The New Blackmore Vale - Issue 156 by The Blackmore Vale Limited

Edition 156

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Friday, September 11, 2026

The New Blackmore Vale NORTH DORSET TRAILWAY GETS NEW DIRECTION! Expansion plan for popular walking route revealed as part of new Rights of Way plan

SKILLED WORK Visitors can get crafty with the experts at Abbey museum

FULL STORY: PAGE 3

MEN KIND! Popular Dorset support group prepares to attend wellness fair

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What’s inside this issue…

• Main pic: Plans submitted for housing development on the outskirts of Yeovil page 12 • Above: Look to the stars for all the benefits of a mindful experience page 24 • Left: Singing teacher Sacha celebrates the power of song in her new book page 9

Announcements Antiques & Collectables Arts & Entertainment Business Church Events Farming Field & Stream Food & Drink Health & Wellbeing History Home & Garden

EDITORIAL Paul Jones - Editor in Chief We love hearing your news and views. Get in touch with us by emailing newsdesk@blackmorevale.net or calling 01963 400186 Lloyd Armishaw Publisher newsdesk@blackmorevale.net 01963 400186 Lorraine Drake Distributor lorraine_drake@icloud.com 07850 529937

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Expansion plans in the pipeline for popular trail A WALKWAY stretching from Sturminster Newton to the Blandford Forum area is set to be expanded and better connected. Expansions of the North Dorset Trailway, a footpath on the former Somerset & Dorset Railway line, are among proposals in Dorset Council’s newly published draft Rights of Way Improvement Plan (ROWIP) 2026–2036. In the plan, the trailway is highlighted as a case study, recognising the benefits it already brings to communities, providing a largely traffic free corridor for walkers, cyclists and horse riders, as well as people using mobility aids, boosting exercise, health and wellbeing. The implementation plan identifies proposed extensions, including from Stalbridge north

NDTN, said: “It is tremendously encouraging to see the North Dorset Trailway recognised in this important plan, not only for what it provides today but for what it could become in the future. “The Trailway is a wonderful asset for North Dorset – somewhere to walk, cycle, ride, wheel, exercise, enjoy nature or simply get from one community to another away from busy roads. “Extending those connections would allow many more people to benefit. “NDTN is a charity and has long championed the protection, improvement and extension of the Trailway, and we hope local people will support us in helping to make that vision a reality.”The draft ROWIP is open for public consultation until October 12, giving residents an opportunity to have their say on the future of Dorset’s rights of way network. Visit consultation. dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/c-e/ dorset-rights-of-wayconsultation

The North Dorset Trailway is a footpath on the former Somerset & Dorset Railway line

to Henstridge and south to Sturminster Newton, together with longer term links from Spetisbury to Sturminster Marshall and onwards to Corfe Mullen. Timescales for the additions

run from 2027 to 2034, with the North Dorset Trailway Network (NDTN) named alongside Dorset Council and private landowners as partners in the project. Joe Hickish, chair of the

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Big Brue aims to ‘stir things up and help make sense of the world’ HOUSEHOLD names from the worlds of politics, global affairs, culture and the arts will be disagreeing agreeably when they appear at the Big Brue next weekend in Bruton. The event has been created by journalist and presenter Mariella Frostrup, her husband and human rights lawyer Jason McCue, journalist Catherine Fairweather and climate expert Eleanor O’Keeffe. Jason McCue said: “If you don’t get people talking, you can’t solve anything. “With Big Brue we are bringing international voices in, and getting local voices heard. “We firmly believe that progress comes from difference and disagreement, so we are

here to stir things up and help make sense of the world!” Among the many wellknown speakers are musician and activist Bob Geldof; chair of the British Museum George Osborne; restaurateur, author and broadcaster Prue Leith; author and activist Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe; and fashion designer Alice Temperley. The varied programme features 25 debates over the course of Saturday and Sunday, September 19-20, at the Hauser & Wirth art gallery. Among them is ‘We Need to Talk About Migration’ with historian Peter Frankopan and politicians Sayeeda Warsi and Danny Kruger. ‘Can Britain be ‘Great’

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Big Brue founders (from left) Mariella Frostrup, Catherine Fairweather, Eleanor O’Keeffe and Jason McCue in front of the Radić Pavilion at Durslade Farm, Hauser & Wirth, the venue for the festival PHOTO: Don McCullin @donmccullinphotographyw

Again’ is the question asked in a debate bringing together film producer Tim Bevan, diplomat Lindsay Skoll and Jason McCue. Meanwhile ‘Nurturing Creativity’ is the subject for novelist Esther Freud and dancer and choreographer Carlos Acosta. Other subjects include AI, fake news, entrepreneurship, poetry and museums of the future. “The idea is not just to hold another talks festival,” said Mariella Frostrup. “We’re creating a space where ideas are presented and tested, where disagreement is welcome, so long as its agreeable, and audiences are participants as well as spectators.” She added: “Small towns like Bruton have a lot to contribute but rural communities are rarely given the stage. “Long term, we’d like to open up opportunities for more public debate in similar locations, where people can come together, share ideas, be outraged and inspired, discover

something new and feel part of a larger conversation.” Tickets are priced from £20 a talk to £140 for the weekend – visit www.bigbrue.com/tickets The event will also feature a programme of workshops including Life Drawing, led by artist Kim Booker of Bo Lee Gallery and Helena Jacobson of Sunnyhill Studios; Slow Scent, from Kate Neal of Bruton-based beauty brand Commune; Leathercraft with Bill Amberg of Bill Amberg Studio and Caroline Strecker of Rag Of Colts; Apple Pressing with Dowdings cider and juice maker Oliver Dowding; and No Dig vegetable growing with Charles Dowding. And Guy Hayward, local historian and co-founder and director of the British Pilgrimage Trust, will lead a pilgrimage along the River Brue, taking in ancient Glastonbury pilgrimage routes, and author John Steinbeck’s cottage. Workshop bookings can be made in advance on the website or on the day – school children and students free.

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Heritage crafts at abbey museum SKILLED artisans and craftspeople will be giving demonstrations and offering visitors a chance to try their hand at handicrafts such as spinning, weaving and woodworking at a Heritage Crafts Weekend at Shaftesbury Abbey Museum. The event will also include makers who practise calligraphy and embroidery, gypsy peg making and hurdles, ropemaking, herbal remedies, Anglo-Saxon cookery and the Steps in Time traditional dance troupe. The event is on Saturday and Sunday, September 19-20, 10am-4pm, and entry is free with donations welcomed to support the abbey. No booking is required but children must be accompanied by an adult. For more information, visit

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Market date is a first for Friends

THE newly launched Friends of Open House Shaftesbury (FOHS) are holding a Harvest & Craft Market – along with car boot sale – at Father’s House in Christy’s Lane next weekend. Friends group volunteers plan to support Open House Shaftesbury, the charity behind A30 from Sherborne the Open Fridge surplus food scheme. The market includes a mix of local craft and produce stalls, hamper tombola, children’s tombola and raffle. A hot food kitchen and coffee bar, a children’s corner with games and a treasure hunt and rom Dorchester an ice-cream van will also be on offer. Open Fridge will have a stall inside the hall from 11am2.30pm. And Lighthouse Youth, which runs every Tuesday from 3.30pm-5.50pm, will also be

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there, as will the Hope Project, Shaftesbury Carers. Howard Parfitt, chair of Friends of Open House Shaftesbury, said: “This is our first event, and we’ve been pleased with how many people have wanted to take part. “Money raised will go towards ensuring the mediumand longer-term future of Open House and its projects. “A couple of table spaces and four car boot spaces are still available for anyone interested.” Entry is free, with free parking on site and at the nearby Longmead industrial estate car park. Anyone interested in a table or car boot space can contact Howard by email at booking@ fohs.org.uk or by phone on 07718 279993. The event is on Saturday, September 19, 11am-3pm.

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School says joining trust will boost student opportunities

Gillingham School has joined the United Learning trust PHOTO: Google

GILLINGHAM School is embarking on an ‘exciting new chapter’ as it joins an education trust this month. The 510-year-old school is becoming part of the United Learning trust, which currently runs a range of independent schools. “We are proud to be joining the trust from a position of strength,” a Gillingham School spokesperson said. “This summer, our students achieved outstanding A level and GCSE results, including our best GCSE outcomes in five years, reflecting the hard work, ambition and resilience of our young people and the dedication of our staff. “As a thriving and successful school, we remain committed to building on these achievements while continuing to provide the

ensure that every student is equipped with the knowledge, skills and confidence to achieve their full potential and succeed in their chosen future pathways. “While we look forward to these exciting opportunities, we remain deeply proud of our heritage, traditions and place at the heart of the local community. “Joining United Learning allows us to preserve everything that makes Gillingham School special while combining the values that have shaped our school for more than five centuries with the opportunities, innovation and expertise that trust membership will bring. “Most importantly, this partnership will help us continue to strengthen the educational opportunities

very best educational experience for every student and creating even greater opportunities for young people across North Dorset.” They said joining the trust would bring ‘significant benefits’, including “extensive expertise, high-quality resources and a proven track record of supporting schools to achieve excellent outcomes”. “This partnership will help us further enrich our curriculum, strengthen teaching and learning, and broaden the experiences available to students both inside and beyond the classroom,” the spokesperson added. “By working alongside colleagues across the trust, we will be able to share best practice, develop innovative approaches to education, and

available to young people in Gillingham and across North Dorset, ensuring that current and future generations of students can benefit from the very best education, opportunities and support. “We are excited about the journey ahead and look forward to working together with United Learning to achieve even greater success for our students, families and community. “By joining one of the country’s largest and most successful trusts, we are investing in the future of education in North Dorset, creating even greater opportunities for young people while ensuring that Gillingham School continues to play a leading role in the life and success of our local community.”

Nature theme to art competition THE Balsam Centre in Wincanton has launched a Nature Art Competition, encouraging people to discover, appreciate and celebrate the wildlife that surrounds them. The competition invites people to take a closer look at the natural world on their doorstep and use it as inspiration for their creativity. It is open to residents across South Somerset and has four age categories – under fives, six to 10 years, 11 to 16 years, and over 16s. Participants are challenged to create an original artwork using materials found in nature.

Entries could include a beautiful picture, an imaginative sculpture or something entirely unique. Artists are encouraged to collect leaves, twigs, stones, shells, pinecones, flowers, feathers, seed pods and other natural treasures discovered on walks and adventures, then transform them into a work of art celebrating the beauty and diversity of the natural world. The only restriction is the

size – it must be A4-sized or fit into a standard shoe box. Suzanne Bell, project lead at The Balsam Centre, said: “This is a wonderful opportunity for people of all ages to get outdoors, connect with nature and express their creativity. “Whether you’re an experienced artist or simply enjoy making things, we’d love to see what you create. “The competition is all about celebrating the natural world around us and inspiring people

to look at it in a different way.” All entries will be displayed at The Balsam Centre’s Wild & Green Community Fair on Saturday, September 26, 10am-2pm. The competition will be judged by renowned environmental artist Zac Greening. Every entrant will receive a certificate, while winners in each age category will receive an art-themed prize. Full details, including entry guidelines and competition deadlines, can be found at www. balsamcentre.org.uk/nature-artcompetition

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Men ready to talk at health event MEMBERS of the North Dorset Prostate Cancer Support Group – right – will welcome visitors to their stall at a wellness fair at the Riversmeet Leisure Centre in Gillingham. They will be able to talk with anyone affected by prostate cancer, whether they are newly diagnosed, receiving treatment or post-treatment. Gillingham Medical Practice has organised the wellness fair, being held on Thursday, September 17, from 1pm-5pm. The prostate group meets at the cafe at Waitrose in Gillingham on the last Friday of every month at 7pm. The group is also staging a walk in aid of Prostate Cancer UK around Stourhead and King Alfred’s Tower on Saturday, September 19. Anyone who would like to donate to the walk can do so at the group’s website, www. northdorsetprostatesupport. co.uk, which has a link to a Just Giving page. All funds raised will go towards vital research into treatments for the disease.

Sheep group

CERNE Sheep Group members met at Hyde’s Farm at East Burton Dairy, near Wool, for their July meeting, to see a flock of Dorset Down sheep. They did not meet in August but will be visiting Dr Martin Green’s farm and the Rural Life Museum at Down Farm, Woodcutts, Salisbury (SP5 5RY) on Monday (September 14) at 6.45pm. For more information, contact secretary Jill Hole at jill_hole@outlook.com or on 07971 742451.

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blackmorevale.net Haynes Motor Museum will host meetings about motoring and mental health in partnership with The Balsam Centre

Men, motors and mental health... THE Balsam Centre in Wincanton and Haynes Motor Museum in Sparkford are teaming up again to help support men’s mental wellbeing. They are running a new six-month block of the Motor Heads social group for men with a shared passion for cars. The group allows members to build friendships, reduce social isolation and develop a sense of belonging that supports their mental health. Balsam Centre project worker Bruce Lloyd said: “Men

don’t always find it easy to talk directly about their mental health and wellbeing, and we know that many men in rural areas such as south Somerset are particularly affected by social isolation and loneliness. “Motor Heads provides a great opportunity for them to come together in one of the best motor museums in the country, make new connections and talk about everything on four, three and two wheels, ably supported by passionate volunteers from both organisations.”

Hymns & Pimm’s in the churchyard THE unconventional but popular Hymns & Pimm’s service at St Thomas’s Church, Melbury Abbas, exceeded the hopes of organisers with 70 people attending, a number only surpassed by the Christmas carol service. The congregation in the churchyard were protected from the heat under shade of trees, and the atmosphere was cheerful and the singing enthusiastic,

especially so after a ‘half-time’ distribution of Pimm’s. Church bells rang out before the service and organist Pat Fry abandoned her usual organ for an electric keyboard. The usual church attenders and others chose the hymns, some explaining their choices through personal stories. The event was a great success for organiser Sarah Bowerman and her team.

A volunteer from a previous group said: “It is evident from the participants’ enthusiasm in discussing their past and current cars how much they enjoy the sessions, and you get the feeling that they would happily spend all day there given the opportunity. “As a ‘petrolhead’ myself, I benefit from the time spent with them in such a wonderful venue, and I am convinced that members of the group look forward to each session, as evidenced by the number of regular attendees.” Motor Heads meetings take place on the first Friday of every month until Friday, February 5, at 10am at Haynes Motor Museum. Meetings are free to attend but spaces are limited, so anyone wishing to join the group should contact The Balsam Centre at info@ balsamcentre.org.uk or on 01963 31842. More information can be found at www.balsamcentre.org. uk/motor-heads

New heads of boarding

PORT Regis School, near Motcombe, has welcomed new heads of boarding for the start of the new academic year. Nicola Daubeney is head of Modern Foreign Languages at Port Regis after recently joining from Godolphin School in Salisbury, where she was Pastoral deputy head. Preet Bachra, a former Port Regis parent, brings a wealth of experience in pastoral leadership and boarding. He is a member of the sports coaching team and before joining Port Regis was Pastoral deputy head at Bryanston School.

Women in the driving seat THE Brookland Belles, who took on the male-dominated world of motor racing in the 1930s, are the subject of a new book by Yetminster author Toby Hartwell. Brooklands was the world’s first purpose-built motor racing circuit when it opened in 1907 and was soon known for its high speeds and the credo, ‘the right crowd and no crowding’. But women were not allowed to race until the decade before the Second World War when the Brookland Belles emerged and The Brooklands Belles took on the men in the 1930s

were allowed to race against men on equal terms. They brought a mixture of glamour, entertainment and skill to the banked track, and lit up the Brooklands social scene. Toby Hartwell is launching his book, Brookland Belles, at Messums West in Tisbury today (Friday, September 11), 6pm-8pm, when he will be in conversation with Johnny Messum. Newsreel footage will also be shown during the evening and photos will be on display.

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Run with Sophie

Singing teacher Sacha Langton-Gilks has a new book out

Sacha looks at power of song

EVERYONE can sing – and everyone should – says Sacha Langton-Gilks in her new book. Sacha, from Fontmell Magna, says singing helps with health issues ranging from memory loss to mood disorders and chronic pain to Long Covid. And people who sing in a group have lower rates of depression and higher levels of

Ex-head on life behind school gates

MEMBERS and visitors at a meeting of the Probus Club of Blandford at the Langton Arms, Tarrant Monckton, will learn more about a headteacher’s life. Alistair Brien, headteacher at Bournemouth School for Girls for many years until he retired in 2022, is giving a presentation. He says the skills involved in the role are a mixture of those possessed by vicars, prison governors, teachers and accountants. He also has an interesting

wellbeing and life satisfaction than others. Sacha’s book, Sing: The Power of Singing Aloud in an Increasingly Discordant World, celebrates the importance of song, drawing on the latest research. Sacha was choir director at Fontmell Magna Primary School for 20 years and went on to direct the choir at Shaftesbury School for another decade. She trained as a choral scholar at Trinity College, Cambridge, soon after it first admitted women, and then won a place at The Guildhall School of Music and Drama, London. Her husband, Toby, founded and runs The Urban Beat Shop at Guys Marsh Prison. history in the use of mobile phones at school, which is highly topical right now. Aside from teaching, Alistair developed a passion for magician’s tricks and honed his skills sufficiently to gain membership of The Magic Circle. The meeting is on Wednesday, September 23 – arrive at 11am for the talk to get under way at 11.30am. Non-members are welcome for a meeting fee of £10 plus an optional lunch at £27 – places must be reserved by Wednesday, September 16, as lunches must be pre-booked. For more information, email john.boother@yahoo.co.uk

SHERBORNE Literary Society is hosting one of the most recognisable faces of broadcasting when Sophie Raworth joins Louise Troop in conversation. Sophie will be discussing her book, Walking on Air, in which she reveals how taking up running at 40 took her to marathon success and helped her cope with some of life’s toughest challenges. Friday, September 18, 6.30pm for 7pm at Cheap Street Church, Sherborne (DT9 3BJ).

Tickets: SLS Members £12, non-members £15 from www. sherborneliterarysociety.com/ event-tickets. Then join Sophie for a 5km run in conjunction with Communifit on Saturday, September 19. Tickets available at registration at The Terraces, Sherborne, from 7.45am for an 8.30am start; adults £15, children £5. All funds raised to go to local schools for literacy efforts. Further details available from events@communifit.co.uk.

Brothers to walk 81km with father’s ashes OLI and Giles Maunsell will today set out from Lizard Point on an 81km walk along the South West Coast Path, carrying the ashes of their father, Eyre, to his final resting place at St Levan Church near Porthcurno. They are aiming to raise £16,800 for Weldmar Hospicecare – the cost of the five weeks Eyre spent in its Dorchester inpatient unit before his death from prostate cancer, aged 76. Their goal is to fund the same care for another family. Oli and Giles will walk for two-and-a-half days along the Cornish coast, finishing at St Levan church near Porthcurno on Sunday; where their father will be laid to rest alongside his parents, grandparents and great-grandparents. Eyre died peacefully on December 18, 2025, aged 76. He spent his final five weeks at the inpatient unit of Weldmar Hospicecare in Dorchester, where his sons say the care he and their family received was truly exceptional. After his death, Oli and Giles calculated that the cost to the charity of caring for their father

during those five weeks had been approximately £16,800. They decided they wanted to give it all back. “Dad was impeccably looked after at Weldmar,” said Oli. “For the first time in a long time he was comfortable and pain-free, and the care and kindness shown not only to him but to all of us was extraordinary. “When Giles and I worked out that those five weeks had cost Weldmar £16,800, we decided that was exactly the figure we wanted to raise. We want to give someone else the chance to be cared for in the same way at such an important and precious stage of life.” Donations via JustGiving: www.justgiving.com/page/ eyremaunsell.

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Nature bookshop’s author talks FOLDE Dorset, an awardwinning independent bookshop in Shaftesbury which specialises in nature writing, has announced a programme of literary evenings for this autumn. It includes television personality Caroline Quentin, who will be talking about her new book, Drawn to Nature, a celebration of the outdoors in all its forms. British-Italian writer and organic farmer Edward Cutler will explore how Italy’s culture and civilisation have been shaped by nature, while storyteller and strategist Kim Willis will take audiences on a journey in search of Britain’s lost goddesses. From the Orkney islands, writer and literary activist Victoria Bennett will share how she transformed a scrappy backyard into an apothecary garden inspired by the local landscape and folklore.

TV personality Caroline Quentin

The programme also features acclaimed artist Luke Adam Hawker, presenting the etchings of The Tree Zodiac – currently on show in an exhibition at Stourhead – and Jade Angeles Fitton, exploring the influences the shooting star has had on global culture and history. Fiction and travel are also represented. Debut novelist Anne Keer will discuss The

Wildness, her eco-historical tale of love, land and resistance, while cyclist and travel writer Simon Parker recounts his bicycle journey through each of the UK’s 15 national parks. The season ends with a folklore slant. During half-term week, Martin Maudsley will appear in separate events for children and adults, sharing stories of monsters, beasts and magical beings. In November, storyteller and ecologist Lisa Schneidau will spin an evening of tree-themed folk tales. Both authors previously delighted audiences at the nature-themed Reading the Land book festival in Shaftesbury. With the exception of Caroline Quentin’s talk, which is at St Peter’s Church, all events are held in the Assembly Room at The Grosvenor Arms. “What makes hosting these events so rewarding is the

warmth and willingness of Shaftesbury audiences,” said FOLDE’s co-owner Amber Harrison. “Whether it’s a comedy icon talking about nature, a deep dive into folklore or a debut novel, the town consistently turns out to support a wide range of topics. “That enthusiasm gives us the confidence to programme boldly and bring in voices we know will generate ongoing conversations about the natural world.” Co-owner Karen Brazier added: “We’re incredibly proud to be contributing to the cultural life of the town. “By hosting these talks in venues in the heart of Shaftesbury, we’re able to offer something a bit special right here on the High Street.” For details of FOLDE’s full talks programme, go to www. foldedorset.com/events, or pop into the shop in Shaftesbury High Street.

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Bishop steps out for Ride+Stride THE Rt Revd Karen Gorham, Bishop of Sherborne and Acting Bishop of Salisbury, is stepping out between 20 churches across Poole tomorrow (Saturday, September 12). Bishop Karen was raising money for Ride+Stride, the annual fundraiser for historic churches and chapels. Participants walk, cycle or otherwise travel between places of worship, raising money to help support the repair and preservation of historic church buildings. Bishop Karen will set out from the Church of the Good Shepherd in Herbert Avenue at breakfast time, completing a zigzag route of about 13 miles before finishing at St James in Church Street in the afternoon.

The churches on her route represent a range of Christian denominations, including Anglican, Baptist, Roman Catholic and United Reformed Church congregations. Bishop Karen is raising money through a JustGiving page in support of charity the Dorset Historic Churches Trust, which organises Ride+Stride in the county and provides grant aid towards essential repairs to Dorset’s Christian churches of all denominations. Speaking before her walk, Bishop Karen said: “I’m really looking forward to taking part in Ride+Stride and visiting 20 churches across Poole. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to see and celebrate the different Christian communities that are

The Rt Revd Karen Gorham, Bishop of Sherborne and Acting Bishop of Salisbury, prepares for her 20-church Ride + Stride challenge.

PHOTO: Bishop Karen Gorham

part of the town, while also raising money to help care for the many beautiful historic churches across Dorset that are such an essential part of our

shared history and heritage.” Her JustGiving page is ‘Karen’s fundraiser for Dorset Historic Churches Trust – Poole’.

