Paul Jones - Editor in Chief We love hearing your news and views. Get in touch with us by emailing newsdesk@blackmorevale.net or calling 01963 400186
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Lorraine Drake Distributor lorraine_drake@icloud.com 07850 529937
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A DORSET farmer has swapped her muddy boots for the glittering stage of a television talent show.
Ellie Maguire, who lives near Sherborne with her family of third-generation tenant farmers, is celebrating success on ITV’s Britain’s Got Talent
She shared the unusual experience with members of the Hawkstone Farmers Choir, which was propelled into the semi-finals by a golden buzzer from Amanda Holden.
Performing the anthem One Day Like This by Elbow at the Birmingham Hippodrome, the collection of 32 agricultural professionals faced a judging panel featuring Amanda Holden, Stacey Solomon, Alesha Dixon and KSI.
calves and bedding down, while her partner, Adam, handles the milking and machinery.
Like many in the industry, the family faces significant challenges, from volatile milk prices and rising fuel costs to the reality that the farm alone does not provide enough income to sustain them.
For Ellie, the moment the Golden Buzzer was pressed was overwhelming. “I just lost it,” she said. “I couldn’t contain the tears –it felt like we were really being seen”.
Ellie’s journey to the BGT stage began in
the most unlikely of places – her car. While on maternity leave with her then four-month-old son, she saw a social media advert for the choir and decided to record her audition video right then and there.
Life at home is a demanding 350-acre dairy and equine operation. Ellie balances teaching riding with the “non-stop” daily chores of a tenant farm, including feeding
Beyond the glamour of national television, Ellie describes the choir as a “breath of fresh air” and a vital support network. The group serves as a powerful community for those who understand the unique pressures of rural life. “The friends and memories I have made will last a lifetime,” she said.
The Hawkstone Farmers Choir, which was originally formed following a search for singers for Jeremy Clarkson’s Hawkstone brand, comprises singers from across the farming community from around the UK. It remains dedicated to its mission of raising awareness for mental health within the agricultural community.
THE Countryside Regeneration Trust (CRT) has announced a programme of spring events at Bere Marsh Farm, near Shillingstone.
Visitors can enjoy wildlife, farming and the countryside through hands-on activities, guided walks and community events.
Friday Farm Walks, running weekly on Fridays from 2pm3pm through to September, are led by farm estate manager, Hannah Bosence, members of the volunteer team and guest leaders. The walks explore the meadows, river and floodplain at Bere Marsh Farm, highlighting how agroecological farming practices support wildlife and benefit the local area.
Walkers will also gain access to usually private areas, including the Angela Hughes Nature Reserve and Ham Down.
The Buzz Café will be open on walk days, serving hot drinks and homemade cakes.
The organisation’s next Farmers’ Market is on Saturday,
April 11, from 11am-3pm, featuring local producers. The Buzz Café will again be open, staffed by CRT volunteers.
The farm will host a free event, Introduction to Wildlife Optics: Binoculars, Scopes and Cameras, on Friday April 17, from 10.30am-12.30pm.
Wildlife optics expert David House will provide a practical introduction to binoculars, spotting scopes and cameras, with advice on getting the most from existing equipment.
Examples of David’s photography will be on display, and a range of optics supplied by Wessex Photo will be available to view and handle.
Visitors are welcome to stay on for refreshments and join the Friday Farm Walk at 2pm, where David will demonstrate his specialist equipment in use.
The spring programme concludes with the return of the popular Dawn Chorus Walk with Breakfast on Saturday, May 9, from 4.30am-6.30am.
Led by birding expert John
Lockwood, the early morning walk offers a chance to experience the dawn chorus at the height of the breeding season.
The ticket price includes a bacon or halloumi roll served in the barn afterwards. Tickets cost £10 adults and £8 CRT Friends and volunteers.
Hannah Bosence, farm estate manager, said: “We are delighted to be able to offer such a varied spring programme of events this season.
“These activities are a great
way for people to connect with nature, learn more about how the farm is managed for wildlife and enjoy spending time outdoors.
“From family-friendly pond dipping to early morning birdsong, there really is something for everyone, and we look forward to welcoming both local residents and visitors to the farm.”
For more information about CRT events and to book where required, see www.thecrt.co.uk/ Pages/Events
GARDENERS can enjoy an open gardens event being organised by St Mary’s Church in Motcombe.
Villagers from Motcombe and North End are being encouraged to participate, with a minimum of 10 gardens promised to be open for view.
The event is on Saturday, June 6, from 12.30pm-6pm and entry is by ticket available on the day from the church, priced £10 adults, children free. Cream teas will be available and a treasure hunt will be on offer for children.
Catherine Johnston is leading on the event and hopes everyone will enjoy the variety of gardens, large and small.
For more info, email her at Johnston.npp@gmail.com.
There isn’t a better way to spend an hour or so than having a good snooze! Whether you are looking for a comfy new mattress, a divan bed with extra storage or perhaps a supportive new pillow, pop in to The Bed Specialists in Yeovil for a lie down and chat to the experts... Delivery is free, your new bed is assembled and your old bed can be recycled.
The family business was established over 60 years ago by Derek and Ruth Lush and is now owned the third generation of the same family. Now Yeovil’s largest independent bed shop, they have lovely showrooms where you can try over 40 beds, get helpful and unbiased advice, share a hot drink and spend as much time as your need to find the perfect new bed for your needs.
In addition, they also offer an extensive range of fully adjustable beds, sofa beds, luxury bedding and headboards. Premium handmade beds and mattresses by Vispring and Harrison Spinks are also on display with an extra 10% off during April.
A good night’s sleep is essential for your health and wellbeing – so choosing the right bed or mattress is an important decision. The team at The Bed Specialist in Yeovil have years of experience behind them and a huge choice of beds and mattresses to suit everyone’s requirements and budget. Good old fashioned service speaks for itself and you can read many happy customer reviews and testimonials on Trustpilot. Nick says – we rely on our happy satisfied customers returning to purchase again and recommendations from friends and family. We love hearing stories of how our furniture has been at the centre of people’s homes for generations.
Find them at Huish opposite the Yeovil Royal Mail Sorting Office – with ample free parking right outside the door.
Visit their website for further details: www.thebedspecialist.co.uk or call 01935 423596.
THE success of villagers in Henstridge in raising funds to buy their local pub, The Bird in Hand, will be celebrated in a concert at St Nicholas Church.
The musicians will bring a wide range of styles and genres to the audience, promising an evening of music for everyone.
The performers include the village’s own chamber choir Elysium, directed by Liz Holbrook; Rachel Delooze (pictured) a musical theatre actress based in Salisbury; Milly Riquelme (pictured) a Cuban pianist, singer and composer who will be performing with guest musician Tom Toomey (pictured) guitar, formerly of the band The Zombies.
The final three performers are Arabella Heaton, a well-known Dorset mezzosoprano; the bassoonist Christopher Vale, who lives in Wales; and Simon Twiselton, pianist and composer.
Among the huge range of music from the 16th to the 21st centuries will be original songs written by Milly Riquelme and the premiere of a piece for bassoon and piano entitled Recitative, Aria and Finale by SK Twiselton, written for and dedicated to Christopher Vale.
The concert is on Friday, April 24, at 7pm and tickets priced £10 are available from ticketsource.co.uk/bird-in-hand-society-ltd or on the door. A cash bar will be open from 6.30pm.
PHOTO: George Jeans, Mere NEARLY 30 years after it was founded, Kilmington & Stourton, WI has closed.
The group was unable to find a secretary from its 36 members.
President Vanessa Meeker said: “We have had some very interesting speakers and outings over the years and a lot of celebrations, so this I am afraid is the end of the road.”
In the picture (from left) are Jane Parker, Vanessa Meeker, Rachel Harrison and Bernie Isted.
AN ‘All About Bells’ activity day for new ringers, novices, returners and the bell-curious, is set to be held at three local churches.
The free of charge event, held on behalf of the Central Council of Church Bell Ringers, is on Saturday, April 18.
It starts at Sturminster Marshall, at 11am-noon, where visitors can climb the steep stairs to see the bells and try out handbells.
At Lytchett Minster, 12.15pm-1pm, visitors can find out about full-circle English change-ringing and hear a quarter peal.
Lots of bell-related activities are on offer at Lytchett Matravers, 2pm-4pm, where visitors can chime a tower bell.
Refreshments will be available for a cash donation.
For more information on bellringing, visit cccbr.org.uk/ bellringing/learn
Soak up the scenery as you walk with retired Dorset rights of way officer Chris Slade
BEGIN at the ancient church, which has some very interesting and beautiful objects inside. Walk west along the road for a short distance, passing a phone box/library, then join a footpath on your right. This takes you north east, gently upwards across several small fields occupied by friendly horses and sheep.
When you get to a junction of paths, pause to look around and appreciate the view over the Vale. Turn right and take the path heading down to the south. This takes you across a couple of fields and skirts the haha wall of The Manor to rejoin the road at a bend near the church.
Turn right and walk along the road again to a junction where you turn right and head north, passing the village hall where the road bends left then right again and soon comes to woodland on your
left. Fifehead Wood is Access Land and a nature reserve owned by the Woodland Trust through which you are allowed to wander and explore freely. On my visit, the first bluebells were in flower so they will be everywhere by the time you read this!
Follow the path westward down through the wood for about a quarter of a mile until you come to a crossway where you turn left and head south, soon leaving the wood and crossing a couple of fields to join a road at Middle Farm.
Turn left and follow the road up Fifehead Hill which will take you back to where you started, having walked less than three miles.
A SERIES of creative sessions inspired by conversation kicks off at Tisbury’s Nadder Centre on April 15.
Anyone over 65 is welcome to join the free sessions, which are led by professional facilitators. Hot drinks and biscuits will be provided.
Each week, there will be discussion on various topics, the sharing of experiences and ideas, and the chance to try writing and creating inspired by the conversation.
Sessions will run every Wednesday afternoon (2.30pm-4pm) from April 15 to July 1. To find out more call 07955 249288 or email rebecca.seymour@ ageukwiltshire.org.uk.
FIFEHEAD Magdalen Village Hall is the venue for a talk by local archaeologist Julian Richards.
He is the author of numerous publications, including the current English Heritage guidebook to Stonehenge, and is currently filming a documentary series exploring the monument’s history.
Julian will share some of his memories of a 55-year career exploring Britain’s ancient past and bringing history vividly to life through his talks, books, television and radio programmes.
The talk is on Wednesday, April 22, at 7pm and tickets are £8, including refreshments and cake.
To book, email fifehead. events@gmail.com. All proceeds go to charity.
QUEEN Camel Quilters will be hosting a talk by contemporary textile artist Katy Rundle.
Katy will be talking about her work in the village’s memorial hall (BA22 7NF) on Tuesday, April 21, at 10am.
Many of her collages will also be on display.
Katy, who lives in Dorset, was winner of the David Shepherd Wildlife Artist of the
Year 2023 Newcomer Award. “My art celebrates life, light and the natural world, using unexpected collage of vibrant patterned fabrics and stitch. It is a direct response to having worked for many years with people facing the end of their lives.”
Call 07879 845445 to find out more. Tickets £5 to include tea/coffee and cake.
DORSET Wildlife Trust has launched a major public consultation to explore the potential for reintroducing wild beavers to parts of Dorset.
The consultation follows the licensed wild releases of beavers at Studland last year and this year in Cornwall and Somerset, as well as five years of monitoring at the trust’s enclosed beaver project on the River Hooke, where a pair of beavers were introduced in 2021.
Since their arrival, the beavers have transformed the site through natural behaviours such as coppicing and dam building.
Independent studies by University of Exeter, Wessex Water and other partnership organisations have shown that beaver activity can slow water flow, create diverse wetland habitats, boost biodiversity and help landscapes become more resilient to drought and flooding.
Beavers are now recognised as a native species in England, and the UK Government has committed to supporting their return to suitable areas.
Dorset Wildlife Trust has submitted an expression of interest for a potential licensed wild release within the River Hooke and wider River Frome catchment.
Over the coming months, the trust will be engaging with farmers, landowners, communities, partner organisations and the wider public through meetings, workshops, drop-ins and an online survey.
Three drop-in meetings will be held for members of the public to go along and learn about the potential benefits of wild beaver release.
These are on: Saturday, April 11, from 9am-3pm at Maiden Newton Village Hall; Saturday, April 18, from
STRAP on your hiking boots, as tickets for the Dorchester Walking Festival, which takes place in May, go on sale.
Held during National Walking Month, the Festival (May 10-18) enables walkers of all levels of ability and differing interests to explore new areas, showcasing the best routes and Dorset hospitality.
This year’s festival is set to be particularly special, with the introduction of several new walk leaders and an exciting selection of new walks.
These fresh routes will reveal even more of Dorset’s stunning landscapes, hidden corners and rich heritage, offering everything from gentle strolls to more challenging walks.
The Festival will also continue its strong commitment to supporting local causes. Proceeds from walks will be donated to local charities selected by the walk leaders. In 2025, the generosity of participants
9am-4pm at Dorchester Town Hall at the Corn Exchange; Saturday, May 2, from 9am4pm at Wareham Corn Exchange.
Steve Oliver, Dorset Wildlife Trust’s rivers conservation officer, said: “Our enclosed project has given us clear, science-based evidence of the multiple benefits beavers can bring to Dorset’s rivers and wetlands.
“Wild beavers are already present in parts of the county, but any future releases in new locations must be shaped by the people who live and work here.
“This consultation is an
raised £2,300 for more than 15 local charities.
Many of the walks are wheelchair/ pushchair accessible. Most of the walks are dog friendly, so long as dogs are kept under strict control. There are also walks specifically aimed at families with young children.
Find out more at www. discoverdorchester.co.uk/dorchesterwalking-festival.
opportunity for everyone to share their views, raise questions and help us understand what a future with wild beavers could look like for Dorset.”
The trust says no decisions have been made, and the consultation will play a central role in determining whether a full licence application is taken forward.
Members of the public can take part and share their views at dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/ BeaverSurvey
To find out more, visit dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/ BeaverConsultation.
DAVE Tancock is sporting a new look after shaving his head for charity. Dave had words of thanks for the staff at GG’s Barbers, and his supporters. “The boys at GG’s really put me at ease, and they donated their time and money which was amazing. I just wanted to publicly say a big ‘thank you’ to everyone who has supported me.”
As the war in Ukraine grinds into its fourth year, we follow the story of one family forced to resettle in the Vale
by Olena
THE first day, everything was normal in the village. My mother could lie down peacefully, there were no sirens or explosions.
I argued with my dad and brother because they didn’t want to equip the shelter. We have a cellar in the yard where we store vegetables in the winter. I carried blankets, candles, water there myself; dad helped bring in a couple of boards and finally arranged the seats.
It was worth our efforts. The next day, at about 5pm, the bells in the local church started ringing – tanks had entered our village. We heard shots and explosions against the background of the church bells. We quickly ran to the shelter. Some of us climbed out the window, I remember passing my three-year-old nephew through the window to my sister-in-law. It was very scary, but I tried to be positive not to frighten the children even more.
After a few hours, dad decided to sneak into the house, to check if it was possible and safe. He left, we heard rifle shots and tried to phone him, but there was no answer. It was terrible, not knowing.
After an hour he called back. He had been shot at, but he fell, lay motionless on the cold February ground and later slowly crawled to the house. He told us to stay in the shelter – he could not even close the window through which we climbed out, because the Russian soldiers shot at any movement in the dark.
We had no phone signal and no internet, there was no electricity, and accordingly, no water (the pumps did not work without electricity).
The Russian army was stopped, they were stuck in our village, because the bridge across the river in the direction of Kyiv had been destroyed. They were angry.
A group of men tried to resist the Russian soldiers. Most were killed, their bodies were not allowed to be taken off the road for weeks. To instil fear in others. Demonstration punishment.
We sat in the shelter, a room two square metres, in freezing temperatures the whole night. The small kids were sleeping. We adults could not feel our legs at all. I felt so sorry to watch my mother's suffering.
Only in the light of the morning were we able to go to the house, where Russian soldiers immediately visited, took away our phones and checked our documents.
A rocket launcher was placed at the end of our garden and the soldiers fired it towards Kyiv through our house. Tanks were everywhere, right up to our gate. I prayed; prayed for the children, prayed that the response would not come straight to our house. The children were scared. I felt helpless, and my mother was getting worse. To be continued next issue…
Often it’s the simplest things that matter the most and a garden is one of them. There is something deeply reassuring about a garden that has been there long before us. At each of our homes, the gardens are not newly created or designed, they are part of the history of the house itself. Set within the grounds of old country residences, walled and sheltered, they have been places of calm, colour and quiet enjoyment for decades and in some cases centuries. For those who live with us, the gardens offer something familiar. A place to sit in the sun, to feel the seasons change, to notice the first flowers of spring emerging after winter has passed. These are simple moments, but reassuring ones.
We have taken care to make sure everyone can enjoy them. Paths are easy to walk, beds are raised so that planting can be done without difficulty and there is always somewhere comfortable to stop, whether in the warmth of the sun, the cool of the shade or inside one of our summer houses, looking out over the gardens in peace. But the gardens are not just there to be looked at, many of our residents take an active role in them, choosing what to grow and spending time alongside our gardeners. There is a quiet satisfaction in tending to something and watching it flourish and even more so when what is grown finds its way into the kitchen and onto the plate. Over time, these spaces become part of daily life.
A place for conversation, for time with family, for a summer barbecue, not organised or formal, just natural, as it should be.
In many modern settings, outdoor space can feel limited or secondary. Here, it is simply part of home and perhaps that is what matters most. Not just that the gardens are beautiful, but that they are lived in, shared and enjoyed.
Bramley care run three luxury residential care homes, each offering compassionate and specialist residential and dementia care. Our homes have been tastefully converted from former large country residences. Each carefully adapted to enable professional care within an environment that really does look and feel like a real home. Each of our homes offer:
Light and airy en-suite bedrooms bursting with charm, most with wet room or bath facilities
Beautifully appointed lounges, orangery’s and dining rooms
Safe and secure, beautifully landscaped walled gardens
A dedicated, caring and professionally trained team
The Old Rectory
Delicious home cooked food Activity coordinators who offer a varied entertainment programme
A care planning app that allows loved ones to follow the day-to-day care of residents
Each home has its very own salon to ensure you can look and feel your very best.
*Packed lunch included in these trips
SECRET SUNDAY LUNCH - DV968
Sunday 26th April - £65pp
*MALVERN SPRING FESTIVAL - Flower show - DV962
Sunday 10th May - £89pp
*WAVERLEY PADDLE STEAMER - ILFRACOMBE - LUNDY ISLANDVisit on island - DV976
Sunday 7th June - £119pp
*RHS BADMINGTON FLOWER SHOW - DV978
Sunday 12th July - £99pp
HIGHGROVE GARDENS & 2 COURSE SET LUNCH in The Orchard Room - DV950
Saturday 23rd July NO SINGLE ROOMS LEFT
MAJESTIC MID WALES - 4 nights B&B & Evening MealsIncludes return Journey Rheidol Railway to Devils Bridge. One-way Journey Welshpool & Llanfair railway. Visit to Powis Castle. Visit to Elan Valley Visitor Centre - Guided Coach Tour - SB559
Sunday 23rd to Thursday 27th August - From £729pp-£789pp
*WINDSOR CASTLE & RIVERCRUISE - DV973
Saturday 1st August - £114pp
*ANDRE RUIE - 17.30pm performanceBP Pulse Arena Birmingham - DV960
Saturday 19th September - £179pp
Please call us on 01963 363 000 |
WIMBORNE Rotary Club is offering two local young people the chance to take part in a fun and free leadership weekend in the New Forest.
The event, open to young people aged 16 to 17 in July, is at Tile Barn Outdoor Activity Centre, Brockenhurst, from Friday to Sunday, July 10-12.
The course is designed and run by professionals who have experience of working with young people in a challenging environment.
The programme, offered through the Rotary Youth Leadership Award (RYLA) scheme, includes adventurous outdoor activities and indoor activities designed to improve presentation and communication skills.
Any young people interested should email Wimborne Rotary for an application form at youth@wimbornerotary.org or visit www.wimbornerotary.org/youth
Rotarian Neil Hutchinson, who is co-ordinating the opportunity, said: “This weekend offers participants an understanding of the values they can bring to a team, an opportunity to gain communication skills through a variety of practical exercises and learning of the real need for planning.
“But best of all there is no cost for the two young people as all costs will be met by Wimborne Rotary. I would encourage parents, teaching staff or eligible young people to apply early.”
Shaftesbury: 01747 851 476 Longmead Industrial Estate, Shaftesbury SP7 8PL
Warminster: 01985 219 200
George Street, Warminster BA12 8QA www.myhomemaker.co.uk
BIKERS coined in the cash for the Royal British Legion in the Mad March Hare charity motorcycle run across Dorset, Wiltshire and Somerset.
More than 200 participants on 170-plus motorcycles set off from the Haynes Motor Museum in Sparkford on the ride, which ended at Morgan Motorcycles in Yeovil.
The event raised £1,800 on the day, to help the British Legion support members of the armed forces community.
