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Issue 371

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July 20, 2026

The Purbeck Gazette

BOXERS BATTLE BEHIND BARS

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FULL STORY: PAGE 18

Purbeck PowerGym fighters in winning form at Dorchester Prison SUMMER OF ‘76 AJ Selby looks back on ladybirds galore and more Page 30

IN THE HOT SEAT Dorset Police names new chief constable Page 8

CENTURY MAKERS Swanage cricketers in superb 175-run stand Page 23

SUMMER SURVIVAL AT PURBECK WHOLEFOODS Aftersun • Suncream • Electrolytes • Insect Repellent Cold Drinks & Ice Cream • Plus irresistible Booja Booja ice cream

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The Purbeck Gazette, July 20, 2026

What’s inside this issue... Antiques & Collectibles

Arts & Entertainment

34-36

Business

32-33

Field & Stream

Food & Drink

Health & Wellbeing

24-25

Home & Garden

26-29

n Mighty Hikers set off from Wareham as they raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for a cancer charity Page 5

Letters 10 Local Services

37-39

n The garden pond is a haven for wildlife, writes Sally Gregson in her Home & Garden column Page 26

Motoring 31 Politics 16-17 Puzzles 14-15 Puzzle solutions

Readers’ picture

Sport

18 and 23

Spotlight Diary

Summer Living feature

19-22

Telling It Like It Is

Tides 6 Wanted 11 NEWS

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Triathlon challenge for good cause

Record turnout for Pride events

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150 years of Mothers’ Union

New chief at Citizens’ Advice

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EDITORIAL Paul Jones Editor-in-chief We love hearing your news and views. Get in touch with us by emailing ed@purbeckgazette.co.uk Lloyd Armishaw Publisher ed@purbeckgazette.co.uk 01963 400186

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‘Penny’ coin gives £1m tank project a boost A STUNNING discovery by a technician is set to give a £1 million fundraising effort to restore a Second World War tank a boost. The Tank Museum, at Bovington, is hoping to restore the oldest surviving King Tiger vehicle in existence. Only 492 King Tiger V2s were built by the Germans during the war, with The Tank Museum vehicle believed to be the second ever constructed. The project to restore the vehicle is set to cost about £1m, with around half the money raised so far. Now, the total is set to get a boost after a discovery by apprentice vehicle technician James Trevett who, while working on the tank, found a 5 Reichspfennig coin. It is likely that a German engineer working on the tank in 1943 dropped it – remaining there until now. Worth the equivalent of a UK penny, the coin was cast in 1941

Workers at The Tank Museum discovered a German Second World War era coin in the King Tiger tank

from zinc due to wartime shortages and displays the Nazi eagle and swastika on one side with the denomination with oak leaves on the reverse. Although worth only a few pounds, the museum is hopeful the find will raise awareness of the fundraising effort and boost the total. The coin was one of a number of items discovered in the tank – King Tiger V2 – during the

Shanty festival aids children’s charity THE Kings Arms in Wareham was filled with song for a Micro Sea Shanty Festival. Shanty crews from around Dorset and Hampshire sang at the weekend event. Behind the scenes were organiser Sue

Wheatley, sound engineer Pete Robins and photographer Alan King. The event raised money for the Lexi May Trust, which supports children with terminal illness and life-limiting conditions in Dorset.

process to take it apart. It is the only surviving King Tiger to have been fitted with the pre-production turret, designed by Porsche. V2 was built in December 1943 and spent its entire service life at the Henschel testing facility in Germany. When this was overrun by Allied forces, V2 was found fully stowed and ready to fight – although it is not believed it ever fired a shot in anger. Director of marketing and engagement at the museum, Nik Wyness, said: “While the coin discovered is worth only a few pounds, it is a wonderful, evocative item that is itself part of the history of this vehicle and the story it tells. “It was possibly dropped by an engineer or by a German testing the tank – we will never

News know for sure. “We already have the world’s only working Tiger I – called 131 – and to also have an operational King Tiger to join it would be truly unique. “Donors to the fund have been extremely generous and it has allowed us to begin the project and strip down the tank. “We are removing all the parts and inspecting them to see what needs replacing, fixing or reverse engineering. “And it was during this process that the coin was found underneath the left-hand fuel tank, which is below the turret. “We also uncovered a brick, broken hoses, tools and a piece of paper that might contain a wiring diagram. “The project is being led by our Workshop Team, supported by a range of carefully selected partners from across Europe. “We’ll use the project as a springboard for further research, to develop new skills and train the next generation of heritage engineers – using external experts to guide us where necessary.” Design work on King Tiger – or Tiger II aka ‘Konigstiger’ – began in 1942. They were the most powerful tanks on the battlefield when they were first used during the Normandy campaign in 1944. The Musée des Blindés in France also has an operational King Tiger tank, and it visited the Museum’s TANKFEST 2025 to run alongside The Tank Museum’s Tiger I. To donate to the King Tiger restoration project visit tankmuseum.org/ktv2

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Unit 8 Justin Business Park Sandford Lane Wareham Dorset BH20 4DY T 07752 120 476

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Triathlon challenge for good cause

ORGANISERS of a triathlonstyle event in aid of Action Medical Research and based around Swanage are inviting entries from local people. Race the Sun Jurassic Coast, being held next June, will see participants bike, hike and paddle in a challenge described as ‘tough but achievable’. The sunrise-to-sunset team challenge is one of four taking place next summer around England with the aim of raising £1.17 million for children’s medical research. The cycling part of the event

will see participants ride 21 miles on an off-road gravel and dirt track weaving through the Purbeck Heaths and the ruins of Corfe Castle, including steep chalky ascents across Ballard Down. The 10-mile hike is along the South West Coast Path, climbing to Durlston Head and tracking past Anvil Point Lighthouse. And the ‘paddle’ will see participants set off from Swanage Beach and navigate a two-mile buoyed course beneath the Ballard Cliffs in sit-on

New chief at animal charity

ANIMAL charity Margaret Green Animal Rescue (MGAR), which has premises in Wareham, has appointed a new chief executive. Joanna Tiffin has over 15 years of senior leadership experience across organisations including the NHS, adult social care and the not-for-profit sector. A lifelong animal lover with strong local roots, Joanna moved to Dorset at the age of two and grew up in Poole. She lives with her wife and two children and shares her home with several four-legged family members, including dogs and ponies. Over the years, her passion for animal welfare has extended to caring for a diverse range of species, including sugar gliders, snakes, lizards, spiders and scorpions. Joanna said: “It is a genuine privilege to lead Margaret

Cyclists on cliffs above Old Harry Rocks

kayaks. The Race the Sun series raised more than £1.3m last year, with proceeds funding research into premature birth, child cancers and rare diseases. Entry costs £120 for two or £240 for a team of four, with a fundraising commitment of £500 per person.

The event is on Saturday, June 26, 2027. It is supported by Garmin and carries SheRACES accreditation to support equal female participation. To sign up, visit action.org. uk/events/team-challenges/ race-the-sun-jurassic-coast-offroad

to building on our founder’s legacy and growing our impact for the animals and communities who rely on us.” Chair of trustees Lorraine Suchanek said: “We are delighted to welcome Joanna as our new chief executive. “Her leadership experience, local roots and lifelong devotion to animals make her

the ideal person to honour Margaret Green’s legacy and lead us forward.” MGAR, founded by Margaret Green over 60 years ago, has grown into one of the south west’s leading animal welfare charities, providing care, rehabilitation and rehoming services for a wide range of species.

Carers are welcome for crafty corner

Joanna Tiffin is the new chief executive at Margaret Green Animal Rescue

Green Animal Rescue. As someone who grew up in Dorset, returning to lead the county’s oldest animal charity feels like coming home. “What drew me here is MGAR’s multi-species mission and the extraordinary dedication of its staff and volunteers – many with decades of service. “I’m most looking forward

UPTON Bay care home in Hamworthy has invited carers to join them for a free Crafty Corner workshop at the home. Guests can socialise and enjoy card making, knit and natter, painting and colour art every Thursday, 10.30amnoon. The hospitality team at the home also serve up a spread of teas and cakes for everyone to enjoy. General manager Mevin Sohorye said: “We started this project for elderly people in

the community who might want some time outside of the home and to make some new friends. “We also wanted to make a space for those who spend their time taking care of others to have a little respite of their own – we know a cup of tea and a friendly ear can go a long way.”

The Purbeck Gazette, July 20, 2026 5

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Mighty Hikers coin in cash MORE than 2,000 hikers have raised over £680,000 so far in the Jurassic Coast Mighty Hike in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support. They walked 13 or 26 miles, setting off from Wareham on a route taking in views of Corfe Castle and Old Harry Rocks, on a blisteringly hot day. They were raising money to help fund the charity’s information and support services for people living with cancer. One of the walkers said: “The heat was unbearable at times, but knowing the reason we were all there made us push on through.” Lauren McEvoy, Mighty Hike team manager at Macmillan Cancer Support, said: “The Mighty Hike community is truly inspiring. “It’s incredible to see so many people come together on

Two town council vacancies LYTCHETT Minster and Upton Town Council has vacancies for two councillors. Anyone who has a passion for the area and is interested in influencing local decisions is invited to apply – email town clerk Kate Osborne for more information at clerk@ lytchettminsterandupton-tc. gov.uk The council is also inviting residents to influence development in the area by joining the Neighbourhood Plan steering group. No previous experience is required, just enthusiasm, commitment and the ability to attend monthly meetings. Anyone interested should contact the town clerk at the

The Macmillan Cancer Support fundraiser, which set off from Wareham, has so far raised more than £680,000

the Jurassic Coast, pushing themselves through a tough physical challenge, all to support people living with cancer. “We’re so grateful to every single person who took part and helped raise £680,416 so far. “Every step taken and every

above address outlining why they like to join and what they can bring to the group. Police community drop-in sessions are taking place at the council’s offices at 1 Moorland Parade, Upton, on Thursdays July 23, August 13 and September 10, all 11am-noon. Visitors can ask questions, raise concerns and get crime prevention advice. The council meets at the offices in Moorland Parade on Tuesdays at 6.30pm with the next meetings Environment and Planning on August 18, Amenities on September 8 and full town council on September 15. Free family fun, entertainment and activities were on offer at Picnic in the Park at Upton Recreation Ground earlier this month – next year’s event is on Saturday, June 26. The council has a new deputy clerk, Katy Babbs.

pound raised will help us continue to provide vital support to people who need it most. “The waiting list for our 2027 Jurassic Coast Mighty Hike is now open and there are still some places available at a small number of our other Macmillan Mighty Hikes this

summer, so sign up now at mightyhikes.macmillan.org.uk.” Macmillan Mighty Hikes are a series of one-day half and full marathon fundraising hikes, which run from May to September across the UK. Last year, more than 35,000 hikers took part, raising a record-breaking £15 million during the event’s tenth anniversary year. Since 2015, Mighty Hikes has raised £85m to support people living with cancer. ADVERTISING FEATURE

Capital Grants Pop Up Advice Centre

h e 2026 Capital Grants offer is due to open later this month, enabling farmers and landowners to apply for funding from an estimated ‘pot’ of £225 million for a wide range of projects including trees, fencing, hedges and water infrastructure. The application window isn’t expected to be open for long; therefore, Bowridge, Gillingham that you prepare Guide £1,250,000 Hazelbury Guide £1,150,000 it’s essential inDating advance so Bryan that it can be submitted atand Bowridge, Gillingham Guide £1,250,000 Hazelbury £1,150,000 A fine period farmhouse in a quiet position boasting far reaching views. extendedBryan and modernised period house combining Guide character Mappowder Guide £595,000 An Marnhull Guide £525,000 fine period in a quiet position boasting reaching views. Dating extended and modernised period house combining character and Mappowder Guide £595,000 charm Marnhull Guide £525,000 from 1737 the farmhouse farmhouse offers 3village reception rooms, 4far bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. with contemporary family living in quiet location onvillage a noAA fine Grade II listed former Post House with attractive gardens, AAn character south-facing stone house in anaexcellent central the earliest opportunity. The RPA require supporting documents and maps from 1737 the farmhouse offers 3 reception rooms, 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. charm with contemporary family living in a quiet location on a nogardens, A fine Grade II listed former village Post House with attractive A character south-facing stone house in an excellent central village Outside is a wonderful stone barn with potential (stp), workshop, large garden and through roadawith views, land and stables. In alland about 2.40 double garage, workshop southa substantial barn/workshop and lovely views to the village church and location with largewonderful oak-framed Outside a wonderful stone barn with potential (stp), workshop, largechurch garden and through road wonderful views, land and stables. In alland about 2.40 a substantial barn/workshop and lovely views to theland village and location with awith large oak-framed double garage, workshop southpaddock, inistotal 4.13 acres. CTB E, EPC E, Freehold. Further available. acres. CTB F, EPC D, Freehold. surrounding countryside. CTB E. Freehold. facing gardens. CTB E. Freehold. within a short timeframe to ensure applications are valid. paddock, in total 4.13 acres. CTB E, EPC E, Freehold. Further land available. acres. CTB F, EPC D, Freehold. surrounding countryside. CTB E. Freehold. facing gardens. CTB E. Freehold. Sturminster Newton || 01258 473766 Sturminster Newton |473766 01258 473766 Sturminster Newton 472244 Sturminster | 01258 Sturminster Newton Sturminster Newton || 01258 473766 472244

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Symonds & Sampson’s Rural Grant experts in your nearest office can help you prepare your application and supporting evidence, or alternatively, they invite you to call into their ‘Capital Grants Pop Up’ at Frome Livestock Market on Wednesday, 22nd July from 8.30 am, where their experts can either guide you through preparing your claim, or review your application to ensure all is in place. Holwell Guide £825,000 Holwell Guide £825,000 Shroton Guide £435,000 An exceptional detached 5 bedroom residence, finished to an impeccable Shroton Guide £435,000 An exceptional detached 5 bedroom residence, finished to an impeccable standard. Set within beautifully landscaped gardens This delightful 2-bedroom end-of-terrace cottage haswith beenstunning fully updated standard. Set within beautifully landscaped gardens This delightful 2-bedroom end-of-terrace cottage haswith beenstunning fully updated countryside views, in a highly sought-after village. G, EPC B, but retains great charm. It is situated in the heart ofCTB this most desirable countryside views, in a highly sought-after village. G, EPC B, but retains great charm. It is situated in the heart ofCTB this most desirable Freehold. village. CTB D. Freehold. Freehold. village. CTB D. Freehold. Sturminster| Newton | 01258 473766 Sherborne 814488 Sturminster01935 | 01258 473766 Sherborne | Newton 01935 814488

Bedchester Guide £810,000 Bedchester Guide £810,000 North Cheriton OIEO A 4 bedroom house in a lovely rural location on a quiet lane with£400,000 North Cheriton OIEO A 4 bedroom house in a lovely rural location on a quiet lane with£400,000 wonderful far-reaching views3-bedroom and gardenperiod and grounds of tucked one acre. CTB An attractive, double-fronted property away on wonderful far-reaching views3-bedroom and gardenperiod and grounds of tucked one acre. CTB An attractive, double-fronted property away on D, Freehold. an EPC idyllicF,country lane with character features throughout and views over D, Freehold. an EPC idyllicF,country lane with character features throughout and views over the neighbouring countryside. CTB C. Freehold. the neighbouring countryside. CTB C. Freehold. Sherborne | 01935 Sturminster |01935 01258814488 473766 Sherborne | 814488 Sturminster | 01258 473766

