The West Dorset Magazine Edition 22, Friday, December 2, 2022

Edition 22 is packed with celebrity cooks!

See our features on Great British Bake Off’s Carole Edwards and MasterChef’s Charlie Jeffreys later in the magazine.

We also had a very famous visitor in the shape of Mary Berry, who visited Bridport’s English Truffle Co recently for a private truffle hunt with her family.

A popular village pantomime which has been staged for more than 40 years has been cancelled halfway through rehearsals due to concerns over ‘cultural insensitivity’. Ansty has enjoyed four decades of its annual show, and local children had been busily learning their lines for this year’s show –Aladdin, which was due to be staged in early December.

But Jenny Norman, the show’s director, says she was forced to cancel the show after members of the cast were approached with complaints. She posted in the village Facebook group: “It is with regret that Madcap has found it necessary to cancel this year’s production of Aladdin following

Village’s popular panto is cancelled over ‘cultural insensitivity’ fear

expressions of unease about cultural insensitivity that were made to the cast. “Consideration was given to ‘sanitising’ the script but the cast considered this was not in keeping with the tradition of pantomime and to prevent causing offence to anyone, the decision was made to cancel.”

Children have been left bitterly disappointed, and villagers confused by the decision. Nothing has derailed the annual tradition before – a panto

was even held during covid, on Zoom. People were left scratching their heads as to why little Ansty was forced to cancel when many big theatres were continuing to stage the show.

Amanda Jenks said: “It’s on at the Tivoli in Wimborne among loads of other places this year. I bet the ‘woke brigade’ get the blame for this, but we don’t want to see the kids go without! I can’t for the life of me see what the

might be?”

Kate Hill said: “It’s a very difficult conversation to have with a seven-year-old who has overcome many challenges to learn their lines.”

David Norman said on Facebook: “It’s difficult to see how any pantomime would not enrage the woke brigade even if we went to Snow Neutral and the Seven Non-Binary Vertically Challenged Humanoids.”

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

Support your favourite local magazine

By Miranda Robertson Editor miranda@westdorsetmag.co.uk

Do you love our magazine?

Less than a year ago, we launched this enjoyable, fun, informative news magazine for West Dorset –something that hadn’t been tried here before in this format.

Our brand of hyperlocal, engaging news and features has really captured readers’ love and affection and 1820,000 copies fly out every fortnight.

It’s inclusive, compelling, interesting journalism which doesn’t bring people down – more, it elevates ordinary people doing great things.

And in just 11 months we are the only regional

publication to be nominated for a national award (see P15). When we started this journey, publishing our first edition on February 11 this year, we wanted to launch a publication to bring the

communities of West Dorset together. We think it’s important that people have a free, high-quality source of news and information and we want to continue to reach the estimated 50,000-60,000 readers it does now.

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Whasson? (and where’s it to?)

Thursday,

Dec 1

Sherborne Museum is holding a Winter Talk at 2pm (doors open from 1.30pm) at Digby Memorial Church Hall, Digby Road, Sherborne, DT9 3NL. Title: Coker Canvas: The Textile Industry of the Somerset/Dorset Border.

Richard Sims explores the history of the twine and canvas industry of the local area and its importance in the manufacture of sailcloth. He will also provide an overview of the restoration of Dawe’s at West Coker, Britain’s only surviving Victorian twineworks. Admission: £5. Free for members of Sherborne Museum.

Bridport Broadsides sea shanty group will perform at Bridport Town Hall at 7.30pm, in support of Bridport Millennium Green. Tickets £8/£7 members includes a glass of wine. Raffle. Details Sandra Brown, 01308 423078.

A Bingo Night will be held at Milborne Port Sports and Social Club.

Cash prizes, Raffle and Snowball. Books for sale from 7.30pm, eyes down 8pm.

Friday, Dec 2

A beginners’ Tai Chi class is starting in Bridport at 10.45am. Contact David on 01308 867278 or email david@hallofenergy.co.uk

Carols on the Green will be

Singers to lay on two seasonal concerts

The Ridgeway Singers & Band will be holding their Christmas Concerts at Marnhull and Dorchester. 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

held 6pm-7pm on Fordington Green.

Come along for carols on the green on Friday night, bring all your family and dogs are welcome too! Warm up in church afterwards with some mulled punch, mince pies and hot drinks. Or head to Bean on the Green for savoury options.

A Christmas Café will be held at St George's Church, Fordington from 7pm today until 5pm on Monday, December 5. There’s also a Christmas tree festival. Enjoy lovely slices of freshly baked homemade cake and hot drinks while wandering round the Christmas Tree Festival. Or pull up a chair and listen to the music. The café is open

Cotswold poet Leonard Clark, with a melody by our own Tim Laycock. This lovely piece evokes a snowy December in rural West Dorset: Sunday, December 4 St Gregory’s Church, Marnhull at 4pm. Tickets: Adults £8; Under-18s

from Friday 2nd to Monday 5th, but the trees are there all week.

Weldmar’s Light up a Life service for Bridport will be held at Groves Nurseries at 6.30pm. Light up a Life provides you with an opportunity to remember your loved ones while enabling Weldmar Hospicecare to continue their support for terminally ill people in the community and at the hospice in Dorchester. For more information and to dedicate a light visit weldmarhospicecare.org/ lightupalife

Puddletown YFC’s Fish & Chip Quiz will be held at 7pm at Moreton Village Hall.

£5, Family £20 from artsreach.co.uk or 01258 820458.

Wednesday, December 21 –Dorford Centre, Dorchester at 7.30pm. Tickets: Adults £10; Under-18s £5 Book via TicketSource or 01305 852826.

The quiz will raise funds for Dorset Mind Your Head. £60 for a team of 6 or £12.50 per individual. Fish & Chips included. Non-refundable. Contact Amy on 07415 446623 or wonnacotta@yahoo.com to book.

A Festive Forest & Alpine Lodge will be at Upwey Wishing Well from 4pm-7pm. Mulled wine, festive treats and illuminated forests are promised on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings until December 23, with food and drink. Book on 01305 814470 or on the website.

Stretch And Sign Storytime will be held 10am-11am at Broadmayne Village Hall.

Parents, carers, babies and toddlers can enjoy spending some relaxing story time practicing relaxing yoga postures and breath work whilst learning British Sign Language Booking on 07902 528895. Bring own mat, snacks for your toddler and if you want your child's favourite story book. There is no fixed price for these sessions. Pay what you feel is fair, reasonable and within your personal budget.

Penguins & reindeer pinch pot skills will be held at Dorchester Library from 5pm-6.30pm. Learn pinch pot techniques, surface decoration and creating animal characteristics. You will be able to create a family of three or group of three friends. Colour can be added and they will be taken away to be kiln fired, ready for Christmas. This once a month class teaches pottery skills in a fun way. £25 includes clay and kiln firing. Suitable for ages 13 -113. The class is held in the libraries glass fronted learning room. pre book: creativeclayforall@yahoo.co.uk

Symondsbury Estate’s Christmas Market will be held 2pm-9pm today and 10am-4pm on Saturday, December 3. Car parking is £3, with proceeds donated to local community groups.

A wide range of local businesses will be selling handcrafted food, drink and gifts, and the independent shops will be offering luxury giftware, festive decorations, homeware and artisan food and drink. There’s live music and performances across both days. A Christmas Concert is being held by Encore Singers at 7.30pm, in aid of Julia’s House, the children’s hospice. Encore

Singers is a mixed choir singing mostly songs from the shows, along with other popular pieces. The first half of the programme will be taken from their wideranging repertoire and the second half will have a more seasonal feel.

The concert will be held at the United Church, South Street, Dorchester. Free admission, with a retiring collection in aid of the charity.

Sherborne Library will host ‘Trees, Baubles and Decorations’ from 2pm-3pm. Free and suitable for families and children aged 3+. Booking is advised – visit Eventbrite online or call 01935 812683.

Weymouth Model Railway Association Club’s Open Day will be held from 10am-4pm at Upwey Memorial Hall –Victoria Avenue. Weymouth, DT3 5NG. Free admission, charity box on door.

Members will be showing a variety of their layouts and there will be sales stands and refreshments. Very limited parking. Weymouthmra.org.uk

Poundbury Christmas Market will be held from 10am-4pm, hosted by Boo’s Toy Shop and sponsored by ZeroC. Come along and see over 70 fabulous independent makers, retailers, foods and so much more.

Father Christmas will also be in his magical lounge. This event has now moved to Crown Square in Poundbury DT1 3EN. For more email poundburychristmasmarket@ gmail.com

There’s a Metal Stamping Gifts workshop with Lazy Llama Jewellery at Beaminster’s Tangerine Cafe and Gallery from 10am.

A cosy venue and a small group, this is a relaxed session discovering a fun and versatile new craft. We will guide you through the techniques and you'll go home with some beautiful handmade gifts! No experience is necessary. Cost £45, includes all materials plus refreshments and lunch. To book, contact Tangerine Cafe on 01308 281110

Variations for Sitar and Piano. Andrew Goldberg + Ricky Romain Live Music will be at Clocktower Music Bridport at 11am and again at 2pm. Following a fantastic sold out show at Eype Centre for the Arts, Andrew Goldberg and Ricky Romain will perform Variations for piano and sitar. Sam Richards, musicologist and former lecturer at Plymouth University, said: “Sitar player Ricky Romain and pianist Andrew Goldberg make extraordinarily robust but sensitive music in creating a

fusion between the fluid intonation of Indian classical music with more fixed and tempered sounds of the European piano."

Free entry, and free parking for small businesses on this day in Bridport.

CDs will be available for purchase and autographing, as well as a Q&A after each set. Listen at soundcloud.com

Friends of Weymouth Library's Saturday morning talk at 10.30am will be entitled ‘Censored’.

The speaker Miranda Pender discovered that in the 1930s one of her grandfather's relatives wrote a book which was labelled as scandalous and so was censored. Tickets will be £2 for members of FOWL and £3 for non-members. All welcome.

Whasson? (and where’s it to?)

Saturday, Dec 3

Crossways Youth & Community Centre in Old Farm Way, Crossways, DT2 8TU is holding a table top sale from 9am-noon, with bacon sandwiches & homemade cakes and a large field for the children to play safely outside. Books, bric-a-brac and fresh vegetable stalls too. Pitches or stalls are £5. To book email: bookings@crosswaysycc.org or 01305 854988.

Moreton Village Hall is hoping to start regular quiz nights and the first is today at Moreton Village Hall.

Starting at 7pm, with a midgame supper, maximum teams of six. All welcome, tickets £4 per person including supper at eventbrite.co.uk

Weymouth’s Steampunk

Community orchestra’s Christmas concert

West Dorset Community Orchestra’s Christmas Concert will be held at St John’s Church in West Bay (DT6 4EN) on Wednesday, December 7 at 7.30pm. A programme of Christmas music performed by West Dorset Community Orchestra conductor Walter Brewster and Local Vocals directed by Lesley Whatley. This event promises to be enjoyable and an excellent opportunity to get into the spirit of Christmas and offers a wide range of music to the audience. The orchestra will

Christmas will be held at Nothe Fort from 10am-4pm. Join the Ministry of Steampunk for exhibits, a Steampunk market, Fort tours, yuletide

be playing a variety of music and many Christmas favourites. Local Vocals will entertain with their lively, enthusiastic singing. Entry is free but there will be

songs and more... This event is part of the Weymouth Steampunk Christmas Weekend, from We Are Weymouth.

a retiring collection at the end. Mince pies and refreshments will be served during the interval. Parking is available in local car parks.

RSPB Arne's Festive weekendPull a Pine will be held from 10am to 3pm today and tomorrow. There’ll be live music, an

outdoor kitchen, local stall holders, free festive crafting for kids and partner stalls including the Wareham Fire Brigade who are bringing their off road fire fighter.

For the first time Pull a Pine is running for two days. It’s one of the biggest conservation efforts in the country. Spaces are limited each day so book at events.rspb.org.uk/arne

Camra’s Branch Social the Dorchester Christmas Plod will be held from Brewery Square’s Copper Street Brewery from noon.

Then onwards to the Bakers Arms, Tom Browns, Kings Arms and Convivial Rabbit. Members and non-members welcome.

There’s a Christmas Coffee Morning at the Comrades Hall, Broadwindsor, DT8 3QP.

Cake stall, Christmas stall, tombola, bric-a-brac, books. Admission £2 includes coffee and mince pie. In aid of the Blackdown, Broadwindsor & Burstock churches. For more details contact Philip Hardwill 07980 864169 or 01460 30661.

Art in Poundbury's new exhibition, Making Our Mark opens at Jubilee Hall, Queen Mother Square from December 3-11, 10am-4pm daily, plus late till 8pm on Wednesday 7th. 145 amateur & professional artists exhibiting a wide range of 2D & 3D work, from painting to printing, wood to textiles, glass to silver & more (+ prints and cards for sale too to suit all pockets). Visitors can enjoy Meet The Artist sessions, and get arty and make origami hearts to adorn a large handmade Christmas tree. Art raffle too.

Sunday, Dec 4

Wessex Military Band’s Winter Concert will start at 3pm at The Electric Palace, South Street, Bridport. Following a three-year break since the band last held their extremely popular Winter

Concert, a decision was made to revive this but for the first time at a larger venue; the Electric Palace. Although the music has not yet been finalised, the Bandmaster promises an enjoyable, entertaining and fun programme, with something for

(and where’s it to?)

all musical tastes young and old. However, it is envisaged, this will be dedicated to the decades of our Queen’s historic reign, with some Christmassy numbers.

The Wessex Military Band has a strong base of members of all ages and abilities, ranging from beginners to ex-military musicians and music professionals. If you would like to join them and can play a brass, woodwind or percussion instrument or are interested in joining the Corps of Drums, please contact or leave a message for Mandy Bell on 07535 354433 or email enquiries.wessex@gmail.com

A Friendly Dog Owners Meet Up will be held at 9.30am at Lyme Regis Front Sandy Beach. A chance to have a natter and it weather is nice an optional coffee, supporting local businesses.

Sherborne Festive Shopping Day 2022 will be held from 10am-4pm, with more than 80 artisan stalls for all your Christmas Shopping needs. Children’s entertainment, Father Christmas and face painting. Food & drink stalls to get you in the festive mood!

Organised by Sherborne Chamber of Trade and Commerce

A Pre-Loved Christmas Event will be held 10am-2pm at Dorchester’s Trumpet Major. Grab a bargain at a pre-loved Christmas Market for local buyers and sellers.

Visitors will be able to enjoy a range of stalls selling nearly new items such as toys, clothes, gifts and more.

The venue will be open for hot food and drinks, as well as festive goodies and free to join activities for families to enjoy, including breakfast from 10am

Cheers! Bridport gets festive

Bridport is to come alive with Christmas cheer on Wednesday, December 7

Not only will most shops be open late but there will be traders offering wonderful goodies – and residents are getting involved as well, in a new decorated doorway contest.

The town’s Christmas Cheer event will be held from 4pm9pm, with activities and entertainment for the whole family to enjoy.

The evening kicks off with carols sung by local primary schools – Salway Ash, Loders, Powerstock, St Mary’s, St Catherine’s and Bridport Primary – in Bucky

until noon, carvery from noon. Visitors wishing to register to sell their pre-loved (good condition) items can email info@thecreativeoperations.co.uk

WOW Youth Musical Theatre is holding new member auditions from 10am.

All children wishing to audition must be at least 10 years old by the audition date of Sunday 15 May 2022 Register and find out more at wowyouththeatre.org.uk/auditions

Monday, Dec 5

Play table tennis every Monday evening from 7.15pm9.15pm with Beaminster Table Tennis Club. All ages above year 12. All levels and great fun and fitness. Lower gymBeaminster School’s Tunnel Rd entrance. School ages £2.50 others £3.50 per night.

Four table tennis tables and can have 16 players playing at once.

Doo Square and the Chapel in the Garden. The town’s Christmas lights will be switched on by the Mayor at 6pm, and there’ll be live music by local bands throughout the evening at Bucky Doo Square and on the Millennium Green. Many of the town retailers will be open for late night shopping. There will locally made crafts and delicacies in the Christmas markets taking place in the Town Hall, arts

Some brilliant players - some novices. Call 01308 861478.

Dorchester Film Society are ending the first part of their season at the Corn Exchange with a Christmas Special, featuring the recent release, The Duke, and wine and snacks at 7.30pm.

The Duke was the last film from Roger Michell, director of British gems including Notting Hill, Le Weekend and The Mother, and is an enjoyable feel-good romp. Jim Broadbent plays a 60-year-old taxi driver who steals Goya’s portrait of the Duke of Wellington from the National Gallery. Helen Mirren also stars as his long-suffering wife in this charming film in the Ealing comedy tradition.

Membership of the society is still available for the spring season, which opens on Wednesday, January 11. For further details of the full programme and how to join

centre, along West, East, South, Downes Street and on the Millennium Green.

As well as the ‘Spirit of Christmas’ Shop window competition which is open for everyone to judge, there is a new ‘’Most Festive Front Door’ competition for all residents to enter. All you need to do is to take a photo of your decorated front door and email with your contact details to bridport.tc@bridport-tc.gov by Saturday, December 17. The doors will be judged by Karen and Godfrey from Bridport Banners, and prizes will be announced on Tuesday, December 20

online, please go to dorchesterfilmsociety.org.uk

Tuesday, Dec 6

There will be a talk by Trevor Ware at Beaminster Museum called Smuggling and the Dorset Connection at 2pm. Tickets are £5 in advance, or at the door. It is a repeat of the talk given earlier when not enough seats were left for everyone interested.

A Christmas Invitation by Tim Laycock will be presented by the National Trust South Dorset Association at 2.30pm at St Aldhelm's Church Centre, Spa Road, Weymouth, DT3 5EW ( Bus no 10 from Dorchester to the Spa Hotel).

this will be a mix of seasonal readings and poetry, songs and carols

Members NTSDA £3 Nonmembers NTSDA £4 (No need to book in advance).

A Members’ Christmas Evening will be hosted by Sherborne Historical Society at 8pm.

Dr Ruscombe Foster - A Moral Threesome: Florence Nightingale and the Herberts Digby Hall, Hound Street Members free, visitors £5 sherbornehistoricalsociety.co.uk

Shire Hall Museum is hosting a Christmas Wreath Workshop with the award-winning Floral Couture by Jay.

Guests will be shown how to craft their own beautiful wreath out of fresh festive foliage, which they can then personalise with dried oranges, lime, cinnamon sticks, bows and fir cones. While crafting, guests can enjoy a complimentary, warming mulled wine and a delicious festive treat.

Dorset born, Jay has had a lifelong fascination with flowers and is known for his charm, warmth and enthusiasm. His passion was sparked at a young age while spending hours planting and growing flowers with his late grandfather. Combining both his passion and talent, he then opened his own florist, Floral Couture by Jaywhich has gone on to win multiple awards and can be found in Weymouth.

Alongside the Wreath Workshop, Shire Hall Museum is hosting a series of festive events to get you in the Christmas spirit. From Christmas Afternoon Teas in Shire Hall’s café to an evening of music and entertainment from the Mellstock band, there is something for everyone to enjoy at Shire Hall Museum this festive season.

shirehalldorset.org

Wednesday, Dec 7

Wessex Musical Theatre is celebrating 100 years of performing on stage with a

Christmas Show running until Saturday, December 10

This promises to be a dazzling display of lively song and dance with music from Mary Poppins, Jersey Boys, Wicked, 9 to 5, Elton John and plenty of Christmas songs as well. Tickets to include a glass of seasonal mulled wine. Saturday matinee at 3pm Venue: Hope Church, Trinity Street, Weymouth DT4 8TW For more information, visit wessexmusicaltheatre.co.uk Tickets from £7.06 at Eventbrite

A second Open Mic Poetry evening will be held at The Occasional Bookshop, 16 Durngate Street Dorchester DT1 1JP from 6pm-8pm (doors open 5.30pm). Limited Space –last time they had 20 people turn up and there was standing room only at the back.