The biker raffle – featuring prizes provided by The ABR Festival, Litelok, Sports Bike Shop, Quadlock, Longleat Safari Park and West Coker Garage – was a highlight of the day.
In addition, the first 50 participants to book received goody bags sponsored by Sorrymate.com and packed with items from supporters, including the Motorcycle Action Group.
Organiser Mick Clark said: “This is the first time the Mad March Hare Run has been held and I am incredibly grateful to our hosts at Haynes and Morgan Motorcycles, as well as everyone who helped and participated in making this event a success.
“The Royal British Legion provides vital support to veterans and service families in need, and it is a real pleasure to support its work.”
Care South’s Community Fund donates £500 to Age UK North, South and West Dorset
Residential and care at home provider, Care South, has donated £500 to Age UK North, South and West Dorset.
The charity, which offers a variety of services for older people and their carers, supports the Memory Café event held at Fern Brook Lodge in Gillingham every Thursday morning from 10am to 12pm. The event is open to the local community and encourages people living with dementia and their loved ones to get together at the home to find mutual support and friendship.
Care South’s Community Fund donated £500 to Age UK North, South & West Dorset
Age UK North, South and West Dorset is another beneficiary of Care South’s Community Fund run by the not-for-profit care provider which gives back to community groups, services and organisations which directly benefit Care South’s care home residents, care at home clients or staff.
The Community Fund donation was presented to Becky Heath, Head of Community and Home Support at Age UK North, South and West Dorset by Simon Bird, CEO of Care South and Sara Maynard, Home Manager of Fern Brook Lodge.
Fern Brook Lodge, which is part of not-for-profit charity, Care South, provides residential, respite, and dementia care. A dedicated activities team organises a daily programme of events to bring residents together to socialise and build friendships.
Gillingham Showroom 01747 833 789 Unit 21, Kingsmead Business Park, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 5JG
Opening Hours Monday–Friday: 9am–5pm Saturdays by appointment only. Closed Sunday. www.solsticekitchens.co.uk
by Canon Eric Woods
TWO weeks before Easter Day, last Sunday, my newspaper carried this as its front-page headline: ‘I don’t always go to church but I do believe, says William.’ There followed a moving account of the Prince of Wales’s “quiet faith” and his commitment to the Church of England. It was suggested that he wanted to make his Christian commitment clear before attending the Enthronement on March 25 of Dame Sarah Mullally as Archbishop of Canterbury.
One of William’s aides put it like this: “The Prince of Wales’s commitment to the Church of England is sometimes quieter than people expect, and for that reason it is not always fully understood. Those who know him well recognise that his connection to the Church, and to the sense of duty that comes with it, runs deep and is grounded in something personal and sincere. Faith, service and responsibility are themes that have long shaped the role he will inherit, and they are things he approaches in his own thoughtful way.
“At a time when institutions can be seen simply through a social or cultural lens, he understands that the Church’s role goes beyond this. It is not only part of the nation’s heritage, but a living expression of faith, rooted in prayer, compassion and a belief in grace and redemption.”
That aide should be given a medal for putting so simply and succinctly the value of a quiet and thoughtful faith. All around us, religious demagogues shout loud and often inflammatory rhetoric to rouse their followers to oppose everything except their own
perverted versions of the truth – thereby fuelling political extremism, violence and war. It is time to use the words of Jesus when he ordered the storm: “Peace. Be still”.
I have always believed that bad religion is far, far worse than no religion – and there is an awful lot of bad religion around at the moment. In the same way, extremist political leaders use similar rhetoric – with or without religious language – to further their own hateful ends. That doughty old atheist Kingsley Martin (1897-1969) was right when he wrote: “When a great many very important people say something over and over again very solemnly, you can be pretty sure they are wrong. That is the moment to say that the emperor has no clothes. Ten to one you are right.”
Christians are currently celebrating Eastertide, and the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. It was a very quiet event, that resurrection, and it is best explored quietly, thoughtfully, prayerfully. As the Roman Catholic nun Sister Mary Agnes put it in one of her poems:
No human eye was by
To witness Christ arise,
But I this morning heard The Resurrection of the Word.
It sprang through night, opaque, A note so pure and clear, I felt my spirit wake –It flooded everywhere.
I know that it has been; There is a vision new. I see the universe Divinely bathed in dew.
FOLDE bookshop
kicked off its season of author events with the launch of Into My Arms by local author Estelle Phillips.
Set in Cranborne Chase, Into My Arms was inspired by a miracle involving Estelle’s dad, Derek, and a tree.
The story starts with Derek’s mother Jessie, who loved the trees in her orchard. Ben Goldsmith said of the book: “In order to save nature, we must reenchant it. Estelle Phillips does just this with Into My Arms. Her writing harks back to a time when nature hummed and thrummed with a vibrancy and a magic that we struggle to fathom these days…”
meeting with ghost hunters.
She performed two readings from the book, one of which involved her impersonating a tree.
Then it was over to the audience, who shared stories of personal connection with nature.
By way of thanks for the launch, Estelle gifted Folde an apple tree.
The evening ended with book signings.
Estelle’s launch was the first of 14 author events to be hosted by Shaftesbury’s awardwinning nature bookshop.
FRIENDS of Shaftesbury Swimming (FOSS) are delighted to announce that two pupils from Shaftesbury School have passed their lifeguard training.
Josh and Riley were the first recipients of lifeguard training scholarships funded by FOSS. They undertook a five-day intensive National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) training course at Oxley Pool in Sherborne. The training required them to perform rescue tests in the water, some of them timed, as well as learn about first aid and about how to act as a lifeguard around the pool.
Folde’s Amber Harrison opened the evening with an author interview. Estelle led guests from Jessie’s orchard at Chicklade to tumuli on chalk downs and a
Forthcoming events include Love, Loss and Landscape: An evening with Sophie Pierce and Fiona Robertson (April 22), Shaftesbury Cuckoo Day with Conor Mark Jameson (April 23) and The Tattooed Hills: An illustrated talk with Jon Woolcott (June 15).
More information about events can be found at www.foldedorset.com
Join
An NPLQ lifeguard is able to work all around the world. FOSS is looking to provide three scholarships for training in the late summer, if funds can be raised.
Shaftesbury Lido is currently open for cold-water swimming sessions. The heating will be turned on in May, with a full timetable for the summer season starting May half-term. Please visit www.shaftesbury-tc.gov.uk/ shaftesbury-lido for more information.
Dore & Rees Auctions on 23 April at Haynes Motor Museum for a special valuation event, raising funds to support the Museum’s charitable objectives.
Our team of experts, featuring many well-known faces from the BBC Antiques Roadshow, will be on hand to appraise your antiques,
Lee Young - Asian Art specialist & Owner of Dore & Rees
Marc Allum - Antiques specialist ranging pre-history to modern design
Duncan Campbell - Silver specialist
Richard Price - Clock and watches specialist
Nick Wells - Motoring and automobilia expert & Head of Dore & Rees Motoring
Alex Francis - Fine Jewellery
Haynes Motor Museum, Sparkford, Somerset, BA22 7LH
Thursday 23 April, 10am to 4pm
NO BOOKING NECESSARY FOR PORTABLE ITEMS | All kinds of antiques will be seen
For vehicle valuations, please contact Dore & Rees Motoring to book a space: +44 (0)1903 495090 enquiries@drmotoring.com
Discretionary donation to Haynes Motor Museum charity encouraged for items appraised
PUPILS at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Primary School in Wincanton have held a Big Lent Walk to raise money for charity.
They collected sponsorships and have raised £421 so far. Proceeds from the event will be split between CAFOD – the Catholic Agency for Overseas Development – and environmental projects, including the Floating Gardens of Bangladesh and the Marine Conservation Society.
The children walked laps around the school grounds, stopping at points along the way for encouragement and to learn about the causes they were supporting.
School headteachers Danuta Girton and Sheila Loftus said: “It was wonderful to see all the pupils taking part with such energy and enthusiasm. Not only did they raise money for important causes, they also
reflected on how they can make a positive difference in their community and the wider world.”
Helen Taylor, chief executive of the Dunstan Catholic Educational Trust, of which the school is part, said: “The Big Lent Walk is a great example of pupils putting Catholic values into action. They are learning about compassion, stewardship and supporting others, while working together and making a real difference. We are very proud of their effort and enthusiasm.”
AFTER a lifetime in the building industry, Gillingham man Ray Lee ventured into pastures new and has now self-published his first novel.
He started work on The Quire in 2023 and had it ready for publishing in early 2026 –and is now working on his second novel.
Ray spent 51 years working in the construction industry. He started writing children’s
stories and publishing them as podcasts when he retired.
He then joined Scribblers writing group, run by Tiggy Hayes, and started writing short stories for Alfred Radio in Shaftesbury.
He entered a writing competition organised by Dorset Police on fraud prevention and came third in his category.
This prompted him to record all the winning entries and
publish them as podcasts. These stories can be heard on the Dorset police website, My Safer Dorset.
SHAFTESBURY has launched its bid to become UK Town of Culture 2028, celebrating the town’s heritage, creativity and strong community spirit.
We’re excited to announce that Pauline from Fantasie will be joining us in store on Thursday 9th April 10-3 to offer FREE expert bra fitting advice. She’ll be showcasing a beautiful selection of Fantasie lingerie in sizes D–J cup, including pretty floral prints and essential everyday styles.
To make the day even more special, every Fantasie purchase comes with a complimentary raffle ticket for the chance to win a lingerie hamper, that includes a voucher for a free Fantasie bra.
Spring has arrived in-store too, with the latest collections from Cyberjammies and Cottonreal nightwear, plus the popular 3+1 Sloggi packs now back in stock.
We’d love to welcome you in store, or you can browse our full range online at: www.shirleyallum.co.uk
Warm regards, Shirley Allum and the team Date for your Diary: Thursday 9th April
Ray also plans to have a book of children’s stories published by the end of this year.
He lives in Gillingham with his wife, Karen. They have four children.
Details of his book and links to The Gillingham Podcast and My Safer Dorset fraud prevention stories can be found on his website – www. rayleeauthor.co.uk
The winning town in the UK will receive about £3 million to deliver a major cultural programme in 2028 and two finalist towns will also receive £250,000 each to develop elements of their cultural programmes.
A spokesperson for the bid said: “Shaftesbury is one of England’s most historic hilltop towns, known for the iconic Gold Hill and a heritage that stretches back centuries, but what really defines our culture is our community.”
Thur 9 April 10am-3pm
(subject to availability) Receive a raf fle ticket to win a lingerie hamper and Fantasie bra with every Fantasie purchase on the 9 April th
Prepare your taste buds for a fabulous foodie journey at the Shaftesbury Food Festival this May Bank Holiday weekend, when the historic hilltop town bursts with flavour, creativity, and community spirit.
The celebrations begin with A Feast for the Senses at Shaftesbury Arts Centre (from Wednesday 29th April), where seven local artists explore food through mixed media, setting the tone for a weekend where food meets art.
Festivities kick off on Friday 1st May with The Great Food Quiz at Sorelle in Motcombe, a lively evening of good food and friendly competition. On Saturday 2nd May, the Food Trail heads into the countryside, as a curated selection of local producers open their doors. From farm shops to vineyards, it’s a chance to meet the makers and experience Dorset flavours at source.
Sunday 3rd May brings the main event, as Shaftesbury’s streets fill with gourmet street food, artisan producers, craft drinks, and live entertainment. Families can enjoy the Festival Ingredients Hunt and the children’s food art exhibition at The Grosvenor Arms.
At the heart of the day is the iconic Cheese Race on Gold Hill. Heats start at 10am, with the final at 3pm. Runners and spectators are warmly invited to take part.
The festival is calling for traders, especially hot food vendors, to join one of Dorset’s most vibrant food events.
With free entry and activities for all ages, save the date, gather your friends, and come hungry!
Shaftesbury Food Festival … proudly local and deliciously global More info: https://www.shaftesbury-food-festival.co.uk/ ADVERTISING
by Dr Rebecca Hiscutt PhD
READY to reset your health? At Wincanton Health Centre, we see patients achieve dramatic results using one of two approaches. Which one suits you?
Created by Dr. Campbell Murdoch, this plan focuses on 10 specific daily actions designed to quickly reduce insulin resistance and inflammation.
Some of the initial changes people notice are reduced brain fog, less joint pain, reduced cravings and improved blood pressure. This plan works even for those with busy families, demanding jobs or those who travel frequently, provided you can devote time to weekly planning and stay flexible. If necessary, do speak with your healthcare professional before starting.
This is for you if you would prefer to take
small, achievable steps that can be tailored to your personal preference and needs. Start with just one action, or with several. We often see one change help reduce fatigue or lift mood. This makes it easier to add in the next habit, creating a domino effect.
Ticking off your new habit on your tracking sheet releases dopamine, which encourages your brain to repeat the behaviour.
Support at Wincanton and Beyond
Health journeys are individual. Some people thrive with clear information and being steered in the right direction; others benefit from regular check-ins.
Wincanton patients: Join our new, online Metabolic Health group support sessions – contact the surgery to sign up.
General public: Access the 28-Day Plan and tracking sheets at healthshelf.org Consider finding an ‘accountability buddy’ to check in with weekly.
Define your ‘Why’: What difference will better health make to you and your family? Prep your environment: Clear the cupboards and plan your first meals. Start now: You don’t need to wait for Monday. Pick one action and begin today. Track it: Print a tracking sheet and tick off your actions. Notice how your body feels each week.
Whether you take tiny steps or go “all in,” the only thing that matters is moving closer to your goals.
Last week, Prep Four spent a morning making fire. Not metaphorically, actually making fire, in a Viking longhouse, having already tried their hand at weaving on a loom and building a fence from freshly cut hazel rods. They came back to school buzzing. That’s a fairly ordinary week at Leweston Prep. We believe there’s a better way for children to learn. Not better in a grand, theoretical sense, just better in the sense that children who are curious, engaged and having fun tend to learn more, worry less, and grow into themselves more naturally. So we build learning around discovery. Half-termly topic projects blend subjects together. Fifty acres of Dorset countryside gets used every day, whatever the weather. There are specialist teachers from the start, small classes by design, and enough clubs and activities each week to keep even the most restless mind occupied.
What we don’t do is pressure children unnecessarily. Effort matters here just as much as results, probably more.
Visit Week is our chance to show rather than tell. You’ll come in on a normal teaching day, meet the children and staff, see the grounds, and get a real feel for whether Leweston might be right for your family. It usually takes about twenty minutes to work out if it is.
Book your place on our Prep Visit Week: www.leweston.co.uk or call 01963 210790.
Ten years ago, I joined Slimming World hoping to finally find something that worked for me. Within a year, I reached my target and lost three and a half stone. Before that, I had tried lots of different approaches, but nothing ever felt sustainable. Slimming World was different. What I love most is that it fits into my everyday life. Nothing is off limits – it’s just about making a few simple changes. I never feel restricted or like I’m missing out, which made it so much easier to stay on track and enjoy the journey The support and ideas you receive in group each week are incredible. Being surrounded by people who understand your goals and cheer you on makes such a difference. I’ve discovered so many delicious meals along the way too.
One of my favourite things is a curry night. Curries, rice and even pakoras can all be made using Free Foods, and they’re absolutely delicious. I also love putting together a snack plate with boiled eggs, fruit and chicken –simple, satisfying and perfect when you need something quick. Slimming World has given me so much confidence and a new relationship with food. That’s why I’m so excited to now be stepping into the role of Consultant. I’m really looking forward to supporting and encouraging others on their own journeys and helping them feel just as good as I do.
Blandford
Corn Exchange
Tuesday 7pm
Sarah 07880730481
Blandford Corn Exchange
Wednesday
Ten years ago, I joined Slimming World hoping to finally find something that worked for me. Within a year, I reached my target and lost three and a half stone.
THE village shop at Fontmell Magna, run by Duane and Tarnia Hills, is in the running for a prestigious award.
The shop has been shortlisted in the Best Village Shop and Post Office category in the south west region of the Countryside Alliance Awards.
Before that, I had tried lots of different approaches, but nothi sustainable. Slimming World was different. What I love most is that it fits into my everyday life. Nothing is off limits – it’s just about making a few simple changes. I never feel restricted or like I’m missi which made it so much easier to stay on track and enjoy the j The support and ideas you receive in group each week are incre Being surrounded by people who understand your goals and cheer on makes such a difference. I’ve discovered so many delicious me along the way too.
The shop has been in business over 150 years, but in 2022 villagers purchased the building’s freehold.
Duane and Tarnia bought the shop in 2023 and open it and a post office six days a week, Monday to Friday, 8.30am-5pm, and Saturday 8.30am-2pm.
They have increased the amount of stock sourced locally and now have 34 local suppliers including meat, bread, dairy and honey, plus 25 local crafters.
noticeboard and Amazon and DPD delivery.
They said: “We think our customers like our shop not just for its convenience but for its atmosphere, as we strive to make everyone feel welcome.
The shop also has a small seating area at the front where customers can enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and a slice of cake, a free book library, community
One of my favourite things is a curry night. Curries, rice and even pakoras can all be made using Free Foods, and they’re absolutely delicious. I also love putting together a snack plate with boiled eggs, fruit and chicken –simple, satisfying and perfect when you need something quick. Slimming World has given me so much confidence and a new relationship with food. That’s why I’m so excited to now be stepping into the role of Consultant. I’m really looking forward to supporting and encouraging others on their own journeys and helping them feel just as good as I do.
They added: “Being a south west finalist is a huge honour, and we are extremely excited and feeling very humble and thankful for all the wonderful nominations that got us this far.
Cast your vote for Fontmell’s village shop at https://shorturl. at/NyBKi before April 13.
Gillingham
Social Club, Hardings Lane
8.30am, 10am, 11.30am, 5.30pm, 7pm
Tracey
07776309982
Sally 07968979810
Gillingham
Tuesday 5.30pm, 7pm
Sherborne
Raleigh Hall, Digby Road
Youth & Community Centre
Tuesday 9.30am, 11am
Lorraine 07771013728
Blandford Methodist Church
Thursday 5.30pm, 7.30pm
Tracey 07776309982
Shaftesbury
Royal Chase Hotel
Thursday 7.30am, 9am, 10.30am
Lorraine 07771013728
Tuesday 5.30pm, 7pm
Sally 07973665167
Sherborne
Raleigh Hall, Digby Road
Wednesday 9.30am
Sally 07973665167
Sturminster Newton
The Exchange
Puddletown
Village Hall
Thursday 7pm
Julie 07871821928
Wincanton
Memorial Hall
Wednesday 5.30pm, 7pm
Hazel 07967591652
Monday 5.30pm, 7pm
Shaftesbury
Gail 07748643783
Royal Chase Hotel
Thursday 5.30pm, 7pm
Gail 07748643783
Julie 07871821928
Yeovil Park House, 44 The Park Friday 8am, 9.30am
Earlier this term, a group of Leweston students spent a morning at the Leonardo Helicopters facility exploring VR cockpit training systems, getting under the bonnet of Wildcat and Merlin helicopters, and learning about a prototype autonomous aircraft that most people haven’t heard of yet. The visit had never been offered to a school before. One student came away wondering whether she might one day work there. That’s the sort of thing that happens here fairly regularly.
Leweston Senior School and Sixth Form is genuinely hard to describe on paper, not because it’s complicated, but because what makes it special is mostly in the atmosphere. A personal approach, teachers who know your child as an individual, not a timetable entry. A Sixth Form where lessons feel more like conversations, and where university guidance is personal rather than templated. Students who are encouraged to be curious, take on responsibility, and
figure out what they actually want to do and what actually excites them.
The co-curricular programme is serious too: Pentathlon GB, six consecutive years as NSEA South West equestrian champions, Duke of Edinburgh, music, art, drama, are all part of life here.
Visit Week is the best way to understand it. You arrive on a normal day, walk around with someone who knows the school well, and see it as it actually is.
Book your Senior or Sixth Form Visit Week place: www.leweston.co.uk or call 01963 210691.
SHERBORNE Prep School welcomed more than 140 grandparents and family members to its Grandparents’ Day in a celebration of community, learning and connection across generations.
Guests spent the morning immersed in school life, joining their grandchildren in classrooms across a range of subjects.
The visit ended with an afternoon programme of performances, including drama, choral singing and readings.
Annie Gent, head of Sherborne Prep, said: “It was wonderful to see the children’s pride and delight as they showed their families around their school.
“My sincere thanks go to our dedicated staff team.”
Many homeowners are unaware that their property could be used to fund care costs later in life. A living trust may help protect your home and preserve your estate for your family. By placing your property into a trust, it can be ring-fenced, reducing exposure to care fees, creditor claims, or unexpected life events such as divorce. It can also help minimise inheritance tax, allowing more of your estate to pass to your loved ones.
Many homeowners are unaware that their property could be
to fund care costs later in life. A living trust may help protect your home and preserve your estate for your family. By placing your property into a trust, it can be ring-fenced, reducing exposure to care fees, creditor claims, or unexpected life events such as divorce. It can also help minimise inheritance tax, allowing more of your estate to pass to your loved ones.