Guide Donhead StStMary Guide£800,000 £800,000 Mary NrDonhead Sturminster Newton Guide £1,100,000 Nr Sturminster Newton GuidePrice Price £1,100,000 AA particularly spacious family with 3500 sqsqftftofofaccommodation particularly spacious familyhouse house with 3500 accommodation Tucked away down aa ano through lane is extended and Tucked away down no through lane isthis this extended andvery verywell well over three floors inin location with wonderful far-reaching views over three floors aquiet quiet location with wonderful far-reaching views presented 44 bedroom home stable yard &&Freehold. paddocks, presented bedroomcountry country homewith with stable yard paddocks,inintotal total over the Wiltshire/Dorset countryside. CTB G,G,EPD D, over the Wiltshire/Dorset countryside. CTB EPD D, Freehold. 4.11 acres. CTB E.Freehold, 4.11 acres. CTB E.Freehold, Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766 Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766 Sturminster Sturminster| 01258 | 01258473766 473766

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The Purbeck Gazette, July 20, 2026

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Fun and learning in the great outdoors

SCORES of school children directly connected with an from around the country have industry that was at the heart of been having fun in the outdoors Purbeck’s economy for several and gaining an insight into a centuries and which has quite bygone age on visits to Dorset. literally shaped the local Purbeck Mining Museum and landscape. Swanage-based Cumulus “The feedback from the Outdoors teamed up to offer the children and the teaching staff group visits to more than 200 from the various schools has youngsters from Birmingham, been really positive, so we will Reading, Uxbridge, Jersey and be looking to extend this Devon. collaboration next year and The children all visited the beyond.” Swanage Tidal & Solar Predictions clay mine after enjoying the Museum lead Peter Sills said: July '26 Waterpark lakes and Mud Trail “It’s always a pleasure to at the nearby Dorset Adventure showcase the contribution of a Park as part of a programme of bygone age for curious and residential outdoor activities. inquisitive youngSwanage visitors. Complied by the National Coastwatch Institution, Sandra Hayman, programme “With a strong educational from tidal data provided by the Channel Coast Observatory administrator at Cumulus focus, we’re delighted the Outdoors, said: “The helps to shine light Date HW LW lakes HW and LW museum HW Tide/Moon Sunrise a Sunset 05:00 01-Jul 05:06 10:36 surrounding landscape were all17:22 on22:30 an industry that was the21:24 05:01 21:24 02-Jul 05:40 11:11 17:59 23:07 Springs formed employer 05:02 and at 21:24 the 03-Jul by clay mining 06:17 11:48 18:39 dominant 23:45 05:02 21:23so 04-Jul 06:56 12:26 for 19:20 very heart of Purbeck activities, so it’s invaluable life for 05:03 21:23 05-Jul 00:20 07:38 17:17 20:05 the children to appreciate that 20:53 many years. 05:04 21:22 06-Jul 00:47 08:23 18:02 Swanage Tidal & Solar Predictions 05:05 21:22 09:11 18:50is 21:47 their07-Jul water06:10 park enjoyment “Our collaborative approach 05:06 21:21 08-Jul 07:02 Swanage 10:06 19:42 22:48 Tidal & Solar April '26 Predictions Swanage Tidal & Solar Predictions 05:07 21:21 09-Jul 08:00 11:07 20:37 23:55 Neaps June '26 05:08 21:20 10-Jul 05:18 12:15 18:15 01:00 '26 June Swanage Tidal13:23 & Solar Predictions 05:09 21:19 11-Jul 01:02 06:33 18:59 05:10 21:18 12-Jul 02:03 July/August 07:30 14:25 '26 19:47 2026 April 05:11 21:18 13-Jul 02:58 08:25 15:20 20:39 Complied by the National Coastwatch Institution, Swanage 05:12 21:17 14-Jul 03:49 09:18 16:11 21:31 tidal by data by the Channel Coast Observatory Complied the National Coastwatch Swanage 05:13 21:16 15-Julfrom 04:37 10:08 16:59 22:20 Institution, New Moon Complied by theprovided National Coastwatch Institution, Swanage 05:14 21:15 16-Julfrom tidal data 05:23 provided 10:54 17:45 23:05 SpringsObservatory by the Channel Coast from tidal data provided by the Channel Coast Observatory 05:15 21:14 17-Jul 06:08 11:38 18:30 23:47 Date Complied HW LW HW LW HW Institution, Tide/Moon Swanage Sunrise Sunset by the National Coastwatch 05:16 21:13 18-Jul 06:53 12:19 19:15 01-Apr 03:40 09:02 15:58 21:23 06:45 19:40 Datefrom HW LW provided HW LW HW Tide/Moon Sunrise Sunset 05:18 Sunset 21:12 19-Jul 00:22 07:37 12:57 20:01 tidal data by the Channel Coast Observatory Date HW LW HW LW HW Tide/Moon Sunrise 02-Apr 04:18 09:38 16:36 21:58 Full Moon 06:43 19:41 05:02 21:11 01-Jun 04:43 10:03 16:57 22:02 Springs 05:19 20-Jul 00:44 08:22 17:47 20:49 05:02 21:11 01-Jun 04:43 10:03 16:57 22:02 Springs 03-Apr 04:55 10:13 17:11 22:29 Springs 06:41 19:43 05:01 21:12 02-Jun 05:18 10:37 17:32 22:33 05:20 21:10 21-Jul 05:57 09:09 18:32 21:46 05:01 21:12 02-Jun 05:18 10:37 17:32 22:33 04-Apr 05:30 10:44 17:45 22:58 06:39 19:44 Date HW LW HW LW HW Tide/Moon Sunrise 05:00 21:13 03-Jun 05:52 11:12 18:09 23:06 05:21 Sunset 21:08 22-Jul 06:47 10:05 19:16 23:11 05:00 21:13 03-Jun 05:52 11:12 18:09 23:06 05-Apr 06:04 11:11 18:17 23:23 06:36 19:46 01-Apr 03:40 09:02 15:58 21:23 06:45 05:00 21:14 04-Jun 06:29 11:50 18:50 23:39 05:23 19:40 21:07 23-Jul 07:48 11:32 19:58 00:43 05:00 21:14 04-Jun 06:29 11:50 18:50 23:39 06-Apr 06:35 11:35 18:47 23:46 06:34 19:48 02-Apr 04:18 09:38 16:36 21:58 Full Moon 06:43 04:59 21:15 05-Jun 07:10 16:48 19:35 05:24 19:41 21:06 24-Jul 09:27 12:58 19:44 01:00 Neaps 04:59 21:15 05-Jun 07:10 16:48 19:35 07-Apr 07:06 12:00 19:17 06:32 19:49 03-Apr 04:55 10:13 17:11 22:29 Springs 06:41 04:59 21:16 06-Jun 00:13 07:55 17:36 20:26 05:25 19:43 21:05 25-Jul 01:47 10:41 14:01 19:48 04:59 21:16 06-Jun 00:13 07:55 17:36 20:26 08-Apr 00:10 07:38 17:20 19:50 06:30 19:51 04-Apr 05:30 10:44 17:45 22:58 06:39 04:58 21:17 07-Jun 05:28 08:45 18:27 21:23 05:27 19:44 21:03 26-Jul 02:34 11:25 14:49 20:14 04:58 21:17 07-Jun 05:28 08:45 18:27 21:23 09-Apr 00:33 08:14 18:05 20:31 06:28 19:52 05-Apr 06:04 11:11 18:17 23:23 06:36 04:58 21:18 08-Jun 06:25 09:41 19:20 22:27 05:28 19:46 21:02 27-JulComplied 03:13 09:03 15:28 20:45 Institution, Swanage by the National Coastwatch 04:58 21:18 08-Jun 06:25 09:41 19:20 22:27 10-Apr 05:58 09:00 19:00 06:26 19:54 06-Apr 06:35 11:35 18:47 23:46 06:34 04:57 21:19 09-Jun 02:51 10:43 20:14 23:36 Neaps 05:30 19:48 21:00 28-Jul 03:47 09:29 16:02 21:16 04:57 21:19 09-Jun 02:51 10:43 20:14 23:36 Neaps from tidal data provided by the Channel Coast Observatory 11-Apr 01:42 06:41 13:20 20:03 Neaps 06:23 19:56 07-Apr 07:06 12:00 19:17 06:32 19:49 04:57 21:19 10-Jun 04:21 11:51 21:09 00:40 05:31 20:59 29-Jul 04:18 09:55 16:34 21:48 Full Moon 04:57 21:19 10-Jun 04:21 11:51 21:09 00:40 12-Apr 01:53 07:18 13:38 20:56 06:21 19:57 08-Apr 00:10 07:38 17:20 19:50 06:30 19:51 04:57 21:20 11-Jun 05:39 12:54 18:39 01:00 05:32 20:58 30-Jul 04:49 10:23 17:06 22:22 04:57 21:20 11-Jun 05:39 12:54 18:39 01:00 13-Apr 02:05 07:05 13:59 20:19 06:19 19:59 09-Apr 00:33 08:14 18:05 20:31 06:28 19:52 04:56 21:21 12-Jun 01:34 06:42 13:50 19:18 05:34 Sunset 20:56 31-Jul 05:22 10:53 17:40 22:56 Date HW LW HW LW HW Tide/Moon Sunrise 04:56 21:21 12-Jun 01:34 06:42 13:50 19:18 14-Apr 02:24 07:26 14:29 20:06 06:17 20:00 10-Apr 05:58 09:00 19:00 06:26 19:54 04:56 20:55 21:21 13-Jun 02:24 07:36 14:41 20:01 01-Aug 45870 05:57 11:26 18:17 23:30 Springs 05:35 04:56 20:02 21:21 13-Jun 02:24 07:36 14:41 20:01 Compiled from CCO data for Swanage Pier - E&O exceptedNeaps - not for navigation 15-Apr 02:52 08:01 15:03 20:31 06:15 11-Apr 01:42 06:41 13:20 20:03 06:23 19:56 04:56 20:53 21:22 14-Jun 03:12 08:29 15:31 20:47 02-Aug 06:34 12:00 18:56 05:37 04:56 20:04 21:22 14-Jun 03:12 08:29 15:31 NM = New Moon + FM = Full Moon + NP =20:47 Neap tides + SP = Spring Tides 16-Apr 03:25 08:39 15:40 21:03 06:13 12-Apr 01:53 07:18 13:38 20:56 06:21 19:57 04:56 20:51 21:22 15-Jun 04:00 09:20 16:20 21:35 New Moon 03-Aug 00:02 07:14 12:32All times 19:37 05:38 04:56 20:05 21:22 15-Jun 04:00 09:20 16:20 21:35 New Moon are local Time 17-Apr 04:02 09:17 16:18 21:39 New Moon 06:11 13-Apr 02:05 07:05 13:59 20:19 06:19 19:59 04:56 20:50 21:23 16-Jun 04:47 10:12 17:09 22:24 Springs 04-Aug 00:25 07:55 12:59 20:22 05:40 04:56 20:07 21:23 16-Jun 04:47 10:12 17:09 22:24 Springs 18-Apr 04:40 09:56 16:58 22:15 06:09 14-Apr 02:24 07:26 14:29 20:06 06:17 20:00 04:56 20:48 21:23 17-Jun 05:36 11:03 17:58 23:12 05-Aug 00:17 08:41 18:19 21:12 05:41 04:56 21:23 17-Jun 05:36 11:03 17:58 23:12 19-Apr 05:21 10:34 17:39 22:50 Springs 06:07 20:09 15-Apr 02:52 08:01 15:03 20:31 06:15 20:02 04:56 21:24 18-Jun 06:24 11:54 18:48 23:59 06-Aug 06:37 09:32 19:08 22:11 05:43 20:46 04:56 21:24 18-Jun 06:24 11:54 18:48 23:59 20-Apr 06:03 11:13 18:22 23:22 06:05 20:10 16-Apr 03:25 08:39 15:40 21:03 06:13 20:04 04:56 21:24 19-Jun 07:14 12:46 19:40 07-Aug 07:35 10:34 20:03 23:23 05:44 20:45 04:56 21:24 19-Jun 07:14 12:46 19:40 21-Apr 06:48 11:50 19:08 23:46 06:03 20:12 17-Apr 04:02 09:17 16:18 21:39 New Moon 06:11 20:05 04:56 21:24 20-Jun 00:42 08:05 17:28 20:34 Neaps 08-Aug 08:43 11:50 20:58 00:42 05:46 20:43 04:56 21:24 20-Jun 00:42 08:05 17:28 20:34 22-Apr 07:37 12:26 20:02 06:01 20:13 18-Apr 04:40 09:56 16:58 22:15 06:09 20:07 04:56 21:25 21-Jun 01:10 09:00 18:21 21:33 09-Aug 09:47 13:12 18:56 01:00 05:47 20:41 04:56 21:25 21-Jun 01:10 09:00 18:21 21:33 23-Apr 00:07 08:36 18:00 21:12 05:59 20:15 19-Apr 05:21 10:34 17:39 22:50 Springs 06:07 20:09 04:56 20:39 21:25 22-Jun 06:28 09:59 19:18 22:41 10-Aug 01:53 07:38 14:20 19:45 05:49 04:56 21:25 22-Jun 06:28 09:59 19:18 22:41 24-Apr 05:56 09:53 19:14 22:43 05:57 20:17 20-Apr 06:03 11:13 18:22 23:22 06:05 20:10 04:57 21:25 23-Jun 07:33 11:05 20:19 23:53 11-Aug 02:50 08:25 15:13 20:35 05:50 04:57 20:38 21:25 23-Jun 07:33 11:05 20:19 23:53 25-Apr 07:16 11:17 20:29 Neaps 05:55 20:18 21-Apr 06:48 11:50 19:08 23:46 06:03 20:12 04:57 20:36 21:25 24-Jun 08:50 12:12 21:22 00:57 Moon 12-Aug 03:38 09:10 16:00 21:22 NewNeaps 05:52 04:57 20:20 21:25 24-Jun 08:50 12:12 21:22 00:57 Neaps 26-Apr 00:04 05:49 12:27 21:33 05:53 22-Apr 07:37 12:26 20:02 06:01 20:13 04:57 20:34 21:25 25-Jun 10:04 13:11 22:17 13-Aug 04:22 09:53 16:43 22:05 05:53 04:57 20:21 21:25 25-Jun 10:04 13:11 22:17 27-Apr 01:04 06:30 13:23 22:32 05:51 23-Apr 00:07 08:36 18:00 21:12 05:59 20:15 04:58 20:32 21:25 26-Jun 01:50 11:03 14:03 19:38 14-Aug 05:04 10:33 17:25 22:45 05:55 04:58 20:23 21:25 26-Jun 01:50 11:03 14:03 19:38 28-Apr 01:52 07:12 14:10 19:45 05:49 24-Apr 05:56 09:53 19:14 22:43 05:57 20:17 04:58 20:30 21:25 27-Jun 02:36 08:09 14:50 20:11 Springs 15-Aug 05:45 11:11 18:06 23:22 05:56 04:58 20:25 21:25 27-Jun 02:36 08:09 14:50 20:11 29-Apr 02:34 07:54 14:52 20:19 05:47 25-Apr 07:16 11:17 20:29 Neaps 05:55 20:18 04:59 20:28 21:25 28-Jun 03:18 08:49 15:32 20:44 16-Aug 06:26 11:47 18:46 23:53 05:58 04:59 21:25 28-Jun 03:18 08:49 15:32 20:44 30-Apr 03:14 08:33 15:31 20:53 05:45 20:26 26-Apr 00:04 05:49 12:27 21:33 05:53 20:20 04:59 20:26 21:25 29-Jun 03:56 09:26 16:10 21:18 Full Moon 17-Aug 07:05 12:18 19:26 05:59 04:59 21:25 29-Jun 03:56 09:26 16:10 21:18 Full Moon 27-Apr 01:04 06:30 13:23 22:32 05:51 20:21 05:00 20:24 21:25 30-Jun 04:31 10:01 16:47 21:53 18-Aug 00:12 07:43 12:39 20:06 06:01 05:00 21:25 30-Jun 04:31 10:01 16:47 21:53 28-Apr 01:52 07:12 14:10 19:45 05:49 20:23 19-Aug 00:21 08:19 17:47 20:46 06:02 20:22 Compiled from CCO data for Swanage Pier - E&O excepted - not for navigation 29-Apr 02:34 07:54 14:52 20:19 05:47 20:25 20-Aug 06:07 08:53 18:19 06:04 20:21 NM = New Moon FM =forFull Moon + NP =- Neap tides + SP- not = Spring Tides 30-Apr 03:14 08:33 15:31 20:53excepted 05:45 20:26 Compiled from CCO+data Swanage E&O for navigation 21-Aug 03:52 06:51 15:58Pier 18:48 06:06 20:18 Compiled from CCO data forAllSwanage Pier - E&O excepted - not for navigation times are local time NM = New Moon + FM = Full Moon + NP = Neap tides + SP = Spring Tides Neaps 22-Aug 03:58 07:40 13:14 19:15tides 06:07 20:16 NM = New Moon + FM = Full Moon + NP = Neap + SP = Spring Tides All times are local Time 23-Aug 01:51 08:24All 14:07 06:09 20:14 times are local19:42 Time Compiled from CCO data for Swanage 24-Aug 02:27 08:45 14:44Pier - E&O 20:09excepted - not for navigation 06:10 20:12 NM = New Moon + FM = Full Moon + NP = Neap tides + SP = Spring Tides

