The New Stour & Avon - Issue 125 by The Blackmore Vale Limited

What’s inside this issue...

Lloyd Armishaw Publisher newsdesk@ blackmorevale.net Tel: 01963 400186

Contact Us

Advertising: jane.toomer@blackmorevale.net 07714 289411

Editorial: newsdesk@stourandavon.net Postal enquiries to: 3 Alfred’s Way, Wincanton, BA9 9RU

Debi Thorne Sales director debi.thorne@ blackmorevale.net Tel: 07714 289409

Jane Toomer Senior account manager jane.toomer@ blackmorevale.net Tel: 07714 289411

Steve Belasco Editor steve.belasco@ stourandavon.net

Lorraine Drake Distributor lorraine_drake @icloud.com Tel: 07850 529937

Classified ads: classified@stourandavon.net 01963 400186 or online at stourandavon.net by Wednesday the week before publication, with final copy submitted by the Friday. Classified ads may be accepted after this, however these will be subject to available space.

Cover: Beech avenue, Wimborne

Choirs unite to boost hospice

Tim’s Singers chose Poolebased Forest Holme Hospice as their Charity of the Year in 2025.

Led by choir leader Tim Dowland, known for his work on BBC’s The Voice, Tim’s Singers brings together the vocal talents of Citrus Singers, Sing & Grin Choir, Balance Choir, and Academy Junior Singers. Throughout 2025, the choirs raised £10,299.57, bringing their overall fundraising total

to £12,554.91 in support of hospice care for local patients, families and carers. Funds were raised through a variety of creative and inclusive activities, including the Big Sing Church Tour and the release of a reimagined version of Coldplay’s All My Love, renamed All Our Love. The choirs also supported Forest Holme through raffles, the sale of handcrafted items, and

performances at the hospice’s annual Tie A Yellow Ribbon and Light Up A Life memorial events.

Kirsty Perks of Forest Holme said: “We’d like to thank the singers, choir leaders and supporters for their generosity, time and continued encouragement of community connection through music.

“We look forward to continuing our partnership this year.”

Special show for theatre’s 40th birthday

Ferndown Phoenix Musical Theatre is celebrating it’s 40th anniversary, and is are presenting a special anniversary concert on March 7 at 2.30pm and 7.30pm, at the Barrington Centre in Ferndown.

The programme has been curated to reflect the company’s journey over the past four decades, featuring much-loved songs performed alongside several brand-new pieces to be performed for the first time.

The concert is both a celebration of the past and a look ahead to what’s next. Many of the songs will be familiar to long-standing supporters, while the newer material represents the continued growth and creativity of the company. Tickets are adults £12 and children £6, from ticketsource.co.uk/phoenix.

Group wins major archaeological award

Volunteers from the Wimborne-based East Dorset Antiquarian Society (EDAS) have been recognised by the Roman Society for their work on the Druce Farm Roman Villa excavation.

The Roman Society - the leading organisation in the UK for those interested in the study of Rome and the Roman Empire - bestowed them with the Britannia Award, saying the amateur group made ‘an outstanding voluntary contribution to Roman archaeology in Britain’.

Between 2012 and 2018, EDAS excavations at Druce Farm, near Puddletown, discovered a Roman villa

and a Neolithic site. EDAS site directors Lilian Ladle and Andrew Morgan led a core group of 20 volunteers over seven excavation seasons, working from April to October each year. They were supported by members of other local societies, notably Wareham and District Archaeology Society, and in total, 140 people spent 4,889 days on site, revealing the villa complex and investigating miles of Roman ditches and middens. Tasks ranged from excavating, to washing finds on-site,

and recording and drawing. EDAS actively engages with local communities, inviting them to share their passion for archaeology and history. During the excavations, more than 250 pupils visited the site and hundreds of visitors were guided through the villa area on various open days over the years.

EDAS is a friendly amateur society committed to conserving and promoting our archaeological and historical heritage. For more information, visit dorset-archaeology.org.uk.

Festival celebrates 10 years

Wimborne BID is calling on local businesses and community organisations to get involved in Discover Wimborne 2026, as the much-loved festival celebrates its 10th anniversary in April. For a decade, Discover Wimborne has become a proven platform for businesses of all sizes to raise their profile, attract new customers and be part of something that brings the whole town together. Last year’s festival featured nearly 200 events, with activities every day. From in-store demos, workshops and tastings to talks, exhibitions and behind-the-scenes experiences, Discover Wimborne provides businesses with the opportunity to showcase what makes them unique,

often with low-cost or free events that encourage footfall and engagement.

Fiona Pawsey, chairman of Wimborne BID, said:

“Discover Wimborne has grown into one of our most successful and inclusive BID initiatives.

“Doorstep visitors are just as important as tourists, and this festival helps businesses connect with both.

“It’s about visibility, creativity and reminding people just how much Wimborne has to offer.”

Businesses and community organisations planning any kind of event in April are encouraged to take part. To be included in Discover Wimborne 2026, or to discuss ideas and support, contact Tammy Sleet at office@wimborne.info no later than February 27.

£19,000 distributed at ‘hand-out evening’

Verwood Rotary Club were delighted to host their annual ‘hand-out evening’ at the Hub in Verwood in January. This was an opportunity to celebrate the success of the annual Rustic Fayre last August. More importantly, it was an evening to hear from some of the organisations, groups and charities who received a donation from the £19,000 raised to support their amazing work in the wider community.

Much of this is voluntary and supports a wide range of needs and age groups. Many are also reliant on fundraising to do this.

Vern Harris (fayre chairman) and acting president Andy Maw thanked all who support the fayre in so many ways to ensure everything went well. All the hard work before and on the day seemed very worthwhile when hearing about how much difference the donations made.

The evening was also an opportunity to recognise the remarkable contribution of Vern Harris who is stepping back as fayre chairman after 32 years.

Andy said: “Vern’s time, energy and commitment have been instrumental in shaping the fayre into the respected and much-loved community event it is today.”

Pictured is Andy Maw thanking Vern Harris and recipients of donations at the event with Vern Harris at front.

Louisa Hiscock

Pictures: PAUL BUTTOLPH

Views sought on speed limits

Residents and road users in Ferndown and West Parley are being invited to have their say on proposals to reduce speed limits.

Dorset Council has launched a public consultation on plans to introduce 30mph limits along sections of the A347 New Road and the B3073 Christchurch Road. The consultation runs until Friday, February 20.

The proposals follow requests from residents, town councils and Dorset councillors to reduce speeds on the busy routes.

People can support, object or comment on the proposals online via Dorset Council’s website or by writing to the Traffic Regulation Team, Dorset Council, Colliton Park, Dorchester, DT1 1XJ. All responses must be received by Friday, February 20.

Follow brick road to museum

Step into a world of magic, imagination and adventure this February as the Museum of East Dorset launches a new Wizard of Oz-inspired family trail.

With excitement around the ‘Wicked’ films reigniting global love for Oz and its unforgettable characters, the museum is encouraging families to reconnect with the story that started it all. From ruby slippers to the Emerald City, this fun-filled trail celebrates the timeless tale that continues to inspire generations.

Throughout the half-term holidays, families can follow the Yellow Brick Trail through the museum, joining Dorothy and her chums on a journey packed with puzzles, creative challenges and activities. Just like the Tin Man, Scarecrow and Lion, visitors will be invited to test their courage, kindness

and curiosity with each stop inspired by a different character from over the rainbow, encouraging playful learning, exploration and imagination.

Children are also encouraged to truly get into character at the museum’s ever popular dressing-up area, with a selection of costumes, adding even more magic to the experience - perfect for budding lions, tin men, scarecrows and witches. Adding to the half-term

highlights, the museum will host special free storytime sessions in partnership with Wimborne Library, at 10am and 2.15pm on Monday and Tuesday, February 16 and 17, in the museum’s entrance gallery.

