The West Dorset Magazine Edition 23, December 16, 2022

Arthur the black lab is the ‘lab assistant’ at Aquae Sulis therapy centre in Damers Road, Dorchester. He loves to go to work and provide his complimentary pets as therapy services!

Morrisons urged to stop ‘ripping off’ Bridport drivers

West Dorset MP Chris Loder has called on Morrisons supermarket to review its petrol pricing, claiming motorists in Bridport are being ‘ripped off’. The MP is urging people in the town to ‘think twice’ before getting fuel from Morrisons and other supermarkets and has got Rishi Sunak to launch a review into the matter.

The PM has agreed to review pricing. Mr Loder said: “I strongly welcome this review and intend to meet with the CMA shortly to discuss this. Supermarket chains have behaved appallingly towards rural people and suppliers alike. I am pleased to be making progress on this and hope to see a progressive decrease in local fuel prices from Morrisons.”

Mr Loder hosted a call with Bridport Business Chamber and Bridport Town Council following what he called ‘considerable feedback’ about fuel prices being up to 20p higher in Bridport than Weymouth and Yeovil.

A spokesperson for Mr Loder said the MP has ‘implored’ Morrisons’ head of fuel to overhaul the company’s pricing.

Charlie’s food wins him place in final

West Dorset’s Charlie Jeffreys’ stunning cookery won him a place in the Masterchef: The Professionals final on Sunday evening.

The contestants were whittled down to the final three after a spectacular competition, in which Charlie, 24, shone. He was pipped to the post by Nikita Pathakji, also 24, who impressed the judges with her fantastic food from around the world.

Charlie, who was 23 at the time of filming, started his career as a pot washer at Yalbury Cottage. He was seen on the BBC show with his mum Katie Old, and with dad Mark Jeffreys. After the show Mark posted on Facebook: “Incredible Charlie, we are so proud of you, “Personally our winner, more risky and inspired cooking. (but we would say that). The future is bright, 3 Michelin star restaurant opening soon in Dorset…”

Charlie’s laid back persona won him an army of fans, and earned him high praise from judges Marcus Wareing and Anna Haugh.

His fish dish, pictured, in the semi-finals clinched him a place in the final three, alongside Nikita and Sagar Massey, who combined an amazing array of spices from his native India with a Scottish influence.

Charlie can be found cheffing at The Dorchester under Alain Ducasse. But in the future he plans to open a restaurant back in his home area.

Lucky us!

Two charities given £1,500

Catherine Broadley from Sherborne Churches Together and the Mayor of Sherborne Juliet Pentolfe presented £1,500 each to Sherborne Food Bank and Christians against Poverty at the Christmas Tree Service at Cheap Street Church, Sherborne. The Christmas Tree Festival and a jazz concert raised £3,000 which was split between the two

charities. Trees were decorated by organisations in Sherborne and donated by Castle Gardens. More than 3,750 people visited the festival.

Paying a fortune for leaflet drops?

TASTEFUL TRIO: Charlie, Nikita and Sagar

PIC: Godfrey Hall

Pugsie is such a well-trained doggy!

By Miranda Robertson miranda@westdorsetmag.co.uk

An adventurous dog sent her owner on a 120-mile rescue mission after she boarded a train on her own while out on a walk.

Pugsie-Mfanwy the jug (pug crossed with jack russell) decided to bolt for the westbound train as her owner, this magazine’s editor Miranda Robertson, was walking her, along with pug Hugo and cat Kitten-Mitten near the train station in Maiden Newton.

The five-year-old dog always tries to board trains and if there’s a train in the station Miranda always keeps them on the lead till well clear of the platform. However on this occasion there was no train as she passed and the dogs were off the lead. Miranda had walked some distance from the station when she looked down to see Hugo… but no Pugsie. An hour of frantic searching ensued, and two panicked Facebook posts were written in haste before a train guard replied with his number.

Miranda said: “I really thought something terrible had happened to Pugsie as she’s usually around my legs, trying to trip me up. “I was dreading telling my son I had lost his dog. “So when I heard she was being kept safe at Westbury I couldn’t be angry at her –I was just so relieved.”

While she is chipped, Pugsie’s tag had been lost –or Miranda would have been contacted sooner.

Wiltshire dog warden Alexandra Whittingham said: “I was called to

reports of a little dog left on a train that had been picked up at Westbury station and was in the control office keeping warm.

“I got there to find little Pugsie asleep on the lap of one of the GWR employees.

“Luckily, her mum was already on the way. I was shocked to find out that she had put herself on the train, possibly in search of an adventure! But very pleased she was safe and well and feel very lucky to have met such a confident, adventurous little dog!

“Hopefully she only boards the train with her mum in future!”

SAFE AND SOUND: Miranda with Pugsie and Westbury dog warden Alexandra Whittingham at Westbury station

Whasson? (and where’s it to?)

Thursday, Dec 15

The Arts Society West Dorset hosts a talk on Lucien Freud: The Art of Man by speaker John Idden at 2pm for 2.30pm in Bridport Town Hall. Visitors welcome at £7.50.

Ann & Neil’s Accoustic Night will be held at the Woodman from 8pm. Solos & duos playing/singing folk, blues, country & all things rootsy in the round. Material for all to join in. Formerly Val & Dave’s Folk Night.

Lyme Regis Carers’ Café will be held from 11am1pm at Driftwood Cafe –Lyme Regis Baptist Church.

Lyme Regis Carers’ Café provides a space for carers to take time for themselves, meet like-minded people and share thoughts and ideas on the issues that matter to them.

Come along for a drink and a chat in a friendly, welcoming and informal environment. They meet on the third Thursday of each month 11am -1pm.

Santa’s BBQ will be held at Ivy House Kitchen, Groves Nurseries, Bridport from 4.30pm-7pm. Santa will be visiting along

Calling all boomers to a new exhibition

are you would enjoy a new exhibition at Dorset Museum.

A time capsule of over 200 objects will be on display from Saturday, December 3 until Sunday, February 26 at the museum in High East Street, Dorchester. The touring exhibition I Grew Up 80s is making its first stop in the Southwest region here, offering visitors the chance to explore the popular culture of 1980s Britain through the eyes of a child – revisiting the colourful vibrancy and innovation that defined the decade.

It’s all here – from Betamax to BMX, Dirty Dancing to Donkey Kong, the Thompson Twins to Transformers.

The exhibition will also exhibit a beautifully

with Picklebottom the Elf (Strawberry Jam Entertainments) for an evening of festive fun. Expect a festive show, games, some delicious food straight from the

preserved 1981 Mark 1 model Golf GTI, on loan from the National Motor Museum, Beaulieu. Matt Fox, exhibition curator, collector and cultural commentator, said: “Those that grew up 30-40 years ago pre-internet, in the 1980s, can genuinely state that life was very different then.

“In my view, the 80s were a remarkable time to be a child. We can explore that through the objects that kids either owned or perhaps desperately wanted to!

“For example, you’ll see Dunlop Green Flash trainers alongside some achingly cool Adidas High Tops. Toys and electronic games that you once dreamed about on shop shelves or in the Argos catalogue. Iconic albums

barbecue and of course a present from Santa himself if you have been really good!

When you arrive, you will be shown to your table where Picklebottom the

you played to death on vinyl and cassette. Chocolate bars and food items, like Sweet Cigarettes and Peanut Treets, that are no longer with us. Plus, some great examples of 80s design like boomboxes, swatch watches, and, ahem, purple shell suits!”

So, pull up your leg warmers and unscramble your Rubik’s cubes, because like Bill and Ted in their phone booth or Marty McFly in his DeLorean, Dorset Museum is ready to take you on a most excellent adventure to revisit one of the most iconic decades in history – the Eighties!

To find out more about the exhibition go to dorsetmuseum.org/event/igrew-up-80s

naughty Elf will come and welcome you. After you have had your dinner, each family will be invited to visit Santa in a festive themed marquee on the terrace. And if you

If you ever wore a puffball skirt, or rolled your shirtsleeves up over your suit jacket, chances

have been good, get a special gift from him.

Tickets are £18 for children, £12 for adults. A family ticket (2 adults and 2 children) is £50. Book at grovesnurseries.co.uk/chris tmas-parties-at-ivy-house

There’ll be Carols in the Gardens at 6.30pm at The Borough Gardens, Dorchester.

Frosty Lanes & Fireside

Cheer – Mellstock Band –is at Dorchester’s Shire Hall Museum at 7pm. In depictions of an oldstyle rural Christmas certain images recur –carol-singers trudging through the snow to visit farmsteads and cottages on Christmas Eve, visitors and travellers seeking refuge from the cold, shepherds outdoors guarding their flocks, and by way of contrast, warm cottages, village merrymakings and convivial alehouses. In their new Christmas show the Mellstock Band visit all of these, with tales from Thomas Hardy and his contemporaries brought to life in song and music. The band perform in their 1840s Sunday-best clothes, playing songs, carols and dances from original sources on village band instruments of the time –fiddle, clarinet, concertina and serpent. shirehalldorset.org/events/ frosty-lanes-fireside-cheer

the first half of the 2022/2023 season! For December, they will be screening a movie that is sure to bring back good memories for a large number of our readers –

The Railway Children Return

Doors open at 7pm, with the film at 7.30pm. It’s 1944 and World War 2 is raging. Bobbie (Jenny Agutter), one of the original Railway Children but by now a grandmother, welcomes a group of evacuees from Salford to her home in Yorkshire. One day they encounter a young African American GI (Kenneth Aikens) who, like them, is far away from home, and who is hiding from the authorities.

Tickets from Wayne Pullen, Family Butcher of High Street, Milborne Port. Ticket prices have been maintained (£5 per person in advance, and £6 on the door). As usual, a limited wine and beer bar will be available. Payment for on the door tickets by credit or debit card.

organisations are invited to secure their place at the festival. Full details at lymeregiscarnival.co.uk/ christmastreefestival

Moviola at Milborne Port

Village Hall (Springfield Road, Milborne Port, DT9 5RE) is nearly at the end of

Lyme Regis Christmas Tree Festival will open at 10am at Pine Hall, Lyme Regis Baptist Church. There will be a stunning array of glittering Christmas trees decorated by local groups and organisations. Meander through a mini forest of sparkling trees adorned with lights and creatively decorated to reflect the theme of the organisation. The magical spectacle which brings extra festive cheer to the town is free to attend, with any donations gratefully received. Local groups and

Broadwindsor Community Film Club will show ELVIS (12) at Comrades Hall, Broadwindsor at 7.30pm. Starring Austin Butler and Tom Hanks, the film tells the story of Elvis’ life and music. A must for all Elvis fans.

Film club members free –guests £4. Refreshments available.

Tickets can be booked by contacting Emma Myers at broadwindsorem@gmail.com or Margaret Wing – 01308 867252.

A Christmas Concert will be held at 7.30pm at The Bull Hotel, Bridport. A magical night of Christmas favourites,

singalong carols and a dash of opera is promised. Rogue Opera are back with their quartet of professional opera singers and pianist, returning to Fuller’s to bring their passion and talent to the magic of Christmas. In this new show they will take you on a journey with the performers as they rediscover the joy of the season through the power of music.

Featuring Christmas songs, best-loved carols for audience singalongs and a selection of beautiful classical pieces, this will be an evening filled with warmth, laughter and music to infuse you with the spirit of Christmas!

Pieces include: I’m

Dreaming of a White

Whasson? (and where’s it to?)

Singers and band ready for Christmas gig

Christmas, Merry Christmas Everybody, Once in Royal David’s City, Silent Night, O Come All Ye Faithful, O Holy Night, Hallelujah Chorus. The show will run for 90 minutes plus a 20 minute interval. Lyrics for the sing along carols will be printed in your programs designmynight.com/uk/ whats-on

Weymouth RNLI Carol Service will be held at 7pm at the Lifeboat Station on the harbour.

Come and join us as we get into the festive mood with a carol service on the harbourside by the lifeboat station with mulled wine and mince pies!

Saturday, Dec 17

Everyone is invited to a carol service at 4.30pm in St Peter’s Church, Dorchester.

This is a highly traditional carol service following the order of Kings College, Cambridge. Along with choir carols by Boris Ord, Vaughan Williams, Will Todd, Matthew Owens, John Rutter and others, the service features all of your favourite carols. Simon Lole is organist and Ian Davis directs.

Sherborne Library host ‘Festive Quiz, Puzzles and Colouring’ from 2pm3pm.

Free and suitable for families and children aged five-plus.

Booking is advised – visit Eventbrite online or call 01935 812683.

Join The Ridgeway Singers & Band for their Christmas Concert in Dorchester on Wednesday, December 21.

The concert will be a blend of Dorset-linked carols, folk songs, traditional music and entertaining tales. These include a joyful version of ‘Hark the Herald Angels Sing’ from Durweston and ‘Rejoice Ye Tenants of the Earth’, one of the favourite carols of the Melstock Quire in Thomas Hardy’s much-loved Christmas classic Under the Greenwood Tree. Wintery songs include ‘A Song for Loders’ by the Cotswold poet Leonard Clark, with a melody by our own Tim Laycock.

A Nativity Trail will open from Emmanuel Church Southill at 10am and will be on show until Christmas Eve.

Follow Dotty the Donkey as she retells the Christmas Story around Southill. Start at the church and see where she takes you around Southill.

Nothe Fort’s Elf Hunt will be on from 11am-3pm today and tomorrow. The mischievous elves are back at the Fort for the ultimate game of hide and seek!

Every Christmas Nothe Fort gets overrun with naughty elves.

Every week they run riot and cause havoc in all the displays, but at the weekend they play their favourite game of hide and

This lovely piece evokes a snowy December in rural West Dorset: ‘From Yondover to Askerswell, the lanterns burn for wand’ring sheep’. Music played by the band includes ‘The January Waltz’ written by Dorset composer Nick Dunckley, as well as Thomas Hardy’s favourite hornpipe

seek. Can you help find them?

Opening hours are weekends only, 11am-3pm. The Elf Hunt is included in your general admission/annual pass ticket price (upgrade to an annual pass at no additional cost).

Live Music Nights @ Lyme Regis Football Club continue tonight. Monthly live music nights are usually held on the last Saturday of every month (please note earlier date in December).

Join the Seasiders for our monthly party! Entry is free but donations welcome. Bar open with drink specials and raffle. Music from 8.30pm.

Live music & festive

‘Enrico’. Recent comments: ‘Brilliant, uplifting singing and terrific readings’ and ‘It was absolutely wonderful: I thoroughly enjoyed it’. No more online tickets are available but phone 01305 852826 to go on a waiting list for any cancellations. Tickets £10; U18 £5

food are promised at Seals Cove from 7pm-10pm. The Silver Lining band will be playing some 50s and 60s rock & pop and there will be delicious festive food and refreshments. Doors open at 7pm and the band starts at 7.30pm –16+ entry.

Entry is £3. Book at sealscove.co.uk

Bridport Vegan Eco Living & Craft Christmas Market kicks off at 9.30am in Barrack Street.

A lovely local festive green market, with hot food, sweet and savoury bakes and lots of thoughtful and conscious Christmas gift ideas. Free entry, all welcome. Go along and try something new!

A Christmas Charity

Santa Dive will set off from Portland Marina at 9am.

This is a two-dive trip for all levels of divers with a maximum depth of 20 metres.

Last year’s event raised more than £1,000 for the RNLI.

In between dives there will be hot pasties, tea, coffee and especially for the event hot chocolate with whipped cream and marshmallows with hot mince pies to follow.

To book email WaveriderDiveCharter@ gmail.com

Santa costumes a must, come along and enjoy the festive fun…

Cost £70 with all proceeds going to RNLI Weymouth. JurassicAquaSports.co.uk

Santa’s Grotto will be up and twinkling at Pine Hall, Lyme Regis Baptist Church today and tomorrow from 10am-4pm. Book a slot to meet him at santalymeregis.co.uk Cost £5 per child which includes a certificate and small gift.

Santa’s Grotto will be run by Lyme Regis Regatta & Carnival Team and will run alongside the Christmas Tree Festival with all proceeds to local good causes.

Bridport Mummers’

Christmas Play will be held from 5pm-8pm at various pubs. The play for Saturnalia will raise money for local food bank, Cupboard Love. The Ropemakers @5pm, The Pursuit of Hoppiness @6pm

All times are approximate and subject to change! Sherborne Christmas market will be held in Cheap Street from 10am4pm. Christmas fun and gifts

from lots of talented Dorset traders.

Weldmar’s Light Up A Life will be held at 4pm at St Michael the Archangel, Church Street, Lyme Regis DT7 3DB.

Dec 18 continued

Light up a Life provides you with an opportunity to remember your loved ones whilst enabling Weldmar Hospicecare to continue our support throughout this Christmas time.

Hour-long Afternoon Tea

With Santa sessions will be held at Boos Toy Shop Poundbury at 2pm, 3.30pm and 5pm. Includes: afternoon tea, gift bag, meet and greet with Santa, photo with Santa and reindeer food. Tickets £15 at jumblebee.co.uk/visitfather christmasatboostoyshop

Christmas Music at the Pavilion will be hosted by Pips Poundbury at 5pm. Franz and Sophie will be leading carols and some popular Christmas songs. There will be mince pie’s and spiced apple cider on offer as well as all the usuals from the cafe. Free entry.

There’s a mug making workshop at Tom Brown’s, High East Street, Dorchester from 3pm5.30pm. Join Pots n Pints’Anna for step-by-step tutorials of how to make your own stoneware mugs. You’ll have enough clay to make a collection of objects: perhaps three coffee mugs or two supersize mugs, perfect for boozy hot chocolates, an olive dish and a candlestick. If a set of mugs aren’t really your jam – you can opt for a vase, egg cups, shot glasses, soap dishes, candle sticks, tapas dishes,

Not-for-profit toyshop now open

A new and affordable toy shop initiative has been launched in Axminster. No Toy Left Behind is the brainchild of four women who felt, although there is a local need for affordable toys, there are also thousands of toys and puzzles sitting unused in boxes, attics and even landfills. The not-for-profit shop is

jewellery bowls or even a teapot if you‘re feeling ambitious. For an extra £5 you can opt for a gorgeous milky, satin matte glaze –developed by Anna. As always, the first drink is always free. Very limited spaces, so make sure to book in early. Suitable for ages 14+, book at Eventbrite.

Transport of Yesteryear’s Annual Christmas Steam & Vehicle Meet – an informal gathering of steam and vintage and classic vehicles – will be held 10am-4pm at the Top o’ Town car park in Dorchester.

The Bridport Turnip Prize will be held at The Ropemakers from 4pm7pm.

During the last few months it has been very hard for creative people to show their talents and get the appropriate feedback for their creations.

This is inspired as a spoof on the Tate Gallery’s Turner Prize and it is

on the first floor of Pippins Community Centre and is open from 1pm to 4pm on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

hoped that it will become an annual event.

There are three rules: n Does it show a lack of effort?

n Entries must have an alliteration or pun in the title

n Is it crap? Entries with too much effort, or not crap enough will be immediately disqualified.

The prize will be a turnip nailed to a lump of wood and each year’s winner can keep their amazing trophy for life.

Overall the concept will be ʻWe know it’s rubbish, but is it art?ʼ

Entries to be sent by email to johnthecelt1@gmail.com by 3pm on Sunday, December 18 for judging. The winner will receive a certificate and a special trophy.

We ask that entrants make a donation to Parkinson’s UK at justgiving.com/ fundraising/bridportturnip prize

Be proud to be the winner with the most feeble work of art.

The group behind the project decided to turn unwanted toys, puzzles and books into perfectly giftable items ready to be enjoyed once again. The project is also giving children of the families who use the Axminster Food Bank a free £10 token, which can be exchanged for any of the toys, puzzles and books from No Toy Left Behind.

Monday, Dec 19

A Children’s Christmas Party will be held at 3pm at The Admiral Hardy in Weymouth.

DJ Rick Michael will be there to entertain the kids with music, fun and games. Christmas fancy dress or jumpers if you like. There will be a prize for the best boy and best girl. Party nibbles and lots of sweets. Free entry.

Tuesday, Dec 20

Joy at Christmas at the United Church Dorchester on Tuesday, 20th, Thursday 22nd and Friday 23rd 10am-12.30. Come and see the stable, lots of nativity scenes and have a few minutes’ peace surrounded by music and candles.

The Christmassy Christmas Show will be hosted by Dorchester Arts at 11am. Dorchester favourites Squashbox Theatre (Stones and Bones, Universarama)

are back with their spectacular celebration of everything Christmassy, from fir trees, fairy lights, sleigh bells and puddings!

The Christmassy Christmas Show of Christmassy Christmasness! is an overstuffed stocking of seasonal surprises crammed with puppets, songs, quizzes and comedy, and over-flowing with crazy characters, silly slapstick, tall tales and fantastic facts – all presented in that unique Squashbox style! dorchesterarts.org.uk

From 10am-noon, Sherborne Library host a special Code Club session called ‘Magnificent, Merry Micro:bits’. Free and suitable for children aged 8-13 alongside parent/guardians. Booking is advised – visit Eventbrite online or call 01935 812683.

A Christmas Bingo & Curry Night will be held at The Thimble Inn Piddlehinton from 6.30pm. Eyes down 7pm. Choice of curries at £12.95 per person.