Thursday, Dec 8

Sherborne and District Gardeners' Association will meet for a quiz, plus some seasonal refreshments at 2.30pm at the Digby Hall, Hound Street and all are welcome. Charge for nonmembers is £2. Further information from Richard Newcombe 01935 389375.

The Comedy Network is hosted by Dorchester Arts at 8pm at the Corn Exchange.

Nick Page, described by The Guardian as ‘A bear-like man with a host of barely believable stories about life, love and brushes with the law’ will join Adam Beardsmore, described by Glen Blue Giraffe Comedy Club as ‘one of the best new faces on the comedy circuit, he’s confident, fresh and very funny’ and Bristol-based comic Greg Winfield.

Dorchesterarts.co.uk

Whasson? (and where’s it to?)

Holnest Church welcomes the Stanchester Quire at 7pm for a Christmas concert by candlelight. Free admission with donations welcome. Limited seating available, please book on 01963 210632.

Then collect your rock from school or the church on the 12th and hide it around Burton Bradstock or Shipton Gorge. You can join in the hunt even if you haven’t painted a rock. You can post a photo of you with your finds at facebook.com/ BrideValleyChurches Friday, Dec 9 Are you looking for companionship or just friendships? Just Dorset Introductions offers a personal, discreet friendship, introduction and dating service for people of all ages. You will be guided through photo profiles by your area manager in the comfort of your home with ongoing support all the way. l All members are personally vetted and interviewed l Enjoy one to ones and group social events l Affordable memberships and unlimited access to profiles 07593 542952 emma@justintroductionsgroup.co.uk Justintroductionsgroup.co.uk

Whasson? (and where’s it to?)

Friday, Dec 9

A quiet Christmas service will be held at United Church Dorchester at 3pm. Do you struggle to cope with a full church service, but want to sing carols, listen to the familiar readings that tell the Christmas story and share the joy and peace of Christmas with family and friends? This is the service for you. It’s a short 30-minute service followed by tea and Christmas fare in the church. It is aimed at people who have recently been bereaved, who can be confused in the present, but have good memories of Christmases past, for those who find sitting or concentrating for a long time difficult and all their carers and friends. Everyone welcome.

A Winter Walk will be held at The Kingcombe Centre from 10am-noon.

Winter is the perfect season to wrap up warm and explore the frosty delights that Kingcombe Meadows has to offer.

Enjoy a led walk on the reserve and discover the wildlife that Kingcombe teems with. We'll keep an eye out for migratory birds such as redwing and fieldfare, and spot the late fruiting fungi that the reserve has to offer.

After a lovely stroll, we'll return to The Kitchen at Kingcombe and enjoy a tasty bacon (or veggie alternative) sandwich, included in the price.

Suitable for age 18+.

For further information email Daisy Meadowcroft: dmeadowcroft@dorset wildlifetrust.org.uk

Booking essential at eventbrite.co.uk

A Christmas Tree Festival will held in St Mary’s Church, Charminster, DT2 9RD over the weekend of December 9-11.

Bah, humbug!

Live Festive Theatre – The Scrooge Diaries – will be staged at the Public Hall in Beaminster at 2.30pm on Wednesday, December 14. Peter Macqueen shines a light on the real Ebenezer Scrooge in this revelatory exclusive.

Tickets £12 from Yarn Barton, Beaminster, beaminsterfestival.com; or ticketsource.co.uk

Opening times: Friday, December 9, 3pm-6pm, Saturday 10th 11am-4pm, Sunday 11th 2pm-5pm.

At 5pm on the Sunday there will be carols round the trees with mulled wine and mince pies. Light refreshments available throughout plus Christmas gifts and Fair Trade stalls.

Admission £3, children free. stmarys-charminster.org.uk

Saturday, Dec 10

Burton Bradstock School is holding a Christmas fayre from 3.30pm-5pm, with mince pies, mulled wine, raffle and more to raise money for the playground equipment. There’s a secret gift shop, games and stalls and luxury hot chocolate.

A Christmas fayre is also being held at Burton Bradstock Village Hall from 10am-noon, with various festive stalls. One of the stalls is raising money for the Ukraine. The Ukraine hardship stall will feature a huge range of new gifts from Bridport shops, all at reasonable prices.

Bridport Choral Society presents Follow the Star, an evening of Christmas songs and carols across centuries of

festive music, with opportunity for audience participation at United Church Bridport, 7.30pm.

Musical Director: James Crawshaw Accompanist: Peter Parshall. Tickets: £12, available from Bridport Music Centre, Smith & Smith or on the door

Sherborne Library host ‘Wreaths, Robins and Reindeer’ from 2pm-3pm. Free and suitable for families and children aged 3+. Booking is advised – visit Eventbrite online or call 01935 812683.

Karaoke Carols will be held at St George’s Church in High Street, Fordington from 5.30pm-6pm.

A light-hearted way to celebrate the festive season with Christmas music to sing along to. Email church.wardensstgeorges@outlook.com

Bincombe Bumps Christmas Spectacular will be held at West Farm, Bincombe, DT3 5PS from 10am-6pm. A magical immersive experience where mischievous elves take you to meet Father Christmas and his reindeer. Parents will delight at being able to enjoy their festive drinks and nibbles whilst

children get creative at the elves' workshop. After all that excitement, its time to relax in the snowfall barn, where Mother Christmas tells stories and elves serve hot chocolate. There’s a tree light trail for after your yuletide tales, and nativity animals are there for photos in the Christmas courtyard.

Journey to the stable – an interactive experience helping to explain the true meaning of Christmas – is being held at the United Church Dorchester on Saturday, December 10 10am-noon, and Thursday, December 15 to Saturday, December 17 from 11am-3pm. The journey takes 20-30 minutes and is suitable for adults or children. There are seven stations focusing on a person or a part of the Christmas story with readings and reflections. At each there is a small activity or object for you to take away, so you leave with a bag of reflections and goodies.

Milborne Port Christmas Fair will be held from 10am-2.30pm at the Village Hall, raising money for the Friends of Milborne Port library. Over 20 stalls full of Christmas gift ideas and tasty food.

Brewery Square's Christmas Market kicks off from 11am3pm. There will be a range of traders in the Square with something for everyone.

From children's toys and jewellery, to crystals and personalised gifts, our market is set to compliment our vast array of shops and businesses for your Christmas shopping needs.

Sunday, Dec 11

The Fabulous Ukuelele

Whasson? (and where’s it to?)

Christmas Cracker Concert will start at 4pm at Tom Brown’s Pub, High East St, Dorchester. Join them after the Dorchester Christmas Cracker with an early evening performance from Sam Brown & her Fabulous Ukulele club. They will be performing Christmas songs & other well-known hits for you to sing along to. This is normally very popular so get in early to grab your seat.

Kids’ festive junk art is a free activity for Dorchester Christmas Cracker held at The Corn Exchange from 11am. Bring your kids in for some great festive crafty fun, using recycled & natural materials. Each child will also receive yummy festive cup cake and a scrap bag to take home.

Weldmar’s Weymouth Light Up A Life will be at Lodmoor Country Park at 5pm.

Light up a Life provides you with an opportunity to remember your loved ones while funding Weldmar’s care in the community and at the hospice.

A full order of service will be posted to you after you have dedicated your light (or lights). For more information go to weldmarhospicecare.org/ lightupalife

From Sunday, December 11 at 4pm until Tuesday, December 13 at 8pm Santa Claus is coming to town in Lyme Regis.

Santa is back for his annual tour of Lyme Regis in his sleigh, also calling at Uplyme and Charmouth. Listen out for him!

Collecting for The Seaside Store – a community food hub that is accessible to anyone, regardless of situation.

The Seaside Store opened in

2021, and currently has over 240 members signed up.

Every week around 100kg of fresh produce is purchased from the national charity Foodshare who collect surplus food from major supermarkets which would otherwise go to landfill.

In addition to this, they keep a stock of store cupboard staples, such as pasta, cereal, beans etc. Members pay either £3.50 to choose 10 items, or £5 to choose 15, however, ALL fresh produce - fruit, bread, veg, etc is FREE and does not count toward the 10 or 15 items.

If you'd like to become a member, or would like further info, you can contact Lisa or Mary on 07835799469 or email community@lrdt.co.uk

One Voice Choir will perform Christmas Kaleidoscope at 3pm at St Laurence Church Upwey. A beautiful selection of both classic and modern songs echoing the messages of Christmas.

Ticketrs £10 (U16 free) from Ticketsource.

Hour-long afternoon tea with Santa sessions will be held at Boo’s Toy Shop Poundbury from 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/ visitfatherchristmasatboostoy shop

Tuesday, Dec 13

Loders WI will hold a Christmas party at Loders Village Hall at 7.30pm. Bring a dish and your own drinks. Competition: Make up an original Christmas Cracker

joke, and a raffle. Further info see: LodersWI.org.

Thursday, Dec 14

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.

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

Friday, Dec 16

Moviola at Milborne Port Village Hall (Springfield Road, Milborne Port, DT9 5RE) is showing The Railway Children Return 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 will be available from Thursday, December 1, exclusively from Wayne Pullen, Family Butcher of High Street, Milborne Port. £5 in advance, £6 on the door. A limited wine and beer bar will be available, Card payments welcome.

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

Film club members free –guests £4. Refreshments available. Tickets from Emma Myers broadwindsorem@gmail. com or Margaret Wing –01308 867252.

A Christmas Concert will be held at The Bull, Bridport a magical night of Christmas favourites, sing along carols and a dash of opera.

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. Featuring Christmas songs, bestloved carols for audience sing-alongs 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! designmynight.com/uk/ whats-on

Weymouth RNLI Carol Service starts at 7pm. 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!

Email your Whasson? to newsdesk@west dorsetmag.co.uk

Firms urged to help employee carers

One in seven of the UK workforce has caring responsibilities for family or friends on top of their job.

Now Dorset Council is urging employers to adopt new guidelines to support employees who are also carers. The council is strengthening its support to carers to help retain valued employees and maintain vital support for vulnerable people.

Carers provide unpaid practical and or emotional support to a friend or family member due to illness, disability, mental ill health, or addiction.

Carers who work already have legal rights, including time off for unexpected problems with the person

they care for, to request flexible working if they have worked for their employer for 26 consecutive weeks, and not to be discriminated against. In addition to actively supporting these legal rights, the council has developed the new guidance with its network of employees who are

carers, to grow understanding of caring roles, help managers have honest conversations with employees who are carers, and to ensure employees understand the support available.

Cllr Peter Wharf, deputy leader and portfolio holder for adult social care and heath, said: “Carers play a vital role in helping people maintain a more independent life, with care where they need it. Eleven per cent of our residents are already carers and, while caring responsibilities cross all ages, many more working age people will take on this responsibility as our population gets older.”

Cllr Jill Haynes, portfolio

5% off everything on production

holder for corporate development and transformation, said: “It is vital as an employer of choice, we recognise the pressures our people face outside their job with us. The new guidance can be found at news.dorset council.gov.uk/employersurged-to-join-us-on-carersrights-day

All people who provide care for others unpaid, are urged to register with Carer Support Dorset, a service commissioned by Dorset Council to help carers access services, information, education and training, respite, and breaks from their caring role. Visit carersupport dorset.co.uk or freephone 0800 368 8349.

VITAL ROLE: Peter Wharf

West Dorset Magazine the only regional nomination

Lyndon up for national award for his cartoon

By Miranda Robertson miranda@westdorsetmag.co.uk

When we first started using cartoons on our front pages, the response was mixed… Who can forget the image of Boris as a plump piggie on a spit, being basted by Jeremy Hunt at the Bridport Food Festival? But it seems that most

the Year.

Not only is it a lovely surprise to be nominated for a national award, but we are the only regional publication on the list!

Unless you count London’s Evening Standard as regional… We are in the exalted company of Private Eye, The New European and The Oldie, along with most of the national papers.

Who’d have thunk it?

Our cartoonist Lyndon Wall, pictured left, is an exceptional artist and he deals manfully with some of our wilder imaginings.

We always feature a local story with some surprise guests, and we do so

enjoy coming up with those ideas.

Lyndon is due to have a book of his cartoons published next year by Amberley publishing. We think it will be a hit. Thank you to our mystery nominator, who has put us in the national spotlight. We are so grateful! As a

relatively new regional publication it is a real honour to be in the running for this award. The competition is run by communications and advocacy headhunters Ellwood Atfield.

The winner was due to be annouced as we went to press.

Charlie’s stunning food and

By Miranda Robertson miranda@westdorsetmag.co.uk

A young chef from West Dorset has wowed the judges and critics on MasterChef: The Professionals and looks set to go far in the BBC1 competition.

And the good news is that Charlie Jeffreys, 24, aims to return here and open a fine dining restaurant of his own one day. Charlie’s love of good food stems from his mum, Katie Old from Dorchester, who is a fantastic home cook. One of his first desserts on the show, a lemon meringue, was also inspired by his

gran Pauline Old’s cooking. Pauline, who lives in West Stafford, would make the dessert when Charlie was growing up. Aged just 15, Charlie started as a pot washer at

Yalbury Cottage. The chef there, Jamie Jones, was keen to encourage him and Charlie started cooking a couple of years later. Six years ago he moved to London, where he now

LET’S COOK: Charlie in action

relaxed manner wows judges

works at The Dorchester under Alain Ducasse, who holds three Michelin stars. The experience Charlie has had shone through when he impressed the critics, with Jay Rayner declaring one of his dishes – a salt-baked beetroot with a wasabi and goat’s cheese foam – the ‘best expression’ of those ingredients he had ever tasted.

“It was very scary,” said Charlie, of the first few rounds of the competition. “You go in not knowing what you will have to cook and cooking in front of the judges, knowing it’s going to be on TV.

“But you do get used to it, and it’s the best experience I’ve ever had.”

You would hardly know how nervous Charlie was – he has a very chilled out air about him – a fact that was remarked upon by the judges, Marcus Wareing and Anna Haugh. But the extraordinary dishes he prepared, particularly for

the critics, showed how hard he was working, and he went straight through to the semi-finals, with Wareing calling him ‘outstanding’. Having just bought his first flat with girlfriend Freya, it may be some time before Charlie realises his dream of having a restaurant with a farm attached in Dorset. But he already has a solid line-up ready to staff it, in brother Jack, 26, who is a farmer and younger brother Nathan, 22, who works at the Four Seasons, a stone’s throw from the Dorchester in Park Lane. Freya is head waitress at one of Gordon Ramsay’s restaurants, so she will come in useful too. And

Charlie’s cousin Crystal Old, who he worked with at Yalbury, could hopefully be persuaded to come in too – she works in catering in Surrey currently.

Charlie could then go fishing to his heart’s content, pulling fresh produce from the sea at Chesil Beach to produce the sort of plates of food we can only dream of –French-inspired works of art, using English produce. I can’t wait, can you? The Semi Finals of MasterChef: The Professionals continue at 8pm, Thursday 1st and 9.05pm, Friday 2nd December, on BBC One and iPlayer.

Warm welcome at village hall

Over 50s in Charminster are being offered a warm welcome at a new coffee lounge opening in the village hall next month. The hall’s committee room, which has been closed since the pandemic, is being redecorated and converted into a coffee lounge with comfortable seating and new lighting. Volunteers will offer soup, festive treats, tea, and coffee at no charge in the hall between 11.30am and 3pm from Thursday, December 8.

For more information call Nigel Kay on 01305 269401.

Cracker’s call for volunteers

Volunteers are needed to help set up for Dorchester’s festive event Christmas Cracker on Friday, December 11.

A few willing helpers are needed from 7.45am-noon and noon-4pm on the day, to marshal road closures and position the street traders.

If you do feel able to help, please contact Steve Bulley at cracker@dorchester chamber.co.uk

Count you in?

A theatre group is looking for creative people who want to sink their teeth into a new production of Dracula BSC productions is holding meetings for on- and offstage talent, of all ages and experience levels, at the British Legion Hall in Victoria Grove, Bridport on Wednesdays from 7pm to 9pm.

CRITICAL ACCLAIM: Charlie with his fellow contestants and below, three happy diners

Community shed has got it made with

By Miranda Robertson miranda@westdorsetmag.co.uk

We’re all familiar with the idea of men’s sheds – a drive to get the blokey blokes among us to open up and socialise over a chisel and a cuppa. Bridport liked that idea… but what about the women? The kids? Or anyone of any gender? Quite.

So, five years ago the Bridport Community Shed was born – and it’s wonderful.

Hundreds of people have enjoyed picking up new skills at this collection of six sheds, now housed in the town council’s former gardeners’ compound in the heart of the town. Here, people can make use of a brilliant range of equipment and donated wood, textiles and more, while making friends, having a brew, and taking home the results of their labours for no fee.

Scores of volunteers come here to help others create, repair and make, as well as create items for themselves. More volunteers are always needed –you don’t have to have practical skills beyond making tea.

Trustee Richard Toft said: “We are now a charity in our own right. “We set up with funding from the lottery and we’ve had lots of help from lots of people, so we are able

to pay our fixed costs, the wood store is full to bursting and we have lots of textiles.

“Men aren’t as sociable creatures so they need somewhere to be together.

“But we knew in Bridport a men’s shed would never work and in the early days we had to fight for inclusivity.

“We have no criteria for people coming here and we exist solely on donations.

“There’s no membership necessary, unless you want to use the big machines.

“We get help from all over the place. People are very generous and give us things.

“We are very ‘of our moment’. Coming out of covid, with an ageing demographic, that isolation created a great need to be sociable. Over half of what we do is bringing people together. The other half is making things with our hands and repairing things.”

The Social Commissioning Group at the medical centre sends people to the shed. Others find their way there independently. All are welcome – and the group is actively finding ways to draw in as many different sections of society as

possible, and spread the love.

The shed opened its doors to single mums for several weekends recently, for them to make items to take home, while their children were kept safe and sound with professional childcare. The shed is soon to welcome SEND kids and their parents and guardians for a similar programme.

Richard said: “Volunteer helpers have their own projects but set those aside to help others focus on them and what they like to do. They show a great generosity of spirit, sharing their knowledge and skills.”

The shed opens three days a week – Monday,

TAKE A SEAT: Bill Lipscombe fixes a chair and, below, Joe Durlington and, right, Richard Toft. Inset below: Valerie Goodwin and, right, Lynda Slatterey

all the skills to get everyone involved

was at the library. It was just a lovely place for people to have a chat while they were sewing. I’ve made a lot of friends here. We’ve got things in common, we like to make, repair and do.”

Volunteer Lynda Slattery said: “It’s very inclusive. “The men’s shed movement started in Australia and I saw a great men’s shed while I was in Australia. But in Bridport that just wouldn’t fly – we have to have inclusivity.”

Wednesday and Friday from 10am to noon for people to come in and get making. Wednesdays are ‘quiet’ days, where the big machinery is stilled. They also have repair shops once a month, with the next on Saturday, December 17 at its HQ near Mountfield, the town council offices (go round the back of Mountfield and keep going till you see the sign). Repairers include an electricals expert, but he tends to get booked up fast. Tool sharpening is another offering.

The Community Shed has a market stall in Bucky Doo Square four times a year, with their next from 8.30am to 1pm on Saturday, December 10.