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Plans for 380 new homes on town’s outskirts PLANS for a new, 380-home ‘residential neighbourhood’ – including a country park – on the outskirts of Yeovil have been submitted. Pad Design Ltd, on behalf of Hallam Land, has submitted an outline planning application to Dorset Council for a development on land at Compton Road, Yeovil. A village green and play area are part of the plans, as well as “improvements for walking and cycling along Compton Road”. The 93-acre site is bordered by the A30 Babylon Hill to the south, with the application stating it provides an opportunity to provide muchneeded housing, alongside “active travel through improvements along this route

and towards the town centre”, including the proximity of Pen Mill station and bus routes on the A30. Up to 380 homes could be developed, including 35% (133) ‘affordable dwellings’, the application said, with a new access junction created on the southern side of Compton Road. “The site’s proximity to, physical connectivity to, and functional integration with Yeovil constitutes a highly sustainable and suitable location for residential development, relative to the majority of north west Dorset and indeed south east Somerset,” the application said. The site is on the boundary between the Dorset Council and Somerset Council areas, on the

How the areas, on the outskirts of Yeovil, could be developed IMAGE: pad Design ltd/Dorset Council

The site is split by Compton Road, with homes planned on one side, a country park on the other PHOTO: Google

south side of Yeovil, with the plans saying the scheme “accords with the general thrust of both (former) West Dorset and South Somerset’s spatial strategies that seek to direct the most growth to the top tier

settlements”. Consultations with the public had led to the plans tackling concerns over flooding and drainage, the application said, as well as plans for increases in infrastructure use to be dealt with as part of a section 106 agreement, which would see developers contribute to the financial provision of services. The scheme will now be considered by Dorset Council. For more details, and to comment on the plans, visit dorsetcouncil.gov.uk and search application reference P/ OUT/2026/04250.

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time to decorate their A Sixth Form That Gets to Know Hobby horse good horses.Gets to Know A Sixth Form That Participants can also decorate Your Child fair their own hobby horse and be in Yourdate Child VILLAGERS in Shroton are with a chance of winning the C staging a fun hobby horse fair best turned out pony prize – C next weekend in aid of although they have to pay to ADVERTISING FE ATURE

ADVERTISING FE ATURE

hoosing a Sixth Form is about more than results — it’s about finding somewhere your child will be known, challenged, and genuinely listened to. At Leweston, small class sizes and a dedicated tutor mean every student is supported to think for refurbishments to the village enter races. themselves, make confident decisions, and leaveare school ready for hall. Organisers inviting local whatever next —races not just the next exam. The eventcomes will feature businesses or village

Course reflects that same individual approach. Students for all ageschoice including a leading representatives to enter the canrace build programme from A Levels, BTECs andthe theWessex EPQ, shaped rein fora children aged four Grand Finale, around their own strengths and ambitions rather than a one-size-fitsand mobility scooter Internet Mane Event, which their allunder, path —a supported by an Enrichment Programme that broadens race, obstacle races, jumps, a may include a water jump! experience well beyond the classroom. grand parade and dressage This is a race for two people For families with a particularly talented child, Leweston’s routines to music. – pantomime horse/Conga Scholarships offer a way to recognise that talent further. Awardsstyle. are Hobby horses on areas sale –— Academic TheExcellence, free-to-attend on available across are seven Art,event, Drama, Music, Equestrian and Pentathlon — giving scholars access £15 with Sport, free entry to all races Shroton Glebe on Saturday, to specialist masterclasses alongside their – from Emma coaching, House at mentoring and September 19, from 11.30am, studies. It’s a chance for students who already show real commitment emmahouse1@outlook.com or will also include music, and promise to be pushed further, in an environment that values who onthey 07983 464202. are, not just what they achieve.barbecue and paint your own Entrants are advised to buy in horseshoe activities. Applications for Sixth Form entry in September 2027 close on 10 November 2026, with assessment days on 23 and 24 November.

Macmillan coffee morning

hoosing a Sixth Form is about more than results — it’s about finding somewhere your child will be known, challenged, and genuinely listened to. At Leweston, small class sizes and a dedicated tutor mean every student is supported to think for themselves, make confident decisions, and leave school ready for whatever comes next — not just the next exam.

Course choice reflects that same individual approach. Students can build a programme from A Levels, BTECs and the EPQ, shaped around their own strengths and ambitions rather than a one-size-fitsall path — supported by an Enrichment Programme that broadens their experience well beyond the classroom. For families with a particularly talented child, Leweston’s Scholarships offer a way to recognise that talent further. Awards are available across seven areas — Academic Excellence, Art, Drama, Music, Sport, Equestrian and Pentathlon — giving scholars access to specialist coaching, mentoring and masterclasses alongside their studies. It’s a chance for students who already show real commitment and promise to be pushed further, in an environment that values who they are, not just what they achieve. Applications for Sixth Form entry in September 2027 close on 10 November 2026, with assessment days on 23 and 24 November.

FONTMELL Magna Village Hall is the venue for a coffee morning being held for Macmillan Cancer Care as part of its national coffee morning fundraiser. As well as coffee and cake, good quality secondhand clothes, local produce – vegetables, jams, gins and flowers – willow structures, boxed cakes, games and a raffle will be on offer. The event is on Saturday, September 26, from 10am-noon.

Strong results are the start, not the finish. At Leweston Sixth Form, we build independent thinkers who know what to do with their grades. Scholarships are open now for Sixth Form entry — Academic, Art, Drama, Music, Sport, Equestrian and Pentathlon — with specialist coaching, mentoring and masterclasses for those who already stand out.

Applications close 10 November. Discover our Scholarships.

The result is not a type. It is a person.

The result is not a type. It is a person. 01963 211015 www.leweston.co.uk admissions@leweston.dorset.sch.uk

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Unsuitable donations cost charity £2,500 a month ‘THINK about what you donate’ – that’s the message from a Dorset charity which is spending about £2,500 a month disposing of unsuitable items. Dorset Blind Association (DBA), which runs 12 shops across the county – including in Blandford, Sherborne, Shaftesbury and Sturminster Newton – says it is receiving increasing numbers of items that are stained, damaged, broken or otherwise unsuitable for resale. “In the past, some unwanted textiles could be passed to rag and textile companies, which could generate a small income for the charity,” a spokesperson said. “But changes in the textile recycling market mean that companies are no longer

accepting much of this material, leaving charities having to pay for its disposal instead.” DBA says some disposal costs are unavoidable but reducing the amount of unsaleable material would free up valuable funds for its work. Unsuitable donations also take up volunteer time and shop space while they are sorted and dealt with. The charity stresses that good quality donations are very welcome and make a real difference. It is looking for: clothing, footwear and accessories – men’s, women’s and children’s; CDs, DVDs and vinyl; homeware; and bric-a-brac and accessories; other good quality items someone else could enjoy and use.

“The best donation is something clean, complete and in good condition, something you could genuinely imagine someone else buying and enjoying.” The charity also believes a genuine misconception exists that anything donated to a charity shop will automatically be recycled or generate some income. DBA is planning a local awareness campaign to show people more about what its shop teams and volunteers encounter and what makes a great donation. People can drop their donations directly into any of DBA’s shops across Dorset. For those who may struggle to get to a shop, free home collections are also available: Sherborne, Weymouth, Portland and Bridport – 07570 425900, weymouthshop@dorsetblind. org.uk; BCP & East Dorset – 07849 641149, thehub@ dorsetblind.org.uk

GOT A STORY? Then email newsdesk@blackmorevale.net Singing brings Fern Brook Lodge community together ADVERTISING FEATURE

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ern Brook Lodge care home in Gillingham welcomed Dementia Friendly Gillingham for an afternoon of music and friendship.

A Care South home for residential and dementia care

Residents, relatives and members of the local community came together for the home’s monthly Sing a Song of Praise session, singing a selection of hymns and popular songs.

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The afternoon ended with refreshments and homemade cake, freshly baked by Phil, the home’s Head Chef, while residents Dianne and Margaret said they had enjoyed the occasion and were already looking forward to the next session.

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A simple rule of thumb is ‘would I be happy to give this to a friend?’ or ‘would I expect someone else to be willing to buy this?’. “We are incredibly grateful to the people who donate to our shops, and we absolutely want them to keep coming,” said DBA chief executive Jonathan Holyhead. “What we want people to understand is that we can’t sell or recycle everything we receive. “If something is stained, broken or in poor condition, it actually costs us money to dispose of it. “Unfortunately, donations like these don’t help us – they increase our operating costs and mean less money is available to provide our services.

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01747834020 | care-south.co.uk Fern Brook Lane | Gillingham | SP8 4QD Proud of Care a not-for-profit Proud toto bebe partpart of Care South,South, a not-for-profit charity and leadcharity and provider residential, ing provider ofleading residential, dementiaof and nursing care,dementia as well as care at home services across theassouth and nursing care, as well careofatEngland. homeRegistered services Charity No. 1014697. * Correct at time of print. across the south of England. Registered Charity No. 1014697. *Correct at time of print

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The monthly event takes place on the last Friday of every month and is led by Annie and Keith from Dementia Friendly Gillingham.

Dementia Friendly Gillingham host a monthly singing session for Fern Brook Lodge residents.

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

Residents have a choice of private and communal lounges and dining rooms to relax indoors, as well as The Brook community space which hosts a range of events throughout the year. Care home residents also benefit from a large garden area with wide, flat walkways and raised flower beds to make them accessible to everyone. Fern Brook Lodge is hosting a free dementia awareness drop-in event on Monday 21 September from 2pm to 4pm in honour of World Alzheimer’s Day. Join the team for tea, coffee and cake at their friendly, informal event, where they will highlight some of the early signs of dementia.

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

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Art project highlights river issues LEAPING salmon, speckled trout, eels and caddisflies will be paraded along two Dorset riverbanks this autumn as part of an art and environmental project. They are just some of the 24 river creatures crafted by nearly 500 people in schools and art workshops this summer, as part of Emerald Ant’s latest arts project, Bubbles and Squeaks. The hundreds of pieces of artwork will form a swirling parade which will wind its way along the riverbanks in Cerne Abbas on Saturday, September 26, and Nettlecombe on Saturday, October 17. Emerald Ant describes the first as ‘a colourful, carnivalvibe daytime spectacle’ and the second as ‘a superbly atmospheric, lantern-lit evening procession, ending with a dramatic fire sculpture finale’. Both events are free of charge to visitors, family-

Nearly 500 pieces of artwork have been made which will be used in processions along riverbanks in Cerne Abbas and Nettlecombe

friendly and will celebrate the diversity of life found in local chalk streams and rivers, and help shine a light on the threats they face. Emerald Ant has worked with Dorset

Celebrities join in Thrive students’ festival of fun CELEBRITIES Harry Redknapp and Great British Bake Off Star Nelly Ghaffar joined young adults with SEND for a summer festival of fun at Merley House in Wimborne. The event was conceived and hosted by students from SWRAC’s Thrive programme in support of Lewis-Manning Hospice Care. Thrive is based in Winton, Bournemouth, and helps people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities and/or social emotional and mental health needs prepare for independence through life skills, learning and challenges. Hannah Warrilow, activity organiser at Thrive, said: “The students decided they wanted to

hold an event which would bring people together, be fun and raise some money for a great cause. Between them they decided on their chosen charity – LewisManning Hospice Care – and then they set about deciding what games and attractions we would have, and it all just took off. “The event was very successful, and we raised £842 for Lewis-Manning, so we are thrilled.” Harry Redknapp and Nelly Ghafar joined in games such as hook a duck, tin can alley and spin the wheel. Festival-goers also enjoyed music, special movie characters, a barbecue and a cake stall. Former top level football player, manager and start of I’m a

Wildlife Trust’s Water for Wildlife campaign and schools, groups and the public to highlight the importance of the Cerne, Hooke, Frome rivers and Mangerton Brooke.

That has included school visits to the rivers led by an ecologist to help children understand the environmental issues. Sarah Butterworth, Emerald Ant’s creative director, said: “In Dorset we are lucky to have some of the world’s rarest and most precious waterways. “Emerald Ant is thrilled to be using art to engage and inspire children as environmental stewards who will look after them. “Given this long hot summer, and the challenges of flooding and pollution, it feels there is no better time to be doing this. “The events will be inspirational, unique and spectacular, a great day out, that we hope will inspire similar endeavours across the county. “Thank you to the National Lottery Heritage Fund and others that have supported us.”

Harry Redknapp and Nelly Ghaffar enjoyed themselves at the event hosted by young adults from SWRAC’s Thrive programme

Celebrity… Harry Redknapp said: “What a fabulous fun day! I met so many lovely students and people attending the festival and really enjoyed myself. “I was impressed by what the students had achieved in the variety of stands and games, and they were all very friendly and willing to show me what was on offer and to get people involved. “Sadly, I wasn’t great at the hoop toss – I’m better with my feet – but I did win some sweets on spin the wheel, which were lovely.” Nelly Ghaffar, from Christchurch, is a palliative care

assistant for Marie Curie and became a fan favourite on series 15 of Bake Off. She said: “I have never hooked a duck before, but I surprised myself and my family by being quite good at it!” She added: “It has been lovely to attend the festival, and to meet all the Thrive students and their families. “I would like to congratulate them on organising such a fun and well organised event, and raising such a good amount of money for the Lewis-Manning charity. They should all be very proud of themselves.”

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

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The Bridles Luxury new care home in Wincanton Nursing | Residential | Dementia care The Bridles Care Home,

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Women make a splash for air ambulance and CPR equality WOMEN from across Dorset and Somerset came together at Vobster Quay, near Frome, for DARE to Bare, a topless sponsored swim supporting Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, while raising awareness that women are less likely to receive life-saving CPR than men. Together, participants raised £24,500 and counting for the charity. Alongside the swimming challenge, participants learned CPR and defibrillator skills using the charity’s female manikins, helping them feel more confident to act quickly in an emergency.

One participant said: “One of the things that inspired me to do the swim was the idea that women are not getting equal CPR. “It shocked me to the core! It was a really joyful event and exactly what we hoped it would be. “It was just amazing to see everyone without a care in the world, what an amazing atmosphere!” Tania Eveleigh, events manager at DSAA, said: “What an incredible evening! The sun was shining, the water at Vobster Quay was stunning and our swimmers really embraced the challenge – there

The Dare to Bare event has raised £24,500 and counting

were huge smiles all round as everyone dared to bare. “It was fantastic to hear from a former patient and see such great attendance at our CPR awareness sessions. “The fundraising has also been outstanding, with two participants already raising more than £1,000 each. “But most importantly, we broke the stigma around women being able to bare their chests and receive CPR. “Chest access can save lives, and we wanted to create a fun, positive space to have that conversation. “A huge thank you to everyone who took part and

helped make the event such a success!” The charity would like to thank everyone who took part, fundraised, and helped make the event a success, with special thanks to Vobster Quay, Zoggs, Little Jacks Sausage Rolls, Dags Café, Rumwell Farm Shop, Soulfired Sauna, The Holcombe, Bishops Palace, Queens Hotel & Spa and Fairfields Crisps for their generous support of the event. Last year alone, Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance’s critical care team was tasked to 2,738 incidents, with each mission costing about £3,500.

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Stags on parade

MEMBERS of the Somerset and Dorset Stag Owners Club met up at The Crown at Marnhull for a ‘summer country experience’. Many of the vehicles are about 50 years old but are still running PHOTO: Kenneth Hames well.

Climate and nature on agenda

THE People’s Emergency Briefing, a public information project and film centred on raising awareness about climate and nature issues, is coming to Leigh Village Hall.

Leigh Climate Group is hosting the event on Thursday, October 8, at 7.15pm for 7.45pm. Admission is free and a bar will be available at the over-16 only event, with doors open at 6.45pm and the film screening at 7.45pm. Tickets are available from Ticket Tailor/Leigh Climate Group.

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Blandford Blandfordmum mumBecky Beckycelebrates celebrates22and and Take the FEATURE aahalf ADVERTISING FEATURE train and go halfstone stoneweight weightloss! loss! ADVERTISING

I never thought Slimming World would I never thought Slimming World would work for me, but since joining the work for me, but since joining the Wednesday group at the corn exchange , Wednesday group at the corn exchange , I’ve found the plan super easy to follow and I’ve found the plan super easy to follow and I love the huge range of meals and recipes I love the huge range of meals and recipes available. My little boy even enjoys some of available. My little boy even enjoys some of the meals too, which makes such a difference the meals too, which makes such a difference at dinnertime! at dinnertime! I knew I needed to make a change after having I knew I needed to make a change after having my second little boy. During my pregnancy, my second little boy. During my pregnancy, I was tested for gestational diabetes and my I was tested for gestational diabetes and my BMI was much higher than I wanted it to be. BMI was much higher than I wanted it to be. Since joining Slimming World, I’ve cut down Since joining Slimming World, I’ve cut down massively on my snacking on biscuits, crisps and massively on my snacking on biscuits, crisps and chocolate. Instead, I now choose plenty of Speed chocolate. Instead, I now choose plenty of Speed fruit and vegetables and make the most of my fruit and vegetables and make the most of my swips too. swips too. My favourite meals have to be Marry Me My favourite meals have to be Marry Me Chicken Pasta, Honey Mustard Salmon and Chicken Pasta, Honey Mustard Salmon and Chilli Con Carne – I honestly don’t feel like I’m Chilli Con Carne – I honestly don’t feel like I’m missing out at all! missing out at all! I feel so much more confident in my body and I feel so much more confident in my body and can finally fit into my pre-pregnancy clothes, can finally fit into my pre-pregnancy clothes, which feels absolutely amazing. I have so much which feels absolutely amazing. I have so much more energy and I know I’m becoming the best more energy and I know I’m becoming the best version of myself for my boys. version of myself for my boys. I’m so proud that I’m still sticking to the I’m so proud that I’m still sticking to the plan and have now lost an incredible 2½ stone, plan and have now lost an incredible 2½ stone, bringing me even closer to my target weight! bringing me even closer to my target weight! Thank you, Tracey, You are always so Thank you, Tracey, You are always so encouraging and really help me stay focused on encouraging and really help me stay focused on my goals. my goals.

for a walk

WALKERS will be stepping out on the latest Wessex Wanderer rail walk tomorrow Saturday (September 12). The 7.5-mile ‘Follies and Hidden Tracks’ walk runs from Pen Mill to Yetminster via Ninesprings country park, the Barwick Follies and Frankham farm shop. The walks programme consists of circular and linear walks which start and finish from rail stations along the Heart of Wessex – Bristol to Weymouth – line. Experienced members of the Ramblers lead the walks, although walkers do not need to be a Ramblers member to go along, and pre-booking is not necessary. Walk start times allow for trains in both directions with trains tomorrow from Bristol Temple Meads at 9.08am and

Sherborne Sherborne Raleigh Hall, Raleigh Hall, Digby Road Digby Road Wednesday 9.30am Wednesday 9.30am Sally 07973665167 Sally 07973665167 Sturminster Newton Sturminster Newton The Exchange The Exchange Monday 5.30pm, 7pm Monday 5.30pm, 7pm Gail 07748643783 Gail 07748643783 Puddletown Puddletown Village Hall Village Hall Blandford Blandford Thursday 7pm Thursday 7pm Methodist Church Methodist Church Julie 07871821928 Julie 07871821928 Thursday 5.30pm, Thursday 5.30pm, Wincanton 7.30pm Wincanton 7.30pm Memorial Hall Tracey 07776309982 Memorial Hall * Tracey 07776309982 free Wednesday 5.30pm,plus 7pm plus freeweeks weeks* Wednesday 5.30pm, 7pm you Gillingham Evelyn 07825 556871when youjoin join Gillingham Evelyn 07825 556871when today! Social Club, * today! Social Club, plus free weeks * * Yeovil plus free weeks Hardings Lane plus free weeks * Yeovil Tisbury Hardings Lane * when you join plus free weeks Tisbury Park House, plus free weeks * when you join Tuesday 5.30pm,*When 7pmyou commit to 6 or 12 weeks of group support. At participating groups. when you join Park House, Hintonto Hall, Church Street plus free weeks Tuesday 5.30pm, 7pm *When you commit 6 or 12 weeks of group support. At participating groups. today! when you join Hinton Hall, Church Street Offer available 14th June to 4th July 2026. Visit our website for terms conditions. 44 The Parkand when join Sally 07968979810 today! Offer available 14th June to7pm 4th July 2026. Visit our website for terms today! 44 The Parkand conditions. Tuesday whenyou you join Sally 07968979810 today! Tuesday 7pm Friday 8am, 9.30am today! Friday 8am, 9.30am Evelyn 07825 556871 today! 07825 556871 Julie *When you commitEvelyn to 6 or 12 weeks of group support. At 07871821928 participating groups. Julie 07871821928 *When you commit 6 or 12to weeks of weeks group support. participating groups. groups. *When youtocommit 6 or 12 of group At support. At participating Blandford Blandford Corn Exchange Corn Exchange Tuesday 7pm Tuesday 7pm Sarah 07880730481 Sarah 07880730481 Blandford Blandford Corn Exchange Corn Exchange Wednesday 8.30am, Wednesday 8.30am, 10am, 11.30am, 10am, 11.30am, 5.30pm, 7pm 5.30pm, 7pm Tracey 07776309982 Tracey 07776309982

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from Weymouth at 9.32am. Return trains are from Yetminster – request stop – to Bristol Meads at 4.09pm and Weymouth at 3.39pm. For more information, phone 01935 321607. Another walk will be held on Wednesday – September 16 – Dam the Bruems. The 7.5-mile walk goes from Bruton towards Bruton Dam, stopping at South Brewham church hall, and returning via Hauser & Wirth. Steady climbs and several stiles. Trains are at 10.04am from Bristol Temple Meads and 9.32am from Weymouth. Return trains are 4.40pm to Temple Meads and 5.12pm to Weymouth. Walkers are invited to take lunch and a drink, and well behaved dogs on leads are welcome. The walks programme runs from April to October and can be found at www.wessexrailway walks.org.uk and on Instagram. For more information, phone 07561 371166.

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Our Loose Canon Suffering and death, while horribly real, are never a final defeat

by Canon Eric Woods THE French writer Albert Camus was once invited to address some French monks on what unbelievers expect of believers. He said that a quality he much admired in monastic communities was their peace of mind – and that he could understand why they had such peace of mind. They shared, like everybody else, a suffering world, but they also believed in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Therefore, they viewed things from the perspective of eternity. That gave them a deep tranquillity of heart and mind. But Camus added that he himself was kept back from such a faith by the intolerable question of

suffering, especially a world in which children can suffer torture and death at the hands of evil men. And so, he continued, ‘although I cannot share your faith, I have the right to ask one thing of you: always make sure that your peace of mind is honest’. In other words, Camus was saying that, if you have the serenity of faith – which, of course, you have the right to have, because of your belief in the resurrection – you will still need – for your own sake and for the sake of others – to show the visible scars made by all the things that go against faith, especially suffering. Christians carry the wounds of the world’s sufferings, and though by the grace of God those wounds

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may have healed, they will always and readily be reopened. So, Christians have both to know pain and that which takes them beyond pain. Christians have to live by both crucifixion and resurrection. St Paul distinguishes between what he calls the sadness according to the world and the sadness according to God. The world’s kind of sadness is that the story of mankind is a story of frailty and pain, of mortality and ultimate loss. In the end, according to such a view, the meaning of human life is essentially tragic, if it has a meaning at all. But the sadness according to God is the realisation that the tragedy of mankind lies in its wilful alienation from the source of its being, the misery of man

without God, of man without hope. This is important, as we confront so much recent suffering – not least in Nepal. Christians believe that suffering and death, while horribly real, are never a final defeat. We must face seriously the uncontrolled and the uncontrollable, the alien and the menacing in the world. But we can say, not that Christ has obliterated them, but that Christ has overcome them. They are there still, but the wounds they inflict are the prints of the nails in the body of the Lord. He has battled with the powers of darkness, the irrationality of evil – and still He lives. He contains evil. Evil cannot contain Him. ‘The darkness comprehended it not.’ He has looked into the heart of darkness. He has held the burning world to himself, and holds it always, at the cost of a pain we cannot begin to conceive. ‘The Lord is King … be the earth never so unquiet.’

