Issuu

Edition 139

FREE EVERY FORTNIGHT

Friday, January 16, 2026

The New Blackmore Vale www.blackmorevale.net

A SIMPLE ACT OF KINDNESS

FULL STORY:

PAGE 14

School project shows that charity begins at home, supporting nearly 200 local families

WINCANTON CARES Charity receives regional recognition Page 7

FAIR SHARE Community offers thanks to cafe volunteer who goes above and beyond Page 16

NEW YEAR HONOUR Lynne Hunt awarded MBE for services to the NHS Page 3

Removals made easy.

UK Removals | European Removals | Storage The South West’s Leading Removal Service Get your free quote.

Blandford 01258 447005

Dorchester 01305 231267

Shaftesbury 01747 440426

Sherborne 01935 316221

Warminster 01925 984459

Wincanton 01963 34065

What’s inside this issue…

• Main pic: Final preparations are underway for the annual BV half marathon/fun run page 10 • Above: Two friends are driving from the UK to Cape Town in a three-wheeler page 14 • Left: Vale hairdresser and all-round legend retires after 20 years in town page 6

Announcements Antiques & Collectables Arts & Entertainment Church Education Events Farming Field & Stream Food & Drink Health & Wellbeing 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

50-54 33-35 29 28 62 22 65-68 64 55 56-57 36-41

Items For Sale Letters Local Services Motoring Pets Politics Property Puzzles Recruitment Sport Wanted

22 26-27 42-49 58-59 60-61 30-32 69-70 24-25 23 63 22

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

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

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

News

blackmorevale.net

‘Inspiration’ recognised in honours MENTAL health nurse and leader, Lynne Hunt, who was born in Dorset and lives in Weymouth, was awarded an MBE in the new year honours list. She is the third member of the Hunt family, and the village of Tarrant Rawston, near Blandford, to receive significant recognition. Her great uncle George received an Agricultural Medal, and in 1982 her grandfather Harry Hunt was honoured with an Empire Medal. Lynne was recognised for services to the NHS, after a long career dedicated to supporting people experiencing mental health challenges. Lynne has worked in mental health services for 47 years, starting as a mental health nurse and advancing through more senior roles in NHS trusts in Dorset, London, Hampshire and Sussex. She has served as director of Nursing and deputy chief executive at East London NHS Foundation Trust and vice-chair at Dorset Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust. Lynne was chair at Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust and Hampshire and Isle of Wight NHS Foundation Trust and is

currently a non-executive director at Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust. At Dorset Healthcare, Lynne transformed the organisation from a trust in ‘special measures’ to one rated as ‘outstanding’. At Southern Health, she rebuilt the trust’s reputation after a series of challenges, growing confidence in the organisation among patients, public and partners.

Lynne also established a Youth Board and championed Youth Governors to ensure that young people had a greater say in the development of local NHS services. Lynne Hunt said: “I am deeply humbled to receive this honour. It has been a privilege to work with so many wonderful people throughout my career – patients, families, colleagues. “I am grateful to the NHS for all it has done – it is a great place to work, and indeed both my adult children now work in the NHS.” Ron Shields, chief executive at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Nearly half a century after qualifying as a mental health nurse, Lynne still brings the very best characteristics of professional nursing to bear in her leadership. “She is a consummate professional, a role model of public service and an inspiration to so many people.” Lynne has also been a governor and volunteer for the Royal National Lifeboat Institute (RNLI) and Dorset Volunteering, where she provided meal services for elderly people.

Jeans Electrical

01747 860215 | www.jeanselectrical.co.uk Chapel Showroom, Boar Street Mere, Wiltshire, BA12 6DD

Salisbury Street Mere, Wiltshire, BA12 6HB

Come and see our Chapel Showroom, great deals every day, 100s of products in stock, for immediate delivery to your home!*

£499.00 BOSCH

£449.00 BOSCH

WAN28259GB 9kg 1400 Spin Washing Machine White

SMS2HVW67G Dishwasher - White 14 Place Settings

5 Year Waranty

£299.99 HOTPOINT

NSWE846WSUK 8kg 1400 Spin Washing Machine - White

£429.00 BEKO

£1099.00

WINTER DEALS

10 Year Parts Warranty

10 Year Parts Warranty 1 Year Labour Warranty

WEB365WCS 8kg 1400 Spin Washing Machine Lotus White

5 Year Warranty

2 Year Guarantee

43” 4K Ultra HD Smart TV

1 Year Guarantee

MIELE

RS70F64KEFEU 91cm Side by Side American Fridge Freezer - Black

LG £299.00 43NANO80A6B.AEK

EDC6731W 60cm Double Oven Electric Cooker with Vitroceramic Hob - White

1 Year Labour Warranty

SAMSUNG

£849.00

£109.00 FRIDGEMASTER

MCF96E 95 Litres Chest Freezer - White

2 Year Guarantee

*Same day delivery available within 20 miles of BA12 6HB when ordered by 2pm, while stocks last. Sold as agent for Euronics Ltd. Prices correct at time of going to press.

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

News

Take the plunge A COLD water swimming competition returns to the Vale for 2026. The Shaftesbury Lido Ice Championship Extravaganza (SLICE) takes place on January 25. “This event is our very own cold water swimming competition, designed to celebrate the thrill of cold-water swimming, bringing together our community and raising funds for the Lido”, explain the Friends of Shaftesbury Swimming (FOSS). “While not a licensed meet, if the temperature drops to 5°C or below, SLICE becomes an Ice Swimming Championship. “Whatever the weather, the event goes ahead with all the fun, challenge, and community spirit we are known for. “SLICE was born from our desire to support and protect the future of Shaftesbury Lido, raising funds for vital renovations and the extras that help keep this cherished community space open for all.

“We also realise Dorset has no dedicated cold water swimming events, and we wanted to change that, placing the only lido in Dorset firmly on the map for the national cold water and ice swimming community.” The event helps raise money to ensure the future of the Lido. Find out more at www. shaftesbury-tc.gov.uk/ shaftesbury-lido/slice. For those interested in the invigorating effects of a cold dip, but who need a confidence or skills boost. Shaftesbury Lido is now offering cold water swimming sessions. The sessions, on Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings, are open to everyone. After a run of successful introductions to cold water at the beginning of the season, the Lido is hoping to put on more. Dates will be announced on Facebook and Instagram. More information can be found at www.shaftesbury-tc. gov.uk/shaftesbury-lido.

Rutters Rutters SOLICITORS SOLICITORS

Here for Your Family’s Legal Needs

Your Local Trusted Solicitors

WILLS, POWERS OF ATTORNEY, ESTATE ADMINISTRATION, INHERITANCE TAX ISSUES, RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL WILLS, POWERS OF ATTORNEY, ESTATE CONVEYANCING AND MUCH, MUCHADMINISTRATION, MORE...

INHERITANCE TAX ISSUES, RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL Shaftesbury: 01747 852377 / Gillingham: 01747 822005 CONVEYANCING AND MUCH, MUCH MORE... enquiries@rutterslaw.co.uk

rutterslaw.co.uk

blackmorevale.net

Remembering the Holocaust HOLOCAUST Memorial Day (HMD) will be marked at The Guildhall in Salisbury later this month. The international event remembers the six million Jews murdered during the Holocaust, alongside those killed through the Nazi persecution of other groups. It also remembers people murdered in genocides in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia and Darfur. The programme includes readings, contemplations, presentations and a morning prayer. Councillor Sam Charleston, Leader of Salisbury City Council, said: “As we remember all those murdered during the Holocaust and under Nazi persecution, as well as the victims of genocides that followed, we reaffirm our responsibility to stand against all forms of hatred and discrimination. “It underscores the importance of ongoing vigilance, education and shared commitment to prevent such atrocities in the future.” To take part in the event, on Tuesday, January 27, email lharris@salisburycitycouncil.gov.uk or phone 01722 342860. Doors open at 9.30am, with refreshments available before the event starts at 10am.

Tea for charity

THE Dorchester Committee of The Children's Society is hosting another winter tea, following the success of a similar event last year. The event is at St George's Hall, Fordington, on Monday, February 9, from 2.30pm-4 pm, and tickets are £4 payable on the door which includes tea, Dorset apple cake and crumpets. There will be waitress service and accompanying background music. A spokesperson for the group said: “The atmosphere is always friendly with everyone welcome. Bring a friend or meet some new ones. We hope to see you there.”

Age Concern North Dorset

Sturminster Newton

‘Supporting Later Life’

• Befriending • Welfare Advice • IT Help • Book & Craft Sales • Telephone Support • Foot Clinic • Balance Classes

FREE HOME VISITS AVAILABLE

01258 475582

FREE HOME VISITS AVAILABLE

info@acnorthdorset.org.uk | www.acnorthdorset.org.uk

Shaftesbury: 01747 852377 / Gillingham: 01747 822005 enquiries@rutterslaw.co.uk

rutterslaw.co.uk

Office open Monday - Friday 9:30am - 1:30pm

SCAN HERE FOR MORE!

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

blackmorevale.net

TRUSTED

Start the New Year with a visit to The Bed Specialist!

FT R A UMS IT LE D Y B I NI ELS YS FU A SM

F A M I L Y B S ISNTEESD S TU RU

News

BUSINESS

ADVERTISING FEATURE here isn’t a better way to spend an hour or so than having a good snooze! Whether you are looking for a comfy new mattress, a divan bed with extra storage or perhaps a supportive new pillow, pop in to The Bed Specialists in Yeovil for a lie down and chat to the experts... Delivery is free, your new bed is assembled and your old bed can be recycled.

The family business was established over 60 years ago by Derek and Ruth Lush and is now owned the third generation of the same family. Now Yeovil’s largest independent bed shop, they have lovely showrooms where you can try over 40 beds, get helpful and unbiased advice, share a hot drink and spend as much time as your need to find the perfect new bed for your needs. In addition, they also offer an extensive range of fully adjustable beds, sofa beds, luxury bedding and headboards. Premium handmade beds and mattresses by Vispring and Harrison Spinks are also on display with generous discounts and free bedding gifts throughout the January sale.

A good night’s sleep is essential for your health and wellbeing – so choosing the right bed or mattress is A30 from Sherborne an important decision. The team at The Bed Specialist in YeovilA30 have years of experience behind them and a from Sherborne huge choice of beds and mattresses to suit everyone’s A30 from Sherborne requirements and budget. Good old fashioned service speaks for itself and you can read many happy customer reviews and testimonials on Trustpilot. Nick says – we rely on our happy satisfied customers returning to purchase again and recommendations from friends and 7 from Dorchester family. We love hearing stories of how our furniture has 7 from Dorchester been at the centre of people’s homes for generations. Find them at Huish opposite the Yeovil Royal Mail Sorting Office – with ample free parking right outside the door.

7 from Dorchester

Visit their website for further details: www.thebedspecialist.co.uk or call 01935 423596.

Wier Wier BED SALE BED SALE BED SALE W I T H G R E AT D E A L S O N W I TA HT G RTE A M RT ED ESA SL S EOSN W I T H G R E AT D E A L S O N MDA A J UTS T T ARB E L ES BSEEDS S M AT T R E S S E S

D I VA N S D O T TIOV M AA N N B E DS S D I V A N S OT TO M A N B E D S A D J U S TA B L E B E D S A D J U S TA B L E B E D S

SO TOT O FM AA N B EB EDDSS S O FA B E D S S O FA B E D S

& MORE ONLINE AND IN STORE & MORE ONLINE AND IN STORE & MORE ONLINE AND IN STORE

Quality beds for every budget Quality beds for every budget Quality beds for every budget

01935 42 35 96 w w w.0t1h 9 e b3e5d s4p2e c3i a5l i 9 s t6. c o . u k

9 2e c23i 0a5l 1i 9 w w w.Y0tE1hOV e b3eI5Ld,s4pBA sAt6.Qc o . u k tEhOV a4l01 i sbAet d.Q F u r nw i t uw r ew. sY h ow re o obme n ewci2 tih0 sc oon. dui skp l ay ; IsLdo,psepBA 9 t o 5 M o n d ay t o Fr i d ay & 9 t o 4 o n S a t u r d ay s

Y E OV I L , BA 2 0 1 A Q

F u r n i t u r e s h ow r o o m s o p e n w i t h 4 0 b e d s o n d i s p l ay ; n d ray o sFroipdeay & i t9h t 4o 04 boend sS aotnu rddi ay F u r9n ittou r5e M s hoow o otm n w s p sl ay ;

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

News

blackmorevale.net

Flowers by Chop and change another name… CHANGE is afoot at Sturminster Newton Floral Group… The group – now in its 67th year – meets at the Royal British Legion Hall in Marnhull, in the afternoon of the second Wednesday of each month. Members recently voted to change the club name to Blackmore Vale Flower Arrangers. The group holds workshops in which members create arrangements with guidance from experienced teachers. It also hosts flower arranging demonstrations by local and national designers. This all happens in a friendly and fun atmosphere, and there is always a cup of tea and a biscuit on offer. If you would like to attend a meeting, please call 01747 685837 to find out more. There is a £7 charge for visitors, but if you decide to join the club that will be reimbursed.

THE owner of a hair salon in Gillingham is stepping away from the business after spending her working life in the trade. Ann Open, who will be 80 on April 19, has been running Shampers for 20 years, and a Ann Open (left) is coffee afternoon was held in the retiring after 20 years at the helm of Shampers new year to mark her departure. Ann has raised thousands of pounds for charity over the years, with contributions from her clients. produced a She has run four London marathons and ‘The Legend many half-marathons and 10K runs – and Has Retired’ has 62 medals to show for it. window for her coffee event, said: “Ann is She has also done about 600 deep sea funny, kind and generous, and she will be scuba dives around the world, two skydives really missed by her loyal customers. – one with the Red Arrows – and a wing “She was very professional and catered walk. for both new and older clientele, but really Ann has been in hairdressing 65 years went the extra mile for her longstanding having started at the age of 15 in London customers." where the model Twiggy was a Saturday Ann is also well known for her many girl. window displays over the years. Ann ran a salon in Corfe Mullen and She produced about seven windows a another Shaftesbury before setting up in year for events including Christmas, business in Gillingham. Halloween, Valentine's Day and One member of staff, ‘Micky’ Ball, who Remembrance.

Refurb debrief

THE transformation of Poole Museum will be the subject of a talk to members of Wimborne Civic Society next week. The museum reopened in November after a £10 million refurbishment that left no gallery untouched, allowing maritime archaeology, art and other objects to go on display for the first time. A member of the museum’s Collections Team will talk about how the galleries were transformed, how it was decided which objects would make the cut – and how a 10m long Iron Age log boat could safely be extracted from a Victorian building before getting it back into a Medieval one! The talk is at the Castleman Suite at Allendale House on Tuesday, January 20, at 7.30pm.

Fond memories LOVED ones will be remembered when Sherborne Churches Together hosts the Sherborne Snowdrop Remembrance and Thanksgiving Service. Members of staff from the Yeatman Hospital, Weldmar Hospicecare and Cruse Bereavement Support will take part in the service at the Roman Catholic Church of the Sacred

Heart & St Aldhelm, Westbury (DT9 3RA). The service, which everyone is welcome to attend, is on Friday, February 6, at 11.15am and will be followed by refreshments. The Sherborne Book of Remembrance will also be available, allowing visitors to add the name of a loved one at the end of the service.

Sustainable hopes

WHAT could Shaftesbury area farmers, food and fibre producers and the community do now to make the area resilient in a challenging future? An event on Monday, February 2, at 7pm, will bring a mix of people together to consider this question. The session will start with invited academic, Somersetbased farmer and author, Chris Smaje. Chris has previously written about the important role of small farms. His talk will introduce ideas about a possible future as set out in his latest book: Finding Lights in a Dark

Age: sharing land, work and craft. Other participants will introduce different local angles – from a family-run organic mixed farm to food security; Shaftesbury's community farm to a hub for sustainable craft and fibre production. The ensuing discussion will be opened up to everyone in the room. To join in, reserve a place through the event listing at website PlanetShaftesbury.org. The event is hosted by Planet Shaftesbury with support from local bookshop Folde, the Feeding Dorset Partnership, and The Grosvenor Arms.

Wessex writers' walk

JOIN a walk around Dorchester to consider the literary connections between Hardy, Moule, Barnes, the Powys family and Sylvia Townsend Warner. Meet at the Town Pump, Dorchester (DT1 1BA) on Saturday, January 24. The walk will set off at 11am and finish at 1pm. It is free to THS members and £5 to non-members.

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

blackmorevale.net

Hospital Friends AGM

THE Friends of Wincanton Community Hospital will be holding their annual meeting at the hospital on Monday, January 19, at 7pm. Everyone is welcome to attend.

Pantomime preview MEET the cast of Shaftesbury Arts Centre’s panto, Alice in Wonderland, for a sneak preview this weekend. This Saturday, January 17, Shaftesbury library will be hosting members of Shaftesbury Arts Centre’s music and drama group, who are taking part in their pantomime, Alice in Wonderland by Ben Crocker. The cast will be sharing a bit

of the story and singing some of the songs. You might get to meet Alice herself. This event will take place between 11am and midday and is suitable for everyone to come along and enjoy, although children under eight must be supervised by an adult at all times. For more information contact Shaftesbury Library on 01747

News

852256 or shaftesburylibrary@ dorsetcouncil.gov.uk.

Care charity Platinum Award-Winning Care picks up Gold Standards Framework Kind, compassionate staff regional award WINCANTON Cares, a charity that supports over-55s in the Wincanton area, has been recognised with a prestigious award. It was hailed as ‘a truly inspiring example of what community power can achieve’ at the South-West Integrated Personalised Care Awards where it won the Connecting People award. Wincanton Cares began after the Covid pandemic and its 10 volunteer befrienders offer support to about 25 unpaid carers at any one time. Jacky King, from the charity, is pictured (above) with the award.

Luxurious comfort

Stunning location

Homely elegance

Delicious food

Live life better every day at Spetisbury Manor Why not arrange a visit to see for yourself... 01258 857378 w w w.spetisburymanor.co.uk

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

News

blackmorevale.net

Community banking launches in Gillingham after High Street closure RESIDENTS in Gillingham will soon have access to essential banking services once again thanks to a new initiative from Lloyds Bank. From January 19, a dedicated community banker will be available at Gillingham Library on alternate Mondays between 10am and 3.30pm, providing personal and business support. It follows the closure of the bank’s High Street branch. The service is designed to help customers with everything

from checking account balances and managing direct debits to bill payments, guidance on online banking, and advice on staying safe online. Financial education sessions will also be offered, which makes it a particularly valuable resource for those who are less familiar with digital banking. Dorset Council’s cabinet member for customer, culture and community engagement, Cllr Ryan Hope, welcomed the new service.

Panto for the gods THE Tarrant Valley Players are preparing to present their 25th panto, Heroes of Olympus, written by one of their younger members, 17-year-old Pippa Deketelaere. It is set in 400 BCE on Olympus, and Zeus and the other gods are preparing to welcome their enemy Hades to celebrate a new alliance between Olympus and the Underworld. But Zeus’s feisty daughter, Diana, suspects Hades’ intentions are not peaceful. With the help of Dalia – Diana’s apprentice; Apollo, God of Wisdom – apparently; and Cupid, God of Love; they travel to the Underworld to investigate. Meanwhile, Zeus, Hera and Venus – Goddess of Love, prepare for Hades’ and

He said: “I was saddened to learn of the closure of Lloyds Bank in Gillingham, but this new presence in the library is a positive step forward. “It’s a great example of partnership working and community collaboration, and we welcome Lloyds Bank’s commitment to supporting our residents in an accessible way.” A spokesperson for Lloyds Bank added: “We’re committed to supporting our customers even as we adapt to changing

his demons Coeus’ and Crius’ arrival. Filled with songs, dance, plenty of comedy and lots of audience participation, Heroes of Olympus is a fun-packed adventure panto for the whole family. Pippa Deketelaere and Rob Chalkley direct, with Emma Chalkley assistant director and Alexis Austin producer. Heroes of Olympus is at the Anne Biddlecombe Hall in Tarrant Keyneston on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, January 29-31, at 7.30pm with a Saturday matinee at 2.30pm. Buy tickets online at www.ticketsource. co.uk/whats-on/blandford-forum/the-annebiddlecombe-hall. Find out more at www. tarrantvalleyplayers.co.uk.

banking habits. “Partnering with Gillingham Library allows us to remain present in the community and provide face-to-face support where it’s needed most.” The initiative ensures residents can continue to access vital banking services locally while also receiving guidance on alternative banking channels and digital support. Contact Gillingham library for more information about the community banking sessions.

Antiques chat THE Sero charity has issued an invite to an afternoon with antiques expert and television personality Timothy Medhurst in Sturminster Newton. He will be talking about his life, passions and views on antiques at the Tithe Barn on the Hinton St Mary Estate on Wednesday, March 11, at 2.30pm (doors open 2pm). The event also includes afternoon tea and a raffle. Tickets are £17.50. SERO raises funds for local causes and Julia’s House Children’s Hospice. To buy tickets, email serocharity@ gmail.com, phone Julie on 01258 861218 or 07749 486733, or Kate on 01258 863695 or 07725 245066.

Soak up the scenery as you walk with retired Dorset rights of way officer Chris Slade START at the church, where the tower appears to be nearly as wide as it is high! Then head a short distance east along the A30, Front Street, and turn left, north, to join Back Street. After a furlong it bends right, north east, and soon you come to Witch Lane on your left, heading north, which takes you gently uphill for about half a mile, giving you good views of the massive Duncliffe Hill woodland. Towards the top of the hill join a path on your right heading east and downhill along a tarmac lane through an avenue of trees and passing a series of ponds joined by pipework. Continue along field edges to High Grove Farm, where you turn right and head south along the edge of the field then, by a wood, join a drong heading south west, which turns into a road leading to East Stour common. At a bend in the road, carry straight on, west, along a

footpath that takes you to Hartgill Farm where there are large cattle sheds. Cross the road and continue west. Soon a row of houses will come into sight – head for the left end. You might find a herd of cattle taking an interest in you as you cross the field… I have always found them very friendly. In the next field you soon come to a path on your right that takes you up into the Sandilands Close cul de sac. This leads you onto Back Street, where you turn left and head south west taking you back to where you started. The geology of the area includes clay topsoil which is why the water stays on top rather than sinking. This causes a few muddy patches in the gateways.

Photo © J Tybjerg / geograph.org.uk

A walk around… East Stour

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

News

blackmorevale.net

Law for You. Law for Life.

Family Law tailored to you Clear, strong, supportive advice

Our services

Whether you’re wanting to cohabit, marry, or if your relationship has come to an end, trusted advice is essential. We’ll provide you with legal advice that is tailored to your circumstances, helping you make decisions that protect you and your family.

We understand that family and relationship issues are sensitive and going through separation can be stressful and emotionally charged. Because of this, we strive to achieve the best way forward for you and your family while minimising all unnecessary conflict and concern.

We are delighted to announce that Blanchards Bailey LLP has once again been recognised in The Legal 500 UK, a leading independent directory of the legal profession.

Scan here to find out more about Family Law services

Blandford

Dorchester

• Cohabitation • Prenuptual and Postnuptial agreements

• Breakdown of the relationship • Financial Settlement • Children arrangements and special guardianship

• Mediation

blanchardsbailey.co.uk |

Shaftesbury

Weymouth

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

News

blackmorevale.net

A A healthier healthier life life made made easy easy with LiveWell with LiveWell hen the year

ADVERTISING ADVERTISING FEATURE FEATURE

hen the year changes, changes,we we think about think aboutlifestyle lifestyle changes. changes.IfIfyou’re you’re looking lookingto tobecome become healthier: healthier:lose loseweight, weight, get a little fitter, get a little fitter,cut cut down downon onalcohol, alcohol,or orstop stopsmoking smoking--look lookno nofurther. further.

Runners ready!

RUNNERS across the Vale are gearing up for the annual Blackmore Vale Half Marathon and Fun Run, in February. Organised by Blackmore Vale Lions Club, the events take place on Sunday, February 1, at 11am. Race HQ is Bishop’s Caundle village hall (DT9 5NG), with the start line on the recreation ground on the opposite side of the road. Easy Easyto toregister registeronline onlineor orby byphone, phone,LiveWell LiveWelloffers offersaawhole whole The race will follow its usual route from Bishop’s Caundle to range rangeof ofoptions optionsincluding includingslimming slimmingvouchers, vouchers,smoking smokingquit quitkits kits Holwell then Glanvilles Wootton, Pulham, King’s Stag and Holwell and and1-2-1 1-2-1coaching, coaching,with withno nocatches, catches,no nocost. cost. again and back to the recreation ground. LiveWell takes away the guesswork and the stress of scrolling The fun run branches off this route just after three miles and LiveWell takes away the guesswork and the stress of scrolling takes a shorter return to the recreation ground. It is just over five and Googling, offering a one-stop service you can trust. and Googling, offering a one-stop service you can trust. miles (8km). The routes are signed well in advance. Get Getpersonalised personalisedsupport supportand andthe theperfect perfectpackage packageto tohelp helpyou you If you are driving in the area at the time, organisers ask that you break down any barriers, build confidence, and see results break down any barriers, build confidence, and see results-please give runners and staff a wide berth and please keep animals beginning beginningwith withsmall, small,clear, clear,achievable achievablegoals. goals.No Noquick quickfixes, fixes, under control, restricting planned movement until the race is over at just a lifestyle change that lasts. about 3pm. just a lifestyle change that lasts. If you want to help out, sponsor or support details can be found Register online at www.livewelldorset.co.uk or by phone Register online at www.livewelldorset.co.uk or by phone at www.bvlhm.yolasite.com. 0800 840 1628. 0800 840 1628.

LiveWell LiveWellDorset Dorsetisisyour yourlocal localdedicated dedicatedhealth healthand andwellbeing wellbeing service, available completely free to every adult living service, available completely free to every adult livingin in the thecounty. county.Its Itsfriendly friendlyteam teamtakes takesthe thehassle hassleout outof ofmaking makingaa healthy healthychange. change.

Now is the time. This is the place. LiveWell LiveWell Dorset Dorset offers offers FREE easy access access FREE easy to to the the support support you you need need to to change change your your life. life.

