The West Dorset Magazine, edition 5, April 8, 2022 by westdorsetmag

Edition 5

Friday, April 8, 2022

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The West Dorset Magazine

CROWNING GLORY: Princely play park nearly ready P22-23 Cartoon by LYNDON WALL

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The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Miranda Robertson Karen Bate Editor News Editor 07460 205033

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miranda@westdorsetmag.co.uk

karen@westdorsetmag.co.uk

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News, letters to the editor and general feedback: newsdesk@westdorsetmag.co.uk Display advertising: advertising@westdorsetmag.co.uk Classified advertising (text ads): classifieds@westdorsetmag.co.uk Sport: sport@westdorsetmag.co.uk Post: 15 Stanstead Rd, Maiden Newton, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 0BL

Nick Horton Chief Sub

Stuart Wickham Sports editor

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Contents: News & features Whasson? (events) Down to earth Births, marriages & deaths Letters Items for sale Constituency issues Politics Church Advertising rates Vittles (food & drink)

Alana Robertson Classifieds

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Gardening 3-27 6-8 28-33 34 35 35 36 36-37 38-39 40-41 42-45

Culture

47-48

Business

49-51

Just the job

52-53

Sport

54-57

Motoring

Trades & Services

Equestrian Puzzles

60-61 62-63 & 68

Health

64-65

Agriculture

66-69

Property

70-71

Got a story? Email newsdesk@westdorsetmag.co.uk

Demonstrators bang the drum to stop homes plan More than 100 protesters gathered at Maumbury Rings to stage a protest by STAND (Save The Area North of Dorchester) against plans for 4,000 new houses. Organiser Jane Ashdown and Town Crier Alistair Chisholm addressed the crowd, before they marched through the town with cardboard cutouts of a developer in pinstriped suit and a planner in tweed, having a skimmity ride (a historic practice detailed in The Mayor of Casterbridge where supposed wrongdoers were paraded through the streets). Protesters beat drums and spoons on saucepans, and there were tambourines and barking dogs adding to the din. n The West Dorset Magazine is printed in West Dorset on paper from sustainable sources

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

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This magnificent couple are proud parents-to-be after laying the first egg at Abbotsbury Swannery this year. We wish you both the very best of luck!

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Lease agreed for council’s South Walks House Dorset County Hospital has agreed a 20-year lease for use of South Walks House building in Dorchester. The hospital will use the building for clinical and office purposes, providing a central and easily accessible location and enabling the hospital to maximise the use of clinical space on its main site. This is part of efforts to make access to NHS services more convenient for local people. The lease covers full use of the building, excluding the library and learning centre, which will continue to operate as normal and provide the main Dorset Council customer service point in Dorchester. The building has been used for six months by the hospital and

other NHS partners as an outpatient assessment centre, with rapid access clinics operating out of the ground floor as part of a county-wide effort to tackle waiting lists. Cllr Tony Ferrari, portfolio holder for economic growth, property and assets, said: “I’m delighted we’ve agreed a fantastic use for this important building in the centre of

Dorchester. This lease will ensure great use of the building over the coming years, provide easily accessible health services for residents, will give a boost to the town centre’s economy when more staff are working from the site, and provide nonseasonal high value employment in Dorset for decades into the future.”

Nick Johnson, interim chief executive at the hospital, said: “South Walks House has been a terrific addition to the trust’s facilities over the last six months, so we’re really pleased to have agreed a longer-term lease, which will allow us to use more of the building. It will support plans to tackle waiting lists for elective surgeries and allow us to maximise use of clinical space at the hospital as well as offer opportunities to provide integrated care services with our partners. “We hope using South Walks House to treat patients and as office space for staff will also help increase footfall on the high street and support local businesses.”

Fears ‘Norchester’ could poison Frome By Karen Bate newsdesk@westdorsetmag.co.uk

The campaign group STAND who are opposed to plans for 4,000 new houses north of Dorchester, say they are worried ‘toxic pollutants’ will enter the River Frome if the scheme goes ahead. Director of STAND, Nigel Kay said: “Issues about water supply and recycling are among the many serious concerns we have about the Dor 13 proposal. In particular we are worried about run-off from planned new roads and the likelihood that toxic pollutants will find their way into the River Frome, which wends its way between Dorchester and the development site. “The Frome is one of the most important chalk streams in the world and has been designated a site of special scientific interest. We fear pollution threatens the rich diversity of wildlife living in

and alongside the river.” West Dorset MP Chris Loder, who has dubbed the development ‘Norchester’ is also against the proposed ‘north of Dorchester mass development’. Speaking in the Commons, Mr Loder said: “These developments quash economic potential of building modest numbers of new houses in our villages because this is what will ensure the future of our local schools, our local shops, our pubs, our garages and indeed our parish churches.” Mr Loder is inviting anyone against the proposal to sign his Stop ‘Norchester’ Petition on his website chrisloder.co.uk/norchester A spokesperson from Wessex Water said: “We are currently reviewing a draft report that assesses the risks posed by this potential development, which is located close to a drinking water source.”

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022 By Dan Goater newsdesk@westdorsetmag.co.uk

Supporters have been left feeling ‘undervalued’ and unhappy after Dorset Wildlife Trust decided to close all local working groups without telling them. Trust members in Sherborne, many of whom had been fundraising and raising awareness for the trust for decades, reacted with shock and disbelief after learning about the plan from other group members. The move will affect every local working group for the trust, including Sherborne and Bridport. Lynne Doodney, who has been treasurer for the Sherborne group for the last four years, said: “During the pandemic we had to switch from doing live monthly talks and films to doing them via online streaming. These streams were very popular and reached a lot of people. Dorset Wildlife Trust has decided that rather than assisting groups that are not doing so well, they’ve basically said instead that all local groups are to close. “At Sherborne we are disappointed to say the least, as we’ve been running our group successfully for 25 years. The trust is no longer interested in local groups, so they are being disbanded in April, whether they like it or not. “Basically, everybody’s unhappy and communication has been virtually nil. “Our chairman John Gay, who has been in that position for 25 years, has been to meetings at Dorset Wildlife Trust’s HQ where the closures have been confirmed, but general members of the trust have not been informed that local groups will close.

Upset after groups are shut without warning “Speaking personally, I feel totally undervalued by the hierarchy of Dorset Wildlife Trust and communication has been very poor.” Dorset Wildlife Trust’s head of fundraising and marketing, Laura McLellan, said: “Dorset Wildlife Trust made the difficult decision to end the current structure of local groups and transition to a new programme of activities that align with the new strategy ‘A Wilder Dorset by 2030’. “Our aim is to inspire and empower people – by 2030 we want to help one in four people to take action for nature. “Dorset Wildlife Trust went through a consultation process, which started in October 2019, with the local group chairmen discussing how improvements could be made to boost attendance and engage more people. The overall picture is that attendance of local group events was waning and people weren’t stepping forward to take on committee member roles. “This, combined with extremely difficult external

factors such as a global pandemic meant that there was a strong need to find new ways to engage members in the work of Dorset Wildlife Trust. The new programme will provide a range of opportunities for members to

learn about, enjoy and help to look after Dorset’s wildlife. “We hope many local group members will continue to be a part of our community and help to deliver the new programme.” The last live event being held by the Sherborne branch of the Dorset Wildlife Trust will be an illustrated talk entitled “The Wildlife and Habitats of Ryewater Nursery – 100 acres and 40 years’ work” by Wren Franklin on Wednesday, April 18 in the Digby Memorial Hall, Digby Road, Sherborne. Entry and refreshments will be free as a thank you to the group’s supporters over the past 25 years. The talk starts at 7.30pm with the hall open from 6.45pm for refreshments. All are welcome, no booking. For more details visit Dorset Wildlife Trust’s events page or email lynnedoodney@hotmail.com

1951 – 2021 - 7oth Anniversary Reflecting on our past – Planning for your future

AN INVITATION FROM THE FRIENDS OF THE YEATMAN HOSPITAL The Yeatman Hospital is at the centre of Sherborne, and the town’s own charity, “the Friends of the Yeatman,” is its lifeblood. Now more than ever, the Friends need more than your money – its needs what money can’t buy – YOUR TIME!!! If you have ever thought about supporting the Friends – think about becoming a Trustee. You will find all of the information you need to become a Trustee on our website – friendsoftheyeatman.org.uk The Friends of The Yeatman Hospital – Registered Charity Number 1031326

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Whasson? (and where’s it to?) Bridport Millennium Green is the venue for a garden/plant sale on Saturday, April 23 from 9.30am-1pm. If you have any plants to donate please bring them along, or collection can be arranged. If your organisation/charity would like to have a table for £5, call 01308 423078. Profits for the upkeep and improvements to the green and flower beds which surround Mountfield, and the ten-acre woodland on Coneygar Hill, which is all managed by a trust for the enjoyment of the public. n The Friends of Burton Bradstock School will be hosting a duck race on Saturday, April 9 from 2pm along with an afternoon of fun and games, stalls and refreshments. The Great Burton Bradstock Duck Race will start at the playing fields, with ducks away at 3pm. Tickets are available from The Post Office, The Three Horseshoes and Burton Garage. The ducks have been donated by The Rotary Club. n The Friends of the Yeatman are holding a car boot sale at The Terrace on Sunday, May 1 9am-noon. Sellers from 8am at £5 per car. Buyers from 9am at £1. n DorsetFest – a familyfriendly music festival in the heart of Dorset – will be held from June 17-18. The two-day event offers a fantastic range of music, entertainment and food stalls. DorsetFest is run and organised by volunteers with all money raised going to local charities. Camping available. Tickets are on sale now at

of writing and the challenges of getting published. n Salway Ash Village cream teas will be held at Strongate Farm, Salway Ash, DT6 5JD, on Sunday, May 15 2pm-5pm. Freshly baked scones and home made cakes, plant stall & raffle. Proceeds to Holy Trinity Church Salway Ash

Specialist charity plant fair Mapperton House is holding a Spring Charity Plant Fair on Sunday, April 10 with a variety of stalls run by gardening experts selling a wide range of plants from organic bulbs and vegetable plants, summer tender perennials, ferns and

herbaceous perennials. The £5 entry fee includes entry to Mapperton’s award-winning Gardens and will support the local Prout Bridge youth project and the Disasters Emergency Committee Afghanistan Crisis Appeal.

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dorchtrinityclub@gmail.com 01305 262671 dorsetfest.org n Local author Caroline Repton will talk about her new book Lotus-Eating Days at Bridport Library on Wednesday, May 25, from 2pm-3.30pm. The book chronicles the lives of her parents, an unlikely match between a middle-class Englishman and the daughter of Chinese immigrants in colonial Singapore. While they grew

up on opposite sides of the globe, they shared the common bond of having both survived Japaneseoccupied Asia during WWII. Caroline’s meticulous research – aided by her father’s letters and diaries and her mother’s memoirs recorded on tape – results in a remarkable book and an entertaining read. Caroline will also discuss the process

n Chideock WI is holding an Easter cream teas and bake sale event on Easter Saturday, April 16 from 3pm- 5pm in Chideock Village Hall. n A Hot Cross Buns Coffee Morning is being held at Broadwindsor’s Comrades Hall on April 16 from 10am-12pm, to raise funds for Broadwindsor Fun Group’s Jubilee celebrations. Cuppa with a hot cross bun for only £2.50, including free refills. 50p for an extra bun. A raffle will be held at noon. n On Saturday, April 9 from 10am-4pm Boo’s Toy Shop will be holding their Grand Opening in Crown Square Poundbury DT1 3EN. They have 50 goodie bags to give away when you spend over £10 in store and each child will get a party bag. Then on Sunday, April 17 from 10.30am-12.30pm the shop will be holding the Poundbury Easter Trail at The Great Field, sponsored by Zero C. Free Entry, follow the clues and win an egg. n Shire Hall Easter Market will be held at Shire Hall Museum, High West Street, Dorchester on

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Whasson? (and where’s it to?) Saturday, April 9 from 10am-4pm. The Shire Hall’s first Easter Market is free to enter, and will feature over 20 local businesses, selling everything from food and drink to jewellery and photography. The museum at Shire Hall will not be open for visitors over the market weekend, however, people will still have the chance to look around this Grade I listed building. Market stalls will be spread across Shire Hall, from the café and exhibition rooms to the historic courthouse and cells. The museum is holding a Count Your Chickens Trail and Easter Activities on Monday, April 11 from 10am-3pm. There’ll be lots of Easter family fun in addition to the usual

attractions, including crafts and a trail. No booking necessary. n A series of free dance taster sessions is being held at Chideock Village Hall on Monday, April 11. At 7.30pm there will be a modern jive class, at 8.30pm social dancing. No experience necessary, come alone or with friends. All Welcome. A solo Charleston Class will be held from 6.307.15pm. The sessions are being hosted by Dynamic Dance. Register your free place at dynamic-dance.uk There is no obligation to sign up to a course after the class! n On Thursday, April 14 at 2pm there’s an Easter Hunt on The Great Field

Poundbury, organised by PiPs Community Hub. Collect a map from PiP cafe, complete the hunt and find the clues then claim your free Easter treat back at the cafe. Lots of Easter fun and activities in the community room all afternoon. n From Friday to Sunday, April 15-17 from 10am-5pm Weymouth Easter inflatable theme park will be at Redlands Community Sports Hub. Session times: 10am-12pm, 12.30pm-2.30pm and 3pm5pm. £6 per child, for unlimited access to 10 large inflatables, and a visit from Mickey and Minnie Mouse. Adults £1. There’s also an under 5s inflatable area, with a smaller bouncy castle and soft play. Food and drink available. Hook a duck, food, trampolines

extra, free parking. n On Friday, April 15 from 10am-4pm there’s an Easter Egg Hunt at Brewery Square in Dorchester. Search for the eggs hidden around Brewery Square and return your form for a free Easter prize! Pick up your entrance form from the Concierge Office opposite the Dorchester South Train Station. DT1 1GH. n A Tudor Weekend is being held at Athelhampton House & Gardens from 11am-4pm on Saturday, April 9. Athelhampton is one of England’s finest Tudor Manor Houses surrounded by stunning architectural gardens. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells with our Tudor Continued on next page

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The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Whasson? (and where’s it to?) living historians, dressed in period clothing and going about their Tudor business, against the backdrop of Athelhampton House’s historic interiors and architecture. Discover strange old customs, have a go at period dances, enjoy Tudor music, learn to play games, examine their clothing, and try your hand at writing with a quill. There will be lots of educational and fun activities to keep the children entertained during the weekend. Garden and tea room open 10am-5pm Children under 12 go free. Book at athelhampton.com n This Sunday, April 10, from 3pm-4.30pm the Great Dorset Beach Clean will be held at Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre. Meet at the wooden bin compound, seafront car park, Charmouth. n On Friday, April 8, at 7pm there’s Easter Bingo at Salway Ash Village Hall, hosted by Beaminster Young Farmer’s Club. Lots of prizes to be won. Raffle and refreshments. Eyes down 7.30pm. All welcome. n From Friday, April 15 at 9am until April 18 at 3pm there’s a half term Easter egg trail from Half Moon Inn, Sherborne. Collect an Activity Sheet from the pub to find the Easter eggs around Sherborne Town. n On Easter Sunday, April 17, at 3pm Lyme Regis will host its annual Easter Bonnet Parade in Broad Street. Fancy hats and finery will be on display. You’re invited to take part in the parade or just come along

Coffee morning for NCI The National Coastwatch Institution (NCI) Lyme Bay will be holding a breakfast and coffee morning at Litton Cheney Village Hall, School Lane (DT2 9AU) on Saturday, April 23 between 10am and 12pm. Bacon butties and cake will be available and Watchkeepers from NCI will be present to let you know more about their valuable role in assisting the Coastguard and RNLI in helping to save

lives at sea. There will also be a raffle, quiz and various stalls on the day. Do come along and support NCI Lyme Bay and we will welcome you to enjoy breakfast with us while admiring the view across the Bride Valley!

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Saturday 30th April 2022 First Race 1pm Bar, bookies, local food, ice cream, bouncy castle, stalls. Come and enjoy a day in beautiful countryside Early bird E tickets £12.50 pointingwessex.co.uk On the Day £15 per person, under 16 free and watch the colourful spectacle of entrants parading their imaginative creations. The event is open to all ages with prizes awarded for the most creative bonnets in each age category. Entrants are invited to assemble in Lyme Regis Baptist Church for 2pm for judging, with the parade starting outside the church at 3pm, led by the Mayor of Lyme Regis and Lyme Regis Majorettes and making its way down Broad Street to Cobb Gate then along Cart Road and Marine Parade to the Jubilee Pavilion.

Find a space along the route to watch and pop some money in one of the collection buckets. All proceeds go to local good causes. n On Saturday, April 23, from 9.30am-7pm Stay Awake ‘22 will be held at The Thomas Hardye School. A day of inspiring talks, workshops, praise and worship and community is promised, with kids groups, Mass, refreshments and pizza. n On Saturday, April 16, from 11am-2pm there’s a

children’s Easter Egg Hunt at the Gainsborough Arms Milborne Port. n On Saturday, April 23, at 1pm there’s a steampunk event at the Convivial Rabbit micropub in Dorchester. St George’s Day theme optional! n On Tuesday, April 12 at 10.15am you can visit the curious Shell House in Sherborne town centre. Tickets at sherbornewalks .co.uk/events/etl-482-656579 Explore the rich history of entertainment and leisure in Sherborne. During this one hour tour Paul will consider the evidence for a Regency ‘Vauxhall’ garden in Sherborne. The walk will go a short distance along Long Street to look at the home of the original owners of the Shell House. We will then walk up Cheap Street and into Hound Street where the tour will conclude with a visit to the rarely visited and unique Georgian Shell House in Harper House. Meet at The Conduit. Max group size 8. n A table top sale is to be held at Beaminster Public Hall, DT8 3EF on Saturday, May 14 from 9.30am to 1pm. Why not declutter your home, garden shed or garage? Reserve a table for £10 in cash at Yarn Barton Community Centre, DT8 3EF 01308 862715. Doors open for stallholders only at 8.30am. All welcome – free entry. Coffee, tea, home-made cake and raffle. Purchases with cash only. Proceeds to Ukraine Relief. Enquiries: Jane 01308 862367 or Mary 01308 861615.

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Special slice of Dorset to vote on plan By Karen Bate newsdesk@westdorsetmag.co.uk

Residents and businesses who have been working hard to build a plan to shape the future of their parish and safeguard its special qualities will see their scheme go to the polls in a referendum on Thursday, May 5. The Stinsford Neighbourhood Plan, which covers a very rural patch encompassing Kingston Maurward College and Dorset Studio School, also has an eye on plans for thousands of homes neighbouring the parish, north of Dorchester. Committee member Sally Cooke said: “Stinsford's neighbourhood plan cannot directly address the issue of North Dorchester as Dorset Council has declared it a ‘strategic matter.’ “Neighbourhood plans can only deal with local matters, and they have to broadly conform with Dorset Council’s plans. By identifying the special qualities that people value in Stinsford parish, we aim to make sure that they are safeguarded when decisions about North Dorchester are finally taken.” The plan has already been through several stages of consultation. An independent examiner said their plan was “professionally presented and well-illustrated …logical, well-structured and very informative.” He added: “The high quality of the plan is demonstrated by the very small number of recommended modifications.” The plan is now ready to be voted on – residents wishing to vote must be registered to vote by April 14. The parish has just over 300 people in the hamlets of Frome Whitfield, Cokers

HAVE YOUR SAY: The steering committee at an event in 2019

Frome, Waterston Ridge, Bhompston, Higher Kingston, Kingston Maurward, Higher Bockhampton, Lower Bockhampton and Stinsford. The plan was drawn up by local people and agreed by Stinsford Parish Council who are confident the plan reflects the hopes and views of their local community. The plan was drawn up by locals who formed a steering group made up of councillors George Armstrong, Michael Clarke and Susan Escott and residents Mary Brennan, Sally Cooke, Theo Hawkins, Keith Newton and Mitch Stone and helped along the way by local planning consultant Jo Witherden who are confident it reflects the hopes and views of their local community. Cllr David Walsh, Dorset Council’s Portfolio Holder for Planning, said: “A tremendous amount of work has gone into shaping this plan and I thank everyone who has been involved with the project so far. Residents now have the opportunity to shape their community through the Neighbourhood Plan, as modified by the independent examiner. Anyone who wishes to vote, needs to ensure they are on the electoral register.” The plan’s steering group is

holding a drop-in event at Kingston Maurward College’s Floristry Classroom, Church Lane, Stinsford on Saturday, April 30 between 10am and 4pm where you are welcome to ask questions. Postal and proxy vote

application forms are available online or by contacting the Electoral Services team at elections@dorsetcouncil. gov.uk or call 01305 838299.