Importantly, you remain in
Many homeowners are unaware that their property could be used to fund care costs later in life. A living trust may help protect your home and preserve your estate for your family. By placing your property into a trust, it can be ring-fenced, reducing exposure to care fees, creditor claims, or unexpected life events such as divorce. It can also help minimise inheritance tax, allowing more of your estate to pass to your loved ones.
Importantly, you remain in
Many homeowners are unaware that their property could be used to fund care costs later in life. A living trust may help protect your home and preserve your estate for your family. By placing your property into a trust, it can be ring-fenced, reducing exposure to care fees, creditor claims, or unexpected life events such as divorce. It can also help minimise inheritance tax, allowing more of your estate to pass to your loved ones. Importantly, you remain in
Importantly, you remain in control. As trustee, you continue managing your assets as normal, and if you move home, the trust continues.
control. As trustee, you continue managing your assets as normal, and if you move home, the trust continues.
control. As trustee, you continue managing your assets as normal, and if you move home, the trust continues.
control. As trustee, you continue managing your assets as normal, and if you move home, the trust continues.
Oakwood Wills offers free home no obligation consultation, providing clear, friendly advice tailored to your situation, so you can plan with confidence and peace of mind.
Oakwood Wills offers free home no obligation consultation, providing clear, friendly advice tailored to your situation, so you can plan with confidence and peace of mind.
Oakwood Wills offers free home no obligation consultation, providing clear, friendly advice tailored to your situation, so you can plan with confidence and peace of mind.
To contact Oakwood Wills please contact us on the details below.
Oakwood Wills offers free home no obligation consultation, providing clear, friendly advice tailored to your situation, so you can plan with confidence and peace of mind. To contact Oakwood Wills please contact us on the details below.
To contact Oakwood Wills please contact us on the details below.
To contact Oakwood Wills please contact us on the details below.
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info@oakwoodwills.co.uk
info@oakwoodwills.co.uk
Call us today on 07832 331594 info@oakwoodwills.co.uk
Blackmore Vale, April 10, 2026
• Anglican High Mass at Wimborne St Giles: First Sunday of each month at 11am.
• Blandford Methodist Church: Sundays – services at 10.45am. Thursdays – coffee and chat 10am-noon. Fridays –lunch club for over-55s from noon. Phone Joyce Wild on 07817 505543 to book. The church offers help to those in need – call church steward John Cornish on 07799 516735.
• Bell Street United Church, Shaftesbury: Sundays –services at 10.30am. Second Sunday of the month, All Age Service.
• Blandford Evangelical Church: Sunday – 10am Family Service. Monday Fellowship – weekly, 2.30pm3.30pm, term times only.
Tuesday – Footprints, activities playtime for pre-school children, 10am-11.30am and 1.15pm-2.45pm, term times only. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday – small groups meet at homes at 7.30pm. The church is in Albert Street. Phone 450689.
• Castleton, Sherborne, St Mary Magdalene (DT9 3SA): First, third and fourth Sundays, Sung Mattins; second and fifth Sundays, Holy Communion. All services are BCP at 11.15am.
• Chalbury Church: Fourth Sunday of the month, 10am Holy Communion.
• Cheap Street Church, Sherborne: Prayer time –9.45am Thursday; Thought for the Day – 10.30am Thursday. Sunday service at 10.30am. Monday Music second Monday of the month at 6.15pm with a bring and share supper.
Rendezvous Community Cuppa – third Monday each month, 10.30am-12.30pm.
• Digby Hall: The next meeting of the Mothers’ Union is on Friday, April 24, 10am for 10.30am start. Hester and Mark Greenstock will give an illustrated talk entitled Three Weeks in India.
• Hinton Martell: Second Sunday of the month, 10am Holy Communion.
• Horton Church: First Sunday of the month, 10am Holy
Communion.
• Horton & Chalbury Village Hall: Third Sunday of the month, 9am Breakfast Church.
• Kingston Lacy: Second Sunday of the month, 9.15am Holy Communion. Fourth Sunday of the month, 9.15am Family Service.
• Lufton Church: Prayer Book services every Sunday at 6pm. Sung Mass on the third Sunday. See www.lufton.co.uk for details.
• Our Lady of Lourdes & Saint Cecilia, Blandford: Sunday, 9am Holy Mass; Monday/Wednesday/Thursday/ Friday, 9.10am Morning Prayers, 9.30am Holy Mass; Tuesday, 6.10pm Evening Prayers, 6.30pm Holy Mass; Saturday, 9.30am Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament/ Confessions; 5.30pm Vigil Mass of Sunday.
• Our Lady’s, Marnhull: Sunday Mass, 9am and 6pm.
• Sacred Heart, Tisbury, and All Saints’ Wardour Catholic Parish: Sunday Mass – Sacred Heart, Tisbury, 9am, coffee after Mass; All Saints’ Wardour 10.30am.
• Shapwick: Third Sunday of the month, 9.15am Holy Communion.
• Shaftesbury Quakers (Society of Friends): Meets for one hour each Sunday from 10.30am at the Quaker Meeting House, Abbey Walk, Shaftesbury SP7 8BB.
• Sherborne Abbey: Monday to Saturday, 8.30am Morning Prayer; The Sepulchre Chapel. Mondays, 9am CW Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. Tuesday, noon CW Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. Wednesday, 10.30am Holy Communion with Homily; The Lady Chapel (alternates CW and BCP). Thursday, noon BCP Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. Friday, 9am Ecumenical Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. First Friday of the month, 9am Requiem Holy Communion; The Sepulchre Chapel. Third Friday of the month, 11am Remembering the Fallen. Saturday, 9am CW Holy
Communion; The Sepulchre Chapel.
• Sherborne Quakers: One hour of silent prayer or meditation every Sunday at 10.30am at Raleigh Hall, Digby Road DT9 3NL. Contact Nick Jackman at sherbornequakers@ gmail.com
• St Benedict’s, Gillingham: Sunday Mass, 11am.
• St Gregory’s, Marnhull: Sunday services 8am and 10am. Other services, visit www. stgregorysmarnhull.org.uk.
• St John’s Church, Enmore Green: Service every Sunday at 11.15am; parish communion the first Sunday of the month; prayer services every other Sunday.
• St Margaret’s, Margaret Marsh (Shaftesbury Benefice) SP7 0AZ: Alternating first Sundays Mattins and Holy Communion, 11.15am.
• St Mary’s, Motcombe: Evening worship (BCP) – every first Sunday 6pm; parish communion – every second and fourth Sunday 9.30am; evening worship – every third Sunday 6pm.
• St Mary’s, Sturminster Newton: First, third and fourth Sundays – 11am Holy Communion; second Sunday – 9.30am Morning Prayer; fifth Sunday – 11am Benefice Holy Communion; second and fourth Sundays – 6pm Evensong; Wednesdays – 10am Holy Communion.
• St Mary & St Bartholomew’s Church, Cranborne: Book of Common Prayer Evensong with the Benefice Choir, first Sunday of the month at 6pm.
• St Mary’s Church, Stalbridge: All Sunday Services start at 9.30am. Rector, Canon Richard – phone 01963 363367; email canonrick@ icloud.com
• St Nicholas, Durweston: Family Communion Service every first Sunday of the month 11am; Evening Service every third Sunday of the month 4pm.
• St Peter’s, Hinton St Mary: First, second and third Sundays, 9.30am Morning Prayer. Fourth Sunday, 9.30am Holy
Communion.
• St Thomas’, Lydlinch: Second Sunday, Holy Communion 11am; third Sunday, Evensong 6pm; fourth Sunday, Matins 11am.
• Stour Vale Benefice: Sunday, April 12 – 9.30am Parish Communion, St John the Baptist, Buckhorn Weston; 10.30am Morning Worship, St Michael & All Angels, Stour Provost; 11am Morning Worship, All Saints, Kington Magna; 6.30pm Parish Communion BCP, St Mary Magdalene’s, Fifehead Magdalen. Sunday, April 19 –8.45am Breakfast Church, Village Hall Buckhorn Weston; 10am Family Service, St Andrew’s, Todber; 10.30am Parish Communion, St Mary’s, West Stour; 6pm Evensong, Christ Church, East Stour.
• Sturminster Christian Fellowship: Service every Sunday at 10.45am.
• Two Rivers Benefice: Sunday, April 12: 9.30am – Communion at St Mary’s Church, Blandford St Mary; 11am – Family Service at St Mary’s Church, Tarrant Rushton; 11am –Morning Worship at All Saints Church, Langton Long. Sunday, April 19: 9.30am – Communion at St John the Baptist Church, Spetisbury; 9.30am – All Age worship at St Mary the Virgin Church, Charlton Marshall; 11am – Communion at All Saints Church, Tarrant Keynston; 11am – Morning Worship at All Saints Church, Langton Long. Coffee and cake (Spetisbury): 10am-11.30am, first and third Monday each month; coffee and cake (Blandford St Mary): 10am11.30am, April 23; Crafternoons: First Thursday of every month, 2pm-4pm (£3 including refreshments); coffee stop: Charlton Marshall Parish Centre, 10.30am-12.30pm, Tuesday to Friday.
• West Camel Independent Methodists: All Saints Church (BA22 7QB), Sundays, 6pm. The church extends a warm welcome to everyone. Contact Geoff.mead@yahoo.com or phone 01935 850838.
Place 1 to 9 once into every black-bordered 3x3 area as well as each of the 54 rows indicated by the coloured lines. Rows don’t
Across
7 Sailors occupying part of ship? That’s the heart of the matter (6)
8 Wife with journalist wearing short upper garment, a posh jacket (6)
9 Nimble pair in the Seychelles (4)
10 TV worker supporting crude reforms (8)
11 Enter tripe for translation close to poor linguistic aide (11)
14 Recognize as valid account with learning (11)
1 Answer about odds on Germany (7)
2 Dark home supported by Kentucky (4)
3 Mistake producing Czech beer? (4,2)
4 A big book about hotel in reception (2-4)
5 Pretext by writer to make polite request (6,2)
6 Means of guidance not right to get source milk? (5)
12 Two films about Cuba over time – and the rest (2,6)
13 Selfish sort obtained in site at work (7)
18 Track showing old racing driver depressed (4,4)
19 Strength, we’re told, in very small amount (4)
20 Place by Russian river of more than single character (6)
21 Most senior English lieutenant entertaining some French (6)
Killer Sudoku Pro Place numbers 1 to 9 once each into every row, column and bold-lined 3x3 box. No digit may be repeated in any dash-lined cage, and all the digits in any cage must add up to the value shown in that cage.
15 Fool to improvise on a jazz instrument (6)
16 Former British film director, one collecting awards? (6)
17 Being aware of having done wrong brings type of security, we hear (5)
19 Almost exemplary way of acting (4)
ACREMAN St Auctioneers & Valuers, Sherborne, has two sale dates this month.
On Thursday, April 23, it has Modern and 20th Century Art at 10am, and General Antiques & Collectables at 11.30am.
Jewellery, Silver & Watches follows on Friday, April 24, at 10am.
Viewing is on Wednesday, April 22, 10am-4pm.
The catalogue and bidding are available online through easyliveauction.com and thesaleroom.com
Acreman holds regular valuation days where prospective sellers can take in items for its specialists to evaluate.
Valuation days, 10am-3pm: Jewellery & Watches, Tuesday; Silver & Obje’t D’art, Tuesday; Toys & Collectables,
Wednesday; Oriental & Asian, Thursdays; Coins, Stamps, Books & Ephemera, Friday; Militaria, Friday; Textiles & Fashion, Monday; Paintings & Contemporary Art, Monday.
Anyone unable to go in on the allocated days can phone or email to make an appointment, and experts are also happy to make house visits if required free of charge.
Acreman Auctioneers & Valuers at 121 Acreman Street, Sherborne DT9 3PH is open Monday to Saturday 9am-4pm. It can take in everything from single items to complete collections.
Anyone who has anything they would like to consign can contact Gill Norman on 01935 508764 or 07908 333577 or by email at auction@acreman streetantiques.co.uk
A LOTUS Esprit Turbo, which had been stored in a west country barn for 30 years, staggered everyone when it sold for £20,000 in a recent Charterhouse auction of classic cars at Haynes Motor Museum.
“I have seen and sold many projects over the years, but this is perhaps one of the more unusual, as it was not only covered in lichen but a thick covering of moss,” said Richard Bromell, from the auction house.
The Esprit was estimated to sell for £10,000, but there was plenty of interest in it before the auction, although some were sceptical it would sell at all.
The Charterhouse specialist auction of classic and vintage totalled £425,000 from the 60 vehicles which went under the hammer.
This Lotus Esprit Turbo – pictured – rolled off the production line in 1982 and was bought by the owner in 1990. He undertook restoring the car, but by 1995 he drove it into a Dutch barn where it remained until being dragged out for the Charterhouse auction.
Charterhouse is now accepting further entries for its next specialist classic car auction at Haynes on June 4 and already has a collection of vintage Lagondas consigned.
Richard Bromell and the team at Charterhouse, The Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne, are available for vehicle valuations on 01935 812277 or via cars@charterhouse-auction. com
DUKE’S Auctioneers has a compelling pair of sister sales coming up – The Spring Auction and Modern Art, each presenting works from markedly different periods and styles.
The Spring Auction, on Wednesday, April 22, features paintings, furniture, textiles and silver, alongside a strong selection of Baroque oils.
Golgotha as Saint Veronica performs an act of compassion, wiping his face and miraculously imprinting his image upon her veil.
The scene, set against surrounding brutality, conveys quiet devotion and enduring faith.
A highlight is a work attributed to a follower of Maerten de Vos, Portrait of a Lady as St Veronica with Christ on the Road to Calvary –pictured.
This intimate composition depicts Christ, burdened by the cross, pausing on the road to
It is both a finely executed painting and a moving symbol of charity, and is estimated at £2,000-£4,000.
Modern Art follows on Thursday, April 23, with works by Paul Nash, George Spencer Watson, Ferdinand Joseph Gueldry and more.
The catalogue is now available to pre-order.
CLARKE’S Auctions in Gillingham is holding its next sale this weekend.
Following a successful sale of Formula One memorabilia in February, it is offering a single-owner collection of Ferrari ephemera, diecast toys, brochures, owners’ handbooks, service manuals and Ferrari year books – including an original Ferrari 275GTS/GTB Operating, Maintenance & Service Handbook, published in 1965 estimated to sell for £200-£300 – and a run of Cavallino The Official Ferrari Owners Club magazines estimated at £2,000-£3,000.
The sale also features a collection of antique weapons, including 19th century muzzleloading percussion sporting guns, a pepper box revolver, 19th century French muzzle-
loading double-barrelled percussion shotguns, air rifles, shotgun cases, powder flasks and gun accessories.
Gold and silver prices are still at an all-time high, so jewellery owners may want to sell items they no longer wear.
Clarke’s is inviting prospective sellers to make an appointment if they would like jewellery, silver or collectable items valued or to discuss selling at auction. Home visits can also be arranged.
To enquire about consignment to upcoming sales, probate or insurance valuations or full or part house clearances, phone Richard Clarke or Karen Marshall on 01747 685592 at the salerooms at The Old Glove Factory, Buckingham Road, Gillingham SP8 4QF.
Antiques & Collectibles Sale Friday 9th & Saturday 10th August
Antiques & Collectables Friday 10th & Saturday 11th April
Colour catalogue available at the-saleroom.com and easyliveauction.com
James Curnock (1812-1870)Gypsy Encampment with Figures Beside a Fireoil on canvas. Estimate £300-£500 AUCTION | 23 APRIL | 2026 MOUSSA DIOUF (1935-1982) ‘Feu
The Old Glove Factory, Buckingham Road Gillingham, SP8 4QF
An original Fry & Sons 'Fry's Pure Concentrated Cocoa' enamel sign. Sold for £1,600. Clarke’s Auctions o er free home visits and verbal valuations. Now accepting items for this and future sales e Old Glove Factory, Buckingham Road Gillingham, SP8 4QF 01747 685592 enquiries@clarkesauctions.co.uk
Units 1 & 2 Kingsettle Business Park, 01747 855109 enquiries@clarkesauctions.co.uk
01747 685592 enquiries@clarkesauctions.co.uk www.clarkesauctions.co.uk
HOLTS, the specialist gun auctioneer, is holding its latest valuation day for guns, militaria and related items.
The auction house’s successful winter auctions achieved a total hammer price in excess of £1.5 million.
Very interesting and often valuable guns are consigned at Dorset valuation days with the next one at the NFU Mutual,
The Creamery Station Road, Sturminster Newton, on Wednesday, April 22. To book an appointment or discuss a valuation or home visit, contact David Thurgood on 01297 306123 or by email at westcountry@holtsauctioneers. com
WANTED Classic Cars & Motorbikes
For private collection Call 07885 373113 or 01278 431244 Graham
and bric-a-brac. Call Jack: 07542 389447
STOURHEAD ANTIQUE & VINTAGE FAIRSaturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 10am - 5pm. Stourton Memorial Hall, Spread Eagle Courtyard BA12 6QE. 07720-896129
THE notion that this country can survive, let alone thrive on wind and solar energy is wishful thinking.
The concept of Energy Return on Energy Invested (ERoEI), as coined by Professor Charles Hall in 1977, is critical to understanding this issue.
The amount of energy generated by a coal-fired power station, for instance, is vastly more than the energy needed to get it up and running.
The resulting high net energy allows a modern, energy intensive society to thrive, see China.
By contrast, a solar panel deployed in the UK generates 10% at most of what it could produce in sunnier latitudes and only sometimes covers the cost of its production.
Attempting to gather solar energy through photovoltaic cells at our latitude is inefficient.
According to the World Bank we have very low potential for solar energy, only Ireland has less.
Wind turbines perform slightly better, but the main problem is that both wind and solar are intermittent and so we have to keep gas turbines running to make up the shortfall on calm days and at night.
The cost of the gas system has to be added to the solar and wind. Without gas, the lights will go out.
Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) on a national scale do not exist and may never be possible.
Simon Latham East Knoyle
to join an important briefing at the Digby Hall in Sherborne, alongside your MP, local journalists, councillors and other influential members of the community, and to take part in an open and informed conversation about the challenges ahead and how working together we can best address them.
A 45-minute film features key clips from last November’s National Emergency Briefing, held in Westminster Hall.
It brings together authoritative scientific insights from the event, alongside reactions from some of the 1,300 people who attended the briefing with some familiar faces.
By combining expert evidence with real human perspectives, the film helps audiences connect with the information on a more personal level.
While it presents the frank realities of the threats we face, the film also highlights the significant opportunities ahead if government takes genuine emergency action.
Many who attended the Westminster event shared that, although the facts are alarming, they left with a renewed sense of hope – inspired by confronting the challenge together and seeing a pathway towards a better future.
Please note, this film is suitable for audiences aged 16 and over.
The event is on Thursday, April 16, at 6pm – doors open 5.40pm.
charter, The City council with its partners are preparing to celebrate an extraordinary milestone next year: the 800th anniversary of its Charter Market, one of the oldest continuous markets in England. As the city marks eight centuries of trade, craftsmanship, and community life, this historic occasion promises not only to honour Salisbury’s past but to provide a timely opportunity for residents and businesses to come together in celebration.
Granted in the 13th century, the Charter Market has shaped Salisbury’s story from its earliest days. Markets were once the commercial heartbeat of medieval England, drawing people from surrounding villages to buy, sell, and socialise. Salisbury’s market quickly established the city as a regional centre of commerce and remains a vital part of local identity today.
The anniversary arrives at an important moment for the city. In recent years, Salisbury has worked hard to recover from events that affected public confidence and reduced visitor numbers, from Novichok to the Global pandemic, prompting a wider strategy focused on strengthening culture, perception, and growth. Large civic events have been central to this effort, successfully boosting footfall and encouraging people back into the city centre.
commercial scene and reinforce the city centre as a thriving destination.
Residents, too, have a central role to play. Community involvement has long been at the heart of Salisbury’s resilience, with local people consistently stepping forward to support the city through both celebration and challenge. The Charter Market anniversary offers an opportunity for civic pride to shine again—whether through volunteering, participating in activities, or simply turning out to enjoy the festivities and support local traders.
As Salisbury celebrates 800 years of its market tradition, the occasion serves as a reminder of the city’s enduring spirit. This is more than a historic anniversary; it is a moment to reflect, reconnect, and look confidently toward the future. The Charter Market has always been a place where Salisbury comes together—even during the Pandemic and this year, it will do so on a scale worthy of its remarkable history.
Councillor Jeremy Nettle Salisbury City Council
Canon Woods’ column a joy I ALWAYS look forward to reading Canon Eric Woods’ ‘Our Loose Canon’ articles each issue.
His thought-provoking, well written insights are always a good read.
Climate event at Digby
THE impacts of climate and nature breakdown are being felt in every constituency across the country – affecting our health, food systems, infrastructure, national security and economic stability.
The Sherborne Climate & Nature Action Group invite you
Places are free, with donations welcome but not necessary. Please email dands. batten@iclouds.com, the subject Sherborne PEB Event, to book your place(s).