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News

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The Family Didn’t Fall Out Until Mum Died

Last year’s craft fair at the Allendale Community Centre

Rotary’s craft fair THE popular Wimborne Craft Fair returns to The Allendale Community Centre, Wimborne, next month. The fair, organised annually by Wimborne Rotary, promises an interesting and varied display of locally made arts and crafts all for sale. Entrance is free of charge to the public who are invited to donate to Rotary-supported charities when they leave.

Bookings are already being taken with half of the 28 tables available to crafters in the Allendale’s Minster Hall now reserved. Tables are £18 and to reserve one, crafters should email organiser Chris Mogg at crmogg@gmail.com The fair, sponsored by local solicitors Harold G Walker, is on Saturday, October 24, 11am3pm.

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By Chris Tennant Legacy Planning Consultant, Oakwood Wills Margaret had always been close to her three children. She owned her Dorset home outright, had savings and believed her affairs were straightforward. “They all get on. They’ll sort everything out.” Sadly, after Margaret died, things didn’t work out that way. One child wanted the house sold immediately, another wanted to keep it, while the third questioned how everything should be divided. Small disagreements grew and old family tensions resurfaced. Margaret had a Will, but it was years old. She had never considered whether a Living Trust could provide greater protection and control over her home during her lifetime and beyond. A properly structured Living Trust can form part of wider estate planning. Depending on individual circumstances, it can help simplify the administration of assets held within the trust after death, provide greater protection for beneficiaries facing divorce, bankruptcy or creditor claims, and help preserve family wealth for future generations. Margaret had also never considered future care costs. Had she reviewed her affairs earlier, while fit and healthy, she could have explored whether appropriate trust

planning could help protect her home if care became necessary later. Care-fee planning must be undertaken correctly, as arrangements can be challenged where avoiding care charges was a significant reason for transferring assets, particularly when care needs were already foreseeable. Combined with an up-to-date Will and Lasting Powers of Attorney, a Living Trust can therefore form part of a much broader family protection plan. Margaret assumed her family would simply sort everything out. 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? • Will your current Wills achieve what you intend? • Should you have Lasting Powers of Attorney? • Could your family’s inheritance be affected by divorce or creditors? • 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.

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Look to the stars and feel the benefit by Mark Westmoquette

THE wellbeing benefits of visiting green spaces like forests and gardens, or blue spaces like the seaside or a lake, are well established. Yet, we rarely consider the potential mental health benefits of being in what could be termed ‘black spaces’ – the dark, unlit environments of night-time and star-filled skies. Stepping out under a dark sky is an accessible gateway to the potential of tranquillity and mindfulness. By its very nature, the night is quieter and stiller than the day. It naturally encourages us to shift into a different mode of awareness, provided we let ourselves do so. When the light fades, our other senses are heightened, helping us awaken vividly to the present moment. We receive an invitation us to

step out of the usual whirlwind of daily thoughts and worries by paying close attention to our surroundings. We begin to notice the subtle sounds of the nocturnal world, smell the crisp night air, and feel its cool freshness directly on our skin. For some, the darkness can induce a slight tinge of fear or vulnerability. However, provided we ensure we are in a safe, comfortable place, we can consciously let that sense of worry subside. This allows us to fully immerse ourselves in the night space. To get the most out of the experience, it is best to give your eyes at least 15 minutes to adapt to the dark. When you look up, observe the sky exactly as it is, overcast or clear. If it is a starry night, watch the stars twinkle without worrying about

Stargazing offers a wonderful exercise in ‘presence’, says Mark Westmoquette

constellations or trying to identify what you are looking at. By letting go of categorising or intellectualising our experience, stargazing becomes a wonderful exercise in presence, offering a deep sense of calm and a new perspective on our place in the universe. If you’d like to experience

star gazing in a mindfully guided setting, I’m hosting an evening at Tokes Farm, Shaftesbury (SP7 9BP) on Saturday, October 3 from 5-9pm. Tickets (£55) are available from https:// markwestmoquette.co.uk/event/ mindful-stargazing-at-tokesfarm.

Dorset Trac Pack’s summer tractor show raised £530 for the Friends of Victoria Hospital Wimborne and Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance

catering and refreshments all day, making sure all the many visitors were fed and watered. And Trac Pack members were on hand to answer visitors’ questions or allow youngsters to climb aboard machines for a photo. Some £530 was raised from public donations at the event, which will be equally shared between the Friends of Victoria Hospital Wimborne and Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance.

Tractor show helps good causes TRACTORS galore turned out at a sun-soaked Pamphill Parish Hall in Wimborne for East Dorset Trac Pack’s summer tractor show in aid of local charities. Among about 30 vehicles on show was everything from a vintage 1943 Case to a 2017, 200 horsepower Massey Ferguson. Fine British manufacturers as well as Massey Ferguson were represented such as Nuffield,

Singers’ thank you to village hostelry THE Gillingham Singers have given the Bird in Hand pub in Henstridge £250 as a ‘thank you’ after a musical donation. The group’s chair, Hilary

Ferguson, Ford, Fordson and International.

The Trac Pack ladies did a sterling job taking care of the

Drake, stepped forward when Durweston Choral Society wound up after 32 years and offered its substantial library of choral scores a new home. The Singers in return gave money it had raised to the pub, which has been purchased by the local community and with which it has strong links. The scores are available to any choirs which want to access them – visit www. gillinghamsingers.org

Members of the Gillingham Singers present The Bird in Hand Society with a cheque for £250

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

News

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New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026 BLACKMORE VALE

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New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

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THE NEW

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New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Letters

blackmorevale.net

Helping hands for wheelchair user MY friend Wendy Tindall Shepherd returned to her apartment on the first floor at Barnaby Mill, Barnaby Mead, Gillingham, at 6pm on Friday, August 28. Wendy is wheelchair bound. The lift in her building had broken down – again. It had broken down the previous week and been repaired on Tuesday, August 25. How to get into her apartment. Her Careline had contacted the appropriate helpers who came and joined other concerned residents to see what could be done as Wendy sat in the hallway – the lounge is on the second floor. Although there was a toilet for visitors on the ground floor, the wheelchair could not enter. The manager called for an engineer who did attend but advised that nothing could be done before Tuesday. Fire station – not an emergency; paramedics – not an emergency. Local care homes – where a space had been found, it could not be taken up until an assessment had been done – the next day. Two care homes advertising 24-hour contact did not answer the telephone. Nearing 10pm, with no solution, someone was dispatched to the Red Lion Pub in Gillingham to ask for assistance. No problem, six stalwart young men appeared, managed to transfer Wendy to a lighter wheelchair and then carried Wendy and chair up a steep staircase. Wendy said: “I really thought I was going to have to spend the night in the hallway in my wheelchair.” So, a shout out for the young men who did not hesitate and just came to the rescue. However, as of Monday (September 7), Wendy is still

Dilys Garside is taking part in Ride + Stride and inviting wellwishers to sponsor her

stranded in her flat with no date when the lift might be repaired. Jo Churchill Via email

Corn Exchange closed on fair day THE Blandford Summer Fair seems to be a very successful event for all age groups. Walking through the town after our visit, we were very surprised to see the newly refurbished Corn Exchange was closed. A lot of people walking around town would probably have liked to use the toilets, not wanting to eat in a pub or cafe. Would this not have been a really good chance to let visitors look inside and see what the money has been spent on? H Rawles Blandford St Mary

Saddling up for historic churches ACROSS the country, Historic Churches Trusts raise most of their funds on one day in September, known as Ride+Stride, enabling them to distribute money for maintenance, repairs and improvements to these buildings, of which in Dorset a third are Listed, carrying a legal obligation to care for them. This year saw the removal of VAT exemption on the cost of repairs to Listed places of

worship, meaning costs instantly increased by 20%. On moving to Dorset in 2014, I became involved in a major repairs and reordering project of our local village church at risk of being lost to rot and redundancy due to lack of basic amenities. A decade on, we have achieved a beautiful internal space for everyday use by the community, for receptions and hire, and for future generations, but at huge cost financially and voluntary time giving. I had imagined a two-year project, not 10 years and ongoing! The annual Ride+Stride encourages folk to raise funds by visiting several churches in a day on foot, cycle or horseback – indeed as they would have done when these buildings were built – either through sponsors with offers of financial giving or contributing themselves for a great day outdoors. Dorset’s Historic Churches Trust raised £100,000 last year from Ride+Stride and distributed £184,000 in much valued grants. So, time to get stuck in for 2026 and I have planned a guided cycle ride from our village church in Okeford Fitzpaine with three options to encourage as many as wish to join me. A fellow church councillor and I – with 150 years of living between us – aim to cycle 40 miles tomorrow – Saturday,

September 12 – visiting – or passing by – 26 churches, one for each year of this millennium. Might you please sponsor us? I have a dedicated JustGiving page – www. justgiving.com/page/ okefordfitzpainestand rewdgbv05 – to make this easier, but you can do it in cash if you contact me. Thank you on behalf of everyone making the effort to leave a legacy of beautiful churches. Dilys Gartside cyclewisedorset.co.uk

Coffee morning for good cause THE Broadstone Cancer Research Fundraising committee is holding its autumn coffee morning on Saturday, September 26, from 10amnoon. Come and join us for tea or coffee and biscuits. The entrance charge is £4 and a cake stall, the usual raffle, Christmas cards, greetings cards, books and more will be on offer. The event is at Broadstone United Reformed Church hall, Higher Blandford Road BH18 9AB. Please come and join this event in aid of Cancer Research UK. Kynne Burton Broadstone

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New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Politics

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Volunteering and the digital world WE live, as a result of the internet and digital technology, in the most interconnected and barrier-free period of human history. We can be ‘friends’ with thousands of people, living across the globe, who we shall never meet face to face. At the click of a button, we can talk to the world. Every view and shade of opinion is open to us. Every skill and craft can be learned. And yet, people say they have never felt lonelier or more isolated. A sense of detachment acts like a Petri Dish for anxiety and mental health-related issues. There are many reasons that feed into this. However, salvation is within our reach and is entirely within our control – getting involved, joining something and volunteering. Again, at a time when the digital revolution was supposed to create acres of free time for us to spend as we wished, too many have become enmeshed by IT. It has become the Master

Conservative MP for North Dorset Simon Hoare rather than the Servant. Individuals and families suffer as a consequence. Communities and the ties and threads that bind it are weakened. That is not a good place to be. For anyone. Anywhere. The United Kingdom has been the genesis of so much of the voluntary and organised sectors – the Womens’ Institute,

Royal British Legion, Scouts, the Co-Operative movement, trades unions and the countless Friends of hospitals, libraries and the like. Chambers of Commerce, Parochial Church Councils, local charities, Rotary, Probus, the CAB, NHS transport volunteers and so much more has been founded, and have flourished, on people, of all backgrounds, coming together to give freely of themselves for the local and greater good. In the doing of that collective good, those who step up do themselves good. New people are met. Fresh friendships forged. Loneliness and isolation vanquished to be replaced by senses of purpose and worth. The recent news that the Little Sunbeams toddler group in Motcombe is closing due to a lack of volunteers – I do not know all the details but merely use it as a case study – should be greeted with alarm rather than a shrugged acquiescence.

Living in rural areas has significant charms but it can be quiet and lonely. The loss of a toddler group means young children will miss out on development opportunities. Parents and carers will miss out on the opportunity to share or simply chat. Society is poorer when organisations such as Little Sunbeams close. In too many conversations I have with local voluntary organisations I hear the same refrain – we keep on, we are getting older, we are fewer in number, no-one seems interested in getting involved. We can all be idle bystanders in this process as organisations and groups which do so much good disappear from our communities. It will be gentle and over time so we won’t notice the vacuum until it is there. Or, we can help ourselves by helping others. Feel good by doing good. We can all do something. Go and find something you can do!

– but not for too long. One thing Andy the romantic has been saying is he wants to ‘reindustrialise’ Britain. But how? His language on the North Sea oil and gas industry, for example, hasn’t been great. Actually, he could reindustrialise but not in a 1970s smokestack sense. That ship’s sailed. Across the advanced economies it’s now all about post-industrialisation. We will struggle to be competitive on mass produced goods with the cheap labour and poor welfare economies from which we import most of them until tech erases their advantage – as it will. Then it will make more sense to manufacture at scale here and with high-end goods that we do still make continuing

to do well. I’m disappointed Andy’s vision hasn’t apparently clocked that. He’s had long enough to work it out. Meanwhile, new Chancellor John Healey is looking increasingly green about the gills over defence spending, lack of which caused him to resign as defence secretary precipitating Sir Keir’s downfall. As Russia takes us dangerously to the brink of war, we can’t be kicking defence spending into the long grass. Sadly, money has to be found in next month’s budget to ratchet up UK defence spending because of the spiralling threat from Putin’s Russia. But the new PM and his Chancellor are saying that’s now for next year’s spending review. Too late.

Summertime and the living is easy? NEW PM Andy Burnham has had a clear run over the summer recess without being quizzed by MPs. He’s been on a journey around the country discovering what’s bugging Britain – though not here we note. That’s a pity since I could show him damage done locally by Sir Keir’s government – school closures, road schemes canned, businesses shut. But we’re back now and Andy is going to have to start putting flesh on the bones of his vaguely expressed direction for government. His debut Commons statement on Tuesday though left us none the wiser about what he will do. We need to know. Manchesterism is ethereal – it seems to be reliant on growth secured by your predecessor

Conservative MP for South West Wiltshire Dr Andrew Murrison and leaving office with more debt, albeit with better buses. Not sure that’ll cut it but I’m quite fond of him as we were elected at the same time in 2001, so let’s give him a break

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New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Politics

blackmorevale.net

Nature loss and climate change LAST week I spoke in Parliament about one of the greatest challenges facing our country – the accelerating loss of nature and the growing impact of climate change. These are not distant environmental problems. Healthy soils, clean water, thriving habitats and a stable climate underpin our food supply, economy and national security. When those natural systems begin to fail, the consequences are felt by us all. Here in Somerset, our farmers are on the frontline. There are more than 800 farms across Glastonbury and Somerton, and many are already experiencing increasingly extreme conditions. Farmers across the constituency are telling me about the enormous pressure on their businesses – from milk yields falling and potato crop yields halving, to misshapen vegetables or, in one case, 6,000 cauliflowers being rejected by a retailer because

Lib Dem MP for Glastonbury & Somerton Sarah Dyke the curd was slightly miscoloured. It appears we are into a new stage of adaptation to the climate crisis. Now, more than ever, farmers need support from the Government and throughout the supply chain if they are to become more resilient while producing the food we need. That means healthier soils, wetlands, ponds and trees that can hold water in our landscape, reducing drought in summer

and flooding in winter. I have been calling for greater investment in farm reservoirs and fire ponds, but farmers currently face too many barriers, from planning and abstraction licences to uncertain grants and high costs. Somerset is already showing what nature-based solutions can achieve. Earlier this year I was delighted to secure £50 million for Somerset’s flood defences and resilience, with some of that funding being targeted at natural flood management alongside essential river maintenance and engineering. Protecting our peatlands is equally important. The Somerset Levels and Moors provide precious habitats, store carbon, filter water and help alleviate flooding. Yet peat extraction continues in Somerset, despite our Levels and Moors storing an estimated 11 million tonnes of carbon. The consequences of biodiversity loss can also be seen in some of our smallest

species. The shrill carder bee, one of Britain’s rarest bumblebees, has retreated from its historic stronghold on the Somerset Levels and Moors, with a vastly depleted population remaining around Somerton, Castle Cary and Ham Hill. We cannot continue treating nature, farming, flooding, food security and climate change as separate issues. They are deeply connected. That is why I am calling on the Government to recognise the scale of the threat, invest properly in farmers and nature-based solutions and develop a national strategy to make our communities resilient to a changing climate. As always, I want to hear from you. If you would like to share your views, have an issue I can help with, or wish to register your interest to attend one of my regular advice surgeries, please don’t hesitate to contact me at sarah.dyke. mp@parliament.uk

villages to speak and listen to constituents who might not be able to make it to the regular sessions in the towns. Too often people suffer in silence or feel unheard. I’m grateful to everyone who came along to speak to me, to tell me their concerns, to ask questions and in many cases to ask for help. Last week saw one of my favourite events of the year, The Melplash Show. Despite suggestions the weather might attempt to derail the festivities, the sunshine held and turnout was fantastic. I got to participate in a tractor towing competition and took part in an NFU roundtable discussion with local farmers. One of the issues raised by a lot of farmers I spoke to was the threat posed by bluetongue. Despite warnings of the impending crisis there are delays to vaccine availability,

long waits for test results and a surge in the cost of carcass disposal. I am also concerned that the official map of the outbreak is taking too long to update, and only displays confirmed cases, not where cases are suspected or testing is underway. I’ve asked the Minister to look into what improvements can be made to ensure everyone has accurate and timely information. Earlier this year, in questions and letters to Ministers, I raised the issue of the dramatic increases in domestic heating oil prices as a result of the US-Iran conflict. I am delighted that last week the Competition & Markets Authority announced it is launching a compensation scheme for affected customers. I would urge any West Dorset residents that were impacted to apply.

South West not on PM’s radar PARLIAMENT returned this week after the summer recess, and we have our first opportunity to see the new Prime Minister in his place at the dispatch box. It will be interesting to see how he does and what he says. The Prime Minister has spent the summer touring the UK and making a series of announcements designed to, in some small part, tackle the cost-of-living crisis, as well as increase social housing building. However, I have been struck by how little focus there has been on the south west. Something brought home by the fact the announcement on funding for social housing awarded a grand total of zero pounds to our region, despite our need. Meanwhile, I have spent recess on my annual summer tour of West Dorset. I hold

Lib Dem MP for West Dorset Edward Morello regular surgeries in Sherborne, Lyme Regis, Dorchester, Beaminster and Bridport – if you would like information on the next nearest session, please just email my office to book an appointment – edward.morello. mp@parliament.uk The summer tour is about getting to the

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

blackmorevale.net

Big challenges, big opportunities YOU are unlikely to have heard about last year’s government report on the effect upon our national security of global biodiversity loss and ecosystem collapse. Not surprising, because release of the report was suppressed until a Freedom Of Information application from the Green Alliance forced its publication. The report makes for very uncomfortable reading, detailing as it does the shocking loss in biodiversity since 1970. It identifies present methods of food production, with monocultures, artificial fertilisers and pesticides as the most significant cause of that loss. It goes on to state that at present ‘…every critical ecosystem is on a pathway to collapse’. Every single one. On a pathway. To collapse. The Government’s attempt to suppress the report clearly demonstrates the highly problematic short-term nature of

Ken Huggins on behalf of the Green Party in North Dorset our so-called democracy, whereby governments are voted in by only a minority of the electorate and have only a few years to impose their ideologically driven agenda upon the rest of us, while trying not to disillusion so many voters that they lose power at the next general election.

READER’S PICTURE

Fireworks light up the night sky in this photo taken from Ulwell Beach on the final Saturday of the recent Swanage Carnival PHOTO: Paul Cooper, Swanage

This is why the Green Party supports the use of Citizens Assemblies to make the big decisions affecting our nation, free from the corruption of vested interests focussed solely on clinging to power and seeking short-term profits with scant regard for our long-term future. And we have some very big decisions to make, on issues that for decades have been stuck in the Too Difficult to Handle pile and left for someone else to deal with another time. That delay may have been politically expedient in the short term, but the costs of inaction are now beginning to hit us with a vengeance. So much so that the large sections of the media that to date have been reluctant to link global warming and man-made greenhouse gas emissions with climate change are now beginning to finally admit the connection. The costs of delay include

Politics

lives as well as money, with the excess deaths in Europe caused by this summer’s series of heatwaves calculated to exceed 35,000. The devastation in Tibet caused by melting glaciers is another example of those who bear the least responsibility for global warming being most affected by its consequences. So far. So, we now have huge challenges to face, with precious little time left to take the actions needed to avoid the worst of climate change and biodiversity loss. The good news is that big challenges bring big opportunities, as explained in the People’s Emergency Briefing film being screened around the country. You can find a local screening at https://www. nebriefing.org/screening-map, join in the discussion afterwards, and help create the better future that is still within our grasp if we act now.

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 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. • Digby Memorial Church Hall: Mothers’ Union meeting on Friday, September 25, at 10am for 10.30am. Eileen Heath, musecretary@ sherborneabbey.com • Friends of Sherborne Abbey: Wednesday, October 7, coffee morning 10.30am-1pm in the church hall.• Hinton Martell: Second Sunday of the month, 10am Holy Communion. • Horton Church: First Sunday of the month, 10am Holy

blackmorevale.net Communion. • Horton & Chalbury Village Hall: Third Sunday of the month, 9am Breakfast Church. • Kingston Lacy: Second Sunday of the month, 9.15am Holy Communion. Fourth Sunday of the month, 9.15am Family Service. • Lufton Church: Prayer Book services every Sunday at 6pm. Sung Mass on the third Sunday. See www.lufton.co.uk for details. • Milton-on-Stour Church: Sam Woodcock’s imagined conversation with the artist John Constable on Friday, September 25, at 7pm for a 7.30pm start. Free entry but donations in aid of the church welcome. Refreshments, raffle and parking at the school alongside (SP8 5QD). • 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.• 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 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 John’s Church, Broadstone: Mighty Lower Brass Recital, Sunday October 4, tea and cake included. For more information, visit www. broadstonemusicseries.info • 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, September 13 – 9.30am Communion at St Mary’s Church, Blandford St Mary; 11am Family Service at All Saints Church, Tarrant Keynston; 11am Harvest Communion at All Saints Church, Langton Long. Sunday, September 20 – 9.30am Harvest Communion at St John the Baptist Church, Spetisbury; 9.30am All Age Worship at St Mary the Virgin Church, Charlton Marshall; 11am Communion at St Mary’s Church, Tarrant Rushton; 11am Morning Worship at All Saints Church, Langton Long. Coffee and Cake – Spetisbury 10am11.30am, first and third Monday each month; Coffee and Cake – Blandford St Mary 10am11.30am, September 17; Crafternoons – first Thursday of every month 2-4pm. £3 including refreshments; Coffee Stop – Charlton Marshall Parish Centre 10.30am-12.30pm – Tuesday to Friday. • West Camel Independent Methodists: All Saints Church BA22 7QB. Sunday, September 13, 11am and 6pm – United Harvest Festival. Sunday, September 20, 6pm service with Holy Communion. Sunday, September 27, 6pm – Song of Praise. Sunday, October 4, 4pm – Sunday @ Four with tea. Contact: Geoff.mead@yahoo. com or phone 01935 850838.