A Christmas Kids Party will be held from 3pm6pm at The Mermaid Pub & Restaurant, Bristol Rd, Sherborne.

Fun games, disco, buffet, prizes, cookie decorating and a flying visit from Father Christmas. Booking essential.

Christmas Artyfacts will be held at Dorset Museum. Create your own Victorian Christmas-inspired crafts

and cards. Then on December 22 – Make Victorian decoupage gift boxes, tags and tree decorations for your friends and family and December 27 – Create your own Victorian Christmas-inspired crafts and cards.

This free event is included as a part of your entrance ticket/annual pass or membership

Whasson? (and where’s it to?)

Solstice in June. Tune in and listen to the rhythm of the earth and shifting seasons it can provide solace – let out the last of our exhale, and then pause before beginning the fresh inhale of spring. Drinks close to the yoga centre after the class, which runs from 7pm8.15pm at Dorchester Yoga and Therapy Centre. Cost £9.

Nature Tots at The Kingcombe Centre will play host to little ones who love the great outdoors. A new group of likeminded parents/guardians and their children aged four and under will come together at Dorset Wildlife Trust’s Kingcombe Visitor Centre to enjoy nature every month.

Explore the site and investigate the animals and plants that live there. Please bring wellies and snacks!

To join the waiting list, email Daisy Meadowcroft: dmeadowcroft@dorsetwild lifetrust.org.uk

There’s Jazz at The Three Compasses in Charminster from 8pm.

At this Christmas special all audience and musicians are welcome. There’s a resident trio – bring your instrument! Fine ales and atmosphere.

A Candlelight Winter Solstice Yoga will be held for the the Winter Solstice – the turn of the seasons, where the days are shortest and from here on in, the light grows stronger every day until the summer

Bournemouth Sinfonietta Choir will perform in the splendour of the Victorian Hall in the recently refurbished Dorset Museum at 7.30pm. A classic mixture of festive music and readings, new and old, including the Ukrainian Carol of the Bells. Together with seasonal refreshments, the evening will provide the perfect start to your Christmas celebrations. This concert is always very popular – please book early to ensure a seat. Tickets: £19 to include seasonal refreshments during the interval, are available online at ticketsource.co.uk/bschoir or at the door (if still available).

Sherborne Library host ‘Snowflakes, Stars and Stories’ from 10am-11am. Free and suitable for families and children aged 3+. Booking is advised –visit Eventbrite online or call 01935 812683.

Characters at Christmas

will be at Dorchester’s Brewery Square from 11am-1pm. Meet your favourite festive characters, meet and greet with the Snow Queen and friends and receive a free gift. There’s a Christmas Piano Sing-a-long at The King’s Arms – Portesham from 9.30pm.

Friday, Dec 23

Lucy Hackett will provide rip-roaring renditions of all your favourite classic songs.

Vinyl Van + Tom’s present... Funk Me its Christmas! At Tom Browns Pub, Dorchester from 7pm.

An evening of funk, soul, reggae, world, ska etc. Come and get funky with us and raise those Xmas spirits.

Yeovil Railway Centre’s Santa Special will be running from 10am-4pm. Gate open at 10am and train rides start at 10.15am. Adults £11, Children £11. Children aged 12 months and under are free and will receive a free present. Trains will run at 10.15am, 10.40am. 11.05am,11.30am,11.55am . 12.20pm 1.40pm. 2.05pm, 2.30pm, 2.55pm, 3.20pm.

Booking tickets online will close December 21. After this time, please call 07716 672936.

After their train ride visitors then make their way to the ex GWR Transfer Shed, where Santa will be ready to receive his

Whasson? (and where’s it to?)

Quangle choir on song

visitors. All children will receive a free present from Santa.

The adult ticket includes a free mince pie and a hot drink.

A Christmas Quiz & Raffle Draw will be held at Coach House Inn, Winterborne Abbas, from 8pm.

Quizzing starts at 8pm and costs just £1 per person to enter, with teams being made up of up to six people.

Tickets for the raffle are £1.50 per ticket or £5 for a strip and can be purchased at the pub throughout December. All funds raised from the raffle will be donated to these worthy causes:

Julia’s House Children’s Hospice

RNLI Lifeboats

Margaret Green Animal Rescue

ELF will be shown at Dorchester’s Plaza cinema on Christmas Eve! Join in and enjoy a Christmas Classic, starring Will Ferrell and Zooey Deschanel.

Tickets are available at plazadorchester.com for performances at 10am, 12.30pm and 5pm.

Carols in the Garden will be held at 4.30pm at The Unitarian Chapel in the Garden – Bridport. Gather in the Chapel garden to sing carols alongside candles and mulled apple juice (after, with thanks to New House

The Quangle Wangle Choir will be performing at St Nicholas Church, Broadwey, Weymouth, DT3 5DN on Sunday, December 18 from 3pm to 5pm. Doors will open at 2.30pm. Tickets £8. Accompanied children free. Call 01305 814940 or 07887 986167.

Farm). All welcome!

Christmas Eve Carols will be held at 4pm at Prayerhouse Chickerell.

Sunday, Dec 25

The Veterans Hub iis throwing open its doors 11am-3pm for its Christmas Day Brew. The team will be opening up the cafe for anyone that would like a free brew and mince pie. All are welcome.

Monday, Dec 26

#Willdoes Boxing Day Swim will be held at Swanage Beach at 11am. Brave the cold and take a dip.

Meet at The Mowlem Theatre, BH19 1DD, end of the beach from 11am. There will be prizes for the best fancy dress!

This event is free but donations are welcomed. All swimmers and spectators welcome. Just turn up. There will be refreshments and mince pies.

Land & Wave will be there

covering all safety aspects of the community event.

Thursday, Dec 29

There’s a Christmas Mouse Hunt at West Bay Discovery Centre (DT6 4EN) 11am-4pm from December 29-31. Our mice have been running amok in the centre help us to find them! Admission is free, but donations are welcomed. More details at westbaydiscoverycentre. org.uk

Saturday, Dec 31

A New Year’s Eve RAVE will be held from 7pm-3am at Bridport Youth & Community Centre. Go hard and see the new year in with the south west’s best drum & bass / techno talent.

Room 1: 421 Collective [Sidechain Bob | Torro | Atom | Cookie Monster] Room 2: Uncivilised Service [Alternative Civil Servant + Special Guests] Featuring 6 Scoop Sound System Bar/food/surprises. Exclusively a 21 and over

event. Enquiries to: findingwhitetigers@gmail. com Ticketsource.co.uk

New Year’s Eve with DJ Santa at The Ropemakers, Bridport. Party New Year’s Eve away with excellent tunes brought to you by DJ Santa. Sherborne Historical Society will host Professor Jonathan Harris with a talk on Byzantium and the Fall of Constantinople at Digby Hall, Hound Street at 8pm. Members free, visitors £5. sherbornehistoricalsociety. co.uk

Thursday, Jan 5

A Community Coffee Morning will be held at St Swithun’s Church Allington, Bridport from 10.45am-11.45am. Enjoy a cup of fresh coffee and a piece of cake at no charge and enjoy a chat in the company of others.

Monday, Jan 9

A six-week course on Art History starts today, 2pm3.30pm with ‘The Scottish Colourists’. Venue: United Hall East St, Bridport. Fee £65.

Paintings which possess dazzling colours, interiors, portraits, modern life and dress in the 1920s, beautiful and striking Scottish landscapes. in addition some related film and photography of the period will be discussed. Tutor is Pam Simpson MA, Art Historian, who works at University of the Arts London as an associate lecturer. Pam is an

experienced tutor, whose career has been spent teaching in London Art schools and also in Dorset where she runs courses and gives lectures for groups. The same course runs online via Zoom on Fridays at 2pm Fee £60. Contact Pam to book via email: chris.pamsimpson@ btinternet.com or tel 01300 321715.

Try something new in the New Year and join the University of the Third Age at a Fayre in Dorchester. There are more than 1,000 u3a branches throughout the UK, showing that the u3a is very successful in providing what is of interest to people in their Third Age.

The success of the Dorchester and District u3a is largely due to a thriving, wide range of more than 50 groups providing activities ranging from archaeology to weaving.

U3a is aimed at people who are no longer in full time employment and have reached their ‘third age’, a time to keep minds and bodies alert and active.

From 10am-11.45am at the Trinity Parish Hall, Culliford Road, Dorchester DT1 1QG Dorchester u3a is holding its Group Fayre, at which the various groups will showcase the different activities available to members. Those interested in joining the u3a with a view to consolidating/expanding their area of interest are most welcome to come along and find out what is available – you’ll be surprised!

Admission is £1 and

Whasson? (and where’s it to?)

includes tea and coffee which will be served all morning. For more information go to dorchesteru3a.org.uk or phone the membership secretary on 01305 851922.

Tuesday, Jan 10

Loders WI will enjoy a talk on caring in the community, by care specialist Anna Knight – a valuable insight into the modern care industry and the challenges that it faces. Loders Village Hall, Time 7.30p, Cost £5 for nonmembers. Tea and coffee and cake served after. Further info see: LodersWI.org

Weds, Jan 11

West Bay Discovery Centre is holding a Winter Talk: Shipwrecks of Lyme Bay at 2.30pm at The Salt House, West Bay, DT6 4HB. Nigel Clarke explores the amazing shipwrecks hidden below our local waters. Admission £5 tickets available from Bridport TIC bridportandwestbay.co.uk/ tickets

Thursday, Jan 12

Chesil Bank Writing Shed will launch today from 7pm-9pm at Portesham Village Hall. Do you write, would you like to write? The new writers group will meet on the second Tuesday of each month From poetry to prose, fan fiction to literary fiction, and biography to travel guides. Whatever your writing

style and genre share it for feedback; challenge yourself with fun writing prompts and learn more about the business of being a writer. New writers welcome. Find out more: writingshed.co.uk

The Dorchester-Bayeux Society presents the film Jean de Florette in French with subtitles at Dorchester’s Corn Exchange. Doors open at 7pm for 7.30pm. All welcome Admission £4 on the door r telephone 01305 854915.

A talk on Underground Dorchester Tunnels is at 7pm at Dorchester’s Shire Hall Museum. Back by popular demand, Councillor David Taylor returns to Shire Hall to discuss Dorchester’s underground tunnels. David has researched the town’s many tunnels and cellars. Come and hear about tunnels used by prisoners, judges, wine merchants and perhaps even smugglers! David is passionate about Dorchester and its fascinating history, and has served as the town’s Mayor and Deputy Mayor. Please note: This talk does not include a tour of the tunnels. shire-hall-historiccourthouse-museum.mysho pify.com

Library fun

Sherborne Library holds many regular free events.

On Mondays in term time there’s Nature Writing for Fun from 11am-12.30pm. Then from 2.30pm-4.30pm in winter there’s Cuppa & Company: refreshments.

On Tuesdays there’s Storytime: stories for under 5s from 10am-10.30am and on the second Tuesday of the month from 11am-1pm there are Family and Local History Sessions with the town’s history society.

On the first Thursday of the month you can meet the police from 10.30am-11am. Every Thursday (term time only) 1pm-3pm The Scribes: writing group meet and at 2pm, 3pm and 4pm a digital champion will be on hand for booked sessions to help people with tech.

On Fridays 10am-10.30am there’s Rhyme Time: songs and rhymes for under 5s and at 11am, noon and 1pm there are more digital champion sessions to book. On Saturday mornings there’s Lego Fun for age 5+ and from 10am-11am on the second and fourth Saturday there’s a Code Club: programming fun ages 8-13. For more information call 01935 812683.

School plea

An application for funding to replace outdated ‘temporary’ classrooms at Sherborne’s Gryphon School has been made to the Minister for School Standards Nick Gibb. West Dorset MP Chris Loder called for the funding to replace the classrooms, which were put up in the 1990s and in which he was taught.

Our cartoonist Lyndon draws high

By Miranda Robertson miranda@westdorsetmag.co.uk

The West Dorset Magazine’s cartoonist

Lyndon Wall has won a national award – beating the likes of The Times, The Telegraph, The Guardian, The Spectator and Private Eye.

This magazine– which was only launched in February this year – was the only regional/non-London publication to be shortlisted for the Political Cartoon of the Year Awards, presented in London by Jacob Rees Mogg and Angela Rayner on behalf of organisers Ellwood Atfield. Rees Mogg handed Lyndon

the runner-up award at a ceremony packed with journalists, politicians and the cream of the nation’s cartoonists.

The winner was a cartoon from The Sun, in which the Duke of Edinburgh and the

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Queen are sitting in heaven, with the Duke exclaiming: “You asked WHO to form a government?...”

Lyndon’s cartoon, featuring Liz Truss and Kwasi Kwarteng playing

Monopoly, laughing, with Sir Keir Starmer as a ‘Borrower’ under the floorboards, pictured right, really stood out in the competition, with its bright colours and excellent rendering of many well-known faces. He said: “I rarely visit London these days, preferring the peace of Dorset. In Westminster, my wife Cathy and I found ourselves among 500 journalists, politicians and celebrity cartoonists, all networking busily.

“A Tory MP came up and asked if I was preparing my speech. With all the top national newspapers represented I hadn’t dreamt I would need to – I was

MY BIG MOMENT: Cartoonist Lyndon Wall receives his award from Jacob Rees-Mogg

praise

enjoying seeing the WDM (and our cartoon) coming up on the enormous screens every few minutes.

“When my name was called out I was ushered on stage, wrung Jacob Rees-Mogg’s hand, accepted the silver tankard and a bottle of fizz, and stood staring into a microphone.

“During the following minute the WDM got a great deal of praise and exposure – the day we went national!”

n While we feel so proud to have won a national award, and thrilled that we have had a few donations in following our plea in the last edition, we are still some way short of paying our costs. All but about 200 of the 18-20,000 copies we print and distribute are snapped up, and we get such lovely feedback we

know we are doing something right. So this is just a second appeal to support us in any way you can, so we can continue to entertain you with our unique fortnightly dose of fun, informative content. Perhaps you know of someone who is a whizz at selling ads, who would like to help us? (Paid, of course!) Or maybe you know trades people or companies you think would benefit from advertising with us? Can you give them a nudge for us? Or perhaps you could send us a donation to help towards our costs? We don’t want to put a cover price on it (we’re priceless, we are) and we don’t want to cut down on pages or frequency, believing once a fortnight is the sweet spot when it comes to news.

We’ll be back on January 13...

The West Dorset Magazine is taking a two-week break over Christmas and will next publish on January 13. We thank all our readers and advertisers for their support over the past 11 months and wish you all a wonderful Christmas and a very happy 2023.

Developers apologise over damage to hedges and trees

By Dan Goater dan@westdorsetmag.co.uk

Irreparable damage was caused when Foundry Lea developers in Bridport tore up ancient hedgerows and trees on land they don’t own.

Executives at Barratt Homes and Vistry Group were forced to apologise after an ‘internal failure’ led to contractors removing hedgerows and trees on land that is not part of the development site off West Road.

Following the blunder, Bridport Town Council leader David Rickard issued a statement saying:

“The town council is deeply disappointed to hear that hedgerows, trees and other foliage have been wrongly removed from land that is not part of the development site at Foundry Lea.

“The developers have accepted responsibility for what they advise was an ‘internal failure’.

“They have committed to an investigation to find out exactly what happened and how to avoid a repeat, and we agree that this is an absolute minimum level of action.

“The developers have also advised they will be ‘rectifying the issue’, and

whilst this is a positive statement, we do need to understand what it means in practical terms.

“The loss of mature trees and hedgerow on this scale, irreparably damages wildlife habitats and the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty for a long time, and it is unclear how this damage can be rectified.

“We will be meeting with the developers to obtain further clarity on this, along with absolute reassurances for the future that our environment and our community will be fully respected as the development progresses.”

Three Businesses Under One Roof

Waldon Hill Trading Post

An eclectic mix of vintage antiques, crafts and collectables from over 60 traders.

The Cabin Cafe Home made food served daily including full English breakfast, lunches, delicious cakes and fresh cream teas.

Waldon Hill Garden Centre

A boutique garden centre with a great selection of all things for your garden.

Pictures by Beth.erinartblogg

Six swimmers who battled challenging conditions to try to break the record for the oldest standard six-person Channel relay swim have been left bitterly disappointed after their bid for ratification was rejected.

The Channel Swimming and Piloting Federation’s ratification committee refused to allow the One Foot in the Wave 2 team’s swim, saying they had broken the rules.

But the six swimmers, with an average age of 75 years 187 days– four of whom are from Dorset – say they did not break the rules and while they have asked for clarification on what rule the CS&PF say they have broken, none has been forthcoming.

The issue has revolved around the oldest swimmer Robert Lloyd-Evans, aged 79, becoming disorientated and swimming away from the boat just as he was due to come out of the water for the next swimmer to go in and continue the journey. Getting his attention was difficult, but he was back on the boat within four minutes. The CS&PF rules state that the outgoing swimmer must leave the water within five minutes. The rules also state that each swimmer should swim for 60 minutes which Robert did, plus an extra four minutes. There is

£150,000

Swimmers’ record hope is sunk in bust-up over rules

nothing in the rules to say each swimmer must swim for 60 minutes precisely and there is no clarification stipulating any tolerance if a swimmer swims for more than 60 minutes.

They had a CS&PF accredited pilot and a CS&PF accredited observer with them on the swim who at the time recorded the swim as successful, so they are even more confused over what they could have done to make the CS&PF refuse to ratify the swim –which they self-funded. The swim also raised over £3,000 for Alzheimer’s Research UK at the time. One member of the team, Bob Holman from Affpuddle, who turned 78

just after the swim, said: “It was a magnificent effort by the whole team and we are still very proud of our achievement. However, we are very disappointed that the CS&PF have refused ratification when clearly we have all swum within the spirit of the rules.”

The conditions for the swim in September were so rough a number of team members were sick, and at one point they were unable to progress beyond trying to simply stay where they were, fighting the spring tide and swell. Nearly 18 hours after leaving Blighty they arrived at Sangatte, exhausted but triumphant. But now, despite an appeal, the six have been told by the CS&PF their

swim doesn’t count. The CS&PF were asked for a comment, but did not respond.

However every cloud has a silver lining – this magazine got in touch with The Times about this story and its readers immediately started donating to the team’s fundraiser (justgiving.com/ fundraising/ofitw2). Their total doubled in a few hours after Times Online ran the story and as we went to press donations were being added every few minutes. The team were also invited on to Good Morning Britain.

As one donator wrote: “Well done to you all. You know you did it, we know you did it. Congratulations.”

in prizes for Premium Bond winners

Three Premium Bonds holders in Dorset scooped a combined £150,000 in Premium Bonds prizes in the December prize draw.

One winner, who held £5,020 in Premium Bonds, won £100,000 having purchased their winning Bonds in August 2007 – waiting more than 15 years to win the second

biggest prize available to Premium Bonds winners.

The two other winners, who each secured £25,000, held £100 and £20,200 in Premium Bonds, and purchased their winning bonds in May 1996 and February 1998.

The December 2022 prize draw will see a total of 4,977,130 prizes worth

£218,993,750 paid out to winners up and down the country.

Since the first draw in July 1957, ERNIE has drawn 596 million prizes with a total value of £24 billion.

Premium Bonds holders can check to see if they have won a prize in December’s prize draw by using the nsandi.com prize checker.

MAKING A SPLASH: The One Foot In The Wave 2 team

It was a cracker!

Despite light snowfall first thing Dorchester's second all-day Cracker event was a huge success. The town saw thousands of people brave the chilly weather to enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Steve Bulley, vice president of Dorchester Chamber for Business, pictured with Paddington and a polar bear. said: “It was wonderful to see

the town so busy again this year. We were able to offer quality stalls offering something different.”

The event moved last year to an allday event after 25 years as an evening Christmas light switch-on. The first Children’s Santa Hat parade

saw more than 300 parading in High West Street.

Steve added: “Cracker is run by a small number of volunteers who work tirelessly all year round to create a festive day for our county town.”

Pilot to improve outcomes for children

A pilot project to improve the health and education outcomes for children has been launched in Dorchester, Weymouth and Portland. Safeguarding Families Together has the aim of making Dorset the best place to be a child. If it is successful, Dorset Council plans to expand this approach to the whole of Dorset. Phase 1 involves substance misuse workers and domestic abuse (victim support) workers starting to work alongside social workers. Probation and mental health professionals will be joining in the new year.

The council has a particular focus on addressing the needs of children living with parental substance use,

parental mental ill-health or domestic abuse.

Safeguarding Families Together will embed specialist adult service workers alongside children’s social workers, to keep children safe in the family home. This sharing of information between professionals is hoped to provide the right support at the right time. This approach to whole family working has been implemented in other local authorities and there is compelling evidence to suggest it supports better outcomes for families, improves recruitment and retention of social workers and delivers cost reductions.