The Wizard of Oz trail is included with museum entry, and every ticket comes with the added magic of an annual pass.

Telephone 01202 882533 or visit museumofeastdorsetco.uk for details.

Visitors welcome at town WI

Wimborne Minster WI’s next meeting is on February 16. Our speaker is a local lady who can be seen in the town wearing her beautiful 1940s outfits!

We meet at St Catherine’s Church Hall, Lewens Lane, Wimborne.

Please arrive at 9.50am so that the meeting can start at 10.00am.

Visitors are always welcome. For further information please call me on 01202 888194.

Jill Haywood

Wimborne

Why ‘20’ matters so much

With new signage appearing in villages and towns and SID now flashing 20mph, it is good to see the majority of drivers taking notice and slowing down.

The importance of compliance cannot be over emphasised.

Fear of motor traffic speed is the number one reason given by all ages for not cycling or walking those short daily journeys which previous generations automatically undertook.

Children going to school, parents to work, shopping trips (half of all UK journeys are under two miles!) can easily be made on foot or bicycle if only the road felt safe to share; and remember it is pointless having a low speed or exclusion zone around a school gate if the road from home to school does not feel safe.

Part of my training involves giving HGV drivers the opportunity to experience being a two-wheel user as part of their compulsory professional development training.

A problem with modern cars is their design ability which reduces the occupants’ sense of speed or vulnerability.

Perhaps such training should be mandatory for all road users as a prerequisite to the right to drive any type of motor vehicle,

either two or four-wheeled.

So, if like a neighbour recently told me, you think a wide area 20mph is an unnecessary step too far, hang up your car keys for the day and join me for a walk or cycle around your town or village to see life from the other side of the bonnet.

Then imagine, if those 50% of journeys under two miles were walkers and cyclists, how much calmer would be our roads with half the volume of cars and those remaining going that bit slower. Whether or not you yet have 20mph but would like slower traffic where you live, consider displaying wheelie bin stickers to remind us all why we Love20.

Dilys Gartside

Wimborne

Grown with love in Chettle visit www.theveglady.co.uk to sign up!

Too scared to enter our show?

I’m delighted to let everyone know that the Verwood & District Horticultural Society is launching its second Scarecrow Competition, following the huge success of last year’s event!

The competition will take place during the Spring Show on March 21, and we’d love schools, businesses and local community groups to take part. We had such a fantastic response from visitors last year who thoroughly enjoyed the creativity, humour, and imagination on display - so we couldn’t resist bringing it back!

This year’s theme is A Character From History - a topic full of possibilities. Let your creativity run wild as you bring a famous historical figure to life in scarecrow form!

We’re very grateful

to Verwood Town Council for generously donating the prize fund - these will be allocated via voting on the day to award The People’s Choice!

1st Prize - £50

2 x Runner-Up Prizes - £25 each.

If you’re ready to take on the challenge again, please let me know!

Full details about the competition can be found on our website: verwood horticulturalsociety.co.uk

It would be fantastic to get as many of Verwood’s businesses and community groups together for this fun competition. We are also welcoming individuals and families to have a go - we can’t wait to see what is created.

Ollie Greensmith

Verwood

Flipping heck... it’s race time!

The Wimborne Minster Pancake Race will take place on Shrove Tuesday, February 17. The venue is outside the main north porch entrance to the Minster and the first race will commence at 11.00am as the Pancake Bell is tolled. Competitors will run round the Minster tossing their pancakes at the four corners of the church. In the event of wet weather the races will take place inside.

Competitors should report to the north porch by 10.30am to enrol, complete with frying pan and ready-cooked pancake. Anyone can enter, male or female, young or old, individuals, schools, groups and organisations; all are most welcome.

So, have we some challengers (over 18) to win the ‘John Loader Memorial Cup’, presented by Martyn and Kathy Curtler and become the Minster Pancake Champion 2026? There will also be races for under-18s.

Depending on the number of entries these will again be spilt into three age ranges 4 to 9,

9 to 13 and 13 to 18. Likewise, there will be races for pre-schools and toddlers and those using wheelchairs. The Race this year takes place during half-term but don’t let this put you off from entering! Prizes will be awarded to the winners of each category including a sack of wild bird food, kindly donated by Wimborne Pet Centre, to the winner of the wheelchair-users’ Race.

This year the Race will be receiving some extra support from French conserve brand Bonne Maman - well known for their iconic red gingham lids. So there will be plenty of delicious mini jars to share with participants and some lovely goody bags for race winners. So come on, get yourself into training for the big day and pick up an entry form from the Minster or the parish office in Church House, (next to the Minster) or just turn up on the day and have some fun!

Anthony Oliver Wimborne

Motor Show

Rowing Regatta

- Diesel Gala, 25th May - 26th May

25th May - 9th June

May - 1st June

Regatta, 8th June

15th June - 16th June

- ‘Roads to Rail’

Regatta

EVENTS IN SWANAGE 2025!

MARCH

Swanage Railway - Spring Gala - Friday 28th March - Sunday 30th March

July - 14th July

Beach Gardens Open Day - Saturday 28th March

Swanage Railway - Spring Gala - Friday 28th March - Sunday 30th March

Swanage Railway - Spring Gala - Friday 27th March - Sunday 29th March

Swimming Festival, 20th July - 21st July

MARCH

Swanage Carnival Classic Motor Show - Sunday 27th April

MARCH

ARNIVAL WEEK! 27th July - 3rd August

Swanage Carnival Classic Motor Show - Sunday 26th April

Blues Festival, 29th Feb - 3rd March

Swanage Railway - Victorian Weekend, 22nd March - 24th March

Swanage Railway - Diesel Gala - Friday 9th May - Sunday 11th May

APRIL

Coastal Barbarians Rowing Regatta - Saturday 17th May

Carnival Classic Motor Show, 21st April

Swanage Railway - Diesel Gala - Friday 8th May - Sunday 10th May

Carnival Classic Motor Show, 21st April

Craft Fair & Fete, 8th August 10th August - 18th August

Pirate Festival - Saturday 24th May - Sunday 25th May

Pirate Festival - Saturday 23rd May - Sunday 24th May

Coastal Barbarians Rowing Regatta, 27th April

Purbeck Art Weeks - Saturday 24th May - Sunday 8th June

MAY

Purbeck Art Weeks - Saturday 23rd May - Sunday 7th June

Fairy Festival - Friday 30th May - Saturday 31st May

Swanage Railway - Diesel Gala, 10th May - 12th May

Pirate Festival, 25th May - 26th May

theatre - Peter Pan, 11th August - 12th August 31st August

Sea Rowing Summer Regatta - Saturday 7th June

Purbeck Art Weeks, 25th May - 9th June

The Fish & Food Festival - Saturday 13th June - Sunday 14th June

Fairy Festival, 31st May - 1st June

Sea Rowing Supervets Regatta - Sunday 8th June

Fairy Festival, 31st May - 1st June

Sea Rowing - Summer Regatta Weekend - Saturday 20th June - Sunday 21st June

Sea Rowing Supervets Regatta - Sunday 8th June

JUNE

Swanage Railway - Roads to Rail Steam Rally - Friday 26th June - Sunday 28th June

Fish & Food Festival - Saturday 21st June - Sunday 22nd June

Swanage Railway - ‘Roads to Rail’ - Friday 27th June - Sunday 29th June

Sea Rowing Regatta, 8th June

Swanage Railway - ‘Roads to Rail’ - Friday 27th June - Sunday 29th June

Fish Festival, 15th June - 16th June

September - 8th September

Hants & Dorset Coastal Rowing Regatta - Saturday 4th July

Swanage Railway - ‘Roads to Rail’, 28th June - 30th June

Coastal Rowing Regatta - Saturday 5th July

Coastal Rowing Regatta, 29th June

Jazz Festival - Friday 10th July - Sunday 12th July

Coastal Rowing Regatta, 29th June

Jazz Festival - Friday 11th July - Sunday 13th July

JULY

The Wild Swimming Festival - Saturday 18th July - Sunday 19th July

- Classic Steam & Vehicles, 6th September - 8th September Festival, 20th September - 22nd September

