The New Stour & Avon - Issue 138 by The Blackmore Vale Limited

What’s inside this issue...

Fayre 2026 18-19

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

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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

n Diet delight p4

n Hall’s well p5 n Ape japes p25

Man jailed for abusing child

A Poole man has been jailed after admitting sexually assaulting a 12-year-old nearly four decades ago and sexually abusing a woman in 2023. Neil Lawrence, 62, pleaded guilty to indecently assaulting the child and sexually abusing the woman on multiple occasions. He has been jailed for more than four years. Lawrence pleaded guilty to indecently

assaulting a child in 1987 when he was sentenced on July 22. He further offended in 2023 against an adult female and denied offences of three counts of assault by penetration, voyeurism, sexual assault and threatening to disclose private sexual photographs. Despite Lawrence claiming they had all been consensual, a jury found him guilty of each count.

Town staff help cyclist

Staff at a business in Wimborne gave medical help to a cyclist needing medical attention in Chapel Lane, Wimborne, last week.

CPR and a defibrillator were administered by staff from MyDentist before police and ambulance crews arrived. Police attended along with the ambulance service and road closures were put in place. Police confirmed the man was taken to hospital for treatment but his condition was not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing.

An air ambulance landed at the

scene at about 3pm last Tuesday. The road was later reopened. A police spokesman said: “We would like to thank members of the public for their patience and understanding while the closures were in place.”

Picture: ANTHONY OLIVER

Poole Military Tattoo 2026

“Sometimes I look at these two photos and can hardly believe they’re both me!

The photo on the left was taken when I weighed 13 stone. The photo on the right is me today, maintaining my weight at 8 stone after losing 5 stone in just 5 months… and, more importantly, keeping it off for 2 years.

This isn’t about being “better” or judging the person I was before. She was doing her best with what she knew at the time.

It’s simply a reminder that small choices, made consistently, can completely change your life. You don’t have to be perfect. You don’t have to be the fastest. You just have to keep going, especially on the days you feel like giving up.

If you’re reading this and you’re at the beginning of your journey, please believe this…

You are capable of far more than you give yourself credit for. One decision, one meal, one walk, one day at a time. That’s how change happens.

If I can do it, there’s every chance you can too.”

Call or message me to know HOW and I’ll tell you exactly how I too lost 5 stone and more importantly, how I’ve maintained that 5 stone Weight Loss now for the last 19 years. I’d love to help you too.

Community project is helping stop food waste

A community-led initiative in Wimborne is turning surplus food that would otherwise go to waste into a valuable resource for local people, helping reduce food poverty, cut waste, and strengthen community resilience.

The Wimborne Community Food Project collects food that would otherwise be discarded from supermarkets, ensuring good food reaches those who need it most, including older people, families facing financial pressures, people experiencing homelessness, individuals in recovery and members of the wider community.

Demand has nearly doubled in the last year and with the cost of living continuing to affect communities and growing awareness of the environmental impact of food waste, the project offers a practical local solution to both significant issues.

Due to demand, the project is now seeking support of matched funding through the Aviva Community Fund where every pound donated will be doubled by the fund.

You can help raise funds via communitiesfund. avivafoundation.org.uk/p/ wimborne-food-wellbeinghub or find out more by visiting facebook.com/ wimbornecommunitycentre.

Villagers enhance parish hall

Holt Parish Hall now boasts a new fenced garden area to enhance the building which is used for numerous meetings, club activities, social events and private hires.

A volunteer working party of Holt residents levelled and gravelled with tangible and generous support from several prominent local businesses.

Martin Stewart, John Whitelock and Paul Miller all stepped in with their respective specialisms.

A packed ribbon-cutting ceremony was held and Martin Stewart,

pictured, wielded the ceremonial scissors.

He said: “What has been achieved at the parish hall is wonderful and can only help the community of Holt prosper.

“I’m perplexed as to why it was me cutting the ribbon! But more importantly, there was a wonderful community group making it happen. They deserve the credit!” Many local families helped establish the hall, so a 91-year tradition continues.

Bruce Grant-Braham

Furzehill boxes clever!

The village of Furzehill, one mile north of Wimborne, has renovated its phone kiosk to become a mini-information centre, a library and a seed exchange.

The work was undertaken by volunteers with the financial sponsorship of Holt Parish Council and the pubs the Old Inn, the Stocks, the Barley Mow and the Horns as well as the local Furzehill Post Office.

The newly-renovated kiosk was opened by Councillor Sue Barnes who congratulated all those involved.

The information board was designed by local artist Andrea Hook.

The old phone box, which had become a bit of an eyesore,

has become a local landmark and is now a very definite thing of beauty!

Lady who is 5ft 3, platinum hair, thin build, green eyes been living in Dorset for 3 years who would like to meet a decent gentleman that drives, likes holidays, days out and laughs. Slim build preferred.

07496 808901

John Rynne

Seventh festival proves best in the Westival

Hundreds of people enjoyed a wonderful day of community spirit, entertainment and family fun as West Moors Town Council’s annual Westival returned to Fryer Field.

Celebrating its seventh year, the free community festival once again proved to be a huge success, attracting residents and families from across the local area who braved the 32-degree heat for an afternoon packed with live entertainment and attractions.

