The Purbeck Gazette - Issue 347

purbeckgazette.co.uk

Nuclear site: What to do with waste?

DORSET residents are being asked whether radioactive waste should be buried and left behind following the decommissioning of a nuclear site.

Nuclear Restoration Services Ltd (NRS) operated the site near Wool from 1959 to 1992 – and it is now in the final stages of decommissioning.

This will see the buildings flattened to return the area to heathland with public access.

The company has now approached the Environment Agency (EA) for permission to bury some of the demolition waste, which will leave some low-level radioactive waste at the site.

Before it makes a decision, however, the public is being asked to take part in a consultation to share their views on the plans.

In a first for England, NRS will be using our ‘Guidance on Requirements for Release from Radioactive Substances Regulation’, (GRR) to progress site decommissioning to the next stage.

The GRR guidance allows operators to leave radioactive and non-radioactive waste on site if it represents the best option after balancing social, economic and environmental factors.

The EA said there are some benefits to leaving waste on site – including reduced lorry movements, earlier decommissioning of sites and saving space in national disposal facilities for waste that cannot be safely disposed of on-site.

Crucially, NRS must demonstrate these benefits to the EA.

Sally Coble, the EA’s nuclear regulation group south manager, said: “We want to hear as many views as possible about the NRS proposals, and all comments will be carefully considered, along with all existing information.

“We will only vary the radioactive substances permit if we believe that harm to the environment, people and wildlife will be minimised.

“If the applicant can demonstrate that the varied permit will meet all of the legal requirements, including those for the use of Best Available Techniques (BAT), public radiation dose and wildlife radiation dose, then we are legally obliged to grant the application.

“We intend to consult again in spring 2026 on our likely decision, before publishing a

Women’s group’s invite

THE Poole, Purbeck and District Soroptimist Club is looking for new members and will be holding a special event in Broadstone where visitors can find out more.

The club is part of an international women’s organisation which works to help women and girls locally, nationally and internationally.

Members currently help to

Winfrith will be knocked down and some low-level radioactive waste could be buried PHOTO: Environment Agency

final decision in autumn 2026.”

NRS said it would not import waste to the site from other locations as only waste from the on-site demolition work will be used to fill the subsurface structures.

Both the steam-generating heavy water reactor and the Dragon reactor, the first experimental high-temperature gas-cooled reactor, have large subsurface structures or basements constructed from

reinforced concrete.

NRS plans to demolish all remaining site buildings, including the reactor buildings to ground level and to use the demolition waste produced to backfill the subsurface structures.

support the Women’s Refuge and survivors of human trafficking locally.

They also sponsor a girl’s education in Africa.

The event is at the RBL club in Tudor Road, Broadstone, on Saturday, September 6, 11am-1pm.

For more information, visit sigbi.org/poole purbeck or phone 07773 593602.

An engineered cap will be placed on top of the disposals to prevent rain from getting in, and this will likely be made from an artificial liner, a thick clay layer and a soil layer.

Wareham

Monday 8:00am - 6:30pm

Tuesday 8:00am - 6:30pm

Wednesday 8:00am - 6:30pm

Thursday 8:00am - 6:30pm

Friday 8:00am - 6:30pm

Saturday 8:00am - 12:30pm

Tuesday 8:15am - 6:30pm Wednesday 8:15am - 6:30pm Thursday 8:30am - 1.00pm Friday CLOSED Saturday CLOSED Opening Times

Swanage

Military families share adventure fun

MILITARY families came together for a fun weekend at the Brenscombe Outdoor Centre, near Corfe Castle, with the Little Troopers charity.

The charity supports children with parents serving in the British Armed Forces and runs fully funded All Together weekends for families to spend time together before or after they are separated due to a period military service.

Louise Fetigan, founder of Little Troopers, said: “The All Together weekends are all about creating space for military families to come together, reconnect and enjoy each other’s company away from the pressures of daily forces life.

“Reconnection really is at

Pupils win Mayor’s Award

THE Mayor of Lytchett Minster & Upton has presented awards to youngsters at the town’s four schools.

Councillor Ray Griffin presented the Mayor’s Award for Excellence 2025 to pupils who have ‘contributed significantly to the school

the heart of these weekends.

“This particular event gave families the chance to unwind, be together in nature and strengthen their emotional bonds through fun and shared adventures.”

Eight families took part in the weekend, which began with a scenic group walk along Purbeck Ridge, set against the

community, making it a better place for being a member of it’.

The award consists of a trophy – made from sustainable materials – a framed certificate and an age-related Amazon voucher worth £20 to £50.

The winners were: The Yarrells School, Mira Rohit; Upton Infant School, Joshua Davis; Upton Junior School, Sophie White; and Lytchett Minster School, Jacob Piper.

Cllr Griffin said:

“Congratulations to some fantastic young people, of which the town can be proud.”

Mum Mel with daughters Lily and Anna

backdrop of Corfe Castle.

The next day, families enjoyed a packed programme of water-based activities, including raft building, kayaking and canoeing around Poole Harbour, stopping off at Brownsea Island.

In the evening, the children enjoyed building a campfire and games.

The weekend ended with high and low ropes challenges.

Mel attended with her serving husband and two daughters, 11 and nine.

She said: “My daughters attend a school with very few military children, so to just be here this weekend with other military families and have that shared experience has been fantastic.

“My children have really loved being with all the other kids, lots of new friendships have been formed.

“To be with other families who get it and understand the challenges has been great.”

Duncan McCallum, 12, is part of a British Army family.

He said: “It’s been a great weekend and I’ve had lots of fun.

“I’ve made friends, done loads of stuff I’ve never done before and faced some fears.

“My favourite activity was the canoes when we went to the island.”

Mayor of Lytchett Minster & Upton, Ray Griffin, with Upton Infant School Year 2 pupil Joshua Davis and Mayor’s Guide, Nellie Powell

Eight families enjoyed an All Together weekend with the Little Troppers charity at Brenscombe Outdoor Centre. Right, young Duncan McCallum

How to find a tradesperson you can trust

DORSET residents seeking trustworthy tradespeople can now turn to a reliable source for peace of mind.

The Buy With Confidence scheme, operated by Dorset Council’s Trading Standards team, offers a vetted list of local businesses committed to fair and honest trading.

From plumbers and electricians to gardeners and pet groomers, all businesses listed in the scheme have undergone a series of stringent checks.

These include a review of trading history, financial background, complaint records, customer references, and – where applicable –criminal record checks for those working in or around people’s homes.

“This scheme is about giving people peace of mind,” said Councillor Gill Taylor, cabinet member for Public Health and Protection at Dorset Council.

“When you see the Trading Standards Approved logo, you know that business has been independently verified through the Buy With

Confidence scheme and is committed to doing right by its customers.

“We encourage local businesses to join the scheme as a way to set themselves apart and demonstrate to potential customers that they take fair trading and customer service seriously.”

The scheme is not-forprofit and designed to protect consumers while supporting ethical local businesses.

Once approved, businesses are continuously monitored to ensure they maintain the high standards required to remain in the programme.

Residents can search for approved businesses in their area by visiting www. buywithconfidence.gov.uk.

Businesses interested in joining the scheme can apply online and will be guided through the vetting process by Dorset Council’s Trading Standards team.

The Buy With Confidence scheme, run by Dorset Council’s Trading Standards team, provides a vetted list of local businesses

24 Aug 2pm to 6pm Fun for all the family! Helium balloons, raffle, hot dogs, tombola, prizes, sweet treats and much more!

Billy goes the extra mile in #Willdoes tractor ride

YOUNG Dorset agricultural engineer Billy Kitcher is giving the beach a miss this year and spending his holiday driving a vintage tractor from John O’Groats to Land’s End in aid of mental health charity #Willdoes.

Billy’s 900-mile plus journey in his 1954 Fordson Major tractor — with no cab and a top speed of 22mph – could take up to two weeks. #Willdoes was set up in memory of Will Paddy, who grew up near Swanage and

passed away at the age of 14.

Billy, 23, from Chideock, will be setting off on his road trip on Monday, September 8, with fellow agricultural engineers Bill Parsons and Jack Macey, in their own tractors.

They will be camping most nights – or ‘going rough,’ as Billy puts it – but hopes for the occasional bit of hospitality along the route.

“I woke up one morning and thought, ‘why not?’. I’ve got two weeks off work, can’t afford to go abroad and I’ve

always wanted to see more of Scotland,” said Billy.

“So, I figured, if I’m going to do something, I might as well do it for a good cause.”

Billy’s tractor – a classic of British farming heritage –averages just 18mph, making it more of a slow-motion adventure than a race.

But for Billy, the pace suits the purpose.

He said: “I take part in the Christmas tractor run every year for #Willdoes.

“I know people who

Roll up, roll up for the

GREEN-FINGERRED members of the community will enjoy Owermoigne Horticultural Society’s annual show being held at the village hall at the end of the month. All categories are open to everyone and free to enter and are: Flora, Edible, Floral display in teacup and Individual Vegetables.

Cookery and baking categories are: Raspberry and

Apple Muffins, Caramelized Red Onion Tartlets, Savory Herb Scones.

For details of the recipes, email patricia.hook125@ gmail.com.

Categories for Chutney, Jam, Cordial and Pickled Vegetables can be entrants’ own recipe.

Under 16s can enter a Biscuit class and men, a Cherry Loaf Cake class.

struggle with mental health, and it’s something really close to my heart.”

Billy, whose grandparents were farmers, has spent time working on farms and is aware of the challenges the rural community faces.

A recent survey by the Farm Safety Foundation found that 94% of farmers consider poor mental health to be the biggest issue in the industry today.

Billy also hopes his journey might catch the attention of Jeremy Clarkson, of Amazon Prime’s Clarkson’s Farm, whose recent work has brought national focus to the mental health crisis in agriculture.

“I’d love Clarkson to notice – I’ve got an old-school tractor, a bit of grit and a great cause,” he said. “What’s not to like?”

Billy is currently seeking support and donations to help fund his journey and raise money for #Willdoes – to help him, visit his JustGiving page. Great support has already come from local businessman Peter Andrews, of Andrews Plant Hire, who will be transporting all three tractors to John O’Groats and paying for Billy’s fuel.

#Willdoes supports the mental wellbeing of young people and funds projects that encourage resilience and self-esteem, and mental health support for children and teenagers across the UK.

village show!

A Georg Jensen vase is on offer for first place in the Flora class, with a trophy for the winner in the Edible class and a cup for first in the Floral Display in a Teacup class.

The event will also be awarding an RHS Banksian Medal to Best in Show, voted for by members of the public.

The show is open for exhibitors to set up at 8am on Sunday, August 31, and closes at 4pm.

Ploughman’s lunches will be available at a cost of £6 – cash only – with a choice of traditional, vegetarian, Mediterranean and glutenfree versions.

Pre-booking would be welcomed, particularly for the gluten-free version.

For more information, contact Tricia Hook at the email address above.

Billy Kitcher is driving more than 900 miles from John O’Groats to Land’s End in his vintage tractor

Gym team rises to 10 Peaks Challenge

CLIENTS and coaches from a Weymouth gym have raised more than £3,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support in the Lake District 10 Peaks Challenge.

The team of 25 from First Class Fitness took on the challenge after gym member Jodi Jess was diagnosed with incurable stage 4 breast cancer earlier this year.

She was one of the team that hiked over 17 miles and scaled more than 6,000ft of elevation before crossing the finishing line together and celebrating at the famous Climbers’ Bar.

The team summitted some of the most iconic mountains in the Lake District from Rossett Pike, Allen Crags, Lingmell and Broad Crag, to Ill Crag, Great End, Esk Pike, Bowfell North Top, Bowfell and England’s highest mountain, Scafell Pike.

Along the way, the group encountered the wild weather swings which come with mountain climbing.

Jodi said: “As someone living with secondary breast cancer that has spread to my liver, spine, ribs and pelvis, I want people to understand that life with an incurable diagnosis doesn’t mean giving up –it just means fighting differently.

“Completing the Lake District 10 Peaks Challenge was one of the toughest things I’ve ever done, but also one of the most rewarding.

support of the First Class Fitness coaches and teammates.

“This gym is unique, it’s special. You feel part of a family and together we pushed each other through every step and every summit.

“I couldn’t have prepared for or achieved this without the

Summer at the Village Inn August sees the return of our popular Friday & Saturday events:

“I want people to know that living with cancer doesn’t mean life stops.

“I want to show others living

with cancer that your diagnosis doesn’t mean your passions have to end.

“You can still move, still laugh, still climb mountains –literal and metaphorical.

“Keep doing what you love, because that’s what keeps you feeling alive.”

To make a donation, visit www.justgiving.com/page/ fcf10peaks.

enq@ulwellholidaypark.co.uk

01929 422823

The team from First Class Fitness in Weymouth in the Lake District and (left) Jodi Jess

Overnight camping ban for Studland Beach

OVERNIGHT camping on Studland Beach has been banned as part of efforts to protect the sensitive coastal environment.

Anyone caught camping overnight could now face a £100 fine.

The move comes after Dorset Council introduced two new Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs) to tackle anti-social behaviour.

The council has also expanded restrictions on lighting fires and barbecues to cover additional areas of heathland and forest across Dorset, following concerns about wildfire risks and environmental damage.

Previous PSPOs have also been extended for three more years.

These include drinking

alcohol in public, aggressive begging, the feeding of gulls, overnight camping on beaches and the lighting of fires and barbecues on open land.

Shaun Milton, group manager for Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, welcomed the expanded fire-related restrictions, citing the devastating Wareham Forest fire in 2020 as a reminder of the

An order banning the lighting of fires and barbecues has been expanded to cover more areas of Dorset’s heathland and forests in a bid to prevent wildfires PHOTO: Dorset Council

risks posed by open flames in natural areas.

He said: “We fully support these measures. Preventing fires before they start is the most effective way to protect lives, property and the environment.”

Forestry England also endorsed the move.

“We’ve seen the damage that careless use of barbecues and campfires can cause,” a

spokesperson said.

“These new protections are a welcome step in preserving Dorset’s forests for future generations.”

Councillor Gill Taylor, portfolio holder for health and housing at Dorset Council, said: “Renewing our existing PSPOs means continuing the important safeguards that have been in place for several years –protections our residents have told us they value.

“In addition to these renewals, we’re introducing two new orders – one to help preserve the natural beauty and tranquillity of Studland Beach, and another to protect our rare heathland habitats, which are home to some of the UK’s most endangered wildlife.

“Dorset should be an enjoyable place for our residents and visitors alike.

“By working with our partners, these orders help us to deal with a small minority of people who can spoil it for others.”

Mighty Hike coins in the cash

MORE than 2,100 hikers did something mighty for Macmillan by taking on the charity’s Jurassic Coast Mighty Hike.

The walkers started in Wareham on their 13-mile or 26-mile routes taking in the views of Corfe Castle and Old Harry Rocks.

