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Dig, Dispute and Dorset’s Future | BV podcast

By
Laura
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0

Planning battles, Saxon skeletons, public transport woes and a fox-hunting fallout – this month’s podcast covers 1,300 years of rural life, and why the next few weeks could shape the next 30.

Editor’s Letter: Not Quite Pumpkin Season
Laura reflects on the month’s sudden turn from drought to downpour, the return of green fields, and feels a quiet mourning for al fresco breakfasts and picky teas. Plus, she urges attention on the Dorset Plan:

“It’s the blueprint for how Dorset looks, lives and grows for the next couple of decades – and we’ve got just a few weeks to shape it.”

Sherry Jespersen: What the Dorset Local Plan Really Means
Former chair of North Dorset’s planning committee, Cllr Sherry Jespersen, joins Laura to explain why the Dorset Local Plan is not just a boring bureaucratic document – it’s the most important planning consultation in decades.

“The government gives the numbers, but it’s not Dorset Council building the houses. There’s a mismatch between ambition and reality – and it’s residents who live with the consequences.”

Sherry breaks down how planning actually works, what people get wrong on social media, and why now is the time to speak up – whether you’re worried about infrastructure, affordability, school places or transport.

Dorset Insider: Roads to Nowhere
This month our anonymous parish councillor takes a razor-sharp look at Dorset Council’s Local Transport Plan – a document full of admirable goals … and almost no money:

“If you’ve ever cycled in competition with a tractor on a country lane, you’ll understand why people drive. In rural Dorset, the car is still a necessity – and public transport doesn’t cut it.”

6,000 Saxons and a Shallow Grave
In Iwerne Minster, archaeologists have uncovered one of Dorset’s largest Anglo-Saxon cemeteries – 6,000 burials from a period spanning 300 years.

Courtenay Hitchcock joins lead archaeologist Richard McConnell on site, where the discoveries are helping to reveal the lives (and curious deaths) of our early Christian ancestors.

“There’s one grave where a second body was squeezed in – and they had to remove the first one’s head to make space.”

The Grumbler: Foxhounds and False History
This month’s anonymous opinion piece is from a local historian who took issue with the hound parade commentary at the Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show – and its one-sided sermon on fox hunting.

“The implication was that the rural economy will collapse without hunting, and that every spectator supports it. I wasn’t convinced.”

This episode is based on articles from September’s BV, available to read for free here . News, people, places – and beautiful Dorset photography, every single month.

The BV – named Best Regional Publication in the UK (ACE Awards) and Regional News Site of the Year (Press Gazette). Always worth your ears.

High protein, high fibre, low carb … yes, you can have it all

By
Editorial team
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0

Protein may hog the spotlight, but fibre quietly builds better health – from gut and heart to blood sugar and mood, says expert Karen Geary

Mix Greek yogurt with chia seeds and raspberries. The yogurt delivers 20g protein, while the seeds and berries add another 10g fibre

In today’s health and wellness world, protein has been stealing the spotlight for a while, enjoying something of a “health halo.”
We’re encouraged to prioritise protein at every meal, with influencers showcasing protein-packed smoothies, bars and bowls. And yes, protein is vital for maintaining muscle mass, supporting recovery and keeping you satisfied, though needs will vary according to age, health status and fitness goals.
But there’s another nutrient – far less glamorous, yet arguably more essential: fibre.
It admittedly doesn’t come in glossy shaker bottles or with high-profile sponsorships, but without enough fibre, even the most carefully crafted protein-rich diet is missing a critical foundation for long-term health.

Why fibre deserves equal billing
Fibre is found in plant foods – vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, seeds and whole grains – and is the part we can’t digest. That’s not a flaw, it’s the magic. When fibre travels through our gut, it:
Feeds beneficial gut bacteria. These microbes ferment fibre into short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that support immunity, lower inflammation, and protect against disease.
Supports healthy blood sugar levels and a healthy weight. Soluble fibre slows glucose absorption, helping to avoid unwanted spikes and crashes.
Keeps you full for longer. High-fibre meals promote satiety without excess calories.
Helps with detoxification. Certain fibres bind to unwanted compounds (including environmental “forever chemicals”) and carry them out of the body.
Boosts mood and longevity. Emerging research links fibre intake to better mental health and a reduced risk of chronic diseases.
A BMJ article found that fibre reduces the risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and colon cancer by between 16 to 24 per cent. Yet, despite these benefits, 90 per cent of people don’t reach the recommended 30g of fibre a day.