Applications to vote by post must be received by 5pm on Tuesday, April 19.

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The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Tributes to campaigning fisherman By Karen Bate Pictures by Neil Barnes A fisherman and conservationist from West Bay who was honoured by the Queen for his work protecting marine life and making his industry more sustainable, has died aged 84. David Sales spent 40 years of his 60-year fishing career in West Bay. He was instrumental in a campaign for a wildlife protection enclosure 60 miles off West Bay and protecting marine life for which he received a British Empire Medal in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List in 2020.

GREAT CATCH: David Sales with a crab on one of his many fishing trips

David was a highly regarded and well-known character in

West Bay, always happy to chat with locals and visitors

alike about his conservation work and of course, the fish in Lyme Bay. Photographer Neil Barnes ventured out with him on his fishing boat to take pictures of him for The West Bay Discovery Centre. A post from the centre read: “We were very sad to hear of the passing of local fisherman David Sales. “When were setting up the Discovery Centre, a few years ago, David was very helpful and answered our pleas for an insight into the local fishing industry. “In 2020 David received a richly-deserved BEM for his services to commercial fishing and the environment. He was very much involved in the

Tribute paid on 40th anniversary of Falklands By Dan Goater newsdesk@westdorsetmag.co.uk

A tribute has been paid to the bravery of those who fought in the Falklands War. Marking the 40th anniversary of the start of the war, Cllr David Walsh, armed forces champion for Dorset Council, said: “We want to record our gratitude and appreciation to all those that served during the Falklands conflict in 1982. “We know there are many veterans of the Falklands War who still struggle with physical and mental scars, and some have faced life Teddy bear repairing, cleaning & rehoming

challenges or hardships since the war ended. “Through the Armed Forces Covenant and links to health and wellbeing services, welfare, housing and employment, support is

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available for both current and past members of the Armed Forces and their families. “We also recognise the commitment and service the Armed Forces Community makes to Dorset. Thank you for your service.” This year 10,000 veterans, civilians and bereaved families have been invited by Royal British Legion to take part in a special commemoration at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire on Tuesday, June 14. An Armed Forces Day commemoration will take place in Weymouth on Saturday, June 18 and Sunday 19 to remember veterans and give thanks to all of our current serving personnel and their families.

Clean-up day Litter Pickers at the ready! Dorchester Town Council is inviting anyone who would like to take part in the Great British Spring Clean to meet at Borough Gardens on Friday, April 8 at 10am. Equipment can be loaned to pick up the litter safely at the gardens for a couple of hours until noon. If you would like a picker contact Tamara on 01305 266861 or email t.umasankar@ dorchester-tc.gov.uk Those under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

awarded the BEM for sustainability establishment of the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve. The reserve, although initially contentious, has been a great success in protecting the seabed and maintaining fish stocks, enabling low-impact fishing to continue. “He fished out of West Bay for around 40 years of a 60-year career. “He once said to us, ‘fishing has not been an easy life, you’ve got to love it!’ We send our sympathies to David’s wife Gillian and his family and friends.” In the 1960s, David travelled to the Canada and Northern USA to study ways of protecting lobster stocks. On his return to the UK, David

lobbied the authorities to introduce a bigger minimum size limit and ways to protect juvenile lobsters. Many of

these measures became embedded in marine conservation. South Devon & Channel

Shellfishermen posted: “We are extremely saddened to learn of the passing of one of our life members, David Sales of West Bay. “David was a stalwart within South West fishing being awarded the BEM for his tireless pursuit of sustainability. He will be much missed by many, not least by us. We send our love to his family.” David was born in Surrey in 1937 and moved to Studland at the outbreak of the Second World War. He met Gillian Hampson in 1958 and they married the following year. They have three children, Jonathan, Nicola and Anna.

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The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Raise a glass to brewery’s £50k community cash

A brewery is inviting worthy causes throughout Dorset to tap them up for their share of a £50,000 fund. Hall & Woodhouse has launched its 21st Community Chest awards, with organisations in the county invited to make applications now. The family-owned brewer launched the Community Chest initiative in 2002 and has again pledged a total of £50,000 to worthy causes located across Dorset. Hall & Woodhouse’s grant application process allows

voluntary and charity groups to apply for up to £3,000 to support their needs. Mark Woodhouse, family director of Hall & Woodhouse, said: “The Community Chest was founded over 20 years ago to support and strengthen the local communities of which our pubs are an integral part of. It is simply the right thing to do to maintain our offer of financial support for these local organisations that play such vital roles in our communities.”

Applicants have until Friday, July 1 to submit their grant requests. The application form can be downloaded at hall-woodhouse.co.uk/ community-chest and then emailed to communitychest@hallwoodhouse.co.uk for consideration. All applications will be notified of the outcome of their application by the end of November 2022, with successful grant beneficiaries being invited to a celebratory

awards evening in January 2023. Hall & Woodhouse has adapted its application process for 2022 to now operate in two stages to be able to consider organisations that have an urgent need for funding. The majority of grant applications will be considered in the autumn with funding received in January 2023, but some recipients will be fast-tracked to receive funds in September 2022 to accommodate any crucial needs.

Fun day out won’t cost the Earth Eco-minded people are invited to a free fun day focusing on the environment in the Easter holidays. Earth Day will celebrate what is already being done to help the environment and looking at what we can do next on April 23 from noon-4pm at The Great Field, Poundbury. Earth Day Dorchester is part of the huge international environmental Earth Day celebration. Mayor Gareth Jones said: “There are many local groups and businesses that are doing so much to combat climate change, increase biodiversity and help the environment. Earth Day is a way to celebrate those who are making a difference, join their causes and learn something new. “Often environmental issues can be thought about in a negative way and people feel hopeless about what they can do to make a difference. Small changes add up, if everyone that attends learns one new thing or joins in on one new cause then our planet will be better for it.” Dorchester Town Council has

BARROW BOY: Creative Ecotainment Solar Disco

created the event with partners Bournemouth University, Litter Free Dorset, Dorset Climate Action Network, The Embroidery Barn and PiPs Café, who will be there on the day, along with other local organisations, businesses and community groups. Colin Tracey, a member of Dorset Climate Action Network, said: “This is a wonderful opportunity for us to engage with Dorchester residents about positive, innovative and helpful ideas about how we can all help reduce our negative and

increase our positive impacts on the natural world and environment.” Groups attending include Transition Town Dorchester, The Gap Project with Dorset MIND, Dorset Waste Services and many more who will be providing fun workshops, activities and walks. One of the speakers, Pete West from Energy Local Bridport, will be talking about renewable energy, having worked in this sector for over 20 years. There will also be a chance to relax and listen to some great local musicians.

A clothing swap will encourage people to re-love their clothes rather than throwing them away. If you have any decent quality clothing that you would like to swap then bring along two or three items, and take something new to you home for free. Katy Jones, who helps organise the Dorchester Repair Café, said: “We can’t wait to come along with some of our amazing volunteer repairers to show you how you can save items from landfill, and save money.” You can also find local sustainable sellers at the event providing things like pottery, reusable nappies and much more. There will be crafts, activities and nature walks to take part in – plus you can get to handle some exotic animals and learn more about their habitats and what is being done to protect them. You can also see the world’s only solar powered wheelbarrow disco created from waste, and buy scrumptious vegetarian and vegan food. To find out more go to https://bit.ly/3ixYCDr

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

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The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Friends’ £10k for new unit The Friends of Yeatman Hospital are donating a further £5,000 to the new breast cancer screening unit at Yeovil District Hospital – a total of £10,000. Chairman David Hayes said: “One in two families are affected by breast cancer. We acknowledged the importance for Sherborne patients to have an effective, Le sure Leisure Breaks reaks Normandy ormandy

local treatment centre, and had no doubts or hesitation in awarding this money. “We would be grateful if the YDH Appeal Board would use its influence to require breast cancer consultations to take place as outpatient clinics at The Yeatman Hospital, for the convenience of Sherborne residents.”

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Coastal erosion in West Dorset is releasing toxic waste from a disused landfill site into the sea. As the coastline at East Beach cliff is washed away by the tide it is revealing plastic, metal and concrete waste that lay buried in the Spittles Lane landfill site since the 1970s. Now scientists at Southampton University are warning that the rest of the waste at this former landfill site will be washed into the sea within the next century if costly work is not done soon. Professor Robert Nicholls, a professor of coastal engineering, said: “The geological timescale of coastal landfill means this problem will not solve itself and we have to start addressing flooding and erosion of landfills now, otherwise this will be a major problem in the future.” Professor Kate Spencer from Queen Mary University of London, who worked on the coastal study, said: “If this site erodes, solid waste including plastics and asbestos would be released to our beaches, whilst flooding with sea water has the potential to release further pollutants, even though the waste has been

buried for more than 50 years.” The cost of removing all the waste from the former landfill site in Spittles Lane could be as high as £6million. A university spokesman said: “Spittles Lane landfill is on an eroding cliff top which has undercut the landfill and resulted in waste being released onto the beach and into the sea. Researchers outlined options to help manage the risks faced by landfill sites on the coast, including improved sea defences against rising sea levels, additional monitoring or even removing the landfilled waste. Removing all the waste from Spittles Lane landfill could cost between £4m and £6m.” Pollution is not the only problem being caused by coastal erosion in the area; Charmouth Neighbourhood plan says the area could be at increased risk of flooding because of shortcomings in coastal defences. It says: “Risks arise from the inherent instability created by the local geology, as well as those areas of future land instability and potential new flood areas resulting from the failure or removal of the Charmouth coast defences sometime after 2025.”

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Gleaming line-up to boost hospice funds Vintage car lovers will be in their element when the Hardy Country Classic Tour (HCCT) wends its way through the stunning Dorset countryside on Sunday, June 12 for Weldmar Hospicecare Trust. This year the HCCT will be celebrating its 21st anniversary and as such has made the tour extra special with lunch at Lulworth Castle and finishing at The Riviera Hotel in Weymouth. All vehicle enthusiasts are welcome to join the fun, which usually attracts some 100 motorists driving cars dating from the 1920s to the 1980s in the spectacle. Over the last 21 years, the rally has raised more than £20,000 for Weldmar and organisers are hoping even more is raised for this valued and needed charity this year.

An Austin owned by Tony Tanswell

MIXED GRILLES: Left, a Triumph Gentry owned by Will and Vron Aplin from Dorchester starts the event in 2019, and above, a bird’s eye view of the event

The first vehicles will arrive at Hampton Farm Business Park and Store in Bockhampton near Dorchester at 10.30am where sponsors, The Dip Shop are based. The rally will then

head into the wilds of Dorset before lunching at Lulworth and heading back to the hotel at Bowleaze Cove at around 2.30pm. Vice chairman of Transport of

Yesteryear and HCCT organiser Nick Aplin is inviting anyone who wants to take part to email him at nickaplin@yahoo.com. The cost to enter is £10.

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The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

EXTRA FUN: Broadwindsor is renowned for its annual day of celebrations, which will be tripled this year thanks to a £5,000 grant Pictures: broadwindsor.org

Extra fun in village to mark Jubilee By Karen Bate newsdesk@westdorsetmag.co.uk

An annual village fun day is to become a three-day extravaganza for the Queen’s jubilee this year thanks to a £5,000 award. Just one in five applicants to the Community Foundation’s Let’s Create Jubilee Fund were successful. But Broadwindsor Fun Group (BFG) managed to sway the panel to win funding – and organisers are thrilled. Chairman Adrian Gray and the committee organise a range of fundraising events to pay for a village fun day every year. But this special year it is hoped to become a three-day knees-up to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, from June 2-5. With the funding from Let’s Create Jubilee Fund, there is

no stopping the group’s extravagant plans, including a quintessentially English floral display with tea and cake, a village parade, games and entertainment, a concert with five bands and the village choir along with a picnic in Bernard’s Place. As part of the tribute, the committee are interviewing and recording memories of those people who can remember the Queen’s Coronation and a tree planting ceremony will take place as part of the Queen’s Canopy thanks to Broadwindsor Eco Group. Adrian said: “I am more than pleased to announce that after much hard work by the Broadwindsor Fun Group committee, particularly Wendy and Michelle, has secured a grant from the Community Foundation Let’s

Create Jubilee Fund, which was oversubscribed by five times the amount available. “This award of £5,000 will go a long way to our Jubilee plans,” Adrian added. Adrian was in discussions with community stalwart, the late David Leader about updating the sound system at Comrades Hall. Adrian said: “We have already earmarked a considerable part of the funds towards updating the Comrades Hall sound system and this was something I was pleased to discuss with David Leader several weeks ago. No doubt he would have been more than pleased to know that our bid was successful. “As chairman, supported by four others, we are working hard to ensure that the celebrations involve as many

village groups as possible. This includes the church, our community pub, over sixties club, school, bell ringers, and WI to name only a few. “However, whilst this grant will assist greatly, we do still need people to staff stalls and help with a shift working at the bar and barbecue. Please do get in touch if you can assist.” The celebrations will kick off with a beacon lighting ceremony supported by the especially formed village choir on the evening of Thursday, June 2 to be followed by drinks in the new community pub, The White Lion. Broadwindsor.org will be publishing a jubilee event schedule in due course. If you can help, please email Adrian on bwfunday20@gmail.com

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Finally! Sherborne’s MIU opens up By Karen Bate newsdesk@westdorsetmag.co.uk

The minor injuries unit at the Yeatman Hospital in Sherborne which closed due to staff shortages during the Omicron wave in November, has reopened five days a week. Sherborne, Blandford and Portland MIUs were closed by Dorset HealthCare in January after staffing difficulties were worsened by covid-related absences. Jane Elson, Dorset HealthCare’s service director for integrated community services, said: “Our aspiration is definitely to have all MIUs working to pre-pandemic hours and locations. “However, it has been exceptionally difficult to recruit the staff we need, and there remains a significant

AT LAST: MP Chris Loder at the Yeatman

degree of covid-related staff absences. “We need to ensure we can provide a safe, reliable and robust service for people who need urgent care and treatment, and cannot do so across all our units if we don’t have the necessary staffing levels in place. “However, we are able to re-

Jurassic exhibition open

The West Bay Discovery Centre is now open six days a week for the summer, with a new exhibition, Buried in Time. The exhibition takes a closer look at the coastal geology of the West Bay area and showcases a host of superb fossil specimens of creatures back to the Jurassic age, some 170 million years ago. The exhibition explains what is buried beneath our feet and in the towering cliffs and explains the development of the earth,

making the link between fossils and the creatures that lived in Jurassic seas. The exhibition includes hands-on activities for children and will be supported by talks and guided walks and offers an entry point to understanding the World Heritage Coast, its geological processes, and fossils, hopefully sparking an interest to find out more. Buried in Time runs until the end of October, 11am and 4pm, Tuesday to Sunday. westbaydiscoverycentre.org.uk

open the Sherborne MIU from Sunday-Thursday. We are grateful for the support of our patients and partners as we seek to open all our units and encourage the public to use 111 who will often be able to provide advice over the phone or remote prescribe. “If necessary, they can also

book an appointment time at the nearest suitable location.” West Dorset MP Chris Loder has welcomed the news. He said: “We have fought hard to see the Yeatman MIU reopen since the initial closure nearly two years ago following the initial onslaught of covid. “I am so pleased to learn this vital service will very soon be welcoming people from in and around Sherborne once more.” The MIU at the Yeatman Hospital will be open between 9am-6pm, MondayThursday, and 10am-4pm Sunday.

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Chance to see work of experimental art group An art group with a taste for experimenting with new techniques will showcase its work next month. Maiden Newton Art Group is hosting its annual exhibition at the village hall on Friday, May 20 and Saturday 21. Members of the 20-strong group will showcase their work in acrylics, oils and watercolours as well as more experimental techniques. Jane Coxhill, chairperson of the art group, said: “We’re a smallish group but there’s quite a bit of talent in there. “We’re exhibiting works in the usual painting mediums but we’re also displaying work created in some of our more experimental workshops. “One of these workshops was working purely with felt and wool, another one focused solely on botanical drawings. Another one of our workshops involved using only seaweed and seashells.” The group’s most recent workshop was a lesson on the ‘Glasgow Four’ – Charles Rennie Mackintosh, James Herbert MacNair and Margaret and Frances Macdonald – delivered by Pam Simpson. Jane, who recently gained a first-class honours degree in painting from the Open College for Arts, added: “Most of the time our workshops are just a group of like-minded people who get together to discuss what we’re doing and swap ideas on techniques. “The art group has been a big help to me in terms of

helping me develop my painting. “It’s always nice to go and chat with a group of like-minded people, especially when you tend to spend so much time working on your own. “Exchanging ideas and having conversations around art is always a joy. As a group we have been hosting exhibitions for several years now. “Beginners are always welcome to join our group too – just recently we had a couple of

gentlemen start with us and they are already showing promise as artists.” Maiden Newton Art Group’s exhibition will be open to the public from 6pm to 9pm on Friday, May 20 and from 10am to 4pm on Saturday, May 21. Entry is free and refreshments will be provided. n For more information on the art group visit maidennewton.info/ maiden-newton-art-group

The West Dorset Magazine, March 25, 2022

Question time for health partnership By Miranda Robertson newsdesk@westdorsetmag.co.uk

Six parishes are preparing a long list of concerns to present to the group that runs their GP surgery. Ammonite Health Partnership has been running the Bridport Medical Practice, Beaminster’s Tunnel Road Surgery and Maiden Newton’s Tollerford Practice since May last year. In the middle of the pandemic, and during summer weather patients put up with long waits outside to see doctors and get prescriptions, but over the winter have become fed up. Now the partnership, which covers Beaminster, Toller Porcorum, Compton

Valence, Cattistock and Maiden Newton and Evershot, faces some tough questions. Di Padfield is coordinating the six parishes’ concerns – councillors from each area are set to meet for a second time on April 11 to share notes before a meeting with Ammonite. Di said: “We are putting a spreadsheet together of all our concerns and copying in Chris Loder MP, the Care Quality Commission and the Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) so they are aware.” The partnership says it

receives more than 1,000 appointment requests a week for its 9.6 FTE GPs, and so it triages appointments to cope with demand. They say recruiting GPs has been exceptionally hard, but they continue to try. David Ennals, who is attending the meetings on behalf of Toller parish, has pointed out the group is paid £155 per patient. Ammonite operates above the national average of 2,000 patients per GP, at 2,545 patients per GP – working out at nearly £400,000 funding per GP. He said: “Representatives from six parish councils (Toller Porcorum, Maiden Newton, Frome Vauchurch, The Comptons, Frome Valley and Frampton) met on March 21.

“The concerns centred on the difficulty communicating with the surgery, especially with regard to obtaining a doctor’s appointment; the e-consult service; the erratic service provided by the pharmacy; concerns regarding the high staff turnover and number of vacancies, and that some clinics have not been reestablished after the pandemic. “Our intention is not to criticise the surgery per se, we wholeheartedly want to work with them to help them see the shortcomings perceived in the community in order to improve their service, thereby aiding thousands of residents.” Email your concerns to diana.padfield@sky.com.