£935,000 has so far been raised to help fund Macmillan information and support services for people living with cancer.

Many walkers took part in the event either in memory or support of a loved one, or because they have been affected by cancer themselves.

Helen Hancock, challenge events team manager at Macmillan Cancer Support, said: “The thousands of people taking part in Macmillan Mighty Hikes across the UK this summer really are an incredible community.

“We want to say a massive thank you to everyone involved for their amazing support and for braving the breathtakingly beautiful, but physically challenging Jurassic Coast Mighty Hike. We really can’t thank them enough.

“So far, the 2,100 Mighty Hikers who joined the Jurassic Coast event from right across the UK have raised an incredible £935,000!

“We’re so very grateful for everyone’s efforts to raise such vital funds for Macmillan and our work to support people living with cancer, and to make sure that everyone can get the best possible treatment and care, no matter who they are or where they live.

The Jurassic Coast Mighty Hike has raised £935,000 with more to come in aid of Macmillan PHOTO: Macmillan

small number of our other Macmillan Mighty Hikes this summer, so sign up now at mightyhikes.macmillan. org.uk.”

“The waiting list for our 2026 Jurassic Coast Mighty Hike is now open and there are still some places available at a

Macmillan Mighty Hikes are a series of one-day half and full marathon fundraising hikes, running from May through to September in some of the most beautiful parts of the UK.

2025 marks the 10th anniversary of Mighty Hikes, which have raised £70 million since they began.

This year, more than 34,000 hikers registered, making it the biggest year ever for the event.

In 2024, 24,000 people walked more than 438,000 miles between them raising £10.7 million.

Hospital helipad for new building

A STATE-OF-THE-ART

helipad will be built on the roof of a new building at Dorset County Hospital (DCH) in Dorchester next year thanks to fundraising efforts.

The helipad will be built on top of the new emergency department and critical care unit on the former Damers School site.

The helipad has been made possible after HELP, the only charity in the country that funds NHS hospital helipads, boosted the fundraising appeal with a £2 million donation.

The chief executive of the HELP appeal, Robert Bertram, presented the fourth and final £500,000 instalment.

The helipad will allow patients to be transferred quickly and comfortably via a lift directly into the hospital,

maintaining their privacy and dignity.

Anita Thomas, Dorset County Hospital’s chief operating officer, said the hospital is ‘incredibly grateful’ to the HELP appeal and supporters.

“These departments care for some of the sickest and most seriously injured patients, and the new helipad will help us provide timely urgent care to people for many years to come,” she said.

The HELP Appeal has funded 55 lifesaving helipads at major trauma centres and accident and emergency hospitals.

Of these, 32 were new, which have now seen more than 29,000 landings.

Robert Bertram, chief executive of the HELP Appeal,

M47 takes starring role at Tankfest

THE Tank Museum at Bovington unveiled its restored M47 Patton tank to 24,000 visitors from around the world at its Tankfest 2025 display.

The iconic vehicle was restored following a public appeal launched a year before to raise £50,000 to return it to full running order.

The US-built M47 dates from the Cold War era and has a famous fan in film star Arnold Schwarzenegger, who served in an M47 in the Austrian military, later purchasing the tank he crewed.

Membership and fundraising officer, Kevin Hygate, said: “We were all so thrilled when the M47 made its grand return in full running order at a gloriously sunny Tankfest 2025.

“Engineer, Matt Pyle, who

said: “This state-of-the-art, rooftop helipad means air ambulances will land just moments from the new emergency department, giving critically ill patients instant access to lifesaving care.

“We’re proud to have donated £2 million – only made possible by our incredible supporters – towards vital

infrastructure that will help to save many lives.

“While construction of the new building is underway, the old helipad has been decommissioned, and a temporary landing site is being used at the nearby Army Reserve Centre, which has also been funded by the HELP Appeal.”

headed the restoration, has done a fine job in helping save the life of what was once nearly a rangewreck.

“An achievement only made possible by the incredibly generous donations from our supporters.”

Tankfest 2025 attracted 24,000 visitors from around the world

The HELP appeal hands over the final £500,000 instalment of its £2 million donation for the helipad at Dorset County Hospital

The M47’s chassis freshly painted in Matt Pyle’s workshop

Secret life of sharks in the spotlight

THE lives of sharks that roam the UK’s waters – including fascinating ‘fish-eye’ footage – will be the subject of a talk in Swanage next month.

Greenpeace and Planet Purbeck have teamed up to provide the talk, the centrepiece of a wide-ranging ‘marine evening’ at Emmanuel Baptist Church.

The Protecting Our Oceans event will see Exeter University researcher Owen Exeter show a film and talk about his work monitoring sharks, other fish and crustaceans using state-of-theart tracking and camera technologies.

The film will feature shots of some of the 30-plus species of shark seen in UK seas, which include porbeagle, blue and thresher varieties, plus ‘fish-eye’ footage from cameras attached to basking sharks.

Solar & Tidal Predictions - Aug '25

Mr Exeter, 35, whose research contributes to the debate about Britain’s Marine Protected Areas, said people should not be scared of sharks but regard them as a vital component of the aquatic food chain and biodiversity.

“I don’t think many people realise how many species we have here and how they are an integral part of British marine life,” he said.

Solar & Tidal Predictions - July '25

“I hope I can surprise those who come to the evening, not just about sharks but also about how vibrant our seas are.

“It’s also a nice opportunity to show what Marine Protected Areas look like and how they are monitored to make sure they are effective and hopefully being improved.”

Other guests at the event include Nick Measham, head of Wildfish, which battles to reverse the decline of fish populations and their habitats; Greenpeace speaker and event organiser Doug Skinner; and Planet Purbeck co-leaders Rob Waitt and Luke M Luke.

Mr Skinner said most people are now aware of the threats

posed to nature and the climate, but he is determined to take a positive approach.

He said: “I’ll be highlighting what Greenpeace and others have done and are still doing, at the highest level, to protect the marine environment.”

The Protecting Our Oceans event is on Friday, September 19, starting at 7pm, and Mr Skinner said he was excited by the ‘great line-up of guests’.

After attracting an audience of more than 200 people at a similar evening last year, he is aiming for a 300-strong sell-out this time.

Bookings can be made via the events section at www. planetpurbeck.org.

Village’s history told in new book

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Solar

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Tidal Predictions

- Sept '25 Peveril Ledge, Swanage Compiled by National Coastwatch Institution, Swanage

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THE ancient village of Winfrith Newburgh has long lacked a written history, but resident Chris Pullen has come forward to fill the gap with A Short History of Winfrith Newburgh.

The book takes the reader from very early days and the inclusion of the village in the Domesday Book, through many ups and downs, including the reading of the Riot Act, to 1929, when the Weld family sold most of the village to settle death duties.

Chris, a member of the Winfrith History Group, said: “I’ve been reading around the subject for years, and tucking away odd bits, though I confess I never thought I’d be writing a book about it.

“I have tried to tell a story,

not present an academic text book, and the feedback I’m receiving is very positive.”

Some information has come from local people, and the Dorset History Centre has provided invaluable help.

Looking at the village today, it is hard to reconcile it with an 1867 report in which it was noted that “such villages as Winfrith are a disgrace to the owners of the land, and contain many cottages unfit for human habitation”.

The book is available at Winfrith Village Stores, or details of how to obtain it by post can be found at www. winfrodepublishing.wordpress. com.

The book is an A4 hardback with 70 pages and costs £14.99.

A blue shark being filmed by Owen Exeter (inset)

Birthday treats for Sibu Jr

ORPHAN Bornean orang-utan

Sibu Jr has had his first birthday at primate rescue centre, Monkey World, near Wareham.

His wild cousins would have spent this birthday firmly attached to their mothers, but Sibu Jr was born at Dublin Zoo and his mother did not allow him to suckle, so he had to be hand-reared to save his life.

He was moved to the specialist orang-utan creche at Monkey World – Ape Rescue Centre, which has experience in caring for vulnerable infants, and a nursery designed specifically to meet growing orang-utans needs.

Monkey World collected the infant when he was 12 weeks old and moved him to the sanctuary under the care of experienced staff.

On his first birthday, Sibu Jr spent the day enjoying extra treats, toys and playing with his adoptive sister, 19-month-old Kiwi, who was also rejected by her mother in a zoo in Spain.

Despite the duo’s increasing independence, keepers need to give milk feeds several times a day.

In the wild, orang-utans would suckle until around four years old.

Sibu Jr unfortunately is intolerant to cow’s milk formula, and the Monkey World team have found he can only have a hypoallergenic milk

formula, Neocate Junior Unflavoured.

All others make him unwell, and do not give the right level of nutrients.

This is an expensive milk powder, so Monkey World is appealing to its supporters for any help in funding the baby’s milk.

Director of Monkey World, Dr Alison Cronin, said: “Sibu is our 13th orphan orang-utan to be cared for in our Orang-utan Creche.

“We provide specialist care for these vulnerable orphans so that they can grow up living with others of their own kind.

“Sibu currently weighs just over 6kg and is getting through one tin of the Neocate every three days and, of course, as he

matures, he will take more of the amino acid-based baby formula.

“Sibu and Kiwi also get a variety of vegetables and some fruit, but the milk formula is essential for strong bone growth.”

The pair live full-time in a specially designed playroom within the orang-utan nursery, which allows the vulnerable infants to see the older orangutans risk-free.

There they can build all the vital skills needed for adulthood – climbing, playing, socialising and growing strong – until they are big enough to be introduced to the other orphans.

by Chris Slade

Retired Dorset rights of way officer

THIS is a short walk of only about two-and-a-half miles but has some lovely views.

Start at the church, which doesn’t have a steeple – except over the font.

Join the footpath to the

south of the church, which takes you south to a bridge over an unnamed stream and then south east uphill to meet the road to Kimmeridge.

Continue along the road to a junction where you might wish to stray over the boundary a short distance to enjoy a view over Kimmeridge.

Return to the junction to join a bridleway heading west.

You may see a notice on it to say it is closed through the Ranges but it’s okay to use it as far as the red flag.

The bridleway goes along the ridge with lovely views on both sides.

In the second field, it curves

right, north west, then north east, going down a wet and muddy track.

Kimmeridge clay is slippery!

At the farm at the bottom, take a footpath across a field to Manor Farm where you turn right, south, back to where you started.

Orang-utan Sibu Jr on his first birthday. Sibu Jr still needs three milk feeds a day and Monkey World, which is looking after him, is asking for supporters to help fund the expensive special milk he needs PHOTOS: Monkey World2025.

Octoberfest organisers look East for tasty brews

BEER drinkers will be sampling ales from the east of England when Weymouth Octoberfest is held this autumn.

The event, at Weymouth Pavilion’s Ocean Room, is now in its 19th year and is organised by West Dorset Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA).

The event always has a theme and this year it is East Anglia’s turn to be highlighted.

Visitors can expect to sample more than 55 cask ales from breweries from Cambridgeshire,

Norfolk and Suffolk, along with a selection of ciders from the east of the country.

CAMRA bar manager and committee member, Rich Gabe, said: “In the past Octoberfest has featured breweries from all parts of the UK, from Scotland to Wales, from London to Cornwall, alongside one year a ‘Drink Dorset’ theme.

“East Anglia is often a part of the country overlooked, yet it has a deep tradition of brewing which is reflected by the vast

number of breweries in the region.

“We hope to bring some of the best to Weymouth in the largest ever Anglian grouping in Dorset.”

This year Copper St brewery of Dorchester, in conjunction with the Dead Brewers Society,

is the guest sponsor brewer and will resurrect six beers from long-shut breweries in East Anglia.

Visitors to the event on Friday and Saturday, October 3-4, will have a chance to sample beers created from those original recipes.

West Dorset CAMRA chair, Bruce Mead, (left) and branch treasurer, Rich Bates, toast the success of Weymouth Octoberfest

PHOTO: Rich Gabe

Swimmers finish season with a flourish

COACHES and swimmers from Wareham & District Swimming Club have been busy taking part in county events, a league and their own club colour gala over the last few months.

The final county event before the club’s summer break was

the Dorset Development Meet, held at the Littledown pool in Bournemouth.

22 swimmers from the Wareham club took part, ranging in age from nine-17.

Between them they competed in 90 swims, producing 64 personal best times.

The team won 13 gold, 11 silver and 20 bronze medals.

The club have also been taking part in the Jurassic Swimming League, an event which has now been running for 21 years.

The competition is designed so that six clubs from across Somerset and Dorset compete in four galas held throughout the summer months.

The galas provide a friendly start to competitive swimming for swimmers aged 10 and up.

Events include each of the individual styles of backstroke, breaststroke, butterfly and

freestyle, together with relay events in freestyle and medley.

Wareham’s highest placing was a 2nd place in the second round of the league, hosted in Weymouth.

After the final round at Bridport, head coach, Danny Partridge, said: “This was another massive team effort in sweltering heat.

“Our 4th place finish in the final gala and a fourth place overall is an improvement from last year.

“Well done to all the swimmers, coaches, parents and helpers in making the season finish with a flourish.”

Motor show moves to new home

MOTORING fans can take a step back in time at the Classic & Steam Vehicle Show at Norden next month.

The Bournemouth & Poole Preservation Club event is at a new home, opposite the Swanage Railway park and ride car park, after over 30 years at Harman’s Cross.

The show is a favourite of classic vehicle enthusiasts with a display of vintage, modern and custom cars, motorbikes, tractors, military vehicles, classic campers, commercials, stationary engines and miniature steam.

DJ Beefy will be adding to the nostalgic atmosphere, playing non-stop classics from

the 1960s and 70s throughout the weekend.

A selection of food and drink will be available, including refreshments from the on-site

Organford Arms bar, coffee from Coffee ToGoGo, and a choice of hot and cold food from a pizza van, crepe/ burger stand and ice cream vendor.

Guests can also enjoy raffle prizes, browse the book stall and explore trade stands.

The new site is easy to reach by car or train, with free parking now in the same field as the show.

For anyone arriving by train, the site is just a short walk from the park and ride at Norden.

The show runs from Friday to Sunday, September 5-7, 10am-4pm.

Entry is £8 adults, children

free and dogs welcome on leads.

For more information, visit www.bppclub.co.uk.

Round 1 of the Jurassic League at Sherborne and (right) team captains with the Jurassic 4th place trophy

Police chief hails crime figures

THE latest Office for National Statistics (ONS) crime data shows that Dorset remains within the top 10 safest counties after a decrease in overall crime in the last 12 months.

Overall crime fell in Dorset by 1.8% between April 1, 2024, and March 31 ,2025.

Victim-based crime has decreased by 2.5% and violence against the person dropped by 4.3%.

Deputy Chief Constable, Rachel Farrell, said: “Crime in Dorset has continued to fall.

Residential and business burglaries reduced during this reporting period by 4.7% and 4.6% retrospectively.

