The New Stour & Avon - Issue 75

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Bereavement charity needs help

A Dorset-based charity which helps bereaved parents with the cost of funeral services and memorials for babies and children, has appealed for donations because its bank account is ‘dangerously low’.

Kirsten Rust, who is chairman of Tyler’s Friends, said the charity was down to its last £430, and blamed the cost-ofliving crisis for the donations squeeze.

“I’m sure the economic difficulties many people are facing is the reason that donations have gone down –we know many of them are right at their limit of what they can afford,” she said.

However, with memorial stones costing anything from £1,200 to £1,400, the amount in their account at the beginning of February would not cover even one memorial, she said.

“I did an appeal on Facebook and people kindly gave around £1,000, which was wonderful, but we’ve had two requests come in recently, plus another

memorial is going up this month, and so the money will soon go.”

Tyler’s Friends started seven years ago and is named in honour of Tyler Landon Lunn, a baby boy who died in June 2009 and whose parents had to raise money to provide his memorial stone.

In seven years the charity has spent nearly £200,000 and helped more than 100 families.

“In January we step aside with fundraising because people are getting over the expense

of Christmas,” said Kirsten. “We have events coming up in the next few months but we’re finding that we need more money sooner.

“People can donate money, or, if they want to they can donate items for raffles, or talk to their boss to see if they can organise a cake and coffee fundraiser at work, anything would be appreciated,” she said.

If you’d like to help or know more contact Tyler’s Friends at admin@tylersfriends.co.uk or visit tylersfriends.co.uk.

Verwood Town Council are urging people who enjoy using Moors Valley Country Park to consider objecting to the sand quarry proposed for the nearby Purple Haze area.

In a post alerting park users, the council said: “If you enjoy walking or cycling around Moors Valley, please look at this website and submit an objection to Hampshire County Council if you do not want Purple Haze to go ahead. Any data you can share from walking or cycling apps will add to the argument that the site is well used.People have until March 5 to re-object to the plan.

More details at liveforest.org/.

Last chance to object to quarry £250k in awards

More than £250,000 has been awarded to 29 charities working in the New Forest area.

Among recipients of the money from New Forest District Council are Honeypot Children’s Charity, New Forest Basics Bank, Forest Forge Theatre and New Forest Disability Information Services.

Large crowds assembled for the 26th Wimborne Minster Pancake Race, writes Anthony Oliver

For the fourth year in succession, the weather drove the contest inside the minster.

Nearly 100 entrants of all ages were ready as the Pancake Bell tolled, with the toddlers running down the centre of the nave.

The Toddlers winner was Gino Earl who won £5.00.

Reception School age winner was Agnes Stickley who won £10.00, the Middle School age winner, Harrison Homer, also received £10.00 and the Upper School age winner was Esther Davey. Esther also received £10.00.

Wheelchair racing followed with contestants pushed up and down the centre of the Nave on a timed basis. The winner was Jean Sibley, pushed by Charlotte Sloyn, who won a large sack of Wild Bird Food donated by the Wimborne Pet Centre.

In the adults, 40 competitors were lead by the rector himself, the Revd Canon Andrew Rowland.

All ran on an individual timed basis with the final winner, Charlotte Kersey being declared the Minster Pancake Champion 2024.

She covered the course in 11.03 seconds and was one of a group of friends from Canford School. Charlotte was presented with the John Loader Memorial Cup, (the first time it has been won by a female).

Charlotte was also presented with a set of four very pretty mugs. Joint second were Yi Zhou from Teachers Building Society and Will Lowbridge, one of the group of friends from Canford School. They covered the course in 11.37 seconds and both received a voucher from No 9 on the Minster Green.

Mayor Diann March was present, with Town Crier of Wareham Jacquie Hall standing in for Chris Brown, Wimborne’s Town Crier. A collection for Minster funds raised £186.91 and we hope for better weather next year, on Tuesday, March 4, 2025.

Widow’s delight at posthumous award of medal

A Dorset resident was delighted when she received a posthumous Christmas Island Medal for her late husband, following a visit to the Citizens Advice Bus.

Joan Barrett, 84, right, of West Moors, visited the Citizens Advice in East Dorset & Purbeck bus for general advice. Outreach adviser Tracey Brightman said: “Joan initially came to us for general help and we got chatting about her late husband and how he’d served on Christmas Island.

Cost of nappies is not to be sniffed at

Dorset Council spends £600,000 dealing with seven million disposable nappies each year. The council is encouraging parents to try renewables instead and as an incentive is offering parents a £30 saving, when spending £45 with the Dorset Cloth Nappy Library. The group also offers a free trial for up to four weeks.

To apply for the scheme, visit: dorset-self.achieveservice.com/ service/Reusable_nappies_ scheme.

“I had heard how Christmas Island medals have been awarded to veterans and how people can apply posthumously, so helped Joan with the application.”

Joan added: “I can’t thank Tracey enough for helping me. I’m really proud to now have this medal.

“I will definitely wear it to the West Moors Armistice Parade this year with pride!”

Joan’s late husband, Reginald, served with the Royal Engineers as part of his National Service in 1955-1957 and was posted to Christmas Island.

This is the first medal to be issued by King Charles. The Nuclear Test Medal was announced by the Prime Minister in November 2022 to recognise the significant contribution of military, civilian and overseas staff and personnel who participated in nuclear bomb testing programmes in the 1950s and 1960s.

The Advice Bus visits different locations across East Dorset & Purbeck offering free advice and support on a range of different issues. No appointment is necessary.

Visit edpcitizensadvice.org.uk/ get-advice/advice-bus for dates and times. Alternatively, call the Dorset Adviceline on 0800 144 8848.

Initiative helps rough sleepers

More than 80 people who were sleeping rough in the BCP Council area were helped off the streets during January’s cold snap, the council reports.

Known as the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol, the action resulted in 33 of the people deciding to remain in longerterm accommodation.

It also resulted in one resident, known to the council since 2018, deciding to engage with services and moving into permanent accommodation.

Portfolio holder Kieron Wilson thanked council workers and its charity partner, St Mungo’s.

Charity fashion

The Mayor of Wimborne is holding a charity fashion show on Friday, March 8, at 7.30pm at the Allendale Centre.

The event will showcase fashions from the 60s and 70s, with each garment having a personal history.

Tickets are £7.50. More details from theallendale.org.

Recycling firm helps charities raise £58,000

A Dorset recycling company has been thanked by three charities after helping them raise a record amount from the collection of Christmas trees.

Eco Sustainable Solutions

received 4,463 Christmas trees, weighing in at around 27 tonnes, from Diverse Abilities, LewisManning Hospice Care Trust and Julia’s House.

They were recycled into some 36

cubic metres of woodland mulch, equivalent to approximately 720 wheelbarrow loads.

A total of £57,788 was raised by the charities from charging people to dispose of their trees.

Schools and nursery to combine

Two schools and a nursery in Verwood are to be brought together into one ‘campus’, Initio Learning Trust has revealed.

Emmanuel Middle School and Verwood First School and Nursery already share the same site and the integration is seen as a natural development.

The new Verwood and Emmanuel Campus will take effect from September, with Rob Christopher as executive headteacher.

Little will change for the pupils, but the move will mean a more seamless education pathway from nursery to Year 8.

Liz West, pictured, chief executive officer of the trust, said: “This is an obvious next step in the development of the schools and nursery.

“We already have shared curriculum planning and staff training and development and

the leadership for Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND).

“The children will notice little difference.

“But a more co-ordinated and integrated approach will lead to an overall better educational experience, leading to improved results for children.

“As a trust, our schools already share good practice and resources so this is a natural extension of the existing philosophy.

“Rob Christopher will become executive headteacher at the start of the next school year and until then will work closely with the current interim headteacher, Katharine Anstey.

“What we are creating is a smooth pathway for children from nursery to middle school.

“After that pupils can move to Queen Elizabeth School and continue their education within the same family of schools.”

Time for townsfolk to stand for beliefs

We are all shocked to learn that the QE Leisure Centre will shortly close to the public. However, this is just one of several public services that have been abolished from Wimborne. A few years ago the main cricket green was turned into a supermarket and more recently the local market was bulldozed to make way for ‘necessary’ luxury retirement homes.

There are now strong rumours that the Brook Rd council tip will shut (to be confirmed this summer) and Wimborne residents will need to drive to Ferndown. Surely, with the explosion of new homes around the town (at 1,500, the highest percentage increase of population of any town in England) Dorset Council, along with the town council should be increasing public services and green spaces, not reducing them. We haven’t even talked about the lack of development of road infrastructure, new doctors’ surgeries or extended middle and upper schools. There is going to be a huge hole within these once the extra 5,000 people (present population 7,000) are settled in. People with young families have moved to this area for the good schools and the proud name of Wimborne but there’s a good chance that once their children

reach middle/upper school they may have to attend outside the area, ie Ferndown or Corfe Hills, or possibly even further afield. Given the extra millions of pounds received by council tax alone (from new residents) it seems extraordinary that the council want to strip more services away from the town. We require more not less.

The news regarding the QELC doesn’t make sense. Is the council telling us that QE is £500,000 less profitable than both Ferndown and Blandford leisure centres? It would appear we’re not being told the full story, as always. Perhaps it’s time to stand up to the council not by signing petitions which will be thrown into the bin, but by peaceful footfall protest.

The people of Dorchester have reacted to the proposal of an extra 3,500 homes and now senior lawyers are getting involved to show how intense opposition is. Residents of Wimborne and surrounding areas (Colehill) need to take a hard look at what’s happening and decide if they’re happy or act now and say enough is enough. Are we prepared to lie down, (the norm these days) or stand up for what we believe in. It’s down to you.

It was not easy in the 1970s

I always read the New Stour & Avon to find local news, however I was surprised and upset to see a totally inaccurate paragraph by Vikki Slade when she talks about family life in the 1970s. Women did not give up work because of ‘affordable’ mortgages and rents; in the early 1970s there was no maternity leave and we had to give up our jobs when we had children. Mortgages were not based on one salary, mine was taken into account (at a lesser percentage than my husbands), and we could not have afforded to buy our home without it. Money was

very tight back then and, like today, we had high interest rates and fast increasing house prices. It was almost impossible to get paid work around school hours and childcare was usually only available at playgroups offering two to three hours at set times. Many women found it very difficult to return to a decent job after so many years out of the labour market

I appreciate families have a hard time these days but please do not allow ‘fairy tale’ myths about an easy life in the 1970s to be spread.

Felicity Riley

Spring fair at MS Centre

The MS Centre Dorset is an entirely self-funded centre for sufferers of Multiple Sclerosis. The centre assists people with Multiple Sclerosis by providing advice, physiotherapy, and support. Multiple Sclerosis is an incurable, debilitating disease which eats into the nerve casings of sufferers leading to an inability to perform everyday tasks.

The MS Centre would like to thank everyone who attended our Christmas Fair and helped us to raise the fantastic amount of £3,731.

All funds raised go towards running the centre. We are holding a Spring Fair on March 13, from 11.00am to 2.00pm at the MS Centre, Church Lane, West Parley, BH22 9LL.

There will be lots of stalls including cakes, crafts, jewellery, preserves, etc. Please come along and buy some of our fantastic bargains. For further information please phone 01202 570300 or visit our website: mscentre-dorset. org.uk.

Laura Webber

MS Centre Dorset

Pop along for some pilates

Wimborne Minster WI will meet next on March 4, when chair pilates will be demonstrated and we will be able to join in if we wish. We meet at 9.45am and try to start the meeting at 10.00am at

the Catholic Church Hall, Lewens Lane, Wimborne. Visitors are welcome.

For further information please call me on 01202 888194.