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A society of friends is looking for people to help swell its ranks as it bounces back from the covid pandemic. The Dorset branch of the Oddfellows group, based in Dorchester, exists to support individuals and charities working to make a difference in their communities. In recent years, Oddfellows has donated thousands of pounds to good causes in south and west Dorset including the air ambulance, Age Concern and Weymouth’s WOW Youth Musical Theatre. Mary Brewer, the Noble Grand of the Oddfellows group, said: “For the last couple of years, we’ve been knocked back a bit by the pandemic. “We want to take small steps to help people come back out of their homes again. A lot of our members are elderly and are understandably apprehensive about coming out again. But that’s what Oddfellows is all about: getting people together. “It’s been a long time alone for a lot of people, to have to stay indoors. Not seeing anybody for such a long time has been hard for a lot of people.” Mary, who has been a member of the Oddfellows group for 40 years, said the group hosts a lot of social events for its members as well as supporting individuals and charities. Mary said: “We have a range of activities coming up soon to help get people out and about again. “We’re taking a trip to Silverlake at Crossways and we’re holding a

ODD ONES, OUT: The Oddfellows get together for a fundraising bingo event, above, and award members, top

Not odd, not all fellows: the

champagne breakfast to mark the platinum jubilee. “We have a meeting once a month at the Wessex Royale Hotel in Dorchester. “In terms of supporting charities, we’re based in Manchester, so we take a

lot of guidance from them as to how we work but we have given educational grants of up to £700 a year to university students. “We’ve also given financial support to people undertaking

apprenticeships, including one person who was training to become a hairdresser. We also have 79 members who are under 16, so we’re sending out colouring in sheets to them and having a competition to

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

The long and colourful history of the Oddfellows Some believe the Oddfellows can trace their history back to the exile of Israelites from Babylon in 587 BC, although this claim has very little supporting evidence. It is more likely the Oddfellows can trace their routes to the formation of trade guilds in London in the early 18th century – with a guild of ‘odd fellows’ working in more niche trades. As the French Revolution was under way, the British government began to look unfavourably on guilds who ‘swore oaths’ and used signs and passwords. In response, the Grand United Order of Odd Fellows relocated from London to Aldwych in Sheffield in 1796. By 1810, dissatisfied members of the Manchester district of the Grand

United Order of Odd Fellows formed their own breakaway society, The Independent Order of Oddfellows of Manchester Unity. This is the group to which the Dorset branch of Oddfellows belongs. Ripples were sent through the

Oddfellows in 1834 when another friendly society – the Tolpuddle Martyrs – were deported to Australia for unionising. When deputies at that year’s Oddfellows meeting in Hull learned of the Martyrs’ prosecution, they apparently rushed home to burn documents that could land them in hot water with the government. Fortunately, by 1851, the government recognised friendly societies like the Oddfellows, who were then free to go on and support the individuals and organisation as they saw fit. To this day, the Oddfellows as a global organisation, donates tens of thousands of pounds to worthwhile causes each year.

friendly group helping good causes find the best one, with a prize for the winner. “We help anybody who makes a worthwhile application. This has included giving financial support to Joseph Weld Hospice, Alzheimer’s

charities, the WOW Youth Musical Theatre, Age Concern and the county’s air ambulance, which is particularly dear to one of our members in particular.” Mary added: “I lost my husband when he was quite

young and being an Oddfellow has given me purpose; I’ve always looked at it that way and I have made so many friends through the group. “I would urge people to get in touch with us if they

want to know more about what we do.” Oddfellows in Dorset is based at the Hand in Hand Lodge at 21 Great Western Road, Dorchester. Their telephone number is 01305 260081.

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Stunning playground completes years By Miranda Robertson newsdesk@westdorsetmag.co.uk

An incredible set of play equipment is nearly ready to open in Poundbury – finishing £1m-worth of facilities that will make the Great Field the envy of the world. There’s now something for all ages at the park, with facilities for teenagers, adults, toddlers and pensioners now in place, with a café and public toilets to enable people to enjoy hours there. The jewel in the crown, however, is a stunning set of play equipment for younger children modelled on three of Poundbury’s landmark buildings – the Buttermarket, the Brownsword Hall and the Whistling Witch. The structure is currently behind a steel fence,

however it is hoped to be open by Easter, when families will descend on the Great Field for a free fun day, including an Easter egg hunt, bonnet competition and even the chance to win a prize for the best dressed dog. The organisers behind the event are the charity who run the café. The Alcohol Education Trust run PIPs in

the heart of the park. Its CEO Helena Conibear said: “The play park is pretty much ready and looks absolutely fantastic. “It’s going to be amazing for children, there’s even a wet water play area where they can pump water over stones. There are rope walkways between all the towers. It’s been built to only accommodate children,

but my staff and I are none of us very tall so we’re determined to give it a go…” The play equipment is the finishing touch to a project that has taken years to complete. Some 500 trees have been planted, alongside wildflower meadows, and there’s gym equipment here for adults, a multi-use sports

Cobb to be made safer in £3m project By Karen Bate newsdesk@westdorsetmag.co.uk

Vital work costing £3million to make the historic cobb in Lyme Regis Harbour safe is being planned by Dorset Council if the business plan is approved. Recent investigations have revealed significant signs of sea-floor erosion, which is slowly destabilising the structure. Walking surfaces on the cobb are generally poor, restricting access for the less-abled, and the landing quay is not currently fit for purpose. Utility services to the

cobb’s buildings and landing quay are also in poor condition. If approved, £2.5million would come from flood defence grant in aid supported by Community Infrastructure Levy and S106 contributions of £475,000 received by Dorset Council. Council officers will work with key consultees on the project, including residents, Dorset Council’s Harbours Committee, Lyme Regis Harbour Consultative Group, Lyme Regis Town Council, Historic England, the Environment Agency,

Natural England, and local fisherman and businesses. Cllr Ray Bryan, Dorset Council’s Portfolio Holder for Highways, Travel and Environment, said:“Lyme Regis’s cobb is a beautiful structure and tourist attraction that benefits residents, local businesses and visitors alike, so we have to make sure it is kept strong and safe, while maintaining its Grade 1 historic value. This business plan sets out how we plan to fund these works and I’m more than happy to support its approval. Dorset Council has pledged to deliver

services in ways that protect our natural, historic, and cultural environments, and to lead and support communities to respond to climate and ecological change. This scheme helps support those goals, and we’ll continue informing and working with the local community as the plans proceed.” The project would provide coastal protection to 37 properties and maintain the recreational and heritage value of Lyme Bay. If approved, work is proposed to start on site in winter 2023 and completed in March 2024.

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

of work to create a haven for all ages court for teenagers and a fresh water drinking fountain. Helena said: “The playground brings the whole great field to conclusion – it’s wonderful. The Duchy has spent close to £1m on the whole Great Field, including some wonderful paths going right round the field. “The Duchy and the town council held very good consultations with residents and then worked hard to fulfil their expectations, making sure young people were involved in the design. “I hope residents realise how lucky they are, having all these fantastic facilities free to use. “There’s always something going on here – exercise classes, the Parkrun on Saturday mornings and a junior Parkrun is starting on Sunday mornings.” PIPS also runs a community room for events, where

NATURE HAVEN: The Great Field Picture: JD BOWERMAN

there will be free craft activities for children during the Easter weekend, along with the bonnet and doggy dress-up competitions. World-renowned firms Timberplay and Creating Adventurous Places Ltd (Capco) worked together for the first time, creating the design based on a wishlist

drawn up after consultations with residents. Timberplay has worked all over the world after launching in 2001 and creating the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Playground in Kensington. Timberplay supplied some of their standard equipment and Capco was brought in to create the bespoke

elements. Capco design manager Paul Travers said: “It was a good collaborative experience working with Timberplay. We designed the main structures and layout. We don’t usually work with other manufacturers, but we found them easy to work with, very responsive. “A couple of months ago we got to meet HRH, but it wasn’t finished then and it will be great to see it open at the heart of the community.” A spokesman for the Duchy said: “The Great Field forms an integral element of the Poundbury design. As an urban extension of Dorchester, the facility has been carefully positioned to be accessible for residents of both Poundbury and longer established parts of Dorchester.

Network of groups helping Ukrainians Dorset Together is working hard to make sure Ukrainian refugees are receiving a warm West Dorset welcome and getting the support they need. The network, which includes Dorset Council, NHS, Public Health Dorset, the emergency services, faith groups, Volunteer Centre Dorset, Dorset Race Equality Council, Help And Kindness, among others, are coordinating the county’s response, including support for Ukrainian individuals and families and local sponsors providing accommodation. Dorchester-based group

Help And Kindness is helping to signpost and promote local community groups providing advice to refugees and local sponsors. Cllr Laura Miller, portfolio holder for customer and community services at Dorset Council, said: “We would like to thank our partners for their amazing efforts in providing muchneeded support to those arriving to the county, and to those who have kindly offered to provide accommodation. “As part of the Dorset Together network, our role is to provide accommodation suitability

and safeguarding checks, administer governmentfunded payments to sponsors, arrange school places for children arriving, and refer individuals to services and support including health, benefits and job seeking.” The Dorset Together network was formed during the covid-19 pandemic to support those who were shielding and vulnerable individuals. The group brings together a range of different services and support to provide a community-driven response. Refugee support is being

offered through Dorset Race Equality Council Refugee Support and Citizens Advice Dorset. Local peer support groups and networks for both refugees and sponsors include Shaftesbury Refugee Group, Sherborne Area Refugee Support (SHARES), Swanage Action for Refugees (SAR) and Weymouth Welcomes Ukraine. For more details visit helpandkindness.co.uk Information about Homes for Ukraine can be found at homesforukraine.org.uk

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Are you attracted to tractors? Then By Karen Bate newsdesk@westdorsetmag.co.uk

The pull is very much still there for the West Dorset Vintage Tractor and Stationary Engine Club, which is celebrating more machinery milestones at the Melplash Showground this summer. President and one of the founder members Loric Collins told The West Dorset Magazine he was very much ‘looking forward’ to the annual rally, historically held over the second weekend in June since the club formed in 1976. This year is planned for Saturday and Sunday, June 11 and 12. As a result of some very successful rallies in the recent years, the club has been able to donate more than £62,500 to local charity and community projects. Loric said: “Some of our rallies have been very successful and we have been able to help the local charities we pick. We like to help community projects and always ask the Sea Cadets to run the car park and the football club clears the rubbish after the event.” A keen enthusiast of steam power and tractors, Loric was involved in organising the first meeting on January 30, 1976 at The Coach and Horses in Winterborne Abbas. “There were many enthusiasts who wanted to start a club. At the meeting we formed a committee which laid out the roots of the club and the club has lasted all these years. Many members have played a part

MAKING TRACKS: Some of the attractions of the West Dorset Vintage Tractor and Stationary Engine Club will be on show at Melplash this summer

in running the club, some in front and some quietly in the background,” said Loric. “Dr Dewhurst was first president in 1976, Colin Foster donated the first minute book. When we first

started the club, we held a competition for members to design a club badge, our emblem. Mr T Hansford was the winner and the club emblem has remained the same.” It is 46 years since the club

was formed and nearly every year, a rally has been held. Exceptions have been few, with cancellations following the foot and mouth outbreak, a storm and the coronavirus restrictions of 2020. Loric said: “We held our first public event in May 1976, a rally at Luke Farm near Puncknowle by kind permission of Geoff Pike. It started with just 20 tractors and a few stationary engines from club members. Dicky Plummer

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

you’ll be ploughing a furrow to show

from Hazelbury brought his swingboats. We were there for a long time and then moved to Gore Cross in 1984.” Since then, the rally has become bigger and bigger, eventually outgrowing Luke Farm and moving to Brit Valley Meadows in West Bay in 1996 before moving to Melplash Showground in 2013. Today members and visitors showcase some 75 tractors and 100 stationary engines. The West Dorset Vintage

Tractor and Stationary Club has about 300 members and hold monthly meetings to

socialise, share experiences Colliton Park, Dorchester and arrange club activities on the second Friday of the at the Colliton Club, month at 8pm.

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Woodland wonders: Mum of three By Miranda Robertson newsdesk@westdorsetmag.co.uk

A mum of three who hated walking into traditional mother and toddler groups because she felt ‘there was something lacking’ is providing an alternative from this month. Trainee tree surgeon and activity instructor Chloe Coxall, 30, from Briantspuddle, wanted to launch a space for mums and dads, grandparents and other carers to feel cared for themselves, while providing new experiences and fun for children. It had to be affordable, with a focus on mental health, both for the children and the adults. “Toddler groups are very child-focused,” she said. “You walk in and can see all these mums feeling isolated. There’s a sea of plastic toys and people in little groups.” Chloe’s father runs an outdoor events company on Southover Heath and this inspired her to use that area for a ‘Woodland school’, where families could gather and enjoy a different sort of activity. She is also working closely with health professionals and mental health nurses offering professional help and support. She said: “Rurally, we need support more than ever. There’s a lot of loneliness, and a lot of children who need extra support. “It’s really good when people come together and what I’ve found, since

moving here, is that people want to help round here. “They don’t care where you come from. They are humble people – they’re so great.” Chloe fled an abusive relationship herself, and knows how difficult it is to access support while coping with the busy everyday tasks of a working parent. So she’s made sure to hook up with as many different organisations as possible, offering help to people in this area. “I wanted to create an outdoor environment for everyone, but provide extra emotional and physical support for people who need it,” she said.

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

offering amazing adventures to kids

Aside from all this help and support though, there’s still the serious business of providing fun outdoor activities in her new Woodland School, which is offering adults and underthrees free places on a two-hour Families in the Forest event on Tuesday, April 12. Ages three-five are £5 and ages five-12 are £10. “I wanted to make it accessible,” said Chloe. “I always think as single mum to three boys, can I afford that? You take three boys to Paulton’s Park and you’re £200 down.” Woodland School attendees can play woodland games, drink hot chocolate, build dens, make woodland crafts and light fires and toast

marshmallows. “This is opening up a new avenue to people. I’m pushing for more government funding for outdoor education in schools, and I go to schools to advise them on their outdoor spaces. As an arborist I can assess areas for their suitability for forest schools.” Chloe also works closely with Weymouth’s Compass School, which takes in pupils who have been permanently excluded from mainstream schools. And she advises schools on using their outdoor areas for activities. She has seen youngsters thrive with outdoor education, and believes so much in its power to help people she is self-funding the Woodland School, hoping to offer an experience that is both fun and therapeutic. She is also seeking funding from other sources. The Woodland School will have a four-tier system, from pregnant mothers, pre-school age, age four-12 and older children. It will also host bushcraft survival courses, support groups, woodland wellness, including yoga, and camping. Chloe said: “I’m super excited to be working with local women to create support sessions for women and children in the local community.” Email thewoodlandschooldorset @gmail.com or call 07540 091459 to book.

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Down to earth

BEACHCOMBING with JO BELASCO BA Hons History of Architecture and Design

What can we find at Osmington Mills? I know there are hag stones and fossils there. I hoped to find some vintage corn utensils from the old mills or at least some crocks. Unsurprisingly, the glamour of pirates and smuggling seems to have eclipsed that of the miller and corn. I asked in the wonderful old 13th century (in parts) pub, The Smugglers and although the bar staff were very helpful, especially Holly – I drew a blank about where the remains of the old mill(s) were. Above the waterfall the stream looked like it had potential for antique bottles or crocks – but nothing! There is a registered monument of the Mill – 736817 ‘of two storeys and attics has a slated roof. None of the mill machinery remains’. How tantalising! However I had spent enough time searching and had to cut my losses. In The Smugglers Inn I had seen a huge fossil used as a door wedge. The skull of a pliosaur was discovered in 2009 at Osmington Mills and is now on display at Dorset County Museum.

The waterfall at Osmington Mills, left, and above, the wreck of the Minx provides a lookout for cormorants

An animal head hag stone

Burger bun stones

A hag-stone as a pendant on a seaweed necklace

Get your buns to Osmington

The fossils are mostly locked in the rocks and no hammering into the cliffs is allowed. Although, you are allowed to collect fossils from rockfalls which were in plentiful evidence. Zelda (my dog) and I gravitated to the type of beachcombing which is always available – photographs. It’s easy to see why Constable chose this hamlet to honeymoon in, with its subtle tones and silhouettes. I wanted to photograph the

old wreck of The Minx from 1927 and along the way found quite a few hag stones but only brought one home. Hag stones are thought to have magical qualities and be protective. They are stones which running water has bored a hole through. It was a common belief that magic wouldn’t work on running water and therefore the stones were used as talismans against evil. They were hung on bed posts to stop nightmares

and I remember in the show Vikings pausing the action to enjoy the hag stone interior design of just such a bed. Sailors also hung them from their masts as witches were thought to have power over the winds which the hag stones could negate. I remember at Burton Bradstock, in St Marys Church, hag stones being used on the door as part of a wind-block. These days they are mostly used as personal ornament.

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Down to earth

Soil sleuth is so very down to earth By Dan Goater newsdesk@westdorsetmag.co.uk

A soil sleuth is sharing his top tips for green-fingered West Dorset residents. Dr Dave Aplin, director of Soil Values, says his fellow horticulturists need to pay attention to the specific needs of their land, especially farmers, vintners, and commercial growers. Dr Aplin, who has a doctorate in botany and ecology from the University of Sussex, said: “My job is to analyse soil samples that I either collect myself or that are sent in by clients. I test these samples for the nutrients that are present, the soil’s texture and its pH balance. From these readings I can determine whether or not a soil will be able to retain its nutrients or whether it will need specific treatments to keep it fertile “A few months ago, I was working for someone who thought their neighbour was poisoning their plants because they looked quite yellow. But the issue was just that the soil was poor and low in nutrients nothing to do with the neighbour. I advised her on how to feed her plants and they bounced back to be a lush green.” Dr Aplin said his work includes testing potential new sites for farms or vineyards and that his analysis includes testing the soil’s composition as well as the gradient of the land, which can affect how crops grow. “It’s about getting the nutrient balance right,” he

EARTH TO EARTH: Bride Valley Vineyard, above, and Dr Dave examines soil samples, inset

said. “For example, if you have a greenhouse and you’re growing tomatoes, you would likely give them a potassium fertiliser but you may notice eventually that the leaves start to go yellow. This is often because it is deficient in magnesium, putting too much potassium in the soil stops the magnesium from reaching the leaves.” Dr Aplin added: “If you look at the weather recently, it’s been very dry with the odd shower of rain. “If we’re going to have increased periods of drought, people need to look at getting irrigation systems in place. “I would also advise people not to use peat because it’s just the worst thing you can use in terms of environmental impact. “Don’t get me wrong, it’s a fantastic product but it’s not renewable or sustainable. It’s the largest store of carbon – other than the oceans – that is released into the atmosphere. “My main advice to people is to compost at home and

to add mulch to your garden. “Overall, try to put the right plant in the right location.

Choose plants that you don’t have to water all the time just to get them to survive.”

From grapevines to celandines

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Down to earth

Colours tell us the story of the stars Then there’s 145 Canis Majoris, arguably the most colourful double star in the winter sky: bright citrus orange and royal blue. Iota Cancri is the uppermost star of the Cancer constellation, to the right of Leo. Like Albireo, one of the pair is a golden yellow colour, whilst the other is sapphire blue. The West Dorset night sky might not often be lit up with the green and red of the

Kevin Quinn is a Dark Sky Custodian for the Cranborne Chase Dark Sky Reserve who lives in Piddletrenthide. Read his blog at theastroguy. wordpress.com It may not seem obvious, when taking a quick glance up at the stars as we rush from house to car to supermarket or wherever our busy lives dictate, but the night sky is filled with colour. Readers in light polluted parts of the county might be surprised at this, used as they are to seeing only the brighter stars as white points of light. In reality, though, stars come in a plethora of colours, some of which are obvious to the naked eye, others requiring the use of binoculars or a telescope. A star’s colour stems from a combination of its age, size, surface temperature and composition. Generally speaking, the younger the star the more blue-white it appears, and a good example of stars in this category would be those of the Pleiades star cluster (estimated age is less than 100 million years). Other examples include the stars of Orion’s belt, and the star Rigel at the bottom-right of Orion. Take a look at the upper-left star of Orion, though: Betelgeuse, a red supergiant. Although less than 10 million years old, its orange-red colour is obvious. Then there’s the nearby bright orange Aldebaran, nestled within the Hyades star cluster in Taurus. One of the reddest stars known, and among the brightest of what are known as ‘giant red carbon stars’, is La Superba, in Canes Venatici. Just about visible to the naked

Albireo

Canis Majoris

La Superba

eye, from a dark site, its deep red colour is obvious in binoculars. Other deep red carbon stars include the Garnet Star in Cepheus, and Hind’s Crimson Star in Lepus (described by its discoverer as ‘like a drop of blood on a black field’). During the summer months, low to the south in the constellation of Scorpius is the red giant Antares (so red, in fact, that its name derives from

the Ancient Greek for ‘rival of Mars’, so similar is it to the red planet). As well as colourful individual stars, there are a great many ‘colourful doubles’, and these truly are an arresting sight. The most famous colourful double has to be Albireo in the constellation of Cygnus. It’s guaranteed to raise a gasp when first seen, the rich golden yellow/sapphire blue pair is simply stunning.

aurora, but there’s plenty of dazzling colour on show if you look. Scan around the sky with a pair of binoculars and you’ll be amazed at the diversity of star colours. As with faint objects like galaxies, the colours of stars can be washed out by the bright moon, streetlights and other forms of artificial light, so if you want to see some of these wonderful colours, go somewhere dark* … *With input from the National Trust and the Dorset AONB, I’m compiling a map of accessible observing sites in Dorset on my blog.