“Our newly formed Neighbourhood Crime Team is doing a fantastic job at targeting prolific residential burglars by working across different departments, including with crime scene investigators in South West Forensics to bring them to justice.

“Robberies have fallen by 18.7% compared to the national

decrease of 2.7% and this is testament to the work our teams have been carrying out to identify some of the patterns used in robbery offences, target prolific offenders and continue proactive patrols in hotspot areas.

“Unfortunately, we have seen an increase of 5.8% in vehicle offences and I would like to remind the public to follow our preventative advice about safeguarding your vehicle from crime and report anything suspicious to us.

“We will be focusing our efforts in high-risk areas to disrupt those who intend on committing these offences.

Danny on a mission to help MND causes

AN annual charity golf day organised by Danny’s MND Mission has once again raised funds in support of Motor Neurone Disease (MND) causes – including a £3,000 donation Danny Fudge-Harman personally delivered to Forest Holme Hospice Charity.

The event at Ferndown Forest Golf Club featured 18 teams and was sponsored by Stonehaven Homes and boosted by auction and raffle donations from supporters.

Danny was diagnosed with MND in 2013 at the age of 36 and has become an advocate for MND awareness and fundraising.

Forest Holme Hospice Charity part-funds an MND coordinator for Danny, who has provided holistic support and guidance to him and his family.

Danny said: “It means the world to me to see so many people come together, not just for a day of golf, but to support the fight against MND.

“Forest Holme has been there for me and my family in ways I can never repay, so being able to give something back is incredibly important.

“This mission isn’t just about raising money – it’s about raising hope.”

“Our dedicated officers, staff and volunteers work hard alongside partners and businesses to prevent crime and tackle the root causes.

“We will continue to relentlessly pursue criminality and keeping Dorset a safe county for everyone remains our absolute priority.”

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said: “I am pleased to see total crime fall once again in Dorset, ensuring our county remains firmly in the top 10 safest places to live.

“Reductions in some of the offences residents are most worried about, including burglary and violent crime, are welcome and demonstrate the unwavering focus and commitment towards tackling these harmful crimes and keeping people safe.

“I am also pleased to see a significant fall in robbery offences, as well as a reduction in stalking and harassment.

“I also want to recognise that while there has been an increase in shoplifting for this period, Dorset’s rise is far below the national figure, and I will keep pushing for the Force to continue their successful work in this area – and reduce these numbers even further.

“Thanks to proactive initiatives in Dorset like Op Shopkeeper, which targets prolific offenders, we are focused on working with businesses and related organisations to bring these offenders to justice.

“My thanks go to all the officers, staff and volunteers in Dorset Police for their continued dedication and hard work in keeping those who live, work and visit Dorset safe.

“I know the terrible impact these offences have on victims and while it is vital for Dorset Police to tackle the perpetrators robustly, I also want to send a clear message to victims that you will be taken seriously and help and support is available.

“We continue to be one of the safest places in the country thanks to your efforts.”

Kirsty Perks, fundraiser at Forest Holme Hospice Charity, added: “We are incredibly grateful to Danny for his continued support and generosity.

“His strength, determination and kindness in the face of such a challenging diagnosis is truly inspiring.

“The funds raised from the golf day will go a long way in helping us provide vital support to other local people affected by MND and their families.

“We’re proud to work alongside Danny and his foundation to make a real difference.”

Danny Fudge-Harman delivers a £3,000 donation to Forest Holme Hospice Charity raised from a golf day

Shops urged to act on disposable barbecues

RETAILERS in Dorset are being asked to stop selling disposable barbecues following heathland fires during a hot and dry summer.

Litter Free Dorset is calling on businesses to remove single-use barbecues from their shelves in a bid to help protect the environment and wildlife.

Wildfire incidents are becoming more common in the county.

Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service earlier this month battled four heathland blazes in Purbeck, one lasting four days.

Heathland across Dorset has seen 55 fire incidents affecting 27 heaths and burning an area of more than 65 hectares since January.

This represents a 41% increase in fire incidents compared to 2024.

Dorset Council recently issued Extended Public Spaces Protection Orders which prohibit the lighting of fires –including barbecues – on areas of open land across large parts of Dorset.

Now, Litter Free Dorset and Dorset Council have issued a joint letter to major retailers urging them to stop selling single-use barbecues.

Sophie Clegg, Dorset Heaths monitoring warden, said: “In comparison to last year, there have not only been more heath fires attended by the fire service, but the impact of fire has been more widespread, with nearly

twice as many heaths affected by fire.

“The conditions this year have also caused many of the fires to become much bigger, resulting in nearly eight times more heathland habitat burned in comparison to this time last year.”

Some retailers have already removed single-use barbecues from sale including Waitrose, M&S, Southern Co-op, Lidl GB, Aldi, Poundbury Gardens, Birchwood Tourist Park, Budgens Swanage, Herston Yards Farm, Haskins, Goulds, Burnbake Campsite, Winfrith Village Stores.

Emma Teasdale, at Litter Free Dorset, said: “Single-use barbecues pose a grave danger to Dorset’s natural environment and wildlife.

“They are impossible to recycle, incredibly wasteful and often abandoned while still hot, leading to fires and injuries.

“We’re asking retailers to lead by example and customers to choose a picnic instead – it’s safer, cleaner and better for the planet.”

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Single-use barbecues can pose a fire risk

The Hand in Hand Lodge of Oddfellows

A Monday afternoon of tabletop games at PIP Café

Poundbury 2pm-5pm. £5.00 for members and non-members. Refreshments included. Come and play or learn to play: Scrabble; Rummikub; Bananagram; chess; backgammon; mah jong; canasta. Dates include: 13th October, 10th November, 8th December, 12th January 2026 and 9th February 2026.

The Blue Pool & Nature Reserve Visit

Wednesday 17th September £16.00. Visit to The Blue Pool and nature reserve near Wareham to include refreshments. Meet at The Blue Pool entrance at 10am.

Apple Picking

Apple picking at Lower Muckleford Farm, DT2 9SW. Saturday 4th/Sunday 5th October 10am start. Ploughman’s lunch provided. This is a free event.

Bournemouth Pavillion - Fawlty Towers the Play

Wednesday 15th October 7.30pm. Fawlty Towers is now a brand-new stage play adapted by comedy legend John Cleese.

Dorchester Literary Festival

Dorford centre. Saturday 25th October 4.30pm. Martin Clunes presents his book ‘Meetings With Remarkable Animals’.

Tincleton Gallery DT2 8QR

Friday 6th September 7.30pm. An evening of Jazz Music with Roger Beaujolis on Vibraphone and Rob Palmer on guitar. Drinks and nibbles will be served.

Tickets £20.00

Please contact Rosemary Rogers rosemarywdt2@gmail.com or phone 07788436797 for more information and to book your place at the above events is organising the following social activities and everyone is welcome to join in.

Funeral for Minster’s former rector

FORMER Rector of Wimborne

Minster, the Revd Canon David Price, who was rector from 1986 until his retirement in 2001, has died.

David – pictured – was born in Hampstead, ordained a deacon in 1963 and priested the following year in Rochester Cathedral.

He celebrated the 60th anniversary of his ordination last September.

He was also appointed Rural Dean of Wimborne in 1988 and a canon of Salisbury Cathedral in 1992.

David was married to Frances, who died a few years ago, and they had a daughter and a son.

On retirement, David and his wife moved to Devon to live in Merley.

His funeral service in the Minster was conducted by the rector, the Revd Canon Andrew Rowland, with Sean Tucker as the organist.

He served at three parishes in Kent as a curate before becoming vicar at Winkfield in Berkshire in 1972, then at Windsor, and subsequently Sunningdale, before coming to Wimborne.

Robert Pearce gave a Reflection on David’s life and the two readings were read by the Revd Helen Bailey, Vicar of Broadstone, and Anne Pollard, David’s last churchwarden.

The Address was given by the Revd Dr Jeremy Law, one of David’s curates at the Minster. The Minster Bells were rung half muffled before the service.

Carnival did the town proud

ONCE again congratulations and thanks shape the theme of this month’s article.

Firstly, we’d like to send birthday greetings to our colleagues at NCI Lyme Bay. They’ve recently celebrated their 15th anniversary, marking the event with an afternoon tea. Guest of honour was the High Sheriff of Dorset, Calum Bremner JP, along with representatives of the local councils. Swanage and St Alban’s were ably represented by our two station managers. Lyme Bay is slightly unusual as the station has two lookouts. The main station is based at Hive Beach, at Burton Bradstock, but the team also runs a satellite lookout at Charmouth. This is probably one of the most unique lookouts we have and has Grade 2 listed building status. With barely enough room for two watchkeepers, the building dates back to Napoleonic times having been built around 1804. Its original purpose, during the Napoleonic Wars, was as part of the coastal warning system

by Nick Reed

against invasion by the French. However, it was principally used a base for Excisemen, working against smuggling.

The second congratulations have to go to the team who organise Swanage Carnival. With the return of the Red Arrows, three fabulous firework displays, a carnival procession that seemed to stretch for miles and numerous other events, the team did the town proud and deserves a big thank you. Swanage NCI had a float in the procession, and we were pleased to win first prize in the fancy dress category. Taking part in the procession was great fun and it was lovely to see so many families watching. It was great to see all the young children – and some not so young – clutching their margarine tubs of small change and darting out to drop a coin in the collectors’ buckets. By the time I reached the Mowlem one of my arms was a good couple inches longer from the weight of the bucket. Our two Purbeck NCI stations are one of the chosen local charities for this

year’s carnival and we’re very grateful for the support of this fantastic organisation. I talked last month about the Fish and Food Festival and its support for NCI, the Fishermen’s Mission and our colleagues at Swanage RNLI. Station manager Martin and watchkeeper Diane attended the festival’s presentation afternoon at the beginning of the month and we were overwhelmed by its generosity when we received a donation of £1,000. Thank you so much, your support for us is very much appreciated and we look forward to working with you at next year’s festival.

WE seem to have escaped the worst of Storm Floris that hit the north of the country at the beginning of August. The storm was named after a member of the Dutch Royal Family –Prince Floris, the youngest son of Queen Juliana’s daughter, Princess Margriet. The little bit of rain the storm brought hardly seems to have touched the ground and conditions are still very dry. Despite August traditionally being the most unsettled month of the summer, the long-range weather forecast seems to indicate we are going to continue to see some warm and dry weather over the coming weeks. While this is good news for our tourist industry, it’s providing problems for our colleagues in the fire and rescue service. The dry weather means the risk of wildfires starting is increased and several times recently watchkeepers

have noted smoke rising over the hills from heath fires at Studland. The most recent was still being monitored for flare-ups four days after it started and destroyed an area of heathland the size of 30 football pitches. The special nature of the area means that it’s not just fire and rescue which gets involved. It will be supported by our wonderful coastguard rescue teams based in Swanage and Worth Matravers, and after the fire volunteers from various wildlife organisations will go over the site to rescue any surviving wildlife. With much of Studland being used as a training ground in the Second World War, it’s likely that any site will also be surveyed for unexploded ordnance! With campfires and barbecues banned in many parts of the Dorset coast and countryside,, visitors are being asked “#BringAPicnicNotABBQ”.

Writing the August article sometimes feels that we are coming to the end of summer. However, we can look forward to the Bank Holiday at the end of the month. Both stations will be offering their usual refreshments over this weekend. The ‘Hatch’ at St Alban’s Head will be open during the day between Saturday and Monday, August 23-25, while ‘tea and cakes’ will be served at the Swanage Lookout on Sunday and Monday, August 24-25. We look forward to seeing you there.

This is St Alban’s Head NCI and Swanage NCI listening on channel 65, NCI out.

Swanage NCI had a float in the carnival procession

PHOTO: Swanage NCI

Swanage Fish & Food Festival presented £1,000 to NCI

PHOTO: Swanage Fish and Food Festival

THE PURBECK MAGAZINE

puzzle

Across

6 One right, a leading question for ME national (5)

Place 1 to 9 once into every black-bordered 3x3 area as well as each of the 54 rows indicated by the coloured lines. Rows don’t cross the thick black lines.

Killer Sudoku Pro

7 Give up work about Hebridean island mostly (6)

9 Happen to quarrel (4,3)

10 Proportion on a reasonable basis – not half (5)

11 Former PM in secluded enclosure (4)

13 Take up the time of copper probing fraudulent copy (6)

15 Fellow left out delicate scrap (5)

Killer Sudoku Pro

16 Trainee worker enthralled by winter negotiations (6)

Down

1 Most ancient aristocrat with complicated ties (8)

2 Guide first person in small piece of ground

3 Mention of US writer showing anger (5)

4 Draw a dry group on rickety cart (7)

5 Ingenuity about opening to rigorous legal document (4)

6 Information on liberal bachelor amid banishment lacking adaptability? (10)

8 Old boy into getting massage – using this? (4,6)

12 Family absorbed by hiking (3)

17 Oddly sour mood in Asian sport (4)

20 Heading west, visit round island to see tree (5)

22 Distinctive number accepting a foreign injection in Asian language (7)

23 Fine fabric manufactured in slum (6)

24 Mark element in protocol only (5)

Place numbers 1 to 9 once each into every row, column and bold-lined 3x3 box. No digit may be repeated in any dash-lined cage, and all the digits in any cage must add up to the value shown in that cage.

13 Measure of resistance over monarchy (3)

14 Posh Greek character with fur of an impractical kind? (8)

15 Spot fellow by park and returning deer (7)

18 Firm character in part of book (5)

19 Slate batsman’s innings (5)

21 Large pair brought up as obtrusive (4)

Telling It Like It Is

Watch out mice and lizards – the developers are coming to get you!

IT only took 10 minutes for the wall at Sunshine Walk to fall down and become a danger to the many folk who used it to get to and from the town or indeed the hospital. It only took 10 months for the wall to be rebuilt. What took so long?

It didn’t take 10 days to pass the original plans for the building site so the developer could start work. Seems to me like it took about 10 minutes for him to decide that the ‘affordable homes’ which formed a part of that application were, in fact, uneconomic to build, and about 10 seconds for Dorset Council to agree and remove that requirement from the plans.

Now look at the plans granted for Harrow House; 93 much-needed ‘dwellings’, including ‘affordable homes’, which seem now to be unaffordable as far as the developer is concerned.

On July 18, 2024, Dorset Council adopted the Purbeck Local Plan (2018-34) which formally replaced the Purbeck Local Plan Part 1 (2012) for this part of the Dorset Council area. Following adoption of the new local plan, the Purbeck Local Plan Part 1 (2012) no longer forms part of the development

by David Hollister

plan for this part of Dorset.

So, what was the point of the Purbeck Local Plan and all the associated consultations, acres of paperwork, glossy publications etc, if the whole thing was to be scrapped?

Planning Policy H11 requires 30% of buildings on ‘brownfield land’ to be ‘affordable’. The developer now feels –understandably – that every affordable dwelling in the plans was going to cost him money.