Jill Haywood

Wimborne Minster WI

Is walking football a thing?

The short answer is yes! If your footballing peak’s behind you but you’re not ready to stop playing the beautiful game, then it’s time to go again. With no running, and where physical contact is against the rules, walking football is a fun, safe way for players to enjoy football and socialise together. Dexter Sports Walking Football Club was established in 2015 for the benefit of its members’ physical and mental health. We compete in the Dorset Walking Football League each season

and are keen to welcome new players over (or approaching) 50.

Tournaments aren’t compulsory, so if you’re just after a bit of exercise and a touch of team spirit, you’re welcome too. We meet every Friday evening for training at the County Ground, Hamworthy.

Please contact Paul on kybert@ hotmail.co.uk or 07708 406232 or visit: walkingfootball.

Correction - twin choirs concert

The twin choirs concert, featuring the Bovington Military Wives Choir and the Dorset Police Male Voice Choir, will take place at St John’s Church,

Wimborne, on March 9 at 7.00pm and not as stated in the last issue of the New Stour & Avon magazine.

Apologies for any confusion.

Rare insight into village’s past

Corfe

WI’s heritage is an intrinsic part of the history of the Dorset federation, and to mark its centenary, president Gail Pape has written Corfe Mullen Women’s Institute 1922 – 2022, a book on its 100-year history. Using archives, photos from Dorset Federation, records from Dorset History Museum and research from the National federation, it’s a journey back in time.

“Our archives languished in boxes in cupboards and garages unread, getting mouldy, damaged and lost from one generation to another,” says Gail.

“No one had access to them. We value our history and I’ve preserved it and made it accessible to all.”

Published last December, it considers past Chairs of the Federation and activities they organised.

“People like Miss Gildea and Lady Benita Lees of Lytchett Manor, two of the first chairmen in the 1920s,” says Gail.

Early projects included Shakespeare competitions and the distribution of seeds, bulbs and potato plants as part of the Dig for Victory campaign. It also looks at the village’s historical development. “Members names are reflected in road names. Mrs Diprose married to an earlier headteacher of Lockyers School, Mrs Pardy of Pardy’s bakery and Mrs Heckford.”

Platinum Award-Winning Care 2022

We have been awarded this much sought after accolade for our work with Gold Standards Framework

With more than 90 members at its height, the CMWI supported women and children throughout the district and played a major part in the war, organising the homing of evacuee children, many of whom stayed with members.

“They sent knitted items and other necessities to British Troops in the Far East, organised lunches for children and supported many fundraising appeals.”

The WI seeks to educate, inform and raise awareness of social issues and offers support for members, most over 65, and the chance to meet pals and share interests and concerns.

Gail describes Corfe Mullen WI as part of the essence of the village: “Hopefully it will continue to be a place where villagers can meet, enjoy talks and outings, share information and be supported in a welcoming environment,” she added.

Delving into digital delights

Are you not sure how to use your smartphone? Or perhaps your children have given you an iPad and you don’t know how to make it work, or you just don’t understand the Cloud?

These are among issues Dorset’s Digital Champions can help with. They can help online or in-person at libraries and are a group of patient volunteers who are good at explaining computers and the digital life without using jargon. They can also train you in home shopping, access digital NHS services and set up Skype or Zoom so you can keep in contact with your family and friends. Call the Dorset Digital Hotline on 01305 221048 for details.

A roaring good quiz

Wimborne and Ferndown Lions Club’s next quiz is at the Barrington, Ferndown, on Thursday, April 18, at 7.30pm. The format is: Teams of up to six players, £10 per player which includes a cold platter of food and rolls on each table. Email events@wimborneand ferndownlions.org.uk to enter.

We remain committed to supporting Ukraine

Canada is one of our closest allies.

It is part of the ‘5 Eyes’ security alliance, a prominent member of NATO and a leading force in the Commonwealth.

The focus, however, of the House of Commons Procedure Committee visit earlier this month was on devolution and what lessons the UK could learn from how Canada copes with its asymmetrical federal structure dominated by Ottawa and Quebec.

In essence, all Canadian provinces, regardless of size, want increased powers for themselves but also more money from the centre to spend as they wish - very similar to the situation in the UK.

Their Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, in action at Prime Minister’s questions, was an unedifying spectacle giving credence to his lack of popular support.

It was salutary to witness

Christchurch & East Dorset

CHRIS CHOPE MP

how orchestrated applause can undermine Parliamentary democracy when it accompanies every question and answer.

By contrast, in Quebec’s provincial parliament where clapping has now been prohibited, its Prime Minister was held to account with probing questions more in line with the Westminster style.

We in the UK must count our blessings that our main political parties are fully committed to supporting Ukraine, maintaining our defences and contributing at least 2% of GDP to NATO.

By contrast, Canada’s contribution to NATO is only 1.29% of its GDP and, despite all the global threats from Russia, China and Iran, there doesn’t seem to be any internal political pressure for Canada to pull its weight in NATO. This must be of great concern when we look back with gratitude to the magnificent contribution which Canadians made defending our freedom and western civilisation in the Second World War.

n Collapsing standards in public services, both nationally and locally, are a regular source of complaint by constituents and a cause of frustration for me as an elected representative. At a recent meeting with the Prime Minister, I reiterated my concern

about the way in which the Civil Service has undermined the Government’s laudable intention set out in 2015 and enacted in 2016 to limit public sector exit payments funded by the taxpayer to £95,000.

I informed the Prime Minister that the 15-month delay by Ministers in responding to their latest consultation was, apparently, because of an inability to agree a response. The Prime Minister was surprised to hear this so I hope he is going to knock heads together to end this farcical delay which has already cost taxpayers more than £1billion.

n It is great news that the new Pathology Hub at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital, serving the whole of Dorset, is now open.

On a recent visit it was inspiring to witness the brilliant advances in diagnostic techniques which those working in this facility can now deliver.

Can Sunak and his party sink any lower?

Wednesday, February 7, witnessed a new low for Prime Minister Sunak.

His week had already started at the bottom of the decency barrel with his extended interview with so-called journalist Piers Morgan.

As if the sycophantic love-in wasn’t repugnant enough, he capped the interview by making a £1,000 bet with Morgan on the fate of asylum seekers, and whether they’d be sent to Rwanda or not.

The man for whom money is no object, chucking a grand away on the fate of those who spent their last grand getting to this country. Abhorrent.

But then came PMQs on the Wednesday.

Despite being told Esther Ghey, mother of murdered trans schoolgirl Briannah was in the house, he crassly launched into a prepared ‘gag’ accusing Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer of not knowing fully what a woman was. The whole

chamber gasped in horror. When offered the chance, Sunak couldn’t bring himself to apologise.

Tone deaf doesn’t even describe it.

Then, the following day, he had the audacity to accuse Labour of politicising gender issues.

The same week witnessed the latest Conservative splinter group come into being.

The ‘Pop Cons’, featuring none other than Liz Truss as the front woman. Remember her? Liz, literally the moron in oxymoron.

Still, the Pop Cons don’t take any old dregs. Simon Clarke wasn’t invited, because he had already called for the ousting of the PM with immediate effect. Obviously a split too far!

The other notable absentee was Kami Kwasi Kwarteng, having announced that morning he was quitting politics at the next election.

Perhaps MP Danny Kruger had Kwarteng in mind when

Dorset Labour ALAN CROSS

he stated that the Tories will leave the country in a worse state than what they inherited. No wonder that the list of MPs deciding to quit politics, now at 80, is higher than in any previous Parliament. Rats leaving the ship they sank. Kruger’s assessment is the reason behind Starmer’s ‘U-turn’ on the green prosperity plan.

As Labour members, yes it is painful to see the £28bn green investment a year pledge scrapped.

The ambition remains, but without the money, the pace will slacken.

It’s galling to thing of all the houses that will continue to go uninsulated, and all the jobs that won’t be created.

Yet this is the result of Tory economic failure.

The scorched earth policy of tax cuts (funded by unachievable departmental spending cuts) Hunt and Sunak are pursuing gives a future Labour government so little room to manoeuvre.

Sunak ended the week gleeful that his maladministration has deprived the country of its best plan for growth.

The man with no plan apart from trans jokes attacking Labour for adapting their plan.

Dorset, is this what you want?

Opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher

Time for the PM to put our country first

So much has changed in the way we live our lives since the Covid-19 pandemic, but one of the areas that seems to have changed most markedly is our relationships with GPs in our communities.

Throughout my lifetime, the role of the GP has changed, from family doctor who acted as a link between your family and the whole NHS, through to a cluster of local specialists serving a neighbourhood based in the heart of the community.

During Lockdown it was reasonable to expect our relationship with doctors to change, and whilst some changes have modernised the system, in many places the pre-pandemic GP model has never returned. Every day, families and pensioners tell me that they are struggling to see their GP, leaving them in pain or anxious about not getting the care that they need. Added to the lengthy waiting lists for planned

Dorset Lib-Dems VIKKI SLADE

treatment and the overburdened Accident and Emergency departments it really feels like the NHS is at crisis point. Research commissioned by the Liberal Democrats shows that funding for GP services in Dorset has been slashed by £7.4million in real terms since 2019. The House of Commons Library analysis looks at funding for general practices

over the past four years once inflation is taken into account. It shows that funding per patient across the local NHS Integrated Care Board (ICB) area, including Mid Dorset and North Poole, has fallen by 7.4% since 2019. We have also seen new homes built without additional doctors’ surgeries being delivered, and with one in five GPs currently over 55 we have a retirement time bomb ticking in our communities.

Nationally, more than 8,000 GPs are due to retire in the next five years, and Lib Dems are calling on the Government to focus on retention of NHS doctors. Whilst it was encouraging to see an extra 205 places made available at medical school this year, it takes at least 10 years to train as a GP so the uplift in new doctors will not be seen until the mid2030s.

We need to look after our GPs so they can look after us and the Lib Dems are calling for a legal

right to be seen within seven days (or within 24 hours when urgent) in a GP surgery alongside a freeing up of their time to focus on patients.

Rishi Sunak and his failing government is out of touch with our community’s concerns. People around the country are worried about the NHS and the spiralling cost of living but Conservative MPs are staying silent on these crucial issues while they are fighting among themselves.

The daily ‘will they/won’t they’ chatter about the date of the General Election is increasing anxiety and risks the wellbeing of people waiting for treatment. Public services need long-term funding so they can transform for the future and provide stability for their workforce and our communities.

It is time for the Prime Minister to put the country first and set the date for the Election so we can all plan for a better future.

Lots to see at major auction

There are more than 1,500 lots being sold at Charterhouse in Sherborne on February 28 and 29, and March 1.

Richard Bromell of Charterhouse said: “To say we have been busy would be an understatement. “The vans have been out collecting and clients have been queuing up in reception with items to be valued.”

First up, on Wednesday 28th, there is a single owner collection of 300 stamp lots, followed by 300 lots of film and entertainment memorabilia. This is followed on Thursday 29th with coins,

medals, stamps and toys and then Friday, 1st March, with antiques and interiors including the residual contents of a Hampshire country house, above. Charterhouse are now accepting further entries for their specialist auction with classic motorbikes on March 14, classic cars on March 27 and automobilia on April 3.

Richard Bromell and the Charterhouse team can be contacted for advice and valuations at the Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne, 01935 812277, or via rb@charterhouse-auction.com.

Spaghetti

You need to try this low calorie Spaghetti Carbonara produck hack that everyone is raving about!

It is the perfect 400kcal dinner for Step 2...Buon appetito!

The Spaghetti Carbonara product hack you NEED to try...

Ingredients:

Macaroni cheese pasta

80g combined weight of mushrooms and broccoli

130g ham

18g cottage cheese (low fat)

Golden Vegetable Water Flavouring

Each serving: 400kcal (one macaroni cheese pasta product with 200kcal allowance).