It’s certainly worth a look – some of the items members have made would make lovely Christmas presents. This weekend, on Saturday, December 3 from 10am-noon they are hoping to welcome as many 11-18year-olds as possible for a Tetrapaktastic event making Christmas decs, tealight holders and tablet wallets plus any other tetra-engineering that develops.

It’s wise to book ahead for

any of these sessions by either messaging the Bridport Community Shed Facebook page, emailing bridportcommunityshed@ gmail.com or calling 07593 880428. Sessions are free, but donations to the Shed are welcomed. In addition to all these offerings there’s a Stitch It, Don’t Ditch It group on the first Tuesday of the month from 7pm9pm.

Trustee Valerie Goodwin is part of the sewing group. She said: “I started coming to the shed when it

Bill Lipscomb has a large workshop at home where he’s honed his skills over the years. He has just finished renovating a bureau and is now on to a chair. Shed members are engaged with a range of activities – there are bird boxes and hedgehog houses, furniture to mend, textiles and crafts, and there’s much up-cycling of waste materials.

This year the Shed was awarded funding from Dorset Council to run an arts and wellbeing course for people who struggle with low mood or social anxiety and that has proved a huge success. The Shed also gets involved in local community groups and in the past have made raised beds for the youth club, fruit cages for the Living Tree, bat boxes for the Community orchard and benches for Allington Hillbillies.

Visitors are always welcome to drop in and see what’s happening.

n Go to bridport communityshed.org.uk

MEET THE GANG: The Bridport Community Shed team and, below, the outside area

By Dan Goater dan@westdorsetmag.co.uk

An avid fossil collector has slated the failed £5.5m Seaton Jurassic World Heritage Site Visitor Centre as ‘not only a waste of money, but also a wasted opportunity’.

Geologist and fossil guide Richard Edmonds says the visitor centre, which opened in 2016, lost £500,000 in running costs due to ‘poor visitor numbers’ and was forced to close last year.

Richard, who used to be earth sciences manager for the world heritage site team, said the visitor centre was built in the wrong place – being nowhere near a Jurassic site – and that its closure leaves fossil hunters like him with nowhere suitable to display their finds.

Speaking to The West Dorset Magazine, Richard said that after Devon and Dorset councils successfully applied for world heritage status for their coastlines in 2001, the Devon authority wanted ‘something, anything really, so long as it was big, shiny and in Devon – and so what we got was Seaton Jurassic’.

“The trouble for Seaton is that the local geological story there is in fact very weak or quite remote,” says Richard.

“So, this place was really going to trade on being a world heritage centre in disguise.

“World heritage has always been interpreted as ‘the Walk through Time’ because the rocks are tilted down towards the east, so the rocks get

Collector hits out at £5.5m heritage coast fossils flop

younger in that direction, and older to the west.

“The trouble is that this does not translate into any meaningful activity.

“It is a large, overarching description of why the coast is globally important. “Furthermore, there is very little to actually do at Seaton geologically and, contrary to the title, there is no Jurassic present there.

“And to make matters worse, the operator Devon Wildlife Trust, wanted to tell the story of the Lyme

Bay marine nature reserve, a story even more remote than the coast. “What we ended up with was a bizarre steampunk fusion of the Walk through Time, Jurassic and remote marine stories that have no relevance to what is actually at Seaton.

“And people got to know that, and didn’t come, which is why it lost so much money and was forced to close.”

Richard added: “This failure has much wider

implications for the world heritage site as the priority should have been a world class fossil facility for West Dorset, one of the most famous fossil localities in the world.

“Yet, with some £38m already spent (on world heritage capital projects in Devon and Dorset), and potentially a further £24m already committed, all with the support of world heritage management, such a facility is nowhere and the collectors are left wondering what to do with their amazing collections.”

Seaton Jurassic’s website homepage says: “Please note Seaton Jurassic (operated by Devon Wildlife Trust) and the Taste Café (operated by Taste of the West) have now closed.

“East Devon District Council will be carrying out building maintenance work and will be announcing plans for the Centre in due course.”

Richard added: “While Seaton Jurassic is the main failure, the real issue is the lost opportunity for West Dorset, which is a far more suitable location for this type of research centre, not to mention the great gulf now left hanging over the preservation of fossils in the area. The authorities are simply pretending that everything is okay and that no one can hold them to account.”

East Devon District Council, listed as the main point of contact on the still functioning Seaton Jurassic website, refused to comment.

FOSSILS CENTRE FLOP: Geologist Richard Edmonds on Monmouth Beach in Lyme Regis

James in charge at County Show

Dorset County Show has a new hand on the tiller – in the form of Gillingham and Shaftesbury Show organiser James Cox. Although only in his mid20s, James has an enormous amount of experience in organising agricultural shows, having been involved with the Royal Bath & West Show before taking over the North Dorset-based shows two years ago.

Having ensured the Gillingham and Shaftesbury Show thrived even during the hellish year for public events that was 2020, then grew the event in 2021 to include a two-day event in the late summer and a spring show, James is ready for a new challenge.

And the Puddletown boy is no stranger to Dorset County Show, having first volunteered at the show aged 13.

Just over a decade later the Dorchester Agricultural Society, organisers of the Dorset County Show, have

appointed James as show secretary – a mammoth job he is undoubtedly equal to. He said: “I am honoured to take up the task of putting together the County Show, and associated events within the brand.

“There are lots of thrilling plans in motion for the 2023 County Show on September 2 and 3. We are determined to see the show return on a high, being a showcase for Dorset rural life, both agriculture and countryside while offering a packed weekend to visitors. The countdown is truly on.”

James succeeds William Hyde, who has returned to full-time farming after six years with the society. The society has paid tribute to his contribution, both before covid and making the adjustments to enable activities to continue since, saying his efforts ‘have been greatly appreciated’.

The society is currently recruiting an assistant show secretary. Email info@ dorsetcountyshow.co.uk

MAN AT THE TOP: New County Show chief James Cox

Enjoy an illuminating Christmas treat

By Karen Bate karen@westdorsetmag.co.uk

A 38-foot reindeer will glow across Winfrith Heath and beyond as the Hubbuck family celebrate the start of The Christmas Lights and Reindeer Experience at Nutley Farm.

The event this year promises to be ‘particularly special’ as visitors are invited to wander along the illuminated route, through the Christmas tree walkway, underneath glittering archways and past twinkling trees to feed the friendly reindeer, meet Father Christmas and feast in a warm and cosy barn in what has become one of the best Christmas events in West Dorset.

Not only does this feast of festivity run until December 30, but it is being held to raise money for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. And Anne and her son Julian hope to raise even more than last year’s staggering total of £10,362.05.

It was a horrific accident in 2016 which left Anne almost ‘skinned alive’, with head and body injuries and a month-long hospital stay which prompted her and son Julian to hold the first Christmas event in 2020, specifically to raise funds for the air ambulance, which Anne says saved her life.

“I am indebted the them,”

be here and by holding this event on my farm is my small way of saying thank you to them. They saved my life.”

Anne, who competes in carriage driving across the country, was the groom for her friend on a long jaunt from Nutley Farm in Winfrith, six years ago.

On their return, Anne was dismounting when the pony bolted, and the carriage flipped. The driver was thrown clear, but Anne was trapped underneath

the carriage and dragged around the farm.

The pony and the carriage eventually landed in the muck heap and as the pony made a frenzied attempt to get out, the carriage pushed Anne with full force, deeper and deeper into the muck heap.

The emergency services were called, and in just four minutes, the air ambulance arrived and swiftly rushed Anne to Dorset County Hospital with life-threatening injuries.

“It was carnage and a very serious accident,” she said.

“I was skinned alive. I owe

LIGHTS FANTASTIC: Some of the amazing decorations at Nutley Farm and, inset below, Julian Hubbock, who hopes to raise more than last year’s amazing £10,000

and support air ambulance

Autism-friendly Christmas treats

Ascape has compiled a list of special Christmas treats for youngsters on the autism spectrum: Santa visits: Groves Nurseries, Bridport – 4pm on December 14, SEN Santa experience (booking essential)

Farmer Palmers –morning of December 6, a quiet calm session with Farmer Christmas (booking essential)

Abbotsbury Gardens –9-10am on 10th and 11th December, Santa SEN sessions (booking essential)

Magdalen Farm near Chard – 1-4pm on 10th December, an afternoon of activities for autistic children and their families: Christmas cook-up, Christmas crafts & Santa Claus. Book at eventbrite.co.uk

Panto: Relaxed performances suitable for children with SEND: Weymouth Pavilion Sleeping Beauty Wednesday, December 28 at 6pm. Call 01305 783225

Poole Lighthouse Cinderella Tuesday, December 20 at 2pm & 6pm. 01202 280000

the air ambulance my life.”

“I am indebted to them,” added Anne. “Without their expertise and rapid response, I would not be here.”

A few years on, in 2020 covid hit. Anne and Julian wanted to do something to brighten up the lives of so many people, who would be ripped apart from their families during the Christmas. And they wanted to raise some money for the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.

So, the pair put their heads together and came up with a plan. They would host a Christmas Lights and Reindeer Experience at the picturesque Nutley Farm. They already had four friendly reindeer who love people, a team of helpers and plenty of space.

Anne said: “I was taken aback at how much visitors loved the event, and so we held it again last year and raised more than £10,000 for the air ambulance.”

This year the family

brought the huge, 38-ft reindeer from Manchester, who takes pride of place on their land alongside their own reindeer who love people and being petted.

Anne said: “Julian and I and everybody involved have been working extremely hard and it is terribly exciting. We think this year our event will be particularly special.” n For tickets visit nutleyevents.co.uk or email bookings@ nutleyfarm.co.uk

Wimborne Tivoli Aladdin Tuesday, December 20 at 10.30am. 01202 885566

Bournemouth Pavilion Beauty & the Beast Tues, December 13 at 10.30am.

n Wessex Cancer Trust, a charity which provides free emotional wellbeing services to anyone affected by cancer, is holding an open day at Durnovaria Band Hall on Wednesday, December 14 10am-1pm. Just turn up or contact Katie Davies on 023 8067 2200 or katie.davies@ wessexcancer.org.uk

FESTIVE FUN: Mother Christmas at Nutley Farm and the illuminated reindeer plus a real one

Art-lifting! Millions to be ploughed

By Dan Goater dan@westdorsetmag.co.uk

Millions of pounds will be ploughed into Dorset’s museums and art organisations as part of a three-year investment programme by Arts Council England.

The Inside Out Festival, run by Dorchester-based Activate Performing Arts, will be given £853,164 while Bridport Arts Centre will receive £175,404.

The Arts Council will also give £169,011 to Artsreach in Dorchester while Portland-based community interest company b-side multimedia festival will receive £404,643.

A further £1.3million will go to Wessex Museums Trust, which runs Dorset Museum in Dorchester. Another £1.6million will go to Swanage-based Diverse City plus hundreds of thousands of pounds to various arts organisations in the east of the county.

Arts Council England named these bodies as National Portfolio Organisations, qualifying them to receive cash from its national portfolio and investment principle support funding package for 2023 to 2026.

The Arts Council’s South West director Phil Gibby said: “I’m delighted to share our renewed commitment to Dorset, with ten organisations to receive regular funding from the Arts Council England over the next three years.

“This key investment will make a difference to people across the county

and beyond. Residents and visitors can enjoy an exciting and dynamic array of dance, music and cultural activities right on their doorstep, including Activate’s biennial international Inside Out Dorset festival.”

Responding to news of their funding success, Activate’s executive and artistic director Kate Wood said: “We are delighted that Arts Council England have recognised our

impact in Dorset, the South West and beyond.

“We know the work we do can open minds, create opportunities and change lives.

“This funding will ensure we continue to fire imaginations, uplift and connect people through performing arts.”

Artsreach director Kerry Bartlett said: “This continued support from Arts Council England is invaluable in enabling us

to continue to deliver our programme of cultural activity, enriching and positively impacting the lives of people living in rural Dorset by connecting and empowering communities.

“Our volunteer promoters work tirelessly to make Artsreach events happen in their communities, and this funding recognises both the work they do, and the quality of the artistic work presented on the Artsreach

THAT’S SHOW-BUSINESS: Dundu and Worldbeaters from Activate Performing Arts and, below, another full house at Bridport Arts Centre Top picture: SARAH HICKSON

into county’s arts groups

“This three-year investment will help us improve our visual arts offer and fund a programme manager, provide further development opportunities for underrepresented writers as part of the Bridport Prize, deliver artist and community led public engagement projects linked to the 50th anniversary of the arts centre in 2023, develop arts and health projects linked to social prescribing and continue our year programme of live events at BAC, in other local venues and outdoors, including the annual From Page to Screen film adaptation festival.”

Wessex Museums’ partnership director Kristina Broughton said: “We are elated that the achievements of our pioneering collaborative approach have been recognised by the arts council, resulting in another three years of funding support.

Library brings books to you

If you love reading, but struggle to get to the library, the library can come to you. The Home Library Service offers regular deliveries of library books for those who are housebound or are otherwise unable to travel to the library.

The Home Library Service is delivered by volunteers from the Royal Voluntary Service.

The service is free and covers customers across the whole of the Bridport area and outlying villages.

For more information, call the Royal Voluntary Service on 01305 236666.

MP’s no to plan

West Dorset MP Chris Loder has said the proposal for a mega solar park, developing approximately 1,300 acres of farmland near Upwey into a solar park, is an ‘appalling’ use of greenbelt farm land and is opposed to it.

programme now, and over the last 32 years.”

Following the recent success of its show Delicate, the chair of b-side’s board Raina Summerson said: “We are delighted to announce bside has secured continued funding from Arts Council England as one of its National Portfolio Organisations. This means – alongside our other key funders, Heritage Lottery Fund, Dorset Council, and

Pennsylvania Castle – we can continue to deepen our community connections and expand our national and international reach by commissioning ambitious new contemporary art on and with the people and places of our magical home, the Isle of Portland.”

Bridport Arts Centre’s director Mick Smith said: “I am delighted that we have been successful with our application.

“It will be incredibly exciting to extend our thriving collaboration to three more museums and together continue to connect with our communities.”

The funding will support a ‘range of collaborative projects’ across the museums to ‘improve collections, engage diverse local communities and deliver exciting events and exhibitions’, as well as champion equality, diversity and inclusion and environmental sustainability, a spokesperson added.

Mr Loder said: “Businesses such as Leakers Bakery are closing as a result of not being able to invest in solar panels for their own properties, yet over a thousand acres are now being proposed for solar panels at the expense of our own food security.

“Priorities need to be addressed.”

Breakfast club

Bridport’s Armed Forces Veterans Breakfast club will be held on Sunday, December 11 from 9am to 11am at Wetherspoons Greyhound Hotel in East Street. For all armed forces veterans and their families. No subs or joining fees, just breakfast and banter.

POLE POSITION: Delicate, part of the b-side Festival

Picture: STEVE TANNER

Tractor club’s hand-out to charities

Weldmar Hospice, Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance and four community groups have been presented with £6,500 from West Dorset Vintage Tractor & Stationary Engine Club (WDVTSEC). The sum was raised at this summer’s popular annual West Dorset Vintage Rally at the Melplash Showground, a vintage vehicle buff’s delight with stationary and steam engines, tractors, vintage cars galore, plus a whole lot more.

The West Dorset Vintage Tractor & Stationary Engine Club was founded 46 years ago, and over the years the club has donated more than £85,000 to local charities and community

groups, and is pleased to have been able to present cheques this year to: Weldmar Hospicare (£2,000), Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance

(£2,000), Bridport Sea Cadets (£500), Dorchester Central Scouts (£500), Charmouth Scouts (£500), Bridport Bandits (£500) and Shaun Parkman

(litter/bins) who generously donated his £500 to Weldmar.

WDVTSEC chairman Tony Cawley and president Loric Collins agreed that this year’s rally was a good one, and they were pleased to give proceeds from the day totalling £6,500 to various charities and those who help the club on the day.

“We’re always glad for the help, for them to give us a hand,” said Loric, “such as the Scouts and the litterpicking. If all these people don’t help us out, we couldn’t put the rally on!” An additional £500 is to be presented to Weldmar at a later date, with ploughing match proceeds, taking the total donation to £2,500.

THANKS VERY MUCH: WDVTSEC chairman Tony Cawley, back row, third left, with chairman Loric Collins, back row far right, with this year’s cheque recipients

Mum’s the word for fashion winner

A West Dorset businesswoman who was inspired by her mum’s garden to launch a fashion business has scooped a national award.

Launched by Penny Callaghan at the start of the covid pandemic, fashion label From My Mother’s Garden was named British brand of the year in the Boutique Magazine Star Awards.

Penny said: “I couldn’t be more delighted as there were some other very worthy and well-established fashion brands in the category. “For such a young label to win this, was quite honestly very unexpected. A lot of my customers have loved the range because it has

struck a chord with them and they enjoy the joy of the range.”

From My Mother’s Garden, which sells limited edition clothing and accessories, was inspired by Penny’s mum Mary’s garden in Uplyme and by their relationship.

Many of the brand’s prints are based on the garden and digitally printed onto different fabrics using sustainable techniques.

Penny also sells these brands out of her boutique, Colmers Hill Fashion on Symondsbury Estate.

The awards ceremony held at London’s Mayfair Hotel celebrate boutique fashion and the small businesses involved in both manufacturing and retailing. The award was open to all UK-based fashion and accessory brands who are seen to be flying the flag for British design.

STYLISH: Some of the From My Mother’s Garden designs

It’s a man’s world in a society which

By Miranda Robertson miranda@westdorsetmag.co.uk

What have Thomas Hardy, William Barnes and Sir Julian Fellowes got in common?

It’s not just that they are famous writers from Dorset.

They are also all members of the archaic-sounding Society of Dorset Men – a group of some 800 coves from the county and from around the world who live or work in Dorset – or just love Dorset.

There are only two requirements to join –having an association with or love of Dorset, and gender. Ladies are welcomed at events, but you have to be with a society member. So that’s me out, unless I work on my post-menopausal beard.

The society was founded in London in 1904 by solicitor William Watkins, and King Edward VII’s surgeon Sir Frederick Treves, famous for helping the Elephant Man Joseph Merrick.

The pair wanted to form a society to connect with other men from Dorset who worked in the city, and to help the many young men moving there from the county to seek work.

They called it The Society of Dorset Men in London. The name was shortened when society activities started to be held in the county instead, in the 1930s.

It proved popular from the start, with 125 men

signing up in a very short time, and there have been as many as 1,000 members.

Among its other famous past and current members are Simon WingfieldDigby, former Lord Mayor of London Sir Anthony Jolliffe and Lt Gen David Leakey of North Dorset, who was Black Rod for many years.

Writer and film producer Sir Julian Fellowes is current President and Vice

President is Paul Atterbury, of Antiques Roadshow fame. More famous faces have been speakers at the annual dinners, including Winston Churchill, Lord Trenchard, the Lord Chief Justice Lord Goddard and Kate Adie.

Records indicate that as far back as the 17th century there were friendly meetings of Dorset men working in London. But it wasn’t until 1898 that well known Weymouth architect G R Crickmay organised a dinner and meeting at the

Whitehall Rooms in London, attended by a number of Dorset men and chaired by Lord Portman, whose country seat was then at Bryanston, where they discussed ways to bring more Dorset men together in the city.

