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Cover: Beech avenue, Wimborne
U-turn on recycling centre plans
Dorset Council has rowed back on plans to introduce a booking system for its tips - but only for six of its 10 recycling centres.
The latest proposal will see the booking system implemented at Dorchester, Wimborne, Shaftesbury, and Sherborne - but not at Bridport, Swanage, Weymouth, Portland, Wareham or Blandford.
The council claims it has changed its mind over the plans due to financial pressures - but the controversial plans received a strong amount of criticism from users.
It said the new changes will reduce cross-border use in North Dorset as 20% of waste received at both Shaftesbury and Sherborne comes from outside of the county, ‘which Dorset Council taxpayers are unfairly paying for.’
It added the new system will be put in place in Dorchester
and Wimborne to reduce queuing.
A spokesman said: “Due to their location and local road network, both sites are prone to queuing at busy times.”
Councillor Jon Andrews, cabinet member for place services, said: “This new approach allows us to prioritise the areas with the most pressing issues.
“We’ve heard from many
residents who say, ‘If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.’ And we get that.
“But the current service is costing more than it should, and some areas do need ‘fixing’ to a certain extent.
“A booking system will save hundreds of thousands of pounds - money that will help us keep all our HRCs open and avoid reducing hours or closing locations.”
£20k of fishing gear recovered
A 31-year-old man from the Ringwood area was arrested after police recovered suspected stolen fishing equipment and tools worth more than £20,000.
Rural crime team officers stopped a vehicle on July 4 in the Ringwood area after conducting intelligence-led patrols.
The man was a suspect for an investigation into the theft of a Land Rover Defender and a Transit van in Dorset. Officers arrested the man and found a large amount of suspected stolen fishing equipment and tools following a search.
A spokesman said: “The fishing equipment located has been linked to a commercial burglary in the Southampton area, with a current estimated value of over £20,000.
“Enquiries are ongoing into the tools recovered.”
Taking a walk in the wild side of town!
Take a walk in the wild side! Wimborne’s Hanham Road underpass has been transformed into a colourful collage of flowers, buzzing bees, brightly-feathered birds and exotic creatures.
The 53ft-long tunnel allows safe passage under Hanham Road from the Allendale car parks and river path to the town centre.
Thanks to full funding by Wimborne BID, the underpass has undergone a colourful makeover by local artist Kizzi Bennett of Kizzi B Creative.
Over the past two months, Kizzi collaborated with 12 post-16 students from Beaucroft College, guiding them through the creative process as they worked toward their Arts Award Accreditation.
The mural was officially unveiled with a poetic proclamation by town crier
Chris Brown followed by a ribbon cutting ceremony by Mayor of Wimborne Minster, Councillor Jeff Hart, alongside Mayoress Barbara Hart.
Cllr Hart praised the ‘innovative and colourful’ artwork and the dedication of the students, adding: “We’re all fortunate to live in this beautiful town and projects like this add even more to its wonder. I’m sure the people of Wimborne will be impressed with this project that Wimborne BID has kindly funded.”
He added: “Thanks are also due to teacher Laura Byford, who has supported the sixth formers, all of whom have found their mural designs a great part of their course.”
Laura, visual arts leader at Beaucroft College, called the collaboration ‘a huge success,’ highlighting the value of giving students a real-world opportunity to create meaningful public art. The students themselves expressed pride and joy in seeing their work on display, with one saying: “It makes
me feel good knowing my work is on display and lots of people will see it.”
Another said: ‘‘Being involved in the project has made me happy. “I enjoyed creating art that is personal to me.”
Councillor Shane Bartlett, cabinet member for planning at Dorset Council, said: “All the artists involved should be congratulated. It has truly brightened up the area.”
Chairman of Wimborne BID Fiona Harwood said: “Ten years ago, we installed a photographic wall wrap here.
“We’re proud to have now managed and funded this new transformation - an uplifting and imaginative mural brought to life through partnership, creativity and community.”
Pictures: WIMBORNE BID
School celebrates Platinum success
Broadstone First School is celebrating after being awarded the School Games Platinum Award.
For four years it has achieved the Gold Award but has now gone one better – a rare accolade for a first school. It comes as the neighbouring middle school is set to introduce a new ‘sports stream’, meaning children in the area have a pathway to sporting achievement.
Both schools are part of Castleman Academy Trust, which encourages all its schools to explore extracurricular activities.
Sophie Burke, the acting headteacher of Broadstone First School, who will also run the middle school’s sports stream, said: “We’re incredibly proud to have been awarded this award.
“It’s the highest accolade within England’s School Games Mark framework.
“We owe a heartfelt thanks to our parent communitythis milestone wouldn’t have been possible without them.”
Sophie is pictured above with the award and some of the children.
A large fire that broke out near Poole last week is believed to have been started deliberately.
Fire crews worked through the night to extinguish the blaze near Blackhill Road, on Holton Heath near Poole, after it broke out.
The fire saw a huge response from Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, with 40 firefighters on the scene at one time.
Further crews from Poole, Springbourne, Bere Regis and Wimborne attended the scene
A spokesman said: “The cause is
believed to be deliberate, and we are working closely with the police.
“The road is currently restricted on Blackhill Road, so please avoid the area.”
Thieves target community hub
Items were stolen and damage caused during a break-in at a Poole community centre.
Police are appealing for information after an incident at the Branksome Centre in Recreation Road between 8pm on Wednesday, July 2, and 8.30am the next day. Damage was caused and items were stolen, including a music speaker.
PC Niki Edwards, of Poole police, said: “I am keen to hear from anyone with information that might assist our investigation.
Anyone with information about the incident should contact Dorset Police via www.dorset.police.uk, or by calling 101, quoting incident number 55250095987. They can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk. org or on 0800 555 111.
Community remembers loved ones
The Mayor and Mayoress of Poole were among hundreds of people who gathered in Poole Park to honour the memory of loved ones at Forest Holme Hospice’s annual Tie A Yellow Ribbon event.
Sponsored by MSP Capital, the event invited individuals and families to write a dedication on a yellow ribbon creating a moving display of love, loss, and unity.
The ribbons will now be placed in the hospice garden, remaining there as a tribute throughout the summer months.
Tie A Yellow Ribbon was open to everyone, not just those with a connection to Forest Holme and included a host of local craft stalls, refreshments, free children’s activities, and special choir performances helping to create a truly uplifting and
inclusive atmosphere.
Hannah O’ Hare, CEO of Forest Holme Hospice Charity, said: “A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us, and to all those who helped make this a truly meaningful occasion.
“Creating a space for remembrance within our community is so important.
“Every yellow ribbon tied
honours a cherished life - a symbol of love and a reminder that they are never forgotten.
“I hope that by coming together in this way, it brings comfort and a sense of connection, helping each of us feel a little less alone.”
Pictured are the Mayor and Mayoress of Poole with members of the hospice.
Shillingstone station rolls out the barrel
A crane which used to transfer barrels of beer from a private railway to the Somerset & Dorset mainline has been resurrected at Shillingstone Station in Dorset. It started life at Binegar in Somerset, the terminus of an industrial narrow-gauge railway built by a brewery a couple of miles away. When the line was built in 1904, Oakhill Brewery was producing between 2000 and 2500 barrels a week of its award-winning Oakhill Invalid Stout – more than Guinness – renowned for its restorative properties. The railway had two steam locos shuttling barrels to the main line at Binegar, where the track ended within a goods shed at a wooden crane which moved the beer barrels across to main line wagons. The brewery went into decline during World War One and its railway was taken out of use in 1921. Binegar station itself was closed in 1966, and the crane languished in the goods shed for many years. It was eventually rescued by the Somerset and Dorset Railway Trust and then sent out on long term loan to North Dorset Railway at Shillingstone Station in 2023.
A team of volunteers, including pupils from nearby Clayesmore School, took on the restoration and refurbishment, which was completed last year. The 120 year old timbers and ironwork were in remarkably good shape, needing little more than fresh paint. In the last few weeks foundations have been laid and a specially designed and constructed support structure was raised and bolted into place. It is an unlikely survivor of many decades of neglect, but the Binegar crane has now been lifted into place, another bit of railway history saved at Shillingstone’s heritage station.
The station is open for visitors on Wednesdays and weekends between 10am and 4pm and entry is free.
Get ready for a big splash as town prepares for pageant
Christchurch Rotary in association with the Boscombe & Southbourne Rotary Club announce details of their exciting new river pageant on the River Stour in Christchurch on Saturday, August 16, in aid of three local good causes: Hengistbury Head Outdoor Activity Centre, Pink Champagne and Bourne Water Dragon cancer survivor charities.
The pageant features a parade of water craft, including motorboats, fishing boats, ribs, canoes, kayaks, stand up paddleboards and novelty floats with two local team dragon boats in action. Participants are invited to dress up and decorate their entry in a theme portraying
Recitals
Our
the history of Christchurch. Prizes will be awarded for the most attractive entries. The parade starts at noon from Tuckton Tea Gardens, where there will be a variety of stalls and shore-based activities from 11.00am, including water safety demos, a presentation on the history of Christchurch and a spectacular dragon dance in support of the two dragon boat teams.
The parade ends at the town quay shortly after 1pm and will be followed by a prizegiving for the winners of the best-dressed entries. For further information contact me via 3gclarke@ gmail.com.
Gerry Clarke Christchurch Rotary Club
return to the town
The month of July sees the return of lunchtime recitals in Wimborne Minster. Taking place on Mondays at 12.30pm the first was held with Vintage Brass starting off the series. Next up on Monday, July 14, is the Blessed George Napier School Youth Choir. They are followed on July 21 with a song recital by Minster choristers Esther Davey and Rafa Ghazway accompanied by Sam Hanson.
Last up, on July 28, is the Brass in Harmony Quartet.
Admission is free to all the recitals with a retiring collection in aid of Wimborne Minster funds. Organ Recitals follow at lunchtime on all Mondays in August and leaflets in the Minster give full details of these.
And tomorrow, Saturday, July 12, is the Tea and Cake Afternoon at 34 Park Lane from 3.00pm until 5.00pm in aid of the Minster Flower Festival being held in September.
Anthony Oliver MBE Wimborne
Jane and Steph drop in and raise £1,500
Two members of staff from Kings Park Care Home in Ferndown have taken fundraising to new heights by completing a charity tandem skydive in aid of Lewis-Manning Hospice Care.
Home services adviser Jane Shanahan and community care lead Stephanie Read joined 10 other thrill-seekers at Old Sarum Airfield near Salisbury, to raise funds for the Dorset-based charity. The event was part of the Skydive25 fundraising challenge for LewisManning.