Suitable on Step 2

Method:

Fry broccoli and mushrooms in pan with Fry Light or equivalent lowcalorie cooking spray

Pour 160-180ml of boiling water onto the macaroni cheese and microwave

as per the instructions

Add a sprinkle of Golden Vegetable Water Flavouring to the broccoli and mushrooms

Add the ham to the pan and stir in the cottage cheese

Transfer to a bowl and mix with the macaroni and cheese (off the heat) Buon appetito!

Thank you @living.9.to.thrive for this truly delicious recipe!

Want to get your hands on our Macaroni Cheese Pasta?

Please contact Nicki Edwards - The Cambridge Lady 07904 331589

Based in Wimborne.

Food & Drink

Cooking... with Martha Legg

Sweet and Sour Pork Chops

I am not a lover of pork chops, mainly because even if they are trimmed down, I don’t like the fat on them.

Martin found this recipe for a sort of Asian sauce, which he thought might appeal to me more.

We have been trying to get away from rich food, and yes, the new year diet has reared its ugly head again!

We served it with noodles, peppers and stir fry vegetables, to be extra healthy.

When I was younger and still living at home, my mum used to get thin-cut pork belly slices, from the butcher.

That was in the good old days, when every high street had its own butcher, at least one.

Nowadays, real butchers are very hard to find; Wimborne is lucky in that it has one. I think the rise of farm shops has possibly led to the demise of the local butchers. Mum used to grill them to within an inch of their lives so that they were really crispy, I loved them and I think its where I got my love of crispy bacon from.

On a Tuesday, there used to be a proper

cattle market just off station road, where the old market used to be.

As children, we would go down there during the holidays and look at all the animals for sale. The dustman used to come on Tuesdays in the old days of galvanised bins - they were people who you got to know, like the coalman and the milkman. The dustman always used to tell us to find a pig with a straight tail!

No matter how hard we tried, we could never find one!

In those days, I don’t think I ever made the connection between the animals at the market and what I was eating on my dinner plate! I think my sister did, as she is now a vegetarian.

The auctioneers fascinated me, even though I could never understand what was being said, and I always kept my hands in my pockets in case I accidently bought a lamb or a calf!! Ingredients

3 cloves garlic - chopped

1 inch piece of ginger - thick slices

¼ cup honey

¼ cup soy sauce

3 Tablespoons rice vinegar

2 Tablespoons hoisin sauce

1 Tablespoon sesame oil

½ teaspoon fennel seeds - (optional) Method

Add all the ingredients in a pot and boil it uncovered for 5 minutes or until it’s reduced to your liking.

Keep stirring to make sure it doesn’t burn. Remove the ginger slices. Serve on the side or use as a glaze.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

The highs and lows of fostering

“There

The

busy household can provide so much joy and fulfilment, seeing others achieve or just sharing experiences over a heart-warming breakfast. Yet, that does not mean there are no challenges involved, with any household regardless of size and make up has its own unique challenges – and that is the same for fostering households.

When children come into your life, whether that be short term or long term you know as a carer that, at some point, it is more than likely this child may move on to a more permanent home. It can be emotional to see a youngster move on but our carers highlight that it is nice to see when they become settled and happy in a new home. One carer notes such moment is “a high and a low together! … A high as we know we have made a difference in their lives, but a low, because they are leaving you”

This is not only a difficult time for the carer, the child must also get used to a new home, and new guardians.

That is why Footprints pay close attention to this transition, giving the support required for all individuals.

Over the last years, more special guardianships have been approved, allowing carers to look after youngsters on a more permanent basis, this is a great outcome that Footprints are proud of.

If you are up for a new challenge fostering could be your next step, but remember it does not always go swimmingly, but it promises rewards! That is why Footprints are the best choice for anyone that would feel content in a small supportive environment.

In the next article from the series, we will be exploring what inspires our wonderful foster carers!

At Bryanston Prep, anything is achievable

Bryanston Prep School is set amongst its own 30 acres of rolling green countryside on the 400-acre Bryanston Estate in rural Dorset.

At Bryanston Prep, we believe education should not be limited to the classroom: we encourage unbounded, independent learning, where children have the freedom to explore within the safety of the grounds.

When your child joins us at Bryanston Prep, they are joining a warm and dynamic extended family.

Your child will grow with us as we guide them to develop the skills and confidence to embrace new academic interests, creative pursuits, and hobbies. Bryanston Prep is the start of an exciting journey which fires-up and fans the flames of young minds, keeping curiosity ablaze. At Bryanston Prep, anything is achievable.

Our teachers direct and guide, based on understanding each child’s learning disposition. Bryanston Prep selects outstanding teachers and supports them with the highest quality professional development.

We are both forward-thinking and outward-looking. Bryanston Prep lays the

foundations for children to become adults with a social and moral compass in a society that needs creative inspired and unbounded thinking. We promote kindness to, and cooperation with, all members of the school community, including pupils, parents, staff and our neighbours. We help pupils become good, inclusive citizens with a sense of responsibility and respect for others.

Bryanston Prep isn’t your typical school; it’s a gateway to boundless possibilities. Come experience it for yourself: we guarantee not only your child’s excitement but also a rekindled sense of wonder in you!

Ready to embark on this educational journey?

Join us for our Open Morning on Friday 8 March at 9.30am. Register your attendance here - bryanston.co.uk/ prep-school

Take 5 and enjoy this slimming recipe

Louise Seddon, consultant at Wimborne Slimming World shares her favourite recipe from the brand new TAKE 5 cookbook now available in group.

Louise runs sessions at Wimborne Community Centre on Tuesdays at 7.30am, 9am, 10.30am, 4pm, 5.30pm or 7pm.

For more info call Louise 07902 566149.

Turkey in ginger and oyster sauce Oyster sauce adds a deliciously salty, savoury flavour.

Combined with fresh root ginger it gives simple turkey steaks and a bag of mixed stir-fry veg the time of their lives!

Serves four

Ready in 20 minutes

Prepare the egg noodles according to the pack instructions and drain well. While they’re cooking, put a non-stick wok or large frying pan over a high heat

and spritz with low-calorie cooking spray.

Stir-fry the turkey and half of the ginger for 4-5 minutes or until the turkey is lightly browned and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover with foil.

FRIDAYS

5.30pm at Leigh Park Family Hub Gordon Road, Wimborne, BH21 2AP

Contact Fiona on

07947 875246

New group from 1st March

Add the vegetables and the rest of the ginger to the wok or pan and stir-fry for 5-6 minutes or until just tender. Stir through the noodles to combine and divide between bowls or plates.

Return the turkey to the wok or pan with the oyster sauce and 100ml water and heat through, stirring. Divide the turkey between the bowls or plates to serve.

TWO DECADES STRONG; FIONA’S JOURNEY WITH SLIMMING WORLD

Twenty years ago, I embarked on a journey that transformed not just my physique but my entire lifestyle. Stepping into a Slimming World group, I wasn’t just seeking weight loss; I was searching for a sustainable approach to health and well-being. And two decades later I stand as a testament to the power of positive change radiating enthusiasm and energy that defy the years. My success story isn’t one of fad diets and quick fixes it’s woven with dedication healthy habits and a love for life’s active pursuits. I embraced Slimming Worlds physiology, understanding that healthy eating wasn’t about restriction, but about mindful choices and no portion control. This newfound freedom fuelled my passion for movement, I found myself peddling through scenic routes on my bike, pounding the pavement with unwavering determination, and even gracefully navigating the countryside on my horse. My days are brimming with activity a stark contrast to the inertia I once felt. Whether it’s conquering a challenging hill on my bike, exploring hidden trails on foot, or riding across the beautiful countryside on my horse. I have an infectious enthusiasm that motivates those around me. My journey isn’t just about weight loss; it’s about the joy of movement, the thrill of discovery and the deep satisfaction of living life to the fullest. My story is a beacon of hope, a reminder that healthy habits and an active lifestyle aren’t just achievable but truly enriching. When I joined Slimming World twenty years ago I never imagined it would change my life forever.

With so much enthusiasm I then wanted to help others and took on the role of becoming a Slimming World consultant myself. I will be starting a new group on Friday evenings 5.30pm at Leigh park family hub, Gordon Road, BH21 4DR from 1st March 2024. If you would like more information please feel free to contact me, Tel 07947875246

Don’t paws to try cross-country canine caper

Lewis-Manning Hospice Care has launched registrations for its hugely popular Muddy Dog Dash event and is encouraging dog owners to get involved in what promises to be a brilliantly fun... t muddy event!

The Dash, sponsored by Barratt Homes, takes place on Sunday, March 17, at Upton Country Park, Poole.

Runners, walkers, families and friends, with or without a dog can choose between a 2.5km and 5km muddy obstacle course. Spectators are more than welcome and can enjoy the pawsome event village while they wait for their muddy friends to return!

Hannah Garrett,event fundraiser at Lewis-Manning said: “You can choose to run, jog or walk, that’s up to you. Whatever your ability it will be a fantastically muddy experience.

“There’ll be various fun obstacles including ramps, tyre runs, wiggle poles and much

much more!

“There’ll be goodie bags sponsored by

Nurturing by Nature, rosettes and certificates.

“Take a look at last year’s

pictures online to see how much fun you are guaranteed to have lewis-manning.org.uk/muddydog-dash.

“Finally, we want to say a huge thank-you to our kind headline sponsors of this event, Barratt Homes.

“They have also assisted us with a number of the obstacles on the course.”

Megan Hamlyn, marketing manager at Barratt Homes added: “We’e thrilled to be supporting Lewis-Manning againand it’s certainly an event not to be missed! “Barratt Homes are always keen to support their local communities and causes like Lewis-Manning, who provide vital care and support to patients and their families across East Dorset and Purbeck.”

Hannah concluded: “What are you waiting for? - On your barks, get set... GO!! Sign up at lewis-manning.org. uk/muddy-dog-dash.

Slipped discs – can chiropractic help?

One of the back conditions that patients routinely visit a chiropractor for is a herniated disc. This type of injury generally responds well to chiropractic treatment so it’s wise to schedule an appointment in the early stages. Herniated disc treatment not only helps reduce pain and increase mobility but can help avoid prescription pain medications and any side effects that come along with them.

What is a herniated disc?

A herniated disc refers to a situation where the outer portion of one of your vertebral discs has been torn. This allows the inner portion of the disc, or nucleus, to protrude through the disc wall (think of jam coming out of a donut). Herniated discs are sometimes called ruptured discs or slipped discs. The herniated portion of the disc can end up compressing nerves that surround the disc, which is why it is often associated with a lot of pain.

Common causes

A herniated disc usually has an original traumatic cause, such as lifting something heavy or twisting. Sometimes herniated discs can become episodic, where they gradually improve but sometimes a little lift or sitting too long can cause them to become painful again. As we get older, our discs lose moisture content and become less flexible, making

them prone to tears and ruptures without a whole lot of stress being placed on them. Some factors that may increase your risk of suffering a herniated disc such as having a physically demanding job, improper lifting, and even sitting too long every day.

Common herniated disc symptoms

Herniated discs can cause a lot of pain if they press on a nerve. If your herniated disc is in your lower back, you’ll be more likely to feel pain in your buttocks, hips, thighs, and calves.

If the problem is in your cervical vertebrae in your neck, then you’re more likely to feel pain in your shoulders and arms. Numbness, tingling, and general weakness are also

symptoms of a herniated disc. Typically, the muscles that surround the area affected will also become spasmed, causing limitations in movement and pain.

When to see a chiropractor

Many patients will come to us with these symptoms, but no diagnosis. If you have any of these symptoms - or any back pain that’s been undiagnosed - our chiropractors can assess the issue and formulate an effective diagnosis and treatment plan.