So, just like the Manor Road development, they have decided to reduce or withdraw some or all of the ‘affordable homes’ at Harrow House.

Swanage’s loss. And there isn’t much ‘brownfield land’ left, so watch out, mice and lizards, they’re coming to get you and pour concrete into your greenfield burrows so they can make even more profit.

IWAS fascinated to see on local television recently that the police had seized and were destroying e-bikes and e-scooters.

But let’s get it into perspective.

In 2024, a total of seven e-scooters and e-bikes were kidnapped.

There have been three prosecutions for No Insurance, one for No Driving Licence and three more still under investigation.

The law currently permits the use of e-scooters only as part of government-approved rental trials or on private land with the landowner’s permission. Privately owned e-scooters remain illegal to use on public roads, pavements and cycle paths.

I ask myself ‘why’? They’re convenient, easy to park, environmentally friendly, emit no CO2, so seem to be the answer to the current global warming problem.

But, oh no, they haven’t found a way to tax them, to enforce insurance or otherwise make money for the government from them. So, prosecute people for riding them – well, that’s one way of using them to generate revenue.

Surely easier to stop them being sold. Look at Halfords’ website. £400 will buy you a perfectly good e-scooter but there’s a small panel in the ad reminding you that they ‘cannot be used on the roads’.

As if anyone is really interested in what the ‘law’ says. Who’s the criminal? The buyer or the seller?

Message to HM Government – if they’re illegal, then take them off the market and make it illegal to sell or advertise them.

Don’t waste police time in trying to confiscate them all –you won’t win. Don’t turn our children into criminals for the sake of making headlines out of an unenforceable law. Accept that the genie is out of the bottle.

Same with guns and gun licences. Do they really think firearms crimes, school shootings etc are carried out by licensed gun-owners?

Of course not.

The sort of person that’s going to commit murder is hardly likely to have taken the trouble to get a licence for their shotgun.

We have a ‘government’ which uses imprisonment as a

big stick in an attempt to stop violent crime.

But where are the prisons? Where are the police to enforce its laws? Where are the courts?

The justice system is getting pushed to breaking point.

The percentage of crimes solved in England and Wales was just 5.7% in 2023, with sexual offences having a clearance rate of just 3.6%.

Crimes are also taking far longer than usual to pass through the justice system. In 2022, it took an average of 407 days for a crown court case to reach a conclusion from the time of the offence, compared with 233 days in 2018.

This is most likely related to the large backlog of cases in crown courts, which reached more than 67,750 in 2023. Impressive, isn’t it?

ELEVEN county council employees just got the sack over potential misuse of our public money. Are they not going to be prosecuted?

A popular and competent Dorset Police officer is sacked for arresting a knife-carrying thug who had just attacked an elderly man at a McDonald’s because the officer didn’t do it nicely enough, yet 11 people at Dorset Council who may have used our money inappropriately don’t face any criminal prosecution.

Really?

I am probably in the minority when I express a total lack of confidence in the office of the Police and Crime Commissioner. We – the public – need to see more officers on the streets, more shoplifters apprehended and convicted, and to see punishments to fit the crimes.

We need to learn – through the pages of local newspapers and magazines – that criminals have been caught, fined or imprisoned.

Let’s stop the threats being empty. Come on, Mr Sidwick, get it out in the open and admit that your results are not what the public want to see or hear.

Community hospitals vital resource

THIS summer, I have had the privilege of visiting Swanage Community Hospital and meeting the dedicated nurses and Friends of Swanage Hospital volunteers. The whole team are dedicated to championing this essential community hospital.

We spoke in detail about opening new services and clinics at Swanage Community Hospital and looking to restore essential clinics closed under the previous Conservative Government. It was a terrible mistake to hollow out community hospitals in this way, so I am determined to reverse the damage done by the last government.

Time and again, local people have told me on the

doorstep just how vital Swanage Community Hospital is to the whole town. And my grandparents, who live locally, have repeatedly reminded me how much they rely on this hospital, too.

I firmly believe community hospitals should be the backbone of the NHS here in Dorset, delivering a whole range of services and clinics closer to home. Rather than forcing patients to travel further and further up the road, community hospitals provide peace of mind and healthcare on our doorstep – this is especially useful for some older patients without easy access to transport. And

we know that providing healthcare nearby drives up health outcomes across the board. That’s why I have been regularly meeting local NHS bosses and working with the Labour Government to push for a renewed focus on our community hospitals.

I am campaigning for Swanage Community Hospital to offer more routine tests and scans and to restore the rheumatology clinic to better support those living with chronic pain in Swanage. I am also working to protect the Minor Injuries Unit in Swanage, ensuring it stays open and accessible for when patients

need it most. And over at Wareham Community Hospital I am continuing to make the case for restoring the chemotherapy clinic, which was unfortunately shut down under the previous Conservative Government. Restoring the chemotherapy clinic will make an enormous difference to many cancer patients living nearby.

Championing Swanage Community Hospital is about putting patients first and driving up health outcomes. I will keep up the campaign to ensure this hospital has the resources, staff and support needed to succeed.

LLOYD HATTON Labour MP for South Dorset

On plans for Swanage seafront…

WHAT a week in Swanage – an election, a carnival and, for the Dorset Council cabinet, an inspiring presentation on the ambition for Swanage seafront. Congratulations to all involved in organising and raising funds at the carnival –there is so much to be proud of – and to Dorset councillor Chris Tomes on his election win. I look forward to working together as ward neighbours to represent the interests of Purbeck residents. The election turnout was 45.37%, compared to 40.92% in 2024, which is very impressive for a byelection and another fitting tribute to Bill Trite’s political legacy for the area. I would also like to congratulate my colleague Poppy Maltby on fighting an excellent campaign, hopefully the first of many. Swanage Town Council’s presentation of plans for the seafront and Shore Road was inspiring and peaked the interest of a number of my colleagues. I

am keen to understand what the people of Swanage have responded in the consultation on Shore Road – I know traffic needs to continue to flow through the town, but it would be a great shame to miss out on the opportunity for better pedestrian and cycleways to open up the full beach front. Like in an election result, there is no way to please everyone, but I am confident the project team will land on a fitting design for Swanage. Elsewhere in Purbeck, I am pleased to report that the play area at Purbeck Park, outside Corfe Castle, has had a full refresh courtesy of Dorset Council’s Recreation team. Further improvements at this facility are on their way, including the creation of dog-friendly woodland trials, which some may have spotted off the main footpath, and the

reopening of a much-improved kiosk, catering to all visitor needs.

In July, Dorset Council approved the Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) to ban overnight camping and associated anti-social behaviour on Studland’s beaches. This isn’t intended to spoil anyone’s experience of ‘wild’ Purbeck but, sadly, for every responsible camper who ‘leaves no trace’ there are a multiple who light fires in the dunes and leave all varieties of waste for others to clean up, or worse, get into the precious ecosystem.

We have all seen the fires across the Studland heaths in early August and the valiant effort it has taken from multiple fire crews to put them out. The fact that the fires are believed to have been started deliberately further compounds the urgency

to enforce these new regulations and for us to continue to put pressure on retailers in the area not to sell disposable barbecues. An issue heightening the risks of fire and pollution are the campervans parked illegally at the top of Ferry Road on what seems like a semi-permanent basis. For clarity, overnight parking is not permitted on Ferry Road by any vehicles. These campervans detract from our visitor economy, diverting income from established campervan sites, and cost taxpayers in the clean-up required. Dorset Council is working closely with the Ferry Company to implement urgent enforcement measures to address the immediate issue and it is hoped set a template for future years.

Hoping everyone can enjoy Purbeck responsibly this summer!

BEN WILSON Lib Dem councillor for South East Purbeck Ward

Ben Wilson

Lloyd Hatton

2ndXI’s run chase falls short

CRICKET

SWANAGE Cricket Club’s 2ndXI played host to high-flying Weymouth in their latest Division 4 encounter.

Weymouth won a crucial toss and, unsurprisingly, elected to bat on a blisteringly hot day at Day’s Park.

However, they were soon in trouble due to brilliant seam/ swing bowling by Charlie Dyke and Steve Ramsay, who took a wicket each to reduce the visitors to 22-2.

But despite an excellent spell of leg-spin bowling by the in-form Sid Nash and John Lewis’s off-spin, the visitor’s middle-order paced their innings to perfection, reaching 250-3 off their 40 overs.

In reply, Swanage recovered from the loss of an early wicket with an exceptional second wicket partnership between Lewis and Ramsay – until Lewis had to retire hurt due to straining his calf with his score on 31.

Ramsay was joined by Mike Nash and they batted enterprisingly until Ramsay was unluckily dismissed for a run a ball 44.

Nash was then joined by Sam Wells and together they constructed a half century stand at a run a ball to ensure Swanage reached maximum batting points.

Unfortunately for the hosts, just after Nash had hit his eighth boundary, with his score on 54, he also had to retire hurt with a recurrence of his own calf strain.

In spite of some big hitting by the lower order, the hosts finished their innings on 204-6.

Weymouth leap-frogged Swanage into third place in a very competitive division.

The 1stXI travelled to runaway unbeaten Premier 2 division leaders Chalke Valley. Swanage batted first and despite a half century by Mark Stacey and useful contributions from Ben Allatt, Michael Barry and Nick Pestana, were shot out

for a meagre 176.

In response, Chalk Valley got off a flying start due to outrageous power hitting by their overseas star, who smashed a century off just 50 balls to enable the hosts to reach their target for the loss of just two wickets.

The 3rdXI were also in action as they visited Shaftesbury in their latest Division 5 clash.

Shaftesbury batted first and despite a brace of wickets for Bradley Bulpitt, Paul Knight and Alan Marks, were still able to reach 245-6 from their 40 overs.

In reply, Swanage batted very sensibly with significant contributions from Josh Gould, Tim Ives and Paul Norman.

This allowed the team to at least attain maximum batting points – just like the 2ndXI –finishing on 175-6.

The result leaves Swanage in a two horse-race to avoid relegation with three matches to go.

SWANAGE

Cricket Club’s 2ndXI travelled to Hamworthy for their latest Division 4 encounter.

After losing the toss and being put into bat, the visitor’s opening pair of Mike Nash and John Lewis were determined to lay a sound foundation to enable the middle order to flourish later in the innings.

They were able to do this by mixing solid defence with ferocious drives and pull-shots, and together they constructed a 120-run partnership until, in the 22nd over, Lewis was caught in the outfield attempting his ninth boundary for an excellent 48.

Despite losing another wicket straight away, the momentum of the innings was maintained when the in-form Sid Nash joined Mike and they continued to bat in a positive fashion.

Mike was finally dismissed trying to hit his second maximum – to go along with his other 10 boundaries – for 77.

Wickets continued to fall but

Sid batted belligerently and brought up his second consecutive half-century with a towering six into the pavilion.

He was eventually dismissed off the final ball of the innings going for his 11th boundary for 66 off just 55 balls.

Swanage reached a respectable total of 236-6 from their 40 overs.

The hosts got off to a remarkable start, with their star batsman reaching a half century in just the fifth over.

He continued to bat in a very aggressive manner, reaching an astonishing century in only the 15th over.

He was finally dismissed for 141 off just 74 balls – his innings included 26 boundaries and allowed the hosts to complete a convincing nine-wicket victory in just the 27th over.

Despite this defeat, Swanage remain in third place in a competitive division and are still within touching distance of the top two.

Swanage’s 3rdXI continued their fight against relegation in Division 5 when they hosted Wimborne 4thXI on the Nursery ground at Day’s Park.

The visitors batted first and although Paul Knight claimed four wickets and Tim Ives and Sam Willcocks took three and two wickets respectively, the visitors reached 237 before being bowled out.

In reply, the hosts lost wickets at regular intervals, and although David Alcock made 38, were in a precarious position at 110-7

when he was dismissed. This brought together Geoff Willcocks and Matt Dunster who changed the complexion of the game with a 108-run partnership in only 16 overs.

Willcocks struck 11 boundaries – and lost three balls in the process – as he smashed 67 off just 52 balls.

He was ably supported by Dunster, who made an enterprising 31.

However, more drama was to come as they were both removed in the same over leaving Swanage on 219-9.

The hosts still needed 14 runs from the last over and were indebted to Knight, who struck two of the last four balls of the match to the boundary to secure a win for Dunster’s side, which moved them out of the relegation places.

Swanage’s 1stXI played host to Martinstown in Premier Division 2.

The hosts batted first and despite another half-century by the in-form Tom Wells (59) and some resistance from the lower order of Nick Pestana, Freddie Long and Steve Ramsay, Swanage never recovered from 131-6 and were shot out for just 185.

In reply, Martinstown had few alarms in reaching their target and, although Matt Beard took two wickets in an over, they completed a comfortable four-wicket victory.

Despite the defeat, Swanage are still in a secure mid-table position.

Mike Nash and John Lewis who completed their third century partnership together

Winners in spotlight at awards

SWANAGE & Wareham Hockey Club’s awards night was held at the end of the 2024/25 season with trophies being awarded to all the winners.

The club, based at Purbeck Sports Centre, had a successful winter season in 2024/25 and look forward to another one in 2025/26.

HOCKEY

The Men’s 1st team were promoted to South Central Division 2 after a nail-biting end to the season, with all the other teams more than holding their own in their respective divisions.

The club have two men’s and three ladies teams and are actively recruiting.

Training for adults – 13 and over – starts on Wednesday, August 20, at 7pm and junior training starts on Wednesday, September 17, at 6.30pm.

The club are looking forward to seeing new faces, with all levels welcome from anyone who has never picked up a stick before, to those who have not played since school to ex-

county players.

For more information, visit the club’s website,

Competitions and club’s invite to budding players

by Nadine Evans

THE wonderful weather has served as a great backdrop to the many matches and events at Swanage Bowls Club so far this season.

We love our friendly internal club rivalry with the Cauldron Barn Challenge being probably the most competitive of all.

With so many of our members living in Cauldron Barn Farm Park and the surrounding roads of Cauldron Barn Road and Cauldron Crescent, it was inevitable that a challenge cup competition would take place.

Unfortunately, when the two teams met, the Cauldron Barn team won a somewhat one-

sided affair! (We’re blaming it on the deserters who suddenly became honorary Cauldron ‘Barn-onians’ for the day!). A picnic and drinks ended a great day for everyone.

Our annual Regatta Cup took place as part of Swanage Carnival week.

We were thrilled to welcome 28 visitors who helped us to raise £140.

Some are regulars, taking part every year as part of their holiday experience, while for others it was their first taste of bowling.

Congratulations to Jenny

swanageandwarehamhc.org.uk, or email secretary@ swanageandwarehamhc.org.uk.

Hawker, from Wymeswold in Leicestershire, and Martin Stow, from Poole, who walked away with trophies for the ladies’ and men’s competitions respectively.