The day brought perfect weather for the daring pair, who, after registration, were kitted out before completing
their induction and then taking to the skies. Jumping from an incredible 15,000 feet, Jane and Stephanie experienced a minute’s free fall at more than 120 miles per hour before their parachutes opened, revealing stunning views across Wiltshire - including Salisbury Cathedral, Stonehenge and stretching as far as the Isle of Wight.
“It was absolutely incredible - breathtaking and exhilarating,” said Jane.
“We’re both already thinking about booking again!
So far, the Kings Park team have raised £1,476, contributing to a collective total of £6,885 raised by all the participants on the day.
Canine companion capers at country show
This year, the much-loved Gillingham and Shaftesbury Show is going to the dogs - in the best possible way!
The two-day event will shine a spotlight on canine companions, celebrating their intelligence, agility, and the special bond they share with humans.
Visitors can enjoy top gun dog displays, showcasing the impressive training and teamwork between dogs and their handlers.
Not to be missed is the brilliant Dog and Sheep Show where Stuart Barnes and his amazing team use trained and
untrained sheep dogs to herd sheep. As seen on BBC’s Country File, the show is entertaining and educational, offering insights into dog behaviour and how issues can be resolved.
For chaos and comedy, the terrier racing promises to be a crowd favourite. These feisty little racers will tear across the course in a wildly unpredictable contest that never fails to amuse.
And if you have a dog of your own, why not let them join the fun?
An agility dog course, courtesy of Dogwise, invites visitors to watch
expert agility champions in action before putting their own pooch through its paces.
The Gillingham and Shaftesbury Show is on Wednesday and Thursday, August 13 and 14,at Turnpike Showground, Motcombe, near Shaftesbury, SP7 9PL. Tickets are on sale now via www. gillinghamandshafgtesburyshow.co.uk Children under five go free.
Picnic in the Park - and the Reds came as well!
Hundreds of local families de-camped themselves at Upton Recreation Ground on a warm, sunny day (albeit with a stiff breeze) to enjoy the free entertainment and attractions provided by Lytchett Minster and Upton Town Council.
The magnificent Christchurch & District Band and the stylish Land Girls enthralled audiences whilst Ozzy D kept the children involved with two shows. Equally stylish were the 24 members of the Top Hat Riders motorcycle club.
Deputy Mayor Cllr Stewart McKell presented a locally made trophy to the best outfit along with a £50 cheque on behalf of Upton Together. The cheque, donated by South Lytchett Manor Caravan & Camping Park was promptly returned to Upton Together for its community work.
New this year were the
beautiful ‘Petting Ponies’ and majestic Birds of Prey in the falconry display. Forty children took part in the walking Fancy Dress Parade from Upton Community Centre to the Recreation Ground. On arrival each participating pre-school and school was presented with a £50 Amazon voucher by the Mayor, Cllr Ray Griffin.
The themes of the exhibition were VE and VJ Days including the national and local celebrations in 1945.
Joan House, who lived in Upton, at the time remembers a street party there. She did not recognise her father when he came home having been away for the duration, 1939-1945. She recalls him suffering from PTSD and curling up in a ball on the bedroom floor, to avoid imagined gunfire.
Brian Selby, aged seven, when the war ended, remembers a football match between German PoWs, who were housed at the Upton Camp and Lytchett Red Triangle. The game was abandoned in a brawl! And, as an added bonus, having given a Royal flypast at the Trooping of the Colour and refuelling at Bournemouth airport the Red Arrows passed over on the way to their next display!
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New kids on the ballot paper? We will see!
‘A week is a long time in politics’ according to twotime Labour prime minister Harold Wilson.
After the last week we’ve all witnessed in parliament, I don’t think anyone would argue with that!
I am writing this after returning from a week in Westminster, where I was present at the Universal Credit and Personal Independence Bill (Welfare Reform) debate and vote, a very humbling Prime Minister’s Questions - where a minister dared to show on camera that they are in fact a human being and not a robot - a resignation, a self-withdrawal of the Whip and the announcement that four new political parties are possibly on the cards - three at home and another abroad!
Zarah Sultana MP resigned from on Thursday and announced, via social media,
her intention to join a group of some of the Independent MPs led by Jeremy Corbyn MP, in forming a new political party - an alternative party; another choice for voters on the ballot box.
Sultana’s resignation came as no surprise to many.
Politics aside; purely on a human resources basis, can you imagine going into work every day and your colleagues blowing metaphoric raspberries at you every time you spoke up in a meeting, or the shop floor? I cannot imagine anyone’s soul being enriched by such an environment.
Starting a new democratic, constitutionally-sound political party is no easy feat and it is for this reason that the limited company model, has been the preferred choice of the UK’s newest political parties - making them more businesses than membership-
led political movements. Breakaway political parties from the main three parties are yet to achieve long-term success thus far. Will this new Labour breakaway party go the way of the SDP - good initial launch and impact; their political success fizzling out like a cheap firework, or the
way of a Change UK; the party formed in the pre-Keir Starmer leadership era? Is it wrong of me to say I will be following the formation and progress of the new Sultana/Corbyn political venture with a keen political strategic eye - from the name, to the colours, to the policies, to the candidates? I live for the political drama and even more so, a political challenge, but in my own backyard - not so much. I am slightly concerned though, that another political party will move us further from straightforward, clearcut election results - the 2026/27 local elections will be extremely interesting. Dare I mute another scenario; a reconciliation? I would love to be around that table!
Phew! Allow me to catch my breath and recover - what a week in politics!
Are we doing enough to ensure Russia’s defeat?
It was a privilege to be able to hear Volodymyr Zelenskyy speaking in Strasbourg after the NATO summit.
In my capacity as a member of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe I was also able to meet him and ask him a question.
In thanking the President for his inspiring leadership by example for freedom and against appeasement, the concern which I expressed was that Ukraine’s allies are still not doing enough to ensure the defeat of Russia. I referred to both military assistance and sanctions.
President Zelenskyy wants sanctions to be strengthened identifying banking, energy and defence components, particularly for missiles, as key sectors.
In answer to my question about other help, he wittily responded ‘you said what else? Do you know President Trump?’ Encouragingly, the humour
was an indication that his relationship with the leader of the free world is much improved and mutual support is stronger now that all NATO’s European members have agreed with the USA to raise defence expenditure to 5% of GDP. n Honouring the past and protecting the future is the theme of the financial appeal recently launched by Christchurch Priory.
It was a pleasure to hear the vicar, Canon Charles Stewart, proclaim in the presence of the Lord Lieutenant of Dorset the important role which the Priory has played in our community for more than 900 years. The masterplan includes full repair and conservation of the nave, including the original roof paintings.
The Priory is one of the most notable medieval churches in England, containing examples of every style of church architecture of that era.
It is larger than 21 of England’s cathedrals but because of its deteriorating condition is now on Historic England’s ‘at risk’ register.
During the course of his sermon the vicar referred to the additional burden for supporters of the appeal of having to pay
VAT on the cost of the repairs. This will add well over £500,000 to the cost and this is a direct result of the Labour Government having restricted eligibility under the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme.
Despite me having raised this issue in the House of Commons many times in recent months, the Government has so far been impervious to my representations.
It is surely absurd to burden the National Heritage Lottery Fund and other potential donors with VAT.
When we were in the European Union it was not possible to remove the cost of VAT from repairs. It was because of that constraint that the Grant Scheme was first established. But now that the UK has left the EU the Government can and should immediately make such repairs exempt or zero-rated for VAT purposes.
Opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher
We can transform healthcare - if we act now
Few things unite the British public more than our shared appreciation for the BBC, our conversations about the weather, and our deep respect for the NHS. Since being elected a year ago, I’ve raised numerous questions in Parliament on behalf of residents about NHS services. Often, the response was to await the TenYear Plan, released this month. The plan focuses on three core themes: Shifting to community-based care, prioritising prevention, and embracing technology. While full transformation will take a decade, some changes are expected within the next couple of years.
Shadowing a Wimborne GP showed me first-hand the challenges caused by outdated systems. Patient records aren’t shared in real time, and hospital prescriptions remain nonelectronic - leading to delays and frustration. In the information age, this is unacceptable. The NHS App could be a gamechanger if done properly. Dorset has become a ‘dental desert,’ and I regularly hear from
constituents in pain, unable to access NHS dental care. The plan includes preventing dentists moving directly into private practice and proposes fairer funding for complex treatments - ensuring NHS dentists aren’t financially penalised.
It also focuses on children’s dentistry. It’s appalling that tooth extraction is the leading cause of hospital admissions for children aged 5 to 12.
Although adult social care will be addressed in the upcoming Casey Review, the plan’s communitybased approach offers hope. Through family conferences and personal health budgets that follow individuals throughout their lives, we should see a change in the choices available to many with the most complex needs.
I’m also pleased to see a commitment to open 1,000 family hubs. When my children were young, health visitors were a vital support until they were toddlers. Today, many parents miss out as services have been reduced or moved online. These
Liberal Democrat
Mid-Dorset & North Poole
VIKKI SLADE MP
professionals are essential for identifying developmental delays and supporting families. With rising demand for speech and language services and EHCPs, we need a modern version of this support - and family hubs may be the key.
Importantly, the plan goes beyond medical care, recognising the impact of modern lifestyles. Play parks that encourage risktaking, road safety improvements that enable independence and
limits on social media supporting better mental health can help the next generation stay healthy. Proposals for healthier diets, increased activity, and expanded screening and vaccination programmes will help us all live longer, healthier lives.
I hope this will give me the opportunity to push harder for leisure services, including the reopening of QE in Wimborne for the entire community and a commitment to green spaces for everyone.
Much of the NHS still operates with 20th-century tools, despite 21st-century needs. Advances in robotics, genomics, data, and wearable tech could transform healthcare - if we act now. Many of these reforms have long been championed by the Liberal Democrats. I welcome their inclusion in this plan, but the missing piece is the road map. I’ll be pressing ministers to deliver it. Despite the negativity we often see online, I remain optimistic. The NHS has looked after us for 75 years - now it’s our turn to look after it.
Hundreds gather for education summit
Bryanston School welcomed nearly 200 educators and parents to its annual Bryanston Education Summit, an event that mixes high-profile keynote speakers with workshops exploring teaching, learning and adolescent wellbeing. The day opened with an interactive presentation by Gogglebox star and educator, Baasit Siddiqui, followed by cricketing legend Kumar Sangakkara who drew parallels between leadership on the sports field and in education.
Secondary school Teacher of the Year, Oli McVeigh, joined Ferndown Upper School deputy headteacher Deneen Ketchington, while returning favourite Amjad Ali shared practical
strategies for supporting pupils with special educational needs with delegates receiving a copy of his new book Send in Schools. Finally, Satveer Nijjar gave a powerful talk on self-harm awareness. Elsewhere, former English teacher-turned-academic Dr Haili Hughes tackled staff workload and positivity; psychologist Dr Lindsay
Browning mapped sleep patterns in teens, and Alanna Fraser of Character Compass demystified the online ‘manosphere’ influencing many boys.