Our examination involves neurological and orthopaedic tests to assess the nerves, muscles and joints, so we can effectively understand what nerve is being affected by the disc, if that is the issue. We then tailor our care to that. Chiropractic treatment can vary from very gentle techniques, such a mobilisation and acupuncture, to stronger techniques such as adjustments.

Typically, with disc herniations we start with gentle treatment only to calm down inflammation and muscle spasm, and then gradually progress the treatment as the disc heals.

If you have any of the above symptoms and would like to book an appointment, give us a call on 01202 604707 or email admin@ wimbornewellnesscentre.co.uk.

We strive to give every patient the absolute best chiropractic and massage care , as well as providing outstanding customer service. We are a motivated team passionate about getting you better and enabling you to live a pain free life, getting you the best version for you

Conditions we can treat:

• Migraines

• Lower Back Pain

• Joint Pain

• Frozen Shoulder

• Tennis Elbow

• Neck Ache

•

Is

RETIREMENT LIVING

EMBRACE INDEPENDENCE WITH EASE!

At The Mobility Shop, we’re committed to enhancing your quality of life through innovative and easy-to-use mobility solutions. Our carefully selected range of products, from advanced wheelchairs and scooters to supportive walkers, tri-walkers, and rollators, is designed to cater to your unique needs, ensuring you navigate life with ease and confidence.

Dive into our latest collection of living aids, including bath stools, trolleys, incontinence pads, and arthritis-friendly cutlery, all engineeed to make independent living as effortless as possible.

Our cutting-edge kettle tippers and other daily living aids are perfect companions in your journey towards a more comfortable and autonomous lifestyle.

Our expert team is here to guide you through our extensive range, helping you find the perfect match for your independence.

Discover the possibilities at Wimborne or Longham. Visit The Mobility Shop today and take the first step towards a more liberated and fulfilling life.

The Mobility Shop – Your Partner in Independent Living.

Retirement Living

Retirement presents varied living choices, from residential/ nursing homes to independent living. Residential/nursing homes offer professional care and community, yet concerns about independence and costs often arise. Independent living at home allows autonomy but may pose challenges like isolation and healthcare access. Financial planning is crucial, as both options entail expenses. Retirees must consider preferences, health needs, and support networks. Whether in a vibrant community or cherished home, retirement heralds a time for leisure, selfdiscovery, and meaningful connections.

RETIREMENT LIVING

THE PERFECT CHOICE FOR RETIREMENT LIVING IN DORSET

Retirees in Dorset can continue enjoying living their life to the full, thanks to McCarthy Stone’s Retirement Living development in Blandford St Mary. Offering a unique brand of living for the over 60s, this stylish development presents a choice of apartments to provide all the home comforts for a relaxing retirement.

HEAR FROM ONE OF OUR HOMEOWNERS.

Mr and Mrs Fletcher moved to Stour

Gate, in December 2023 and said, “Stour Gate is absolutely perfect in every way. We feel totally pampered living here – it’s like being in a hotel. The position by the river is lovely and the access into the town centre is so easy. The facilities and the staff are all brilliant too. And the neighbours are all lovely – it’s like living with friends.”

When asked about the moving process, she said, “It went without a hitch. It was all so fast and efficient and everything was done for us, even the removals. It took about 8 weeks from start to finish, we couldn’t believe it. It’s the best move we’ve ever made and we’ve moved around seven times.”

As advice for anyone considering the move, she adds: “Don’t hesitate! We wish we’d moved sooner, so we could have enjoyed more time here.”

Specialist care home offers support at home

Abbots Care, a family-run home care provider serving in Dorset, is committed to ensuring families feel safe, happy, and secure while receiving specialised home care or live-in care solutions. Putting people at the heart of their services is a priority for Abbots Care. They firmly believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to receive the care they need in a way that is best suited to the individual’s needs. With over 25 years of experience, Abbots Care takes great pride in their highly trained Care Workers who deliver professional and compassionate care. They are fully regulated, inspected, and rated by The Care Quality Commission (CQC).

Home & Garden

New manager at Green Gram A creative spring

Fordingbridge’s award-winning community shop The Green Gram has announced that it is kicking off 2024 with the appointment of a new manager.

Jo Anderson will be employed for three days a week as business manager to deal with the myriad back-office functions that the everexpanding business requires.

All those serving in the shop (including Jo on a Saturday!), will continue to be unpaid volunteers. Helen Harding, treasurer of the Green Gram, said: “Since our successful move to the new premises on Fordingbridge High Street, the Green Gram’s sales have increased by more than 100% and things look set to further improve.

“The expansion has increased the pressure on volunteers who have coped brilliantly but the committee felt it was right to have a paid coordinator to support both volunteers and customers. Jo has been involved with the Green Gram from the offset so has a fantastic knowledge of both customer requirements and logistics.”

In addition, committee member Wendy Reid is beginning to reach out to schools and local groups to raise environmental awareness.

If you’re interested in being involved with the Green Gram, contact by emailing team@thegreengram.org, ringing 01425 837600 or calling into the shop.

Diverse Abilities, Dorset’s Disability Charity, is asking you to embrace your creative spirit this spring.

The charity will be hosting a Spring Flowers workshop on Wednesday, March 27, guided by the Academy of Floristry to create a beautiful arrangement ready for the Easter holidays.

Tickets are £50 and include all the materials needed, expert tuition and light refreshments. Participants will be helping to fund arts and crafts activities across the charity’s services for children and adults with physical and learning disabilities.

Mariana Swain, events executive at Diverse Abilities, said: “We are really looking forward to getting creative. It’s a great reason to get a group of friends together, make an arrangement to proudly display and raise money to support children and adults with disabilities in Dorset.”

The workshop is at The Beehive therapy and activity centre, in Manor Avenue in Parkstone, from 6.00pm-9.00pm.

For tickets and information visit diverse abilities.org.uk/events2024/springflowers.

Spring Sale* starts on 1st March

Home & Garden

Hannah’s horticulture...

Prepare to get busy now that March is here!

Sowing, pruning, tidying, feeding - there is so much you can do whilst making the most of the outside sunshine. Get those muscles working, vitamin D levels raised, and soil endorphins boosted!

Tidy up borders, feed and mulch Now you can safely (for the wildlife that is) tidy up borders, including herbaceous borders, just before or as the new foliage is emerging. Give them a good feed with a balanced fertiliser, (not Tomorite as this promotes flowers and fruit, which we don’t want, yet!), so something like blood, fish and bone, or equivalent.

Look for the NPK ratio if you’re not sure, it wants to be somewhere in the region of 5:7:8. If you have labelled your plants, check them now and re-label any fading or broken ones before the summer sun gets to it and your time is stretched with other things in the garden! If you didn’t

divide or split herbaceous plants in autumn, and they are too big or didn’t perform well last year, March is a good month to do this before the season really gets

going. You should be able to see the emerging crowns (crowns are where the plants are starting to thrown up new shoots) to be able to choose where to divide them up easily. Grasses are often best split in the spring too, they tend to sulk somewhat if split in the autumn as a general rule.

Sow some veg

This month you can sow tomatoes, chillies, sweet peppers and aubergine and put them in a warm windowsill to germinate. Prick them out as soon as they get their first ‘true’ leaves (leaves that look like their adult forms, rather than the first two baby-looking leaves that emerge). Courgettes can be sown towards the end of the month, as can runner beans and peas. I start the beans and peas in modules because pesky field mice and pigeons seem to know instantly where they are planted and hoick the seed out before its even started! You can sow an early crop of carrots undercover in a cloche or in the greenhouse,

If you have a question for her, email:hannah.hobbschell@ outlook.com including a picture if relevant

and salad leaves too.

If you want to grow a nice crop of new potatoes, March too is the time to get them in the ground. New potatoes, if you like them, are well worth growing as you’ll pay far more for them in the shops than you will to grow them yourself.

Uncover any fleeced plants during warm days

The warm sun and longer days soon signal the plants to start growing, but if they grow too quickly under the extra blanket of their fleece they can be caught out by late frosts and cold winds. So uncover in the day, but recover at night if it’s due to be cold

Buy pot and bedding plugs

The ‘Kinder’, or plug plants appear from now onwards in the garden centres, so start being creative and planning your pots, baskets and borders. Pot the plug and baby plants on as soon as you can. They are often in a tiny amount of soil from which they are close to exhausting the nutrients and space from, so potting on quickly gives them the best transition and new nutrition to continue to perform. Make sure you protect from frost though – they don’t want to go straight outside without some nursing first!

Wimborne gardening club

Nearly 40 members enjoyed the February meeting when local photographer Mike Read showed slides on the work and workings of the New Forest National Park, writes Anthony Oliver.

The next meeting is on Monday, March 4, in the Allendale Centre at 7.30pm when Nicola Harper will talk on the importance of trees and planting around Wimborne.

Our spring show is on Saturday, April 13, in the Allendale Centre and doors will open at noon. Admission is free but donations will be welcome.

The 33 classes include daffodils, other plants in season, cookery, floral art, photography and a miniature garden in a seed-tray. We want to encourage people of all ages to enter whether a novice gardener or a seasoned pro. Entry forms can be found at wimbornegardeningclub.co.uk.

Events

www.wimborne.info

HIGH ST, CHRISTCHURCH (01202) 499199

Journalist’s insight into Post Office debacle

The Post Office Scandal, the shocking true story of how hundreds of innocent people fought – are still fighting - to clear their names against the organisation’s refusal to accept responsibility for its failings, has unified the nation in a way not seen in years. If you were one of the many viewers glued to the universally-acclaimed ITV drama based on the real-life events and starring Toby Jones, then a compelling new show about the moving, at times harrowing tale could be a must-see.

An expert presenter looks in-depth at how these proud pillars of their communities were stripped of their jobs and livelihoods, forcing many into bankruptcy or having to borrow from friends and family to pay the Post Office thousands of pounds they didn’t owe, and some even ending up in prison. Journalist/broadcaster Nick Wallis (Radio 4’s The Great Post Office Trial; Private Eye’s Justice Lost in the Post; BBC1’s Panorama Scandal at the Post Office; The One Show and Channel 5’s Criminals Caught On Camera) has drawn on

Setting course for harbour festival

Friday

ELO EXPERIENCE

Saturday 13th January 7.30pm

Razorlight, The Coral and Reef will top the bill at the 2024 Poole Harbour Festival. They are joined by The South - former members of The Beautiful South –Toploader, Artful Dodger, Ferocious Dog and festival favourites, Dr Meaker. The festival is set to run in Baiter Park, Poole, from Friday to Sunday, July 26 to 28.

Friday 19th January 7.30pm Tickets £28.50

Festival organiser Ben Dyas said: “Last year’s festival was the best yet in terms of line up and the feedback we received was really positive - we’re definitely putting Poole Harbour Festival on the map.

“Last year we had so many last-minute

www.theregent.co.uk

NAPOLEON (15)

Fri 12 Jan: 12:30, 16:00 | Mon 15 Jan: 19:30 | Tue 16 Jan: 12:30, 16:00 | Thu 18 Jan: 13:30, 19:30

Sir Ridley Scott directs Oscar-winner Joaquin Phoenix in this stunning historical epic that begs to be experienced on the big screen.