Wild Swimming Festival - Saturday 19th July - Sunday 20th July

Jazz Festival, 12th July - 14th July

SWANAGE CARNIVAL WEEK! - Saturday 25th July - Saturday 1st August

Wilkswood Reggae Festival - Thursday 24th July - Sunday 27th July

The Wild Swimming Festival, 20th July - 21st July

SWANAGE CARNIVAL WEEK! 27th July - 3rd August

SWANAGE CARNIVAL WEEK! - Saturday 26th July - Saturday 2nd August

SWANAGE CARNIVAL WEEK! 27th July - 3rd August

SWANAGE CARNIVAL WEEK! - Saturday 26th July - Saturday 2nd August

AUGUST

Rotary Summer Fete - Thursday 6th August

Festival, 3rd October - 6th October

Lifeboat Week - Saturday 8th August - Saturday 15th August

Rotary Summer Craft Fair & Fete, 8th August

Rotary Summer Craft Fair & Fete - Thursday 7th August

Lifeboat Week, 10th August - 18th August

Lifeboat Week - Saturday 9th August - Sunday 17th August

Harmans Cross - Annual Fete & Show - Bank Holiday Monday 31st August

Lifeboat Week - Saturday 9th August - Sunday 17th August

Rowing Regatta, 5th October

SISATA outdoor theatre - Peter Pan, 11th August - 12th August

Purbeck Valley Folk Festival - Thursday 14th August - Sunday 17th August

Music by the Sea, 31st August

Harmans Cross Field Day and Fayre - Monday 25th August

Festival, 18th October - 2nd November

Folk Festival - Friday 11th September - Sunday 13th September

IN SWANAGE

SEPTEMBER

Swanage Railway - Autumn Steam Gala - Friday 11th September - Sunday 13th September

Folk Festival, 6th September - 8th September

Planet Purbeck - Discovery Fest - Saturday 19th September

Folk Festival - Friday 5th September - Sunday 7th September

Swanage Railway - Classic Steam & Vehicles, 6th September - 8th September

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER

Planet Purbeck Festival, 20th September - 22nd September

Swanage Railway - Classic Steam & Vehicles - Friday 5th September - Sunday 7th September

Planet Purbeck Festival, 20th September - 22nd September

Beach, November - December tbc Switch on, 30th November

Planet Purbeck Festival - Saturday 20th September

OCTOBER

Planet Purbeck Festival - Saturday 20th September

Blues Festival - Thursday 1st October - Sunday 4th October

Blues & Roots Festival, 3rd October - 6th October

The Purbeck Film Festival - Friday 16th October - Sunday 1st November

25th Swanage Blues Festival - Thursday 3rd October - Sunday 5th October

Supervets Rowing Regatta, 5th October

Swanage Literary Festival - Friday 6th November - Saturday 7th November

25th Swanage Blues Festival - Thursday 3rd October - Sunday 5th October

Supervets Rowing Regatta, 5th October

Purbeck Film Festival - Friday 17th October - Sunday 2nd November

Purbeck Film Festival, 18th October - 2nd November

CHRISTMAS IN SWANAGE

- Christmas Events, November - December tbc Market, 7th December Dip! 26th December

Purbeck Film Festival, 18th October - 2nd November

CHRISTMAS IN SWANAGE

Artisans on the Beach - Saturday 21st November - Sunday 20th December

CHRISTMAS IN SWANAGE

Artisans on the Beach, November - December tbc

Artisans on the Beach - Saturday 22nd November - Sunday 14th December

Switch on the Christmas Lights - Saturday 28th November

Artisans on the Beach - Saturday 22nd November - Sunday 14th December

Christmas Lights Switch on, 30th November

Christmas Lights Switch on - Saturday 29th November

Swanage Pier Trust - Christmas Events - Various dates in December

Christmas Lights Switch on - Saturday 29th November

Swanage Railway - Christmas Events, November - December tbc

Swanage Railway - Christmas Events - Dates TBC

Swanage Railway - Christmas Events - November - December tbc

Rotary Christmas Market, 7th December

Rotary Christmas Street Market - Saturday 6th December

Rotary Christmas Street Market - Saturday 5th December

The Boxing Day Dip! 26th December

Information Centre / 01929 766018 / welcome@swanage.gov.uk. throughout the year see our website ‘Visit Swanage’

The Boxing Day Dip! - Thursday 26th December

The Boxing Day Dip! - Saturday 26th December

Swanage Information Centre / 01929 766018 / welcome@swanage.gov.uk

For more events throughout the year see our website ‘Visit Swanage’

Buyers trigger-happy for airguns collection

Dorset; and South Kensington, London

A lifetime collection of air rifles, air pistols, edged weapons and other militaria is being sold without reserve by Charterhouse in Sherborne on Wednesday, February 25.

Richard Bromell of Charterhouse said: “The collector, who lived near Wincanton, Somerset, was an avid airgun collector for nearly 70 years.

“Over the decades, he amassed some 200 airguns and other militaria which he proudly displayed on the walls in the attic room of his Somerset chalet bungalow.”

The owner, who recently passed away, enjoyed target shooting from an early age, and even met his late wife at a shooting club back in the 1950s.

An engineer by profession, the air rifles and pistols in the collection which fascinated him, date from the late 18th century through to modern specialist target rifles and document the technological progression of

airguns over the centuries. Estimates in the collection range from £40 to £2,000 and overall are expected to sell for £40,000 when they go under the Charterhouse gavel in this specialist militaria auction in Sherborne.

Charterhouse is now accepting further militaria, coins, medals and stamps, bears, dolls, model cars, trains and other toys for this specialist February three-day collectors’ auction.

n Richard and the team can be contacted for specialist advice and valuations at the Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne, 01935 812277 or via rb@charterhouseauction.com.

GS WINDOWS

£2,075

£2,755

£3,450

£4,140

£4,820

Food & Drink

Cooking... with Martha Legg

Easy chocolate mousse

Like most children, my granddaughters love chocolate. Their mum limits their intake, quite rightly, but at Grandma’s house it’s grandmas rules!!

They are very good about sharing and things being fair. They had a chocolate bar and Ellie asked Grandad if she could take it with her in the car. He said yes, but forgot to think of Lizzie!

In the car, Ellie opened hers and Lizzie was sad, so we said to Ellie that if she shared her bar, then Lizzie would share hers when we got home. Good as gold, Ellie shared hers and then had some of Lizzie’s later.

As a treat, I decided to make them some chocolate mousse for after their dinner. I found this really easy recipe and decided to give it a go.

I used a chopped-up chocolate bar and mixed in some milk chocolate as well as dark chocolate.

It sets really well and it’s best to take it out of the fridge to warm up before you eat it. This makes it relax a bit.

As you can see from the picture, Lizzie really enjoyed hers, although she seems to have more round her mouth, than in it! I also gave them some marshmellows to put on top!

As it was late when we had dinner,

I decided that the girls could have pudding for breakfast; don’t think Mum was too impressed but... Grandma’s rules!

Ingredients

1 cup chocolate chips , I use semisweet, I used a bar and cut it up ½ cup heavy whipping cream, for melting chocolate chips

⅔ cup chilled heavy whipping cream, for whipping

1-2 tablespoons icing sugar ¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract, optional, use it if you have it

Method

In a large bowl, heat chocolate chips and ½ cup cream until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth. I do this in the microwave in 20-seconds increments, stirring well between each. Set aside to cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally (this took about 15 minutes).