Despite the soaring temperatures, the Audio Allstars soon had the audience on their feet with two energetic sets packed full of modern favourites and timeless classics. A special highlight followed as Bournemouth Carnival Band arrived in their now-famous Spiderman costumes, bringing plenty of music, laughter and fun.

Visitors were treated to returning favourites including

spectacular mountain bike stunt displays, children’s magic shows, the craft tent and magnificent birds of prey. New attractions for 2026 proved equally popular, with Phoenix Aerial showcasing impressive circus skills - and inviting visitors to have a go themselves - while Blandford Animal Farm delighted families with friendly

Town needs to up safety game

I wonder who owns the pavement side by the Co-op in Wimborne?

Walking through from Mill Lane along the pavement, there’s a tree where the roots are underneath the pavement and they are lifting the slabs up.

It’s very dangerous and I feel everyone needs to be aware...

I have often seen people trip over.

This is a safety issue and

needs to be addressed.

As does the bridge from TJ Jones over to the Waitrose store.

If you walk down the slope side there’s two parts of the floor dangerously poking up - another trip hazard and accident waiting to happen. Come on Wimborne get your act together.

I’m fed up of picking bodies up!

L Lovell Wimborne

goats, sheep and other cuddly animals in their interactive petting area. The last-minute addition of a sprinkler proved a hit, offering welcome relief and plenty of laughter for children and adults alike.

The popular Motors & More showcase was bigger than ever, with a record number of clubs and individual exhibitors

proudly displaying their cherished vehicles. Across the field, visitors explored dozens of stalls run by local businesses, charities and community groups, alongside a wide variety of food and drink vendors, ensuring there was something for everyone to enjoy.

The ever-popular cash raffle also proved a great success; three lucky winners collected £500, £300 and £200 after the event, and wine hampers donated by town councillors delighted two additional winners.

West Moors Town Council would like to extend its thanks to this year’s sponsors: Phoenix Marble & Granite, Brewer & Brewer, Colten Care, The Elephant & Castle, TecCheck and Flooring Elegance, whose generous support helped make this free community event possible.

Planning is already under way for next year!

Broadstone tradition returns

Broadstone Players’ everpopular Plays ‘n’ Chips is not far away!

Audiences sit at tables, watch three one-act plays, and enjoy a hot supper and a raffle.

This Broadstone tradition has now been going for over 30 years.

The dates are Fridays and Saturdays, September 4 and 5 and 11 and 12, and a hot supper is included in the price of £16. There will also be a matinee on Saturday, September 5 at 2.15pm

where a Dorset cream tea is included in the £13 ticket price. This year’s three plays are all comedies and showcase several actors new to Broadstone as well as three directors making their debut with the Players. There will be a licensed bar. Tickets from honsec@ broadstoneplayers.co.uk or call 01202 678449. It all takes place in Broadstone War Memorial Hall theatre. Mar Godfrey Broadstone

Special Needs night approaching like greased lightning

Diverse Abilities, Dorset’s Disability

Charity, is hosting its August club night at Bar Coast on Friday, August 14. Limitless is a monthly club night designed specifically for adults with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Each event offers a safe, welcoming space where everyone can enjoy music, dancing and social connection in a supportive environment, and is designed to ensure accessibility and enjoyment for all

attendees, creating an opportunity for people with additional needs to experience a lively night out in a safe and comfortable setting. The August Limitless event takes place between 7pm-9pm, with Grease as the theme - think Pink Ladies, T-Birds, leather jackets and sunglasses.

A full calendar of events has been announced, with events taking place on: Friday, September 11 Friday, October 16

Friday, November 20

Friday, December 18

Tickets are £5, with carer tickets available for £2.50. Guests who require support are asked to attend with a carer, as support staff are not provided at the event.

Limitless takes place at Bar Coast, 156-164 Old Christchurch Road, Bournemouth, BH1 1NL.

Becky Edwards Dorset Abilities

SATURDAY 23 JANUARY

Get ready for a fab-u-lous evening of Strictly magic in support of Forest Holme Hospice Charity.

Join us for a glittering night of entertainment, including a drinks reception, three course gala meal with wine and an unforgettable live dance competition as our 10 Strictly Stars take to the floor with their professional dance partners.

www.forestholmehospice.org.uk/strictly

Health & Wellbeing

Hospice honours outstanding fundraiser

Forest Holme Hospice Charity has presented supporter Paul Payne with a special commemorative plaque in recognition of his exceptional dedication, commitment and support of the hospice over the past six years.

What began in 2019 as a oneoff charity golf day in memory of loved ones has grown into one of the hospice’s most successful community fundraising events. Through the annual Knighton Heath Golf Club Forest Holme Charity Golf Day, an incredible £57,776.65 has been raised to support patients and families receiving care from Forest Holme Hospice. Paul’s passion and determination have been at the heart of the event’s success. Supported by his wife Lorraine, alongside family, friends, players, volunteers and sponsors, he has created a much-loved event that has become a valued fixture in the

fundraising calendar. His fundraising efforts have also gained national recognition.