The protein/fibre balancing act
A common misconception is that eating more fibre means loading up on carbs – and for anyone watching their blood sugar or aiming for fat loss, that can feel counterproductive.
Here’s the good news: you can eat both high protein and high fibre without overloading on starchy carbs. The key is to focus on non-starchy vegetables, legumes and low-sugar fruits, then pair them with quality protein sources.
For example:
Breakfast: Greek yogurt mixed with chia or flaxseeds and raspberries. The yogurt delivers 20g protein, while the seeds and berries add another 10g fibre.
Lunch: Salmon fillet with lentils, broccoli and red pepper is roughly 35g protein, 10g fibre.
Dinner: Grilled chicken breast with a chickpea and spinach stew has 40g protein, 10g fibre.
This approach covers your fibre needs while keeping meals nutrient-dense, satisfying and balanced: no snacks required!

Salmon fillet with lentils, broccoli and red pepper is roughly 35g protein, 10g fibre

Increase fibre not carbs and sugar
If you’re currently under the 30g daily target (most fitness trackers such as MyFitnessPal or Cronometer will track fibre for you), build up slowly to avoid digestive discomfort.
Add seeds to your breakfast – 1 tbsp chia seeds contains around 5g fibre.
Choose legumes – ½ cup cooked lentils or chickpeas will give you around 8g fibre.
Double your veg portions – especially leafy greens, broccoli, peppers and courgettes.
Snack smart – swap crisps for raw veg and hummus, or have a small handful of almonds. Two squares of 90% dark chocolate gives you 2g fibre. Winner!
Think of each meal as an opportunity to combine at least 10g of fibre with a strong protein source. By the end of the day, you’ll have supported your microbiome, balanced your blood sugar, and nourished your muscles – without excessive carbs.

Budget fibre swaps
The table below has some suggestions that are not carb heavy (grains and sweet fruit excluded for these examples, but feel free to work with pasta, grains and potatoes if it suits your objectives).Combine two or three of the cheaper swaps in a meal to hit the same (or higher) fibre target as the more expensive option.

The role of healthy fats
While protein and fibre are crucial for a balanced diet, healthy fats also play an essential role in overall health. Fats are a vital source of energy, help absorb fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E and K), and are necessary for building cell membranes and producing hormones.
Incorporating healthy fats – such as those in avocados, nuts, seeds, olive oil and fatty fish – can support brain function, reduce inflammation, and promote heart health. A balanced diet includes a variety of nutrients, and healthy fats are an integral part of that balance.

cheap swaps for expensive high fibre food

Blueberry English muffins

By
Editorial team
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0

The blueberries in these tasty homemade muffins give a joyous burst of sweet flavour, and when they’re smothered in hot butter, straight from the oven, they are sublime. This recipe does involve some of the bread making process with two proves, so it isn’t quick, but you can leave the first prove in the fridge overnight if you would like hot English muffins for brunch. Heather x

Blueberry English muffins

Ingredients

  • 300g strong bread flour
  • 7g fast-acting yeast (1 sachet)
  • 7g salt
  • 2 tbsp caster sugar
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 200ml milk
  • 100g blueberries
  • Semolina
Heather Brown is a special officer for the Guild of Food Writers and has worked in the food industry for 20 years. She is a food writer and photographer, offering one-to-one help to local businesses for content and websites.

Method

  1. In a jug, add the milk, butter and sugar and heat in the microwave in 20 second bursts until the milk is warm. Add the yeast to the warm milk mixture, whisk it in and leave for five minutes for the yeast to start creating foam on the surface.
  2. In a big bowl, add the flour and salt. Pour in the milk mixture and stir until it forms a sticky dough. Either knead this by hand for 10 minutes, or mix using a stand mixer and the dough hook for 7-8 minutes.
  3. Oil the sides of the bowl, cover and leave the dough to double in size in a warm place (an hour).
  4. Line a tray with greaseproof paper and sprinkle with some semolina.
  5. Once doubled in size, turn out onto a surface lightly dusted with flour. Add in the blueberries and knead until the blueberries are evenly dispersed. This will make the dough very sticky: use some of the semolina to help shape the dough.
  6. Press the dough into a rough rectangle shape about 1cm thick and using a cutter (about 8cm in diameter, but it doesn’t have to be precise), cut out the rounds of dough and place on the tray. Use all the dough to get about 6 muffins. Sprinkle more semolina on top and leave to prove for another 45 minutes.
  7. Once proved, heat a heavy-bottomed pan or skillet to a medium heat and add the muffins carefully to the pan. Each side should take 5 to 8 minutes to cook, but keep an eye on them in case they brown too quickly. If they do, just pop them into the oven to finish baking the centre.
  8. These muffins are delicious hot from the pan but they will last three days, and once cooled they are delicious toasted.