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Down to earth

High-flying visitors mean summer’s on its way

the Sahara, through Morocco into Spain, across the Pyrenees and up through France and across the channel. They’ll have spent four to six weeks travelling around 200 miles a day, flying at low altitudes and finding food along the way. Swallows are associated with much legend and folklore. We all know ‘one swallow doesn’t make a summer’ but they are the heralds of spring, representing birth and bringing

happiness. If they nest in your barn they will bring good luck, though it is bad luck if they desert! They are considered sacred, as they relieved Jesus’s suffering at his crucifixion by removing the thorns from his crown. They are weather forecasters, ‘if they’re flying high then the weather will be dry’ and if tattooed onto the chest of a sailor symbolise his vast nautical experience. They’re not the only summer migrants arriving in Dorset in April though. The similar looking house martins will be arriving soon too. Dark blue like the swallow, but with an obvious white rump and a shorter forked tail, they will often be seen flying with swallows as both feed on flying insects. The much rarer swifts arrive

by early May, they make a distinctive sickle shape with their wings as they fly and are brown in colour. Swallows will be with us now for the summer, with luck producing two broods in their nests in our garages, stables, sheds and porches. By September they’ll be gathering on the telegraph wires to prepare to head south again. Before migration was understood, their sudden disappearance in the autumn led to the theory that they hibernated in the mud at the bottom of ponds. Samuel Johnson, of the 18th century dictionary, believed this – ‘Swallows do certainly sleep all winter. They conglobulate together by flying round and round and then, all in a heap, throw themselves under water.’

the site and work up a scheme that has the full support of everyone’. Now the parish council has written to the Dorset Council team requesting the case is heard before a planning committee. The plan for the 40-acre 11.8 MW solar installation on two fields at Cruxton Manor Farm, is capable of providing power to over 4,800 homes every year, which in turn will offset 3,000 tonnes of carbon. Mark Harding, Enviromena’ s Europe Development Director said the application should be decided by Dorset Council’s planning committee and not by

officials under delegated powers. He said: “We understand the Planning Officer recommends to refuse the scheme – possibly doing so using delegated powers. But this is a significant renewable energy installation signalling the move away from fossil fuels and requires the benefit of due process. “It’s an absolute scandal that it might be decided by an officer under delegated powers. “We have made a significant investment over 12 months to ensure the site is acceptable to the local community and parish council who are all

supportive of the application and the jobs it will create.” Dorset Council say the scheme has not been delegated to officers to decide but, at this stage, is going through its “scheme of delegation” which results in the officer’s draft report being considered by the chairman and vice chairman of the Strategic Planning Committee. The relevant ward members then have five working days to respond on whether they consider the application should be considered at committee or dealt with under delegated powers.

Sally Cooke lives in Tolpuddle with her husband, two grown up sons and her spotty rescue dog. Sally will be writing seasonal pieces for The West Dorset Magazine and you can see her work, Sparrows in a Puddle at Instagram.com/ sparrows.puddle.photos Have you seen a swallow yet this spring? Around the start of April I expect my first sighting of these aerobatic birds with their glossy blue backs, red throats and long tail streamers. Our Dorset swallows have spent the winter 6,000 miles away in South Africa and when we first see them in the spring, they’ll have just finished a journey that took them up through Africa, over

Solar farm support after route change By Karen Bate newsdesk@westdorsetmag.co.uk

A planning application for a 40-acre solar farm near Maiden Newton has now secured the backing from the parish council after a new route into the site has been agreed. While Maiden Newton Parish Council had agreed the application ‘in principle’ councillors were concerned with the amount of ‘construction traffic’ on small narrow lanes. However, applicant Environmena ‘has worked very closely with Maiden Newton Parish Council and the local community to finalise a new route into

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Down to earth

The Pagan origins of CofE churches PAGAN VIEWS By Jo Belasco

I got side-tracked. The plan was to go for a walk along the South Dorset Coast path at Bincombe. We marched past a church, considering checking it out on our return. A sudden tinkling noise made me stop and turn to see a wind chime dream catcher twirling in a yew tree. There were grazing sheep in the graveyard with shafts of light cascading down on them. I was enchanted and did a U-turn. Bincombe Burial mounds are only a stone’s throw away. This is indeed an area of bronze age ceremonial landscape – a Pagan landscape. Many early churches were built on previously pagan sites. A striking example of this is Knowlton Church in East Dorset, “the landscape itself Christianised as prominent features were rededicated to Christian Saints”. I don’t get caught up in debates over what’s the difference between paganism, wicca or neodruidism etc. I am just a nature loving rambler in search of the sacred and I certainly found it at Holy Trinity Church, Bincombe. The church has 12th century origins and there is no car park, limited onstreet parking and no toilets. I am drawn to old

churches partly because of my interest in architecture and partly seeking something sacred – seeking something inherently good. Inside Holy Trinity, I was amazed and delighted to see conkers and shells laid out in a pattern on the font cover. Exploring further I discovered a collection of pebbles and stones displayed around a bowl of flowers, then a medieval holy water stoop. These were often used by priests to do the sign of the cross on parishioners before any holy ceremony. Arguably, a Catholic church is more sensual than Church of England with its smell of incense, sights of sculpture, sounds of choirs and tasting of communion wine. But this church had long ago become Church of England yet it was elemental! It had been the sound of air beating its wings on the wind chime which had made me stop. The sight of the fire of the sun beams on the sheep, the presence of holy water and the earth gifts of pebble, conker and shell which touched me.

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Down to earth

Hillforts no longer at risk after work to restore them Hillforts at Hod Hill, Pilsdon Pen, Lambert’s Castle and Coney Castle have been removed from the Heritage at Risk register thanks to the National Trust Hillforts and Habitats project. The earthwork structures date back 2,000 years and tell us how and why our ancestors lived in hilltop locations. The success of the project is due to the hard work and commitment of the ‘Hillfort Hero’ volunteers and ranger

White Sheet HIll at dawn Picture: NATIONAL TRUST IMAGES JOHN MILLER

teams, who have been monitoring surveys for archaeology, undertaking the scrub and rough grassland management and erosion

repair works, reversing the damage which had placed the hillforts on the Heritage at Risk register. The National Trust’s project manager Marie McLeish said: “Wessex hillforts give everyone an opportunity to step back in time and imagine the lives and livelihoods of our ancestors. Often standing in prominent isolation in the landscape, you can get a sense of the hillfort’s positional power whilst enjoying

panoramic views across the countryside.” Historic England Partnerships team leader John Ette said: “One of the best collaborative projects Historic England and the National Trust have achieved in the south west.” The National Trust has launched the Wessex hillforts digital visitor’s guide which can be found at nationaltrust. org.uk/hambledonhill/projects/wessex-hillforts-a nd-habitats-project

It’s not cuckoo spit – it’s nymph camouflage! FORAGING JOHN WRIGHT is a naturalist and forager who lives in rural West Dorset. He has written eight books, four of which were for River Cottage. He wrote the award-winning Forager’s Calendar and in 2021 his Spotter’s Guide to Countryside Mysteries was published.

It is a dry day. You are walking through your garden or through a field and suddenly feel something cold, something wet, on hand or leg. Looking down, you see a little patch of froth on a herbaceous plant or blade of grass. It is, of course, cuckoo spit. This emanation of bubbles has no connection with cuckoos, save that both arrive in spring. The cuckoo, already a known sinner, was handed the blame. There may, however, be just a little more to it than this. The 6th century Spanish scholar, Isidorus, thought

that cuckoos created grasshoppers (not so different from the creatures that cause cuckoo spit) from their saliva. This was as absurd then as it is now, but such flights of imagination continued as far as the 18th century, when barnacle geese (which had never been seen to nest in Europe) were thought to be spontaneously generated from the goose barnacle. The Latin name of the barnacle is Lepas anserifera, which means, ‘limpet that bears geese’. So, if it is not cuckoos,

grasshoppers (or, come to that, barnacles) that cause cuckoo spit, what is it? It is the nymph stages of insects known as a spittlebugs or froghoppers, the most common being the common froghopper, Philaenus spumarius. The nymphs are delicate creatures, easily revealed when the froth is gently removed. With eyes widely spaced, they always look affronted, as though you had crept into their bathroom and parted the shower curtain. The bubbles are defensive structures; as the Lady’s

Own Paper of 1850 puts it, ‘to cover and protect its wingless infancy’. They also keep the nymphs moist, their ancestors having once lived in the wetter environment of the soil. Like aphids, they feed by tapping into the thin, sugary sap of their host plant. Excess fluid (of which there will be a great deal) is passed to the lower gut where a cocktail of chemicals is added. Some of these impart a bitter flavour to the fluid to deter predation and the other main additives are stearic and palmitic acids, the components of soap! With its bottom in the air, the mixture is expelled from its rear end. This runs down the underside of the nymph’s abdomen through a cavity made by moveable plates which act as bellows. It is these that blow the bubbles that are subsequently wriggled into place to hide the shy nymph.

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Plant of the week...

Dandelion – Taraxacum officinale By botanist Dr Dave Aplin Disrespectfully described as lawn weeds, dandelions are amazing. Although their ubiquity can make us blinkered to the beauty of their spring flowers. There’s a lot more to dandelions than you might first imagine. All parts are edible if prepared correctly, their flowers make a delicious wine but are also a vital food source for pollinating insects such as wild bees, butterflies, hoverflies and moths. Curiously though, the actions of these pollinators are

seldom necessary because most dandelions develop seeds regardless of whether they have been fertilized or not. This process of asexual reproduction (apomixis) has given rise to over 250 distinct types in the UK alone, some of which are

UPHOLSTERY BEAMINSTER endangered on a worldwide UPHOLSTERY AND scale. So perhaps give the FURNITURE REPAIR humble dandelion a second Please ring Mike for a quote thought before weeding. 07470 007588 or email

beaminsterupholstery@gmail.com

Births, marriages and deaths

David did so much for community By Dan Goater newsdesk@westdorsetmag.co.uk

Tributes have poured in following the sudden tragic death of community stalwart David Leader aged 65. Former Metropolitan Police officer David Leader, who was a member of Broadwindsor Group Parish Council, leaves behind his wife Elaine and children Rosie and Ryan. Mr Leader, who died suddenly in March, had lived in Broadwindsor with his family for ten years and was a pillar of the community. In addition to serving on the parish council for eight years, Mr Leader worked part time at Broadwindsor Primary School and was chairman of the Parent Teacher Association for many years. Mr Leader was also the chairman of the

INSPIRATIONAL: David Leader

Broadwindsor Community Sports Field, chairman of the Bridport Football Partnership, chairman of the Broadwindsor Group Parish Community Land Trust and a member of the Steering Committee of Beaminster Youth Club. He also worked with the Beaminster Scouts group and was a qualified coach who worked for the Bridport Youth Football Club.

In a statement, Broadwindsor Group Parish Council said: “The parish council is so very saddened by the sudden passing of David Leader. “An inspirational parish councillor, colleague and friend. “The breadth of David’s active involvement in the local community including Comrades Hall, Hursey Common, the Community Shop, The White Lion, the Community Land Trust and School to name but a few is a true testament to his generous character and his passion for helping others. “He will be greatly missed by so many across our communities. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.” Warm tributes have also been paid to Mr Learner online. On Facebook, Jo Banner said: “Such sad news, a

truly, lovely genuine man. “The village won’t be the same without him. “Our love and thoughts to Elaine, Ryan and Rosie.” Susanne Slater wrote: “This is such awful news. Our thoughts are with Elaine, Rosie and Ryan.” Adrian Gray posted: “Words do not describe the shock and sadness. David was a good friend and did so much for the village and others. “He was especially helpful to the fun group and his help will be missed terribly. Love to his family.” Dee Hayward said: “Thinking of you all at this sad time may he rest in peace. Sending our love to Elaine, Ryan and Rosie – you are in our prayers.” Mr Learner’s family has asked that people make donations to charities supporting people in Ukraine in his memory.

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Letters

newsdesk@westdorsetmag.co.uk

We need to use more land to grow food I am extremely worried at the insinuations being banded about that those people who are not fans of rewilding are extreme right wingers. This is far from the case. I am against the huge plans to grow wildflowers and trees on miles and miles of croppable land not only here in West Dorset but throughout the country at the beginning of a food crisis. I am most definitely not a right winger – I am concerned that rising food costs will hurt the poorest in our little area, and believe me we have hundreds of families who are hungry and rely on foodbanks. We know fertiliser is expensive and these costs are rising. We also know that

energy costs are rising. But why on earth do we have to rely on importing food when we could grow it here? I am not against rewilding barren and unproductive land, but recent figures show that as much as a third of productive land, which could grow wheat for example, is being turned over to the wild. Yes climate change is a factor, but growing poppies and cornflowers on a third of our farmland at a time when we are likely to see

the cost of food rise exponentially is not a good plan. Moreover, what about the energy costs in importing the food? If we grow it in the UK we won’t have to rely so heavily on the global food supply. Right now, rewilding is not a luxury we can afford, as a nation. I would very much like to know what other readers think, especially farmers. Am I missing something? C Sherman Sherborne

n I really don’t understand what all the fuss is about over what hives are best for bees. With a so-called climate change ‘emergency’ does it matter if we use a top-bar hive or a Langstroth or any other design as long as we are attracting more bees? My father, who is fairly new to bee-keeping uses a top-bar hive because he finds it easier given his age. He only needs to lift the lid and not heavy boxes. I do not keep bees and I am sure there are many arguments to be had over the type of hives you keep bees in, but I don’t understand why there seems to be so much snobbery over hives. Surely the point is to help bees thrive, no matter how you house them? Name and address supplied

Items for sale Swivel TV chair, fawn, £25. Sherborne 07935 977985. Two Parker Knoll matching sofas, 3 seater and 2 seater. Oakley ‘Water Green’, very good condition. Protected by Scotchguard stain prevention. £100ono 01935 872459. Piano for sale in Buckland Newton £25 Buyer to collect 07813 556825. Caravan water carrier (Aquaroll) with handle £50. 01963 23680 Caravan wastewater carrier £45 01963 23680. Caravan Towing mirrors £50 01963 23680. Exercise bike- MARCY -

VINYL RECORDS BOUGHT Clocktower Music Bridport Please phone 01308 458077

Good condition Can send photo on request - £10 donation to Ukraine 01308 482497. Milenco compact caravan wheel lock, unused. £65 01963 23680 (Holwell). Cosy house luxury bamboo duvet unopened super king £25 01308 862786. 61 boxed diecast Lledo Days

Gone, Corgi, Matchbox & Promotional model vehicles, plus Lledo 15 Model Display Cabinet. Vgc. £75. Photos available. 01308 423177. Vintage Barbour Border Green Wax Jacket, Large size C42/107cm with Badge, detachable Hood and pile lining, new zip and professional hemming, waxing kit. Vgc, photos available, £85, 01308 423177. Printer for sale Canon G4510 4-in-1 refillable Mega Tank printer. Used, good condition. £50. Phone 07598 767589. Collection in Sherborne.

51 Ltr fresh water hog. 1 yr old, little use. Inc. folding handle & filling hose. £25. 46 Ltr waste water hog. 1 yr old, little use. £25 Caravan towing mirrors. Very good condition. £10 07582 821235.

Advertise your items for sale priced up to £100 FREE: Email newsdesk@westdorsetmag.co.uk

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Constituency issues

with West Dorset MP Chris Loder

More than 700 signatures on Cornhill petition The petition I set up two weeks ago calling for the road at Cornhill in Sherborne to be re-opened has gathered well over 700 signatures. I have strongly urged Councillor Hall to listen to these voices and change his opposition to the re-opening of the road. It is causing untold distress to the businesses throughout the town and this situation now requires urgent action. According to the BBC, Sherborne’s Sunday Market has been told that it cannot go ahead whilst these roads are shut. It is a relief to hear that the repairs have started to the damaged wall on the A30 – the root cause of this. n The Minor Injuries Unit at the Yeatman

Hospital in Sherborne has been a service I have been pleased to champion since my election, and have strongly backed the campaign to re-open it ever since the initial closure around two years ago. Having been born at the Yeatman many moons ago and lived in and around Sherborne most of my life, I know just how much the service means to so many people. I am therefore very pleased to hear it is now back open and providing an invaluable service once more. n I attended the Melplash Agricultural Society Annual Dinner on March 25. I have been a

longstanding member of the society myself and am now attending as the local MP. It was a wonderful evening and a worthwhile reminder that supportive MPs are very important to farming communities. Don’t forget the Melplash Show this year will be Thursday, August 25. n It was a pleasure to champion some of the many fantastic attractions within West Dorset as MP during English Tourism Week 2022. As part of this, I was invited on Friday, March 25 to visit Monkton Wyld Holiday Park near Lyme Regis: a fantastic and prizewinning example of a local business that

emphasises the value in enhancing the natural environment while providing optimum customer experience. n The infrastructure of our road network is as crucial as ever as we get ready for summer, with potholes, road signage, cats-eyes, speeding and congestion all posing issues for motorists. My A Roads Taskforce has successfully achieved a solution to flooding at Monkey’s Jump and Max Gate. Now, the A35 enhanced maintenance activities have cleaned, repaired and replaced road signs, defects and surfaces across the A35. This will be continuing until the whole stretch of the road has had the TLC it requires.

Politics

Battered by a perfect storm of rising prices On April 1 the cost of living crisis became a reality for thousands of people living in Dorset. For the third year in a row Dorset Council has increased its share of the Council Tax by the maximum allowed by the government. For most local households that means finding another £50 from already stretched family budgets. For many others it means they are paying over £2,000 a year for the first time. In addition, Conservative councillors have chosen this time to increase car parking charges. There are new charges on Sunday’s while some car parking

By ANDY CANNING West Dorset LibDems

charges are rising by up to 500%! If you want to avoid this increase you could buy a “flexi-stay” permit -but that costs £260. The only other car parking permit costs a more reasonable £78 but only gives you two hours. These increases are bad news for residents and potentially disastrous for local shops and businesses. When every penny counts those who are struggling will use the free parking that’s available at out-oftown centre stores. This

helps the large chain stores but only speeds up the decline of our historic town centres. On top of the problems caused by war in Ukraine, the covid pandemic and Brexit, the Conservative councillors running Dorset Council are making things even worse. The increases in Council Tax and car parking charges are potentially the straw that broke the camel’s back as they come on top of an average rise in energy prices of £700, higher National Insurance contributions and higher prices for petrol and diesel. Many poorer Dorset residents are facing a perfect storm – paying

more in tax just at the time that energy prices are rocketing and the cost of food has started to rise. They are faced with a stark immediate choice between eating or heating. So far local Conservatives have failed to appreciate how serious his situation has become. Liberal Democrats are calling for an emergency cut in VAT to help right now and a major increase in investment to insulate older homes and so reduce their energy bills. Locally Dorset Council needs to cut down on waste and do more to bring its Council Tax and car parking charges under control.