A few years after this, a further meeting was held to promote the idea of forming a society. It was well attended and supported by letters from many prominent Dorset men including Thomas Hardy and the editor of the Dorset County Chronicle One of the main aims of

POLE POSITION: Lt Gen David Leakey of North Dorset, who was Black Rod at the Houses of Parliament for many years

TRIBUTES: Paying respects at the grave of Society of Dorset Men founder William Watkins, inset below

celebrates all that is good in Dorset

events throughout the summer, such as a boat trip in Poole Harbour.

A yearbook has been published every year since 1904, featuring the use of dialect in a number of ways to ensure that it is not lost to future generations. It is also a tradition to feature dialect at the county dinner.

The society has a mobile exhibition, which they are hoping to install in museums around Dorset. Committee member

Douglas Beazer said: “It’s now much more an organisation of people who have a connection with the county. Our chairman lives in Somerset, for example. “It’s much more relaxed and we welcome anybody. “We will start planning next year’s events in January. It’s about fostering a better knowledge of the county of Dorset. We have members from all walks of life.”

the new society was to help young people find work and to make them feel that they were not separated from the county. Even back then there was talk of allowing women in. A Mr Barrett told the first AGM he hoped that ladies would be admitted and would like them to be included as honorary members.

Sir Frederick Treves became the first president. He had been born in Dorchester and attended the school run by William Barnes.

Treves saved the life of

King Edward VII when he removed his appendix two days before his coronation. He is also known for his guide The Highways and Byways of Dorset, published in 1906, for which he visited every part of Dorset on foot and cycle. Early on, the society was instrumental in promoting the Dorchester group of amateur actors who put on stage versions of Thomas Hardy’s novels. In 1907 William Watkins invited them to perform to the society in London, where they became national celebrities as The

Hardy Players, attracting large audiences as they presented each new production of Hardy’s books.

These days the group meet throughout the year, with a county dinner in May, and an AGM in November –one of the items on the agenda at last week’s AGM was whether to allow women members, so there may be hope for us yet. However as it’s a subject that was first raised 118 years ago…

There’s a Christmas lunch at Blandford’s Crown Hotel on December 4 and

The society allocates a portion of its £15-a-year subs to charities in Dorset. This year £1,000 was given to the Dorset Historic Churches Trust after a suggestion from one of the members.

Douglas said: “We would welcome younger members – we want to keep the society up to date.”

The county dinner is now held at the George Albert Hotel, on the A37, while other events are held all over the county.

To enquire about joining the society, go to societyofdorsetmen.co.uk or contact a member.

DIGGING IN: Planting a tree at Minterne in 2012 and, below, Anthony Joliffe and, right, Sir Julian Fellowes

Keep it local with

The festive season is upon us and if you fancy buying your nearest and dearest something a little different, there is a host of independent West Dorset shops offering unique gifts which are truly inspired. Hunny Bunnies 7, Redlands Yard, Broadwindsor

In Redland’s Yard in Broadwindsor, stands the little crafting shop Hunny Bunnies, Alison and Sue offer a delicious array of fabric for crafting, quilting, dressmaking and upholstery and a wonderful selection of craft kits for children. Alison and Sue are delighted with their collection of wooden toys for all ages and the pair have made a bespoke selection of clothes for babies and children up to eight years old along with a wide range of accessories to choose from.

W: hunny-bunnies.co.uk T: 07914 387246

Every Cloud 19, South Street, Dorchester Every Cloud is a lovely little gift shop specialising in handmade silver jewellery, contemporary crafts, and unique gifts. This independent shop is chock-full of beautiful and interesting things, most of which are either made in Dorset by talented local artists, or by small British designers and Fairtrade suppliers. Every Cloud is full of perfect gifts for

n Head2Head n Divine Ink

all occasions.

W: everycloudboutique. co.uk T: 07974 743345

gifts from special independent shops

decision is to get a tattoo and can help you make the right choice of art.

W: divineinktattoos.co.uk T: 01305 602435

Boo’s Toyshop

3 Crown Square, Poundbury

Welcome to the magical world of Boo’s Toy Shop Poundbury. Come and explore the wonderful world of play with us! This gorgeous shop boasts creative, imaginative and educational toys for all ages.

W: boostoys.co.uk

T: 01305 602467

The Biltong Lady

For something different, delicious, and nutritious, why not buy some Biltong from The Biltong Lady?

If you are looking for that perfect Christmas gift for the sweet toothed, the meat lover, the gym goer or ‘Saffa’ in your life, then look no further, The Biltong Lady has got you covered! Hamper options to order or pre-packed.

modern, affordable hair design, along with hairdressing for special occasions such as weddings and parties.

The salon has a Gift Hamper Raffle running until Christmas Eve.

And because Christmas is all about giving, Head2Head are

looking after our keyworkers with a 10% discount for Blue Light Cardholders.

Facebook Head2headhairdesign

T: 01305 264534

Divine Ink Tattoo 29, Trinity Street, Dorchester Gift vouchers with a 10 per

cent discount would make the perfect present for body art lovers. Lead artist James has had a passion for creating tattoos since he was a teenager. The artists are always on hand, whether for aftercare advice or finding a unique design especially for you. Divine Ink understands how important the

Facebook: thebiltongladyuk Instagram: @thebiltong_ladyuk Email: info@thebiltonglady.co.uk T: 07388 839855

Alice’s Bear Shop

With a little time off over Christmas it’s the perfect time to start or continue your sewing journey and Alice’s has a brilliant range of bear and doll

The Happy Crab Gallery

Open

n Boo’s Toyshop n The Biltong Lady

making kits to get you going from Bentley in easy-sew felt to Woodward in the finest mohair. Alice’s Bear Shop has something to suit everyone’s budget and abilities.

W: alicesbearshop.co.uk

T: 01297 444589

Watkin Art

14, Station Road, Wimborne

Artist Richard Watkin paints with acrylics in a bold graphical style from his studio in in the bottom of his garden in Wimborne. His work features the evocative locations and landscapes of Dorset from the beaches and towns of Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch to the dramatic Jurassic Coastline and picturesque Purbeck villages. His prints can be collected by prior arrangement.

W: watkinart.co.uk

T: 01202 929968

Punica

4, Crown Square, Poundbury

Punica sells ethically sourced and made homewares and accessories, many of which are made in-house. Artisans from the UK and Turkey create other pieces. They are sustainable and use every piece of fabric. With the offcuts from their lampshades they enrobe the silk fabrics in fibreglass to create fabulous and useful trays.

W: punica.co.uk

T: 01305 818596

No.36

Gifts & Lifestyle

36, South Street, Dorchester

No 36 sells beautiful, interesting, and affordable items for you, your friends and family and your home. This shop is a home lover’s delight, from cosy Joya socks and scented candles and diffusers to bags, purses, and jewellery.

E: thepresentdorchester @gmail.com Facebook/no36.dorchester

Instagram/no36.dorchester

The Pet Shop

27, Trinity Street, Dorchester

This family-run pet shop has been trading for more than 30 years, catering for many animals including dogs and cats, birds and fish, hamsters and tortoises, hedgehogs, chinchillas and ferrets. They carry a vast range of pet accessories, healthcare and grooming products.

For your beloved pet this Christmas, they have everything from Advent calendars, stockings and toys to their very own Christmas dinner! Receive 10% off a £10 spend Facebook/thepetshop27 T: 01305 269092

Lilypups Dog Boutique – Crown Square, Poundbury

LilyPups Dog Boutique is a premium pet store that supplies high quality dog food, treats, bedding, clothing, toys and

n Alice’s Bear Shop

n Watkins Art

n Lilipups

accessories for your fourlegged friends. So why not treat your canine companion to something special this Christmas?

W: lilypups.co.uk

Dorchester JewellersCornhill Corner, Dorchester Why not pop into this family-run business, which has been trading for 140 years, for exceptional customer service to choose that gorgeous gift?

Dorchester Jewellers offer a wide range of new, preowned, vintage and antique jewellery and watches, including Swiss brands, Citizen, Royal London and fashion brands. And you can bring in a piece for remodelling or part exchange. Take a look inside this treasure trove and find something perfect for your friend or family member.

W: dorchesterjewellers.co.uk

T: 01305 262754

Businesses urged to take on more SEND employees

West Dorset businesses are being urged to take on more young employees with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Removing Barriers, a new one-year programme coordinated by Dorset Careers Hub, aims to raise the number of employers who are confident about taking on SEND people aged 16 to 19.

Dorset Careers Hub says it has convened a range of businesses, education providers, local authorities and other partners for the initiative.

A hub spokesperson said: “Around 150 employers registered in the Dorset and BCP council areas are already in the government’s Disability Confident scheme, but only three are in the top ‘leader’ tier and seen as making a truly positive difference to diversity and inclusivity. “Removing Barriers is designed to increase the number of Disability Confident ‘leaders’ to at least ten, creating job opportunities for around 20 young people with an education, health and care plan.”

The Careers and Enterprise Company, the national body for careers education, has awarded government funding to Dorset Careers Hub to deliver Removing Barriers, which will be led by Andrew Holland of consultancy sendme2work.com

Andrew said: “We want to change mindsets and encourage more employers to come forward and take the lead to attract, recruit

and champion disabled talent.

“We will be running a series of events to reach out to employers and will provide training, mentoring and coaching.

“Employers should know there are grants available from the Department for Work and Pensions that can help when you take on and retain people with disabilities and special education needs.”

Rebecca Phillips, strategic lead at Dorset Careers Hub, said: “Removing Barriers is all about encouraging Dorset’s SMEs and larger companies to come on board and help level up opportunities so all young people can fulfil their potential.”

n Further details about Dorset Careers Hub can be found at dorsetcareers hub.co.uk/about-us

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JUST THE JOB: Firms are being urged to take on more SEND staff

Dorchester’s Christmas Cracker event is making its welcome return to the county town on Sunday, December 11 from 11am until 4pm.

This year there will be an entertainment stage, managed by local radio station KeeP106, which is kindly sponsored by Al Molo Dorchester, with festive musical acts entertaining throughout the day.

New for this year will be the Santa Hat Children’s Parade leaving the top of High West Street at noon. Last year more than 100 children followed Elmo through the streets of Dorchester.

Cracker chairman Steve Bulley said: “Due to the huge success of the event in 2021 we had traders signing up for space at the 2022 event within a few hours.

“High West Street in Dorchester will be transformed into a festive shopping spectacular with over 60 trading stalls, and a Christmas fair with a further 60 tables, this year over two floors, which will be held in the Corn Exchange. Our thanks go to our Christmas fair supporters Farnfields Solicitors.”

The event has been organised by a committee of people including

Cracker back with a bang for Christmas celebration

and we had a very positive response from visitors. “2022 is very special to us as we are celebrating our 25-year anniversary and we are looking forward to share the celebration with visitors on the day.”

representatives from Dorchester Chamber for Business, Dorchester BID and Dorchester Town Council. The 2022 event is kindly sponsored by Kingston Maurward College and Everycare

Dorchester.

Lorrie Truelove, managing director of Everycare Dorchester, said: “We are thrilled to be sponsoring the Cracker event this year. We tried it for the first time last year,

Esther Baker, marketing and events manager of Kingston Maurward, added: “Kingston Maurward has supported the Dorchester Christmas Cracker over the last five years and believe that the event is vital in bringing the community together and showcasing local products and produce.”

G&S Show set to expand to two-day spectacle

Dorset’s annual Gillingham and Shaftesbury Show will become a two-day event from next year. The decision to extend the show, taking place at Turnpike Showground, Motcombe on August 16 and 17, was taken by Gillingham and Shaftesbury Agricultural Society to ‘ensure the continued success of

this rural event’. Organisers said this year’s show saw a ‘record’ 25,000 visitors attend. Farmer and show chairman Giles Simpson said: “Despite the challenges of an incredibly dry and hot summer, the show was a huge success this year on all levels. “However, running a one-day show is

a risk and bringing all of this together for a single day is costly and even more so if it rains on that day. The two-day show will see us take it to a new and even more exciting level in our region.

n For more information visit gillinghamandshaftesburyshow.co.uk

IT’S A CRACKER: Esther Baker of Kingston Maurward, Stuart and Lorrie Truelove of Everycare Dorchester and Steve Bulley, Cracker Chairman

Knocker steps up to lead the Remembrance parade

Royal Air Forces Association (RAFA) Member, retired RAF Chief Technician Michael ‘Knocker’ White saved the day by stepping forward to volunteer as Parade Marshal for the annual Bridport Remembrance parade. The former Parade Marshal was unavailable which meant the parade might have to be cancelled. The town council explored a variety of avenues without success, but then Mr White agreed to take part and

the result was a very successful parade with a large turnout from the people of Bridport on a pleasant sunny morning.

A new format was trialled by Mr White which gave youngsters from the various youth organisations a better view at the Cenotaph service and an improved sense of participation than previous years. He has been invited to be Parade Marshal next year and has already agreed.

No ifs or butts and you can vote on it

Smokers on Lyme seafront are being urged to butt in with their opinions by using new ‘ballot bins’.

Litter Free Dorset teamed up with Lyme Litter Pickers and the town council to install new bins on the seafront that ask smokers to ’answer’ questions by choosing where they discard their cigarettes.

A Litter Free Dorset spokesperson said ballot bins, like the new one next to the Cobb Arms, are ‘proven to reduce cigarette butt litter by 46 per cent’. The bin will display a question with two answers and smokers vote by putting their cigarette butt in the slots underneath their preferred answer, with the litter stacking up behind the clear glass to show which answer is more popular.

The questions could be about anything, from ‘Who will win the next World Cup match?’ to ‘Which couple will be voted out of

Strictly this week?’

Studies have shown smokers find ‘ballot bins much more engaging than alternative ashtrays’ and are more likely to use them.

National surveys also suggest that many smokers do not view cigarette butts as litter and that up to 70 per cent of cigarette butts are dropped in towns and open spaces.

Lyme Litter Pickers coordinator Janet Breeze said: “Our volunteer litter pickers consistently report that cigarette butts are the most common item they collect. During a recent

survey we conducted in collaboration with the Marine Stewardship Council, 133 butts were collected along just 100m of our beautiful beach, despite it being regularly swept.

“Being small, they are difficult to collect either by hand or with council road cleaning equipment. We hope our new ballot bin will draw attention to the problem in Lyme and encourage smokers to do the right thing and bin their butts.”

Litter Free Dorset project officer Emma Teasdale said: “We are excited to

launch this new facility in Lyme Regis and to see the impact it has on cigarette litter in the town.

“Litter Free Dorset aims to reduce litter at source, so we are always looking for ways to make this as easy and accessible as possible for people to do.

“The ballot bin also adds an element of fun to an otherwise unpleasant problem.

“We are delighted to have the support of Lyme Litter Pickers as well as the Town Council, and we look forward to seeing a reduction of cigarette litter in Lyme over the coming months.”

Volunteers from Lyme Litter Pickers will be monitoring the bin and carrying out regular checks, as well as updating the ballot question on a weekly basis to keep up with current events. You can suggest questions for the litter pickers team on Twitter

@litterfreedorset

STUB IT OUT: One of the ballot bins in Lyme Regis

LEADING ROLE: Michael ‘Knocker’ White

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New home for children opens

Young people and their families who need extra support will benefit from a new facility opening in Weymouth.

Dorset Council has opened children’s home College House and children’s outreach centre The Harbour Hub, both in the same building on Dorchester Road.

The refurbishment of the centre began in May 2021 and is now being staffed by a team of 20 Dorset Council, police and NHS staff.

Cllr Andrew Parry, portfolio holder for Children, Education and Early Help, said: “I’m delighted to share the opening celebrations for this excellent new children’s home in Weymouth.

“We want all our children in Dorset to have the best chance in life, whatever their circumstances, and this new, bright and homely building with its great team of professionals will really strengthen our provision.”

Cllr Parry said the Harbour offers a new concept of integrating professionals from multiple agencies to work in a close-knit way in one place to help young people and their families.

Upstairs, the children’s home College House is intended to be used for short-term stays, with the aim of delivering “intensive support for children and their families to remain together”.

Detective Superintendent Stewart Dipple said: “It’s inspiring to see the Harbour project, and what a great facility it is and so beautifully decorated as a home offering a safe haven. “For children going through a difficult and challenging time, it provides an oasis of care and comfort.”

Cllr Kate Wheller, Corporate Parenting Board Chair, said: “College House has a wonderful friendly and stable feeling, and I am sure this new home and its professional team will transform many young people’s lives.”

Nicholas

NEW FACILITY: College House in Weymouth

Switzerland has so many enjoyable

I have for a long time enjoyed holidays in Switzerland. With its amazing scenery and well-run transport system, it has for many years been thought of as too expensive. However, with a bit of research before you travel, you can have a very realisticallypriced trip and at the same time enjoy some of the most spectacular scenery not only in Europe but the world.

Travelling from around here can be via train or road to Gatwick or Heathrow, but you might also like to consider possible flights from Bristol. I recently managed to get a return ticket on easyJet to Geneva at just over £50, which gave me instant access to the Swiss railways and this beautiful lakeside city. The main station in the city is around ten minutes’ travelling time from the airport and just three Swiss francs one way. Also, once you have your complimentary travel pass, travelling back from the city will be free.

Geneva has a wide selection of differentlypriced hotels depending on where they are in the city. Using your free city travel pass which is obtained from your hotel, you will quickly have

access to buses, orange ferry boats, trams and local trains. These will link you to such amazing sights as the science centre at CERN, the old city, villages and other lake shore locations. Taking full advantage of

excellent free excursion. One of the best places to eat and enjoy a fondue is the Bains des Pâquis, which is close to the one of the city ferry points.

It is a really lively spot and popular with youngsters, so make sure you book a table.

Gardens are very impressive with lovely views of the city and include a free and fascinating Science Museum.

one side of the lake to the other and provide an

Portions are enormous so sharing is a serious option. The Manor Department Store is good value for lunches and the restaurant, with views of the rooftops and lake, has some excellent deals. Also try the takeaway food service downstairs. The cathedral in the old town is magnificent and has free entry as does the Swiss Army Penknife Museum, which is housed in the Victorinox shop in the centre of town. The lakeside Jardin Botanique

Geneva is also an excellent jumping off point for elsewhere in the country using a range of Swiss Train passes. These may seem a little expensive to start with but when you get going you will be amazed at how much you can save. The trains are magical in Switzerland, clean and punctual. Lausanne is just along the lake and the pretty town of Vevey a little further. If you are wanting to venture into the mountains, then there is the delightful resort of Crans Montana which can be reached from Sion. There are over 30 trains a day direct to Sion from

Award-winning writer GODFREY HALL visits Switzerland, one of his favourite European destinations Geneva and investigates some of its secrets

CLASSY: The upmarket ski resort of Crans Montana, just above Sion in the Valais

aspects: Even their flag is a big plus

refurbished and is in a prime location. Make sure when booking you ask for a room overlooking the gardens at the back.

Geneva and it is just a short walk from the train station to the Funicular which takes you up to the resort. One event you might also look out for, takes place every May in the tiny village of Aproz in the Valais when Herens cows compete in the national cow fighting final. I have attended this event which goes on all day and is totally absorbing as the cows tend to fight each other naturally. I have also spent some time investigating this breed, their proud owners and winning cows, which I was once told, can often command very high prices. The Herens can sometimes be spotted in the fields around the local villages. Twenty minutes from where this takes place is yet another unusual

attraction known as Barryland. Located in the town of Martigny (around 90 minutes from Geneva) this is a focal point for St Bernard dogs. The museum tells the story of the breed and provides a chance to see the puppies at certain times during the season. They can also arrange for you to take the dogs for a walk. Strolling through the local vineyards (Swiss wine is delicious and reasonably priced) with a St Bernard is a once in a lifetime experience. This part of the Valais is very beautiful and as you leave the valley and board one the post buses you will be quite amazed by the views and

pretty villages that can be found high up in the mountains.