PA TO THE HEAD / SCHOOL SECRETARY – Hanford Prep

By
Editorial team
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0

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


We have a vacancy for a PA to the Head / School Secretary. This is a vital role, which puts the post-holder at the heart of our school. You must be an effective communicator, friendly and approachable and exceptionally well organised.


To start as soon as possible.

To learn more about this opportunity please call the School Office on 01258 860219 or visit our website: https://hanfordschool.co.uk/contact/staff-recruitment/

Application deadline: Friday 10 October

Interviews: week commencing 13 October

Note: Please apply using our own application form and send direct to [email protected] and not through third parties.


CHILD OKEFORD BLANDFORD FORUM DORSET DT11 8HN

Hanford Prep is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment. This post is subject to enhanced DBS checks. Hanford Prep is part of Sherborne Schools Group. Charity Number 1081228 & Company Number 04002575

Undecided, uninspired and unimpressed

By
Editorial team
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1

Fearing for the future and no inspiration from politicians, how can farmers stay positive? Andrew Livingston attempts optimism. It doesn’t entirely go to plan

I’ve promised that I’m not going to be negative this month. I’ve promised that I’m going to write something happy, uplifting and hopefully a little bit humorous.
So I’m absolutely not going to mention the results of a recent survey by the Country Land and Business Association (CLA) for The Times newspaper. I definitely won’t talk about the fact that 80 per cent of those surveyed said that they were worried that their businesses wouldn’t survive the next ten years.
Or that 90 per cent said that they have halted investment in their businesses since the introduction of the dreaded ‘family farm tax’. Nor will I mention that 60 per cent would now consider selling up and leaving the industry in the next five years.
The one positive that did come from the survey was that the CLA respondents made it clear they had no trust or faith left in the Labour government – actually, looking at the results, you would think that the CLA had forgotten to put Labour as an option: not a single one of the 500 respondents said they would vote Labour.
Surprisingly, in my opinion, only 38 per cent said that if there was a General Election they would vote Conservative. An almost equal 36 per cent would vote Reform, four per cent Lib Dems, one per cent another party, and the remaining 21 per cent were currently undecided.
What scares me the most is that I don’t know where I would vote on that poll – probably suggesting that I’m an undecided, too.

No, no, no and no …
I’ve always been rather opinionated*, but as I look at the options available I just think … Meh.
The whole thing is, frankly, uninspiring. There’s not a single party right now that makes me think “yes! Here is the answer to all our problems.”
Part of the problem is the rise of what I’d call ‘further-leaning’ right-wing politics (I think it’s a stretch to label Reform as ‘far right’). Nigel Farage is an interesting character – I wouldn’t mind having a pint with him, and he doesn’t give me the fear that past far-right leaders did.
This shift to the right is definitely gaining traction across Europe and the US, but here in the UK I think Reform and Farage are ultimately overhyped by the media. Yes, people bang on hotel doors and throw red paint, but I suspect it’ll all amount to not-a-lot (feel free to throw this back at me if I’m wrong).
I do hope some smarter-than-me journalism student is writing a dissertation on the correlation between parliamentary seats and mainstream media airtime. My straw poll suggests Reform is punching well above its weight.
It’s no secret I have always been a true blue. I’m not afraid to say that I even liked Boris Johnson. But now, the Tories look rudderless, and potentially more likely to lose even the position of the opposition than to win the next election.
Green? No. Labour? No. Tory? No. Reform? No.
Lib Dem … Could I? Ed Davey doesn’t scream future Prime Minister to me, but what else is there? My vote is too important not to use it.
I don’t have the answers.
And honestly, I feel slightly bored by it all.
It shouldn’t be that way: I promised to be positive, but I think I’m lacking the vision of any future with a possibility of positive days. I’m crying out to be inspired by someone – anyone! Politics should inspire us all. I’m crying out for someone to give me some hope – we could all use a little bit of that.
*regular readers may have noticed that

Wimborne BID prepares for renewal ballot as business community reflects on progress

By
Editorial team
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0

Wimborne Minster’s Business Improvement District (BID) will face a crucial renewal ballot in October, as local businesses are asked to decide whether to support the continuation of the scheme for a further five-year term from 2026 to 2031.
Established in 2011, Wimborne BID is a not-for-profit organisation funded by a levy paid by eligible town centre businesses. It has delivered a wide range of initiatives aimed at strengthening the local economy, including marketing campaigns, business support, environmental enhancements and community-focused events.