WHAT HAPPENS LATER (15)

Fri 12 Jan: 19:30 | Sun 14 Jan: 19:30 | Mon 15 Jan: 14:00 (S) | Tue 16 Jan: 19:30 | Thu 18 Jan: 17:00

snowed in, in-transit, at an airport overnight. Starring Meg Ryan. WONKA (PG)

Sun 14 Jan: 13:30, 16:30 | Sun 21 Jan: 17:00

BOLAN’S SHOES (15)

Mon 15 Jan: 10:30 (Silver Screen)

a decade of covering the story to write a bestselling book - The Great Post Office Scandal – which is used as this show’s foundation. Wallis himself, who advised on the TV drama, chronicles the twists and turns of the entire affair, taking in the shambolic commissioning of the Horizon IT system and examining the punitive methods employed by the Post Office to create what’s been dubbed the most widespread miscarriage of justice in UK legal history. He then narrows in on the subsequent coverup, and the staggering legal battles fought and won by campaigning Sub-postmasters, against all the odds.

FERRARI (15)

Sat 20 Jan: 14:00, 17:00 | Sun 21 Jan: 14:00, 20:00 | Mon 22 Jan: 20:00 | Tue 23 Jan: 20:00

KEN RUSSELL’S GOTHIC (18)

Sat 20 Jan: 20:30 [35mm]

THE MIRACLE CLUB (12A)

Mon 22 Jan: 10:30 (Silver Screen)

ANYONE BUT YOU (15)

Mon 22 Jan: 14:30, 17:30 | Tue 23 Jan: 14:30, 17:30

As the public inquiry into the scandal reveals yet more horrors, he’ll explain the latest developments and their significance. He will also be reading excerpts from his book, followed by a Q&A session offering an opportunity to explore areas in more detail. On some dates there may be a special guest or two affected by the scandal who will join Wallis to answer questions and provide firsthand testimony.

Tivoli, Tuesday, May, 14 7.30pm. www.tivoli.wimborne

HIGHCLIFFE CHARITY PLAYERS PRESENT: ROBIN HOOD (LIVE)

Fri 26 Jan: 19:30 Sat 27 Jan: 11:00, 14:00, 18:00 Sun 28 Jan: 14:00, 18:00

ticket buyers we did have some queues, but we’ve learned a lot from that and as well as our best-ever line up, this year we’ll have more and bigger bars, many extra toilets, easier entry and more staff and security across the site and with better signage for things like water points and toilets.

Saturday 20th

“It’s going to be a brilliant weekend.”

January 7.30pm

Tickets £25

Meanwhile, in the dance tent, a strong DJ bill is topped by Lisa Lashes, Ultrabeat, Jaguar Skills and Seb Fontaine, while tributes include shows dedicated to Queen, Madness, Ed Sheeran, Amy Winehouse and Fleetwood Mac.

There are also free circus shows as well as

17th January 7.30pm

Tickets £25

Thursday 18th January 7.30pm

daily kids’ entertainers, dinosaur shows and activities.

Tickets £20.50

“We’re so grateful our amazing regulars keep coming back year after year and they’re joined by more and more music fans attracted by the star names on the bill - it’s the party weekend that Poole is now famous for,” Ben added.

Wed 24th

7.30pm

“You can help make the event even better by taking advantage of the much cheaper launch offer tickets – this helps us plan and book the facilities needed.”

Tickets are available now via pooleharbourfestival.com.

Celebrate cream of dialect poets with tea

Whilst up and down the country, suppers take place each year to mark the birthday of Robert Burns, since 2017 Artsreach and the Ridgeway Singers and Band have instead celebrated the works of Dorset’s own dialect poet, William Barnes, through music, song and poetry in Tea With William Barnes.

William Barnes relished the country dances, folk songs and carols of Dorset, and often wrote about community celebrations, where music was a key part of the proceedings, capturing the sound of the Dorset speech in an artistic and imaginative way.

Undoubtedly the greatest of the English dialect poets, Barnes was also, as Thomas Hardy wrote ‘probably the most interesting link between present and past forms of rural life that England possessed’.

Born in Bagber, in the Blackmore Vale, in 1801, Barnes attended school in Sturminster Newton.

In later life he was an innovative schoolmaster, with a knowledge of more than 70 languages, the author of more than 30 books in prose, an artist, engraver, musician, folklorist, inventor and parish priest.

Now a popular annual fixture in the Artsreach calendar, the 2024 event takes

place at Sturminster Newton Exchange at 3pm on Sunday, February 25.

Led by Tim Laycock and Phil Humphries, the singers and band will be joined by guests from the William Barnes Society to celebrate the sounds and stories of old Dorset, performing traditional songs collected across the county, playing dance

tunes from the repertoire of Blackmore Vale fiddler Benjamin Rose, and reciting some of the poems that keep alive the rich dialect of Dorset.

Tickets include a Dorset Cream tea, and are available, along with more information, from the Exchange (01258 475137) or online at artsreach.co.uk.

Arts, entertainment, what’s

Dynamic folk duo delve into the county

Partners in life and music, dynamic Devon-based folk duo Harbottle & Jonas are widely regarded as one of the most exciting and captivating acts on the UK folk circuit today. This spring the duo will play live at three village halls in Dorset as part of the spring programme of events by Artsreach, Dorset’s touring arts charity. Dave Harbottle and Freya Jonas combine a love of the richness of traditional folk with their own original and powerful songwriting. Together, the duo has built up a revered reputation on the folk circuit over the last 10 years and racked up nearly 900 gigs in the process.

Crowned Fatea Magazine Best Band/Duo 2021, the pair have developed a distinct and compelling signature sound, blending concertina, harmonium, cittern, stomp box, acoustic guitar and banjo with their beautiful and closely intertwined vocal harmonies.

Harbottle & Jonas will play live

in Woodlands (07732 189470) at 7.30pm on Friday, March 1; West Stafford (07968 633834) at 7.30pm on Saturday, March 2; and Ibberton

Latchepen return to Dorset following a sell-out debut

Following a sell-out tour in 2023, London based gypsy-jazz band Latchepen head back to Dorset for a second tour with Artsreach next month, with the quartet set to perform in four village halls across the county.

Born out of a collective admiration of Django Reinhardt and anything that swings, Latchepen perform jazz on strings, with influences ranging from Romani music to bebop. The band consists of Matt Holborn (violin), Kourosh Kanani (guitar), Dave Kelbie (guitar) and Simon Read (bass), and together the quartet regularly play at venues in their home of London such as Ronnie Scott’s, as well as touring all over the UK playing arts venues and village halls. Between them, the band have performed with most of the leading figures in the style all over the world, at festivals

such as the Django Reinhardt festival, Turin Jazz Festival and March Manouche (UK).

Don’t miss Latchepen live in Sydling St Nicholas (01300 341777) on Thursday, 7 March, Winterborne Stickland (01258 880920) on Friday, 8 March, Powerstock (01308 485730) on Saturday, 9 March and Studland (01929 450587) on Sunday, 10 March.

Touring as part of the Artsreach spring season, further information and tickets are also available online at artsreach. co.uk.

(07771 561099) at the earlier time of 3.30pm on Sunday, March 3.

Full details and tickets can also be found online at www.artsreach.co.uk.

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Sun 25 Feb: 20:00 | Mon 26 Feb: 14:00 | Tue 27 Feb: 17:00 | Wed 28 Feb: 17:00 (S), 20:00 | Thu 29 Feb: 17:00

Andrew Scott and Paul Mescal star in this heart-breaking ad poignant drama that blurs the lines between fantasy and reality.

WONKA (PG)

Mon 26 Feb: 10:30 (Silver Screen)

Timothee Chalamet stars in this smash-hit family musical.

NOTHING’S FOR FREE: A HISTORY OF MTB FREERIDE

Mon 26 Feb: 19:30

Prepare for an electrifying adventure through the world of freeride mountain biking.

EXHIBITION ON SCREEN: PAINTING THE MODERN GARDEN (U)

Tue 27 Feb: 20:00 (S) | Sun 3 Mar: 13:00 (S)

Monet to Matisse. Based on the sell-out show at the Royal Academy of Arts, London

THE BEACH BOYZ TRIBUTE SHOW (LIVE)

Fri 1 Mar: 19:30

After nearly a decade of touring the UK, the Beach Boyz Tribute Band are hanging up their surfboards for the final time.

BIG GIRLS DON’T CRY (LIVE)

Sat 2 Mar: 19:30

The internationally acclaimed tribute to Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons.

BARBIE (12A)

Sun 3 Mar: 17:00 | Mon 11 Mar: 13:45 | Sat 16 Mar: 13:00

Awards Season. Nominated for 8 Oscars, including Best Picture.

THE ZONE OF INTEREST (12A)

Sun 3 Mar: 20:00 (S) | Mon 4 Mar: 17:30 (S) | Tue 5 Mar: 20:00 (S)

Awards Season. Nominated for 5 Oscars, including Best Picture.

MAESTRO (15)

Mon 4 Mar: 10:30 (Silver Screen) | Tue 12 Mar: 16:15

Awards Season. Nominated for 7 Oscars, including Best Picture.

Wimborne B.I.D Arts, entertainment, what’s on

Music to your ears... whatever your age

In the world of entertainment, acts can come and go and the brightest stars can fade with nary a flicker, so when it comes to the show going on, Phoenix Musical Theatre, founded by professional performer, Margaret Coltman in Ferndown nearly 40 years ago, is a shining example of stage-based staying power.

Although

not currently a legal requirement, please consider wearing a face covering

yourself and others when visiting the Tivoli.

The Sturminster Newton Literary Festival 2024 D-Day project is seeking contributions from people whose family members took part in the Normandy landings 80 years ago.

(15)

Fri 12 Jan: 12:30, 16:00 | Mon 15 Jan: 19:30 | Tue 16 Jan: 12:30, 16:00 | Thu 18 Jan: 13:30, 19:30

Holbert, all of whom are still very much part of the show.

Sir Ridley Scott directs Oscar-winner Joaquin Phoenix in this stunning historical epic that begs to be experienced on the big screen.

“I was there at the beginning and have been chair for 21 years,” says Terry.

WHAT HAPPENS LATER (15)

Fri 12 Jan: 19:30 | Sun 14 Jan: 19:30 | Mon 15 Jan: 14:00 (S) | Tue 16 Jan: 19:30 | Thu 18 Jan: 17:00

“There are about 40 in our group of all ages and sizes and almost everyone has a role - acting or stage sets, lighting and other things.

snowed in, in-transit, at an airport overnight. Starring Meg Ryan. WONKA (PG)

Sun 14 Jan: 13:30, 16:30 | Sun 21 Jan: 17:00

“Our youngest member, Joe CampbellMarsh, joined at the age of six and is now 13, we have some teenage girls and then I’m 80!”

BOLAN’S SHOES (15)

Mon 15 Jan: 10:30 (Silver Screen)

A very young 80 if her energy and enthusiasm are anything to go by.

FERRARI (15)

Sat 20 Jan: 14:00, 17:00 | Sun 21 Jan: 14:00, 20:00 | Mon 22 Jan: 20:00 | Tue 23 Jan:

Perhaps it’s because they still have several founding members.

Margaret, who formed the group from the disbanded Wimborne company she’d been with, (hence the name Phoenix), still keeps her hand in and her daughter, Marie, is director of their next musical, A – Z of musical & Comedy Sketches.

She adds: “Marie has chosen an A to Z of songs from the best musicals, old and new, that reflect our age ranges.

KEN RUSSELL’S GOTHIC (18)

Sat 20 Jan: 20:30 [35mm]

THE MIRACLE CLUB (12A)

Mon 22 Jan: 10:30 (Silver Screen)

ANYONE BUT YOU (15)

Mon 22 Jan: 14:30, 17:30 | Tue 23 Jan: 14:30, 17:30

HIGHCLIFFE CHARITY PLAYERS PRESENT: ROBIN HOOD (LIVE)

Fri 26 Jan: 19:30 Sat 27 Jan: 11:00, 14:00, 18:00 Sun 28 Jan: 14:00, 18:00

The other three founding members are Anne Hutchings, Linda Robbins and Terry

Newton from June 6.