Our new members have benefited from weekly sessions focusing on helping them understand the game and develop their technique.

We are lucky to have two qualified coaches who are always eager to help and encourage new and longstanding club members.

If you are thinking of giving bowls a go ahead of next season, there is still time to take advantage of a trial session, so please call Barrie on 01929 421162 or send us a message on our Facebook page.

You’re always welcome to come and sit in our beautiful grounds and watch a game or two, taking advantage of the council’s Tea on the Green for a cuppa and a bite to eat.

Swanage & Wareham’s Men’s first team were promoted last season

Swanage & Wareham award winners (from left) Ben Thomas, Kate Black, Evie Binns, Ellie Meteau, Niamh McKeown, Debbie Collinson, Chris Jones and Nikki Grenville-Cleave

Jenny Hawker - Women’s Carnival & Regatta winner

Martin Stow – Men’s Carnival & Regatta Drive winner

BOWLS

Health & Wellbeing

grass with its tiny seed heads swaying and dancing in the breeze, there is the occasional harebell and patches of devil’s bit scabious. Hawkweeds, ragwort and viper’s bugloss are also present in places.

Meditations in nature: From sofa to summit

by Susanna Curtin

IT has been a challenging week. Some disappointing news, a parking ticket and a miscalculated decision have left me in a low, contemplative mood. This heavy feeling is mirrored by the dull, overcast weather. But as this evening draws nigh, the sun finally breaks through the blanket clouds, its brilliance lighting up the countryside in a blaze of rich colours. Unexpectedly, with a sudden burst of energy, I am inspired to get off my sofa and within 30 minutes, I find myself here, nearly at the summit of Hambledon Hill. To the north, south and east of me, the steely, blue-slate grey clouds remain, hovering heavily over the distant downs, but to the west, the sun’s rays intensify the hues of the late summer fields and the leafy green woods. Everything looks bright and dazzling. A blustery wind whips past my ears as I steadily gain height until eventually I am on top of

one of the neolithic long barrows in which once had laid the remains of a young warrior killed by an arrow and adorned with artefacts and pottery. Perhaps, nearly 5,000 years ago, his feet had trod the very paths that I have followed, and his eyes had looked across the realm that lies before me. This prominent landmark rises steeply to 190 metres above the Blackmore Vale and is one of the best-preserved Iron Age hillforts in the country – noted for its archaeology, wildlife and the stunning panoramic views that stretch across into the neighbouring counties of Somerset and Wiltshire. Over the 24 years I have lived in Dorset, it has been one of my ‘go to’ places to lift my spirits, and it never fails. Within minutes of striding up the gnarly, tree-root ladened path, any dark thoughts that bother me are replaced by the joy and excitement of the wide-open space that greets me as I reach

the top.

As well as the beautiful scenery, this famous chalk outcrop is known for its 28 species of butterfly, including the brilliant Adonis blues, dark green fritillaries and green hairstreaks. Plant lovers also flock here to enjoy the early purple, bee, pyramidal and common spotted orchids that furnish the steep escarpments in May and June. While I come for the butterflies and flowers, I particularly like the different perspective afforded by looking down upon the wings of the red kites, buzzards and kestrels that course the ramparts.

This evening, however, only a kestrel is on patrol. His head is pointing downwards into the wind, while his elegant wings hold firm, defiant against its force. Beneath my feet, the hot, dry summer has scorched the ground and tall, straw-coloured grasses are all bent towards the prevailing wind. Hidden among the stems of the little quaking

Having undertaken my usual circuit, I sit on the edge of the west-facing earthworks and watch the sun draw to its finale. Sunsets are so beautiful at this time of year due to the long angle of the sun and the existence of atmospheric particles which cause the shorter wavelength colours of blue and violet to scatter, leaving the longer wavelengths of orange and red, making the sky turn to crimson. I sit among the grasses and watch this changing spectacle until only vestiges of apricot skies remain amid the charcoal grey. Eventually, the heavy clouds dominate once more, and I pick up my belongings to leave now that the charm has faded, and the atmosphere has changed. In the returning gloom, the winds from the past whisk up my imagination. For this ancient site has a rich history of seasonal gatherings and settlements throughout the ages. It has been a trading frontier, a homestead, a battleground and a ceremonial place for the dead. Food was grown, pottery made, children born and battles won, all within the confines of this impressive fortress.

As the darkness gradually creeps in around me, the deer are emerging from their daytime hideaways, a distant tawny owl issues its haunting call, and the kestrel gives up its hunting for the day. I, too, must be on my way. I bid farewell to the ghosts that linger on this ancient monument and make haste down the tree-lined path to the car. So glad to have made the effort, and to have cleared my mind and filled it with the beauty and magic of this iconic Dorset landmark.

n Dr Susie Curtin (email curtin. susanna@gmail.com).

Hambledon Hill is noted for its archaeology, wildlife and stunning panoramic views

Power of the ‘mother of herbs’

by Fiona Chapman

AS I have been walking the dogs, I see that the Artemesia vulgaris or Mugwort is just about ready to harvest. It has been described as the ‘mother of herbs’, this is mainly because it was, and still is, widely used to treat women.

It has been used for centuries and was revered by both the Romans and the Greeks and has a long history of use. It was dedicated to Artemis, who was the Roman Goddess of the moon and from where the name derives, and Diana, who was, among other things, the Greek Goddess of the half-moon. Both

cultures associated the moon with fertility and childbirth. This was probably because the lunar cycle resembles the female menstrual cycle and, although it has never been proven, many women will say they cannot sleep when the moon is full.

In medieval times, it was hung above doorways for protection from evil and it is still used today for smudging, cleansing and banishing negative energy. It has long been associated with magical properties, helping seers look into the future, and was used on St John’s Day – since named

Simple exercises to help posture

IN today’s digital age, poor posture has become a common issue, often leading to discomfort, pain and long-term health problems.

Whether you’re sitting at a desk all day or hunched over a smartphone, maintaining good posture is essential for overall wellbeing.

The good news is that you can improve your posture with regular exercise.

Here’s a guide to three excellent postural exercises. Plank THE plank is a full-body exercise that strengthens the core, shoulders and back, all of which are crucial for maintaining good posture.

How to do it: Start in a forearm plank position, with your elbows directly under

your shoulders and your body in a straight line from head to heels.

Engage your core, glutes and legs to keep your body stable.

Hold the position for 20-60 seconds, focusing on keeping your body straight and avoiding any sagging or arching. Repeat two or three times.

Health & Wellbeing

the summer solstice – in protective rosaries. Those who wanted to see what their fiancé’s future might be, passed a sprig through the St John’s Day feast fire.

It is still an important herb for the female reproductive system and is used for fibroids, endometriosis, thrush and irregular periods. It is also a nervine, so good for sleep, mental exhaustion and depression. It has bitters in it,

slouching, helping to realign your posture.

How to do it: Sit at the edge of a chair with your feet flat on the floor and your back straight.

Place your arms at your sides, with palms facing forward.

Pull your shoulders down and back, squeezing your shoulder blades together.

Lift your chest slightly while keeping your chin tucked.

Hold this position for 10-15 seconds, then relax. Repeat five to10 times throughout the day.

which stimulate the gall bladder and pancreas to produce bile, which rids the body of toxins and helps with digestion, flatulence and regulates bowel movements. This is all good for cleansing the blood, so it is also used for arthritis and gout. It can be picked – when the flowers are just about to come out – and dried and made into a tea, but pregnant women should not take it as it can cause the uterus to contract, and those on Warfarin or anti-coagulants should also avoid it. It is said that it helps with warts if you rub them with the fresh leaf and it can be used in lotions for itchy skin. It is the ‘Moxa’ in acupuncture – burnt over acupuncture points in the body – to stimulate circulation. It grows in abundance and spreads quickly. I shall be prowling the footpaths with my clippers and picking some to make into a nice tea for the winter.

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

How to do it: Start on all fours with your hands under your shoulders and your knees under your hips.

Extend your right arm forward while simultaneously extending your left leg back, keeping both parallel to the floor.

Hold for a few seconds, then return to the starting position. Repeat on the opposite side, extending your left arm and right leg.

Perform 10 to 15 reps on each side.

Bird-Dog helps build core strength, which is essential for supporting your spine and maintaining good posture.

Planks help develop the core strength needed to support your spine and improve overall posture.

Bruegger’s Postural Relief Position

BRUEGGER’S exercise is designed to counteract the effects of prolonged sitting and

This exercise opens up the chest, strengthens the upper back and promotes better posture, especially during long periods of sitting.

Bird-Dog

THE Bird-Dog exercise targets the core and lower back, helping to stabilise the spine and improve overall posture.

Incorporating these postural exercises into your daily routine can make a significant difference in how you stand, sit and move.

Not only will you improve your posture, you’ll also reduce the risk of developing chronic pain and enhance your overall quality of life.

Mugwort – Artemesia vulgaris

Health & Wellbeing

Holidays for rest – and exploration

by Nicole Asghar

WITH the holidays in full swing, I’ve been reflecting on the magic of childhood summers – no school, no alarms, fewer rules. Just long, unstructured days filled with freedom to explore and follow interests. As adults, this kind of time can feel unfamiliar, even indulgent. Yet it’s something we often long for without knowing how to reclaim it. Pottering about, having no plans or letting time unfold without an agenda might seem wasteful in our productivityfocused culture. But maybe

we’ve just forgotten how to enjoy free time.

This isn’t quite the same as

DORSET FOOT CLINIC

A craft project – or perhaps an instrument, a book or a long walk –can provide ease and enjoyment

reactive mode, constantly responding to external demands.

But here’s the thing –recuperation doesn’t have to mean doing nothing at all. It can come from gently engaging in things that light us up –those little sparks of interest we often overlook. Following your curiosity can lead to a flow state, that beautiful space where time disappears, focus deepens and we feel both calm and energised. Holidays are the perfect setting for this.

CHIROPODY

Home Visits & Clinic Appointments

doing nothing, which we can all find challenging at times. It’s more about giving ourselves permission to drift, explore and be led by our interests without pressure or urgency. Everyone’s version of the ideal holiday looks different, but the shared goal is often the same – recuperation. Rest and recuperation both activate our parasympathetic nervous system – our body’s ‘rest and digest’ mode. It’s the opposite of being ‘on’ all the time. And it’s essential for real recovery, especially from stress or burnout. We can’t feel truly restored when we’re always in

So, I invite you to notice what gently calls you – a book, an instrument, a craft project, a long walk, a topic you want to dive into. Maybe it’s something creative or something active. Perhaps it’s simply lying in the grass watching the sky. Whatever it is, follow that pull and let your holidays be shaped not just by rest, but by exploration. It really can be the little things that bring us ease and enjoyment, summer holiday or not. Enjoy everyone! n Nicole Asghar is an integrative therapist supporting adults and children online and in Bournemouth and Poole. She specialises in neurodivergence and trauma, weaving in yoga and movement to support reconnection to self and others. (Visit www. ourluminousminds.com; email nicole@ourluminousminds. com).

Quick fixes to help your house sell for more

THE experts at Armishaws

Removals have come up with seven easy ways to increase the value of your house before putting it on the market. Make a good first impression YOU can add kerb appeal and make a better first impression without breaking the budget. Repaint the front door, jetwash driveways and paths, give garden gates a spruce up and add a video doorbell. You can easily perform a façade facelift in a single weekend.

Declutter

NOT only does decluttering make rooms look and feel

bigger, but cluttered houses are one of the biggest turn-offs for potential buyers. Time to do that long overdue tip run, put everything in its place and find places for all the rest, leaving floors and rooms free from ‘life-debris’.

Declutter again

buyers, increasing competition and offers.

Upgrade the bathroom

REPLACE taps, plugs and showerheads. Clean grouting, put in new seals and sealants. You can even add a pot plant or two, all transforming a bathroom for under £100.

Kitchen makeover

NOW you’ve got rid of the big stuff, go through every room again, hang coats in wardrobes, tidy away shoes from the front door, put dog leads in drawers, anything that’s left that could be tidied, tidy it. Making your house look ‘zen’ will attract

THE other room that really matters to buyers is the kitchen. Painting or spraying doors, replacing handles or simply changing the light fitting can make a big difference. Painting tiles is another inexpensive trick to freshen up the room. Specialist tile paints are well on budget.

Worktops

ANOTHER handy kitchen hack is updating worktops by adding an overlay. Tough, durable and surprisingly easy to apply, overlays come in a huge range

of colours, styles and patterns. Make a workspace

WITH more people working from home, having a clearly defined workspace shows prospective buyers how the house can work for them. Add a house name

STUDIES have found houses named using words like Cottage, Willow or Holly sell for a higher price than similar homes without a name. It’s easy to design and buy your own house name plaque online. Get planning permission

IF you can stretch your budget a bit further, houses with planning permission – to add an extra room, convert the loft or garage and so on – sell on average for 10% more and sell faster. Typically, it costs around £258 to apply for planning permission.

n Get more house selling tips at Armishaws.com/blog.

Home & Garden

Blue heaven for the patient gardener

by Sally Gregson

AGAPANTHUS are the epitome of summer. Their pure blue colour seems to speak of cloudless skies, of sunshine and hot days. And they are especially enjoying this summer’s strong, bright conditions.

It can be difficult to remember that these South Africans are not quite so hardy in our variable climate. Evergreen forms are especially vulnerable to winter wet and storms, but they are ideal for a large container in the summer sun. Bring it in out of the rain for the winter period and water it sparingly.

Deciduous forms are much tougher, however, in our occasionally freezing winters, and are recommended to plant in a dry sunny spot in the garden. A wise gardener inserts

a label near the crown, well before winter, to remind eager spring weeders of its presence. And the gardener gives each outdoor-grown specimen a mulch in winter for added protection and to feed the flowers.

Choosing bulbs for next spring

by Sally Gregson

WE gardeners are ever optimistic. It may have been a difficult year, but while our gardens bake under the relentless summer sun, it’s time to start thinking, planning and ordering bulbs for spring. If you want spectacular pots and baskets, or if you just want a glorious display next year, it’s time to get in an order for the newest and the best of bulbs.

Mail-order bulb companies offer an increasingly wide selection of cultivars and newly discovered plants. With climate change a definite part of our lives, it might be worth taking a look at bulbs we have previously thought would only survive the winter under protection.

Among those specials we

have all just heard about recently, is a selection of camassias being bred and selected for different colour forms. A pink camassia seems to be everyone’s dream. And some breeders are happy to sell bulbs from their trials. If not pink, cream and mauve forms are available. But the pink gene is in their make-up, so you may find a blushing beauty among the seedlings.

New forms of narcissus always tempt, too. Narcissus ‘Every Day’ is a clear crisp white with a bi-coloured gold and white corona; or diminutive N. ‘New Baby’ with a lemonyellow corona with a darker edge, is small enough to be planted in a tiny pot. You could even pot one into a secondhand

only way.