In 2025, Paul won a trip of a lifetime on Ant & Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway after his son secretly nominated him, highlighting

his remarkable commitment to raising funds for Forest Holme Hospice and other charitable causes.

Kirsty Perks, corporate and community fundraiser at Forest Holme, said: “On behalf of everyone at Forest Holme Hospice, we extend

our sincere thanks to Paul for everything he has done, and continues to do, for the hospice and the wider community.”

The funds raised through the golf day have made a significant difference, helping the Hospice continue to provide specialist care and support to local people living with life-limiting illnesses, as well as those closest to them.

Kirsty added: “As Paul steps back from organising the event, the impact of his efforts will continue to be felt for many years to come.

“His dedication has not only generated vital funds but has brought people together, created lasting memories and helped ensure that more families can access the compassionate care and support they need when it matters most.”

Pictured is Paul with Forest Holme nurses receiving his presentation plaque.

hospice

Tuckton care home residents enjoy immersive Shakespeare performance

Bournemouth

care home residents were delighted and enthralled by a live, immersive outdoor theatre production performed in the garden.

Wickmeads, based in Tuckton, which is owned and operated by not-for-profit charity Care South, hosted a colourful performance of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet performed by dementia-friendly charity, The Dot Collective in partnership with Open Bar Theatre. The Dot Collective is a professional theatre company, which aims to reduce isolation for those with additional needs and dementia.

Residents were virtually

transported to Verona in the 16th century as actors from The Dot Collective chatted to them in full character and costume, playing various musical instruments as they sung the opening lines of the play. The performance, which took place in the sunshine in the care home garden, sparked happy memories for the residents, who remember studying the play at school.

Tracey Walker, Home Manager for Wickmeads, said: “The residents look forward to welcoming back The Dot Collective every summer and this year’s production of Romeo and Juliet did not disappoint as the actors engaged with the residents and encouraged

them to feel part of the play. It was particularly special for those residents who have a real passion for theatre but now feel unable to visit a theatre. There was so much joy and laughter during the performance, which made it a truly special afternoon for everyone who took part.”

Wickmeads provides residential, respite and dementia care. A dedicated activities team organises a daily programme of events to bring residents together to

socialise and build friendships.

Care South is a leading provider of high quality residential and care at home services across the south of England. The not-for-profit charity has care homes in Dorset, north Devon and Somerset, and care at home offices covering Dorset and Somerset.

For more information about the care services available, go to care-south.co.uk or call Care South on 01202 712410.

Wickmeads residents watch Rome and Juliet performed by The Dot Collective

TA nim ls Needing HOMES

Colby: 10 year old Staffy cross. Came from the pound so no history is known. He is very friendly with people but is unsure about other dogs. He will need training and socialisation. He is very strong.

Rocky: 8 year old Border Collie cross. He will need an experienced owner and to be in a home where he can have the space he will need and an owner that enjoys an outdoor life.

Caesar: 7 year old Staffy cross. Great with people, loves older children. Not good with other dogs.

Lucky & Sally: 8 year old Bichons. Very sweet natured who love company and have a lot of love to give. They enjoy their walks. Appear to be good with calm smaller dogs, but could benefit from further socialisation.

Blue: 8 year old French Bulldog. Friendly girl with everyone and has lots of love to give.

Buckly: 4 year old Sprocker. Special home needed for this active boy who would benefit from living with another active dog. Good with all.

Colby

Lucky & Sally

Nicki Edwards

A nim ls Needing HOMES

Rosie: 15 month old Bichon. New in. A very sweet natured girl who will need more socialisation and training.

Juno: 5 month old Cavapoo. Lovely natured girl ready for her forever home.

Rupert: 13 week old Jack Russell Terrier. Typical lively pup.

Hewie: 3 1/2 year old Staffie. Very friendly with people. Hewie does not like other dogs and will need to be the only pet in the house.

Cookie & Pepper: Are a male Lionhead Cross and female Lop. They are older rabbits, sweet and friendly, who love a fuss.

Buddy: 3 year old Cockapoo. Would prefer a child free home with on going training and plenty of stimulation and exercise.

Mabel: 5 year old Pug cross French Billdog. She is shy when first meeting people but soon comes around. She loves her walks and playing in the garden and is very affectionate.

Rosie

Cookie & Pepper

Buddy

Mabel

•

Specialist Valuation Days in Sherborne

Model Trains, Cars, Dolls & Toys 3rd

Jewellery, Watches, Gold & Silver 4th

Coins, Medals, Militaria & Stamps 5th

Wine, Port & Whisky (bottles or cases) 6th

Chinese & Japanese Ceramics & Bronzes 7th

Dave Angel Collection Auction 19th August

Classic Car Auction 19th November

Classic Bike Auction 26th November

Further entries now being accepted

Angel collection at auction

The classic cars, spares and automobilia from lifelong classic car collector and enthusiast Dave Angel is being sold by Charterhouse on Wednesday 19th August.

Richard Bromell of Charterhouse said: “Growing up I often called into Dave’s legendary scrapyard, Angel Auto’s on Wardon Hill, Evershot, Dorchester, where 40 years ago I would source parts for my trusty Triumph Herald. “Sadly Dave passed away

WANTED Books hardback, fountain pens, coins and stamps, costume jewellery. Cash paid. Telephone Mr Jones 01202 733550

last year and the family have decided now it the time to let his collection come to auction and be available for new custodians.”