In the bowl of a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat ⅔ cups chilled cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form

Transfer the whipped cream to the refrigerator until the chocolate has cooled to room temperature. Using a rubber/silicone spatula, fold the whipped cream into the melted chocolate. Once fully combined, transfer the mousse into individual serving dishes and chill for at least 2 hours. The colder it is, the more firm it will be.

If you’d like it softer you can leave it at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving.

Add toppings if desired, such as marshmellows, chocolate buttons, etc.

Restaurant teams up to support veterans

Parley Place care home in West Parley is teaming up with Pizza Express in Christchurch to host a regular coffee morning of support and connection for veterans and their loved ones in the community.

The Veterans’ Coffee Morning, which will be held on the last Thursday of each month from 10am-11.30am, is a chance for anyone who has served or has a loved one who has served to get together for a cuppa and a slice of cake. It’s a relaxing morning of chatting, exchanging stories and supporting each other.

Parley Place’s head chef Kris whipped up a delicious selection of cakes to take for the guests to enjoy whilst Anna, general manager of Pizza Express, served tea and coffee.

Both Michelle and Anna were on hand to chat with attendees and talk more about support or ideas for future events.

Gina Smith, general manager at Parley Place, said: “It’s important for us as a

home to support our local community and the veterans who served for king and country deserve our time and respect.

“We’re honoured to be hosting this event and hope it continues to grow and support the community.”

Anna added: “Community is so important and, being in the centre of Christchurch, we’re more than happy to host and be involved with supporting our veterans.”

Some of the veterans are pictured above with Michelle and Anna.

‘Pawsome’ fun at library!

Join us at Corfe Mullen Library on Wednesday, February 18, from 2pm3.30pm for a free and fun session all about helping children understand and respect dogs.

The session wil be run by Debby, a dog behaviourist and the author and founder of Kids Around Dogs. Children will discover how to be kind, calm, and safe around dogs, whether they have one at home or not, or

even if they are scared of dogs.

There’ll be a storytime, with a dog-themed book read aloud and fun activities to follow.

The session is aimed at ages four to 10 years.

Please contact the library to book a free place. Contact corfemullenlibrary@ dorsetcouncil.gov.uk or telephone 01202 659755. Jessica Burford

Political round-up

Water should not be treated as a commodity

Storm Chandra was the third storm to hit the South West this year and, although we were fortunate that Garretti eased before reaching Dorset, the most recent storm left large parts of Dorset under water. After weeks of rain, rivers were full, and saturated ground simply could not absorb any more. Residents told me about power cuts, stranded cars, and impassable routes. Some people raised concerns about silted gullies, and blocked drains make it harder for water to disperse. But even the most frequently jetted systems would have struggled with the sheer volume of water this year. Others pointed to new housing as a factor, and while additional hard surfaces do increase surface runoff, many of the areas that flooded are not connected to recent housebuilding. Our climate is bringing wetter winters and more intense downpours. Our infrastructure has not kept pace. Much of Dorset’s drainage network dates to Victorian times

and has been left unimproved for decades. Privatisation was meant to drive investment, but it is clear this has failed. Instead of modernising the system, water companies - often owned overseas - have prioritised bonuses and dividends.

I welcome the Government’s recent ‘root and branch’ review, and the Water White Paper published last month. Replacing the current system of regulation with a single regulator is sensible, but it will only be effective if it comes with real powers. That includes the ability to bring failing water companies back into public ownership, ideally through a mutual model that is accountable to its customers. Water is too important to be treated as a commodity, and public interest must come first. We also need a street-by-street upgrade of sewers and drains. I support the MOT For Pipes Programme, but I want to be sure that it won’t be customers who pay for this through even higher

Liberal Democrat Mid-Dorset & North Poole VIKKI SLADE MP

bills. I am also disappointed the Government still refuses to make water companies statutory consultees on planning applications. Without this, new homes may be approved without considering impact on drainage. Wessex Water is introducing new monitoring technology, and I was encouraged to hear about live flow and leak reporting at a meeting with them about flooding across Shapwick and Sturminster

Marshall. But the upgrades identified are years away, which is unacceptable.

While infrastructure investment is needed, we can all play our part in reducing pressure on the system. Water butts, trees, soft landscaping and clearing drains all help slow down the water entering the system.

Water bills will arrive soon, with inevitable increases, and although business costs have increased, water companies continue to profit while our rivers and seas are polluted. Liberal Democrats are calling for a sewage tax on those profits to fund long-overdue upgrades, full transparency on sewage discharges, and a shift to mutual ownership so companies are accountable to the communities they serve. In recent weeks we have seen no shortage of water, but as the Rime Of The Ancient Mariner reminds us, water is worthless if it isn’t clean. I will keep working to ensure Dorset gets the clean, safe water it deserves.

Creative arts now a main pillar of education

I loved music, art, needlecraft and drama lessons in school!

I was a conscientious student in my academic classes, but it was the expressive arts lessons, school concerts, plays and exhibitions, that shaped my personality and taught me skills, that gave me the confidence that I have today. In the US, ‘Show and Tell’ presentations, are imbedded in a school’s daily routine, from nursery, to leaving school. We did not do much of that, but we did have an abundance of expressive arts lessons that more than made up for it.

In my all-girls secondary school, we even had a fullyfunctioning self-contained flat, where pupils would learn to take care of it: DIY, cooking, cleaning, laundry and even how to take metre readings (remember those!) and pay bills!

We got a certificate in Domestic Science at the end. To my annoyance, I later

learned that the boys’ school opposite had no such flat, but had a woodwork and car maintenance garage!

I complained and soon won us access to that after school - alas none of the boys opted into coming over to our flat for lessons!!

A May 2024 report by the Cultural Learning Alliance, found that the, ‘…creative and cultural education in England’s state schools has been systematically deprioritised over the last 14 years’.

The charity examined government data between 2010 and 2023 and found that GCSE entries for creative arts subjects had dropped by 42 per cent, with 40 per cent of schools, not entering a single pupil in a music and drama GCSE!

Let that sink in!

As we are at the beginning of the major arts and entertainment award season

- we just had the Grammy’s and I am looking forward to the Baftas and Oscarsthese statistics make for very bleak reading for our future success in the expressive arts industries. The creative industries brought in £124million for the UK economy in 2022

and employs 2.4million people - and that was while we were still in the shadow of Covid-19.

So where are we going to get the future creative arts employees from?

Is it a coincidence that cuts in creative arts funding from 2010-2023 coincided with the rise in social media addiction in schools?

The Labour Government has worked with the Cultural Policy Unit, to reshape our school’s curriculums, with creative arts now a main pillar. The National Centre for Arts and Music will be established in 2026, with the creative arts overall receiving a cash injection of £270million along with us having an overall education budget of £50.9billion for 2026/2027.

A pledge made, a pledge being delivered.

Dorset Labour CANDICE JOHNSON-COLE

Admiring Trump’s ability to change attitudes

The political class is rightly under attack for treating electors with disdain.

The postponement of local elections is an exercise in self-preservation to frustrate the right of people to use their ballots for change.

The defection of MPs to a different Party from that to which they belonged when elected is also democratically indefensible.

To add insult to injury, we have the spectacle of a very senior Labour politician applying to stand in a by-election in a seat vacated by an MP on the grounds of ill health but then being rejected by a nine-person politburo of his own Party.

As Kemi Badenoch has said, the country may not be broken beyond repair but some of its democratic mechanisms are failing to meet legitimate expectations.

n Foreign policy, national security and defence continue to dominate political debate. Fortunately, at the time of

writing, it seems that the Government has been thwarted in its efforts to surrender ownership of the Chagos Islands and the Diego Garcia military base to Mauritius and then buy back a lease at an unbelievably extortionate cost of £350billion.

The persistence of the Conservative opposition to this deal has finally persuaded President Trump of the gravity of the security threat which was entailed.