☑Slimming Slimming vouchers vouchers ☑quit quit kits kits ☑1-2-1 1-2-1 coaching coaching www.livewelldorset.co.uk www.livewelldorset.co.uk

0800 0800 840 840 1628 1628

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

News

blackmorevale.net

A night of poetry A SERIES of events featuring local poets kicks off at the end of the month. The 2026 season of Words Underground begins in Shaftesbury on January 23. Featuring two guest poets, it will take place from 7pm-9pm in the Nuns’ Passage, the cellar venue below the town centre’s King Alfred’s Kitchen café. The first featured readers of this year will be Matt Cutts and Grace Gauld. Matt has published three collections of his poems – More or Less, Right as Rain and Pink. He has read his work on Radio 4’s Poetry Please, and at many venues, including the Glastonbury Festival poetry tent. He lives near Salisbury and works as a forester in the New Forest. Grace grew up in Dundee and draws inspiration from her early memories of the place, the landscape and its people. She is

also influenced by the rural landscape of Wiltshire where she now lives. Her acclaimed poetry collection, Hinterland, was published by Littoral Press in 2020. She has been a writer-in-residence for the Wilts/Swindon History Centre, facilitator of the Salisbury Poetry Café and has a wide history of performing, including at the Edinburgh Fringe. There will be five or six short open readings slots, and possibly another musical interlude. No charge for entry, but there will be a call for donations to help cover costs. Capacity is limited, so early arrival is advised. This will be the first of three ‘Words Underground’ events projected to take place at roughly four-monthly intervals over the year. There are five open readings available – first come, first served. Enquires to richefff@gmail.com.

Complete Care Solutions

Community

Last Wednesday of the month from 11.30am onwards Bramley House Castle Street, Mere BA12 6JN Telephone: 01747 860 192 Millbrook House Child Okeford, Blandford Forum DT11 8EY Telephone: 01258 860 330

info@bramleycare.com | bramleycare.co.uk

Contemporary or traditional kitchens manufactured to order Gillingham Showroom

01747 833 789 Unit 21, Kingsmead Business Park, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 5JG Opening Hours Monday–Friday: 9am–5pm Saturdays by appointment only. Closed Sunday. www.solsticekitchens.co.uk

Lu ref nch res and pro hme vid nts £5 ed do n at

ion Join us for a relaxed and welcoming get-together where everyone is part of the community! Whether you’re living with dementia, supporting someone who is, or simply looking for company and conversation - you’re warmly invited to enjoy good food, friendly faces, and great chats with our residents and staff.

A chance to connect, share stories, and make new friends Spaces are limited, so please get in touch to book your place. (A minimum of 72hrs notice is required for lunch bookings). Together, we’re building connections and bringing our community closer.

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

News

Our loose Canon

Let’s enter this new year with other people’s suffering in mind above our own by Canon Eric Woods HAVE you ever noticed that ‘things’ – electrical, technical, mechanical – all seem to go wrong at the worst possible time? Last month it began for me when I sat down to write my Christmas cards and discovered that the Contacts box on my iPhone was completely empty. Every last name, address and telephone number had vanished. I suppose that I could have hijacked an eight-year old who would have found them all for me in five minutes – but there aren’t many eight-year olds where I live! Then our cordless vacuum cleaner gave up the ghost – completely. We have a heavy corded version, but I don’t like using it on the stairs, and it’s not very versatile. Meanwhile our newly-installed solar batteries in the loft have gone on strike and pronounced themselves both empty and idle. My Kindle has declared my entire library “withdrawn” and no longer available, and my CD player turned atheist and refused to play any Christmas carols. O, tidings of comfort and joy! Of course these were just pin-pricks compared with the real suffering of so many people. I am thinking not just of the many thousands of people caught up in the conflicts in the Middle East, Sudan or the Ukraine, but also of those who lost loved ones, or were badly injured, by the fire in the Swiss ski resort – young people enjoying New Year’s celebrations and then, suddenly, to

blackmorevale.net have all the excitement and anticipation of that New Year extinguished. And these tragedies are endlessly repeated, all over the world. It is too cruel. In her 1992 Christmas broadcast to the Commonwealth – after what she had described as her own ‘annus horribilis’ – Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth said this: “Curiously enough, it was a sad event which did as much as anything in 1992 to help me put my own worries into perspective. Just before he died, Leonard Cheshire came to see us with his fellow members of the Order of Merit. “By then, he was suffering from a long drawnout and terminal illness. He bore this with all the fortitude and cheerfulness to be expected of a holder of the Victoria Cross. However, what struck me more forcibly than his physical courage was the fact that he made no reference to his own illness, but only to his hopes and plans to make life better for others. “He embodied the message in those well-known lines: ‘Kindness in another’s trouble, courage in one’s own’. Perhaps this shining example of what a human being can achieve in a lifetime of dedication can inspire in the rest of us a belief in our own capacity to help others.” Well, in 2026, we will all face fresh challenges. There is no magic formula that will transform sorrow into happiness, intolerance into compassion or war into peace. But each one of us can make a difference in the tiny part of the world we each inhabit. And there is a source of strength and inspiration we can all draw upon – if only we have the faith to ask. May God bless you and 130x96mm BVM.qxp_Layout 1 08/01/2026 15:00 Page 1 keep you in the New Year.

A UNIQUE BLEND OF ADVENTURE + DISCOVERY

Superb kitchens designed and installed for you. Visit our showrooms to view our kitchen displays Shaftesbury: 01747 851 476 Longmead Industrial Estate, Shaftesbury SP7 8PL Warminster: 01985 219 200 5 George Street, Warminster BA12 8QA

Open Mornings

INDEPENDENT DAY + BOARDING PREP SCHOOL IN DORSET FOR GIRLS AGED 7 TO 13

SATURDAY

Scan to book

www.myhomemaker.co.uk

FEBRUARY

SATURDAY

16 MAY

01258 920847 | hanfordprep.group

Photo by Jordan Wozniak on Unsplash

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

News

blackmorevale.net

Shielding YourHard-Earned Home from Safeguard Your Care withInheritance a Living Trust AssetsCosts from 40% Tax, How a Living Trust Protects Your Estate

Looming Care Fees, & Potential Advertising Feature Protection Care Costs Family from Disputes. ADVERTISING FEATURE

Placing yourTax main residenceAre intoyou a living trust canabout provide Inheritance Planning: concerned effective protection against potential future care costs. If you losing 40% of your already taxed hard earned wealth were to require long-term care, the property held within the to the government? Our bespoke legal strategies, trust is ring-fenced, ensuring that it is safeguarded and that meticulously crafted using trusts and wills, ensure your your intended inheritance is preserved for your loved ones.

Run to the hills

Words: George Jeans; photos: Kenneth Hames THE 30th new year’s day car and bike run in aid of the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance was enjoyed by observers and participants alike. Drivers assembled at 9.30am at the Sturminster Newton car park. The countryside run set off at 11am, finishing at the air ambulance cafe in Henstridge airfield where lunch was available. Money was raised from a raffle with some excellent prizes.

Maximi• your space, minimi• the mess.

assets stay where they belong – in your family’s hands. Asset Protectionwith UK law, we shield your estate Fully compliant Transferring of yourtaxes, home—and from the graspownership of inheritance giving potentially you peace of other assets—into a living trust can help to shield those mind and financial security. assets from a variety of risks. These include potential Care Fees Protection: With average care fees hitting claims from creditors, the financial ramifications of divorce £2,000 per week and typical stays ranging from 3 to 7 or remarriage, and claims associated with care costs. By years, these expenses cancan quickly most estates. utilising a living trust, you ensuredeplete that your estate Our custom-tailored solutions offer a lifeline. While remains secure and less exposed to unforeseen claims. many believe protection is impossible, we’ve developed Inheritance Tax Planning a tailored legal strategy fully compliant with UK law to A living trust can also play a central role in estate safeguard your assets, including protection against care planning, especially in terms of minimising inheritance tax fees. liabilities. Assets placed within a trust may be excluded Wills:your Don’t leaveestate yourupon lovedyour ones squabbling from taxable passing, whichover can vague wills! Oakwood Wills specializes in drafting reduce the amount of inheritance tax your beneficiaries may crystal-clear that leave no room for be required to documents pay. ambiguity. No more family feuds. Just smooth, conflictTrust Administration and Control free asset distribution that honours your final wishes. Upon establishing a living trust, you typically appoint Lasting as Power Of Attorneys: Statistics don’t to liemaintain – the yourself the trustee. This means you continue chancesover of incapacity with age. Lasting control your assets,rise managing andWith usingour them as you Power of Attorneys services, you can appoint see fit. Should you decide to move house, the trusttrusted remains individuals to makeitsfinancial and decisions in place and extends protection to healthcare your new home. on your behalf. No more court approvals, no more Personalised Advice uncertainty in times of crises – just peace of mind The effectiveness and suitability of a living trust will knowing are in safe hands. depend onyour your interests personal circumstances. Oakwood Wills For a complimentary consultation, out toof your offers a complimentary consultation in reach the comfort Oakwood own home. Wills. For further information, you can call 07832 Tel: 07832 331594 or Email: info@oakwoodwills.co.uk 331594 or email info@oakwoodwills.co.uk.

WILL WRITING AND LEGACY PLANNING Protect your assets from care costs and inheritance tax

FREE 5-year warranty Fitted by a local Garolla engineer Manufactured in the UK Secured by Design

·«$»OHiciolPolic.Secu,i1ylnitio1i ..

Scanto explore OW"range

BOOK A FREE SURVEY TODAY

01963 530 112 GAROLLA.CO.UK

•Terms & conditions apply, see website for details.

____,

..._

*Trustpilot

l'll'll'll'l Rated "Excellent

SAVE ON THE COST OF HIGH STREET SOLICITORS

 Will writing  Lasting power of attorney  Property protection trusts  Fixed price on ALL products  Free home visits and consultations

07832 331594

͟ www.oakwoodwills.co.uk

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

News

Halfway around the world – on three wheels! TWO adventurers are driving their Robin Reliant car, Sheila the Three Wheeler, all the way from the UK to Cape Town in South Africa in aid of the School in a Bag charity, based near Yeovil. Friends Oliver Jenks and Seth Scott will be driving 10,000 miles in their customised car for the charity. School in a Bag provides rucksacks full of stationery, learning resources, utensils and a hygiene kit to disadvantaged and disaster-affected children around the world. Luke Simon, founder and chief executive of School in a Bag, said: “When we first heard that Oliver and Seth were planning to drive to Cape Town in support of School in a Bag, we were slightly speechless!

“It is certainly not the usual way people raise funds for us, but it is one of the most imaginative, bold and heartfelt. “Their creativity, courage and determination are inspiring. “We are enormously grateful that they have chosen to use this incredible adventure to help children who need educational resources the most.” Oliver and Seth have delivered 48 SchoolBags to a school in Senegal and will be handing out further SchoolBags in Ghana when they arrive. They have been visiting projects supported by School in a Bag, as well as sharing stories of how a SchoolBag filled with learning materials can transform a child’s ability to learn. The charity hopes their journey will highlight the need

for educational resources in communities affected by poverty, disaster and conflict. Oliver and Seth’s progress can be followed on Instagram @hold.mygear – and to support their fundraising efforts visit www.justgiving.com/page/ holdmygear. Luke Simon added: “Every mile they travel will help us reach more children with the gift of education. We will be cheering for Sheila every step of the way!”

A SECOND series of the popular 12-week Dance Because You Can workshops for the over-60s is set to get under way at The Exchange in Sturminster Newton. The gentle dance classes, run by Pavilion Dance South West and Dorset arts charity Artsreach, are designed for older people who would benefit from low level fitness, socialising and having fun. Yvonne Gallimore, Artsreach assistant director, said: “We are very grateful to both the Britford Bridge Trust and Dorset Community Foundation for their continued support of these sessions, enabling us to run a second series of workshops in north Dorset. “These workshops have actively helped to connect people with each other in their local communities and help

reduce loneliness and isolation.” The classes, led by a specially trained teacher from Pavilion Dance South West, launched on Thursday, January 8, and run every week until March 26. The classes cost £8 and are open to anyone over 60 who would like to improve their fitness, have fun and meet new people – no dance experience is necessary and post-class refreshments and social time are included. Those interested in finding out more can attend the first session as a taster, before committing to the 12 weeks. Anyone not mobile enough to attend alone is asked to bring a carer for more support. Classes at The Exchange will run every Thursday from 2pm-3.30pm and can be booked by contacting The Exchange on 01258 475137.

SUPPORTERS came together to celebrate the LHOPS – Let’s Help Our Primary Schoolchildren – Christmas Appeal. Sherborne Primary School first launched the appeal during the Covid 19 pandemic to support families facing financial hardship. The project expanded and now involves several schools in the Sherborne area – and has now become a registered charity. The appeal supports families eligible for free school meals by providing Christmas hampers filled with local produce, given by Hunt’s Food Hall, and vouchers for local shops. Charitable status will enable the initiative to support more children and families, with nearly 200 receiving a box this Christmas. Families in need are

Fitness and fun: get moving

blackmorevale.net

School in a bag: explainer

SCHOOL in a Bag was born out of the Piers Simon Appeal, set up in 2005 in memory of tsunami victim Piers Simon from Chilthorne Domer, following his death on the Thai island of Koh Phi Phi on Boxing Day 2004. School in a Bag was started in 2009 and to date, more than 162,000 SchoolBags have been distributed to children in 60 countries. Each SchoolBag costs £25 and is numbered, enabling donors to track their funded SchoolBag(s) on the School in a Bag website, www. schoolinabag.org.

Christmas cheer for all

discreetly identified and supported, ensuring help is provided with dignity and care. The Lord-Lieutenant of Dorset attended this year’s appeal launch. Ian Bartle, executive headteacher, said: “The whole aim of the Let’s Help Our Primary Schoolchildren charity is to show our children, families and communities that we think about them and that we care. “What began as a simple act of support has grown into something incredibly powerful, and we are immensely proud of the difference this initiative continues to make.”

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

News

blackmorevale.net

Sue finds ‘a new lease of life’ after moving to a Care South home closer to her daughter ADVERTISING FEATURE

Care South resident has been given a ‘new lease of life’ after moving to a care home to be closer to her daughter.

bugle on Remembrance Day and also played Christmas carols on the piano for residents and their loved ones to sing along to over the festive period.

Sue relocated from London to be closer to her daughter, Heather, who lives in Dorset, enabling them to spend more quality time together. For Heather, the move also offered reassurance after a difficult period supporting her mum who lives with dementia. “I was advised to start looking at care homes. When I contacted Care South, they reassured me that they could fully accommodate Mum’s needs.”

Sue said: “I experience short-term memory loss. It is frustrating, but I’ve learned to live with it. I wear my keys on a lanyard around my neck so that I don’t lose them. Apart from that, I live my life to the full.”

The pair booked a visit to a care home run by Care South, a leading provider of care homes offering residential, respite, nursing and dementia care and care at home services across Dorset, Somerset and North Devon. Sue and Heather toured the facilities, including communal lounges and dining rooms, and a beautiful garden which often hosts events open to the local community. They also met the care home team and learned about the dedicated onsite activities team, which runs clubs, live music sessions, and other events seven days a week. Together they agreed that it was the perfect new home for Sue, who moved in three weeks later. Heather said: “She’s literally got a new lease of life at the home and is thoroughly enjoying herself. Our relationship has also been further strengthened as I’m no longer her primary carer, trying to care for her from three hours away. Now we get to spend quality time together, whether that’s a trip to the beach or the garden centre, and then I drop her back home again. Every time I visit she says, ‘Thank you for finding me the best care home. I’m happy here and want to stay.’” Sue is a former civilian member of the military bands of the London Irish Rifles Association, and later The Band of The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, London. As a keen musician, she played The Last Post on the

Finding a place where she could remain active and independent was important to her. “Thanks to the support of the care home staff, I feel freedom. I love gardening and even have my own plot to tend. The care I receive is fantastic. I love the people, the sociability, and the food. The ethos at the home is caring and loving. I feel wanted.” Care South runs Fern Brook Lodge care home in Gillingham which 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.

Sue pictured at an aerial theatre show event at her Care South home.

Wish mum lived closer?

For information about the care services available at Fern Brook Lodge, visit care-south.co.uk or call the home on 01747 449812.

Sue and daughter Heather pictured at the Christmas lights switch on.

Mum is thriving since she moved to a home closer to me. I’ve got peace of mind that she’s well cared for and, without the distance, we can spend more quality time together.

Wish mum lived closer? Mum is thriving since she moved to a home closer to me. I’ve got peace of mind that she’s wellHeather cared for - Daughter and without the distance, we can spend of more Sue (resident) quality time together.

Whether it’s your mother or father, at Care South, we know care

Heather - Daughter of Sue (resident) is about more than medical needs. It’s about reassurance. It’s

about comfort. It’s about quality of life. It’s about Food, Fun and Friendship. Our friendly teamsmore are here 24/7, with needs. delicious Whether it’s your mother or father, at Care South, we know care is about than medical It’smeals, about engaging activities and a warm welcoming atmosphere. reassurance. It’s about comfort. It’s about quality of life. It’s about Food, Fun and Friendship. Our friendly teams are here 24/7, with delicious meals, engaging activities and a warm welcoming atmosphere. a care home near you or at Care-South.co.uk call us on 01202 712410 Find a care home near youFind at Care-South.co.uk call us on 01202or712410 Head Office | 39 Commercial Rd | Poole | BH14 0HU Head Office | 39 Commercial Rd | Poole | BH14 0HU a not-for-profit charity and leading provider of residential, dementia, Care South, a not-for-profit charity and leading providerCare ofSouth, residential, dementia, nursing, assisted living nursing, assisted living and care at home across the south of England. Registered and care at home across the south of England. Registered Charity No. 1014697. at time of print. Charity No. 1014697. *Correct at time of*Correct print.

Group rating

9.8*

out of 10 on carehome.co.uk

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

News

blackmorevale.net

All change at cafe A VALE village delivered lunch with a twist when the team of volunteers was turned on its head in time for Christmas. Okeford Fitzpaine’s Mud Pie Café is run by a rota of volunteers, who enjoyed a break when a team of village men stepped in to serve and clean up. Behind the scenes, regulars Pat and Debbie worked quietly to make sure everything ran smoothly, helping the men look good on the day. However, both said credit is very much due to the team for taking on the challenge and performing so well under pressure! The seven men gained a new appreciation for just how much work the regular team puts in each week. The Café’s guests were treated to live piano music from Emma, who played a wonderful range of Christmas songs throughout the morning, making the café feel especially warm

and seasonal. The Christmas Café was also an opportunity to recognise the contribution of Jayden, a local student who has volunteered regularly at Mud Pie Café for the past three years. Jayden was presented with a small token of thanks in appreciation of his dedication and reliability. Jayden is pictured receiving his gift from the Village Community Group, who run the café under the expert management of Sue Branson, who looks after the rota. Thanks are also due to the many people who work behind the scenes to ensure the café continues to run so smoothly week to week – and has done so for the past 10 years. These include Robert for supplying cakes, Pete for making sure there are always enough part-cooked baguettes for the Café’s famous bacon rolls, and the 30 or so ladies who regularly volunteer, making

Santa in the saddle

the workload manageable for everyone. Organisers would also like to thank the village hall committee for keeping the hall in such good condition and for the excellent kitchen facilities that make running the café such a pleasure. Okeford Fitzpaine’s Mud Pie Café continues to be a wonderful example of community spirit – made to look effortless, but only because of the dedication of so many people

SHAFTESBURY man Nicholas Wade spread Christmas cheer on one of Dorset's most iconic streets. Nicholas, of Gold Hill, well known for his Hovis bread bike, donned a Santa Claus costume, complete with little elves and twinkling Christmas lights, to raise awareness Dorset Air Ambulance and Myotonic Dystrophy.

FASHIONS & LINGERIE

MASSIVE REDUCTIONS SALE IN ALL DEPARTMENTS

On selected ines

NOW ON

(No refunds on reduced items, this does not affect Your statutory rights)

SALE

70% OFF RAIL* *(Selected lines)

SALE

50% OFF *

50% OFF

50% OFF *

JEANS & TROUSER S * (Selected lines)

SEASALT * (Selected lines)

BOOTS & SHOES

*(Selected lines)

BRAS

* (Selected lines)

NIGHT WEAR*

* (Selected lines)

30 High Street, Shaftesbury, SP7 8JG Tel:01747 852444 visit our website www.shirleyallum.co.uk

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

News

blackmorevale.net

Specialising in Window, Door & Conservatory installations in & around Dorset, Somerset & Wiltshire, since 1989.

• WINDOWS • DOORS • CONSERVATORIES • SOLID ROOFS • BI-FOLDS • SEALED UNITS

New year walkers tackle Great Bottom

• FASCIA, SOFFIT & GUTTERING Showroom in Orchard Park Garden Centre, Gillingham SP8 5JG Open Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm Open Saturday mornings by appointment only

WORDS AND PHOTOS: George Jeans, Mere WALKERS stepped out on the annual Great Bottom walk from the clock tower in Mere on a sunny and frosty new year’s day. Two walks were on offer, a four-mile walk with an ascent of 370 feet, and shorter, level 45-minute walk. The event, organised by John Jordan and helpers, ended with a hot toddy or other warming drinks.

Wishing our customers a Happy New Year for 2026

Tel: 01747 826888 www.valecraft.co.uk Celebrating 35 Years

S H A F T E S B U RY VA LU AT I O N DAY G RO S V E N O R A R M S H OT E L , H I G H S T R E E T, S P 7 8 J A

J E W E L L E RY, WATC H E S , O B J E C T S O F V E RT U , CO I N S & D E T E C TO R I S T F I N D S F R I DAY 2 3 J A N UA RY AT 1 0 A M – 3 P M OUR EXPERIENCED SPECIALISTS CAN OFFER FREE AUCTION VALUATIONS WITH THE OPPORTUNITY TO CONSIGN TO OUR MAYFAIR AUCTIONS FOR AN APPOINTMENT CALL 020 7016 1700 O R E M A I L J E W E L L E RY @ N O O N A N S .C O.U K E L I Z A B E T H I ( 1 5 5 8 – 1 6 0 3 ) , PAT T E R N S , PAT T E R N G ROAT O R M E DA L E T, 1 6 0 1 S O L D I N N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 5 HAMMER PRICE: £5,000

A DIAMOND F R I N G E N E C K L AC E SOLD IN N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 5 HAMMER PRICE: £17,000

A WHITE GOLD AND D I A M O N D - S E T W R I S T WATC H W I T H J U M P I N G H O U R S BY B R E I T L I N G , C I RC A 2 0 1 1 S O L D I N N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 5 HAMMER PRICE: £17,000

N O O N A N S M AY FA I R • 1 6 B O LTO N S T R E E T M AY FA I R LO N D O N W 1 J 8 B Q • W W W. N O O N A N S .CO. U K

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

News

blackmorevale.net

www.beaminstersheds.co.uk 01308 861144 info@beaminstersheds.co.uk 32, North Street, Beaminster, DT8 3DY

A family-run business established more than 29 years ago, offering a huge range of sheds and outbuildings, including: Bike Sheds, Dustbin Stores And Log Storage Sheds To Suit All Budgets & Uses, From Hobbies To Workshops Garages & Carports

Beach Huts Field Shelters & Stables Poultry Housing, Dog Houses, Kennels & Runs Garden Gates

Summerhouses & Home Offices

Fencing

Playhouse

Bespoke Buildings

FREE local delivery & erection of garden buildings

Sweet harmony

by Sandra Fisher MERE’S community choir, Shreen Harmony, held its Christmas concert at St Michael’s Church. The performance began with a model boar’s head being carried down the aisle to the sound of the choir singing. The show continued with a mix of sea shanties, lullabies, modern pop and traditional Christmas songs, which the audience participated in. About 150 people enjoyed mulled wine, sausage rolls and mince pies, and a retiring collection raised £632 in aid of Mere’s Food Bank.

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

blackmorevale.net

News

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Castle Lodge Care Home in Mere Now Welcoming Residents Residential, Dementia, Respite Care The best way to understand what makes our home special is to visit. Alongside our friendly, supportive carers who take the time to truly know each resident, we offer exceptional facilities — from our Coffee Club Café and on-site Pub to Private Dining, a Wellness Salon, Entertainment Suite and beautifully landscaped gardens, all designed to enhance daily life. Call today to enquire and book your personal tour. Wendy Perkins, Home Manager

Enquire Today

01985 440 321 Norwood Park, Castle Street, Mere, Warminster, Wiltshire, BA12 6LA

www.countrycourtcare.com

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

News

blackmorevale.net

Council calls for more coppers MEMBERS of Shaftesbury Town Council, along with the town councils at Gillingham and Stalbridge – are calling for policing to be stepped up in the towns and surrounding areas. They say residents are increasingly concerned about the level of visible policing, property crime, including burglary, and shoplifting, anti-social behaviour and speeding. The councils have sent a joint letter expressing concerns to the Chief Constable of Dorset Police and the Police and Crime Commissioner. They want a more consistent and visible police presence to deter crime, build community confidence and allow officers to effectively engage with residents and local businesses. “The safety and security of our residents is the number one priority for Shaftesbury Town Council,” said Councillor Andy Hollingshead, who has been leading on the campaign. “We recognise the challenging resource environment facing Dorset Police, and that historically north Dorset is a safe area, but the current level of dedicated local policing is simply insufficient to meet the needs of our growing communities. “I am grateful to Gillingham Town Council and Stalbridge Town Council in joining with us and we urge the Chief Constable and the Commissioner to provide the resources necessary to ensure our towns continue to remain a safe and pleasant place to live and work.”

Combining a personal service with competitive prices using quality products W indows Doors Conser vatories

Replacement roofs Fascia Soffits

Tel 01747 840885 or 0800 0833623 Website: pitmanwindows.com

Free “SWISH” clothes swapping event at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton

ould you do with a few new winter or spring outfits but you’re saving your pennies? Have you had a clear out of your clothes recently and wondering where to take them? Why not come along to Dorset Council’s SWISH event?

ADVERTISING FEATURE

This is a FREE event where people literally swap their clothes! If you’ve not been to a SWISH before then rest assured it’s a very simple concept and we get lots of positive feedback! Just bring along a maximum of 10 items of clothing that you don’t want anymore and then take home some clothes that you like the look of. Women’s, men’s and children’s clothes are all welcome, plus shoes and accessories such as bags and hats. Please ensure that items are clean and in good condition. The event will run from 11am to 1pm on Saturday 24th January at The Exchange. To allow time for us to set up the items, please drop the clothes off from 10.30am onwards. We will stop accepting clothes from 12.30pm. No traders please. For any further questions, contact us at wasteteam@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk We hope to see you there!