In the collection there are classic cars, automobilia, spares and even Dave’s trusty Brian James trailer, mostly being sold without reserve.

Viewing will be at the Angel family property in Rampisham near Dorchester, DT2 0PR, on Tuesday 18th August 10am-4pm.

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

Rustic Fayre 2026

Verwood

Rotary Club’s annual “RUSTIC FAYRE” is rapidly approaching again on 31st AUGUST, Bank Holiday Monday, at Potterne Park, Verwood BH21 6RS

Club members are really looking forward to hosting this great family event for the local community. The event runs from noon until 5ish. The cost has been held again at £7 per person with accompanied children under 16 free. There is also ample free parking available.

The fayre will be opened at noon by guest of honour Jeff Mostyn, former Chair of AFC Bournemouth. All the old favourites and many new attractions will be there to enjoy. There will be a variety of acts in the arena throughout the afternoon to sit and enjoy or take part in. These include BMX stunt riders, taekwondo displays, mini horses and other fun events. There will be a wide range of stalls, live musical performances, crafts, children’s activities, beer tent and food stalls. The popular classic vehicle display will be there to wander round and later in the afternoon you can watch the hotly contested duck races set off - don’t miss the opportunity to buy your own duck to take part in the family race.

All profits raised will be donated to support local groups and organisations as well as Rotary charities and causes in the wider community. So do come along and support this great local event for all the family. Please put the date in your diary and we’ll see you there! You can find uptodate information and buy your tickets in advance online on www.verwoodrotary.org.uk/ verwood-rustic-fayre-2026.

Summer Fair at Canford School - 15th and 16th August 2026

The Wessex Event Company are delighted to be holding our 9th Summer Fair in the beautiful house and grounds of Canford School on Saturday 15th and Sunday 16h August this year

Bring the whole family for a fabulous day out, there is something for everyone.

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

Chill out in our Street Food Area, enjoying mid morning snacks, lunches and afternoon treats, including Bratwurst, Thai, Greek, Indian, Hot Potatoes, Pizzas, Dorset Lamb, Churros, Crepes and Ice Cream washed down with coffee, tea, soft drinks or something stronger from the fairs Bar. While you sit and eat and relax you will be entertained by fabulous local artists.

Our children’s entertainments will include rides, games and face painting, climbing wall, caving tunnel, crafts, rugby tots. The very popular Circus Skills Workshop is on both days for children to participate

in and learn some of the magic of the circus, as well as the Magic Man and Tumble Tots for the very young Disney Princesses and Superheroes will also be joining in the fun..

Watch the Falconry displays and marvel in the grace and agility of these wonderful birds or prey

The cost of entry is just £5 for Adults, with children under 16, £1, making this one of the most affordable, family friendly, value for money days out you will find in the area this summer.

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

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

www.thewessexeventcompany.co.uk

15th and 16th August - 10am-5pm

A fun day for the whole family

Over 100 stalls, Food, Drink, Home and Garden, Live Music and Kids entertainers

The Oak Fair - 23rd and 24th August

The Oak Fair at Stock Gaylard is a celebration of countryside, woodland, timber, craft and above all, conservation. With over 200 exhibitors showing everything from handcrafted wooden furniture to industrial machinery, the Oak Fair provides a platform for rural crafts and countryside tradition.

The heart of the Oak Fair has and always will be conservation, of the countryside and woodland, as well as traditional country crafts. Discover beautifully handcrafted furniture, homeware, baskets, jewellery, art, gifts and more, all created by master craftspeople. Learn more about charities who support our local countryside, woodland and nature and watch demonstrations of traditional hand working and country skills including the ever-popular chainsaw carving, coppice work, medieval reenactments, falconry, heavy horse logging, and the daredevil stunts of the Adams Axemen display. Get involved with hands on activities including archery, willow sculpture and scything. Keep the kids busy with the many children’s activities on offer including bushcraft skills, face painting and tractor trailer rides through the historic deer park. There will also be demonstrations of vintage and modern machinery and skills including logging, fine art foundry and wood chipping.

If you start to feel peckish head to the Market Square where you will find something to eat to suit all members of the family. With a strong commitment to local food and drinks producers this year there will be over 40 exhibitors across the Market Square and Food Marquee selling a wide range of delicious produce.

23rd & 24th August, 10.00am Stock Gaylard Estate, DT10 2BG

Early bird tickets are now on sale: £14 adults, £2.50 children, children in prams go free, £10 concessions. www.theoakfair.com

Politics

Last opportunity to build a working system

As an MP, and before that as a councillor, I regularly speak to local people about what matters most to them. Many raise major issues such as Gaza, climate change, immigration or our relationship with Europe. But when the conversation turns to day-to-day life, two concerns dominate: The NHS and the loss of local council services. Few people mention social care directly. Yet without fixing social care, we cannot fix either of those problems.