Cllr Andrew Parry, portfolio holder for children, education,

skills and early help, said: “Multi-disciplinary teams made up of children’s social workers and adult specialists in mental health, substance misuse and domestic abuse will work alongside families. “Adults within the household are assessed and provided with specialist help without the need for wait times and appointments. Through individual and group work programmes, perpetrators of domestic abuse will be supported and educated. “Victims of domestic abuse will be offered help and support. Substance misuse workers will undertake screening, testing, prescribing medication and lead individual and group work programmes for alcohol and

drug reduction. Mental Health workers will be able to assess and provide therapeutic support and necessary interventions to prevent mental health from escalating. “Everyone working with our families will be trained in motivational interviewing, one consistent practice approach which provides empathy and promotes self-belief to facilitate positive change.”

The project is hoped to keep families together where the risk might otherwise have been too high, it will reduce the number of children coming into care and it will increase capacity for social workers, meaning that they can spend more time working directly with families and less on administration.

Bridport Cheers thousands of guests

Bridport enjoyed a festive treat, with scores of stallholders, entertainment and delicious food and drink filling the streets for the evening. Shoppers were

able to browse thousands of handmade items, shake hands with a dinosaur and enjoy live entertainment as the lights were switched on by mayor Ian Bark.

£22k raised

The Candles on the Cobb event held in the summer raised some £22,000 – one of the highest amounts raised in a one-day event in Lyme Regis.

The money was raised by selling individual candles and only made possible from the generous support of Lyme Bay Holidays, The Swim Restaurant, Quinnell Candles, Advance Digital Print and the many volunteers.

The British Red Cross and Cancer Research have received £5,500 each and the remainder is being distributed to local youth organisations, including Uplyme Preschool, Lyme Regis Pantomime Society, Lyme Regis Youth Football Team and Woodroffe School Gardening Club among scores of others.

Group frustrated by window policy

By Dan Goater dan@westdorsetmag.co.uk

A fresh row has erupted over the building materials Poundbury residents must use in their homes.

The Duchy of Cornwall recently announced its plans to ‘maintain the requirement’ that only timber window frames are used in buildings in the urban extension.

But campaigners at the Poundbury Window Group dispute the duchy’s claim timber is ‘the only choice’ suitable, saying materials like uPVC can achieve the same aesthetic and are more environmentallyfriendly.

In 2021, the Duchy undertook a review of its policy to only allow timber window frames in

Poundbury following complaints by residents who organised themselves as the ‘Window Group’.

A Duchy spokesperson said: “In reviewing the policy the Duchy carefully considered the points and background information provided by the Window Group and assessed both aesthetics and sustainability.

“The Duchy’s decision is to maintain the requirement to use timber windows as set out in the design and community code.

“When Poundbury is completed in around five years’ time, it will consist of some 2,700 homes.

“From the outset of the development, creating a sustainable community in every sense of the word and reflecting the

architectural heritage of Dorset and Great Britain, has been fundamental.

“In line with this approach, the decision to use timber windows is embedded within the original vision of His Royal Highness The Duke of Cornwall.”

Responding to the Duchy’s decision, John Moorby of The Window Group said: “We support the Duchy’s desire both for sustainability and for good quality design but dispute that these aims make timber windows the only choice.

“The Duchy’s insistence on timber restricts Poundbury residents to a choice between hard and soft wood window frames. “Hardwood is generally durable, but its sourcing and transport raises

environmental issues.

“Those that can’t afford hardwood currently have to use softwood, and the Window Group has acknowledged that less carbon is incurred in creating a softwood window frame than a uPVC one.

“However, unlike uPVC, painted softwood performs badly in exterior applications exposed to sun, wind and rain.”

He added: “The Window Group cannot understand how the Duchy can oppose the use of uPVC for windows while allowing its use for a myriad of other applications – such as gutters, drain pipes, waste piping, cavity closers, and any number of fixtures and fittings.”

CHEERS: Balloon modelling fun in Bridport PIC: TIM RUSS

Why are we waiting? Campaigners

By Miranda Robertson miranda@westdorsetmag.co.uk

Campaigners against 4,000 extra homes for Dorchester are pushing for a comprehensive response to their concerns after being told the Local Plan has been delayed by at least two years.

The ‘Norchester’ development, which could see swathes of water meadows and countryside disappear north of the town, proved so controversial that more than 9,000 people added their names and tens of thousands of comments to a consultation held 20 months ago.

The plan, which aims to meet the need for homes in the area as well as hit government targets for new builds, is a long-term blueprint for the area, which would be used for 15-20 years to shape planning.

It is now due to be re-presented to councillors in late 2024.

But campaigners from several groups including STAND (Save The Area North of Dorchester), the CPRE and DDB (Dorset Deserves Better) say

MAPPED OUT: Where the development north of Dorchester is planned

notwithstanding the magnitude of the task of sifting through thousands of responses to the plan, Dorset Council has had 20 months to at least produce an initial report.

The CPRE (the countryside charity) has also raised concerns about the delay, saying by the time the plan is redrafted and presented to the public it may be too late to change it.

Those against the plan

include scores of parish councillors and West Dorset MP Chris Loder. STAND and DDB have repeatedly approached councillor David Walsh to push for firm answers, but say they feel frustrated with his replies.

A council spokesman told the groups: “Officers have now commenced work on a comprehensive review of the draft Dorset Local Plan, which is scheduled to be put to members at full

council in the third quarter of 2024, ahead of submission to the Secretary of State for an Examination in Public.

“This is in line with the revised Local Development Scheme, published and approved by cabinet on October 4. This decision was supported by a really comprehensive report to cabinet, setting out the reasons for the extension of timescale and key milestones. There is

Tens of thousands of concerned comments

The Dorset Deserves Better (DDB) campaign is being run by Dorset Climate Action Network (DCAN) –an alliance of various groups, including many town and parish councils, from across the county –all of whom are concerned at the proposals in the plan.

Alistair Chisholm said: “Signatories to the initial letter written to Dorset Council at the

start of this year, represent over 117,000 Dorset residents.”

He added: “There were over 9,000 respondents on the Local Plan during the public consultation process which ended in March 2021. The vast majority of the respondents were opposed to the plan, but we have yet to see any summary of these comments by Dorset Council or to be given the

slightest hint of any changes being made to the plan as a result.”

A spokesman for Dorset CPRE said: “Although there will be a short period of consultation following publication, this consultation will be too late to influence the Local Plan which goes to Ministers and the Planning Inspectors.

“Dorset CPRE call on Dorset

push for answers on Local Plan delay

nothing further to add other than to again acknowledge the constructive meeting which was held with yourselves and Cllr David Walsh earlier this month. “The revised LDS timescales are extremely tight, but I had stressed the importance of getting the first Dorset Local Plan approved as soon as possible but most importantly, having considered the views of the 9,000 people who responded to the consultation back in 2021 and other more recent factors as set out in the report to the Cabinet on October 4.”

They added: “There is little or nothing further to add at this time.”

The issue seems to be that there were simply so many responses to the consultation – comments ran into the tens of thousands – that the officer sifting through them is facing a gargantuan, neverending task. Furthermore, there remains the issue that homes – particularly affordable ones – are desperately needed if Dorchester is to avoid becoming a town of retired

rich people with no one to care for them or deliver their shopping.

Cllr David Walsh, Dorset Council’s portfolio holder for planning, told The West Dorset Magazine: “The Draft Dorset Council Local Plan is a plan for development for the whole of the county. It includes housing, facilities for leisure, education, health and employment. The consultation in early 2021 received tens of thousands of comments from 9,000 respondents. It is taking time to carefully consider these alongside national planning policy and the needs of the county for the next 15-20 years.

“The reworked timescale will allow us to put into place the new legislation

from the Levelling up and Regeneration Bill which is due to become law next year. It is anticipated that this will resolve a number of issues that the campaign groups have been asking for. The North Dorchester Garden Community development is already part of the adopted West Dorset, Weymouth & Portland local plan and is part of the future of Dorset. The place-making work for the development, which has involved (amongst others) members of STAND and CPRE, will make sure that the character and history of the area will be retained while providing much needed housing and work opportunities so that Dorset can thrive. It is

important to the continuing success of Dorset. It is designed to complement the expansions of other towns across the county such as Bridport, Gillingham, and Shaftesbury.”

While the groups agree housing is needed they say the area earmarked for development is entirely unsuitable. The huge outcry over the plan, involving numerous demos, was a long time ago however, and they are growing restive at the lack of conclusions from the council.

Campaigner and town councillor Alistair Chisholm said: “As things stand at present, it appears that the Dorset Local Plan has been delayed by two years and is unlikely to be presented to the Planning Inspectorate for final approval until after the local Dorset Council elections in 2024.

“How very convenient, you might be forgiven for thinking, for the current Conservative-controlled council whose work has determined the overall direction and content of the plan to date.”

but no changes to Norchester look likely

Council to give our communities a proper opportunity to comment on the Local Plan before it is sent to the Government.”

The spokesman said the public had ‘spoken loud and clear’ against the draft plan, and instead wanted fewer houses built, with a greater proportion of affordable homes –and crucially, in the right places. However a council spokesman says

developers already struggle with providing enough affordable homes within planned developments while still making a profit. There also remains the issue of providing the necessary infrastructure including public transport, health and education services, and utilities.

The CPRE said residents’ responses to the draft plan “set a mandate for Dorset Council to

develop a genuinely local community-endorsed approach to the Local Plan for rural Dorset, including on the key issues of housing numbers, locations and affordability”. They added: “The people of Dorset need reassurance that they will be consulted before such key policies are used to underpin the next version of the Local Plan.”

ON SITE: Alistair Chisholm at the scene of the development

Hedgehog rescue centre boss in call to

By Dan Goater dan@westdorsetmag.co.uk

A Dorchester woman who runs her own hedgehog rescue shelter is urging everyone to be more aware of the creatures’ plight this winter.

Chris Legg, who runs the Prickly Prickles shelter from a shed in her garden, warns these ‘endearing’ creatures are in decline due to the impact of climate change and unseasonal shifts in the weather.

She is calling on people to keep an eye out for hedgehogs during the day in particular, warning this is often a sign of illness in these nocturnal creatures.

“I would love it if everyone was more hedgehog aware,” Chris said. “If you find a hedgehog out in the day, that’s not right – they’re nocturnal and are supposed to be asleep during day.

“If you find a hedgehog out in the day, take it to a rescue organisation if you can.

“If you can’t, then try to take it in and keep it wrapped up warm in a blanket in the dark.”

Chris’ love for hedgehogs began in November 2016 when she was ‘quite

n This is Chris’s advice on what to do if you find a hedgehog out in the day and it looks unwell:

surprised’ to find a hedgehog out during the day.

“Sadly, he died,” Chris said. “But I found another one the next day and took him to a shelter and

from then I just felt I wanted to help them.”

In 2019, Chris launched the Prickly Prickles hedgehog rescue shelter, where she sometimes has up to 20 poorly hedgehogs at a time. “It’s all self-funded,”

TAKING CARE: Chris Legg at the Prickly Prickles hedgehog shelter and, above, little Cherry and, inset below, Bert

1 When you see the hedgehog, pick it up with gloves or a cloth –don’t leave it out

2 Put it in a high-sided box

Keep it warm with a towel – they like to feel hidden and secure Put in some form of heat, like a hot water bottle, a heat pad or even a bottle filled with warm water, next to the hog but not directly in contact

5 Do not give food, only a little

Chris said. “I pay for food and vet bills myself and for medicine when it’s needed.

“I’ve never put myself forward to be registered as a charity – it’s just little old me in a shed in the bottom of the garden.

water. If the hog is sick it won’t take either, so don’t force it

6 Keep it in a quiet place as it will be scared and stressed

7 Once the hedgehog is safe in the box, call your local rescue

8 Time is important to save the life of a sick hedgehog so do not delay getting it help

keep an eye out for our prickly pals

“Climate change is taking a toll on them, what with milder seasons that are lasting longer, followed by sudden cold snaps – it affects their lifecycles and their sleep patterns.

“They’re in decline and I want to do what I can to help them. I give them all names while they’re with me and I talk to them too, I just can’t help it.

“I think lots of rescue workers do the same – I love talking to them, I find them quite spiritual.”

“When people bring sick hedgehogs to me I never ask for money, once I take that little hedgehog in then he’s my responsibility.” When people bring hedgehogs to Chris for

help she assesses them ‘a bit like a triage’ for external parasites, injuries and wounds, as well as checking their stools for internal parasites or worms.

Chris said: “Hedgehogs take up all my down time, especially if they’re sick and I’m nursing them.

“I have a passion for them, they’re so endearing and they go through such a lot.

n Anyone finding a sick hedgehog can contact Chris on 07747 344042 or via her Facebook page Prickly Prickles Hedgehog Rescue.

PRICKLY PAIR: Two of the residents at the Prickly Prickles shelter

Snapper Steve pops up to make an exhibition of himself

A new pop-up gallery in Abbotsbury is currently exhibiting framed images and books by marine photographer Steve Belasco.

Located next door to the famous Bellenie’s Bakehouse, the Jurassic Coast gallery will be open every Saturday and Sunday from 10am in the run-up to Christmas, and at other times by appointment (07780 344337). Steve’s work has featured in West Dorset Magazine as well as in the national media including the Times, Telegraph and National Geographic.

Prices range from £2.50 for greetings cards to £250 for one-off framed images of the Dorset

coast. Steve’s work can also be seen at Duck’s Farm Shop and Café in Portesham, The Ilchester

Arms Hotel in Abbotsbury and the Kings Arms in Weymouth.

Decision delayed on incinerator plan

A controversial proposal to build a waste incinerating power plant on Portland will go before Dorset Council for a decision next year.

Powerfuel Portland Limited is applying for permission to build an ‘an energy recovery facility’ at Castletown –which works by burning waste to boil water, creating steam to power turbines.

The firm’s application was due to be considered by Dorset Council’s strategic and technical planning committee on Thursday, December 22 but now a decision will not be made until March 2023.

A Dorset Council spokesperson said the delay will give the applicant time to consider a report by the authority’s landscape officer which recommended the application is refused.

The council’s senior landscape architect Martin Peacock told the authority: “I object to these development

proposals due to their resulting significant landscape and visual impacts. “The main concerns are due to the scale of the buildings and their location at the very edge of the exposed and highly distinctive Portland Peninsula Landform.

“The Isle of Portland is a dramatic landform that creates a natural focal point in numerous far-reaching views along the coast and mainland, and from the waters within and around Portland Harbour. The resulting landscape and visual impacts of this development would be at their most apparent in the many views from the northwest on and across Portland Harbour.”

Other interested parties in the application, such as members of the Stop Portland Waste Incinerator group, now also have time to read and respond to the landscape architect’s report before the authority makes a decision next year.

A report by ecology consultants Jonathan Cox Associates, commissioned by Stop Portland Waste Incinerator, told Dorset Council there have already been ‘major flaws and deficiencies’ in an air quality impact assessment of the proposed plant.

The report said this means that any subsequent habitats assessment must also be ‘considered unreliable’.

The report’s author added: “Significant concern remains over the impact of nitrogen deposition on the Chesil and The Fleet…assessment of this pollutant suggests that critical levels will be exceeded over a 400m swathe.

“This has the potential to damage habitat, in particular the vegetated shingle habitat referred to as Perennial Vegetation of Stony Banks.” Paula Klaentschi, coordinator for the Stop Portland Waste Incinerator group, has voiced her objections to the

‘mercenary’ plans in a series of letters to Dorset Council. She said: “I object to this application on the grounds of the significant detriment it will cause to the local ecology of land and sea threatening the biodiversity of our very special areas of habitat conservation.

“I also object to this application on the grounds of the significant harm it will cause to the historical buildings and heritage assets of the area.

“Consider how far we have come and how our past retains warnings of the future.

“We respect our heritage not only because we make money out of it from tourism but because it was made by our ancestors. Places and building made by people who worked hard to make a better life for us. This fabric embodies their aspirations and humanity. The pollution from this proposal will harm the places and buildings we cherish.”

AYE AYE CAP’N: Steve Belasco at the Jurassic Coast Gallery in Abbotsbury

Museum goes for gold this time in tourism awards

Dorchester’s Dorset Museum has been named as a finalist in four Dorset Tourism Award categories. After winning silver in the 2021 awards, Dorset Museum are once again finalists in the categories of

large visitor attraction of the year, the accessible and inclusive tourism award, business events venue of the year and café and tearoom of the year for Taste at the museum. Dorset Museum is the only West

Dorset venue in the running for the gongs. The museum will find out if they have achieved Bronze, Silver or Gold in these categories at an award ceremony held at the Tank Museum, Bovington, in January.

Warning after outbreak of avian flu

Bird keepers have been urged to keep their flocks safe after a confirmed outbreak of avian flu near Dorchester.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) said the H5N1 strain has been found near the county town earlier this month and is warning bird keepers of special measures now being put in place.

A roughly two-mile ‘disease control zone’ is now covering the areas around Broadmayne, West Stafford, Sutton Poyntz and South Dorchester.

A Dorset Council spokesperson said: “There has been a confirmed case of Avian Influenza or bird flu near Dorchester.

“Letters have been sent to all households within a 3km area to register details of poultry or captive birds and to remind bird keepers of the special measures that

BE ALERT: Avian flu warning

are in place. People who do not keep birds can disregard the letter.

“The 3km is known as a disease control zone. Bird keepers must take special measures now to heighten biosecurity and keep birds safe from the disease and prevent further spread.”

The council is calling on bird keepers to register the details of their flocks with the authority by calling it on 01305 221000 or by visiting dorsetcouncil. gov.uk/bird-flu

Blue Badge parking permit

Blue Badge holders who meet certain requirements can now apply for an additional parking permit allowing them free parking in Dorset Council car parks for up to three hours. The new Restricted Mobility Car Park Permit (RMCPP), which will need to be displayed alongside the Blue Badge, gives holders more time to complete their shopping

and tasks in Dorset’s towns.

Blue Badge holders who don’t qualify for the RMCPP have also seen a change to their parking, with the introduction of a free one hour’s parking in Dorset Council car parks on top of that purchased. They will need to purchase a valid parking ticket, so, for example, if they buy 30 minutes’ parking they can stay for an hour and a half.

The council spokesperson added: “These details will be passed on to the animal and plant health agency to help their veterinary staff to assess the risk of avian influenza spread.

“They may contact or visit the address to carry out a visual inspection of the birds to assess their health and they will be in touch if they need to do this.

“The risk to public health from the virus is very low, however it is important that

people don’t pick up sick or dead birds.

“You can report dead wild waterfowl, such as swans, geese or ducks, or other dead wild birds such as gulls or birds of prey, by calling the Defra helpline on 03459 335577 and selecting option 7.”

n Full details of the restrictions can be found at gov.uk/guidance/avianinfluenza-bird-flu

Don’t be silly, visit the Scillies and

If you are looking for a winter break, then you should seriously consider Cornwall. I have known this part of the southwest for many years and have always enjoyed the wonderful scenery and warm hospitality. Just a short distance from Cornwall, you will also find the magical Isles of Scilly. Reached by ferry, plane or helicopter I was fortunate enough some time ago, to have the opportunity to travel from Penzance to the island of St Mary’s so that I could explore more fully. Completely different from the rest of the UK, this tiny community boasts a somewhat semi-tropical climate and some of the bluest seas you will see around our coastline. St Mary’s is quite fascinating and during my visit I was fortunate enough to go on a short but informative tour around the main sights. Taking less than thirty minutes, I was assured by the driver when we got back, that we had seen absolutely everything. The main island is full of wild agapanthus which are quite spectacular and seem to grow everywhere. Hugh Town is the main centre with its amazing Co-op and selection of eating places. From here you can explore by boat some of the other islands nearby including Tresco with its fabulous gardens and also Bryher. Just 35 miles from the mainland the Isles of

Scilly have a character all of their own and are an alternative to mainland Cornwall.

Flights go from Penzance, Newquay, Lands’ End and Exeter with the ferry from Penzance. There are plenty of places to stay and you may also like to consider exploring some of the other islands using local services.

On a recent trip to Cornwall, I stayed at The Pig just above Harlyn Bay, famous as a surfer’s paradise. The Pig is a luxurious destination and provides the visitor with a wide range of accommodation from sumptuous rooms in the main 14th century

building to quirky carriages set in the gardens. The food is all sourced from within 25 miles of the hotel and the breakfast cannot be faulted with its wide selection of local produce. The hotel has its own kitchen garden and many of the dishes on the menu use ingredients grown on site. The rooms are very well appointed, and the eclectic menu

impressive. Do try the piggy bits which are available before the main courses. Staff are young, informative and very friendly and you may even get to spot the hens that

laid your breakfast eggs. Padstow is a few minutes’ drive away. If you are going out of season, then parking should not be a problem, however, can I suggest that you make for the long stay car park which costs just £1.20 for 24 hours rather than use the one next door which is £3 for two hours! It is just a short walk into the town which is full of tiny well stocked shops, plenty of cafes and Rick Stein restaurants. Also take the ferry (when running) across to Rock on the other side of the estuary for some fabulous views. Further inland is the Eden Project, with its impressive biomes and grounds.

Popular with families this is worth considering for a day trip. Cornwall has always been known for its

Award-winning travel writer GODFREY HALL looks at a range of Cornish delights just a few hours’ drive away

MAGICAL: The harbour at Hugh Town. Left: Inside The Pig and, right, Harlyn Bay. Inset Below: Breakfast at The Pig

enjoy the sights & tastes of Cornwall

St Michael’s Mount near Penzance should be on your list of places to visit especially if you have had a chance to go to the one in France. There are several outdoor theatres at Minnack and Pen Lee Park in Penzance and companies offering sea trips to see seals, whales, dolphins and seabirds around the coastline.