Swanage Tidal & Solar Predictions Month '26

Sandra Hayman, programme administrator of Cumulus Outdoors, with a clay wagon on display at Purbeck Mining Museum.

with Cumulus Outdoors is helping to ensure the next generation appreciates and understands such an important heritage.” Purbeck Mining Museum is housed in the area’s last mine building and provides an insight into the history and importance of ball clay mining in the Purbecks. It showcases artefacts, mining equipment, models and audio-visual displays that capture the atmosphere of a

working mine from years gone by. It includes a recreated underground clay tunnel so visitors can see for themselves what it was like to work down a mine. The museum is run entirely by volunteers and is open most days from Easter until October. Full details of opening times and more information on the area’s clay mining industry can be seen at www.purbeckmining museum.org

Joe’s half marathon barefoot run

YOUNG Dorchester student “They really helped pick me Joe de Figueiredo Cowell has up when I thought I couldn’t run a half marathon – barefoot make it,” he said. – to raise money for the trip of a Joe had never run a half lifetime to Tanzania. marathon distance before and The Year 9 The Thomas started training last year – but Hardye School youngster raised that was interrupted when he £4,300 in dislocated his knee sponsorship when playing football. he ran 13.15 miles He was also at Tolpuddle unable to train the Martyrs Festival week before his half Field. marathon because He will be doing of the heat and his volunteer work in 14th birthday Tanzania with celebrations. Camps International Joe would like to PHOTO: Katy Jones thank Nackt in August next year. Joe’s maternal Barefoot Shoes, grandparents married in the East Paragon Football Coaching, African country and lived there local Dorchester businesses and for a time, and Tolpuddle was the communities of Tolpuddle, his grandmother’s final home. Puddletown and Piddle Valley Joe – pictured – ran his half for their support. marathon supported by friends To contribute to fundraising and family and other runners for Joe’s trip, visit https:// who ran laps with him. gofund.me/73de3e57f

The Purbeck Gazette, July 20, 2026 7

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Record turnout for Pride events RECORD numbers turned out for a day of performances, talks and workshops during Poole Pride. The third annual celebration of the town’s LGBTQ+ community brought out record numbers to events at the Lighthouse theatre. One of the UK’s few building-based Pride events, Poole Pride saw more than 1,500 participants and visitors enjoy live music, cabaret, poetry and a silent disco, as well as art and craft sessions, storytelling and visit stalls hosted by organisations that champion and support the

LGBTQ+ community and provide advice and information. “There was such a genuine sense of community throughout the day,” said Jessica Tressell, who performs as charismatic drag king Oliver Clothezoff. “Everyone involved did an amazing job of showing up for local people and creating a space where they could simply be themselves.” Lucy Muir, from Poolebased alt-folk band Sassenach, added: “For me also a meaningful and memorable day. If you’d have told a young, vulnerable teenager in 1991/2 that one day they’d be

The third Poole Pride event was held at The Lighthouse PHOTOS: Jayne Jackson Photography

performing at a local Pride and in a venue like Lighthouse I would not have believed it. An amazing opportunity – thank you.” Other performers included Lighthouse regulars Lucid Cabaret, four-time UK beatbox

champion Grace Savage, folk singer Maddie Morris and a performance workshop hosted by Diverse City. In the evening, comedian Suzi Ruffell performed her latest stand-up show, The Juggle.

Teachers Laura Hewett and Andy Long with Broadstone First School’s litter-picking youngsters

THE streets of Broadstone are looking much tidier after children from Broadstone First School went on a litter pick. Members of the school council decided that for the end of term they would help clean up the local environment. Under the guidance of teachers Laura Hewett and Andy Long, the youngsters – from Year 1 to Year 4 – were armed with litter pickers, gloves and bags. Wearing hi-vis vests, they walked around the streets near the school and removed as much litter as possible. Laura said: “As members of the school council they make

decisions about what to do within the school. “This term they decided they’d like to tidy the environment to make it better for everyone. “At school we are always keen to inspire the children to do things for their community, and we teach them about pollution. “It was a hot day, but they all worked hard to clean as much litter as they could, and they filled a number of bags. “We are hoping it is something we will do more regularly.” Broadstone First School is part of Southern Education Trust.

A TEENAGER in Poole has been sentenced after admitting an offence of wilfully killing a badger. The 16-year-old appeared before Poole Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, June 24, when he was handed a six-month referral order, fined £400 and ordered to pay a £26 victim surcharge.

badger at Bourne Valley Nature Reserve while the person filming made no attempt to intervene. Investigators also found an image of a dead badger. The teenager admitted filming the incident.

Following enquiries by Dorset Police’s Rural Crime Team, he was prosecuted under the Badgers Act 1992 for wilfully killing a badger. Dorset Police said it will continue to investigate reports of wildlife crime and use available legislation to bring those responsible for animal cruelty before the courts.

Pupils get to grips with litter

Teenager sentenced over badger killing The case came to light after the teenager’s mobile phone was seized during an unrelated investigation in November 2025. When officers examined the device, they discovered footage appearing to show two dogs attacking a

GOT A STORY? Then email ed@purbeckgazette.co.uk

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Youth theatre aims to teach lessons for life

A NEW youth theatre is hoping to inspire young people through drama later this year. Lighthouse Youth Theatre, opening in September, aims to give young people the chance to explore creativity, build confidence, make friends and have fun. Led by a team of friendly theatre-making professionals, the Saturday sessions at Lighthouse Poole follow an ambitious programme which builds towards the annual

showcase – an opportunity to perform on stage in front of family and friends. Talking about the benefits of performing arts classes, youth leader, Becca Trent, said: “Drama training not only builds confidence in young people, but also improves their communication skills, oracy and cognitive thinking – it’s hugely beneficial on lots of levels. “The joy of it is not so much training young people to be on stage, as wonderful as that is,”

Becca added. “It’s about putting in place the building blocks they can take on and use in other careers. Some of the young people I’ve worked with have become lawyers, teachers, all sorts of different careers.” Lighthouse Youth Theatre also provides performers with access to exclusive ticket discounts, backstage tours and specialised workshops. Participants will be part of the vibrant creative community at Lighthouse, home to the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, with the chance to meet other people who love performing and theatre.

Children are separated into three age groups, five-seven years, eight-11 years and 12-15 years, and applications are now open, with no experience or audition needed. Organisers say they do not want financial circumstances to be a barrier to budding actors who want to join the Lighthouse Youth Theatre, so they offer a 10% discount for siblings, as well as part and full bursaries to cover course fees, available thanks to funding from the Arbor Vitae Foundation. For more information on financial support or to make a booking, visit the Lighthouse website.

what matters – keeping people safe, protecting the vulnerable, bringing offenders to justice and earning the trust and confidence of communities. “I am committed to Dorset remaining one of the safest counties in the country, to Dorset Police continuing to improve and strengthen, and that my officers, staff and volunteers have the support they need to thrive and give the best possible service.” Deputy Chief Constable Farrell has previously undertaken leadership roles including responsibility for tackling serious and complex crime, protecting vulnerable people and leading major investigations.

Locally it operates a holiday home at Rockley Park for families in need and loans schools virtual babies to enable students to discover the reality of having a baby. It also provides Christmas presents for prisoners to give their children, supports the women’s refuge in Salisbury and makes baby blankets for Salisbury Maternity Unit and twiddle muffs for individuals living with dementia.

New chief constable named

DORSET Police has a new chief constable, who will take the helm later this summer. Rachel Farrell, currently deputy chief constable, has been appointed to succeed Chief Constable Amanda Pearson, who is set to retire. The move was announced by Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) David Sidwick, who said: “I am delighted that Rachel Farrell has been confirmed as the new chief constable of Dorset Police. “Rachel was selected as my preferred candidate because of her outstanding leadership, extensive operational experience and clear commitment to public service. “Throughout her policing

career, she has demonstrated the professionalism, integrity and determination needed to lead Dorset Police into the future. “Having served Dorset for many years, Rachel understands our communities, the challenges facing modern policing and the importance of maintaining the highest standards while

continuing to deliver an excellent service to the public. “I know she shares my ambition to make Dorset the safest county in the country, and I look forward to continuing to work with her to reduce crime, support victims and keep our communities safe.” The PCC also thanked Chief Constable Pearson for her “dedicated leadership and service to Dorset Police”. The newly-appointed chief constable to be said: “I am delighted and honoured to lead Dorset Police, having served communities in Dorset and Hampshire for over 30 years. “I care deeply about public service and, throughout my time, I have never lost sight of

EVERYONE is welcome at Wimborne Minster when the local Mothers’ Union celebrates the organisation’s 150th anniversary. Family fun, games, crafts and refreshments will be on offer at the event on Saturday, August 22, between 10.30am4pm, with a tea party at 2.30pm. The Mothers’ Union was founded in 1876 by Mary Sumner at Old Alresford parish

church in Hampshire. The young vicar’s wife wanted women, regardless of class or status, to come together to support one another and strengthen family life. Today, Mothers’ Union has about four million members in 84 countries and works to improve the lives of individuals, families and communities. Its work is guided by three key pillars – ending violence, promoting peace and safety;

ending injustice, advancing gender justice; and ending poverty, fostering self-reliance and resilience. Its global programmes include literacy and savings groups, parenting and resilience training, and domestic abuse awareness campaigns. The Mothers’ Union at Wimborne Minster can be traced back to 1884 thanks to the archives in the Minster’s Chained Library.

Rachel Farrell is set to become Dorset Police’s new chief

Mothers’ Union marks 150 years

The Purbeck Gazette, July 20, 2026 9

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The Purbeck Gazette, July 20, 2026

Letters

Safety fears over Coastguard cut IN a coastal community such as ours, the Coastguard is not a distant service – it is a lifeline. When someone is missing, injured, cut off by the tide or in danger on the cliffs, it is often local Coastguard Rescue Officers who respond first. That is why the decision to remove regular call-out payments for these trained volunteers should worry everyone who lives in, works in or visits Dorset. The allowance was never a wage in the ordinary sense. It was a modest recognition of the disruption caused when volunteers leave work, family life or caring responsibilities at a moment’s notice. For self-employed people, hourly paid workers and those already facing rising costs, losing that support may make continued service much harder. Purbeck’s coastline is beautiful, but it is also unforgiving. From Swanage and Lulworth to the wider Jurassic Coast, local teams are called to cliff falls, missing people, mud rescues, medical emergencies and people trapped by the tide. In the busy summer months, rapid local response becomes even more important. If experienced officers can no longer afford to remain available, or if potential recruits decide the commitment is too difficult to manage, the whole rescue system could be weakened. These volunteers bring training, judgement and invaluable local knowledge of tides, cliffs, access points and danger spots – knowledge that cannot be replaced quickly. There may be legal reasons for changing the payment model, but the practical question remains – who carries the cost when emergency volunteers are expected to respond at all hours? It should not fall on individuals who are already giving their time, energy and

purbeckgazette.co.uk often their own income to protect the public. Local residents, coastal businesses, beach users and elected representatives should press for this decision to be reviewed and for a fair system of support to be put in place. If Coastguard Rescue Officers are vital to our emergency response, they should not be left to shoulder the burden alone. Name and address supplied Via email

Energy: Striking the right balance

I APPRECIATE Sasfi HopeRoss’s thoughtful letter – Purbeck Gazette, July 6 – and agree that the North Sea is a mature basin. But maturity doesn’t mean the end of domestic production. The North Sea Transition Authority continues to approve new licences because significant recoverable reserves remain and private companies still see clear commercial value. If extraction were uneconomic, investment would simply stop. At least here taxpayers are not footing the bill. It’s also true that some North Sea crude is exported, but that reflects how global markets work. The UK imports and exports oil simultaneously because different refineries process different grades. What matters is that domestic production reduces our exposure to volatile international markets and regimes with lower environmental standards. Where we fully agree is on the importance of renewables. Britain must accelerate clean energy. But even the Climate Change Committee recognises that oil and gas will remain part of the mix during the transition. The real question is whether we source that energy here in the UK. By doing this we are supporting British jobs and higher environmental standards. Or should we rely more heavily on imports? My argument is simple – Britain needs a balanced, secure

transition. We can continue decarbonising while maintaining a stable domestic supply. Pretending we can switch off the North Sea overnight is not realism – it’s a recipe for higher bills and weaker energy security. I welcome continued discussion on this important issue and thank Sasfi for contributing to it. Byron Quayle Chair, South Dorset Conservative Association

Issue with ‘old’ ferry tickets

SANDBANKS Ferry recently introduced automatic charging by number plate recognition. Customers who had bought discounted tickets in bulk could transfer tickets to the automatic system. Tickets are valid for two years, so tickets purchased some time ago may only be valid for a short time. On first use of the ferry, I noticed that the automatic system had deducted one of the newest tickets first. I had 50 ‘new’ tickets valid until 2028, plus six remaining ‘old’ tickets, valid until only December 2026. If the ferry continues to deduct new tickets first, unless I use over 50 by December, I will lose my six older tickets. This may be an issue for all customers who have bought tickets in bulk. They may not even notice this is happening. Name and address supplied

Columnist talks good sense I’VE never written to a newspaper in my life but guess at 78 years old it’s never too late to start! I’ve lived in Wareham for seven years and I read the Purbeck Gazette from cover to cover every fortnight. What a great read it is! My agreement with every word David Hollister writes cannot be overstated. Just a shame we don’t have a few

more sensible people like him around. He covers a wide range of subjects and each one of them from a realistic and logical point of view. I’m going to write to the parish council as David suggested regarding the ‘pedestrian island’ at Harman’s Cross. Is it really necessary and I suggest looking at the large number of people who try to cross the main road outside Norden Farm’s campsite. It’s a popular and charming holiday site with good public transport to Corfe and Swanage, but members of the public take their lives in their hands crossing the road. Please continue publishing the excellent Purbeck Gazette – it’s full of a variety of information about life in and around Swanage – a fabulous place to live or visit! Karen Pratley Via email

The Harman’s Cross oddity!