Come to our next SWISH clothes swap. You might find your next spring outfit for free! Saturday 24 January 11am to 1pm The Exchange, Sturminster Newton

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Events FABRIC SALE, Saturday 31st January 10am-2pm Hawkers Farm, Stour Provost SP8 5LZ, Dressmaking and soft furnishing fabric, haberdashery, curtains. £1 entry, Cakes and drinks. Proceeds to Village Hall

Book Online classified@ blackmorevale.net

Items for sale JUMBLE SALE DAMERHAM VILLAGE HALL SP6 Saturday 24th January 2pm SATURDAY 24TH JANUARY. FREE DORSET COUNCIL “SWISH” Clothes swapping event at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton. 11am - 1pm. Bring a maximum of 10 clean clothes/ accessories in good condition. Clothes accepted 10.30 12.30pm. No traders please

Items for sale CLASSIFIED ADS CLASSIC ‘ESSEX’ ARMCHAIR Brass wheels, clean calico, new fire-rated cushion; ready for new loose cover; can email photo £110 ovno. TEL 07832-224905 GALVANIZED GATES VARIOUS. Water Trough 6ft £60. 3ft. £30. plus Crash barriers. Tel: 07918-627092

MOTOR MOWER, HAYTER HARRIER 48. Excellent condition, serviced annually. £90. ovno. Tel: 01963-220538 2 DRAPER GARAGE WORKBENCHES 1400mm long 60mm deep; heavy board shelves steel £75 each or £120 for both; (would swap one for good folding work bench) TEL: 07832-224905

FREE CLASSIFIED ADS SMALL INDIAN ROSEWOOD ROUND TABLE. VGC.£15. Gillingham. 07963-319751. CYMBIDIUM ORCHID PLANTS flowering size £25 or smaller to grow on £10 Blandford 07772-607488 LEAF BLOWER/VAC - Flymo 2500W Turbo. £30. 01963 220538 RENPHO MASSAGE PILLOW and instructions. Un-needed present. £18. Tel: 01963-23412 HARDBACK BOOK, Shaun Wallace, Chasing The Dream, VGC - £6, 3 x 500 larger piece jigsaws & 1 x 250 larger piece jigsaw VGC - £10, telephone 01747 708308 Gillingham

SURPRISE CHRISTMAS GUESTS? 2 excellent folding beds with mattresses. £15.00 Tel. 01963 359463 Castle Cary

blackmorevale.net OAK GATE LEG DINING TABLE £20 and Brass Fireside ornaments £10, 07791 847767

WOODEN TV STAND with TV. £50 07742 189135 TWO SEATER SETTEE, upholstered in prime condition with cushions. £20. Tel: 01258 470523

NEW WOODEN LOG STORES. £50. Tel: 01258-472893

WOODEN SHERRY CASK, 18 inchesx10 in, plus wood stand, Stalbridge. £15, 07812-719315

ERDE 6x4 TRAILER. £50. 01823-444830. VINTAGE DRESSING TABLE, 2 top drawers, 1 large bottom drawer. 1 big detachable mirror £35. Tel: 07833-641242

CHEST FREEZER BASKETS. 39cm X 27cm X 20cm high. 6+2 with folding handles. £4 each. Sturminster Newton. Tel: 01258-818017.

VINTAGE SINGER SEWING MACHINE in a wooden case. £30. Tel: 07886-538350

ATTRACTIVE ROUND MIRROR with brass “porthole” surround and slightly beveled glass 39cm width and height. vgc £40 01747 854294

FOR SALE SHAUN WALLACE / Autobiography Chasiing The Dream £6.00. 01747-708308 Gillingham.

MAGIMIX DIGITAL KITCHEN SCALES. Brand new in box. RRP£50. £20. 07874 266213 Blandford.

GENTS CYCLE. 12 speed. £25. Tel: 07918-627092

BREVILLE FOOD MIXER, still in box. £30. Tel: 01747-830935 DOLLS HOUSE KIT, boxed, full instructions, to include exquisite dolls furniture. Create an airloom. £30. Tel: 01747-841206 UNUSED 2 MAN FISHING SHELTER. £50 Blandford. 07907-044084

FREE! up to £50

MORPHY RICHARDS, 4 slice toaster. White. Excellent condition. £15. Shaftesbury. Tel: 07773-657363 VAX WET/DRY GARAGE VACUUM & carpet cleaner & BabyGro white/metal stair +/or dog gate £30 each or £49 for both. Tel: 07832-224905

Classified Adverts

1 ad per contact number. Please limit to:

15 words or less

household items only adverts@blackmorevale.net

WANTED

VERONA RUG, dark beige, soft shaggy, new in wrapping 120x170cm. £50.00 Wincanton 07840-986402

CIGARETTE CARDS WANTED. Bought for cash. Fair prices paid. Phone Kevin. 07907-888672

LARGE STONES FOR ROCKERY/BUILDING 30x30x60cm & smaller, 5 for £49, Horsington 01963-371137

OLD BOOKS BOUGHT. Will call by appointment entirely without obligation. Bristow & Garland 07392 602014

JIGSAW PUZZLE TRAY 500. in carring case. Hardly used. Excellent condition. £15. Shaftesbury. Tel: 07773-657363 CARMEN CURLERS, TYPE K16. £25. Babyliss Pro-curl 210. model 2287BU. £25. Tel: 07754-876947

Advertising made

simple

01963 400186 | adverts@blackmorevale.net

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Recruitment

blackmorevale.net THE KITCHEN AT KIMBERS’ - We are looking for an individual, ideally with experience to join our team. Tues Fri plus every other Saturday. Please email: info@thekitchenatkimbers.co.uk Or call 07866 466867

DRIVER REQUIRED. Private Hire License Required. Can be applied for. Tel: 07813-209841

LIVE-IN CARER REQUIRED NEAR BRUTON, Somerset for a 93 year old lady with onset dementia, to support her with daily living in her 5 bedroom farmhouse. For a 10 day rota per month. High stamina position. Must be a pet lover. Available from March. Please apply by email with C.V. carla.urch@hotmail.com

PART-TIME FARM WORKER REQUIRED for morning routine and yard work on small family dairy farm in Hazelbury Bryan area. No accommodation. Please call in first instance- 07772-293459

‘PICK UP AND BEDTIME’ 3 DAYS A WEEK - working parents need help with our two boys (5 and 2.5 YO) ideal hours 4:30pm - 7:30pm Monday / Tuesday / Thursday. Good hourly rate and use of our car. Live 10 mins from Sherborne. Text 07944637771 if interested.

Looking for work or

RECRUITING? Join our jobs group on

FACEBOOK

Blackmore Vale Jobs Group

SITUATIONS WANTED CLEANING SERVICES OFFERED. Please ring 07396-949160 PRIVATE HOME CARER/DOMESTIC HELP. Daytime availability, DBS checked and fully insured. 25years experience. Working in Yeovil/Sherborne area. Contact: 07565-915736 NEED A CHEMISTRY TUTOR? I’m an experienced A Level and GCSE Chemistry teacher with extensive tutoring expertise and recommendations. Call on 07732-418488 or visit www.cometugrow.com

Estate Administrator

Join our team

Location: Minterne House, Dorset, UK Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent

Hours: Monday to Friday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with flexibility on start & finish timings. There is a necessity to accommodate occasional evening or weekend needs. Salary: £30,000 – £35,000 annually, based on experience and qualifications. Start date: 16 March 2026 Overview of Role: We are seeking an experienced Estate Administrator to oversee operations at Minterne House, to ensure effective and compliant property administration and provide secretarial support for Lord Digby and his family. Reporting to the Estate Manager, the postholder will liaise with estate staff, external consultants and members of the Digby family to ensure effective communications and the smooth and efficient running of day-to-day operations and events. Application Information: To apply for this role please send a CV and covering letter marked for the attention of Julian Webb, Estate Manager to: enquiries@minterne.co.uk with immediate effect. Interviews will be held the week commencing 2 February 2026. www.minterne.co.uk

Bramley Care Group, are recruiting for the following The Old Rectory Stalbridge

Part-time Cook Full-time Night Senior Carer Full-time Night Care Assistant (Maternity cover) Part-time Care Assistants Full-time Senior Care Assistant

For more information, please visit bramleycare.co.uk/job-vacancies-at-bramley-care info@bramleycare.com | bramleycare.co.uk

Shaftesbury 01747 855844 Sherborne 01935 677655 Bramley House, Mere | Millbrook House, Child Okeford | The Old Rectory, Stalbridge Bramley Home Care, Shaftesbury and Sherborne

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026 BLACKMORE VALE

THE NEW

MAGAZINE

Edition 139 Edition 90

Z 10

Crossword

Arrow words

1 Spring festival

Lava emitter

Common ornamental trees

Preceding day

Irritate intensely

It may be bulletproof

Blend

3 2

Phonesystem number (abbr.)

Refer to a passage

Stellar

Skill

12 11

13 13

Romanov leader

Hew

Doctors’ trade union (inits.)

Bawl

Quick

1717

Strand of rope

19 19

18 18 Cooking range

Small deer

Philatelist’s love

Wharton degree (inits.)

Sailor

Wedding ring

Mug

She was once Mrs Sinatra

Across

Halt

Wordsearch Whales and Dolphins A

R D

H W O B R

G B D O R

D O

S U

E O P

S G O R

E O

E G P

E P

D C K

G R

L W L

L M

K N

H A

A H A

R G

O H B

C G B W B

B R

H W K

O O E

N O A U A

R C

S U P

B O

P O A C E O

T W N B D O

H O H

S O G

H C D

A C D

H U S

O P

R N O C

B D N

A C

O B H

G H

BELUGA BLACK BLUE BOTTLENOSE BOWHEAD CACHALOT DORADO GREENLAND

E O E

I I

E M R G M N

B B

7 Hurt (6) Across 8 Bar the situation where (6) 7 Hurt (6) (4) 9 Stump 8 10 BarPut theinsituation where (6) (8) 9 11 Stump (4) Emanating (11) 10 14 PutBeget in (8) (4,5,2) Orchestra(11) section (8) 11 18 Emanating 19 Excellent, 14 Beget (4,5,2)as a beat (slang) (4) Snack legume, often roasted or 18 20 Orchestra section (8) salted (6) 19 21 Excellent, Purifies as (6) a beat (slang) (4) 20 Snack legume, often roasted or salted (6) 21 Purifies (6)

Cut into with teeth

Wide

GREY HUMPBACK KILLER ORCA PORPOISE RIGHT SEI TOOTHED

O E

Easy sudoku

Down 1 Affairs (7) Down 2 Smear carelessly (4) 13Affairs (7) (6) Territory 24Smear (4) (6) Part ofcarelessly a larger group 35Territory (6)instrument (8) 18-across Buffoons (5) 46Part of a larger group (6) 12 Producinginstrument flour, perhaps 5 18-across (8) (8) 13 Stretches with great effort (7) 6 Buffoons (5) 15 Lives (6) 12 Producing flour, perhaps (8) 16 Stimulate (6) 13 withovernight great effort 17Stretches Place to stay (5) (7) 15 19Lives Make(6) ready (4)

16 Stimulate (6) 17 Place to stay overnight (5) 19 Make ready (4)

5 7 8

1 3 9

8 7 9

5 4 2

7 4

7 5

Brain chain 49

RESULT

-11

+75%

×1/2

-8

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Z 10

Sudoku 3D puzzle 5

5 9 4 8

1 7

3 7 4

2 5

3 8

3 5 43 5 8

4 7 3 5 6

4 91

4 2

7 3

13 12

18 18

9 3 2

9 7

7 6

8 6 9 4

2 4 9

Edition 139 Edition 90

4 9

MAGAZINE

3 3 8 2

Cryptic crossword 1

9 2

THE NEW

BLACKMORE VALE

22 1

22 5

25 12

Do Across Down Across 2 Par 1 Genuine father embracing northern Anglican 14 meal first off (5) 2 Part of a board taking 1 Genuine father embracing northern Anglican 3 Tire church (7) Place 1 to 9 once into every black-bordered 3x3 area as well as church (7) 3 Tiresome hop Gary bungled? Arr 5 Foundation needingjob no with introduction each of the 54 rows indicated by the coloured lines. Rows don’t5 Foundation Arranging hops required (12) needing no introduction 15 17unchanged 16 4 Re (2,2) Rectify network eastern unchanged (2,2) cross the thick black lines. Me 10 Clubs 4 playing well complyaround (7) Mediterranean 10 Clubs playing well comply (7) 18 11 Treat with 6 Las care shark (5) (6) 7 Loo 12 Carried6 from less (5) LastAsian shortisland examnothing certainly accepted (7) 11 Treat with care shark (5) 8 Re 13 Plant out around a hotel (6) 7 Look for religious follower, we hear 12 Carried from 21 Asian 19 Asian island nothing less (5) 20laid 15 Destroy front of vehicle (6) composer, und 8 aReserve shown in byanger Austrian 13 Plant laid out around a hotel (6) 9 Imp of ship when followed by (7) seabird (6) figure 15 Destroy a front of vehicle in anger (6) 17 On back undemonstrative 22 19 Reach a Impassioned dry area by Indiana (6)is authentic about sop 9 review 17 On back of ship when followed by seabird (6) 26+ 17+ 6 2÷ 20 Sales rep in French city with temperature (5) 14 Mo Killer Sudoku Pro soprano (12) 19 Reach 23 a dry area by Indiana (6) 24 23 Duck with 16 Foo a lack of speed and vitality? (5) Place numbers 1 totemperature 9 14 goesforbelow institute (7)Bo 20 Sales rep in French city with (5) 24 Month inMoment the past, worker November, a figure (7) 16 Food component? Find it with a Frenchma 23 Duck with a lack of speed and vitality? (5) once each into every 18 Re 25 Rubbish in sleeping-berth (4) 10+ 1 17+ 3 Bordeaux, (7) 24 Month in the past, November, for a figure 21 En 26 (7) Lead singer happy tosay entertain copper (7) row, column and 18 Revenue pocketed by main comedian 25 Rubbish in sleeping-berth (4) 26 22 (6) Pla 25 bold-lined 3x3 box. 21 Energy with a German that’s keen (5) 26 Lead singer happy to entertain copper (7) 9+ 40× 22 Place for bodies partly closed by doctor (4 No digit may be

Killer Sudoku Pro

repeated in any

16+

4÷

210×

36×

Across dash-lined cage, and 36× 1 Genuine father embracing northern Anglican church (7) all the digits in any 5 Foundation needing no introduction cage must add up to unchanged (2,2) value shown in 10 Clubs playing the well comply (7) 11 Treat with carethat shark (5) cage. 12 Carried from Asian island nothing less (5) 10×13 Plant laid out around a hotel (6) 15 Destroy a front of vehicle in anger (6) 17 On back of ship when followed by seabird (6) 19 Reach a dry area by Indiana (6) 12+20 Sales rep in French city with temperature (5) 23 Duck with a lack of speed and vitality? (5) 24 Month in the past, November, for a figure (7) 25 Rubbish 25+ in sleeping-berth (4) 26 Lead singer happy to entertain copper (7)

24×

140×

19+

11+

6÷

320×

Down 2 Part of a board taking meal first off (5) 3 Tiresome job with hop Gary bungled? Arranging hops required (12) 4 Rectify network around eastern Mediterranean (6) 6 Last short exam certainly accepted (7) 7 Look for Asian religious follower, we hear (4) 8 Reserve shown by Austrian composer, undemonstrative figure (7) 9 Impassioned review is authentic about soprano (12) 14 Moment worker goes below institute (7) 16 Food component? Find it with a Frenchman in Bordeaux, say (7) 18 Revenue pocketed by main comedian (6) 21 Energy with a German that’s keen (5) 22 Place for bodies partly closed by doctor (4)

Brain chain (hard version) 379

RESULT

+126

×3/5

+81

+50%

÷2

For the solutions, turn to page 70

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Letters

blackmorevale.net

No hope for walkers and cyclists AFTER a recent family visit, I attempted to walk home from Gillingham station with my luggage along the public footpath that goes for a mile or so south-east to Cole Street Lane, in between all the fields being bulldozed for the new Gillingham Southern Extension. Halfway, I suddenly came to a high metal-grid fence completely blocking the track. The track itself was also lined on both sides by the same high fencing. There was absolutely no way through or around it. The fence had no sign on it and there had been no previous warning of any closure of the footpath. Since then, official council notices have been put up, saying that the public footpaths between Gillingham and Cole Street Lane are closed for a minimum of six months because of the building works. They also say ‘an alternative route will be signed’ but there is nothing anywhere. Many of us living on Cole Street Lane depend on the public footpaths to get to Gillingham and back for shopping, appointments, trains and buses. Cole Street Lane itself has no pavement. It is a long and winding single-track rat-run between Shaftesbury Road and East Stour Road. Crazily, it has a 60mph limit. These two main roads are even more dangerous for walkers and cyclists – they have no pavements either, never mind cycleways, and the traffic is lethal. Nearly everyone I know around here has a bicycle which they say they never use because the roads are just too dangerous. Dorset Council recently publicised its Local Transport Plan for 2026-41. In the summary it says: “We will enable active lifestyles by providing comprehensive walking, wheeling and cycling routes, and deliver safe,

inclusive and integrated sustainable travel networks”. However, if you look at the plans for the GillinghamShaftesbury area, you will see that there is nothing that remotely fits that description. Rather it is all about ‘building 1,800 new homes, employment land, and supporting infrastructure’, and a plan for a new industrial estate on the fields at the corner of Cole Street Lane and Shaftesbury Road. What this all means in practice is that there are going to be even more cars, vans and lorries clogging up the already overcrowded, narrow roads and hurtling down all the small lanes trying to circumvent the bottlenecks. These plans for North Dorset are terrible because the roads just can’t cope with more traffic and would become even more dangerous and dire than at present. I feel there is now no hope for walkers and cyclists in our area. We have been abandoned by Dorset and thrown in the ditch of development. Edmund Wood Gillingham

Bus service is falling short

LAST week I was sorting out my old newspapers and wondered why I had kept the New Blackmore Vale of May 28. I scanned through and on page 29 under the headline Bus Improvements a Reality I found this quote: “Dorset Council has upgraded bus routes within the Vale, with the aim of improving accessibility for rural Dorset.” It is very difficult for the villagers of Marnhull to believe this headline because for us so many places have now become much less accessible. In April, Dorset Council rerouted the CR4 bus removing it from Marnhull – with only two weeks’ notice – and changing it so that it goes via

Lydlinch, which has a much smaller population. The people of Marnhull used the service regularly to go to Sherborne, Yeovil and Blandford, but are no longer able to get to those destinations unless they want to spend long periods of time in Sturminster Newton waiting for connections. I travel to work in Stalbridge twice a week, a distance of only 3 ½ miles. In the morning it takes two buses, two bus fares and one hour, and to get home it takes two buses and a wait of 1 ¾ hours in Sturminster Newton, so my overall journey time is 2 ¼ hours. I hope Dorset Council will reconsider for the sake, not only of the people trying to get to work, but people trying to stay in touch with friends and family and support each other, people needing to access Yeovil Hospital, their doctors and dentists on this route and Yeovil College students not yet able to drive or don’t have transport. I used to meet a lot of these people on my journeys before the service was cancelled. Also, with the extensive planned housing developments, there seems to be no consideration that potential buyers who may be from towns or cities with good infrastructure may decide against moving to an area that offers ever reducing public transport services, and for those that do, the impact this will have on car use in the area. I know Dorset Council is well aware of the Government’s Net Zero Strategy and has a section on its website dedicated to this Climate and Ecological Emergency Strategy – Transport – Dorset Council It includes the statement: “In rural areas like Dorset, car ownership is amongst the highest in the country. And in 2018 just over 2,500 million vehicle miles were travelled in Dorset Council area. A significant shift will be needed to make active travel and public transport the first transport mode

of choice.” I have sent letters to Dorset Council with stamped addressed envelopes but have yet to receive a reply. Sandra Dooley Marnhull

Temperatures are rising – it’s a fact

I READ with interest the thoughts of a recent correspondent to the New Blackmore Vale in his letter Solar Panels Are No Silver Bullet and it provoked some thoughts in contrast. It is the choice of the landowner as to the use to which they put their land. At a time when English farmers cannot compete profitably against the global price for many crops, or meat, it makes using such land for solar a sensible business case. Solar panels are often installed on lower-grade agricultural land and animals can continue to graze around them. Some would suggest that unnatural landscapes of agricultural monocultures are unattractive. There have been some solar panels, produced in China, whose provenance can be traced to areas of human rights issues. That is not to say that even a sizeable minority of panels are so produced. China generates more sustainable energy than the rest of the world combined, thus to make the leap that panels are produced using fossil fuels is a little unwise. The panels on my cottage roof are from Spain and, being part of the EU, labour conditions used in their production are likely to be at least as good as, and probably superior, to those in the UK. Panels are also manufactured in Germany with similar, or even higher, labour standards. Solar and wind are somewhat intermittent, which is why, at this time of transition, gas-fired

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Letters

blackmorevale.net power stations are used as a supplementary source of electricity. As with my cottage, battery storage, but on large scale, is a cheap and effective way to balance supply, as demonstrated by China and Australia. The UK is building new nuclear stations, which will produce the most expensive, dangerous, and delayed source of electricity, to take more of the base-load, with a different associated pollution. The most economical, quick and safe solution to the balance issue would probably be to install HVDC cables between us and the near continent – shame we left the EU – with similar connectors to solar arrays in Morocco and other parts of North Africa, but our government appears not advised by proponents of this. The phrase ‘much-hyped’ climate change is worthy of the Orange One from USA. 2025 was the hottest year on record in the UK and temperatures worldwide continue to increase dramatically. This is not hype, it is a statement of fact. That it is man-made emissions, mainly from burning stuff, causing most of the increase is evidentially also a fact, based on scientifically accrued data. Paul East Shaftesbury

Looking back and looking ahead

SHORTLY before Christmas the Any Questions panel were asked: “What will the country look like in 10 years’ time?” I wondered how this might have been answered 50 years ago. In 1975 it was all doom and gloom. The public finances were in crisis. Inflation and interest rates were sky-high – today’s rates are benign by comparison. Industrial relations, with a much more unionised workforce, were approaching anarchy. Nationalised industries were

a byword for over-staffing and inefficiency. Yet 10 years’ later we were well into the Thatcher-led recovery, with a renewal of individual and entrepreneurial spirit – think Yuppies – ordinary people with the money to invest in council houses and privatised utilities, public spending under control and a booming economy which would sustain us until the financial crash of 2008-09. So what can we look for in 2035? Greatly reduced welfare spending with people doing a job rather than living on benefits; allowing more scope for positive investment; small businesses flourishing; children taught that we have to accept the hard knocks as well as the prizes and, crucially, that good manners make for a better life; universities teaching their students to listen to views with which they may disagree; shoplifting becoming exceptional; people in high places and public office doing what they promise, while keeping their trousers on and their hands to themselves. Can we hope for another revival? Mike Keatinge Sherborne

Are we treating dogs like humans?

THE saying ‘it’s a dog’s life’, which originated in the 16th century when dogs were kept as watchdogs or hunting animals, depicts a miserable existence. Dogs weren’t allowed in the house but were kept in kennels, fed scraps, worked hard and often died young. Hence sayings like ‘going to the dogs’, ‘dog tired’, ‘dogsbody’, ‘dog eat dog’, ‘it’s a dog’s life’ describe situations to be avoided. In 21st century Britain, this treatment would seem cruel, but has the pendulum swung too far? During my work as an outdoors instructor, I’ve noticed a marked change in attitude towards dogs over the past two decades.

Often working with ethic minority groups where a dog is considered ‘unclean’, I’ve put my body between terrified client and free-range dog on many occasions and chosen training sites to avoid ‘dog walk’ time. This week, I was taken aback by my introduction to a dog! Thinking the owner to be introducing himself, I realised his four-legged companion bore the name Ralph. 30 years ago you might hear a whistle and: ‘Bella, Daisy, Max, Poppy’ while children were ‘Linda, Jane, Edward, Peter’ but last month I taught eight-yearold Buster to ride his bike while dad threw a stick for Sam! Should we be concerned at this apparent humanisation of an animal? Every hotel, restaurant, shop and pub now feels obliged to state ‘dogs welcome’ and offer a doggy menu, ice cream, accommodation or risk losing business to those who do, while the new Renters’ Rights Act requires a landlord to take a dog if they want a tenant. When my Merchant Navy husband went ashore in a 1970s Calcutta monsoon, he had to circumnavigate ‘sacred’ cows corralled on the only dry path. Is there is a downside to treating a dog as family? Are we prioritising animal over human relationships? Is everyone comfortable with eating their lunch with a sprawling dog giving off odour in a cosy cafe or yapping as its owner can’t resist dropping titbits? I’ve watched as a child or elderly pedestrian is expected to greet a strange and often large dog jumping up while its owner shouts an assuring ‘he only wants to play’. Muddy paw marks is enough for some, let alone the risk of a nip for a stranger. On August Bank Holiday 2000, I got out of our car to ask directions of a man cutting his front hedge. I heard a distant shout ‘the dog’s out’ and saw a black streak but made no connection until the man giving directions told me to ‘stand still’.