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

blackmorevale.net

Advertiser’s announcement

Antiques & Collectibles

WANTED Classic Cars & Motorbikes For private collection Call 07885 373113 or 01278 431244 Graham

Book online: blackmorevale.net Email: 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

Clocks Unlimited

Sapphire and diamond panther ring an auction highlight DUKE’S Auctioneers brings together a carefully curated selection for collectors and first-time buyers in its Jewellery, Watches, Silver & Currency Sale next week. Spanning four collecting categories, the two-day sale showcases pieces distinguished by craftsmanship, rarity, provenance and enduring appeal. A highlight of the sale is a René Boivin sapphire and diamond panther ring, featuring diamond-set eyes and a body set with round mixed-cut sapphires. The ring bears an engraved signature and French hallmarks for 18ct gold, is a size M and weighs about 17.26 grams.

The ring, accompanied by an Asprey receipt dated October 1, 1993, and presented in its original box, is estimated at £6,000–£8,000. René Boivin (1864–1917) founded the Boivin workshop in 1890. Following his death, his wife, Jeanne Poiret, daughter, Germaine Boivin, and other leading designers developed the house’s bold, avant-garde style. Germaine’s love of cats inspired many of the workshop’s distinctive feline designs. The sale is on Friday and Saturday, September 18-19 – find out more at Dukesauctions.com

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

The Lady Jane Franklin Lei Hulu - a yellow feather necklace.

SOLD FOR £37,000

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

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Antiques & Collectibles

Valuation days for sellers ACREMAN St Auctioneers & Valuers, Sherborne, is holding a two-day auction this month with Antiques & Collectors, including Modern & 20th Century Art, on Thursday, September 24, at 10am, and Jewellery, Silver & Watches on Friday, September 25, at 10am. Viewing is on Wednesday, September 23, from 10am-4pm. The catalogue and bidding are available online through easyliveauction.com and thesaleroom.comAcreman holds regular valuation days where prospective sellers can take in their items for its specialists to evaluate at 121 Acreman Street, Sherborne DT9 3PH. Valuation days 10am-3pm: Jewellery & Watches, Tuesday; Silver & Obje’t D’art, Tuesday; Toys & Collectables, Wednesday; Oriental & Asian,

blackmorevale.net

Advertiser’s announcement

Thursday; Coins, Stamps, Books & Ephemera, Fridays; Militaria, Friday; Textiles & Fashion, Monday; Paintings & Contemporary Art, Monday. Anyone unable to go in on the allocated days can phone or email to make an appointment and experts are also happy to make house visits if required free of charge. Acreman can take in everything from single items to complete collections and can help with advice and valuations to anyone downsizing or who needs to deal with a whole house.Acreman Auctioneers & Valuers is open Monday to Friday 9am-4pm. Anyone who has anything they would like to consign can contact Gill Norman on 01935 508764 or 07908 333577 or by email at auction@ acremanstreetantiques.co.uk

ACREMAN ST. AUCTIONEERS & VALUERS SHERBORNE

GENERAL ANTIQUES & COLLECTABLES Thursday 24th September 10am

JEWELLERY, SILVER & WATCHES Friday 25th September 10am

Viewing

Wednesday 23rd September 10am-4pm

Nearly 1,200 lots in two-day sale CLARKE’S Auctions in Gillingham is holding a two-day Antiques & Collectables sale this weekend with almost 1,200 interesting lots going under the hammer. Friday’s sale features about 310 lots of modern and traditional paintings, books and ephemera, rugs, textiles, vintage clothing and garden items, with the remainder of the sale taking place on Saturday. Among the paintings is a striking life-study watercolour

sketch of a muscular man, attributed to Sir William Beechey RA, along with a portrait sketch of a lady in profile, Mrs Ingestre, by Sir Joshua Reynolds PPRA (1723–92). The sale also includes a selection of modern art by artists including Duncan MacGregor, Barbara Brody and Emilija Pasagic. Other highlights include a 4ft-high bronze garden fountain in the form of a young boy holding a goose, estimated at £100£200, a large George II silver twin-handled cup estimated at £1,200–£1,500, and a charming specimen marble-topped centre table on a solid green A pair of George Smith armchairs are figured marble base, estimated to sell for £100-£200

Clarke’s Auctions

Auctioneers & Valuers

Antiques && Collectibles Sale Antiques Collectables Friday Saturday10th 10thOctober August Friday9th 9th & & Saturday

Pair of 18ct and watermelon tourmaline earrings Est. £500 - £800

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

A naive study of a cow, oil on canvas. An original Fry & Sons 'Fry's Pure Concentrated Soldsign. for £1,300 Cocoa' enamel 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, September 11, 2026

blackmorevale.net estimated at £300-£500. The previous sale saw some particularly strong results, with several lots selling well above estimate. An early oil-on-panel study of a sheep’s head achieved £2,148 including premium, while a charming William & Mary marquetry-inlaid walnut side table sold for £1,770 including premium. Clarke’s is now taking consignments for its autumn sales. If you have a single item or an interesting collection you would like valued with a view to entering one of its forthcoming sales, home visits can be arranged or consignors are welcome to visit the Gillingham salerooms. For enquiries about consignments, probate or insurance valuations, and full or part house clearances, contact Richard Clarke or Karen Marshall on 01747 685592 at The Old Glove Factory, Buckingham Road, Gillingham SP8 4QF.

Advertiser’s announcement

Antiques & Collectibles

Brooklands Clerk of the Course 1907 armband at Charterhouse

Brooklands items from collector A SINGLE owner collection of Brooklands-related memorabilia is included in the Charterhouse specialist auction of Automobilia & Enamel Signs in Sherborne on Wednesday (September 16). “The owner has been a lifelong motorsport fan but has a passion for anything Brooklands related,” said Richard Bromell, from the

auction house. “In fact, he is such a fan he even re-named his house Brooklands!” Established in 1907, Brooklands, in Weybridge, Surrey, was the birthplace of British motorsport and aviation and featured the world’s first purpose-built banked motor racing circuit. Included in the collection of

19th November

Brooklands memorabilia are members’ badges, motor racing programmes, photographs and other items, but it is a rare Clerk of the Course silk armband from 1907 which is the star of the collection. Framed with a cardboard Brooklands Automobile Racing Club Official Pass – Admits Everywhere, this early and historically important armband is estimated to sell for £1,000. Viewing for the hundreds of lots of automobilia and enamel signs starts on Monday, September 16, at Charterhouse, The Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne, or prospective buyers can see all the lots and bid live via charterhouseauction.com Richard Bromell and the team at Charterhouse, The Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne, are available for valuations of single items, collections or complete house contents on 01935 812277 or via rb@charterhouse-auction. com

16th September

26th November

September Auction Programme

Enamel Signs & Automobilia 16th Pictures & Sporting Items 17th Asian Art, Antiques & Interiors 18th

Lots, live bidding & viewing on our website

Specialist Valuation Days in Sherborne Pictures, Books, Maps & Postcards 14th Jewellery, Watches, Gold & Silver 15th Medals, Militaria, Coins & Stamps 16th Model Cars, Trains & Dolls 17th

JEWELLERY WATCHES SILVER CURRENCY

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

18 & 19 SEP 2026

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

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Arts & Entertainment

blackmorevale.net

Taking the classics to the community THE inaugural Cavatina Orchestra Festival is bringing a feast of world class classical music to Frome and Mells. The festival is the idea of musician Max Todes, founder and director of the Cavatina Orchestra, which aims to give top young musicians the chance to play the great symphonic repertoire. Todes, who has strong ties to Frome, said: “We’re interested in bringing music into people’s worlds – into contexts that mean something to them. “Rather than going into a concert hall and stepping outside life, we want the festival to feel like part of the community.” The concerts will take place at the historic St Andrew’s Church in Mells, the atmospheric Rye Bakery in Whittox Lane, and St John’s

Church in the heart of Frome. As well as the three main concerts, the festival will offer pre-concert talks, a concert for families and opportunities to meet the musicians. The concert dates and venues are: n St Andrew’s Church, Mells, on Tuesday, September 22, 7pm. Love and the Divine – a pairing of the choral music of Bach and Purcell with Shakespeare’s love sonnets, performed by the 16-strong Cavatina Choir with five players. Shakespeare scholar Clare Asquith will give a pre-concert talk. n Rye Bakery, Frome, on Thursday, September 24, 7pm. Homage and Inspiration, featuring a 31-strong Cavatina Orchestra performing Mozart’s Symphony No.40 and Schubert’s Symphony No.5, alongside works by contemporary

The Cavatina Orchestra are playing three concerts in Frome and Mells later this

composers. n St John’s Church, Frome, on Friday, September 25, 7pm. Devotion to Delight, a 35-piece Cavatina Orchestra, joined by a mezzo-soprano soloist, performing a rarely heard song cycle by Alma Mahler, followed by Beethoven’s Symphony No.7. Todes added: “Frome and Mells feel like exactly the right place to be doing this. There’s already such a strong sense of

community and creativity here. “We hope people will come along with an open mind – whether they’re lifelong classical music lovers or have never been to a concert before. “There’s something here for everyone, and we can’t wait to make it a shared experience.” Tickets are priced £25 – concessions £10 – with a festival pass £70 – concession £30 – and are available at www. cavatinaorchestra.com

DORSET Police Male Voice Choir is set to perform an early autumn concert at St Mary’s Church, Charminster. The choir will be appearing with musical director David Marshall and accompanist Sue Stein. The concert is on Saturday, September 26, at 7pm, and tickets priced £10, including interval drinks and nibbles, are available from 01305 213403, 07795 347408 and 07818 50801. Proceeds will go to church funds.

PLEA S KE E CHEC EP KIN OU G W E B SR ITE

ELIO PACE LIVE Fri 11th Sep 7.30pm Tickets £32.50

CODA – A TRIBUTE TO LED ZEPELLIN

Thursday 17th September 7.30pm Tickets £22

ZZ TOPPD

Sat 12th September 7.30pm Tickets £22

JOHNNY CASH ROADSHOW THE PRISON YEARS TOUR Fri 18th September 7.30pm Tickets £28

PLEA S KE E CHEC EP KIN OUR G WEBS ITE

RUSSELL WATSON JIMMY TARBUCK Sun 13th September 7.30pm Tickets £34 / £50 /

THE BOOTLEG SHADOWS Sat 19th September 7.30pm Tickets £23.50

Tues 15th September 7.30pm

FRANCIS ROSSI QUO SONGBOOK Tues 22nd September 7.30pm SOLD OUT (17th MARCH 2027 NOW ON SALE!)

PLEA S KE E CHEC EP KIN OU G W E B SR ITE

OUR STAR THEATRE CO PRESENT

THE THREE MUSKETEERS Wed 16th September 7.30pm Tickets £18

REVIVE THEATRE PRESENT: THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME 24th - 26th September 7.30pm Matinee 26th September 2.30pm Tickets £20 £18 concs

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Arts & Entertainment

blackmorevale.net

Songs reflect wonders of nature SMALL Wonders, an ambitious new work of 30 songs for choir, soloists and instrumentalists, composed and conducted by Helen Porter, is coming to St Peter’s Church in Shaftesbury. Set in the first year of the Covid pandemic, the songs, in an eclectic mix of genres – classical, musical theatre, jazz, folk, cabaret and contemporary – reflect the diversity of the natural world. Helen Porter worked for Common Ground’s Confluence project in the years around the millennium when she teamed up with Shaftesbury composer Karen Wimhurst, one of the instrumentalists in Small Wonders. Small Wonders, performed by the Calstock Big Jazz Choir, was written in memory of a much-loved member of Helen’s choir, Jennie Peach, who sadly

passed away in 2024. Jennie’s positive outlook on life is beautifully woven into the fabric of the songs, at some moments fast, funny and dramatic, while thoughtful and consoling at others. Guest soloists and musicians

are Brittany Soriano (soprano), Richard Court (baritone), Ed Bersey (bass), Karen Wimhurst (clarinet and bass clarinet), Sam Norton (double bass), Andy Turner (percussion) and Mark Smith (piano). Helen Porter said: “This

work is a journey of hope, a reminder of our responsibilities as shared inhabitants of the earth and the power of music, song and nature to lift our spirits in dark times.” The work premiered to a full house at the Tavistock Music Festival in May. One of the organisers said: “It was the most beautiful and poignant work I have heard in the church and deserves a much wider audience. People were so enthralled – one could hear the audience listening. I honestly can’t think of words good enough to describe how absolutely wonderful this concert was.” Small Wonders will be performed on Saturday, September 19, at 7.30pm and tickets can be booked via www. wegottickets.com – search for Small Wonders.

by Gerry Purdue THE church at Milton-on-Stour will be the venue for an imagined conversation between lifelong village resident Sam Woodcock and the renowned artist John Constable. Sam, who is president of Gillingham Local History Society, will be conversing with ‘Constable’ – born June 11, 1776, passed away March 31, 1837 – to find out what brought him to Dorset in 1823 and to Milton in particular. The part of Constable will be

played by a well-known local historian and author acquainted with his works, with the conversation set in the 1800s and both men in period costume. The artist’s masterpieces include Salisbury Cathedral from various locations (1800s), Gillingham Bridge (1823), Wivenhoe Park (1816), Dedham Vale (1828) and The Hay Wain (1821). This free-of-charge event is one of a series of social activities arranged by Milton Church Council (PCC).

However, funds are needed to help pay for urgent dampproofing repairs to Milton’s Anglican church of St Simon & St Jude, so a retiring collection will be held for donations. Repair costs are considerable, so the PCC asks visitors to give generously.

The event is on Friday, September 25, at 7pm for a 7.30pm start. Refreshments, including wine, will be on offer, along with a raffle, and parking is available at the school alongside (SP8 5QD) – follow the sign from the main Gillingham-Mere road.

Composer Helen Porter will be conducting Small Wonders at St Peter’s Church in Shaftesbury

Artist ‘Constable’ open to question

Photo show date ALL things photographic will be on the agenda at the London Camera Exchange (LCE) Photo Show at Haynes Motor Museum in Sparkford tomorrow (Saturday, September 12), 9.30am-4.30pm. Talks and hands-on workshops are on offer including by award-winning landscape astrophotographer

Josh Dury; automotive industry photographer Amy Shore; Rod Fountain on his long career, including over 20 years photographing BBC’s Top Gear; and visually impaired photographer Gary Williamson. Gavin Hoey will give practical hands-on workshops for photographers, filmmakers and content creators.

IBBERTON, Belchawell & Woolland Village Hall will be the venue for a screening of Future TX on Friday, September 18, at 7pm. Two youngsters, when they get their first cellphones, receive a call from a mysterious man who says he is from the future and needs their help to save the world.

AUTUMN ART CLASSES BOOKING NOW With Ali Cockrean 10 WEEK TERM

Scan here for all the details or email: acartschool@gmail.com

Term starts week beginning 5th October 2026 At Hazel Cottage Studio, Maiden Bradley Beginners are most welcome.

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Events Stalbright Presents

Blackmore Vale’s Got Talent From 2pm, Saturday 26th Sept Cash prize & performance at Christmas event Free for talent to enter Complete and return application form by 22nd September:

Audience tickets £3 on entry Refreshments available T:07852 498203 E: rachellefreeguard@hotmail.co.uk Stalbridge Town Hall

blackmorevale.net

FOWL PLAY SAMBA BAND, looking for new members! No experience, relaxed and friendly. Wednesdays 5.30-6.30pm, in the village hall. Based in Shroton, for more info, fowlplaysamba@gmail.com MACMILLAN COFFEE MORNING, Friday 25th September, 10-12noon. at The Pamela Hambro Hall, Winterborne Stickland, DT11 0NT. Enjoy cakes coffee and raffle, support Cancer Care

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BEHIND ENEMY LINES The Special Forces Heroes Who Changed the Course of WWII

An Exclusive Talk by Damien Lewis

Tickets: £12.00

ROYAL SIGNALS MUSEUM - 3RD November 2026 Behind Enemy Lines tells the remarkable true story ofRDCaptain Lewis ‘Archie’ Gibson, SIGNALS MUSEUM - 3 November 2026 one of ROYAL the Second World War’s most daring soldiers. Behind Enemy Lines tells the remarkable true story of Captain Lewis ‘Archie’ Gibson, one of the Working from previously unseen classified material, Gibson’s sketchbooks, wartime Second World War’s most daring soldiers. reports and his own unpublished firsthand account, bestselling military historian WorkingLewis from previously unseen classified material, wartime reports andSAS’s Damien reveals the remarkable story ofGibson’s the mansketchbooks, who became known as the his own unpublished firsthand account, bestselling military historian Damien Lewis reveals the “Pirate of the Desert”. Starting in the Long Desert Group, Gibson saved theinlife remarkable story of the man who became knownRange as the SAS’s “Pirate of the Desert”. Starting the Desert Group, Gibsoninsaved the life of SASlater founder David Stirling in the desertlines and later ofLong SASRange founder David Stirling the desert and operating behind enemy in operating behind enemy lines in occupied Yugoslavia, he and his men wreaked havoc on the Nazi occupied Yugoslavia, he and his men wreaked havoc on the Nazi war machine. war machine. The story of Captain Lewis ‘Archie’ Gibson is one of true grit, duty and undying The story of Captain Lewis ‘Archie’ Gibson is one of true grit, duty and undying brotherhood, laced brotherhood, laced with told humility humour, told by military one of Britain’s with humility and humour, by oneand of Britain’s bestselling historians bestselling military historians RUNNING ORDER

RUNNING ORDER 17.30 Pre 17.30 Preevent eventdrinks drinks 18.30 18.30Welcome Welcomeand and Introduction Introduction 18.35 talk+ Q&A + Q&A 18.35Damien DamienLewis Lewis commences commences talk 19.15 BehindEnemy EnemyLines Lines - Book 19.15 Behind BookSigning Signing 20.00End End 20.00

Booking Information Booking Information Tickets will be available via EventBrite from Tickets will be available via EventBrite 7th September:

from 7th September: Link to Eventbrite www.eventbrite.co.uk

World of colour COLOUR Reclaimed is the title of a new exhibition by Shaftesbury-based artist Elizabeth Rose at the town’s arts centre. The exhibition will bring together 18 original paintings “exploring colour, memory, landscape and botanical form,” she says. Elizabeth studied Fine Art at City & Guilds of London Art School, and her work is held in the Royal Collection. Colour Reclaimed opens on Wednesday, September 16, and runs until Tuesday, September 22, with a private view on Friday, September 18, from 5pm-7pm.

SIXPENNY HANDLEY COMMUNITY CINEMA Mother’s Pride Village Hall, Common Road SP5 5NJ Friday 18 September | 6.30 for 7.00pm £6 | Bar & snacks Information: www. sixpennyhandleyvillagehall.org ST NICHOLAS PRIMARY SCHOOL PTFA DOG SHOW Saturday 19th September 1.30pm registration, show starts 2pm Cash or card taken on the day. £3 each a class. Fun, family friendly dog show Held at St Nicholas Primary School, Child Okeford, DT11 8EL Sam Woodcock Presents an Illustrated and Imagined Conversation with John Constable Milton-on-Stour Church, Friday 25th September 7:00 for 7:30 p.m. start We are delighted that Sam will be conversing with John Constable to find out what brought him to Dorset in 1823, and to Milton in particular. There is no charge for entry, but there will be a retiring collection: your generous donations are needed to help pay for urgent damp-proofing repairs to our church. Refreshments, including wine, and a raffle Parking alongside at Milton School (SP8 5QD) just follow the road sign.

Elizabeth Rose in her Dorset studio PHOTO: Sophie Lindsay Photography

BARNDANCE! Thornford Village Hall Saturday 24th October, 7.30pm Tickets £12.50 available NOW at barndancethornford@gmail. com SHAFTESBURY EMPORIUM, Friday 11th & Saturday 12th September 9-4.30pm , Town Hall Shaftesbury, Lots of locally crafted & consumable items for sale. Free Entry, Please bring cash! Supporting DSAA & Weldmar Hospice, Next events: 9th & 10th October. THE SHAFTESBURY REGISTERED MEMBERS GROUP of The Royal Airforces Association, will be holding the wreath laying of the 82nd Anniversary of The Battle of Britain on Sunday 13th September at 11.00 am at The Town Memorial on Park Walk, Shaftesbury. All are welcome to attend and please be in place by 10.45

To place your

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New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Events

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Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Organised entirely by volunteers and held in the heart of the Blackmore Vale, the festival has become one of Dorset’s most popular food and community events, attracting thousands of visitors each year from across the South West.

O vo he the Do co tho fro

he countdown is on for the return of the Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival, taking place on Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th September 2026.

The festival celebrates the very best of local food, drink, crafts, music and community spirit. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of artisan cheese producers, local food exhibitors, craft stalls, live entertainment, family activities, demonstrations, real ale, cider and wine bars, alongside a variety of refreshments throughout the weekend. More than just a celebration of cheese, the festival is a charitable event run under the auspices of the Sturminster Newton Rotary Club. Thanks to the support of visitors, exhibitors, volunteers and sponsors, the festival has donated more than £450,000 to local charities, community groups and good causes over the last decade. Recent beneficiaries have included local schools, youth organisations, community projects and charities that make a significant difference to people across Dorset and the surrounding counties. The festival continues its commitment to being an affordable family day out, with children aged 15 and under admitted free when accompanied by a paying adult. Visitors can expect: • Award-winning cheese and food producers • Artisan crafts and gifts • Live music and entertainment throughout the weekend • Children’s entertainment and family activities • Real ale, cider and wine bars Advance tickets are available now through the festival website. For tickets, programme updates and further information, visit: www.cheesefestival.co.uk

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New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Business

Prince Harry £34m legal bill: Lessons for businesses BUSINESSES in Dorset are being urged to learn a salutary lesson about going to court after Prince Harry and fellow claimants were hit with multimillion-pound costs at the High Court. Conor Maher, a partner, solicitor advocate and accredited mediator at Dorset law firm Ellis Jones Solicitors, warned that the costs consequences of getting it wrong can be catastrophic. His comments came after an unsuccessful privacy claim against Associated Newspapers left Prince Harry, Elton John, Baroness Lawrence and other claimants with total costs of potentially more than £34 million – including an interim payment of about £9.5m.

Conor said that every claim should involve a commercial risk assessment and is not just a simple question of winning or losing. “In England and Wales, the starting point is that the unsuccessful party pays the successful party's costs. “That sounds straightforward. However, many litigants are surprised to discover that this does not usually mean the winner recovers every pound spent. “Even where a party succeeds at trial, they may only recover a proportion of their legal costs following assessment. For commercial litigation, this often leaves a successful party with a significant shortfall.