There is the narrow-gauge railway at Launceston and the Lapa Valley Railway near Newquay.

films and television locations as is the Jurassic Coast of Dorset. One of my favourite’s places is Port Isaac which was used for the filming of the ITV series Doc Martin featuring Martin Clunes. Out of season you may even find some free on road parking. You should then make for the Golden Lion which features in the series and also in the Fisherman’s Friend movies and musical. The house used for the television series is on the other side of the harbour and the school which is now a restaurant is just by the Golden Lion. I have seen the Fisherman’s Friends perform in a splendid charity event on the beach at Port Isaac, so keep a look out for any concerts or happenings in and

around the village.

Close to St Austell, you will also find Charlestown which was used for the filming of Poldark and Alice in Wonderland. A very ancient harbour, there are plenty of places to eat and explore. This area is also Daphne du Maurier country and there are lots of places associated with her books nearby.

One of my favourite harbours Mevagissey is just a few minutes from Charlestown. Visited recently as the sun was going down, I witnessed some magical views high above the village. Whilst there you

must drop into the She Sells Café by the harbourside and say hello to Dave the dog.

If you do decide to take your car to Cornwall beware of the narrow roads. I have found that the locals are always very friendly but remember that the sides of the lanes are probably stone walls covered in moss or undergrowth and should be avoided at all costs. Most of the time they are not soft hedgerows so beware. There are passing places but if you are using your sat nav you could be directed down some very narrow roads.

One cannot really travel to Cornwall and come away without trying a proper Cornish Pastie. These should be purchased from bakeries that have been recommended by a local. I tried one such establishment opposite Tesco in St Austell and have to say it was delicious.

Said to have been eaten by tin miners in Cornwall, a large pastie can be quite a challenge. They can be traced back to the 11th century and were baked originally by the wives and mothers of local tin miners. A good one should contain swede, potatoes, onions and steak and was always constructed in the form of a handheld pie. Finally, before you leave for home, you should try a Cornish cream tea, when the jam goes on before the clotted cream. It is a favourite of ours especially at teatime on a Sunday. So why not give Cornwall a try, particularly out of season when the crowds have disappeared, and the winter sun is still shining.

CORNISH DELIGHTS: Mevagissey and, right, Port Isaac. Below: The She Sells shop in Mevagissey and, right, Doc Martin’s house in Port Isaac. Inset: Beautiful flowers

Three fabulous Bridport shops

Bridport Music Centre

More than just ‘under new management’ this music shop has just had a major refurbishment. Specialising in gifts for music lovers and music makers. There’s the all new “Doghouse” department for second-hand (but carefully scrutinised) vinyl. We also buy vinyl in good condition. A huge range of CD’s second-hand and new and a brand new section of turntables. Guitars include new acoustics (left and right handed) from Tanglewood and second hand acoustic, classical, bass, and electric. Plus a good selection of amps. We also buy guitars and amps in good condition. Acoustic and electric ukuleles. Then there’s memorabilia – mugs, T-shirts, posters and plenty of interesting, unusual items. n 33a South Street, Bridport | 01308 455660

Animal House

Specialising in Presents for Pets. Toys that make playtime fun for all. Healthy, tasty treats. Foods for all your animals (even the wild ones). Comfy warm beds. Collars, leads, harnesses. Supplements and hygiene products. We even have beautiful and fun things for your house and garden, not just for Christmas, all of course with a funky ‘Animal House’ theme. All this and great customer service and advice from staff who care. n 8 South Street, Bridport, | 01308 424349

Dorset Pedlar

One of Bridport’s most popular shops for anything out of the ordinary. Tarot cards, books sound healing instruments, candles, essential oils. Incense, oil diffusers and burners. Traditional Green Man symbols. Buddha statues, moon gazing hares, and in the window there’s a hand painted chakra stone display. Beautiful crystals and jewellery and accessories. Hand and body soaps and massage oils. And if you still can’t choose from our 100’s of gifts - plan B – our gift cards. After all, if they choose something – it can’t be wrong. n 54 South Street, Bridport | 01308 420 171 | dorsetpedlar.co.uk

Tills come alive to the sound of music

The Bridport Music Centre is under new management – and with it comes a music shop makeover. Yes, it’s all new! From the moment you walk inside you’ll be fascinated. It has the look and feel of a 1980s music store. The first thing you’ll notice it the musical memorabilia. Above your head there’s a selection of T-shirts from your favourite bands. Posters all around, just like in the old days. Vinyls to your left, which are definitely worth searching through, and CDs to your right. You never know what you may find.

And guitars – many, many guitars. Left-handed acoustics from Tanglewood, as well as ¾ size for younger players, a handful of featured guitars that have all been played before including a rare 1970s Fender classical.

There are guitar amps, strings, straps, effect pedals, bottlenecks, tuners, stands, leads and more. And if you’re a ukulele fan there’s plenty to choose from, even semi-acoustic ones.

The shop wouldn’t be complete without a percussion section. After all, the new owner is a drummer in a local band called The DT’s.

At the further end of the shop you’ll see tongue drums. The sounds they make will astound you. Plus there’s all kinds of instruments from around the world you can use as rhythm. Some you hit, some you rattle and others you shake.

If you love music, you’ll love it here.

n See for yourself, at 33a South Street. 01308 455 660 And they’re now on Facebook. Or you can go to bridportmusiccentre.co.uk

We talk to the animals

Whatever your pet needs – Bridport’s Animal House, which has been helping pet owners from their base in South Street for a decade, can supply it.

The shop specialises in foods, treats, toys, treats, bedding, and treats. And you’ll find a huge range of presents for pets – even from local artisans –including beds, leads, collars and harnesses.

There are dog coats, dog toys and all-natural treats. They also cater for smaller animals and have their own trusted brand product range. Check out their new section on homeware and garden ware.

As someone once said about dogs: “Buy one, get one flea.” If you have a pet problem talk to

Animal House staff and they’ll see if they can find you a solution – all the staff know a thing or two about animals, and they’re there to help. You’ll always get good, honest advice from people who care, and they promise to take the time to get what you really need for your pet.

They say: “Next time you’re in Bridport and you want to feel like a part of a community of animal lovers, we’d love to see you.”

n Animal House is at 8 South Street opposite Buckydoo Square.

Karma for Christmas

Some say that everything that happens in life happens for a reason. And that there are no ‘accidents’ in life. Could it be a coincidence you were drawn to this article?

There could be two reasons for this: You’re already on your spiritual journey and you’re looking for something new and unusual. Or perhaps you have a dear friend or family member and you’re looking for something special, unique, and different to get them this Christmas.

If either of these is true for you then look no further than the Dorset Pedlar at 54 South Street, Bridport because they might just have a thing or three that will surprise you.

The shop has a section with books you won’t find anywhere else in Dorset,

beautiful hand-painted chakra stones, a huge range of Tarot cards, rare crystals and stones, incense sticks and burners and scented and plain candles. Here you will also find moon-gazing hares, inspiring jewellery, Buddha statues, healing gongs, Tongue drums, essential oils and wind chimes. And much more.

n If you can’t choose from the 100s of gifts in the Dorset Pedlar 54 South Street, Bridport, then you can always get a gift voucher and let them choose. Pop in, or visit thedorsetpedlar.co.uk

UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT: Bridport Music Centre

Material girls entertain ladies of WI

Thanks to Judy Thompson of Charminster’s WI and the Dorset Federation of Women’s Institutes for this update on how its members continue to step up and save the day when the chips are down!

Judy writes: For the second time this year the speaker cancelled on the morning of our meeting. Covid both times. Not the same speaker I might add, but our evening speaker none the less. What should we do? Our first backup plan, cheese tasting and trying to guess which was the most expensive and which the cheapest had been used (and demonstrated the most popular cheeses were not necessarily the most expensive).

But members to the rescue! Two of our committee are brilliant fabric artists – in my view anyway – and volunteered to give the evening’s talk.

Our secretary Maureen Rhodes makes lovely patchwork quilts, wall and door hangings and other decorated fabric items. Most of it is a mixture of hand and machine sewing, some incorporating photographs printed onto fabric, for

example when she compiles fabric books about her family. When travelling overseas to countries such as New Zealand and South Africa, Maureen purchases local fabric and makes it into a quilt reminiscent of whichever country the fabric came from. She brought numerous examples of her work which were passed round to lots of sounds of appreciation and admiration.

Judy Bird makes pictures using tiny strips of fabric and other materials. Many are Dorset scenes and she will do commissions – she sells her work at craft fairs. We were astonished at the detail and were amazed that some of the pieces weren’t painted – she

creates light and shadow perfectly. Like Maureen, her work is a mix of machine and hand sewing and Judy described in detail how a picture is produced – it was more complicated than I had imagined and involves backing and invisible stitching as well as the artwork.

Afterwards members spent a long time examining the quilts, books and pictures brought by Judy and Maureen and one member told me that she probably enjoyed their talk more than the speaker who had to cancel.

n Charminster WI meets on the second Tuesday of every month in the Community Hall. Email maureenanddavid@ btopenworld.com for details.

QUILTS: Maureen Rhodes

the loss of HMS Dorsetshire on

Japanese Admiral Ishi Nagumo was attempting an incursion into the Indian Ocean to destroy the naval ports of Columbo and Trincomalee in Ceylon, now Sri Lanka. His aircraft carrier flagship was IJNS Akagi. Nagumo was the Fleet Admiral in charge of the attack at Pearl Harbour. Days before Nagumo’s fleet of warships were within flying range of Ceylon, radio interception stations picked up signals from Japanese naval headquarters. Decipherers based at HMS Anderson, the Far East Central Bureau at Columbo, had the assistance of the infamous Bletchley Park code-breakers to crack the Japanese naval code known as Purple. Once the messages were decoded and found to warn of an impending attack, the code-breakers alerted Admiral Somerville, the Indian Ocean Fleet Commander in Chief. In harbour at Columbo were the two cruisers HMS Dorsetshire and HMS Cornwall. Knowing the port was an intended target for the Japanese attack, Admiral Somerville ordered the two cruisers to sail south to Port ‘T’, the code name for the naval base at Adou Atoll.

The two cruisers obeyed and set sail, with the first part of the voyage going smoothly. But early on April 5 a spotter plane was seen astern of the two ships. Staying at a distance well out of range,

Sunday, April 5, 1942,

another RN

named ‘Dorsetshire’,

Demise of HMS Dorsetshire

it remained for some time just above the horizon. The captain of the lead ship, HMS Dorsetshire signalled by lamp to Captain Mainwaring of HMS Cornwall to be ready to ‘repel aircraft’. Both ships went to second degree of readiness, a step up from that of cruising stations.

At about noon, HMS Cornwall’s air defence radar picked up three groups of aircraft on its scanner, heading for the two cruisers. At the same time HMS Dorsetshire’s air defence lookouts went to action stations, along with the anti-aircraft gunners. To confuse the ships, the Japanese dive bombers attacked from the direction of the sun.

Suffering from dazzled optics, the director fire control units on the ships were slow to get on target. Direct hits on both ships crippled them in the first attack, with the second and third attacks sinking both cruisers. In less than 20 minutes, they both slipped beneath the waves.

Over the next two days a rescue of the survivors was made by HMS Enterprise and the destroyers HMS Panther and HMS Paladin out of Port ‘T’.

Over the years many have asked why there has not been another HMS Dorsetshire commissioned. There has been another HMS Cornwall, a type 22 frigate, so why not a

Dorsetshire? After that ship’s sinking in 1942, Weymouth, Dorchester and other parts of the county held ‘warship weeks’. It is believed a substantial sum of money was collected for a replacement warship, to be named Dorsetshire. After research, I still have no knowledge of where that money was spent, or on what warship, but it was not on another Dorsetshire. One theory as to why is that some members of the Dorsetshire’s company were involved in the ‘Invergordon Mutiny’ in 1931, when ships of the Atlantic Fleet (later the Home Fleet) refused to sail over a pay dispute –but who knows?

Since

Easter

there has never been

ship

writes ALVIN HOPPER. HMS Dorsetshire was sunk alongside HMS Cornwall by Japanese dive bombers en route to the Indian Ocean Fleet’s harbour area at Adou Atoll.

DIRECT HITS: HMS Dorsetshire and, top right, Japanses propaganda describes the sinking, the ship’s crest and, right, the story of the ship’s sinking

Home-Start in the hunt for helpful volunteers

Home-Start West Dorset is looking to recruit new volunteers in the new year.

The independent charity was set up to give ‘friendship, advice and practical support’ to families in West Dorset, Weymouth and Portland with at least

one child under five.

The organisation is recruiting for two types of roles: helping families directly or working alongside their ‘enthusiastic’ team of trustees.

A charity spokesperson said: “To become a home visiting volunteer,

you will have a lived experience of parenting and have two to three hours a week available to support a local family.

To find out more please telephone Helen on 01305 265072 or email office@homestartwestdorset.co.uk

MP talking politics during visit to Rangers

West Dorset MP Chris Loder visited Broadwindsor Rangers, older members of the Girl Guides, to discuss life as an MP and ways to get involved in Westminster and politics more widely.

The local MP met with the group in Broadwindsor for UK Parliament

week, which aims to engage with young people and community groups in the work of Parliament and elected representatives.

Mr Loder said: “It was great to meet with so many bright and talented young people, all taking such an interest in politics, the role of an

MP, and what I as their Parliamentary representative can do to support our community. As someone who left school and worked for the railways for 20 years, I was keen to encourage everyone to pursue their dreams at whatever stage they may be in life.”

Care scheme to support foster families

Foster families in Dorset are set to benefit from more support thanks to the implementation of a new care programme.

The Fostering Network said its new Mockingbird programme will deliver ‘sustainable’ foster care using an ‘evidence-based model structured around the support and relationships an extended family provides’.

The model, which has won awards and is in use around the world, is designed to nurture relationships between children, young

people and foster families.

Freya Burley, Mockingbird implementation manager at The Fostering Network, said: “We’re really delighted to celebrate the launch of Mockingbird in Dorset. The model has had a big impact for fostering families around the UK, and globally.

“It works by setting up a group of six to ten fostering families, known as a constellation, who provide support to each other in a similar way to an extended family.

“Relationships are key to

the success of Mockingbird, so at the centre of each constellation there is a hub home family who organise at least one social event every month for the families, offer emotional and practical support and can even have the children in the constellation for sleepovers. “The model offers supportive relationships for everyone in the fostering family, including the sons and daughters of foster carers.” Cllr Andrew Parry, portfolio holder for

children, education and early years, said: “We know that there is evidence that the Mockingbird programme really works to support foster families.

“The hub home carer builds strong relationships with everyone in the constellation, so families are better placed to support each other and overcome problems before they escalate.

“Best of all, the children have another trusted adult they can talk to if they are going through a tough time.”

IT REPORT: Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick

Force is urged to improve system of IT monitoring

despite Dorset Police investing in an IT monitoring system “the force hasn’t made sufficient progress to improve its ability to monitor desktop and handheld devices. We strongly urge the force to do so.”

The report recommended Dorset Police ‘improves’ its workforce vetting and introduce measures to ‘monitor and respond to disproportionality’ in its vetting decisions.

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Inspectors added: “The force has been slow to monitor all its IT systems, including handheld and remote devices, to identify improper use.

“At the time of our inspection, the force had procured an established IT monitoring system and had begun introducing it but this had been problematic.

“The force wasn’t yet using this capability to its full potential.”

Inspectors found that

Police and Crime Commissioner for Dorset David Sidwick said he ‘welcomed’ the report, adding: “Last year, I challenged the force on a number of key areas including their vetting procedures, anti-corruption capabilities and the robustness of the force response to allegations.

“I received not only a detailed response to the challenge but the assurance that they will continue to prioritise standards in these areas, so that the public have confidence in such important matters.”

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Wild about wildlife? Volunteers wanted at DWT

Dorset Wildlife Trust is appealing for local people aged 18 and over to help with its wildlife conservation work in the Isle of Purbeck, Weymouth, and Portland areas.

New recruits are needed to join a keen group of volunteers at both the

Fine Foundation Wild Seas Centre, Kimmeridge, and the Fine Foundation Wild Chesil Centre, Portland.

A trust spokesperson said: “With the current climate and ecological crises and increasing pressures from human

activities, wildlife on the land and in the sea is under threat, so our conservation work has never been more important.”

For more information visit dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/ volunteering-opportunities

Anaesthetic team knocked out by award

Staff at Dorset County Hospital’s anaesthetic department have again been recognised for providing the highest standards of patient care. The department has received the prestigious Anaesthesia Clinical Services Accreditation (ACSA) from the Royal College of Anaesthetists (RCoA) for a second time.

ACSA is the RCoA’s peerreviewed scheme which promotes quality improvement and the highest standards of anaesthetic service.

To receive accreditation, departments are expected to demonstrate a high standard in areas such as patient experience, patient safety and clinical leadership.

Dr Jon Chambers, consultant anaesthetist and ACSA lead at DCH, said: “The process of reaccreditation through the Anaesthetic Clinical Services Accreditation scheme has been a positive experience for our whole department. It has enabled us to ensure that the high-quality anaesthetic service at DCH, developed over many years, remains safe, efficient and patient centred.

“The ACSA scheme

developed by the Royal College of Anaesthetists has enabled us to provide assurance that the perioperative care we provide to the local population of Dorset meets, and in some areas exceeds, national standards.

“We are proud to have been one of a small number of departments to successfully undertake reaccreditation through

the ACSA process to date. Our ongoing engagement with this process of peer review and external scrutiny has provided the platform for our whole multidisciplinary theatre teams to demonstrate their commitment to delivering high standards of care.” ACSA lead reviewer Chris Millard said: “Congratulations to the anaesthetic department at DCH for achieving ACSA

re-accreditation.

“The atmosphere during the visit was open, welcoming and friendly. The enthusiasm and engagement of the department shone through at every turn. This is a strong and well-run anaesthetic department.

“On behalf of the visiting team, I would like to thank the department for their good humour, hospitality and efforts in facilitating our visit.”

Dr Fiona Donald, President of the Royal College of Anaesthetists, added: “I would like to offer my personal congratulations to the entire anaesthetic department on achieving ACSA reaccreditation. It is very impressive to see the commitment and approach of the whole department to sustaining their standards. They have demonstrated their ability and passion for providing the best possible care for their patients. Patient safety is at the heart of what we do as a Medical Royal College. The quality improvement demonstrated during the accreditation process has helped the department manage the immense tasks presented to them by covid-19 and the resumption of services.”

HONOURED: DCH Interim Chief Executive Nick Johnson presents the ACSA plaque to Dr Jon Chambers with members of the anaesthetic and theatres teams

Renovation at arts venue now ongoing

Businessman Michael Cannon has been named as the man behind the refurbishment of arts venue The Sherborne.

Renovation works are already underway at the venue in Sherborne, formally known as Sherborne House, and are due to be unveiled to the public in late October next year.

In partnership with Dorset Visual Arts, Sherborne House Trust says it is working to create an events and arts space with six ‘historic’ rooms and a contemporary extension at the rear plus a café, bar, restaurant, and offices on the top floor.

Mr Cannon, head of The Cannon Foundation, which he set up in memory of his mother Mildred Grace Cannon, said: “I’m incredibly proud of the remarkable work going on behind the scenes which amazes me every time I set

foot on site.

“This is something of a legacy project for me and my mother. I’m delighted to see the painstaking efforts being made to build something for the future.

“As the transformation inches ever closer to completion, our focus is starting to turn to what comes next. I’m delighted

It’s the age of discovery with town’s U3A fayre

Find out more about Dorchester and District’s University of the Third Age (U3A) at a fayre in the new year.

The event takes place at the Trinity Parish Hall in Culliford Road, Dorchester from 10am to 11.45am on Monday, January 9.

Dorchester and District U3A is made up of more than 50 groups providing activities ranging from archaeology to weaving.

Group member Andy Davies said: “U3A is aimed at people who are

no longer in full time employment and have reached their third age, a time to keep minds and bodies alert and active.

“Dorchester U3A is holding a fayre at which various groups will showcase the different activities available to members. Those interested in joining the U3A are most welcome to come along and find out what is available.”

Admission is £1. For more information visit dorchesteru3a.org.uk or call 01305 851922.

to be working with Dorset Visual Arts to create an arts programme that will inspire all.”

Mr Cannon has been involved in the ongoing renovation since 2018,

when the Sherborne House Trust 2018 first bought Sherborne House.

Following negotiations with Dorset Council and Historic England, planning permission for the Grade Ilisted building was granted in May 2021.

Mr Cannon says he has been working behind the scenes to make sure the renovation ‘respects’ the heritage of the building while producing an ‘attractive destination, fit for the 21st century and beyond’.

The Sherborne will be run by the charity’s trading arm, with commercial elements to support the considerable upkeep of the building.

RENOVATION PROJECT: Michael Cannon at The Sherborne

Bridport Torchlight

Burton Bradstock Primary School

Digital help

A free training programme has now recruited and trained 750 special advisors to help Dorset’s digitally excluded residents get online.