Alicia Drummond, founder of the Wellbeing Hub, talked about how to have open conversations with teenagers at home.
Adding a splash of colour to the Bryanston lawn was
a retro double-decker bus from James Shone’s ‘I Can & I Am’ foundation, offering pupils and visitors a mobile resilience workshop. Bryanston staff also took centre stage with science teacher Dr Ben Pullan hosting a fireside chat with Kumar Sangakkara, Physical Eduction teacher and double Olympian Beth Rodford leading a session on elite-sport mindsets with top hockey coach James Morris. Commenting on the milestone event, Stephen Davies, education summit director, said: “A decade on, the summit proves that when schools, families and experts work together, every child benefits. We’re already planning how to make the next event better.”
Top pop snapper celebrates his century
A former photographer to the stars has celebrated his 100th birthday with his family.
Ron, who lives at Fairlawn care home, was joined by his sons, Nick and Martin, his grandchildren, greatgrandchildren and extended family for a party to mark his special birthday alongside the care home team.
Ron grew up in London and worked as a professional photographer until he reached the age of 71. He married his late wife, Joyce, in 1952. They bought a home together in Shepherd’s Bush near the BBC Television Centre.
He served as a freelance photographer on BBC’s Top of the Pops from 1964 to 1974, alongside a number of other BBC shows including Parkinson.
Over time he captured photos of the Beatles
Stevie Wonder, Rod Stewart, the Jimi Hendrix Experience, the Jackson Five, the Rolling Stones, the Kinks and the Beach Boys.
Ron and Joyce enjoyed 75 years together, settling in Ferndown after Ron retired having been advised of the
with Ron continuing to live independently before moving to Fairlawn care home.
His son Nick said: “He’s always been a really fantastic dad and was so lovely to us growing up. He lived at home before he came to Fairlawn, and the whole team have been so good to Dad. He initially came to stay for two weeks and then never wanted to leave.”
Tina Vincent, home manager, said: “Ron is a joy to care for and it was a privilege to
welcome his family to join him to celebrate his birthday, where they shared stories and fond memories of his personal life and professional career over the years.
“We believe that residents’ lives should be filled with fun, food and friendship, and that was certainly the case during Ron’s birthday celebrations!”
Fairlawn, which is run by the not-for-profit charity Care South, provides residential, respite, and dementia care.
62,000 readers
Antiques & Collectibles
King of the motorbikes
A rare Edwardian Rex motorcycle is entered into the Charterhouse specialist auction of vintage and classic motorcycles on October 9 at the Haynes Motor Museum.
George Beale of Charterhouse said: “One of the great parts of working in auctioneering is you see something new every day, and this is the first time I have set eyes on a Rex motorcycle!”
The Rex Motorcycle was advertised in 1902 as King of Motor Bicycles, challenging any motor bicycle in the world of whatever HP weighing under 100 lbs for speed, hill-climbing and economy.
The Rex at Charterhouse rolled out of the Coventry factory in 1911.
The V-twin engine produced 5hp, quite healthy for an Edwardian motorcycle. Consigned from a client in North London, the Rex has previously been restored. Only for sale due to poor health, this Rex has not been on the road recently and is estimated at £10,000-£15,000.
n George and the team can be contacted for specialist advice and valuations at the Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne, 01935 812277 or via rb@charterhouseauction.com.
why people love living at The Old Market Village
We could tell you how good retirement can be at The Old Market Village, but we’d much rather show you. That’s why you’re invited to our Information Week and Summer Party on the lawn where we provide the entertainment, a tasty finger buffet by our chefs and delicious sparkling wine.
Come along and we’ll show you around our beautiful properties. Family and friends are welcome too.
Food & Drink
Cooking... with Martha Legg
Banana muffins
I have a thing about the smell of over-ripe fruit! It started when I was on a cruise and a basket of fruit was left in the cabin as a welcome gift!
A nice thought, but I am not a great fruit eater. After a couple of days, they fell into the Nile from my cabin window!
When I was in Vietnam, the same thing happened in a very old B&B. I think that time, we put them in the bin. We had taken old clothes with us and we had thrown them in the bin as well. Imagine our surprise the next morning when they were left washed and pressed on our bed!
Martin likes bananas but does tend to forget to eat them.
When I couldn’t stand the smell anymore, (bananas not Martin!), I decided to turn them into muffins.
They are quick and easy to make, I added walnuts into mine, as we are trying to eat sensibly.
I figured that bananas and nuts are part of my five a day!
Great with morning coffee for a quick breakfast.
Ingredients
188gm all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
345g mashed bananas (4 medium or 3 large
ripe bananas)
85g unsalted butter, melted
135gm light sugar
1 large egg, at room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
30ml) milk
optional: 1 cup chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips
Method
Preheat oven to 425F (218C). Spray a 12-count muffin pan with nonstick spray or use cupcake liners.
Mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg together in a medium bowl. Set aside.
In a large bowl, mash the bananas. On medium speed, beat or whisk in the melted butter, brown sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and milk.
Pour the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, then beat or whisk until combined. If adding nuts or chocolate chips, fold them in. Batter will be thick. Spoon the batter into liners, filling them all the way to the top.
Bake for 5 minutes at 425F, then, keeping the muffins in the oven, reduce the oven temperature to 350F (177C). Bake for an additional 16–18 mins or until a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean. The total time these muffins take in the oven is about 21–23 minutes, give or take. Allow the muffins to cool for 5 minutes in the muffin pan, then transfer to a wire cooling rack to continue cooling. Muffins stay fresh covered at room temperature for a few days or in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Secure Your Legacy with Confidence
Poole pub reopens after £450,000 renovation
PA pub that reopened to guests in Poole earlier this month has undergone a £450,000 renovation. The Ox in Ashley Cross has seen a brand-new kitchen installed as well as new fixtures and fittings throughout the pub to deliver a brighter, more revitalised feel.
D Wills specialise in Will writing and Estate Planning, helping individuals and families protect what matters most. Planning for the future is not just about distributing assets—it’s about ensuring clarity, security, and peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
Whether you require a wishes, a Lasting Power of Attorney to safeguard your affairs in the event of incapacity, or a Trust to provide greater control over your estate, I offer expert guidance tailored to your circumstances.
The inn’s 14 ensuite guest bedrooms have been fully modernised and are now in keeping with the pub’s new style.
Hall & Woodhouse (H&W) for more than a century.
Joe Martin, bar manager, said: “We take pride in using the finest seasonal, local produce with a wide range of dishes for guests to try, from hearty pub classics to some more elevated dishes.
I appreciate that these discussions can be delicate, which is why I take a professional yet personable approach, meeting you in the comfort of your own home at a time that suits you. With clear advice and meticulous attention to detail, I help ensure your affairs are in order with confidence and clarity.
Each of the bedrooms has been carefully designed around the building’s character and historic features, but with a contemporary twist. The pub has been owned by
“We serve food throughout the day for guests stopping by for brunch, or those craving a Sunday roast, so there’s always something for everyone.”
To arrange a consultation, call me, Pete Dunn, on 01980 881 212
Great Dorset Chilli Festival repeats the heat!
stablished in 2011, this 14th edition of the ever-popular chilli festival showcases artisan food from around Dorset, the West Country and beyond. Whether you love chilli or just can’t take the heat, with a total of over 125 tradestands there’s something for everyone at the Great Dorset Chilli Festival.
“We’ve had some exciting new producers begging us for a pitch this year” says a festival spokesman, “and we’ve only selected the best of these to maintain quality and value for our visitors”.
There are chilli plant competitions, a chilli sauce competition, and of course the crowd-pleasing chilli eating competitions. This year the chilli and curry cook-off competitions have seen more entries than ever before. The cook-off sees 15 teams compete to cook the best pot of chilli, live in front of the visitors over a 4-hour period, and visitors can try each one.
Dorset chefs Mark Hartstone of La Fosse in Cranborne and Mat Follas MasterChef 2009 will be demonstrating recipes in the Talk Tent, and chilli plant growing expert Matt Simpson of Simpson’s Seeds will be sharing tips. Dr Tim Woodman returns this year to discuss the pioneering work exploring the medicinal benefits of capsaicin, the compound found in chillies that makes them ‘hot’.
Live music includes bands Sixteen String Jack, Old Baby Mackerel and festival favourites The Mother Ukers on the music stage, whilst up at the Cider Tent there’s stompin’ bluegrass from Big Joe Bone and well-known blues tracks from Rob Berry Blues. Putting smiles on faces with familiar Mexican tunes, Pablo returns with his roving 3-piece Mariachi band. Enjoy the music with some delicious international streetfood and a local cider, ale or a rum cocktail, or perhaps a glass of bubble tea or a Dorset-roasted coffee.
The chilli festival is great value for families, plus the children will love watching the chilli eating competition which takes place each afternoon at 4.00pm, and you can keep them entertained all day with the bouncy castles, circus skills workshops, facepainting, pocket money toys and falconry displays. For best value visitors should aim to buy their tickets in advance via the chilli festival website. Children under 11 years enter free of charge, and ticket prices for children aged 11-15 years remain unchanged since 2016 at just £2.50 for online tickets.
Reduced price online tickets are selling fast at www.greatdorsetchillifestival.co.uk/tickets at £9.50 per adult until Tuesday 29th July. Full price tickets available at the gate.(£12 per adult)
Dates: Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd August 2025 Times: 10.00am to 5.00pm
Location: the beautiful Stock Gaylard deer park at Lydlinch, near Sturminster Newton DT10 2BG Free parking Dogs welcome No camping
by
Photo
Rob House
Weight loss injections: Your questions answered
The 1:1 Diet is the perfect complementary solution to the common side effects. Top nutritionist Mark Gilbert sets the record straight once and for all.
Part one
Do weight loss injections work?
Yes. The two main types of weight loss injections available on prescription are Wegovy (semaglutide) and Zepbound (tirzepatide). These are administered once a week, usually by injection, and work primarily by making you feel fuller and less hungry.
Faced with a decreasing appetite, The 1:1 Diet can help. With both light and nutritionally-complete meal solutions, once you’ve found the right plan for you, our Diet will help you maintain your weight loss, while getting the goodness your body needs to thrive. And while GLP-1s can suppress appetite, they don’t deliver the habit-building or long-term guidance needed to maintain results after the injections stop.