While processing this information, the sheepdog’s teeth sunk into the back of my knees, felling me as I curled to protect myself. My husband and young children watched petrified as hedge owner tried to pull his dog from me, in the process ripping my legs and a dozen deep punctures as its teeth held fast. Why the shout out? Had it done this before? Police decided not, so the dog lived to repeat its action, perhaps on my nine-year-old son who might well have asked the way! I used not to enter a pub due to cigarette smoke causing asthmatic reaction. Smoking was banned inside public places in 2007 but the rise in dog ownership – one in three UK adults has one or more – means I can now choose between sitting inside with dogs or outside with smokers. You might call it Hobson’s Choice! So why this huge increase in dog popularity? A friend confided she felt ‘silly’ going for a walk on her own, but the dog gave her credibility and opened conversation with other dog walkers. Another that he wouldn’t get any exercise without his dog’s bodily needs. So, one should question if the dog is again leading ‘a dog’s life’ when its owner has not the time or perhaps physical ability to oblige the five-mile run needed by an energetic animal bred for action. Dilys Gartside Via email

Town band offers new year welcome

SHERBORNE Town Band would love to say a big thank you and happy new year to the community of Sherborne and the wider area for its support over 2025 and especially over Christmas. If you would like to learn a brass instrument – free of charge – and join our band, then contact us at info@sherbornetownband. co.uk Andrea Rogers Via email

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Church • All Saints Church, Langton Long: Hot lunches to eat in or take away throughout the winter months – November to March inclusive – on the first and third Friday of the month, noon to 2pm. Donations welcome. • Anglican High Mass at Wimborne St Giles: First Sunday of each month at 11am. • Blandford Methodist Church: Sundays – services at 10.45am. Thursdays – coffee and chat from 10am-noon. Fridays – lunch club for over-55s from noon at £5 per meal. Phone Joyce Wild on 07817 505543 to book. The church offers help to those in need – call church steward John Cornish on 07799 516735. • Bell Street United Church, Shaftesbury: Sundays – services at 10.30am. Second Sunday of the month, All Age Service. • Blandford Evangelical Church: Sunday – 10am Family Service. Monday Fellowship – weekly, 2.30pm-3.30pm, term times only. Tuesday – Footprints, activities playtime for pre-school children, 10am11.30am and 1.15pm-2.45pm, term times only. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday – small groups meet at homes at 7.30pm. The church is in Albert Street. Phone 450689. • Castleton, Sherborne, St Mary Magdalene (DT9 3SA): First, third and fourth Sundays, Sung Mattins; second and fifth Sundays, Holy Communion. All services are BCP at 11.15am. • Chalbury Church: Fourth Sunday of the month, 10am Holy Communion. • Chatty Café Scheme: Pear Tree Café, Half Moon Street, Sherborne, Mondays 2pm3.45pm. • Cheap Street Church, Sherborne: Prayer time – 9.45am Thursday; Thought for the Day – 10.30am Thursday. Sunday service at 10.30am. Monday Music second Monday of the month at 6.15pm with a bring and share supper. Rendezvous Community Cuppa – third Monday each month, 10.30am-12.30pm. • Hinton Martell: Second

blackmorevale.net Sunday of the month, 10am Holy Communion. • Horton Church: First Sunday of the month, 10am Holy Communion. • Horton & Chalbury Village Hall: Third Sunday of the month, 9am Breakfast Church. • Kingston Lacy: Second Sunday of the month, 9.15am Holy Communion. Fourth Sunday of the month, 9.15am Family Service. • Lufton Church: Prayer Book services every Sunday at 6pm. Sung Mass on the third Sunday. See www.lufton.co.uk for details. • Our Lady of Lourdes & Saint Cecilia, Blandford: Sunday, 9am Holy Mass; Monday/Wednesday/Thursday/ Friday, 9.10am Morning Prayers, 9.30am Holy Mass; Tuesday, 6.10pm Evening Prayers, 6.30pm Holy Mass; Saturday, 9.30am Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament/ Confessions; 5.30pm Vigil Mass of Sunday. • Our Lady’s, Marnhull: Sunday Mass, 9am and 6pm. • Sacred Heart, Tisbury, and All Saints’ Wardour Catholic Parish: Sunday Mass – Sacred Heart, Tisbury, 9am, coffee after Mass; All Saints’ Wardour 10.30am. • Shaftesbury Team Benefice: Sunday, January 18 – 10.30am Fathers House week of Prayer for Christian Unity, 11.15am Compton Abbas, 6pm Motcombe Evening Worship. Sunday, January 25 – 9.30am St Peters Holy Communion, 9.30am Motcombe Holy Communion, 11.15am Melbury Abbas Holy Communion, 4pm St James Teatime Church, 6pm St James Reflective Communion. • Shapwick: Third Sunday of the month, 9.15am Holy Communion. • Shaftesbury Quakers (Society of Friends): Meets for one hour each Sunday from 10.30am at the Quaker Meeting House, Abbey Walk, Shaftesbury SP7 8BB. • Sherborne Abbey: Monday to Saturday, 8.30am Morning Prayer; The Sepulchre Chapel. Mondays, 9am CW Holy

Communion; The Lady Chapel. Tuesday, noon CW Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. Wednesday, 10.30am Holy Communion with Homily; The Lady Chapel (alternates CW and BCP). Thursday, noon BCP Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. Friday, 9am Ecumenical Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. First Friday of the month, 9am Requiem Holy Communion; The Sepulchre Chapel. Third Friday of the month, 11am Remembering the Fallen. Saturday, 9am CW Holy Communion; The Sepulchre Chapel. • Sherborne Abbey: The Faith in Action Committee is seeking unused art materials, board games and jigsaw puzzles to support the Friends of Guys Marsh, which offers support to prisoners. To donate, text trustee, Mary-Ann, on 07900 056551 to arrange collection. • Sherborne Quakers: One hour of silent prayer or meditation every Sunday at 10.30am at Raleigh Hall, Digby Road DT9 3NL. Everyone welcome. Contact Nick Jackman at sherbornequakers@ gmail.com. • St Benedict’s, Gillingham: Sunday Mass, 11am. • St George’s Church, Damerham: Snowdrop Weekend, February 14-15, 10am-4pm. Homemade refreshments served 10.30am3.30pm, homemade preserves plus other stalls. See the drift of snowdrops growing in the Norman churchyard. Admission free. • St Gregory’s, Marnhull: Sunday services 8am and 10am. Other services, visit www. stgregorysmarnhull.org.uk. • St John’s Church, Enmore Green: Service every Sunday at 11.15am; parish communion on the first Sunday of the month; prayer services every other Sunday. • St Margaret’s, Margaret Marsh (Shaftesbury Benefice) SP7 0AZ: Alternating first Sundays Mattins and Holy Communion, 11.15am. • St Mary’s, Motcombe: Evening worship (BCP) – every

first Sunday 6pm; parish communion – every second and fourth Sunday 9.30am; evening worship – every third Sunday 6pm. • St Mary’s, Sturminster Newton: First, third and fourth Sundays – 11am Holy Communion; second Sunday – 9.30am Morning Prayer; fifth Sunday – 11am Benefice Holy Communion; second and fourth Sundays – 6pm Evensong; Wednesdays – 10am Holy Communion. • St Mary & St Bartholomew’s Church, Cranborne: Book of Common Prayer Evensong with the Benefice Choir, first Sunday of the month at 6pm. • St Mary’s Church, Stalbridge: All Sunday Services start at 9.30am. Rector, Canon Richard – phone 01963 363367; email canonrick@icloud.com • St Nicholas, Durweston: Family Communion Service every first Sunday of the month 11am; Evening Service every third Sunday of the month 4pm. • St Peter’s, Hinton St Mary: First, second and third Sundays, 9.30am Morning Prayer. Fourth Sunday, 9.30am Holy Communion. • St Thomas’, Lydlinch: Second Sunday, Holy Communion 11am; third Sunday, Evensong 6pm; fourth Sunday, Matins 11am. • Sturminster Christian Fellowship: Service every Sunday at 10.45am. • Two Rivers Benefice: Sunday, January 18 – 9.30am Communion at St John the Baptist Church, Spetisbury; 9.30am All Age worship at St Mary the Virgin Church, Charlton Marshall; 11am Morning Worship at All Saints Church, Langton Long; 11am Communion at St Mary’s Church, Tarrant Rushton. Sunday, January 25 – 9.30am Communion at St Mary the Virgin Church, Charlton Marshall; 9.30am Morning Worship at St John the Baptist Church, Spetisbury; 11am Communion at All Saints Church, Langton Long; 11am BCP Communion at St Mary’s Church, Blandford St Mary.

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Arts & Entertainment

blackmorevale.net

Pair conjour up cabaret with a difference CABARET and circus performer Charlie Bicknell and opera singer Louise Innes will combine the irreverent and surreal in their outrageous show, Cabaret with Balls, at The Exchange in Sturminster Newton. Charlie became a household name playing Delilah in BBC2’s This Life and subsequently starred as

Scout in Ben Elton’s West End hit Popcorn before later moving into cabaret and circus. Louise is a versatile operatic mezzo soprano who made her Royal Opera debut in 2010 singing Mercedes in Carmen. She has gone on to perform a variety of roles and sung at venues including Covent Garden Opera House,

INSPIRED by the accounts of miners who lived through the 1984 miners’ strike, Danny Mellor’s Undermined is visiting Dorset. The audience will meet Dale, his best mate Billy and

a whole cast of characters in this one-man production. Undermined is a gritty, witty, fast-paced and powerful show that has been touring for over 10 years to pubs and theatres – and even

Cabaret with Balls is at The Exchange in Sturminster Newton

Scottish Opera and La Scala. The audience can expect surprises, humour and outrageous fun – from Flashdance to Simon and Garfunkel, AC/DC and even a

throwback to Not the Nine O’Clock News. Cabaret with Balls is on Thursday, January 29, and is suitable for audience members aged 16-plus.

Man of many parts on miners’ strike the Scottish Parliament. Undermined is at Piddletrenthide Memorial Hall on Friday, January 23, and West Stafford Village Hall on Saturday, January 24.

PLEA S KE E CHEC EP KIN OUR G WEBS ITE

OH WHAT A NIGHT!

ULTIMATE CELEBRATION OF FRANKIE VALLI & THE FOUR SEASONS

Sat 17th January 7.30pm Tickets £27

ELO EXPERIENCE - SOLD OUT -

Sat 24th January 7.30pm Tickets £31.50

ANEMONE (15)

MIKE OSMAN’S THE FUNNIEST SHOW ON THE PLANET

19th January 7.30pm Matinee 20th January 1.30pm Tickets adult: £9 evening £8 matinee Child under 16: £7

A night with the 45th & 47th President of the United States. The UK’s Number 1 Donald Trump Impersonator. Tues 20th Jan 7.30pm Tickets £23.50 Suitable for ages 16+

GOODBYE JUNE (15)

ANDY FAIRWEATHER LOW AND THE LOW RIDERS

Mon 26th, Tues 27th & Thurs 29th January 7.30pm Matinee Thurs 29th January 2.30pm Adult £9 evening £8 matinee Child under 16: £7

Weds 28th January 7.30pm Tickets £32.50

PLEA S KE E CHEC EP KING BEN AND TOM O U RWATERS W PIANO & SAX EDUO BOOGIE, B SOF ITE BLUES & SOUL Weds 21st January 7.30pm Tickets £27.50

THE KING’S VOICE:

GORDON HENDRICKS AS ELVIS

Fri 30th January 7.30pm Tickets £30

PLEA S KE E CHEC EP KIN OUR G WEBS ITE

THE EDDIE COCHRAN STORY

Fri 23rd Jan 7.30pm Tickets £22.50

DR FEELGOOD & NINE BELOW ZERO

A SHOT OF RHYTHM & BLUES TOUR 2026

Sat 31st January 7.30pm Tickets £34

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Politics

blackmorevale.net

18 months in and Labour is delivering HOPE Christmas and new year brought you comfort! My parliamentary contacts across the political spectrum had well deserved time off with their family and friends over Christmas, but I am also aware that emergency casework continued for them and their staff and I take this opportunity to recognise the work they put in on all our behalf. Respite from diplomatic incident was short lived, however, and as of submission, our Prime Minister has yet again taken a measured, consultative and collaborative approach to international affairs. When in government, there’s a lot more to consider – rushed statements and unfunded policy announcement in opposition, released on social media, is a luxury a government in power does not have. Parliament has resumed and exercised its ability to be flexible – allowing for both emergency

Candice JohnsonCole, on behalf of Dorset Labour and scheduled debate. Talk about UK MPs hitting the parliamentary ground running after recess – yet again! When new legislation is required to make big changes to improve the NHS, the cost of living, raise living standards, kickstart investment and build social and affordable housing, the wheels of Parliament move

relatively slowly compared to when you want to make big changes in a private company or even a charitable organisation. Progressive legislation like the Workers’ Rights Bill and the Water (Special Measures) Act, introduced by the Labour Government through the King’s Speech 2024 and 2025, were passed and put into action as quickly as the Parliamentary programme would allow. There have been many hours spent in the chamber debating Bills, that we as the public see and even more hours in scrutiny committees, that we do not get to see, on a daily basis. A huge amount of work is being done by MPs and officials from all political parties and the Houses of Parliament staff. We are just over 18 months into a Labour government – 18 months. The amount of new legislation, spending commitments and initiatives to

help pensioners, parents, veterans, serving armed forces, those who pay prescription charges, renters and workers, to name just a few, are already in place and beginning to reverse a tide of previous decline and underinvestment. A record £78 billion is going to our councils this year alone, to cut deprivation! After 18 months of a Labour government, people are feeling the benefit of Labour policies – they might be on the minimum wage, using free breakfast clubs and childcare, have an increased state pension and paying less interest on mortgages, loans and credit cards. You may not hear their voices often in the media and on social media, but they’re out there – I speak to them daily, when volunteering and when out canvassing. In 2026, I’ll be encouraging them all to ‘speak out’!

uncertainty about the long-term viability of the site and the thousands of jobs it supports. Leonardo has a strong case. The Yeovil workforce has decades of experience designing, building and supporting helicopters for the UK and allied forces. The company is already making impressive progress with projects like the Proteus uncrewed helicopter, showing innovation, adaptability and world class expertise right here in Somerset. The Government has repeatedly spoken about a ‘defence dividend’ that delivers British jobs, skills and apprenticeships. If that promise is to mean anything, it must include Yeovil. Awarding the NMH contract to Leonardo would secure jobs, protect skills and strengthen the UK’s defence capability at the same time. Instead, we have seen delay after delay. The Defence Investment Plan has been

promised for months, yet businesses and workers are still waiting for clarity. This uncertainty is damaging. It affects confidence, investment and long-term planning, both for Leonardo and for the many local firms that depend on it. Since being elected, I have continuously championed Leonardo through letters, meetings and speaking up in the Chamber. Most recently, I have written to the Secretary of State for Defence and spoken to the Prime Minister to press for urgent answers and a clear timetable. Yeovil deserves certainty, not warm words. Losing Leonardo would be devastating for our local economy and a serious blow to UK defence manufacturing. I will continue to stand up for Leonardo, for its workers and for our town. The Government must act now and award the NMH contract to Yeovil. Our jobs, skills and future depend on it.

Helicopter contract vital to Yeovil LEONARDO in Yeovil is more than just a major employer. It is part of the fabric of our town and a cornerstone of South Somerset’s economy. For generations, people here have built their lives, careers and skills around the aerospace and defence industry, and Leonardo remains at the heart of that story. Today, the Yeovil site supports thousands of skilled jobs, apprenticeships and supply chain roles. It contributes about £320 million a year to the local economy and sustains countless families across our area. These are highly skilled, well-paid jobs that cannot simply be replaced if they are lost. Leonardo also invests heavily in our community. From apprenticeships and training to partnerships with local schools, colleges and suppliers, the company plays a vital role in developing the next generation of engineers and technicians. It brings opportunity to Yeovil and

Lib Dem MP for Yeovil Adam Dance helps keep high value manufacturing rooted in the south west. That is why I am deeply concerned about the continued delay in awarding the New Medium Helicopter, or NMH, contract. This programme is critical to the future of Leonardo in Yeovil. Without it, there is real

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

blackmorevale.net

New year, new world order SIR Keir and President Macron have agreed to send British and French troops to Ukraine as a ‘deterrence’ if a peace deal is struck. Big if. Also, the leaders of the coalition may be willing, but without firm guarantees from the US, the plan is unworkable. Encouragingly, two of President Trump’s closest emissaries – his business friend Steve Witkoff and his son-in-law Jared Kushner – attended the talks in Paris, and Kushner acknowledged the need for ‘real backstops’ to deter Putin in future. But what Britain, France and Ukraine call security guarantees, the US still calls security protocols – a big difference. President Zelensky claims the US offered security guarantees for 15 years, but that’s not been confirmed by the US. The Prime Minister assured me on the floor of the House of Commons that British troops will not deploy to Ukraine without a US backstop. But

Conservative MP for South West Wiltshire Dr Andrew Murrison could we really rely on that, even if it was offered? The reason why I’m queasy about the Anglo-French plan, such as it is, is that it’s based on a Russian ceasefire and an American backstop presided over by Presidents Putin and Trump. My caution is heightened by the fact that many of my constituents are serving, not to mention members of my own family. The stakes could not be higher.

Politics

Hats off to the Americans for a technically impressive operation by Special Forces to pluck that wicked old rogue former Venezuelan President Maduro out of Caracas and drop him off in New York in shackles to await trial. Our blindsided government responded with lawyerly handwringing, as per usual, before plonking itself firmly on the fence. However, President Trump’s motives in ‘running’ Venezuela appear to be more plunder than principle. He says he wants US oil companies to start pumping out the largest proven reserves in the world in a form of proto-colonialism. That’s at odds with what I grew up understanding America to be. Worse still, he says he wants to grab Greenland off Denmark. No doubt his preference is to negotiate what he called the ‘biggest real-estate deal in history’ in 2019. But what if he grows impatient and a post midterm Congress and Senate is unable or unwilling to stop him?

A hostile takeover would be the end of NATO and, as I pointed out in the Commons, the end of what’s left of our Special Relationship. Trump’s behaviour is blowing apart the settled world order that has kept us at peace and America – the chief beneficiary of Pax Americana – in a state of growing prosperity since 1945. If Mr Trump’s America attacks an old ally like Denmark, there will be no going back. Even the strongest of partners, like this one, will be forced to look for new friends. American isolationism may no longer be discretionary. I hope and pray that our friends and cousins, the good people of America, realising what’s at stake in our time, vote for Congressmen and Senators in the November mid-terms who are willing and able to bring the political checks and balances necessary to restore some modicum of sanity to the greatest nation upon earth.

and plan ahead, only for funding to be rescinded. This is not how to support food producers, environmental ambition or national food security. The reopening of the SFI scheme – and the pre-Christmas decision to walk back the damaging family farm tax – shows the Government recognises its mistakes – but it must now rebuild farmers’ trust with clear, long-term commitments. Since the 2024 Budget, I’ve kept up relentless pressure on Ministers over their treatment of farmers, both through my work on the EFRA Select Committee and now as Rural Affairs spokesperson for the Liberal Democrats. I have taken the Government to task many times on the damage caused by policy made without understanding how farming actually operates on the ground. The terrible pressure put on

farmers by the Family Farm Tax could have been avoided if the Government was proactive in doing its due diligence before announcing damaging tax changes. In fact, I called on them repeatedly to publish the impact assessment which would have avoided the year of anguish and anxiety farmers have been put through. Liberal Democrats have called for an additional £1 billion of funding for the farming budget, scrapping of the Family Farm Tax altogether and protection for farmers from disastrous trade deals which undermine the sector. British farming is the best in the world, and I will continue pushing the Government to leave farmers alone to get on with what they do best, while ensuring support schemes are fair, workable and properly funded. Somerset’s farmers deserve nothing less.

At last, some good news for farmers LAST week, the Government finally announced the Sustainable Farming Incentive Scheme would reopen later this year. I was delighted to hear this news while attending the Oxford Real Farming Conference, as I have been fighting for this ever since the scheme was closed with no notice last year – a decision which inevitably left many farmers in the lurch. England is now an outlier in Europe and in the UK as no direct support is provided to farmers, so the news that the Sustainable Farming Incentive Scheme would reopen was really significant – I had been speaking in the House on more financial support for farmers only days before. I have consistently argued that environmental schemes are essential to assist farmers as custodians of the land in protecting the countryside and mitigating climate change. The

Lib Dem MP for Glastonbury & Somerton Sarah Dyke decision to reopen the SFI scheme, and tailor it to smaller farms first, is a clear sign that sustained pressure can deliver results and that the Government has listened and seen sense. When it came to the Sustainable Farming Incentive, farmers were encouraged to enter schemes, make changes

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Politics

blackmorevale.net

Lightbulb moment on jury trials WE will all have had a lightbulb moment? You know, when you find an issue/problem suddenly resolved or question answered. I had such a moment this week when we were debating in the Commons the Government’s plans to remove the right of trial by jury in a vast number of cases. My party is opposed to these proposals and there are good reasons for being so. Since Magna Carta the right to be judged by ‘one’s peers’ has been an important right for all of us. The issuing of summary justice by the local Lord or by the King was not the way to do things. So, what’s the lightbulb moment I hear you ask? Well, at my last advice surgery a constituent came to see me. As you grow in a role you are inclined to see issues and solutions repeat themselves. I was convinced, utterly convinced, with regard to how this lady would see the problem and what she would want me to do to help her. I was completely

Conservative MP for North Dorset Simon Hoare wrong on both counts. We discussed her issue, and it is now resolved. So, my lightbulb moment came during the Jury Trials debate when a Tory colleague trumpeted the importance of the ordinariness of juries of all backgrounds, faiths, professions, ages, sexualities and world views. 12 people who listen FOR THE FIRST TIME

to legal argument – defence and prosecution. They discuss the evidence among themselves. They come, FOR THE FIRST TIME, to a decision as whether or not to deprive a fellow human being of their liberty. A judge, sitting alone in judgement, will have heard many cases over many years. Defence and prosecuting counsel likewise will have advocated in court many times. The danger here is group think. Another danger is presuming an outcome simply because it resembles a case of some months or years prior. There’s the danger of cutting corners of detail, some of which might be simple or basic, merely because the case is being conducted by two legally qualified people arguing solely before a legally qualified person. The jury system adds the fresh pairs of eyes and ears. It adds the ‘we are doing a serious job and must do it seriously’. History is not kind to judge only trials.

When used in Northern Ireland, the Diplock Trials, the rates of appeal rose dramatically and therefore the pace of justice was slowed. Justice delayed is justice denied, so court resource must be addressed. Justice is not served when 12 good men and women are removed from the process. I had thought about the issue long and hard. I had read around this subject but the point of the fresh ordinariness of jury members was my lightbulb moment and cemented my opposition to the Government’s plans. A quick word on Venezuela and Greenland, if I may. Nicolas Maduro was a bad president and Venezuela is better without him. The means of his removal were not compatible with a rulesbased international order and the UK will not advance the Special Relationship if we do not challenge Trump’s modernday piracy. As for Greenland: Trump – grow up and hands off!

The raising of the inheritance tax threshold to £5 million per couple will come as a huge relief to farmers and family business owners across West Dorset. It was a policy that caused unnecessary worry and distress, and I would like to pay tribute to the NFU and our farmers who never gave up on the hope that the Government could be forced to back down. Especially those who repeatedly drove their tractors up to London. Finally, on the last day of the year, I received the fantastic news that Allied Pharmacy had agreed to take over and reopen the pharmacy in Lyme Regis. Bringing to an end the longrunning Jhoots saga and meaning residents would once

again have a local service. The resilience and strength shown by the staff, who have gone months without pay, was a sight to behold. And the support they were given by the community was a tribute to everything that makes West Dorset the best place in the UK to live. This new year has certainly started interestingly with US action in Venezuela and threats against the territory of Greenland, part of Denmark, a NATO ally. So, I suspect there will be plenty to keep me busy on the Foreign Affairs Committee. However my focus remains on West Dorset, and I can’t wait to see what we can achieve in 2026!

Family Farm Tax U-turn welcome HAPPY new year! I hope you had a wonderful and restful Christmas and new year. Before we got to the end of 2025 there was a flurry of good news. After months of campaigning and pressure, the Environment Agency and Natural England gave the go ahead to a pilot salmon recovery project on the River Frome. The Frome, Piddle & West Dorset Fisheries Association has been fighting hard to reverse the decline of salmon numbers in our precious chalk streams, and I hope this pilot project will prove that targeted intervention can help prevent the catastrophic loss. I would like to thank everyone who worked so hard, and continues to, to ensure this project does not die.

Lib Dem MP for West Dorset Edward Morello Right before the Christmas the Government announced a surprise partial U-turn on the disastrous Family Farm Tax.

GOT A STORY? Then email newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Antiques & Collectibles

blackmorevale.net

Hawksley picture sold for £5,200 ACREMAN St Auctioneers & Valuers, Sherborne, ended the year on a high with highlights including a portrait painting by Dorothy Hawksley dated 1924 sold for £5,200 – hammer. Jewellery is continuing to achieve high prices with an 18ct fancy link chain making £2,600 and an unmarked gold emerald and diamond bracelet £3,200. A heavy 18ct gold full hunter pocket watch sold for £3,000 and a run of antique silver cutlery £1,700. Acreman St Auctioneers & Valuers Sherborne is holding auctions this month on Thursday, January 29 – General Antiques & Collectors and Friday, January 30 – Jewellery, Silver & Watches 10am with viewing on Wednesday, January 28, 10am-4pm. Acreman is open on

Saturdays after auctions for collections but not otherwise. The catalogue and bidding is available online through easyliveauction.com and thesaleroom.com. Acreman holds regular valuation days where prospective sellers can take in items for its specialists to evaluate 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 – Thursday; Coins, Stamps, Books & Ephemera – Friday; Militaria – Friday; 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

Advertiser’s announcement

antiques. co.uk Acreman is open Monday to Saturday 9am-4pm. It can take in everything from single items to complete collections and can help with advice and valuations to anyone downsizing Charles Hayter (1761-1835) pastel circa 1790 of two girls with a dog estimated at £300-500 or who needs to make house visits if required deal with a whole house. free of charge. It can also arrange full house Acreman is accepting clearances at competitive rates. consignments for its upcoming Anyone who has anything sales and is happy to advise on they would like to consign can anything prospective sellers contact Gill Norman on 01935 may be considering for auction. 508764 or 07908 333577 or by Photographs can be emailed to email at auction@ auction@acremanstreet acremanstreetantiques.co.uk

WANTED Books, collectables and bric-a-brac. Call Jack: 07542 389447 WANTED Classic Cars & Motorbikes For private collection Call 07885 373113 or 01278 431244 Graham

Book online: blackmorevale.net

WE BUY RECORDS, COLLECTIONS LARGE AND SMALL

Next Sale

Pictures, Books, Prints & Ephemera; European & Asian Ceramics & Works of Art; and Antique Furniture & Objects Saturday 24th January 2026 For a full list of our specialist sales please see our website

Call BILL 07967 816506 or 01747 811100 Email: bill@tunes.co.uk

A gentleman’s Rolex Submariner 18ct gold watch.