Everyone now knows where Greenland is and its increasing geographical significance as Arctic ice melts.

We may not always understand the words and behaviour of the President of the United States but we must admire his ability to challenge woolly and complacent attitudes even when they come from NATO or the European Union.

n While the Chinese threat looms larger than ever, the Prime Minister is engaged in continuous appeasement which is against our national interest.

Christchurch & East Dorset CHRIS CHOPE MP

How else can one interpret his decision to allow China to build a new embassy in the heart of London’s financial district against the advice of our own security services?

n The volatile weather conditions we have been experiencing are a reminder

of the importance of building effective resilience against the consequences of global warming.

The need for investment in flood defences to guard against future weather events has never been more urgent but the Government is preoccupied with burdening householders, businesses and motorists with extra regulatory costs and restrictions while spending taxpayers’ money on subsidies to mitigate the worst impacts of those very policies. How absurd!

One sometimes wonders whether solar panels are being imposed on new houses so that the effective monopoly suppliers of such panels - the Chinesecan be enriched at our expense. Similar considerations apply to increasing our dependency on imported electric vehicles, batteries, wind turbine blades and other carbon-reduction measures which are only necessary because of the Government’s ‘net zero’ zealotry.

Foundation awards £60k to young achievers

The trustees of the John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation have kick-started 2026 with a commitment of more than £60,000 in awards, to support the dreams and ambitions of young people throughout our community.

The funding means that both individual young achievers and entire schools and youth groups will benefit from a host of new projects and opportunities in the year ahead.

This year’s pledge builds on the impressive legacy of 2025, in which the JTYAF distributed more than £62,000, directly impacting 115 young people and funding 19 projects across local schools and youth groups.

Awards last year ranged from £50, funding Duke of Edinburgh’s Award fees,

up to £3,700 for Ferndown Upper School, helping refurbish its library and create a wonderful new space for students to study. Support will be available to young people from 18 youth organisations, with two new partnerships; the Tall Ships Youth Trust and the Bournemouth Youth Marching Band.

Foundation bursaries will provide access to Tall Ships Adventures for young people from Dorset and Wilts who face financial barriers. Meanwhile, aspiring young musicians joining the Bournemouth Youth Marching Band will receive their instruments, thanks to the foundation’s generosity. Additional funding has been

earmarked for young people not affiliated with currentlysupported organisations, broadening the foundation’s reach and reinforcing its commitment to inclusion and diversity.

To see all the groups benefiting this year, see the ‘Our Work’ section on the foundation website.

Founded in 2008 in memory of Lieutenant John Thornton RM, who lost his life serving with 40 Commando Royal Marines in Afghanistan, the foundation remains dedicated to helping young people ‘climb as high as they can dream.’

To find out more about the foundation’s work, the projects it supports, or to get involved, visit www.jtyaf. org.

Pictured is four-legged mascot Willow meeting the trustees and ambassadors.

Conservative

Award-winner Nicki still at top of her game

Weight-loss consultant

Nicki Edwards has been named a UK Top 50 Consultant for 2025 to add to her awards from 2015 and 2016, Regional SouthWest Consultant 2018 and Silver Elite Champion 2021-2024. What this means for Nicki’s many clients is that they’ll all be supported by Nicki who is passionate and highly trained and has been a consultant since 2013. She has a deeper, wholebody understanding of weight loss including nutrition, mindset, hormones, digestion and life stages such as menopause.

Nicki offers nonjudgemental, passionate informed personalised support, particularly when weight loss feels more complex or challenging. She really cares about

everyone and you’re definitely in safe hands.

She said: “I’ve successfully maintained a 4.5-stone weight loss myself for more than 18 years and I believe all my clients can do the same!

“I see my job as helping people get ‘happy in their skin!’

“It’s such a simple phrase to say but in reality it does take focus, commitment and real effort; but the rewards are massive and life enhancing in so many ways.

“Every day I help people overcome struggling to bend over and tie a shoe lace because their tummies get in the way, not fitting in ‘normal’ cloths or being able to shop in ‘normal’ clothes shops, feeling hot even when it’s cold and getting out of breath simply going up the stairs.

“It breaks my heart to hear clients say they never like their photograph being taken - just think of all those lost memories.

“To be unable to run around after children/ grandchildren, the

embarrasement of not fitting into aeroplane seats, being refused health and life-changing operations because BMIs are just too high.

“So many health problems are caused or exacerbated through being overweight.

“I change this for people every day - and that’s priceless.”

There is no doubt that the world of weight loss choices is rapidly changing, however Nicki continues to exceed her customers’ expectations and goals over and over again.

Many of her clients tell her she’s an inspiration and they would never have done it without her unwavering support.

n Nicki Edwards - The Cambridge Lady, 07904 331589.

Empowering you with balanced nutrition

I truly hope to be the destination of choice for weight loss before anyone else, no matter how someone chooses to do it, I promise to be your expert at the centre of your journey, meeting all your needs.

For those people coming to me who are health-conscious or who are using GLP-1s (weight loss jabs), I can now support you all with ease and confidence with our brilliant new brand. What is PortionIQ?

PortionIQ has been created by The 1:1 Diet by Cambridge Weight Plan with a clear mission: To empower people, especially those on their GLP-1 journeys to stay nourished, energised and supported with balanced nutrition that complements their lifestyle. By combining evidence-based science, portion precision with trusted 40 years of expertise at our finger tips, PortionIQ delivers daily nutritional support that helps people feel their best - one portion at a time.

PortionIQ is not one of our amazing meal replacement products that successfully help my many dieters lose amazing

amounts of weight, they are supplementary products, designed to support anybody’s nutritional needs.

They have been crafted specifically to support GLP-1 users looking for smarter, more nutrient-dense options that help

them feel strong through the day. Why this matters for you

PortionIQ will work for everyone, both new and existing customers.

• If you chose to try GLP-1s this is for you

• If you want a fantastic nutritional boost alongside your

current meal planning this is for you

• If GLP-1s haven’t worked and you’re ready to explore other options, including The 1:1 Diet products.

If you need a truly healthy nutrition boost to your everyday. The 1:1 Diet by Cambridge Weight Plan certainly know that when customers choose GLP-1s, it can be harder for them to get enough good protein, fibre and key micronutrients. Even, sometimes, eating enough to stay healthy.

These products have been created specifically to help fill those gaps. We also know that weight loss with GLP-1s can come with risks such as considerable muscle and bone loss, some pancreatic issues, fatigue and brain fog to name but a few.

That’s why it was so important to us to develop a range that truly supports customers through these challenges and helps them feel strong, clear-headed and in control while losing weight or simply living a great life.

n Nicki Edwards - The Cambridge Lady, 07904 331589, www.one2onediet.com/NickiE.

Home & Garden

Cracking fundraiser set to be egg-cellent

Leading Dorset mental health charity Plants and Minds is egg-cited to announce its 2026 Easter Egg Bingo Night, with all proceeds helping adults to

mental wellbeing via gardening and community connection. Set to take place on Wednesday, March 18, at Kinson Conservative Club in

the event promises a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere with fantastic Easter-themed bingo prizes and plenty of opportunities to socialise while supporting a great cause. Plants and Minds runs award-winning Cherry Tree Nursery in Bournemouth, as well as Chestnut Nursery in Poole, where adults with life-impacting mental health conditions engage in therapeutic horticulture - a programme that has a proven track record of transforming wellbeing.

an event that’s fun, accessible and brings people together while supporting a great mental health cause. “Easter bingo felt like the perfect way to achieve our goals, and we’d love to see the community come along and engage in what promises to be an evening to remember.”

Doors open at 6.30pm on Wednesday 18 March and it’s eyes down for a bingo bonanza at 7.15pm.