Do you gain weight after injections? It used to be thought that losing weight too quickly meant you’d be at greater risk of regaining weight, but this is no longer thought to be the case. In fact, research, including the DROPLET study, carried
out by University of Oxford experts on The 1:1 Diet, along with other studies, demonstrates that rapid initial weight loss predicts better results in the long term. However, it should be noted that (in a Wegovy study) people who came off the injections without any additional support, regained substantial weight rapidly. That’s why we’d always recommend pairing rapid initial weight loss with comprehensive nutritional support. And
that’s where The 1:1 Diet comes in. Each of our meal replacements is around 200 calories, packed with protein, and 25 vitamins and minerals. You’ll have the ongoing support of Nicki Edwards - The Cambridge Lady. She will help encourage new habit-building. After all, studies have shown that if you don’t make the necessary dietary and behavioural changes, you will most likely regain the weight you’ve lost. Part two in next issue
Grandmaster Kevin to host big charity quiz
Previously ranked as the world’s number one quizzer, Eggheads ‘Grandmaster’ Kevin Ashman will host this year’s Big Quiz for Wessex Cancer Support.
The annual charity quiz is taking place at Eastleigh’s Concorde Club on Tuesday, September 30.
The Winchester-born quiz champion is taking on the role of quizmaster for the first time, following in the footsteps of Shaun Wallace, Hugh Dennis and Mike Osman, who have previously hosted the event.
Kevin, a six-time winner of the World Quiz Championships, six-time
European quiz champion and eleven-time British quiz champion, has - most famously - spent two decades as ‘The Grandmaster’ on hit TV quiz show Eggheads. He said: “I’m very glad to be supporting this wonderful cause and I look forward to seeing everybody on the night.”
The charity’s head of community, events and partnerships, Lorraine White, said: “Whether it’s a team-bonding exercise with colleagues, an evening with friends or a challenge with your pub quiz team, our quiz night is full of fun, facts and just the right amount of
healthy competition.
“We’re absolutely thrilled to be joined by Kevin this year.
“To have the world’s former number one quizzer hosting
our event is just fantasticwhen it comes to quizzes, it doesn’t get better than him.
“We’re so grateful to Kevin for giving his time and expertise to ensure our Big Quiz 2025 raises lots of money for local people affected by cancer and is an evening we won’t forget.”
The event starts at 7pm and will end by 10.30pm.
A table of six costs £210 which includes supper. Tickets are expected to sell out quickly, so the charity encourages anyone interested to book their table as soon as possible at www. wessexcancer.org.uk/event/ the-big-quiz-2025.
Pat celebrates with cake on 100th birthday
A Hamworthy care home resident says that the secret to reaching 100 is ‘just enjoying yourself.’
Pat, who lives at Dorset House care home in Poole, was treated to a party with live music from singers ‘Roland Rat and Debra’, cards, balloons, and a handmade ‘100’ cake baked by the home’s chef to mark her special day. She was also joined by son, Peter, and the other home residents for the special occasion.
Pat was called up to complete her national service aged 18 to work in the RAF offices in Gloucestershire as an administration clerk. She later went to work for the family business in Cornwall which sold and repaired bikes and motorbikes. After meeting husband, Kenneth, the couple moved around Devon and Cornwall for Kenneth’s work as a linesman area manager. Eventually his work brought them to Dorset, which saw them settle in Southbourne.
Speaking about the secret to reaching 100, Pat said: “Just enjoy yourself.” She added: “I had a very good husband, Kenneth, and family including my son, Peter. It’s lovely living at Dorset House, where I have been for around three years. “The team look after me very well.”
Tracy Jennings, home manager, said:
“It was a real privilege to help Pat to celebrate her 100th birthday. “She’s a joy for the team to care for and is a true friend to many at the home.
“We love to make every resident feel special, and milestones like this give us a wonderful opportunity to come together as a community and celebrate their amazing lives.”
Dorset House, which is part of the Care South family of care homes, provides residential, respite, and dementia care.
A dedicated onsite activities team organise a daily events programme to bring residents together to socialise and build friendships, with a choice of communal lounges for the residents to relax in overlooking a large, landscaped garden.
How chiropractic care helps keep you mobile
Staying mobile is essential to living a healthy, active life - especially as we age or recover from injury. Chiropractic care offers a holistic and non-invasive approach to maintaining mobility by focusing on the musculoskeletal system, particularly the spine.
Through a combination of manual adjustments, soft tissue work and movement-based therapies, chiropractic care can enhance flexibility, improve posture and reduce pain - allowing you to move more freely and with greater confidence.
One of the key ways chiropractic care supports mobility is by restoring proper joint function. Misalignments in the spine or other joints, known as subluxations, can restrict movement and cause discomfort. Chiropractors use targeted adjustments to realign these joints, helping to restore range of motion and reduce stiffness.
This is particularly beneficial for those suffering from conditions such as arthritis, sciatica or chronic lower back pain. Beyond spinal adjustments, many chiropractors also address muscular
imbalances and soft tissue restrictions that can impair movement. Techniques such as myofascial release, stretching and rehabilitation exercises are often incorporated into treatment plans to support muscle function and joint stability.
This integrated approach not only helps to relieve immediate discomfort but also works to prevent future injuries by improving overall movement mechanics. Posture plays a significant role in mobility, and chiropractic care can be instrumental in correcting poor posture habits. Prolonged sitting, repetitive
tasks and digital device use often lead to rounded shoulders, forward head posture and weakened core muscles - all of which can restrict movement and contribute to discomfort. Chiropractors assess and address these issues, providing guidance on ergonomics, exercises and lifestyle changes to support long-term postural health.
Furthermore, chiropractic care can enhance athletic performance and recovery. Whether you’re a casual runner, a weekend cyclist or a competitive athlete, regular chiropractic check-ups can help keep your body aligned, reduce muscle tension and promote faster recovery from strain or injury - keeping you mobile and active in your pursuits. In summary, chiropractic care is much more than just spinal adjustments. It’s a proactive way to preserve and enhance mobility, reduce pain, and support the body’s natural movement potential. Whether you’re managing a chronic condition, recovering from injury, or simply aiming to stay active as you age, chiropractic care offers a natural path to staying mobile and well.
Explore watercolours and nature crafts
Diverse Abilities, Dorset’s Disability Charity, is back for July with another craft club, this time a Watercolours Workshop.
The evening will be hosted by watercolour artist Lynda Larke, where you’ll learn the techniques of watercolours, as well as create your own masterpiece to take home. Over the course of the evening Lynda will explain the different techniques of watercolours including dry brushing, layering colours, washes, and using salts. The workshop is perfect, whether you are a complete beginner, or would like to brush up on your skills. It’s a great opportunity to get together with friends and family, or come along on your own and meet new people.
The event will be held on Tuesday, July 15, at The Treehouse in Hurn, and
helps to fund arts and crafts sessions for children and adults with physical and learning disabilities across Dorset.
Demi Tarrant, events executive at Diverse Abilities said: “It’s going to be a really lovely evening. We had great feedback about what a great time people had, and how much they had learned during the session.” All materials will be supplied, and tea and coffee will be available.
The event is part of an ongoing Craft Club, with a further craft club events planned:
David Allen BSc DO
The British School of Osteopathy
Manipulative Therapist, Exercise & Dietary
Advice Treating the Whole Person
Headaches | Jaw pain
Neck Pain | Whiplash Injuries
Frozen Shoulder | Trapped Nerve
Shoulder Blade Pain
Rib/Chest Pains | Disc Problems
Postural Conditions | Golfers Elbow
Tennis Elbow | Low Back Pain
Repetitive Strain Injury
Pelvis/Sacro-iliac Joint Conditions
Pregnancy Pains | Groin Pain
Hand/Wrist Pain | Hip Pain
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Sciatica (Nerve Injuries)
Osteoarthritis | Pulled Muscles
Housemaids Knee (Bursitis)
Trauma/Post-operative rehabilitation
Tendinitis | Sports Injuries
Shin Splints | Strained Ligaments
Ankle Injuries | Foot/Toe Pain
Plantar Fascitis
takes place at the
6DT. Visit diverseabilities.org. uk/daevents/watercolourworkshop to find out more and book your tickets.
n And an exciting new outdoor learning experience is being launched atthe venue.
‘Nature Nook’ is a welcoming outdoor space designed to inspire curiosity, confidence and creativity through nature-based learning with a new session called ‘Little Seedlings’, a group for under-fives exploring nature crafts, planting, story time and much more.
Little Seedlings takes place every Thursday during the Dorset term time from 10am11.30am, and costs £7.50. All children must be accompanied by their parent
or a carer.
The sessions are designed to get your little one outside and exploring the world around them through sensory activities and nature-based play. There will be plenty of opportunities for them to safely roll, dig, climb and wander, featuring a grassy orchard and a wood-chipped play zone.
Alongside guided activities, the Nature Nook offers plenty of free play areas, including purpose built mud kitchens and a wishing tree. The sessions are being run by Diverse Abilities by a team with strong experience of supporting children with special educational needs, however these sessions are open to all children, including those without additional needs. Find out more and book a space at diverseabilities.org. uk/naturenook.
The event
Treehouse, Merritown Lane, Christchurch, BH23
Home & Garden
Everything’s coming up roses at nursery
Chestnut Nursery, Poole’s ‘plant paradise’ for shoppers, is celebrating a 150% rise in sales since the site was transformed by a state-ofthe-art redevelopment in 2019.
‘The little garden centre with a big heart’, run by the charity Plants and Minds, supports adults experiencing severe and enduring mental health conditions.
Over the past six years, the number of people on Chestnut’s horticultural therapy programme who have progressed into paid work has increased by 300%. Widely acclaimed for its outstanding range of top-quality plants, inspirational displays and expert horticultural advice, Chestnut offers more than 50 voluntary work placements to its service users, known as Team Members.
People who suffer with mental illness are supported in a caring, pressurefree, professional work environment.
Chestnut Nursery first took root at the old Poole Council nursery next to Poole Park in 2001. The site benefitted from a major redevelopment in 2019 and record figures demonstrate
the life-changing impact of this ambitious horticultural project.
Re-opened in June 2019, the transformation, with help from many local companies, saw the creation of an iconic, flagship 200sq metre store clad in gabion cages of Purbeck stone and powered by renewable energy technology - along with
more than 740sq metres of retail area and nursery. Sowing the seeds of success Andy Verreck, nursery manager, said the new facilities had transformed the future of a project that was previously unviable. He added: “None of this would have been possible without our supporters, who range from large charitable trusts to individual donors, business and suppliers, as well as the many support services that refer people to us. A huge thank-you to our many customers, both trade and retail; their loyalty has ensured the continued success of the nursery.” Team Members are referred to Chestnut via services including Community Mental Health Teams (CMHT), Steps 2 Wellbeing, Access Wellbeing Hubs and GPs.