Sun 25 January

www.grandmasatticfairs.co.uk

SOLD FOR £21,500

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, January 16, 2026

Antiques & Collectibles

Motor racing books collection CLARKE’S Auctions will feature a notable single owner collection of motor racing and Grand Prix related books and ephemera when it holds its first sale of the year on Friday and Saturday, February 13 and 14. The collection is made up of more than 500 books and represents a significant offering for collectors and specialists in the field.

blackmorevale.net

Advertiser’s announcement

Single owner collections are particularly desirable at auction as they tend to attract strong interest due to their consistency and provenance, often achieving higher prices as a result. Clarke’s Auctions has extensive experience in handling such collections and has successfully sold many notable single owner consignments. A Bernt Petersen Danish midcentury design rosewood stool. Sold for £1,600 hammer

Previous collections have included gold coin collections, railway memorabilia made up of locomotives and rolling stock, an extensive Royal Crown Derby paperweight collection, an unusual collection of taxidermy and a highly regarded single owner collection of scratch-built steam engine models, including a miniature Showman’s traction engine. Clarke’s Auctions welcomes enquiries from anyone considering selling an interesting collection or individual items. Home visits can be arranged – or prospective vendors can visit the salerooms in Gillingham. Enquiries about consignment into any of Clarke’s upcoming sales, probate or insurance valuations, or full or part house clearances can be made to Richard Clarke or Karen Marshall on 01747 685592 at the salerooms at The Old Glove Factory, Buckingham Road, Gillingham SP8 4QF.

Thatcher Papers could make £100k AN epochal discovery is set to headline Duke’s the Winter Auction later this month. Unearthed in a cardboard box in a Somerset garage, a cache of highly important political papers has been hailed by experts as the ‘find of the century’. Known as The Thatcher Papers, the archive documents the pivotal moment Margaret Thatcher was elected leader of the Conservative Party in 1975, a turning point in British political history. Its emergence is especially

ACREMAN ST. AUCTIONEERS & VALUERS SHERBORNE

GENERAL ANTIQUES AND COLLECTORS Thursday 29th January 10am

JEWELLERY, SILVER & WATCHES Friday 30th January 10am

THE

T H AT C H E R PAPERS

VIEWING

Wednesday 28th January 10am-4pm

Charles Hayter pastel C 1790 of 2 girls with a dog Estimate £300-£500

Catalogue available to view through thesaleroom.com & Easyliveauction.com We are now accepting items for our January auctions For all enquiries please contact Gill Norman on 07908 333577 or 01935 508764 auction@acremanstreetantiques.co.uk

THE WINTER AUCTION 2 9

J A N U A R Y

2 0 2 6

“This cache of papers is of great historical importance. Margaret Thatcher was a trailblazer in every sense. Her philosophy – Thatcherism - changed the United Kingdom forever” - Guy Schwinge of Hanover Forbes

www.dukes-auctions.com

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

blackmorevale.net resonant, coinciding with the centenary of Thatcher’s birth. The archive is made up of more than 60 documents and letters, including Thatcher’s original nomination paper, proposed by Keith Joseph and seconded by her campaign manager, Airey Neave. In her own hand, she writes: “I, Margaret H. Thatcher, consent to being nominated,” signing and dating the document 27 January 1975. There are also ballot papers, correspondence from Thatcher, Edward Heath and then prime minister Harold Wilson, and the decisive result sheet dated February 11, 1975. Signed by the 1922 Committee scrutineers, it records Thatcher’s emphatic victory with 146 votes to William Whitelaw’s 79. The archive, described by experts as ‘utterly sensational’ is estimated to sell for £100,000. It is for sale with Duke’s of Dorchester in the Winter Auction on Thursday, January 29.

Advertiser’s announcement

Antiques & Collectibles

Porcelain horse groups for sale A COLLECTION of rare Royal Worcester porcelain horse groups from a west country couple living near Taunton is being sold by Charterhouse in an auction devoted to Royal Worcester, Doulton, Beswick and Border Fine Arts in

Sherborne. “The owner and his wife spent years travelling to auctions and antique fairs collecting Royal Worcester and Beswick horses,” said Richard Bromell, from the auction house. A Royal Worcester Appaloosa Stallion, modelled by Doris Lindner from the Somerset collection, is estimated at £150-£250

“They were both regular buyers from our auctions for over the past 20 years and had them not only on display in their living room but also in their garages!” Sadly, the owner’s wife recently passed away, and he asked a Charterhouse valuer over to his Somerset home for help and advice. After some thought, he decided to let new custodians enjoy their beloved horses and consigned them for auction. Further entries are now being invited for the Charterhouse specialist auction of Royal Worcester, Doulton, Beswick and Border Fine Arts on Tuesday, January 27, followed by silver on January 28, jewellery and watches on January 29 and antiques & interiors on January 30. Richard Bromell and the team at Charterhouse, The Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne, are available for valuations on 01935 812277 or via rb@ charterhouse-auction.com

Clarke’s Auctions

Auctioneers & Valuers

Antiques && Collectibles Sale Antiques Collectables Friday 9th & 10thFebruary August Friday 13th & Saturday Saturday 14th

12th March

29th January

26th March

Specialist Valuation Days in Sherborne

A original recent consignement 19th century bronze statues. An Fry & Sonsof'Fry's Pure Concentrated Sold for various prices. Cocoa' enamel sign. Sold for £1,600. 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

Units 1 & 2Factory, KingsettleBuckingham Business Park,Road The Old Glove Gillingham, SP8 4QF

enquiries@clarkesauctions.co.uk 01747 685592 01747 855109 enquiries@clarkesauctions.co.uk www.clarkesauctions.co.uk enquiries@clarkesauctions.co.uk

Doulton, Beswick & other Ceramics 19th Jewellery, Watches & Silver 20th Coins, Medals, Militaria & Stamps 21st Chinese & Japanese Ceramics & Bronze 22nd Model Cars, Trains, Dolls & Toys 23rd

12th March Classic Motorcycle Auction 26th March Classic Car Auction Further Entries Now Invited

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

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Home & Garden

blackmorevale.net

Starting a new vegetable patch

by Sally Gregson AT this seemingly ‘dead’ time of year, while all spring is still asleep, gardeners’ thoughts are already turning to the new season. In the part of the garden designated for vegetables, the areas already treated by laying cardboard in autumn and early winter should soon be ready for an initial planting. A first row of early salads, initially sown and raised on a sunny windowsill, will be desperate for the space. Traditionally, the first vegetables to be grown in new land are potatoes. These ‘clean’ the ground of weeds, mostly by turning over the soil, but also from the competition of all those spuds growing and using up the nutrients, making them unavailable to the weeds. A row of ‘first early’ potatoes should be ready to plant at the beginning of February, and harvested by the end of June,

depending on the local weather conditions. It will be still early enough to sow a row of carrots to harvest in autumn. Yet it will be too late for the dreaded carrot root fly to be on the wing as they come up. January is not too early to browse the catalogues for different potato varieties and decide whether or not to start with ‘first earlies’, ‘earlies’ or a maincrop variety. The earliest date for planting the ‘first earlies’ is late February to early March, depending on the weather. As soon as the weeds start growing, the soil has warmed up enough to get things moving. In theory, the soil temperature needs to be 10 degrees centigrade before growth can start. In the meantime, ‘chit’ the potatoes. Place each one with three buds on top – rub out the other, lower green buds – in

by Sally Gregson AND what could go better with a plate of home-grown new potatoes than a few sprigs of mint? By April, when the potatoes will just about be ready to harvest, the garden mint should also be just showing. There are hundreds of different species of Mentha, native to most parts of the world, and each with a subtly different flavour. They range from Moroccan mint, Mentha spicata var. cirspa, through spearmint, Mentha spicata, to the prettily variegated variegated apple mint or pineapple mint. These leaves are pale green, variably edged white, and seem to associate

well in the garden. It has lots of small, attractive, mauve flowers in summer. But, although it might be marginally less vigorous, it is still invasive enough to take over the garden. Let it loose at your peril. Mint is too easy to grow. The roots seem to be just waiting for an excuse to get moving. To the extent that most garden mints are especially invasive in heavy or damp ground. It’s a familiar environment they love. The answer is surely to grow all mints in terracotta pots where they look very fine. Sit each plant in a saucer to retain the moisture it will need. And don’t forget to include it in the daily watering during the

‘Mint is too easy to grow – let it loose at your peril’

Potatoes come from South America and dislike frost

empty egg-box trays on a sunny, frost-free windowsill. The buds will start to push after a week or so when you could plant out each tuber in the warming soil, providing there are no frosts about. Potatoes come from South America. They dislike

frost. Cover each tuber well with loose soil and label each row. And wait. Once the soil is warm enough, they will catch up with any that have been put out earlier. It’s as if they know that spring is just around the corner.

Mint looks fine grown in terracotta pots

summer. The plant will die back in autumn when it would be wise to tip it out, roots and all, and chop the whole plant in half. Return one half to the pot with refreshed soil and give away or discard the other – but not on the compost heap. By changing the compost regularly, the mint will be less likely to develop mint rust, a disfiguring

disease that eventually will kill it, and which renders the whole plant inedible. So, now is the time to choose your favourite mint for mint sauce to go with roast lamb. Or a refreshing glass of mint tea, made with a few leaves, a spoonful of sugar and steeped in boiling water. Mint tea is the drink of sultans.

GOT A STORY? Then email newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Home & Garden

blackmorevale.net

Surgery.Reductions. Reductions. Felling. TreeTree Surgery. Felling. Hedge Trimming. Stump Grinding. Hedge Trimming. Stump Grinding. Woodchip supplies. Woodchip supplies. Family run business since 1946 Tel:business 01963 250005 Family run since 1946 Mobile: 07976250005 934 252 Tel: 01963

Mobile: 07976 934 252

rth Dorset Surgeons North Tree Dorset Tree Surgeons

e carry out allcarry aspects surgery, We outofalltree aspects of tree surgery, hedge cutting and cutting stump grinding. hedge and stump grinding. Ash diebackAsh specialist. dieback specialist. Fully insured andinsured NPTC qualified. Fully and NPTC qualified.

Call WillCall today ontoday on Will 747 854517 07872or 970741 01747or 854517 07872 970741

fessionalProfessional ExperiencedExperienced Reliable

Reliable

Landscaping, Groundworks and Garden Maintenance, Specialists in Patios, Fencing, Driveways, Walling, Ponds, Turﬁng Free Quotations amralphlandscaping@gmail.com Tel: 01747 631471 www.ralphlandscaping.co.uk Mobile: 07921 637227

All types of blinds supplied and fitted for home, office, conservatory or commercial premises. We also supply patio awnings (electric and manual), shutters, curtains and poles.

KEEP IT LOCAL!

FREE

No obligation quotes

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

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

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

.com

YOUR LOCAL SPECIALIST DRIVEWAY CONTRACTORS

Groundworks & Concrete

Block Paving

Natural Stone & Patio

Tarmac

Resin Bonded Surfacing

Fencing

TRY BEFORE YOU BUY! Try our products in your space by using the Visualiser Tool on our website.

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

Station Road Gillingham Dorset SP8 4PZ

01747 822080

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

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Home & Garden MAN WITH MICRODIGGER & 1.5TON DIGGER, stump grinder, Garden clearance, patios, fencing, decking, landscaping, driveways 30+ years’ experience Contact Ken 07882 441873 / 01963 32034

blackmorevale.net 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

GC GARDEN CARE Garden & Property Maintenance

Tree Pruning/Cutting Lawn Mowing Weed Control Hedge Cutting Driveway/Patio Cleaning Landscaping Low Maintenance Gardens Fencing Stump Grinding

A FRIENDLY FAMILY RUN BUSINESS FOR ALL YOUR GARDENING NEEDS

Stockists of new Alko, Mountfield, Stiga, Weibang and Echo. Servicing, repairs, and parts for all major brands. Come and see our range of garden machinery including lawn mowers, chainsaws, hedge cutters, battery products and more.

LOGS FOR SALE Moisture Tested - Various Quantity Available Contact: 07765-930317

07885 826396 or 01202 826502 LANGTON NURSERIES (C W Abbott & Son) Seed Potatoes, Onion Sets and Garlic now available. Fruit Trees and Ornamental Trees, Perennials & Shrubs, Terracotta pots, Wild Bird food 20kg £14.50, Stockists of Kings, Franchi and Fothergill Budget Seeds, Potting Compost. Open daily 10am– 3 pm. Langton Long Blandford Forum Dorset DT11 9HR. Telephone 01258-452513.

BL GROUNDWORKS

DRYSTONE WALLING AND LANDSCAPING www.yenstonewalling.co.uk 01963 371123 / 07751 278363 HEDGE CUTTING AND LAWN MOWING SERVICES, ShaftesburyBlandford & local villages. Please call Trevor 07970-012130 GREENHOUSES Supplied/Erected Alloy TenColours Spares-Repairs-Glass Chris Abrams 01258-452632

www.gillinghamgardenmachinery.co.uk

Call For

A Free cooperg685@gmail.com

Quote

WELL ROTTED HORSE MANURE £60.00 a transit load. Contact Roger on

07754 821 232

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

FENCING & LANDSCAPING

Welcome to Wooden Gate Makers!

07765 930317 Blewiscontracting@gmail.com

FOR CHAIN-SAWING, WOODLAND CLEARANCE, coppicing, jet-washing, hedge-cutting, pruning and general garden/estate maintenance. Call David on: 07786-658708

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

WINDOWS & DOORS Wooden Gate Makers supply a wide variety of styles in both hardwood and softwood from our workshop in Poole, Dorset.

PLEASE CONTACT US FOR A NO OBLIGATION QUOTE. 01202 670770

sales@woodengatemakers.co.uk Unit 1, Slader Business Park, Witney Road, Nuffield Industrial Estate, BH17 0GP

www.woodengatemakers.co.uk

Family run Door and Window installations and repairs company with 20 years’ experience We’ll help you fall in love with your home again at an affordable price Call for a free quote on

01747 859 209 / 07429 680 959

or view our gallery at www.lovedoorsandwindows.co.uk

Book online: blackmorevale.net

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Home & Garden

blackmorevale.net

GUTTERS CLEARED • • • • • •

Windows, Fascias, Soffits, Gutters cleaned, Repairs, Free Estimates 07788-376752

30% UP TO

OFF

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

T&Cs apply

ND GEN

ISHED IN

LOCAL FAMILY COMPANY SE

01202 649649

CALL US TODAY

for a FREE home appointment

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

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

TOOLS WANTED. Cash waiting. 01747 416022

WANTED Dave buys all types of tools Call 01935 428975

www.AshleyBlindsUK.com

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

• Fully qualified & insured tree surgeon • All aspects of tree surgery, hedge cutting & stump grinding • Competitively priced • Free no obligation quotes

07851 498248 01747 828460 damorytreecare@yahoo.com

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

GARDEN SERVICES Dorset Gardens of Steve Manuel Do you want your garden to look gorgeous and vibrant? Contact Dorset Garden Services for expert garden maintenance services at competitive prices.

07814064266

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

Need some inspiration?

Come and visit our SHOWROOM! 01963 401424 www.wrightfires.co.uk @wright.fires 7 Market Place, Wincanton, BA9 9LL

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Home & Garden

blackmorevale.net

Houseplants made easy

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

ADVERTISE HERE * FOR JUST PER WEEK

£45

Call us on 01963 400186 or email adverts@blackmorevale.net

*Based on our fortnightly rate for a 5x2 advert (Not including VAT)

MARKO’S

Ride-on Mower Services Push Mower for Small Gardens High hedges to Low Trees No job too big or too small All garden related work undertaken

07742 431 029 “If it grows, I’ll cut it!”

ANYONE new to houseplants should pick easy ones that don’t need much care, says British Garden Centres. Snake plants, ZZ plants and pothos are great for beginners. They grow in low light and handle missed watering fine. Spider plants make baby plants you can grow for free, while peace lilies droop when they need water, so easy to spot and care for. Cast iron plants survive in dark spots. Chinese evergreens do well in offices or bathrooms with little help. Parlour palms tolerate shade and dry air, while rubber plants add big leaves with basic care. Philodendrons trail nicely and forgive mistakes, making them a great low maintenance option. Then it’s a question of watering them right. Forget the calendar when it comes to houseplant watering. All you need to do is put your finger into the soil up to the second knuckle

– if it’s dry, give a gentle soak with room temperature water until it runs out the bottom, then tip away any excess. Homes get dry from heating in winter, which hurts tropical plants like calatheas and ferns that prefer 80% humidity or more. Mist leaves daily to keep them happy or set your pots on pebble trays filled with water, place near a humidifier, or group plants together so they create their own moist air. Houseplants need 12-16 hours of indirect light each day, so placing them in east or west-facing windows works best. Not enough light will make stems leggy and weak, and too much direct sun scorches leaves, so make sure to turn pots weekly for even growth all around and pick shade-lovers like philodendrons or snake plants for dim corners. Pots must have holes at the bottom to let extra water drain out. Line them with crocks, broken pot pieces or mesh for good airflow and to stop soil washing away.

‘Excellent’

UK Removals

All houses great and small! A worry-free service from planning, packing to completion.

Storage

24-hour to long term contracts, our advanced containerised system makes storage simple.

Get your free quote. Blandford 01258 447005

Dorchester 01305 231267

Shaftesbury 01747 440426

Sherborne 01935 316221

Warminster 01925 984459

Wincanton 01963 34065

European Removals

Our friendly team will help guide you through the process from beginning to end.

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Home & Garden

blackmorevale.net EX-DISPLAY SHEDS, Stables/field shelters, summerhouses, offices, workshops, agricultural 01935 891195 WALK BEHIND FLAIL MOWER and operator hire. Neglected area clearance 07432 773151 JOHN DEERE LAWNMOWER Model R47VE, 10 years old but recently serviced. £50. Call Willlam on 07957 235289. SELF DRIVE DIGGER AND DUMPER HIRE 01258 861647

JACKS AFFORDABLE TREE CARE 07936-498493

For all your fencing and decking needs

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

Sherborne Fencing Ltd Tel: 01935 814272 Mobile: 07814246332

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

The New

Blackmore Vale

Magazine

Place your

CLASSIFIED ADS

TODAY! adverts@blackmorevale.net

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

LOGS SEASONAL LOGS. Barn dry. Mainly Ash. 20 miles radius of Sherborne. Preferably evenings 01935 815534.

ASBESTOS REMOVAL Garages, Sheds, Lean to’s, Roofing and Cladding Collection and Dismantling BY Registered Hazardous Waste Carrier Call 07973 444620 or 01722 414478

HARDWOOD LOGS AND WOODCHIP FOR SALE

(Established 1997)

Tree Surgeons TREE WORK

ASH DIE BACK SPECIALISTS

Felling Section felling Pruning/shaping Hedge cutting Scrub clearance Stump grinding Planting £10M public liability insurance

LANDSCAPING

Fencing Patios Sleeper walls All hard landscaping

Vale Tree Surgeons Limited www.valetreesurgeons.com Tel: 01747 228484 Mob: 07770 833734

HAND-CARVED NATURAL STONE FIREPLACES

hello@hearthstonemasonry.co.uk

BLACKMORE VALE LOG SPLITTING - Your local mobile service 07760 469411

SEASONED HARDWOOD LOGS £200 transit load £110 half load 01258-880892 07980-036250

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

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

LOGS FOR SALE transit tipper load Half transit tipper load Dumpy bag (Delivered FREE in and around Sherborne) TEL: 07450-435993 or 07846-345294

01747 440625

hearthstonemasonry.co.uk

HAMBLEDONS Premium Outdoor Services • Hedge Cutting & Maintenance • Hedge Reduction & Removal • Hedge & Tree Planting • Fencing & Gates • Decking & Pergolas • Sheds & Garden Buildings • Concrete & Garden Building Bases • Drainage & Soakaways • Gravel Driveways & Paths • Retaining Walls • Turfing • Devegetation & Site Clearance • Security Bollards • Commercial & Domestic Welcome

North Dorset Based 01258 721552 07833 475565

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

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Local Services

blackmorevale.net

ARCHITECTURAL, BUILDING & 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

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.

Concrete & Floor Screed Mixed On site Any Quantity Delivered Sand Gravel Stone Cement Blocks etc Supplied Loose or in Big Bags Good Quality Top Soil in Stock

Now available... Rockery Stone

Competitive Rates 01747 853687 or 01747 855630 www.hardimanconcrete.co.uk

HANDYMAN, reliable and experienced Call Chris 07413 678076

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

L R MASONRY GENERAL BUILDER, Stone work, Brick work 07971-982565 llewie30roberts@gmail.com

G ROSE PLASTERING. For all your Plastering needs Experienced and reliable Phone Gavin 07766-243762 •General building •Extensions/Renovations •Loft conversions •Oak frame buildings •Groundwork/Landscaping •All your property needs

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

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Local Services

blackmorevale.net

ARCHITECTURAL, BUILDING & ELECTRICAL ASA ARCHITECTS. All drawings for planning and construction. 07770 421624. Free consultation Based in Shaftesbury. Works throughout Dorset. www.asa-architect.co.uk. andystrange@btinternet.com

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

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

NO VAT!

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

Bryan G Paulley Ltd Oil Tank Services Domestic & Commercial

REPLACEMENT TANKS INSTALLATIONS RE-SITING TEMPORARY TANKS EMERGENCY PUMP OUTS BUNDED /SINGLE SKIN METAL TANKS/FUEL STATIONS ABOVE GROUND OR BELOW MOLING SERVICE FOR BELOW GROUND UTILITIES COMMERCIAL BOILER REMOVAL

CALL NOW FOR YOUR PERSONAL QUOTATION

Tel: 01963 363870

24hr Emergency, Leaking Tanks or Oil Spills 07836 502683

To place a classified ad in the Local Services section email: adverts@blackmorevale.net

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

01747 822162

Our advice is always free

enquiries@bell-architectural.co.uk

J&C Handyman Services

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

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

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

• External & internal lime works, pointing & rendering • Full restoration service • Bespoke extensions, disabled & granny annex conversions - from planning to completion • Cob work - new & repairs • Oak timber framining

Call Dave Welsh 07492181788 or 07838654468 www.repointdorset.co.uk tradbuildrest@gmail.com

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Local Services

blackmorevale.net

ARCHITECTURAL, BUILDING & ELECTRICAL Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.

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

Shaftesbury Based.

8am - 8pm

30+ YEARS EXPERIENCE

Call Alan: 07442 026385 Email: alanaac1@aol.com

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

07588804253 | 07791432215 Elevatebuild@outlook.com

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

CHIMNEYS

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

Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.

01963 400186

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR Providing reputable electrical services for over 30 years. Prompt service at reasonable rates.

CHIMNEYS

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

01258 455251

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

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

longthorpeindustries@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

Established in 1978

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

:phoenixchimneys1@gmail.com

Your next customer wants to call you... Help them find you.

ADVERTISE HERE * FOR JUST PER WEEK Call 01963 400186 to advertise in Local Services

£45

Call us on 01963 400186 or email adverts@purbeckgazette.co.uk

*Based on our fortnightly rate for a 5x2 advert (Not including VAT)

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Local Services

blackmorevale.net

CHIMNEYS

COMPUTERS / Wi-Fi & TECH

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

FRIENDLY LOCAL EX BT TELECOM & WIFI ENGINEER. Apple specialist. Problems solved, fully insured & DBS checked. 35 years experience. Adrian 07799 105008

josephcrockercomputers.co.uk High quality fireplace installation at great prices. Specialist multi-fuel & wood burning stove installations with our qualified hetas engineers, including a large experienced in house building and maintenance team, insuring a quality finish and not waiting for other tradesmen. Established reputable company with excellent reviews and vetted by checkatrade. Relining existing woodburners, all building work undertaken from plastering/rendering/demolition and fireplace alterations even exterior painting or chimney/roof leak fixing.

Call now for a free survey 07521647885

Services include • Wood & multi-fuel stove installation • New build houses – No chimney No problem • Electric fire installation • Metal twin wall chimney installations • False fireplaces & media walls • Chimney take down rebuilds • Hetas inspection repair to current regs • Log burner flexi liner installations • Fireplace alterations drone surveys • Cherry picker & scaffold if required • Thatch property wood burners • Plastering rendering exterior decorating

WWW.STOVEANDCHIMNEYSOLUTIONS.COM

CLEANING

SHINY STOVES OVEN CLEANING

Place your classified advert today CLASSIFIED

Ovens,Ranges, Aga’s, etc. Independent Family Run Business Covering The Blackmore Vale Area

Tel 01935 592461 Mob 07875 272401 www.shinystoves.com

LET’S BUILD SOMETHING TOGETHER! Website Build | Unlimited Changes | Hosting Domain | Email | Maintenance £99 A MONTH FOR 12 MONTHS! (Please see website for Terms and Conditions.) Navigate to https://websitevibe.co.uk or scan the QR code to purchase.

To place your

CLASSIFIED ADS

The New

Blackmore Vale

Magazine

book online: adverts@blackmorevale.net

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

01963 400186

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

JOBS GROUP

07561 762229

R Laptop R Tablet R Smartphone R desktop PC

COMPUTERS / Wi-Fi & TECH

BLACKMORE VALE

Need a website to establish online presence?

NOW ON Facebook

• 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, January 16, 2026

Local Services

blackmorevale.net

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

Painting & Decorating Local Quality Painter & Decorator.

35 Years Experience FREE Estimates. No VAT

Call Richard on

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

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

DOMESTIC APPLIANCES

John Banham’s

Property Service REFRESHING Bathrooms & Kitchens

GARETH TANNER G.O.T. DECORATING City and Guilds qualified Interior/exterior Decorating Free Quotes no VAT Tel 07736644452 go. tanner93@gmail.com COUNTRY CARPENTRY Doors, repairs, general maintenance etc Call Nick on 07887 358570 PAUL SPILLER PAINTER & DECORATOR, Interior & Exterior. Est. 1984. 01258-471037. 07903-069556.

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

90,000 readers could 90,000 be looking at readers could be

Upgrades and Carpentry Decorating services Refreshing sale and rental upgrades Handyman projects Plumbing repairs Tiling services Contact: John Banham

Office: 01747 838 087 Mobile: 07768 190 131 email: refreshingrenovations@gmail.com

ITALIAN LANGUAGE LESSONS The New

Blackmore Vale

Magazine

BLACKMORE VALE JOBS GROUP

Italian Courses

For jobseekers and employers

NOW ON Facebook

Classes and private tuition

throughout the year Contact

CHRISTINE JEWELS

01935 425958

www.italianlanguageservices.co.uk

JOINERY Manufacturers of Purpose-made Hard & Softwood Joinery

01202 622441

info@elegantjoinery.co.uk www.elegantjoinery.co.uk

LOCKSMITHS & GARAGE DOORS

your advert looking at your right now advert right now

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

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

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Local Services

blackmorevale.net

LOCKSMITHS & GARAGE DOORS

Classified ad?