If you are intending to stay in Geneva, then you might like to consider the Hotel Bristol. A few minutes’ walk from the station, it is close to the main bridge corner from the lake. The hotel has recently been

For a cheaper option you might like to try their sister hotel the Eden, which is located a little further along the lakeside. I have known some of the staff at the Bristol for a number of years and always enjoy their warm and friendly welcome, excellent service and buffet breakfasts. There are a number of vineyards at the back of the city which can also be explored and towns such as Annecy in France are just a short train journey from Geneva. Another interesting location which can be explored houses the United Nations buildings and World Organisational Headquarters.

An excellent place to consider for a short break, Geneva often enjoys good weather in the spring or autumn but even if it rains, there are plenty of shops to explore, historic sites such as the Red Cross Museum and trips to the outskirts including the pretty village at the end of the E line bus. A picture of Geneva’s Jet d’Eau is must and if you get a chance do try out one of the CGN lake excursions.

n Next time I will be investigating a little closer to home exploring some of my favourite haunts in Cornwall, including the Pig Hotel at Harlyn, Port Isaacs and Charlestown which has provided film locations for Alice in Wonderland, Poldark and many classics.

Geneva city centre, the Geneva city ferry boats which cross the lake throughout the day. Inset below, left: With the St Bernards of Barryland high up in the Swiss vineyards and, right, the fighting cow finals which take place in the village of Aproz

A Dorchester business is encouraging us all to have a greener Christmas this year.

Owner of Trinity Street Christmas Trees Peter Hyde says he is ‘passionate’ about the environment, so they grow their own trees in their own plantations to reduce the environmental impact. Some three decades ago, Peter spotted the need for a supplier for high quality, hand selected trees in Dorchester and the surrounding area, so launched the company and started growing on their own plantations to supply locally grown, freshly cut trees enabling customers to reduce their carbon footprint. And they use biodegradable netting.

Peter said: “A six-foot Nordman fir takes about 10 years to grow, and once cut, the grower will plant at least one in its place.

“Whilst growing, the trees provide many benefits to the environment: cleaning the air, providing habitats for wildlife, and removing CO2 from the atmosphere.

“Many people like to buy a potted tree with roots in an effort to minimise their impact on the environment; this can work if the tree remains in its pot, however they don’t really like being repeatedly planted out.

“Cut trees are much better for needle retention and are still a ‘green’ option.

Christmas trees are green and help the environment

“A plastic tree on the other hand, is virtually impossible to recycle and almost inevitably destined for landfill where, as we are now so aware, it will not biodegrade but slowly leach toxins into the soil.”

Trinity Street Christmas Trees claims to be the only local suppler using biodegradable netting to wrap their trees.

Peter added: “We’re often asked, when is a good time to buy your tree? It’s a personal choice but we recommend that you don’t buy your tree too early the first week of December is probably the

most popular and sensible time. We are lucky as we can keep cutting all season and keep our stock fresh, but there is a worrying trend that some suppliers demand their trees in mid-November, which means the growers have to cut those trees as early as the end of October. “Our goal is to make sure you have a fresh that lasts through to the new year.”

People travel from all over Dorset to buy their trees here. The staff, many of whom have been working for Pete for over 20 years, make every effort to send the customers

Free car parking for shoppers

Christmas shoppers can enjoy free parking throughout Dorset on selected dates in December.

To mark Small Business Saturday, on Saturday, December 3, there will be free car parking at Beaminster, Blandford, Bridport, Dorchester, Gillingham, Lyme Regis, Shaftesbury, Sherborne, Sturminster Newton, Wareham, Weymouth and Wimborne. There will also be free

parking in Weymouth at selected car parks on December 28. Free parking will also be available in car parks managed by Dorset Council on various other dates in the run-up to Christmas.

Details of the car parks and dates can be seen on the council’s Christmas parking webpages at dorsetcouncil. gov.uk/free-christmas-parking

away filled with Christmas spirit and a tree to impress.

Peter said: “A valued part of the service is to trim the base of the tree to fit the stand and then carry it to the car if required. The friendly welcome, attentive service and high-quality trees always make it a fun and satisfying experience and thanks to the personal touch, people return year after year.”

Buy your tree from Trinity St Dorchester, Morrisons in Weymouth or order online for delivery: tschristmastrees.co.uk tamzin@tschristmastrees.co.uk or call 01305 834760.

Volunteers needed

Dorset Wildlife Trust is appealing for local people aged 18+ to help with its wildlife conservation work in 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. No expertise is required. Visit dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/volunteeringopportunities

THAT’S FIR ENOUGH: Christmas trees are replaced by at least one other tree

Air ambulance high flyers honoured

Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance is celebrating triple awards success following this year’s Air Ambulance Awards of Excellence ceremony.

Dr Ian Mew was named Doctor of the Year and Wayne Busby was awarded the title of Operations Support Staff of the Year while Pete Appleby was highly commended in the Critical Care Practitioner of the Year category.

Dr Mew, an intensive care and anaesthesia consultant, said: “I am incredibly humbled to receive this Doctor of the Year award. There are so many people going above and beyond in our society, this award is a recognition of everyone who works for the benefit of others. I’d particularly like to thank Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance who have rallied behind our motorcycle injury prevention work and supported the DocBike charity from its inception.”

Wayne Busby, who has been the air ambulance’s maintenance engineer for the past eight years, said: “I am overwhelmed by the number of very kind messages of congratulations after receiving this award.

“Thanks to my colleagues at Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance for always making me feel part of the team.

“We all have the same goal, to provide an outstanding critical care air ambulance service for the people of Dorset and Somerset. For me, I love fixing helicopters and feel proud to be able to play

my part in helping to save lives.”

Pete Appleby, who has worked in his free time to improve the air ambulance’s operation while also acting as its deputy air operations officer, said: “To even be nominated for an award was an honour, however to be recognised on the night was really special. I want to say thank you to all my colleagues and friends at Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance and beyond.”

Air ambulance CEO Charles Hackett added: “Wayne, Ian and Pete are great, each bringing wonderful skills and a huge personal commitment to our mission here at Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. “Their achievements are nothing short of what they deserve. We, and everyone living in Dorset and Somerset are very lucky to have them.”

More information about Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, can be found at dsairambulance.org.uk

AWARDS: Dr Ian Mew and, right, Pete Appleby and Wayne Busby

Writer and fisherman will be ‘missed terribly’

Tributes have been paid to BAFTA-award winning writer Nick Fisher after his body was found in West Dorset. The 63-year-old author of The River Cottage Fish Book had gone missing from his Hooke home after taking his springer spaniel out for a walk on November 15.

The disappearance sparked a search by Dorset Police and search and rescue officers as well as desperate social media pleas for information from River Cottage celebrity chef Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall. After police confirmed they found a body in the search for the missing writer, Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall wrote on Twitter: “I am so very sad to say that our dearest friend Nick Fisher has passed away. “He was always full of insight and compassion, which is what made him such a great writer and broadcaster, as well as a brilliant friend. “His lovely family and his many friends are missing him terribly.

Letters

“Nick was the best person to spend time with, especially on a boat.

“We talked about fishing endlessly, but we also talked about life, a subject on which Nick was an expert because he had lived so much of it.

“I can’t believe it’s over, but many wonderful memories live on.”

Guardian writer Michael Hogan wrote on Twitter: “Such sad news about Nick Fisher. In my Just 17 days, “Dear Nick” was the “Boys’ view” problem page. He was never less than a joy to work with. Thoughts with his loved ones, RIP.”

Nick Fisher was a TV script writer, angler and journalist who won a BAFTA in 2006 for his work on The Giblet Boys and was nominated in the best writer category the same year.

He went on to appear on River Cottage: Gone Fishing with celebrity pal Hugh FearnleyWhittingstall, with whom he co-wrote The River Cottage

Fish Book, which won the 2007 Andre Simon Memorial book award.

Following the discovery of a body in the search for Nick Fisher, Dorset Police said in a statement: “Nick Fisher, aged 63, was last seen in Hooke during the afternoon of Tuesday, November 15. “Following extensive enquires and searches by officers, assisted by Dorset Search and Rescue (DorSAR), the body of a man was sadly located in Dorchester during the morning of

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Thursday, November 17. “While formal identification has not yet taken place, the body is believed to be that of Nick Fisher and his family has been informed. The death is not being treated as suspicious and HM Coroner has been notified.

“Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Nick at this extremely difficult

“We would like to thank everyone who assisted with the searches, as well as the public for their help in providing information.”

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Watch out for cheeses made with rennet

Whilst we enjoy reading your magazine, I had to point out a common error in Mum’s Kitchen. The recipe for macaroni cheese mentions that it is a classy vegetarian main course. Many chefs and cooks get this wrong and it ‘cheeses off’ vegetarians. Both gruyere and parmesan are made with animal rennet, so would not be welcome at all. Sadly, we often go out for a meal and find that the veggie special is unsuitable.

Lindsey Maguire n I wonder if you would be

interested in publishing this poem, a pastiche of Alfred, Lord Tennyson’s Charge about The Great Field Parkrun in Dorchester. Dave Martin

See how they run

One thousand metres, one thousand more, one thousand onward, round the Great Field, run the two hundred. Parkrun, Parkrun, here they come, rain or sun, Timekeeper’s on the score.

Dog walkers to right of them, dog walkers to left of them, dog walkers in front of them,

onward the two hundred. Parkrun, Parkrun, here they come, rain or sun, one thousand metres more. Marshals to right of them, Marshals to left of them, Tail Walkers behind them, jog the two hundred. Parkrun, Parkrun, here they come, rain or sun, one thousand metres more.

Volunteers stop the secondhand

put finish token into hand, and after bar codes are all scanned, win the two hundred. Parkrun, Parkrun,

out they come, rain or sun, Run Director knows the score. Dave Martin

n Just to give you an update on our open studio at Molehill. We had a fantastic time. The footfall was good, sometimes full to bursting and we sold well, doubtless because of your generous and appealing presentation of the article. So thank you so much for placing it. Again many thanks for your contribution to the success of the weekend. Anthony Paul

Vittles

Pub set to reopen with a new owner

By Andrew Diprose dorsetbiznews.co.uk

A prominent pub which closed during the pandemic is set to reopen after being sold for a freehold guide price of £375,000. The Sheaf of Arrows at Melbury Osmond, on the A37 between Dorchester and Yeovil, is expected to benefit from significant investment by its new purchaser, Debbie Hughes. Previous plans for a change of use at the pub, formerly the Rest and Welcome, have been withdrawn.

The pub, which historically had a good reputation for food, service, and value, includes a recently renovated beer garden and large car park. Covering three storeys, including an attic conversion, the Sheaf also features a main bar with a woodburning stove and seating for more than 30 people, a smaller snug for around 20 customers with access to the outside, and a skittle alley and function suite for around 60 people.

All were refurbished by the previous owner.

As well as a partly equipped commercial kitchen, the property has a temperature-controlled cellar with a rear service entrance and a standalone business office.

Upstairs on the first and second floors is the Sheaf’s owner’s accommodation with a double ensuite bedroom, two single bedrooms, and a lounge/dining room with extensive countryside views.

There’s even an additional bedsit with access from the rear for staff accommodation if needed.

Outside, the pub sits on its own half-acre plot with customer parking for over 25 vehicles. After losing its fight for survival, and forced to close due to the pandemic, the pub hit the market.

Debbie Hughes, ran The Elm Tree at Langton Herring for eight years. She continues to run The Portland Scallop Co with her partner Jamie, and plans to serve fresh local fish in her new venture.

NEW OWNERSHIP: Sheaf of Arrows at Melbury Osmond

Vittles (food & drink)

The icing on the cake as GBBO star

By Miranda Robertson miranda@westdorsetmag.co.uk

Many Great British Bake Off contestants fade into obscurity – but not Sherborne’s Carole Edwards.

The 59-year-old grandmother with the stack of instantly recognisable pink curls may have exited the show in week five, but her trademark hair, broad accent and funny asides have ensured her place in GBBO history.

She has also secured a slice of local notoriety –she will be switching on the town’s Christmas lights on December 4.

The 2022 leg of the series has just ended, with Syabira taking home the winner’s trophy.

She and the other two finalists each get an agent to help them navigate their newfound fame.

But Carole, who only started baking 12 years ago when her first grandchild came along, will have to find her own – despite being arguably as popular as, if not more than, the final three.

Carole, who has been married to lorry driver Michael for 22 years, is one of those TV show contestants the audience takes to their hearts.

She is The Great British Bake Off’s favourite Westcountry maid – a down-to-earth cashier for Sainsbury’s, where she has worked for six years, since moving from near Yeovil. Jo Brand featured Carole’s off-the-cuff remarks in a

segment of the Extra Slice after-show programme, heralding her ‘Westcountry Wisdom,’ and every day people sidle up to her to ask for a selfie – recently, at a show, she was asked for hundreds of selfies in one day.

She first cut her teeth in the limelight as Compost Carole on Sherborne’s Abbey 104 radio station, doling out gardening tips

from a compost bin at the bottom of the garden.

She said: “I worked with a presenter called Alan, (Alan Mapp, aka Big Al), who would lift the lid of the compost bin to hear my tip for that week, then he would toss in a biscuit and a pickled egg.”

Sadly, Alan died of Motor Neurone Disease two weeks after they recorded their last segment last year.

Carole didn’t have the heart to carry on and applied to GBBO instead. Carole had been a gardener for 30 years, including running her own company, before she got ‘disillusioned’ and got a job as a postie.

She did the rounds in Ilminster and Chard for 11 years before knee pain got the better of her and when she and Michael moved to Sherborne she got a job at Sainsbury’s.

Her love of baking was by then well-established and the pair invested heavily in their new kitchen, extending their bungalow to accommodate a seriously impressive place to cook. Carole said: “It’s a super dooper kitchen, with every knick-knack and appliance there is.”

She applied for GBBO before, but didn’t get far in the process.

This time she filmed herself and sent it off – and producers were smitten. What viewers won’t realise is quite how punishing filming and the process of GBBO actually is.

Carole, who will turn 60 in January, had to get up at 4.30am each day, to film two episodes in five days. Most days she couldn’t get to bed till midnight.

She said: “You get so tired as the schedule is so tight and me and Dawn were double the ages of the others. It was a big emotional rollercoaster up and we ended up being mum to the rest.

“Paul Hollywood kept

CAKE EXPECTATIONS: Carole Edwards with one of her creatiions, and her very distinctive pink hair

Vittles (food & drink)

Carole’s fame cooks up a new career

himself to himself but he warmed up after a few weeks. When I took my first showstopper up he said, ‘I didn’t know you lived in a Tellytubby house!’

“Pru Leith is lovely – a proper lady – she used to hold both my hands. Noel is lovely, and so is Matt, but he’s more private.”

Husband Michael, who is diabetic, also suffered, with his insulin levels spiking as a result of testing her many practice bakes. “Best of it was, we couldn’t tell the doctors why his levels were so

high,” said Carole (the contestants are sworn to secrecy until the line-up is announced officially).

“He was put on extra medication.”

Despite the hardships – it was often freezing in the tent and contestants had to wear the same clothes all day for continuity – and

long hours, Carole, who was born and bred in the Yeovil area, simply loved it.

She said: “It went quick –it goes just like that. “I applied because I was bored, I think. One Sunday afternoon I said to my husband I would apply, but he didn’t think I’d get in

and he was booking holidays.

“I just got to the stage where I wanted to achieve something – I’ve not got a career, really.”

Carole is now hoping to turn her GBBO fame into a career, with plans for a book along the lines of ‘Grow Your Own Bakes’, where she passes on her baking and gardening tips. She said: “I’m presently trying to find an agent.

“My dream would be presenting – I’d love to have something to do with the Chelsea Flower Show next year.”

RIGHT INGREDIENTS: Carole with her fellow competitors of the Great British Bake off and, below, Carole in action during the filming of the popular programme and, inset, below, some of her fantastic cakes

Vittles (food & drink)

If you haven’t noticed, the commercialisation of Christmas has well and truly established itself, the familiar adverts using emotional strings to draw us in, tissues at the ready. A few Christmassy songs are filtering through on the radio and TV films are dominating with movies with such sickly titles as The Knight before Christmas and A Crafty Christmas Romance –nauseatingly syrupy in title with questionable content and acting. Yes, you guessed – I am a bit of a Grinch.

I never used to be a Grinch; I just think Christmas starts too early.

As soon as the schools go back after the long summer holidays, the first twinkle of Christmas creeps onto our TV screens and into shops. When I was a child, Christmas began when rehearsing started for the school Nativity on December 1 and please forgive any religious impropriety, but for me it was a ‘Nativity’ as I went to a Catholic school. I never got the

Xmas is coming so bake a boozy cake

lead role by the way, as this ‘angel’ had long lost her halo and I was considered far too mischievous.

However, one year I was given the part of a rabbit visiting baby Jesus and felt it totally appropriate to bring in some real rabbit poop and scattered it as I hopped across the stage! I

mean, why not?

We have a bit of an unconventional Christmas. The socialising is there, the feasting, the enjoyment of being with loved ones, it’s just done differently as I will reveal over the next few weeks.

Stir up Sunday, traditionally the Sunday

before Advent, was a ritual that my mother strictly observed.

Kitchen was out of bounds as the scent of Christmas baking wafted around the house. I’ve never liked the richness of a traditional Christmas cake, so I adapted my own – a lighter one based on a sponge recipe. It’s moist and delicious.

Fruity, Boozy Cake

250gm SR Flour 250gm soft brown sugar 250gm butter (room temperature) 4 eggs

500gms Dried fruit

Small bottle of Brandy, whisky, or Rum

Soak the fruit for 48hrs in half a 35cl bottle of the alcohol of your choice saving the rest. Beat together butter, sugar, eggs then the add flour Mix in fruit

Pour the mixture into a lined and greased cake tin and bake for 40min 180/Gas 6

Allow to cool slightly and pour rest of alcohol over the top. Dust with icing sugar.

Mince Pies with a Frangipane Topping

There is nothing like a nice homemade mince pie. These are a bit different with a frangipane topping instead of the usual pastry lid. Homemade mincemeat makes them

really special, but purchased mincemeat can be used if time is short.

Ingredients:

Either homemade shortcrust pastry, rolled out, or a sheet of purchased ready-rolled pastry Mincemeat of choice

Topping:

For each 1 dozen mince pies you will need:

25g ground almonds

25g caster sugar

25g butter, melted 1 small egg Flaked almonds to sprinkle (optional)

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.

A PIECE OF CAKE: Yummy Fruity Boozy Cake Mum’s

Use your loaf to feed veggi friends

Veggi Loaf

This vegetable packed spectacular is crammed full of flavour and can easily be made ahead of time.

If you have any vegetarian guests they’ll enjoy this. I love this loaf because you can use any veggies that you like: peppers, asparagus, cauliflower, courgettes, etc.

It’s a great way to use up any bits and bobs in the fridge.

I make it, cut into thick slices, then wrap and pop them in the freezer ready to be pulled out one piece at at time and reheated. This reduces waste.

I use eggs and cheese but if you’d prefer to keep this vegan then leave the cheese out and substitute the egg with aqua faba.

I often buy a bag of ready cooked puy lentils but you can add whichever type you fancy.

Serve it with a tomato sauce - a jar of ready made sauce is fine or you can whizz up a tin of tomatoes

Method:

Preheat oven to 190C/170C fan. Brush a patty tin with melted butter. Using a 7.5cm fluted cutter, cut out rings from pastry and gently press into patty tins.