The Embedded Digital Champion (EDC) programme aims to train 1,000 of the county’s frontline workers by 2023, to help make sure no one is left behind in an increasingly digital world. Previous surveys have revealed that nearly a third of Dorset residents lack the skills, devices, or connectivity to be online. Since the start of the programme, 750 embedded digital champions have been recruited from places such as GP surgeries, libraries, voluntary organisations, and housing associations.

Sarah Cooley, from Magna Housing in Dorchester, said: “The training has not only made a difference to my work but more importantly to the customers I help.

“I was able to help one customer, who was offline, set up her first email account and Facebook, which she now uses all the time to talk to her family. “There’s not much better job satisfaction than that.” The EDC training takes place entirely online and is available to anyone with a frontline role who regularly encounters Dorset residents who struggle to be online. Topics such as password security, accessibility features, setting up email accounts and more are covered. Email edc@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk or call the free digital hotline (weekdays 10amnoon) on 01305 221048.

Call for change in supermarkets’ behaviour

The government is being called on to change the behaviour of major supermarkets, amid claims they exploit farmers. West Dorset MP Chris Loder claimed in a Westminster Hall debate on the future of British farming the UK egg industry faces a ‘ticking time bomb’ as investor confidence in the industry reaches an all-time low.

He urged the Government to act on the ‘behaviour’ of large supermarkets, claiming their working practices leave the UK’s supply chains ‘depleted, inflexible and fragile in the face of mounting costs’.

A spokesperson for the MP

said: “With such little profitability, investments in infrastructure have slowed and the numbers of chicks bought to replenish older laying hens has also reduced.

“These factors have significantly contributed to a 13 per cent drop in UK egg production.

“Sainsburys have recently been identified as importing barn reared eggs from Italy in spite of a locally sourced food policy and numerous other supermarkets have limited the number of eggs which can be purchased

by the consumer to ease supply shortages.

“The British Retail Consortium has claimed that these issues are as a result of the avian influenza outbreak which has already resulted in a compulsory housing order, meaning all poultry have to legally remain indoors under strict security measures.”

Groups urged to grab free trees

The Woodland Trust is urging schools and community groups in West Dorset to apply quickly for free tree-planting packs, with just over a month left until the spring delivery window closes.

People have until January 11 to apply for a tree-pack, which will be delivered in March 2023.

The last round of the treepacks scheme saw 13,290 new trees planted by 68 organisations throughout Dorset.

Woodland Trust senior project lead Vicki Baddeley said: “With Christmas looming and National Tree Week upon us, now really is a good time to get those applications in and ensure you don’t miss out.

“We still have lots of trees available but with schools breaking up before you know it, and the hectic holiday period around the corner, it makes sense to get organised nice and early and avoid a last-minute rush in early January.

“Planting trees is such a simple action, but the collective impact can make a huge difference. It’s a great way for

schoolchildren and community groups to learn about nature and the environment and, at the same time, embrace a “Green Christmas”.

“Planting trees has so many benefits, from combatting the effects of climate change, helping support wildlife, to greening up local spaces and boosting well-being.

“The desire to plant trees is growing all the time and I fully expect demand to reflect that in the coming weeks, so I would advise any interested groups to apply sooner rather than later.”

To apply visit woodlandtrust.org.uk/plant -trees/schools-andcommunities

Could you be entitled to Pension Credit boost?

The Dorchester & Sherborne offices of Central Dorset Citizens Advice are urging older people to check whether Pension Credit could boost their pension income. About two million older people could boost their income by claiming Pension Credit (PC) but have not done so, says the charity.

If you know of an older family relative or friend who could be eligible, you could help them apply.

For those who have reached

State Pension age, PC tops up your weekly income to £182.60 if you are single, and £278.70 if you have a partner, There are some circumstances where PC can still be paid if your income is higher, or you have some savings.

Eligibility for PC can be complicated; some key points are: n No National Insurance payments record is required n You can still be working and claim PC if

your income is not high n Any savings over £10,000 will affect the amount of PC paid n If you receive other benefits such as PIP, Disability Living Allowance or Attendance Allowance the weekly Guarantee Credit amount can pay more than the minimum income threshold of £182.60. n PC can be backdated three months provided entitlement conditions were met throughout that time.

PC is also important as it is a passport to other benefits, including free TV licence For more information, go to citizensadvice.org.uk/benefits, where there is a calculator and information how to claim PC online or by phone. If you would like help and advice with this or another problem, call the freephone Dorset Adviceline on 0800 144 88 48 10am-4pm, Monday to Friday, or check local offices’ opening times at centraldorsetca.org.uk

Letters Every little helps fund free magazine

I was moved to write in having seen your appeal for donations in a recent edition.

I do not live in West Dorset but my sister does and I have been staying with her while she recuperates from a knee surgery.

She had some of your magazines on her sideboard, which I picked up with interest, as she is not one to keep newspapers and the like. I read one and was overwhelmed with how full of wonderful stories it is, I cannot believe it is free!

Publications like yours are performing a great service and free magazines are admirable in this world of rising costs.

I cannot imagine how much publishing costs, what I can say is our little parish magazine up north costs a fortune to print and they too ask for donations along with a small charge of 70p.

My sister picks her copy up from church, so these little drop-offs must add considerably to your bill.

So, the reason for my letter is that I have donated, as publications such as The West Dorset Magazine give so much joy to folk.

I would like to ask all businesses big and small to show their support too.

Thank you Susie Elms Glossop

Reading our MPs article in the latest magazine I was struck by the irony of a Conservative MP decrying the effects of capitalism on the farming community. Big bullyboy supermarkets dictating price etc.

Dreadful! It’s the system you claim to support, Mr Loder. Market forces, minimal state intervention, etc.

I would have written to him direct, but he doesn’t answer constituents unless they’re Tories...

Dave Edwards Bridport

Dementia is the UK’s biggest killer, and one of the

greatest health challenges facing society. Earlier this year the UK Government announced a ‘visionary’ 10year Plan for Dementia, aiming to increase diagnosis and support people with their health and care needs. This announcement provided hope for the 900,000 living with dementia in the UK. The Government promised to publish the plan by the end of 2022 – but we are still waiting, and my patience is wearing thin.

With a change in Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, not once, not twice, but three times since July, progress on the 10Year Plan for Dementia has stalled. And now, 19 times over, the Government have responded to questioning, stating “further information will be available in due course”.

While I am thrilled by the recent positive drug trial results, they give hope for the future, but for those living in the now, this lack

of clear direction from the Government is costing them time and hope.

Dementia is long overdue a plan, and people affected by dementia are long overdue the respect and consideration they deserve. But without delivering on their commitments, the Government are making a clear statement; dementia is not their priority.

Publishing a plan to improve the lives of people affected by dementia is so important to me because I have started on this path. There are many more people on this path which steals the person from their loved ones.

The Government must publish the 10-year Plan for Dementia now and help people in this area affected by dementia live more fulfilled and less fearful lives.

Dementia doesn’t wait for due course – we need a #PlanD now.

Kim West Dorset

Vittles (food & drink)

We have all created our own Christmas traditions and have passed them on from generation to generation. My father would place ‘sooty fingerprints’ on the tiles of the fireplace, sherry glass and plate, leaving just a sprinkling of crumbs. Presents under the tree, Father Christmas had been! Those are magical memories.

One of our traditions is collecting our turkey on Christmas Eve. Bounded by fertile, sloping grasslands in the sleepy village of Askerswell, can be found Medway Farm. Tucked away down a long trackway is where the Coutts family rear their prize-winning bronze turkeys. I will be honest and say they are not the cheapest, but they have a fantastic flavour. Medway Farm is welcoming, kids running around, there is an exciting Christmas buzz and as work finishes for a few days, our Christmas begins here.

Don’t ever throw the turkey carcass away, it makes

Festive traditions across generations

the best soup. Strip the turkey of all meat if it’s stuffed, all the better for this adds to the flavour of the stock. Find a large saucepan or stock pot add some whole carrots plus an onion and some celery cover with a lid and bring to the boil, reduce the heat,

and leave to simmer for a few hours. Believe me there is nothing better than turkey stock for a perfect winter soup. You can freeze the stock too. We have a turkey but not on Christmas Day. Christmas Day we barbeque! Roast lamb

and/or roast beef and all the trimmings. It’s convivial and fun and it takes the emphasis off one person. Fairy lights twinkle around the garden a fire pit crackles away, and fizz is on tap! It’s cold and crisp, but a warm fire inside warms chilly noses.

Barbeques are not just a summer pastime, here in the Broad household they are an all-year-round event, whatever the weather, even snow! With an extended family, ‘drop ins’ are the norm, so cold turkey is at the ready for the best sandwiches.

When I had my restaurant, I literally must have cooked hundreds of Christmas dinners. Every year starting December 1 plus a full house on Christmas Day. My own Christmas Day dinner consisted of salmon as by then I was on ‘turkey overload’, until the next year that is, when it started all over again.

So go and create wonderful traditions and memories of your own.

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas.

Rabbit with Tarragon and Mustard

Growing up in a farming family in the 1950s, I can remember my mother frequently cooking the most delicious rabbit pies and stews. She used to skin and draw the rabbits herself. Coming across a prepared rabbit at the

supermarket, I could not resist having a go at this more updated recipe to serve four people

Ingredients:

1 large rabbit, cut into portions (I used my poultry scissors to help to cut through the bones)

2 tablespoons plain flour Salt and freshly ground black pepper

3 tablespoons rapeseed oil

1 medium leek, finely chopped

1 medium carrot, finely chopped

3 cloves of garlic, crushed

1 bay leaf

1 sprig of rosemary

A few sprigs of thyme 200ml dry white wine 300ml chicken stock

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.

PLEASED TO MEAT YOU: Tomahawk steak and, right, a leg of lamb

Vittles (food & drink)

Ideal for those Christmas emergencies

So here it is – skidding into Christmas Eve and typically I have sold all the cakes.

I remember my first year as a baker. I pulled up outside the cottage and my partner asked me for his Christmas cake. I dragged out a sad last-minute offering from the supermarket shopping bag – his face dropped! Since then I always have this little number up my sleeve. It’s a lovely anyoccasion fruit cake – the magic is in what you add or take away. Many of the ingredients are optional and flexible. Substitute dried cranberries, apricots or cherries, any nuts, booze or juice – just be sure you keep the same overall quantity of liquid and dry ingredients.

The cake will keep for a month or can be eaten the same day that you make it. You can even marzipan and ice it.

Last-minute Christmas Cake

Ingredients

450g mixed dried fruit

75ml double cream

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

A good handful of tarragon leaves

Method:

50 ml brandy 100ml fresh orange juice, 150g butter, 150g dark brown sugar, 2 tsp mixed spice, 12 glacé cherries, quartered, 120g nuts, chopped, 3 eggs, beaten, 225g plain flour, 1 tsp baking powder, 2 tbsp marmalade, 1 tbsp brandy

Method

Bring the dried fruit, orange juice and brandy to the boil in a small pan for 2 minutes. Add the butter, sugar and spice. Simmer for 5 minutes and turn off the heat. Throw in the cherries and nuts and stir.

Leave to cool for 30 minutes.

Heat the oven to 170°C/Gas 3 and line a 20cm/8in cake tin with baking parchment. Pour in the beaten eggs a little at a time, mixing well after each addition. Fold in the flour and baking powder.

Put the mixture into the prepared tin and cover loosely with foil. Pop in the oven for 45 minutes then remove the foil.

Leave for a further 15-20 minutes and check it’s cooked.

A skewer will come out of the cake with a few crumbs attached when ready. Stir the marmalade and brandy together and paint on top of the cake as soon as it’s out of the oven. When cold put it in an airtight tin – or wrap well in foil.

n Lizzie will be on the Old Ship Inn in Upwey, Saturday mornings until 12.30. Check out the website lizziebakingbird. co.uk

Heat the oven to 180C/160C fan. Put the flour into a large bowl, season well, and toss the rabbit portions in the flour. Add 2 tablespoons of oil in a flameproof casserole or large, deep frying pan and brown the rabbit portions for about 2 minutes each side. Remove them onto a plate. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan and add the leek, carrot, bay, rosemary

and thyme and cook over a gentle heat for about 4-5 minutes until the leek is soft, adding the crushed garlic for the final minute. Add the chicken stock and wine and increase the heat. Cook, stirring for 5 or 6 minutes until the liquid is syrupy. Put the rabbit pieces back in the pan, cover with a sheet of foil and a lid and cook in the oven for around 2 hours until the rabbit is tender. Stir in the cream and mustard and tarragon leaves. I served this with mashed potatoes and vegetables, but rice would also be good.

Lizzie Crow – AKA Lizzie Baking Bird – is a self taught baker, who has a stall outside The Old Ship Inn in Upwey each Saturday. See her scrumptious eats at lizziebakingbird.co.uk or find lizzibakingbird on Instagram.

STOCKING FILLER: My last-minute Christmas cake

Down to earth

by JO BELASCO

The only day I forgot my phone/camera was the day I spotted a rare silverstudded blue butterfly on Portland.

I was at Tout Quarry Sculpture park. The blue butterfly had landed on a stone covered with bright yellow lichen – it would have been a cracking picture but I was just happy to have seen it. Lichen is a great sign that the air is free from toxins and Portland is home to many rare specimens.

There is a labyrinth of white stone blocks scattered over the hilltop. Some are just as they were left when the quarry closed in 1982, frozen in time with the chains still embracing them, but destined never to leave the tied island.

They have another fate now. The sculpture park began in 1983 with artists’ residencies. Now there are more than 60 sculptures and more will be created in the future.

There seems to be a mythical theme running through the sculpture park. An owl in the style of Athena the Greek goddess’s symbol stands her ground against the Roy dog, a mythical creature of Portland with the eyes of his victims studding his ferocious snout.

The blue butterfly seemed to follow me and landed on the altar sculpted in the centre of a stone circle. I went back a few months later to get more pictures but alas the weather had

Celebrating natural beauty of stone, left frozen in time

turned and there was no sign of the blue butterfly. There may never be more sightings of the rare silver-studded blue butterfly or the rare lichens if the Portland Incinerator gets the go ahead. Pagans are known for loving and respecting the land but you don’t have to be a Pagan to see why plonking an

incinerator on an area of outstanding beauty is an act of madness.

Natural England write: “The habitats of the west side of the Isle, extending into Chesil Beach and the Fleet, are of international importance and designated a Special Area of Conservation.

“Does anyone think that the pollution is actually

going to politely avoid the, west side? It will all depend on which way the wind blows.”

The next meeting about The Portland Incinerator will be on December 22 at County Hall – please contact debbie@portland association.com if you want to learn more or become involved.

PAGAN VIEWS

ROCK OF AGES: A stone circle and altar at Tout Quarry and, below, from left, cables tied round blocks of stone, Zelda meets the Roy dog and the view across Chesil

See yourself getting some binoculars

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’s often the case that binoculars are regarded as a poor relation when it comes to astronomy. They’re small, commonplace items (most households will have a pair knocking around somewhere), don’t offer much in the way of magnification, and surely they can’t be much good for observing the heavens … can they?

The answer is, as I’m sure you’ve guessed, a resounding ‘yes’. While it’s true they don’t give give the same high magnification views as you get with the possibly more glamorous telescope, magnification isn’t the be all and end all … in fact, a great many astronomical objects are just too big to view with a scope, and are actually better at low magnification and with a wider field of view. Take the Andromeda galaxy, for example. At around six times the diameter of the full moon, it’s just too big to see in its entirety with a scope. Likewise the Pleiades, the Hyades, Messier 44, the North American nebula, and countless asterisms, such as Orion’s Belt and Kemble’s

generous returns policy. So what can you see with binoculars?

Cascade. Easily the best views I’ve ever had of the Pleiades were with my Celestron 20x80 binos. Okay, so you’re convinced that binoculars are a worthwhile investment, but how do you choose a pair, from the plethora of options available?

XX

Let’s start with the numbers: 20x80 means 20 times magnification, whereas 80 is the diameter of the front (objective) lenses in mm.

The larger the diameter, the better for astronomy, as it gathers more light.

I love my 20x80s, and even brought them all the way to Namibia with me (where

they got a great deal of use even though we had a massive scope to use), but they are heavy and require the use of a sturdy tripod. The most commonly used astro binos are 10x50s (lighter, smaller), and 8x40 and 7x50 (lighter still). You can even get 2x40 binoculars that can accommodate the whole of the Plough asterism. These are very popular, and their lack of magnifying power doesn’t detract from the amazing views they give.

The options are myriad, and like most things, it’s best to try before you buy, if at all possible. The retailer First Light Optics* has a great help desk and a

Well, the Moon’s a great target, especially with larger instruments. All the aforementioned objects are great for bino observing, as is the Milky Way, even galaxies and planetary nebulae are possible, as are open clusters, comets … basically you can observe the same sort of things you can with a telescope. In fact, the whole of the Messier catalogue is within reach of a pair of 20x80s. Binocular ease of use also means they are great grab and go options, for when there’s a brief gap in the clouds, or those times when you don’t have the time or energy to set up a scope.

They make great Christmas presents too...

*Other retailers are available …

FAR-SIGHTED: Just some of the binos that are available Picture courtesy: First Light Optics

Down to earth

BEACHCOMBING

with JO BELASCO BA Hons History of Architecture and Design

At Sherborne School there is an 18th century shell grotto.

It is a good example of where the design concept of rococo came from. Rococo means broken shells and rocks. There was a frenzy of interest in the foreign as more ancient Roman ruins were uncovered.

Many palaces in ancient Rome had a grotto decorated with broken shells and they became a fashion statement with the upper and middle classes of the 18th century.

The scallop was used and still is used as the oil company Shell’s logo. The company was named Shell after the profession of one of the founders fathers (Marcus Samuel Bearsted) who made a fortune in the 19th century from buying exotic shells from sea captains and turning them into shell boxes.

But back to the 18th century. The British were still in love with classical architecture – with ancient Rome’s mastery of mathematics and architecture. The straight lines, the symmetry and the order all appealed to the British character. However, we

Riotous glamour of rococo design

were not immune to Royal fashions and Louis the XIV’s court was agog with the new rococo style of interior design.

You can see muted traces of it at St Nicholas church in Abbotsbury.

There is a massive golden coloured candelabra in the nave and the unmissable massive reredos (a screen). These two objects were given to the church in the 18th century by Susannah

Stangways Horner. She was friends with Augusta Princess of Wales, formerly of Saxe Gotha, who gave Susannah a beautiful clock which is a high example of rococo so its easy to see how new styles travelled fast though Royal connections.

At this time St Nicolas’ would have been church of England but Catholicism was still very much alive in the countryside of West

SUPER SWIRLS: Rococo-style chandelier and reredos at St Nicholas Church at Abbotsbury. Below: Scallop shells inspiring scalloped edges of plates

Dorset. Rococo was thought of by some as a papist style as it had come out of Louis XIV’s court and was seen as part of the counter reformation which wanted to see a Catholic back on the throne. The riotous swirls and asymmetrical designs were condemned as frivolous and even corrupting.

What rococo design there was in England was mostly confined to furniture – I think you can see some at Kingston Maurward in the Grand Hall on the fireplace.

The colour underneath the re-whiting used to be a dainty pink and blue and those colours are certainly the hues of rococo.

Personally, I believe the scallop shell looks best on a backdrop of sand but it’s nice to know a bit about its glamorous past.

Down to earth

Birds of a feather hunt for food & warmth together

Sally Cooke lives in Tolpuddle with her husband, two grown up sons and her spotty rescue dog. You can follow Sally on Instagram at Sparrows in a Puddle.

After all the grey, wet weather of November, December has brought some welcome proper wintry weather. Wrapping up warm to walk the dog on frosty blue-sky mornings has really lifted my spirits. It has meant the sudden end of the hangers-on from the summer garden, the nasturtiums, marigolds and marguerite daisies, but as my friendly postie gleefully pointed out, it will mean tastier parsnips and brussels sprouts on Christmas Day. The vegetables withstand the frosty weather by converting some of their starch stores into sugars, which work as antifreeze in their cells, meaning we get sweeter veg.

The sudden change to much colder weather is a challenge for my garden birds. They need to spend most daylight hours looking for food and I help them out by keeping the feeders full and by putting food out on our flat garage roof that serves as our bird table. Another important job I do each frosty morning is thaw the water in our birdbath so that the birds can have a drink too. To keep warm, the birds fluff up their feathers, trapping a layer of warm air, making them look fat and round. They need to spend time maintaining their feathers, using their beaks to make sure their feathers are in good order and spreading preen oil on them from a special gland on their back. This oil helps to keep their feathers flexible and strong and provides waterproofing and insulation. If keeping themselves warm and fed during the day was not enough of a challenge, the birds then need to survive

sub-zero night-time temperatures! Many birds will gather together to spend the night, starlings for example are known to roost in their thousands in trees or down in a reed bed.

In my garden I’ve noticed lots of activity among the nesting holes in our wooden cladding and in the nestboxes I have put up.