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Politics

Pensioners need to be better looked after This week two Dorchester pensioners told me how they are trying to sell their retirement home and move closer to their daughter. Ron, aged 87 and Sandra 85 are anxious they will not be able to sell. Sandra told me that one of the flats in her block has been on the market for years, that the high service charges and ground rent put buyers off and that often these homes sell for much less than the original price. Pensioners and their families often lose out substantially. We continue to see more of these retirement developments in West Dorset: a developer has recently completed a development of over 40 homes in Dorchester and

By CLAUDIA SORIN West Dorset Labour Party

another 40 about to go up at the former Mountjoy school in Bridport. It appears that the units in Dorchester are not selling like hot cakes. Could it be time for a new approach? Over the next 20 years, the number of people aged over 65 in the UK is forecast to increase by more than 40 per cent, to 18 million. Dorset Council has the highest proportion of older residents aged 65+ in England, many are living in accommodation which is now too large for them. But for those who have moved into retirement flats, like Ron and Sandra,

service charges are spiralling (in one retirement block in Dorchester by over 16% in April) at a time when their incomes are falling. We are seeing the emergence of a housing crisis where perfectly decent flats stay empty, elderly people become even more reluctant to move from houses that have become too big for them and younger families cannot find suitable accommodation. McCarthy and Stone recently received £94 million in public funding from the Government house-building agency Homes England to build 1,500 affordable retirement properties. This funding should go to notfor-profit housing

associations and councils. The backdrop to this crisis is that due to the Conservative’s suspension of the triple lock, pensions are due to rise by just 3.1% in April at a time when inflation now looks like it could increase to over 10%, with soaring costs for food and energy. Older people have contributed to the wider economy in lots of ways throughout their lives. They have worked, educated and cared for others so that they in turn can continue to work and contribute to a stronger economy. We must look after our ageing population now, just as they have looked after us.

Turbines could have powered 80% of Dorset The threats to the world trade in gas and oil caused by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the need stop the burning of fossil fuels in order to prevent runaway climate change, together with the soaring costs in energy bills for most consumers means that we need to seriously reconsider where and how we produce our energy. To my mind our energy needs to not only be derived from 100% renewable sources (chiefly wind and solar) but also be generated locally. It is really sad that the application to construct the Navitus Bay windfarm off the coast of Dorset was not approved. Had this windfarm been built is would have been able to

By KELVIN CLAYTON West Dorset Green Party

supply up to 80% of Dorset’s electricity. I really fail to see how the sight of wind turbines out at sea could have distracted from anyone’s enjoyment of our wonderful world heritage coastline. As we urgently need to make full use of the wind available to us I really hope another application comes forward in the next round of licensing. One of the advantages of the local generation of electricity is that it limits the energy lost through transmission. An even more local idea is through the establishment of Energy

Local schemes like the one in Bridport. This scheme, the first of its kind in England, enables 55 households to form a club and buy their electricity directly from the Salway Ash wind turbine at around 12 pence per kWh. There are plans through the building of a 1 acre community-funded solar farm to supply an additional 250 households in Bridport. Just imagine what could be achieved if turbines were sited on the hills surrounding the town. Evidence shows that objections to onshore wind quickly fall away if local people directly benefit from the power generated. I would love to hear your views on this. A combination of a large windfarm off the coast of

Dorset together with Energy Local clubs established in as many towns and communities like Bridport as possible would ensure that our energy would not only be secure from world events, but it would be lower cost, low carbon and support the local economy. Our local economy could be further enriched by a massive project to ensure that all our homes were retrofitted to the highest energy efficiency standards possible. Whilst the free energy efficiency advice and promotion of ‘energy champions’ by Bridport Town Council is a great start, this needs to be expanded and greatly enhanced by Dorset Council.

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Church Services A service of Easter reflections through organ music will be delivered by Paul Cheater at 6.30pm on Monday, April 11 at Litton Cheney Church. Long Bredy Church will hold a Compline service of chanted prayer at 6.30pm on Tuesday, April 12. The Rev Liz Howlett will lead Holy Week reflections, including readings from Julian of Norwich, at Puncknowle Church on Wednesday, April 13 from 6.30pm. A Holy Communion service, including a remembrance of the Last Supper and the stripping of the altar, will be held on Maundy Thursday, April 14, at Swyre Church from 6.30pm. Litany services, including St John’s account of the events preceding Jesus’ crucifixion, will be held at Shipton Gorge Church and Littlebredy Church at 10am on Good Friday, April 15. A Good Friday vigil will be held from noon to 3pm at Burton Bradstock Church. An Easter Saturday vigil will take place at Chilcombe Church at 6.30pm. Join a seaside

service run by the Churches of the Bride Valley from 6am on Sunday, April 17 at Hive Beach, Burton Bradstock. Bridport Catholic Church has Mass every Sunday at 10am. The Abbey: Weekday services every Monday-Saturday at 8.30 am – Morning Prayer -The Sepulchre Chapel Every Monday at 9am CW Holy Communion The Lady Chapel Every Monday at 7.30pm –Address and Compline (last service on Monday, April 4 Every Tuesday at 12pm – CW Holy Communion The Lady Chapel Every Wednesday at 10.30am –Holy Communion with Homily –The Lady Chapel (alternates CW and BCP) Sherborne Abbey Palm Sunday, April 10 8am BCP Holy Communion 9.15am Liturgy of the Palms Procession (The Green, top of Cheap Street, then proceed, behind the donkey, to The Abbey) 9.30 am Parish Eucharist 6pm Choral Evensong Castleton Church 11am BCP Holy Communion Lillington Church 10am Morning Service Holy Communion Longburton Church 10am Village Communion St Paul’s @The Gryphon 10.30 am All Age Worship Speaker: The Reverend Oli Fricker Melbury Services Palm Sunday

Sunday, April 10 Halstock 10am Holy Communion Melbury Osmond 9.30am Holy Communion Maiden Newton 9.30am Worship Service Cattistock 6pm Evening Prayer Good Friday Sunday, April 15 East Chelborough 11am Castle Hill Melbury Osmond 2pm Hour at the Cross Maiden Newton 9.30am Good Friday Service Easter Sunday Corscombe Sunrise Service 9.30am Family Communion Halstock 9.30am Family Communion West Chelborough 11am Morning Prayer Evershot 10am Family Communion Melbury Osmond 9.30am Holy Communion Frome St Quintin 11am Holy Communion Melbury Bubb 11am Holy Communion Rampisham 11am Holy Communion by extension Wraxall 11.15am Holy Communion Maiden Newton 9.30am Family Service Cattistock 10am Holy Communion Chilfrome 8am Holy Communion Frome Vauchurch 9am Holy Communion

Activities By: Claire Robinson Mess! As a mum I have long become accustomed to mess. Even though my girls are now embarking on their teen years they still seem to attract it – messy hair, messy rooms, messy desks... When younger there was nearly always a trail of messy chaos behind them wherever they went. I’ve had to become chief constable in charge of clean up operations at home. It’s not unusual to find me issuing orders to pick it up, put it away, tidy, clean and sort. Sometimes I’m listened to, often not but nowadays I believe the man upstairs

Sometimes By The Rev Deb Smith, Team Rector of Bridport

You may have heard the story about a man who gets too close to the edge of the Grand Canyon, loses his balance, and slips over the edge. Just before falling, he grabs onto a root sticking out from the edge. “Help me!” he screams. “Is there anyone up there? Help me! Save me! Is there anyone up there? A voice answers: “I am the Lord. I can save you. Do you believe in me? “Do you really want me to help you?” “O, yes, Lord, I believe in you, more than you’ll ever know.

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Church

at Easter where we clean up for you! is also casting a watchful eye over our family mess (and I don’t mean the husband as he is an equal mess contributor) I mean God. I don’t mean He’s watching over us with some giant heavenly hoover waiting to pounce on another dropped biscuit, abandoned half eaten sandwich or spilt drink. More that He’s watchfully guiding us as we navigate life’s figuratively messy path. Think arguments, stress, illness, loss, heartache... I’ve faith in His watchfulness on a global scale too. He’s needed more than ever as the chief mess mopper upper with the state of the world being so fragile as we all continue to suffer from the impact of covid, wars and climate change. So as a tiny step towards mess management perhaps attending a Messy Church afternoon with your family might help?

Sessions are informal gatherings for any children (under 11) and the adults close to them that involve creativity, celebration and hospitality. The mess encountered at one of these arty, sticky events may be literal for some but listen carefully for the MESSage based around a Bible theme that each session will have at its heart. The Melbury team are excited that it can continue Messy

Church sessions again following a gap during covid and will be hosting a Messy Easter session on Sunday, April 10 at 3pm – 4.30pm, in St Mary’s, Maiden Newton. Previous Easter sessions have seen over 40 children with their families joining in the fun and learning more about Easter and what made Jesus so special and unique. This year there’s plans

afoot for: egg painting, cross decorating, Easter gardens and even the... Rolling Stones. Apologies, no capitals – I mean rolling stones. As always there will be an informal group time towards the end to give everyone the opportunity to hear afresh the Easter story, ably re told with much audience participation by one of the team. And to end – a sandwich tea with plentiful cake eating opportunities for adults and children alike to enjoy together. Don’t worry – we’ll clear up the kids’ mess! Maybe the MESSiah is the MESSenger (or MESSmanager?) you need. Perhaps Messy Church is where you’ll find Him? For more info please contact: Rev Daniel Ingles 01935 891858 revdanielingles@ hotmail.com

faith is all about trusting and letting go “Please help me.” “OK,” the Lord says. “I’ll save you. Now, let go.” “What?!” “Just let go of that root you’re holding on to, and I’ll save you. You have to trust me.” The man pauses a moment, and then shouts out, “Is there anyone else up there?!” As we continue the journey of Lent, we acknowledge it is so often a difficult path, and sometimes we might even plunge off the road altogether. We want a comfortable life. In our homes, in our work,

our communities and in our relationships. It helps us to feel secure. But we should also be aware of the risks of being too comfortable, for settling for a peace that is not deeply rooted. This Lent I guess we have all been thinking of those whose path is not in the least secure

or easy. Those fleeing for their lives; living in places of war; those denied an education; the bereaved and fearful and all for whom life is precarious and uncertain. How can we focus only on our own comfort when others, perhaps even our own neighbours, are struggling to keep going? We make our journey together – and I hope wherever we are, we will offer a helping hand to those we can reach and accept the helping hand when it is offered to us, trusting that we travel in the steps of the God who is always walking with us.

So, I’m reminded of the old prayer: Lord God, you have called your servants to ventures of which we cannot see the endings, by paths, as yet untrodden, through perils unknown. Give us faith to go out with good courage, not knowing where we go, but only that your hand is leading us, and your love supporting us; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

THE HE HORSE WITH WI HE RED UMBRELLA UMBRELL THE

Vittles (food & drink)

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PoCo makes us By Karen Bate newsdesk@westdorsetmag.co.uk

With Easter around the corner there is no better time to dive into the delicious world of chocolate. Enter Helen Dent, the passionate chocolatier who is creating chocolate alchemy from her ‘PoCo’ kitchen in Dorchester. PoCo Chocolate began in 2020, amidst the mayhem of the coronavirus pandemic and a redundancy from a senior position at the RNLI, but the seeds of a career in chocolate were sown a year before, when Helen took a trip to Switzerland to visit her best friend. Helen said: “My best friend lives in Switzerland so my husband, daughter and myself went on a road trip

to visit her in Lausanne. We went via Luxembourg on the way, and Brussels on the way home. Our son Monty was studying and so was unable join us and so, feeling guilty, we decided to placate him with chocolate from every stopover. This was no hardship in fact, it was fabulous! “We fell in love with the beautiful shops on our travels, the way the chocolate is crafted and presented. We eat with our eyes. It is harder to find chocolate like that over here, so when I was made redundant our Swiss journey kept returning to my thoughts. “My husband bought me a chocolatier’s course, so I could learn to make chocolate and my gosh, it was intense.”

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Vittles (food & drink)

loco for choco Helen learnt the art of creating world-class confectionary, working with chocolate in its purest form, revealing its potential and releasing the flavours of the cacao bean. She turned her farmhouse pantry into a magical world of moulds, melangers, roasters, brushes and whisks as she set to work on turning the cocoa bean into something exquisite. PoCo Chocolate was born. Named over ‘a glass of wine or two’ as a post covid new business, poco also means ‘a little bit’ in Spanish, which Helen says describes her chocolates perfectly. “I encourage everyone to take just two bites. The first bite will give an intense hit, the second will allow the complex flavours to come

through the palette. These chocolates are very rich and very intense, one or two is perfect. Just a little bit of indulgence to put a smile on your face.” Helen grows as many of her ingredients from her kitchen garden and when this isn’t possible, she sources then from local growers and suppliers as she is conscious to leave as small a carbon footprint as is possible. She added: “With the destruction of the rainforests at the forefront of our minds, we only source our cacao from companies that are supporting local people to earn an income without having to destroy our beautiful planet.” n Pocochocolate.com

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Booking your table is recommended

Wardon Hill, Evershot, Nr Dorchester, Dorset DT2 9PW 01935 483430

www.gahotel.co.uk

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Vittles (food & drink) Karen Broad lives in Burton Bradstock, with her husband and two mad dogs. She ran The Mousetrap in Dorchester, has lived in France and loves discovering new food producers.

Village shop’s a lifeline in many ways All of us recognise the value of the village shop, especially when you run out of something, it’s a convenience, but it’s so much more than that! I hold up my hands, I should use it more. Yes, I use the Post Office and shop, but I do tend to take it for granted…it’s always there, but one day it may not be, and that’s a worrying thought. A local family run village shop, and quintessentially English. Chatting to Gill Mayo from the Maydown Farm shop and Post Office in Burton Bradstock, I recognised this is not ‘just’ a local service provision, it fashions a community. In all weathers, news and gossip is exchanged in cheerful banter, the Methuselah’s pause, watchful like old Deuteronomy they patiently wait, conversing on ‘whatever’ is topical. This is village life at its best, and the village shop is both its engine room and driver. For many it is a lifeline for socialisation.

From daily papers to basic essentials, fresh vegetables, home deliveries and prescription collection point, this hardworking business provides unfailingly for the community. That is deserving of our acknowledgement and appreciation. Belly pork is a ‘Marmite’ cut of pork but it’s versatile and good value. The recipe can be eaten hot, but it’s delicious cold with a crisp green salad.

Maydown Shop and Post Office in Mill Street is a pretty building with bow frontage, painted rubble stone walls and a low thatched roof. The door, framed by roses, is always open, literally and metaphorically. There is always a warm welcome, someone’s always there to help. Gill and Pete Mayo’s farm stretches 120 acres across the

Bride Valley, producing grass fed beef and lamb. Their pigs produce the meat for the lean and tasty sausages that Gill makes for the shop, amongst many other traditional delights, including curing her own bacon, faggots, and black pudding. Goodies from Charmouth bakery tempt the pallet and daughter Laura’s quiches and cakes are a feast to the eye.

Slow roasted herbed belly pork 1.5 – 2kg piece of belly pork 2 cloves Garlic Mixed herbs Olive oil, seasoning. Method Place your piece of pork fat down on a flat surface with some butchery string underneath it Mix herbs and garlic and spread this mix on the meat side Roll up, tie tightly, oil the fat and sprinkle with salt Slow roast for 4 hrs When cooked refrigerate and slice thinly

Mum’s Kitchen... Asparagus Quiche Serves 6 This lovely summery treat goes well with buttered new potatoes and colourful salads. Ingredients: Ready-rolled shortcrust pastry, or homemade if preferred 100g ricotta cheese

2 large eggs 2 egg yolks 200ml double cream 100g parmesan cheese, finely grated 150g asparagus spears, woody ends removed Black pepper Method Preheat the oven to 180C/160C fan. Boil or steam the asparagus for 2

minutes, then drain and leave to cool. Butter a 20cm quiche dish and line with the pastry of choice and prick the base with a fork. Put it into the fridge to chill for 20 minutes or so, then line with nonstick paper and baking beans. Bake blind for 16 minutes, then remove the paper and baking beans and cook for another 5 minutes.

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Vittles (food & drink) Lizzie Crow – AKA Lizzie Baking Bird – is a self taught baker, who has a stall outside her home in Upwey each Saturday. See her scrumptious eats at lizziebakingbird.co.uk or find lizzibakingbird on Instagram.

One way or another you have to make blondies You will likely all have made brownies but have you tried blondies? They’re made with white chocolate. As Easter is approaching, I’ve thrown in a few mini eggs to keep the children interested, however you can leave them plain. And use rice flour if you want to make them gluten-free. Ingredients Makes 9 pieces 225g butter 300g white chocolate 3 eggs 300g soft light brown sugar 100g plain flour, or rice flour 150g mini eggs Method Preheat the oven to gas 4/ 180C. Grease and line a 20 cm square tin. Put the butter and white chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Sit

this over a saucepan with about an inch of water in it (a bain-marie) and place over a medium heat. Melt butter and chocolate together whilst constantly stirring. Or, if like me you crave an easy life, pop them in a microwavable bowl and microwave for three minutes until melted. Put the eggs and sugar in a mixing bowl and beat for

with Diana Holman Meanwhile, make the filling. Whisk together ricotta and whole eggs, the add egg yolks and double cream. Stir in the grated parmesan and add a good grind of black pepper. Arrange the asparagus spears in the pastry case and pour over the filling. Bake in the oven for 30-35 minutes until it has just a slight wobble in the middle. Delicious warm or cold.

at least five minutes, using an electric mixer, until the mixture is pale and fluffy and doubled in volume. Add the melted chocolate, along with the flour, to the whisked eggs and fold in gently, until they are combined. Pour the batter into the prepared tin. Spread the mini eggs evenly over the top. Chances are that

these will sink – that’s fine. This way they will be nicely dispersed in the blondies rather than drop right to the bottom, as they would if you stirred them into the batter. Put the tray in the oven for about 40-45 minutes. When a skewer is inserted it should come out clean. Take the blondie out of the oven and leave it to cool. Once cool, pop it in the fridge and leave overnight (or at least 4 hours). Take it out of the fridge and cut into nine pieces. The blondies will keep in an airtight container for at least a week. Serve with a cup of tea... Perfect. You can find Lizzie at The Old Ship Inn, Upwey, every Saturday morning with her bakes. Follow her on instagram lizzibakingbird or at lizziebakingbird.co.uk

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Gardening

xxxxx

Horticulture...

...with botanist Dr Dave Aplin

Born and bred in West Dorset, Dave has worked in horticulture and botany locally and internationally, notably in Belgium, Jordan and the UAE. He brings a wealth of practical knowledge with its underlying principles to his writing

Try taking cuttings – I’m rooting for you! One of my favorite gardening activities is taking cuttings. The art of producing an entirely separate plant from a shoot severed from another by tempting root growth is magical. I first became fascinated as a child, propagating exhibition dahlia cuttings with dad, and dispatching them rooted across the country. If you have never attempted to take cuttings, then why not give it a go, it’s child’s play! Propagation allows you to increase numbers of some of your favourite plants or save money by purchasing half the number you need and doubling them within weeks. April is a perfect month for taking softwood cuttings. Softwood refers to young, flexible growth often only a few weeks old. This type of shoot has actively dividing cells that allow plants to readily produce roots when treated in an appropriate way. The success rate is normally high, but this rather depends on the plant in question and the technique adopted. The prerequisite though is the plant must produce leafbearing stems so those forming rosettes that sit tight to the ground such as primulas, spider plants, most ferns and grasses are propagated by different methods. This leaves a vast array of plants that lend themselves perfectly to being multiplied from softwood cuttings. These include most

Small cuttings maximise space in the propagator. Here are 16 rooted chrysanthemum cuttings

houseplants, bedding plants, herbaceous perennials, climbers, shrubs, wildflowers and even some trees. The procedure is straightforward. Look for healthy, sturdy growth that is typical of the plant you are propagating. Using a sharp knife, remove the shoot from the parent plant just above a leaf joint. Trim the severed shoot just below a set of leaves and carefully remove them. You want to achieve a cutting between 3 and 10cm in length. I prefer cuttings on the small side, often smaller than gardening books describe, because I think they root quicker, and it allows you to pack more cuttings into the same sized space. If your chosen plant has large leaves then reduce their size using a sharp knife. The art of successful propagation is to create conditions for the cutting to

A dahlia cutting ready to be taken

survive and root as quickly as possible because the severed shoot is extremely vulnerable, especially to drying out. The base of the cutting needs to be warm, damp and aerated, achieve this and cell division and subsequently root growth is maximised. Choose a peat-free cutting compost or make your own mixture combining a 50:50 mix of sharp sand and coir. Carefully place the cuttings into the compost, gently firm, water in and allow them to drain. The cuttings are then best placed into a heated propagator (at this time of year) because it provides gentle warmth stimulating cell division and root growth. Propagators come in all sizes and budgets or can be homemade using horticultural heat mats or soil warming cables. Importantly,

most cuttings need humid conditions that reduces loss of water until rooted. Rooting times vary, if you root tomatoes then you will have plants in under a week, but two to three weeks is typical for other plants, although some shrubs take longer. Some might notice I have yet to mention rooting hormone, often applied to the base of cuttings. This product comes in powder, gel or liquid form. It contains tiny amounts of a synthetic rooting chemical and fungicide that stimulate roots and reduces fungal infection. They can be very helpful, especially for cuttings that are a bit more stubborn, I don’t always use it because the vital factor for success is achieving the right environment.