With over 20 years experience of installing systems, we are Plumbing, Heating & Renewable specialists. Heat pumps use sustainable energy to generate heating and hot water for your home and reduce energy bills. As we are certified MCS certified intallers, you will also be able to take advantage of the Government’s £7500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme and zero VAT. Scan the QR code below to find out more.
HOME & GARDEN
Home & Garden
Gardens open for charity in August
MANOR FARM, HAMPRESTON, Wimborne BH21 7LX
Traditional farmhouse garden designed and cared for by three generations of the Trehane family. Garden is noted for its herbaceous borders and rose beds within box and yew hedges.
Mature shrubbery, water and bog garden. Excellent plants for sale at openings.
Open: Sun 3 Aug (1-5) Adm: £5 chd free. Teas.
105 WOOLSBRIDGE RD, Ashley Heath, Ringwood BH24 2 LZ
Back garden with hidden paths meandering through different areas inc architectural jungle exotics, bamboos and bananas, a woodland walkway with rhododendrons, fernery, grass bed, pond
and hot gravel bed.
Secluded seating areas, lawn and traditional vegetable patch.
Open: Sat 9, Sun 10 Aug (11-4.30)
Adm: £4, chd free Teas. Dogs on short leads welcome
22 AVON AVENUE, Avon
Castle, Ringwood BH24 2BH
BEAUTIFUL WOODEN GATES & GARAGE DOORS
Wooden Gate Makers supply a wide variety of styles in both hardwood and softwood from our workshop in Poole, Dorset.
Superb Japanese themed water garden featuring granite sculptures, ponds, waterfalls, azaleas, rhododendrons, cloud topiary and a collection of goldfish and water lilies.
Open: Sun 10 Aug (12-5)
Adm: £5 Teas
BROOK VIEW CARE
HOME, (above right) West Moors, Ferndown BH22 0LQ
Colourful and vibrant garden.
Peaceful pond area, games lawn and mixed borders. Greenhouse leading to further gardens and raised beds. Residents help out with the production of many of the plants
Open: Sat 16 Aug (11-4)
Adm: £5, chd free. Teas
1C RECTORY ROAD, Poole BH15 3BH
Unusual character house and garden demonstrating the owner’s passion for maximalist design. Both garden and house are full of objet d’art spanning centuries, there’s curiosities to see in every corner!
Open: Sun 17 Aug (11-4)
Adm £5, chd free. Teas
over a bed of clay. The clever design uses every trick in the gardening handbook to create a truly memorable space. Some unusual plants, a unique ‘quay’ (for storing run-off water as part of a hidden drainage system) and an array of small-scale features.
Open: Sat 23, Sun 24, Mon 25 Aug (2-5) Adm: £5, chd free. Teas
ANNALAL’S GALLERY, Christchurch BH23 1DN Enchanting 180 yr old cottage, home of two Royal Academy artists. Pencil gate leads to colourful scented Victorian walled garden. Sculptures and paintings hide among the flowers and shrubs.
Unusual studio and garden room.
Mural of a life-size greyhound makes the cottage easy to find and adds a smile to people’s faces.
Open: Sun 24 Aug (2-4) Adm: £3.50, chd free.
20 WICKET ROAD, (above left) Kinson, Bournemouth BH10 5LT
Small suburban garden sits on an awkward shaped plot,
n Entries may be subject to change – for latest information please check www.ngs.org.uk.
Tickets can be purchased on the day or in advance via www.ngs.org.uk and make perfect gifts for family & friends.
been building our reputation within the Hampshire and Dorset region since 2007. supply quality products fitted by qualified FENSA MTC fitters. We tailor each installation to our customers requirements.
Our Verwood showroom has a wide range of the latest doors and windows available, please feel free to visit for a no obligation quote.
range of the latest doors and windows available please feel free to visit for a no obligation quotation.
Fencing, Decking, Patios, Landscaping and Garden Buildings
We offer a complete garden package from design to installation. No need to bring in multiple contractors, we can do everything from removing shrubbery, installing patios, resin, gravel areas, fencing, timber & composite decking, garden kitchens and garden buildings from a simple shed to a garden room. We have everything you will need for a beautiful and secure garden.
•
info@amazinglandscaping.co.uk www.amazinglandscaping.co.uk
Based at: Basket & Blooms Nursery, 392 Christchurch Road, West Parley, BH22 8SW Call 01202 985192 or Text 07520 666876
We
A day at the farm
with Sharon Boden
Sharon is a member of staff at High Mead Farm in Longham. High Mead is a working farm run to promote the benefits of engaging with animals, soil and nature. We create purposeful roles for our co-farmers, young people and adults, to help create a sense of well-being and self-worth many have never experienced before. Due to safeguarding, the farm shop is the only area currently open to the public
Firstly a huge thank-you to the Mayor of Ferndown for choosing us as his organisation to raise funds for this year - the first event was the comedy night on June 20, which was well attended and has raised in excess of £300 already.
Thank you everyone who attended and supported the event. Please pop the next comedy evening in your diary - Friday, September 12, at the Barrington Centre in Ferndown.
We are currently updating our promotional flyer and have asked our Volunteers to write some testimonies for us so that we can add some quotes; but they have all been so lovely
manages to actually achieve it.
‘This is due in no small measure to the vision of its Founders and to its dedicated staff.
Every day the Farm creates a “level playing field” for each individual co-farmer.
‘Everyone can experience being a valued member of the Team, and be encouraged to achieve their best.
l ‘The Farm also looks after its team of Volunteers, of which I am one. But the reward for me is simply in being able to contribute some practical help towards such a worthwhile enterprise, alongside lovely people (not forgetting all the animals too!)’
we wanted to share some of them in this article:
l ‘Although I’m new to High Mead Farm, it has felt so welcoming right from the start. Everyone is friendly and helpful. ‘The animals are fun, with such unique characters! There are many other parts of the farm to get involved with, which I have enjoyed doing.
‘I find I’m more relaxed on the farm and smile a lot more. Thanks for allowing me to be part of the team!’
l ‘There’s a lot of talk about inclusion in the world of education, from which I retired a couple of years ago. However High Mead Farm is one of the few places I know that
Last week we have also been able to welcome Ringwood Waldorf School and this week another Waldorf School from Sussex. Despite the warm weather they threw themselves into all the activities given to them: Woodworking, digging a 6ft trench for a soakaway and then filling it all back in and painting the old chicken coop into a very bijoux palace for our small flock of hens. The end result is amazing; thank you to you all - we will miss you.
Finally, the Horticulture team have been so busy with harvesting. Everything is ripening and the farm shop is full of our produce; Kohl rabi, courgettes, tomatoes, blackcurrants, cauliflowers, raspberries, peas, beans as well as some slightly more unusual veg.
Please see photos of our tomatoes. Remember to visit our Farm shop to buy our delicious produce!
Farming & Environment
Returning county show set for take-off!
Dorset is getting ready for the biggest weekend in the county calendar.
The Dorset County Show opens its gates on Saturday and Sunday, September 6 and 7, promising an actionpacked celebration of rural life with an exciting line-up of attractions, both new and much-loved favourites!
Huge jumps, precision riding, roll stunts and above all, jaw-dropping skills!
The Paul Hannam Stunt Show makes its debut, jumping into the Main Ring across the weekend whn this skilled motorbike rider brings the extreme to the show.
Back by popular demand, Ben Atkinson and his Action Horses returns to the Show. If you were not lucky enough to witness this specular display of showmanship in 2024, then you may have seen these incredible horses flash across your TV screens whilst watching Poldark, Victoria or Peaky Blinders. But now, for the second time ever in Dorset, you can see their combination of horsemanship, drama and stunts in real life.
Beyond the thrills of the Main Ring, you may hear the sounds of the new Music Stage.
Showcasing local artists and extending into the evening on the Saturday, it will bring a festival feel to the tradition of the show.
James Cox, theshow organiser said: “Atkinsons
Action Horses were a highlight of 2024, and we’re simply thrilled to welcome them back for a second year.
“Ben goes alongside exciting new features like the stunt bikes and music stage.
“There really is something
for absolutely everyone.” At the very heart of the show remains agriculture, with the region’s finest livestock on display in competitive classes across cattle, sheep, pigs, goats - and for the second time, alpacas. The
impressive animal marquees and livestock parade in the Main Ring showcase the very best of Dorset farming. Other highlights include Dorset’s largest larder - the Food Hall, filled to the apex with treats; Fun Dog Show, Free Tomahawk Throwing with Budden’s Activity Centre, Blacksmiths Forge, Heavy Horse Village, Milking Demonstrations and so much more.
Book online at dorsetcountyshow.co.uk
Opening times are 8.30am to 6pm.
The Showground is a mile outside Dorchester, just off the A35.
Parking is free of charge. Use the postcode DT2 7SD. What3Words: says.ballparks. convey.
If you’re coming by public transport, take the train or bus to Dorchester and catch the free shuttle bus from Dorchester, Poundbury and Dorchester South Station.
An advance adult ticket is £21 (before August 30) and £25 on show day.
Children aged five - 15 years are currently £2, and £5 on show day.
An adult afternoon ticket from 3pm is priced from £15. Entrance is free for children aged 5 and under.
You can buy tickets online at www.dorsetcountyshow. co.uk.
Camping is available; visit the show website for more details.
Teaching: A means to empower farmers
ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE
As a farm practice we offer a range of courses for all farmers - from lambing to artificial insemination, foot first aid to medicines use. Empowering farmers with new skills or refreshing skills is an important way of improving efficiencies and subsequent profitability on farm. As vet trainers, we attend ‘Lantra Train the Trainer’ courses which give us a great insight into the different ways people learn, and how to structure courses so that participants really do go away having learned what they came for! Incorporating this into our training makes them very rewarding to run.
The summer is a busy time of year for calving and calf rearing courses with busy autumn calving around the corner. Calving courses are hands-on, using a cow simulator. The simulator contains a mock pelvis allowing participants to feel the presentation of a calf and give correct assistance using ropes/calving jack as needed. Teaching skills like this increases the chance of a live calf with a dam who recovers easily. New staff or young people are always taught by the wider farm team ‘on the job’, but being taught the correct principles at the outset can make a big difference to staff confidence.
Demand for teaching good practice around calf rearing is high for new
we can mix up small bits of theory with lots of practical application. Part of running a course is making everyone feel confident and involved, and this is particularly true for younger participants.
Our new premises at West Stour has been designed with space for teaching which is wonderful. This spring we ran a lamb post mortem course for sheep
farmoffice@friarsmoorlivestockhealth.co.uk 01258 472314
friarsmoorlivestockhealth
farmers in our new post mortem room which was well received. Our meeting room has been perfect for delivery of our ‘worm egg counting for farmers’ courses this spring, which are becoming increasingly popular as farmers look to become more sustainable and effective in their parasite control plans.