THERE’S a rip in the spacetime continuum and it’s left me at a loss, I found it as I drove my car today through Harman’s Cross. Suddenly my watch stood still and a host of lights shone red, Not caused by a Doppler Shift but by braking cars ahead. The scenery around me slowed, my wheels could hardly roll And seconds seemed eternal in that Harman’s Cross black hole. Time for me was ending, I watched it slip away, No sign of a pedestrian still, just cars all doomed to stay – So now I’m stuck like Major Tom, there’s nothing I can do, I hope you get this message though – or you’ll get stuck here too! For more poetry, come to the PAW open mic poetry event at Swanage British Legion on Monday, June 1, 7.30pm-10pm. Martin Hobdell Swanage

The Purbeck Gazette, July 20, 2026 11

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purbeckgazette.co.uk TOP JOB Katrina Ford has been appointed chief executive at Citizens Advice in East Dorset & Purbeck

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A NEW Citizens Advice chief executive is on the hunt for people looking to “give something back to their community”. Katrina Ford, recently appointed to head up Citizens Advice in East Dorset & Purbeck, has launched a trustee recruitment campaign to help shape the future of the organisation. She had previously worked as East Dorset & Purbeck Citizens Advice business manager before becoming chief executive at Woking Citizens Advice. Katrina said: “I am excited to be back at Citizens Advice in East Dorset & Purbeck and am very much looking forward to the future and the challenges that lie ahead. “Our organisation provides

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The Purbeck Gazette, July 20, 2026

Antiques & Collectibles

purbeckgazette.co.uk

Summer Auction Ruby vs and Modern Art

DUKE’S Auctioneers has a compelling pairing of sister sales coming up – The Summer Auction and Modern Art, each showcasing works from distinct periods and styles. The Summer Auction, on Wednesday, July 22, features a selection of period pieces, paintings, furniture, textiles and more. A highlight is Thomas Beach’s (1738–1806) Portrait of the Reverend William Chafin (1733–1818), from the celebrated Milton Abbey series, depicting the Captains of the Dorset Yeomanry Cavalry and their Chaplain. The portrait, with distinguished provenance through Milton Abbey and Came House, was admired by King George III during his 1804 visit to Milton Abbey – he described it as a ‘good likeness’ of a ‘remarkable-looking person’. Modern Art follows on Thursday, July 23, with works by Paul Nash, Bob

garnet

Thomas Beach, Portrait of the Reverend William Chafin (1733–1818)

Dylan and two paintings ascribed to Bernard Buffet (1928-99), both titled Fleurs. The works, originally acquired from Galerie David et Garnier, Paris, and recorded in the Maurice Garnier Archives, exemplify Buffet’s bold, graphic style which made him one of post-war France’s most celebrated artists. The catalogue is now available to pre-order.

by Amy Brenan, director of Heirlooms Jewellers, 21 South Street, Wareham AT first glance, rubies and garnets can look remarkably alike. Their rich red hues have been set in jewellery for centuries, yet these beautiful gemstones each have their own fascinating history and unique appeal. Rubies, the birthstone for July, have long been regarded as one of the world’s most precious gemstones. A variety of the mineral corundum, their vibrant crimson colour is created by traces of chromium. Throughout history, rubies have symbolised passion, courage and prosperity, making them a favourite among royalty and aristocracy. Fine antique ruby rings, brooches and pendants from the Victorian and Edwardian eras remain highly sought after by collectors today. Garnets, meanwhile, the birthstone for January, have an equally distinguished heritage. Often associated with protection and safe travels, garnets were popular from

Which is ruby and which is garnet?

ancient Roman times through to the Victorian period. While most people think of garnets as deep red, they actually occur in a wonderful range of colours including red, green and even orange, whereas rubies can only be pink. In antique jewellery, the rich red varieties were especially favoured, with Bohemian garnet jewellery becoming particularly fashionable during the 19th century. Intricately set clusters of small garnets created striking pieces that remain instantly recognisable today. Although they can appear similar, rubies are generally harder than garnets, making them more resistant to scratching and wear, so particularly suitable for jewellery design. Can you tell the difference between the two rings in the picture? It’s quite difficult, isn’t it? The garnet is the one with three stones! Whether you’re drawn to the regal elegance of a ruby or the timeless charm of a garnet, both gemstones have played an important role in the history of jewellery.

The Purbeck Gazette, July 20, 2026 13

Telling It Like It Is

purbeckgazette.co.uk

Hard times for the local pub

’M writing this column from my office in Harman’s Cross which, although it has no air-conditioning, does have doors opening onto my patio and onwards into my house, where large windows allow the breeze to go right through the building. Yes, it’s hot. But my sympathies to everyone who doesn’t have the luxury of a few days off in the heatwave! My sympathies also to the many thousands of people who ploughed their savings and a huge amount of effort into buying and running a pub. A place where locals could meet up, have a few drinks in good company, chew over the day’s events and go home having put the world to rights. Sadly, those days are rapidly going. On our recent short break, we were amazed at the number of pubs which were closed up, often the only pub in the village. And at £6 a pint, or £8 for a medium glass of wine, I don’t blame people for staying away. But don’t blame the ‘landlord’, who in most cases isn’t a landlord at all, but a tenant of a large brewery chain. Who not only set the rent but also generally dictate to the landlord what he may and may not sell. Then there are the many overheads over which the landlord has no control. Business rates. Water rates. Insurances. And, of course, staff costs. The minimum wage is reviewed annually by the government based on the recommendations of the Low Pay Commission, with changes taking effect on April 1. Year on year, employees are gaining an ever-increasing raft of rights over their employers. When it was introduced in 1999, the rate for a 22-year-old was £3.60. Now it’s £12.21. And all enforced by the Fair Work Agency, the government body responsible for enforcing the National Minimum Wage in the UK. HMRC handles

by David Hollister investigations and enforces the law on the FWA’s behalf. If an employer fails to pay the National Minimum Wage, the enforcement bodies have the power to Issue a notice to repay backpay for up to six years, to impose financial penalties of up to £20,000 per affected worker, and to publicly name and shame businesses that break the law. It’s a criminal offence for employers to not pay someone the National Minimum Wage or National Living Wage, or to fake payment records. Employers which discover they’ve paid a worker below the correct minimum wage must pay any arrears immediately. No longer can an employer dismiss an employee without going through a legal procedure. A dismissal is when an employer ends an employee’s contract. It usually means the same as being sacked or fired. These days, it’s important that an employer uses a fair and reasonable procedure to decide whether to dismiss someone. Still want to run a pub? For a dismissal to be fair, the employer must have a valid reason, make a decision that’s balanced, consistent and as fair as possible. The employer should follow a full and fair procedure, usually in line with the ACAS Code of Practice on disciplinary and grievance procedure. Being a dinosaur, I tend to think: “I took you on to do a specific job, so if you can’t do it then goodbye and better luck next time.” And ‘contracts of employment’? The law says that the employee is entitled to have one. Being a dinosaur, I tend to use the old-fashioned method of a nod and a handshake and am immediately suspicious of any prospective employee who asks for a contract. Ask me on day one – if you don’t feel you can do what’s required, then there’s

the door, don’t slam it on the way out. Never forget that it’s the employer whose livelihood is at stake – he can’t just close the pub down and move on when every penny he has is invested in it. The pub is his home, his future and usually his only security.

AS anyone complained to Dorset Council about the lift not working at the sports centre. Complete discrimination against physically disabled people. I do hope that by the time this reaches your breakfast plate, it’s been sorted.

ORWAY found oil in the North Sea and built themselves a £1.7 trillion wealth fund. Britain found oil in the North Sea and handed the money to Margaret Thatcher so she could make huge tax cuts and effectively declare economic war on her own country. And secure her party’s future for at least 10 years.

O. 20 is Plenty is it? Really? Did you lay out thousands of pounds on a car with a published top speed well over the legal limit, just to crawl along watching for speed cameras? The top speed of – say – a Ford Fiesta depends on the specific generation, trim level and engine option but for the most common standard models, top speeds range from 103mph to 125mph, while the high-performance ST versions reach between 139mph and

144mph. Why? Driving very slowly means that engines, catalytic converters and DPFs never reach their optimum working temperatures, and this adds to air pollution rather than reducing it. It also causes premature wear to engines, gearboxes and exhaust systems! Driving at or over the current speed limit bears the constant threat of prosecution. So why is ‘maximum speed’ such an important feature of your new car? The Porsche GT3 RS can achieve slightly short of 200mph, but on UK roads the only sound you will hear is the local constabulary rubbing its hands together with undisguised glee. Crazy, isn’t it! At the other end of the scale, we have legal electric scooters supplied by Currys, Argos and Halfords. All with change out of £1,000. All with power ratings and all with the obligatory warning effectively telling you that you can only use it on private land with the owner’s permission. Right. Tell that to the youngsters tearing down Swanage’s one-way streets in the wrong direction, unhindered by public conscience or indeed by police presence. My message to my readers, to the Government and indeed to the local Police and Crime Commissioner is simple. The genie is well and truly out of the bottle. Electric scooters are here to stay. Just like electric cars. Get used to it. You haven’t got to like it but it’s too late to turn back now!

Tune in and enjoy your local community radio station. Broadcast for the community, by the community. Listen to David Hollister ‘Telling It Like It Is’ Monday-Thursday 5-6pm.

The Purbeck Gazette, July 20, 2026

THE

PURBECK MAGAZINE

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The Purbeck Gazette, July 20, 2026 15

ISSUE371 309 ISSUE

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PURBECK MAGAZINE

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For the solutions, turn to page 23

The Purbeck Gazette, July 20, 2026

Politics

purbeckgazette.co.uk

The way ahead for local schools… A COUPLE of weeks ago, I hosted a community meeting to discuss the proposed merger of St George’s Primary School in Langton Matravers with St Mark’s Primary School in Swanage. Thank you to all those who took the time to attend on a very sunny and warm Saturday morning! As you might imagine, the community meeting was packed to the rafters – showing the immense strength of feeling locally. Coastal Learning Partnership – which is responsible for both schools – had previously been running a consultation process concerning the potential merger. However, the day before we met, we heard the news that the consultation had been cancelled and there would now be no immediate changes at both primary schools for the next two years. Overall, I think this is welcome news compared to where we were just a few weeks

ago. This gives us more time to work constructively with Coastal Learning Partnership and Dorset Council to protect both St George’s Primary School and St Mark’s Primary School. Although, at the community meeting, I heard loud and clear the concerns many had that this two-year period will simply prolong uncertainty – and we risk ending up in the exact same position in a few years. My priority is to ensure that this does not happen. All options should be on the table so we can ensure that St George’s Primary School is not mothballed in the not-too-distant future. For this reason, I will be pushing for a working group to be established so the voices of parents, teachers and the pupils themselves are front and centre in any decision made about the future of both these schools. I will also be meeting again with Coastal Learning

Partnership to share the major concerns which came up at the community meeting and to press for closer collaboration with the local community straight away. I firmly believe that there are viable options which would mean that both St George’s Primary School and St Mark’s Primary School remain open and thriving. This is despite the number of primary school aged students falling both locally and nationwide. For me, perhaps the most promising alternative would be the addition of dedicated SEND facilities based at either of the primary schools. There is a real shortage of specialised school places for children with SEND in our part of the world – so extra SEND facilities would be hugely welcome. Along with all other options, this should be given serious consideration so that both schools can remain open for the long-term.

Our recent community meeting showed the incredible strength of support for both primary schools and what can be achieved when local people come together. And, of course, keeping our local primary schools open is hugely important to making sure that Purbeck remains a place where young families can put down roots. Looking ahead, I will do everything I can to protect both St George’s Primary School and St Mark’s Primary School. Reaching a workable and long-term solution will require close collaboration and all of us pulling together so that we can maintain our fantastic primary schools. That was the overwhelming feeling at the community meeting – and I will ensure this is carried forwards. LLOYD HATTON Labour MP for South Dorset

Reader’s Picture

Nothing but blue sky – Robin Boultwood took this photo on a recent early summer’s day at Shell Bay, Studland

The Purbeck Gazette, July 20, 2026 17

Politics

purbeckgazette.co.uk

Disposable barbecues ongoing hazard IN the absence of outright ban, eliminating disposable barbecues requires responsible, commonsense action. Few products combine environmental waste, fire risk and public nuisance quite as effectively as the disposable barbecue. In a nationally important landscape like Purbeck, where heathland and the Jurassic Coast attract thousands of visitors every year, the continued sale and use of disposable barbecues is baffling. The real question is not if they should be banned but why are they still being sold and bought? Every summer, Dorset faces the threat of wildfires. During periods of hot and dry weather, a single spark can destroy vast areas of habitat and place lives at risk. Disposable barbecues sit directly on the ground and can remain dangerously hot for hours after use. Even when users believe they have been extinguished, residual heat can ignite dry grass, gorse and heathland vegetation. Purbeck is home to some of

the country’s most precious natural environments, including protected heathland and internationally important wildlife habitats. A major fire can wipe out years of conservation work in a matter of hours. Ground-nesting birds, reptiles and insects are particularly vulnerable. The financial cost of firefighting and habitat restoration ultimately falls on taxpayers and public bodies. The environmental case against is also strong. Disposable barbecues are the definition of a throwaway product. Manufactured from aluminium, charcoal, wire and cardboard, they are used once and discarded. Visitors often leave them on beaches, in car parks and beauty spots, creating litter and safety hazards. Local authorities and volunteer groups spend considerable time and money clearing up the mess. So why has a ban not happened? The answer lies partly in powers and enforcement. Dorset Council has the powers to

impose ‘Public Space Protection Orders’ (PSPOs) that limit open fires in certain locations. These exist across a number of areas in Purbeck, including Studland, which saw such fire devastation in 2022 as a result of those products. Sadly, enforcement on a busy summer’s day can be quite difficult, and I am encouraging Dorset Council and the National Trust to work together to support this. Otherwise, neither Purbeck nor Dorset Council have the powers to impose an outright ban on their sale or use. (Perhaps this is something Mr Burnham might address in his plans for greater devolution). So, the emphasis really needs to be on consumer power and change behaviours. Retailers have no real moral responsibility beyond their legal obligations. Their primary purpose is to generate profit, and their greatest fear is losing customers. The answer, therefore, is simple – don’t shop where disposable barbecues are sold. Take a stand. Tell retailers why you are taking your

business elsewhere and let them know where you will shop instead. If enough people do this, they will get the message. We also need to make disposable barbecues as socially unacceptable as drink-driving. If you see people using them in inappropriate places, challenge it. Report misuse to enforcement officers, contact the media and raise awareness on social media. Start a campaign, build a movement. Where the risks to people, wildlife and property are so clear, leadership matters. Purbeck’s landscapes are among its greatest assets. Waiting until the next major fire before introducing stronger regulation would be a costly mistake. The case for banning disposable barbecues is becoming increasingly compelling, but public action and effective enforcement will also be essential if we are to protect this area for future generations. BEN WILSON Lib Dem councillor for South East Purbeck Ward

EVERY so often, Westminster gifts us a moment so fantastically absurd that the only sensible reaction is to put the kettle on, have a biscuit, and laugh. Nigel Farage’s latest political pirouette of resigning, restanding and reannouncing has become one of those moments. It’s hard to keep track without a flowchart and a manual on how to read a flowchart. Many people saw his resignation followed by his immediate intention to stand again for the same seat as yet another example of how detached Westminster can appear from the rest of us. But if there’s one thing you should never underestimate, it’s the British public’s ability to meet political chaos with humour and a healthy dose of ‘oh, for goodness’ sake’.