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The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Culture Acclaimed classical composer and pianist Tamara Konstantin has wowed audiences across the country as a special guest supporting Aled Jones MBE on his cathedral tour. Tamara, from Weymouth, along with renowned cellist Jiaxin Lloyd Webber and violinist Elly Suh, formed The Three Graces. Tamara has been enjoying huge success with her third album Resilience, which was composed during the pandemic and is testament to Tamara’s belief in the power of music to console, uplift and bring people together. Tamara said: “To support Aled Jones is a great honour and to be playing in such exalted surroundings is a genuine thrill. Jiaxin Lloyd Webber, Elly Suh and I are very excited be involved with the tour and have received a fantastic reception from audiences and some very kind compliments.” Tamara’s inspiration stems from her deep love for her adopted country, and more particularly, for her home county of Dorset. The classically trained pianist grew up in Georgia, and has built successful careers, first as a TV presenter and then as a senior oil company executive. A move to Dorset 18 years ago sparked a return to her early love of music and the subsequent release of three successful albums followed by the current tour.

COMPOSED: Pianist Tamara Konstantin and, below, with in concert with violinist Elly Suh and, right, on tour with with Aled Jones

Pianist Tamara walking in the air after successful tour

“I love Dorset and feel very privileged to call it home. For me, it’s the most amazing part of England and everything about it is a constant source of inspiration for

the pieces I create.” Tamara graduated from Tbilisi Music Academy after learning the piano at an early age and attending a music school for gifted children in Georgia. As a

classically trained pianist and composer, Tamara has performed for HRH Prince Charles, and had her compositions played on Classic FM and BBC Radio.

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Whasson Culture n St Mary’s Church in Dorchester will resound to the glorious music of Bach, Handel, Purcell and Vivaldi when The Occasional Singers perform a concert of short Baroque masterworks for voices, oboe and strings on Saturday, April 30 at 7.30pm. The singers will be joined by the Soprano Alison Rose and the Tenor Lawrence Thackeray as they run the gamut of emotions from the gentle romantic passion of Handel’s duet As Steals the Morn to the high drama of Vivaldi’s Magnificat. Entrance is free and there will be a retiring collection for Alzheimer’s Research UK n Mosterton Art Group will be holding an annual exhibition at the Skrym Rooms, Public Hall, Beaminster from Saturday, August 26 until Saturday, September 3 10am-5pm. Admission is free. n The Bridport Big Band, under the direction of Musical Director Matt Barge, will be performing at the United Church Bridport on Saturday, May 28 at 7pm for 7.30pm. The concert, arranged by the Rotary Club of Bridport, is to celebrate the Platinum Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth. Profits will go to the Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance and other Rotary Charities.

Good Friday, April 15 from 6pm-7pm. The performance is offered in the context of an act of worship, so admission is free and all very welcome.

THEATRE DATE: St Paul’s Church in Sherborne

Road to the Cross Oddments Theatre, a Christian theatre company based in Yeovil and registered charity, are bringing their new production The Road to the Cross to St Paul’s Church in Sherborne on Friday, April 22 and Saturday, April 23 at 7.30pm. Written by Barry Boyton, it tells the story from Palm Sunday through to Pentecost; following the story of Jesus and his disciples as they embark on a Tickets at £12 are available from Bridport Tourist Information and Rotary club members. n There’s Jazz In The Village at Frampton Village Hall on Saturday, April 16 from 7.30pm. The hall will be laid out

journey together through the highs and the lows. Join them through a powerful and passionate story of the message of God’s love to humanity. Tickets £12 in advance from St Paul’s Church Office (admin@spcsherborn e.co.uk), online at oddmentstheatre.co.uk or £14 on the door (refreshments/ merchandise available in interval). in bistro style with a bar for the event. Tickets are £10 for adults and £5 for under 16s, from Frampton Garage. n Faure’s Requiem will be played at St Peter’s Church, High East Street, Dorchester, DT1 1EZ on

n A free exhibition of artwork by three artists working in different mediums will be held in the stunning setting of Eype Church from April 30-May 8. Jenny Penney creates unique relief-sculpted landscapes of familiar Dorset locations by building up and carving into layers of coloured card. Caroline Ireland uses chalk pastels to create colourful still-life pictures of everyday objects and Naya Downes uses porcelain and stoneware clays to create ceramics for the home and garden inspired by the natural world and the Jurassic Coast. The exhibition is open Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 10am-4.30pm at Eype Church, Centre for the Arts, Mount Lane, Eype, DT6 6AR. eypechurcharts.co.uk n An acoustic night will be held at Bridport’s The Woodman on Tuesday, April 12 from 8pm-11pm. Ann & Neil’s Accoustic Night will comprise solos and duos playing/singing folk, blues, country and all things rootsy in the round. Material is provided for all to join in. Formerly Val & Dave’s Folk Night.

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Business

There’s free parking for shoppers in county town Shoppers can still park for free in Dorchester despite the price hikes – after BID members agreed to fund the town’s successful Park4FREE scheme. More than 70 shops and other businesses in Dorchester and the Dorchester BID are paying the parking charges for anyone who spends more than £10 in a participating business. Two hours’ parking will be refunded to shoppers via the parking voucher scheme operated by the Dorchester BID. When you spend £10 or more in the participating shops and businesses they

will discount £1.50 off your purchase. Just look out for the blue Park4FREE stickers in windows. When you park in town using the meters to park, you get a double part ticket. The first part stays

in the car on the dash as usual and the second part is the voucher that can be redeemed in an evergrowing number of shops in town that want to thank their customers by paying for their parking. The popular scheme has been running for many years, when two hours’ parking cost £1, but members have agreed to continue after the prices went up. In addition, if you park on a street where the meters only produce a single ticket next time you are in town you can take your old

ticket and get the £1.50 off a purchase – The date on the ticket does not matter! DBID project director Phil Gordon said: “I was of course concerned with the new prices coming in but I am very proud of the town’s businesses as they have risen to the challenge, worked with me and have agreed to meet the cost 50/50 with a subsidy from the DBID to keep this innovative scheme alive. “Essentially, come shopping in Dorchester and you can park all day long for free, two hours at a time, just as long as you keep spending money in the town’s businesses!”

Autism training initiative welcomed By Dan Goater newsdesk@westdorsetmag.co.uk

Health and social care professionals throughout Dorset will receive training to help them better support autistic people. Charity Autism Unlimited has been commissioned to develop and roll out the training scheme by Dorset Council and the county’s Clinical Commissioning Group. The charity says the training will help professionals understand how to adapt their ‘behaviour and surroundings to help an autistic person feel included, welcomed, understood and supported’. Donna Wearn, executive director of people,

performance and learning at Autism Unlimited, said: “Assessing when to make small changes, such as simply warning when a bright light is put on or off or ensuring there is a quiet atmosphere, could allow an autistic person to fully engage, receive, and give, important information. Other simple techniques include giving instructions in short sentences. “This training will be an amazing step forward for the autistic community in Dorset and we are thrilled to be partnering with the councils and healthcare partners to deliver this training package which has been co-produced with the autistic network.” Donna added: “There is growing recognition that only minor changes are

required to accommodate the needs of autistic people. Autism Unlimited exists to support and empower autistic children, adults and their families. We work collaboratively, listen and respect the view that all autistic individuals are recognised for their unique skills and abilities. This is the first of many training in the workplace educational programmes we are running during 2022 and we are absolutely delighted that we are starting with council and health employees.” Councillor Peter Wharf, briefholder for Adult Social Care at Dorset Council, said: “Autistic people often encounter barriers due to a lack of public understanding of autism.

“Autistic people can often experience a lack of timely and informed support for themselves and their families, poor access to general health and mental health services, an inability to gain and maintain employment based on their strengths and abilities, as well as social isolation.” Tracey Naylor, steering group member at Dorset Parent Carer Council, said: “We are very excited to be involved in a much needed and long-awaited development which will certainly benefit and be welcomed by many of the families we represent. “We are particularly pleased the training will be delivered by and include the lived experience of people from Dorset.”

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Business

There’s a real buzz and hive of activity By Andrew Diprose editor@dorsetbiznews.co.uk

Chris Bialan is a busy bee. He’s the founder of a Community Interest Company (CIC) which is on a mission to save the bees in Dorset – and Hampshire – by building and installing 500 new beehives. They’re now looking for foster homes for the hives. All costs are covered by Bee Mission and the beehives will be fully maintained by one of their beekeepers And it doesn’t stop there. Bee Mission 500 CIC also plans to offer support for homeless people to upskill and retrain in a variety of roles within the project, including becoming beekeepers. Chris, 64, first came up with the concept a few years ago. He said: “I was moving my daughter, Jess, with the help of a guy called Serge. “We were in the van together for four hours on the way to Stoke from Bournemouth and somehow we got round to talking about bees. “I’ve always loved bees and, on that trip, I found out that Serge was a beekeeper and had been for the last nine years. “At the time, he was running four hives on an estate which got me thinking.”

BEEHIVE YOURSELF: Chris Bialan and, below, beekeeper Serge

Chris is also Chairman of Affinity Care Group Limited, the Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, Kings Lodge Centre for Complex Needs and Joint Owner of five care homes across the country. He said: “On that journey, I got thinking about all the gardens and available space out there that could be used for hives. “I then realised that the grounds at my care home sites were a great place to start.”

Bee Mission’s pilot scheme in 2020 was not a success. It saw the installation of four beehives at Kings Lodge Nursing Home in Reigate, one of Chris’ care homes where Serge was working at the time. Chris said: “The hives at Kings Lodge didn’t actually work. “The bees didn’t take well or produce much honey. “So we decided to try another site. “We put some hives in at the Allenbrook Nursing

home in Fordingbridge. “Thankfully this site was much more successful. “We quickly got up to five hives, all with abundant harvests. “Each hive can contain up to 50,000 bees and can produce 40 to 50kg of honey which is amazing. “I have the greatest love and respect for bees and Serge is an amazing bee keeper. “If there was a world without bees then the world would stop growing things. “They are the most amazing creatures.” After the success in Fordingbridge, Chris was inspired. He said: “I began to think about where else we could put hives and this is where the idea of fostering hives came about. “I think that there are lots of people out there that care just as much as I do

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Business

about campaign to save the vital bee about the plight of the bees but wouldn’t have even thought about installing a hive as they don’t know anything about hives or bees and don’t know how to look after them. “So, what if we could solve that problem? “What if we could supply the hives, and either train people up to look after their own hives or send our beekeepers round to manage them? “This is when Bee Mission was truly born. “Imagine if even a small percentage of people had a hive installed and how much difference that could make to our bee population. “Our mission now is to get 500 beehives installed in Dorset and Hampshire’s gardens, balconies, on roof tops and in local areas. “I think we can do it.” But Bee Mission isn’t just about getting as many bees and beehives installed as possible as this can have a disastrous effect on natural pollinators if there isn’t enough pollen to go around. Chris said: “We’re working with bee conservationists to ensure that we also help the wild pollinators. “We’re also planning on planting lots of wild meadows and gardens on our own land. “We’ll also encourage the communities in Dorset and Hampshire around our hives to plant as many wildflowers as possible.” Bee Mission is on the lookout for land to rent, so

AMAZING CAUSE: Bee Mission director Amy Foster

it can expand. The team is hoping for a fairly small plot with space for an outbuilding. The aim is to use the space

as a community training and display centre, workshop and home for their own hives and beefriendly flowers.

Bee Mission also plans to help people, too. Chris, and fellow Bee Mission director Amy Foster have helped rough sleepers by cooking and distributing food up to three times a week. Now they’re working on ideas to provide assistance through the CIC. Chris said: “We’ve been working with the homeless in Bournemouth for two and half years now and really wanted to provide a way they can get involved, to help them by upskilling and giving them some focus. “Whether it’s training to become a beekeeper, packing and selling the honey, or becoming part of the day to day running of the project, we want to offer them new skills and a way to move forward, as well as routine and the knowledge they are making a difference. “We’ve set out with some big ideas, big targets, and a big mission for Dorset and Hampshire. “But we are confident in the power of the community to help and support each other, and the bees. “Next stop, Bee Mission 50,000 across the whole of the country!” To find out more about the work that Bee Mission do, and how to foster a hive, head to beemission.co.uk.

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Just the job (recruitment)

Volunteer hospital drivers are needed By Miranda Robertson newsdesk@westdorsetmag.co.uk

A lifeline voluntary service is in urgent need of new drivers after a sharp increase in demand. Bridport’s Pathways to Care charity, incorporating The Good Neighbours Scheme, drives dozens of people each week to hospital and other medical appointments. The service is mainly for those who have no family or friends to take them and cannot use public transport. The service, which covers Bridport and the surrounding villages, usually takes people to Dorset hospitals but sometimes goes to Bristol, Southampton and beyond. Drivers are all volunteers, however they are able to claim a mileage allowance so they are not out of pocket. Clients are encouraged to make a donation which helps the

charity with its funds. Tim Tarling has been a driver for the last three years. He said: “It has grown over the years. We operate a system where people can phone up the local Christian bookshop Good Books and ask for transport to hospital or wherever, then Good Neighbours coordinates

drivers. Today I’m driving someone to Poole Hospital, which will take three hours or more including waiting time and so would be far too expensive by taxi.” Pathways to Care has been around since 1997 and is sponsored by Churches Together in Bridport. Tim added: “The number of

journeys varies and they are picking up very fast after the pandemic. In the last fortnight we’ve had 40-odd trips. It can get quite busy, especially as NHS transport is mainly offered only after major operations or when someone is in a wheelchair. “Most of us are retired and some don’t wish to do long

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The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

ASAP journeys. We have 22 active drivers and 30+ in total on the books. We try not to ask people to do more than one trip a week, so we desperately need more drivers. Some days hospitals get frantically busy – one day recently we had ten trips to organise so the need is great. “We don’t ask for any formal commitment. We just need to know what sort of trips you are willing to do, what sort of vehicle you have and for you to have a DBS security check.” The charity will have a stall at the Bridport Charter/Community Fair at Mountjoy in Bridport on Saturday, May 14. Anyone interested can call coordinator Jacky Edwards on 01308 538028, Tim & Gill Tarling on 01308 459114 or Veronica Smith on 01308 425083. and they will be glad to answer any questions.

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PEOPLE | PASSION | PURPOSE

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Motoring

Parking charges up across county Parking charges have increased in Dorset Council car parks. Drivers wanting to park at Lyme Regis, West Bay and Weymouth between April and October will now be charged £1 for 30 minutes, £2 for an hour, £3 for two hours, £4 for three hours, £5 for four hours and £10 for 10 hours. The same charges apply to motorists parking in Charmouth and West Bexington. For motorists wanting to

park in Bridport, Sherborne, Weymouth and Dorchester, the charges are £1 for an hour, £1.50 for two, £2.20 for three and £6 for 10 hours. And two permits now will replace the 76 former district permits. A Short Stay Car Park Permit and a Flexi Stay Car Park Permit will replace the 76 former district or borough permits. Cllr Ray Bryan, Portfolio Holder for Highways, Travel and Environment,

said: “It became apparent at an early stage of our car parks review that charges had not been reviewed for several years and changes needed to be made for a more consistent approach. “As a council in a challenging financial position, we are trying to achieve a delicate balance of maximising income from our car parks while ensuring residents and visitors will still choose to support our high streets, beaches and attractions.”

Petition opposes A30 closure More than 700 West Dorset residents have petitioned their MP to intervene over the continued closure of part of the A30. The A30 running through Sherborne between Kitt Hill and Cornhill was closed in March by statuory notice. It is not due to reopen until September 2023. A petition to reopen Cornhill, launched by West Dorset MP Chris Loder, has already received 700 signatures from local people. Mr Loder said: “Within hours of launching my online petition, hundreds of people have joined me in calling for Sherborne’s Dorset councillor Matt Hall to reopen Cornhill.” In a letter to Cllr Hall, Mr Loder said: “I am writing today to ask you to support the reopening of Cornhill and to make sure you

know the extent of public opinion. “More than 700 people want me to petition you to write to the Head of Highways to request that the reopening of Cornhill is re-evaluated urgently for local traffic, whilst the main A30 diversions remain in place. This is not acceptable to the thousands of people I represent, in and around Sherborne. It is causing untold distress to the businesses throughout the town and this situation now requires urgent action. “According to the BBC, Sherborne’s Sunday Market has been told that it cannot go ahead whilst these roads are shut. “The difficulties being experienced by residents on Horsecastles, Trendle Street, Long Street, St Swithun’s Road and North Road are also considerable. “This has been going on

for over six weeks now and when local residents and businesses are suffering because of it, we cannot let this continue any longer than is absolutely necessary.” Mr Loder’s letter to Cllr Hall also said: “It was clear that Cornhill was closed at the beginning to mitigate immediate risk of an unknown situation and I think many people appreciated that. But almost six weeks afterwards, Dorset Council will not re-evaluate the opening of Cornhill because you do not support its re-opening.” Mr Loder’s letter also states: “You (Cllr Hall) have asked how to complain to the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards because I have challenged how unsupportive you are of Cornhill being opened. ”

Roundabout flood work Improvements have been completed at the notoriously flood-prone Monkey’s Jump roundabout, with work to landscape it and safety measures also installed. MP Chris Loder led an A35 taskforce calling for improvements after noting a high number of accidents along that route. The taskforce, launched a year ago, has urged National Highways to deal with the flooding and safety issues along the A35, including potholes, white lines, reflective studs and signage. Mr Loder said: “We have seen so many accidents along this road in recent years, and previously the A35 has been left behind in terms of strategic ambition. “I am very pleased to see the A35 is now getting the strategic investment and safety improvement it needs.” The Phase 2 works at Monkey’s Jump will future-proof earlier drainage works and improve the look of the county town’s gateway roundabout. Additional works to stop the flooding at Max Gate are also being carried out and enhanced maintenance is promised from Bridport to Axminster to optimise visibility of signage and markings. The Duchy of Cornwall is also expected to also complete road improvements soon afterwards.

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Sport Sherborne 1st XV Beaconsfield

41 0

By MIKE TREW

Sherborne bagged another five league points as they ran out comfortable winners against mid-table Beaconsfield, although they were given plenty to think about by the visitors who played an expansive, high tempo style. A highlight for the hosts was the performance of debutant Lewi O’Grady, the teenager coming on as a replacement, and impressing immediately with his sharp passing, accurate kicking, and some excellent tackling. The away side started strongly with their outside half’s superb kicking dictating play, and their front row impressing from the outset. But Sherborne demonstrated the strong defence that has given them one of the best home defensive records in the division, with decisive tackling from the outstanding Ben Austin frequently breaking down Beaconsfield’s attacking plays.