The British Trust for Ornithology has observed many garden birds using nestboxes for roosting in, with blue tits, known to be rather feisty, roosting alone and sparrows usually settling down in small groups. One of our smallest birds, the wren, which weighs only 9g, will keep warm by snuggling together with several others in a nestbox. Amazingly, the highest number of wrens recorded entering a single nestbox for the night was 63!

The winter fungi with a flaming dash of velvet

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 awardwinning Forager’s Calendar and in 2021 his Spotter’s Guide to Countryside Mysteries was published.

Not many fungi brave the winter, with correspondingly fewer still that are edible. Yes, there are always a few jelly ears clinging to dead elder, especially if it is wet, and maybe a few goblet mushrooms, those these are not easy to identify and need to be cooked.

The jewel of the winter fungi, however, is the velvet shank. It has a very descriptive Latin name: Flammulina velutipes, meaning ‘little flame with

a velvet foot’. The ‘flame’ is the brilliant orange of the cap and ‘velvet’ nicely describes the stem which is covered in what looks like black velvet, fading to brown then the pale yellow of the gills at the top. It grows in dense and sometimes massive tufts on dead tree stumps or fallen trees. Its favoured habitat was once dead elm, causing a large flush in the 1970s and 80s, but now contents itself with dead beech, oak, willows and a number of other broadleaved trees. It does not grace every dead tree trunk, but an occasional find that will raise your winter spirits. I must add two more characteristics to those

already provided: the stickiness of mature caps that turns to dripping slime in wet weather, and the colour of the spores. Knowing the spore colour of a mushroom is a great aid to identification of fungi. Cut off a single cap and lay it, gills down, on some white paper. Within an hour or two there will be sufficient spores deposited for you to be able to tell their colour – white, in this case. If the spores are any other colour, then you most certainly have something else; something deadly, even.

Rusty brown is the most likely colour of any lookalikes, and almost no species that produces rusty brown spores is edible. The slime, so helpful in identification, is

nevertheless a challenge to the cook. It can be wiped away (just about), otherwise, count it as being a useful sauce-thickener. The stem is too tough to eat, so do discard it. The flavour is mild, but pleasant.

There is a reasonable chance that you have eaten velvet shanks before, but without knowing that you had. The deathly-white, small-capped and spindlystemmed cultivated mushroom, enokitake, is exactly the same species despite all visual evidence to the contrary. The dramatically at-odds form they take under cultivation is down to them being grown in the dark.

Culture Everyone has a ball at this Cinderella

CINDERELLA

Poole Lighthouse Until Saturday, December 31

When a costume makes you laugh out loud, you know it’s going to be a stonker of a show.

The moment the Ugly Sisters (Alim Jadavji and Andrew Pollard) appeared in their bikinis I started laughing – they were absolutely hilarious. Their timing was impeccable. One of the many stand-out stars of the show was Fairy Godmother Lauren Azania. The woman possesses an epic voice, which lent itself superbly to the many 70s disco classics and modern

day hits in the show. Her sidekick trainee fairies

Ethan Cawthorn and Tilda Collecott were great fun and the trio provided a

super alternative to the usual Fairy Godmother schtick.

Cinderella herself (Charlotte Wood) also had a great voice – in fact the singing was possibly the best throughout the cast that I’ve ever heard in a panto.

Chris Jarvis kept the action moving and the laughs coming as Buttons, while Simon Rawlings’ Baron Hardup was a great character – often the Baron seems a bit of a watery cove, but Simon drew out a likeable, bumbling fellow.

Prince Charming (Tyger Drew Honey) and Dandini (Alex Vass) had a great

rapport as Dandini tried to hide his unrequited love for the prince and help him find his true love.

The choreography, the set –and those amazing costumes – all combined to provide a riotously funny, entertaining night at the Lighthouse, keeping me, and my 14-year-old son Robert, laughing for a good couple of hours.

There were no weak links, no dropping of the ball throughout. Highly recommended for a fabulous night out.

To book go to lighthousepoole.co.uk or call 01202 280000.

MIRANDA ROBERTSON

Last panto before £29m upgrade is a hoot

DICK WHITTINGTON Octagon, Yeovil

Another riotous panto has been served up at Yeovil’s Octagon – featuring a bevy of rats, a super-creepy, gigantic purple octopus and a cat called Caroline.

Jack Glanville never fails to turn on the panto fun taps at Christmas and this year was no different, with his Billy Fitzwarren holding the plot together (and sometimes losing it). The funniest moment for me this year was Billy in the lift – I won’t spoil it for you by explaining further.

Gordon Cooper is always fabulous as the dame, with his Glaswegian rasp

rendering the constant jokes even funnier.

The duo kept up the wisecracks and asides at a rapid rate, telling the story of how Dick Whittington (Daniel Parkinson) defeated the rats to become Lord Mayor of London and

This year I am reviewing two pantos –one either side of West Dorset in Poole and Yeovil. Apologies to the ones I missed!

Other pantos are being staged at:

n Weymouth Pavilion

meet his true love Alice Fitzwarren (Javana Forrest).

Thom Bradford made a most excellent King Rat, with a believable evilness and great comic timing. His off-stage wife Kathryn Nash starred as Fairy

Sleeping Beauty (till January 2) weymouthpavilion.com | 01305 783225

n Salisbury Playhouse Cinderella (till January 8)

Bowbells, appearing in a shower of sparks to keep the action moving along, while James Bamford pranced about as Dick’s larger than life cat.

The Octagon is set to close in early 2023 for a £29 million theatre upgrade. The theatre will be fully refurbished in the hopes it will attract big shows and high-profile acts.

The new theatre will provide a community hub, with a dance studio, extended theatre space and two smaller cinema rooms.

n octagon-theatre.co.uk 01935 422884

MIRANDA ROBERTSON

wiltshirecreative.co.uk | 01722 320333

n Bournemouth Pavilion Beauty and The Beast (till January 2) bournemouthpavilion.co.uk | 0300 500 0595

WHAT A HOOT: Ugly Sisters Alim and Andrew

A major new exhibition of work by artists of the storied East London Group, much of it featuring West Dorset, will be shown for the first time at Lighthouse Poole from January 20 until April 8. Several of these paintings, which depict Weymouth, Portland, Lyme Regis and Poole, are thought to be on public show for the first time since the 1930s –when the group’s work was shown alongside that of Gauguin, Monet, Renoir, Cezanne and Picasso.

Formalised as the East London Group in 1929, these were working-class artists who learned to paint at evening classes in Bethnal Green and Bromley-by-Bow. They were tutored by the British Impressionist John Cooper, a greengrocer’s son, and mentored by his fellow Slade School graduates Walter Sickert and William Coldstream.

By the early 1930s the group was the toast of the London art set and, during the 1980s, the group’s work enjoyed something of a revival.

A book called From Bow to Biennale: Artists of the East London Group was published in 2012.

At around the same time, Dorset farmer’s son Alan Waltham and his wife Janeta, the niece of East London Group members Walter Steggles and his younger brother Harold, inherited an extensive archive of the group’s work.

Since then, the work of the East London Group has

Art group’s first showing since the 1930s in county

been enjoying a second revival, with a series of exhibitions in London, Southend and Southampton, as well as a Sky Arts documentary produced on the works.

The group’s name notwithstanding, the streets of London feature in little more than a quarter of the 730 paintings attributed to the East London Group, with most of the works capturing rural and coastal scenes in Dorset, Essex, Suffolk and Kent.

The group’s link to Dorset was probably made through John Cooper’s

friendship with Slade School graduate and future Admiralty war artist Richard Eurich, who was in Lyme Regis over the winter of 1932-33. Harold and Walter Steggles were known to be avid travellers in their small Ford 8 car, and stopped in Dorset on the way back from a painting trip to Devon and Cornwall in 1938. That year, they exhibited a selection of Dorset paintings in a joint show at the Lefevre Gallery in 1938 and other sketches are known to survive from Corfe Castle, Affpuddle

and Briantspuddle. Fellow members of the East London Group also showed paintings made of Poole Harbour, Weymouth, Charmouth, Stoke Abbott, Lyme Regis and the Purbeck Hills. In the 1980s Wally painted the road to Edmondsham, near Verwood, as well as other views of Dorset from Bulbarrow and Pilsdon Pen.

n For tickets and information on the Lighthouse Poole exhibition call 01202 280000 or visit lighthousepoole.co.uk

LOCAL IMAGES: Cecil Osborne’s Weymouth Harbour, Chesil Bank from Portland by Harold Steggles and, right, John Cooper’s painting of Lyme Regis

ON SHOW: Poole Harbour, captured by Elwin H Hawthorne

Church

Hope at Christmas even in the darkest of times

By Canon Deb Smith, Team Rector of Bridport

Christmas is coming!

These words either fill you with dread and panic or with a sense of wonder and joy. But this year perhaps we are all more aware than ever of how the rampant jollity of the season may be difficult to swallow.

Worries about putting the heating on, the rocketing cost of living, the war in Ukraine, political and economic unrest around the world, anxiety over climate change…where does the Christmas story fit in? It fits in perfectly. For the Christmas story is not about detachment from reality, it’s not about setting aside the life we are in and smothering it in tinsel.

In one of our churches in Bridport, we have a large nativity scene, which can be seen from the glass doors. As

the afternoon sun dims the lights of the nativity catch the attention and the imaginations of those who pass by. I see people stop, ponder for a moment and sometimes step inside for a while.

Mary and Joseph in the stable, encircled by the animals, the manger empty as we await the birth the Christ child, is on some days surrounded by those who come into church to socialise with friends, by those who use the food bank, who take part in craft activities for Advent or use the building as a warm space.

Some days the nativity scene is swamped by excited youngsters from school singing carols and acting out the Christmas story once again, at others it is a sign of hope for a lone figure who has come in for a moment of quiet. It seems to say, this story, is

11am Benefice Eucharist

St John the Baptist, Symondsbury

6.30pm Carol Service

for you – for you whatever is happening for you in your life right now.

Christmas is for all, because it takes account of some of our most basic human needs. There is the need to make the effort, even once a year, to keep in touch with friends, to let them know they are not forgotten. There is the need, even once in a year, to try to pick up the threads of broken relationships, to mend what has been torn.

There’s the age-old need of people to have a festival, especially in the depths of winter, to break the long, dark nights with colour, to anticipate the coming of the light. We need times when we can put down the burden of daily living and say today we will take joy in what we do, in others, and in being part of this Christmas celebration. And all of us in our war-torn world yearn for something

St Mary Magdalene, Loders

6.30pm - Carol Service Christmas Eve

that will give us hope and a vision of better world. We know that this Christmas people will still suffer, that this Christmas people will still starve in a world of food mountains and plenty, that this Christmas some of those we pray for will still be facing grave illness or bitter loneliness. And maybe it is in part this yearning for hope, this longing for a better world, that makes people who otherwise have little faith connection fill churches at Christmas.

The good news of Christmas is that we can love, and that love, the love that is the light that shines in the darkness, is what endures when all else is lost.

Merry Christmas!

with Carols

St James the Great, Longburton

10am Family Communion

Friday, December 16

Sherborne Abbey

11am Remembering the Fallen

Saturday, December 18

Sherborne Abbey

1.30pm Shoppers Carols

2.30pm Shoppers Carols

3.30pm Shoppers Carols Sunday, December 18

Sherborne Abbey

8am Holy Communion

9.30am Parish Eucharist

5pm Abbey Festival of Lessons and Carols

St Paul’s at the Gryphon

10.30am All Age Nativity Service

St Mary Magdalene

11.15am Mattins

St James the Great, Longburton

4pm Carol Service with Nativity

St Martin Tours of Lillington

6pm Carol Service

St Mary Magdalene, Loders

9.30am Celtic Worship

St Mary the Virgin, Powerstock

St Mary Magdalene, North Poorton

6.30pm Carol Service

St Swithun’s

4pm Carol Service with St. Mary and St. Catherine’s Catholic Church followed by mince pies and tea.

Monday, December 19

St Peter’s, Eype

6.30pm Carol Service Tuesday, December 20

St Swithun’s

3pm - 5pm Festive Family Fun

Afternoon

Wednesday, December 21

St Paul’s, Broadoak

6.30pm Carol Service Thursday, December 22 St Swithun’s

9.30am – 11am Refreshments in the Hall, handing out Children’s toys kindly donated by the people of Bridport. The Surplus Food Stall plus Christmas goodies in the car park.

Sherborne Abbey

3pm Crib Service and lighting of the tree

5pm Crib Service

11.30pm The First Eucharist of Christmas (Midnight Mass) James the Great, Longburton

11.30pm Midnight Mass St Swithun’s

6pm First Eucharist of Christmas followed by mince pies and tea.

St Michael & All Angels, Askerswell

6.30pm Carol Service

St John the Baptist, Symondsbury

11pm Midnight Mass

St Mary Magdalene, Loders

11pm Midnight Mass Christmas Day

Sherborne Abbey

8am Holy Communion

9.30am Parish Eucharist with Carols

11.30am Festival Mattins

St Martin of Tours, Lillington

9.30am Family Holy Communion

St Paul’s at the Gryphon

10am All Age Celebration

St Mary Magdalene, Castleton

11am A Service of Lessons and Carols

St Swithun’s

Christmas Day Service

St John the Baptist, Symondsbury

9.30am - Family Crib Service

St Michael & All Angels Askerswell

9.30am Eucharist

St Saviour’s, Dottery

11am Holy Communion

St Mary the Virgin, Powerstock

11am Carol Service

St Mary Magdalene North Poorton

12.15pm Holy Communion Monday, December 26

9.30am Feast of St Stephen Eucharist with Carols Wednesday, December 28 Sherborne Abbey 10.30am Holy Communion

Lots of Christmas activities in valley

Several events are being held to mark Christmas in the Bride Valley – and everyone is very welcome!

n Hide and Seek Rocks in Burton Bradstock and Shipton Gorge: You are invited to join the rock hunt to find rocks painted with stars for the Follow the Star theme. If you find one, take a picture and post it on the Bride Valley Churches Facebook page and then hide the rock or bring it along to the Crib Service on Christmas Eve at 4pm.

n Follow the Star – Advent and Christmas windows: Puncknowle and Swyre and

Shipton Gorge have decorated windows and gardens – with one revealed each day in the lead-up to Christmas.

In Burton Bradstock, find all the stars, numbered 1 to 24 around the village, in buildings, homes and businesses. Make a note of where you spot them on the trail sheets available from the Post Office or the back of church and bring your sheets along to the Crib Service on Christmas Eve at 4pm – most star locations found will win a small prize!

n Live Nativity – Long Bredy, December 18, 9.30am

Join Mary and Joseph, with their donkey as they journey through Long Bredy to St Peter’s. There will be shepherds and sheep to meet and a village decorated with stars to follow on the way to the church where you will enjoy Christmas carols as you hear the Christmas story. Refreshments will be served afterwards.

n Carol Singing: Join the carol singers in Burton Bradstock on December 19 –meet at church at 6pm. There will be a charity collection for The Children’s Society. The carol singers will finish the evening in The Anchor at

around 8pm. Litton Cheney also has carol singing –December 15 and 16. Why not join in? Meet at the bus shelter at 6.30pm.

n Crib Services: Come dressed as one of the Nativity characters (if you’d like to) as the Nativity scene is put together and the Christmas story told. A choice of services – Litton Cheney or Burton Bradstock church at 4pm on Christmas Eve.

Details of events, services and activities are at achurchnearyou.com and on the Bride Valley churches Facebook page.

Season’s greetings and healing energies

Andy Cole is a reiki healer based in Middlemarsh. He specialises in planting for healing.

This time last year Michele was making wreaths ready for Christmas at the old potting shed, using all home-grown materials, the willow frames, ivy, holly, fir, along with other plants to create them. Unfortunately, this year she is unable to make them as the plants are not ready after having been moved.

Michele will however be making completely natural wreaths, which are recyclable (you can reuse the willow wreath rings) next year, from materials grown at our new site, The Potting Shed at Middlemarsh.

At this time of year our thoughts are of family and friends and preparing for the coming Christmas festivities. Mulled wine, mince pies and perhaps turkey with all the trimmings. The decorations

are going up and the Christmas tree is on display.

The healing energies of the fir help to relieve fatigue and increases your energy, also help to counteract insomnia and reduce nervousness. Although after a full Christmas dinner and sitting in front of a warm fire you could be forgiven if you had a power nap.

The holly energies aid you in creativity and honesty. But be careful how honest

you are as you could be met with a prickly response! The berries are to remind you that the fruits of your labours can be rewarded at any time of the year.

The ivy plant energies provide you with determination to reach through obstacles, it grounds you and makes you think things through with a clear and solid foundation, stopping your mind from wandering into the realms of unrealistic expectations.

Sweet chestnut tree and fruit energies attract abundance and prosperity, also they are good for peace of mind.

So even during the festive season the plants around us are still able to provide healing and relaxation.

If you are thinking of planting trees or hedging, now is the time to do this as the plants are dormant and they can be purchased

as bare root plants which are cheaper than root ball or pot grown stock. During the winter the berries are running out fast for the birds, so now is the time to feed them high calorie foods so they have enough energy to keep warm. A good source of feed for them is fat balls or suet pellets. Not all birds will like these though so peanuts and wild bird feed are also a must as these different types of feed will attract different birds into the garden.

We have started feeding the birds extra at The Potting Shed, observing nuthatches on the peanuts with their upside-down habit, goldfinches in the wildflower meadow and blue tits, great tits and long tailed tits in dozens, they are feeding well. We have been lucky enough to have some volunteers to help us recently and they have just loved the variety of birds and the ambience of the Wellbeing Nursery, Therapy Garden. They are assisting in planting, mulching, potting on, taking cuttings, filling up the bog garden and digging borders ready for planting. We would like to thank them for there help. If you would like to volunteer, please just pop in or email us at michele.secretgarden @gmail.com

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for reading my articles and wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

FESTIVE FEELINGS: One of Michelle’s wreaths

By Lisa Lewis Interior designer, Sherborne 07989 418329

It feels properly wintery now and that summer heatwave seems a very long time ago.

There are too many things to spend your hard-earned cash on at this time of year and maybe your home is not a priority. But it is also at this time of year we spend much more time at home, indoors. How can we make our homes feel cosier without ramping up the thermostat? Throws and rugs can make a huge difference. These have the dual effect of keeping you toastie on the sofa, make floors feel much warmer and cover up drafts as well as adding texture, colour and pattern to your home.

Based just down the road in Devon but available to order online, Weaver Green (weavergreen.com) cleverly use recycled waste plastic bottles to create beautiful and well-priced rugs and throws, as well as a myriad of other useful items. They come in plenty of different colours and

Quick and easy ways to make your home feel cosier

designs and you’re sure to find something that you like.

Thick, lined and interlined curtains make a real difference to the warmth and cosiness of a room, particularly if you live in a period property with old windows. But bespoke curtains can cost an arm and a leg. Thankfully you can go to The Curtain Circuit (curtaincircuit.com) in Sherborne and pick up preloved curtains for a fraction of the cost of new curtains. As you can imagine they have an everchanging stock and it is definitely worth going and having a look. You can transform your sitting room and your comfort in one hit, whilst reusing a

perfectly good pair of curtains! They also have lots of other preloved bits on sale.

Now to tackle the general ambience. There’s nothing like candlelight and lovely aromas to make your home feel snug and homely. There are so many candles on the market now but evidence has emerged to suggest that some emit harmful particles so I’d recommend being a bit more particular about where you source your candles! We are very lucky in West Dorset to have lots of candlemakers who make their candles beautiful candles using natural materials: The Botanical Candle Company (thebotanicalcandleco.co.uk)

and The Rhubarb Candle Company (therhubarbcandlecompany. co.uk) are a couple that come to mind. They both produce scented candles which, when lit, transform the scent and feel of a room.

Lastly, how about bringing the outside in? Forage for greenery on your woodland walk and use your finds create a beautiful foliage display. Even at this time of year there is lots available that can be incorporated to create something magnificent. Mix it with some fairy lights from the bottom of the Christmas decoration box and you have a stunning, atmospheric addition to your room.

Weaver Green

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Officers needed at Guys Marsh

Two prison officers at HMP Guys Marsh, Josh Williams and Ben Markey, are urging West Dorset and Weymouth locals to start a new career helping offenders turn their backs on crime.

The new drive to build a bigger and more diverse team at HMP Guys Marsh comes as the Government announces significant pay rises for Prison Service staff.

Josh Williams, 26, from Somerset, became a prison officer four-and-a-half years ago and has now been appointed to wellbeing lead, where he organises events and helps with staff support.

Josh said: “All of my former roles have helped me build skills talking to people I don’t know. From being in the cadets when I was younger, to working in a bar, both taught me about how to interact with different types of people.

“Working in the fire service also taught me about being responsible for somebody else’s life. This is an important part of the prison officer role as you have to be really attuned to prisoners’ needs.

“One of the best parts of the role is the people that you work with. Colleagues make the experience great because

you have to work closely as a team and support one another.

“To be a good officer, you need to have people skills, be resilient and able to think on your feet – it’s a challenging but rewarding role.”

Prison officers help to maintain safety standards while ensuring ex-offenders leave with the skills and experience they need to secure a job. You don’t need qualifications to become a prison officer. HMP Guys

Marsh is looking for people with good communication and influencing skills, effective decision-making, care and understanding.