Summer Course dates:
Thursday, July 17, 10.00 -14.30pm; Practical Calving Tuesday, July 22, 10.30-3.30pm; Calf Rearing Level 1
Friday, August 22, 10.30-3.30pm; Calf Rearing Level 2
Contact the office on 01258 472314 or e-mail farmoffice@fmlh.co.uk to register your place.
n Fundraising event
On Sunday, July 20, members of our Livestock Health team will be running 10 kilometres cross-country, starting at the Sturminster Newton branch and crossing the finish line into the new premises at West Stour. We are doing this to raise money for the brilliant charity Breast Cancer Now, which supports people across the UK battling the disease, a cause close to our hearts. If you would like to support us and donate, please pop into the practice or find the link on our social media.
Museum’s impact is showcased
Wimborne’s award-winning Museum of East Dorset has unveiled its latest exhibition, ‘Connecting Communities: The Museum in Action’, celebrating the many ways the museum engages, supports and inspires.
From hands-on workshops and volunteer-led initiatives to school partnerships and outreach programmes, the exhibition highlights how the museum connects people of all ages, abilities and from all walks of life through history and culture.
Visitors will gain insight into the museum’s collaborative work with schools, care homes and local groups, showcasing the power of heritage in bringing communities together. Museum trustee and volunteer Vanessa Joseph explained: “We hope these behind-thescenes perspectives will show the museum’s role as more
Copyright BlackmoreVale
than just a place for interesting and interactive exhibitions.
“We want to showcase to the public how it’s also a dynamic hub which connects people and communities in East Dorset.”
The exhibition runs until the end of September, 2025, and can be found in the Temporary Exhibitions gallery on the first floor.
There is free admission with
HIGH ST, CHRISTCHURCH (01202) 499199 www.theregent.co.uk
NAPOLEON (15)
12 Jan: 12:30, 16:00 | Mon 15 Jan: 19:30 | Tue 16 Jan: 12:30, 16:00 | Thu 18 Jan: 13:30, 19:30 Sir Ridley Scott directs Oscar-winner Joaquin Phoenix in this stunning historical epic that begs to be experienced on the big screen.
Let’s go wild about art at summer camp
WHAT HAPPENS LATER (15)
12 Jan: 19:30 | Sun 14 Jan: 19:30 | Mon 15 Jan: 14:00 (S) | Tue 16 Jan: 19:30 | Thu 18 Jan: 17:00
Wild Art Wonders is a joyful, hands-on art experience for kids aged seven to 12.
snowed in, in-transit, at an airport overnight. Starring Meg Ryan. WONKA (PG) Sun 14 Jan: 13:30, 16:30 | Sun 21 Jan: 17:00
BOLAN’S SHOES (15) Mon 15 Jan: 10:30 (Silver Screen)
FERRARI (15)
normal museum entry. Children up to age of four go free admission.
In partnership with Coda Music and Arts Trust, campers work alongside a team of artists with a mix of backgrounds to explore techniques from drawing and sculpture, to movement and mindful making.
KEN RUSSELL’S GOTHIC (18) Sat 20 Jan: 20:30 [35mm]
Children from five to 16 years of age, £5.50 and adults £12 each.
THE MIRACLE CLUB (12A) Mon 22 Jan: 10:30 (Silver Screen)
Family admission tickets are also available.
And don’t forget the amazing offer that with one admission price you get 12 month’s free entry. To find out more, visit museumofeastdorset.co.uk.
ANYONE BUT YOU (15) Mon 22 Jan: 14:30, 17:30 | Tue 23 Jan: 14:30, 17:30
The main activities of the summer camp will take place from 10am to 4pm each day. However, there is also the option of wraparound care from 9am-10am and 4pm-5pm for an additional £5 an hour. There is a sibling discount of £2 per child per day when you book for more than one child. Monday to Friday, August 4-8. Information: lighthousepoole. co.uk. Tel 01202 280000.
Stay for a day & make memories to treasure
As the summer holidays fast approach, Wimborne BID is inviting families to enjoy a full day out exploring four unique local treasures, each offering a glimpse into the town’s rich history, creativity, and charm. Start your adventure with Wimborne’s four
‘Treasures’, a curated collection of must-see destinations.
Begin by stepping into centuries of heritage at Wimborne’s iconic medieval church, the Wimborne Minster. Its soaring architecture and
explore the enchanting market town of wimborne
Although it is not currently a
requirement, please consider wearing a face covering to protect yourself and others when visiting the Tivoli.
peaceful gardens make for a reflective and inspiring experience and the Chained Library (above) with rare books is not to be missed.
From the biggest town treasure to one of its smallest and most famous – Wimborne Model Town. Here you can wander through a charming miniature replica of 1950s Wimborne - complete with tiny shops, streets, treasure trails, crazy golf and model trains. It’s interactive fun for all ages.
sparks fly at this riverside arts centre, where visitors can browse beautiful handmade crafts and join workshops led by talented local makers.
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And just when you think your adventure is completethe Ocean Safari Trail makes a splash!
New for this year and funded by Wimborne BID, this is a free and interactive augmented reality experience designed for young explorers.
On the High Street, Wimborne’s award-winning Museum of East Dorset brings the past to life with engaging exhibitions and family trails, free crafts and dressing up fun - all in a beautiful historic townhouse with a stunning walled garden.
Art lovers must not miss Walford Mill. Creative
Children can track hidden seashells around town and unlock quirky augmented reality sea creaturessnapping selfies and recording videos as they go. Make it a day to remember! Wimborne offers something for everyone.
History, creativity, tech fun and seaside magic - so why not dive in and unlock some memories to treasure?
A Pitch Perfect performance
Review by Gordon Wray
It’s 60 years since Dame Julie Andrews gave what many regard as the definitive performance of Maria in the film version of Rogers and Hammerstein’s epic musical The Sound Of Music. For those among us who remember the film’s release, this production by the Wimborne Musical Theatre Society hit the nostalgia bullseye.
If you know the show, you’ll know there are several showstoppers which rely on one principal actor. It was great to hear such strong vocal performances from Selina Rumbold as the Mother Abbess, Lauren Ferger-Andrews (no relation) as Maria, and David Cooper, who’s brooding portrayal of Captain Von Trapp brought both gravitas and heartwrenching tenderness to the role. Special mention must also go to Rosie Nye as Liesel, a girl on the brink of womanhood caught up in a maelstrom of hormones and emotions. Rosie
played the part to perfection and added a new dimension to this challenging role.
Alan Colclough brought style, charisma and panache to the role of Max Detweiler and as for Julie Gower as Elsa Schrader; Wow! She worked the stage effortlessly.
Given the choice of eloping with a novice nun or Frau Schrader, I’m not too sure many men in the audience would make the same choice as the lovesick Captain.
We must also not forget the Von Trapp children. It’s never
Although it is not currently a legal requirement, please consider wearing a face covering
HIGH ST, CHRISTCHURCH (01202) 499199 www.theregent.co.uk
Tippett & Kodály at society concert
NAPOLEON (15)
Jan: 12:30, 16:00 | Mon 15 Jan: 19:30 | Tue 16 Jan: 12:30, 16:00 | Thu 18 Jan: 13:30, 19:30 Sir Ridley Scott directs Oscar-winner Joaquin Phoenix in this stunning historical epic that begs to be experienced on the big screen. WHAT HAPPENS LATER (15)
Fri 12 Jan: 19:30 | Sun 14 Jan: 19:30 | Mon 15 Jan: 14:00 (S) | Tue 16 Jan: 19:30 | Thu 18 Jan: 17:00
snowed in, in-transit, at an airport overnight. Starring Meg Ryan. WONKA (PG) Sun 14 Jan: 13:30, 16:30 | Sun 21 Jan: 17:00
Wimborne Choral Society performed Michael Tippett’s spirituals from his Child Of Our Time oratorio and Zoltan Kodály’s Missa Brevis in Wimborne Minster, our second concert under the direction of Colin Davey.
BOLAN’S SHOES (15) Mon 15 Jan: 10:30 (Silver Screen)
easy finding the right mix of confidence and raw talent, but the society certainly came up trumps. All the young actors were superb and never once did they let their characters drop. They were a perfect foil to the rest of the show and all sang beautifully.
FERRARI (15) Sat 20 Jan: 14:00, 17:00 | Sun 21 Jan: 14:00, 20:00 | Mon 22 Jan: 20:00 | Tue 23 Jan: 20:00
KEN RUSSELL’S GOTHIC (18) Sat 20 Jan: 20:30 [35mm]
The works are very different in style; Tippett’s spirituals were written in the style of chorales, with reflective words and four-part harmony, while the poignancy and terror of the invasion of Hungary during the Second World War were conveyed by Kodály with his varied use of harmony.
THE MIRACLE CLUB (12A) Mon 22 Jan: 10:30 (Silver Screen)
Although this was an amateur performance, the standard was both professional and, yes, an inspiration.
There was also a wonderful organ solo by Sam Hanson in this concert.
ANYONE BUT YOU (15) Mon 22 Jan: 14:30, 17:30 | Tue 23 Jan: 14:30, 17:30
Having worked on them since April, it was great to see the parts come together.
HIGHCLIFFE CHARITY PLAYERS PRESENT: ROBIN HOOD (LIVE) Fri 26 Jan: 19:30 Sat 27 Jan: 11:00, 14:00, 18:00 Sun 28 Jan: 14:00, 18:00
The packed house left with a spring in their step and a tune on their lips, what more can you ask of a night at the theatre?
We were delighted to be joined by wonderful soloists Alexandra Burstow, Rhea Patel, William Gadd and Jonathan Prentice for this thoughtful and enjoyable concert! Lorna Lyons
Preparations under way for park fundraiser
Verwood Rotary Club is well under way with preparations for the annual Rustic Fayre at Potterne Park on August Bank Holiday Monday (August 25).
Last year was a bumper year with £19,000 raised to share across charitable causes and local organisations. Club members are already
gearing up for another great afternoon with all the favourites there including arena events, classic car show, stalls, children’s activities, beer tent and live music.
It is hoped the local community will turn out in large numbers again to support the popular event
which is for all the family.
The club is thriving with several new members joining this year and continues to support the local community as well as further afield.
This includes volunteering at local events, giving donations to a variety of causes and appeals as well as hosting popular events like
the Swing Band Night and Race Night.
If you would like to get involved, contact enquiries@ verwoodrotary.org.uk or via the website.
Pictured are Mayor Julian Macro, Harry Redknapp and president Peter Campbell and the Tano Taiko Asian Drum Band at last year’s show. Pictures: DEREK MAIDMENT
Craig’s ‘fab-u-lous’ one-man show back next year
Strictly favourite Craig Revel Horwood will bring his ‘fab-u-lous’ one-man show back to theatres next spring.