Spoon mincemeat into the pastry-lined tins, using about two teaspoons of mincemeat for each one. (Don’t overfill, as you need

with herbs and spices and heat through.

2 tbsp olive oil

1 garlic clove, crushed

1 onion, finely chopped 500g vegetables, finely chopped into 1 cm pieces

2 tbsp tomato puree 250g cooked lentils

300g veggie stock

a little room to spoon over the frangipane topping)

Whizz up the ground almonds, sugar, melted butter and egg in the food processor and spoon about a dessert spoonful over each mince pie.

Sprinkle with flaked almonds if liked.

Bake for around 20 minutes until a light golden brown.

1 tsp mixed herbs 125g fresh breadcrumbs 125g cheddar, grated 3 eggs

Salt and pepper

Heat the oil in a pan with the garlic and onion and cook until the onion is translucent and soft (approx 10 minutes). Add

the vegetables and cook for five minutes until softened. Introduce the tomato puree, lentils, stock and herbs and stir. With the lid on leave it to simmer for 20 minutes. Remove from the heat and leave to cool (approx 30 minutes). Line a 2lb loaf tin with parchment. Mix breadcrumbs, cheese and eggs to the cooled veg mix and check the seasoning, adding salt and pepper and herbs. Heat the oven to 180C/ gas mark 4. Pour into the tin and cover with foil. I put a fold lengthways down the middle of the foil and if the loaf expands on cooking it has room to do so. Put in the oven for 50 - 60 minutes until the loaf is spongy to the touch and lightly browned. This can then be cooled down, wrapped and frozen or served immediately.

n Lizzie can be found at the Old ship Inn, Upwey each Saturday from 9.3012.30 Check out her website lizziebakingbird or instagram lizzibakingbird.

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.

FULL OF FLAVOUR: The veggi loaf

Down to earth

BEACHCOMBING

with JO BELASCO BA Hons History of Architecture and Design

For a long time I have been hoping to extend my beachcombing collection of sea glass into semiprecious stones.

It has been slow going, mostly I think, as I didn’t really believe I could find any.

It seems as ridiculous as the old adage of money growing on trees – semi precious stones on the ground where you walk. I did a lot of research and came out of it with one really useful tip – just pick up what looks pretty and worry about the categorising later.

Back in the spring I went through a red phase. I just kept imagining five red rings on my podgy digits. I bought three rings. The first was a carnelian stone. It looked more brown than red but the reputed seller reassured me it was as red as carnelian gets.

In certain lights it looks red enough to understand where it got its name from – flesh.

Then I got a bit twitchy. I began to wonder what would happen when I placed the fifth ring on my pinkie?

Would this trigger a plague of frogs? Oh, why so negative Jo, maybe it

Carnelian knowledge from the most unlikely of places

would usher in a glorious new phase for humanity?

Who am I kidding?

It’s a plague of frogs! Anyway, I didn’t have to worry much longer as I mislaid the carnelian ring after recharging it under a full moon and didn’t buy another.

Poring over semi-precious stones online became a vague memory as did hanging out at Earth Design at Broadwindsor,

Crystals at Dorchester and Fossil Beach at Weymouth. Spending time at the seaside was cheaper and healthier after all. Smallmouth at Ferrybridge in Weymouth, was my beach of choice.

This tiny bay is sandy and relatively protected from the elements with a sloping gradient.

We used to kayak there and it’s a great place to build sandcastles but not a lot

doing for a beachcomber. There are some lovely old coracle boats, shabby chic and perfect props for taking sea glass photos. Near one of the tiny boats I saw a pop of red.

I picked it up and promptly forgot about it for a few weeks until I forced myself to organise the finds of the past month. Turns out it’s Carnelian – I didn’t know whether to jump for joy or run for the hills!

LOVELY SPOT: Smallmouth Bay in Weymouth and, below, a nice piece of green sea glass and, right, a Carnelian stone found on the beach

Down to earth

Robin in our pear tree is ideal Christmas decoration

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

As a child it seemed that absolutely everyone had their Christmas decorations up before us, but my mum insisted that the Saturday closest to Christmas Day was quite early enough. So, when my boys were small I was happy for Christmas to arrive in the house earlier, as long as December had begun.

These days, the excitement isn’t quite the same but my sons enjoy using their woodworking skills to make reindeer and other decorations. When a delivery arrived on a bright-red painted pallet board, it was just asking to be made into hearts to decorate the pear tree in our front garden.

An

occasional

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.

Even at Christmas, I suspect that most of us have an ambiguous view of ivy (Hedera helix). Its leaves are an aesthetically helpful permanent, waxy green, its flowers are pretty, if understated, and it bears attractive berries until spring that are high in fat, attracting wood pigeons, thrushes, blackbirds and other birds to our gardens. On the down side, it is sufficiently vigorous to make an occasional nuisance of itself, being

Like many fruit trees in the village, our pear tree has had a good year. Covered briefly in beautiful white blossom in April as the new leaves unfurled and then burdened with a heavy crop of pears in the autumn, it is now completely bare. It’s time to put up its hearts and lights for the short days of December.

Our pear tree attracts pollinators in the spring and butterflies come to the fallen fruit, but at this time of year it is a stage for birdsong.

On cold December days I love to hear the robin sing in the garden.

It has a few regular singing perches, at the top of the hedge and on the corner of the garden fence, but most pleasingly on the pear tree. When it sits among the hearts and fairy lights it unknowingly creates the perfect Christmas decoration.

Most of our garden birds don’t sing in

the winter, singing uses a lot of energy and in spring and summer is a way of attracting a mate or defending territory. In the winter it is enough for most birds to just focus on getting enough food during the day and then find somewhere warm and dry to roost at night. But, several hours after our nestbox camera has shown us a sparrow tucked up for the night, the beautiful winter song of the robin can still be heard out in the darkness.

Robins will defend their feeding territories with song all through the winter, and unlike during the breeding season, females will sing as well as the males.

‘In the cold and wintry weather, still hear his song. “Someone must sing”, said Robin. “Or Winter will seem long.”’ (Anon)

nuisance, but ivy has a lot to offer

accused of overwhelming trees when they get above themselves (and sometimes above the tree), similarly with walls.

In fact, it seldom takes over a tree completely unless it is already dead. The second, however, is certainly true as I know from bitter and long experience. A wall of brick or stone and tough mortar will likely go unharmed, but the aging lime mortar of so many Dorset houses, mine included, is severely affected by this plant. Although easy to remove, the aerial rootlets always bring with them some mortar, and any point of weakness will be exploited, the roots going deep. I once

had to remove then rebuild the unstable top half of my garden wall it had ivy roots growing to its very heart.

Having finally solved my Ivy problem, I take a more benign view of this architecturally appealing plant, happy to admire it in other people’s gardens and to tell them how lucky they are. The flowers serve pollen and nectar to moths, butterflies, bees, common wasps and hoverflies, providing a late autumnal feast for the bees in particular. An apiarist friend once gave me a tiny pot of ivy honey. I love strong honeys, so the flavour of sweetened Dettol went down very nicely. Having been in Britain a very long time, ivy sports no fewer than 26 species

fungi. Some of these display their host-dependence in their names, such as Nectria hederae, (a relative of Coral Spot fungus). It is also the summer food plant of the Holly Blue.

Disappointingly, ivy has only one gall, Dasineura kiefferi, the eggs of this midge commandeering the buds for their larvae.

Having been a furniture maker for 30 years, I view any woody species with a practical eye.

While you may not think that ivy ever reaches sufficient size to produce anything, I found an ivy stem ten inches in diameter. I think there is just enough to make a chair, maybe with ivy leaves carved in relief.

Down to earth

PAGAN VIEWS by JO BELASCO

When it’s raining cats and dogs, going to a garden centre Christmas grotto is a wonderful thing to do. It’s really like a magical wood, but permanently warm and dry. Nothing is quite so magical though, and – as one of my sons says –‘cosy scary’ as going to a real, ancient wood. There is a Pagan saying that the forest is our version of a cathedral. Extending the metaphor then the second half of the 20th century was a Pagan’s version of the Christian Reformation. They had their monasteries torn down and we had more than 50% of ancient woodland felled. Good news is that more trees are being planted, but to regain that ecological alchemy will take 600 years.

Recently I have become aware of the wonder of fungi and how they can brighten up the woods like Santa’s grotto – but naturally.

Okay, it’s a bit of a hunt for those ephemeral baubles but we love treasure hunts. Now I use the word baubles rather flippantly as some British mushrooms can give you permanent brain damage or kill you. They have scary names like Funeral Bell and Destroying Angel – but as fungi don’t have labels it makes sense to avoid eating any unless you are an expert. So taste is out but the rest of our five senses are more than enough.

Visual feast of woods fungi like a trip to Santa’s grotto

With a background of lichen and moss, which is more like damp velvet and green lace, it’s a visual feast. I think I found ‘chicken of the woods’ yesterday and gingerly gave it a perfunctory sniff – that was more than enough for me. One fungus I found looks like orange jelly. I ingeniously and possibly rather disgustingly used a fresh

dog poo bag wrapped around my hand to see if it felt like jelly too. Yes, squidgy jelly – not the most scientific experiment but fun.

Yesterday on my wild woodland walk the dominant sound was of rushing water.

Paths had been turned into streams by the unusually wet weather so I slightly lost my way. Not

worryingly, deeply lost but just a bit lost – I wish there was a word for it.

To be honest I really rather like the feeling of being lost. It’s like you have an instant allencompassing mission.

You have to use your brain and senses to find a landmark or get yourself back to a place you recognise. Or you get to test your sixth sense.

DOWN TO THE WOODS TODAY: Misty Thorncombe woods and, below, possibly chicken of the woods fungi, the beautiful but dangerous fly agaric and, right, the orange fungi near Chapel Coppice at Ashley Chase

Artefacts highlighting the plight of refugees around the world to this day will go on display at Dorchester’s Shire Hall Museum.

The Grade-I listed museum is the final venue of the British Museum’s UK-wide Spotlight Loan Crossings tour, featuring the Lampedusa cross. Made in 2013 from the remnants of a boat carrying refugees wrecked near the Italian island of Lampedusa, close to the coast of Tunisia, the Lampedusa Cross carries ‘poignant messages about kindness, community and the indifference faced by many refugees’.

Alongside the cross will be a display of twelve tiny boats from Syrian-born Issam Kourbajʼs series Dark Water, Burning World, made from repurposed bicycle mudguards tightly packed with burnt matches to represent the fragile vessels used by refugees to make their perilous voyages across the Mediterranean.

British Museum curator Jill Cook said: “The Lampedusa Cross reminds us of all the histories that are lost and of the thousands of people who are not otherwise remembered. The wood with its paint blistered by the sun and smelling of salt, sea, and suffering embodies a crisis of our times, as well as hope. “The cross invites discussion of the varied reactions to one of the great tragedies of our time. It is an artefact

Tales of hope and tragedy with crossings of refugees

shaped by tragedy that symbolises those who have nothing and desperately seek to share in a better future. As such, it is touchingly complemented by Issam Koubraj’s little boats.”

Shire Hall Museum director Nina Corey said: “Throughout history,

people have set out on journeys across our world. “Some are made by choice, others in hope and there are also journeys people have been forced to make. In this exhibition, we’re taking a closer look at the stories behind those journeys. “Inspired by the incredible

objects loaned to us by the British Museum, we wanted to explore our local history and the stories of people who travelled through or from Dorset. We were interested not just in the journeys that people made but the reasons and motivation behind them.”

POIGNANT: Issam Kourbaj’s Dark Water, Burning World from 2016 and, below, The Lampedusa Cross by Francesco Tuccio and, right, Dorchester’s Shire Hall

Culture

When Sony Awardwinning broadcaster David Bramwell’s partner left him for someone she described as ‘younger, but more mature’, he knew he had a thing or two to learn about life.

Taking a year off from his work with BBC Radio 3 and 4, David journeyed through Europe and America seeking out extraordinary communities that could teach him how to be a more sharing, loving person.

David will deliver his story The Number 9 Bus to Utopia – at The Gaggle of Geese in Buckland Newton on Sunday, December 11 at 6.30pm as part of the Artsreach programme and the National Inn Crowd project.

David’s emotionallydriven quest led him to spiritual retreats, or ashrams, in the heart of Copenhagen; to Findhorn, a Scottish spiritual retreat favoured by Ruby Wax; a paradisal community in California dreamt up by Aldous Huxley, and an

Broadcaster’s on the bus to Utopia

entire eco-city being built in the Arizona desert. Most impressive of all was Damanhur, a 1,000strong community in the Alps which, over 23 years, secretly built an underground temple the size of St Paul’s Cathedral, plus a village of tree houses and a tour of Europe with an orchestra of singing plants

– all will be explained during David’s performance.

Along the way David’s quest raised issues that beset many of us: Why is there so much unhappiness amongst those with wealth and relative freedom? Is getting what you want really utopia? Could alternative communities

and our modern cities?

Inspired by his adventures David returned home with a desire to change not just himself but also his neighbourhood and city. Find out how he succeeded in his humorous and uplifting show, featuring photographs from his trip, that asks some big questions, and finds the answers surprisingly simple…

David Bramwell’s monologues, The Number 9 Bus to Utopia, The Cult of Water and The Haunted Moustache, have all been turned into BBC radio programmes and books. David has appeared on BBC Radio’s Saturday Live, The Museum of Curiosity and The Chris Evans Radio Show, but is genuinely at his happiest performing at the back of a pub.

Full details for David’s show are available online at artsreach.co.uk Contact The Gaggle of Geese on 01300 345249 to book tickets.

Full house and standing ovation for Scouse opera

Blood Brothers, The Lighthouse, Poole REVIEW by Diana Holman

There was an atmosphere of excited anticipation at the Lighthouse on the opening night of Blood Brothers, Willy Russell’s musical that has been described as a Liverpudlian folk opera. Every seat in the theatre was filled as the curtains opened on the dramatic scene of the tragic death of the Johnstone twins, which is a haunting premonition of the story’s final ending.

Niki Colwell Evans was a wonderful

Mrs Johnstone, taking her from a bubbly teenager who loved dancing and looked a bit like Marilyn Monroe through the austere years of the 1950s that turned her into a povertytrapped single mum struggling to feed her three growing children and pregnant with twin boys – her husband’s parting gift before he left. The affluent and scheming Mrs Lyons, desperate to adopt one of the twins was well played by Paula Tappenden.

The atmosphere of foreboding that lurks behind the fun and laughter

throughout the performance was skilfully created by the narrator, Richard Munday whose dark figure moved stealthily through every scene.

Twins Mickey (Josh Capper) and Eddie (Jay Worley) were amazing as they moved from little boys playing cowboys and Indians to young men from different worlds who had retained their instinctive twins’ bond. It was a fantastic performance by the whole cast and creative team, richly deserving its standing ovation and numerous curtain calls.

teach us a better way to be in both our relationships

TICKETS PLEASE: David Bramwell and his latest book, The Number 9 Bus to Utopia

Art group back to make its mark in Poundbury show

Following Art in Poundbury’s very successful first exhibition this summer, the group is returning to Poundbury’s Jubilee Hall with a new exhibition, just in time for Christmas.

The new exhibition, Making Our Mark, from December 3-11, will be a visually enticing display of work from all ages, amateur to professional. This time, Art In Poundbury (AiP) has partnered with Artwey and will showcase a far broader range of work from 145 artists with painting and photography on the walls as before, but also more artisan 3D work everything from glass etching to silverwork, wood to driftwood, and textiles to wool sculptures. An exciting programme of Meet the Artist sessions is

planned, where each day you’ll get to meet 2D or 3D artists and talk about how they work. And visitors can get arty and make an origami heart to hang on the exhibition’s handmade Christmas tree. Getting creative with some of our younger and much older artists in the run-up, is conceptual artist Linda Ashe, who’s creating a large community installation for the exhibition.

DOWNSTREAM DORSET, River Tales and Local History by Mary van Coller

282 pages full of snippets, facts, place names and colour photographs

Available for £19.95 +p&p online at www.downstreamdorset.co.uk www.countrybooks.biz

She’s been working with Damers First School, The Prince of Wales School and Melrose Court retirement community, who’ve been busy making a huge number of paper and raffia baubles for the display. As well as all the fabulous art, prints and cards to see and buy, AiP is also fundraising for the local Food Share, which is supporting many local families.

There will be a prize draw of three works of art, framed and ready to go, plus a chance to bid in a silent auction, to have your portrait or a pet portrait created by a local artist. This exhibition is a real team effort, from all the AiP volunteers and community stewards to the

local businesses who have been fabulous.

Exhibition lead Judy Tate said: “Putting on a professionally curated exhibition of this size is a big challenge, even second time around! And it wouldn’t be possible without a fantastic band of local volunteers and businesses. So, a big thank you to you all for your energy and enthusiasm.”

n Making Our Mark at Jubilee Hall, Queen Mother Square, Poundbury, DT1 3BW runs from Saturday, December 3 –Sunday, December 111 between 10am and 4pm. And until 8pm on Wednesday, December 7 with a free glass of wine. Free entry for more details visit artinpoundbury.co.uk

Supporting the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance service Published by Spiral Publishing Ltd & Country Books

The Perfect Gift for all Lovers of Dorset

GETTING ARTY: Linda Ashe has been working with pupils from several schools in the Dorchester area

Repent and re-focus: Because you’re worth it

By Canon Deb Smith, Team Rector of Bridport

As we move into Advent there is a call on our lives to repent, to turn around, to travel in a new direction. Mostly people think about repentance in terms of behaviour and morals. It summons up thoughts of somebody in trouble. Somebody had better straighten up and fly right. To repent means being sorry, remorseful, trying harder, and doing better next time. Being good. Life has a way of dispelling that notion. I suspect you know what I’m talking about. All of us could probably tell stories about times when we did it right, we gave it our best, we tried hard, we made the right decisions, we met the expectations, we did what we were supposed to, and

Services

Sherborne Abbey Weekday Services

it still didn’t go the way we intended.

So, what if repentance is about more than trying harder or a program of self-improvement? What if repentance is really about returning to our truer and better selves? Reclaiming our own integrity and refusing to betray ourselves?

Maybe repentance is like learning to walk. It’s not so much about whether we will fall but whether we will get back up when we do fall. Maybe it’s about staying open to our future. Maybe it’s hoping against hope in the possibility of the impossible.