All agapanthus come readily from seed sown in spring under glass, however, so restraint is called for. As seedlings, the darker forms can often be differentiated by a deep blue stain at the base of the seedleaves, and usually the paler forms have a paler caste to the foliage.

Prick the seedlings out for the following three or four years, every spring, into increasingly large pots. One of the most difficult problems is keeping the pots of seedlings free of weeds. The grass-like foliage in the early stages makes true seedlings especially hard to spot, but the agapanthus seedlings have tiny bulbils at the base of each stalk.

It is possible to make more and divide the crowns with the aid of a hand-axe in early spring. It’s just as violent as it sounds, however, and the plant might take a year out to recover. But with named forms of agapanthus, division is the

Pot the seedlings on each spring, and after about three years they should reward patience with flowers in the whole spectrum of blue from opalescent white through hyacinth to deep cobalt, the colour of a stormy African sky. They will be a fine reward for all that patience.

teacup from the local charity shop and give it to someone you love for Christmas.

Hyacinths are the classic bulb to give for the new year, preferably already growing away in a decorative pot. After all the festivities are over, a beautiful, heavily scented hyacinth seems to cheer the spirits on those dark winter days. This year different colours

are available ranging from deep navy-blue H. ‘Dark Dimension’ to H. ‘Yellow Hyacinth Stem’ in the eponymous daffodil colour. Ordering bulbs before the end of the summer means you need not worry about spring. Your bulbs will arrive in good time to put them in containers or the dry, parched garden, leaving you to get the garden ready for another year.

The purple blue flowers of an Aganpanthus Orientalis plant

Camassias and tulips look beautiful

Low maintenance groundcover plants a popular option

GROUNDCOVER plants are becoming increasingly popular because they offer a simple, low-maintenance way to make your garden look fuller and healthier.

These plants grow close to the ground, quickly covering bare soil to help stop weeds, retain moisture and prevent erosion.

Whether you have a sunny slope or a shady corner, groundcovers are perfect for filling tricky spots where other plants might struggle.

British Garden Centres has put together its top groundcover plants that will thrive in the garden.

Cranesbill geraniums: Renowned for their resilience and attractive foliage, these geraniums are hardy and create dense mounds of intricately veined leaves and purple or white flowers in late spring. They thrive at the front of sunny borders and tolerate poor, dry soils, making them a favourite for low-maintenance gardeners who want ground cover in their gardens.

Erigeron: Commonly known as Mexican fleabane, this perennial has dainty white and pink daisy-like flowers blooming from May to November. Erigeron is a low maintenance ground cover option for sunny spots, rockeries and wall crevices. Its spreading habit ensures continuous colour and attracts pollinators throughout the summer, making the garden abuzz with beneficial insects.

Campanula: These bellflowers offer cascades of blue or purple blooms from June to September. Their trailing habit makes them ideal for walls, containers and shady corners, providing a profusion of flowers and softening hard edges. Look for Campanula

portenschlagiana and Campanula carpatica for groundcover.

Lily of the Valley: A classic choice for shady borders and woodland gardens, lily of the valley spreads quickly and produces fragrant, bell-shaped white flowers in late spring. It thrives in moist soil and is perfect for underplanting and groundcover, particularly in darker nooks of your garden.

Periwinkle: This evergreen groundcover is prized for its rapid growth and ability to thrive in dry shade. With pretty blue or purple flowers in spring and summer, periwinkle is ideal for challenging sites where other plants struggle.

Heuchera: Heucheras are grown for their colourful, evergreen foliage, ranging from green to deep purple. They form attractive clumps and make excellent groundcover in shady areas or the front of borders, with spikes of tiny summer flowers that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Bergenia: Fondly known as Elephant’s Ears, Bergenia’s large, shiny leaves and pink or purple spring flowers make it a fantastic choice for dense groundcover. It tolerates both shade and drought, providing year-round interest with its evergreen foliage when other plants have faded.

Heather: Heathers are evergreen, low-growing shrubs that flourish in acidic soils and sunny locations. With flowers ranging from white to deep red, calluna heathers provide colour from late summer through winter and are beloved by pollinators, who will feast on this popular ground cover plant. Plant with other heathers, such as erica and daboecia, to have flowers and cover all year round.

Lavender: Lavender is a

Cranesbill geranium

PHOTO: Pixabay

great ground cover plant because it spreads out to form a low, fragrant mat of purple flowers that brighten up garden beds and borders. It thrives in sunny, well-drained soil and is drought tolerant once established, making it easy to care for. Lavender also naturally repels pests like aphids, so it helps protect nearby plants while keeping weeds down. Known for its calming scent, its flowers attract bees and

butterflies, supporting pollinators in your garden.

Aubrieta: Aubrieta is a great groundcover for beginners because it’s easy to grow and spreads quickly, creating a lovely carpet of purple and blue flowers in spring. It likes sunny spots and well-drained soil, and once it’s settled, it doesn’t need much care. A massive plus is that it helps keep weeds down and adds a splash of colour to gardens, rockeries or walls without much fuss.

Julian Palphramand, head of plants at British Garden Centres, said: “We’re seeing more and more gardeners turn to groundcover plants because they do the hard work for you.

“Whether you’ve got a tricky patch under a tree, a sunny border, or just want to cut down on weeding, there’s a groundcover plant to suit.”

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Stables/field shelters, summerhouses, offices, workshops, agricultural 01935 891195

Field & Stream

Harvests then and now: Flat eights to no-till

by AJ Selby

“Striving for success without hard work is like trying to harvest where you haven’t planted” – David Bly

YOU can see the dust rising upwards from half a mile away. A darker cloud against the azure-blue sky, moving slowly across the horizon. As you get nearer you spot the combine harvester eating up the acres and sending the dust skywards as the straw spews out of the back of the machine. I love watching the combines at work, having driven a bright yellow New Holland back in the days when we had phone boxes and village bobbies on bicycles.

The mechanism is beautiful to watch as the cutter bar slices the stalks of corn a few inches above the soil. As the cut stalks with their heads of plump, ripe wheat, barley or oats fall onto the table so the big reel ensures that the crop is taken up the auger into the guts of the machine where it is threshed – the heads separated from the stalk – and the corn taken into the grain tank and the straw ejected out the back.

So easy, compared to the not too distant past when corn was scythed and the sheaves stood up in stooks to keep the rain off before threshing time. My maternal grandfather was a market gardener who also helped with the hay and corn harvest – the only photo I have of him is of a horse-drawn wagon loaded with hay and

grandfather on top with a pitchfork, taken in the early 1900s when he was in his 20s and one of the fitter lads to ride atop a load.

There is still something in all of us, countryman and town-dweller alike, that feels an ancient calling to harvest and to store as the daylight diminishes and the mercury starts to fall. Whether it’s a ramble with a willow basket to pick blackberries and crab apples, or an urge to bake and preserve autumn’s bounty to freeze, bottle and jar, the onset of the closing of the year remains in our subconsciousness.

Back on the cornfields, the combine quickly eats away at the acres and then moves on leaving a line every 20 yards or so of a thick roll of straw. Into the field comes the baler, a machine that binds the loose straw and ties it up before dropping a huge round bale the size of a very small car out of the back, soon picked up by a tractor grab and onto a trailer.

In my youth – ah, those words conjure up so many memories of harvests past – it was all small bales and I can clearly recall being mesmerised the first time I baled the straw with a ‘flat eight’ sledge behind. This was towed behind the baler and was an iron frame that was four bales wide and two deep. It had a series of very clever strips of metal on pivots that guided the bales

into their positions. So, as you drove and baled, the first bale would be channelled into the bottom right corner and as it nestled there it would nudge a metal bar that would ensure the next bale sat alongside it. And so on until the eighth bale completed the ‘flat eight’ whereupon it would dislodge a lever and the gate at the back would open up, leave the eight bales behind in a neat block whence the gate would slam shut waiting for the next eight.

Then a tractor with a loader and a flat eight grab with hydraulic spikes would lift the block onto a trailer. You could put three blocks on the base of the trailer and probably five high, so 120 bales to a load. This was a fairly new innovation on the farm I worked on and was bought in about 1978 – only two years before in that endless forever summer we were using pitchforks to load the bales one by one. I only wish I had taken some photos of the machinery back then.

The bare fields, bright yellow with the stubble, were lit and everything burnt to kill weed seeds and clean the ground ready for ploughing and

replanting. I have recalled in Country Diary in previous years the fun we had with stubble burning but the practice is sadly outlawed now. One of the benefits today is that the gleanings – the spilt corn from the combines including the tiny grains that fall through the thresher sieve – are food for many birds and you can watch pheasant, partridge, pigeons and various corvids covering the ground and feeding up for the leaner times ahead.

Many farmers are also practising ‘no-till’, an American phrase that effectively means no ploughing, which helps the soil keep both its structure and the carbon it stores. The seed is directdrilled into the brashy stubble and, as many weed seeds need soil disturbance and light to germinate, so no ploughing also means fewer weeds – but sadly not completely weed free. Other complementary techniques are also being used as part of a ‘no-till’ husbandry programme. Many farmers are quietly working behind the scenes to help both the environment and the planet. And that, of course, can only be a positive thing.

Wheat harvesting in the summer by a modern combine harvester

‘Be prepared’: Driving over the Bank Holi day

THE AA is advising motorists to spend 10 minutes checking their vehicle before heading off on what is likely to be one of the busiest weekends of the year on the roads.

The August Bank Holiday weekend, from Friday, August 22, to Monday, August 25, is expected to bring significant delays on major motorways such as the M5 – towards the south west, M6 –towards the Lake District and Scotland, and M4, as well as key A-roads like the A30, A303 and A82.

festivals over the Bank Holiday weekend, and the British Moto GP at Silverstone from August 29-31.

Routes to coastal destinations, ferry ports, major airports and popular tourist attractions such as theme parks are expected to be significantly busier than usual.

Shaun Jones, AA patrol of the Year, said: “Before setting out drivers are advised to check their vehicle.

TAKE 10 MINUTES

Pre-trip vehicle checks

n Tyres: Check for age, correct pressure and adequate tread depth.

n Fluids: Top up oil, coolant and screen wash.

n Lights and wipers: Ensure all lights are working and wipers are in good condition.

n Battery: If your car has been idle for a while, consider getting the battery tested.

n Fuel and charge: Make sure you have enough fuel or electrical charge for your journey or plan in where you can stop to fill up or recharge. Plan your route

depth, but also for their age on any vehicle which hasn’t been used recently.

n Use a route planner to map out your journey in advance. Avoid peak travel times

n Early mornings (before 9am) or late evenings (after 7pm) tend to be quieter.

n Midweek travel is often less congested than weekends. Stay calm and take breaks

n Take a break every two hours

n Stay hydrated and eat light meals

n Share driving duties if possible

n Regular breaks help maintain concentration and reduce fatigue.

hours if possible.

The start of the domestic football season this month is also likely to increase traffic, as will the Reading and Leeds

“Spending 10 minutes could save you time on your journey by helping to prevent a breakdown.

“Check you tyres – not just for correct pressure, and tread

Car collection going under the hammer

MORE than 20 classic cars owned by a collector who lives near Dorchester are coming up for auction next month.

The owner, who is no longer able to drive or continue restoring his vehicles, is selling his cars, spares, workshop and other tools in the sale.

He bought most of the vehicles decades ago with the aim of restoring them gradually in retirement.

A 1956 Jaguar XK140

in the owner’s collection

post ramp and other items.

“Top up your oil, coolant and screenwash. Make sure you’ve got enough fuel or electrical charge if you drive an EV.

“We strongly advise drivers to avoid setting off during peak

“Leaving early in the morning or later in the evening can make a huge difference to your journey time and stress levels.

“Build in plenty of breaks to keep everyone refreshed and safe on the road.”

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The vehicles include complete original cars, partially restored vehicles and cars which need complete restoration.

The workshops contain spare parts, tools, a lathe, four

Viewing is at the property, on Monday and Tuesday, September 8 and 9, 9.30am4.30pm.

The auction is at Chartehouse’s Sherborne saleroom on Wednesday, September 10.

2022 (22) RENAULT CAPTUR 1.0 TCE ICONIC EDITION 5 DR in Grey Keyless Entry, 7” Touch Screen with Navigation, Wireless Phone Charger, Cruise control, Climate Control, Bluetooth Phone Connection, Auto Lights, Auto Wipers, Rear Parking Sensors, Lane Departure System, Alloys 36000 Miles with Full Service History......... 2020 (20) VAUXHALL CORSA SRi NAV in Metallic Black Sat-Nav, Remote Locking, Electric Windows, Air Conditioning, 28638 miles....... 2022 (22) KIA X CEED 2ISG 5 DR in Metallic Red Remote locking, Air Conditioning, Electric Windows, Touch Screen Media Bluetooth Phone Connection, Full Service History, 39848 Miles............................................ 2016 (16) MITSUBISHI L200 4X4 BARBARIAN DOUBLECAB in Metallic Blue

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Not found what you’re looking for?

If you can’t find what you’re looking for, have a look at our Car Finder Page on our website www.foleysgarage.co.uk or call the Sales line on 01929503115 We successfully find all makes and models of cars to satisfy our customer needs

2019 (19) VW TRANSPORTER T32 TDi BMT 4M 4X4 in Met Blue Automatic, Satellite Navigation, Wessex Conversion includes 4 Rear Captains Seats in Leather and Suede/Iso x, ABT Bodykit, Black Roof Lining to Rear with Touch Lights and Climate Control, Removeable Tow Bar, 20” Alloys, USB Ports, Auto Lights, Stop/Start, Heated Front Seats,Heated Windscreen, Heated and Folding Electric Mirrors, Folding Table in Rear, Upgraded Sound System, FSH, 61500 Miles, Two Future Services and MOTs with VW included in price...£34995

2017 (17) TOYOTA AURIS TOURING SPORT 1.8 BUSINESS EDN HYBRID, In Silver, Automatic, Sat Nav, 7” Touch Screen, Lane Departure Warning System, Rear View Camera, DAB Radio, Bluetooth, Air Con, Alloys, Euro 6 Compliant, Heated Front Seats, Electric Windows, 82700 Miles............................................................................................. £10995

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roadster

Country pub reopens doors

A RURAL Dorset pub has reopened to the public following a campaign by villagers.

The Elm Tree in Langton Herring, near Weymouth, poured its first pint in over two years last month after dwindling footfall and rising costs led to its closure in November 2023.

Villagers were told it could be reopened if they raised £650,000 and set up The Friends of the Elm Tree group.

In just six months, they raised more than £550,000 thanks to drawing attention with Gen-Z-inspired TikTok trends.

However, more funds were needed to reduce the amount they needed to take out in loans to buy the pub in the timescale set.

The pub’s new tenants are Katharine and James Parsons, who oversaw the pub’s opening last month.