Tickets, which cost just £15 per person, include a half-time fish and chips supper, which will be served at 8.30pm.

improve their

The charity’s community liaison officer, Maria Tidy, said: “We wanted to put on

For more details and to reserve tickets, go to buytickets.at/plantsandminds.

Baby Buddies sessions for under-2s Clay earrings workshop at the Treehouse

Diverse Abilities is hosting a Polymer Clay Earring Workshop on Tuesday, February 10, from 6pm-9pm at the Treehouse in Hurn.

Led by Maea of Cherry Moon Accessories, the fun, hands-on workshop invites participants to craft three pairs of beautiful polymer clay earrings. Attendees will explore a range of techniques - foils, marbling, ombré, and slab work, and experiment with vibrant designs.

Each participant will receive printed, step-by-step guidance, so they can carry on their new hobby at home.

Tools and cutters are included in the price of £25.

Tickets and further information at diverseabilities.org.uk/ daevents/polymer-clay

Diverse Abilities, Dorset’s Disability Charity is offering free multi-sensory sessions for families with babies aged up to two years with complex medical conditions.

Baby Buddies is a supportive and enriching environment for little ones, taking place at the Treehouse.

Designed specifically for those with complex medical conditions, the mission is to provide a safe, stimulating, and nurturing environment where babies have fun too.

A team of experts and professionals who are passionate in helping children and understand the importance of early intervention for their development and future, will be available to answer questions and offer advice.

The sessions will take place at The Treehouse, Merritown Lane, Christchurch, BH23 6DT on: Wednesday, March 18: 1-3pm

Farming & Environment

Wednesday, May 6: 1-3pm

Nicki Priddle, deputy headteacher at Langside School said: “We’re really looking forward to starting these Baby Buddies sessions.

“It’s a great opportunity to meet caring and knowledgeable professionals who will provide enriching and engaging activities for you and your baby.

“Our aim is to create a

supportive community with these sessions too, so you’ll be able to meet other parents in similar situations, and families who understand your journey.”

All sessions are free of charge, and there is also free parking available at the Treehouse.

Confirm your place by contacting Nicki, either by emailing nicki. priddle@diverseabilities.org.uk or by calling 01202 518635.

Lung worm - preparing for turnout

What is lung worm?

Lung worm is caused by the parasitic nematode dictyocaulus viviparus in cattle.

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

explosion of lungworm cases after the late August rain.

It has a direct life cycle, with infective third-stage larvae being ingested from

pasture. Each larvae is programmed to migrate from the gut to the lungs, where they mature into adults. It is an amazing lifecycle!

Who is at risk?

Cattle of any age or breed that have not built-up immunity through natural exposure or vaccination are at risk, including: First season grazing calves

Previously exposed adult cattle that lack subsequent re-exposure, known as reinfection syndrome

Naïve bought-in stock lacking prior immunity.

Suspect a case of lung worm?

Once you have had a case of lungworm, the clinical signs are very easy to spot. Clinical signs are caused by irritation and airway obstruction of the bronchi by adult lungworm and the migration of lungworm larvae through the lung tissues. If you suspect you have cases of lungworm on farm call your vet who can help confirm diagnosis and treat clinical signs!

Cost on farm

Infections result in reduced growth rates and loss of milk and decreased fertility due to permanent lung damage. Studies estimate economic cost per adult dairy cow to be £140 and £50-£100 per beef cow.

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

The pace here at the farm goes from very slow to full pelt and for those Cofarmers and Volunteers who do not attend here daily, the changes at the farm from one week to the next, can be hard to comprehend sometimes. Take for example this week; we had our long-awaited wood bay extension arrive. It was made off-site by Dorset Sheds and they arrived on Monday and by the end of the day the wood bay extension was completed.

This has been made possible thanks to a successful grant application to Wessex Water - we knew we were outgrowing the wood bay area as it is so popular and now we have an area twice the size and under cover, so more people can work in there and we will be able to stay dry, along with the wood we work with. The grant enabled us to

double the area and pay for a new concrete floor, to buy the materials, as well as the luxury of being able to pay for Dorset Sheds to erect the building. It was perfect timing as on the Tuesday we had torrential rains and flooding. Talking of flooding we were lucky enough not to have the flooding too near to us, but there were still lakes on the field and it wasn’t only the ducks who enjoyed paddling in the water.

Another exciting venture this week was having Barabara Cossins, a wellknown local entrepreneur, and her chef Seb from Love Local Trust Local, here at the farm to help show us how to start producing ready meals from our produce for the Farm Shop using our own lamb and vegetables from the shop. They spent the day here making shepherd’s pies, ham and leek pies and a

Farming & Environment

creamy vegetable soup from our vegetables for us to sell in the shop.

Some of our co-farmers were able to help and by mid-morning the whole of

the yard smelled delicious. I have it on good authority that the pies taste delicious and they will be available to you all to buy from frozen in the near future.

Arrow words

Wordsearch

Toolbox

Crossword

Across

Killer Sudoku Pro

Across

1 Nudge about minister with department (6)

4 A medal say worn by European that’s ancient (3-3)

8 Colour restricted for container (3)

9 Name and see dating wrongly (9)

11 Jug put in pew erroneously (4)

12 Councillor with appeal I term almost highly discriminating (8)

15 One showing willing in shift around Luton possibly (9)

18 Exceed a set of deliveries with part of flight? (8)

Down

1 Unsound nonsense by figure (6)

2 Change position of staff before work (9)

3 Uncovered number due for replacement (4)

3 Uncovered number due for replacement

5 Attempt to obtain expression largely for ambitious sort (2-6)

6 Old boy, a West African chief (3)

7 Work to support river in a profound way (6)

6 Old boy, a West African chief (3)

10 Digress about new hair product in a weird fashion (9)

7 Work to support river in a profound way

10 Digress about new hair product in a weird fashion (9)

13 Establish link between firm and bishop, English and behind schedule (9)

14 Launch book in the end out of supply (5,3)

19 Remedy part of foot, we’re told (4)

18 Exceed a set of deliveries with part of flight? (8)

21 Original model for religious books in kind (9)

13 Establish link between firm and bishop, English and behind schedule (9)

16 Masterstroke regarding voucher (6)

14 Launch book in the end out of supply (5,3)

17 A line I bet suspect though (6)

23 Outstanding card (3)

19 Remedy part of foot, we’re told (4)

21 Original model for religious books in kind (9)

24 How don could appear – or start to sleep (3,3)

23 Outstanding card (3)

24 How don could appear – or start to sleep (3,3)

25 Overcome two poor grades with achievement (6)

Killer Sudoku Pro:

16 Masterstroke regarding voucher (6)

17 A line I bet suspect though (6)

20 By the sound of it, top tennis player is to give up (4)

22 Peculiar old theologian (3)

20 By the sound of it, top tennis player is to up (4)

22 Peculiar old theologian (3)

Place 1 to 9 once each into every row, column and bold-lined 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.

