CTB D. EPC D. Wimborne | 01202 843190

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.

West Bay Newton Guide £225,000 Guide £250,000 Sturminster | 01258 473766Wilton A modern apartment close to the sea with excellent amenities and parking. Leasehold. GR £700pam. SC £2578.76pa. 105 years remaining.

CTB D. EPC C.

A beautiful Grade II listed 2 bed cottage, with period features in the heart of Wilton. Offering fantastic holiday let potential or for private residence. Freehold. CTB C. EPC C.

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.

Bridport £250,000 Christchurch Guide £275,000 Sherborne | 01935Guide 814488 A detached 2 bed former farmhouse in need of refurbishment with a stone barn and outbuildings. Situated in a picturesque village.

Freehold. CTB D. EPC F.

A detached commercial premises extending to over 1,450sqft. (134.7sqm.), most recently operating as a tearoom, with pp for conversion to a single dwelling.

Freehold. CTB B. RV £5,700. EPC TBC.

Bridport | 01308 422092

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Bridport | 01308 422092

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Shaftesbury Guide £295,000 Christchurch Guide £295,000 Nr Sturminster Newton Guide PriceAn£1,100,000 An attractive 3 bed cottage, situated attractive mid-terraced 2 bed in the heart of the picturesque hilltoplane isproperty, conveniently located Tucked away down a no through this extended and very welljust off town of Shaftesbury, close to amenities. thestable High Street, great buy-topresented 4 bedroom country home with yard offering & paddocks, in total Freehold.

CTB D. EPC D. let and holiday let potential, or private 4.11 acres.

CTB E.Freehold, Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766residence. Freehold. CTB C. EPC C. Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Poole Guide £375,000 Tarrant Hinton Guide £495,000 Leigh £500,000 A detached 3 bed property with scope A modern, detached 4OIEO bed property for for modernisation and remodelling, with remodelling andlight modernisation (STRC) A tastefully improved 4-bedroom village house with and spacious garage and off-roadset parking, occupying enjoying a privateonto walled garden, accommodation, in attractive gardens and backing farmland. aNo corner plot on the edge Oakdale. situated in a sought after village. onward chain.

CTB of F. Freehold.

Freehold. CTB E. EPC E. Freehold. CTB F. EPC TBC. Sherborne | 01935 814488 Wimborne | 01202 843190

Blandford | 01258 452670

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New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Property

Must haves on moving day IF you’re relocating soon, here are the new home essentials to organise before the television is packed and the lorry rolls away, according to the experts at Armishaws Removals.

Curtains MANY homeowners take their curtains with them – ask your vendors.

You might need to plan a short-term replacement for privacy on those first few nights/weeks.

Lightbulbs REALLY? Yes, in a recent poll conducted by Armishaws, 6% of people admitted they take all the lightbulbs with them when moving.

41% don’t leave any loo roll.

Extension cord – multi-sockets IF you work from home, the sockets might not be in the most convenient place.

It’s common for vendors to take their curtains with them when they move out

An extension cord and multi-socket will ensure your working life isn’t interrupted too much by the move.

Batteries ONE of your first jobs in your new home should be to check the batteries are working on smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.

Wi-fi FOR work, television, the sanity of parents with teenagers who might be left without the internet for more than a minute, arrange your wi-fi to be connected at your new place the day of your move.

Torch YOU might be heading into the loft or tight spaces, and a decent

Rubbish bins NOT quite crime of the century, but it’s surprisingly common for

Your next chapter starts here Set within the beautiful Blackmore Vale, Durbeyfield Park in Marnhull offers a collection of thoughtfully designed homes where quality craftsmanship meets modern living.

3 and 4 bedroom energy efficient properties priced from £375,000, with special offers available on selected plots.

Located just 3 miles from Sturminster Newton and close to Shaftesbury and Gillingham.

Visit the show homes and sales office, 1 Marlott Crescent, Marnhull, Dorset, DT10 1GB. 01258 313137

torch is often better than your phone’s torch.

cgfry.co.uk

blackmorevale.net

unscrupulous neighbours to wheel the bins away as soon as the sellers move out.

Ask the sellers to leave the bins somewhere secure before they go.

Cleaning supplies HERE’S a conundrum – 94% of people say they cleaned their house before moving out, but only 52% said their new home had been cleaned. Hmmm…

Best to have cleaning supplies handy.

Tool kit IN almost every move, there comes a point when you need to cut, stick, screw or whack something, so prepare a travel tool kit with the basics.

Takeaway AFTER a long moving day, you deserve it.

For more removals tips, head to www.armishaws.com/blog

New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Property

blackmorevale.net

+

Removals throughout Dorset and beyond

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

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Excellent

sales@armishaws.com | www.armishaws.com Wincanton Business Park, Wincanton, Somerset, BA9 9RU

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New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

Property

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TO LET TO LET. WORKSHOP 8265 sqft Low rent Longbridge Deverill 01985840401 SELF-CONTAINED ACCOMMODATION on quiet farm near Yeovil 01935 892476

90,000 90,000

readers could be looking at readers could be your advert looking at your right now advert right now

01963 400186 | adverts@blackmorevale.net 01963 400186 | adverts@blackmorevale.net

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Small home for a first-time buyer?

THIS one-bedroom freehold property, close to Dorchester town centre and train station, could be an excellent opportunity for a first-time buyer, say the agents.

The house offers wellpresented and practical accommodation including, on the ground floor, entrance porch leading into bright sitting room, complete with laminate flooring and archway opening into the kitchen.

Upstairs, the property features a double bedroom and a bathroom fitted with WC, pedestal basin and bath with electric shower.

The house also has an allocated parking space, UPVC double glazing, gas central heating and external store

cupboard.

The low maintenance front garden is mainly paved, with a raised border stocked with shrubs and flowers.

The property is for sale with no chain with the Dorchester office of Symonds & Sampson at a guide price of £185,000 – for more details phone them on 01305 261008.

(from pages 34-35)

Edition 154

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D S A V U I R E C O V E R I S L E S A A O E G T P M A N C O M M O D I T Y A E E U M T O A S T M E R M A I D I B B T E C O N J U R E S T E M S RESULT O S R T C M A R G A R I T A T E E U M G N I R N G R A C E G A R L A N D RESULT S L S S M S

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New Blackmore Vale, August 14, 2026

87

LOW COST SECURE SELF STORAGE

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Call us on 01305 819819 to discuss your requirements

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DORSET

green & pleasant Call today and speak to one of our professional team.

Or visit our squeaky new website for quotes and to find out lots more.

Call: 01305 819819

ww w.thewastegroup.co.uk

ABOUT CHUTNEY’S

Chutney’s focuses on modern and traditional Indian food, Established in 2000, Chutney’s is one of the South West’s best eateries, located in the heart of North Dorset on the ever evolving Gold Hill. For almost a decade, Chutneys has graced Shaftesbury with its fine cuisine and has grown to be recognised locally and internationally with a reputation for excellence.

Between our wonderful atmosphere, delicious food and our loyal customers (including the likes of David Beckham), we can get pretty busy! Therefore we encourage booking as we hope to accommodate everyone.

Monday-Sunday | 12pm-2pm & 5pm-10pm 01747 852585 info@chutneys-restaurant.com www.chutneys-restaurant.com Chutney’s, 28 Salisbury Street, Shaftesbury SP7 8EJ

FREE DELIVERY

Within a 5 mile radius £7 for greater distances (Order minimum £30)