He’ll go back on the road with his Songs Boys Don’t Sing tour following a successful run this spring which ends on Saturday at the Alhambra Theatre in Dunfermline, Scotland.
The tour kicks off on April 22, 2026, at the Chequer Mead, East Grinstead, concluding at Whitby Pavillion on June 28. It arrives at the Tivoli Theatre, Wimborne on June 3, 2026.
Craig needs little
introduction; The longestserving judge on BBC One’s Strictly Come Dancing is the master of the Glitter Ball.
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Sir Ridley Scott directs Oscar-winner Joaquin Phoenix in this stunning historical epic that begs to be experienced on the big screen.
WHAT HAPPENS LATER (15)
Fri 12 Jan: 19:30 | Sun 14 Jan: 19:30 | Mon 15 Jan: 14:00 (S) | Tue 16 Jan: 19:30 | Thu 18 Jan: 17:00
snowed in, in-transit, at an airport overnight. Starring Meg Ryan. WONKA (PG) Sun 14 Jan: 13:30, 16:30 | Sun 21 Jan: 17:00
and best-selling author. Craig’s also a remarkable singer, and to celebrate the release of his debut solo album, Revelations, he’ll reveal his own hidden talent during a Fab-U-Lous night of big songs, tall tales, and glamour.
BOLAN’S SHOES (15) Mon 15 Jan: 10:30 (Silver Screen)
He said: “The first run of this tour was such fun; there were songs, dance, plenty of Strictly sass.
FERRARI (15) Sat 20 Jan: 14:00, 17:00 | Sun 21 Jan: 14:00, 20:00 | Mon 22 Jan: 20:00 | Tue 23 Jan:
KEN RUSSELL’S GOTHIC (18) Sat 20 Jan: 20:30 [35mm]
After starting as a dancer, he worked on the nation’s biggest musicals and became a choreographer, director,
THE MIRACLE CLUB (12A) Mon 22 Jan: 10:30 (Silver Screen)
“It was also full of surprises, and I can’t wait to make it just as fab-u-lous next time!” Tickets are on sale now. More details at tivoliwimborne.co.uk. Box office telephone 01202 885566.
ANYONE BUT YOU (15) Mon 22 Jan: 14:30, 17:30 | Tue 23 Jan: 14:30, 17:30
Listening closely to the sounds of nature
The ideas and voices of children from a Bournemouth primary school are to feature in a new sound art installation at a major Dorset visitor attraction this summer.
Although it is not currently a legal requirement, please consider wearing a face covering to protect yourself and others when visiting the Tivoli.
Dorset artist Lorna Rees of Gobbledegook Theatre is creating her latest immersive sound-work, Canopy, for this year’s Inside Out Dorset festival of outdoor arts, which runs in various locations across the county from September 12 to 21. A thought-provoking investigation of our relationship to trees, Canopy will see 24 sonic seed pods suspended from trees on a trail at Moors Valley Country Park and Forest at Ashley Heath.
wonderful, so inspiring.
“There’s this amazing hidden woodland there that we had an incredible time exploring.
Each pod will house one of 24 different human responses to nature with contributions from a range of people including scientists, artists, folk musicians, arborists and Year 4 children from Malmesbury Park Primary School.
Lorna said: “The workshop at Malmesbury Park was
“We had our listening hats on with the ears cut out and the responses from the children were so pure, so magical, completely untouched by the distractions we as adults fill our lives with.
“We spoke a lot about how we can be a good ancestor, and look after our trees for the future. We are custodians and one day we’ll pass that on to the next generation.
“We live in a very digital world, a very indoors world, so anything that gets us out
into the open and into the realm of the physical is a good thing. I hope Canopy is part of that.”
Lorna’s work, which she tours nationally and internationally, is frequently inspired by the environment and climate emergency.
And at the heart of her work - and activism - are the landscape and communities of her home county, Dorset.
“The reason I make work for the outdoors is that it is seen and experienced by people who might not buy a ticket or go to a theatre. “It means I meet so many different people and have the most
fantastic conversations with them about all kinds of things – that’s the strength of Inside Out Dorset.
“It is such a joy to be involved because we live in a wonderful place and it is deeply inspiring to make work in the Dorset landscape then take it on tour all over the country and further afield.”
Canopy can be seen and listened to at Moors Valley Country Park and Forest from Saturday, September 13, until Sunday 21 September. Full details can be found at activateperformingarts.org.uk/ whats-on/inside-out-dorset/
You can pop in to two pop-up exhibitions
In a break with tradition, Wimborne Art Club is holding two pop-up exhibitions at the Church House on Saturdays, July 19 and August 23.
The one-day exhibitions will showcase member’s work and there will be a varied selection of subject matter and styles to suit everyone’s taste and pocket.
Weather permitting there will also be ‘plein air’ outdoor demonstrations.
Wimborne Art Club is celebrating 50 years of being ‘passionate about art’.
Although it is not currently a legal requirement, please consider wearing a face covering to protect yourself and others when visiting the Tivoli.
Founded in 1975, the idea was to provide a forum for members to share their enthusiasm for painting which still holds true today.
The club has served as a hub for artists of all ages and levels, fostering creativity and camaraderie.
Meeting every second Thursday, members are offered a variety of activities, including painting demonstrations and workshops in various mediums and subject matter, as well as more craftbased activities such as pop-up cards and gel plate printing. The club organises various events, including exhibitions displaying the work of its members and engaging with the wider community.
To find out more or pop in for a taster session visit wimborneartclub.org.uk.
The exhibitions are open from 10am-4.30pm, entry is free and refreshments will be available. Pictured above are, from left, Lots Of Pots by Rosemary McDonald, Fun Day Out by Lorraine Hubbard and Jurassic by Jan Wall.
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Arrow words
Wordsearch
Scientific Laws Named After People
Sudoku
21 Skills (4)
HUBBLE’S HUME’S JOULE’S KEPLER’S KIRCHHOFF’S MENDEL’S PASCAL’S PLANCK’S
Across
Killer Sudoku Pro
Across
Down
Down
1 Distant US group with nameless celebrity (6)
1 European getting varied rings about to leave job (6)
1 European getting varied rings about to leave job (6)
4 Bike possibly meant to be taken around Germany (6)
4 Bike possibly meant to be taken around Germany (6)
8 Way of working with initially belligerent crowd (3)
1 Distant US group with nameless celebrity
2 Reserve opinion having weight (9)
2 Reserve opinion having weight (9)
3 Good general showing joy (4)
3 Good general showing joy (4)
5 I expand work to include page creating additional section (8)
9 Joke by chaps in film showing kit (9)
8 Way of working with initially belligerent crowd (3)
9 Joke by chaps in film showing kit (9)
11 Carry young child close to slide (4)
11 Carry young child close to slide (4)
12 Outline of drama representing races in Ohio (8)
12 Outline of drama representing races in Ohio (8)
15 Disruptive adolescent protecting despicable types – it doesn’t matter! (5,4)
15 Disruptive adolescent protecting despicable types – it doesn’t matter! (5,4)
18 Reserve the best summer refreshment? (3,5)
19 Blemish creating a lot of fear (4)
21 Say it, maybe, before civil engineer (9)
18 Reserve the best summer refreshment? (3,5)
19 Blemish creating a lot of fear (4)
23 Person in front losing daughter in meadow (3)
21 Say it, maybe, before civil engineer (9)
24 Symbol or idea online backed about British lecturer (6)
23 Person in front losing daughter in meadow (3)
25 Credit certainly applied to drawing implement (6)
24 Symbol or idea online backed about British lecturer (6)
25 Credit certainly applied to drawing implement (6)
Killer Sudoku Pro:
6 Outstanding natural dampness, it’s said (3)
5 I expand work to include page creating additional section (8)
7 English poet in movement (6)
6 Outstanding natural dampness, it’s said
7 English poet in movement (6)
10 Truce in a war around Yemen at last? That’s doubtful (9)
13 Area inspector caught in mass meeting in severe fashion? (9)
10 Truce in a war around Yemen at last? That’s doubtful (9)
14 All is quite feasible within borders of estate (8)
16 Plain politician taken in by unusual lies (6)
13 Area inspector caught in mass meeting severe fashion? (9)
17 Decree raid on ground (6)
14 All is quite feasible within borders of estate
16 Plain politician taken in by unusual lies
20 Conflict enveloping Eastern sport (4)
22 Gold ball everyone dismissed as sphere (3)
17 Decree raid on ground (6)
20 Conflict enveloping Eastern sport (4)
22 Gold ball everyone dismissed as sphere
Place 1 to 9 once each into every row, column and boldlined 3×3 box.
No digit may be repeated in any dashed-line cage, and all the digits in each cage must add up to the value shown in that cage.
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Exploring Stour & Avon...
with retired Dorset rights of way officer CHRIS SLADE
Start at the rather smart Methodist Church near the top of Lonnen Road. Walk up to the junction with Smugglers’ Lane, cross over and enter a path through a small wood. Take a branch to the right and it will take you past a small pond. It soon meets the road by the Anglican Church, built of brick during Victorian times.
A little further along join Merrifield Lane on your right. It’s a private road with a public footpath. It takes you north west to the parish boundary at Long Lane (you’ll soon discover how it got that name!).
Mow pub (horses welcome).
Turn right and follow the lane northeast along the boundary for about half a mile to a junction at the Barley
Cross the road and join a footpath that takes you south east across a couple of fields to join a byway that takes you left to Pilford Farm and then along
to Pilford Lane where you turn right, south east, where the road soon enters woodland and then reaches a junction on the parish boundary at Bedborough. Turn right and head south for about half a mile to join the Castleman Trailway which takes you west into the forest, which is access land so you can choose your own route to weave your way through the trees and ferns of Cannon Hill Plantation. Keep heading west and eventually you’ll reach the edge of the village.
You may need to go along a path north or south to join the bridleway that takes you west for a while to join Smugglers’ Lane which takes you past the school, the library and back to Lonnen Road where you started.
You’ll have walked a little over five miles.
Brain chain (hard)
Recruitment
Health Care Support Worker
Synergy Complex Care is currently recruiting for a Healthcare Support Worker to join a team supporting our client, a disabled veteran who has severe MS, in the Shaftesbury, Dorset area. Must be adaptable, broad minded with a sense of humour. Duties include, but are not restricted to, all personal care and hygiene tasks, hoisted transfers from bed to chair, helping with eating, light domestic duties and driving; some cooking may be required. Must be a dog lover. Experience preferred. Full training provided. Salary range £13.40 - £16.25 per hour. Email info@synergycomplexcare.com or Call 0117 403 7878
Boarding and Day Prep and Pre-Prep School
Part Time Minibus Driver
Required for September
We are looking for a driver to join our team for morning and afternoon school runs. Weekdays during term time only. Meals provided during working hours.