ON THE ATTACK: Sherborne surge forward against Beaconsfield

Picture: GILL CLARK

O’Grady shines on debut Scrum half Rhydian McGuire also starred, scoring two superb tries in an excellent all-round performance, and front row Jack Ridout left it late to notch arguably the try of the afternoon, with a cracker in the closing minutes. Tom Hopkins, from the Sherborne coaching team said: “The game went

much as we expected it to. Beaconsfield played at a very high tempo with every effort being made to keep the ball in hand and play expansive rugby. “We defended very well and scored some excellent tries. We were very pleased with the penalty count which is an area of focus for us. We were delighted with Ridout and O’Grady,

who played his first game for us this season, and shows that he is an exceptional prospect for the future and showed signs of his ability to play at this level.” Following a trip to Bracknell, Sherborne return to the Terraces for their final home match against Buckingham, on Saturday, April 23.

Blues take a second-half battering at seaside Weymouth & Portland RFC Bridport

33 18

The visiting Blues showed the greater appetite from the kick off, opening up an early 15 point lead, before Weymouth & Portland staged a stirring fightback. Bridport opened the scoring when Mitch Waters forced his way over the try line following a quick tap penalty. Waters was unable to add the conversion, but Bridport doubled their lead almost immediately. From the kick off the ball was slipped it out to Jed Gravelle to score in the corner, with Waters again

failing to add the two points. Gravelle then added his second to make it 15-0. Weymouth edged back into the game and two crucial scores before halftime seemed to turn the tide. Five minutes before the break, a quick ball from a Weymouth line-out resulted in an easy run-in for Ben Davies. Bridport notched a penalty, before another well-worked Weymouth lineout enabled Facundo Patsouris-Belcuore to cross in front of the posts, giving the Blues an 1812 lead at half time. Within minutes of the restart, the

home side took a clean catch from a line out to drive over for another converted try. Weymouth pinned the visitors back before another driving maul sent their prop forward Yogi over for another converted score, extending the home side’s lead to 26-18. It was the home side who had the last word, a scrappy ruck setting them up for another converted try to make the final score 33-18. The Blues’ final match of the campaign is on Saturday, April 9, as they visit high-flying Blandford.

PETER BROOK

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Sport

New boss Marcu tasked with revitalising Bees Bridport FC have unveiled Edgar Marcu as their new manager for 2022/23. The 35-year-old will take over the reins from caretaker manager Shaun Annetts at the end of the season, with the two working in tandem for the remainder of the Bees’ current campaign. Marcu is an ambitious young manager who has good non-league coaching experience following stints with Paulton Rovers, Radstock Town and Yeovil.

He has already been instrumental in helping to attract new talent to the side, with Joe Batten-Coe, Michael Calverley, Josh Grace, Hanad Habiil, Raul Vasile and Ollie Buchanan swelling the Bees’ ranks for the remainder of the current season. Although already consigned to relegation, the introduction of new blood should enable Marcu to start laying some solid foundations as he aims to help the club

bounce back after a disastrous season. Bees’ chairman Adrian Scadding says “We are delighted to have Edgar on board. He brings a lot of experience and enthusiasm and has some strong ideas on how he wants to set up the team. “Edgar is very focused, ambitious and professional, and we are confident that he can be instrumental in bringing good times back to St Mary’s Field.”

IN THE HOT SEAT: Edgar Marcu PIC: STEPHEN BARRETT

Loan star Olaf nets points for Magpies Wimborne Town Dorchester Town

0 1

WHAT A GAME FOR OLAF: Magpies on-loan ace Olaf Koszela scored the only goal of the game at relegation rivals Wimborne Town

By Stuart Wickham

Loan striker Olaf Koszela scored the only goal of the game to earn a precious three points in the Magpies’ battle to beat the drop, as they overcame Dorset rivals, Wimborne Town. The victory saw the Magpies open up a threepoint cushion ahead of relegation rivals Kings Langley, and followed two one-nil defeats – against Farnborough and Met Police – where they were unlucky to emerge pointless after two improved performances. The key moment at Wimborne’s New Cuthbury ground came in the 37th minute, Koszela picking up a loose ball after Harry McGrath mis-controlled, before stepping inside and finishing with a composed curling strike beyond home goalkeeper Gerard Benfied.

SOUTHERN LEAGUE PREMIER SOUTH BOTTOM FIVE Hartley Wintney Dorchester Town Kings Langley Merthyr Town Wimborne Town

P W D L F 38 12 4 22 50 38 10 4 24 36 38 7 10 21 41 38 5 8 25 42 37 3 7 27 30

The home side had the better of the early exchanges with Jack Bycroft in the Magpies’ goal tipping over from Louis Kellaway’s dipping volley on five minutes, and headers from Lewis Beale and Harry Morgan

A 69 56 61 79 90

GD -19 -20 -20 -37 -60

Pts 40 34 31 23 16

narrowly off target. Dorchester had their best opening on the half hour mark, and should have opened the scoring, Alfie Stanley spooning over from six yards with Benfield stranded in nomansland.

The Magpies enjoyed better chances in the second half and should have added to their tally, with Stanley failing to beat Benfield when one-on-one, and Koszela hitting the outside of the post with a deflected effort. With the game still on a knife-edge, and the travelling support bracing themselves for a nervy six minutes of stoppage time, Wimborne should have bagged an equaliser, with home midfielder, Curtis Young, spurning a golden chance, skewing his effort out for a throw-in with the goal at his mercy. The football cliché that luck evens itself out over the course of a season strongly in evidence, and it was the kind of good fortune that the Magpies’ recent gritty performances have certainly earned. With four games left to try and stay ahead of Kings Langley, Dorchester return to The Avenue on Saturday, April 9, against Hendon.

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Sport

Zebras clinch 17th win on the trot a comfortable win against a young Longwell Green Sports team, extending their winning run to 16, and edging ever closer to the league title. Cheered on by a substantial away contingent at a drizzly Shellards Road, goals from Dec Cornish, Ollie Hebbard and a late Ant Herrin penalty, were enough to secure Town their 11th away win of a brilliant campaign. Both teams had early sights of goal, with Alex Murphy going closest for the visitors, his rasping drive from 20 yards forcing an acrobatic save from Sports’ goalkeeper Dominic Law. Shortly afterwards, the busy Law turned over an Aaron White pile-driver, only for the ensuing corner to lead to Zebras’ first goal of the afternoon, Cornish heading home from

By Stuart Wickham sport@westdorsetmag.co.uk

Odd Down Sherborne Town

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Prolific striker Alex Murphy’s 48th-minute goal was enough to give the Zebras their 17th consecutive win at Odd Down, as they kept up their relentless pursuit of the Division One title. However their victory came at a cost, with midfielder Sam Farthing suffering a serious ankle injury in the first half, and facing an extended period on the sidelines. Overall it was another accomplished performance from Wayne Jerome’s team, which ensures that they now need just two more victories to guarantee the championship. With confidence sky-high, and with three out of four of their remaining games at home, the Zebras will be confident of finishing the job, however have still to face title-rivals Welton Rovers, who continue to keep up the pressure in second place. The Zebras also face a trip to local rivals Gillingham Town in the run-in, and The Gills

ON TARGET: Alex Murphy

will certainly be relishing the chance to cause an upset. The Zebras next game sees them welcome Oldland Abbotonians to Raleigh Grove on Saturday, April 9. Longwell Green Sports Sherborne Town

0 3

The Zebras earned another three points on safari, with

TOOLSTATION LEAGUE DIVISION ONE - TOP FOUR Sherborne Town Welton Rovers Wincanton Town Warminster Town

P 36 35 34 35

W 27 24 23 23

D 6 6 5 5

L 3 5 6 7

GD 78 42 62 40

Pts 87 78 74 74

Remaining fixtures: Saturday April 9: Oldland Abbotonians (H) Friday April 15: Gillingham Town (A) Monday April 18: Welton Rovers (H) SaturdayApril 23: Bishop Sutton (H)

Herrin’s floated cross, after his corner was only halfcleared by the home defence. Josh Attwood had to be alert at the start of the second half to turn a Sports’ effort around the upright, although any away nerves were settled shortly afterwards, as Ollie Hebbard bagged the second for the Zebras’, just moments after coming off the bench for his first appearance in a month. There seemed little danger as a ball was crossed from the right, but Hebbard outmuscled a defender, took the ball away from the onrushing keeper, and fired home from an angle despite the efforts of two Longwell defenders on the line. The Zebras wrapped up the points in the 81st minute, Herrin slotting home a penalty, after Sam Farthing had been fouled as he was about to pull the trigger, following good work by man of the match Hayden Hodges and Hebbard. Team: Attwood, White, Budden, Lawrence-Napier, Williams, Brown (Hebbard 51), Farthing, Hodges, Murphy (Cotterill 72), Herrin, Cornish (Cutmore 66). Goals: Cornish (19), Hebbard (53), Herrin (81, pen). Attendance: 251.

Ex-players welcome at end of season celebration Sherborne Town are inviting all former players to join them for the team’s final home match of the season against Bishops Sutton on Saturday, April 23. If the team’s title ambitions have gone to plan, there is bound to be a celebratory mood at Raleigh Grove, and the club is extending a warm welcome to former Zebras from any

era to join them as their special guests. Commercial manager Sam Bowers explains the reasons behind the idea. “We thought this would be a great opportunity to recognise players who have helped to make our club so special. Whatever happens between now and then, it has been a brilliant season and we want to

celebrate with as many former Zebras as possible. I really hope we can get a good number of players to come and join us, and it will be an extra special day if we’ve been able to secure the league title by then.” If you’re a former Sherborne player and would like to join them on April 23, please get in touch with Sam at sam.bowers@mjbowers.co.uk

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Sport

Youngsters urged to give rugby a try By Stuart Wickham sport@westdorsetmag.co.uk

Budding rugby stars will be having fun in Dorchester over Easter, as the Rugbytots play programme returns to the town from Monday, April 11-14. The Easter camp, taking place at Sawmill Lane, is run by Gareth Turnbull, who is offering free sessions to children whose families are in receipt of benefit-related free school meals. The popular programme, whose students include the children of England rugby captain Courtney Lawes, is aimed at youngsters aged from two to seven, and Gareth is promising that all participants can look forward to a healthy and fulfilling experience as they enjoy ‘fun games and build team play skills’. Wales rugby legend Sir Gareth Edwards is a big fan, and said: “Learning the basics and coordination as well as playing as a team are vitally important at that young age. I wish Gareth every

SCRUM ON DOWN: Rugbytots takes place over Easter in Dorchester. Above: Wales rugby legend, Sir Gareth Edwards with Rugbytots' Gareth Turnbull. Inset below: Gareth with another young player

success with Rugbytots.” Gareth said: “We will give them skills in a new sport, a big boost of self-esteem and help them build team skills, finishing each day with a substantial, healthy meal. “We have very high standards, and invest a huge amount into our coaching. Rugbytots coaches

absolutely love their job. Classes need to be best they can be every time, full of fun, energy and positivity, and our lead coaches have that amazing natural ability to get young children to take part. “The most rewarding element is helping children overcome their challenges. This is a powerful motivator and often comes up with foster children and children with special educational needs, where we really see the impact of our coaching

and the children’s hunger to learn. Teaching them to play as a team, and celebrating all achievements is important, no matter how small they might seem.” The camps enable children to be active, play fun rugby games, brush up on their kicking, passing and catching skills, and learn to play as a team. A typical day will include stretches, skills, games, a match, crafts and make and take, along with a healthy lunch. Places usually cost £90 and the sessions will run from 9am to 1pm each day. For details on available places for the camps and details of free family introductions, please contact gareth@rugbytots.co.uk or call 07717 753322.

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Sport By Stuart Wickham sport@westdorsetmag.co.uk

Leweston School have been celebrating as their U9 Girls Team became champions at the National Schools Biathlon held at the University of Bath, beating their nearest rivals by just 12 points. The Leweston team edged out their closest challengers by the equivalent of just one second in the swim, and proved to be the standout performance in a strong showing from the school across two days of fierce competition. The U9 team included Lucia, Prep 4, who finished a brilliant 4th, Lexie, Prep 3, 14th, and Tilly, Prep 4, who was 17th. In addition to the victorious U9 girls, the school’s Biathlon team enjoyed other successes over the weekend’s events, where over 1200 young athletes took part in varying distances depending on their age, on a time trial basis. Points were accumulated across the two disciplines with the person with the most points being declared the winner, and the team award going to

WELL PLAYED: Biathlon Leweston Prep Girls and, below, Prep Boys and Senior Girls

We are the champions the best combined score of three athletes from the same school. The boys U14 had an excellent result taking bronze in the team event with Reuben, Year 9, a fantastic 5th and with the fastest run – he was well supported by fellow Year 9 students, Josh, 13th overall and Ollie, who was 36th. In the U10 girls category,

Izzy, Prep 4 was 80th, U11 Katrina, Prep 6, had a good day to finish 10th, with Freya, Prep 5, in 82nd. In the U13s, Esme, Year 8, was 29th, U14 Jessica, Year 8, was 16th, and in the U15 Antonia, Year 9, finished in 28th place. Leweston had seven boys taking part in the U11 category - Arthur, Prep 5 was 44th, with Ollie, Prep

5, 51st. In the U16 group, Mathew from Year 11, was a creditable 19th, with Bruce, also Year 11, just behind him in 23rd. Leweston Headmaster, Mr Paget-Tomlinson, said: “We are immensely proud of our pupil’s hard work and dedication. “Their achievements are an example to us all and demonstrative of the drive of our staff and pupils.”

Bowl along and meet new friends Bridport Bowling Club is calling for new members to take up a new sporting activity or rekindle an old one, make friends and have fun. Just a year away from celebrating its 100th anniversary, the players take part in a host of

leisure activities and compete in county leagues and national competitions, organise their own schedule of club games, competitions and friendlies against other local clubs and touring sides. If you fancy trying your hand at lawn bowls and see

the club, four Open Mornings are being held on April 23 and 30, May 7 and 14 between 10am and 12noon. All organisers ask is trainers are worn. If you would like to find out more, please visit bridportbowlingclub.org.uk

FANCY A GAME? Bridport Bowling Club

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Equestrian

Former Beaminster student in mercy By Dan Goater newsdesk@westdorsetmag.co.uk

A West Dorset-based haulier has delivered 24 tonnes of aid to horses in Ukraine who have been left neglected by the Russian invasion. Charlie Bailey, who owns General Haulage of Great Britain, approached Horse Aid UK to help them deliver food, bedding and blankets to horses in Ukraine left abandoned by the outbreak of war. Former Beaminster School pupil Charlie, 23, is a national level event jumper with a lifelong love of horses who wanted to help the horses that have been left to fend for themselves by Putin’s invasion. He said: “I have been very heavily involved with horses for my whole life, ever since I could walk. When my friends let me know about Horse Aid UK and the work they were doing, delivering donations for horses to the UkrainePoland border, I immediately contacted them to offer my services as a haulier. “My company goes to Europe all the time, and the paperwork since Brexit has been complicated to say the least, so I’m in the ideal position to transport goods for Horse Aid UK because I have all my paperwork in place. “Horse Aid UK has been absolutely inundated with donations. When I approached them to offer my help they asked if I would be willing to take a

load of donations to the border, so that’s what I did.” Charlie along with transport drivers from Horse Aid UK, delivered 24 tonnes of horse blankets, food and bedding to the

Ukraine-Poland border close to the Ukrainian city of Lyiv earlier this month. They have posted pictures of their success on the haulage business’s Facebook page. Charlie said: “Horses are

very close to my heart and always have been. “There are a lot of companies and charities who are sorting out donations for humans, but the horses that have been left behind have not been

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Equestrian

mission to help the Ukraine’s horses

IN FOR THE LONG HAUL: Charlie Bailey, 23, seen left and right at showjumping events, took tonnes of donations to the Ukraine to help the nation’s equines.

RIDING TO THE RESCUE: Charlie collects pallets full of feed from ynnstay Country Stores at Bridgwater

getting a mention. “I wanted to do something to help them.” Charlie, whose haulage company is based at Pilsdon Pen, suffered a severe injury to his left foot in a lawnmower

accident when he was a child. Despite this setback, Charlie has been riding horses since he was four years old and has been competing at a national level since childhood.

Charlie added: “That love of horses has never gone away and I knew I had to help the horses left abandoned in Ukraine.” To support Horse Aid UK and its work please search for ‘Horse Aid UK’ on

Facebook. To support General Haulage of Great Britain’s efforts to help Ukraine’s stricken war horses, please search for ‘General Haulage of Great Britain’ on Facebook.

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Brain ticklers Arrow words

Crossword

Cover

The study of weather

Thick mass of hair

Unit of power

Scares

Spoken

Revoke a law

US travelscreening bureau (inits) Dells, eg (abbr)

10 12

Movie disc (inits)

Actress, Gardner

Winter bug

Brazilian port

Chest muscle

Director, Mendes

1 5 8 9 10 11 13 15 18 19 22 23 24 25

Intellectual

Summit

Wordsearch Sherlock Holmes

R R R Y T B N K O W H S O K R

I I E T C A T H G U L R N I N

BAYNES BRADSTREET HOPKINS IRENE ADLER JOHNSON JONES LANGDALE PIKE LESTRADE

A S E L R R N A D O B M W P R

R B R O D S O S T R G A S E K

T A M I O A O F A P T M W L C

Y Y S N N N E D T S E O N A O

S N L D J A S N O S S M A D L

S E A O R T T N E I A C T G R

J S N O R O R E H R T B T N E

MARY MORAN MORIARTY MRS HUDSON MYCROFT SHERLOCK WATSON WIGGINS

H E S E O R K C Y D I N M A H

S D E D A R T S E L W S P L S

A T S N I G G I W M M Y Y N A

Church recess

O L M D A Y Y T I J O S P E E

Yield

‘Eureka!’

19 21

Aged

M S T J S E T E I C N A R M H

Slips up

A L S I R S N I K P O H I M E

Continues

Small bouquet

Troika

A foot, in zoology

Glimpse

Talk endlessly

Across Predatory South American fish (7) Student bar orders (5) Adjust (5) Bring up (7) Enticing (8) Jeers (4) Soft fabric (6) Layered, soft cake (6) Averages (4) Abstruse (8) Appetizer (7) Four to one, eg (5) Pyromaniac’s crime (5) Was wrong about (7)

Down 1 Credit card (7) 2 Kingdom (5) 3 Characters used to record information (8) 4 Pointing (6) 5 A piece of a skeleton (4) 6 Chapter (7) 7 Falls without trace (5) 12 Seizes (8) 14 Ultimatums, perhaps (7) 16 Expose (7) 17 Hindu retreat (6) 18 Linguine, eg (5) 20 Pac-Man, perhaps (5) 21 Flabbergast (4)

Sudoku

4 3 2 9 1 7 1 3 2 9 7 6 2 8 3 7 9 5 6 1 9 4 5 8 5 1

For the solutions turn to page 68

Brain chain 11

×1/2

+50%

+25

RESULT

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Super tricky puzzles Jumbo 3D Sudoku

Cryptic Crossword 2

4 9 6

6 2

4 5

8 3 1 7 8

4 9

2 7

2 3

5 3 61 2

5 9

5 3 8

4 3

2÷

8÷

6 8

6 6 5

12 15

9 19 21

105×

20×

756×

40×

2÷

20+

21+

27×

2÷

336×

3÷

22+

12×

12+

Brain chain (Hard version) 92

×1/2

+50%

+94

2÷

9 8

12+

18+

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

6 7

1 6

9 1

-134

+98

Killer Sudoku Pro: Place 1 to 9 once each into every row, column and bold-lined 3×3 box. No digit may be repeated in any dashed-line cage, and each dashed-line cage must result in the given value when the stated operation is applied between all of the digits in that cage. For subtraction and division operations, start with the highest number in the cage and then subtract or divide by the other numbers in that cage.

RESULT

Can you solve these brain chains entirely in your head? Start with the bold value on the left of a chain, then follow the arrows and apply each operation in turn. Write the result in the box.