Pop up barbecue by Wimborne butcher Paul Keating


BID Chair Fiona Pawsey said the ballot offers an opportunity for reflection as well as decision-making: ‘This is more than just a vote – it’s a moment to consider what we’ve achieved as a community. From infrastructure improvements to seasonal events, we’ve focused on making Wimborne a place people want to visit, shop and spend time.’
Key projects to date include the Discover Wimborne campaign, a month-long festival each April designed to promote footfall and business engagement, and the newly-launched Wimborne Food Festival. The town’s Christmas celebrations, funded and co-ordinated by the BID, are now considered among the best in the county for their impact on seasonal trade.
The BID also funds training, marketing and business support services for town centre businesses, with a particular focus on helping independent retailers compete more effectively. It has invested in improved signage, anti-crime initiatives and environmental enhancements.
Deputy Chair Sam Devlin added:
‘There is no replacement body that will deliver what the BID currently provides. All BID income is spent in Wimborne, supporting the long-term success of the town and its businesses. We encourage every levy-paying business to vote and ensure their voice is heard.’
Only levy payers are eligible to vote in the upcoming ballot. Further information is available at wimborne.info

Milton Abbas | DORSET POSTCARDS FROM THE BARRY CUFF COLLECTION

By
Editorial team
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0

This month Barry Cuff has chosen two holiday postcards from the middle of the last century

One of the Frith series of Milton Abbas, this card was sent from a holiday-maker to Kidderminster in September 1965. The message is more about raffle prizes than the village (“won a pound of tea and a pair of stockings”) but the image captures the Hambro Arms, the neat cottages and the parish church beyond – the postcard-perfect view of Milton Abbas that visitors were expected to take home:

Having a nice holiday. Met some old neighbours & spent Thurs morning here, lovely old abbey & small chapel 934, just suited you. Been to a couple of Drives & won 1lb tea & a pair of stockings. All now, cheerio, Evelyn & Bert

This simple 1950s postcard of The Street at Milton Abbas carries a brief note about motoring troubles and fond thoughts for “dear May” — nothing dramatic, just a snapshot of everyday life on the road in postwar Dorset. But Milton Abbas has stories to tell beyond its picture-perfect thatched cottages. Our much-missed Roger Guttridge wrote about one of its strangest mysteries – almost 250 years after the funeral of the young Milton Abbey heir, questions remain about whose “body” was actually buried in the coffin in the crypt . And for a lighter angle, you can also enjoy Roger’s Then and Now comparison of this very street.
Tolpuddle Dorset – Friday. Dear May, we are having a few days touring around here. Haven’t gone too far afield as the chariot is getting a bit old & also needs a rebore. We hope you are well. V often thinking of you. Shall have to come up & see you one of these days. All our love, Edith & Dick

Take a wildlife walk at Bracketts Coppice nature reserve

By
Editorial team
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0

Dormice, kingfishers and fungi await on this quiet 1.5 mile circular walk, says one of Dorset Wildlife Trust’s North Dorset assistant wardens

Hedgehog out at dusk © John Bridges

If you’re looking for ancient woodlands, peaceful wood pastures, hazel coppice and vibrant hay meadows, come and take a walk around the beautiful Bracketts Coppice. Located north of Corscombe, deep in the quiet heart of West Dorset, this nature reserve is home to some of Dorset’s best-loved and rarest species: dormice, kingfishers, otters and woodpeckers.

Bracketts Coppice © James Burland

The walk
Beginning at the hay fields entrance off Rye Water Lane, head diagonally left through the field to reach the gate. While the meadow wildflowers have retreated now, the winter grassland still supports life: look for small flocks of long-tailed tits and blue tits flitting low among the hedges, and listen for the calls of blackbirds, and redwings which arrive from Scandinavia for the winter. The fields may appear empty, but tracks and scrapes in the mud may reveal the presence of field mice and other small mammals.
Once through the gate, head left, cutting across the field to the next gate. In winter, this area is quieter, but the ancient grassland remains a haven for hardy plants like adder’s-tongue fern, its brown, withered fronds marking the meadow’s long history. Through the gate, follow the path across the next meadow until you reach the woodland, which is full of mossy oaks and hazels, and home to dormice and Bechstein’s bats.
Follow the path down through the woods and over a small sleeper bridge to reach the footbridge across the river. From this bridge, you can sot the distinctive Otter Rock, standing out from the rest with no moss on top. It’s a fine spot for finding otter spraint.
Over the bridge, turn left and follow the path up, taking the higher track.
This route takes you past areas of woodland managed by coppicing – a traditional technique producing useful hazel timber while benefiting a variety of wildlife, including dormice.