Motoring

Fixed

Servicing

M.O.T.s

Loan

Air

Smart

Diagnostics

Tyres

2016 (65) Audi A5 Coupe 1.8TFSi S Line Nav 2dr. Sat nav, parking sensors, cruise control, leather, heated seats, road sign assist, Bluetooth, auto lights & wipers, hill holder, 92,900 miles

2017 (17) Ford KA+ 1.2 Zetec 5dr. 85bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, parking sensors, cruise control, hill hold, air con, Bluetooth, upto 56mpg economy, small exterior with a spacious interior, 76,900 miles ....................................£6450

£7950

2019 (19) Mitsubishi ASX 1.6 Juro 5dr. Medium sized SUV, high seating & ground clearance, big boot, reverse camera, heated seats, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, Bluetooth, hill holder, 82,500 miles £8450

2006 (06) Mercedes-Benz CLK200 1.8 Kompressor Sport Automatic Convertible 2dr. 163bhp, petrol, 5 speed auto gearbox, recent new roof & shocks absorbers, full history, 15 stamps, heated leather, electric roof, auto lights & wipers, cruise, park sensors, MOT June 25, private sale on behalf of a customer, 77,500 miles ...........................................................................................................£4250

£12450

2019 (19) Citroen Grand C4 Space Tourer 2.0HDi Flair Automatic 7 Seat MPV 5dr. 7 seats, flat fold seats, high seating, big boot, sat nav, park sensors, reverse camera, sunroof, electric tailgate, massage seats, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, hill holder, road sign assist, collision safety systems, 59,500 miles Available soon

2012 (62) Ford Ka 1.2 Studio 3dr. 69bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, £35 yearly tax, 50+mpg, simple car with basic spec, cambelt replaced, MOT Nov 2025, private sale on behalf of a customer, 73,500 miles .......................................£2950

2018 (68) Renault Captur 0.9TCe Iconic 5dr. Small SUV, high seating, sat nav, parking sensors, cruise control, road sign assist, Bluetooth, auto lights & wipers, sliding rear seats, 73,500 miles £6850

2018 (18) Fiat Panda 4x4 0.9T Twin Air 5dr. Rugged 4-wheel drive, good ground clearance, Bluetooth, hill holder, city steering switch for extra light steering when needed, great performance & economy, 50,600 miles

2014 (14) Ford Kuga 2.0TDCi Titanium X AWD 4x4 SUV 5dr. 163bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, 4x4, high seats, leather, heated seats, heated screen, sat nav, park sensors, auto park, reverse camera, sunroof, auto lights & wipers, cruise, lane aid, sign recognition, hill hold, electric tailgate, cambelt replaced, 92,500 miles .........£7450

2024 (74) Suzuki Swift 1.2 Ultra MHEV

2015 (65) Peugeot 308 1.2THP Allure Automatic 5dr. 130bhp, petrol, 6 speed automatic gearbox, sat nav, park sensors, reverse camera, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, hill hold, only £35 a year road tax, 50+mpg economy, cambelt has been replaced, 69,500 miles..............................................................DUE IN SOON

£8950

2014 (14) Ford EcoSport 1.5TDCi Titanium X Pack 5dr. Small SUV, high seating, X pack, leather, parking sensors, cruise control, Bluetooth, hill holder, auto lights & wipers, £35 tax, cambelt kit replaced, 87,800 miles

2020 (69) Ford Tourneo Custom 2.0TDCi Titanium 320 L1 H1 Automatic 9 Seat Minibus 5dr. 130bhp, diesel, 6 speed automatic gearbox, 8 seat plus driver, reversable seats for conference or forward facing, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, heated front seats, park sensors, cambelt replaced, 97,000 miles ............£21500 + VAT = £25800

£4950

2021 (21) Ford Puma 1.0T ST Line X MHEV 5dr. 155bhp, sat nav, parking sensors, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, main beam assist, road sign assist, Bluetooth, hill holder, collision safety systems, adjustable boot floor & mega box storage, 47,800 miles

£12650

2020 (69) Ford Transit 2.0TDCi Trend 350 MWB MR L2 H2 11 Seat Minibus 5dr. 130bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, 10 seat plus driver, 2 front seats, 9 rear seats, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, parking sensors, heated front seats, hill hold, cambelt replaced, 90,200 miles.........................£19500 + VAT = £23400

2018 (18) Kia Ceed 1.6CRDi GT-Line 5dr. Sat Nav, reverse camera, parking sensors, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, hill holder, road sign assist, Bluetooth, 60+mpg, 46,500 miles

£9650

2014 (64) Kia Venga 3, 1.6 Automatic (Sat Nav) 5dr. 123bhp, petrol, 4 speed automatic gearbox, high seating, decent boot, sat nav, parking sensors & reverse camera, electric sunroof, partial leather, heated seats, cruise control, sign recognition, hill hold, only 38,800 miles........................................................£7850

2019 (68) Kia Venga 4, 1.6 Automatic 5dr. High seating, sat nav, reverse camera, parking sensors, heated seats, heated steering wheel, sliding rear seats, adjustable boot floor, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, Bluetooth, sunroof, hill holder, 22,950 miles

2016 (66) Mazda 3, 2.0 SE-L Nav Automatic 5dr. 120bhp, petrol, 6 speed automatic gearbox, sat nav, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, parking sensors, sign recognition, heated seats, hill hold, 75,900 miles...................................£8450

£12250

2023

2019 (19) Renault Captur 1.5DCi Iconic Automatic SUV 5dr. 90bhp, diesel, 6 speed automatic gearbox, sat nav, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, parking sensors, hill hold, high seating, sliding rear seats, upto 67mpg economy, 20,300 miles .........................................................................................................£12250

2017 (17) Vauxhall Astra 1.4 SRi 5dr. 100bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, auto lights & wipers, parking sensors, cruise control, pre-collision assist, sign recognition, hill hold, Bluetooth, 63,600 miles ..............................................£6950

2016 (66) Vauxhall Mokka 1.6CDTi SE 4x4 SUV 5dr. 136bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, 4 wheel drive, high seating, big boot, heated leather seats, heated steering wheel, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, parking sensors, hill hold, performance & economy, upto 60mpg, 65,500 miles ....................................£7250 WE BUY CARS & VANS SO IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING TO SELL GIVE US A CALL, WE PAY GOOD PRICES & CONSIDER MOST VEHICLES

Recruitment

Boarding and Day Prep and Pre-Prep School Matron

Required for Immediate Start Term time only

Come and join the marvellous Matrons at Sandroyd. Are you caring, kind, flexible and organised? Do you enjoy working with a happy, fun team? If so, please get in touch.

Hours: 35 – 40 hours per week, term time only

Salary: £18,270 - £20,880 per annum

For further details, please contact: Rupert Burnell-Nugent, Sandroyd, Rushmore, Tollard Royal, Nr Salisbury, 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

Water Engineer

Do you enjoy a diverse and challenging job?

Due to expansion, we are looking for an experienced water engineer familiar with various pumps, boreholes, treatment, pipework and controls. We are an established close team based near Shaftesbury, Dorset. £16-£19/hr PAYE depending on ability

Company van provided | Clean Driving Licence and Excellent References

Please email your CV & covering letter to: recruitment@hgwater.co.uk

HOUSEKEEPER

Required to manage a large house in West Dorset.

This is a wonderful opportunity for the right person, who would embrace and be responsible for all day-to-day aspects of running a large house. To include cleaning, laundry, occasional cooking, admin as well as taking care of the owner’s pets and other animals. And from time to time assisting in the garden. (Working as part of a small friendly team.)

The ideal candidate should look at this opportunity as a lifestyle rather than a job.

In return; a generous salary and a separate two-bedroomed cottage. Would suit a single person (No Pets) References and DBS check required.

Please Contact and send your CV to Oddny at oddny@oskuhus.co.uk

The award-winning co-ed prep school for ages 2-13, near Shaftesbury, Dorset.

CHAIR OF GOVERNORS

Port Regis’ governing body, the Council of Management, is seeking to appoint a new Chair of Governors. The Council of Management consists of some 14 Governors, it has five committees reporting to it, each with its own Chair - Education, Wellbeing and Safeguarding, Governance, Finance and Marketing and Admissions. The Chair of Governors will provide strategic leadership to the Council of Management and will ensure that the school’s vision, values, ethos and long-term sustainability are upheld. The Chair will work in close partnership with the Head and Bursar to support, challenge and hold senior leadership to account, whilst ensuring high standards of governance, compliance, education and pastoral guidance are met.

Please contact Clair Beaty-Pownall (Director of People) for further information: clair.beaty-pownall@portregis.com

Port Regis (Charity No: 306218) is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The successful applicants will be required to undertake an Enhanced DBS and safer recruitment vetting checks.