For further details, please contact:
Rupert Burnell-Nugent, Sandroyd, Rushmore, Tollard Royal, SP5 5QD
Tel: 01725 516329 bursar@sandroyd.com www.sandroyd.org
Sandroyd is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. This post involves contact with children and is classed as “regulated activity” by the UK government. As such, a number of mandated pre-employment checks (including an enhanced DBS check) will be undertaken to ensure that the successful candidate is suitable for work with children. Additionally, suitability for work with children will be assessed by taking up appropriate references and at interview. Finally, candidates should be aware that this post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020.
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Cricket club and law firm team up for new deal
Law firm Ellis Jones Solicitors has secured naming rights for Wimborne Cricket Club’s ground as part of a major new sponsorship deal.
The Dorset Cricket Premier League side’s home is now known as the Ellis Jones Leaze under the five-year agreement.
Ellis Jones has also become main sponsor of the club and has renewed its long-standing kit sponsorship of the club’s six adult teams and 19 youth sides.
The deal is the first naming rights agreement and the biggest sponsorship deal in Wimborne Cricket Club’s history.
The support comes at the start of the new season as Wimborne seek to retain their T20 crown and challenge for the
Dorset Premier League once again following their runner-up finish last year.
Ellis Jones has two offices in the area, in East Street in the town centre and
Brooke House, Oakley Hill. Nigel Smith, managing partner, said: “Our partnership with Wimborne Cricket Club goes from strength to strength.
Captains’ day for Avon Valley community
Proceeds from Fordingbridge Bowling Club’s recent Joint Captains’ Day have been donated to local community outreach charity Avon Valley Community Matters (AVCM).
Led by the ladies’ team captain Val Lundin, men’s team captain John Bundy and ably supported by vice-captain Prue Churchill, during Captains’ Day, the club members enjoyed a game, followed by a barbecue and raffle. Thanks to generous donations from more than 60 club members who attended, £803.10 was raised.
AVCM’s chairman Sue Ledger said: “We are so grateful to the bowling club for this generous donation which will enable us to support our outreach program for local children and their families during the summer holidays, providing a much-needed service for our community.”
Special thanks go to the George in Fordingbridge, Woodfalls Inn, Bowls Direct, Justin Scriven and members
of Fordingbridge Bowling Club for generously donating raffle prizes.
Established in 1927, Fordingbridge Bowling Club, to the east of the town in Stuckton, celebrates its 100th anniversary in two years’ time. Membership has grown over the century as well as the club’s reputation as a sociable hub for bowlers of all standards. New members are most
welcome - contact fordingbridgebc.com for more information.
AVCM trustees and volunteers raise funds locally as well as running a charity shop on Fordingbridge High Street to support outreach work in the community. The charity funds Bereavement Support, a local friendship group for the lonely and vulnerable, care home visits, an inclusive playgroup (Superstars) as
well as free holiday activity programmes for local families.
This donation from the club will help fund the charity’s half-termly Families Together and Summer Picnics programme which funds free activities and meals for families.
For more information about AVCM’s projects, to get involved or make a donation, visit avcmatters.org.
Picture: LAURA COWDERY
Golf day keeps customers in the swing
Property finance specialist MSP Capital teed up a day of golf and networking for customers, professional partners and suppliers.
Hosted at the Crane Valley Golf Club in Wimborne, the event brought together 24 players to compete in teams of four on the venue’s county championshiplevel 18-hole course.
Badged as ‘Networking on the Green’, the day was designed as a fun way to make and strengthen business relationships while enjoying some friendly competition.
Guests were welcomed with a two-course lunch in the clubhouse restaurant, setting a relaxed tone before the start of play.
It was the first golf and networking day that the 44-year-old fixed rate lender has held and it now looks set to be an annual event.
Leigh Bartlett, MSP Capital’s chief executive, said: “Events like these are about more than sport. They’re about celebrating the connections that drive our business forward.
“Bringing together so many valued contacts in such a relaxed and enjoyable setting was a real pleasure.
“Thank you to everyone who took part and helped make it such a success.
“We look forward to hosting many
more events like this in the future and continuing to grow the strong relationships that underpin our business and network of connections.”
Prizes were awarded to the bestperforming teams on the day, recognising both their scores and sportsmanship.
Among those who claimed top spots were players Joe Sheppard, Simon Tubbs, Dave King and Harry Dancer. Thanking MSP Capital for its ‘kind
hospitality’, Paul Aylott of chartered surveyors and property consultants Glenny LLP said: “It was a great way to catch up with the MSP team, customers and professional contacts. The course, catering and company was all first class.”
Pictured are MSP Capital colleagues, from left, Joe Sheppard, John Dimbleby, Arian Manouchehri, Eleanor Collins, Conor Knight and Chris Sheppard.
Special charity offer from Dorset business
A Poole storage business wants to become a charity champion and is offering space at a discount for good causes.
Store & Secure in Hamworthy is a family business and wants to add to the number of charities using its facility. It is run by the ‘storage sisters’ Lucy and Sophie Maidman who were born and raised in the area.
Lucy said: “We know that many small, independent charities are looking for low-cost storage solutions.
“We have a number of units of different sizes available which we will rent to them for a considerable discount.
“Our facility is huge and extremely secure which gives confidence to those using it.
“Also available is a small office which we have available at the moment - and
we can also offer that to a charity for a discount.
“Our motivation is to give back to the community. Over the years we’ve done
many things for charity and want to do more.
“So many small charities do incredible work in our communities and if we can save them a few pounds by offering discounted storage then we all benefit.”
Store & Secure is so successful that it has recently acquired permission to extend its bright yellow Hamworthy facility.
Lucy added: “Having opened our business here just a few years ago we are so pleased with how it’s gone and are now extending it.
“We have clients of all kinds - from house movers to businesses storing stock and from charities to individuals whose hobby has grown out of their homes and they need extra space.”
Pictured are the Store & Secure team, Lucy Maidman, Kavan Wood and Sophie Maidman.
Dorset, Somerset & Bristol triumph in awards
Now in their 12th year, the hotlycontested Muddy Stilettos Regional Awards have been announced with 21 local businesses winning the coveted lifestyle crowns across Dorset, Somerset & Bristol.
Sponsored locally by Porter Dodson solicitors, readers of the award-winning lifestyle website Muddy Stilettos have been nominating and voting in their hundreds of thousands for their favourite independent businesses across 21 different lifestyle categories - from Best Destination Pub to Yoga/Pilates Studio, Boutique Stay to Local Food/Drink producer - and shining a light on the most creative, unique indie businesses across the counties.
Reaching more than 11million people nationally in eight weeks, with half a million votes and nominations cast nationwide, it was the most popular Muddy Stilettos Awards to date.
The list of Dorset winners is as follows:
Arts, Culture & Theatre: Artsreach (Dorchester)
Beauty Salon / Clinic: The Venue
Beauty Salon & Clinic (Bournemouth)
Café: The Cowshed Dorset (Lytchett Minister)
Children’s Business: Kite (Poole)
Family Experience: Nothe Fort (Weymouth)
Farm Shop / Deli: Gulliver’s Farm Shop (West Moors)
Florist: Tied (Swanage)
It’s incredibly important for everyone to make a Will. If you die without one you risk your estate and assets not being passed on to your loved ones or the people you wish to benefit. It is also a stressful time and making a Will can take some of that stress away for the people you leave behind and avoid any complicated legal battles or even family disputes.
What should people think about when making a Will?
There are various questions a solicitor will need to go through when making a Will which will address a number of things. However, it can be helpful, prior to a consultation to think about:
• Who you’ll choose as Executors of your Will - these people will be responsible for carrying out the wishes you make in your Will.
• If you have children under 18, who will look after them?
• Whether you wish to leave a cash or specific legacy (which is a specific amount of money or
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Lifestyle Store: The Country Crib (Sherborne)
Sport & Fitness Instructor: Sean Burgess, SB Fitness (Poole)
Wellbeing Specialist: The Body Retreat (near Dorchester)
Yoga / Pilates Studio: Sìdà Yoga (Portland)
All regional winners in Dorset, Somerset & Bristol, along with winners from the other Muddy counties, will automatically go through to the 2025 National Awards and five businesses in each category will be picked by the Muddy Stilettos editors to go through to the National Finals, with the ‘Best of the Best’ Winners crowned this month. Generating a great sense of community spirit, the Muddy Stilettos Awards are a great way for locals to say thank you to their most loved indie shops, and for independent businesses to use the accolade of a Muddy Award to grow their businesses further.
The full list of Winners across all 35 counties nationally is available at
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If you need help with Wills or Probate, call our caring team anytime at 0330 332 8233.
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Add value to your home for under £100
Part I
Here are seven easy ways to increase your house value before putting it on the market, from the experts at Armishaws Removals.
Make A Good First Impression
You can add kerb appeal and make a better first impression without breaking the budget. Repaint the front door, jetwash driveways and paths, give gates a spruce up and a video doorbell. You can easily perform a façade facelift in a weekend.
Declutter
Not only does decluttering make rooms look and feel bigger, but cluttered houses are one of the biggest turn-offs for potential buyers. Time to do that long overdue tip run, put everything in its place and find places for all the rest, leaving floors and rooms free from ‘life-debris’.
Declutter Again
Now you’ve got rid of the big stuff, go through every room again, hang coats in wardrobes, tidy away shoes from the front door, put dog leads in drawers, anything that’s left that could be tidied, tidy it. Making your house look ‘zen’ will attract buyers, increasing competition and offers.
On The Move Property
Upgrade The Bathroom
Replace taps, plugs and showerheads. Clean grouting, put in new seals and sealants.
You can even add a pot plant or two, all transforming a bathroom for under £100.
Kitchen Makeover
The other room that really matters to buyers is the kitchen.
Painting or spraying doors, replacing handles or simply changing the light fitting can make a big difference. Painting tiles is another inexpensive trick to freshen up the room. Specialist tile paints are well on budget.
Worktops
Another handy kitchen hack is updating worktops by adding an overlay. Tough, durable and surprisingly easy to apply, overlays come in a huge range of colours, styles and patterns.
Make A Workspace
With more people working from home, having a clearly-defined workspace shows prospective buyers how the house can work for them.
Add A House Name
Studies have found houses named using words like ‘Cottage’, ‘Willow’, ‘Holly’ sell for a higher price than similar homes without a name. It’s easy to design and buy your own house name plaque online.
Get Planning Permission
If you can stretch your budget a bit further, houses with planning permission (to add an extra room, convert the loft or garage, etc) sell on average for 10% more and sell faster. Typically, it costs around £258 to apply for planning permission.
n Get more house selling tips at Armishaws.com/blog