People are rightly angered by corridor care, long A&E waits and treatment delays. But when patients are medically fit to leave hospital but cannot access care in the community, be that in their own homes or in a residential home, hospital beds remain occupied and the whole system can grind to a halt. At the centre of this are real families. I was recently contacted after an elderly man was admitted to hospital following a fall.

Within days, doctors agreed he no longer needed hospital treatment, but months later he is still there

while different agencies debate funding, legal responsibilities and the best long-term care option as his dementia progresses. During that time, his ability to walk has deteriorated and his confusion has increased. His care needs are now likely to be more complex than they were before, reducing his quality of life and increasing costs for taxpayers.

For him and his family, this is a failure of the system that was meant to support them. This is not about blame. The choices Government needs to make will probably be unpopular, and to date no government has been courageous enough to make the necessary reform. As our population ages and families juggle work, childcare and caring responsibilities, social care has become one of the country’s biggest challenges while remaining largely invisible to those who do not yet need it. The financial costs are enormous. Care home places can cost around £1,500 a week. Where someone has a property, this will usually be sold but when the money

Liberal Democrat

Mid-Dorset & North Poole

VIKKI SLADE MP

runs out, councils can face the difficult decision of asking families to move loved ones to a less expensive care home because local taxpayers cannot be expected to meet unlimited costs. Where someone has no assets, the cost falls to the council, and they are now spending the majority of their budgets on adult and children’s social care, leaving less money for libraries, road maintenance, parks and other local services residents value.

For years, Liberal Democrats have argued that social care deserves the same urgency as the NHS. Families need better support to care for loved ones, access to respite services, and help navigating a system that is often bewilderingly complex. Young carers must not be overlooked, and care workers deserve proper training, recognition and support. If councils are to cover these costs, they need a sustainable funding settlement so they can meet growing care demands without cutting the neighbourhood services on which residents rely. That is why I welcome the Prime Minister’s decision to make social care a national priority and to seek cross-party solutions. This may be our last real opportunity to build a system that works for patients, families and carers alike. If we get it right, people will spend less time in hospital unnecessarily, councils can refocus on wider community services, and families will have the support they need when they need it most.

Respecting every school pupil’s life ambition

The first visit to the school careers adviser should be the start of an exciting journey for every school pupil, regardless of whether their strengths are vocational or academic. Unfortunately, for some, it can be underwhelming, unproductive and even demoralising.

The running joke relating to the advice from the careers adviser in my all-girls comprehensive school was: ‘White girl: hairdressing - NEXT!’, black girl: ‘nursing (nursery nursing) - NEXT!’.

Believe it or not, that was how it went for the majority of us from working-class backgrounds; the expectations of the top set pupils, where the percentage of middle class girls was higher? Well, it was university and college on the cards for them.

Even the working-class girls in the top set had to fight their way out of the hairdressing and

nursing pigeon hole and often with their parent(s) in tow, had to be very clear in the advice session, exactly what their preferred profession was and what the expectations of their parents were.

I bounded into my first careers interview with dreams of being a journalist and was offeredyou guessed it! Nursey nursing! I do love kids, but that was not the dream!

As you can imagine, I almost jumped out of my chair when former Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced at the Labour Party conference in Liverpool last year, that we would be focusing on getting two-thirds of school leavers into a Gold Standard Apprenticeship or university.

Seeing our current Secretary of State for Education Lucy Powell continue that work with matched commitment and vigour, fills me with encouragement and reassurance.

Our school leaving laws actually state that a young person must be in full-time education, an apprenticeship, employment, or a combination of 20 hours working or volunteering and part-time education or training, so maybe that is a place for the Department for Education and

the cabinet to start.

Providing top-drawer sixthform education in schools and colleges, as well as the required number of apprenticeships, volunteering and job opportunities, will require collaborative working and delivery across several government departments, culminating in enough jobs being offered by employees at the end of it all - jobs that will be accessible to all.

I know that changes to the retirement age have only just started to come into effect, but perhaps looking at lowering it again, could free up the entry level jobs needed for trainees, school leavers and graduates. As people get promoted up the ladder to fill the vacancies left by the retirements, young people will benefit at entry level.

Retirees get bored quickly, so why not recruit them part-time to train young people!

Dorset Labour CANDICE JOHNSON-COLE

Trying to distract electors will not work

By the time this column is printed, the United Kingdom’s national debt will be the £2,869,347,000,000.

The debt will soon reach £3trillion as it is increasing at more than £500million a day.

I strongly recommend that the new Prime Minister installs the ‘debt-clock.org’ calculator at No 10 North.

It would be a constant reminder of the desperate economic reality our country faces and help put into context the plethora of trivial announcements which are already a feature of his premiership.

To my consternation, the last Conservative Government increased taxes to record levels while also funding increased public spending through higher borrowing.

But the current government is even worse.

It has already announced a further £152billion increase in spending by 2028/29 to be funded by £105billion of higher

taxes and £47billion of increased borrowing.

As an MP representing a constituency in the south of England, it concerns me that Andy Burnham, the 11th Prime Minister in my time in the House of Commons, is so obsessed with one region of England.