What if repentance is simply about getting our life back on track – the opportunity to change our mind, have a change of heart, and change the direction of our life? So,

Communion

Monday to Saturday at 8.30am, Morning PrayerThe Sepulchre Chapel

Every Monday at 9am, Holy Communion - The Lady Chapel Every Tuesday at 12noon, Holy Communion - The Lady Chapel Every Wednesday at 10.30am, Holy Communion with Homily – The Lady Chapel

Every Thursday at 12noon, BCP Holy Communion - The Lady Chapel

Every Friday at 9am, Ecumenical Holy Communion - The Lady Chapel

The first Friday of the month at 9am, Requiem Holy Communion - The Sepulchre ChapelEvery Saturday at 9am, Holy Communion - The Sepulchre Chapel

Sunday Service for the Holy Trinity, Dorchester8.30am and 10.30amThursday, December 1St Swithun’s Church9.30am –11.45am Community Coffee Morning and Christmas Gifts Sale Sunday, December 4

Sherborne Abbey: 8am Holy Communion, 9.30am Eucharist, 6pm Evensong 1.30pm, 2.30pm and 3.30pm Shopper’s Carols Martin of Tours, Lillington: 10am Family Service James the Great, Longburton: 10am Family

it’s not so much about guilt or innocence but about wholeness and fullness. It’s less about the past and where we’ve come from, and more about the future and where we’re headed. Repentance gives us a future. It invites, calls for, and solicits a change – a response from us. It doesn’t have to be huge, or to fix everything. It’s not a once and for all thing. Repentance is a way of life. We repent our way through life. We repent our way into wholeness. What is one change you could make today – or at least begin – that would bring more wholeness and fullness to your life? What is one change you could begin today that would deepen a relationship you have or open your eyes to beauty in the world? What is one

St Paul’s at The Gryphon: 10.30am Morning Worship, 3-5pm Christmas Carols

St Mary Magdalene, Castleton: 11.15am Mattins Burton Bradstock: 8am Holy Communion, 10.30am Songs of Praise Swyre: 3pm Evening Prayer

Puncknowle: 9.30am Holy Communion Litton Cheney: Morning Worship

Long Bredy: 11am Holy Communion St Swithuns: 3pm Organ recital - Alex Davies, Musical Director of Lyme Regis Parish Church. Music by Bach, Buxtehude and Mendelssohn, 4pm Contemplative Prayer

St Mary the Virgin, Powerstock: 9.30am Morning Prayer

St Mary Magdalene, Loders: 11am Benefice Eucharist

Tuesday, December 6

2.30pm UK Railway Tours Carol Service Friday, December 9

Sherborne Abbey: 10am Mothers’ Union Carol Service, 2pm Sherborne Prep School Carol Service Saturday

Saturday, December 10

11am Sherborne School Carol Service

2.30pm Sherborne Girls’ School Carol Service 7.30pm Band of the Rifles Christmas Concert Sunday, December 11

Sherborne Abbey: 8am Holy Communion., 9.30am Parish Eucharist, 2.45pm Dorset Freemasons’

change you could begin today that would help you love and accept yourself more than you do, or soften your heart to the pain and need of someone else? What is one change you could begin today that would open the way to forgiveness of another or yourself?

Advent – the journey to Christmas – is about turning to the future with hope and having hearts opened to the possibility of the impossible.

One change. A new start. A future. That’s Advent and Advent promises that something is coming. So repent, not because you’re bad, but because you are worth it.

Carol Service, 4pm Christingle Service

St James the Great, Longburton: 10am Family Communion

St Martin of Tours, Lillington: 10am Holy Communion

St Paul’s at the Gryphon: 10.30am Holy Communion

St Mary Magdalene, Castleton: 11.15am Holy Communion

Burton Bradstock: 8am Holy Communion

Shipton Gorge: 9.30am Breakfast Church

Swyre: 11am Holy Communion

Puncknowle: 5pm Carol Service

Litton Cheney: 9.30am Holy Communion

Little Bredy: 11am Holy Communion

St John the Baptist, Symondsbury: 9.30am Celtic Worship

St Saviour’s, Dottery: 10.30am Morning Worship

St Michael & All Angels, Askerswell : 11am

Benefice Eucharist

Monday, December 12

Sherborne Abbey: 7.30pm Christmas Concert

Thursday, December 15

Sherborne Abbey: 7pm A Quieter Christmas St Swithuns: 9.30 -11.00am Delivering Christmas

Toys donated by the people of Bridport. The Surplus Food Stall and Christmas goodies in the car park.

Friday, December 16

St Saviour’s, Dottery: 6.30pm Carol Service

Heating

By Dorchester Poverty Action chairman Wendy Hilton

All of us are seeing the rapidly rising costs when we go to the supermarket checkout. Most of us have been informed by our energy company how much more we are going to have to pay each month for our gas and electricity.

For those on a small, fixed income or those who are working incredibly hard, but on the minimum wage, these rising costs are overwhelming. If you are already not managing to make your budget stretch where do you turn if the car breaks down and you need it for work or you have a new baby and the washing machine breaks?

– do you have to make a

Dorchester Poverty Action has been here throughout the pandemic helping individuals and families living in DT1 and DT2 cope with these financial emergencies.

A grant of £250 can make all the difference between being in debt and managing the emergency. Clients are referred to us by professional agencies, for example health visitors, social workers, tenancy support workers, Citizens Advice for a grant.

In the last six months grants given have more than doubled to 91, compared to 41 grants over the same period last year. In just one week in August, some £2,500 in grants were given to 15 local families.

Dorchester Poverty Action cannot keep helping at this rate

without the generous donations of local people. Everyone is having to be more careful financially, but if you can spare just a small donation to help local people, we can continue helping as we have done for the last 30 years. To find out more go to dorchesterpovertyaction.org.uk Alternatively cheques can be made out to Dorchester Poverty Action and sent to DPA c/o United Church Dorchester 49-51 Charles Street, Dorchester DT1 1EE. Thank you.

n Research has revealed one in six adults in the south-west have no savings. Figures from the Money and pensions Service (MaPS) show 750,000 people have no

savings and a further 300,000 have less than £100, leaving almost a quarter of adults in the region living without a financial safety net.

Among the 74% of South West residents who use credit, almost half (47%) are now anxious about how much they owe. One in four (27%) are worried about the number of different products they have.

As cost of living pressures start to hit home, MaPS says it’s more important than ever to talk about money before problems set in. However, the survey also reveals that 81% of people still avoid discussing their finances.

For free guidance about money and pensions visit moneyhelper.org.uk or ring 0800 138 7777.

Re-sited Potting Shed has right ambience

Shed and how the plant energies there had helped people.

During the last few months, I have been writing about the

healing of plants and their effect on our health and wellbeing. Originally, I had hoped to write about The Potting

Unfortunately, the tenancy of the original Potting Shed, which was on the A37 near Holt Mill, was terminated and we then had to find an alternative site. We found the field at Middlemarsh, and the ambience of the place was just perfect for what we wanted to re-create. How time flies, six months have gone by since we

Andy Cole is a reiki healer based in Middlemarsh. He specialises in planting for healing. completed on the field and started to move everything over to our new site at Middlemarsh.

We are recreating The Potting Shed. Providing “A special place where you can relax, unwind, and be inspired.”

We have been working hard on the Wellbeing Nursery and Therapy Garden. It’s based on earth and plant energies, along with colour therapy. The

placing of the plants and structures are creating positive energies which are adding to the ambiance of the site.

The three therapy rooms are almost complete and the infrastructure of paths, potting sheds, polytunnel’s and flower borders is all well underway. We are aiming to open next spring but if you’re passing and the gate is open, please pop in to see the progress and say hello.

We have planted a lot of the borders and have started to plant up the Zen Garden, the lovely red leaves of the Acer look stunning. The energies of the Acer help to balance the area and will re-a line your chakra’s (Energy points within your body) when you walk around the garden. With the water feature being just in front of the Acer the energies from the movement of the water and the plants in the pond will lift your spirits and relax your being, to allow the Acer to do its work. The energies from the Iris’s in the wildlife pond assist in unblocking the throat, chakra.

The umbrella plant Cyperus assists in the cleansing of the crown chakra allowing the positive energies to flow from the crown down over the third eye and the throat chakras. As you can see the area is focused on the balancing and cleansing of your chakras.

The continuous rain is starting to get a bit

depressing now, and every dry day is a blessing. We have been weeding around the shrubs and mulching with well-rotted horse manure, which as well as a mulch is a great source of nutrition for the shrub as it will gradually feed the plants next year.

Working around potentillas, pittosporum and fuchsias has helped, as the energies from these shrubs uplift your spirits.

Potentilla helps to release tension, pittosporum aids in clearing the mind of negative energy and the fuchsia helps to release repressed emotions and negative energy. Some of the under planting is with ajuga and geranium.

The ajuga energies bring forward the feeling of contentment and unconditional love and the geranium has a stabilising energy which helps you to adapt and change your ideas until you are ready to move forwards.

Certainly, with the changeable weather we have had to adapt and change our ideas in how and what we are going to do each day.

Japanese Maples

Constituency issues

I am fighting Morrisons over Bridport fuel hikes

Last Tuesday, I put forward a number of challenges to Morrisons executives at a meeting about their highly unfair pricing policies which are charging Bridport residents a premium in order to undercut rival suppliers in towns such as Yeovil. I was shocked to hear Morrisons are willing to charge residents from around Bridport up to 20p a litre more. I will make progress on this, but it is clear how hard this is with supermarkets. Last Friday, I held a public meeting in Chideock to discuss ongoing issues with residents like the A35 road safety, the environment, and other matters. Earlier that day I also met with parents and staff at Mountjoy School, Beaminster, to discuss how

further to support young people aged 19-25 and their families who may be struggling with special care needs.

During Education Questions on Monday this week, I asked the Minister to help the Gryphon School in Sherborne access the funding they need to replace their dilapidated ‘temporary’ classroom units and I will continue working to get the resources needed to this important local school. Last Wednesday I also called on the Government to ensure the Grocery Code Adjudicator – the regulator for supermarkets, to be given the teeth it needs to curb the predatory behaviour of

supermarket chains that have whittled down the resilience of the farming industry to the point where now it is the consumers paying the price. Supermarkets are blaming bird flu as the cause of the egg shortages, but I know there is much more going on. Egg production has fallen by 13% in the UK since last year. Investors are no longer confident in the market because supermarkets have paid them a peppercorn sum while production costs have soared. They aren’t investing in equipment and buying fewer chicks to replenish their laying hens. We’ve even had some supermarkets which claim to buy only British produce, importing barn reared eggs from

Italy! At a time when we need to bolster our own food security, this situation cannot continue and I am working to expose this behaviour which I warned about in October last year. Supermarket supply chains need rebalancing in favour of fairness for the producer. I believed then and still believe now local supply chains are fairer, more resilient and more ecofriendly. When this issue arose, Andy Canning claimed that I’d ‘lost the plot’ about farming, and last year Labour’s Shadow Chancellor claimed that supermarkets ‘are the lifeblood of the rural economy’. This demonstrates just how out of touch many of the opposition are when it comes to rural issues affecting our supply chain.

Politics Where we are after a decade of mismanagement

The OECD reports that the UK will be the worst performing G20 economy, bar only Russia, over the next two years. The Conservative government is trying to put all the blame on Putin, but that doesn’t explain why we’re doing worse than every other major economy.

Our problems have a lot to do with Brexit, a decade of Tory mismanagement of the economy and the disastrous Kwasi Kwarteng and Liz Truss budget, which has now been all but reversed.

The Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) forecast makes grim reading. The UK’s inflation rate to be 9.1% this year and 7.4% next year, contributing to the squeeze on

By ANDY CANNING West Dorset LibDems

living standards. The UK is in recession and growth will slow. The chancellor recognised that a lot of people have left the labour force after covid-19. A review of the reasons for this is expected early next year. As if it were not obvious. People seeking better, less pressurised lives is clearly not what the Conservatives desire. And of course, no mention the impact that Brexit has had on labour supply – seasonal, permanent, skilled and unskilled being in short supply. There is to be a review of retirement age. Younger people can forget

dreaming of getting away from the pressures of bosses and the rat race for a few years longer than they hoped. The squeezed middle, already squeezed by soaring mortgages will be squeezed further by the lowering of the threshold for 40% tax. This is a move that is not regressive but will hit people whose commitments are at their financial limits.

Council Tax is due to rise by up to 5%. This transfers some of the pain and political pressure of raising taxes from Westminster to town halls, but this won’t solve the financial crisis in local government. So we can expect further cuts to social care for the elderly and young people in need, library

closures, increases in car parking charges and more unfilled potholes. The government has recommitted to major infrastructure projects including Northern Powerhouse Rail and HS2. All well and good but our priority should surely be renewable energy such as solar panels and wind turbines and a major increase in home insulation. The big lie of this budget is that taxes haven’t gone up. Tax rates haven’t gone up, though they will for business next year. But personal allowances have been frozen and for higher earners they have gone down. These are tax rises by anyone’s bank account.

with West Dorset MP Chris Loder

Listen to the experts and avert global catastrophe

The main problem with writing about the recent UN climate change summit (CoP27) is its distance from day-to-day life here in West Dorset.

I don’t mean just the geographic distance between Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, and Dorchester. The much larger problem is the distance between the issues discussed and our daily routines, between the overarching need to limit global temperature rises to 1.5C and how these daily routines will need to change and adapt. Humans are not very good at assessing future risk, particularly if that assessment requires us to adapt, change, or live different lifestyles.

Of particular concern was that failure of an agreement

By KELVIN CLAYTON West Dorset Green Party

to go beyond the 2021 Glasgow meeting’s promise to ‘phase down unabated coal power’, despite a call from the Indian delegation to phase out all fossil fuels. No new targets or commitments were announced. The clock is ticking. The amount of carbon in the atmosphere has risen from below 320 ppm in the 1960s to nearly 420 ppm now. The growth has been steady and constant. The vast majority of scientists predict that reaching 450 ppm will have a catastrophic and irreversible effect on human life. Yet most of us still go about our daily routines as if nothing was changing, and complain

bitterly if a group of ‘Stop the oil’ protesters delay or inconvenience us in any way.

Part of the reason for the failure of CoP27 was, of course, the current geopolitical situation. Russia’s war against Ukraine, which has strained pipeline supplies of gas, has prompted many countries to expand domestic fossil fuel reserves. The invasion has allowed oil and gasproducing nations and companies to became more influential, undermining the negotiations. World leaders preoccupied with spiralling energy prices and the escalating cost of living were reluctant to act boldly on fossil fuels.

For me though, the main reason for failure is the lack

of political leadership. We are not going to change human nature overnight. Humans, as a species, and in general, are not going to develop the ability to accurately assess future risks quick enough to avert disaster. So to reverse one of the mantras of the 2016 Brexit campaign, we need to start listening to the experts and acting on their advice. And it’s the job of politicians to do most of the listening and acting. It’s not only unfair to expect individuals to solve the problem by ‘doing what they can’, it’s unrealistic. Change needs to be imposed from the top down. Individuals can’t avert disaster. The ‘market’ can’t avert disaster. Governments can.

Time for change after years of Tory failure

I regularly buy The Big Issue from a lady in Dorchester who sells the magazine. She can be seen standing in South Street several times a week come rain or shine. She always has a smile and a kind word for passers-by, even though she faces many challenges in her life. The magazine and the scheme were set up by Sir John Bird to help people struggling with homelessness or at risk of losing their homes, longterm unemployed or those dealing with mental health issues. They buy the magazines for £1.50 and sell them for £3, keeping the proceeds and working their way out of poverty. It’s actually a very good

By CLAUDIA SORIN West Dorset Labour Party

read and the other day I was particularly interested to see The Big Issue’s Open Letter to the current and future Prime Minister. It states that more than onein-five people live in poverty in the UK and the figure is predicted to increase by a further 1.3 million by 2023. It calls on the PM to address the root causes of the crises we face by n Creating decent and affordable homes for all n Ending the low wage economy and investing in young people n Building a greener, sustainable future and

creating millions of wellpaid green jobs I whole heartedly agree with these demands, and I was disappointed that the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement did nothing to address the crises we face on these fronts. It will only make things worse and add to the misery – household incomes are set to fall by 7% over the next two years according to the Office for Budget Responsibility –the biggest reduction within recent generations. There was no mention of growth in Jeremy Hunt’s budget showing that the Tories have learnt nothing, repeating their failures of the past twelve years. The UK is the only G7 country poorer than it was before

covid and the economy is forecast to shrink by 0.4% in the coming year. The Labour Party has a serious plan; a modern industrial strategy where government works with businesses to create a fairer, greener and more dynamic economy that includes jobs across every part of the country in homegrown renewables, green hydrogen, and carbon capture and storage. I believe a Labour government would deliver on the demands set out in the Big Issue’s open letter and it’s clear that after 12 years of Conservative failures it’s time for change. Contact me at dorchester claudia@gmail.com

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

Killer Sudoku Pro:

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

HARDER PUZZLES

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Health & Wellbeing

Walking West Dorset

THE END OF THE FROME

This is the last of our walks exploring the Frome. You can help choose which river to do next from the west Dorset list by letting the editor know. Here’s the list: Asker, Bride, Brit, Cerne, Char, Hooke, Piddle, Sydling, Toller or Winterbourne.

Start this walk at Wareham Quay, then visit the nearby Priory. By the Priory you’ll see a sign indicating the Two Rivers Trail, which seems to be my intended route. Head eastward along the path between the two cemeteries then turn left and head

Sport

QUAY TO THE DOOR: Wareham quay

northwards along one of the ancient earthbanks of the town walls, continuing past Bestwall Road until you leave the bank via a path down to the right leading north eastwards past North Bestwall Farm along the Poole Harbour Trail.

After a while the Tarmac runs out and the path can be very

muddy and slippery if there has been recent rain as I found out the hard way! On your left are water meadows fed by the Piddle. On your right, through trees, you’ll see a lake formed by gravel extraction. After a while the path curves round to the right, close to a bend in the Piddle and giving you a better view of the lake. If you’re a

horny thologist you’ll want to do some word botching here as there are all sorts of ducks, geese etc.

Round the bend you’ll be adjacent the Frome and will be able to see where it flows through marshland to enter Poole Harbour. The path splits here. Take the left branch which goes along the bank of the meandering Frome for about a mile and a half, passing many parked boats which appear to be inaccessible. Eventually you reach wooden walkways that take you back to the town wall.

Battling Magpies extend unbeaten run

The Magpies extended their unbeaten run to seven games in all competitions, earning a point at newlypromoted Winchester City. Charlie Gunson’s strike on the half-hour mark was cancelled out by Luke King’s penalty with the point lifting Glenn Howes’ team up to sixth in the Premier South division. Playing in terrible conditions and on a heavy pitch, Gunson profited from good work by the impressive Harvey Bradbury to slot the visitors in front.

Jordan Ngalo was adjudged to have fouled in the box

shortly afterwards, a decision that looked somewhat harsh, and King’s penalty just evaded the outstretched glove of Ryan Hall, returning between the sticks for a

second loan spell from Aldershot.

Both teams probed in an even second half, without carving out a gilt-edged opportunity, and the visitors’ calls for a penalty

twice went unheard by the referee.

Dorchester return to the Avenue on Saturday, December 3, where thirdplace Chesham will provide a stern test.

with retired Dorset rights of way officer Chris Slade

Winchester City 1 Dorchester Town 1

MAGPIES ACTION: Charlie Gunson on the ball for Dorchester and, right, Harvey Bradbury in a tangle with the Winchester goalkeeper

Pictures: PHIL STANDFIELD

Village shop funds £1,200 team strip

SPAR’s Maiden Newton store, owned and managed by Appleby Westward, has renewed its sponsorship of local football team, Maiden Newton & Cattistock FC. Appleby Westward recently acquired the store and in doing so, has agreed to continue its sponsorship of the football club’s kit in a deal worth £1,200. The local SPAR has been a longstanding supporter of the grassroots football club, having sponsored its kits for the last 10 years. Phil Hallet, secretary of the club, said: “We are thrilled to have a local business sponsor us and would like to thank Appleby Westward for continuing SPAR’s support. “We are a family-friendly club with an

ambition to continue expanding, therefore any sponsorship like this allows us to put our own resources into updating our facilities and raising awareness of Maiden Newton & Cattistock Football Club.” The club represents both Cattistock and Maiden Newton. Maiden Newton’s

football team was first established in 1877 and is believed to be the second oldest club in Dorset, while Cattistock’s team was founded in 1905. In 1967 the two clubs joined forces and Maiden Newton & Cattistock FC (The Stags) was established. In the present day, the club

encompasses two adult football teams and is in the process of introducing Maiden Newton Youth FC (The Hawks), a children’s team which will offer a place for local boys and girls to give the sport a go. For more information on your local SPAR stores, go to spar.co.uk

Sport Zebras chairman calls for rethink

By Stuart Wickham stuart@westdorsetmag.co.uk

Zebras’ chairman John Bowers has spoken of his frustration at the late postponement of last weekend’s match at Falmouth, and of the challenges on and off the pitch as his team adapt to life in the Premier division.

