The next Car and Bike Enthusiasts Meet will take place on Saturday 6th September on the Recreation Ground – all are welcome to come along, admire the vehicles, and enjoy a bit of nostalgic reminiscing. Last month saw an impressive 320 vehicles on show, and this time they’ll be joined by makers from the 1855 Artisan Market, who will be showcasing both their products and their craft skills. The event will also host civic leaders from across Dorset, visiting as part of the Town Mayor’s Civic Day.
The following weekend brings the town’s biggest annual celebration: the Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival, held over Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th September. Book in advance via the Cheese Festival website to receive a 10% discount on tickets. Many of the town’s SturAction shops will be open all weekend, along with Harts’ incredible store – so come ready to browse, taste and stock up.
For the first time, Stur will be running a dedicated History Week, taking place from 20th to 28th September, in partnership with local organisations and venues. Expect a variety of events celebrating the people, places and stories that make up the town’s rich past.
Looking ahead to 1st October, there’s a fun and fabulous evening planned at The Exchange, starting at 7.00pm for 7.30pm. Volunteers from all eight of the town’s charity shops, plus staff from Newstone House, are taking to the catwalk for a Pre-Loved Fashion Show and Sale – with styles for women, men and children. Tickets are just £5 and available from any of the participating charity shops. It’s all part of Sustainable Stur, and a great chance to update your wardrobe without breaking the bank.
A big congratulations to the six businesses from Sturminster Newton and Hinton St Mary who brought home ten awards between them at the recent North Dorset Business Awards. Special mention goes to SturAction, who were named the overall Winner of Winners: “An organisation that has given their community so much by revitalising the town centre in recent years. It has had a major impact on the town, for both locals and visitors.”
Dates for your diary:
- 31st October – Volunteers are already hard at work planning a spectacular Halloween event in the Railway Gardens. It falls right in half term – how convenient!
- 1st November – Christmas officially begins in Stur with the opening of the Workhouse Chapel on Bath Road.
- 29th November – The Christmas tree lights will be switched on, with Father Christmas in town and a parade of tractors to mark the occasion. Keep an eye out for the Make Stur Sparkle leaflet for full festive listings.