TELL OUR 90,000 READERS for just

£1.12

per word*

*Not including VAT

Dorset com Doors.com 24/7 Locksmiths & Garage Door Technicians - Residential Lockouts - Garage door repair specialists - New garage doors & automation - Lock repair and replacements

07979 978 751

PLUMBING, HEATING & DRAINAGE

Find Us Online

www.blackmorevale.net

UNBLOCKING DRAINS • Sinks

• Installations of new drains

• Toilets

• Manholes and gully’s

• Sewers

• Repairs to existing drains

• Downpipes • CCTV Surveys • HP Jetting • No dig relining abbeydrainage@outlook.com | 01747 640188 | 07587 238563

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

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

MUSIC PIANO TUNING, repairs, sales of reconditioned pianos.Julian Phillips BA CGLI. 01258 471194

DEAN CARTER GUITAR TUITION 01935 389655 ahiahel@live.com

PEST CONTROL Place your classified advert today

SPECTRUM PEST CONTROL

Wasps, Rodents, and all other pests humanely dealt with. All forms of bird and rodent proofing undertaken. Technician. Member of the British Pest Control Association T: 01258 721462 M: 07379 405080

CLASSIFIED

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?

01963 400186

Need to replace your septic tank?

Speak to your local experts

To place a classified ad in the Local Services section email:

01747 823731 or 07970 484890

Established 1980

adverts@blackmorevale.net www.dorsettreatmentplants.co.uk

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Local Services

blackmorevale.net

PLUMBING, HEATING & DRAINAGE

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

01747 854887 07525 755696

STONE MASONRY

Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.

MARKST NE

K & M PLUMBING SERVICES for all your plumbing & heating problems. 24 hour call out 07932-574294

Traditional Stone Walling Stone Carving Restoration and Repair Works Traditional Limeworks and Repointing

ROOFING

Masonry & Conservation Specialist

07738-111953

mark@markstonemasonry.co.uk

Call 01963 400186 to advertise in Local Services

Book Online

STORAGE

classified@ blackmorevale.net All Aspects Of Roofing Undertaken

Tom the Roofer All Roofing Services & Repairs

Based in Wincanton

TrustScore 4.4

Contact Chris

valesideroofing@hotmail.com Find us on

Household Storage Safe. Secure. Simple.

01747 854887 07525 755696

• 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

Book your free quote today.

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

To place your

CLASSIFIED ADS

The New

Blackmore Vale

Magazine

book online: adverts@blackmorevale.net

Blandford 01258 447005

Dorchester 01305 231267

Shaftesbury 01747 440426

Sherborne 01935 316221

Warminster 01925 984459

Wincanton 01963 34065

www.armishaws.com TREE SURGEON LOCAL TREE SURGEON Yeovil based reasonably priced. For a no obligation quote call: 07985160422 stctreeservices.co.uk

Find Us Online

www.blackmorevale.net

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Local Services

blackmorevale.net

TARMAC / SURFACING

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

Clive Smith Ltd. SKIP HIRE

SKIP HIRE Waste Transfer Note

Smiths Triangle, Fifehead, St Quinton, Sturminster Newton, DT10 2AW (Also disposal site) www.clivesmithskips.co.uk Email: clivesmithskips@hotmail.co.uk

Tel: 01258 860 166 Mobile: 07974 822243 Waste Carriers Number: CBDU112820 Permit Number: EPR/JB3101KP VAT Reg Number: 634 6316 44

PLEASE NOTE

(See Condition 17 overleaf).

Vehicle Registration

Driver

Customer

Address

ANYTIME

01258 860 166 or 07974 822 243 S.I.C Code: 38110

Skip Size

Description

2 Yrd

Mixed Con, Brick

170107

4 Yrd

Concrete

170101

DELIVERY

6 Yrd

Soil & Stone

170504

8 Yrd

G Mixed Waste

170904

EXCHANGE

DATE

COLLECTION

By signing this form I confirm I have fulfilled my duty to apply the Waste Hierarchy as required by Regulation 12 of the Waste (England and Wales) Regulations 2011.

TILING

PRINT NAME __________________________________ WHITE - OFFICE

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

WASTE & HOUSE CLEARANCE

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

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

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 ADS

• No Asbestos • Do not move skip • No Plasterboard/Gypsum • No Fires in Skip • No Sludge • NO Fridges/ Freezers • Tyres • Gas Bottles • Toxic Solvents • Paints and Liquids

CLIVE SMITH

To place your

CUSTOMERS ORDERING VEHICLES OFF THE PUBLIC HIGHWAY DO SO ENTIRELY ON THEIR OWN RESPONSIBILITY

IT IS DANGEROUS TO TRANSPORT AN OVERLOADED SKIP, THIS INCLUDES BOARDS TO INCREASE THE SIZE OF THE LOAD. THE DRIVER MAY REFUSE TO REMOVE AN OVERLOADED SKIP AND/OR AN EXTRA CHARGE WILL APPLY TO COVER COSTS.

PLEASE NOTE

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

www.

Ticket No:

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

The New

Blackmore Vale

Magazine

book online: adverts@blackmorevale.net

YELLOW - CUSTOMER

THE HANDYMAN

Inside/Outside work Electrics Plumbing Painting/Decorating Tiling

SIGNATURE ________________________________ TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS (SEE REVERSE)

The New Blackmore Vale Magazine Expand your customer base

Email:

Charles.white40@aol.co.uk

Call: 07788 724616 or 01935 712046

call to advertise

01963 400186

90,000 readers could be looking at your advert right now

01963 400186 | adverts@blackmorevale.net

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.

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Announcements

blackmorevale.net

GOLDEN WEDDING ANNIVERSARY

Golden Wedding Anniversary Fifty years of love, devotion, and countless memories. We are so lucky to have grown up with your love as our example. Congratulations, on your Golden Wedding Anniversary Mum and Dad. All our love Ahmed, Abby, Dawn, Keely, Louie and Tommy xx

100th BIRTHDAY CONGRATULATIONS RON LENTZ On your 100th Birthday anniversary. From your loving family xxx

PUBLIC NOTICES MARY ELIZABETH BARNES-GORELL Deceased Pursuant to the Trustee Act 1925 anyone with a claim against or an interest in the Estate of the deceased, late of 4 St. Johns Close, Donhead St. Mary, Shaftesbury, Wiltshire, SP7 9NB, who died on 08/09/2025, must send written details to the address below by 17/03/2026, after which the Estate will be distributed with regard only to claims and interests notified. Fiona Thomas c/o Farnfields Solicitors, The Square, Gillingham, SP8 4AX. Ref: LHL/91695-0001

Notice of Retirement Notice is hereby given that with effect from 1 January 2026 Richard John White retired as a partner of the Charnage Farms Partnership, Pitching Piece Farm, Mere, Warminster BA12 6AP. The remaining Partners will continue to carry on the said partnership under the same name.

IN MEMORIAM In Loving Memory of David Foster Hale

1937-2025 age 88yrs. Peacefully at Yeovil Hospital. Beloved husband of Nina and much loved dad, grandad, and great grandad. Rest in Peace

DEATHS

Kate Babington has passed away

Deeply missed by her family and many friends. Funeral at Langton Long Church, Nr. Blandford, Saturday 24th January at 2pm.

ROGER LEAMON Passed away peacefully in Dorchester hospital on 11th December, 2025 aged 72 years. Roger will be sadly missed by his loving family and friends. The funeral service took place at Poole crematorium on Tuesday 13th January. If you would like to donate in his memory to the RNIB, can be made via Colin J Close funeral services or online at https://rogerleamon.muchloved.co.uk

CLOTHIER Janice (Jan) Passed away peacefully on 13th December, 2025 aged 78 years, with her family by her side. Much loved wife of the late Roger Clothier, loving mum to Paul, Kevin, Sharyn, Shane and Andrew. Also Nan and Great Nan. Her Funeral has taken place. However, donations in memory of Jan for Bipolar UK may still be sent c/o A.J. Wakely & Sons, 16 Newland, Sherborne, DT9 3JQ (Please make cheques payable to the charity)

Goods Vehicle Operators License.

Templar Transport Ltd trading as Templar Transport Ltd of Rivers Meet, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4AA is applying to change an existing license as follows - to add an operating centre to keep 20 goods vehicles and 30 trailers at The Marsh, Henstridge Airfield, Henstridge, BA8 0TN. Owners or occupiers of land (including buildings) near the operating centre(s) who believe there use or enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner at Quarry House, Quarry Hill, Leeds, LS2 7UE, stating their reasons within 21 days of this notice. Representors must at the same time send a copy to the applicant at the address given at the top of this notice. A guide to making representation is available at www.gov.uk/object-hgv-operator-license

HUNT Gordon Grenville (Pops) Peacefully at home on Tuesday 30th December 2025 aged 105. Loving Husband, Dad and Grandad. Sadly missed and fondly remembered. The funeral will take place at Lesley Shand Blandford Service Chapel on Monday 19th January 2026 at 2:00pm. Family flowers only. Donations in memory of Gordon are invited for Scope and The Weldmar Hospice can be made c/o Lesley Shand Funeral Services, 28 East Street, Blandford Forum. DT11 7DR 01258 453425 www.funeraldirector.co.uk/funeral/gordon-hunt

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Announcements

blackmorevale.net

DEATHS ROLPH, PAULINE REGINA

Joan Hussey

of Wyke, Gillingham, died on 5th November, 2025, aged 101, after a long life, well lived. Much loved aunt, great aunt, great ,great aunt and cousin. A celebration of Pauline’s life will take place at St. Mary’s Church, Gillingham on 21st January at 1.30 pm. Friends are warmly invited to attend the service in remembrance of her. Donations, if desired, to St. Mary’s church. All enquiries to Brachers, F/D, Gillingham, tel.01747 822494.

Peacefully passed away at Shaftesbury Hospital at age 95. Widow of The Late Ken Hussey, A much loved Mother, Grandma and Great Grandma. A private cremation will take place.

JEREMY SPOOR Died in Salisbury Hospice on 20th December 2025 aged 90 years. Much loved Husband, Father, Grandfather and Friend. A service to celebrate Jeremy’s life will take place at St Peter’s Church, Shaftesbury on Thursday 15th January 2026 at 2.00pm. Donations in his memory for St Martin in the Fields Trust may be made online at www.mhfd.co.uk or sent c/o Merefield & Henstridge Ltd. Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 0BU. Tel: 01747 853532

Marilyn Beadle formerly of Stalbridge passed away peacefully on 27th December in Mesa, Arizona. Much loved by husband Ken, sons James & Stephen and brother Steve. Will be very much missed.

Wendy Anne Burgett Formally of Wendy Anne Florist of Mere Passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family on 30th December 2025. She will be sadly missed by all For Funeral Service arrangements please call: 07970-717910

Roland Richard Ellis Irene Stubbings Sadly passed away on 15th December 2025 at the age of 79yrs at Aranlaw Care Home in Poole after a short illness, but after a very long struggle with illness most of her life. I David her husband will dearly miss Irene my beloved wife and soulmate of 40 years of marriage. Irene will be missed by her sisters, grandchildren and friends. There will be a Requiem Mass at Our Lady’s Catholic Church Marnhull on Saturday 7th February at 12.00noon Any local friends wishing to attend please contact me David on 01963 204115

James Charles White ‘Jim’ of Buckhorn Weston Fell asleep on the 22nd December 2025 aged 88 years. Much loved husband of Pam, loving dad to Tim, John, Dennis, Claire & Paul also baby Jane (deceased), brother to June & Margaret, granddad & great-granddad and friend to so many. He will be missed greatly by all who knew him. Funeral service on Thursday 22nd January 2026 at 11.30a.m. at Mendip Crematorium. The wake will follow at Buckhorn Weston Village Hall. Family flowers only please. Donations in memory of Jim are invited in aid of The Labrador Rescue Trust (Dorset) also Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance which may be sent c/o A. J. Wakely & Sons, The Old Police Station, Carrington Way, Wincanton, BA9 9JS. Tel: 01963 31310. Please make cheques payable to your chosen charity.

of Tarrant Hinton Died peacefully on Tuesday 25th November 2025, aged 97 years. Husband of Ann, Father of Philip & Anthony. The Funeral to celebrate Roland’s life took place on the 18th December 2025.

MALCOLM HOOKER It is with great sadness we announce the death of Malcolm, after a long battle with cancer. There will be a small family funeral mass at St Luke & St Teresa’s Church Wincanton. The family Propose to have a memorial cricket match and lunch in his honour in July to which all his friend’s past and present are welcome. Donations if desired to ‘Sarcoma UK’. All donations and enquiries to A J Wakely & Sons Funeral Directors, The Old Police Station, Wincanton, Somerset BA9 9JS. Tel: 01963 31310.

MOULD Joan (nee Baker) passed away on Monday 29th December 2025 in Poole Hospital, aged 91. Dearly beloved wife of the late Clifford Mould. She will be sadly missed by her children and their partners, Sue (& the late Graham), Richard & Pedro, and Kate & Paul, and her grandchildren and partners, Charlotte & Aaron and Anastasia. Funeral Service on 22nd January at 3pm, at Harbour View Crematorium. Family flowers only please. Donations in memory of Joan can be made to Brendoncare via www.tapperfuneralservice.co.uk or Tel: 01202 673164

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Announcements

blackmorevale.net

DEATHS GALLEY DARCY

John Anthony Hix

Peacefully on the 25th December 2025 at home in Motcombe. Beloved Husband to Pauline. A dearly loved Dad to Chris and Tracy. A Grandpa and Great Grandpa. Private cremation. Donations if desired to pulmonaryfibrosistrust.org/donate

Bett and Ray would like to announce with sadness the passing of their brother John on 31st Dec 25 aged 78 formerly of Horsington.

Margaret Ellaway Passed away peacefully on 3rd January, aged 87 years. Widow of the late David Ellaway and a much loved Mother to her daughters Susan and Sandra, she will be greatly missed by all of her family and friends both near and far. On Wednesday 25th February please feel free to pop in and join us for a cup of tea or coffee as we remember Margaret in a ‘celebration of her life’ at Shaftesbury’s Town Hall from 2.00pm to around 4.00pm.

ROY WALTER WILLMENT Passed away peacefully at Fir Villa Residential Care Home on Sunday 28th December 2025, aged 84 years. Loving dad, grandad and great-grandad. Funeral service will be held at Yeovil Crematorium on Monday 26th January 2026 at 12:00 PM. No flowers. Enquiries to A. J. Wakely & Sons Funeral Directors, The Old Police Station, Carrington Way, Wincanton, BA9 9JS. Tel: 01963 31310.

HOPKINS William James - ‘Bill’ Peacefully on 28th December 2025 at Anglebury Court Care Home, aged 89 years, of Stalbridge. Beloved Husband of the late June. Dearly loved Dad, Grandad, Great Grandad and Brother. Funeral service at St. Mary’s Church, Stalbridge on Thursday 22nd January at 12.00pm, followed by interment. Donations if desired, in memory of Bill for Alzheimer’s Society can be made online at peterjacksonfuneralservices.co.uk

MULLARD Doreen formally known as Doreen Downton. Peacefully in Dorset County Hospital on Friday 2nd January 2026, aged 92. Doreen will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by all her family and friends. The funeral will take place at St Andrew’s Church, Milborne St Andrew on Thursday 5th February 2026 at 1:00pm. Family flowers only please. Donations in memory of Doreen are invited for Dorset County Hospital, Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance and RNIB can be made c/o Lesley Shand Funeral Services, 28 East Street, Blandford Forum. DT11 7DR. 01258 453425 www.funeraldirector.co.uk/funeral/doreen-mullard

Mary Pike Passed away peacefully 24th Dec 2025 at the age of 95. Beloved wife of the late Geoffrey. Much loved Mum to Gillian, Martin, Bernard and Caroline, Grandmother of 7 Great Grandmother of 15 An amazing and happy life. Memorial Service 20th January 2026 at 1pm, St Georges Church Langton Matravers. Funeral directors - Harbour View

STANLEY Mervyn Cyril - ‘Merv’ Peacefully on 19th December 2025 in Yeovil District hospital, aged 85 years, of Sturminster Newton. Devoted Husband of the late Liz. Much loved Dad, Grandad, Brother and friend. Funeral service at Yeovil Crematorium on Thursday, 29th January at 2.40pm. No flowers please. Donations if desired, in memory of Merv for Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance Trust can be made online at peterjacksonfuneralservices.co.uk

GRACE DIBDEN née CALLOW Passed away on 23rd December 2025 aged 85 years. Dearly loved wife, mother, grandmother and greatgrandmother. She will be greatly missed by all. A celebration of Grace’s life will take place at All Saints Church, Langton Long, Blandford Forum on Thursday 22nd January 2026 at 10.30am. Family flowers only please. Donations are invited in aid of Weldmar Hospicecare, Dorchester. These may be left after the service or sent c/o Colin J Close Funeral Services, Peel Close, Blandford Forum, Dorset DT11 7JU, 01258 453133, info@close-funeral.co.uk. ‘Bright Colours optional

ALLEN Graham Arthur Charles Peacefully on 23rd December 2025 at Nazareth Lodge Care Home, aged 91 years, of Sturminster Newton. Beloved Husband, Dad, Grandad, Uncle and Brother-in-law. The family would like to thank everyone at Nazareth Lodge, for all the kindness, care and support. Private cremation, followed by a Service of Thanksgiving at St. Mary’s Church, Sturminster Newton on Monday, 19th January at 2.00pm. In memory of Graham, please wear something colourful to the service. Donations if desired, for either Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance Trust or RAFA can be made online at peterjacksonfuneralservices.co.uk

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

blackmorevale.net

Announcements

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

DEATHS Dawn Margaret Rose Snashall Dearly loved Wife and Mother passed peacefully at her home on 25th December 2025 at the age of 80 years. Funeral service at Yeovil crematorium on Friday 23rd January at 11.20am followed by the Wake at the Green Man Pub at King Stag. All that knew and loved her are welcome to join us. Family flowers only please, donations if desired for Weldmar Hospicecare. C/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, Henstridge.

David James Cownley David of Sturminster Newton and formerly of Pinkneys Green Maidenhead, passed away peacefully on 21st December 2025 at Dorset County Hospital, aged 85 years. Much loved husband of Jocelyn, father to Stephen, Paul and stepfather to Ross, grandfather and great grandfather. Funeral Service at St Mary’s Church, Sturminster Newton on Monday 26th January at 2pm. Family flowers only please, but donations if desired for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance or Shelter, 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

Family Run, Caring & Efficient • Private Chapel of Rest Direct Cremation available Personal Day & Night Service Memorials in Stone, Marble & Granite www.mhfd.co.uk email: info@mhfd.co.uk Shaftesbury (01747) 853532 Gillingham (01747) 835335 “Ridgemount” Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 0BU

LESLEY PATRICIA LANCASTER ‘Les’ Passed away peacefully on 26th December 2025 aged 73 years. Much loved wife of Paul, mum to Aron, Ashley and dearest departed Alex. Nanny Lesley to Dean, Harrison, Ethan, Kayleigh, Alexis, Alfie and Albo. Funeral service takes place at Salisbury Crematorium on Tuesday 20th January 2026 at 2.00pm. Please wear a splash of red. Family flowers only please. Donations in her memory for Weldmar Hospicecare may be made online at www.mhfd.co.uk or sent c/o Merefield & Henstridge Ltd. Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 0BU. Tel: 01747 853532

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

WOODS & TAPPER FUNERAL SERVICE Just want a private family funeral? Many people choose to invite just family members to a funeral. Our funeral homes have ceremony halls that are ideal for small and intimate gatherings. Our ceremony halls are light and modern with comfortable seating, and have no time restrictions on their use.

Proudly serving your local community

01747 860 361

Water Street, Mere, Warminster, Wiltshire BA12 6DZ

Call us for immediate support, advice, or to find out more about our prepaid funeral plans. We are here to help 24 hours a day. "

www.lchillandsonfuneraldirectors.co.uk

Ask about our ‘celebrations of life’ 01305 250425

or visit www.woodsfuneralservices.co.uk

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 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

Brister&Son Independent Family Funeral Directors When your family suffers the loss of a loved one, we are here to support, guide and reassure you every step of the way Please call Teresa or Daniel for an appointment 100 Lenthay Road, Sherborne DT9 6AG Email: info@wsbrister.com 01935 812647

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.

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

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

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

COLIN J. CLOSE COLIN J. CLOSE

Bespoke Cremations & Burials Sherborne:

Direct Cremation

01935 816817

Pre-Payment Scheme Available Wincanton:

01963 31310

www.ajwakely.com

GRASSBY & CLOSE GRASSBY & CLOSE

Peel Close, BLANDFORD FORUM Innes Ct, STURMINSTER NEWTON Tel:BLANDFORD 01258 453133 FORUM Innes Ct, Tel: 01258 471024NEWTON Peel Close, STURMINSTER www.close-funeral.co.uk www.grassbyclose-funeral.co.uk Tel: 01258 453133 Tel: 01258 471024 www.close-funeral.co.uk www.grassbyclose-funeral.co.uk

GRASSBY GRASSBY

27a High Street, SHAFTESBURY Tel: 01747SHAFTESBURY 440815 27a High Street, www.grassbyshaftesbury-funeral.co.uk Tel: 01747 440815 www.grassbyshaftesbury-funeral.co.uk

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Food & Drink

blackmorevale.net

Dish to stir childhood memories WE don’t really have to cook and serve mussels with cider in French – but it’s quite fun! My parents had great friends in Belgium who we’d visit every year and even at the age of three I had an adult portion of one kilo of mussels! As I’m in Somerset but born in Herefordshire, I naturally gravitate to adding local cider to dishes wherever I have the excuse. As a starter or a light lunch, I’d serve a half kilo of mussels

with warm hunks of sourdough and local butter to girlfriends visiting for a natter! Mussels with cider and shallots (serves 4) Ingredients 4kg fresh mussels (1kg per person) 4 shallots, finely chopped 2 tablespoons butter 500ml dry cider 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish Salt and pepper to taste

Method 1 Prepare the mussels: Rinse and scrub the mussels under cold water. Remove any beards and discard any mussels that remain closed. 2 Cook shallots and garlic: In a large pot, melt the butter over a medium heat. Add the shallots and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. 3 Add the cider: Pour in the cider and bring to a gentle boil. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to blend the flavours. 4 Steam the mussels: Add the

mussels to the pot and cover with a lid. Cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking the pot occasionally, until the mussels open. Discard any that remain closed. 5 Season and serve: Season with salt and pepper, garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately with crusty bread or fries. n Annie des Forges, Director/ Chef, The Table Bruton. Annie Austin, Director/Host & Concierge, Somerset Roadtrip. Email: catering@anniedes forges.co.uk; website: www. anniedesforges.co.uk; phone: 07834 487381.

t h g i r y Cop e l a V e r o m k c Bla

A half portion of mussels is ideal for a light lunch

ENFORD DT11 FARM SHOP 0QW

Open Wednesday to Saturday

10 - 5

Home reared and local produced meats, veg, Deli, also clothing and gifts emporium.

aditional village pub A tr in t

he h eart of

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, January 16, 2026

Health & Wellbeing

Meditations in nature: ‘When the crow makes wing to the rooky wood’ by Susanna Curtin DESPITE the freezing January temperatures, there is still so much to be gained by being outdoors in nature. As a bird enthusiast, I particularly love this time of year. There are gatherings of winter migrants such as redwing and fieldfare that grace the fields and farmlands, an occasional deceit of lapwing, and increased numbers of migrant waders that come here to join the resident flocks of curlew, oyster catcher, snipe and redshank that frequent Dorset’s wetlands. Today, I visited a Wildlife Trust reserve where I meandered around the lakes with my binoculars, notebook and lunchbox. Wrapped up against the biting wind, the bright winter sun has lifted any residue of stress left by the working week and has provided a welcome space for contemplation. Out on the water, were large flocks of Canada geese and black-headed gulls that shrouded the busy activity of the tufted ducks, gadwall and shelduck which drifted inbetween the larger birds. The familiar shape of a kingfisher skimmed over the surface, and coots and moorhen loitered around the edges. On the scrapes, common sandpipers

and snipe pootled around, beak down, in pursuit of small invertebrates in the mud, while a small flock of lapwings stood perfectly still with their head tucked under their wings leaving a watchful eye on their surrounds. What a relaxing day this has been. It has gently combined nature, attention and stillness in a single mindful pursuit. Yet unbeknown to me, nature’s wonders still had more to give. Now on my way back home driving in the Vale, I marvel at the handsome lines of trees that decorate the rather still and forlorn landscape – their skeletal limbs clawing at the fading blue of this winter sky as the sun dips below the hills, leaving behind it a blushing, pinkening tinge in the clouds. Ahead of me, towards the wood, I become aware of a dark, tight cluster of birds, moving as one to form a living shape that is constantly forming and dissolving like smoke – a murmuration, not of starlings, but of rooks. Stopping the car, I get out to watch, for I have only seen rooks do this once or twice before. While I have often seen the usual dark ribbons and black tides of them flying home in the evening, this is different and far more special.

SMART PHYSIO Treatment in your own home! SMART PHYSIO

 Jacqueline

Bad back? Stiff neck? Aching knee? Stiff Hip? Bad ankle? Shoulder pain?