And with Government pay changes, the starting salary for prison officers has increased significantly, with new recruits taking home over £30,000 –exceeding the average salary in the South West.

Ben Markey, aged 37, from Somerset, has been a prison officer for six years, having previously worked as an enforcement officer for a local court. He said: “The role offers lots of variety and every day is different. You never know what you will be doing.”

Find out more and apply at prisonandprobationjobs.gov. uk/prison-officer

THEATRE TRUSTEES

The Mowlem in Swanage is seeking three new trustees. The Mowlem is the arts venue in Swanage, and a key feature in Swanage life, showing over 200 films each year and 100 nights of live theatre and music, including local schools and amateur societies as well as professional productions. The Mowlem has just launched its Business Plan themowlem.com/businessplan An interest in the arts, and the enthusiasm, skills and commitment to make The Mowlem a central part of Purbeck life are important. The trustees are looking in particular for a trustee with a background in HR and health and safety. Further details and a trustee information pack can be obtained from admin@themowlem.com

PROOFREADING, COPYWRITING, EDITING & DESIGN OFFERED

We receive a lot of compliments about this magazine – particularly the clarity and editing. If you would like to use our team’s resources, we charge £20 per hour for any of the above services. Fast turnaround, guaranteed. Take advantage of our team’s century of experience and enjoy knowing attention to detail is truly our speciality.

Drop us an email to: newsdesk@westdorsetmag.co. uk or call 07460 205033 for a discussion about your project.

Constituency issues

Progress at last on residential lettings and energy

Way back in October last year, I started relentlessly lobbying the Government for action on the issue of short-term holiday lettings of former established residential properties at the expense of local people’s access to accommodation within their price range. The Government confirmed a review on June 29 into this, and last week confirmed their intentions to implement a form of licensing for shortterm holiday lets which must be ‘licensed’ in order for their conversion from residential to take place. There will be more information regarding this policy which will become clear in the new year, but this is certainly good news for now and a step in the right direction. These efforts will

Politics

not be impacting local businesses and farms looking to ‘diversify’, but will seek to mitigate the impacts on communities that many residents have expressed to me, that these short-term ‘airbnb’ lettings can have in such large numbers. The concern has been that such a ‘surge’ of this activity over the last few years appears to have no end in sight, with legislation not keeping up. Another announcement which has courted significantly more attention is the decision to reopen a major coal mine in the north of England. Some have suggested that this decision is an affront to our environmental integrity and leadership on the world stage.

However, I hope to offer you a more all rounded perspective on this.

Coal production in the UK is down 94% in the last 10 years. Of course, as we have moved on from coal as the primary use of electricity generation, it remains an integral component of the manufacture and supply chains for many of our major industries, such as steel. Currently 48% of our coal supply in the UK is derived from net imports, of which around 43% came from Russia in 2021. At a time when we need to be firmly turning off the taps on Russia, it is not unreasonable to be questioning why we must import from them whilst we have existing untapped reserves in

the UK. And from an environmental perspective, whilst I share a desire like most people to see a world where we do not need to employ fossil fuels for our industries, the reality is that they are required while we work to overcome our reliance upon them. Our additional imports come from the USA (24%) and even as far as Australia (11%). I cannot be alone in thinking that whilst we cannot currently change our current consumption, we can at least change where we get it from, and reducing the quantity imported over from thousands of miles can only be positive.

May I wish you, your family and friends, a very Happy Christmas.

We clapped them before, now we need to

’Tis the season of goodwill, the season of health services being stretched to the limit and this year, the season of strikes, including amongst some of our most dedicated health professionals: Nurses and ambulance crews. The government, having applauded nurses, health and care professionals on their doorsteps during the pandemic, is spoiling for a fight over wage increases, promising no money. That is one reason strikers are taking action. The need for some of them to go to food banks. The struggle to pay the rent or mortgage because pay has not caught up with the cost of living. The other reason is the

By ANDY CANNING West Dorset LibDems

working conditions. The constant pressure in an understaffed, poorly managed health service. It is forever being reorganised but never seems to get out of crisis mode. It never has enough money.

The queue of ambulances waiting for hours to get their patients admitted to A&E is getting out of control. Patients recognise what a great job ambulance and hospital staff are doing. They are full of praise for their professionalism and for how much they clearly care. But when you’re woefully

underfunded there is a limit about what can be done. Recently I was told of a 12hour shift when they had picked up a man with a dislocated shoulder. The ambulance crew ran out of morphine, gas and air in the stack. The patient was moved to another ambulance when it was freed up from the stack. The whole shift for the paramedic was taken up by one important but not life-threating injury because they were stuck in the stack. Staff are telling us that they are being pushed to the absolute limits. And at times beyond them. They are dedicated. Totally frustrated. Very few really want to strike, but they are

pay them

saying this job “is not what I trained for.”

No one wants the strikes. Just about everyone I have spoken to supports them. If we don’t value our health workers and pay them well, we won’t have them. If we fund our health professionals properly more people will be helped back into a healthy and happy life, rather than die or have a reduced quality of life. It is time to applaud our health and care professionals and give them the pay and conditions they deserve. It is not time for a fight by politicians strutting to gain a reputation to enhance their careers. We clapped them before. We should pay them well now.

with West Dorset MP Chris Loder

We need to care for workers and the environment

I’m sorry to be so gloomy at this festive time of year, but it feels very much like that we are heading towards a winter of discontent. First of all there’s the sudden onset of cold weather together with the frightening cost of energy. I am fearful that many vulnerable people who could barely afford to put their heating on during our mild autumn will either try and avoid turning their heating on as the temperature plummets, and suffer from the effects of hypothermia, or will end the winter with crippling debt. This is not a dilemma that people in a modern democracy should be facing. Then the planned strikes involving nurses, ambulance staff, train drivers, postal workers and (just

By KELVIN CLAYTON West Dorset Green Party

announced) border staff at airports.

Whilst I accept that these strikes will have a negative effect on many people’s Christmas plans I trust the decisions to strike have not been taken lightly. Whilst pay in general has been failing to keep pace the accelerating cost of living (particularly those of energy and food), public sector pay has been falling even further behind. What are these workers expected to do, particularly when they hear the profits of many large corporations have soared? And lastly, the looming threat of food shortages. Farmers have warned the

government it risks ‘sleepwalking’ into a food supply crisis unless it urgently provides support to farmers struggling with the soaring costs of what they call the ‘three f’s’: fuel, feed and fertiliser.

At particular risk are eggs, where shortages have a knock-on effect to many other food products, but UK fruit and vegetable growers and meat and dairy producers are also coming under pressure from soaring the costs for energy and animal feed, combined with the challenge of finding enough staff.

The potential resultant situation to be faced by people and families on low incomes is frightening. It doesn’t need to be this bad. With the right focus

and investment the UK could be self-sufficient in cheap green renewable energy, protected from the dictates of the global energy market.

This in turn would ensure the energy needs of farming, though we may also need to have a rethink about how we grow food in this country.

And we should be valuing our key workers rather than focussing purely on the expectation of various companies to return an eyewatering profit for their shareholders.

Let’s make the New Year an opportunity for change, particularly a change of government. We need a government that cares for workers and the environment as much as it does for big business.

We’ve had enough and demand and deserve better

At a meeting in Dorchester this week I heard from local representatives of several unions which are currently involved in or in the process of balloting their members for strike action. They represented Royal Mail postal workers, rail workers, NHS workers and teachers. There is a theme running through all the reasons they give for undertaking this action – it is not just about pay.

Railway bosses want to do away with ticket offices and bring in driver-only operated trains getting rid of guards, compromising passenger safety and leading to job losses. It appears that the government finally stepped into negotiations, and have demanded that pay

By CLAUDIA SORIN West Dorset Labour Party

rises be conditional on these terms. As shadow transport secretary Louise Haigh said: “What an utterly shambolic way to conduct industrial relations – to simultaneously impose conditions while refusing to accept any responsibility for negotiation.”

In Dorset the level of engagement by postal workers has never been so high, there have even been picket lines in Sherborne. Once again it is not just about pay but about terms and conditions which will lead to 10,000 job losses and the separation of letters from the parcel business.

The Communication Workers Union rep told us that he believes Royal Mail’s intention is to focus entirely on parcels as this is where profit lies. Indeed, of the £750 million in profits made during the pandemic more than half of that went to shareholders and yet the company will not pay a fair wage to the key workers who kept us going. An NHS worker from Poole told us that the South West had one of the highest turnouts of nurses voting to strike. It is very much a last resort as the sector faces unfairly low pay driving chronic understaffing. Patients are at risk and nursing staff are overworked and undervalued; on the front

line during the pandemic working under the most stressful conditions imaginable and our government now sees fit to pick a fight with them rather than negotiate.

I was surprised to hear from a local teacher that head teachers are currently engaged in action short of strike. They too are struggling to manage schools amid a recruitment and retention crisis where stress is a major factor and real terms pay is less than it was 15 years ago. Teachers are voting now on whether to strike.

This is a wake-up call to the government – we’ve had enough and we stand together to demand a better Britain for all.

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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.

Health & Wellbeing

By RUTH MITCHELL Aquae Sullis Dorchester

New Year has always felt to me to fall at the wrong time of year. In the East, where they follow a lunar calendar, it presages spring. Here, adhering as we do to the solar calendar, it comes right on the tail of Christmas. I don’t know about you, but I’ve had it with sausage rolls and mulled wine by then and increasingly as I get older, I’m not much in the mood for a party either (I know… bah, humbug.)

The winter months for our ancestors were traditionally a time of semi-hibernation, of lying low, they were a time to go within and take stock. In the cyclical nature of the seasons, we then looked forward to a time of renewal. So how do we generate a feeling of rebirth when February still looms low on the horizon? What seeds can we sow when the ground is frozen hard and the sap is yet to rise? The whole vibrational energy of those short and cold days seem set against our attempts to map out good intentions and resolutions for the year ahead.

The answer lies in the word ‘energy’. For true regeneration we need energy. Life force energy surrounds us and exists within us, but increasingly in these modern times we find ourselves depleted of energy in a way our ancestors would have never experienced.

In the East this life force energy is known as chi. Maintaining your chi is considered to play a pivotal part in overall health on a mind. body and spirit level.

Recharge, reset & rebalance in 2023

What is chi? Imagine your body as a travel system. Your ‘chi’ - or life force energy - is the fuel that drives it. Now imagine your body has a system of lanes and roads running through and around it that transport this chi. Your head, heart and tummy areas are energy centres –think of these as roundabouts. Over time, roadblocks and bottlenecks can build up that create traffic diversions and dead ends. This creates stress and imbalance in that holy trinity of mind, body and spirit. New Year’s Resolutions –and why they don’t work. Negative energy is held in our hearts as thoughts. Our heart tells our brain what type of thoughts to have. Research has shown we only have 10% of original

thoughts every day. If you look at it another way, that means 90% of our thoughts are the same – every day. That’s why sometimes you can drive your car home without engaging and wonder how you did it… These thoughts create strong neural pathways that literally keep us ‘wired’ and can make breaking existing patterns of thought difficult.

What is a chi re-energising treatment? A chi reenergising treatment is a combination of acupressure, massage, energy and sound. As well as stimulating the main acupressure points in the body they work to rebalance and reactivate the energy centres – these energy centres correspond to the cranial-brain/heart-brain and gut-brain.

The importance of the gut brain is well documented, but we now know that the heart is in fact a small brain in its own right.

By rebalancing these energy centres a different pattern can be produced and can have a profound impact on how we think, feel and go about our daily lives.

Our bodies also tell the tale of our life experiences. Anything we didn’t know how to deal with, or didn’t have the energy to process, becomes recorded and eventually just ‘freezes’. This can result in making us ‘stuck’. On a physical level it manifests as those shoulders that just won’t relax but it also affects our thought patterns, our behaviours and the ways we have of relating to ourselves and to others.

Chi re-energising treatments are a complementary therapy. Once you have hit the ‘reset’ button you will find that any lifestyle adjustments or ‘new year resolutions’ you wish to make will work in your favour: getting regular exercise, eating healthily and cutting out alcohol tend to be the favoured ones.

I think I am not alone in really wanting to toast, send off and see the back of 2022. The opportunity to turn over a new leaf, close that chapter (for some of us it could even be a whole book!) and start anew feels more significant this year than any other.

If you feel it’s the time to really give this coming New Year your best shot, then by recharging and rebalancing your chi you will be better placed to welcome in that reset in 2023. If it’s time for you, please get in touch.

FEELING BETTER IN THE NEW YEAR: Ruth Mitchell of Aquae Sullis

Health & Wellbeing

Having my chi blitzed feels fabulous

By Miranda Robertson

Have you had your chi blitzed recently? I have.

Chi is your vital energy, to put a massive subject into a tiny nutshell. Every single thing has its own chi, from a leaf to a volcano, and human beings are of course no exception. Except as human beings we meddle with our chi, ignoring red flags, eating the McDonald’s, sitting at a computer too long, carrying too heavy a load until bits start to fall off our respective wagons. You won’t find a leaf doing that. Clever things, leaves.

Ruth Mitchell aims to reassemble the bits of our wagons and oil the wheels to enable you to continue your journey.

During her chunsoo therapy, delivered at Dorchester’s Aquae Sulis therapy centre in Damers Road, Ruth, who came alive to this therapy after experiencing a chronic illness, works on the whole body, seeking out blocked energy and freeing it. Don’t ask what noises she makes while doing this. I find myself quite unable to describe it! But it certainly works – I felt better for it. Ruth works on the basis we have three brains – the brain in our head, a heart brain and a gut brain. There’s a bit of acupressure in there, a bit of many Chinese strains of therapy. She works up and down the body, applying pressure, finding the places where energy is trapped. The whole process takes around 40 minutes.

Afterwards, my eyes feel more rested, Ruth having homed in on them as part of

the treatment. I feel a little stronger, having raced around like a blue-arsed fly all morning – my usual state of vibrational hyperactivity. Ruth’s chi re-energising treatments offer a unique combination of acupressure, massage, sound and energy. A restorative therapy for overload and burnout.

As a child Ruth lived in Ireland and Portugal and also in Dorset, before moving on to attend drama school in London. As an actor she worked nationally on stage and in film, and internationally as a soap star in Brazil. Chronic illness forced her to leave the industry and it was this that led her to the healing power of chi.

Chunsoo (meaning Heavenly Hands) is an ancient Korean healing art which is to transmit energy through the hands. Grounded in ancient Taoist philosophy it was practised by those leading monastic lives.

Mum of two Ruth, who describes herself as ‘a very modern monk’, began the process of training as a Master in 2006, returning to Dorset in 2016 to be reunited with her childhood sweetheart. Based in the Piddle Valley she is the founder of Valley Wellbeing together with fellow Chi Master and Yogi Vanessa Sherry. She said: “That which lies beneath human

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Mobile foot care in the comfort of your own home. Enquiries call 07817683569 More info @ www.dorsetfootcare.com

SINGING BOWL SOUNDBATH

Sunday, January 1st , 2pm-4pm

Lie down, relax, and allow the Pure Sounds of a crystal and Tibetan bowl soundbath plus sacred vocal overtoning to quiten the mind, calm the emotions, and relax and detoxify the body. Oborne Village Hall, OBORNE, nr. Sherborne, Dorset DT9 4LA. £15 Spaces limited, so please book in advance 01935 389655 or email ahiahel@live.com

emotions and behaviours has always fascinated me. As has the psycho spiritual side of life. As an ‘energy sensitive’ I truly believe my illness was sent to set me on my ‘Jinjeonghan Gil’ – which means ‘True Path’ in Korean.”

She says her therapy is not a belief system, however –there are no bells, gongs or incense.

Ruth added: “Everybody is individual and will experience the benefits of chi in their own treatment is very relaxing, however sometimes

acupressure points which are blocked can be experienced as tender or downright painful. You may experience symptoms such as headache, nausea, tiredness or bloatingparticularly after a first treatment - and it can take 24 hours for energy to digest. Once this passes my clients tend to feel a newfound sense of wellbeing, and some have far-out epiphanies…”

No epiphanies here. But I did feel decidedly chipper all day afterwards. And that is golden.

If you are seeking a way to boost energy and wellbeing, it’s certainly worth giving her a call.

hello@ruthmitchellenergy.com 07941 172112

n Aquae Sulis offers a huge range of therapies and treatment including chiropractic, reiki, sports massage, nutrition and more. aquaesulistherapycentre.co.uk, aquaesulistherapycentre@ gmail.com or call Nell on 07471 212364.

Health & Wellbeing

Understanding the ancient art of Tai Chi

It's early morning in a park in China.

In the misty light of dawn, groups of senior citizens are performing graceful, flowing movements which produce a feeling of calm even in those who are watching. This is the standard image of Tai Chi in the West. But it is not the whole picture. Those apparently gentle movements are performed in quite a low posture that can radically increase leg strength. The slow pace requires high levels of coordination, control and balance.

The sequences of movements exercise the player’s memory and concentration, so that Tai Chi works the mind as well as the body. When mastered, it can create a feeling of stillness within motion that has led to Tai Chi being characterised as meditation in movement. What's more, few in the West realise that Tai Chi was originally developed as a fully functional

martial art. The vast majority of people these days, though, practise their Tai Chi for health and exercise. But make no mistake, its clever, efficient

biomechanics, focus on releasing persistent tension and big, jointopening movements offer plenty of challenge to senior and not-sosenior alike. In fact, Tai Chi can offer an antidote to many modern ills, such as inactive lifestyles, poor posture brought on by too much desk work and chronic stress.

While Tai Chi is at best only a few centuries old, the truly ancient art of Qigong (pronounced ‘chee-gong’) possibly dates back thousands of years and is less well known. The name roughly translates as ‘energy work’ or ‘breathing exercise’ and covers a range of practices, but the most popular are again health-

related. A typical Qigong set often involves a series of maybe eight to 20 stretching, twisting or stepping movements, practised separately. The physical health benefits are similar to Tai Chi, while the sequences are shorter and thus easier to learn to begin with. While each exercise is designed to work physically a particular way, some believe that they also work on the body's energy systems, as defined in traditional Chinese medicine. Learning some Qigong is a good way of getting into the Chinese approach to exercise and wellbeing, but many schools will teach both Tai Chi and Qigong. Look for an accredited teacher, such as those registered with the Tai Chi and Qigong Union of Great Britain.

Bamboo Grove Tai Chi School, Bridport 07912 107950

Support grows for mental health unit for youngsters

The Dorset Mental Health Forum is supporting proposals from Dorset HealthCare to build an eight-bed psychiatric intensive care unit for children and young people in the county.

The scheme is also being welcomed by families of former patients who had to be treated miles away from home. Detailed plans for the development, in Alumhurst Road, Bournemouth, have been submitted

to BCP Council for planning permission.

Becky Aldridge, chief executive at the Dorset Mental Health Forum, said: “When a young person is so unwell that they need intensive psychiatric care, the environment should feel like a safe haven, where the person will be able to access the treatment that they need and therapeutic benefit from their stay.” Poole mum Amanda, whose daughter

Chloe had to be treated at a facility in Colchester, said: “To have my daughter so many miles away, crying on the phone, ‘Mum, I need to see you’... it was soul destroying. I couldn’t give her all the support she needed.”

The project is part of the Government’s New Hospitals Programme, which has allocated £73.9 million to Dorset HealthCare for two new mental health building schemes.

Andrew Howard Instructor

ANTIDOTE TO MODERN ILLS: Tai Chi instructor Andrew Howard

Health & Wellbeing

Park near the church, which is worth visiting as it has history which you can read about inside. Then make your way south down the lane until you find a path on your right that leads you up the steep hill to St Catherine’s Chapel, which has wonderful views, then head south and west down to the bottom of the hill by a stream. Turn right and head north east up the lane, forking left to reach the main road. Turn left and make your way uphill along the road until you can join a path on your right leading to the Ridgeway by some tumuli. Follow the

Hill Fort. Roam the ramparts and return to the road and head north for half a mile where, at a junction, the Tarmac ends. Continue north for another half mile until you find a stile on your right giving access to a footpath leading east through

a wood. After a quarter of a mile you’ll reach the amazing, mysterious and atmospheric ruin of St Luke’s Chapel where you’ll often find a candle or an incense stick burning with no sign of the person who lit it. After spending some time in contemplation, leave the Chapel and head south to

leave the wood then wend your way along the footpaths east then north to Ashley Chase Dairy where you turn right, heading north east for a short distance then turning right and heading south east for a mile to join the Macmillan Way which leads you south through Gorwell Farm, crossing the Ridgeway then heading steeply downhill to reach the village. Turn right along the road, then left and soon you’ll be back at your car.

Ridgeway west, crossing a minor road to enter the Abbotsbury Castle

with retired Dorset rights of way officer Chris Slade

Supporters supporting the foodbanks

West Dorset football clubs, Sherborne Town and Dorchester Town, have both continued their support for local food banks by encouraging players, officials and supporters to donate much-needed supplies to help people who are struggling.

Sherborne Town will be open for donations at Raleigh Grove, ahead of the clash with Cadbury Heath on Saturday, December 17. The move follows the postponement of the Zebras’ home match last Saturday, which affected the number of donations received, and organisers are keen to do more in the lead-up to Christmas and maximise the support to local people in need.