Sally Batten Via email
800 years of Charter Market
IN 2027 Salisbury marks 800 years since receiving its royal
The 800th anniversary celebrations are expected to continue this positive momentum. For local businesses, the programme offers a unique platform. Past events have shown that increased visitor numbers translate directly into more activity for shops, cafés, and independent traders. With themed market days, extended trading opportunities, and potential partnerships with community groups, the anniversary presents a chance to showcase Salisbury’s vibrant
The March 27 piece on ‘The message of Holy Week’ is no exception.
Long may he continue… Leslie Pike Southampton SOMETHING
LAST week I was in Greenland with the Foreign Affairs Committee. We met the Prime Minister and the Minister for Civil Preparedness to discuss the threats made by President Trump, as well as the malign influence of Russia. While there, we also met climate scientists funded by the UK and took a trip to view retreating glaciers.
The existential threat posed by climate change is not just viewable in the Arctic, but also here in West Dorset. The increased frequency of extreme weather was made clear by the flooding we experienced earlier this year. Which is why on Thursday I convened a meeting with Dorset Council, the Environment Agency and Wessex Water to discuss what steps we are making and can take to increase resiliency locally. We cannot prevent all flooding, but we must do more to be prepared and to avoid catastrophic cost to homes and the local economy. The council has allocated significant additional funding and is currently consulting on where that money can be best
the weather, they are still on track to open in 2027.
spent to help residents.
Last week I also visited Dorset County Hospital (DCH) to view construction work on the new emergency department and critical care unit, and to get a progress update. DCH continues to provide an exemplary service to our community, and I am in awe of the hard work of staff there, despite the difficult condition of working alongside a building site.
Contractors and project managers assured me that despite some delays caused by
Parliament is currently in recess for Easter which provides me an opportunity to be in the constituency uninterrupted by the need to be in London for half the week. I’ve been taking the chance to meet some of our neighbourhood policing teams to discuss combatting shoplifting and anti-social behaviour.
As with so many of our public services, Dorset Police get a bad deal when it comes to central government funding. This is because the Treasury funding model does not recognise ‘rurality’. Our
constabulary has to police more than 1,000 square miles of countryside with about the same amount of money as a small city receives. It makes visible policing very hard to deliver, but neighbourhood policing is incredibly important. People want ‘Bobby’s on the beat’. We know that where the police have a visible presence on our high streets, shoplifting goes down. Where police regularly patrol hotspots, anti-social behaviour is less likely to occur. I will continue to lobby government for fairer funding for Dorset Police and the constabulary to prioritise the neighbourhood teams.
Lib
THE contribution of Pip Atkinson to women’s rugby in England has been recognised in Parliament.
Lib Dem MP for Glastonbury and Somerton Sarah Dyke tabled an Early Day Motion highlighting Pip’s roots in Butleigh and her time at Millfield School.
Pip subsequently went on to Loughborough University where she switched from modern pentathlon to rugby union.
She went on to represent England’s Red Roses at the 1999 Women’s Rugby World Cup in New Zealand and later coached the national women’s sevens team at the Hong Kong Sevens.
Pip also played for Great Britain in their first ever women’s rugby international against France in 1986, with the 40th anniversary of that landmark match set to be marked this month at
THE National Health Service plays probably the most important part in people’s lives. From the time of our births, through our life’s health needs and in our older years, the NHS is there. A healthcare scheme, free at the point of use, is a national treasure that we should all cherish. Is it perfect? Of course not. Is there room for improvement, reform and modernisation? Yes. It is, however, wrong to call it a National Health Service. It is, in fact, the English Health Service given that health is devolved to Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Perhaps more importantly, it is more of an ill-health service. Should the NHS be doing more to prevent ill health and life-limiting conditions? I believe it should and it can. And while I say an English Health Service, increasingly it is a Dorset Health Service as more and more services are commissioned locally to meet identified need.
From campaigning to save Westminster Memorial Hospital, working to get the former Jhoots pharmacy reopened, pressing Ministers for more NHS dentists, urging the Prime Minister to adopt a cross-party approach to solve the long-running saga of Adult Social Care, lobbying to retain North Dorset’s Adult Day Care Centres or engaging local
Richmond RFC.
Since retiring from elite sport, Pip has continued to give back to her local community, helping to establish a tag rugby club in Butleigh and encouraging young people, particularly girls, to get involved in the game.
Sarah Dyke MP said: “Pip Atkinson has made an extraordinary contribution to women’s rugby, both on and off the pitch.
“From representing her country at the highest level
health commissioners, I strain every sinew to ensure the best health provision and outcomes for my constituents. To help me in that work I have just launched my second North Dorset Constituents’ Health Survey. I want to hear from you about your health and social care experiences, how you serve your dental needs, your thoughts on the ambulance service, hospital waiting times and accessing GP appointments.
You can access my Health Survey via www.simonhoare. org.uk/campaigns/simon-hoaremps-health-survey If you would like a copy posted to you, please write to me at House of Commons, London SW1A 0AA or, if you would like it emailed, please contact me at simon.
to nurturing the next generation of players here in Somerset, her dedication is truly inspiring.
“This Early Day Motion is an opportunity to recognise not only her achievements in the sport, but also the lasting impact she has had in opening up rugby to more women and girls.
“I hope colleagues across the House will join me in celebrating Pip’s legacy and her continued work in our community.”
hoare.mp@parliament.uk Hard copies will be distributed at, for example, doctors’ surgeries and libraries, and a selected sample will be delivered door-to-door across North Dorset. All the information received will be treated in the strictest confidence and will only be used to help me secure a better deal for our local communities. If surveys aren’t your thing but you want to share your recent NHS, dentist, ambulance or Social Care experiences, please feel free to either write or email to the addresses above. This consultation exercise will run until the end of August.
I was so pleased to see a packed Pimperne Village Hall when we met to discuss recent flooding episodes and how they might be addressed for the future. Wessex Water, Dorset Council and the Environment Agency joined my expert panel to hear from local residents.
My next such meeting is for residents of Winterborne Whitechurch and Milborne St Andrew at the end of the month. If your community had flooding issues and would like me to arrange a similar meeting, please let me know.
Shaftesbury Youth Club does great work for the young people of the town. I was thrilled to be invited by Virginia Edwyn-Jones, the town mayor, to play quiz master at a fundraising evening at the end of March. A full Guildhall put their grey matter to work, and I hope participants enjoyed it as much as I did. I understand the final tally was £2,300 which will go to providing a summer day trip and a juice bar. If you are involved with a fundraising project and would like me to run a quiz for you – we do all the questions and answer packs – I would be delighted to do so. Just let me know.
PARLIAMENT will prorogue at the end of the month with a new session starting mid-May. That means government has used 18 months of its five-year term. At the end of this year, we’ll be halfway through. Clock’s ticking.
One of Sir Keir’s principal aims was to turbo-charge house building. In the heady days following the election his ministers spoke of a ‘decade of renewal,’ of bulldozing planning red tape, of 1.5 million new homes.
Locally, there is no demand for big executive-style houses – house builders are currently struggling to sell those they have. There is a need for so-called affordable homes or homes available for rent. Wiltshire’s housing list is full of young people starting out in modestly paid jobs. They are the direct victims of our perverse planning system.
There have been some tweaks to the planning system through the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, but I can’t
see how they will prevent one of the biggest problems –gaming by developers. The Government has also announced a new towns programme – the closest to us is more of a north Bristol suburb. But none of this has yet produced a house that was not already in the pipeline in 2024. Construction figures for the year to date are, on the Government’s own numbers, massively miss their target.
Locally, I’d like to see modest, affordable builds on rural exception sites, streetscale infill in market towns and repurposing of redundant industrial and commercial premises – no more massive Jubilee Gardens gobbling up what’s left of the countryside. How about community land trusts that keep homes affordable in perpetuity? What about a modern version of almshouses? Less ideology, more willingness to let local communities shape what is built and where – the antithesis of the Government’s Planning Bill.
No sign yet that Iran’s 400kg of enriched uranium has been put beyond use, or any indication that American bombers or ground troops can do so. If not, POTUS can hardly claim victory. As we shoulder the consequences of Mr Trump’s war, Epic Fury is fast becoming epic disaster. The President is surprised that NATO is reluctant to play tidy-upper to his bull in a china
shop. So much so that he’s suggesting America would not come to Britain’s aid if attacked – ‘just like you weren’t there for us’. A Commander-in-Chief who never served forgets all those union flag-draped coffins returning from his country’s two earlier misadventures. But we won’t.
Led by the UK – America’s allies answered the call post 9/11. It was the one and only time NATO’s Article 5 ‘all for one and one for all’ has been invoked. In his selective amnesia, the 47th President demeans the office and shames America.
After some wrangling, the meeting with the fire service minister I secured with the Prime Minister to discuss the threatened closure of eight fire stations across Wiltshire and Dorset, including Mere, has been confirmed for after Easter. If readers haven’t yet responded to the consultation, please do. The deadline is Friday, May 15.
RURAL communities are the backbone of areas like ours, and it is vital they feel safe and supported. That is why I recently hosted a Farming Forum focused on rural crime.
The discussion brought together farmers and a representative from Avon and Somerset Police to talk openly about the challenges being faced across Somerset.
Rural crime takes many forms, from theft of machinery and livestock to fly-tipping and wildlife offences. While national figures suggest a slight decrease in overall costs, the reality on the ground can feel very different.
At the forum, it was clear that many farmers have experienced crime first-hand, with some facing repeated incidents. This can have a
serious impact not just financially, but also on mental wellbeing.
We heard about some positive work being carried out locally, including successful police action that
has led to a reduction in certain types of theft. However, there was also recognition that rural policing remains under-resourced and that more needs to be done.
Technology and prevention were key themes, alongside the importance of strong communication between police and rural communities. Farmers were encouraged to make use of online reporting tools and crime prevention advice available through the police.
We also discussed wider issues such as livestock worrying and the challenges around trespassing, where current laws do not always provide sufficient protection.
At a national level, there has been some progress, including plans to introduce
better identification for farm equipment to reduce theft. However, these measures have been slow to materialise, and I will continue to press for action.
The Liberal Democrats are calling for stronger support for rural policing, including dedicated officers and better resources tailored to the needs of rural areas.
What was most valuable about the forum was the opportunity to hear directly from those affected. Their experiences are crucial in shaping the work I do in Parliament.
Our rural communities deserve to feel safe and supported. I will continue to work with farmers, police and local partners to help make that a reality.
THERE was no better way to celebrate British Formula 1 innovation and successes, International Women’s Day, Lent, Holi and Ramadan, than to spend a day with 50 engaged students at a Motorsport UK Race for Diversity STEM Immersive Workshop Day, attend the BCP and Arts for Survival Women’s Community Impact Awards, BCP/Indian Community Holi celebration, Co-op Party Community Iftar and give up chips, chocolate and wine for 40 days too?! I survived – just!!
I thank Evelkah Powell, the members of the Community Impact Awards Committee, Poonam Paranjpe and Hijari Pirani for including me in their work and passion for community service.
Candice JohnsonCole, on behalf of Dorset Labour
Evelkah welcomed me into her world at the Williams Atalassian HQ STEM Experience Centre in Oxford, to see her STEM initiative in action.
The teams were amazing. So proud of Table 10, who came out of the pits a little slow, but fought their way up to a fourth place finish! Well done to Table 1 who finished top of the podium!
Congratulations to the whole Learning Centre team – Kay Sellick, Georgina Phillips
CDLP, Abby R, Neve Gascoigne, Matt Jones and Jac Cowie, whose infectious enthusiasm, professionalism and F1 engineering and history knowledge was a sight to be beholden.
Very interesting to hear Jac’s insights into the world of Professional Formula 1 Gaming Racing – were you aware there was such a thing? – and experience the Simulator Rooms.
Being up close and personal with the new Williams Atalassian 2026/27 drive was crazy and just when I thought the day couldn’t get any better, I got to watch Matt Green – The Rapping Science Teacher –videoing his latest TikTok/ Instagram rap tutorial on Velocity and Speed to my all-time favourite tune!
Our Chancellor’s 2025 Spending Review contained an £86 billion investment boost for our fastest growing sectors,
from tech and life sciences, to advanced manufacturing and defence, and there is also a sharp focus on STEM provision in the schools’ Curriculum and Assessment Review, within the overall schools’ budget of £63.7 billion.
Our children need to fall in love with a combination of sciences and learning tech skills if we are to fill the jobs required for us to lead in a high-tech world. Science is not weird –Motorsport UK Race for Diversity STEM Workshops and Matt Green are making it cool again!
If only I had a science teacher like Matt, the Motorsport UK initiative, racing team pioneer Carol Glenn and Labour’s £86 billion investment in STEM when I was at school! I joked at Williams Atalassian HQ that if I had them in my day, I would have my own F1 team by now! To be honest, deep down, I believe that to be true!
OVER the Easter weekend, I was out across Glastonbury and Somerton speaking with residents, and one issue has arisen repeatedly. Many residents in the south east of the constituency are rightly concerned about the changes to Household Waste Recycling Centres in neighbouring Dorset and what this means for households here in Somerset.
Recycling centres such as Sherborne and Shaftesbury are the nearest and most practical option for those who live on the county border. Dorset Council has recently introduced a booking system at several centres and now Somerset residents will be charged a small fee to use them. Although full access remains in place, this new charge risks restricting the accessibility of the facilities many have relied on for years.
I understand why this is causing frustration. It does not
make sense for anyone to be forced to a longer round trip into Somerset to avoid a fee when a Dorset recycling centre is just down the road. That is not only inconvenient, it also leads to unnecessary journeys, increasing traffic, fuel costs and emissions. At a time when we should be encouraging responsible waste disposal, this
feels like a short-sighted step in the wrong direction.
There are also wider concerns about the potential unintended consequences. If people feel discouraged from using their nearest recycling centre, there is a risk illegal fly-tipping will increase. That would harm our countryside, place additional strain on already stretched council resources and undermine the efforts of those who do the right thing.
This is an issue I have worked on for many years. As former chair of the Somerset Waste Partnership and Somerset Council’s lead member for Environment and Climate Change, I have seen first hand how important it is to make recycling straightforward and available to all. When barriers are introduced, participation inevitably suffers.
I was disappointed that these changes appeared to be brought
forward without meaningful consultation with neighbouring communities. I have raised the matter directly with both Dorset and Somerset councils, and discussions are ongoing about how best to address the situation.
Alongside this, I have launched a parliamentary petition to ensure the voices of residents across Glastonbury and Somerton are heard loud and clear. I will continue to press for a fair and practical solution that reflects how people actually live their lives across county borders. At its heart, this is about common sense. People should be able to use the recycling centre that is closest to them without being penalised because of an arbitrary boundary. I will keep working to make sure that happens.
If you have an issue I can help with, please don’t hesitate to contact me at sarah.dyke.mp@ parliament.uk
DORCHESTER Drama is renowned for giving its audiences excellent value for money but it is really upping its game for its next production
– Some Canterbury Tales.
This time, the theatre group is staging six of Geoffrey Chaucer’s medieval tales with five directors, giving each story its own unique flavour.
One overall director, Colin Elphick, is in charge of making the plays cohesive, and Fran Samson is the producer.
Chaucer wrote 24 Canterbury Tales, told by different characters as they made a pilgrimage to Canterbury, as was customary at the time.
Colin said: “The stories we have chosen to tell – The Knight’s Tale, The Wife of Bath’s Tale, The Pardoner’s Tale, The Franklin’s Tale, The Nun
Priest’s Tale and The Miller’s Tale – explore issues of love, religion and death, still fundamental to this day of our human existence.”
These tales, adapted by Ken Pickering, also refuse to shy away from the lighter, bawdier side of life, so expect comedy bed romps, some fruity language, gambling, drinking and a – fake – bare bottom.
To give each story its own flavour, they are being directed by Colin Elphick, Jordan Wiseman, Ivana Dalton, Tilda Samson and Colin Davidson. Thomas Hardye School A-level student Tilda is the youngest director, jointly running the Nun’s Priest’s Tale with Jordan Wiseman. It’s the tale of a vain but highly-strung cockerel, his beautiful hen-wife
and a wily fox with plans for his next meal.
Tilda said: “As a first-time director, Some Canterbury Tales has opened my eyes to a whole new world in theatre.
“I have especially enjoyed working alongside more experienced professionals to reach a piece’s full potential. It’s going to be a really fun show!”
The costumes range from knights in armour to rough peasants and elegant damsels and have been brought together by a talented team led by Mel Austin. Her daughter, Teresa, and Dorchester Drama committee member Dee Thorne have also worked hard to make everyone look the part.
Dorchester Drama’s adaptation of Ken Pickering’s Some Canterbury Tales is at Broadmayne Village Hall on Friday and Saturday, April 17 (7.30pm) and 18 (2pm and 7.30pm). Tickets priced £10 are available from www. wegottickets.com/ DorchesterDrama
MPO Musical Theatre, based in Milborne Port, has won a major award in the annual David Beach competition, staged by Somerset Fellowship of Drama.
At a dinner in Weston-superMare, Neil Harrison-Shaw was announced winner of the award for technical achievement for his special effects – that included human levitation and a cello which played itself in last year’s production of The Witches of Eastwick musical.
The David Beach competition for musical theatre attracts entries from more than 80 amateur theatre companies.
MPO’s nominations were: Best Sound, Best Creative Lighting, Best Effects, Best Cameo, Best Supporting Female, Best Female in Leading Role – three nominations, Best Musical Direction.
MPO’s next show, Betty Blue Eyes, is at Milborne Port Village Hall until tomorrow (Saturday, April 11).
The show is about a humble
chiropodist in a small Yorkshire town and his social climbing wife who are miffed about not being invited to a private dinner to celebrate the marriage of Princess Elizabeth and Prince Phillip in 1947.
So, they steal the pig, Betty, which is being illegally reared for the table during the period of post-war rationing.
The show is small town life
in microcosm. Politics, snobbishness, jealousy, social climbing, a zealous meat inspector and the lovely Betty.
This is a warm, comedic, heartfelt, tuneful and nostalgic musical.
All the regular MPO performers are in the cast, including most of the nominees for awards for The Witches of Eastwick
Tickets are available from www.mpopera.co.uk
MEMBERS of Blandford Art Society are set to stage an exhibition at Pimperne Village Hall. They will be holding a preview evening with drinks on Friday, April 24, from 5pm-7pm, with the exhibition the next day from 10am-3pm, free entry.
For more information, visit www.blandford artsociety.weebly.com
LOCAL poets and writers are gathering at Stourpaine Village Hall tomorrow (Saturday, April 11) from 4.30pm to celebrate spring with an evening of poetry, talks, music, food and book signings.
Among the writers are
Alison Hitchcock reading from her book of Letters From Me To You; Gerald Killingworth reading from Under Druids Hill; and Jeremy Hilton reading from his Selected Poems: The Troubled Beautiful
There will be a word or two
on Marcel Proust, French food and readings from Lesley Burt, Rachael Clyne, Richard Foreman, Morag Kiziewicz and Catherine Simmonds, among others.
Tickets are £10 from www. tearsinthefence.com/pay-itforward
ST MARY the Virgin Church in Gillingham is the venue for a fundraising spring celebration concert.
The church is seeking to raise £100,000 to repair the roof and the musicians taking part are hoping to provide an evening of music to appeal to everyone.
Two of the four performers are well known to Gillingham audiences – soprano Maria Danishvar and mezzo-soprano
Arabella Heaton.
Joining them will be the bassoonist Christopher Vale, for many years a member of the Welsh National Opera Orchestra, and pianist Simon Twiselton.
Among the wide range of music, which progresses through the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries, are numbers from radio, film and television, folk song, musical theatre and opera, as well as
several instrumental works.
The latter will include a new work for bassoon and piano called Recitative, Aria and Finale by SK Twiselton, written for and dedicated to Christopher Vale.
The concert is on Saturday, April 25, at 7pm and tickets, priced £12, including drinks and nibbles, are available via phone on 01747 821598, at the parish office or on the door.
MUSICIAN Dean Carter will be marking St George’s Day and Shakespeare’s birthday when he plays ‘Bard for Life’ at Durberville’s Café in Sherborne. He will be playing a special set of material themed around the works of the Bard and Blake, Wordsworth and TS Eliot.
Songs and instrumentals from previous releases, plus several new and unreleased pieces, will also feature.
Dean Carter – pictured – will be performing on Thursday, April 23, at 7pm.
THE Songbirds are set to sing songs from the musicals at Milborne Port Village Hall.
The concert, presented by Blackmore Vale Lions Club, is in aid of Riding for the Disabled and The Rendezvous, Sherborne.
The concert is on Saturday, April 18, at 7pm, and tickets, priced £10, including a glass of wine, are available from Wayne Pullen butchers in Milborne Port, Daisy Delbridge florist in Sturminster Newton, William’s florist in Stalbridge, Becky Peckover-Mitchell on 07957 133317 and Peter Oswick on 01963 363281.
ORGANIST Stephen Binnington will be presenting a Concert of Organ Music for Spring and Easter at St Gregory’s Church, Marnhull, on Thursday, April 16, at noon.
Admission is free, although donations towards church funds would be appreciated. Light refreshments will be served following the concert.