Why reliable business broadband matters for small firms FOR most small businesses, the internet connection plays a bigger role than it first seems, supporting everyday tasks like sending emails, taking payments, managing bookings and staying in touch with customers. The problem shows up when it starts to slip, which is when the right business broadband starts to matter. For businesses In Blackmore Vale towns and villages, that often comes down to what’s actually available locally. Built for work, not just browsing A STANDARD home

connection is designed for light, everyday use. Running a business puts different demands on a connection, with several people working at once and customers to respond to. A farm shop taking card payments while updating stock online needs a different set up to a household streaming a film in the evening. Small issues add up CONNECTION problems are not always dramatic. More often they show up as small, repeated delays, slow uploads and dropped calls, leaving the wrong impression

“I often describe costs recovery as similar to an insurance excess. Winning parties typically have to absorb part of their own legal spend, even after obtaining judgment. “As a result, clients should never assume that ‘winning’ means litigation will be costneutral.” The Prince Harry decision is particularly noteworthy because the court ordered costs on the indemnity basis. This is generally reserved for situations where the court considers conduct to have fallen outside the ordinary course of litigation. It is often a significantly larger costs recovery in favour of the winning party than would be achieved under a standard

blackmorevale.net basis assessment. Conor said it is important to keep litigation and potential costs under review as a case proceeds. He added: “Even when clients understand adverse costs risk, another issue often receives less attention – unrecoverable costs. “Imagine a company spends £150,000 pursuing a claim. It wins. It obtains judgment. The court orders the opponent to pay costs. Excellent result. “However, after assessment, the business only recovers £100,000. That leaves a £50,000 gap, despite being the successful party. Many litigants find this surprising and frustrating. “Commercial litigation should therefore be viewed as an investment decision rather than simply a legal process. “The critical question is not just ‘can I win?’ but ‘what will the net outcome look like after costs?’” When the internet works properly, it removes a layer of friction from the working day

with customers. Guides aimed at smaller businesses highlight the value of understanding your set up early. Full fibre broadband makes the difference FULL fibre offers faster speeds and, more importantly, a stable connection that holds up during busy periods. That stability matters for a holiday let, a vet’s practice managing records or an agricultural supplier processing orders online. Availability depends on where you’re based ACCESS to reliable broadband still varies by location, and rural pockets of the Vale have often been among the last to see real improvement.

That is starting to change as full fibre extends into the villages around Blackmore Vale. For businesses out towards Marnhull or Stalbridge, a provider with a local presence matters as much as the speed on paper, making it worth looking at dedicated business broadband over a standard residential service. Better working days WHEN your internet works properly, it removes a layer of friction from the day, whether you’re running a shop in Shaftesbury or working from a farm office outside Sturminster Newton. For small businesses in the Blackmore Vale, that reliability is not a luxury. It supports how the business operates day to day.

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

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Travelling by Jumbo A RHINO came snuffling out of the bush, its head down and its eyes full of suspicion. 10 yards away, towering above him, stood the bull elephant, his ears flapping rhythmically, his tail twitching. The rhino raised its head and peered up at this monster. Perched with legs astride the jumbo’s broad back sat my son-in-law, Julian Matthews, of Wincanton, with his son, Jack, in a rucksack. I have met rhino on many occasions when riding domestic elephants in Nepal, and been charged twice, and know a rhino can break an elephant’s leg. But this was different – we were in Zimbabwe on African elephants. From the safety of my own tusker, I watched with fascination as the two beasts began to approach each other. Neither made a sound. The 15-month-old baby gazed over his father’s shoulder. What would the rhino do, I wondered. Then, deliberately, the elephant reached out with its trunk and gently tapped the rhino on the nose. Unaffected, it looked up and I swear it smiled. Today, due to alleged cruelty in certain countries, elephant riding is largely forbidden, but previously they carried us on wildlife conservation work. At the Imire Game Ranch, south-east of Harare, such meetings were not unusual and the six riding elephants regularly carried visitors among the rhino, sable, giraffe and a wide variety of African game. Riding these beasts, several feet taller than their Asian cousins, required no skill. You held onto the mahout’s waist like a motorcycle pillion passenger, sitting on a padded blanket. Wooden howdahs, used on Asian elephants, were not favoured here due to the Africans’ broader and flatter back. In Asia, mahouts usually sit on the neck, steering the beast with bare toes held in a rope sling behind the ears. The African mahout, finding the

by former British Army officer, explorer and author John Blashford-Snell. John founded Operation Raleigh and the Scientific Exploration Society

Julian Matthews and son Jack meet a rhino in Zimbabwe

John Blashford-Snell on his elephant Honey Blossom in Nepal

giant ears of the mount bashing his thighs as the creature cools itself, has moved onto the shoulders and, although he uses body movements, most direction is by voice. At Imire, elephants are only used to carry game guards protecting the ever-threatened rhino. The large African pachyderm, which can weigh up to seven tons, eats correspondingly more than its six-ton cousin, and if used

domestically, both respond well to supplements. At Imire, cubes of maize and vegetable protein such as soya beans, monkey nuts and sunflower, as well as various vitamins are provided, whereas in Nepal the jumbos get up to 80 ‘elephant sandwiches’ a day. These balls of grass contain saffron rice, salt and molasses. Both types of animals have similar digestive tracts and a good deal of their fodder passes through to produce excellent manure for rose growing. Needing up to 500lb of fodder a day and several attendants, they are not cheap animals. A trained Asian elephant will cost about £15,000. The late Norman Travers, the renowned conservationist who owned Imire, started training baby elephants 30 years ago. Thanks to the efforts of Marthe Kiley-Worthington, of the University of Exeter, they were taught to pull ploughs and wagons, which could have been a great benefit to African farmers. Lightweight human riders could be lifted aboard by the creature’s trunk, but for portly

History

passengers the elephant would sit down, allowing them to mount by hauling themselves onto the saddle. These gentle giants rarely bucked, but a tiger can sometimes cause a timid one to bolt. In Nepal some years ago, a tiger gave chase and a terrified large female tourist climbed out of the howdah. Alas, she fell off, onto the tiger, which did it no good and left the poor woman bruised and shaken. My dear old Nepalese elephant, Laksmi Kali, would always defend us against an angry tiger, lashing out with her trunk and trumpeting fit to waken the dead. Like all Asian females she was tuskless, but both sexes of African have tusks and will use them for defence or aggression. An extraordinary event occurred at Imire some time ago. Nzow, an adult female elephant trained by Norman, had adopted a small herd of semi-tame cape buffalo and would accompany them on their daily browsing. One of the older hands at Imire, Murambiwa, usually went with this strange ‘family’. However, the bull buffalo could be aggressive and as they walked home one evening, he lunged, knocking the man down and was coming in to finish him off with his terrible horns. With shrill trumpeting, Nzow rushed at the bull buffalo, bowling him over with a blow from her heavy trunk. The elephant then helped the injured Murambiwa to his feet and protected him all the way back to the farmhouse! n John Blashford-Snell is giving a talk at Gillingham Library on Tuesday, November 24, at 2.30pm – see his website, johnblashfordsnell.org.uk, for further details. n Signed copies of John Blashford-Snell’s recent book, From Utmost East to Utmost West, are available priced £20, including UK postage. Contact jenny@ses-explore.org for further details.

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Home & Garden

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Ways to prepare for next year by Sally Gregson AFTER a remarkable summer of hot sunshine and long-lasting droughts, the first signs of autumn are to be welcomed by gardeners everywhere. Assuming no torrential downpourings are in prospect, before starting to do some autumn planting, take a look at the ground you want to plant into. Begin by spreading a layer, 3cm or 4 cm deep, of mulch on the soil in the next few weeks, come rain or shine. This will help retain the moisture in a dry

season, and, curiously, it also helps heavy soil to drain so it will be better able to cope with whatever next summer brings. Make a list of plants you know will manage well in your soil and go shopping with that list held firmly in your hand. Remember, anything off the list might have to be potted separately and kept watered with a watering-can and precious tap-water in another hot summer. If you have too big a space to fill for your garden budget, you could think about propagating

some of this summer’s winners. Repeating plants throughout the garden is good design practice. Herbaceous perennials could be lifted and divided, then replanted as soon as we have plenty of rain again. Save the seed of the ‘volunteers’ that sow themselves everywhere, in a paper envelope in a sealed storage box in the fridge. However, a visit to a good nursery if you have lots of empty spaces is a continual temptation. Those lovely new plants that have been brought home should

be watered and held until the rains have returned. Or if not, and your soil is still rock hard, make your life easier by throwing bowls of ‘washing-up water’ just where the plants are to go, every night for a week, to soften the soil. Then ‘puddle’ in the plants – dig them in with another bucket of washing-up water. Then they stand a chance of working their roots into the newly dampened soil. And keep your fingers crossed for a wet winter. We surely need one.

‘Patriot’ and V. ‘Goldtraube 71’ are both easy varieties with very large berries, and are said to be self-fertile, but fruit more freely if grown next to a pollinating sister. In the garden, they like rich soils full of organic matter. Additionally, it’s wise to liquid feed the shrub every spring, and in the ground, mulch the plants with plenty of pine needles and compost to keep the soil as acid as possible as well as moist. Buy big plants – blueberries

are quite slow growing. They will demand plenty of water every summer. And your birds will be rubbing their feathers with glee when they see the luscious fruits. So, protect them with a few net curtains thrown over the whole bush while their berries are ripening. After a couple of years, prune the new plants in January or February. Cut out about a third of the old fruited wood, removing diseased, crossing and broken branches, and work in the new young green shoots. These will bear fruit the following year.

How to grow blueberries by Sally Gregson IT may have been a frighteningly hot and dry summer, but the resulting flowers and fruit have been very generous. Little wonder that many gardeners are choosing next year to have a go at growing their own fruit, especially pots of blueberries. Ideally blueberries. Vaccinium, should be grown in the open ground, but the soil needs to be acidic – that is with a pH between 4.0 and 5.5. But

blueberries make excellent subjects for a large container of ericaceous compost. The fruits are the result of pretty white flowers in early summer, and they’re not just delicious, but attractive. There are lots of varieties, from dwarf shrubs to larger, 60cm tall plants, and they fruit better if they are pollinated by another variety that flowers at the same time. There are also one or two good self-fertile varieties – V. corymbosum

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Simply upload an image of your property and choose any swatch you fancy to generate your design.

Station Road Gillingham Dorset SP8 4PZ

01747 822080

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

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

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

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

Advertising made

simple

01747 708406

01963 400186 adverts@blackmorevale.net

FOR MORE INFORMATION

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Local Services

blackmorevale.net

ARCHITECTURAL, BUILDING & ELECTRICAL

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

ALL IRONWORK. Handrails.Gates. Railings. Repairs. Restoration. 01258 880301

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

L R MASONRY GENERAL BUILDER, Stone work, Brick work 07971-982565 llewie30roberts@gmail.com BAILEY & SUN LTD. Groundwork, man and machine hire. Footings, ditchings, driveways, new build, drainage, extensions plus lots more. Call for a quote. 07546-762236. sun@baileyandsun.co.uk.

Call 01963 400186 to advertise in Local Services

Classified advertising

place your ad today

email: adverts@blackmorevale.net

30+ YEARS EXPERIENCE 07588804253 | 07791432215 Elevatebuild@outlook.com

G ROSE PLASTERING. For all your Plastering needs Experienced and reliable Phone Gavin 07766-243762 TOR EXTERIOR CLEANING Windows.Fascias. Soffits.Gutterings Patios. Driveways.Etc CALL US ON: 07783 966152 NEIL PIERCY PLASTERING ALL TYPES OF PLASTERING, FLOOR SCREEDING & RENDERING. WINCANTON & 20 MILE RADIUS. HELPFUL ADVICE & FREE QUOTATIONS CALL NEIL: 07974-185923 or 07811-211586 Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Local Services

blackmorevale.net

ARCHITECTURAL, BUILDING & ELECTRICAL SW BUILDING & RENOVATIONS LTD. All aspects of building and plumbing catered for. Tel: 07970 437786 e: swbuildandrenovation@gmail.com

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

ELECTRICAL 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

SERVICES DOMESTIC ELECTRICAL WORKS ADDITIONAL SOCKET TO FULL REWIRE PROUDLY SERVING TEMPLECOMBE, WINCANTON, SHERBORNE NEW BUILD AND SURROUNDING AREAS FAMILY BUSINESS • COMPETETIVE RATES RENOVATION

CALL IAN OR SARAH:

07346 814585 •General building •Extensions/Renovations •Loft conversions •Oak frame buildings •Groundwork/Landscaping •All your property needs

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

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

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

J&C Handyman Services

Plumbing Door hanging & skirting boards Painting & decorating and facia clearing Shed erecting & repairs Guttering and replacement Flat pack furniture Fencing Shelves & curtain rails Pointing etc... No job too small. Please call with your requirements.

FULLY QUALIFIED FULLY INSURED

CALL NOW FOR YOUR PERSONAL QUOTATION

Tel: 01963 363870

24hr Emergency, Leaking Tanks or Oil Spills 07836 502683

TRADITIONAL BUILDING & RESTORATION Traditional builders specialising in older and listed properties

01963 364457 07368 516658 dorsethandyman26@gmail.com www.jchandymanservices.com

• 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, September 11, 2026

Local Services

blackmorevale.net

ARCHITECTURAL, BUILDING & ELECTRICAL

Architectural Services

BESPOKE FITTED FURNITURE

Planning & Building Applications for New Build, Extensions and Conversions

01747 822162

Our advice is always free

enquiries@bell-architectural.co.uk

Davies & Sons - Builders All building projects undertaken Specialising in New Kitchen extensions. Loft conversions and Driveways, Walls, Gates etc.

Handmade Bespoke Fitted Furniture Wardrobes, Dressing Rooms, Alcove Units, Boot Rooms, Bookcases, Kitchen Islands etc. Instagram @shakerdorsetcupboardmakers

hello@shakerdorset.co.uk www.shakerdorset.co.uk

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

K.SANSOM CHIMNEY SWEEP Brush & vacuum. APICS registered 01963 370038

01963 400186

NO VAT!

Call: Mark on: 07525 834551 no obligation quote! or email: davies.mark66@yahoo.com

FREE

TE & QUO VEY SUR SITE

Established in 1978

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

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

:phoenixchimneys1@gmail.com

SOLID FUEL INSTALLATIONS LTD

Accredited installers of Wood burning & Multi fuel stoves, Chimney liners, twin wall flues, fireplace conversions, replacement hearths, chimney restoration & rebuilding, dealing with water ingress, cowlings, bird guards. Fully Insured, long term established.

01749 677440 – 07921074602- solidfuel3@aol.com www.solidfuelinstallationsltd.co.uk

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Local Services

blackmorevale.net

CHIMNEYS Martin Simmonds Chimney Sweep 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,

NVQ Qualified. APICS Registered

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

CLEANING

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

01258 455251

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

longthorpeindustries@gmail.com

CLEANING SERVICES OFFERED. Please ring 07396-949160 Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.

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

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

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

Call 01963 400186 to advertise in Local Services

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

Get connected. Stay connected. WiFi • Email • FaceTime • WhatsApp Skype • Google • eBay • Amazon Facebook • Twitter • Instagram

R Laptop R Tablet R Smartphone R desktop PC

Wood Burning Stoves Installed

False Fireplaces & Media Walls

Chimney leaks, Repairs, Rebuilds and Removals

Twin-Wall Chimney Systems

• Friendly, patient, and knowledgeable help • Keep in touch with family, friends and colleagues for free over the Internet • Sell online easily, quickly and reliably

• Buying advice, setup and installation

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

Call me now on 07805 783147

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Local Services

blackmorevale.net

DECORATION, FLOORING & CARPENTRY PAUL WEST DECORATING SERVICES and wall-paper specialist. Also handyman. 35years experience. Free quotes. 07773-459168. paul.west945@gmail.com COUNTRY CARPENTRY Doors, repairs, general maintenance etc Call Nick on 07887 358570

Painting & Decorating

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

DECORATION, FLOORING & CARPENTRY 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

ITALIAN LANGUAGE LESSONS

24/7 Locksmiths & Garage Door Repairs

Local Quality Painter & Decorator.

35 Years Experience FREE Estimates. No VAT

Call Richard on

Tel: 01258 880670 Mob: 07825512627 ‘Your home in safe and capable hands’

M & M Painting & Decorating. 30 years experience. Fully insured, clean & tidy. References available. FREE no obligation quote. Tel: 07921-783296 / 01305-849380

CAMILLE ELIZABETH PAINTER AND DECORATOR

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

LOCKSMITHS & GARAGE DOORS

Italian Courses Classes and private tuition

throughout the year

Dorset com Doors .com - Residential Lockouts - Garage door repair specialists - New garage doors & automation - Lock repair and replacements

07979 978 751 drew@dorsetdoors.com

Contact

CHRISTINE JEWELS

01935 425958

www.italianlanguageservices.co.uk

Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.

LOCKSMITHS & GARAGE DOORS Somerset, Dorset & Wiltshire

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

Tel 07969443979

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.

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

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Local Services

blackmorevale.net

MUSIC PIANO LESSONS. Experienced teacher. All ages and abilities. weds/ Thurs on grand piano. Hazelbury Bryan. Call/Text Tiff 07757-813958 PIANO TUNING, repairs, sales of reconditioned pianos.Julian Phillips BA CGLI. 01258 471194

PEST CONTROL SPECTRUM PEST CONTROL

PLUMBING, HEATING & DRAINAGE

Advertising made

Wasps, Rodents, and all other pests humanely dealt with. All forms of bird and rodent proofing undertaken.

simple

Technician. Member of the British Pest Control Association T: 01258 721462 M: 07379 405080

01963 400186

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

01747 854887 07525 755696

adverts@blackmorevale.net

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

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

GASTECHPLUMBING.COM

07783 994377

•

Bath/shower room design & installation • Wall and Floor Tiling • Prompt plumbing solutions 07884 946219 / 01258 820897

Call 01963 400186 to advertise in Local Services

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

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, September 11, 2026

Local Services

blackmorevale.net

PLUMBING, HEATING & DRAINAGE

DWS DRAINAGE UNBLOCKING DRAINS

ROOFING Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.

Sewers • Toilets • Sinks • Downpipes • CCTV Surveys • HP Jetting

Call David on 07526484529 ROOFING Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.

Tom the Roofer All Roofing Services & Repairs

01747 854887 07525 755696

All Aspects Of Roofing Undertaken

• Felt Roofing Specialist • Tiling, Slating and UPVC • Velux Windows • No Job Too Small • Insurance Work • Leadwork Friendly Service Free Estimates Mobile 07973 248319 scott@scottmilesroofing.co.uk

CHRIS LANGLEY FLAT ROOFING BLANDFORD Specialist in Hi-performance felt & GRP. All of our work is GUARANTEED. All types of roofing professionally carried out. PERSONAL SUPERVISION OF ALL ORDERS.

FREE D AN QUOTESATES ESTIM

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

Based in Wincanton Contact Chris

valesideroofing@hotmail.com Find us on

TARMAC / SURFACING

-MACHINE OR HAND LAY -OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE -LOCAL AUTHORITY APPROVED -PRIVATE & COMMERCIAL WORKS UNDERTAKEN -ALL ASPECTS OF SURFACING, ROADS, DRIVES, FOOTPATHS & DROP KERBS CONTACT US FOR A FREE QUOTE ON 01747 820234 OR EMAIL INFO@CGSURFACING.CO.UK C&G SURFACING LTD, THE DEPOT, LONGCROSS, ZEALS

TILING

Classified ad?

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

TELL OUR 90,000 READERS for just

£1.12

per word*

*Not including VAT

G& M T I L I NG WA L L & F L O O R T I L ER 35 years experience Member of the Guild of Master Craftsmen Fully insured FREE estimates | No VAT

Call Graham on

07973 430681

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

blackmorevale.net

Local Services

TREE SURGEON

Announcements PUBLIC NOTICES CATHERINE ROSE DESTY Deceased Pursuant to the Trustee Act 1925 anyone with a claim against or an interest in the Estate of the deceased, late of St Nicholas House, St Nicholas Court, The Cross, Child Okeford, Blandford Forum, DT11 8ED; Silverwood, The Fairway, Weybridge, Surrey, KT13 0RZ, who died on 02/07/2025, must send written details to the address below by 12/11/2026, 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: MAR0627/0001

WASTE & HOUSE CLEARANCE SKIP HIRE ALTERNATIVE We do all the Work! Please call Paul on 01258 440838 or 07853 275379

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

Classified advertising

place your ad today

email: adverts@blackmorevale.net

Book online: blackmorevale.net

60th BIRTHDAY 60th BIRTHDAY PAUL YATES

Advertising made

simple

01963 400186 | adverts@blackmorevale.net

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

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

.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.

Happy birthday on the 18th September. Love from mum and all the family

DIAMOND WEDDING ANNIVERSARY Diamond Wedding Anniversary 17th September 2026 Bert & Jo Cox Congratulations Mum & Dad Lots of love Sharon, Richard and all the family

DEATHS Trevor Snook Husband to his beloved wife Rita for over 60 years, and the absolute best Dad and Grandad to his family, has died peacefully aged 81 in DCH. All are welcome to a memorial service for Trevor to be held at Shillingstone Church, Wednesday 23rd of September at 2 pm. If you wish to make a donation in memory of Trevor on the day, any monies collected will go to the Shillingstone Church roof appeal. Or should you wish to make your own private online donation in Trevor’s memory, please go to the website of the British Heart Foundation - bhf.org.uk.

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Announcements

blackmorevale.net

DEATHS KNOBBS (née Hinks) Karen Freda Juliet Passed away peacefully on Friday 28th August, 2026, aged 85 years. Much loved Wife of Richard, Mother, Grandmother and Great-Grandmother. Her funeral service will take place at Sherborne Abbey on Tuesday 22nd September, 2026 at 2.00pm. Donations, if desired for the British Heart Foundation may be sent c/o A.J. Wakely & Sons, 16 Newland, Sherborne, DT9 3JQ

Joan Arathoon ‘Bone’ Passed away at home on Sunday 30th August, aged 65. A much-loved mother to Sophie, Matthijs and Rachel and a beloved sister and friend to many. Private family funeral service followed by a Celebration of Life on Monday 28th September at 2pm at The Udder Farm Shop East Stour, all welcome. Donations if desired can be made online on a Much loved Tribute page for Joan via www.lchillandsonfuneraldirectors.co.uk

BRIAN RICHARD STREETER On 23rd August 2026 aged 92. Formerly of Elm Hill, Motcombe. Husband to Benita (Ben), father to Susan, Colin and Sarah. There is a path which we must travel, hand in hand together, but when at last, we reach the end. We must say goodbye forever. Behind us as we’ve gone along: Living, loving, talking, there’s only footprints in the grass, but I’ve much enjoyed the walking. B.R. Streeter Private Cremation has taken place. Donations in his memory to Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance may be made online at www.mhfd.co.uk or sent to Merefield & Henstridge F/D, Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 0BU. Tel: 01747 853532.

GILLIAN ANNE YOUNG It is with immense sadness I announce the death of my dear sister Gillian, formerly of Henstridge, who died after a short illness on 18th July, aged 74, at her home in London. She travelled the world, lived life to the full and was stoic to the end. She will be greatly missed by those who knew and loved her. May you rest in peace Gill. The funeral has taken place. Donations, if desired, to the Guide Dogs for the Blind or St. Raphael’s Hospice, London.

MARTIN Alan James Passed away peacefully at the Yeatman Hospital on Thursday 20th August 2026, aged 78 years. Partner to Carol, Dad to Christopher and Katie, and Grandad to Ambrose A funeral service will be held at St. Mary Magdalene Church, Castleton, Sherborne, on Thursday 17th September, 2026 at 11.00am. Donations in memory of Alan for Friends of the Yeatman Hospital may be sent, c/o A.J. Wakely & Sons, 16 Newland, Sherborne, DT9 3JQ.