Friends of the Elm Tree said: “We would like to thank everyone for their support, buying shares, making donations, entering the prize draw or even just liking or sharing our posts over the last few months.

“However, fundraising continues to reduce the amount of the loans taken out to reach

the final amount we needed.”

Anyone interested can become a shareholder from as little as £200.

The pub has served villagers since the 18th century, when it was a community hub.

Throughout the First World War, The Elm Tree provided a sanctuary for those who

remained in the local villages.

In the Second World War it hosted Barnes Wallis, inventor of the ‘bouncing bomb’ used in the famous Dambusters Raid, and Prime Minister Winston Churchill. They sampled local ales during interludes between tests of the fledgling bomb in the Fleet.

Easier access in store at seafront cafe

A CAFE at the back of the Mowlem theatre in Swanage is set for a new shopfront that will see a more accessible entrance created for wheelchair and walking aid users.

Dorset Council approved plans last month for the shopfront at the Fortes Café Italia on the seafront.

The plans will see a new aluminium shopfront replace the existing timber structure.

The design would be more

½ tsp White wine vinegar Salt and pepper Walnuts for garnish Method

thermally efficient and continue the style of the more modern shopfronts near the business.

The plans said the new shopfront would allow the access to be made more accessible for wheelchair/ walking aid users with a level threshold from the footway.

Swanage Town Council said any steps to improve accessibility at local businesses would be welcomed and supported the plans.

THIS simple salad could be ideal for a light summer lunch. Blackberry and artichoke watercress salad

Serves 2

Preparation time: 10 minutes

50g Watercress

60g Blackberries, halved

120g artichoke hearts, quartered

50g Feta, crumbled

Dressing

2 tsp Honey

2 tsp Mustard

Arrange the watercress on a plate and top with the blackberries and artichokes, crumble with the feta and drizzle with the dressing. Lighter bite for summer lunch

TO make the dressing, combine all ingredients and mix well. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Ingredients

1 tsp Olive oil

The Elm Tree in Langton Herring has reopened after being closed for almost two years PHOTOS: Friends of The Elm Tree/Crowdfunder

The Fortes Café Italia at the back of The Mowlem theatre in Swanage

Are diamonds really forever?

by Amy

Brenan, director of Heirlooms Jewellers, 21 South Street, Wareham ‘DIAMONDS are forever’ is a phrase made famous by a 1940s advertising campaign for de Beers, the famous diamond company, during a time when diamond sales were declining.

The tagline aimed to link diamonds with eternal love and commitment – and it worked.

The campaign transformed the way the world viewed engagement rings and is considered one of the most successful advertising slogans of the 20th century.

However, it has actually become a cultural truth.

When viewed through the world of antique jewellery, the sentiment becomes richer and more meaningful.

Antique diamond jewellery often proves that diamonds do indeed stand the test of time. Rings, brooches and pendants from the Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian eras still sparkle with their original stones, passed down through generations.

The durability of diamonds is

Beachcomber made his finds into art

DUKE’S Auction House – an ever-shifting emporium of beauty, artistry and the unusual – is welcoming the return of its ever popular Interiors Sale on Thursday, August 28, a showcase of objects both storied and singular.

Among the highlights is a captivating collection of artwork by the late Martin Scorey.

JEWEL STANDS TEST OF TIME

An early 20th century diamond flowerhead ring

well-known and is just one part of the story.

The expert craftsmanship and design are another.

Antique settings often feature hand-cut stones, such as old mine cuts or rose cuts, which carry a softness and character that modern precision-cut diamonds often lack.

However, while the stones may last forever, styles and values evolve.

What was once seen as traditional or ornate may now be considered a statement piece, appealing to those who value sustainability, history and individuality in their jewellery.

People are making a conscious decision to wear something with a past.

In this sense, diamonds in antique jewellery are forever – not just as physical gems, but as stories.

They remind us that jewellery is more than something beautiful to wear –it’s legacy.

Whether worn as a romantic heirloom or a unique vintage find, antique diamond jewellery continues to shine.

A devoted beachcomber, Scorey salvaged driftwood from the Hampshire shore, transforming these wayfaring fragments into art with reverence and imagination.

His work includes folk art carvings of animals, paintings

Martin Scorey (19612021) a folk art ‘blue fish’ in the Interiors Sale

and pieces in metal – each one a testament to his talent and his deep connection to the natural world.

These creations feel both intentional and organic, imbued with a quiet majesty that lingers.

They embody the very spirit of the Interiors Sale – a confluence of the natural and the artistic, the decorative and the rare, fused together to create truly distinctive decorative pieces.

To learn more about buying, selling or exploring the world of Duke’s – from Interiors to the titanic auctions of October—visit dukes-auctions.com.

Flag day: Blue skies and a stiff north-west wind at Swanage recently

PHOTO: Robin Boultwood

A busy summer scene at Harmans Cross station on the Swanage Railway. A diesel service arrives bound for Corfe Castle and Norden while the crowd on the other platform wait for a steam service to Swanage Photo: Bob Bunyar

The lost port of Paphos

by John Blashford-Snell

WHEN the EOKA terrorist campaign in Cyprus ended in 1959 I was leading a team of Royal Engineers divers and was approached by the local commissioner, an enthusiastic historian. “It would be good training for your divers”, he said, “to investigate the lost port of Paphos for the Antiquities Department.”

So, our 20-strong team met the curator in Paphos Museum. The day was hot and archaeology was not a subject close to the hearts of the Sappers. They shuffled and sniffed as his lecture was delivered in broken English. He droned on: “Each year many young virgins came from all over the Mediterranean to be indoctrinated by the priests at the sacred temple of Aphrodite at Kouklia”. The soldiers' eyes brightened. “It needed many ships and a great port was built here,” our host explained. “At the temple was a 15ft phallic symbol, like this,” said our friend, tapping a replica. “Bet there were no shortage for ordination in them days,” muttered a Sapper.

Using a Royal Engineers Z craft Z11 as a support vessel, we set about seeking evidence of the huge port believed to have been submerged by an 11th century earthquake. The crystal clear water revealed numerous ceramic artefacts littering the sea-bed around remains of ancient wrecks and we even found four large 18th century cannon.

Colonel John Blashford-Snell CBE is a British explorer, former British Army officer and author. He founded the Scientific Exploration Society and Operation Raleigh, which later evolved into a global youth development programme

propelled me towards a waveswept reef. The valve on my scuba set went ‘clunk’. We had no reserves in those days. With regret, I dropped the heavy artefact and my weight belt, struggling to swim, but Z11 was 200 metres away. The razor sharp rocks grew closer and red clouds crept over my vision. I feared the worst. Then a voice behind me called “Do you need help?” A journalist covering the story in a boat pulled me aboard, 20 metres from the crashing waves. A lucky escape! There were others, too, including a close encounter with a 6ft wide stingray in an underwater cave. We badly needed a marine archaeologist to direct our work. There were none in Cyprus, but an attractive lady archaeologist flew in from Athens.

Wearing a yellow bikini, she set up shop on the deck of our vessel. These soldiers rarely met any of the opposite sex and worked enthusiastically, but after a time, I realised the lady was, unintentionally, becoming a distraction.

replied.

Operation Aphrodite, as it was known, continued over three years, making many exciting finds, although I'm not sure we identified the legendary harbour.

Spotting an inscribed marble slab, I stupidly ignored my low air reading and went down 20 feet to retrieve what might be a real archaeological treasure. My fellow diver had returned to the ship and as I surfaced clutching the slab, a strong current

Discreetly, I explained the problem. “Oh, but they are only boys,” she smiled. “What would you like me to do?” “Well, perhaps you could wear a one-piece bathing costume,” I suggested. “Which piece would you like me to wear?” she

In the 16th century, the Turks ruled Cyprus, garrisoning a fort on the Paphos foreshore, with a giant cannon threatening the Greek townsfolk. During a short-lived revolution, the oppressed people seized the fort and removed the gun. It was said that returning to power, in spite of inflicting some brutal torture, the Turks failed to locate their cannon. There were many rumours about it and a local policeman told us that snorkelling in a nearby bay, he had seen the breech of a large gun emerging from the sand. The site was too shallow to get Z11 over it, so we blasted a way through the rocks and using our Scammel recovery truck, winched it ashore. It was indeed massive, nearly 8ft long. How the Greeks got it there, goodness knows. Possibly they used a boat to carry it away from the fort. In triumph we transported it to the museum. In the 1970s, when photographing

the gun, now on display at the Police HQ, I was arrested for filming a Cypriot weapon! Years later, I stopped at a petrol station on the A303 in Somerset and met the owner.

“I’ll never for-get hauling up that great cannon,” said former Royal Engineer, Colin Kantharia, of Mere. He had been in the crew of Z11!

Signed copies of John Blashford-Snell’s recent book, From Utmost East to Utmost West are available for £20 including UK postage. Contact jenny@ ses-explore.org for further details.

Lt John Blashford-Snell leads the Royal Engineers diving team, Paphos 1958-60 (above); the giant cannon, found by Royal Engineers divers off Paphos, together with numerous artefacts from Grecian wrecks (below); and the Operation Aphrodite expedition area (left)

Portland Port visit just the job for youngsters

STUDENTS explored different routes into maritime-related careers and ‘jobs of the future’ when they visited Portland Port.

The group of Wey Valley School pupils met staff and toured facilities during the trip organised by the Sail Training Trust (STT) Portland in partnership with the Andrew Simpson Foundation as part of its maritime education programme.

Highlights included a tour of a tug boat and the chance to see the port’s £26 million deepwater berth, the marine office and historic military areas.

Claire Pearce, from the Dorset Clean Energy Super Cluster, was also on hand with a presentation to explain how renewable energy projects could create skilled jobs during development and operation.

Bill Reeves, chief executive of Portland Port, said: “I hope the visit opened the students’ eyes to the many exciting and worthwhile careers in the maritime industry both now and in the future.

“It was a pleasure to welcome the students and give them the opportunity to see what we do here and talk to our staff about their roles and the varied career paths they have taken.

“The maritime sector, including ports, remains a critically important industry for the UK and makes a valuable contribution to the country’s economy, national security and society.

“Our thanks go to the students, Wey Valley School, Sail Training Trust Portland, the Andrew Simpson Foundation and Claire Pearce for making it such a successful visit.”

Mr Reeves gave students an

overview of how the port operates on a daily basis during the behind the scenes tour.

The eight-strong party of 13 to 15 years olds were given a tour of the port’s marine office by marine officer Gary Fooks.

Port project engineer Rueben Stroud gave the students a presentation about his role. He embarked on an apprenticeship after contacting the port directly about job openings and is now taking a degree through the business.

Commercial assistant Josh Jenvey, who also approached the port personally about vacancies, told students about the level 3 business administration apprenticeship he took through the port and Weymouth College.

technologies.

Environment and planning officer Joe Roberts explained how he graduated with a degree before working at the port.

Holly Jones, from Andrew Simpson Centre (ASC) Portland, said: “The trip was a great opportunity for our students to get a feel for career pathways available in the maritime industry around Portland.

“It was great to hear from so many different people about the pathways they took to get to their current role.

“The trip has really inspired our students to consider all options to achieve their goals and not just traditional routes into work.”

In her presentation, Claire told pupils about the career possibilities from clean energy projects proposed for the area and Portland’s potential as a strategic hub for such

Portland Port has signed memorandums of understanding with leading European renewable energy developers Source Galileo to develop opportunities around its PortWind offshore wind project proposed in the English Channel and with UK Energy Storage (UKEn) for green hydrogen storage.

Portland Port employs 57 people in a variety of office and shoreside roles, including marine engineers, marine officers, apprentices, pilot boat and tug crew, maintenance, security, port police, administration and accounting, commercial and business development, asset management and landside services.

Separate businesses based at the port employ nearly 50 people in such sector areas as marine engineering, marine services, refuelling, cargo import and export, boat building, renewable energy, aquaculture and subsea communications.

The port’s cruise business contributes about £10m to the local economy annually.

According to Maritime UK, the maritime sector supports more than 1.1 million jobs in the UK and adds £116 billion to the economy.

It is responsible for facilitating 95% of UK global trade, worth £500 billion-plus a year. It makes a greater contribution to the UK economy than both rail and air combined.

The Andrew Simpson Foundation was set up in memory of an Olympic gold winning sailor who died following an accident during training with the Swedish Americas Cup team in May 2013 in San Francisco Bay. It helps young people to get out on the water and experience the joys and challenges of sailing and watersports.

Mr Simpson lived in Sherborne and was well known at the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy, where the charity has one of its centres.

The STT’s maritime education programme was created to help young people build confidence, independence and gain a greater understanding of local career paths.

Students on the bridge of a tug and in the boardroom at Portland Port

Holiday park marks 50 years

ONE of Dorset’s favourite holiday parks, nestled between Corfe Castle and Studland, is celebrating its 50th anniversary this summer.

Burnbake began as a campsite on a patch of heathland on the Rempstone Estate but is now a multiaccommodation park with 22 forest lodges with hot tubs, luxury safari tents, camping fields and a newly restored farmhouse.

The golden jubilee will be marked with community competitions, vintage merchandise and a celebration party inviting past and present guests to share memories and stories.

Founder Philippa Ryder, now 80, founded the campsite in 1975 to supplement the income from the estate’s farm.

“Back then, the farm wasn’t making a huge amount, and the estate wasn’t either,” Phillippa said.

“This area wasn’t suitable for farming, but it was in the perfect location.”

The campsite had no electricity, just a water pipe and a few chemical toilets.

The first guests were attracted by hand-painted signs and word of mouth.

“We had signs at the top of the road and one down near

Trust updates grants offer

THE Talbot Village Trust, which supports communities in the Bournemouth, Christchurch, Poole, East Dorset and Purbeck area, has launched two new grants programmes – but organisations need to get in quick to apply in the latest round.

The trust has awarded more than £10 million in charitable funding to local organisations over the past decade.

The new Small Grants Programme is designed for smaller charities and community groups making a local impact, while the Capital Grants Programme supports organisations with at least one year of signed accounts and a well-defined capital plan.

turnover under £250,000 and funding decisions are expected by the end of October.

The Capital Grants Programme offers funding for capital costs over £10,000, and the total funding pot for this round is £250,000.

This programme is intended to support meaningful, longterm investments in facilities, buildings or equipment.

programmes can be submitted via the Talbot Village Trust website, https:// talbotvillagetrust.org/grants/ application-form/

Corfe Castle until the council said: ‘Oh, you can’t put that there’, Phillipa said.

“But we’d already had it there for a summer before they caught up with me!”

Phillippa recognised the need

to modernise and was joined by business partner Tim Bircham in the late 1970s.

The first proper toilet block came in 1981, followed by a shop stocked with milk, bread and ice packs.

The Small Grants Programme, offers grants of up to £5,000 from a total funding pot of £100,000.