Further details of all the church’s events are available from Gordon on 07817 379006 or from the church’s Music at St Greg’s Facebook page.
by Kim Pragnell
IN Iwerne Minster, panto time comes nearer to spring than Christmas. It’s a big money earner for the Village Club and always popular. This year was no exception and if you were looking for a bit of Greek theatre, a touch of Shakespeare and some post-modern silliness, then Mirror Mirror was the show for you.
Up to 48 people and a cast of willing volunteers crammed into Iwerne Minster Village Club to witness what can only be the event of the village year, so far.
In front of scenery created by Saskia Darell and Caroline O’Brien, with special effects and music by Phil Middleton, and written by Adrian Delso, the show sped along with all the charm and wit of centuries of
French theatre.
The show opened with the appearance of three characters – a male courtier, played by a woman (Monique Goodliffe), the Reverse Shakespeare effect, and the Brothers Grimm played with great authority by Deborah Jones and Basil Purdue – a kind of Greek chorus dressed in lederhosen and playing heavily on German stereotypes. Thereafter the Evil Queen – a superb performance from Pam Jelley – and a rapidly frustrated
ARTIST Matthew Dean, who paints in Dorset and Wiltshire, currently has an exhibition at Shaftesbury Arts Centre.
Draw in the Land runs until Tuesday, April 21, 10am-4pm. Matthew, who recently had a four-month exhibition at Salisbury Museum, is involved with Art Care at Odstock Hospital.
THE VINTAGE BAZAAR
Sat April 25th 9am-2pm at
The Cheese and Grain, Frome
THE PEOPLE’S EMERGENCY
BRIEFING, Screening & Discussion. Monday 27th April, Shaftesbury Town Hall. Book tickets: planetshaftesbury.org/ events. Tickets FREE. Donations on the Door.
LYN’s BINGO on April 13th Marnhull Royal British Legion. Sodom Lane (DT10 1HR). Eyes down 7pm.
Members of the cast of Mirror, Mirror
but honest Mirror (Simon Kidd) proceeded to amuse and enlighten.
A very scary and handsome huntsman (Nick Cooper) introduced more menace but turned out to have a good heart beneath his growly exterior. He was a contrast to the beautiful Snow White (Debs Kidd) – a nod to Disney perhaps?
The show went on to star the Miners – or Minors – standing in for the dwarves in the original. Andrew Osborne,
Penny Marsh, Trisha Neale, Helen Middleton and Mervyn Marsh entertained the audience with their quips and relentless Dig, Dig, Dig song.
The show was very nearly stolen by the bewigged Prince, who was definitely Disney! Lex McMillan played him with great panache and humour.
Backstage crew and director Jackie Eades all contributed to the success of the show.
If there is any critical comment, it was that there was too little audience participation, not enough in-jokes apart from mentioning the Talbot and a lack of the more traditional ‘behind you’ and ‘oh yes he is, oh no he isn’t’ pieces.
But these are minor – or miner?! – criticisms of what was a very entertaining evening.
COLLECTORS and shoppers will be flocking to the Vintage Bazaar at The Cheese and Grain in Frome later this month.
The event brings together some of the best dealers and collectors of French brocante, decorative antiques and vintage fashion/textiles.
The Vintage Bazaar is on Saturday, April 25, from 9am-2pm.
JUMBLE SALE, Saturday 2nd May, 2pm –4pm, North Cadbury Village Hall, BA22 7DP
JUMBLE SALE at Marnhull
Royal British Legion, Sodom Lane DT10 1HR on Saturday 11th April. Doors open at 10.15.
PET A PONY DAY@ GOATHILL FARM. Raising funds for Goathill Church. Raffle & Cakes. 13th April 10am-3pm. Adults £2. Children FREE. Cash Only (goats and lambs also on the day!)
SHAFTESBURY EMPORIUM, Friday 10th & Saturday 11th April, 9 - 4.30pm, Town Hall Shaftesbury, Lots of locally crafted & consumable items for sale. Free Entry, Supporting DSAA & Weldmar Hospice, Next events: 8th & 9th May
OKEFORD FITZPAINE VILLAGE HALL, Employment History Weekend, 18th & 19th April, 10am - 4pm
JUMBLE SALE -BUCKHORN WESTON HALL Saturday 25th April, 2.30pm.Cakes-Teas-Raffle
JUMBLE SALE Saturday 18th April 1-3pm. Hooper Hall, Lydlinch, DT10 2JA. Also homemade cakes in aid of Church/Hall 50p admission.
HANDMADE AT STOURHEAD, STOURTON MEMORIAL HALL, Stourhead BA12 6QE, Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th April 10-5. Gillingham Handmade host their Craft fair. There will be 17 stalls by local crafts people and artists. Free Entry
by Sally Gregson
THE bright stems of dogwoods kept gardeners happy and smiling throughout a miserable, wet winter. They deserve a little of our attention now it’s spring, as do the buddleias and hydrangeas.
The stems of the dogwoods, Cornus alba, are most strongly coloured when they are young plants, so gird the loins, take up the loppers and cut them right back, almost to the ground now, in spring. However, C. sanguinea Midwinter Fire and its brothers are a little different. They are a less vigorous species and only need to be cut back every alternate year. Or half the shrub one year, and the remaining growth the following spring. They do still need the incentive of pruning back to produce more young, colourful stems, but not quite as strongly.
Buddleias should also be cut
back similarly, down to a few shoots from the base. It does seem quite extreme, but pruning them well now, in spring, will encourage lots of new, strong flowering stems. And the flowers should be bigger, too.
Some – but not all –hydrangea species – H. arborescens ‘Annabelle’ and H. paniculata, and their sisters and brothers within the species, will flower on the growth made this summer. Most hydrangeas do not. Cutting back last year’s stems of these species will also promote lots more flowers, and bigger ones, too. Hydrangea paniculata and H. a. Annabelle and her sisters, would otherwise achieve over two metres in height if left unpruned.
In some great gardens the stems at the front are cut down, while those at the back are left to grow to their full height. This results in each plant flowering
from the ground up, all the way, to 2-3 metres in height. It’s a trick that could be employed to good effect, along a bed of H. paniculata, or H. a. Annabelle.
After cutting down the
by Sally Gregson
APRIL is the month to sow members of the marrow family, and that includes cucumbers. The flavour of a fresh, crisp cucumber is incomparable. It’s worth making a special sowing of what could otherwise be seen as a wasteful plant.
True, a single plant will keep a large family in crunchy, green cucumbers for an entire summer, but given the number of different ways of serving them, one plant might not be enough.
They are essentially tender plants, so it’s important to protect them from the frost. Seed sown now in April will
make plants just ready to be potted on by mid-May when, fingers crossed, we can be sure of frost-free nights. There are, of course, plenty of outdoor varieties to choose from, including lots of tiny forms just right to pickle as gherkins. And many greenhouse varieties boast plants that bear mostly male flowers only. Pollinated flowers produce bitter fruit, so it is important to remove any male flowers – that is those without an embryonic fruit behind the flower. Gherkins are different. They owe their unique flavour to their pollination, so keep both male and female flowers on gherkin
plants.
Sow cucumber seed into small, 5cm pots filled with potting compost and push down two cucumber seeds per pot. If both germinate, pull out the weaker one as soon as they have both produced their proper leaves. Pot each seedling on into increasingly larger pots filled to the brim and keep them well watered.
Water is an essential part of being a cucumber. If they are grown indoors, keep the level of humidity up by pouring a canful of water over the concrete floor at midday so the evaporation keeps the plants cool and deters red-spider mite and powdery
dogwoods, buddleias and hydrangeas, put a good dollop of well-rotted manure or garden compost around the roots and water them all well. They need that extra attention after such a
mildew. They are common problems with growing cucumbers, as are slugs and snails on outdoor varieties. And they are rich feeders, as the old would tell you – water mature plants in the greenhouse daily, and those outdoors fortnightly, or in hot weather, every 10 days. Pick them regularly and give them to your friends.
M & A J Landscaping ~ Fencing ~ Walling ~ Patios/Steps ~ Concreting/Tarmac ~ Tree work
~ Garden maintenance malcgin@hotmail.com 07399-521377
Tree Surgery. Reductions. Felling. Hedge Trimming. Stump Grinding. Woodchip supplies. Family run business since 1946 Tel: 01963 250005 Mobile: 07976 934 252
Tree Surgery. Reductions. Felling. Hedge Trimming. Stump Grinding. Woodchip supplies.
Family run business since 1946 Tel: 01963 250005 Mobile: 07976 934 252
522361
LANGTON NURSERIES (C W Abbott & Son) Basket and Bedding Plants, Geraniums and Dahlia Tubers. Vegetable and Tomato Plants, and Seed Potatoes now available. Fruit Trees and Ornamental Trees, Perennials & Shrubs, Terracotta pots, Wild Bird food 20kg £14.50, Stockists of Kings, Franchi and Fothergill Budget Seeds, Potting Compost. Open daily 10am– 3 pm. Langton Long Blandford Forum Dorset DT11 9HR. Telephone 01258-452513.
PRECISION FENCING & GATES
• Installation • Repair • Maintenance
Feel free to give us a call on 07355-295534 or email at Precision-fencing@hotmail.com
ASBESTOS REMOVAL
Garages, Sheds, Lean to’s, Roofing and Cladding Collection and Dismantling BY Registered Hazardous Waste Carrier Call 07973 444620
JAMES AYRES TREE CARE
Specialist Tree Workers
All kinds of trees expertly felled, topped and pruned. Hedge cutting. All rubbish cleared. Licensed waste carrier. Fully insured. Tel: 01747 850129 Mob: 07951 284639
HUSSEY CARPET AND FLOORING, South Street, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 4AP Domestic and Commercial Carpets,Vinyl,Luxury Vinyl Tiles, Laminate and Wood Flooring. Contact Chris Hussey 07885-273470 husseyflooring@gmail.com
R US Tipper Load £200 Half Tipper Load £100
hardwood 07790 404593 01258 818081
SEASONED HARDWOOD for
VALE LOG SPLITTING - Your local mobile service07760 469411 Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.
Barn-stored Any size of load. If you want anymore help contact Andy 07773-254174 SEASONED HARDWOOD
FOR SALEMoisture Tested - Various Quantity AvailableContact: 07765-930317
WALK BEHIND FLAIL MOWER and operator hire, neglected area clearance 07432 773151
WELL ROTTED HORSE MANURE
£60.00 a transit load. Contact Roger on 07885 826396 or 01202 826502
WALLING AND LANDSCAPING www.yenstonewalling.co.uk 01963 371123 / 07751 278363
HEDGE CUTTING AND LAWN MOWING SERVICES, ShaftesburyBlandford & local villages. Please call Trevor 07970-012130
Supplied/Erected Alloy TenColours
Spares-Repairs-Glass Chris Abrams 01258-452632
R US DORSET Hedges, Patios, Turf & Fencing call Peter 07976-667130
A £2.5 MILLION off-grid home near Shaftesbury is the latest prize on offer from Raffle House.
The three-year-old property spans 4,777sq ft and is entirely self-sufficient, with all its energy needs met by a 25kW solar panel system supported by batteries and an air-source heat pump.
The set up delivers minimal running costs and an EPC rating of A, with a back-up generator in place for periods of poor weather.
Despite its secluded setting, the house is connected to fibre broadband.
Set within more than 7.5 acres of land, the home is surrounded by landscaped gardens that blend into wild Dorset parkland.
Views stretch across the countryside to Hambledon Hill, an Iron Age hillfort, with wildlife such as barn owls, deer and hares more common sights
than people.
Architecturally, the property blends Georgian influences with modern detailing, using locally sourced Marnhull stone, timber cladding, and a mix of sash and Crittall-style windows.
Although peaceful and secluded, the house is within easy reach of Shaftesbury, Blandford and Gillingham.
The Dorset Dream Home is offered as a prize through a raffle with the draw closing at midnight on April 30.
The winner will receive the fully furnished property, with stamp duty and legal fees covered, or can opt for a cash alternative.
For more information, visit www.rafflehouse.com
Limited
Fully Insured, Free Survey
Failed Double Glazed Units
UPVC Windows and Doors
Shower Screens, Balustrades
T: 01747 631899 / 07708 180306
e: shaftesburyglass@gmail.com
w: www.shaftesburyglass.co.uk
Mobile:
BAILEY & SUN LTD.
Groundwork, man and machine hire. Footings, ditchings, driveways, new build, drainage, extensions plus lots more. Call for a quote. 07546-762236. sun@baileyandsun.co.uk.
•General
•Extensions/Renovations
•Loft conversions
•Oak
•Groundwork/Landscaping
•All
ALL IRONWORK. Handrails.Gates. Railings. Repairs. Restoration. 01258 880301
G ROSE PLASTERING. For all your Plastering needs Experienced and reliable Phone Gavin 07766-243762
L
& vacuum. APICS registered 01963 370038
Accredited installers of Wood burning & Multi fuel stoves, Chimney liners, twin wall flues, fireplace conversions, replacement hearths, chimney restoration & rebuilding, dealing with water ingress, cowlings, bird guards. Fully Insured, long term established. 01749 677440 – 07921074602- solidfuel3@aol.com www.solidfuelinstallationsltd.co.uk
registered woodburner and flue installer. Birdguards and cowls 07932 655267
/ 01747 590799
NVQ Qualified, APICS Registered Friendly, Reliable Service longthorpeindustries@gmail.com
DEREK ETHERINGTON BSc(Hons). PC/Mac, Repairs, Networks, Websites, Tuition. Free local callout. 07855-287150 01963-362403 www.dcenet.co.uk
PAUL WEST
DECORATING SERVICES and wall-paper specialist. Also handyman. 35years experience. Free quotes. 07773-459168. paul.west945@gmail.com
• Friendly, patient, and knowledgeable help
• Keep in touch with family, friends and colleagues for free over the Internet
• Sell online easily, quickly and reliably
• Buying advice, setup and installation
I’m Phil Hudson, your local tech expert and trouble-shooter. I’ll come to you and sort things out, at a time that suits you. Or you can drop off your machine at my workshop for quick, efficient care and maintenance.
M & M Painting & Decorating. 30 years experience. Fully insured, clean & tidy. References available. FREE no obligation quote. Tel: 07921-783296 / 01305-849380
GARETH TANNER
G.O.T. DECORATING City and Guilds qualified Interior/exterior Decorating Free Quotes no VAT Tel 07736644452 go. tanner93@gmail.com
NEIL PIERCY
PLASTERING ALL TYPES OF PLASTERING, FLOOR SCREEDING & RENDERING. WINCANTON & 20 MILE RADIUS. HELPFUL ADVICE & FREE QUOTATIONS CALL NEIL: 07974-185923 or 07811-211586
COUNTRY CARPENTRY
Doors, repairs, general maintenance etc Call Nick on 07887 358570
T:
E: richbartlettflooring@outlook.com
Quotes
458849 / 07788 907343
/ check a trade
Yeovil based reasonably priced. For a no obligation quote call: 07985160422 stctreeservices.co.uk
Doors: Composite
Sliding sash
01258 488500 www.totalwindowrepairs.co.uk
Oil Tank Health Check for
Many homes across the Blackmore Vale rely on oil heating, yet the condition of the oil tank itself is often overlooked until a problem occurs. Local heating specialists Total Energy Services are encouraging homeowners to check their tanks before issues arise by offering free oil tank health checks for properties across the area.
Oil tanks are typically installed outdoors and can remain in place for decades with little attention. Over time, however, plastic tanks can become brittle and older steel tanks may corrode, particularly when exposed to the elements.
If a tank develops a crack or leak, heating oil can contaminate surrounding soil and drains, sometimes leading to significant clean-up costs. In some cases, environmental damage can also occur if oil reaches nearby watercourses.
“Many of the tanks we see during installations or servicing visits are over 20 years old,” explains the team at Total Energy Services. “Homeowners often assume everything is fine, but tanks can weaken gradually. A simple inspection can provide peace of mind and help prevent unexpected problems.”
The free oil tank health check includes a visual inspection of the tank and its installation to assess overall condition and ensure it meets current safety recommendations.
During the visit, engineers will check:
• The age and condition of the tank • Signs of cracking, bulging or corrosion
• The stability of the tank base • Oil pipework and filters
• Whether the installation follows current safety guidelines
Following the inspection, homeowners will receive clear guidance on whether their tank is in good condition, should be monitored in the coming years, or may benefit from replacement.
Based locally in Blandford, Total Energy Services Ltd is a family-run heating and plumbing company serving homes across Dorset, Wiltshire, Somerset and Hampshire.
To arrange your free oil tank health check please call 01258 472132 or email info@totalenergy.co.uk | www.totalenergy.co.uk
based company in Stalbridge with 25 years
All your window and door needs undertaken, from repairs to replacement. Contact Terry on 07514224712 or find me on Facebook and WhatsApp.
You were one of a kind and our time together was the happiest of my life. Love and miss you, always and forever xx
has 83 extra wide spaces, and “Pay on Exit” and with cheaper rates than the old car park. Only £4.90 weekday all day. £3.90 Sat/Sun all day. 30 minutes free.
LILIAN ROSE TOWLER Deceased
Pursuant to the Trustee Act 1925 anyone with a claim against or an interest in the Estate of the deceased, late of 38-40 White Cliff Mill Street, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 7BQ, who died on 02/05/2025, must send written details to the address below by 11/06/2026, after which the Estate will be distributed with regard only to claims and interests notified Blanchards Bailey LLP, Bunbury House, Stour Park, Blandford Forum, DT11 9LQ Ref: HST/TOW0080/0004
Date: Wednesday 15th April 2026 at 7.30pm Venue: Gillingham Town Hall, School Road, Gillingham SP8 4QR
Have your say in the future of Gillingham!
The Annual Town Assembly is your opportunity to:
• Hear updates from Gillingham Town Council on key projects and future plans.
• Find out what’s happening from several local organisations and community groups.
• Ask questions and share your views on local issues
This is your town, your voice—come along, get involved, and help shape Gillingham’s future!
www.gillinghamdorset-tc.gov.uk
T&L Hiscock Ltd of Church View Farm, The Borough, Holwell DT95LB is applying for a licence to use Church View Farm, The Borough, Holwell DT95LB as an operating centre for 1 goods vehicles and 2 trailers. Owners or occupiers of land (including buildings) near the operating centre(s) who believe that their use or enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner at Jubilee House, Croydon Street, Bristol BS50GB, stating their reasons, within 21 days of this notice. Representors must at the same time send a copy of their representations to the applicant at the address given at the top of this notice. A Guide to Making Representations is available at http://www.gov.uk/object-hgv-operator-licence.
Crossroads Pet Supplies Ltd, Manor Farm Buildings, Poyntingon, Dorset, DT9 4LF is applying to change an existing licence as follows. To keep an extra 2 goods vehicles and 2 trailers at the operating centre at Manor Farm Buildings Poyntington, Dorset, DT9 4LF. Owners or occupiers of land (including buildings) near the operating centres who believe that their use or enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner at Quarry House, Quarry Hill, Leeds, LS2 7UE stating their reasons, within 21 days of this notice.
Representors must at the same time send a copy of their representations to the applicant at the address given at the top of this notice. A Guide to Making Representations is available at: www.gov.uk/government/publications/a-guide-to-making representations-objections-and-complaints-goods-vehicle operator-licensing
Notice is hereby given that Benjamin Drane has applied on 31/03/2026 in respect of 38 Gunville Gardens, Milborne Port, DT9 5FF for a Premises Licence under the Licensing Act 2003 to allow for the sale of alcohol off the premises, Monday to Sunday 08:00am – 23:00pm. Representations to this application must be made in writing by 28/04/2026 to licensing.south@somerset.gov.uk or posted to Somerset Council, Licensing Department, The Council Offices, Brympton Way Yeovil, BA20 2HT. A copy of the application for the grant of the above licence is available at: https://www.somerset.gov.uk/business-economy-and licences/licensing/recent-licence-applications It is an offence liable on summary conviction to a maximum fine of £5,000 to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with this application.
Andrew Mills Trading as: Hunts Hill Contracting Services Ltd of 1 Copse Corner, Stour Row, Shaftesbury, Dorset, SP7 0QL is applying for a licence to use Wellcommon Yard, Todber, Sturminster Newton, DT10 1JB as an operating centre for 2 goods vehicles and 2 trailers. Owners or occupiers of land (including buildings) near the operating centres who believe that their use or enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner at Quarry House, Quarry Hill, Leeds, LS2 7UE stating their reasons, within 21 days of this notice.