On June 9 the exhibition will be formally launched alongside author events commemorating the invasion.

From these they will create an exhibition of family testimonies and images to go on show in the

If you’d like to contribute to the exhibition send up to 500 words describing your forbear’s experiences in June1944.

“It’s impossible to choose my favourite musical, but I love the old classics –Oklahoma, Carousel and The king And I. “I played the mother in The King And I and my daughter was one of the royal children.” Rehearsals already in full swing and they can’t wait to perform this celebration of treading the boards, featuring comedy skits and more show numbers from the likes of Annie, Blood Brothers, Mama Mia, Kinky Boots, Titanic, Sister Act et al.

Catch the A-Z of Musicals and Comedy Sketches, Saturday, March 16, Barrington Centre, Ferndown, at 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Adults £12, children £5.

to sturlitfest1@gmail.com or deliver a hand-written account to the Town Council Offices in Sturminster Newton marked FAO Cllr Pauline Batstone, D-Day 80th Anniversary Project

- by Friday, March 29.

Sturminster Newton Literary Festival is from June 8-16 and the full programme will be announced in March. Visit sturlitfest.com.

Fascinating story of female flier

To celebrate Woman’s International Day, a talk on the life of Bessie Coleman, the first African/American woman pilot will be given by Jan Aagaard-Frandsen on Friday, March 8, at 2pm. It will be held at East Dorset Heritage Trust in Hanham Road. Wimborne.

The talk is about the incredible journey of Bessie Coleman and her endeavers to achieve her dream of becoming the first African/ American woman pilot, a journey whereby she faced prejudice and hardship; a journey that took her from T

to Chicago and then on to northern France, her story has never ben told before in the UK and is not to be missed.

Tickets are available by contacting 01202 888992 or info@edht. org.uk

Events in association with...

Arts, entertainment, what’s

Fest to be one of the Bestival!

HIGH ST, CHRISTCHURCH www.theregent.co.uk

Paloma Faith, McFly and Pete Tong Ibiza Classics will top the bill at the 2024 Camp Bestival. Running between July 25 and 28 at Lulworth Castle, the festival will also see performances from the likes of James Arthur, Orbital, Jake Shears, Sophie EllisBextor and the Darkness.

Camp Bestival curator, Rob da Bank, said: “Without further ado prepare to rave (with violins and a conductor) to Pete Tong and his Ibiza Classics, singalong to Paloma Faith, Sophie Ellis-Bextor and McFly, dance like no one’s watching to the Darkness and hear all the Scissor Sisters’ hits with Jake Shears - and maybe save a bit of gas in your tank for special guest James Arthur.

“Oh yeah, and when mum or dad have taken the

kids to bed and you’re staying out for that extra hour or three, don your finest dance trousers for Orbital, Roger Sanchez and Gok Wan.”

NAPOLEON (15)

Fri 12 Jan: 12:30, 16:00 | Mon 15 Jan: 19:30 | Tue 16 Jan: 12:30, 16:00 | Thu 18 Jan: 13:30, 19:30

Sir Ridley Scott directs Oscar-winner Joaquin Phoenix in this stunning historical epic that begs to be experienced on the big screen.

Elsewhere, families can expect the Amy Winehouse Band, House Gospel Choir, Katie Grace, The Smyths, Old Time Sailors, The Magic Numbers, Dogshow, Ellie Sax, Tina Edwards, Fred Roberts, Ffion Rebecca Back to One, Rascal Raves and Jemma Bolt.

WHAT HAPPENS LATER (15)

Fri 12 Jan: 19:30 | Sun 14 Jan: 19:30 | Mon 15 Jan: 14:00 (S) | Tue 16 Jan: 19:30 | Thu 18 Jan: 17:00

snowed in, in-transit, at an airport overnight. Starring Meg Ryan. WONKA (PG)

For some family fun: Horrible Histories: Rotten Royals, Brainiac Live, Dick and Dom, Hacker T Dog & Katie Thistleton, Mr Tumble, Mister Maker, Mr Motivator, Mr B The Gentleman Rhymer and The Pop Bingo Disco, will be on offer. More details and tickets from campbestival.net.

Sun 14 Jan: 13:30, 16:30 | Sun 21 Jan: 17:00

BOLAN’S SHOES (15)

Mon 15 Jan: 10:30 (Silver Screen)

FERRARI (15)

Sat 20 Jan: 14:00, 17:00 | Sun 21 Jan: 14:00, 20:00 | Mon 22 Jan: 20:00 | Tue 23 Jan:

KEN RUSSELL’S GOTHIC (18) Sat 20 Jan: 20:30 [35mm]

Listen to the new Voices of Freedom

THE MIRACLE CLUB (12A)

Mon 22 Jan: 10:30 (Silver Screen)

ANYONE BUT YOU (15)

Blandford Parish Church is hosting an exciting concert of new music on Saturday, February 23, at 7pm.

Mon 22 Jan: 14:30, 17:30 | Tue 23 Jan: 14:30, 17:30

HIGHCLIFFE CHARITY PLAYERS PRESENT: ROBIN HOOD (LIVE)

Fri 26 Jan: 19:30 Sat 27 Jan: 11:00, 14:00, 18:00 Sun 28 Jan: 14:00, 18:00

Cellist Emily Burridge will kick off the evening with her solo work Prayer For The Rivers, originally created for Chartres Cathedral. She is then a featured soloist in Karen Wimhurst’s new piece Freedoms, alongside soprano Abigail Fiddik and the Palida Choir.

PLEASE KEEP CHECKING OUR WEBSITE

MILES JUPP: ON I BANG THE GARY FLETCHER BAND

Central to this are lyrics by writer Robin Walter, inspired by Roosevelt’s Four Freedoms. In 2023, Palida, alongside other choirs across the UK, jointly commissioned eight black composers to create new songs for a cappella choir as part of a Black Lives Matter initiative.

SOLD OUT

Wednesday 17th January 0pm Tickets £25

Thursday 18th January 7.30pm Tickets £20.50

SALTBURN (15) JIM DAVIDSON: SWIMMING AGAINST THE TIDE!

Mon 22nd January 7.30pm Matinee 24th January 2pm Adult: £8.00 evening/ £7.00 matinee Child under 16: £6.00

In the second half of the programme, they will give a Dorset premiere of many of these uplifting new works. Weaving the whole evening together will be poetry presented by members of the well-loved Wimborne Community Theatre.

FLOAT TO LIVE FESTIVAL

Wed 24th January 7.30pm Tickets £27

Events across Poole Town Centre, Saturday, March 9, raising money for Poole Lifeboat Station

Farming & Environment

A day at the farm with Tiffany Fleming

Tiffany is a volunteer at High Mead Farm in Longham, Ferndown.

High Mead Farm is a working farm run to promote the benefits of engaging with animals, soil, and nature.

They ‘create purposeful roles for our cofarmers, young people and adults alike, to help bring about a sense of well-being and self-worth that many have never experienced before’.

Whilst labouring over a somewhat detailed grant application form recently, it struck me that we rarely shout about our outcomes at High Mead.

By outcomes, I don’t mean the mountain of fruit and veg we produce, or the dozens of eggs our ducks and chickens lay, or indeed, the multiple bags of kindling our Co-Farmers prepare.

No, I mean the positive health and wellbeing outcomes that are experienced daily by our Co-Farmers (and staff and volunteers too!).

To be fair, the word therapy doesn’t appear in the Farm’s name by accident, but the daily healing that takes place at High Mead is easy to overlook.

So subtle is the change in mood of those arriving at the farm; the transition from scowl to smile, from silence to snigger, from anxiety to acceptance that you can and will get through the day, that they can slip by without acknowledgment.

The delicate changes happen so organically they almost go

unnoticed: nothing is forced, there is no expectation.

It feels as though the pace of life slows as you pass through the gates and sail into a carefully-crafted choreography of bodies, buckets, and barrows; all designed by our experienced staff, and facilitated by our volunteers to bring about change. Our staff meander around the farm collecting all the tensions, anxieties, and concerns; exchanging them for friendship, support, and self-esteem.

All this seems to happen effortlessly, disguised by the comings and goings more naturally associated with life on any farm: meeting the needs of a cacophony hungry birds and beasties, deliveries (of the maternal and postal type) and the general chaos that can result when you gather 40 or so people on four acres of mud and add to the mix half a dozen badly-behaved goats.

Precious too are the wonderful moments of quiet, the value of which is so apparent due to their rarity!

The opportunity to stand in the stables, to breathe in the delicious aroma of straw and feel the gentle breath of the ponies as they nuzzle you to see what you might have by way of treats.

Or the chance to hang out in the craft room, to dig your fingers into a cold lump of clay, feeling it slowly yield as it warms under your hands. The farm activities steal your time and relieve your stress,

and before you know it the day is done.

Being occupied by things you find comfort in, participating in activities you can take pride in, feeling a sense of purpose

and achievement are priceless. In the words of one of our founding volunteers: ‘thanks to my time at the farm, my belief in myself and my skills grew’. That’s the value crop

Advertise in the New Stour & Avon magazine. Contact: jane.toomer@blackmorevale.net

2021 (21) Fiat 500X 1.3T

SUV

148bhp, petrol, 6 speed automatic gearbox, high seating, big boot, good ground clearance, cruise control, partial leather, parking sensors, hill start assist, automatic lights & wipers, 12,300 miles ......................................£15650

2012 (62) Ford Fiesta 1.25 Edge 5dr. 82bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, heated front screen, air con, parking sensors, cambelt kit has been replaced, 63,700 miles ..................Available soon £4850

2018 (18) Ford C-Max 1.0T EcoBoost Zetec Nav MPV Estate 5dr. 125bhp, petrol, 6 speed manual gearbox, high seating position, big boot, sat nav, sign recognition, parking sensors, cruise control, heated front screen, hill start assist, 45,900 miles

£9650

2013 (62) Ford Mondeo 2.0TDCi Zetec Business Edition 5dr. 140bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, parking sensors, sat nav, cruise control, heated front screen, clearance car to be sold with MOT until August, 202,000 miles but plenty of life left in it, normally a £6000 car but very cheap due to high mileage.................................................£2000

2013 (13) Ford Kuga 2.0TDCi Titanium X Automatic 4x4 SUV 5dr. 163bhp, diesel, 6 speed automatic gearbox, 4 wheel drive, gearbox & cambelt replaced 2022, heated leather, electric sunroof, electric tailgate, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, park sensors, hill start assist, heated front screen, 73,800 miles ..................................................£8250

Farming & Environment Experience a dawn chorus

If you’ve ever wanted to experience the awesome sound of the dawn chorus, as well as spot some rare birds, book the Bird Watching Walk taking place in the New Forest on May 5.

Led by ornithologist Graham Giddens and located at Needs Ore Nature Reserve, walkers will be taken through coastal marshland to spot waders geese and, potentially, marsh harriers, spoonbills and ring-billed gulls. The reserve is normally closed to visitors so booking is the only way to get there.

of which we should be most proud.

n Save the dates: The next Farm Open Day is on Sunday, March 10, and our Spring Fayre is on Saturday, May 25

The walk takes place from 6am8.30am from the Countryside Education Trust at Beaulieu, and costs £15 per person.

More details at 01590 612 401 or mail@cet.org.uk.