Across 1 By the sound of it, superfluous part of a garment (5) 4 One from Tehran, say, I organized with Scot? (7) 9 Miserable old racing driver is descending (8) 10 Measure of speed at sea is something problematic (4) 11 Good man about ship showing accent (6) 12 Bear a one-piece undergarment (5) 13 Advantage strengthened general in part (4) 15 Endless disorder in port (3) 16 State dislike (not half!) (4) 17 Deadly area for chap (5) 19 Protect Yorkshire city without consecutive trio (6) 21 Decline around North is slight problem (4) 22 Took off a note carried by timid eccentric (8) 23 A rani’s reviewed after time as imperial female (7) 24 Exploiting pride, say, in posh grandee initially (5) Down 2 Stop at early stage a book – or source of trouble? (5) 3 Genuine son in church getting religious education (7) 5 Comparison in affair, maybe (12) 6 Annoyed right off and exposed to view? (5) 7 Harmless article by individual carrying tips for diplomacy (7) 8 Notes diarist recreated in academic work (12) 14 Fixes limits of penalty in Germany, Spain and Sweden (7) 16 Second thin plate held up for dogs, maybe (7) 18 Alcoholic drink left by a German (5) 20 Extended period in retirement? (3-2)

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Health

Walking West Dorset FROME VALLEY FROME VALLEY TRAIL – THIRD WALK This walk is four-and-ahalf miles long and has some very muddy bits so I suggest you use wellies and a stick. For the first time this Frome Valley Trail walk actually goes alongside the Frome for a while! Park near the church in Maiden Newton. Just past the church is a gate giving access to a field. As soon as you enter the field you’ll see a finger post pointing to the right with a symbol of the Frome Valley Trail. Follow the well trodden path across the field and down to a bridge over the

river and along the river bank through a disused water meadow. Towards the end of this section is a place where you’ll be glad

with retired Dorset rights of way officer Chris Slade

of your wellies! Go under the railway bridge and continue upstream until you find another finger post pointing left. Follow the path which soon leaves the water meadow and cuts across the corner of an arable field to a small gate. From there it crosses a field and exits onto a road next to Chilfrome Church. Walk northward up the road until it turns right. Here you go through a gate into a field and the path wends to the left and joins another road leading north. After a

while the Tarmac runs out and it’s wet in places. Eventually you reach a very rutted junction where you turn right down to Sandhills Cross. Re-trace your steps but, when you reach the point where you joined the road, carry straight on down a holloway that featured in the film Rogue Male. When you reach Chilfrome carry on until you get to Maiden Newton, turn left crossing the Frome and a mill stream then left again and you’ll be close to your car.

You can choose to think better thoughts

Hilary Charman is a hypnotherapist based at Partners in Wellbeing, Poundbury.

Something that is really comforting to a lot of people is to be told: “You are not your thoughts, you are the one listening to those thoughts.” And that means you can choose NOT to listen to them. You can, figuratively speaking, put your fingers in your ears and go la la la la if a thought comes up you don’t like. Or you can say to your subconscious, “Thank you for that thought but actually I choose instead to think...” and replace it with a more helpful thought. But where do thoughts come from then? A lot of our thoughts and

negative self talk comes from people in our past. Maybe family members, teachers, kids at school. We come into life like an empty container and it’s filled with information from all our life’s experiences and everyone we meet. That’s okay if it’s accurate and positive but often it’s just others people’s beliefs and opinions. If you’re listening to that voice in your head you’re listening to a filing cabinet of information coming from people who were trying to find their own way through life and had their own negative thoughts based on things they had heard and experienced from when they were little. The other thing we have to take into consideration is that our subconscious is only

interested in keeping us alive. Not to make us happy or fulfilled, it’s only interested in our survival. So it doesn’t like change. It doesn’t like us taking risks or stepping out of our comfort zone. If our sub conscious had its way we would stay at home wrapped in cotton wool, order all our food in, never go anywhere, never meet new people or try new things. And of course we could probably live a long life like that but actually it would be pretty unfulfilling. It’s in our true nature to want to grow and evolve, to feel like we’re becoming something more than we are. So we need to question those negative, fear-based thoughts. As soon as you hear that voice in your head

say anything that’s not supportive you can simply say, “Thank you for that thought but actually I choose to think...” and replace it with a new, improved thought. It takes a bit of practice but each time you do it you’ll be becoming more empowered as you begin to take charge of your own thinking. Hilary Charman PHHD AMACCPH HilarysHypnotherapy.com info@HilarysHypnotherapy. com

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Health

Town clock to light up blue for Parkinson’s Bridport’s town clock will be lit up in blue on April 11 to shine a light on World Parkinson’s Day. The Bridport Support Group of Parkinson’s UK holds free monthly social meetings at St Swithun’s Church Hall for those with the condition and their partners or carers, plus informal coffee gatherings at a town cafe. The group’s organiser Frances Morgan holds a variety of activities including a pub lunch outing, a tea dance and a sound bath. She said: “I aim to provide an interesting and supportive year of activities and all are welcome. At our last meeting we had a useful talk from our local advisor but we usually have activities and there’s always a raffle and great tea and cakes from our volunteers. “Come and join us.” While millions of pounds have been spent on research, and new treatments are trialled, there is currently no cure for the fastest growing neurological condition. The statistics are staggering – one in 37 people in the UK today diagnosed with Parkinson’s in their lifetime. This disease is often misunderstood, not surprising given the range of symptoms and how it affects everyone differently. Judy was diagnosed at the age of 49. She said: “It’s hard for people without Parkinson’s to understand the problems that are unique to it. At one time you may not be able to move, but then an hour later you could be walking around. “Losing balance when walking can make people think you’re drunk. “Educating the public is

important. While it is a condition that is more commonly diagnosed in people aged over 65, younger folk can get it too. Very rarely, children can get Parkinson’s.” Tremor, slowness of movement, rigid muscles, fixed facial expression are some of the more noticeable

symptoms. Pain, fatigue, difficulty swallowing are among others. Mental health can be affected with anxiety, depression, apathy, sleep disturbance. But not everyone gets all symptoms and though Parkinson’s gets worse over time every person will progress differently.

What all those living with Parkinson’s have in common is a shortage of dopamine due to the death of some of the brain cells that make it. Bridport group organiser Frances can be contacted on 07876 692006. More information at parkinsons.org.uk

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Agriculture

Tragedy of pregnant Gizmo Mud-phobic Tria Stebbing lives on the outskirts of Sherborne with her farmer partner and two dogs in a converted stable. She keeps sheep, both stock sheep and pedigree rare breed sheep. She is working on her first book, in between working in a village school to pay the vet’s bills.

Farming and keeping stock do not always go as planned. Last Saturday started well, we set off for the field to give the ewes their second Heptavac injection, when we received a call from a horse rider who was concerned for one of the sheep. She could clearly see that all was not well and thankfully had rushed over to see if she could do anything. On arrival at the field, it became clear that we had a tragedy on our hands. The ewes have two weeks to lambing and are huge. Sadly Gizmo was found “cast” on her back, and very dead. Worse still she was carrying triplets who

SO SAD: Gizmo passed away while expecting triplets

had also not made it. We had been relentlessly checking the sheep regularly and watching for twin lamb disease, but were not ready to lose a healthy sheep in this way. A cast sheep is a sheep that cannot for whatever reason get up, like a stuck tortoise, because its centre of gravity is off. This can

be because it is pregnant or just because its fleece is heavy. Once on its back gases start to build up in the abdomen and they then die very quickly. If you can right the sheep and help it up it will be fine. Gizmo had both pregnancy and because of the time of year a heavy

fleece. She had been fine when checked the evening before which made it worse. No amount of “what ifs” can change the outcome. The rest of the flock were eerily quiet as we turned her back and wrapped her up in a tarp before moving her to a safe place ready to be collected. All of which has made us unrealistically paranoid about one of the other ewes doing it too, especially as they too are huge and carrying triplets. So welcome to lambing 2022 where the girls are under almost 24-hour surveillance until they drop their babies next week. With only a week to go, today it started snowing proving once again that farming on whatever scale is always totally unpredictable. If you do ever see a sheep on its back, if the farmer is not to be seen, safely enter the field and approach the sheep calmly and turn it back onto its feet, wait for it to get its bearings (it will be dizzy) and jobs a good ’un. If a sheep is on its back with its legs in the air it will die if you do not help. n Cottonsmeade Gizmo 2020-2022

Advertise your hay, machinery and agricultural services here: Call 01305 300830 or email classifieds@westdorsetmag.co.uk

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Agriculture By JENNY CLAYTON of Synergy Farm Health

For most, spring is the busiest time of the year. Traditionally herds would vaccinate their cows before turnout, all-year-round housed cattle tend to have the majority of vaccines now as well. It is important an individual vaccination programme is in place for your farm so that not only the correct timing, dose and route is used but also the correct combination of vaccines. Some have a licence to be mixed together whereas others could overwhelm the animals’ immunity. It is always best to vaccinate an animal that is healthy and not stressed, so if it has recently been moved or bought in, it is important to wait 48 hours before vaccinating. Vaccination is one of the biggest expenses for some herds, but it can also save the most money, as long as they are the correct vaccines and are given correctly. A few years ago, I was taken to a vaccine manufacturer in Spain for a tour of their factory. What amazed me most was the infrastructure and equipment used to ensure a constant controlled environment from start of production to the finish. This then is followed along the distribution chains to ensure the optimal temperature is kept until the vaccine is handed over to the farmer. How many of you have even considered this? I think it is important when

HERD THE NEWS? Spring is the busiest time for vaccinations

Spring into vaccine action investing in herd health, it is important the vaccines work. Making sure your fridge is at the correct temperature and the door can be closed properly is a good start. Is the seal around the fridge intact? Is the freezer compartment overflowing into the fridge? Ideally have your vaccine delivered when you know you have the manpower to use them. If feet on the ground are scarce, or vaccination is a task which drops down the to-do list, using Synergy Farm Health’s Vet Tech Vaccination Service can be a useful option -for added simplicity and compliance. Some vaccines can cause reactions at the site of injection so it is important to stay clear of the neck area leaving this for TB

testing. To reduce vaccine reactions and lumps at injection sites a sterimatic gun with a stericap cleans the needle after every injection. Make sure when mixing a vaccine up all the diluent is used with the freeze-dried part of the vaccine as then the correct concentration solution is ready for injecting. Some vaccines must be used immediately once mixed, whereas others have a longer shelf life. When mixing up a vaccine use a new needle and syringe. The cost of a syringe is peanuts in comparison to the vaccine or the disease it is protecting against. When a vaccine is administered it is important to record the date it was given. Remember the

vaccine response in the animal can affect the quarterly bulk milk testing for some diseases. Your Herd Health Plan provides a great opportunity to go through the vaccination protocol for your herd with your vet and reassess how the timings and vaccines are working for you. n Jenny Clayton BVetMed MRCVS Veterinary Surgeon Synergy Farm Health

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Farming Agriculture

Born to rewild: Estate’s project bid By Karen Bate newsdesk@westdorsetmag.co.uk

Mapperton Estate is rewilding 450 acres of pasture, arable and woodlands and plans to build a visitor centre as part of its Wildlands project. Mapperton House is the family home of the Earl of Sandwich, and the land surrounding it has been shaped over hundreds of years by traditional management for food, fuel and timber. However the intensification of farming and forestry in the 20th

PROJECT: Luke and Julie Montagu, Viscount and Viscountess Hinchingbrooke at Mapperton

century resulted in soil degradation and the loss of traditional habitats, including wood pasture, scrub, deciduous woodland and flower-rich grassland. Now Mapperton is changing its approach to land management with a combination of rewilding, traditional conservation and regenerative agriculture. Mapperton has started its rewilding journey at Coltleigh, a 200-acre farm in the east of the estate. In 2023, another 250 acres in the west and south of the

From pages 64-65

Puzzle solutions Sudoku

Crossword

5 6 7 2 4 9 1 8 3

9 3 2 6 8 1 4 5 7

8 4 1 3 5 7 6 9 2

2 8 4 1 9 3 7 6 5

7 5 3 4 6 8 2 1 9

6 1 9 5 7 2 3 4 8

1 7 6 9 3 5 8 2 4

4 9 8 7 2 6 5 3 1

3 2 5 8 1 4 9 7 6

Brain chain 11

Killer Sudoku Pro 1

2÷

6 3

21+

7 1 5 8

1 7

2÷

2 3 8

8÷

4 1

20+

6 9

22+

18+

12+

20×

2÷

7 3

5 4 9

336×

8 6

7 5

4 9

756×

7 6 2

2÷

3÷

105×

40×

27×

4 9

12+

estate will be added to the project, including land at Wytherston with its marshy woodlands and wildflower meadows. A herd of 25 White Park cattle has been introduced at Coltleigh and this summer they will be joined by Exmoor ponies and in 2023 by Iron Age pigs, a cross between a Tamworth and a wild boar. In the autumn a pair of beavers will be released into an enclosure on the estate. These animals are intended to replicate the type and intensity of grazing that

12×

P L A S T I C P A S T A

Arrow words

I R A N H E O D A P T L A E M P T I I O T T O N H N A R S E E S T A R T E T U R S O N

Jumbo 3D Sudoku

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

R S I O N K O S A U N I C L I O A O K

5 2 4 3 6 7 1 1 1 4 8 9 8 9 5 3 7 4 3 1 9 2 4 6 6 7 5 9 7 1 2 2 8 3 6 4 2 7 9 2 9 6 2 5 5 6 4 8 3 5 6 3 1 3 6 6 7 8 7 9 3 8 8 7 7 9 8 4 9 3 1 1 4 8 6 22 4 5 5 3 61 2 5 7 5 9 5 9 4 4 7 4 5 8 3 1 9 5 4 8 2 1 7 6 1 6 2 8 1 2 4 9 7 3 6 2 7 9 3 5 3 8 2 5 7 6 3 8 1 3 1 8 1 3 4 1 9 2 8 4 4 2 7 5 7 8 9 1 5 9 7 6 9 4 2 9 6 5 2 1 8 7 6 3 2 4 1 4 3 9 7 8 5 3 9 2 7 6 3 8 5 1 6 5 3 5 6 4 1 8 4 8 2 6 5 2 7 4 9 6 9 1 5 3 2 7 65 6 3 3 4 73 7 6 9 8 1 8 9 4 9 5 2 2 7 1 8 4 1 4 7 1 6 2 5 9 8 3 8

W R W A P P E T R

T E R R I F R I E P O S

M E T E O R O L O G Y

M G O R A P E S P P C E E D S A V O L D U A P S G H E A A C M

L T S A C E D E

Brain chain (Hard) 92

163

127

Cryptic Crossword W A I S T B I D O W N H R C S T R E S R E D G E E F E L L I A S N A G E E T S A R I

D I S S E R T A T I O N

I R E L L A T I I O N S H M I P A

A N I A N A N K N O T E D E D D Y N A V E R N H I E L D M I T A T E D L I U S I N G

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Agriculture Farming

to reshape 450 acres of countryside would have existed before the invention of agriculture. Luke Montagu, Viscount Hinchingbrooke said: “Mapperton Wildlands will enable visitors and the local community to enjoy our glorious countryside and connect with nature while helping to restore the biodiversity of our degraded farmland. “Our vision is to create an open countryside with no fences or field boundaries, where large herbivores such as White Park cattle and Exmoor ponies can

HERD: Wild Park cattle at Mapperton Picture: samrose.uk

wander freely, and where visitors can experience the thrill of exploring an ancient landscape teeming with wildlife. Mapperton Wildlands will continue to produce food. We intend to

supply local customers with highly prized White Park beef, as well as delicious venison from our expanding deer population. “We will also promote sustainable farming

You herd it here first...

principles, known as regenerative agriculture, across the rest of the Estate.” Dr Tom Brereton, head of ecology at Mapperton, said: “There is a huge potential to enhance the ecological and societal value of Mapperton through rewilding. “However we need to strike a balance, as we don’t want to lose the special features that are already present, some of which have been here for centuries.” n mappertonwildlands.com with Rachel Hayball

Thanks to all the vets working round the clock for us

Rachel Hayball is a married mum of six from Beaminster. She is a herdsperson and has a small flock of sheep and sells lamb. I was watching All Creatures Great and Small for the ten millionth time the other day and it got me thinking about our farm vets and the difference between the days of James Herriot and now. Putting the huge advances in veterinary medicine, technology and knowledge aside things haven’t changed that much really. Ok, our vets don’t live together in one

house with an long suffering but ever patient housekeeper/ administrator/substitute mother/ substitute/advisor, but the ethics of the profession are the same and our vets still really care about the animals they treat and they also care about their clients and their farms. Veterinary practices are a lot bigger nowadays and they do like their vets to occasionally sleep and have days off, so we do see several different vets, but farms are allocated a main vet who they see most and as a result most end up with a brilliant working relationship with them. Our vets put together herd health plans for us, they support us in developing our knowledge about herd health and veterinary medicine, run courses so that we can learn more and they get to know each farm and each herd or

flock individually. People often say that vets are quick to prescribe medication and do unnecessary visits, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. They are happy to advise over the phone or WhatsApp unless it is a case which requires an in person consult. In fact I had a message the other day from one our vets at 9pm giving some advice about a group of cows. Going back to the sleep thing- I’m not sure that our vet actually sleeps. The receptionists, dispensary teams and vet techs are equally important and take the time to get to know us and our farms and are always at the end of the phones with good advice and support. If we have an emergency call out they get someone to us quickly, and we know that our animals are in good hands. I wonder if James Wight

(James Herriot) thought about the vets of the future when he put pen to paper. There is no doubt that he inspired many, and his cheerful demeanour, dedication, knowledge of his client’s farm and care for the animals has inspired many. I think he would be proud of today’s vets, he would laugh at them getting kicked and covered in muck as he did, celebrate with them when they solved tough cases and support them when animals weren’t able to be saved. So, thank you. Thank you to all the vets out there who work hard to support us with doing the best we can for our animals. WANTED: SHEEP GRAZING Any size area considered, long or short term 07548 171553

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Property

New co-housing scheme springing up Photographer Neil Barnes flew his drone to take some top shots of the cohousing project in Bridport. Hazelmead is being built on the north-western edge of Bridport, just north of Allington Hill and next door to the community hospital. It is currently the largest cohousing neighbourhood in the country, offering 53 affordable, ecological homes for sale and to rent. There are seven south-facing terraces of two-, three- and four-bedroom family homes, along with a couple of twostorey apartment blocks of one-bedroom flats. Half of these homes are available to rent through Bournemouth Churches Housing Association (BCHA) while the remaining half are available for shared ownership at 80 per cent leasehold purchase of through the

Government’s Help to Buy scheme. In 2008, renting or owning a home in Bridport was fast becoming out of reach for many people, so a group of locals set out to change the face of housing and designed a ‘cohousing neighbourhood’. This group launched Bridport

Cohousing and a decade on, the dream of creating a vibrant cohousing neighbourhood is coming to fruition. In July 2021, the group launched a Community Share Offer through Ethex, and now £350,000 has been raised. This money will be used to pay back loans from family

and friends, pay BCHA for two guest bedrooms and contribute towards building The Common House. Hazelmead has been designed to be affordable, energyefficient, high quality and supportive. The community will manage Hazelmead. Car-free streets will give children safe spaces to play, The Common House and outdoor areas will offer residents opportunities to socialise, companionship and mutual support. It is hoped houses in the first terrace – the Northeastern block – will be available from August. Already deposits have been taken for three of these homes. And from then the terraces will be released a month at a time, finishing with the apartment blocks in March 2023.

The West Dorset Magazine, April 8, 2022

Property

A touch of class at Old School House Misbehaving school children left their mark on this beautiful home in the late 1800s. The Old School House in Evershot is currently on the market with Domvs. A spokesman for the estate agent said: “The unique story of this house is that it was built to be the head teacher’s residence, in conjunction with the village school, in 1874. If you look carefully, you can see the names ‘Molly’ and ‘Ada’ scratched onto one of the original windowpanes by the head teacher’s children. The property has planning permission for a single

storey extension. Occupying an approximately half acre

plot of land, the master bedroom still features its original Victorian

fireplace. For more details contact Domvs on 01305 757300.

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Using the traditional ‘Lost Wax Process’

Classic Handmade Quality !"#$%&'()*+(,-#*+'-*+,(,-"(./(0&1(2+#*3"