Michael Burden Passed away suddenly but peacefully at home on 25th August 2026. Aged 82 years. A very much loved husband of Margaret, Father, Grandfather and Great Grandfather. Funeral Service to be held at Poole Crematorium on Monday 28th September 2026 at 11am. Please wear bright colours. Family flowers only please. Donations if desired for either Cancer Research UK or British Heart Foundation, may be made online by visiting www.close-funeral.co.uk or cheques payable to either charity c/o Colin J Close Funeral Service, Peel Close, Salisbury Road, Blandford DT11 7JU. Tel: 01258 453133

June Lillian Goulding June of Sturminster Newton passed away peacefully aged 89 years. A Farmer’s daughter, a great Mother and Grandmother. June spent many years raising livestock in and around Sturminster Newton, she also worked in a couple of schools in Shaftesbury and spent regular time in her retirement helping with the Lunch Club in Sturminster Newton. Her love of animals, sense of humour and smile will always be missed. Thanksgiving Service at St Mary’s Church, Sturminster Newton on Tuesday 6th October 2026 at 2.30pm. Family flowers only please, but donations if desired for Dorset Hedgehog Rescue may be sent to Grassby & Close Funeral Service, 4 Innes Court, Sturminster Newton, DT10 1BB, Tel: 01258 471024 or made online by visiting www.grassbyclose-funeral.co.uk

CHARLES REGINALD RUSSELL ‘’Charlie’’ On 22nd August 2026 suddenly but peacefully in the Royal Bournemouth Hospital aged 91 years of Shaftesbury. A loving husband to Shirley also a much-loved Dad, Grandad and Great Grandad who will be greatly missed. Funeral service takes place at Salisbury Crematorium on Tuesday 15th September at 1:00pm. No flowers please but donations if desired to Fire Fighters Charity 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.

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Announcements

blackmorevale.net

DEATHS PEARCE Muriel Mabel - ‘Maureen’ (Mo)

Gloria ABBEY

Peacefully on 26th August 2026 at The Malthouse Care Home, aged 90 years, of Gillingham. Dearly loved wife of the late David. Much loved mum of Mark, Gregory and the late Wendy. Adored mother-in-law of Marilyn and Donna. Loving Grandma, Great Grandma and friend. Funeral service at Salisbury Crematorium on Friday, 2nd October at 12.00pm. No flowers please. Donations if desired, in memory of Maureen for Marie Curie can be made online at peterjacksonfuneralservices.co.uk

1936 – 2026 Memorial Service to celebrate her life Thursday 17th September 3pm Church of St Hippolytus Ryme Intrinseca.

WILKS Gwendaline Lucy Peacefully on 27th August 2026 at home in Bourton, aged 94 years. Beloved wife of the late Bill. Much loved mother, grandmother and great grandmother. Dearly loved sister and friend. Funeral service at St. George’s Church, Bourton on Wednesday, 16th September at 12.00pm, followed by interment. Donations if desired, in memory of Gwendaline for Marie Curie can be made online at peterjacksonfuneralservices.co.uk

DAVID FREDERICK GILBY Of Shaftesbury, passed away suddenly on 26th August 2026 in Salisbury District Hospital, aged 85 years. David will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Funeral service takes place at Salisbury Crematorium on Tuesday 22nd September at 11:00am. Please wear a splash of colour for David. No Flowers please but donations if desired to RNLI Poole, may be made online at www.mhfd.co.uk or sent to Merefield & Henstridge F/D, Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 0BU. Tel: 01747 853532.

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Trevor Snook Husband to his beloved wife Rita for over 60 years, and the absolute best Dad and Grandad to his family, has died peacefully aged 81 in DCH. All are welcome to a memorial service for Trevor to be held at Shillingstone Church, Wednesday 23rd of September at 2 pm. If you wish to make a donation in memory of Trevor on the day, any monies collected will go to the Shillingstone Church roof appeal. Or should you wish to make your own private online donation in Trevor’s memory, please go to the website of the British Heart Foundation - bhf.org.uk.

Independent Family Funeral Directors We've provided compassionate and dignified funeral services for over 100 years together.

GILLINGHAM Evelyn Mary Passed away peacefully on the 26th August 2026 at home, aged 96. Dearly loved Mum to John and Janet. Funeral Service to be held at Bournemouth Crematorium on Wednesday 23rd September at 11:30am. No Flowers by request but donations, if desired for Bipolar UK, 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

Bespoke Cremations & Burials Sherborne:

Direct Cremation

01935 816817

Pre-Payment Scheme Available Wincanton:

01963 31310

www.ajwakely.com

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

FUNERAL DIRECTORS H E L P I N G YO U E V E RY S T E P O F T H E WAY H E L P I N G YO U E V E RY S T E P O F T H E WAY

Your Local Local Your Funeral Professionals Professionals Funeral • Unattended funerals starting • Unattended from £995 funerals starting from £995 • Tailored and unique • Tailored unique Attendedand Funerals Attended Funerals • Prepaid funeral plans • Prepaid funeral plans also available also available • Local knowledge and expertise • Local expertise with aknowledge reputationand for quality with a reputation for quality that is second to none that is second to none • Reassurance that your • Reassurance your loved one willthat be looked loved one utmost will be looked after with care and after with utmost care and professionalism professionalism

BRACHER BROTHERS FUNERAL DIRECTORS BRACHER BROTHERS FUNERAL DIRECTORS Newbury, Gillingham Newell, Sherborne Newbury, Newell, SP8 4QL Gillingham DT9 4EZSherborne SP8 4QL 822494 DT9 4EZ 813479 Tel: 01747 Tel: 01935 Tel: 01747 822494 Tel: 01935 813479 Available 24 hours a day. Available 24 hours a day. Find us at: dignityfunerals.co.uk/local

Find us at: dignityfunerals.co.uk/local

Pricing is correct at time of print and is subject to change. Price stated is for an Unattended Funeral.

Are you considering a Direct Cremation? Our all-inclusive price covers the collection of the deceased person through to an unattended cremation at Harbour View Crematorium, with the reassurance that personalised options are available to suit your specific needs.

Packages start from £1,695 From ‘Direct’ Cremation to complete funeral services, call 01202 630111 or visit www.harbourview.co.uk

Pricing is correct at time of print and is subject to change. Price stated is for an Unattended Funeral.

Still a family run business, serving Dorset communities since 1861 Colin J. Close Funeral Service Peel Close, BLANDFORD FORUM Tel: (01258) 453133 www.close-funeral.co.uk

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New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Recruitment

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

WEEKEND RELIEF MILKER WANTED on dairy farm between Wincanton and Bruton. 07812-009364. DOMESTIC HELP WANTED Lydlinch area. 3-4 Hours a week ,mornings preferred. Own transport essential. Please phone or text 07770-958870 DRIVER REQUIRED, Term time only. Full Time or Part Time across Dorset. Further details: 07813-209841 GARDENING SERVICES, BRIDPORT. Contact Tom: 07398-447713. tscottmasson@gmail.com

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A to Z Classic Car Restoration are looking for the following: A Mechanic who knows their way around classic vehicles, who can fix and repair and also weld and fabricate, working unsupervised for a 40hr week this position is self employed and ongoing. Also we are looking for a qualified Paint Sprayer who also does prep work again a 40hr week self-employed, also ongoing. Good workshop and facilities, no tools required unless you have your own spray guns. Reason for advertising, current painter wants to retire and work load increase means we need more hands,only experienced need apply, suit semi retired. Laid back environment so no stress.

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EVERSHOT FARMS LTD EXPERIENCED HERSPERSON/ GENERAL FARM WORKER REQUIRED Located between Yeovil and Dorchester

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RECRUITMENT EVENT – SHAFTESBURY

Learning Support / Teaching Assistant Jobs at Coombe House School Wednesday 7 October 2026 Starting at 2pm (arrival from 1.30pm) To book your place call 01747 449858 or Email: HR@coombehouse.org.uk www.coombehouseschool.org.uk

An exciting opportunity is available in West Dorset on a 1,350 cow, high yielding modern dairy unit. We are recruiting an experienced Herdsperson / General Farm Worker to join the team. Working closely with the Livestock Manager and deputising when required. The dairy has modern facilities that are in their next stages of investment. Duties include but are not limited to: • Herd management/record keeping, • Relief for our calving unit • Relief feeding, • Maintaining high standards of cleanliness and animal welfare following farm protocols, • General farm tasks, • Foot trimming an advantage. In return we offer: • A competitive salary and pension, • Regular time off, • Accommodation on request. Experience with livestock and a full UK driving licence are essential. In addition, candidates must be self-motivated, have practical communication skills and be a team player. Part-time positions would be considered. Please contact our Livestock Manager, Darren Trim for further details: 07815 313241 or dtrim@velcourt.co.uk

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Food & Drink

blackmorevale.net

01963 220 317 info@thequeensarms.com www.thequeensarms.com Find us in Corton Denham, just 4 miles from Sherborne

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. Open Seven Days a week for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner from 8 - 11pm.

aditional village pub A tr in t

Cookery tutor and food writer Philippa Vine

Food for autumn COOKERY tutor, food writer and champion of British seasonal food, Philippa Vine, is set to demonstrate the best of her seasonal recipes from her latest cookbook in Bridport. Philippa is based on her family farm in East Sussex and has been a columnist for

he h eart of

Farmer’s Weekly for over 12 years. She recently launched a new website and series of cookbooks inspired by seasonal cooking and will showcase recipes from her book, Autumn, at the Rural Ranges’ showroom at the North Mills Estate. The cooking demonstration and food-tasting event is on Saturday, September 19, with tickets priced £25, including food tasting and refreshments.

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

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

blackmorevale.net

Food & Drink

TOP Gear legend James May has launched a new ale at his Wiltshire pub, saying: “If you want a beer that does more than this, you’re probably asking too much of it.” The Spanner is made by Dorset-based family brewer and pub company Hall & Woodhouse in collaboration with the celebrity petrolhead. Described as a refreshing 3.8% ABV traditional cask ale, it is brewed using British ingredients. The beer reflects the nature of its namesake, offering a simple, easy drinking beer that does one thing really well – an approach that has earned it James May’s seal of approval. James May took on The Royal Oak in Swallowcliffe during lockdown in 2020, furthering his love for beer and British pub culture. Speaking about his newest offering behind the bar, he said:

The Spanner is brewed using a combination of pale, crystal and amber malts that are said to deliver a moreish biscuit mouth feel and light auburn colour. New and traditional British hops varieties are used within The Spanner’s blend, including Challenger, Harlequin and Olicana. These varieties have been chosen to give a balanced and ‘sessionable’ hop character. Toby Heasman, head brewer at Hall & Woodhouse, said: “It has been an absolute joy working with James May to develop The Spanner. “We started the process at my home, where I have a small, micro-brewery in the garden shed. “James came over and we spent an afternoon trying different Badger ales, getting his input into what our new beer should deliver. “We’re very excited to bring The Spanner to market across our estate of pubs, and, of course, it will be on tap at James’ own pub, The Royal Oak in Swallowcliffe.”

Celebrity petrolhead raises a glass to new ale

Toby Heasman, head brewer at Hall & Woodhouse, and former Top Gear presenter James May PHOTO: Hall & Woodhouse

“The Spanner isn’t trying to be clever. It has a single purpose – to be a good, reliable British ale that makes you want to stay in the pub for another and

New cafe bar creating about 30 jobs LOUNGERS, the West Countrybased cafe bar group, was set to open the doors of Sereno Lounge in Sherborne on Wednesday (September 9), creating about 30 jobs. The former Original Factory Shop in Cheap Street has been transformed by the Loungers design team with richly patterned wallpapers, murals, colourful tiling, stripped wooden floors, oversized vintage sofas and upholstered lounge chairs, all brought together with an eclectic mix of artwork.

Statement wall and pendant lighting create a series of cosy corners and elegant dining areas for guests to relax in throughout the day. Sereno Lounge will welcome guests from morning through to late evening with a varied and innovative all-day menu. Martin Bolt, general manager at the venue, said: “We’re so excited to finally welcome the community into Sereno Lounge. “We can’t wait to open our doors and become a place where families, friends and neighbours come together to enjoy great

another. “If you want a beer that does more than this, you’re probably asking too much of it.”

Turning on the style: Interiors from some of Loungers’ venues around the country and promised in Sherborne

food, great drinks and a brilliant atmosphere – a real hub for the whole community. “We’re looking forward to supporting local groups, hosting meet-ups and offering a welcoming space for all.” The all-day menu includes everything from brunch, tapas, toasties and salads to burgers, tacos, noodles and fried chicken. Vegan and gluten-free menus ensure guests with dietary

requirements have plenty of choice. Sereno Lounge will also run a series of weekly offers, including Tapas Tuesday, Cocktail Club and Lunch Deal. Games, books, colouring pencils and pads will be available to keep younger visitors entertained. There are also highchairs, baby changing facilities and a full children’s menu.

GOT A STORY? Then email newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Health & Wellbeing

blackmorevale.net

Birthday present from my daughter’s by Fiona Chapman MY daughter’s quite new boyfriend very kindly gave me a plant for my birthday called Amorphophallus konjac – pictured right – literally translated as ‘misshapen penis’! He told me it was not hard to look after, with a twinkle in his eye at the innuendo. I have been chuckling to myself about it

ever since. When he said the name, I said it must be something to do with a penis, and he explained that he had given it to me because I am a herbalist and it is used in traditional Chinese medicine.

by Nicole Asghar AS the light softens and summer’s busyness gives way to slower, cosier days, many of us find ourselves reflecting back and then looking forward. The long, full days of summer often ask a lot of us – more energy, more socialising, more doing, and once autumn arrives, so does a natural invitation to rest. ‘Thank goodness’, some of us think… For many people, ‘more’ carries a different weight. More nutritious food. More fun. More planning. More organisation. Said aloud, these sound like

reasonable aims, yet they can feel like a measure of selfworth – what I’m already doing is not enough, therefore I am not enough. This is a familiar pattern for many – a habit of self-criticism, of constantly negotiating with ourselves to be better, more capable, more together, while also being smaller – less talkative, less demanding, less opinionated. It’s a pattern seen often in late-diagnosed or undiagnosed neurodivergent women and men who have spent years feeling they’ve never quite got this life

I must admit, I have not come across it before and, as I was quite startled by the plant and

name, didn’t concentrate fully on caring for it. (It is still alive, thank goodness!) Apparently, it is also called the voodoo lily, devil’s tongue or snake palm. It has a huge purple flower – like a phallus which smells of rotten meat, to attract flies. It should be grown indoors, and this is its first year, so I don’t

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thing ‘right’. Understanding one’s own neurodivergent traits, the inner critic, and the beliefs formed along the way, isn’t always easy work. But over time, something shifts. A lightness appears. Ease starts to feel possible. And then sometimes, the things that once felt like heavy demands – the resting, eating well, having fun, planning, organising – start to feel lighter, too. Not because anyone tried harder, but because selfacceptance began to permeate. A felt sense of safety grows from the recognition that we were never meant to do it all or be endlessly different from who we are. As autumn settles in, there’s a quiet permission in the season itself – to slow down, to turn inward. Therapy, yoga, honest conversations with friends, long voice notes, a good book or podcast — can all be ways into that same self-acceptance and a way to understand ourselves further.

think it will flower until it is between three and five years old – which I am quite relieved about! I thought it must be for erectile dysfunction – but no, I am very wrong. It is a medicinal plant used in traditional Chinese medicine, but it is also eaten widely in China and Japan. The

Autumn arrives and so does a natural invitation to rest

Everyone is deserving of that ease and understanding. So perhaps the question worth asking this season isn’t how to reach for more, but how to reach for something that frees us instead of weighing us down. n Nicole Asghar is a Dorsetbased therapist working online and around Bournemouth. Specialising in neurodivergence, trauma and yoga. She offers courses in understanding neurodivergence and burnout. Get in touch via nicole@ourluminousminds.com or www.nicoleasghar.com

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New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

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boyfriend… tubers, or corms, toxic if eaten raw, are turned into a flour or gel used to make low calorie foods such as noodles and tofu. The flour can absorb huge amounts of water and, if eaten, swells in the stomach to give a feeling of fullness. It also has prebiotic properties, as it is mainly

digested in the colon, so helps feed good bacteria in the gut. As a result of this, it is taken for digestive issues, combating obesity and for high cholesterol. In traditional Chinese medicine it is given to those with chronic coughs and asthma, as it is believed to liquify phlegm. It has also been shown to

Meditations in nature: Listening to the landscape by Susanna Curtin THE sun is high, flooding this parched landscape with the heat of the day. Laid out on a soft rug, gazing up into the latesummer sky, I am taking time out at a favourite Dorset music festival. It is Sunday afternoon, perfectly suited to the sweet, gentle tunes coming from the stage. For a moment, the notes seem completely at one with the wind, the backdrop of hedgerows and hills, and the seagulls soaring on the breeze. It feels as though the music belongs to this land. It reminds me of the haunting, ethereal melodies of the zampoña windpipes, which somehow conjure the Andean mountains of Peru; the deep, reverberating sound of a didgeridoo, which takes me to the Australian outback; or the slow, heavy rhythmic pulse of the blues, which makes me imagine the humidity and flat expanse of the southern States. Over the years, I have come to appreciate how music reflects the landscapes and cultures from which it, and the instruments used to make it, have come. Nature, people, culture and music all coming together as an acoustic mirror of the environment. Sound, at its simplest, is a vibration that travels outwards through a medium, usually the

The sound of the willow warbler is heard less often now

air. As it moves, it causes the surrounding molecules to vibrate, creating a wave of sound energy. When that sound reaches our ears, our brains interpret it. Earlier today, I enjoyed an hour-long sound bath. For those who have never experienced one, it is essentially a relaxation practice in which you are surrounded by layers of sound, often from gongs, chimes, singing bowls, drums and other instruments. The sounds are usually slow, sustained or repetitive, with rich overtones and enough unpredictability to hold our attention. My experience this morning was quite profound. There was nothing to physically do except lie there, surrounded by a constantly shifting tapestry of sound. Gradually, I stopped trying to make sense of what I was hearing and simply experienced it. I drifted in and out of sleep. Some sounds evoked feelings of darkness,

Health & Wellbeing reduce abscesses and swellings in the body and is used as what in Western herbal medicine would be called an alterative, meaning it slowly improves the quality of blood, in this case by reducing blood stasis. It is also prescribed in traditional Chinese medicine for sluggish digestion and

constipation, and clearing toxic waste in the digestive system. It is a highly useful and widely used plant and I shall watch it grow with interest – maybe putting it outside when it flowers! n Fiona Chapman is a naturopathic herbalist (email Pellyfiona@gmail. com).

others of light and joy, while some were simply playful. The imagery that followed was surprisingly intense. At one stage, I was dancing through meadows; at another, I was floating through our solar system. It was a powerful feeling, and one that I will never forget. Perhaps part of the appeal is that we cannot shut our ears in the way we can our eyes. We are normally listening, ready to interpret a noise or take action as a result of a conversation, a melody or a warning. But when there is nothing to understand and no response is required, we can simply surrender to the vibration and the nature of sound itself, rather than what it means. In some ways, a sound bath is similar to our experience in nature. Birdsong, waves against the shore, buzzing or clicking insects and rustling trees attract our attention, but rarely demand a response. Instead, we can simply listen and enjoy the constantly changing soundscape. Lying here enjoying the music, I am also thinking about the way soundscapes can trigger memories. Earlier today I was listening to some sea shanties and they immediately took me back several years to when I was working on a whale-watching boat sailing off the foggy coast of Newfoundland. It was my first day on board. As we set sail from the harbour and disappeared into the mist, the crew began to softly sing an old sea shanty from the days of whaling. It remains one of the most intense and evocative moments at sea I can remember. Soundscapes work as

auditory cues in much the same way as scents. A single sound or musical tune can evoke vivid recollections of a place or an emotion, taking us back to childhood landscapes, relationships or a particular time in our lives. Sound and music are closely connected with the brain’s systems for emotion and long-term memory. And it isn’t just music that does this. The sounds of nature can be equally powerful. In fact, soundscapes can also preserve ecological memories. My summers as a child were marked by the beautiful descending notes of willow warblers. Alas, I don’t hear them as often now. What I heard back then is not necessarily what my grandchildren will hear, and what I heard as a child was not what my grandparents heard. That thought makes me realise that sound does much more than fill the air. It fills our heads and our thoughts, stitches together past and present, and gives a landscape its own identity. Perhaps that is why I love soundscapes so much. They are much more than background noise. They are, in effect, ‘ecological sound tapes’, carrying memories of places, seasons, wildlife and people. And when a sound disappears, we may lose more than just a noise; we may lose part of the character of a landscape. Eventually, the band plays its last tune. I gather up my things and return to the campsite to enjoy the company of good friends, the laughter, the songs and the conversations. n Dr Susie Curtin (email curtin. susanna@gmail.com).

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Motoring

blackmorevale.net

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New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Motoring

blackmorevale.net

Privately owned EVs top 860,000

PRIVATE ownership of electric cars continued to gather pace in the first quarter of 2026, with more privately owned EVs added than in any previous quarter, according to new analysis by The AA. Department for Transport vehicle licensing statistics show there were 860,334 privately owned battery electric cars on UK roads at the end of the first quarter of 2026. That is up by 271,382 on the same period last year and by 83,136 from the end of 2025, a rise of 10.7% in three months and the largest quarteron-quarter increase on record. The latest figures suggest

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OLD, INTERESTING & CLASSIC CARS wanted pre 1990s Any condition including unfinished projects Cash/ Transfer. Please Phone Paul - 07890 096907

private demand for electric cars continues to strengthen. Greater model choice, improving battery technology and a buoyant used EV market are helping to bring electric motoring within reach of more households than ever before. The AA’s June EV Readiness Index also suggested that ‘range anxiety’ is increasingly being replaced by ‘pump anxiety’. Following the conflict in the Middle East, higher oil prices have driven up the cost of petrol and diesel, making the lower day-to-day running costs of electric vehicles an increasingly important consideration for many drivers. CARS, VANS, 4x4 HIRE. Kings Stag Garage Hire. DT10-2AZ. Tel: 01258-817350

Indoors • Safe • Secure Motorhomes, Caravans, Cars, Boats, & other Vehicles Puxey Farm, Puxey, Sturminster Newton, Dorset, DT10 2HR Friendly, reliable service at Competitive Rates Contact: Steve Vining on 07910 266527 Nici Vining on 07838 293751 | nici.vining@outlook.com

Over Over Over 3030 30 years years years experience experience experience

Best Best Best prices prices prices paid paid paid please please please call: call: call:

www.kpcleisure.co.uk www.kpcleisure.co.uk www.kpcleisure.co.uk

WANTED

• Cars - Vans - 4x4 • MOT Failures • Runners / Non-Runners • Unfinished Projects • Minimum of £200 paid on Scrap Vehicles • Full DVLA paper work completed • Payment on collection

All vehicles wanted Cash paid

Please call Ryan: 07474 737577 t Acciden ? damage

The New Blackmore Vale Magazine Sell your car by placing a classified advert

call 01963 400186

Scratch e

We provide high-quality carbody repairs and paintwork services for cars and vans  Accident repairs  Dent and bodywork repairs  Professional paint matching and refinishing  High-quality spray painting We are one of the few local repair specialists with a professional spray booth large enough to accommodate vans! This allows us to deliver a proper, high-quality finish even on larger vehicles. +44 1747 708072

07765 605564

www.gtbodyshop.co.uk info@gtbodyshop.co.uk 25A Longmead, Shaftesbury, SP7 8PL

Dents? Paintwo rk Issues?