The Labour MP for Bournemouth West has admitted that she is one of the few who did not nominate the new Labour leader and that she has not yet had the chance to question him directly about his intentions for our area and the South West more generally. She is not alone in being denied the opportunity of questioning Andy Burnham.

He will not appear in the House of Commons until September by which time the steady stream of new government initiatives unrelated to the manifesto on which the last General Election was decided will have become a flood.

Trying to distract electors from

the reality of our economic crisis will not work.

The temporary reduction in VAT on electricity bills is just a gimmick.

It does not extend to gas and heating oil and is less than the Government’s windfall extra

VAT from rising petrol and diesel prices.

n It was good to be able to meet at Christchurch Railway Station the new managing director of South Western Railway who now also has responsibility for Network Rail. Our discussion centred on the need to improve the punctuality of local services adversely affected by an outdated signalling system and temporary speed restrictions.

We also discussed the implications of the improvement works to the railway bridge over the River Avon which is being repaired over the next year.

The inability of the current rolling stock to provide air conditioning for high temperatures was also raised. It was good, however, to hear about plans for longer-term work to the passenger bridge at the station and to see that the welcome improvements to the community room are nearing completion.

Get entries in for autumn horticultural show

Verwood and District

Horticultural Society has launched the schedule for its popular Autumn Horticultural Show, on Saturday, September 12, and organisers are encouraging people of all ages to get involved. Open to everyone, the show features more than 100 classes covering flowers, fruit and

vegetables, handicrafts, baking and photography. Whether you’re an experienced exhibitor or trying it for the first time, there’s something for everyone.

The Society is hoping gardeners across Verwood and the surrounding area will bring their best blooms and home-grown produce to showcase. Thanks to the generous support

of local businesses, £20 vouchers will once again be awarded to the Best Exhibit in each of the show’s 11 main categories.

The Society is especially keen to encourage children to take part. This year’s junior section

includes a Summer Scavenger Hunt, where youngsters are challenged to collect 50 items in a paper bag.

Bags and entry forms are available from Verwood Library.

Children can also enter a flower arrangement in a jam jar, bake and decorate cupcakes, create a habitat scene in shoebox, from a rainforest or garden to an underwater world, or just exhibit something they’ve made and are proud of! Entry is free,

Dave

Just monkeying around!

Meet Dorset’s awardwinning family day out!

At Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre, every visit helps support rescue, rehabilitation and conservation work for endangered primates around the world.

As seen on TV’s Monkey Life, Monkey World is home to more than 240 rescued and endangered monkeys and apes, it offers an unforgettable day filled with fun, education and inspiring stories of second chances. Spot playful gibbons, lemurs and the largest group of chimpanzees outside Africa, many rescued from laboratories, the illegal pet trade and abusive entertainment industries. Families will also find Europe’s orang-utan crèche, where orphaned and abandoned youngsters are given expert care and a brighter future. Little

adventurers will love the Great Ape Play Area, the largest in the south of England, plus woodland walks, cafés, gift shop and free keeper talks throughout the day.

Alan’s fell book socks it to them

Wimborne author Alan Kingsland has reached the last five in the Lakeland Book of the Year awards. His book ‘Fifty-Nine Pairs of Socks’ is the tale of two friends as they tackle the 214 Wainwright fells in Cumbria.

Their thoughts soon turned to recording the trip, so they kept a detailed diary and updated friends and family via a weblog.

The 59 walks inspired the name of the blog - 59pairs. blogspot.com - and the

title of the book eventually published.

The book was written by both men as a diary, with alternating chapters. They scaled all 214 Wainwright Fells in just 59 days (total ascent: 176,664 metres), walking time 292 hours.

There is more information on the walks at 59pairs. blogspot.com.

FEATURE Free entry DORCHESTER VEGAN MARKET FESTIVAL 10am-4pm, Sunday 9th August, 2026 Maumbury Rings, Dorchester, DT1 1TY. 50+ Traders... Not just for vegans! email:wdveganevents@ gmail.com

A full day out of feel-good fun with a purpose. Visit monkeyworld.org or call 01929 462537.

Fifty-Nine Pairs of Socks is available in paperback and Kindle eBook from amazon. co.uk.

Arrow words

Wordsearch

Words With Multiple Meanings

18 Back to the original speed, in music (1,5)

21 Computer bug (5)

22 Small devils (4)

Across

Killer Sudoku Pro

Across

1 Element from zone in Cuba (4)

4 Bruce too confused to get mathematical quantity (4,4)

8 Agreement in a cricket club or ground lately (6)

9 Harsh cut close to face (6)

10 Inactive maid leaving bottles (4)

11 Rota Walt disrupted in unsparing conflict (5,3)

Down

2 Frequency of an event in police department from now commonly expressed (9)

3 Miss in competition for intimate photo (5-2)

4 Promotion in upcoming college for trainee (5)

4 Promotion in upcoming college for trainee

5 Bachelor on American vessel by leading pickup point? (3,4)

6 Victor in haunt upset opponent (5)

5 Bachelor on American vessel by leading up point? (3,4)

6 Victor in haunt upset opponent (5)

7 Old Arab in row (3)

13 At home with lift that’s ill-fitting (13)

11 Rota Walt disrupted in unsparing conflict (5,3)

13 At home with lift that’s ill-fitting (13)

16 Give comfort to son in love when time’s gone (8)

19 Large-scale Eastern film (4)

20 English river over long time source of photos (6)

22 Posh conservationists taken with regret? That’s false (6)

23 Republican guy in place that’s filthy and awful (8)

24 Support a book and film (4)

23 Republican guy in place that’s filthy and awful (8)

24 Support a book and film (4)

Killer Sudoku Pro:

7 Old Arab in row (3)

12 Property in area that’s first given honour (9)

12 Property in area that’s first given honour

14 Fruit that could be forced? Nonsense (7)

15 Lethargy in a rite requiring reform (7)

14 Fruit that could be forced? Nonsense (7)

17 Make solemn allegiance in Sunday sport (5)

15 Lethargy in a rite requiring reform (7)

17 Make solemn allegiance in Sunday sport

18 Escape European lecturer due for replacement (5)

21 A game in the past (3)

18 Escape European lecturer due for replacement (5)

21 A game in the past (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.

Small friendly manufacturing company in Semley, now recruiting for the following Full-time positions;

Metalwork Machinery Operator

Training provided, opportunity to gain experience in sheet metalwork processes, (press-brake & laser cutting) and other machining disciplines as the role progresses. Experience preferred but not essential.

Assembly Technician

Will suit someone with an interest in electrical and mechanical assembly, needs a good eye for detail. Experience or knowledge/understanding beneficial, but not essential.

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.

For further details, please visit the school website or 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 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020

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Cryptic crossword

Farming & Environment

A new will every time

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

We are often asked if small updates can be made to a will without rewriting the entire document. Historically, this was possible through a legal instrument called a codicil. However, legal practices have evolved, and we now recommend drafting a new will for any changes, no matter how minor. This ensures clarity, precision, and legal certainty. What is a codicil?

A codicil is a formal legal document used to amend specific provisions in an existing will. It can be used to:

• Change the name of an executor

• Alter a gift or legacy

• Add or remove a beneficiary

• Modify administrative provisions

A codicil must be signed and witnessed like a will.

It is stored with the original will, and both are read together after death to determine the testator’s intentions. Why we no longer advise using codicils

Potential for confusion

Multiple codicils over time can lead to conflicting provisions. If one is lost or overlooked, it can create

significant legal confusion. A new will consolidates everything into one clear document.

Risk of disputes

Disagreements may arise over whether a codicil was properly executed or reflects the testator’s intentions.

A new will reduces this risk by presenting a clean, updated expression of wishes.

Efficiency

Modern legal tools make drafting a new will faster and more costeffective. It also allows for a comprehensive review of your circumstances, ensuring no outdated provisions remain.

Peace of mind

A single, clear will simplifies matters for loved ones and executors, minimising stress, delays, or disputes. While codicils remain legally valid, they are no longer best practice. At HGW, we believe your legacy deserves clarity, not compromise. If your circumstances have changed, our team is here to help you update your will with care and attention.

Rebekah Taylor

Private client executive

Recent heatwaves proving a challenge

With the summer months in full swing, we are all appreciating the long days, although perhaps not so much the extreme heat!

For stock and their keepers alike, the recent heatwaves have proved a challenge and leave us wondering what the rest of the summer may have in store.

In the short-term strategies to maximise shade, considering housing during the heat of the day and where possible reducing stocking densities can all help. We would encourage that feeding stock should be done in cooler parts of the day where possible and reducing handling during the heat of the day is also advisable.

We have seen some brilliant ideas from farmers trying to aid their stock in keeping cool, especially homemade sprinkler-type systems to increase evaporative cooling of the animals. Many farmers provided hose showers to cattle in the peak of the heat wave and I suspect enjoyed the water splashing themselves!

If you are having any routine healthcare procedures undertaken in any future periods of extreme heat please do contact us and we will work with you where possible to try and avoid the hottest times. In the longer term it leaves us all wondering whether more extreme weather events may become more normal and how we will combat these. How can we harness the potential of the excess rainfall we have within certain winter months?

Undoubtedly a nuisance at the time but a valuable resource as the seasons change.

We see more and more fans being installed, these are brilliant for aiding in air flow but very energy thirsty and thus solar panels are often installed alongside. How can we improve shade at grazing? Or water trough availability to maximise the

use of shadier grazing areas. There are many questions that will be asked in the years to come about how to adapt our farming systems to future proof ourselves against climate change. As the summer progresses, we look forward to the many social opportunities that the agricultural shows provide us. We will have our usual pitch at the Gillingham and Shaftesbury show on the 19th & 20th August, serving a BBQ lunch on both Wednesday and Thursday and tea

to spend time with the team and will see many more clients at the Dorset County show on the 5th & 6th September where we sponsor the sheep shearing. As a team it is a real highlight of our year seeing so many clients and sharing some food and drink. We are so fortunate to be immersed in such a tight knit agricultural community, and the summer show season is an opportunity to appreciate the very best of this community. We wish all of our clients who will be showing animals the very best of luck and look forward to enjoying a catch up with the multiple generations of families that we are able to see all together on show days.