Storage for caravans, boats and cars at Enford Farm, near Blandford. 01258 450050 / 07704813025

2014 (14) Smart ForTwo 1.0 Passion Automatic Convertible 2dr. 71bhp, petrol, 5 speed automatic gearbox, sat nav, electric peel back roof, clearance car to be sold with MOT until September, Cat D for minor damage & then repaired in 2016, Free yearly road tax, 60+mpg, normally a £7000 car but very cheap due to Cat D, only 20,500 miles ...........................................................................£4000

2018 (18) Skoda Fabia 1.0MPi S 5dr. 74bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, 50+mpg, cambelt replaced, cheap to run & insure, nice simple basic car with 1 owner, 50,800 miles .................................£7450

2016 (66) Vauxhall Astra 1.4 Design 5dr. 100bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, cruise control, auto lights, low mileage example with only 43,500 miles ...........................................................................£7850

2019 (19) Vauxhall Crossland X 1.2 Elite Estate MPV 5dr. 82bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, high seating, parking sensors, cruise control, 51,900 miles ...........................................................£9650

Arrow words

Crossword Amsterdam University (abbr) British singer who duetted with Eminem Lease Intersection points Knight’s title In whatever quantity Be appropriate for Aegean, eg Emblem Agreement not to reveal secrets (inits) Tavern Interested in painting

Wordsearch

Best Picture Oscar Winners

7 8 9 10 11 14 18 19 20 21

1 2 3 4 5 6 12 13 15 16 17 Across 7 Part two (6) 8 Altitude (6) 9 Land surrounded by sea (4) 10 Imperious (8) 11 Organizer (11)

Logical equivalences (11)

Wholly (8)

or polar, eg

Dissimilar

1 Edition (7)

3 Substance with pH greater than 7 (6)

4 Universal Buddhist truth (6)

5 Bell sound (4-4)

6 Horned African animal (5)

12 Finally understands (8)

13 Comments (7)

15 Finis (3,3)

16 Plan; map (6)

17 Pungent vegetable (5)

19 Bundle of hay (4)

AMERICAN BEAUTY

BRAVEHEART

CHARIOTS OF FIRE

CRASH GANDHI GLADIATOR OUT OF AFRICA PLATOON SCHINDLER’S LIST THE ARTIST THE DEPARTED

HURT LOCKER THE KING’S SPEECH TITANIC UNFORGIVEN H G E O U G H H C V A E C A T S C H I N D L E R S L I S T O O H E R L E U L A I O N S T I T A M E R I C A N B E A U T Y T R A K P L A T O O N U E D O R I S C S S R E F A N E E T S A O I O I I S N R F C T E H O E T T L T R O G O I R S O E T H S S T I T F R N A F I G A U E O U R N G G A P I I D A R O V F D U O I T E F H K T C T H A F I H V I D C D O G E I I R R I R E T E L N F O T S H S T B R N H H S A R C H U U C T U R E T T I G L A D I A T O R O 8 9 5 6 4 8 2 3 5 1 3 6 4 9 1 8 8 1 5 7 6 2 4 9 2 7 7 1 8 2 6 8 10 RESULT ×1/2 ×7 -5 ÷5 +16

Sudoku

Jumbo 3D Sudoku

Could you give a child a foster home?

Cryptic crossword

Across

Across

8 Fabulous creature having run-in possibly about firm (7)

8 Fabulous creature having run-in possibly about firm (7)

9 Forgetting name, recall original musical (5)

Killer Sudoku Pro

Brain chain (hard)

Down

Down

1 Part round line in bedcover (5)

1 Part round line in bedcover (5)

2 Outdated type is around ground (8)

2 Outdated type is around ground (8)

10 Rough sponge a nitwit held back (5)

9 Forgetting name, recall original musical (5)

10 Rough sponge a nitwit held back (5)

11 Piece on dress in part of old ship (3,4)

11 Piece on dress in part of old ship (3,4)

12 Making easy element in party touring island, inspired area (12)

12 Making easy element in party touring island, inspired area (12)

16 Abundant source surprisingly lent for phony (4,2,6)

16 Abundant source surprisingly lent for phony (4,2,6)

20 Striking plant that’s cultivated in exposed edge of rock (7)

20 Striking plant that’s cultivated in exposed edge of rock (7)

23 Scoundrels start to exclaim and swear (5)

3 African citizen in this way facing African country (6)

4 Catch stump (4)

3 African citizen in this way facing African country (6)

4 Catch stump (4)

5 Hear in quake rupture (6)

6 Type of music, source of joy I have condensed (4)

5 Hear in quake rupture (6)

7 Bishop, say, showing benevolence for all people? (7)

6 Type of music, source of joy I have condensed (4)

13 Devilish youth in slim pullover (3)

14 Fascination in growth from account? (8)

7 Bishop, say, showing benevolence for people? (7)

24 A writer in Greece and player on computers? (5)

23 Scoundrels start to exclaim and swear (5)

24 A writer in Greece and player on computers? (5)

25 Appropriate start in Turkey (7)

25 Appropriate start in Turkey (7)

Killer Sudoku Pro:

13 Devilish youth in slim pullover (3)

15 By the sound of it, cast is finished (7)

14 Fascination in growth from account? (8)

15 By the sound of it, cast is finished (7)

17 Model for astronomers or engineers on railway (6)

18 Legal deed worse in review when probed by Conservative (6)

17 Model for astronomers or engineers on railway (6)

19 Transport British rock singer (5)

21 Rotting meat in flat (4)

22 US poet left out course of action (4)

18 Legal deed worse in review when probed Conservative (6)

19 Transport British rock singer (5)

21 Rotting meat in flat (4)

22 US poet left out course of action (4)

Place 1 to 9 once each into every row, column and bold-lined 3×3 box.

No digit may be repeated in any dashed-line cage, and all the digits in each cage must add up to the value shown in that cage.

Recruitment

Church Organist required - St John’s Church Horsington

Our current Organist is retiring at the end of July so we are looking for someone who is able to play at some Sunday Services, not all, as well as Occasional Offices.

There is also the possibility to play at other Churches in the Benefice, if they so wish.

Please contact

Stephen Miles (Churchwarden) milesstephen61@ gmail.com or 07825751636

Part time chef/cook required at Sherborne Golf Club. Hours will be variable from week to week. Would suit semi-retired person or someone looking for a non-committed weekly schedule. Flexibility is our main aim due to the nature of the business. Email your cv to bar@ sherbornegolfclub.co.uk

Explorers’ Preschool are looking for 2 new team members to join our growing Preschool.

A Deputy Manager is required and a Level 3 Early Years Practitioner

We are a friendly village preschool and would love to hear from you, if you would like to find out more about what we can offer. Hours can be flexible for the right team members and can be discussed at interview. Salary for Deputy Manager is £19,400 on full time hours and for the Level 3 position £10.62.

Application by CV and covering letter to explorers.preschool@ hotmail.co.uk or for an informal chat please call 07792240804

Assistant Steward/ Bar Person

Blandford

Constitutional Club require an assistant steward to work behind the bar and to provide cover when the steward is absent.

Duties will include bar work, cellar work, stock replenishment and rotation, line maintenance, staff management, cash accounting and banking. Some lifting will be required. Normally 25 hours per week at a salary of £11.70 per hour. Experience is preferred but not essential.

Contact: Secretary@ blandfordconclub. co.uk

Dorset Cattle Breeders

A well established cattle breeding company seeks Experienced AI Technician/Sales Person

An attractive remuneration and company vehicle awaits the right applicant who can work from home, demonstrate initiative, organise their daily schedules and maintain accurate records. Reliability and conidence are key, along with good communication skills. For more information please call Andrew 0777 333 4931

www.dorsetcattlebreeders.co.uk

SELF EMPLOYED EXPERIENCED GROUNDWORKERS/PLANT OPERATORS

We are looking for an experienced Groundworker who can also operate a 360° Excavator for local interesting contracts, working as part of a team.

Applicants must be con dent in their ability to carry out all aspects of groundwork to a good standard with attention to detail. We o er a safe working environment with good rates of pay. Local work and an opportunity of long-term employment with a friendly family run business.

If you are that exible, skilled groundworker who can also operate plant to a good standard please call, Martin on 01258 455219 or email admin@farwellplanthire.co.uk

Recruitment

1:1 Part time Learning Support Assistant to support a pupil with ASD

Permanent | 8.40am – 1pm Term-time only

For full details and to download an application form please visit vacancies on our website:

Horsington Church School – A Bath and Wells Academy (horsingtonbwmat.org) or contact the school.

Closing date: Thursday 22nd February 2024

This post will commence as soon as possible

The Blackmore Vale

BRAMALL GARDENS

requires a new team member to join our established Landscape Company, initially with our grass cutting team.

Hard work and reliability are essential requirements, along with a clean driving licence To apply to join our hard working team in Marnhull Dorset, please ring 01258 820394

EXPERIENCED STOCK PERSON / GENERAL FARM WORKER

Required for beef herd and mixed arable farm in North Dorset.

Main duties will include feeding, bedding, and maintaining a high level of cleanliness. There will be seasonal work on the arable side.

Must have excellent communication skills and demonstrate the correct attitude to animal welfare, be trustworthy, organised, and able to work alone as well as part of a team.

Full driving licence and tractor/loader experience essential. Salary and conditions are dependent on experience. Accommodation could be made available for the right candidate.

Please send applications to churchfarmmarnhull@icloud.com.

Yard Manager/ Concrete Batcher

Blandford Concrete are looking for a new Yard Manager and Concrete Batcher. The successful applicant would be responsible for:

• Serving customers onsite both face to face and by telephone.

• Ordering materials and dealing with suppliers.

• Running the concrete plant and managing the weighbridge.

Hours are: 7am-5pm – Mon-Fridays, plus some Saturday mornings, 7am-12pm. Good rates of pay.

It would be bene cial that applicants have previous managerial experience and some knowledge of the building trade. Telehandler ticket would be preferred but not essential as training will be provided.

Please apply either by email to: admin@farwellplanthire.co.uk or telephone: 01258 455219

Turn down your energy bills this winter...

What to Do When a Relationship Breaks Down?

It is always a stressful time when a marriage or relationship ends. It is never straightforward, and often things can get missed. Who will look after the children, and when? How will we divide the house, do the pensions cover our needs, and what about other financial matters? Is everyone safe, healthy and looked after?

It can seem like a minefield getting everything right, making sure all the I’s are dotted and T’s crossed. At Kernon Kelleher, we are here to assist you from the outset, guiding you through the process. Whether it’s a case of reaching an agreement and making it binding, or taking the necessary steps to go to Court, we are here to help you achieve what’s fair.

From divorce, civil partnership dissolution and the associated financial consequences, to helping you make arrangements for children and protecting you

from domestic abuse, our family team are on hand to provide a bespoke service particular to your unique situation.

With offices in Dorset and Wiltshire, we can meet at a place and time that is convenient to you. We offer a free 30-minute consultation for new family enquiries, so you can decide whether you would like to go ahead with no pressure.

If you are interested in seeking professional legal advice relating to your relationship, please email info@kernonkelleher. co.uk or telephone 01258 446288 to speak to our family solicitor, Peter West.

Dorset business’s boost for veterans

A Bournemouth-based charity that was launched a decade ago to help military veterans has been presented with a cheque for £400 from a local funeral directors.

The Bournemouth Above and Beyond Trust said the money will go towards a new electric wheelchair.

The money was donated by AE Jolliffe & Son in Ferndown, which is part of Dorset’s Douch Family Funeral Directors group.

Set up by the then former town councillor Amedeo Angiolini, the charity has a base on the beach at Southbourne as well as operations at Avon Heath Country Park and Upton Country Park.

More than 400 veterans have been assisted since its inception and it has expansion plans. Amedeo said: “When I was a town councillor, a veteran in his 20s was found dead in freezing weather in a local church doorway. He had difficulty re-integrating after a tour in Afghanistan.

“It prompted me to start the charity as a place where veterans could meet and we could offer help through water-sports activities and working in woodlands.