Bracketts Coppice © James Burland

Spot the Wild Service tree
Continue along the main ride to the north entrance of the reserve, where you’ll see an information board.
Turn right here and follow the ride downhill, merging onto the narrower path to keep straight, towards the river and another footbridge. Cross the bridge – looking out for kingfishers which may still be active, even in the colder months – and turn left, following the path uphill to emerge from the woodland onto another wide ride. Turn right, following the ride and through the gate, before turning right into a grassland area.
Keep to the path running parallel to the woodland edge. Scattered with standing deadwood, this area provides a great habitat for invertebrates and fungi as well as good look-out spots for birds. As autumn arrives look among the leaf litter for fungal fruiting bodies such as yellow brain fungi, a parasitic jelly fungus that feeds on other fungi living on dead wood. It can range in colour from bright pale yellow to a rusty orange when dry.

Adder’s-tongue fern © Ben Atkinson

Go through the gap in the hedge and continue straight ahead through the area of wood pasture to a wire gate with a squeeze-type stile.
Stick to the path, keeping the fence to your left, through another area rich in deadwood. Just before you reach the old hedge bank before the grassland, there is a Wild Service tree in the hedgerow – it’s a Dorset rarity, and an indicator of ancient woodland. For most of the year it is unremarkable, but its leaves, a little like maple, do give themselves away in autumn, when they turn crimson.
Emerging into the grassland, with sprawling open-grown oaks, continue straight down the small slope and up again, joining the track that leads to the final field gate. Turn right here, along the medieval Common Lane, and turn right once you rejoin Rye Water Lane to return to the start of the walk.

Wimborne Food Festival sizzles despite the drizzle

By
Editorial team
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0

Wimborne’s growing reputation as a foodie destination took centre stage last weekend as the town hosted its second annual Food Festival – a lively day of tasting, cooking, and celebration, even in the face of intermittent rain.

The Dacombes of Wimborne demonstration tent where crowds were treated to a chocolate cooking masterclass by Christian Ørner – image Wimborne BID

Organised by Wimborne BID, with support from Dacombes of Wimborne and a number of local businesses, the festival brought together independent traders, producers, chefs and shopkeepers in a town-wide showcase of flavour.

Visitors enjoyed live cooking demonstrations, product tastings and food-focused talks throughout the day. Former MasterChef contestant Dr George Williams drew crowds with his TV-worthy dishes made from local ingredients, while chocolate specialist Christian Ørner – often dubbed Dorset’s own “Willy Wonka” – shared the science behind chocolate’s health benefits.

Indian cuisine Angithi sold out – image wimborne BID

Simon Warren, co-owner of East Street Deli, said: ‘We served more customers than ever before. Well done to Wimborne BID and the Food Festival team for such a great event. However, the real value of days like this are seen in the coming weeks, months and years. We saw so many new faces which we’ll hopefully see again in the lead up to the busy Christmas period.’

Beyond the food stalls, businesses across town took part. Tickles & Co hosted a themed giveaway, and Gullivers Bookshop dressed its windows with cookbooks. ‘The more businesses that get involved, the bigger and better this event becomes,’ Simon added. ‘We’re already excited for 2026!’

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Jolyon Lockhart volunteer gardener with Radio Wimborne Malcolm Angel

Dorset vineyard Bride Valley Wines attended the festival this year

Church Street was buzzing with live music and tapas

Even the rain didn’t deter food and drink lovers

Make your own pizza fun

Dr George Williams Masterchef contestant – medic and chef served up dishes using ingredients from local businesses in Wimborne

The Victoria sponge cake competition judged by Christian Ørner private chef and chocolatier and Doctor George Williams Masterchef contestant

East Street Deli in Wimborne served more customers than ever before

Crowds were also treated to a procession of flower arrangers heading to Wimborne Minster Church for Wimborne Flower Festival

The community spirit was perhaps best captured in the “Bake for Victory” competition. Fifteen Victoria sponges were entered, with James Tulk of Riverside Café crowned the adult winner. Councillor Ryan praised the winning entry: ‘Three superb layers, strawberry jam (which always wins over raspberry), and fresh strawberries on top — the perfect icing on the cake!’

Fiona Pawsey, Chair of Wimborne BID, said: ‘The Food Festival is a great way of celebrating Wimborne’s vibrant food scene and attracting more visitors to the town. We’re so grateful to all the businesses who got behind this event and supported it with ingenuity and time.’

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