01258 472314

friarsmoorlivestockhealth.co.uk

farmoffice@friarsmoorlivestockhealth co uk

friarsmoorlivestockhealth

Call for more traffic cops

The AA is calling for 1,000 more traffic officers, as figures released by the Home Office show that the number of roads policing units continues to fall.

As at March 31, 2026, just 4,143 dedicated traffic officers were policing the roads across England and Wales. A reduction of six officers 12 months ago, but a 1,094 fall from peak traffic officer numbers in 2016. In a recent poll carried out by The AA, more than half (55%) of drivers say acts of careless driving such as middle lane hogging and tailgating are leading to millions of motorists getting away with it due to a lack of roads police. Similarly, drivers believe other offences such as not wearing a seatbelt (47%), using a handheld mobile phone (46%) and drug-driving (43%) are believed to be going uncaptured due to a lack of roads policing. However, there is a clear call for more roads policing as 88% say that a more visible roads policing presence would make

their communities safer, while 79% say crimes such as vehicle theft, drug dealing and human trafficking could be better tackled with more traffic units.

Jack Cousens, head of roads policy for the AA, said:

“Drivers are telling us loud and clear that they want traffic offences to be dealt with, but the continuous fall in traffic police is making it easier for people to get away with it.

“Be it drink or drug-driving, driving without insurance or using a defective car, too many people think it is going unpunished.”

Local family run business

Vehicle MOTs, Servicing and Repairs. All makes and models.

We take pride in offering servicing & repairs at affordable prices.

All makes & models welcome including Vans

Fixed Price Servicing

M.O.T.s while you wait

Loan cars available

Air conditioning centre (all makes)

Diagnostics

Tyres (at competitive prices)

The Detached Unit, 32 Canford Bottom, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 2HD 01202 882261

www.hillandson.org service@hillandson.org

*Service price is dependent on engine and oil grade*

10% DISCOUNT applied to all new customers, find us on Facebook

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

2014 (14) Audi A3 1.6TDi SE 5dr. 105bhp, £20 tax, 60mpg, clearance bargain, selling for a family member, well maintained, lots of service history, Bluetooth, clean & tidy car, 140,300 miles

£3000

2011 (11) Mercedes-Benz CLC 180K 1.8 Kompressor Sport Coupe 3dr. 143bhp, exceptional condition, documented history, leather seats, parking sensors, Bluetooth, auto lights, only 44,100 miles

£4500

2015 (65) BMW 430D 3.0TD M Sport Automatic Coupe 2dr. 258bhp, Plus package, professional media Nav, park sensors, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, heated leather, hill holder, 55,600 miles

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

£14750

2017 (17) Dacia Duster 1.5DCi 4x4 Laureate SUV 5dr. 110bhp, 4 wheel drive, high seating & ground clearance, big boot, Bluetooth, cruise, parking sensors, cambelt kit replaced, 69,500 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

£8250

2018 (18) DS Automobiles Citroen DS4 1.6HDi Elegance 5dr. 120bhp, sat nav, cruise, parking sensors, auto lights & wipers, hill holder, sign assist, Bluetooth, 70mpg, cambelt replaced, 113,500 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

£4350

2023 (23) Ford Fiesta 1.0T ST-Line X 5dr. 100bhp, reverse camera & sensors, nav, car play, cruise, auto light & wipe, main beam & sign assist, heated seats & steering wheel, hill hold, 21,950 miles .....................................

£14650

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

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

2020 (70) Nissan Juke 1.0DIG-T N-Connecta SUV 5dr. 115bhp, sat nav, car play, android auto, reverse camera & sensors, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, hill holder, road sign assist, 60,800 miles £9650

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

2016 (66) Nissan Qashqai 1.2T N-Connecta SUV 5dr. 113bhp, high seats, big boot, sat nav, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, hill holder, park sensors, reverse camera, sign assist, 43,500 miles £8350

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

2019 (19) Mitsubishi ASX 1.6 Juro 5dr. 115bhp, high seating, big boot, reverse camera, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, partial leather, heated seats, hill holder, 82,500 miles £7950

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

2019 (19) Peugeot 2008 1.2 Signature 5dr. 82bhp, cambelt kit replaced, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, hill holder, sat nav via car play, mirror screening, parking sensors, 33,700 miles £8250

2015 (15) Ford Fiesta 1.0T Titanium 5dr. 100bhp, £20 tax, parking sensors, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, Bluetooth, hill holder, cambelt wetbelt water pump & turbo replaced, 71,900 miles

£5250

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

£2500

2013 (63) Ford Fiesta 1.0T Titanium 5dr. 125bhp, clearance bargain, MOT July 27, cambelt wetbelt & turbo replaced, £20 tax, cruise control, Bluetooth, hill holder, 118,500 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

2018 (18) Ford Transit Connect T200 1.5TDCi Van 5dr. 75bhp, ply lined, 2 seats, full bulkhead, side door, no vat to pay, cambelt kit replaced, 139,500 miles £5500

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

2005 (55) Subaru Legacy 2.0 R 4x4 Estate 5dr. 162bhp, clearance bargain, MOT June 27, old so not perfect, cheap 4 wheel drive load lugger, 153,000 miles £1650