07596 477222 help@physiocentre.co.uk for an appointment

blackmorevale.net

Rooks are highly sociable birds that tend to move around the countryside in large groups

A rook murmuration has an entirely different character. Each bird is twice the size of a starling with broader wings, making it a darker, heavier cloud. It is also slightly slower and noisier with harsh caws and clamorous conversation. Starlings roost in a fast, agile and coordinated fashion with a soft whisper of wings like the wind, whereas these rooks create purposeful ribbons in a boisterous prelude to nightfall. They move with deliberation in shifting columns and clouds, making the sky itself feel full of breath and movement, as if the birds are carrying the heartbeat of the land home to roost. We have about a million breeding pairs in the UK which live in rookeries perched high up in the trees. These rookeries can be very large with untidy nests that decorate the treetops in winter. They adopt the same sites year on year, and some can contain thousands of birds and be in use for decades. Rooks are highly sociable birds that tend to move around the countryside in large groups. There is an old saying: “if you see a rook on its own, it’s a crow, if you see a crowd of crows, then they are rooks!” Although this is not always the case, it is often so. Towns and mountains are not The New

Blackmore Vale

Magazine

Place your

CLASSIFIED ADS

TODAY! adverts@blackmorevale.net

for them, instead they choose open countryside and farmland. Apart from being more sociable than crows, they are distinguishable by the pale bare skin at the base of their daggershape beaks –whereas a crow’s beak is entirely black. They also look like they are wearing shaggy trousers given that the feathers on their thighs are ruffled and untidy, and in the sunlight their plumage has a wonderful purple sheen. Perhaps the most amazing thing about rooks, and indeed most of the Corvid family which includes crows, ravens, jackdaws, jays and magpies, is their superior intelligence. They have a large forebrain relative to their size. Similar to a prefrontal cortex in mammals, this allows them to problem-solve and memorise. In scientific studies they have demonstrated self-awareness in mirror tests, tool-using expertise and the ability to plan by storing food for later. Evolving in complex social groups such as theirs, creates intelligence as they remember individuals, past interactions with other birds and learn tactical deception such as hiding food from others. As I see this dark dramatic murmuration draw to a close, and watch them tumble in turn down to their nests to roost, I am reminded just how much I revere these birds. Mostly, I love them for their playful aerial acrobatics on windy days, and how their large flocks, swollen with juveniles, mark the seasonal shift from late summer into autumn. But now, I have another reason to admire them. n Dr Susie Curtin (email curtin. susanna@gmail.com) DarPod PODIATRY and Chiropody, For home visits please ring: 07943-194611

Advertising made

simple

01963 400186

adverts@blackmorevale.net

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Health & Wellbeing

blackmorevale.net

The brain’s a gym: Why stretching your mind matters this new year

by Kay Parkinson A NEW year is a natural time to pause and reflect. We might notice routines that feel dull or realise how easily our days slip into autopilot. Instead of jumping straight into resolutions, real change often starts more quietly, by paying attention to when our minds are craving something new. Our brains, much like our muscles, are designed to be used. When they are not challenged, they can slow and stiffen, not because anything is wrong, but because they have not been invited to stretch. Learning something new offers that invitation.

Exercise keeps brain and body in balance

by Fiona Chapman I WAS listening to The Rest is Politics this morning and Alastair Campbell was talking about how the media feels the need to keep the population on high alert and constantly scared, which is making a lot of people – like me – say: “I just can’t take the news anymore and don’t listen”. No wonder the mental health problem is so huge. Our bodies and minds – I have said this before – do not differentiate between a sabre tooth tiger and high stress news. It has the same effect on the body, putting us into sympathetic mode or fight and flight. If we are constantly in this state, we don’t rest and digest, rejuvenate and heal – instead, we have high levels of cortisol affecting our mood, sleep and so on, and then get adrenal fatigue where we just cannot function properly. This obviously affects our brain and mood and so the

Scientists call this neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to form new pathways throughout life. Whether it is a language, an instrument or a tricky new recipe, learning pulls us into unfamiliar territory and asks us to focus, adapt and stay curious. In doing so, it supports memory, problem-solving and resilience, helping to keep the mind alive. Learning in this way also has a grounding quality. When we are absorbed in something new, we naturally pay attention to what we are doing, where it feels awkward and where understanding begins to take shape. Without setting out to circle continues. Diet, exercise, herbs and limiting social media – unless it is funny clips about dogs – can all help to combat this. Exercise, I always say, is key to keeping the mind and body in balance. If possible, walking in the country and listening to the birds, admiring the trees, grasses and flowers is hugely beneficial. Diet needs to avoid sugar, processed food and stimulants such as coffee and alcohol – particularly if feeling very stressed. Drinking lots of good water is also vital as it keeps the body and brain hydrated. It is difficult sometimes to remember to drink water in this cold weather, but it helps enormously. A herb you can get easily is rosemary – you can make a rosemary tea and drink that. Tinctures of Passiflora incarnata, Scutellaria lateriflora – skullcap, Avena sativa – oat seed and tops – all help the nervous system, and liquorice or Glycyrrhiza glabra, is excellent for adrenal insufficiency – not to be taken with high blood pressure. Adaptogens like Eleutherocossus senticosus – Siberian ginseng – strengthen the whole body and help it cope

practise mindfulness, we often find ourselves more present and steadier. Of course, being new at something can feel uncomfortable. Picking up knitting needles or stepping into a dance class may stir embarrassment or self-criticism, especially when we compare ourselves to others. Yet this is where the deeper invitation lies. Honouring ourselves is not about getting it right, but about staying open. Every stumble is a sign the brain is doing exactly what it needs to do. There is something particularly nourishing about learning alongside others, whether through a choir, a class or a shared game around the table. Connection itself is protective, easing stress and lifting mood. Alongside this comes the quiet joy of learning,

the satisfaction of managing three chords on a guitar, finding a rhythm that finally clicks or coaxing a sourdough to rise. These moments gently remind us that growth is still possible. As this new year unfolds, perhaps the invitation is not to push harder, but to engage more gently. Stretch the mind with curiosity rather than pressure, allow yourself to be a beginner and trust that learning can be a meaningful way of honouring wellbeing. If this piece has resonated, you are welcome to get in touch. I would love to hear from you. n Kay Parkinson is a psychotherapist specialising in trauma, emotional neglect, and the impact of shame on identity and self-worth, based in Bournemouth and working locally and nationally online. www.placetotalktherapies.co.uk

with everyday life. Rhodiola rosea is another strengthening herb and one I am increasingly using is Ganoderma lucidium – Reishi mushroom.

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

The Malthouse Care Home Bay Road, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4EW

Our friendly team truly care for your family like they would their own providing compassion, respect, and dignity. With a deep commitment to meeting residents’ individual needs, whether it’s residential or respite care, The Malthouse is your perfect choice. healthcarehomes.co.uk

Call 01747 448580 for a friendly chat with an advisor.

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Motoring

blackmorevale.net

AA welcomes Road Safety Strategy THE AA has welcomed the Government’s Road Safety Strategy, which introduces targets for reducing road deaths for the first time in the UK since 2010, with a stated target of reducing death and serious injury on our roads by 65% by 2035. In 2024, 29,467 people were killed or seriously injured in crashes – just 1% fewer than in 2023. If the targets are reached by 2035 this would mean about 19,000 fewer people dying or suffering serious injuries on our roads every year. While many of the changes being consulted on are welcomed by the AA, the lack of peer age passenger restrictions for new, young drivers is a missed opportunity to save more lives, it says. Edmund King, director of The AA Charitable Trust and AA president, said: “We commend the Government for its wide

ranging and ambitious strategy and ambitious targets which we hope will save the lives of thousands of people. “Tackling drivers who drive under the influence of drink or drugs, people who don’t wear their seatbelts and those getting behind the wheel without insurance are key to reducing road deaths and serious injuries. We also endorse the mantra of road safety being a life-long education, not just when learning to ride or drive. “The reintroduction of ambitious targets to reduce death and serious injury on our roads is a radically positive move that will help keep road safety higher up the agenda. “It is important that the Road Safety Review covers eyesight tests. The AA advises all drivers to have an eye test every two years, and we welcome mandatory eye tests for older drivers.

“The likelihood of crashes increases once someone is over the age of 70 and markedly rises for those above the age of 80 to a peak at age 86, with eyesight often a worrying factor. “Eye tests are free for people over the age of 60 and healthcare professionals advise them every two years given they can help with diagnosis of other underlying conditions. “Young drivers are also being looked at with the proposed introduction of a minimum learning period. While this is positive, we feel the Government has missed the opportunity to introduce peer age passenger restrictions for new drivers. “We regularly hear about young driver crashes in which multiple young people are either killed or seriously injured and more needs to be done to address this. We know, from other countries who have introduced

01747 854789 www.crewscars.co.uk CAR SALES

VIEWINGS BY APPOINTMENT

22017 016 (17) (65)Ford AudiKA+ A51.2 Coupe S Line 2dr.manual Sat nav, parking Zetec1.8TFSi 5dr. 85bhp, petrol,Nav 5 speed gearbox, sensors, cruisecruise control, leather, heated seats, road sign parking sensors, control, hill hold, air con, Bluetooth, upto assist, 56mpg economy, small exterior withlights a spacious interior, miles ....................................£6450 Bluetooth, auto & wipers, hill76,900 holder, 92,900 miles ............. £8650 2012 (62) Ford Ka 1.2 Studio 3dr. 69bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual5dr. gearbox, 22015 (15) Dacia Sandero Stepway 0.9TCe Laureate Sat £35 nav, yearly tax, 50+mpg, simple car with basic spec, cambelt replaced, MOT Nov 2025, cruise control, parking sensors, Bluetooth, £35 road tax, 55mpg, only private sale on behalf of a customer, 73,500 miles .......................................£2950 25,900 miles .............................................................................. £6250 2014 (14) Ford Kuga 2.0TDCi Titanium X AWD 4x4 SUV 5dr. 163bhp, diesel, 6

2017 (17) Ford Ka+ 1.2 Zetec speed manual gearbox, 4x4, high seats, 5dr. leather, heated seats, heated screen, sat nav, parkroad sensors, park, reverse camera, sunroof,sensors, auto lightscruise & wipers, cruise, lane aid, £35 tax,auto 56mpg, City pack, parking control, sign recognition, hill hold,29,300 electric tailgate, cambelt replaced, 92,500 miles .........£7450 Bluetooth, hill holder, miles ............................................. £7450 2020 (69) Ford Tourneo Custom 2.0TDCi Titanium 320 L1 H1 Automatic 9 Seat

2014 (14) Ford EcoSport 1.5TDCi Titanium X Pack 5dr. X pack, Minibus 5dr. 130bhp, diesel, 6 speed automatic gearbox, 8 seat plus driver, reversable leather, sensors, cruise Bluetooth, hill holder, tax, seats forparking conference or forward facing,control, auto lights & wipers, cruise control,£35 heated front cambelt kitsensors, replaced, 87,800 miles ............................................. seats, park cambelt replaced, 97,000 miles ............£21500 + VAT = £5450 £25800 2020 (69) Trend 350XMWB MR5dr. L2 H2 11 Seatsat Minibus 2021 (21)Ford FordTransit Puma2.0TDCi 1.0T ST Line MHEV 155bhp, nav, 5dr. 130bhp, diesel,cruise 6 speed manualmain gearbox, 10 seat plusroad driver, 2 front seats, 9 parking sensors, control, beam assist, sign assist, rear seats, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, parking sensors, heated front seats, Bluetooth, partial leather, hill holder, collision safety system, 47,800 hill hold, cambelt replaced, 90,200 miles.........................£19500 + VAT = £23400 miles ........................................................................................ £13250 2014 (64) Kia Venga 3, 1.6 Automatic (Sat Nav) 5dr. 123bhp, petrol, 4

2020 Fordgearbox, Transithigh Custom 300 L1sensors H1 Van& speed (70) automatic seating,2.0TDCi decent boot, satLimited nav, parking reverse camera,van electric partial leather, heatedkit, seats, 5dr. Stunning withsunroof, full body styling & grille roofcruise rails,control, wheelsign recognition, hill hold, only 38,800 miles........................................................£7850 upgrade, parking sensors, cruise control, heated seats, auto lights & wipers, Bluetooth, wetbelt cambelt replaced, vat to pay, 2016 (66) Mazda 3,hill 2.0holder, SE-L Nav Automatic 5dr. kit 120bhp, petrol,no 6 speed automatic gearbox, sat nav, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, parking sensors, 77,600 miles ............................................................................ £15000 sign recognition, heated seats, hill hold, 75,900 miles...................................£8450

such measures, that simply delaying the age at which new, young drivers can carry peer age passengers significantly reduces the number of these crashes and the heartbreak that accompanies them.” Mr King added: “One year after the AA Trust launched its Buckle Up seatbelt campaign, which called for the introduction of penalty points for those caught not wearing a seatbelt, I am delighted this change will be enacted as part of the Government’s new Road Safety Strategy. “Despite all the incredible technology we now have, seatbelts arguably remain the greatest road safety invention of all, yet almost half of young passengers who die in crashes are not belted. “The introduction of penalty points for not wearing a seatbelt sends a strong message to everyone that buckling up is not optional.”

Five Square Motors (Bosch Garage) Salisbury Road (A30) Shaftesbury SP7 8BU

2009 (59)Mercedes-Benz Renault ClioCLK200 1.5DCi1.8 Expression Estate 2006 (06) KompressorSport Sport Tourer Automatic Convertible 163bhp, petrol, speed recent new roof & shocks 5dr. Bargain2dr. clearance, MOT 5Nov 26,auto £35gearbox, tax, cambelt replaced, 1 absorbers, full history, 15 stamps, heated leather, electric roof, auto lights & wipers, owner, full sensors, history, MOT 160,500 miles ............................................... £1500 cruise, park June 25, private sale on behalf of a customer, 77,500 miles ...........................................................................................................£4250

2018 (68) Renault Captur 0.9TCe Iconic 5dr. High seating, sat nav, 2015 (65) Peugeot 308 1.2THP Allure Automatic 5dr. 130bhp, petrol, 6 speed parking cruise roadreverse sign assist, Bluetooth, lights automaticsensors, gearbox, sat nav, control, park sensors, camera, auto lightsauto & wipers, cruise control, hill hold, only £35 a year road tax, 50+mpg economy, cambelt has & wipers, 73,500 miles ............................................................... £6850 been replaced, 69,500 miles..............................................................DUE IN SOON

2024 (74)Renault Suzuki Swift1.5DCi 1.2 Ultra Automatic Sat nav, 2019 (19) Captur IconicMHEV Automatic SUV 5dr. 5dr. 90bhp, diesel, 6 speed automatic nav, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, parking sensors,gearbox, reversesat camera, cruise control, heated seats, parking main sensors, hill hold, high seating, sliding rear seats, upto 67mpg economy, 20,300 beam assist, road sign assist, blind spot assist, auto lights, hill holder, miles .........................................................................................................£12250 10,500 miles ............................................................................ £17950 2017 (17) Vauxhall Astra 1.4 SRi 5dr. 100bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, auto lights & wipers, parking sensors, cruise control, pre-collision assist, sign

2023 (23) Volkswagen T-Cross 1.0TSi Black Edition 5dr. High recognition, hill hold, Bluetooth, 63,600 miles ..............................................£6950 seating, parking sensors, auto lights & wipers, pedestrian & collision 2016 (66) Vauxhall Mokka 1.6CDTi SE 4x4 SUV 5dr. 136bhp, diesel, 6 speed safety .................. £16750 manual systems, gearbox, 4 Bluetooth, wheel drive,hill highholder, seating,21,800 big boot,miles heated leather seats, heated steering wheel, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, parking sensors, hill hold, performance & economy, 60mpg, milesHAVE ....................................£7250 WE BUY CARS &upto VANS SO65,500 IF YOU SOMETHING

TO SELL GIVE US A CALL, WE PAY GOOD PRICES WE BUY CARS & VANS SO IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING & CONSIDER MOST VEHICLES TO SELL GIVE US A CALL, WE PAY GOOD PRICES & CONSIDER MOST VEHICLES

01747 854789

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Motoring

blackmorevale.net WANTED. 4x4, Toyota, Honda Land Rover etc. Been standing, can repair for farm runaround. Tel: 07740-378644

Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication. 2016 MINI COOPER CONVERTIBLE 1.5l petrol. 28,000 miles. MOT until November 2026 with no advisories. Grey with black roof. One lady owner from new. Currently untaxed but available to test drive on long private drive. £7,750. Marnhull. 07586685490

STORAGE FOR CARAVANS, boats and cars at Enford Farm near Blandford. 01258 450050 / 07704 813025

BLUE VW GOLF TDI. 11 months MOT and recent annual service. 99,000 miles. Tax - £20 pa. Cam Belt changed. 07557 671010. £4,400 ono.

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

STEVE’S

MOTORCYCLE REPAIRS Repairs and service with over 40 years experience. Collection and delivery service available Steve’s Motorcycle Repairs

Call Steve on

07376 319689

Over Over Over 3030 30 years years years experience experience experience

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

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

All vehicles wanted Cash paid

Peacemarsh Garage est. 1997

Peacemarsh, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4HB www.peacemarshgarage.co.uk 2018 (18) FORD GRAND C-MAX, 7 SEATER

68k

£6,695

2018 (68) FORD FIESTA ST LINE TURBO

70k

£6,495

2015 (64) FORD FOCUS 1.0 TITANIUM

73k

£4,750

CAR OF THE WEEK 2017 (67) MINI COOPER, JCW WORKS

36k

£12,995

2014 (64) SEAT IBIZA FR, 1.4 TSI

77k

£5,395

2014 (64) FORD FIESTA 1.0 ZETEC

58k

£4,750

2013 (13) FORD FIESTA, TITANIUM X AUTO, 1.6

39k

£6,995

24 MONTH WARRANTY 2022 (72) MG4 TROPHY, LONG RANGE

31k

£13,995

2019 (68) HYUNDAI KONA, PREMIUM SE, EV

68k

£8,995

ELECTRIC CARS

We don’t buy any car... but we might buy yours Servicing, Valets, MOTs, Bodywork, Hankook & Laufenn Tyre Dealership, Competitive Rates

01747 822307

Please call Ryan: 07474 737577

ON ALL VEHICLES UP TO 3.5 TONNES SUNRISE HORSEBOXES SERVICE & INCLUDING AND MOTORHOMES MOT CENTRE SUNRISE SERVICE & Bodyshop open for all repairs and restorations, from small scratches to complete resprays, MOT CENTRE MOTS, SERVICING AND REPAIRS work ON ALLinsurance VEHICLES UPwelcome. TO 3.5 TONNES MOTS, SERVICING AND MOTS – class 4,5 andREPAIRS 7 INCLUDING HORSEBOXES ON ALL VEHICLES UP TO 3.5 TONNES Diagnostics AND MOTORHOMES INCLUDING HORSEBOXES AND MOTORHOMES Air conditioning

Bodyshop also available. Bodyshop open for all repairs and restorations, Valetsto complete resprays, from small scratches MOTS classwork 4,5 7 MOTs –– class 4, 5 and and 7 insurance welcome. Courtesy Cars Diagnostics MOTS Air – class 4,5 and 7 Diagnostics Conditioning Collections a 5 mile radius Airwithin conditioning Diagnostics Courtesy Cars Air conditioning Valets Concessions forConcessions Pensioners, for Armed Forces Valets Courtesy Cars and Emergency Services Armed Forces and Emergency Services Courtesy Collections within a 5 Cars mile radius Collections within a 5 mile radius Concessions for Pensioners, Armed Forces Concessions for Pensioners, Armed Forces and Emergency Services and Emergency Services

15B Sunrise Business Park, Higher Shaftesbury Road Blandford DT11 8ST 15B Sunrise Business Higher Shaftesbury Road 15B Sunrise Business Park,Park, Higher Shaftesbury Road Blandford DT11 Tel: 01258 459798 Blandford DT11 8ST8ST Tel: 01258 459798 Email info@sunriseservicecentre.com Tel: 01258 459798 Email sunriseservicecentre@hotmail.com Email sunriseservicecentre@hotmail.com www.sunriseserviceandmotcentre.com www.sunriseserviceandmotcentre.com www.sunriseserviceandmotcentre.com

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Pets

blackmorevale.net Many products that are toxic to dogs are also toxic to cats, but cats tend to be more discerning than dogs and less likely to eat toxic products

Safe for you but perhaps not for your pet... by Lynn Broom BVSc, GPCert(ExAP), AdvDipAAB, MRCVS MANY substances are toxic to humans and pets, but those that we tolerate well but are dangerous for our pets, are often less well recognised. While chocolate and raisins are now commonly recognised as

potentially toxic there are other less well recognised concerns. Common supplements containing 5-HTP – often combined with vitamin B, magnesium, zinc or valerian root for mood, sleep and cognitive support – are readily available in supermarkets and health food shops and are

C.B. Brett & Son Pet & Wildlife

ONE JRT BITCH PUPPY remaining gorgeous temperament 07984 024746

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

MISSING since 29/30 Dec. from Priestlands, Sherborne. ‘Dickie’ Ginger/ White cat. Information welcome. Tel:01935-812617

Mid Dorset Cats Protection

Loving homes needed for cats and kittens in our care.

For more details, please call our helpline 07831 586114

potentially highly toxic to dogs. 5-HTP is a naturally occurring amino acid which is a precursor to serotonin and melatonin and, because of their increased sensitivity and often smaller size – compared to humans – dogs can develop serotonin syndrome following ingestion of even small amounts, which causes severe symptoms including seizures and needs prompt supportive care to ensure a good prognosis. Cannabis has widely been recognised as toxic to dogs due to accidental access to dried leaves, edibles or resins. THC is the main psychoactive component of cannabis and can be sourced on its own or in combination with CBD. While CBD supplements appear to be relatively safe in pets, it is important to ensure products do not contain THC to avoid toxic effects. Dogs’ brains contain a much higher number of cannabinoid receptors than humans, making them highly susceptible to life-threatening symptoms from the psychoactive compound.

Vapes can be highly toxic when chewed or ingested. Flavoured vapes make them more palatable than cigarettes and the liquid present contains concentrated levels of nicotine. Dogs are very sensitive to nicotine and high levels can cause seizures and a rapid heart rate. Blue cheeses such as Roquefort can contain the substance roquefortine-C which can cause tremors and, in severe cases, seizures in dogs due to their increased sensitivity to this compound compared to humans. Mouldy foods such as bread – quite commonly ingested in dogs when bins have been raided – can cause severe neurological signs in dogs which can be fatal if Penicillium or Aspergillus mycotoxins are present. Mouldy bird food can contain the same toxins and the area beneath bird tables should be cleaned up regularly or bird food only provided in areas not accessible to your dog. Macadamia nuts can be toxic to dogs, although the mechanism of toxicity is unknown. Symptoms include vomiting and neurological signs, but symptoms are usually selflimiting, although supportive treatment may be required if dehydration develops. The take home message is don’t assume that, just because we can eat it, it is safe for our pets. Many products that are toxic to dogs are also toxic to cats, but cats tend to be more discerning than dogs and less likely to eat toxic products. If you are unsure if a product is toxic, call the Veterinary Poisons Information Service or your vet for advice.

ADVERTISE HERE * FOR JUST PER WEEK

£45

or visit our website: cats.org.uk/middorset

Call us on 01963 400186 or email adverts@blackmorevale.net

Sponsored by Longmead Veterinary Practice Ltd

*Based on our fortnightly rate for a 5x2 advert (Not including VAT)

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

blackmorevale.net

MID DORSET CATS PROTECTION Cats looking for new homes

n Maddie, 10, sweet shy lady could be homed with Tabatha

n Tabatha, 10, gorgeous shy lady could be homed with Maddie

n Biscuit, two. Beautiful blue grey and peach tortie (no cats)

n Caramel, six months. Beautiful brindle tortie girl (no cats)

n Fudge, two. Gorgeous pale ginger tabby girl (no cats)

n Toffee, six months. Beautiful brindle tortie girl (no cats)

Biscuit, Fudge, Toffee and Caramel all come from the same home so could be homed in any combination of pairs

n Frankie and Cinders, 11 weeks. Gorgeous pair of kittens looking for a home together

n Holly, four months. Shy black girl, needs someone with time

Farm and stable homes needed for outside cats Please take a look at our website, www.cats.org.uk/ middorset, to see which cats we currently have in our care looking for homes

Frozen water warning to dog owners

DOG owners are being urged to think about their four-legged friends during cold weather this winter, as below freezing temperatures can have grave consequences. Dogs Trust is advising owners to take extra care and keep dogs well away from frozen lakes, ponds and waterways while out walking. Many frozen surfaces, although they may look solid, are not strong enough to support a dog’s weight, meaning even pups can plunge into icy water below, putting them in danger. Dogs Trust says owners should never enter the water if their dog falls through ice and should instead encourage their pet to swim back to the edge or call 999 in an emergency. Cold water shock can be deadly, leading to panic, involuntary gasping, inhalation of water and even fatal heart

Pets attacks in young and otherwise healthy animals. Emergency services will prioritise rescuing a person before an animal, so an owner entering the water can make the situation worse for the dog. The charity says frozen water is not the only hazard facing pooches during the colder months. Dogs can feel the cold, therefore breeds with thicker coats may benefit from being allowed to grow their fur out in winter. Short-haired dogs may need extra warmth, and a well-fitting winter coat can help. Snowy conditions can be confusing for dogs, increasing the risk of them becoming lost, so keep them on a lead when visibility is poor, ensure they have a collar with ID tag and check microchip details are correct. Wipe legs, paws and tummies after walks, as road grit, salt, snow and moisture can irritate skin and paws. Antifreeze is extremely toxic to dogs and has a sweet taste that can attract them, so store it securely, clean up spills immediately and see a vet if a dog ingests any. Inspect leads, collars and harnesses regularly, as winter weather can cause wear and rust, particularly on metal clips.