Just look at the rise of Count Binface. Only in Britain could a man wearing a bin on his head become a genuine talking point in a by-election. And only in Britain would people respond not with outrage, but with a collective shrug and a chuckle. From Boaty McBoatface to Count Binface, our humour is one of the few things that reliably unites us. That, and standing in queues and moaning about the weather! We’re a nation that loves to talk about our history, the monarchy, the battles, the inventions and the cultural milestones. We have plenty to be proud of and plenty we would rather forget about. But threaded through all of it is a very British instinct – fair play and the ability to treat even serious matters with

a bit of tongue in cheek levity. Which brings us back to Nigel Farage. A man who often presents himself as a man of the people. However many may point out that most ‘men of the people’ don’t receive £5 million donations to use without any strings attached…wink, wink, wink. Perhaps that’s just Westminster politics. Our politicians have always had a flair for theatre, and this latest act is no exception. The irony of someone claiming to be the anti-establishment candidate now taking on someone who is clearly the anti-establishment candidate – with a bin on his head. Still, there’s something refreshing about the idea that, in the middle of all this political choreography, the British public

might decide to send someone wearing a bin on his head to Parliament. Not out of malice, but out of sheer, glorious British humour. A simple reminder that if politics becomes too ridiculous, we’ll simply match it. And perhaps that’s the point. Whatever the final result of the Clacton by-election, the mere possibility of Count Binface standing in the same race as a seasoned politician like Farage says more about the public mood than any speech or manifesto ever could. Absurdity, fair play, and a good old poke at the establishment – how very British indeed. BYRON QUAYLE Chair, South Dorset Conservative Association

Don’t underestimate British public

The Purbeck Gazette, July 20, 2026

Sport

Power Gym fighters on song in ‘prison’ bouts

Gym fighter was Jack Buchanan, 21, from Swanage. Jack was facing a very strong

hard-hitting opponent. The first round was close, and Jack took some hard punches. In the

second, Jack worked out how to take advantage of his opponent’s immobility and lack of footwork, and that he was easy to hit. The referee stopped the fight. The last fighter from the Purbeck Power Gym was Ryan Dwyer, 22, from Harman’s Cross. Ryan’s opponent was Joe Eason, an experienced fighter who had a reputation for being very tough and for never having been knocked down in a boxing ring. Ryan spent the first round sizing him up. In the second, he unleashed a flurry of punches which knocked his opponent to the ground. He bravely got up but Ryan immediately moved in and knocked him down again and the referee counted him out. Ryan’s terrific punching power won him the fight – Joe Eason said he had never been hit so hard in his life. Ryan’s skill and power have improved so much in recent months it is hard to see how anyone at his weight is going to beat him. The Purbeck Power Gym is based in Corfe Castle. A noticeboard shows times for training and other events. Look out for the display banner. For more information, phone 07714 320072.

RUGBY

Bryant. Will brings a strong coaching background and a wealth of experience to Swans as he was Wimborne RFC senior coach 2021-23, Bath PDG Academy lead coach 2023 to present, and Purbeck School head of Sport 2011-16. He also has the Coaching England RFU Advanced Coaching Award, Safeguarding Level 3, Headcase Certficate, Enhanced DBS and one-day EFAW First Aid. Will said: “I am very

excited to take on the opportunity at Swanage & Wareham alongside my busy coaching schedule, as and when I can fit it in. “Swans have always been a club with huge potential, and with a high quality coaching team I feel I can bring in fresh and innovative ideas, alongside a skill set attacking focus. “A lot of the current squad I have coached through Purbeck School and/or coached or played against. I am looking forward to getting stuck in.”

BOXING by Michael Bond THE old and now deserted Dorchester Prison seemed to inspire the four boxers from Purbeck Power Gym who fought at the unusual venue. First in the ring was Deniz Demir, 17, from Swanage. Deniz looked well trained and fit as he entered the ring. In the first round he showed skill and determination and took control of the fight against a tough opponent. In the second, he increased pressure on his opponent, who was in trouble when the referee stopped the fight. Next up was Max Holmes, 18, from Swanage. He and his opponent were tough and well matched and attacked each other ferociously. Unfortunately, Max’s shoulder became dislocated after about half a minute. The referee immediately put it back while it was still warm – the best cure if someone knows how to do it – but Max could not continue and the fight was declared a no contest. The third Purbeck Power

purbeckgazette.co.uk

Jack Buchanan quickly worked his opponent out. Inset, Ryan Dwyer – his opponent said he had never been hit so hard

‘Jungle’ named Swans’ head coach by Ron Butler SWANS legend James ‘Jungle’ Warren has been appointed head coach at Swanage & Wareham Rugby Club. ‘Jungle’ was a fearsome openside flanker, known for his commitment, toughness and determination on the pitch. During his playing career he made more than 30 appearances for Dorset across 12 seasons, a testament to his consistency, ability and dedication to the game.

A spokesperson for the club said: “His knowledge of the game, commitment to player development and love of the club make him the perfect person to take us forward.” James is the face behind the hugely successful Salt Pig Farm shops and restaurants, which support the club. Swans have also named Will Tarbard as an attack and skills coach, alongside backs, attack and skills coach Ollie

GOT A SPORT STORY? Then email ed@purbeckgazette.co.uk

Summer Living

The Purbeck Gazette, July 20, 2026 19

*Advertising Feature

The Purbeck Gazette, July 20, 2026

Introducing Strike Zone – A New Way to Enjoy Golf at Purbeck Golf Club

ADVERTISING FEATURE

urbeck Golf Club is delighted to introduce Strike Zone, our brand-new indoor golf studio, bringing year-round golf, practice and entertainment to members and visitors alike. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your swing, enjoy a relaxed round with friends or introduce someone new to the game, Strike Zone offers the perfect environment. Using state-of-the-art golf simulation technology, players can experience some of the world’s most famous courses, work on every aspect of their game with detailed shot analysis, or simply enjoy fun challenges such as Longest Drive, Nearest the Pin and putting competitions. Open daily from 8:00am to 9:00pm, Strike Zone provides an all-weather golfing experience,

whatever the season. It’s ideal for practice sessions, coaching lessons and family fun, making it a fantastic addition to everything Purbeck Golf Club has to offer. The facility is available to both members and visitors and advanced bookings can be made by going to the home page of our website: www. purbeckgolf.co.uk and setting up an account. Strike Zone represents another step forward in enhancing the golfing experience at Purbeck Golf Club. Whether you’re chasing lower scores, trying golf for the first time, or simply looking for a fun and unique activity, we invite you to come give it a try.

ISLE OF PURBECK GOLF CLUB EVERYONE WELCOME Top 100 Golf Courses in England Outstanding Value

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Mon-Thurs Friday £105.00 £95.00 £125.00 £135.00 £85.00 £75.00 £65.00 £55.00

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The Purbeck Gazette, July 20, 2026 21

FIREWORKS CRUISE Setting sail from Poole Quay at 7.30pm Thursday 27 August

Join us on the best seats in the house as we set sail through Europe's largest natural harbour An incredible opportunity to experience panoramic views from our deck and soak in the magnificent fireworks, with a glass of prosecco on arrival and the option for a fish & chip supper.

Book your seats today diverseabilities.org.uk/fireworkcruise Registered charity no.282197

The Purbeck Gazette, July 20, 2026

Visitor to the beautiful Purbecks or local resident We've something for everyone. Great food & drink, everyday essentials, an indoor pool, plus the best play area and beer garden in Swanage. We can't think of a better place to while away the long summer days. enq@ulwellholidaypark.co.uk

01929 422823

www.knollhouse.co.uk

01929 450450

Mother’s Day - Sunday 15th March

Our Saturday BBQs are back! Starting 25th July, bring the whole family for a fun day out. Soak up the sunshine and enjoy spectacular views across Studland Bay. Dogs welcome. No booking necessary.

Enjoy afternoon tea or a traditional Sunday roast this Mother’s Day and all adults dining will receive a FREE glass of bubbly with every booking! 01929 450450 | knollhouse.co.uk

The Purbeck Gazette, July 20, 2026 23

Sport

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Seconds pair bag undefeated 100s SWANAGE CC’s 1st XI have won two of their six completed matches in Premier Two this season with four abandonments due to inclement weather. The highlight of their batting was Mike Salmon’s 84 against Wimborne at Day’s Park. The other players to reach a half-century have been Coby Perry (two), Dan and Mike Salmon – again, Sam and Tom Wells – both two. The other main contributions have come from Matt Beard, Harry Long and Ethan and Mark Stacey. The bowling highlights have been when Freddie Long, Coby Perry – who is the joint-leading wicket taker in the Division – and Mike Salmon all claimed six wicket hauls against Marnhull, Poole and Christchurch respectively. The other main contributors have been Charlie Dyke, Harry Long and Steve Ramsay. The 2nd XI have won four of their seven completed games in

CRICKET Division 3 but have also had four abandoned. The highlight of their batting was the 175-run partnership between Sid Nash and Chris Backhouse at Christchurch – where both made a century – 122 not out and 102 not out respectively. Sam Marks has also made a century with seven halfcenturies by Ben Allatt, Backhouse, Jernimain (B), Max Nicholson (two), Steve Ramsay and George Taylor. The other main contributions have come from Michael (B), James Harding, Harry Long, John Lewis and Mike Nash. The leading wicket taker is Ramsay, who took a five-wicket haul at Christchurch. He has been ably supported by Jernimain and Michael (B), Andrew Hancock, James Harding, Josh (G) and Mike Nash.

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The 3rd XI have only won one of their five completed matches but have been playing against strong, far more experienced 1st XI sides in Division 5, and have had three abandonments. The highlight of their batting was Paul Notman’s 93 at Portland. There have also been half-centuries from David Alcock (two), Josh (G), Tim Ives and John Lewis. There have also been useful contributions from Paul Knight, Danny (N), Don Van Staden and

Geoff Willcocks. The leading wicket taker is Alan Marks, but he has been ably supported by Bradley and Liam (B), George (E), Josh (G), Danny (N), Paul Knight, Alfred (R), Josh (V-S) & Lewis (W). The Women & Girls HardBall team have won one of their two games. The stand-out batters have been Hannah Attride, Jo RobertsMiller and Nala. The stand-out bowlers have been Eden, Faye, Nala, Pam and Sophie (C). The WAG’s Soft-Ball side have also won one of their two matches. The main contributors with the bat have been Amanda Braznell, Bev Lagden and Pam Sealey. Bev, Pam and Suki have all made useful contributions with the ball. The Under-11s/13s and 15s have all been in action with brilliant performances by everyone, especially Frankie, Henry, Jaxon, Noah, Ruby and Saaqib.

(from pages 14-15)

Edition 371

Sudoku 3D puzzle

Cryptic crossword

9 3 8 7 4 2 7 8 6 5 1 5 4 1 9 3 7 2 8 6 8 1 8 5 1 2 3 4 4 4 5 2 5 3 9 6 7 2 2 5 4 3 9 1 9 6 6 6 7 9 1 2 9 7 8 8 3 6 7 9 5 3 3 2 7 5 3 9 2 1 4 8 8 3 94 6 8 4 1 57 4 5 4 2 6 1 1 1 7 8 2 5 2 8 6 5 1 7 9 3 7 6 4 3 9 6 9 1 7 9 7 5 4 3 6 6 4 2 5 3 5 1 8 3 2 9 4 4 1 3 1 8 4 6 5 8 2 3 7 8 7 5 2 7 2 8 7 1 2 5 9 6 8 9 8 5 3 9 1 3 6 9 4 6 2 7 1 1 2 9 4 6 3 6 3 8 9 4 7 4 3 9 5 8 1 1 8 5 4 7 5 7 2 5 2 1 2 8 6 7 9 4 6 4 2 1 91 9 2 3 8 67 9 8 7 3 5 3 4 6 4 5 2 7 5 1 6 3 8 8 7 1 5 3 4 2 6 9

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

Crossword

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

Arrow words

F M E L T Y E S E A S T I S I C T A I N S R A E R A L I M A N G O G N

G L Z U C O E S E

D O L U O B W L S E C B R F L O O P S C A S S

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

The Purbeck Gazette, July 20, 2026

Health & Wellbeing

Meditations in nature: Butterflies, mad dogs and Englishmen by Susanna Curtin TODAY I am on a mission to find a particular species of butterfly on my local butterfly reserve. It is one of the hottest June days on record, and as is quite often the case with my butterfly watching, I have not timed things well. You would think I would learn after all these years of butterfly quests, coupled with my innate ‘fear of missing out’, that I would know how to time it right. White admirals are a magnificent butterfly to see. They begin to emerge from their chrysalis from mid to late June, and fly throughout July and into the beginning of August. Last year, and the year before, I was too late. This year, I am probably a tad too early, and not only that, it is far too hot for them. Butterflies are ectotherms. They are cold-blooded creatures, so their body temperature depends on their surroundings. Most British butterflies are active when the air temperature is between 18 and 30 degrees centigrade. But once temperatures climb much higher, and especially in places that are in full sun with little wind, they soon take refuge, and switch from feeding and courtship to simply avoiding overheating. Almost all butterflies have a specific flight season when the adults are only on the wing during particular weeks or months of the year. This is usually dependent on the availability of their caterpillar food plants, and the weather conditions. They are therefore only on the wing for a brief period, spending most of their lives as eggs, caterpillars or

White admirals are a magnificent butterfly to see

pupae. I can’t tell you how many times I have visited a site to see a particular butterfly only to find that, apart from a few bedraggled stragglers, they are finished, and I have missed them until the following year. However, despite not getting to see my white admirals, it is still a stunning day to be out on the reserve. The high humidity is causing a misty opaqueness to the hot blue sky and distant horizons, and while an occasional welcome breeze blows through, the land lies low and seems to trap the rising heat. Emerging from the cool oak-lined rides, I find myself following a new path cut through the meadows. There are marsh and spotted orchids amid clouds of birds-foot trefoil, betony, broom, thistles and cinquefoil – all showing beautifully among the tall, swaying meadow grasses. And then, in among the flowers, fly dozens of meadow browns and marbled whites. Every now and then, I can hear lizards scuttling through the sun-baked grass. I know it’s them because of their short

sharp bursts of movement. I can also see emperor dragonflies skimming over the grasses and, as I approach a section of hedgerow decorated with large old oaks, there is a welcome coolness. Birdsong was prolific when I arrived on the nature reserve. Blackcaps, garden warblers, chiffchaffs and song thrushes were all singing beautifully and there were the familiar shrieks of a kestrel and young buzzards in the distance. But as the temperature becomes more oppressive, the singing has all but stopped apart from the constant calls of chiffchaffs and the continuous buzzing of insects – somehow intensifying the feeling of the day’s oppressive heat. Following this newly cut path instils a sense of adventure in me for I have never walked this way before. It is taking me across the fields and to the magnificent oaks that separate the meadows until there, before me, lies a pond adorned with a group of mallard. I find it incredible how you can visit a place so many times but without paths to guide you, you can

purbeckgazette.co.uk walk the same tracks and miss hidden jewels like this tucked away in the folds of the landscape. I take a moment to be still. How lovely that we have places like this. I haven’t seen another soul all day. There is a sense of remoteness, solitude and adventure. I know it is hot, but I do not want to turn back, for this is a perfect midsummer’s day and the reason I love summer so much. The path continues into the distance leading me to an unknown place. It feels like an analogy of our own lifejourneys. We follow paths that interest us without knowing where they might lead. Sometimes to the right place, and sometimes not. But from there, there are new paths to guide us, and when we look back, we can see how far we have come – the story of each human life unfolding along its own trajectory. Although meadow browns, painted ladies and marbled whites are still gracing the fields, I feel the passing of high-noon and the afternoon heat bouncing in waves off the vegetation. I decide to turn back towards the reserve to see the large bright orange silverwashed fritillaries – the first of the crop. They fly so fast and with so much purpose. I love that about them – that they are in front of you one minute before disappearing into the thicket. Sometimes if you sit still, they come around again as they patrol their territories. It is strange how even butterflies have their own characteristics and personalities. It wasn’t until I got interested in them, that I realised that. Eventually, and at last, I reach my car which is registering 42 degrees. Had they still been alive, my parents would have reminded me that only mad dogs and Englishmen go out in the midday sun. Perhaps they had a point! n Dr Susie Curtin (email curtin. susanna@gmail.com).