Food bank trustee and treasurer Cathie Graham said of the partnership with the club: “Sherborne Foodbank are extremely grateful for all the support they receive from Sherborne Town Football

Club. Their collections of food and toiletries go a long way to help us to support the many people in need.

“The team are great fun to work with and have a real heart for their local community.

“Unsurprisingly the referrals have now reached unprecedented levels and are unlikely to reduce any time soon, so every donation, be it

supplies or money, is very much needed.”

Meanwhile Dorchester Town held their third Give at the Gate initiative within the last year, aimed at helping families within its catchment area. Their previous campaign was targeted at supporting families affected by the crisis in Ukraine, while the latest was focused much closer to home, with the club partnering with

the local Tesco to help the FareShare UK and distribute supplies via smaller foodbanks within the Dorchester catchment area.

Club spokesman Cameron Dabbs said: “It was a very successful afternoon of donations with two trolley loads being collected on our turnstiles from our supporters, players and directors.

Chesham United encouraged their players and fans to get involved too and it’s great to see the football family coming together to try and help others.

“As a community football club we are always looking for more volunteers to run community initiatives in Dorchester to support the most vulnerable.”

If you are interested in volunteering to support Dorchester’s future work in the community, please contact the club via email tournament@ dorchestertownfc.co.uk

THANKS SO MUCH: Sherborne Town fans with some of the donations to Sherborne Food Bank and, below, a family responds the to call to Give at the Gate to Dorchester's foodbank partnership

Picture: PHIL STANDFIELD

By HARRY ADAMS Dorchester Town Correspondent

Alfie Stanley’s superb first-half strike was not enough to prevent an end to Dorchester Town’s impressive unbeaten run at the Avenue, as they were outplayed by high-flying Chesham United. Stanley gave the Magpies the lead against the run of play, but once the visitors equalised early in the second period, they took charge of the game to run out deserved winners.

It was the home side who started the brightest and had the first chance of the game on eight minutes, as midfielder Charlie Gunson surged into the box after some great work down the right-hand side, only to see his resulting effort to crash against the woodwork.

It didn’t take long for the visitors to respond and they did so with a superb chance five minutes later.

Tricky forward Jordan Edwards danced through the Dorchester back-line and past keeper Ryan Hall before his eventual shot was deflected just wide of the post. The Generals remained on top and saw another chance go begging moments later, after some superb interplay from Shaq Hippolyte-Patrick and Jak Joseph saw the latter’s shot sail just over Hall’s crossbar.

Chesham continued to dictate the play with

Magpies home run ended as Generals take charge

Joseph again going close, this time seeing his closerange shot saved well by Hall after some neat build up play from Luton loanee Tobias Braney.

Despite the visitors’ first half domination, it was Dorchester who took the lead just before half-time in a rare attack. Chesham failed to clear a free-kick and the ball eventually fell to Alfie Stanley on the right hand side, he then cut inside and curled a spectacular effort past keeper Sam Beasant and in off of the post to register his sixth goal of the season.

Chesham began the second-half in the same fashion as they ended the first, forcing Dorchester into errors and pressing them high up the pitch,

and their pressure finally paid off nine minutes after the re-start, with Hall doing brilliantly to deny Jeanmal Prosper’s fizzing effort, only for Braney to follow in from close range to deservedly draw the visitors level.

The Chesham attacks didn’t stop there, and it didn’t take long for them to turn the game on its head. After some superb build-up play from the Chesham front three, the ball eventually fell to Jordan Edwards, who showed some neat footwork to fashion some space before firing the ball low past Hall to give Chesham the lead, and a fairer reflection on the balance of play. Five minutes later and the game was effectively over

as a contest. Another slick Chesham attack saw Hippolyte-Patrick burst into the box, only to be brought down by Magpies defender Alex Moyse. Penalty was the verdict of referee Paul Barber. Edwards stepped up and coolly slotted the ball past Hall for his second of the game as Chesham ran out comfortable winners in a one-sided contest.

n Dorchester’s trip to North Leigh fell victim to the cold weather and the Magpies face another tough challenge when they return to league action at the Avenue against Truro City on Saturday, December 17, as they look to avenge a crushing 4-0 defeat in the reverse fixture.

Dorchester Town 1

Stanley 44 Chesham United 3 Braney 54, Edwards 66, (pen) 71 Attendance: 409

PUSHING THROUGH: The Magpies’ Charlie Gunson tries to get through the Chesham defence Picture: PHIL STANDFIELD

By STUART BRIGGS

The Daggers proved far too strong for a depleted Bournemouth side scoring 15 tries in a crushing win. Sam Petchey converted nine of the tries as the home side racked up an impressive tally, although the game was subsequently deemed to be a walkover due to the visitors being unable to field a team of eligible players. Arriving with just 13, the home side sportingly loaned the visitors two players to even up the numbers, however there was a huge mismatch in terms of class, and Bournemouth’s two tries came courtesy of Daggers’ wingers Kian Bentley and Jack Pellow. The hosts produced a similar style to their big win over the Swans, with the backs seeing lots of possession and moving the ball fluently to make telling line breaks, while their forwards took the ball with pace and strength into the heart of the Bournemouth defence, creating great ruck ball for Wes Lewis and Charlie Samways.

The Daggers were soon on the scoreboard when Lewis took a quick penalty to dive over on the corner. This was followed by a superb break by Guy Wyndham, showing a clean pair of heels to run in from the 22. It was all one-way traffic when Lewis repeated his first score from a quickly taken penalty and Jack Pellow

Daggers triumph in their last league clash of 2022

chased his long kick through, ripped the ball and offloaded to Jude Appleton-Scott to score.

The Daggers did concede a careless try, when a quick tap was well intercepted by Bentley who ran in from halfway to score.

The Daggers’ backs were quickly in complete control again, Samways scything through to score under the posts and picking a loose ball moments later with the same outcome. AppletonScott got his second after breaking the Bournemouth defence, and Corby Newman brought up the 50 after being put clear on the wing by Samways and evading a last gasp tackle

to touch down in the corner.

From the kick off, Appleton-Scott charged through the centre tracked by Daragh Mcoughlin, who was just held up short, but Lewis was on hand to pick up the loose ball and cross for his third try. The half was completed with a flowing move by the backs, Samways again breaking the line and offloading to Mcoughlin to score for a half time score of 64-5.

It was more of the same in the second half, although Bournemouth showed some spirited defence to limit the damage somewhat, restricting the Daggers to five more tries.

Appleton-Scott

intercepted a loose pass for his third try, followed quickly by his fourth, after great distribution by the backs. Lewis picked up his fourth score after a great run into the 22 by Tom Gamwell set up perfect ruck ball for the score.

As they did in the first half, the Daggers suffered from the pace of their Colts when Jack Pellow, who had now switched sides, took clean ball from a Bournemouth scrum to race down the touch line to score. Hugh Vivian then closed out the scoring for the Daggers, picking up a loose ball after a Liam Poole was just held up short of the line after a great run into the 22. This was the Daggers last match of 2022 and they finish the year in third place in the league with their next match at home to Oakmedians on the Saturday, January 7.

SAM-TASTIC: Sam Petchey on the charge in the Daggers' resounding win against Bournemouth 3rds Pictures: STUART BRIGG

OVER AGAIN: Guy Wyndham crosses for the Daggers

Young anglers brave Baltic conditions

Young West Bay anglers saved the best for last, landing some excellent fish across a wide variety of species, in what was probably the best fishing of the season in the final junior league match, held in Baltic conditions on the East Pier in West Bay.

Nine species were caught altogether, these were pouting, whiting, three bearded rockling, tompot, shanny, bass, corkwing wrasse, ballan wrasse and a small-eyed ray.

It was a tight match with most anglers weighing in just short of 300g, and some places were only separated by a single gram.

First place went to Alfie Jeans with 474g Second place went to Chelsea Pearce with 372g Third place went to Mason Price with 302g Organisers noted a marked improvement in the anglers’ casting, baiting up and technique since the start of the season.

Junior secretary Ben Carter said: “I can’t thank everyone enough for all

JURASSIC LEAGUE 2022

5/10 19/11 3/12 TOTAL

Ross Bourne 176 215 272 663

Mason Price 268 80 302 650

Charlie Price 22 252 295 569

Chelsea Pearce (L) DF 126 372 498

Lidy Carter (L) 46 151 123 320

Alfie Hoysted DF 197 122 319

Sam Carter 0 DF 260 260 Alfie Hamlet DF 106 DF 106

Harris Ridsdale 74 24 DF 98

Toby North DF 71 DF 71

their help this season. It’s gone better than I could have ever hoped. To see the enthusiasm and improvement in these young anglers is fantastic.

“It’s been great to see so much support from everybody involved too.

“Ian Draper was incredibly generous and brought along prizes for all the

participants, Norman and June Stokes have been fantastic once again helping keep people rigged up and in bait as well as providing sweets for everyone to keep them going in the cold weather. “Massive thanks to Angling Centre West Bay for providing bait and rigs once again.”

Ross Bourne edged out Mason Price in the final Jurassic League standings, in a highly competitive league.

Jack’s the lad as juniors battle it out on the lake

Dorchester & District Angling Society Juniors hosted their final points event of the season at Whitemoor Lakes near Wimborne, in memory of a dear friend of the club, Martin Vine.

Although conditions were not as brutal as they had been lately, it was still quite uncomfortable in the wind and rain for six brave juniors.

Umbrellas were the most popular item of equipment, particularly with the everwatchful parents. Seven juniors could become the 2022 champion going into

this event but, sadly, only four title contenders were able to fish. Austin, Jack, Josiah and Oliver battled it out over three-and-a-half hours on a lake where the fish were being difficult. But there can be only one winner, and that was a triumphant Jack Copp weighing in 23lbs 15ozs. Second on the day and in the championship was outgoing champ Oliver

Smith with 17lbs 12ozs. Josiah Wells-Parkes was third with 13lbs 5ozs. It has been Jack’s year with a potential five trophies that could end up with his name on it by the end of the year. Good job Jack! For more info go to ddasjuniors.co.uk or email juniors.sec@ddas.com. Membership info d-das.com. Fishery info search for ‘Whitemoor Lakes’ on Facebook.

TIGHT LINES: Young anglers receive prizes at the end of the league season. From left, A Jeans, L Carter Bourne, S Carter, M Price, C Price, C Pearce, A Hoysted and T Pearce

A major increase in agroforestry – farming with trees – is essential for England to meet conservation, climate and food security targets, according to a new report by the Woodland Trust. The report shows that silvoarable systems –integrating trees into arable farming – could ‘lock up’ eight tonnes of CO2 (carbon dioxide) per hectare of land per year over 30 years, the equivalent CO2 emission of the average UK citizen.

Researchers found agriculture is responsible for ‘10 per cent of UK territorial greenhouse gas emissions’ with the net effect of ‘land use’, ‘land use change’ and ‘forestry’ responsible for a further one per cent.

Establishing agroforestry on 10 per cent of arable land and 30 per cent of grassland could enable agriculture-related emissions to reach ‘net zero’ carbon by 2050 while maintaining high levels of food production, the trust claims. The report also shows agroforestry would ‘help address the biodiversity crisis’

No agro finding space for trees

by increasing the abundance and richness of farmland species, especially birds and invertebrates.

Woodland Trust’s director of conservation and external affairs Abi Bunker said: “This new research shows just how much good that having many more trees within our farmed landscapes could bring, not just in terms of making

important contribution to tackling climate change and helping reverse biodiversity declines, but also in supporting farm businesses to adapt to climate change and become more resilient to the types of financial, social and environmental shocks that are likely to be a part of the future.

“This is about making trees work for farm businesses

and the local environment that they operate within and rely on. As a land use it will make farms more resilient both economically as well as environmentally –maintaining food production while providing public goods that are not supplied by many intensive farming systems. It is a sign of hope that there are solutions to grasp – if we take them.”

Free funding help on offer for farmers

Free workshops are being held for farmers and land managers as Direct Payments are brought to a close.

Between 2021 and 2027, the government will reduce and then stop Direct Payments. Instead, farmers will be supported to improve the environment, improve animal health and welfare, and reduce carbon emissions.

These information workshops are being

provided as part of the Future Farming Resilience programme, which has expanded this year with an additional £2.6million of funding support from Defra.

Titled Navigating the Agricultural Transition, the sessions provide a comprehensive overview of the coming changes and the options available as the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) payments are gradually reduced before they cease in 2027.

The first was held this week in Bishops Caundle, and further workshops will follow in the new year covering the whole of Dorset.

Those who attend the workshops and want to explore the impact of the changes on their business in greater depth also have the opportunity to take up the offer of one-to-one business support with experienced advisors.

The support offered through

the project is free to any farmer or landowner receiving Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) payments.

Farmers will be helped to take advantage of business opportunities, improve the environment, and reduce carbon emissions.

Further details and the dates of other workshops when they are released can be found on the Future Farming Resilience page on the Business Information Point website.

Our year of tragedy and joy in the field

Mud-phobic Tria Stebbing lives on the outskirts of Sherborne. She keeps sheep, is working on her first book, and works in a village school.

The weather has got cold, signalling a chilly spell for the farmers. Coming so soon after a mild winter, it will come as a big shock. It is time to pause and reflect on the last year, a mixed one for us in lots of ways. Last winter we lambed at Christmas. The Poll Dorsets produced some cracking lambs and because it was mild they were out in the field by January, providing entertainment for the villagers. We fashioned a shelter for them out of some hurdles and a tarp which when the wind came, ended up in the road over the other side of the fence. They looked cute but were not easy to catch and by the spring we had decided to move them to pastures new and stick with the breed that we know. We took them to deepest Somerset where they now live happily with their own breed, a steep learning curve. We were due to lamb at Easter so moved the flock over to our

smallholding in March to settle them and prepare the barn, dust off the heat lamps and iodine and stock up on gloves. A week into the move Gizmo, a beautiful ewe in both temperament and looks died having been cast (stuck on her back). Alerted by a member of the public, we sadly arrived too late to save her, and the triplets that she was carrying. It was one of our saddest days this year, to lose four sheep in a blink of an eye was devastating both for us and the rest of the tightknit group.

Easter was warm and the lambs all arrived on time, we enjoyed a blissful few weeks watching them gamble about the field, taking it in turns to jump the muck heap. They give us hours of entertainment. We had multiple births triplets and twins, and one enormous single ram lamb called King – obviously we had a premonition of events that were to take place later in the year, his name making him a very on-trend boy. My favourite ewe Gemma gave birth to triplets and was the best mother to them, my lasting memory of her will be of her sunbathing with the lambs by her side, serene and calm in the place that she loved. She suddenly went

down with mastitis when the lambs were six weeks old, putting up an incredible fight, but losing a week later, succumbing to the inevitable skin infection around her udders. We were fortunate that the babies had reached six weeks and were able to fend for themselves.

It was so hard though and forced our hand to wean the rest of the lambs early. We had a lot to thank Gemma for, having moved the lambs off early, they grew on the lush spring grass quickly and by the time the drought came in the summer, were well on their way to coping without the green stuff and copied the adults tucking into the hay stores.

We have battled cast, mastitis, orf, and foot-rot this year, as well as losing two of our best breeders, it has been a taxing year financially and emotionally.

Now we have almost come full circle, waiting to find out if the ewes are pregnant, but preparing for cold weather and possibly snow.

The flock is bigger than it has ever been and we had some well marked lambs which will be put to lamb in the next season.

Happy Christmas and New Year to all our followers, we will take some sprouts up to the flock on the big day as a special treat…..looks like it will get windy Boxing Day.

HAPPY CHRISTMAS: Tria with one of her lambs

It’s the ‘Itchy and Scratchy’ brigade

By LOUISE SILK Veterinary Surgeon Synergy Farm Health

At this time of year many people have recently purchased new stock, be it rams or shearling replacements.

Unfortunately, we frequently find that it is not just sheep that have been bought in, but additional ‘parasite passengers’ too. It is often not until later in the year

FANCY A DIP? Our mobile dipping lorry can come to you

however, that these parasites can become apparent.

Sheep Scab is caused by infestation with the mite Psoroptes ovis. This highly infectious parasite can spread rapidly in a flock

from just one infected animal and can remain infective in the environment for 16-19 days. Sheep scab mites can be transported on bought in sheep in low numbers without causing any

clinical signs. It is only later in the year, as the mites spread and fleece conditions in winter become optimal for mite replication, that signs of disease appear.

At Synergy we are always keen to promote a preventative approach and would recommend that any bought in stock are treated just prior to, or on arrival for Sheep Scab and held in isolation from the main flock for at least 28 days. This will prevent

Fellowships of RCVS are presented to Synergy duo

November was a proud month for Synergy Farm Health as at last Jon Reader and Andrew Davies could officially accept their Fellowships of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons.

Jon and Andrew became Fellows in 2020 but as a result of the pandemic were at the time only able to attend a virtual ceremony. Recently, they both travelled to London

for a face to face ceremony.

Jon was awarded his Fellowship for Meritorious Contributions to Clinical Practice, and Andrew his Fellowship for Meritorious Contributions to the Profession, following in the footsteps of previous Synergy Director Mark Burnell. These are huge achievements both for them personally and for the practice as a whole.

Congratulations!

HONOURED: Managing director Jon Reader and senior director Andrew Davies, founders of Synergy Farm Health, accept their Fellowships of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons

and they’re here to infest your flock

transmission of disease into the rest of the flock and the significant associated costs, both in terms of sheep welfare and farm economics.

As with all disease, it is important to get the correct diagnosis if you do suspect Sheep Scab, to ensure the right treatment is administered. Sheep can suffer from a number of different external parasites from lice to mites, as well as other skin conditions which might result in

similar clinical signs to scab.

There are two main methods of diagnosis of sheep scab: Skin scrapes – your vet will take multiple scrapes of the skin surface which are then examined under a microscope, to try to find mites. This is the best test to use in individual animals with clinical signs of scab and active lesions.

ELISA blood test – this test looks for antibodies against Sheep Scab in the

blood and can detect animals that have been infected as little as two weeks prior to the test i.e. before there is any clinical signs.

If you suspect disease in your flock or are concerned you may have bought Sheep Scab in, contact your vet who can advise on the most appropriate diagnostic tests and treatments. We are extremely fortunate at Synergy to have our own mobile plunge

dipping lorry that can come to any sheep flock, to dip sheep in a selfcontained, calm, safe manner. Our plunge dipping process is even suitable for those close to lambing. Our vet tech team ensure the whole process is conducted in accordance with Bimeda’s Best Practice For Dipping Sheep including licensed disposal of all excess dip. For detail of the service contact reception on 01935 83682.

What’s it like living in... Maiden Newton

By Miranda Robertson miranda@westdorsetmag.co.uk

As a long-standing resident of Maiden Newton, it falls to me to extol its delights –which are numerous by the way.

It’s simply the most practical village – well connected in every way, apart from to the mains gas network…

We have a train station here, running services to Dorchester and Weymouth in one direction and Yeovil, Bristol, Gloucester etc the other. However if you have a dog that likes to board trains and go on a jolly, that could be stressful (see page 5).

We are nearly equidistant to SEVEN very different towns here. Within about ten or so miles you have Yeovil, Dorchester, Bridport, Crewkerne and Beaminster. Another few miles will get you to Weymouth and Sherborne. That means that pretty much whatever you want to buy, it’s within 20 miles. However if it’s food and drink or a bag of nails you want, we have two grocery shops here, a petrol station, and a wonderful hardware shop, open seven days a week. There’s a post office in the corner shop, and a newsagent.

The pub has just reopened under new management and offers food, the fish and chip shop opens two nights a week and we have takeaway vans offering Indian, Italian and fish and chips stopping here. The school is rated ‘Good’

and we have a multi-use games area open to all, plus playing fields, a youth club for primary aged kids and a thriving pre-school.

There’s a village hall near the train station and next to that, a play area with swings and various other play equipment.

It all sounds very busy. But in fact it’s lovely and quiet, with beautiful countryside walks in every direction.

Right next to the village you have the community of Frome Vauchurch, which has its own tiny church.

There’s space to breathe here, yet enough of a sense of community that you don’t feel isolated.

Living in Maiden Newton isn’t demanding – no one expects you to bake for charity every other week.

It’s a big jumble of house styles, reflecting its evolving history – check out the comprehensive background of the village

at maidennewton.info

There are currently nine properties for sale in Maiden Newton on Rightmove, priced from £210,000 to £630,000. If you are selling your home, why not advertise it in The West Dorset Magazine? You can tell our 50,000 readers what it’s like living in your area, as I have!

n Call 07460 205033 to discuss advertising your property sale in the WDM

Three-bed bungalow in popular village

A three double bedroom bungalow has just been put on the market in the sought-after village of Maiden Newton.

The link-detached bungalow has solar panels and is economical to

keep warm.

It has a garage, drive and gardens and benefits from no forward chain. The master bedroom has an en-suite, the sitting room has a countryside outlook and the property is in a

popular village with many shops and other useful amenities, such as a railway station (see opposite page). Viewing is highly recommended. Call Meyers on 0800 849 9256 to book.