High season for cinema

High Contrast Cinema, the volunteer-run community cinema based at the Allendale Centre, is gearing up for a brand-new season of screenings this spring.

The project continues to celebrate classic cinema on the big screen, bringing vintage films to local audiences in a warm, communal setting.

For 2026, High Contrast is taking a joyful detour into the golden age of Hollywood with its Screwball Comedy Seasona run of four sparkling, quickwitted favourites that take audiences further back in time than ever before.

The season opens today, Friday, February 6, with the Thin Man (1934), a razor-sharp blend of mystery and marital banter that helped define the genre.

On March 20, audiences can enjoy Holiday (1938), a sophisticated romantic comedy pairing Cary Grant and Katharine Hepburn at their most charming.

Preston Sturges’s mischievous

masterpiece The Lady Eve (1941) arrives on April 17, before the season concludes on May 15 with the beloved classic The Philadelphia Story (1940) with James Stewart alongside a returning Grant and Hepburn.

Information: highcontrast.org.

NUREMBERG (15)

HALL (15)

HAMNET (12A)

Panto group in bid to save village hall

So you think you know the story of Cinderella?

Well, think again!

Colehill Music and Drama

(Co.MaD)’s annual pantomime for 2026 tells a very different version of the classic fairy tale.

After the Prince falls in love with Cinderella, it all goes horribly wrong; her wicked stepmother finds a way to get him to fall in love with Ugly Sisters, Britney and Donatella, instead! Will Buttons or the Fairy Godmother be able to thwart them?

With songs and laughter, high jinks and dastardly plans, this pantomime is one you must see, to find out if true love can really win the day!

Co.MaD are performing Twisted Cinderella at Colehill Village Hall from

this evening, Friday 6, to Sunday, February 8, at 7.30pm on Friday and Saturday and at 2.30pm on Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are, as usual, great value at £8 for adults and £5 for children, available from www.ticketsource/ comad and any remaining will be available at the door. Over the years, Co.MaD

has made contributions to many local causes and charities and this year is no exception, the recipients being the Colehill Village Hall itself where the society performs.

The hall, a vibrant community facility, is in need of funds to keep it operating as, without additional funding, Colehill

could lose this vital resource.

Co.MaD treasurer and local councillor, KD Johnson said: “We value Colehill Village Hall greatly; we use it regularly, as do other clubs and societies and Colehill Town Council itself.

“Without the facilities offered by this hall, Co.MaD itself could be in danger of disbanding, as we would have nowhere else to go in the locality for our rehearsals and the panto performances themselves. “We’re pleased to do our bit to support this valuable community asset.”

So go along and have a laugh, knowing you are helping your local community in a very worthwhile cause.

John Bounds

Love hurts... wicked Valentine cards revealed

Flowers, hearts and Cupid not your thing? This Valentine’s season, the Museum of East Dorset is offering a dark alternative - a display of Victorian ‘Vinegar Valentines’ that prove the art of the savage putdown is nothing new. Long before awkward texts and social media pile-ons, the Victorians perfected passive aggression on paper.

Vinegar Valentines were openly insulting cards sent anonymously to people you didn’t like - mocking their looks, their job, their personality and even their marriage prospects. Roses are red but vengeance is sweet!

Now, some rare Victorian Valentine cards, including probably some of the most wicked examples ever made, are on display at the museum in Wimborne.

Curator Millie Lake said: “They’re shocking, funny and brutally honest and they tell us so much about Victorian society.

“The collection is recognised as nationally significant and is believed to be one of the finest of its kind in the

UK, with more than 350 cards in the care of the museum.

“We have picked some of the best to put out on display for visitors to enjoy this Valentine season.”

Popular from the 1840s onwards,

Vinegar Valentines were cheaply produced and mass-posted - often anonymously - to discourage unwanted admirers or settle scores.

Some were aimed at pushy suitors: ‘My pleasant, pigfaced gentleman, you may persuade me to marry you if you can…!’

Untrustworthy romantic hopefuls were another favourite target - particularly men whose motives were suspect:

‘From a lady to a rake, think not gay deceiver, I’m a fond believer!’

The Valentine card collection is available to view all year round. Free annual pass with every admission ticket.

•

Sixpenny Handley

The Roses,Village Hall, Common Road, SP5 5NJ.

Friday 20 February, 6.30pm for 7.00pm £6.00. Bar &

Information: 6dhandleyhall@ gmail.com

DAMERHAM DUCK RACE

Easter Saturday (April 4) from noon. Ducks away 12.30pm. Damerham Village Hall, SP6 3HD.

A quacking great day out for all the family beside the lovely Allen River.

Over £500 in prize money to be won.

Six races and a grand final. Bar, BBQ, refreshments and stalls. www.damerham.org.

SNOWDROP WEEKEND

Come and see our magnificent drift of snowdrops growing wild in the Norman Churchyard of St George’s Church, Damerham, Near Fordingbridge, SP6 3HU. February 14 & 15, 10am to 4pm. Entry is free. Refreshments, stalls, toilets and ample parking.

Will you dash to adopt Elsie and Doug?

Hello, we are Elsie and Doug and we are three-year-old miniature dachshunds.

Doug and Elsie are very affectionate and like nothing more than to have lots of cuddles and sit on your lap.

Elsie is the braver of the two and has the confidence for them both, she enjoys to sleep under a blanket.

Doug is the calmer of the two and a sensitive little soul. He likes to be close to you and his sister.

They love to run and play together in the garden chasing each other and enjoy their walks.

Be ready for them to steal

your heart and your lap. They are brother and sister and very bonded, so will need

to be homed together. If you are able to offer Doug and Elsie, or any of their

lovely friends, a forever home or a foster home, please contact our office on 01202 875000, e-mail: admin@ waggytails.org.uk or visit our website waggytails.org.uk. We also have many other dogs looking for forever homes.

Never too late to change direction during divorce

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

I feel like my divorce is going from bad to worse. What can I do?

It’s never too late to change the direction that your divorce proceedings are taking. If you feel that tension is escalating and you’re not progressing, it might be a good time to take a different approach.

Collaborative law or mediation may be approaches that could work better for you.

Collaborative law involves your lawyers working together, with face-to-face meetings taking place with both of you and your lawyers so that everyone can work as a team to try to resolve matters in an amicable way. Mediation also promotes open communication and involves a third person helping you to discuss options and concerns with each other to reach solutions together.

Sometimes the introduction of a third, neutral, person to the

dynamic can really help matters progress positively.

Other options involve a barrister providing an early neutral evaluation or an arbitrator making a definitive decision on matters where you can’t find agreement. These options can ultimately save you time, angst and money. There are many flexible options, and it is important to explore them to make sure you’re following the best route for you - it’s never too late to make a new start.

If you’re feeling unsure about your next step, early advice can make all the difference. Call 01202 203200 or email enquiries@hgwalker.co.uk to speak confidentially with a member of our Family Law team.

HGW Solicitors offers free monthly legal advice clinics at various locations across Dorset. Just pop in and have a chat with a legal professional. No appointment is required.

February Free Legal Advice Clinics

The Centre Ferndown

Barns Rd, Ferndown, BH22 8XH Free legal advice: Wills and Family Friday, 6th February 2026

From 10:00 am to 12:00 pm

The Hub On The Heath

BH23 2AW Thursday 19th February 2026

From 10:00 am to 12:00 pm The Coffee Lounge West Moors

Buy a hot drink and get free legal advice 10, Adastral Square, Canford Heath, Poole BH17 8SA

Thursday, 12th February 2026

From 10:00 am to 12:00 pm

Wednesday, 25th February 2026

From 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm

Law Spot is brought to you by Harold G Walker Solicitors, your Friend-in-Law. The answers in this feature are for guidance purposes only and so not constitute legal advice. enquiries@hgwalker.co.uk |

Contact your Friend In Law today

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