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The Purbeck Gazette, July 20, 2026 25

Health & Wellbeing

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Finding forgiveness through yoga by Nicole Asghar WHEN I think about how we encourage, ask, and often expect children to forgive generously, I wonder whether we, the adults, can do the same. I think we most likely cannot. Like most young people, I used to struggle with forgiveness, but when I found yoga, and most crucially, yogic philosophy, I was able to see how I could feel differently about past situations, my body and emotions. During my teacher training, I discovered the meaning of true forgiveness. When I learnt how to truly forgive, I felt my body soften. I could feel the space around my heart release. My body could let go of the tension that had resulted from the anguish of the ‘wrong-doing’ or the deceit or unkindness. I felt like my whole

physiology could change – just from the act of forgiving. When I began studying yoga philosophy and meditation, I was amazed to learn that forgiveness and compassion have been scientifically proven to alter physiology. Psychologists and neuroscientists have examined how the brain and human behaviour change when compassion-based meditations are practised regularly. I’d like to share one with you – you might like to try it now. Make yourself comfortable and see how this feels – it’s called The Metta Meditation: A Tibetan Loving-Kindness Meditation or Prayer. Feel your feet on the floor or your legs on a chair or sofa – just become aware of your body for a moment. Breathe slowly

and deeply and exhale through your mouth. Now, gently breathe in and out through your nose, and try to soften your body. Thinking of someone you love, repeat out loud or in your mind: May you be happy; may you be safe; and may you be at peace. Now, thinking of a group of people that need love and security – those less fortunate and repeat: May you all be happy, may you all be safe, and may you all be at peace. Now, thinking of someone that needs your forgiveness – hold them gently in mind and offer them the kindness behind these words and repeat: May you be happy; may you be safe; and may you be at peace. Really feel these ones. Lastly, hold yourself in mind

and offer yourself forgiveness and compassion for the struggle you may have experienced around the situation that made you feel hurt. Say to yourself: May I be happy; may I be safe; and may I be at peace. Take another gentle breath in and out – your Metta meditation practice is complete. You might like to come back to this another time or try out other compassion-based meditations. If you do, feel free to get in touch, and I can recommend some others – or let me know how you found this. I’d love to hear from you. n Nicole Asghar is a Dorsetbased therapist working online and around Bournemouth. Specialising in neurodivergence, trauma and yoga. Get in touch via nicole@ourluminousminds. com or www.nicoleasghar.com

by Fiona Chapman WE were lucky to be given Centre Court tickets for Wimbledon recently. Having never been, we jumped at the chance and had an amazing day watching fantastic tennis. What impressed me, however, were the ball boys and girls. They were so disciplined, efficient and stoic. The staff serving us were great too – polite, smiley, efficient, chatty if engaged or discrete if not – even the lovely girls who had obviously drawn the short straw and had to attend the loos. It is an incredibly long day for the staff, the ball boys and girls – uncomfortable for the ones crouching by the nets – and

the players, and it got me thinking about herbs for endurance. There are quite a few of them, called adaptogens, but some are very specific and have been tried and tested, particularly in Russia. Siberian ginseng or Eleutherococcus senticosus is perhaps the best known – it has been used to increase energy and mental and physical performance. It promotes blood flow to the brain and improves concentration and mental stamina. It also will counter stress-induced fatigue – useful for us all! Another is Rhodiola rosea, which is very good for physical stress and taken regularly

increases resilience while improving memory and concentration. It also helps bring heart rates back to normal after intense physical exercise. Panax ginseng, perhaps usually used by men – for erectile disfunction and low libido – more than women, is good for us all as we get older. It is strengthening and rejuvenates. All these herbs also protect

the heart and liver and help the body to adapt to the stresses of life. I know the players and staff at Wimbledon have youth on their side, but a good herbal supplement to help them get through these tournaments might be just what they need. n Fiona Chapman is a naturopathic herbalist (email Pellyfiona@gmail.com).

Wimbledon and herbs for endurance

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The Purbeck Gazette, July 20, 2026

Home & Garden

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Garden ponds a magnet for wildlife by Sally Gregson A GARDEN pond is a delight on very many levels, and in the vegetable garden a pond is not just ornamental, but practical. Ponds attract a great deal of wildlife, as we are always being told, and much of that wildlife is beneficial to vegetable growing. Placed in the middle of an organic veggie patch, it will attract, often within minutes of its inception, frogs, newts and toads, as well as lots of beneficial insect life. And those green, hopping ones, live almost entirely on slugs and snails that in turn seem to live entirely on your young vegetables. A pond will be home to your own army of predators of the slimy ones. Try to resist the temptation to add goldfish to the mix of wildlife. They are a bit too successful at eating everything that would otherwise feed the

frogs and toads. And, inevitably, they tend to stir up the sediment at the bottom of the pond, blocking out the light and downgrading the quality of the water. Ponds are best started during the winter months when there seems more time to undertake a major addition, but finding the right site on a sunny day is a good start. Think about where to place the spoil, the soil that has been dug out. It needs to be close by the site to avoid lots of hard work barrowing. Keep sloping edges at a shallow end of the pond so that newts, frogs and toads can climb in and out. And ensure the edges are covered in lots of leaves and concealing undergrowth. Leave wood piles in the wilder areas of the garden to overwinter the adult frogs and with luck they will soon

A garden pond placed in the middle of an organic vegetable patch will quickly attract frogs, newts and toads

find the water and lay their spawn. Fill a new pond with rainwater if at all possible. If tap water is all that is available, let it stand for at least three days before filling the pond. Allow the sun to warm it to about 15-20 degrees centigrade.

Insects will arrive within hours of filling up a new pond. Even the heron will check it out for fish. Dragonflies will lay their eggs to be incubated out of sight and hatch into fierce predatory larvae, and your garden birds will stop by for a drink.

Summer pruning apple trees by Sally Gregson AFTER such a glorious, but exceptionally hot, summer so far, the apple trees are almost ready to be summer pruned. Trees that are highly manipulated – cordons, espaliers and those shaped into fans and pyramids – benefit especially from summer pruning. In an ordinary season this is usually left until mid-August, but this hot year in particular slightly early pruning will allow the wounds to heal properly and the tree to re-grow, albeit slowly, throughout the course of the remainder of the summer. Unlike traditional winter pruning, summer pruning does not initiate the growth of lots of thin, green shoots, it allows air to circulate through the tree and

Apple trees can be pruned slightly earlier than normal because of the hot summer

lets the sun ripen the young shoots. It’s an essential job that can be done so well on warm evenings, with the aid of a large straw hat and pairs of sharp loppers and secateurs. The tree has the remainder of the summer to heal the wounds naturally. And in a hot summer, such as this one, it reduces the

amount of green leafy growth vulnerable to the drying effect of high temperatures and wind. Start by cutting back any vigorous shoots that are growing into the centre of the crown. This will keep the air circulating in the centre of the tree and help to ripen the fruiting shoots for next year.

Avoid cutting back short shoots less than 20cm long. They may well be in the course of forming new fruiting spurs for next year. Remove the long, leafy new shoots that are growing from the existing side shoots to just one, or at most, two leaves above the existing side-shoot. This will encourage the formation of more fruiting spurs for next year. If no heavy rain is forecast, ensure that the whole tree is very well watered with several cans, and if you have any damp garden compost, put it around the base of the tree without touching the bark. It should give it a short-term reservoir during those sunny spells. And finally give the tree a long, liquid feed high in potash to encourage lots of fruit.

The Purbeck Gazette, July 20, 2026 27

Home & Garden

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MOST of us want a garden we can enjoy, somewhere to sit with a cup of tea on a summer morning, or a space that looks cared for without having to worry about maintenance every weekend. But not all of us have the time or gardening know how to spend on our outdoor space – so sometimes simplicity is the way forward. British Garden Centres has put together some simple ideas that anyone can try to give their garden impact with little work, whatever their experience or the size of their outdoor space. Start with containers CONTAINER gardening suits any size of garden, even if you have a small patio or a balcony. There’s no digging, no difficult soil and no weeding to worry about. You choose your plants, pop them in a pot and enjoy them. Lavender is a great place to start, with its fragrant, drought tolerant nature, and is irresistible to bees. Heuchera offers year-round interest with its striking foliage, trailing lobelia tumbles beautifully over the edge of pots all summer, and sedums are virtually impossible to kill in a sunny spot. For shady corners, hostas bring lush, architectural leaves to spaces where little else will grow. If you tend to forget to water, look out for containers with built-in self-watering reservoirs as they keep plants happy even when life gets in the way. Plant perennials PERENNIALS come back year after year without needing to be replaced, slowly filling borders

and genuinely getting better with age, so you can have a border or container with little maintenance. Rudbeckia brings cheerful golden-yellow flowers from late summer into autumn, while Echinacea produces bold, daisy-like blooms in pinks and purples that pollinators can’t resist. Geranium ‘Rozanne’ is a real workhorse as it flowers for months on end and spreads gently to cover bare ground. Salvia nemorosa and Crocosmia ‘Lucifer’ both deliver real drama with almost no effort, and once you have a good mix established, a perennial border largely looks after itself. Scatter wildflower seeds A WILDFLOWER patch is possibly the most effortless garden project there is. Scratch over a small patch of ground, scatter your seeds, lightly rake them in and simply wait. Look for mixes that include Ox-eye Daisy, Corn Poppy, Cornflower and Field Scabious as all of them self-seed readily, attract bees and butterflies in good numbers, and many will return entirely on their own the following year, making this a garden feature that gets easier over time, not harder. Add shrubs and ground cover plants SHRUBS are among the most underrated plants in a low maintenance garden, giving you year-round structure and seasonal interest with very little in return. Viburnum tinus flowers in winter, stays evergreen all year, and barely needs pruning. Hydrangea paniculata asks for just one cut in spring before producing spectacular blooms all summer. For bare ground between plants, spreading ground cover like Vinca minor, Alchemilla mollis and Geranium ‘Rozanne’ block out weeds naturally, letting plants do the work so you don’t have to..

Keep it simple to reduce the work

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LENCTENBURY FARM SOLDIER’S RD NORDEN (opposite Halfway ) BH20 5DU. Blueberries PYO Blackcurrants Gooseberries Wednesday and Sunday from 1 July 10.30am to 5pm

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The Purbeck Gazette, July 20, 2026

Home & Garden

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National Garden Scheme Dorset – gardens open for charity in August SPECIAL EVENTS FARRS, 3 Whitcombe Road, Beaminster DT8 3NB John and Jennie Makepeace, (www.johnmakepeacefurniture. com). Southern edge of Beaminster. On B3163. Car parking in the Square or Yarn Barton Car Park, or side streets of Beaminster. Thursday, August 20 (2-4.30pm). Admission £40, children free. Pre-booking essential, visit ngs.org.uk for information and booking. Cream teas in the house or garden, weather dependent. Donation to Victoria and Albert Foundation. Several distinctive walled gardens, rolling lawns, sculpture and giant topiary around one of Beaminster’s historic town houses. John’s inspirational grass garden and Jennie’s contrasting garden with an oak fruit cage a riot of colour. Glasshouse, straw bale studio, orchard. Remarkable trees, planked and seasoning in open-sided barn for future furniture commissions. A limited number of tickets for this afternoon opening, hosted by John and Jennie Makepeace. John will give a warm welcome at 2pm in the main rooms of the house, with a talk on his furniture design and recent commissions. Jennie will then give a guided walk around the gardens followed by a cream tea. Some gravel paths, alternative wheelchair route through orchard. NEW OPENINGS n MANOR FARM, Stour Provost, Gillingham SP8 5SA Maili Hemans, 07836 626053. Four miles south of Gillingham. Turn right off B3092 in Stour Provost – coming from Gillingham ––

Now is a time to sit back and enjoy the garden – the scents, sounds and shade that it brings. This month’s National Garden Scheme gardens have all three in abundance The Old Rectory at Pulham, Dorchester

into Church Lane. Manor Farm is the first driveway on right. What3words: upcoming. incensed.topmost. Saturday, August 1, Sunday, August 2 (1.30pm-5pm). Admission £7, children free. Home-made teas. Visits also by arrangement in August for groups of 10 to 20. The garden has been created on a site that surrounds the 15th century farmhouse. The planting consists of deep herbaceous borders, set against the old stone walls. Old existing fruit trees have been incorporated in the design. A natural swimming pond was added in 2024. Formal hedging and a huge amount of bulbs were added to the front area of the garden in 2021 and 2025. n 3 WILLOW HAMLET, 68-69 Whitehayes Road, Burton, Christchurch BH23 7PA Suzanne Langley, 07796 876898, selangley@mail.com. Seven miles from Bournemouth. Look for signs off Whitehayes Road. Sunday, August 30 (noon-

4pm). Admission £5, children free. Cream teas. Visits also by arrangement until July 25. A vibrant garden with rich seasonal colour, extensive range of plants to cascading hanging baskets. Paths weave through borders to a pergola framed in wisteria and climbers, while mature trees and woodland planting shelter wildlife. Thoughtful seating areas invite visitors to pause, admire the views, and enjoy the garden’s changing character. Paintings and sculptures throughout the garden. The garden opens onto a working art studio and gallery, and paintings will be for sale. EXISTING OPENINGS n THE HOLLOW, SWANAGE, 25 Newton Road, Swanage BH19 2EA Suzanne Nutbeem, 01929 423662, gdnsuzanne@gmail. com. Half a mile south of Swanage town centre. From town follow signs to Durlston Country Park. At top of hill turn right at red post box into Bon Accord Road. Fourth turn right into Newton Road.