Keeper Josh enjoying step up to the Premier

Zebras’ first-team stopper Josh Attwood has been talking to the West Dorset Magazine about the step up in class the team have faced this season and how recent defeats have not affected morale among the close-knit group of players.

Josh said: “It’s very difficult but I’m certainly enjoying the challenge. It’s noticeable how much better the teams are that we’re coming up against in this league. We played Gillingham Town the other night and it was like stepping back to last season. “Although it’s only one tier up, the amount of time you get on the ball is so much less in the Premier division. “It’s the key thing really. “Players are bigger, fitter, faster and they’re on you in a flash at this level.

“It was good to get back to winning ways in the cup against Gillingham, but we know we’ll be back to league action next and will have to raise our game. It’s a very competitive league and you never quite know who’s going to beat who. A couple

of wins for us and we’ll be right back up the table. “The mood in the camp is still really positive. We’ve been together for so long, particularly some of the more experienced ones, and that togetherness is still there –we’re all really good mates.”

Josh echoes the sentiment of his teammates and chairman about the rigours of the travel in the division.

Josh said: “There are certainly some very long trips and we’re down to Devon and Cornwall most away trips. It can be quite gruelling, we’re leaving early and back at 10.30 or 11pm.

“It’s certainly a big commitment. If you come back with a point or three, it’s not so bad, but it can be a long trip home if we’ve lost.”

Although only 22 himself, Josh dedicates time to supporting the Sherborne coaching team in helping its Academy players. He also coaches under 7s, 8s, 9s and 10s as part of the midSomerset JPL Development Programme. Josh said: “I am focused on building my career around football and will be working towards my coaching badges. It’s so rewarding to be able to give something back.”

John Bowers was angry that the game was called off after players, officials and fans had arrived in Cornwall, and has challenged league protocols on postponements when weather warnings are in place.

John said: “It took me a while to calm down after we got the news that the game was off. We’d been told that the pitch was playable and had been travelling to Cornwall since 7.30am. We had just arrived at the ground, only to be told that another pitch inspection had deemed it to be too wet. It would have been great to have got that decision sooner and there was a yellow weather warning in place, so the extra rain didn’t come as a surprise to anybody. “The league need to rethink protocol for calling off games. A 350-mile round trip is a huge cost to a club with limited financial resources. With a yellow weather warning in place, it should have been called off the night before. “Now we’ve got to find another £900 to make the journey again, probably in

midweek. Of course you can’t always legislate for the weather, but it is really frustrating and surely some common sense has to prevail, with clubs facing such financial challenges.” The postponement is a blow in what has been a tricky start to the season for the Zebras.

John said: “The geography of the division throws up some challenges for the club and for the players.

“It’s a long way to go to Devon and Cornwall and it costs us £800, £900 to get down there and back, and for the players, it’s their whole Saturday gone, so we are asking a lot from them. On the pitch, it was always going to be a hard act to follow after last season but we’re just embracing it and rising to the challenge. Teams are bigger and stronger than us and the players are trying to improve. They have started a running club separate to training, and are spending more time in building strength and stamina. We need to be more streetwise too.

“I don’t think we’ve necessarily had much luck

FRUSTRATION: Zebras chairman John Bowers

SAFE HANDS: Josh Attwood blocks another attack on the Sherborne goal Picture: JRH MEDIA

on weather rules after wasted journey

Attacking midfielder Dec Cornish has been telling us that it’s great to be ‘home’ after returning to Raleigh Grove after a short stint with Premier Division titlechasers Shepton Mallet.

Dec made the move to the Somerset club following an approach in October, however decided to return to Sherborne Town after less than a month with his new teammates.

Dec said: “It just wasn’t the same at Mallet. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with the club and the players, but I missed my Zebra mates. I missed the family feel and the social side at Sherborne and realised that was where I really enjoyed my football. “Shepton Mallet came in with a seven-day approach and I was flattered by their interest and thought it would be a good chance to test myself. New scenery, a new challenge, and they are competing near the top of the division and I’m ambitious just like most footballers. It

of late. I’ve always said that when you’re winning, and your luck’s in, the ball will hit the post and go in, when you’re not winning matches, and you need a break, it always seems to hit the post and go out for a goal kick. I’ve been involved with football for a long time and know that it always tends to even itself out over the season. “We’ve struggled with player availability a lot this season. When we were on that terrific run last year, we didn’t notice it so

It’s good to be back home says Dec after Mallet spell

took me two weeks to decide to make the move and it just wasn’t the same, but sometimes you have to try an alternative to realise what you’ve left behind.”

Dec picked up the man of the match award in the Zebras’ recent 4-1 defeat against Mousehole and was keen to point out that recent results

much. Players would come into the team if others weren’t available, and we’d just keep that momentum. This season, I think we’re noticing it a lot more and the standard of football is noticeably higher. We’ve had a lot of injuries and players not available for other reasons – work and family commitments.”

The Zebras have also seen a recent win scrubbed off as a team dropped out of the league, highlighting the financial challenges at

should be taken in context. Dec said: “It’s a bit misleading to look at recent results because we’ve played a clutch of the top sides, including Saltash and Mousehole. Mousehole will certainly be right up there at the end of the season. In terms of pure footballing sides, I think they’re the best

non-league level. John said: “We picked up a win the other week against Bitton only to see the result expunged because they sadly went out of the league. I can’t comment on their finances but it just shows that it’s really difficult running a club and fielding a team at our level. So, we lost those three points and the FA haven’t told us if that means there will be fewer teams relegated as a result but, at the moment, I’m not that concerned about

in the division, and they’ve clearly invested a lot in their setup. We are confident that we’ll be able to compete against most of the other teams and I’m sure we’ll start climbing back up the league soon. I’m just looking forward to the rest of the season and pleased to be back home.”

us being sucked into a relegation battle.

John remains optimistic that the Zebra family will prevail despite the challenges.

“We’ve got such a great group of players and they’re all staying really together and positive. We have had a really tough run of fixtures but need to pick up some points against those teams at the bottom and in mid-table. It’s quite a tight division and two or three wins will make a big difference.”

BACK HOME: Dec Cornish in action for Sherborne and, right, receiving the Man of the Match award from supporter Jacob Crabb for his performance against Mousehole

Manager Chris Herbst was delighted with his team’s performance as the Bees secured their second win of the season to lift them off the foot of the South West Peninsula league table. The goals came courtesy of a Tom Richardson header and a resounding finish from James Cox, as they deservedly ran out winners with a strong second-half showing.

The visitors shaded a tight first half, with Solomon Ayunga going closest for the Bees, while Lee Cleal produced a good save in the hosts’ goal.

After an early scare, Bridport were much the better team in the second period, as the game became more open. The home side took the lead on the hour mark, as Richardson rose highest to meet Riley Weedon’s free kick, and the striker’s looping header evaded Ty Rowe in the visitors’ goal. The Bees quickly doubled their lead when a fine strike from James Cox rounded off an intricate

Second win for improved Bees

move from the home team, with some clever interplay creating the chance for Cox to lash home. Ayunga and Richardson both missed opportunities to seal the game, however Chris Herbst’s team managed the game well to secure a clean sheet and a valuable win.

Herbst, inset, said: “It was

a strong all-round performance and I’m really pleased. We defended well throughout and really stepped it up from an attacking perspective in the second half and looked

pretty comfortable. They had a bit of a go towards the end and I thought the way we managed the game was superb.

“We’re coming into some tough games against top teams now, starting with Crediton on Saturday, and we’ve got a really good buzz about the club and can go into these with some real confidence. I hope we can go there and get something from these matches if we keep doing what we’re doing.

“The players who’ve come in have made such a difference, everybody’s playing well and the confidence has spread throughout the team. The first team had the weekend off after the Torrington game and a lot of the first teamers wanted to make themselves available for the reserves, which hasn’t always been the case, and I love to see it.”

Bridport travel to Crediton on Saturday, December 3, before entertaining Ivybridge at St Mary’s Field on Saturday, December 10.

Charlie lands first place at angling club’s junior match

West Bay Angling Club

By RICHARD DAW

Charlie Price secured first place at the club’s Junior Jurassic League match at East Pier with Alfie Hoystead and Ross Bourne finishing second and third respectively.

A welcome break in the weather allowed 15 juniors to compete, although fishing was slower than

normal owing to lots of recent wind and rain, causing fresh water to come into the harbour. Despite the conditions, the young anglers landed some great fish with species including bass, whiting, pouting, pollack and ballan wrasse.

1: Charlie Price with 252g sizeable fish

2: Alfie Hoystead with

178g sizeable fish

3: Ross Bourne with 156g sizeable fish

The club committee would like to thank helpers especially the Angling Centre West Bay for the free bait and terminal tackle. The club are hoping for a good turnout and fine weather for the final match of the season on Saturday, December 3.

Bridport Town 2 Torrington 0

CRACKER: James Cox clinched the points for Bridport with a resounding finish Picture: STEVE BARRETT

By Stuart Wickham stuart@westdorsetmag.co.uk

A rural sports and community hub, originally built as part of the war effort, and where legendary bandleader Glenn Miller performed and champion boxer Joe Louis fought, is facing closure unless funds can be raised to repair its stricken roof.

Piddlehinton Gym was constructed on requisitioned land in 1941 and many soldiers passed through the camp, including 1st Division Americans, the US 67th Armed Field Artillery Battalion, the Red Berets, and King’s Dragoons Guards. During the war, Piddlehinton was a hive of military activity and famous people frequently came to entertain the troops to boost morale, including Miller and his band, and the world champion heavyweight, Louis.

In 2007, the building was leased from the then Dorset County Council under a 99-year non-repairing lease by Piddlehinton Gym Charity, which is run entirely by local volunteers. The charity was formed to manage the facilities and has invested more than £15,000 over the past six years on maintaining the building, including multiple roof repairs, however complete replacement of the roof is now the only option owing to safety concerns.

Trustees of the charity have set an ambitious target of £100,000 to carry out the work and are

£100k battle to save historic gym’s roof

appealing for support from the general public and local business community.

Paul Hayes, chairman of the Piddlehinton Gym Charity, said: “This project is critical for the sustainability of this local community resource.

“Rural sports facilities are in short supply and a negative impact on the wellbeing of the local community would occur if the gym is forced to close.

“It is a facility with real historical significance and is so important for those people and groups who use it. If the charity fails to raise the necessary

funds, the gym will be forced to close within 12 months, meaning that the local community could lose it forever.”

The charity has raised £30,000 so far, thanks largely to support from the Piddle Valley Parish Council and corporate sponsors, Jade-Aden and Conduit Mead, together with donations from the clubs that regularly use the gym.

Ten organisations currently use the facilities, offering a range of activities including badminton, five-a-side football, archery, junior tennis, remote-control car

racing and roller hockey.

Facilities include a 32m x 12m main hall with sprung wood floor, raised exercise area with multigym, exercise bike and electronic treadmill, and a club room with table tennis table, kitchen, disabled toilet and changing rooms.

The charity would love to hear from anybody who would like to support their cause or is interested in hiring the facilities.

n Donations can be made via the GoFundMe page gofundme.com/f/ piddlehinton-gym-newroof-fund or piddlehinton gym@gmail.com

FIGHTING TALK: Piddlehinton Gym is a sports and community hub.

Inset: Joe Louis boxed there in 1941

Free to enter business awards open

Free to enter business awards are now up and running for Sherborne, Bridport, Dorchester and Lyme Regis. There’s also a contest for Weymouth and Portland businesses – again, free to enter.

Businessman Nigel Reeve, who owns Marketing West Events, promotes and supports local businesses with grassroots business awards in Bournemouth, Poole, Christchurch, Wimborne, Dorchester, Weymouth, Bridport, Shaftesbury, Sherborne, Axminster, Lyme/Charmouth and Purbeck.

Nearly 2,000 entries have been submitted to the awards in recent years, and 600 business leaders have attended the awards ceremonies.

Initially, Marketing West Events was established as a marketing agency, but the firm has now moved almost entirely into business awards as a result of lockdowns and the need to promote and support local businesses. Judging is independent and online, with no outside influence and there’s a category for every business. The awards ceremonies are open to all and the fee to attend is cost price. Categories include: Best Place to Work Café, Pub, Casual Dining Excellence in Customer Service

New Business of the Year B2B Business of The Year Family Business of the Year Independent Business of the Year

Health and Fitness Business of the Year

Young Entrepreneur/Rising Star

Green/Eco-Business of the Year

Artisans and Market Vendors Retail Business of the Year Overall Business Of The Year Marketing West donates from the launch tickets to a local charity.

This year they dropped off three bags of shopping to Bridport Cupboard Love at St Mary’s, South Street. Lindsay Jones from Marketing West said: “Having never been to a foodbank before I was rather shocked at how busy it was – rather humbling.”

Entries for Bridport close on Friday, December 9, and the awards ceremony will be held on Thursday, February 10.

Entries for Sherborne closed in November, with the awards ceremony on Thursday, January 12.

Lyme’s Jurassic Awards are closed for 2022, however Weymouth’s awards are open now – entries close Monday, January 9, with the awards ceremony on Thursday, March 9.

Dorchester/Poundbury awards are also open now. Entries close Monday, January 30, with the awards ceremony on Thursday, March 30.

To enter, go to: Bridport: bridportbusinessawards.co.uk Sherborne: sherbornebusinessawards.co.uk Weymouth and Portland: weyportbusinessawards.co.uk Dorchester and Poundbury: dandpbusinessawards.co.uk

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Dorchester firm off to national awards finals

Dorchester’s Precision Acoustics, a world leader in underwater acoustic and ultrasonic technologies has struck gold at a prestigious regional manufacturing awards ceremony. The awards were presented at a ceremony in Bristol organised by Make UK, the manufacturers’ organisation, and sponsored by legal firm Bevan Brittan. They were held to recognise the achievements of manufacturing companies from across the South, with the winners now going on

to the national finals in London in January. Joint winners of the innovation award sponsored by Isoclad, the business was praised for its ability to solve complex

challenges and the speed at which new products entered the market.

Judges said: “Precision Acoustics are an excellent example of innovation, the company clearly know their market and as leader in their field they have continued to develop solutions to meet their customers’ needs. Even when operating in a

challenging economic environment this organisation’s product development is already yielding a commercial return. Innovation is really at the heart of everything they do.”

MD Gary Livingstone said: “We’re delighted to have won the Innovation award at the Make UK regional dinner. It’s a fantastic achievement. We have an amazing team at Precision Acoustics, and it was a great night to celebrate just how far the team has come.”

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By BARBARA COSSINS Founder & Owner, Love Local Trust Local

What can I say, there is a huge egg shortage. It’s a fact.

We all need to look after our farmers, as the supermarkets are not doing anything to support them. It’s better to keep egg production going and help our egg farmers survive, here in England, rather than importing cheap eggs from abroad simply to meet customer demand.

We must pay a fair price for them to be able to do that. Our farmers just can’t produce cheap food that’s real. The prices have gone bonkers because of the rising cost of production due to electricity, gas, grain prices, climate change, the war in Ukraine and Avian flu, which has not gone away and is still a huge problem for all poultry farmers worldwide.

Supermarkets want to keep costs low and don’t want to pay our farmers enough to keep production going. They would rather import cheap eggs and let our own farmers go to the wall. This is not the answer or a sustainable long-term solution, it’s simply the big boys being greedy and forgetting about the real people behind the food on our plates. We need to keep food production going. Our egg farmers get 78 pence per dozen (12),

Keep buying local produce to keep our farms working

which means only 6.5 pence per egg. So, when you are buying your eggs, from wherever, it’s simply not enough to cover the costs. The margins are just too low for it to work. There’s nothing left of most of our high streets in this country. The majority of our greengrocers have gone, as well as the fishmongers. This is because we have become a one-stop shopper at the supermarket. It’s easy and it’s cheap (or

lazy. And whilst I appreciate a lot of people don’t know different

than opting for a supermarket as that’s what they see on the TV and billboards, we all need to change our habits and support the local, independent shops that are working incredibly hard just to keep going.

In the UK countryside, the farm shops are not as expensive as you think. The gap has closed dramatically. Yes, we are the equivalent of their finest ranges, because we deal with fresh, quality produce and it’s all locally sourced, but if we want to support our hard working communities then this is where we need to shop. These farm shops and independent producers are trying to support your families, offer you fresh, healthy food for your tables and keep their own businesses going. The latest food trends for pub and bar operators of the future is the power of a plant. Well, as a farmer’s wife and daughter, I don’t

want to see eggs made from plants. I don’t want to see vegan seafood and meat. I don’t want to see fish and dairy alternatives. I want real food from real birds, fish and animals that’s full of minerals and protein and vitamins because it’s had a healthy life itself.

The first food we have when we are born is milk and when we reach old age, we then need calcium again for our old bones in order to keep fit and healthy. I’ve been in the restaurant trade for more 30 years and have seen a lot of fads come and go in the food we are asked for. Right now it’s trendy to ask for almond, soya, rice and oat milks. Yes, there are genuinely dairy intolerant people but there a lot less of them than you would be led to believe. I sympathise if you have a real allergy to dairy and it’s also nice to have an alternative just from a taste perspective but, in my opinion, cow’s milk is still the best as it contains all the good protein, vitamins and minerals that we need. And it’s still cheaper than a lot of the trendier milk options. We get paid 50p per litre from Arla when it leaves the farm, which is a good price compared to what we have been paid in the past. There was a time that water was more expensive than milk. I don’t want to see our farmers disappear and to help make that happen, we need to grow and produce food to feed our country. So please support your local farm shops and look at the labels of the food you buy and choose British. Let’s keep loving local.

Agriculture

Better safe than slurry when it comes

By NIGEL WATERMAN Synergy Farm Health Vet Tech

Digital dermatitis is a bacterial disease that primarily affects skin on the heels of cattle and can, if ignored, very quickly run through the herd. Now that most dairy cattle are being housed for winter, this is the time to put together a good hygiene plan if you currently do not have one

preventing digital dematitis with cattle

if they are still adequate for your herd. Removing sources of standing slurry, water and mud from all areas is a must. Ensure an efficient scraping routine is maintained in yards, pens and housing. An area often overlooked is footbath hygiene. Footbaths should be routinely drained and cleaned after every use. Refilling with the appropriate dosing rate of 4% formalin, ensuring the correct water volume

capacity for your footbath, will give the most effective treatment. Whilst formalin is the most popular choice, some prefer copper sulphate. Again, use the correct dosage, which is diluted and added to the footbath.

Alternating between formalin and copper sulphate may increase your success still further and keep you on top of digital dermatitis.

If you currently have a regular visit from a foot

trimmer, they will undoubtedly notice any flare up in digital dermatitis levels and will discuss this with you and advise accordingly. The negative effects can be substantial - on yield, conception rates, veterinary costs and most importantly, animal welfare. I always encourage farmers and their staff to read the hoof trimming report given by our trimmers after each visit. This helps monitor

any rises in digital dermatitis cases (as well as foot health in general), making changes where necessary, to improve foot health.

n Our 2023 training dates have been launched. Our popular Two Day Foot Trimming Course, is next planned for March 8 and 9. This will be a great opportunity to further develop your knowledge of foot trimming and hoof health.