Representors must at the same time send a copy of their representations to the applicant at the address given at the top of this notice. A Guide to Making Representations is available at: www.gov.uk/government/publications/a-guide-to-making representations-objections-and-complaints-goods-vehicle operator-licensing
Roger Mills Trading as: RC Mills Low Loader of 1 Copse Corner, Stour Row, Shaftesbury, Dorset, SP7 0QL is applying for a licence to use Wellcommon Yard, Todber, Sturminster Newton, DT10 1JB as an operating centre for 1 goods vehicles and 1 trailers. Owners or occupiers of land (including buildings) near the operating centres who believe that their use or enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner at Quarry House, Quarry Hill, Leeds, LS2 7UE stating their reasons, within 21 days of this notice. Representors must at the same time send a copy of their representations to the applicant at the address given at the top of this notice. A Guide to Making Representations is available at: www.gov.uk/government/publications/a-guide-to-making representations-objections-and-complaints-goods-vehicle operator-licensing
A long time resident of Shaftesbury, died peacefully at Newstone House Care Home, in Sturminster Newton, March 15, the Ides, a date reflecting his love of the classics. His son and three daughters, five grandchildren, his wife, Barbara and her family will miss his storytelling, languages, knowledge of history and love of travel. Private cremation. A Service of Thanksgiving date, will be announced in due course
Sidney George - ‘Sid’
Peacefully at home in Haydon, on 7th March 2026, aged 85 years. Much loved Husband of Gloria. Dearly loved Dad, Grandad, Great Grandad and Brother. Funeral service at Yeovil Crematorium on Thursday, 16th April at 11.20am. Family flowers only please. Donations if desired, in memory of Sid for Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance Trust can be made online at peterjacksonfuneralservices.co.uk
Passed away on 18th March 2026 aged 85 years. Dearly loved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He will be greatly missed by all. A celebration of Bill’s life will take place at All Saints Church, Langton Long, Blandford Forum on Thursday 16 April 2026 at 11am. Family flowers only please. Donations are invited in aid of Weldmar Hospicecare, Dorchester. These may be left after the service or sent c/o Colin J Close Funeral Services, Peel Close, Blandford Forum, Dorset. DT11 7JU 01258 453133 info@close-funeral.co.uk
Haynes, Doreen Cordelia, passed away peacefully on 3rd March, age 96, at her care home in London, near her daughter. Kind wishes to those who may remember her and thanks to the NHS staff and carers who supported her before her move to London. If anyone would like to make a donation in her memory, my mother supported the Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance.
Peacefully at Dorset County Hospital on 15th March 2026
Widow of the late Dennis Amey (Sparrow ) of Amey’s Garage Blandford. Loving mother of Steve & Nick grandmother to Bethan & Patrick.
Funeral service at Harbour View , Rowlands Hill , Lytchett Minster, Dorset BH16 6AN. Saturday 11th April at 2pm
Family flowers only, Donations for purchase of a memorial seat ,to be placed in the Woodhouse Gardens, Blandford Enquiries, Tapper Funeral Service. 01202 630111
Willis)
Peacefully on 24th March 2026 in Gloucester Royal Hospital, aged 86 years, formerly of Henstridge and Sherborne. Dearly loved Mother, Grandmother and Sister. Funeral service date to be arranged. All enquiries to Peter Jackson Funeral Services. Tel: 01963 362570. peterjacksonfuneralservices.co.uk
Peacefully at The Cedars Nursing Home on 19th March 2026. Mavis aged 78 years of Stalbridge. Much loved by all her family. Funeral service at Yeovil Crematorium on Thursday 23rd April at 12noon. Family flowers only please, donations if desired for The Donkey Sanctuary.
C/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, The Old Reading Room, Henstridge, Somerset, BA8 0PP
Peacefully passed away on the 13th March 2026 aged 93 years. Much Loved Mum and Gran. Funeral Service to be held at Salisbury Crematorium on the 16th April 2026 at 2.00pm and will be live streamed. The service will be followed by a celebration of Doreen’s life at The Half Moon Shaftesbury at approx 3.30pm. Doreen’s family welcome you to attend either or both. Family flowers only, donations welcomed in Doreen’s memory to the Gillingham Imperial Silver Band
Passed away peacefully at home in Sherborne on Tuesday 10th March aged 91 years. Formerly of Trent and Henstridge Airfield. Beloved Wife of the late Tony and much loved Mother and Grandmother. Funeral service takes place at St Andrews Church, Trent on Friday 17th April at 2pm. Donations are invited in aid of The Rendezvous, Sherborne Golf Club’s Charity of the Year, these can be left after the service or sent c/o Harold F Miles Funeral Directors, Folly Lane, South Cadbury BA22 7ES. www.haroldfmiles.co.uk
Passed away peacefully in Salisbury District Hospital on 29th March 2026, after a long illness, aged 84 years. Of Shaftesbury. Much loved Wife to David, Mum to Michael, Sister to Richard and Margaret and a loving Gran and Great Gran. She will be sadly missed by all her family and friends. Funeral service to take place at Salisbury Crematorium on Thursday 16th April at 1.00pm. No flowers please but donations in her memory for RSPCA may be made online at www.mhfd.co.uk or sent to Merefield & Henstridge F/D, Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 0BU. Tel: 01747 853532
Peacefully passed away at home on the 29th March, aged 87. Graham’s family would like to welcome you all to the Funeral Service to be held at: Yeovil Crematorium, on the Wednesday 29th April at 2pm. Bunford Lane, Yeovil, Somerset. BA20 2EJ. Tel Number, 01935 476718 Then join the family & other friends for a drinks and buffet in celebration of his life at the: Royal British Legion, Sodom Lane, Marnhull, Sturminster Newton, Dorset. DT10 1HR after the service. Donations welcomed in Grahams name to Cohen’s Box/ Southampton Neo Natal Unit at Princess Anne Hospital. Cohensbox.co.uk No flowers please. Funeral being held by Bracher Brothers Funeral Directors, Gillingham. 01747 822494
all-inclusive price covers the collection of the deceased person through to an unattended cremation at Harbour View Crematorium, with the reassurance that personalised options are available to suit your specific needs.
• Unattended
• Unattended funerals starting from £995
•
• Tailored and unique Attended Funerals
• Prepaid
• Prepaid funeral plans also available
•
• Local knowledge and expertise with a reputation for quality that is second to none
• Reassurance
your loved one will be looked after with utmost care and professionalism
• Reassurance that your loved one will be looked after with utmost care and professionalism
When your family suffers the loss of a loved one, we are here to support, guide and reassure youevery step of the way
Please call Teresa or Daniel for an appointment
100 Lenthay Road, Sherborne DT9 6AG
Email: info@wsbrister.com 01935 812647
Woodside Court, Woodside Dairy Yard, Sparkford BA22 7LH
Email: info@wsbrister.com 01963 850165
www.wsbrister.com
Available 24 hours a day. Find us at: dignityfunerals.co.uk/local HELPING YOU EVERY STEP
BROTHERS FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Newbury, Gillingham SP8 4QL Tel: 01747 822494 Newell,
Newbury, Gillingham SP8 4QL Tel: 01747 822494 Newell, Sherborne DT9 4EZ Tel: 01935 813479
Available 24 hours a day. Find us at: dignityfunerals.co.uk/local
COMING up with affordable inspiration over the holiday season can be challenging.
That can be especially the case for parents of children having play dates, or perhaps catering for youngsters of different ages, but this pesto chicken and pancetta pasta is a one-stop wonder.
It can be adapted for vegetarians, those who don’t eat pork – leave out the pancetta – and protein fans – go heavy on the bite-size diced chicken pieces.
Depending on numbers but based on four people:
1kg bag pasta of choice
2 chicken breasts or four
thighs – fork and shred once roasted off
Half a jar of pesto or make your own – simply blitz pine kernels, garlic, grated Parmesan, basil – the latter can be swapped for wild garlic now sprouting around the shady damp banks of rivers or similar – olive oil to taste and season.
Slice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and pan fry or roast the chicken thighs and shred the meat with a fork before stirring in a generous tablespoon of pesto.
In a high-sided frying pan, add sliced streaky bacon or diced pancetta to the golden chicken and pesto, and add a
good lump of butter to finish.
Cook the pasta in a roomy, high-sided saucepan covered with at least one inch of salted water, and when ready drain it and add it to the pan-fried ingredients.
Whack up the heat and combine all the ingredients, adding a good drizzle of quality olive oil. Season with a large high-pinch of Maldon salt and grind over black pepper.
Serve in pasta bowls or on plates and give each bowl a
good grating of Parmesan to finish, and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
*Remember to always wash the chopping board and any knife used to cut raw chicken immediately so there can be no mistake about crosscontamination.
n Annie Austin, Director/Host & Concierge, Somerset Roadtrip. Email: annie@ anniedesforges.co.uk; website: www. anniedesforges.co.uk; phone: 07834 487381. A tasty and filling treat for the younger members of the family – and the adults, too
We are delighted that our renovation and expansion project has been well received by customers as have our food and beverage offerings. After a very long search, we now have a fully staffed kitchen and offer our full lunch and dinner menu every day from Tuesday lunch until Sunday lunch. We are closed after lunch on Sunday and all day Monday. We offer a wide range of beers, cider, wines and spirits as well as a range of non-alcoholic options.
THULE OUTWAY
SPRITE ALPINE 2 berth lightweight towing caravan. Fully fitted kitchen and separate shower etc. Lots of extras. All in immaculate condition. £5,950. Tel 01258-473156.
WEIHRAUCH AIR RIFLES FOR SALE
HW 35 £150
HW 80 As new £250
HW 85 As new £300 Tel. 07970 742471
PLATFORM 2 Bike Rack
GC £150 07443-540503
KING SIZE BED, very decorative, brass head and foot-rails, with mother of pearl flower inlays. VGC. £400. Tel: 01258-818360
18 RUNG DOUBLE LADDER, plus roof ladder, £30. Tel: 01258-818360
BOSCH FOOD
PROCESSOR, complete with all accessories. £40. Tel: 07961-804356
GARDEN RAKE, like new, good quality, £10. (Gillingham) Tel: 07963-319751
POTTED BAMBOO, established £20 each. 01747859493 or 07853-762088
FLYMO XE300 Sprintmaster Lawn Mower £5, Flymo 500E contour Strimmer £10, 07933-262659
EXCELLENT CONDITION TREADMILL WITH SPEED and distance display. Has wheels but is quite heavy. £40. Shaftesbury 01747-852494
47 LP RECORDS. 28 cassettes. 12 dvd’s. 5 compact discs. £40 ono (will split) Tel: 01747-840835
VINTAGE JONES TREADLE SEWING MACHINE oak finish, c/w accessories and instructions, good condition. £50 Tel: 01747-851598
EXERCISE BIKE, very little use, good condition, £30 ono. Tel: 01258-472331
MAKE YOUR OWN CARBONATE DRINKS. with this AA Carbonator machine, with books, new, unused, £45. Tel: 07946-510291
ELECTRIC POWERED CIRCULAR SAW, with accessories. £40. Tel: 01935-813287
ELECTRIC MAKITA BRUSH STRIMMER, Worx leaf blower, Black & Decker strimmer, Bosch hedge trimmer. £10 each, phone 01747 840007
ROOF RACK / BASKET fits any roof bars £10 Tel: 01258-817192
TEAC, 22” TV with built in DVD player, with remote, £25. Tel: 01749-707075
PYROGRAPHY WOOD BURNING KIT. 2 irons, booklet and nibs. £40 Tel: 01747-708257.
4 PERSON TUNNEL TENT, excellent condition, hardly used, £50. Tel: 07886-538350
LADIES DIAMOND BACK BICYCLE, 18 speed, £30. Tel: 01258-473211
FISHING RODS landing net rod bag carry box will split £35 07791-570097
2 UPVC WHITE DOUBLE GLAZED WINDOWS 4’ 6”
PORTABLE TREADMILL. Complete with manual. Has distance, speed display. £40 Shaftesbury 01747-852494
TELEVISION £15 Patio heater, £15, Gas BBQ £20. Tel: 01747-822402
MITOX 33 LL PETROL
BRUSH CUTTER £30. 01935 814746
BATHROOM VANITY UNIT including basin and tap. White. W600mm x D360mm x H830mm. £30. Call 07807-009768
GRAND PARENTS SELLING COT BED and New Mattress. Hardly Used.£30. 01747-854292
DUCAL PINE DESK. Three drawers and a filing draw. Slight scratch on side. £50.00, 07836 594404
ANTIQUE CHIMING MANTLE CLOCK. Palladian style. All working order. £50.00, 07836 594404
ROTAVATORS, Spares or repair. Alko Farmer and Qualcast with plough £40 each ono . 07903-678306
IKEA HEREFOSS oak veneer 2 door wardrobe, hanging rail, top shelf and bottom drawer. £40 Tel: 07866 192307
TABLETOP BARBECUE WITH OVEN (NEW) £30 ono, wincanton area, Tel 07449-116144
WANTED VINYL RECORDS (not classical), Mini Disks, Tapes, Laser Discs and 8 Track Tapes. Collections bought, large or small, Call Andrew on 07799-417711
WANTED, OLD ELECTRICAL ITEMS, Including Record Players/Turntables, HiFi Seperates, Amplifiers, VHS Players, Digital Cameras, Camcorders. If its gathering dust then we are happy to buy it and recycle it. Call Andrew 07799-417711
OLD BOOKS BOUGHT. Will call by appointment entirely without obligation. Bristow & Garland 07392 602014
by Fiona Chapman
I HAVE had my father staying with me and I noticed he hardly drinks any water. Talking to
other friends who have parents of the same generation, they too confirm that they don’t drink water. My father drinks coffee
by Susanna Curtin
CRAVING a change of scene, and an urge to escape from the depressing dose of daily news, I take refuge in a special place. The sun is warm, the gorse is in full bloom and the sea is a Mediterranean turquoise blue as I set out along a stretch of the South Devon coastline that I know intimately. I have walked it 100 times or more, both along the coast path and beneath it, coasteering over the jagged rockpools that line the shore. It is where my sons grew up, and where we whiled away endless spring and summer days, and
30 taster minutes sessions at £30 and full one hour treatments at £60.
Booking is essential on Wednesday 25th, 22nd and 29th April.
Reflexology also available at other times by private appointment
Contact MelanieE: msmelstafford@gmail.com
Venue: Thoulstone Park, Chapmanslade, Wiltshire, BA13 4AQ
*Located just off the A36 near Warminster and Frome, it is situated in the Wiltshire countryside.
school holidays. There were beach barbecues, picnics, surf boards, rubber dinghies, snorkels and masks, seashells, rockpools and plentiful ball games with friends. We all have ‘heart places’ – locations we hold dear. They are places that never seem to change and where the ghosts of yesteryear still wander clearly in our memories. I have several of these cherished spots where a piece of me remains long after I have left. They are just dots on the map for most people, but for me they are beautiful, unique and timeless, and above all, emotionally significant.
I begin my walk in a wellknown cove and head westwards, stopping to marvel at the diverse geology which sets this stretch of coast apart from the rest of southern England. Here at the headland, the cliffs were formed from significant folding and pressure, and intense geological upheaval. They are made of ancient metamorphic rocks called schists, which are shiny, flaky mica that have a jagged, angular appearance and are hard and resistant to erosion. These
and tea, and in the evening prosecco! All of these things –yes, are liquid – but no, do not rehydrate, in fact the opposite,
foreboding bluffs began life as a sediment of mud and sand which was then buried, heated and compressed. I have kayaked beneath this tall, dark headland into the boulder-strewn seacaves that open like a cathedral beneath it. In this black otherworldly place, grey seals have their pups and large males patrol the waters that guard the entrance. They are big and fearsome creatures with dog-like faces that can be quite menacing for the kayaker, as can the powerful waves that roll into the narrow doorway of the cavern.
Leaving the headland behind me, the rocks soon change to sedimentary Devonian slates formed from ancient mud and sandstones created by compressed and heated sand that formed 400 million years ago on the seabed. These slates erode more easily from the strong Atlantic waves and create caves, arches and sea stacks. Moving slightly inland, I cross over the reedbeds, where herons and egrets stand perfectly still and silent, awaiting any unsuspecting fish. Following the sandy path, I spot a small group of common lizards sunbathing on a wooden fence post – drunk in the warmth of the sun, they barely notice me as I pass them. From here, the seascape opens out into sandy bays, low cliffs and rocky outcrops that stretch out towards the ocean. Eventually, I reach my end
they dehydrate the body. The body is 75% water and every function is affected by the flow of water. When
destination with the stunning view of the River Avon and the infamous Burgh Island with its granite base, tidal causeway and art deco hotel. After a short walk down onto the beach, I soon turn tail and make my way back to a tiny cove where, once upon a time, we would set up base camp for a day of adventures. Out of the wind and out of sight, I lay down on the warm shingle bank with my sleeves and trousers rolled up, and my face towards the sun. I close my eyes and listen to the sound of oyster catchers perusing the shoreline, and the crashing rollers of an incoming tide that are striking the reef that fringes the shore. Drifting away into my thoughts, I remember the hours and hours of rock pooling that we did from here, and the remarkable species that we would discover as the tide retreated. There were rock gobies and blennies galore, three species of crab, squat lobsters, pipe fish which are related to seahorses, colourful star ascidians, starfish and cushion stars, sea anemones and a kaleidoscope of different seaweeds. These would keep us busy all day until the tide turned.
Soon, hearing distant voices, I travel back to the moment, to the here and now, refreshed and grateful for my ‘time-out’ on these fascinating Devon shores. n Dr Susie Curtin (email curtin.susanna@gmail.com)
dehydrated, the body will ration the distribution of water – a sort of drought management. If the brain becomes even mildly dehydrated, it can lead to impaired attention, memory and cognitive performance. Our natural ability to feel thirst is diminishing the more out of touch we get with ourselves and seems to be particularly bad as we get older.
If we are not used to drinking water, we don’t recognise signs that we are thirsty, so will often eat
something instead. Other signs of dehydration besides the obvious, which is a dry mouth, are heartburn, rheumatoid and back pain, headaches, angina and leg pain on walking. I have said it before but if you look at plants that are dehydrated, they go limp, their leaves dry out, their heads droop as though exhausted. We do exactly the same, and need water to bring us back to life again.
If our joints are not well hydrated, the fluid that keeps them moving dries out and no
by Kay Parkinson, Place to Talk Therapies
SAFETY is something many people only think about when it begins to feel uncertain. Rising living costs, shifting routines, rapid technological change and ongoing global instability have left many quietly questioning what feeling safe actually means. Even those who usually cope well describe a low level of unease. Life may look much the same on the surface, but something feels less steady underneath.
For many, safety has long been linked to predictability. Familiar routines, reliable systems and the expectation that tomorrow will resemble today can create a sense of stability. When those structures shift, the body often responds before the mind has time to make sense of it. Nothing dramatic needs to happen for uncertainty to take hold. It can show up as anxiety, irritability, difficulty concentrating or a persistent sense of tension.
From a psychological perspective, safety is shaped by more than external conditions. Practical security matters, but the nervous system also relies on internal signals that tell us things are manageable. When uncertainty becomes constant,
nutrients get to them, the area becomes inflamed and suddenly we are in pain and don’t want to use them anymore. Likewise, lack of water will not help with hypertension – high blood pressure. The blood is sticky and more difficult to push around the body. As a species, we can survive a long time without food, but we cannot survive long without water. It is a good idea to drink water on waking and to try and drink water half an hour to 15 minutes before meals, not
during – it dilutes the digestive juices – a pint before a meal can also curb overeating. The body uses water to break down sugar, which is why we feel thirsty after eating sweet things. To optimise our health, we should cut down sugar and up good quality, filtered water, along with leafy hydrating foods such as green vegetables, cucumbers, celery, beetroot and fruits like pineapple.
n Fiona Chapman is a naturopathic herbalist (email Pellyfiona@gmail.com)
the body can remain alert, scanning for threat even in ordinary situations. This response is common and does not indicate weakness. It is the nervous system trying to protect you.
Feeling safe does not mean feeling calm at all times. It means having enough internal steadiness to notice what is happening without being overwhelmed. For many people, that steadiness is supported through small, everyday habits. Regular routines. Spaces where honesty is possible. Short periods of quiet that allow the body to settle. These moments may appear insignificant, but they help restore balance and remind the nervous system that not everything is changing at once.
Relationships also play a vital role. Being listened to, understood, or simply accompanied, can regulate stress more effectively than reassurance alone. Safety grows when people know they do not have to manage everything by themselves. Human connection remains one of the most reliable ways to reduce fear.
Shame is often attached to not feeling safe enough. People tell themselves they should be coping better or that others have
it worse. Safety, however, is not a competition. Struggling to feel grounded is usually a sign that something needs attention, not judgement. As change continues, safety may need to be understood differently. Less as something provided by circumstances and more as something built through steadiness, honesty and support. The question may not be whether the world will settle, but how people can feel supported within it, even as it shifts.
If this piece has resonated, you are very welcome to get in touch. I would love to hear from you.
n Kay Parkinson is a MBACP (Accred) therapist specialising in trauma, emotional neglect, and the impact of shame on identity and self-worth. Based in Bournemouth and working with a team of associate counsellors offering one-to-one and couples therapy locally and nationally online. www.placetotalk therapies.co.uk
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SHERBORNE Boys’ U18
Sevens side were crowned U18 Vase champions at the 2026 Rosslyn Park National Schools Sevens.
The event, held annually in London, brings together hundreds of teams from across the country and is one of the most prestigious in the school rugby calendar.
The squad demonstrated a consistent blend of pace, skill and game intelligence over the two-day tournament.
Old Shirburnian Will Homer, former England and Great
Britain Sevens international, worked closely with the players.
He said: “It’s been a pleasure to work with the boys this term. They’ve been incredibly ‘coachable’ and have taken on board the detail required to succeed in Sevens.
“To see them put it all together at Rosslyn Park and come away with the Vase is a brilliant achievement.”