Every Wednesday, July 1 to August 26 (2-5pm). Admission £5, children free. Visits also by arrangement July 3 to August 25. Wander in a dramatic sunken former stone quarry, a surprising garden at the top of a hill above Swanage. Stone terraces with many unusual shrubs and grasses form beautiful patterns of colour and foliage attracting butterflies and bees. Pieces of medieval London Bridge lurk in the walls. Steps have elegant handrails. WC available. Exceptionally wide range of plants including cacti and air plants. n MANOR FARM, HAMPRESTON, Wimborne BH21 7LX Guy and Anne Trehane. 2½ miles east of Wimborne, 2½ miles west of Ferndown. From Canford Bottom roundabout on A31, take exit B3073 Ham Lane. Half mile turn right at Hampreston Xrds. House at bottom of village. Sunday, August 2, Sunday, September 6 (1-5pm). Homemade teas. Admission £7, children free. Traditional farmhouse garden designed and cared for by three generations of the Trehane family for over 100 years. Garden is noted for its herbaceous borders and rose beds within box and yew hedges. Mature shrubbery, water and bog garden. Excellent plants as usual for sale at openings. The garden was set to be featured in June edition of The English Garden Magazine. n THE OLD RECTORY, PULHAM, Dorchester DT2 7EA N Elliott, 01258 817595, gilly.elliott@hotmail.com,

The Purbeck Gazette, July 20, 2026 29

Home & Gardenw

purbeckgazette.co.uk www.instagram.com/ theoldrectory_pulham). 13 miles north of Dorchester. Eight miles southeast of Sherborne. On B3143 turn east at crossroads in Pulham. Signed Cannings Court. Sunday, August 2, Thursday, August 6 (2-5pm). Admission £10, children free. Tea, coffee and cake. Visits also by arrangement May 15 to September 15 for groups of five to 50. Four acres of formal and informal gardens surrounding 18th century rectory with splendid views. Yew pyramid allées and hedges, circular herbaceous borders with late summer colour. Exuberantly planted terrace, purple and white beds. Box parterres, mature trees, pond, glorious churchyard, ha-ha, pleached hornbeam circle. Enchanting flower-filled bog garden with stream and islands. 10 acres of woodland walks. Mostly wheelchair accessible. n BROOMHILL, Rampisham, Dorchester DT2 0PT David and Carol Parry, 07775 806 875, carol.parry2@ btopenworld.com. 11 miles north west of Dorchester. From Dorchester A37 Yeovil, nine miles left Evershot. From Yeovil A37 Dorchester, seven miles right Evershot. Follow signs. From Crewkerne A356, 1½ miles after Rampisham Garage left Rampisham. Follow signs. Thursday, August 6 (2-5pm). Admission £5, children free. Home-made teas. Visits also by arrangement June 1 to August 7 for groups of 10-plus. A light lunch can be provided if required. A former farmyard transformed into a delightful, tranquil garden set in two acres. Clipped box, island beds and borders planted with shrubs, roses, grasses, masses of unusual perennials and choice annuals to give vibrancy and colour into the autumn. Lawns

and paths lead to a less formal area with large wildlife pond, meadow, shaded areas, bog garden. Orchard, vegetable and cutting garden. Gravel entrance, the rest is grass, some gentle slopes. n 22 AVON AVENUE, Avon Castle, Ringwood BH24 2BH Terry and Dawn Heaver, dawnandterry@yahoo.com. Past Ringwood from east A31 turn left after garage, left again into Matchams Ln, Avon Castle one mile on left. A31 from west turn right into Boundary Lane, then left into Matchams Lane, Avon Avenue half mile on right. Sunday, August 9 (12-5pm). Admission £5, children free. Tea, coffee and home-made cakes. Japanese-themed water garden featuring granite sculptures, ponds, waterfalls, cloud topiary and a collection of goldfish and water lilies. Children must be under parental supervision due to large, deep water pond. Regret no dogs. n CHARLES CHESSHIRE GARDEN & NURSERY, Sheepwash Barn, Symondsbury, Bridport DT6 6HH Charles Chesshire, www. charleschesshire.co.uk. One mile west of Bridport. From A35, head through Symondsbury past Shear Plot on right, down hill and the garden is on right, or from Bridport take Symondsbury Estate road to Mill Lane and the garden is on left. Sunday, August 9 (1-5pm). Admission £5, children free. Tea, coffee and cake. Set in heavenly Dorset countryside, the half acre garden is composed of an intricate web of gravel paths weaving between deep and colourful borders to create an intimate experience for the extensive collection of new and unusual plants. At the heart of

Staddlestones at Witchampton, Wimborne

the garden is a Japanese-styled koshi-kake ‘waiting room’, surrounded by the cool greens of dwarf pines, grasses and ferns. n 1C RECTORY ROAD, Poole BH15 3BH Dave Hutchings. Five minutes from Poole town centre. The bungalow is behind the main houses on the road down a pedestrian access drive. Saturday, August 15, Sunday, August 16 (11-4pm). Admission £5, children free. Tea, coffee and cake. An unusual character house and garden. With a passion for maximalist design the house and garden has been designed and built by the owner over the last seven years. Both garden and house are full of objet d’art spanning centuries, there’s curiosities to see in every corner. n ANNALAL’S GALLERY, 25 Millhams Street, Christchurch BH23 1DN Anna and Lal Sims, www. annasims.co.uk. Town centre. Park in Saxon Square PCP – exit to Millhams Street via alley at side of church. Sunday, August 23, Sunday, September 13, Sunday, December 6 (2-4pm). Admission £3.50, children free. Enchanting 180-year-old cottage, home of two Royal Academy artists. 32ft x 12½ft garden on three patio levels. Pencil gate leads to colourful

scented Victorian walled garden. Sculptures and paintings hide among the flowers and shrubs. Unusual studio and garden room. Mural of a life-size greyhound makes the cottage easy to find and adds a smile to people’s faces. n STADDLESTONES, 14 Witchampton Mill, Witchampton, Wimborne BH21 5DE Annette and Richard Lockwood, 01258 841405, richardglockwood@yahoo.co. uk. Five miles north of Wimborne off B3078. Follow signs through village and park in sports field, seven minutes’ walk to garden. Limited disabled parking near garden. Sunday, August 30, Monday, August 31 (2-5pm). Admission £6, children free. Home-made teas. Visits also by arrangement May 1 to September 14. A beautiful setting for a cottage garden with colourthemed borders, pleached limes and hidden gems, leading over a chalk stream to a shady area which has some unusual plants. Plenty of areas just to sit and enjoy the wildlife. Wire bird sculptures by local artist. Wheelchair access to first half of garden. n Entries may be subject to change – for latest information please check www.ngs.org.uk Tickets for most gardens can be purchased on the day or in advance at www.ngs.org.uk

The Purbeck Gazette, July 20, 2026

Field & Stream

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It was common for 30 or 40 ladybirds to land on you, in the garden or at the beach, says AJ Selby

Fond memories of the scorching summer of ’76 by AJ Selby “The lack of rain and withered pastures severely impacted food production, leading to a shortage of potatoes and poor grass growth for livestock.”– NFU 1976 Review

FOR those of us of a certain age, probably mid to late 50s and older, four words evoke a glorious youth and a never forgotten time: “The Summer of ‘76.” Of course, I realise that for older people at the time, the heat was very challenging, but I want to look at it from a personal perspective as someone working on the farm in their late teens living a completely carefree life for a few glorious months that none of us who experienced it will ever forget. The seeds for the drought of 1976 were sown the previous year when we had a hot summer lacking rain. The 1975/76 winter was fairly dry too, so

groundwater and reservoir levels were already low. A glorious May followed with underdogs Southampton winning the FA Cup in bright sunshine – Coleman ‘one nil’ – and this was followed by an astonishing Formula One season with playboy James Hunt not only winning the British Grand Prix at a baking hot Brands Hatch but the World Championship, too. The summer of cricket on pitches as dry as dust saw England humiliated by the West Indies, culminating in Viv Richards scoring 291 not out at the Oval and bowler Michael Holding at his fastest putting England to the sword. All this was to come as I started work on the local dairy farm after leaving school in early June. Grass was already in short supply and so to eke out the grazing the farm bought in brewers grains – moist, waste barley from beer making –

which were tipped in the yard from a 20-ton lorry, and from this pile my morning task after milking was to shovel the grains onto a low trailer, drive out into the field, set the tractor into first gear on low revs and – health and safety look away now – jump off the moving tractor, hop on to the back of the trailer and shovel the grains back onto the ground as the tractor crept forward across the field and the cows lined up to feed. As the summer progressed, I had a break from the cows to go and help with the harvest and this involved a team of young lads throwing bales, which were in blocks of eight in the field, onto a trailer with the man on top neatly stacking the bales for transport back to the farmstead. As the layers became higher, so we grabbed a pitchfork and hoisted the bales until the load was complete. My school chum Clive cycled seven miles each way daily to work with us, and we are still friends now. Once the loads were full, we would jump on top of the bales on the trailer and lie down while the tractor driver drove back to the yard. We learnt how to tie trailer ropes, how to work as a team and how to make the load safe, and we ran around in boots and shorts and not a lot else.

Back in the yard we filled the barns with the straw bales, initially throwing then off the trailer but as the stack grew higher in the Dutch barns we used a petrol-generated elevator. This meant dropping them one at a time onto the elevator where it went up into the higher part of the barn. Stackers in the barn by this stage were sweating buckets due to the heat and humidity, and the lack of air flow at the top of the barn. We didn’t care – we were young, working outdoors in glorious weather, having a laugh and, although we didn’t realise at the time, making memories. Once harvest was over, then came the stubble burning, which I have written about before. Back in the real world, the crisis in domestic water supplies saw many areas install standpipes in the street to help locals get fresh water. People would queue up with buckets at the standpipe awaiting their turn – I just can’t see that happening today. In late August I can remember being told to grab a sack and walk up one of the hedge lines which was full of plum trees – these were loaded with as many plums as I’ve ever seen. One of the things that everyone remembers about that summer was the ladybirds. Estimates vary that there were between 40 and 60 billion of these around in July and you would often have 30 or 40 just land on you in the garden or at the beach, and they used to give you a little nip, just enough to make you want to brush them off. In August, Dennis Howell was appointed Minister for Drought, and lo and behold a few days later, as the month turned to September, it started to rain. I sometimes find it hard to believe that this was half a century ago but whenever I hear certain songs, I am transported back to that glorious time when life was carefree and fun, and for me, it would never be quite the same again.

DO YOU HAVE A STORY? Then email ed@purbeckgazette.co.uk

The Purbeck Gazette, July 20, 2026 31

Motoring

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AA chief hits out over potholes, smart motorways and roadworks

MOTORISTS are paying billions into the Treasury while too many roads remain dangerous, badly repaired and roadworks poorly coordinated, says AA president Edmund King. He says the country risks treating roads as a ‘peripheral issue’ when they are fundamental to everyday life and the economy. He was speaking on The Logbook, the YouTube channel sponsored by AA Cars. Mr King said: “Our country without roads is nothing. 90% of freight goes by road and 86% of passenger journeys are by road. If we didn’t have the roads, the country would be at a standstill. There would be no goods in our shops, no exports and people wouldn’t get to work. This isn’t a peripheral issue – this is the number one issue.” On potholes, King said drivers were paying the price for a failed ‘patch and run’ approach, where holes are filled badly and return within weeks. “It is the number one transport issue for 96% of drivers. At The AA we see it first-hand. Last year our patrols were called out to 617,000 pothole-related incidents – punctures, damaged wheels, steering and suspension damage. For drivers, it is the worst feeling – dark nights, wet roads, puddles – you can’t see the pothole and then you hear the bang.” Mr King called for councils and central government to move away from reactive repairs and towards proper road maintenance, resurfacing and better use of technology.

“You can’t just keep filling in holes if the road has gone. You need to resurface that section of road. In the long term that is more cost-effective because you are called out less often, there are fewer compensation claims and the repair lasts longer. It is not rocket science to fix the roads, and yet we are doing a bad job of it.” The discussion also addressed smart motorways, which King described as a ‘massive scandal’ after emergency refuge areas were moved much further apart than in the original design without consultation. King said: “This is the massive scandal of ‘smart’ motorways. The original concept had refuge areas much closer together. Then the goalposts were moved. If you break down between those refuge areas, you are a sitting duck. “You are at the mercy of technology spotting your vehicle, at the mercy of a red X appearing, and at the mercy of another driver obeying it. Crashes happen – and they have happened.” King said The AA had campaigned with families affected by ‘smart’ motorway deaths and had pushed government to stop new schemes and add more emergency refuge areas, but warned the underlying concept remained flawed. “For me, the concept is still wrong. If you are relying on technology, that technology has got to be precise and effective. It is not. Why are we putting drivers in that situation?

AA president Edmund King (right) with interviewer Rob Cubitt, managing director of Cubitt Cars

Because they have cut corners on costs.” On roadworks, King said too many schemes showed a lack of coordination between councils and utility companies, with newly resurfaced roads sometimes dug up again weeks later. “It is that lack of coordination that is so frustrating. A road gets resurfaced and then the gas or water companies come along and dig it up again. Local authorities have powers they

can use, including lane rental systems, but too often they are not used effectively.” King said Britain needs stronger strategic leadership on transport and cars and a clear ‘champion of the roads’. “When I wake up in the morning, I think – what can I do to improve the life of drivers? We don’t seem to have that person working out how to make our roads better today and every day. That is what is needed – a champion of the roads.”

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The Purbeck Gazette, July 20, 2026

Business Business

100 years of championing local business

by Polly Sampson-Hunt, Swanage Chamber of Trade THIS year marks a remarkable milestone for Swanage Chamber of Trade as it celebrates its 100th anniversary, highlighting a century of championing local businesses and helping the town thrive. The Chamber continues to go from strength to strength, with membership growing significantly over the past year to more than 60 businesses. Representing a diverse range of enterprises across the town, the organisation provides a valuable platform for businesses to network, collaborate, support one another and work collectively towards creating a busier and more prosperous Swanage for everyone. Partnership working remains at the heart of the Chamber’s success. The organisation

regularly works alongside key community partners, including festival organisers, Swanage Railway, The Mowlem, the Tourist Information Centre and Rotary, helping to promote events and initiatives that attract visitors and benefit the local economy. One of the Chamber’s most visible contributions is its support for Swanage’s Christmas lights. The Chamber not only contributes financially towards the annual display but also actively fundraises to expand the lights into more areas of the town. To support this effort, the Chamber has reintroduced the popular SOS (Switch On Swanage) and Signs for Swanage charity collection jars, which are now being distributed throughout local businesses to help raise additional funds.

purbeckgazette.co.uk The Chamber also plays an important role in shaping the future of tourism and the town centre. Holding a seat on the Tourism Council gives members a direct voice, enabling local businesses to raise concerns, share ideas and contribute to decision-making processes that affect the town. For the past two years, the Chamber has been campaigning for improved signage throughout Swanage and has been working closely with the council to help bring these enhancements to fruition. Better signage will improve the visitor experience and make it easier for people to discover all that the town has to offer. Innovation and promotion are also key priorities. The Chamber recently designed its own visitor map, showcasing member businesses and helping visitors navigate the town. Thousands of copies have been distributed to residents and tourists, helping to increase awareness of local shops, services and attractions. In addition, the Chamber actively promotes its members through social media, regularly showcasing businesses and helping to raise their profiles

among residents and visitors. It has also introduced innovative ‘Sleep, Eat, Stay’ QR code stickers, which are displayed around the town and on various websites. These direct users straight to the Chamber’s website, where they can access the Chamber map and discover detailed information about member businesses. Despite its extensive work and growing influence, Chamber membership remains highly affordable at just £38 a year, offering exceptional value for businesses looking to increase their visibility, strengthen local connections and contribute to the future success of Swanage. As the Swanage Chamber of Trade celebrates its centenary year, it remains firmly focused on the future – continuing its mission to support local businesses, strengthen community partnerships and help ensure that Swanage remains a vibrant destination for residents, visitors and businesses alike. If you are interested in finding out more or joining the Swanage Chamber, visit the website at www. swanagechamber.co.uk

Funeral director helps good causes

THREE community projects in the Bournemouth, Poole and East Dorset area have received a financial boost thanks to the first round of Nicholas O’Hara Funeral Directors’ 2026 Community Fund. The recipients are: n Loneliness Together – the award of £450 will go towards training volunteers to lead its Chitter Chatter Clubs and create more meeting places. n Hope Housing – it received £500, which will fund 20 starter packs to support previously homeless people in settling into their new accommodation. n Dingley’s Promise – £2,467 will enable it to complete its sensory garden, where the most vulnerable children in the community can go and play. Business principals Anthony

Samuel Bertie and Tracy Harley of Dingley’s Promise, with Natalie O’Hara and Anthony O’Hara

O’Hara and Natalie O’Hara, and funeral director Jon Austin of Nicholas O’Hara Funeral Directors, presented the cheques. Anthony O’Hara said: “We are delighted to be able to offer

support to these caring projects in the local area. All these organisations are helping to make a real difference to people’s lives, providing much-needed support to local people.