“The group meets every Tuesday and Thursday morning on the beach at Southbourne near Gordon’s Zig Zag where we have a boat shed and provide hot drinks,

food and therapeutic water-sports activities. Everyone is welcome.

“Many people go swimming throughout the year and we need a new electric wheelchair to help people gain access to the beach.

“We have plans to fund another building so we can widen our group to include the local community.

“We also help veterans at Avon Heath Country Park with woodland skills such as tree work, and at Upton Country Park where we have some bee hives. Working with other organisations we’re able to offer one-to-one help as well as group sessions.

“The donation is extremely generous and will be put to good use in helping veterans.”

Helen Deans, from AE Jolliffe & Son, said: “We became aware of the charity through someone in the town and it seemed a wonderful cause.

“And having met Amadeo and some of the veterans it’s clear what a great service the charity offers.

“Our company fundraises for many charities and good causes and we’re so pleased to have been able to help the Bournemouth Above and Beyond Trust.”

The total amount donated was £404.35.

is

‘What will happen to the property if we separate?’

‘My partner and I are separating and because the house is only in his name I am left on the street when I was promised I would be secure at home when we were together’.

It is becoming increasingly common for couples to live together before they get married, or couples to decide just to live together without ever getting married.

But what happens when that relationship breaks down?

This situation is complicated when there are children involved.

If the couple do not have children, the main points to consider include:

• If the property is jointly owned and the sharing of equity has been agreed at the time it was purchased (usually in writing), you should expect to be held to your agreement regardless of who has paid what since you both moved in. Either owner of the property can seek the sale or agree for one person to remain living there with a transfer of ownership (often at the same time as a re-mortgage and also payment of a lump sum to the person who is leaving the property).

• The law is more complicated where, in this case, only one person is registered as the sole owner of the property.

• If you have moved in with your partner, you might be able to rely on promises made by them that the home is as much yours as theirs. However, proving what has been said can be a challenge.

• Also, if you rely on a promise (if you can prove what was said), you then also need to prove that you suffered detriment in monetary terms. Mere reliance on the promise which has not also resulted to financial detriment is not enough.

This is just one scenario provided in this article as an example in this increasingly fluid area of law. We urge you to contact us for a free initial half-hour discussion of your own personal position if you recognise that this could become an issue for you or if it already is.

Service award for retailer

Carpet Barn and the Bed Store has won the Feefo Platinum Trusted Service Award, an independent seal of excellence, which recognises businesses that consistently deliver a world-class customer experience.

Carpet Barn and the Bed Store has been operating for more than 45 years, a testament to their enduring service. They are an independent, family-run business, renowned for their knowledge and expertise in the carpet, flooring and bedding industries.

Carpet Barn and the Bed Store has five outlets in Christchurch, Poole, Ferndown, Eastleigh and Salisbury, giving them a major presence in the south, and in each of the stores, customers can find carpets, rugs, flooring, beds, mattresses and furniture accompanied by their revered customer service.

It’s a significant achievement to be presented with this award; This recognition is limited to businesses that have achieved Gold standard for three consecutive years,

requiring a minimum 50 reviews with a Feefo service rating of between 4.5 and 4.9 in each calendar year.

Darren Ironside, director, said: “We’re thrilled to receive this award.

“Keeping our customers happy is our priority so the fact that this award is based on feedback from real customers gives us confidence we are providing an exceptional level of service.

The award reflects how hard our staff work to listen to our customers and keep them happy, especially in a climate where purse strings are tight.

“As we enter 2024, we’ll continue to deliver what our customers want. We’d like to take this opportunity to thank our customers for sharing their feedback.”

Tony Wheble, CEO at Feefo, added: “With customers continuing to build resilience in a time of economic uncertainty, we’re delighted to showcase our clients who are continuing to go above and beyond for each and every customer.”

Antony Batty office hosts ladies’ lunch

Elaine Wilkins, director at Antony Batty’s Bournemouth office and Alison Gates, director at their Salisbury office were delighted to host a ladies’ lunch at the Captain’s Club Hotel & Spa. They welcomed a group of lady accountants from the local area, and all enjoyed a superb lunch, including cheese souffle and moules marinières, along with plenty of relaxed networking.

Elaine said: “It’s so nice to take time out after a busy January and enjoy each other’s company in a beautiful setting over a lovely lunch.

“Some useful new connections and relationships were formed. It was also a great way to say thank you for their support” .

Printer achieves carbon-balanced certification

Shaftesbury-based printer

Blackmore Ltd has been certified as a Carbon Balanced Printer. Blackmore is in the top 1% of printers in the UK to have achieved this certification. Blackmore Ltd has been Certified Carbon Balanced as it has measured its primary carbon emissions and balanced (offset) these impacts through World Land Trust’s global Carbon Balanced projects.

In addition to the Carbon Balanced certification, Blackmore has made further investments to reduce emissions. These investments include new solar panels, state-of-the-art energy-efficient print presses and a new air compressor, as well as changing the energy supply so that all the electricity used during production is from 100% renewable sources.

Blackmore’s certification has been granted by Carbon Co, a company that specialises in the print and paper industry, working with printers to reduce and mitigate their carbon impacts, in partnership with World Land Trust.

In line with the Paris Agreement, keeping the global

UK Removals

temperature increase below 1.5C, Carbon Balanced Printers like Blackmore Ltd are committed to halving their Scope 1 and Scope 2 carbon emissions by 2030.

To date,

Carbon Co’s Carbon Balanced Print and Paper programme has enabled the World Land Trust to offset more than 380,000 tonnes of CO2. Contributions to the Carbon Balanced Programme are used to protect rich biodiverse land from deforestation and degradation,

preventing the release of CO2 into the atmosphere while preserving invaluable, endangered ecosystems. Managing director of Blackmore Ltd Andrew Robbins, pictured, said: “We’re delighted to be part of the top handful of UK Certified Carbon Balanced Printers. “We previously offered a carbonbalanced paper service, although we wanted to go the extra mile, so we made the necessary measures to become a Carbon Balanced Printer.”

Storage

SPETISBURY

This is a much shorter walk than usual as I did it on a wet and windy day so the downlands to the south west weren’t explored and will have to wait until next time.

The main road, the A350, runs NWSE through the village. Starting near the middle, head NW for about 100 yards (depending where you parked!) and turn right down a footpath to the Stour. Although the path crosses the river, there’s no bridge, so unless you fancy an adventurous paddle, simply admire the view and return to the road.

with retired Dorset rights of way officer CHRIS SLADE

Turn right and walk along to the church which is ancient in parts and is listed. There’s a massive triangular pyramid in the graveyard, a monument to a priest who was

www hanfordschool co uk

rector for 60 years. A little further along the road turn left, south west, to the former railway bridge. Join the path that heads south east along the railway line for a mile,

Come and join our staff body at our vibrant and happy prep school for girls (aged 7-13) set in the beautiful Dorset countryside:

Puzzle solutions

Sudoku

HOUSEPARENT

The role of Houseparent at Hanford holds a uniquely important position of trust and influence in the Boarding House. The successful candidate will have the ability to lead, motivate, support and understand the pupils in their care and will have overall responsibility for the functioning and orderly running of the House. They will be the first point of contact for boarders’ parents and guardians and will have excellent communication skills.

The successful applicant will be required to work weekends and evenings as required and have significant overnight responsibility. Accommodation will be provided. To start in January 2024.

RESIDENT M ATRON

We are seeking a caring and empathetic resident Matron with strong inter-personal skills and a can-do attitude, who will be an excellent role model for our pupils. The successful candidate will make a significant contribution to the pastoral welfare of the pupils and will have the capacity to support and understand young people in all aspects of their development, especially their emotional, academic and pastoral needs. They will expect and embody high standards of behaviour, courtesy and care.

The successful applicant will be required to work weekends and evenings as required and have significant overnight responsibility. Accommodation will be provided. To start as soon as possible.

TEACHER O F FRENCH

pausing at the station to admire the work the local railway enthusiasts have done. At the end of the village the line meets a road. Here you double back, joining a path parallel with the railway line for a while. After about a furlong you reach Spetisbury Rings, also known as Crawford Castle, on your left. Follow the path that takes you in a loop around the ancient monument ridge, which has a trig point on it. The path leaves the ring on the north west side and takes you down to a road. Turn right crossing the railway line, back to the A350. Turn left, north west, for about 100 yards then right, north east, down a path to the Stour again. This time there’s a bridge from which you can take photos before returning to the main road and your car. You’ll have walked about two and a half miles.

Crossword V F A D D R S E Q U E L H E I G H T R M K A N I I S L E A R R O G A N T I L M D O C O O R D I N A T O R N E N R T A U T O L O G I E S O L H A M E N T I R E L Y B E A R I Z E O A R S O L E M N U N L I K E N S D T E S

We are seeking an exceptional candidate to teach French to our girls (aged 7 -13). Hanford School has an excellent academic record, and the girls sit common entrance and scholarships to top independent senior schools.

To start in April 2024 or sooner

CLE ANER

To work as part of our team, carrying out a variety of cleaning functions. A great opportunity for an enthusiastic and helpful person, training will be given. Core hours are approximately 25 hours per week (by arrangement) term time only, to include weekdays plus Saturday mornings.

To start January 2024.

To learn more about these opportunities please call the School Office on 01258 860219 or visit our website: www.hanfordschool.co.uk

Application deadline: Monday, 6 h November 2023 office@hanfordschool co uk

Hanford is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment.

Brain

problems with these puzzles? Email newsdesk@ stourandavon.net Jumbo 3D Sudoku Killer Sudoku Pro 7 3 1 4 8 5 6 2 9 5 4 9 2 6 7 1 8 3 6 2 8 9 3 1 4 7 5 4 7 3 1 9 8 2 5 6 1 8 5 7 2 6 3 9 4 9 6 2 3 5 4 7 1 8 8 1 4 5 7 3 9 6 2 3 9 6 8 1 2 5 4 7 2 5 7 6 4 9 8 3 1 9 8 11 9 7 8 11 9 10 10 8 8 17 13 7 10 10 4 11 7 5 17 12 12 40 21 13 16 11 20 20 13 18 6 2 3 1 8 9 5 4 7 8 7 1 9 4 2 5 6 3 8 6 5 2 1 7 3 9 4 9 6 3 8 7 5 1 4 2 3 1 9 6 5 4 2 7 8 4 3 1 7 9 8 2 5 6 1 7 8 9 3 2 4 5 6 5 2 4 3 1 6 7 9 8 2 4 7 9 8 3 5 1 6 1 6 5 2 8 9 4 3 7 7 4 8 6 5 3 2 1 9 3 2 9 4 1 7 5 8 6 4 6 7 8 2 1 5 9 3 5 8 2 3 4 9 1 7 6 1 3 9 6 7 5 8 2 4 3 4 2 9 7 1 8 5 6 8 7 9 1 4 5 2 6 3 4 3 5 7 6 8 9 1 2 5 3 4 1 6 7 8 9 2 8 7 2 9 5 3 1 6 4 6 1 9 4 8 2 3 5 7 4 2 3 8 5 7 9 1 6 7 6 9 2 1 4 3 8 5 8 5 1 6 9 3 4 2 7 5 9 6 2 3 1 7 8 4 4 9 2 5 3 1 7 8 6 8 1 9 6 4 7 5 2 3

These posts are all subject to enhanced DBS checks

Hanford

is part of Sherborne

Number 307427

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

crossword Q D S S H J M U N I C O R N E V I T A I N M A R V N L O O F A G U N D E C K T S L I I F A C I L I T A T I O N T U M N D H O R N O F P L E N T Y R R S E F O U T C R O P C U R S E U A E A R E R G A M E R T R O U S E R H E Y H W T Y