Chris Smith, director of Rugby at Sherborne School,
by Graham Howard
THE newly formed Jurassic Juniors Angling Club held their first event on a very cold and windy Hillview Lake at Todber Manor, near Sturminster Newton.
Conditions were uncomfortable as the juniors
battled the weather along with their senior partners in a Senior/ Junior Pairs Match.
Temperatures were already in single figures and the wind chill reduced them to close to freezing. The only respite for
HORSERIDERS will gather at Simsay Field, Cerne Abbas, next weekend for a special endurance riding event.
The event, hosted by the Wessex Group, is part of 25th anniversary celebrations for Endurance GB, the governing body for endurance riding in Great Britain.
said: “This is a fantastic achievement for the boys and a reflection of the commitment they have shown throughout the season.
“Rosslyn Park is an incredibly competitive environment, and to come away
some was the warmth of the restaurant for shelter.
Hillview Lake produced a good number of fish to keep the anglers interested throughout the day, enough to prevent anyone from leaving early.
At the end of the five-hour match, third went to father and son pairing Jack and Dave Copp with a combined weight of 138lb 8oz.
In second, and despite a net limit penalty, were Kenzie Toulson and Tim Broughton
The sport sees competitors ride over marked routes, with distances ranging from shorter, social rides through to long distance challenges of up to 160km, with veterinary checks to ensure horses are fit and well throughout the day.
The celebration ride is set
as Vase winners is something the boys should be very proud of.
“They have embraced the Sevens game, shown real growth across the two days and represented the school superbly.”
with an impressive 145lb 5oz. But the winners were Austin Scott-Kennedy, partnered with Neil Haine, who was competing in his first match. Neil and Austin netted 148lb 7oz.
The club’s next event is at Harbourbridge Lakes in Chickerell tomorrow (Saturday, April 11).
For club information, go to www.jjac.co.uk or contact head coach Graham on 07368 213313 or email graham.jjac@gmail. com
against one of Dorset’s most recognisable landmarks, the Cerne Abbas Giant, and features distances from 16km to 80km, with pleasure and graded –competitive – classes available.
About 80 riders and 20 volunteers are expected to take part.
WINCANTON Golf Club results.
Seniors Monthly Stableford – March 10: 1 Tim Godfrey 35 ocb, 2 Kevin George 35, 3 Stephen Parker 33.
Seniors 9 Hole Monthly Stableford – March 10: 1 Dave Shean 17, 2 Jon Reed 15, 3 Philip Dewar 14.
Seniors Roll Up Stableford – March 13: Winners: George Wagland/Kevin George/Chris Dibben/Kees Schouten – 52 points.
Greensomes – March 14: 1 Adam Dickens/John Burns 34, 2 David Whitehand/Nigel Orr 33, 3 Jim Phillips/Mike Doddington 32 ocb, 4 Kevin Bieda/Nick Young 32, 5 Steven Ireland/David Amann 30, 6 Terry Ings/Richard Czemerda 27.
Shot of the match – Adam Dickens birdied the eigth hole from 104 yards with a lob wedge , pitched one inch from
the hole and rolled in – great shot and a pleasure to watch.
Seniors two scores – March 17: 1 Phil Francis/Jim Stephen 60, 2 Simon Lenton/Martyn Andrews 55, 3 Geoff Lye/ Kees Schouten 52, 4 Colin Jacobs/Kevin George 50, 5 Richard Strong/John Westaway 49 ocb, 6 Mike Case/Chris Dibben 49, 7 George Wagland/Andy Blandford 45.
Seniors two scores 9 Hole
– March 17: 1 Harry Eden/ Philip Dewar 30, 2 Pete Starkey/Alan Armstrong 25, 3 Dave Shean/Ray Phillips 22, 4 Malcolm Faulkner 16.
Seniors Roll Up Stableford – March 20: Winners – Andy Blandford / Martyn Andrews / David Hallett – 49 points.
2 Scores – 18 Hole –March 21:1 Simon Lenton/ David Whitehand 68, 2 Mike Doddington/Jim Phillips 63, 3 Jim Stephen/Tristan Sams 60.
by Paul Cross Wimborne 2s 1
Blandford & Sturminster Men 5
BLANDFORD found themselves in third place in the final game of the season and knew that either a goal-blitz or a Portsmouth collapse was required if they were to achieve a third promotion in two seasons.
The early signs were good. Blandford were first to every ball and kept Wimborne on the back foot. This pressure paid off in the 18th minute when captain Matty Lewis smashed his short corner past the keeper to make it four goals in his last five appearances.
Gareth Hardiman, facing last season’s team-mates, looked lively and forced a great save out of keeper Harry Andrews when his lifted effort was
clawed out of the air.
In the 29th minute, Hardiman had another opportunity, this time lifting it past the Wimborne keeper to double Blandford’s lead.
But, despite every goal potentially counting, Blandford gifted Wimborne a goal within two minutes of the restart when Alan Lendy was left unmarked on the far post.
This seemed to spur Blandford on. Within a minute, Blandford restored their two-goal advantage, when a slick move across the D was transferred to the back post by Andy Smith, where it was finished off by Theo Browning. 11 minutes later, Blandford scored again when Hardiman lifted a second effort past the Wimborne keeper to make the
With Blandford’s fourth goal, Wimborne seemed to crumble, JJ Lovering’s constant questioning of the umpire leading initially to a green, which was quickly upgraded to a yellow when the complaints continued.
With six minutes to go, the ball dropped to Tom Tridgell at the top of the D, who smashed his shot to make the final score
Blandford were bidding for a third promotion in two seasons
5-1.
It was a great result, but not enough to guarantee promotion, but after the game news came in that Portsmouth had drawn their fixture.
That result lifted Blandford into second position and the promotion places. It was an incredible end to the season, considering the initial aim was simply to survive in the division.
Shaftesbury 4
Falmouth Town 0 by
Avril Lancaster
TOBY Holmes fired a hat-trick as Shaftesbury returned to form with a win over their bogey side, who were looking to move further clear of the relegation zone.
The former Wimborne Town star, who scored 131 times for the Magpies, opened the scoring
after only eight minutes.
Soon after, Falmouth Town keeper Morgan Jones produced an incredible save to deny James Ollis a first goal on the volley.
Oliver Evans should have put the visitors ahead after six minutes with the goal gaping
by Jenny Marshfield
WHEATHILL Golf Club had a good turnout for their New Members Texas Scramble, an event designed to encourage newcomers to get involved in club competitions and meet fellow players.
Despite chilly temperatures and blustery winds, the sunny conditions helped create an enjoyable atmosphere, and participants embraced the spirit of the day.
Lady captain Sylvia Bates with participants in Wheathill’s New Members Texas Scramble
The winning team were Sean O’Neill, Lynn O’Neill, Dee Powell and Len Allen, who delivered an impressive performance in challenging conditions.
but hit the bar.
Rockies goalkeeper Ben Taylor denied Oscar Massey when the former Mousehole AFC player was clean through.
Allefe Santos DAbadia was brought down in the box and duly converted a 38th minute penalty to put Shaftesbury 2-0 ahead.
Holmes quickly finished a one-on-one three minutes later
to give Jim Milligan’s side a three-goal cushion.
Falmouth rang the changes in the second half and Shaftesbury withstood some pressure, but Ollis set up Holmes to complete his hat-trick 15 minutes from time.
The result keeps the Rockies on the edge of the play-off places.
BLANDFORD Bowling Club are once again welcoming new members and inviting bowlers and novices to join them at one of their open days.
Friendly coaches will be on hand to give pointers for those pushing their first bowl – the only requirement is flat shoes.
The bowling club is a social hub, holding weekly events through the winter to help stave off the cold weather.
Bingo, quiz nights, coffee mornings, even a Friday night
meat draw, fill a busy social calendar and keep members connected.
The club can be found at Milldown Road, Blandford DT11 7DD and the open days are on Saturday, May 2, 10am4pm, and Saturday, May 23, 1pm-4pm.
To find out more, visit the club’s website, www. blandfordbowlingclub.com, or phone 01258 450102.
by Lynn Broom BVSc, GPCert(ExAP), AdvDipAAB, MRCVS HYPOCORTICOSTEROIDISM,
or Addison’s Disease, is a condition where the adrenal glands stop producing certain hormones, including corticosteroids, which are essential for the body to function. It is relatively rare and can be difficult to recognise due to often quite vague symptoms. Endogenous – produced by the body – corticosteroids are involved in, among other things, regulation of metabolism, the immune system, the cardiovascular system and the stress response. Mineralocorticoids are also produced by the adrenal glands and, in Addison’s Disease, these are no longer produced. They are involved primarily in kidney
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function. Typical Addison’s Disease involves loss of corticosteroids and mineralocorticoids. Atypical Addison’s Disease involves loss of corticosteroids only and can be more difficult to diagnose. The symptoms of Addison’s Disease can be vague and subtle initially and may ‘come and go’. Dogs typically present with lethargy, gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhoea, loss of appetite and increased drinking, and are often misinterpreted as gastroenteritis or kidney disease. If a blood test is checked, the classic findings are abnormal electrolytes with low sodium and high potassium, but, because significant dehydration develops, primary kidney disease may be suspected instead. In some subtle cases the
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Addison’s Disease can be difficult to recognise due to often quite vague symptoms
sodium is not exceptionally low and the potassium not particularly high, but the ratio of the two is significant. Immediate treatment is intravenous fluids containing sodium. This addresses the dehydration and low sodium, and dilutes the potassium as blood volume increases, and corticosteroids. Ideally an ACTH – adrenocorticotropic hormone – stimulation test is carried out prior to giving steroids to confirm the diagnosis but often a presumptive diagnosis is based on a single low cortisol result if treatment is required urgently or testing is not feasible. Long term management involves daily oral corticosteroid supplementation and mineralocorticoid injections or tablets.
the long-term management dose because over or under dosing can cause problems. Corticosteroid supplementation is often more ‘generic’ and based on clinical signs. The dose should be increased prior to or during times of stress such as kennelling or family visiting. Even with good control, Addisonian dogs are at higher risk of developing acute gastroenteritis periodically and often need aggressive supportive care to help them through.
While relatively rare, Addisons Disease is a life threatening condition and needs immediate supportive care. If it is suspected, it should be tested for and in any dog not responding as expected it is worth considering as a possible cause.
by Raychel Curson
HAVE you ever called your dog to come inside, only for them to completely ignore you, but the second you open the treat bag or the fridge, they appear out of nowhere? If so, you’re not alone!
Many dog owners experience this so-called
‘selective hearing’, and it’s more common than you think.
While it can be amusing, it can also be frustrating when you’re trying to get your dog to follow cues consistently.
Dogs are highly intelligent animals, but they respond best to cues they understand and find meaningful. If a cue isn’t
The Mid Dorset branch of Cats Protection has a number of cats still needing veterinary care before being homed.
The group is also looking for people to foster cats and has other roles available in the branch.
To enquire about any of these roles or cats for rehoming, phone 07831 586114.
IF your cat has gone missing, Cats Protection offers practical steps to help bring it home safely.
Start by searching your local area thoroughly, checking sheds, garages and outbuildings where it might be hiding.
Create posters and share them in your neighbourhood and online communities.
Inform local vets and animal rescues in case someone has found your cat.
Ensure your cat’s microchip details are up to date, as this can be a vital tool for identification, and update the microchip database to advise your cat is lost.
For a detailed guide and additional advice visit the Cats Protection website or call us on 07831 586114..
IF you have found a stray cat, Cats Protection has helpful guidance to ensure the cat gets the care it needs.
First, check if it is in distress or injured and contact a vet if
associated with a reward or has been inconsistently enforced in the learning phrase, your dog may choose to ignore it. Additionally, distractions in the environment – like other pets, people or outdoor noises – can make it harder for them to focus on your cues.
Tips to improve your dog’s responsiveness
n Consistency is key: Use the same cues consistently and ensure all family members follow the same rules. Mixed signals can confuse your dog.
necessary.
Look for an ID tag or take the cat to a vet to check for a microchip.
If the owner cannot be identified, share details about the cat locally via posters, social media and community groups.
Cats Protection advises against assuming all stray cats are lost, as some may simply be exploring.
For full guidance, visit the Cats Protection website or call us on 07831 586114..
n Positive reinforcement: Reward desired behaviour immediately with treats, praise or play. Dogs are more likely to respond when there’s a clear benefit.
n Short training sessions: Keep training sessions short and engaging – two to five minutes long. Long sessions can lead to fatigue and loss of attention. Frequency of training sessions is much more important than duration.
n Minimise distractions: Start training in a quiet environment, then gradually introduce distractions as your dog becomes more reliable.
n Make commands fun: Incorporate games or play into training to make listening enjoyable rather than a chore. Selective hearing in dogs isn’t laziness or defiance – it’s a sign they need clearer communication and more motivation. By being consistent, patient and engaging, you can improve your dog’s responsiveness and strengthen your bond. Remember, training should be a fun and rewarding experience for both you and your furry companion, making cues something they want to obey rather than ignore.
n Raychel Curson BSc (Hons) MA CCAB APBC-CAB FABC ABTC-CAB is owner of `Pet Peeves Animal Behaviour & Teaching (Email: raychel@ petpeevessomerset.co.uk)
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Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.
2016 (65) Audi A5 Coupe 1.8TFSi S Line Nav 2dr. Sat nav, parking sensors, cruise control, leather, heated seats, road sign assist, Bluetooth, auto lights & wipers, hill holder, 92,900 miles
2017 (17) Ford KA+ 1.2 Zetec 5dr. 85bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, parking sensors, cruise control, hill hold, air con, Bluetooth, upto 56mpg economy, small exterior with a spacious interior, 76,900 miles ....................................£6450
£7950
2012 (62) Ford Ka 1.2 Studio 3dr. 69bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, £35 yearly tax, 50+mpg, simple car with basic spec, cambelt replaced, MOT Nov 2025, private sale on behalf of a customer, 73,500 miles .......................................£2950
2019 (19) Citroen C3 Aircross 1.2 Flair Automatic 5dr. High seating, sat nav, park sensors, reverse camera, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, hill holder, Bluetooth, cambelt replaced, only 18,100 miles £10950
2014 (14) Ford Kuga 2.0TDCi Titanium X AWD 4x4 SUV 5dr. 163bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, 4x4, high seats, leather, heated seats, heated screen, sat nav, park sensors, auto park, reverse camera, sunroof, auto lights & wipers, cruise, lane aid, sign recognition, hill hold, electric tailgate, cambelt replaced, 92,500 miles .........£7450
2018 (18) Ford Fiesta 1.0T Titanium 5dr. Sat nav, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, auto main beam, road sign assist, hill holder, cambelt has been replaced, 81,500 miles ............................................................ £6750
2020 (69) Ford Tourneo Custom 2.0TDCi Titanium 320 L1 H1 Automatic 9 Seat Minibus 5dr. 130bhp, diesel, 6 speed automatic gearbox, 8 seat plus driver, reversable seats for conference or forward facing, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, heated front seats, park sensors, cambelt replaced, 97,000 miles ............£21500 + VAT = £25800
2018 (18) Ford Transit Connect 200 1.5TDCi Van 5dr. Ply lined, 2 seats, cambelt replaced, clean & tidy small van, double rear doors, 1 rear side door, high mileage but well-kept van with no vat to pay, 139,500 miles £5850
2020 (69) Ford Transit 2.0TDCi Trend 350 MWB MR L2 H2 11 Seat Minibus 5dr. 130bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, 10 seat plus driver, 2 front seats, 9 rear seats, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, parking sensors, heated front seats, hill hold, cambelt replaced, 90,200 miles.........................£19500 + VAT = £23400
2017 (17) Honda Civic 1.5T Sport Automatic 5dr. Sat nav, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, hill holder, park sensors, reverse camera, Bluetooth, road sign assist, collision safety system, 40,800 miles £13250
2014 (64) Kia Venga 3, 1.6 Automatic (Sat Nav) 5dr. 123bhp, petrol, 4 speed automatic gearbox, high seating, decent boot, sat nav, parking sensors & reverse camera, electric sunroof, partial leather, heated seats, cruise control, sign recognition, hill hold, only 38,800 miles........................................................£7850
2018 (18) Kia Rio 1, 1.25 5dr. 1 owner & only 10,500 miles, auto lights, Bluetooth, hill holder, air con, great opportunity for this low mileage car, only 10,500 miles £8950
2016 (66) Mazda 3, 2.0 SE-L Nav Automatic 5dr. 120bhp, petrol, 6 speed automatic gearbox, sat nav, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, parking sensors, sign recognition, heated seats, hill hold, 75,900 miles...................................£8450
ONE of Dorset’s most anticipated motoring events is back for a landmark year, as the Dorset Blind Association Motor Show returns to Lulworth Castle.
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the event, which brings together car enthusiasts, families and the local community in support of blind and partially sighted people across Dorset.
The 2026 show promises to a variety of vehicles from classic and modern cars to sports, performance and supercars.
The show is on Sunday, May 17, with the showground open to the public free of charge from 10.30am.
A family day out includes live music, children’s entertainment, food and drink vendors, and artisan traders.
DBA provides practical and emotional support to more than 1,000 blind and partially sighted people across Dorset.
Funds raised will help combat loneliness, improve independence and offer community opportunities for those living with sight loss.
For more information, contact DBA on 01202 712865 or email communityrelations@ dorsetblind.org.uk
The Dorset Blind Association Motor Show is at Lulworth Castle next month
2006 (06) Mercedes-Benz CLK200 1.8 Kompressor Sport Automatic Convertible 2dr. 163bhp, petrol, 5 speed auto gearbox, recent new roof & shocks absorbers, full history, 15 stamps, heated leather, electric roof, auto lights & wipers, cruise, park sensors, MOT June 25, private sale on behalf of a customer, 77,500 miles ...........................................................................................................£4250
2018 (18) Kia Soul 2, 1.6 5dr. High seating, good sized boot, sat nav, parking sensors & reverse camera, cruise control, auto lights, Bluetooth, hill holder, road sign assist, only 29,500 miles ....................................... £9350
2013 (13) Mercedes-Benz E220 2.1CDi SE Automatic Estate 5dr. Big luxury estate, big boot, heated leather, sat nav, cruise control, parking sensors, auto lights & wipers, Bluetooth, 118,500 miles ................... £6250
2015 (65) Peugeot 308 1.2THP Allure Automatic 5dr. 130bhp, petrol, 6 speed automatic gearbox, sat nav, park sensors, reverse camera, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, hill hold, only £35 a year road tax, 50+mpg economy, cambelt has been replaced, 69,500 miles..............................................................DUE IN SOON
2019 (19) Mitsubishi ASX 1.6 Juro 5dr. Medium sized SUV, high seating & ground clearance, big boot, reverse camera, heated seats, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, Bluetooth, hill holder, 82,500 miles ............... £8450
2019 (19) Renault Captur 1.5DCi Iconic Automatic SUV 5dr. 90bhp, diesel, 6 speed automatic gearbox, sat nav, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, parking sensors, hill hold, high seating, sliding rear seats, upto 67mpg economy, 20,300 miles .........................................................................................................£12250
2019 (19) Suzuki Ignis 1.2 SZ3 5dr. Small & compact car, parking sensors, auto lights, good height seats & ground clearance, Bluetooth, 50,500 miles ................................................................................... £7450
2017 (17) Vauxhall Astra 1.4 SRi 5dr. 100bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, auto lights & wipers, parking sensors, cruise control, pre-collision assist, sign recognition, hill hold, Bluetooth, 63,600 miles ..............................................£6950
2023 (23) Volkswagen T-Cross 1.0TSi Black Edition 5dr. High seats, park sensors, auto lights & wipers, collision safety systems, Bluetooth, hill holder, sliding rear seats, adjustable boot floor, 21,800 miles ......... £15950
2016 (66) Vauxhall Mokka 1.6CDTi SE 4x4 SUV 5dr. 136bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, 4 wheel drive, high seating, big boot, heated leather seats, heated steering wheel, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, parking sensors, hill hold, performance & economy, upto 60mpg, 65,500 miles ....................................£7250 WE BUY CARS & VANS SO IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING TO SELL GIVE US A CALL, WE PAY GOOD PRICES & CONSIDER MOST VEHICLES
Bodyshop
We are a married couple living between Halstock and Corscombe and we are seeking a responsible and friendly person to look after our house and our two-bedroom holiday cottage.
We are offering an excellent rate of pay for cleaning and some ironing throughout the year with organisational duties when we are on leave. Our house requires weekly cleaning and the cottage requires cleaning on each turnround.
The work would take roughly two hours for each property and the cottage may occasionally have more than one turnround in a week.
We greatly look forward to hearing from you.
Please call or email for a chat: 07976 275011 | rosie@norwood-house.co.uk
A dynamic, independent practice of chartered surveyors is seeking a high calibre, motivated and enthusiastic Executive Assistant to provide dedicated support to its MD. This is not your typical EA role. You’ll be embedded at the heart of the business, acting as a true right hand to the MD - supporting her in the delivery of the companies’ priorities and keeping pace with a fast-moving, high-energy environment.
Who we are
Fowler Fortescue is a highly successful and growing boutique rural estate management agency. Our clients own land-based businesses including traditional estates and farming businesses, with diversified income streams such as hospitality, renewable energy, property development and mineral extraction.