The programme is open to organisations with an annual

The deadline to apply for both programmes is Sunday, August 31, 11.59pm. Applicants are welcome to contact the trust with any questions or for further guidance ahead of the deadline.

Arts & Entertainment

Camp Bestival: Big names and a hit with families

MUSIC fans and families turned out in force for the Camp Bestival festival at Lulworth Castle.

The four-day event saw headline appearances from Sir Tom Jones, Sugababes and Basement Jaxx, alongside top DJs such as Annie Mac, and drum and bass legend Goldie.

The festival also featured some of the UK’s best live bands and much-loved on-stage family favourites.

Festival-goers came together – in their pyjamas – on Saturday evening for a back-to-back DJ set from Rob da Bank and rugby legend Joe Marler.

That was followed by television’s This Morning host Josie Gibson’s making her DJ debut alongside DJ Ellie Funk.

As well as the music, visitors enjoyed theatre, shows, circus spectacles, workshops, demonstrations and talks spanning science, arts and crafts, food, nature and the outdoors, parenting and family wellbeing, and the inaugural Slomo Wellbeing Festival.

Caravanserai opened with

circus shows as Rob da Bank took the decks on Thursday evening, and highlights included Dogshow and DJ Chris Tofu, who kept the late-night crowd dancing.

At Bollywood, sets from DJ Aidan Hammond, Erol Alkan, David Rodigan and Greg Wilson brought high-energy funk, disco and classic cuts to a packed dancefloor.

Over at Pig’s Big Ballroom, The Shellac Collective served up vintage acts and retro treats.

Family favourites such as Mr Tumble, Mister Maker, Dick and Dom, Andy and the Odd Socks and, in particular, Blippi – in his first UK festival appearance – brought all the energy in a family knees-up on the Castle Stage.

Immersive family adventures entertained all ages in the newly-launched Little Town, Dingly Dell, BigTopMania Circus Theatre, Sports Park and Navigation Town – a world of creativity, curiosity and exploration.

A weekend programme of talks in The Library included

Teen Commandments with Sara Cox and Clare Hamilton, Mum Life and Make-up with internet sensation Genevieve Turley and Steph Douglas, and Dolly Jones’ Leaving the Ladder Down.

Other guests included TikTok podcasters Rossi Woods and The Female Wife recording There, I Said It... live, MC Grammar, Anna Whitwham, Anna James, BBC 6 Music’s Chris Hawkins and EastEnders’ James Bye, alongside returning favourites such as John Harris’s Pop Quiz and Man vs Baby.

Meanwhile, workshops from CALM, spy-writing sessions with Charlotte Philby and a talk by Earth’s Crust’s David Wright – The Breaducator – rounded out a packed programme in The Library.

The inaugural Slomo

Wellbeing Festival – a festivalwithin-a-festival from Josie and Rob da Bank – delivered a family wellbeing programme for all ages.

Rob da Bank said: “Josie and I want to send huge and heartfelt thanks to each and every one of you that made it so much fun for our 17th year.

“From an emotional twohour Sir Tom Jones show being the epitome of cool, Basement Jaxx getting us all jumping, and Sugababes dropping hit after hit, to Blippi, saunas, ice baths, tree climbing – even our posh new vacuum toilets – and every single family member who came to join the CB family, it’s been a very special show.”

Next year’s Camp Bestival, presented by Debenhams, is from Thursday, July 30, to Sunday, August 2.

Josie Gibson and Ella Funk, and Rob da Bank played DJ sets and – inset – the Magic Meadow

Music legend Tom Jones on the Castle Stage at Camp Bestival PHOTOS: C amp Bestival

Panto star plays the baddie again

THE people of Poole with be feline fine this Christmas as Dick Whittington – and his faithful cat Tommy – take to the stage in the panto adventure at Lighthouse.

The baddie King Rat will be played by Sarah-Louise Young, who put the boo into Sleeping Beauty last year playing the bad fairy Carabosse!

“I’m very excited to be playing King Rat this year,” said Sarah-Louise.

“I hope all the children and their grown-ups have got their best boos and hisses – because they’re going to need them!

“King Rat is the king of the sewer and like all good baddies he’s very proud of that.

“He wears his crown and waves his magic toilet brush wand and he’s very pleased with himself – think Jack Sparrow meets Del Boy with a bit of Fagin and some Errol Flynn thrown in for good measure.

“I’ll let you into a little secret as well – he’s got three little rat-lings with him, my minions.

“They are absolutely going to upstage me every night and I will love it!”

Dick Whittington is being produced by the same team at Lighthouse Poole that staged

Sleeping Beauty last year, as well as the UK Panto Awards winners Aladdin in 2023 and Cinderella in 2022.

Dick Whittington is the classic rags to riches tale written and directed by CBeebies star Chris Jarvis with production design by James Smith.

Chris will be back on stage as Dame Dolly Doughnuts with Poole-born West End star Bernadette Bangura, who is currently starring in Moulin Rouge and was last at Lighthouse as Motormouth Maybelle in Hairspray in 2022, playing Fairy Bowbelles.

Bournemouth-based student Corben Heward-Mills, who was in the ensemble cast of Sleeping Beauty, is also returning this year to play Tommy the Cat.

“I’ve done a lot of pantos and I would say last year was one of my very happiest experiences,” added SarahLouise.

“I think it’s because of the way that Chris leads the company and there’s such a strong unity between him and James, with Adam (Tuffrey) the MD, and Dan (Todd) the choreographer, as well.

“When you have that shared vision it filters down and it’s really special.”

Stamp group’s annual fair

BOURNEMOUTH and Poole

Stamp and Postcard Club is holding its annual fair at Upton Community Centre.

Stamp and postcard dealers will be attending the event on Saturday, September 6.

But first Sarah-Louise is set to appear at Lighthouse Poole in her award-winning hit one-woman touring tribute An Evening With Kate Bush (October 2) as well as a new interactive music cabaret, This Is Your Tribute (November 1).

Dick Whittington follows the traditional story about the poor young man who travels to London to make his fortune as he has been told the streets are paved with gold.

With the help of Tommy the Cat he gets a job with Alderman Fitzwarren, a wealthy merchant, and falls in love with Alice, his boss’s

daughter.

After falling foul of the villainous King Rat, he is forced to leave town but turns back when called by the bells of Bow.

What follows is an adventure across the seas as Tommy helps Dick clear his name, defeat King Rat, win the hand of the fair Alice and secure his fortune.

Tickets for Dick Whittington, which runs from Thursday, December 11, to Sunday, January 4, are available at www.lighthouse poole.co.uk/ or on 01202 280000.

For more information, email David J Morris at davidlytch@gmail.com. Entry is free at the venue in Poole Road (BH16 5JA) and plenty of free car parking is available.

THE Magic of the Beatles, coming to The Regent in Christchurch this week, aims to provide a night of million-selling memories.

The cast look and sound like John, Paul, George and Ringo – and sing all the favourites from She Loves You, A Hard Day’s Night and Help!, to I Feel Fine, Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band and Hey Jude, and more.

The Magic of the Beatles 2025 on Friday, August 22, runs for two-and-a-half hours.

Sarah-Louise Young plays King Rat in Dick Whittington

Partridge and a pear tree

IT’S still summer, but the festive season is coming, and with it James B Partridge’s The Big Christmas Assembly 2025 at The Mowlem in Swanage.

The primary school teacher went down a storm at last year’s Glastonbury Festival with his nostalgic school assembly songs and came to The Mowlem last Christmas.

More joyous singalong tunes from Christmases past will be on offer on Saturday, November 29.

James’s journey has taken him from school classrooms to some of the UK’s biggest stages.

Highlights include performing with Gareth Malone’s Voices at the Royal Variety Show and providing vocals for major artists like Paul McCartney, The Rolling Stones and Electric Light Orchestra.

His media presence has included appearances on BBC Breakfast, The One Show, CBBC Newsround, BBC Scotland, ITV’s This Morning, BBC Radio 2

and

The Purbeck International Chamber Music Festival 2025 returns from 4–7 September, celebrating “Love in All Its Forms” through an inspiring programme of worldclass performances in stunning Dorset venues. Curated by Dorset born renowned cellist Natalie Clein, the festival features internationally acclaimed musicians exploring music from across centuries with passion and depth.

From intimate chamber works to captivating contemporary pieces as well as tango and dance, PICMF promises a rich musical journey for all. Join us in the heart of Purbeck for unforgettable artistry and connection.

Just added to the programme is the Family Concert at Harman’s Cross Village Hall on Sunday 7 September, our Festival musicians will present a concert for all ages on the theme of Love, and will also bring the audience and the participants of our young players workshop together for some informal music making led by composer, music leader and saxophonist Joe Browne.

with Jeremy Vine and Scott Mills,

Virgin Radio with Tom Allen.

James B Partridge at The Mowlem last Christmas

Dancing with the Devil

THE Devil, a princess and a wayward soldier will take centre stage in a remarkable production combining theatre and music.

Two performances of The Soldier’s Tale, in which a ‘mischievous’ narrator, actors and a dancer tell a story based around one of Igor Stravinsky’s short musical masterpieces, will take place in Purbeck in September.

And audiences at the cabaret-style presentations have been told to expect the unexpected in ‘fun and playful ways’.

The productions are the brainchild of renowned international violinist Miranda Fulleylove, who will lead a seven-strong ensemble featuring some of Britain’s most accomplished musicians.

Miranda divides her time between Purbeck and London, where she is guest principal with several orchestras including the London Sinfonietta and the BBC Symphony Orchestra.

She loves Purbeck’s countryside and will donate all profits from the performances to local community group Planet Purbeck, which she describes as a ‘wonderful organisation working hard for the environment’.

She said: “I chose The Soldier’s Tale as it is highly relevant to what Planet Purbeck is doing.

“The story revolves around an exhausted soldier who is tempted by the Devil as he sits down to rest by a rural stream.

“Now, Planet Purbeck is doing projects with schoolchildren and adults to raise awareness about how we can clean up streams in the area and get them running freely again, so it’s a perfect match.

“The piece has a moral message about falling prey to greed but is also great fun – very energetic and lively.

“I think people will love it from both theatrical and musical points of view.

“They can expect a surprising Devil, a wicked narrator and a beautiful dancer.”

The performances will be staged at Langton Matravers village hall, which will be converted into a relaxed cabaret setting with tables and a bar, on Friday, September 26.

Elgiva Field, an immersive theatre specialist known for her work with London’s Punchdrunk company, will direct the action.

And Peter Ash, artistic director of the Odyssey Festival Orchestra, will conduct the ensemble.

The day will also include an opportunity for schoolchildren to watch a dress rehearsal.

Miranda, who has run the popular Chamber Music In

Enter the Confusionist

MAGIC star Sean Alexander, also known as The Confusionist, is bringing his latest show to The Mowlem in Swanage.

He performed Moments in Time at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival to sell-out audiences. Sean’s career spans 27 years and includes appearances on Britain’s Got

Purbeck Houses series since 2013, said: “I’m thrilled with our wonderful team of performers and can’t wait to

bring them to Purbeck.”

Bookings can be made in the events section at www. planetpurbeck.org.

Talent and America’s Got Talent.

He is at The Mowlem on Friday, September 19, at 7.30pm, and tickets priced £25, £23 Friends of The Mowlem and £14.50 under18s are available from The Mowlem website, www. themowlem.com, and the box office.

Miranda Fulleylove will be performing in aid of Planet Purbeck at Langton Matravers village hall

Dancing Devil IMAGE: Elgiva Field

Arts & Entertainment

Showcase PHOTO: Dorset Morri’arty

Young writers showcase stories and poems

THE annual Lighthouse Poole Young Writers Showcase saw three age groups share new stories and poems with each other – as well as friends and family in the audience.

The writing workshops cover three age groups – Junior Writers (seven-11) and Young Writers (11-14 and 15-18) –with the Juniors sharing pieces with each other and the two Young Writers groups combined in a separate session.

“It was really successful and a great way to end the term,” said Rohan Gotobed, lead facilitator for Lighthouse Young Writers, which is delivered with ArtfulScribe writer development agency.

“All the writers benefit from reading their writing alongside others.

“Regardless of their age, you can see how well they respond to other writers and enjoy the reactions to their own stories.”

The audiences heard short stories as well as poetry across two sessions in the Sherling Studio at Lighthouse.

This year’s showcase also included the first Young Writers Creative Writing Competition judged by local authors Georgie Codd – Never Had a Dad, William Collins – and Steve Couch – Foul and Fair, The Book Guild – as well as poet Yasmin Bromby-Phillips.

The Junior Writers’ prize went to Mayra Shah for her story The Keyhole; and Maya Samarasinghe was awarded the Judges’ Prize for her story Edith the Intelligent.

The Young Writers’ (11-14) prize went to Olive Goodwin for her poem Time; with Emma Bodo and Betsy Wragg sharing the Young Writers’ (15-18) prize for the story There Is A Light That Never Goes Out and poems hear no evil/see no evil/ speak no evil respectively.

All received book vouchers from ArtfulScribe.

More information is available at www.

lighthousepoole.co.uk/ programme/young-writers/ or email learning@ lighthousepoole.

QUEEN tribute band, The Bohemians, are playing the Tivoli Theatre in Wimborne at the end of the month. The show will feature the costumes and embrace the showmanship of the band, and include all the hits, such as Bohemian Rhapsody, Killer Queen, Don’t Stop Me Now, Days of Our Lives, Radio Ga Ga, We Will Rock You and We Are the Champions.

The Bohemians are in Wimborne on Saturday, August 30, at 7.30pm.

Spotlight Diary

Diary entries are £6 plus VAT per entry. The deadline for the September 1 issue is NOON on Thursday, August 28. Call us on 01963 400186 or email adverts@blackmorevale.net. Please call prior to attending events listed to ensure they are still on.

AUG / SEPT 2025

TUESDAY

10:00 WAREHAM CROQUET CLUB

Wareham Recreation Ground

Tuesdays & Thursdays – 10 am start Come and meet members of our sociable club. You’ll be amazed how much you enjoy yourself Guidance given. Equipment provided. All you need are flat shoes and enthusiasm! Enquiries: 01929 550190

19:30 SWANAGE CHOIR THE BELVEDERE SINGERS warmly welcomes new singers to their Tuesday night rehearsals. We start again after our summer break on Tuesday 2nd September at 7.30pm in the Emmanuel Baptist Church, 160 Victoria Avenue, Swanage BH19 1AZ. You can try us out for free for two weeks, with no obligation to join. There are no auditions! The ability to read music is helpful but not essential. Further details from Linda McMorrow on 07943 442919, or check out our website www. belvederesingers.org.uk

SATURDAY

18.30 WHIST DRIVE at St Mary’s Church, Rectory Classroom, Swanage. Every Saturday. Tea and coffee provided. Very friendly group. Contact Richard: 01929 553516

Youngsters who took part in Lighthouse Poole Young Writers

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