Companions at Peace Pet Cremation Independent family run business offering a very personal, caring pet cremation service to bereaved pet owners. Collection Service Farewell Room Out of Hours Service provided Located in a rural countryside setting on the Somerset Dorset border Contact us on: 07900 654 440 www.companionsatpeace.co.uk

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Education

blackmorevale.net

School’s ‘vision’ helps pupils flourish STAFF and pupils at St Gregory’s CofE Primary School in Marnhull are celebrating a successful Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools (SIAMS), with inspectors praising the school’s ‘clear and compelling vision’ and its commitment to helping every child flourish. The inspection, carried out on November 27, found that the school is living out its Christian foundation with strength, placing its vision – ‘Where learning has no limits through faith, hope and love’ – at the heart of daily life. Inspectors highlighted how pupils, staff and families use the image of a hot air balloon gliding over the Blackmore Vale to describe how the school helps children ‘rise high, even when things get tough’. Executive head teacher, Jill Farndale, said the school was “delighted that the inspector

recognised the extraordinary care, dedication and ambition of our staff and pupils.” The report praised the school’s nurturing culture, noting the strong relationships between staff, pupils and the wider village community. From greeting each child by name at the school gate to the caring ‘Reception buddy’ system, inspectors found that pupils are ‘known and cherished’. The partnership with St Gregory’s Church was also described as a significant strength. Collective worship – held in school and in the parish church – offers pupils moments of ‘calm reflection’, helping them develop spiritually and emotionally. Inspectors highlighted the school’s thoughtful curriculum, designed to spark curiosity and encourage pupils to ‘aim high’. The Leadership responsibilities on offer for all

pupils such as house captains and even guinea pig monitors, help pupils grow in confidence and responsibility The school’s emphasis on justice, fairness and responsibility extends into the village, with pupils writing to older residents, supporting charity work and contributing to the village show through their school garden. Executive head teacher, Jill Farndale, together with staff, governors and the Pickwick Academy Trust, were commended for ensuring that the school’s Christian vision shapes every decision. Inspectors noted that staff feel ‘valued and supported’, especially through recent challenges, thanks to strong pastoral care and robust wellbeing systems. While the report identified

Children share the joy PUPILS from Motcombe Primary School brought festive cheer to residents at Motcombe Grange retirement development, as they paid a special visit to sing Christmas carols and spend time with the community. The children delighted residents with a selection of carols, with many residents joining in and singing along. Following the performance, pupils and residents enjoyed juice and biscuits together, chatting about Christmas plans and sharing stories. Motcombe Grange manager Lucy said: “The singing was wonderful and they were all very good at chatting with residents afterwards, which is a great delight to them. “It is always so nice to welcome children here, and we found them all very well behaved and polite. “It was evident that they thoroughly enjoyed themselves, too.” 10-year-old pupil, Ivy, said: “I loved going to visit them. We sang songs and afterwards we showed them some of our dance moves! “They were very easy to talk to and wanted to hear about decorating for Christmas and what I was hoping to get

from Santa.” Head of School, Naomi Kendrick. added: “Visits like this are incredibly valuable for our pupils. They help children build confidence, empathy and strong links with the local community. “It was lovely to see how naturally the children and residents connected, and how much joy such a simple act of sharing music and conversation can bring to everyone involved.”

two development points around strengthening pupils’ understanding of spirituality and ensuring consistent recall in RE, inspectors emphasised that the school is already making strong progress in these areas.

Party planned to celebrate 150 years

GILLINGHAM Primary School is turning 150 this year – and is throwing a celebration to remember. This summer, it is inviting former staff and pupils to join the school for a day packed with nostalgia, creativity and community spirit. The event will feature art displays, music performances and an exhibition straight from the school’s archives. A spokesperson for the school said: “It’s the perfect chance to take a trip down memory lane, catch up with old friends and see how the school has grown over the years. “Whether you were here for a year or a lifetime, we’d love to see you back at Gillingham Primary to mark this incredible milestone. “Keep an eye out for more details soon – and spread the word!”

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Sport

blackmorevale.net

Rob looks forward to school role BRYANSTON has appointed Robert Butler, an accomplished coach and former national-level player, as its new head of tennis. Tennis is among the school’s most popular sports with about 230 pupils playing regularly and 80 taking individual lessons throughout the year. Rob competed at national level, travelling across the UK for tournaments, and represented Dorset County Tennis. He holds a Level 3 coaching qualification and brings extensive experience from Wimborne Tennis Club, where he coached players from

TENNIS beginner through to county, regional and national level, and led county training for Dorset. His track record includes guiding three players onto the national pathway, two of whom got into the top 10 in the country for their age group. “I am thrilled to be joining the team at Bryanston as head of tennis,” said Rob. “I look forward to developing the school’s tennis programme, making the most of its outstanding facilities, and contributing to the inspiring culture that makes Bryanston such a special place for sport

Rockies defeat bogey side by Avril Lancaster Shaftesbury 3 Bishops Cleeve 0 SHAFTESBURY ended their Bishops Cleeve jinx and moved above the Gloucestershire side into fifth place again. The Rockies went ahead in the 17th minute with a goal set up by top scorer Toby Holmes before Lewis Brown laid off for former Havant & Waterlooville striker Harvey

and personal growth.” Bryanston plans to redevelop its riverside courts with assistance from the LTA Foundation, the Tim Henman Foundation and former governor and pupil Mark Laurence. It will install four LTAstandard, floodlit courts to provide a dedicated facility for pupils, year-round access for the local community and a venue for LTA sanctioned tournaments. Rory McCann, Bryanston’s director of sport, said: “We are delighted to welcome Rob to the team at Bryanston. “His outstanding reputation speaks for itself, and we have no doubt he will further enhance the tennis provision across both the prep and senior schools. “The school has pioneered mixed pupil fixtures, reflecting its strong co-educational ethos, and offers specialist

Bradbury to force the ball past Cleeve keeper Lewis Clayton. Rockies manager Jim Milligan had brought in Lewis Morgan from Street and Tom Hewlett set him up for the second goal four minutes from half-time on the midfielder’s debut. George Higgins was also starting.

The Mitres made two half-time changes with skipper Ross Langworthy and Curtis Jemmett Hudson coming on and they made an impact. Shaftesbury keeper Ben Taylor made a couple of good saves, one from Jay Malshankskyi, and Langworthy rasped the bar. Substitute Harry Baker played in Bradbury to thunder a shot past Clayton into the roof of the net in the 78th minute to seal the deal for Milligan’s team. The match was even in terms of the number of chances but the Rockies came out

– December 23: 1 Kees Schouten 22; 2 Kevin Francis 17; 3 Kevin Bieda 16 ocb; 4 Colin Jacobs 16; 5 Richard Strong 16. Monthly Stableford – December 27: 1 Kevin Bieda 35; 2 Jim Phillips 32; 3 Jim Stephen 26. Seniors Monthly Stableford – December 30: 1 Kevin George 34; 2 Chris Dibben

31; 3 Dave Hardiman 30. Seniors 9 Hole Monthly Stableford – December 30: 1 Mike Case 14; 2 Jim Bunce 11 ocb; 3 Geoff Lye 11; 4 David Hallett 10. Seniors Roll Up Stableford – January 2: Winners Jim Stephen/Kevin Francis/Kevin George 54 points. Seniors Monthly Stableford – January 6: 1 Geoff Lye 39; 2

FOOTBALL

performance squads for its elite players. “Alongside Bryanston’s world class grass courts and indoor facility, the new riverside courts will be among the finest in the country and allow our pupils to develop their full potential.” Richard Jones, head of Bryanston, added: “We are extremely grateful for the help of the LTA, the Tim Henman Foundation and Mark, whose generosity will enable more pupils at Bryanston to benefit from exceptional coaching and first-class facilities, and to forge a lifelong enjoyment of tennis. “With few community tennis clubs in Blandford Forum or the surrounding area we also look forward to opening the riverside courts to aspiring tennis players from the local community, who will be able to access the facility using the LTA's ClubSpark booking and SmartAccess system.”

The Rockies got back up to fifth in the league table

ahead by the same scoreline the opposition won by last season.

GOLF WINCANTON Golf Club results: Monthly Stableford – December 13: 1 Kevin Bieda 33 ocb; 2 Adam Dickens 33; 3 Mike Case 32. Monthly Stableford – December 20: 1 Simon Lenton 33 ocb; 2 David Whitehand 33; 3 Jim Stephen 32. Seniors Stableford Back 9

Chris Dibben 38; 3 George Wagland 37. Seniors Roll Up Stableford Back 9 – January 9: Winners Kevin George/Chris Dibben/ Jim Stephen/Kevin Francis – 70 points. Pairs Texas Scramble – January 10: 1 Adam Smith/ Tony Garrett 40; 2 Tristan Sams/David Amann 39; 3 Robert Ley/John Burns 37.

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Field & Stream

blackmorevale.net

Wolf Moon and on manoeuvres with the sheep by Tria Stebbing THE time had come to move the sheep back to the home village. The threat of bad weather was growing and once again we found ourselves with sheep in small groups grazing paddocks that would be tricky to get to if the weather changed. The sheep are great at picking up on stress and we used to overthink it. Plan what to do first, how to do it and what could go wrong, which would inevitably end in stress by the bucketful as the sheep did their own thing regardless of what we had planned. These days it is much more of a military operation, both of us knowing what needs to be done and just cracking on with it. The outcome being that the sheep know what we want and just get on and do it. The pregnant Dutch Spotted loaded quickly, along with their now redundant ram Lychett, an air of excitement almost as they said

goodbye to the now bald paddock to head for pastures new. The main flock looked surprised to see the Dutch back and the inevitable scrapping took place as the hierarchy settled. It was then that we stepped back and realised we have a lot of sheep now! Next, we needed to head for the field hoping the frosty weather meant we could drive across it to the barns where the hay was stored. Walking the field first led us to conclude it was okay to drive across but having been caught out last time, we ensured the tractor was accessible should we need it to pull ourselves out. The bales held lots of nature’s treasures – little nests, highway tunnels to food sources and scattered feathers, evidence of a microclimate in the hay barn. We were grateful of the extra hands that arrived in the form of Mathew, as I swear those bales were a lot heavier

than when they were harvested. The forecast was incoming snow, so it was a relief to have all the flock, apart from Humphrey, who is still out on ‘manoeuvres’ in Stourpaine, back within walking distance. The cold snap came with a vengeance and reminded us of the harsh conditions the stock endure. The biggest challenge by far was water in the troughs freezing and we ended up lugging buckets across fields as the pipes to the troughs froze for several days. Any muscle pain saved moving the bales quickly went when buckets of

water were needed. All the anxiety and exhaustion left quickly when we were privileged to watch the Wolf Moon rising on the horizon. Even the animals seemed to take in its majesty, a timely reminder that no matter what we do, nature will always have the final hand. Preparations are well under way to bring Belle down from the hill, her calf due in a matter of weeks. Her last born, Babybel, is giving her a hard time, using his horns to prevent her from getting to the feeding trough, so another plan is being hatched – watch this space!

by Ruth Kimber HAPPY new year to all. Hope you had a good Christmas. We did! The farm shop was very busy, as was the market and internet. Everything got to the customers on time to various destinations. However, Storm Goretti caused some mayhem with deliveries. Most of our online customers are sensible and pragmatic folk and realised the delivery difficulties caused by flood, snow, trees down and so on, closing roads or making diversions. But a few were unreasonable and downright horrid to Naomi, who had no control over the problems on the road for our delivery drivers. We seem to have an attitude with some

people, that it is all about them, getting what they want and when they want, with no concern if things don’t go to plan. The trouble is we can’t always make a call not to send goods out, if there are weather warnings, as so often the weather isn’t as bad as the Met Office predicts. Life on the farm continues in the winter routine of feeding, cleaning out and bedding up. We are finished with the autumn/ winter calving now, which has gone well. The first of the calves are back from our rearer and doing well, however, with the changeable weather – cold, wet, warmer, then cold again – the young stock can easily pick up

virus pneumonia and, if not treated quickly, will soon die. We have a flock of starlings circling around the farmyard. They come as winter migrants, and they are a joy to watch, but we are relieved our turkeys are now gone. Bird flu is still rumbling around, giving cause for concern for anyone with fowl. I wasn’t well over new year, having been pleased to escape the various bugs and beasties over Christmas, and we had staff unwell and off work as well. I have been left with an irritating cough, which seems quite fashionable! January brings Burns Night – we have genuine Scottish butcher made haggis sent down

for the farm shop and it is delicious. Various wassailing events are being held from Twelfth Night, January 6, and the days ahead. The old idea was to bless the orchards and to drive out any bad spirits using pots and pans being beaten to create a din. Which would lead to a successful harvest. A wassailing song is sung and toast is offered to the apple/pear trees as the wassail cup is passed around the gathering. Variations of the evening are played out throughout the south west. The frost thankfully didn’t cause any major problems, however looking at the news, we were lucky to escape the worse of the Goretti!

The Wolf Moon rising after Tria finished moving the flock

Storms, starlings and wassailing

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Farming

blackmorevale.net

Looking forward to spring by Martha Twist Friars Moor Livestock Health AS springtime approaches, here at the practice we are already starting to see the first new lambs of the season. Most sheep will naturally give birth as the days start to get longer, but many native breeds can cycle outside of the usual window, meaning lambing season can start as early as October in some flocks. There’s nothing quite like seeing happy, thriving lambs skipping around in the fields as the days get longer and the sun begins to make its reappearance. But to get to that stage, there’s a lot of work put in behind the scenes. Farmers, smallholders, students, vets – everyone gets involved over the lambing season to help where they can. Be that day or night, indoors or out! Lambs, often arriving with several siblings in tow, have a particular talent for tying themselves in knots. You might be presented with three legs, a tail or perhaps a head and someone else’s legs! It’s all possible and to be

expected when there may be two, three – or even more – lambs all fighting for the exit. This can make a safe delivery about as easy as doing a jigsaw blindfolded. Experienced shepherds are often experts in resolving mishaps like these. As well as resolving other issues in lambing ewes and newborns. But we all have to start somewhere! For me, I found my lambing feet while on placement during university. I helped – and I’m sure at times hindered! – at several local flocks over the Easter holidays. Now, years later, I try my best to pass on that knowledge to others. Over recent years we have seen a big increase in both hobby and small breeding flocks. It is a pleasure to work with these flocks and see them develop over time. Are you a budding shepherd, eager vet student or perhaps returning to sheep work after a bit of time away? Come and improve your

Lambs, often arriving with several siblings in tow, have a particular talent for tying themselves in knots

skills before a busy spring at one of our lambing courses in the new year. We also have a kids’ lambing and calving course for

youngsters wanting to get some training. Please see our website or speak to the farm office for further details.

CONCRETE GROOVING, Mobile Grain Crimping and dry rolling Service. Cowco Southern. Call Ted: 07970-965040

We provide a friendly, local service at competitive prices. Based at Redlynch near Bruton, we supply Car, Commercial, Agricultural, Plant & 4x4 tyres and offer a 24hr breakdown service. We won’t be beaten on price. Call us on 01749 813957 or 07971 012628

or find us at

www.southwesttyreservices.co.uk

Your local independent vets. Veterinary services for livestock in Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire. 01258 472314 friarsmoorlivestockhealth.co.uk farmoffice@friarsmoorlivestockhealth.co.uk friarsmoorlivestockhealth

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Farming

blackmorevale.net

Andrew Lee Vegetation Management Grass flail and scrub flail available for the management of scrub, brambles, grass etc. Working on slopes of up to 50 degrees with operator.

R&W FENCING Agricultural paddock and stock. Also part time help required. 01258-880892 07980-036250 SHIPPING CONTAINERS FOR SALE / HIRE Tel: 01258 472288 Mob: 07977 936109 New and second hand containers - blue/green - all with box locks

Contact Mobile: 07850489782 Email: andrewlee01@btinternet.com Book online: blackmorevale.net

HEDGE TRIMMING AND HEDGE LAYING. Tel: 01747-855198 CARAVAN REMOVAL SERVICE, old, unwanted caravans, cars, trailers, vans, etc. Garden machinery, tractors, scrap metal. Yard, garden, garage removal clearances undertaken, dismantling and gas cutting service. Please call 01935-873169 or 07368-380477

Mob: 07966 244536

JDG Structural Steel Ltd Steel frame buildings for agricultural, industrial and equestrian enterprises Pre-cast concrete wallings panels supplied and erected Roller shutter doors supplied and fitted All steel frames are designed, fabricated & erected to conform to current CE markings

Tel: 01747 811711 Mob: 07860 570258 Email: johnguttridge@aol.com Email: Info@jdgstructuralsteel.co.uk. www.jdgstructuralsteel.co.uk

Hydraulic Hose Specialists and Stockists to the Agriculture, Forestry, Automotive and Transport Industry Pneumatic fittings Quick release couplings Air brake fittings Pressure wash hoses + lances Hose clamps Up to 1 ½ “Hose stocked Hydraulic Hoses Variation of oils Mobile service available

Cote Farm Works, Kilmington, Warminster, Wiltshire BA12 6RF Email: hoses@ardiesels.co.uk

WESSEX METALS

STURMINSTER NEWTON & BLANDFORD AREA

WANTED

SCRAP METAL RECYCLING

Scrap Metal, Cars, Heavy and Light Iron Farm And Factory Clearance Weighbridge

TOP PRICES PAID

Skips/HAIB lorry available for onsite collection Tel 01258 860 166 or 07974 822 243

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

TrustScore 4.8 TrustScore 4.4 With over 1000 Reviews

Rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot

Family Owned Business Est. 1973

British Association of Removers

Eco Friendly Removals

ON THE MOVE? UK Removals

European Removals

All houses great and small! A worry-free service from planning, packing to completion.

Our friendly team will help guide you through the process from beginning to end.

Storage

Emergency Storage

24-hour to long term contracts, our advanced containerised system makes storage simple.

We’ll collect and deliver to and from your location to give you one less thing to deal with.

Removals made easy. Get your free quote. THE SOUTH WEST’S

Blandford 01258 447005

Dorchester 01305 231267

Shaftesbury 01747 440426

LEADING REMOVAL SERVICE

Sherborne 01935 316221

Warminster 01925 984459

Wincanton 01963 34065

www.armishaws.com

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Farming

blackmorevale.net

SSTC

SOLD

Dorset

484 acres

SSTC

Wiltshire

SSTC

120 acres

SOLD

Devon

140 acres

Somerset

246 acres

SOLD

The Original Free Farm Valuation Week 2nd - 6th February 2026

Somerset

189 acres

SOLD

Devon

58 acres

SOLD

Dorset

Ross Willmington Devon 01297 33122

Somerset

Lucy Carnell Somerset 01935 382901

Devon

SSTC

22 acres

Dorset

Andrew Tuffin Head of Farm Agency 01258 472244

155 acres

SOLD

For a free market appraisal for sale purposes of your farm, estate, smallholding or land please contact one of our farm agents. SOLD

212 acres

Wiltshire

In 2025 we sold over 4,000 acres across 7 counties, with a total value of over £60m. We currently have over 2,000 farm and land buyers registered.

48 acres

SOLD

347 acres

Morgan Fry Hampshire 01202 882103

Hampshire

Gabriella Placidi Wiltshire 01380 710535

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 R C I A L

27 acres

Will Wallis Dorset 01305 236572

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Property

blackmorevale.net

LARKSMEAD GARDENS

Open House

SAT U R DAY 1 7 J A N UA RY

A private, gated development of just seven impeccably designed and constructed houses, just a stone’s throw from Blandford town centre. For further details, and to make your appointment to view, please contact: 01258 452670 | blandford@symondsandsampson.co.uk

RENTERS RIGHTS ACT EXPLAINED Now it’s the law, find out how the act will affect you as a local landlord

BOOK NOW We’re running our free landlords seminars in the coming weeks. Limited availability, visit our website to book your place today.

For further information, please contact 01258 474265

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 R C I A L

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

Property

blackmorevale.net

Townsfolk can comment on planning document RESIDENTS can now comment on the revised Shaftesbury Neighbourhood Plan. Shaftesbury Town Council submitted the document for examination last month – four and a half years after the original one was adopted – and, if approved, it will be used to make decisions on planning applications.

Neighbourhood plans were introduced in 2011 to give people more say in the future use of land and buildings in their area. For example, where new homes, shops or offices might be built or where important green spaces might be protected. People who live, work or run a business in Shaftesbury have

TO LET SELF-CONTAINED ACCOMMODATION on quiet farm near Yeovil 01935 891548

until Friday, January 30, to submit comments. These will be passed to an independent examiner to consider. Dorset Council is required to consult on the plan review before the examination can take place. Portfolio holder for planning, Cllr Shane Bartlett, said: “It takes a tremendous amount of work to create a neighbourhood plan. “It takes even more commitment to review a

neighbourhood plan once the first one is adopted. I congratulate all involved for their ongoing hard work. “Neighbourhood plans give local communities a real say in how their area should change over time. “I would therefore encourage anyone with an interest in the future development of Shaftesbury to view the proposed changes to the neighbourhood plan and submit any feedback they may have.” Copies of the draft neighbourhood plan will be available for public inspection at Shaftesbury Library, or it can be viewed online where comments can also be submitted. The picturesque Gold Hill in Shaftesbury

Advertising made

simple

01963 400186 adverts@blackmorevale.net

Puzzle solutions

Easy sudoko 4 5 3 1 2 6 9 8 7

9 2 1 4 7 8 6 3 5

6 7 8 3 9 5 1 2 4

5 9 6 8 1 4 3 7 2

2 1 4 9 3 7 8 5 6

8 3 7 5 6 2 4 9 1

1 6 9 2 5 3 7 4 8

7 8 5 6 4 9 2 1 3

3 4 2 7 8 1 5 6 9

Killer sudoku pro 26+

4 8

5 10+

16+

1 6

11+

2 9

4÷

17+

210×

140×

19+

4 7

9 320×

36×

17+

2 5

7 6

7 4

24×

9 7

6÷

7 2 40×

36×

2÷

6 3 5

10×

12+

2 8 25+

9 7

Brain chain 49

Brain chain (hard) 379

505

303

384

576

288

(from pages 24-25)

Edition 139

Sudoku 3D puzzle

Cryptic crossword

7 6 8 3 1 4 9 5 8 1 6 2 7 1 7 2 6 4 2 6 2 9 4 9 5 4 9 8 1 3 3 4 7 9 5 9 4 3 1 8 2 6 8 3 5 2 2 7 6 5 8 3 9 3 8 5 2 3 3 5 8 7 7 4 4 1 5 6 4 9 1 9 7 9 42 7 6 2 3 57 1 8 1 8 9 6 1 8 5 4 6 5 7 6 1 3 1 9 8 7 6 5 7 6 2 2 9 3 4 9 5 2 3 8 7 1 6 4 2 9 3 5 1 1 4 7 3 4 3 1 8 6 7 2 6 2 8 6 4 7 4 2 5 6 1 5 9 1 2 8 6 8 9 7 3 8 3 8 4 3 5 3 5 9 6 7 2 4 4 8 1 8 5 9 6 5 4 1 2 5 1 7 9 7 3 9 1 2 1 7 8 6 3 4 6 1 8 2 9 8 2 3 9 3 4 5 29 4 1 7 7 92 7 8 6 4 5 3 8 5 6 1 4 7 6 9 9 3 2 3 2 5 4 5 7 6 1 8

S I N C E R E A S I S I N H E E U E C O N F O R M N U R S E E E R E T V K B O R N E D A H L I A E O Y U V I R A V A G E A S T E R N G I R I I S A T T A I N A G E N T T A P C S A A O O M P H O C T A G O N M I Y M I E T B U N K M E R C U R Y

Crossword M D R S C A D A M A G E U N L E S S T U G B A S S T U B I N S E R T E D E O E I S O R I G I N A T I N G S R E S G I V E B I R T H T O N X N R RESULT H W O O D W I N D P H A T T I S U R I P E A N U T C L E A N S RESULT L G S E P S

Arrow words E

S S B

V E O A L M S C I T A X E N R O B M T A M A B R O A

R A P I D

E A V E S E X T A R T S A P L O E R O A V T T E E N

Wordsearch A R D A E H W O B R L E D C K

G B D O R A D O T P D S U E C A E G P P R E O P S G O R L A G R E Y L W L L M I K N T G L

T R Y

E U E T H A A A E C L E O I B A L L A H A E S A R G L O H B O O E C G B W B P B R T T B I N O A U A B P O A C E T H W K R C L C E M R G M N E O E B I

B A N D

H E R S U P E O T W N B D O L B O L H O H L E T P L S O G L E B A

E E H C D T A A C D E

H U S E E H L O P R N O C L R Y E L E D E S B A B D N I

A C

P T O B H L R I G H T O E B L

New Blackmore Vale, January 16, 2026

LOW COST SECURE SELF STORAGE

Rent from £27.50 per week CCTV, Palisade Fencing & 24/7 access Located at Enterprise Park in Piddlehinton

Call us on 01305 819819 to discuss your requirements

YOUR LOCAL

SKIP HIRE PROFESSIONALS Helping to keep

DORSET

green & pleasant Call today and speak to one of our professional team. Or visit our squeaky new website for quotes and to find out lots more.

Call: 01305 819819

ww w.thewastegroup.co.uk

UP TO 50% OFF IN OUR BIG

WINTER

SALE UP TO 50% OFF BEDSAREUZZZ.CO.UK

DORCHESTER: 24 High East Street, Dorchester, DT1 1EZ | 01305 266535

Dorchester Youth & Community Centre Friday 9.30am, 11.30am Sam 07814619200 Dorchester Youth & Community Centre Saturday 8am, 10am Sam 07814619200

Sherborne Raleigh Hall, Digby Road Tuesday 5.30pm, 7pm Sally 07973665167

Blandford Methodist Church Thursday 5.30pm, 7.30pm Tracey 07776309982

Sturminster Newton The Exchange Monday 5.30pm, 7.30pm Gail 07748643783

Somerton The Club, Gassons Lane Monday 5.30pm, 7.15pm Shelley 07786011728

Yeovil Park House, 44 The Park Friday 8am, 9.30am Julie 07871821928

Gillingham Youth & Community Centre Tuesday 9.30am, 11am Lorraine 07771013728

Shaftesbury Royal Chase Hotel Thursday 7.30am, 9am, 10.30am Lorraine 07771013728

Tisbury Hinton Hall, Church Street Monday 7pm Evelyn 07825556871

Yeovil Park House, 45 The Park Tuesday 5.30pm, 7.30pm Wednesday 3.30pm, 5.30pm, 7pm Thursday 5.30pm, 7.30pm Saturday 8am, 10am Shelley 07786011728

Blandford Corn Exchange Tuesday 7pm Julie 07871821928 Blandford Corn Exchange Wednesday 8.30am, 10am, 11.30am, 5.30pm, 7pm Tracey 07776309982

Sherborne Raleigh Hall, Digby Road Wednesday 9.30am Sally 07973665167

Poundbury Brownsword Hall Tuesday 5.30pm, 7.30pm Teresa 07854402259 Wincanton Memorial Hall Wednesday 5.30pm, 7pm Hazel 07967591652

Shaftesbury Puddletown Gillingham Village Hall Royal Chase Hotel Social Club, Hardings Thursday 7pm Thursday 5.30pm, 7pm Lane Gail 07748643783 Julie 07871821928 Tuesday 5.30pm, *7pm Offer available 21st Dec 2025 to 31st Jan 2026. Visit slimmingworld.co.uk/offers for terms and conditions. Sally 07968979810

Offer available 21st Dec 2025 to 31st Jan 2026. Visit slimmingworld.co.uk/offers for terms and conditions.

fripeeebook

rec worth £4.95