The Role
• Full inbox management, including drafting responses and prioritisation
• Complex diary management
• Taking ownership of ad hoc projects, communications, and operational initiatives
• Preparing papers, minute-taking and ensuring actions are carried out
• Maintaining a close overview of financial systems, ensuring necessary action is taken by those responsible and chasing up on behalf of the MD as required
• Assisting with HR and recruitment, organising and minuting staff appraisals, managing holiday requests/absences, administering the recruitment process and production of documentation
• Coordinating travel arrangements
• Supporting the planning and execution of team events
• Acting as a key point of contact for clients
This is a fantastic opportunity for an ambitious EA looking to step beyond a traditional support role and gain real involvement in a scaling rural business!
What is on offer:
• £45-£50,000 per annum, depending on experience
• Office based (Fonthill Bishop, SP3 5SH)
• Core working hours Monday to Friday between 08:30 – 17:00
• 25 days holiday allowance (pro rata), plus bank holidays
• Contributory Company Pension
• Onsite parking.
How to apply:
Closing Date: 20 April
Please submit your CV, together with a covering letter outlining your suitability for this position, and send by email to amb@fowlerfortescue.co.uk
RECEPTIONIST/ SECRETARY REQUIRED for Accountants office in Sherborne. Salary negotiable based on experience. Please send CV to: iandodds@ lanhamandfrancis.co.uk
CARER REQUIRED IN TISBURY. Please Telephone 07468 538602
GENERAL FARM WORKER on dairy farm, mainly tractor driving. Sturminster Newton area. Tel: 01258-472050
MATURE LIVE-IN COMPANION/CARER requires accommodation in between work placements. Would consider static caravan. Tel: 07867-978558.
Knowledge of working with commercial vehicle bodies would be an advantage but not necessary as full training will be provided. The ability to problem solve, work to completion deadlines and within a team, while maintaining a high standard of build quality is a key attribute within the role.
EXPERIENCED TRACTOR DRIVER REQUIRED on Dairy Farm, most work undertaken in-house. Must be willing to work with stock, Fencing and General maintenance skills beneficial. North Dorset. Tel: 07970-925507 / 01747-852195
GARDENER REQUIRED
3 days per week at listed Manor House near Sherborne, managing shrubs, flower and vegetable gardens. Enthusiasm, experience with garden machinery and car driver essential. Salary dependant on experience. Please send CV to Leila, info@ aldenhamestate.co.uk
by Tria Stebbing
DARK times arrived with the disturbing news of conflict in the Middle East. Like many rural dwellers in the Blackmore Vale, we have financially crippled by trying to keep warm.
We live in a very small converted stable, with very thick walls, and run the heating and hot water on oil. We last ordered oil in December, not much, just half a tank to see us through the colder months. A hot bath after seeing to the animals is a small luxury. The older we get, the more the joints complain, and a hot bath is a great remedy.
By the beginning of March, the sensor was flashing to tell us we needed to fill up again. Delivery only takes a few days, and the tank was quite low. Waiting seemed to take an age and 10 days later the fuel tanker delivered – how excited I was to run a hot bath, having run out of water two days previously.
No explanation was given for the delay, and we assumed that despite the worrying news, we had ordered in good time. It would be fair to say the air
turned blue when the invoice was received – an increase of £400 in three months.
Farmers are now being crippled by the price of diesel. A local farmer told us it is costing him £1,000 a day to keep his tractors running. Tractor runs for charity will be impacted too, with farmers now forced to choose livelihood or leisure?
So, to combat the cold, we have been working hard moving the flock about to new grass, both in the village and in local paddocks. Wanting to conserve fuel, we have taken to running them through the village, in an orderly fashion, much to the delight of villagers.
The sheep are getting the hang of the gate opening and a bucket being shaken – they even line up now. Blue, the teenager, takes the lead with Hero, the old boy, at the back. Everyone has been helpful, blocking exits, stopping traffic and waving their arms about. The grass has started growing again in the warmer temperatures and the mizzle that has plagued our valley adds that vital moisture.
Unbelievably, Belle – at the
time of writing – has still not had her calf. Clearly, we were hoodwinked by all the activity from Sebastian last June/July and we are still waiting. We estimated the end of February and we’re now at the end of March. We have spent the week checking, and checking again, even walking the perimeter of the field to check that Belle had not secretly calved and hidden
her baby from predators. Tonight’s check thankfully saw the unborn calf moving about well and Belle even more bagged up than last week – huge bags of milk and colostrum wait for the calf. Belle and Sebastian are both enjoying grazing at the top of the very big hill currently. We are both very fit climbing it to check on her three times a day – keeps us warm, too!
A CRACKDOWN on flytipping across Dorset has led to a sharp rise in fines with council chiefs warning offenders they are being watched.
Dorset Council issued 80 Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) for waste-related offences in 2025 – almost double the number handed out the previous year.
Fly-tipping, which includes dumping anything from garden waste to commercial rubbish on unauthorised land, continues to be a growing frustration for residents.
The council says every reported incident is investigated, with enforcement action stepping up significantly over the past year.
The latest figures show 33 fines were issued specifically for fly-tipping, up from 18 in 2024. Others were given to householders and businesses who failed to produce the correct documentation when disposing of waste, such as Waste Transfer Notes or a valid Waste Carrier Licence.
Enforcement has not stopped at fines.
Officers also seized 11 vehicles suspected of being linked to waste crime, with five later destroyed following investigations. One major case involving multiple offences is still awaiting a court hearing.
Cabinet member for place services Councillor Jon Andrews said: “Fly-tipping causes real frustration for our residents and damages our natural environment.
“These figures show that we are taking firm, fair and consistent action against those who break the rules.
“Most people dispose of their waste responsibly, and we want them to feel confident that we are tackling the small number of people who do not.
“We will continue working with communities, landowners and partners to crack down on offenders and make it easier for people to do the right thing with their waste.”
Residents are being urged to play their part by reporting incidents as soon as possible and ensuring anyone they hire to remove rubbish is properly licensed.
by Friars Moor Livestock Health
BOVINE Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the most significant disease challenges facing our clients. Its effects extend far beyond the immediate disruption of a breakdown and can influence herd performance, business resilience and long-term productivity.
At Friars Moor Livestock
Health, we are working not only to support you during breakdowns but also to help prevent infections in the future. We can carry out TB advisory visits for farms after a TB breakdown. A TBAS visit entails a free visit where we will:
n Initial discussion: Paul Doran, our trained TBAS advisor, discusses your farm set up, current TB concerns and any history of breakdowns.
n Farm walk-around: The advisor and farmer survey the farm to identify risks related to cattle, badgers, slurry and feed/ water sources.
n Risk assessment: The visit focuses on practical biosecurity, such as securing feed stores, elevating water troughs to prevent badger access, and managing livestock, slurry and
herd movements.
n Action plan: At the end of the visit, you and the advisor agree on four tailored, cost-effective recommendations to implement.
n Follow-up visit: A second, free, follow-up visit occurs three to six months later to assess the implementation of the recommendations.
As well as offering TBAS visits we have developed our own ‘TB dashboard’ to identify at risk animals.
TB and Johnes disease are caused by very similar bacteria and have similar disease patterns. We have developed a tool to identify at risk animals based on historic skin test results, like the Johnes results you get from your milk recording organisation.
We use the tool to review historic skin test results for every animal in the herd, look for patterns of inconclusive
TB control isn’t just about responding to breakdowns – it’s about staying ahead of them
results and those previous readings that were close to threshold. Using this proactive approach, we can produce lists of high risk animals for you. This may highlight high risk groups or ages that you can then manage to reduce the risk of future breakdowns in your herds.
Our commitment to proactive TB prevention
TB control isn’t just about responding to breakdowns – it’s about staying ahead of them. At Friars Moor Livestock Health, we are committed to using data, technology and herd-specific insights to help you protect your livestock and your business.
If you’d like your own TB Dashboard Report or want to discuss what your herd’s historic data shows, please contact the practice. Our team is always ready to help you take the next step in TB prevention.
by Ruth Kimber
LOOKING forward to longer days. The fields are full of lush green grass and the milking cows went out Monday, March 23. They know when it’s getting close to being let out onto the pastures – they sniff the air and
MAN WITH TRACTOR AND MOWER for hire. Or just tractor. Tel: 01258-88089207980-036250
Mobile Grain Crimping and dry rolling Service. Cowco Southern. Call Ted: 07970-965040
stretch their heads looking longingly over the gate!
We will continue the zero grazing, which is going well, and feed fresh grass at evening milking time. The cows won’t go out at night just yet – cold nights and preservation of the
R&W FENCING Agricultural paddock and stock. 01258-88089207980-036250
SHIPPING
FOR SALE / HIRE
Tel: 01258 472288
Mob: 07977 936109
New and second hand containers - blue/green - all with box locks
grazing fields is a fine balance. The cows prefer to be in when it’s cold, windy and maybe wet over the next week or two. The milk yields have gone up, nothing like fresh spring grass.
The blackthorn blossom is out, and the old saying about the blackthorn winter is proving its point again this year. It won’t get warmer until the blackthorn flowers fade. The hedges look magnificent clothed in white blossom on our farm. The insects love it and as you pass by you hear the buzzing of bees and see the activity of other insects. Blackthorn is one of the earliest food sources, together with ivy and many trees that provide the first nectar.
Field work will begin in earnest as soon as ground conditions allow. Rolling and harrowing have a very small window – the ground has to be dry enough to take the tractor and implements, but the early grass can soon be damaged and growth slowed up. The importance of a good big crop of spring grass to make into silage can’t be emphasized enough. Milk production on a grazing system with grass fed as silage in the winter is reliant on top quality first cut silage.
Farmers are and have to be optimistic as the new growing season gets going. However, optimism doesn’t replace
realism! We shall see what the weather has for us – we can only try to prepare for as many situations as possible!
The lambing has gone quite well, lots of doubles, a few singles and triples that sometimes can offer adoption opportunities. Darren is usually pretty successful in matching up a foster mum with a triplet. Speed is of the essence – just after a single is born, spreading the birth liquids over the spare lamb and putting both lambs close together. There are always a few disappointments – some ewes will not be fooled. In others, the mothering instinct is really strong and the ewe is happy with the new arrival. Not all lambs are born live, multiple births can cause complications, such as lambs tangled inside the ewe, making the shepherd’s intervention necessary. Time is again important and regular observation of the flock can minimise losses.
To see the young lambs skipping about the fields in spring, takes some beating.
Since Paul and I have moved from the farmhouse and Tom has taken the lead at the farm, we have enjoyed creating a garden, flowers, lawns and a vegetable patch. We like planters to get early colour and were particularly pleased with the old water trough planted with spring bulbs.
Steel frame buildings for agricultural, industrial and equestrian enterprises
Pre-cast concrete wallings panels supplied and erected
Roller shutter doors supplied and fitted
All steel frames are designed, fabricated & erected to conform to current CE markings
Tel: 01747 811711
Mob: 07860 570258
Email: johnguttridge@aol.com
Email: Info@jdgstructuralsteel.co.uk. www.jdgstructuralsteel.co.uk
On behalf of Mr M C Denning FOR SALE BY AUCTION ON THE PREMISES
175.71 Acres (71.21 hectares) OF ORGANIC GRASS KEEP
Comprising
134.69 Acres (54.61 hectares) in 5 Lots At Manor Farm, Fifehead Magdalen and 41.02 Acres (16.60 hectares)
At Kings Court Palace, Gillingham
Available to both Organic and Non-Organic Farmers
Auction at Manor Farm, Fifehead Magdalen SP8 5RR on This WEDNESDAY 15th APRIL 2026 at 7.00pm
Sale particulars available online or by post Enquires to Iain Soutar 07971 571608 iainsoutar@scauctioneers.com
Kingston
Broadoak
Guide £900,000
Mappowder Guide £595,000
Mappowder Guide £595,000
Marnhull Guide £525,000
A renovated and substantial bungalow in a simply stunning location with views over the Blackmore Vale and 11.39 acres of post and rail fenced paddocks, steel framed barn and large Arena. Freehold. CTB F, EPC D.
A fine Grade II listed former village Post House with attractive gardens, a substantial barn/workshop and lovely views to the village church and surrounding countryside. CTB E. Freehold.
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
A fine Grade II listed former village Post House with attractive gardens, A character south-facing stone house in an excellent central village
surrounding countryside. CTB E. Freehold. Marnhull
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766 Guide £1,075,000
Kingston
Offers Over £600,000
A characterful Grade II listed extended and sympathetically modernised thatched house with a lovely south-facing ‘gardeners’ garden of about a third of an acre. Freehold. CTB F.
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
This delightful 2-bedroom end-of-terrace cottage has been fully updated but retains great charm. It is situated in the heart of this most desirable village. CTB D. Freehold. Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766 DORSET |
Are you prepared?
A character south-facing stone house in an excellent central village location with a large oak-framed double garage, workshop and southfacing gardens. CTB E. Freehold.
A spacious 4 bedroom bungalow extending to over 2,500 sq.ft boasting stunning views over the Blackmore Vale. Garage, office, stables, 12 acres of pasture and woodland. Ag-tied. Freehold. CTB E, EPC D.
facing gardens. CTB E. Freehold. Nr
For the Facts behind the Act, and to register to view a recording of Rachael James’ recent seminar, please contact your local office or visit our website.
Nr Sturminster Newton Guide Price £1,100,000
Tucked away down a no through lane is this extended and very well presented 4 bedroom country home with stable yard & paddocks, i 4.11 acres. CTB E.Freehold, Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Stour Provost
Guide £595,000
A characterful period cottage with modern extension and lovely south facing garden with fine views to the rear in a peaceful rural location. Freehold. CTB D, EPC E.
An attractive, double-fronted 3-bedroom period property tucked away on an idyllic country lane with character features throughout and views over the neighbouring countryside. CTB C. Freehold.
Sherborne | 01935 814488
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Sturminster Newton
Guide £285,000
Leigh OIEO £500,000
A detached 2 bedroom bungalow in this quiet development of similar houses in a popular destination in the town. Freehold. CTB C, EPC C.
A tastefully improved 4-bedroom village house with light and spacious accommodation, set in attractive gardens and backing onto farmland. No onward
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Yetminster Sherborne | 01935 814488 Guide
£200,000
A detached 3 bedroom bungalow with a generous wraparound garden, garage and driveway. With planning permission to demolish the existing property and replace with 3 dwellings. Freehold. EPC E. CTB C.
a substantial
Blandford Forum
£95,000
Ideally placed right in the heart of the town centre, this convenient terraced cottage has the rare benefit of off road parking and a sunny courtyard garden.
Freehold. EPC D. CTB A.
Ilminster Ilminster | 01460 200790 Guide
A fine Grade II listed former village Post House with attractive
and lovely
and
Loders, Bridport
Guide £75,000
A Grade II Listed 2 bedroom maisonette in the town centre with period features and garden. Leasehold. 99 years from 24 June 1981. GR £150 pa. BI approx. £850 pa. EPC exempt. CTB A.
Blandford | 01258 452670
but retains great charm. It is situated in the heart of this mo
4 bedroom period property in need of refurbishment, with private gardens, outbuildings, in a quiet setting in this popular village.
Winterborne Kingston
Blandford | 01258 452670 Guide
£250,000
A 3 bedroom detached house in need of full renovation and with potential to extend (STPP), with gardens, driveway and garage. Freehold. EPC F. CTB D
A detached 3 bedroom bungalow set within 7.63 acres, offering a full-sized arena alongside stabling and outbuildings. The property enjoys countryside views in a sought-after location. Freehold. EPC E. CTB E.
Tucked away down a no through lane is this extended and very well presented 4 bedroom country home with stable yard & paddocks, in total 4.11 acres. CTB E.Freehold,
Sherborne | 01935 814488
For sale in 3 lots. 44.59 acres (18.05 hectares) of level to sloping,
pasture and arable land with a farmyard and buildings,
Dorchester Agricultural | 01305 236237 Lot A –
stone house in an excellent central village location with a large oak-framed double garage, workshop and south-
Wimborne
A detached, extended 4 bedroom period property in need of renovation and providing scope for further extension/remodelling (STPP),
Wimborne | 01202 843190
North Walls, Wareham
An attractive, double-fronted 3-bedroom period property tucked away on an idyllic country lane with character features throughout and views over
Sherborne
A 3 bedroom house, in need of full renovation, situated in the heart of Sherborne. Subject to a Sec 157 restriction to have lived or worked within the local area. Freehold. EPC E. CTB B
Wimborne | 01202 843190
| 01935 814488
A tastefully improved 4-bedroom village house with light and spacious accommodation, set in attractive gardens and backing onto farmland.
Bishops Caundle, Sherborne Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Wardour, Wiltshire Guide Price £1,850,000
Misterton, Somerset. Guide Price £1,270,000
Misterton, Somerset. Guide Price £1,270,000
A hugely impressive ground floor apartment occupying the east wing in one of Britain’s finest Grade I Palladian houses.
Semley, Wiltshire Guide Price £1,850,000
A rare chance to acquire three individual properties on the outskirts of Crewkerne, requiring some improvement, but positioned next to each other and offering a lifestyle opportunity.
A rare chance to acquire three individual properties on the outskirts of Crewkerne, requiring some improvement, but positioned next to each other and offering a lifestyle opportunity.
5 bedroom seventeenth century Farmhouse, 3 bedroom converted Granary, 1 bedroom seventeenth century Cottage, gardens, orchard, barn, walkable to mainline Station.
5 bedroom seventeenth century Farmhouse, 3 bedroom converted Granary, 1 bedroom seventeenth century Cottage, gardens, orchard, barn, walkable to mainline Station.
EPC Exempt
Berwick St. John, Wiltshire Guide Price £1,750,000
A superb eco-friendly modern country house with generous living spaces and good ceiling heights located in beautiful countryside between Semley and East Knoyle. EPC C
East Orchard, Dorset. Guide Price £995,000
East Orchard, Dorset. Guide Price £995,000
A handsome south facing Georgian fronted village house with superb ancillary cottage, charming gardens, paddock and delightful rural views.
Brixton Deverill, Wiltshire Guide Price £1,350,000
An Edwardian country residence with wonderful rural views, extensive & versatile accommodation, outbuildings and delightful gardens. Hall, five reception rooms, family kitchen/breakfast room, utility, 2nd kitchen, cloakroom, 6 bedrooms, 6 bath/shower rooms, studio, carport, outbuildings & stores, gardens approaching 1 acre.
An Edwardian country residence with wonderful rural views, extensive & versatile accommodation, Hall, five reception rooms, family kitchen/breakfast room, utility, 2nd kitchen, cloakroom, 6 bedrooms, 6 bath/shower rooms, studio, carport, outbuildings & stores, gardens approaching 1 acre.
EPC E
A spacious family house with a superb outlook, set within charming riverside gardens extending to c. 4 acres. EPC
“WHY the hell have we still got this?” It’s one of spring’s most common phrases, as decluttering homeowners sift through the archaeology of their lives, uncovering items they last used when Love Island was just a smitten atoll. If you need to declutter but don’t know where to start, here’s our top tips… Stop staring, start doing!
THE hardest step is simply getting started. “I’ll do it next Bank Holiday…”, “I just need a plan…”. “Maybe if I leave it long enough pixies will come and take it away for me?”. No
more prevaricating, now’s the time to dive in and get it done. Is it useful or sentimental?
IT’S natural to hold on to things of sentimental value. Sometimes we hoard with no plan, so ask yourself are you going to display it, use it, repair it, upcycle it... If the answer’s ‘no’, let it go.
No more excuses
“BUT ‘XXX’ gave me this...”, “But this reminds me of…”, “But it might be useful in a zombie apocalypse…”. We all find reasons not to let go. Apply the rule above, say goodbye and move on.
OFFICE SPACE TO RENT, Henstridge. 2 Offices, Kitchen Area, Toilet. Electric Heating. Total Area: 50m2. Contact Bryan on 07836 502683
HAVE you used that item in the last 90 days? Are you going to use it in the next 90 days? If the answer is ‘no’ then it may be best to set it free, to be loved again.
One man’s junk... PLACING items on eBay, Vinted, Facebook Marketplace, can give them a second lease of life without adding to landfill. You could even make a few pennies to redecorate that room.
Reduce now, replace later
SOME of your ‘treasures’ can probably be replaced later on if needed, then you can enjoy the luxury of new and improved when the time comes. Some, you’ll simply never need. You don’t wear it well CLOTHES and shoes can be a major cause of clutter. Simple
test, if you haven’t worn something in the last year, there’s probably a reason. They can have a good life with a new owner. “Fly my pretties, fly!” Do the rubbish bag dash
GRAB five rubbish bags. Your challenge is to stuff them with stuff that needs to go. No pausing, quick, simple decisions – keep it/dump it. It’s easy once you get started. That’s five bags done. Take a breather, have a well-earned cuppa, grab the next five bags. Look at you go!
Bring in reinforcements GET a friend to help. They don’t have the same emotional attachment, so can help you make clear decisions to lighten that load – of old junk.
For more home tips and storage advice, head to Armishaws.com/blog