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Pets

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Settling in a rescue dog – what to by Raychel Curson BRINGING home a rescue dog is exciting, emotional and sometimes a little chaotic. One minute you’re imagining cosy cuddles on the sofa, and the next you’re wondering why your new dog is hiding behind the kitchen table or barking at the toaster. If your rescue dog seems nervous, withdrawn or

overwhelmed, don’t panic – this is completely normal. For many rescue dogs, everything in your home is unfamiliar. New people, smells, routines, noises and expectations can feel

by Lynn Broom BVSc, GPCert(ExAP), AdvDipAAB, MRCVS URINARY issues can develop for many reasons. Observing changes in drinking and urinating can help point towards possible causes. Drinking more can lead to increased urine volume which may cause urinary incontinence to develop. If the urine is dilute, then it is important to determine whether an underlying condition is causing increased drinking, such as Cushing’s Disease, or whether an inability to concentrate the urine, such as kidney failure, has developed. Increased frequency of urination can develop due to pain, increased volume or

hormonal effects. Cystitis causes pain and increased desire to urinate. Increased volume makes the bladder fill up faster and need emptying more often. Male dogs will often scent mark, sniffing and urinating on every tree! Female dogs in season will often urinate more frequently. Female puppies are prone to vaginitis which mimics cystitis, but this usually resolves after their first season. Diabetes mellitus causes glucose to leak into the urine causing it to be more dilute leading to increased thirst to compensate. Weight loss and excessive appetite will often be present initially and, if left untreated, this can progress to ketosis and coma. The presence

Place your classified advert today

FOX TERRIER PUPPIES playful, affectionate and full of character. Lovely companions. Flead, wormed and chipped. Available from 2nd September Girls £1400. (Not KC Registered) Ready to go. 07873366685 01258-830569. (had 1st vacinations)

like a lot to process. Even the most loving home can feel scary at first when a dog doesn’t yet know if they’re truly safe. Give them time to adjust ONE of the biggest

mistakes new owners make is expecting too much too soon. Some rescue dogs settle in within days, while others need weeks or months to fully relax. Let your dog explore their new home at their own pace and avoid overwhelming them with constant attention or visitors. Create a calm safe space

of glucose in the urine increases the risk of bacterial growth leading to recurrent cystitis. Kidney disease can be acute or chronic. Acute causes sudden onset symptoms and dogs will often be very unwell. Causes such as bacterial infections or obstructions due to bladder stones can cause acute kidney failure. If the initial cause is rapidly treated and removed the kidneys may make a full recovery. Chronic kidney disease usually develops over time causing progressively more frequent urination due to the kidneys’ inability to concentrate the urine, increased drinking, reduced appetite, weight loss, vomiting and smelly breath. Chronic kidney disease cannot be cured but may be managed with medication and diet. Bladder stones can develop for many reasons. Dalmatians are prone to developing urate stones because of a gene mutation. Certain diets can lead to development of stones high in magnesium – struvite stones.

Struvite stones are often associated with infection and can be dissolved by dietary changes. Calcium oxalate stones often need surgical removal and are more difficult to control with diet. Less common ones include cystine and silica stones. Stones can be difficult to diagnose. Struvite crystals can develop in urine samples that are not fresh and can lead to false positives. Not all stones show up on x-rays depending on their composition. Significant numbers of stones may form before symptoms are noticed and, when this occurs, surgical removal is necessary. If a stone passes into the urethra it can cause an acute obstruction with severe pain and risk of rupture and acute kidney failure and requires immediate treatment. If you have noticed changes in your dog’s urination, it is a good idea to initially have a fresh urine sample checked to see if further investigations are required.

Urinary problems in dogs

CLASSIFIED

01963 400186

Mid Dorset Cats Protection

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

C.B. Brett & Son Pet & Wildlife Dog - Wet, Dry & Frozen Food Cat - Wet & Dry Food Bird/Hedgehog/Wildlife Food, Feeders & Accessories Old Market Car Park, Hound St, Sherborne, DT9 3AB

01935 812107

WANTED: Ginger (or black/white) Cat, aged 5-8 years. Tel: 01935-812617 GUINEA PIGS, all ages, all colours. To forever homes. £15 Tel: 07736 886736 HAIGHT, WHOOPS-AWAY, poo digester. buyer to collect. £1,500. Tel: 07508-480602

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

blackmorevale.net

expect in the first few weeks EVERY rescue dog benefits from having a quiet place to retreat to. Whether it’s a comfy bed, crate or quiet corner, having somewhere safe helps them decompress when they’re feeling unsure. Keep routines predictable DOGS love routine because it helps them understand what’s

happening next. Feeding times, walks, toilet breaks and bedtime should stay as consistent as possible during the first few weeks. Build trust slowly TRUST isn’t built overnight — especially for dogs with difficult past experiences. Gentle voices, patience, treats and positive interactions go a

long way. Celebrate small wins, whether it’s taking a nap near you or wagging their tail for the first time. Settling in a rescue dog isn’t always picture-perfect, but it’s incredibly rewarding. There may be accidents, sleepless nights or moments of frustration, but there will also be breakthroughs, trust and

Pets

unforgettable bonds. With patience and kindness, your rescue dog will slowly realise they’re no longer surviving – they’re finally home. n Raychel Curson BSc (Hons) MA CCAB APBC-CAB FABC ABTC-CAB is owner of Pet Peeves Animal Behaviour & Teaching (email raychel@ petpeevessomerset.co.uk).

MID DORSET CATS PROTECTION 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 Tabatha, three. Sweet little ‘torbie’ cat – tabby with a bit of ginger. Beatrix and Bonnie, 11 weeks. Tabby and white and black and white playful girl kittens – no photos yet. 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

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Sport

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Rockies go down against Islanders FOOTBALL Pitching In Southern League 1 (South) Portland United 2 Shaftesbury 0 by Avril Lancaster SHAFTESBURY put up a decent showing but could not break down a resolute Portland United defence at the Camp & Satherley Stadium on Bank Holiday Monday in front of 396 fans. Dawid Regula had the Rockies’ best chance but was blocked by home keeper Callum Smalley, and Cameron Murray and Tom Jarvis pushed forward, but Kyle Critchell’s side was well organised and held firm. Patrick Jenkins smashed the ball past Rhomey Ashby Hammond into the net from a corner with 24 minutes played to put the Islanders ahead. Jenkins doubled the lead and his tally in the 64th minute following a defensive mix up.

Podium finish: Gary Kemp and Steve Archer (centre)

Pickleball pair strike gold

Shaftesbury could not break down Portland’s defence

Harry Baker went close to halving the arrears after some creative play from Ollie Hughes but it simply wasn’t to be with Rockies’ boss Jim Milligan looking to reset as the season moves forwards.

by Emma Plimmer TEAM Dorset returned to Birmingham’s Alexander Stadium to compete in the National Relay Championships for the third year running. In a hugely competitive and hard-fought event, the Under 16 Boys 4 x 300m ran a thrilling race taking second place in 2.29.92. The promising team of

ago, eventually joining forces before entering the largest pickleball event in the UK. The tournament took place at Birmingham’s NEC Arena and attracted more than 3,500 fans and players of this rapidly growing sport. Fans of the sport, or anyone wants to try it out, can find out more at www.pickleballengland. org or look out for local taster events on World Pickleball Day on Saturday, October 10.

Mila breaks javelin record

ATHLETICS

Boys shine in relay

PICKLEBALL players Gary Kemp, 69, and Steve Archer, 66, both from Salisbury, won gold medals at the Pickleball English Open 2026. They were competing in the 65 years 3.5 category men’s double event. The pair train regularly at Salisbury’s Five Rivers leisure centre and are still keen tennis players. They started playing pickleball just over three years

Harley, Elliott, Thomas and Harrison – pictured – walked away with silver medals. It is the third year Team Dorset have won a medal at this event, and the future remains bright for athletics in the county. The county team is made up of members from Dorchester AC, Poole AC, Poole Runners and Wimborne AC, all of which have great coaches and are happy to welcome new members. Or, for more information, visit www. dorsetathletics.org

YOUNGSTERS from Wimborne Athletic Club performed well in the UK Age Groups Championships in Bedford. Mila Desborough was again in fine form breaking the javelin record for her age group with a winning throw of 47 metres 40 centimetres. Elliott Trickey was sixth in the under 16 triple jump with 12.86. Mila retained her title in the South West Inter Counties Championships in Exeter the previous weekend with 41.17. Elliott won the triple jump with 12.43. Maisie Robbins has had an exceptional competitive year, sometimes winning all three of

Mila Desborough, of Wimborne AC, at the English Schools Championships

her league events. At Exeter she won the high jump with 1.40 and the shot with a personal best 9.36. Tilly Pretty won the under 14 girls discus with a personal best 25.56 and Lila Richards won the under 14 girls long jump with 4.97. Zac Johnson in the under 14 boys hammer with 29.96 and Olivia Eves with 4.56.88 in the under 16 1500 metres won bronze medals.

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Sport

blackmorevale.net

Fan zone local highlight at world championships WINDSURFING A FREE fan zone being held tomorrow (Saturday, September 12) outside Weymouth Pavilion will provide the highlight of windsurfing’s 2026 Musto iQFOiL World Championships. Up to 250 of the world’s leading windsurfers from more than 40 nations have been competing off the Dorset coast over the past week. Visitors to the free fan zone, running from 10am-6pm, will be able to watch the decisive Medal Series live on a giant screen, enjoy expert commentary, athlete interviews, music, family activities and celebrations as the new world champions are crowned. The fan zone will run alongside Weymouth Town Council’s Waterfest on the beach opposite the beach office, with opportunities to try kayaking, paddleboarding, beach yoga, sea swimming and a range of children’s activities. Free, pre-bookable taster sessions will give people the chance to experience sailing and windsurfing for themselves, with equipment and instruction provided by qualified Royal Yachting Association (RYA) coaches. The event is expected to bring economic, tourism and

The 2026 Musto iQFOiL World Championships have been taking place in Weymouth and Portland over the last week

community benefits to the area while further cementing Weymouth and Portland’s reputation as one of the world’s premier sailing destinations. Niall McLeod, event director for the Musto iQFOiL World Championship, said: “The free fan zone is designed to make the final day welcoming and accessible, whether you follow sailing closely or simply want a memorable day out. “We would love to see Weymouth Pavilion and the harbourside full of local support as the world titles are decided.” Cllr Nick Ireland, leader of Dorset Council, said: “Hosting a World Championship of this scale is fantastic for Dorset. “Events like this don’t come

around very often, but it gives us the chance to show off our stunning coastline to an international audience while bringing people into Weymouth to support local businesses. “We very much hope it will inspire young people to get involved in water sports which are available right on their doorstep. “We are really pleased that local people can be part of the event and even try a new water sport while celebrating Dorset’s unique connection with sailing.” For full fan zone information – and to find out more about free taster session bookings – visit www.rya.org.uk/iqfoilworlds-2026

Legends match to mark 25 years since cup win FANS of Yeovil Town will see a host of familiar faces from different eras when a Yeovil Legends side takes on a South West Legends team to mark 25 years since the Glovers’ FA Trophy Triumph. The match is at Huish Park on Sunday, May 2, 2027, at 2pm, with a fanzone with fun

FOOTBALL and games for all generations open from 11.30am. Yeovil Town’s FA Trophy win at Villa Park in Birmingham was one of the club’s most iconic achievements. The 25th anniversary match

will also raise funds for the Adam Stansfield Foundation – the much-loved former Yeovil Town striker scored the winner in the FA Trophy final. Tickets for the match a go on sale tomorrow (Saturday, September 15) – player announcements will be made in the lead-up to the game.

GOLF WINCANTON Golf Club results: Monthly Stableford – August 22: 1 Mike Doddington 39; 2 Jim Phillips 36 ocb; 3 Charlie King 26; 4 David Whitehand 36; 5 Jo Brickwood 36. The Jack Smale’s Memorial Shield – August 25: 1 Andy Blandford 39; 2 Dave Hardiman 38; 3 Dave Shean 37 ocb; 4 Tim France 37; 5 Richard Strong 37; 6 Mike Case 37; 7 George Wagland 37. The Jack Smale’s Glass – August 25: 1 Martyn Andrews 22; 2 Alan Armstrong 20 ocb; 3 Jon Reed 20. Seniors Monthly Medal – August 28: 1 Stephen Parker nett 68; 2 Kevin Bieda nett 69; 3 Andy Blandford nett 71. Seniors Monthly Nine-Hole Medal – August 28: 1 Jon Reed nett 35 ocb; 2 Alan White nett 35; 3 Keith Williams nett 36. August Masters – August 29-30: The Masters trophy winner – Jim Phillips, best overall nett score 141; The Masters Chandler trophy winner – Oscar Martin, best overall gross score 154; Best nett round 1 – Charlie King, nett 71; Best nett round 2 – Jim Phillips, nett 69. Seniors Captains Cup – September 1: 1 Simon Lenton 42; 2 Dave Shean 41; 3 Tim Godfrey 40. Seniors 9 Hole Captains Cup – September 1: 1 David Hallett 21; 2 Ray Phillips 19 ocb; 3 Geoff Lye 19; 4 Jim Bunce 19. Seniors Roll Up Stableford Front 9 – September 4: 1 Jim Stephen 17; 2 Geoff Lye 16 ocb; 3 Andy Blandford 16; 4 Chris Dibben 16.

GOT A SPORT REPORT? Then email sports@ blackmore vale.net

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Items for sale

blackmorevale.net

CLASSIFIED ADS AGOGO MOBILITY SCOOTER. Excellent condition. No longer required. £300. Tel: 01963-251283 VELECO FASTER BLUE MOTILITY SCOOTER. Only done 60 miles. £750 ono. Tel: 07396-523161

NEW IKEA SINGLE BED, mattress, pillows, sheets, duvet, covers. £175. 01935 814535 BRAND NEW VAX CARPET CLEANER and Steam cleaner, plus extras, never used, £300. Tel: 07575-570480

TRAILER. 6ft x 4ft, 4 wheel, x 2 spare. In good condition, used twice. £450. 01258-503161.

BEAUTIFUL WARNER HOUSE CURTAINS - Chinese Garden. L 1.6m W 3.5m £200. Matching blind £80.00 01935 812527

E-BIKE TOP OF THE RANGE only 500 miles, needs new battery. Genuine reason for sale. Offers: 07359-891392.

LAWNMOWER EGO battery electric s/p 47cm cut, high quality, robust c/w rapid charger, spare blades, hardly used, cost £600, will accept £400ono. Tel 01747-812770

CHUBB SAFE. Homevault S2 15K. (size of a microwave). As new, bought for single purpose, no longer required. £140ono, 01460-929580

COURSE FISHING TACKLE ideal beginner or junior. All good condition, everything you need to get started. Selling as one lot. For more details: 07907-044084 Blandford.

FREE CLASSIFIED ADS SCHEPPACH DUST EXTRACTOR £30. ono. 07855 557585

6kg CALOR PROPANE GAS bottle. Approx 80% full. £35. Buyer collects. 07710 906326

RABBIT HUTCH. VGC £25. Folding run to suit £25. Sherborne collection. 07512-626054

UNFINISHED RESTORATION PROJECT, wingback armchair includes Teal blue material , to be collected. £20 07801 449249

AUDI A3 ROOF-RACK, as new £50. Tel: 07503-850209 LARGE DOG CRATE vgc. 42Wx29Dx32H. Will house adult GSD. £25. Tel: 07512-626054

LADIES ELECTRIC BIKE. Pendleton Somerby E. needs new brake blocks, £50. Tel: 01935-815321 (Sherborne) 07751-015098

FOYLE’S WAR complete series 1 to 8 on DVDs. Like new condition. £30 Gillingham. Tel: 07963 319751

LIGHTWEIGHT FOLDING WHEELCHAIR Ergonomic Design Transport Chair Folding Wheelchair Lightweight Portable Transit Travel £50.00. Tel: 07814-169714

FIDO DIDO 7UP tee shirt. Suit young person .Black 2, Mustard 1, £8 each . BA12. 01985-844606

ONE DOZEN WALLFLOWER PLANTS for £1.50 Tel.07811-008737

FREE, SMALL PEBBLES, easy to collect, next to vehicle. Tel: 01258-452749

LOAD OF STONE JARS some with inscriptions offers (under £50)- ring 01935-873441

BOSCH WOOD CHIPPER. £25 Tel: 07833-099691 LADIES RALEIGH BU CAPRICE BIKE. With bike cover. Good condition £50 01258-454062 CANVAS COVERED WARDROBE, light weight wooden frame, blue canvas cover £20 Tel: 07818-345464 ELECTRIC SCARIFIER & Aerator 1500W 37cm, Used once, £50, 01935 421313 (Yeovil) 45 CHILDREN’S ANNUALS from the 60s, 70s & 80s. £45 Enquiries for details: 01747-840835 DAIWA 14ft cross cast beach rod. Tronix Pro fixed spool reel £50 a pair. 07907-044084 VIBRAPOWER Toning exercise plate, stand, sit, lean on with full instructions GWO £35. 01963 363712 BIKE FOR SALE. Grey Apollo Excelle with lights. £30. 07983 381 745 REPRODUCTION MAHOGANY LAMP TABLE. Circular, single drawer, shelf at base. H64cm x 40cm diameter. vgc. £35. Gillingham. 07922-487573 INGENUITY COSY3 in 1 grow with me bouncer chair, bounce Rocks Vibration 3 to 18kg, £20, 07535-239907

ERGO GLIDE 900mm tile cutter & case, hardly used £45 - 07399 521377 DEHUMIDIFIER. £50 Gillingham, Tel: 01747 824850. 4 BEACH CHAIRS, Kitchen/ Dining, good condition, £45. (Yeovil) Tel: 07923-113072 TRAVALL BESPOKE DOG GUARD for Suzuki Vitara cost £160. Newly new immaculate condition. £50, 01963 362924 ADULT BYCYLE, with Front Suspension, 18 gears, Nice condition, £35, collect Gillingham, Tel: 01747 824240 FOUR DINING CHAIRS good condition £19 ono ring 01935 813967 PINE CHAIRS - 3 - well-made (stretcher bars) antique stain worn. £15 STREET 01458 44 32 64 TOUGHENED GLASS, 4 sheets 240cm x 80 cm and 5mm thick. £50, Tel 07979-760239 LONG CASE CLOCK by Dan Prestidge Towcester. Serviced. Working. Gift at £50. Buyer collects Shaftesbury. 07776 147242 GRACO new childs booster car seat £10. Tel: 07794-136581 LADIES QUILTED HOODED COAT (never worn) Navy, size 14-16. £15. Tel: 01747-590592

WANTED JAMES BUYS VINYL RECORDS. Call: 07970-769946 OLD BOOKS BOUGHT. Will call by appointment entirely without obligation. Bristow & Garland 07392 602014

WE’RE LOOKING FOR MORE SAMBA INSTRUMENTS! If you can help, please email fowlplaysamba@gmail.com. Thank you! HiFi EQUIPMENT, Turntables, Amplifiers, HiFi separates. Speaker systems including Sonos, Bose. If its gathering dust then call Andrew 07799-417711

COIN & STAMP COLLECTIONS WANTED Discerning collector/investor seeks pre-war collections of stamps and coins. Individual items considered.

Call Rod on 01308 863790 or 07802261339

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Field & Stream

blackmorevale.net

It’s show time for Eddie and Harry! by Tria Stebbing SMALLHOLDING in a drought. An interesting and challenging time for anyone 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, too, the animals not so much. The sheep have been treated for flystrike and bluetongue 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 to 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 Association’s breed standard demands, among other things, fleece with a good crimp, an uninterrupted blaze – the white stripe down the face – which is reasonably straight, as well as a white tip on the tail which must not extend more than halfway up the length. The little white socks that our breed has are very confusing! They can have two or four, but if two, they must be on the hind legs. The sock must also encircle the leg and touch the hoof in one or more places. The boys to be good young handlers need to know their

animals as well as know how to handle them appropriately. It goes without saying that we wish Eddie and Harry the best of luck at the Gillingham & 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 brought 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 of not farming on a big scale, that smallholders are as much a part of the picture as the big guys.

AN event celebrating the history, communities, ecology and conservation efforts of Cranborne Chase is taking place this month. Cranborne Chase National Landscape and Dorset Visual Arts have unveiled the ChaseEscape Walking Festival 2026 programme. A series of free events are designed to “help encourage people to access our National Landscape, bringing different groups and communities to the area to raise awareness of the

area’s natural and cultural heritage”. A spokesperson added: “Walks vary in length and difficulty, each focusing on a different aspect of our landscape, such as Iron Age hill forts, an elm tree nursery, chalk grasslands, a Gothic abbey and much more. “As well as more traditional walks, our partners Dorset Visual Arts will be delivering walking workshops, encouraging participants to view the landscape and its

heritage through different art mediums. “These include drawing,

handfelting and wax-resist painting, as well as making bird whistle pinch pots.”

A solitary dock growing on the parched field and the sheep enjoy their supplemented dinner

Cranborne Chase walking festival

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Farming

blackmorevale.net

Steering Group Bovine TB Strategy recommendations by Paul Doran MA, VetMB, MRCVs IN June this year, the Steering Group of the Bovine TB partnership for England published new recommendations for the bTB control strategy for England. This received some interest but has then been a little overshadowed by more pressing concerns such as the prolonged dry weather, heatstressed cattle, heat-stressed farmers and the alarming rise in bluetongue cases throughout the UK. The steering group includes representatives from APHA, Defra, the British Cattle Veterinary Association, scientific experts and cattle farmers. Both the full document and a summary can be found on the main page of the TB Hub website, https://tbhub.co.uk/ bTB is rarely a subject greeted with huge enthusiasm. The epidemiology of the disease can be fascinating, but dealing with the practicalities is frustrating. Given the stress, extra work and financial burden that bovine TB control creates for cattle farmers, and its high prevalence in the south west, it’s often hard not to feel powerless about the situation. I was therefore pleased reading the new strategy recommendations to find many to be refreshingly sensible. Although cattle vaccination still appears to be viewed as the ‘holy grail’, there are a range of more immediately

implementable recommendations as summarised below. Herd risk scores APHA produces a monthly TB risk score for every cattle herd in England, but this is not currently published or shared with farmers. It’s suggested the risk scores could be shared privately with farmers in the first instance to help them understand and manage risk and later be made publicly available to inform risk-based trading. Managing infection in persistently infected and high risk herds It’s suggested the testing regime which allows a herd to regain Officially Bovine TB-Free status should be altered for persistently infected herds, utilising more sensitive testing to reduce spread of infection through cattle movements and sales once these herds become unrestricted. Resolved IRs Resolved inconclusive reactors (IRs), must continue to remain restricted to the holding for life, as is currently the case. The group recommends removing the option to lift restrictions from these animals via interferon-gamma blood testing. Farmers should be encouraged to manage resolved IRs out of the herd, for example, by sending to slaughter as soon as practical. Use of ancillary tests Several methods of testing for TB aside from the skin test and interferon-gamma tests exist. No

test is perfect, but these tests have potential to better assess individual animal risk and support herd management, in a similar way to how Johne’s disease testing has been used to reduce prevalence in the national herd. Use of these tests is heavily restricted as they can only be used under license from APHA in herds currently under restriction. The testing is done at the farmer’s expense and any positive to animals must be culled from the herd promptly. Consequently, there is little appetite for use of these ‘ancillary tests’, despite their potential. The strategy recommendations outline a plan for a scheme whereby rules around this testing could become less restrictive, making it more practical to implement. Cattle vaccination There is discussion of the urgent need to overcome the remaining hurdles to implementing cattle vaccination alongside a skin test that differentiates infected from vaccinated animals (DIVA). The suggested goal is to be in a position to deploy cattle vaccination by 2030. It’s recommended that initial roll-out of vaccination should focus on high risk areas. Greater flexibility of TB testing intervals in proportion to risk Increase the capacity and practicality of AFUs and other biosecure routes to slaughter Enhanced movement testing to protect farmers from inadvertently buying

Calving & Calf Rearing Courses

in infection, for example, export interpretation of the skin test – there must be no bovine reaction at all for an animal to move – to be used in high risk situations. Clearer and more rapid support from APHA at breakdown disclosure Farm level data, local epidemiological information and guidance on case management and biosecurity being made rapidly available to farmers and their private vets Adopt a more locally responsive TB control system – rather than always a blanket policy for large geographical areas Wildlife control It’s recommended that use of badger vaccination is expanded and that surveillance for TB in badgers and deer is improved. It’s also recommended that implementation of practical and low cost biosecurity measures to reduce risk of wildlife to cattle transmission are continually encouraged. Conclusion Many of these recommendations encompass commonsense ideas that have been discussed or suggested by farmers and private vets for some time, so it’s refreshing to see them in a published list of recommendations. The question that remains now is how long we might reasonably be expected to wait before the recommendations start to be implemented. The Government’s aim is for England to achieve Officially Bovine TB-Free status by 2038, which is unlikely to be achieved by continuing as we are, so change is desperately needed.