“Our Community Assistance Programme highlights the positivity that’s happening right on our doorstep, and we are looking forward to seeing these projects continue and grow.” The team at the Nicholas O’Hara funeral directors launched its grants programme in February with the aim of the providing financial support for community-based projects that benefit people who live within three miles of any of its seven funeral homes in Wimborne, Verwood, West Moors, Westbourne, Poole, Ferndown and Tuckton. To qualify, projects had to be non-profit and align with one or more of the fund’s categories – Health, Education, Employment Opportunities and Poverty or Social Deprivation.

The Purbeck Gazette, July 20, 2026 33

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Portland Port recognised for supporting military community

PORTLAND Port has been recognised by the Ministry of Defence for going above and beyond in its support of the armed forces community. It has been honoured with a Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Silver Award for its ongoing commitment to the military family – which includes personnel and their families, reservists, cadets, service leavers and veterans. The achievement comes after the port signed the MoD’s Armed Forces Covenant in October 2023. Portland Port, which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, has a strong relationship with the Royal Navy and Royal Fleet Auxiliary. Portland Port chief executive Bill Reeves said: “The port has proud links with the military

Emma lands key role at Lighthouse

Portland Port’s chief executive, Bill Reeves (left) signs the Armed Forces Covenant, attended by Brigadier Graeme Fraser, the then Naval Regional Commander for Wales and West of England, on board RFA Stirling Castle at the port in October 2023.

which continue to the present day. “It is an honour to receive the Silver Award in recognition of our engagement with the military community, which makes so many sacrifices and

gives such incredible service to our country. We look forward to continuing to contribute to its wellbeing and success.” Portland’s links with the Royal Navy date back to 1845 and, as a naval base, the port

Business served an essential role in both world wars and during peacetime. Royal Navy and RFA vessels remain familiar visitors. The port also supports Portland Sea Cadets and counts former service personnel among its employees. The Silver Award honours employers that actively demonstrate their pledges made through the Armed Forces Covenant. Mr Reeves signed the Armed Forces Covenant, attended by Brigadier Graeme Fraser, the then Naval Regional Commander for Wales and West of England, on board RFA Stirling Castle at the port in October 2023. Following the announcement of the ERS Silver Award recipients, a presentation ceremony will be held with the Lord Lieutenant of Dorset on Monday, October 5. Portland Port opened in 1996 on the site of the area’s former Royal Naval Base.

Earlier in her career, she held the post of commercial and events manager at TrustScore 4.4 Lighthouse. In her new role, Emma will lead on fundraising strategy LIGHTHOUSE Poole has and the development of key appointed Emma Bovey to its business partnerships to Safe. Secure. Simple. Safe. S senior management team as support Lighthouse’s artistic head of development and and community engagement partnerships. programmes, as well as capital Emma brings extensive projects that will help secure experience of the arts, the organisation’s long-term cultural development sustainability. and fundraising, most “I am proud to be recently as head of returning to development at Lighthouse,” said Southampton Emma. “Having Forward, where she worked here earlier raised significant in my career, it feels investment to support wonderful to be coming Emma community-led back in this new role. Bovey programmes and “Lighthouse is an culture-led regeneration extraordinary across Southampton. organisation with a vital role Prior to this, Emma built a at the heart of our community, Blandford Dorchester Shaftesbury ndford successful career in and I am excited to work with Blandford 01258 453898 Swanage 01929 500249 01258 447005 01305 231267 01747 440426 0 8 447005 fundraising, events and colleagues, supporters and partnership development partners to help secure the Sherborne Warminster Wincanton rborne 01305 783795 783795 Dorchester Wareham 01305 across the commercial sector investment needed to sustain 01935 316221 01925 984459 01963 34065 5 316221 0 and with a leading disability and grow its impact for years www.armishaws.com charity. to come.” www.a

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The Purbeck Gazette, July 20, 2026

Arts & Entertainment

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Big names at Harbour Festival

I PREDICT a Riot hitmakers Kaiser Chiefs will be headlining the upcoming tenth Poole Harbour Festival. The event this year promises bigger stages and next-level production on all three main stages, top headline acts, a re-energised DJ line-up, 15 leading UK tributes and the best local talent, as well as a full weekend of free children’s entertainment. Festival organiser Serena Wren said: “Kaiser Chiefs were always first choice for our 10th anniversary, so there’s even more excitement than usual this year. “Add to that live sets from M People’s Heather Small, East 17 and Scouting For Girls, with the likes of Groove Armada, Leeroy from The Prodigy, and Artful Dodger on the decks, and we’ve got a record-breaking bill to take us into our second decade.” Up to 15,000 music fans

The Kaiser Chiefs PHOTO: Cal McIntyre and Groove Armada (right)

and families are expected to attend the three-day festival at Baiter Park from Friday to Sunday, July 31-August 2. The event will also feature Republica, The Fratellis and Dodgy, and rave stalwarts Judge Jules, Lisa Lashes, Seb Fontaine, Leeroy Thornhill, Dave Pearce and Phats and Small singer Ben Ofoedu.

There will also be tribute acts to Queen, Coldplay, Bon Jovi, Bob Marley, REM, Fleetwood Mac, Oasis, Adele, Arctic Monkeys and Pink. The cream of local bands in the Smugglers Inn include Britain’s Got Talent trailblazers SOS who, despite winning hordes of fans on prime-time television, will be returning for

their ninth appearance at Poole Harbour Festival. Daily children’s activities include pirate shows, entertainers, circus skills workshops, bubble shows and walkabout performances. The fun continues in the arts and crafts tent and with storytelling sessions. Poole Harbour Festival opens at 5pm on Friday, and noon on Saturday and Sunday, closing at 11pm on Friday and Saturday and 8pm on Sunday. The festival has won Gold in the Event of the Year at the DMB Tourism Awards and Silver in the Tourism Event/ Festival of the Year at Dorset Tourism Awards.

Weaver marks 40 years at the mill

NEW work by silk weaver Debby Kirby to mark 40 years of weaving at Walford Mill Crafts in Wimborne is going on show. Threaded Together, ‘a celebration of colour, texture and form’, will also feature new work by ceramicist David Pointer. Debby invented and perfected a method of hand-weaving paper, aluminium, photographs and paintings through her hand-dyed silk, which has led to collaborations with artists, designers and photographers. The exhibition features solo and collaborative work alongside painter/printmaker

Manda Beeching, fine artist Claire Thomas, jeweller Sarah Ricketts, aluminium artist Caroline Parrott and photographer Jez Randall. The exhibition opens on Wednesday, July 29, with an opening celebration party on Saturday, August 1, from noon-6pm. Debby, who will be on hand every day of the exhibition, which runs throughout August, is leaving the mill at the end of the year. Walford Mill Crafts is open Wednesday to Saturday, 10am-5pm, and Sunday 11am-4pm, but is closed to the public Monday and Tuesday.

Debby Kirby is staging an exhibition at Walford Mill Crafts

New Toy Story outing

THE latest incarnation of the Toy Story franchise is set to be screened at The Mowlem in Swanage. Buzz, Woody, Jessie and the rest of the gang’s jobs get harder when they go head-to-head with a new threat to playtime. Toy Story (5) is being shown on Saturday, July 25, and from Monday to Thursday, July 27-30, all at 2.30pm, with a parent and toddler screening on Friday, July 24, at 10am.

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The Purbeck Gazette, July 20, 2026 35

Arts & Entertainment

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The BSO Pops is at Meyrick Park in Bournemouth

Orchestra lets its hair down for music at castle

ENSEMBLES from Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra are to perform at Corfe Castle for the first time this July, with three evenings of live music as part of Love It Local Events’ Summer Nights season. The concerts will take audiences on a series of musical journeys, from the greatest music of the stage and screen, to an 80s spectacular and a symphonic adventure through the natural world. Dougie Scarfe OBE, the BSO’s chief executive, said: “There’s nothing like an open-air concert – it’s such a lovely way to make memories with friends and family, and bringing this live music to Corfe Castle will be unique. “Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra exists to bring music into people’s lives, spanning world-class concert hall performances to communitybased music-making to support health, wellbeing and learning throughout the south west. “We’re thrilled to bring these very special ‘BSO on Your Doorstep’ ensemble

performances to Corfe Castle this summer – including a celebration of the uplifting music of the 1980s.” West End to Hollywood opens the series with classics from Chocolat, James Bond, Moulin Rouge, Toy Story, Harry Potter and The Artist on Friday, July 24. Smash Hits ‘80s, a highenergy celebration of the era of New Romantics, big hair and even bigger shoulder pads, is on Saturday, July 25. Conductor Pete Harrison leads singers Emma Kershaw, Katie Birtill, Oliver Tompsett and Patrick Smyth alongside BSO string players through a programme spanning George Michael, Bonnie Tyler, Elton John, Ultravox, Toto, the Eurythmics and medleys from Blondie, David Bowie, Madonna and the Pet Shop Boys, all set against a light show on the castle walls. The weekend concludes on Sunday, July 26, with Curious Creatures & Adventurous Animals, a symphonic adventure through verdant forests and across the open ocean.

PHOTO Corin Messer

The programme features music by Mancini, Elgar, Williams, de Falla, Björk and Vaughan Williams, as well as a sing-along favourite from the blockbuster Moana. All three concerts take place in the Outer Bailey of Corfe Castle, with step-free access. Tickets are priced from £30 and are available via the Corfe

Castle website nationaltrust. org.uk/corfecastle or loveitlocalevents.co.uk. Eoin McDowell, experience and programming manager at Corfe Castle, said: “The castle is so atmospheric at night and will come alive with the echo of the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra.” He added: “Along with our outdoor cinema and theatre evenings, it’s the best summer evening programme we’ve had to date.” Malcolm Lewis-Fry, Director of Love It Local, said: “We couldn’t think of a more atmospheric and unique combination than bringing Corfe Castle and the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra together – so we made it happen!” Swanage Railway will be running additional evening services from Swanage and Norden on BSO concert nights to help audiences travel to and from the castle.

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Arts & Entertainment

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Horror story 20-plus years in the making A LECTURER is finally bringing a horror story over 20 years in the making to the screen this summer. Richard Batt, founder and artistic director of Revive Theatre and a Performing Arts lecturer at Bournemouth and Poole College, is beginning filming Gran Dead in Bournemouth this month. Part dark comedy, part psychological horror, Gran Dead follows an elderly care home resident whose experimental treatment appears to reverse dementia. At first, it seems miraculous. It isn’t. The short film serves as a proof of concept for a featurelength screenplay that has been in development for almost two decades. “I’ve been waiting to make this for years,” said Richard Batt. “I wrote the original version of Gran Dead nearly 20 years ago, but at the time I didn’t have the experience to make it the way it needed to be made. “Since then, I’ve spent years directing theatre, making films, teaching, making mistakes and learning from them. Looking back, I’m glad I

Lecturer Richard Batt is filming the part dark comedy, part psychological horror Gran Dead

didn’t make it then because I wouldn’t have been able to do it justice. “This feels like the right time. I finally feel I have the skills, the team and the experience to do the story justice and give it a genuine shot at becoming the feature film I’ve always wanted it to be.” The production brings together experienced industry professionals and emerging local talent, creating

Walk in Wessex’s footsteps

THE National Trust is offering a free walking event from Max Gate, home of celebrated author Thomas Hardy, in Dorchester. ‘Walking in the Paw Prints of Wessex’ was a favourite walk Hardy did with his faithful companion, Wessex the dog. The walk is on Tuesday, July 28, from 1.30pm-3.30pm – to book, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/hardys-housemax-gate

Quo tribute rocking out

STATUS Quo tribute band Break the Rules will be the opening act of the Summer of Music 2026 at The Mowlem in Swanage. The band, founded in 2022, are all fans from a young age of the 1970s four-piece and capture their energy and power. Break the Rules play on Friday, July 24, at 7.30pm.

opportunities for aspiring Dorset filmmakers and performers to work alongside people with decades of experience in film, theatre and television.

The cast includes Emma Blake, who played the title role in the BBC’s 1974 adaptation of Heidi, alongside David Burton, whose career has spanned stage and screen, including appearances in Only Fools and Horses and The Thursday Murder Club. While Gran Dead delivers its fair share of scares, the story also explores ageing, memory and identity through a darkly comic lens. “We all know horror works best when there’s something real underneath it,” said Batt. “Monsters are fun, but the things that genuinely frighten us are usually much closer to home.” As well as directing the film, Batt hopes the project demonstrates the value of making creative opportunities happen locally. “As a teacher, I’m always telling students not to wait for permission,” he said. “Go and make something. Create opportunities. Learn by doing. I believe it’s important to practise what you preach.” The completed short film is expected later this year.

Spotlight Diary Diary entries are £6 plus VAT per entry. The deadline for the August 3 issue is NOON on Thursday, July 23. Call us on 01963 400186 or email adverts@blackmorevale.net.

Please call prior to attending events listed to ensure they are still on.

JULY 2026 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

GOT A STORY? Then email ed@purbeckgazette.co.uk

The Purbeck Gazette, July 20, 2026 37

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The Purbeck Gazette, July 20, 2026

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The Nature Nook

The Nature Nook is designed to inspire curiosity, confidence, and creativity through nature-based learning. From tools and bushcraft, to imaginative play and team challenges, every session supports hands-on learning in a safe, supportive space where every child can thrive, learn at their own pace, and enjoy the freedom of discovery. Sessions at The Nature Nook include: Little Seedlings For under 5s, nature crafts, planting, story time, & more at our stay & play! Home Ed Sessions Learn a range of nature-based skills for ages 6 to 18. SEN Holiday Club Tuesdays in school holidays for those with additional needs and siblings. Holiday Club Mon & Thurs in school holidays for those aged 8 to 14. Birthday Parties The Nature Nook is also available for hire for birthday parties!

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