01963 400186

Calf Rearing Fundamentals Friday 26TH June | 10:30am-3:30pm

Hanford Farm, Blandford Forum, Dorset DT11 8HL

Calf Rearing Advanced Friday 10TH July | 10:30am-3:30pm

Longmoor Farm, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 5QW

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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

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New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Farming

blackmorevale.net FLAIL TRIMMING AND TOPPING. Tel: 01747-855198 YEARLING FREE RANGE HENS. £2 each. Tel: 07971-546938 CARAVAN REMOVAL SERVICE, old, unwanted caravans & boat removal, cars, trailers, vans, etc. Garden machinery, tractors, scrap metal. Yard, garden, garage removal clearances undertaken, dismantling and gas cutting service. Please call 01935-873169 or 07368-380477 (Registered Waste Carrier)

CONTRACT SHEPHERD AVAILABLE, very experienced, all aspects of sheep work undertaken, any size flock. Tel 07968-049218

SHIPPING CONTAINERS FOR SALE / HIRE Tel: 01258 472288 Mob: 07977 936109 New and second hand containers - blue/green all with box locks

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New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Farming

blackmorevale.net

Broad Oak Guide £1,575,000 Mappowder Guide £595,000 A peacefully located smallholding with spacious 5 bedroom farmhouse, A fine Grade II listed former House with attractive gardens, stabling and kennels in 9.99 village acres. Post Further 11.61 acres available. a substantial barn/workshop and lovely views to the village church and Freehold. CTB G; EPC D. surrounding countryside. CTB E. Freehold. Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766 Andrew Tuffin | 01258 472244

South Dibberford Guide £595,000 Marnhull Guidelocation, £525,000 A smallholding tucked away in a private, yet easily accessible A character south-facing stone bungalow house in an(AOC) excellent village views, with an attractive 3-bedroom withcentral far-reaching location withby a large oak-framed double workshop and southsurrounded rolling pasture land andgarage, woodland. In all 29.40 acres facing gardens. CTB E. Freehold. (11.90 hectares). Freehold. CTB D; EPC: C Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766 Lucy Carnell | 01935 423526

Halstock, TO LET Shroton Yeovil Guide £435,000 Available to let2-bedroom on behalf of Dorset Council a delightfully positioned This delightful end-of-terrace cottage has been fully updated but retains great charm. It is situated in thea heart of this farmhouse, most desirable ringfenced livestock holding comprising 3 bedroom a village.ofCTB D. Freehold. range buildings and arable and pasture land extending to about Sturminster 01258 473766 74.92 acres Newton available |as a starter farm on a 12-year FBT from 25 March 2027. EPC E; CTB D Joanna Down - 01460 200791 | Greg Ridout - 01935 423526

Shillingstone TO LET North Cheriton OIEO £400,000 Available to let on behalf of Dorset Council an property equippedtucked dairy holding, An attractive, double-fronted 3-bedroom period away on anaidyllic country lanecomprising with character viewsof over in private position a 3 features bedroomthroughout farmhouse,and a range the neighbouring CTB C.and Freehold. buildings togethercountryside. with level arable pasture land extending to Sherborne | 01935 about 147.84 acres814488 available as a progression farm on a 20-year FBT from 25 March 2027. EPC D; CTB D Joanna Down - 01460 200791 | Greg Ridout - 01935 423526

Thursday 17th September at 11.00am - Conygre Farm, Easton Royal, Pewsey, SN9 5LU Dispersal Sale of 2 Tractors, Telehandler, Gator, Arable Machinery & Livestock Equipment Inc: John Deere 6155M (16) and 6600 (97), Claas Scorpion 6030CP Telehandler (12), John Deere XUV 590M Gator (18), Flexicoil 6.1m Folding Cambridge Rollers, Spaliding Flatlift 3 Leg Subsoiler, Kuhn Multi-Master 122 5f Rev. Plough, Kverneland 3m CLC Pro Min Till Cultivator, Kverneland Accord 4m TS Evo Drill, Kongskilde 4m Germinator Cultivator, Amazone ZA-M 1002 Fertiliser Spreader (22), AW 12t & AS 10t Grain Trailers, 3t Tipping Trailer, 2 x Grain Buckets, Flat 8 Bale Grab, Sheep Troughs, Feeders Nr Sturminster NewtonRidley Guide PriceBarrow, £1,100,000 Leigh & Hurdles, Rappa Workshop Items, etc.

OIEO £500,000 Tucked away down a no through lane is this extended and very well A tastefully improved 4-bedroom village house with light and spacious presented 4 bedroom country home with stable yard &of paddocks, in total accommodation, set in attractive On behalf Conygre Farms Ltd (Having sold the Farm) gardens and backing onto farmland. 4.11 acres. CTB E.Freehold, No onward chain. CTB F. Freehold. Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766 Sherborne | 01935 814488

Contact Greg Ridout: 01935 382909/07817 517467

Online bidding available

R E S I D E N T I A L | A G R I C U LT U R A L | C O M M E RC I A L

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Property

blackmorevale.net

Child Okeford Guide £875,000 Mappowder Guide £595,000 A detached five bedroom house with well presented and spacious A fine Grade II listed former Post House with attractive gardens, accommodation in the heartvillage of a sought after village with amenities. a substantial barn/workshop and lovely views to the village church and Freehold. CTB G; EPC C. surrounding countryside. CTB E. Freehold. Sturminster Newton || 01258 473766 Sturminster Newton 01258 473766

Shroton Guide £600,000 Marnhull Guide £525,000 Set in a large plot, with parking and level garden, this is a rare bungalow A character stoneDorset. house in an excellent central village in this lovelysouth-facing village in North location with a large oak-framed double garage, workshop and southFreehold. CTB D; EPC E. facing gardens. CTB E. Freehold. Sturminster Newton|| 01258 01258473766 473766 Sturminster Newton

Fontmell Magna Guide £395,000 Shroton Guide £435,000 An impressive, well presented three bedroom house in the heart of the This delightful 2-bedroom end-of-terrace cottage has been fully updated village withgreat parking and Itfront and rear gardens. but retains charm. is situated in the heart of this most desirable Freehold. CTB D; EPC C. village. CTB D. Freehold.

Bourton Guide £385,000 North Cheriton OIEO £400,000 An immaculately presented two bedroom bungalow with off street An attractive, double-fronted 3-bedroom period property tucked away on parking a private garden. an idyllicand country lane with character features throughout and views over Freehold. CTB C;countryside. EPC E. the neighbouring CTB C. Freehold.

Sturminster Newton || 01258 473766 473766 Sturminster Newton

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766 Sherborne | 01935 814488

Hazelbury Bryan Guide £300,000 Nr Sturminster Newton Guide Price £1,100,000 A new build ofaterrace house, well presented Tucked awayend down no through lanevery is this extended andand verywith wellparking for two cars in this smart development a wellyard regarded village.in total presented 4 bedroom country home withinstable & paddocks, Freehold. EPC B. 4.11 acres.CTB CTBD; E.Freehold, Sturminster Newton Sturminster Newton || 01258 473766 473766

Fontmell Magna Guide £300,000 Leigh OIEO £500,000 A bucolic greenstone built doublevillage fronted semi-detached II A tastefully improved 4-bedroom house with light andGrade spacious listed cottage with reed gardens thatchedand roof in theonto heartfarmland. of a thriving accommodation, setainwater attractive backing village. Freehold. CTB F. D;Freehold. EPC Exempt. No onward chain. CTB 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

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Property

blackmorevale.net

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 Guide £10,000 – 01258 473766 – Dorchester – 2 single garages in a block of 6 Mappowder Guide £595,000 Guide £10,000 – 01305 261008 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 E. Freehold. – Alton countryside. Pancras –CTB A block of 3 garages Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Guide £15,000 – 01305 261008

– Shaftesbury – A substantial block of 5 garages Guide £30,000 – 01258 473766 – Stalbridge – A block of 6 garages Guide £35,000 – 01258 473766

Wiveliscombe Guide £2,000-£3,000

Blandford

Tiverton | 01884 218911

Blandford | 01258 452670

An unusual opportunity to acquire a parcel of land forming part of the historic former brewery site in Wiveliscombe. Area of hard-surface road and the iconic Former Brewery Tower. Freehold.

Guide £75,000

Grade II listed, 2 bedroom maisonette, with garden, in the centre of town. Leasehold. 54 years remaining. GR £150 pa. SC £850pa. CTB A.

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

Sturminster Newton Guide £100,000

Sherborne

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Sherborne | 01935 814488

A unique investment opportunity, formerly two cottages but now a cottage and office space with potential for a range of uses (STPP). Grade II listed. Freehold. CTB A. RV TBC.

Guide £150,000

A spacious 3 bedroom lower ground floor apartment in the heart of Sherborne. Leasehold. 947 years remaining. GR peppercorn. SC £4,200pa. CTB D. EPC C.

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. Fontmell Magna Guide £185,000 Guide £195,000 Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766West Morden A recently renovated 3 bedroom detached bungalow of non-standard construction in a peaceful cul-de-sac in the middle of this popular village. Freehold. CTB C. EPC E.

An attached Grade II Listed 2 bedroom cottage with scope for modernisation, and off road parking, situated in this highly sought after village. Freehold. CTB D. EPC D.

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. Poole £220,000 Somerton Guide £200,000 Sherborne | 01935Guide 814488 A detached 2 bedroom period property providing excellent scope for renovation and extension (STPP/ consents), enjoying a large garden and a convenient location. CTB B. EPC F.

An end terrace light industrial/business unit containing a mix of warehouse, storage and offices with ancillary kitchen and WC facilities with private forecourt service yard and parking. Freehold. RV £19,750. EPC D.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Yeovil | 01935 423526

Wilton Guide £250,000 North Cadbury Guide £275,000 Nr Sturminster Guide Price3 £1,100,000 A charming GradeNewton II listed 2 bedroom bedroom semi-detached former cottage, away conveniently in with large garden in a Tucked down asituated no through lane isfarmhouse this extended and very well the heart of 4 Wilton, with country excellent home with ruralstable setting. Requiring modernisation presented bedroom yard & paddocks, in total commuter links to E.Freehold, Salisbury. throughout. 4.11 acres. CTB Freehold. CTB C. EPC C. Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766Freehold. CTB C. EPC G. Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Sherborne | 01935 814488

Frampton Guide £275,000 Christchurch Guide £295,000 Leigh OIEO2 £500,000 A charming Grade II listed semiAn attractive mid-terraced bedroom detached cottage in the heart of the village property. located, the A tastefully improved 4-bedroom house Conveniently with light and spacious village with 3 bedrooms, large garden, property would make ideal buy-toaccommodation, set inaattractive gardens and backing ontoanfarmland. and views of the village green. No onward chain. CTB F. Freehold. let investment, holiday let or private Freehold. CTB C. EPC F. residence. Freehold. CTB C. EPC C. Sherborne | 01935 814488 Dorchester | 01305 261008

Wimborne | 01202 843190

R E S I D E N T I A L | A G R I C U LT U R A L | C O M M E RC I A L

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Property

blackmorevale.net

Shaftesbury

Guide £295,000

An attractive 3 bedroom stone cottage, situated in the heart of the picturesque hilltop town of Shaftesbury, close to amenities. Offering off road parking and garden. Freehold. CTB D. EPC D.

Loders, Bridport

Guide: Lot A - £250,000 Lot B - £20,000

Detached 2 bedroom former farmhouse in need of refurbishment with a stone barn and outbuildings. Second lot of land measuring at 0.055 acres also available. Freehold. CTB D. EPC F.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Bridport | 01308 422092

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

Poole

Tisbury

Guide £375,000

A detached 3 bedroom detached house with scope for modernisation and remodelling, with garage and off-road parking, occupying a corner plot on the edge of Oakdale. Freehold. CTB E. EPC E.

Guide £400,000

A detached, 4 bedroom stone house in need of complete modernisation. Set in 0.97 acres, on the edge of Tisbury. Freehold. CTB D. EPC G.

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

A modern, detached 4 bedroom property for remodelling and modernisation (STRC) enjoying a private walled garden, situated in a sought after village. Freehold. CTB F. EPC D.

Blandford | 01258 452670

Avon, Christchurch Charlton Musgrove Guide £700,000 Nr Sturminster Newton Guide Price £1,100,000 Detached 4 bedroom Grade II listed farmhouse for improvement. Set in 17.34 acres andaway offering a range outbuildings. Tucked down a noof through lane is this extended and very well Freehold. CTB G. EPC F. country home with stable yard & paddocks, in total presented 4 bedroom 4.11 acres. CTB E.Freehold, Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766 Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244

Guide: Lot A - £1,250,000 Lot B - £325,000 Lot C - £30,000

Lot A - A historic Grade II Listed 5 bedroom farmhouse, 2.60 acres and a range Leigh £500,000 of traditional outbuildings. Two of the outbuildings benefit fromOIEO planning permission convert into dwellings. village Freehold. CTB with H. light and spacious A tastefullytoimproved 4-bedroom house Lot B – A Grade II listed bedroom cottage,and boasting character features and a accommodation, set in2–3 attractive gardens backing onto farmland. garden. Freehold. CTB D F. Freehold. No onward chain. CTB Lot C – 0.70 |acres of pasture land with frontage to the River Avon. Freehold. Sherborne 01935 814488 Wimborne | 01202 843190

R E S I D E N T I A L | A G R I C U LT U R A L | C O M M E RC I A L

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Property

blackmorevale.net

Shillingstone

Guide £18,000

1.53 acres of pasture and river with approximately 200 yards of fishing rights on the attractive River Stour. Agricultural, conservation and recreational potential. Freehold.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244

Melcombe Bingham Guide £40,000

Sherborne

Dorchester | 01305 261008

Dorchester Commercial | 01305 261008

0.14 acres of land adjoining residential properties, with vehicular access, in the popular village of Melcombe Bingham. Freehold.

Guide £40,000

Small plot of land measuring 0.14 acres thought suitable for commercial use subject to planning permission at Coldharbour Business Park. Freehold.

Portland

Guide £45,000

A parcel of sloping scrub land measuring 0.81 acres, enjoying unrivalled coastal views, providing potential for a range of uses (STPP). Freehold. Poundbury | 01305 251154

Portland

Wyke Regis, Weymouth

Guide £45,000

A site extending to 0.07 acres, formerly comprising two residential properties and adjacent land, situated in an elevated position. Freehold. Poundbury | 01305 251154

East Burton, Wool

Guide £95,000

3.41 acres (1.38 hectares) of attractive meadow land with river frontage, situated in a peaceful rural position. Offering a range of potential amenity uses STRC. Freehold. Wimborne | 01202 843190

Guide: Lot A - £150,000 Lot B - £175,000

Total of 37.56 acres (15.20 hectares) of level to sloping pastureland with outstanding, panoramic sea views in close proximity to Weymouth and The Fleet. Lot A – 10.54 acres (4.27 ha) with useful building. Freehold. Lot B – 27.02 acres (10.93 ha) with high conservation value and a bunker. Outstanding far-reaching views. Freehold. Dorchester | 01305 236237

Shroton Guide £435,000 North Cheriton OIEO £400,000 This delightful 2-bedroom end-of-terrace cottage has been fully updated An attractive, double-fronted 3-bedroom period property tucked away on but retains great charm. It is situated in the heart of this most desirable an idyllic country lane with character features throughout and views over village. CTB D. Freehold. the neighbouring countryside. CTB C. Freehold. Our next Devon & Cornwall Collective Property Auction Lamyatt Guide £175,000 Guide £85,000 Pitcombe £220,000 Corfe Mullen Guide £225,000 Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766Lamyatt Sherborne | 01935Guide 814488 takes place in Axminster on 8th October. 16.04 acres (6.49 hectares) in a single parcel of level arable capable land, currently in a temporary grass ley. Freehold. Yeovil | 01935 423526

5.66 acres of a single level of pasture 26.53 acres in a single parcel of sloping land, set adjacent to and accessed pasture land with direct road access. Our August 95% success, selling residential, directly from the auction main roadwas fromaBruton Freehold. and commercial property on behalf of clients. to agricultural the A371. Freehold.

Why not get in touch to see if thisYeovil fast and efficient Yeovil | 01935 423526 | 01935 423526 method of sale could work for you?

Permanent pasture currently used for equestrian grazing located on the outskirts of Corfe Mullen, extending to 15.88 acres (6.43 hectares). Freehold. Wimborne | 01202 843190

Entries Invited We’re taking entries for our autumn Property Auctions at: Merley House, Wimborne | Friday 23 October Digby Memorial Hall, Sherborne | Friday 20 November Our August auctionGuide was Price a 95% success, selling residential, Leigh Nr Sturminster Newton £1,100,000 OIEO £500,000 agricultural commercial property onand behalf of clients. A tastefully improved 4-bedroom village house with light and spacious Tucked away downand a no through lane is this extended very well presented 4 bedroom country home with stable yard & paddocks, in total accommodation, set in attractive gardens and backing onto farmland. in touch to see if this fast and efficient 4.11Why acres.not CTBget E.Freehold, No onward chain. CTB F. Freehold. methodNewton of sale| 01258 could 473766 work for you? Sturminster 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

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Property

blackmorevale.net

The Loft Tisbury 01747 442500 www.ruralview.co.uk

Stockton, Wiltshire Guide Price £795,000

Stourpaine, Dorset Guide Price £1,350,000

Lower Chicksgrove, Wiltshire Guide Price £775,000

A superbly presented 4 bed cottage style home with country views, situated in a desirable village setting.

A stunning 5 bed contemporary home with annexe and beautiful views over open countryside. About 4.25 acres.

An extended and meticulously refurbished 3 bed cottage in a lovely rural setting with wonderful views.

EPC D

Misterton, Somerset. Guide Price £1,270,000 A rare chance to acquire three individual properties on the outskirts of Crewkerne, requiring some improvement, but positioned next to each other and offering a lifestyle opportunity. 5 bedroom seventeenth century Farmhouse, 3 bedroom converted Granary, 1 bedroom seventeenth century Cottage, gardens, orchard, barn, walkable to mainline Station.

EPC D

Heytesbury, Wiltshire Guide Price £695,000

Sutton Mandeville, Wiltshire Guide Price £675,000

Fisherton de la Mere Guide Price £595,000

A spacious 3 bed penthouse apartment, situated in an historic country mansion with views over beautiful parkland.

A most charming, extended 3 bed rural cottage, with a delightful garden and a wonderful setting.

A lovely 2 bed home with extension potential, set in a pretty rural hamlet with wonderful views over the River Wylye.

EPC E

EPC D

EPC E

East Orchard, Price £995,000Ashmore, Dorset Guide Price £345,000 Fovant, Wiltshire Guide Price £550,000 Sherrington,Dorset. Wiltshire Guide Guide Price £535,000 An edge Edwardian residence with wonderful rural cottage, views, idyllically extensive & versatile accommodation, A delightful 2 bed of villagecountry cottage with A delightful 2 bed detached A most attractive 3 bed end-of-terrace cottage extension potential and a lovely riverside garden. situated next to the in this pretty village. requiring some updating, tucked away in this outbuildings andpond delightful gardens. popular rural village. Hall, five reception rooms, family kitchen/breakfast room, utility, 2nd kitchen, cloakroom, 6 bedrooms, Hall, five reception rooms, family kitchen/breakfast room, utility, 2nd kitchen, cloakroom, 6 bedrooms, EPC E studio, carport, outbuildings & stores, EPC pending 6 bath/shower rooms, gardens approaching 1 acre.

www.ruralview.co.uk

EPC ED EPC

New Blackmore Vale, September 11, 2026

Property

blackmorevale.net

TO LET SEMI-RETIRED SINGLE COUNTRY GENT looking for 1 or 2 bed accommodation in rural location to rent with stable or shed for storage. Could look after animals. Tel: 07968-067586 BEAUTIFUL, RURAL, CEDAR LODGE RENTAL, nr Shaftesbury, sleeps 6, 2 bathrooms, no pets £1500 pcm plus bills. More details: mvwinery.co.uk/cedar-holiday-lodge-to-rent/ Call Clare 01747 854206

SELF-CONTAINED ACCOMMODATION on quiet farm near Yeovil 01935 892476

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place your ad today

email: adverts@blackmorevale.net

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224

Former chapel for auction A FORMER Methodist chapel

in a Dorset village is to be auctioned with a guide price of £295,000-plus. The freehold property at Partway Lane, Hazelbury Bryan, comes with planning permission for residential conversion. It is among 228 lots listed across southern England in Clive Emson Auctioneers’ latest online auction. Auction appraiser Joe Rocks said: “This former Methodist Church was originally constructed in 1863, with an extension to include a school room being built in the late 19th century. “The premises is on a 0.39-acre plot, with views over surrounding fields.

The Methodist Church in Hazelbury Bryan

“Planning permission has been granted to convert the chapel into a three- fourbedroom residence. “Beyond the main garden and parking area the property includes a further parcel of land which may provide scope and potential for future development or income-producing uses such as short-term holiday letting or a possible smallholding, subject to all necessary consents being obtainable.”Bidding is live from Tuesday, September 22, with the auction ending 48 hours later.

(from pages 26-27)

Edition 156

Sudoku 3D puzzle

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Est. 2010 Independent Hearing Care

The latest hearing aids from ALL manufacturers! • 25 years of experience • £0 deposit available • Up to 3 years to pay Fully qualified wax removal available in all clinics.

Haven Hearing

Abbey Hearing

34 Haven Road Canford Cliffs BH13 7LP

1 Tudor Arcade Dorchester DT1 1BN

dorchester@abbeyhearing.co.uk 01305 602240

3 Cheapside House High Street Gillingham, SP8 4AA

gillingham@abbeyhearing.co.uk 01747 470500

reception@havenhearing.co.uk 01202 878969

Removals throughout Dorset and beyond Excellent

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

sales@armishaws.com | www.armishaws.com Wincanton Business Park, Wincanton, Somerset, BA9 9RU

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