Nick Heyward chooses his Dorset Island Discs, and looks back on rough school days, dreaming of stardom, David Bowie living round the corner, naming Haircut 100 … and the joy of reading in the bath | Page 20
Kate Fry, a local amateur wildlife photographer, receives a letter of praise from Sir David Attenborough after a thrilling chance snake-frog encounter on a school trip to Stour Valley Nature Reserve | Page 4
From mocking the game to becoming world champion: Alex Kley’s record-breaking achievements| Page 16
The forgotten art of hedgerow lifecycles – ‘the single most important ecological building blocks we have in the farmed landscape’ | Page 6
Kingston Maurward shines at its eventing debut, which saw almost 300 competitors, and praise for its beautiful setting, challenging courses, and exceptional organisation | Page 64
It’s 30 years since the Church of England allowed women priests, Tracie Beardsley meets the Rev Jane Williams, ‘The Red Post Vicar’ of six Dorset parishes | Page 27
Easy walking on wide tracks through open farmland between Blandford and Wimborne, enjoying the less-visited villages tucked away behind Badbury Rings.
This is such an easy Dorset walk – almost flat, surprisingly free of wobbly stiles through thickly brambled hedges and hardly any map reading necessary as you follow broad farm tracks and wide green lanes. It was a spur of the moment route plan a couple of years ago when we foolishly thought we might walk from Badbury Rings on a sunny summer’s day. We saw the queue for the car park and swiftly thought better of that plan, diving into the broad Dorset farmland in the forgotten miles behind the lure of Badbury Rings and Kingston Lacy! You can always stop by on your way home.
Because we were working on the fly, we parked on a broad grass verge at the point where the footpath crosses a lane, but since then we’ve found that it’s simpler to park in the village of Witchampton and pick up the route from there. Another option in quieter months is to add half a mile or so and do what we originally planned, starting from the Badbury Rings car park (free if you’re a National Trust member).
The route brings you through the pretty hamlet of Manswood, right past The Buildings, its famous terrace of 12 pretty cottages which together form one of the longest continuous stretches of thatch in the country. Moving on from The Buildings, do also pause to appreciate the architecture of Manswood’s Old School as you pass: I’m always fascinated by its odd assortment of timbers, turrets and chimneys.
There’s not much more to add – it’s just a straightforward, delightful and astonishingly hedge-and-stile free Dorset walk!
Whether you’re giving your living room a fresh look or completely overhauling your kitchen, having the right tools is essential for a smooth and successful project. Stocking up on these essential tools will save you time, effort, and potentially even money in the long run. Here are some must-have tools to ensure your renovation goes off without a hitch.
Before you start tearing down walls or installing new fixtures, precise measurements and markings are crucial. A reliable tape measure is indispensable for measuring dimensions accurately. Pair it with a steel ruler for smaller, more precise measurements. A spirit level ensures your work is perfectly horizontal or vertical, preventing wonky shelves or crooked picture frames. A combination square is another versatile tool that can help with both measuring and marking right angles, ensuring your cuts are straight and your joints are square.
Painting and Decorating Tools
Once the heavy lifting is done, it’s time to add the finishing touches. Quality paintbrushes and rollers are essential for achieving a smooth, even coat of paint. Painter’s tape helps you achieve crisp, clean lines and protects areas you don’t want to be painted. A paint tray with a roller grid makes the job easier and less messy. For larger areas, consider using a paint sprayer for a professional finish. Investing in different types of stepladders can help make it easier to decorate taller spaces more easily and safely. Don’t forget drop cloths to protect your floors and furniture from paint splatters.
Demolition Tools
Once you’ve measured and planned, it’s time to get your hands dirty. Demolition tools are essential for removing old fixtures, cabinets, or flooring. A sturdy sledgehammer will make short work of knocking down walls, while a pry bar is perfect for prying up old floorboards or removing nails and screws. A good pair of work gloves and safety goggles are also vital to protect yourself from debris and sharp objects. Remember, safety first!
Cutting Tools
Cutting materials to the right size and shape is a common task in any renovation. A circular saw is a versatile tool for cutting wood, metal, and even some plastics. For more intricate cuts, a jigsaw is your best bet, allowing you to cut curves and detailed shapes. A handsaw is useful for smaller jobs or where precision is key. Don’t forget a utility knife for cutting through drywall, carpet, and other materials. Keep a sharpening stone handy to ensure all your blades stay sharp and effective.
Drilling and Fastening Tools
Drilling holes and driving screws are fundamental tasks in any renovation project. A cordless drill is an essential tool, offering the flexibility to move around without being tethered to a power outlet. Ensure you have a good set of drill bits in various sizes for different materials. A screwdriver set is also necessary for assembling furniture, installing fixtures, and many other tasks. For more heavy-duty fastening, a nail gun can save you significant time and effort compared to using a hammer.
Sanding and Smoothing Tools
Achieving a smooth finish is key to a professional-looking renovation. An electric sander will make light work of smoothing wooden surfaces, whether you’re refinishing a table or preparing a floor for varnishing. For smaller, detailed work, sanding blocks and sheets in various grits are invaluable. A good set of files will help smooth rough edges on metal and other hard materials. Always wear a dust mask when sanding to protect your lungs from harmful particles.
Plumbing and Electrical Tools
If your renovation involves plumbing or electrical work, specialised tools are necessary. A pipe wrench and a set of adjustable wrenches are essential for any plumbing tasks, while a plumbing snake can help clear clogs. For electrical work, a voltage tester and a good set of insulated screwdrivers are crucial. Always ensure you turn off the power or water supply before starting any work to avoid accidents. If you’re unsure about handling these tasks, it’s best to call in a professional.
Storage and Organisation
Keeping your tools organised and easily accessible will save you time and frustration. A sturdy toolbox or tool chest is essential for storing and transporting your tools. Consider a tool belt for keeping frequently used tools within easy reach. Pegboards and shelving units are great for organising your workspace and keeping everything in its place. Labelling your tools and their storage locations can also help you find what you need quickly.
Renovating your home can be daunting, but having the right tools at your disposal can make all the difference. Investing in these essential tools will not only make your renovation smoother and more efficient but also ensure a professional-quality finish. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a first-time renovator, stocking up on these tools will set you up for success and help you achieve the home of your dreams.
Discover the Dorset seals with expert Sarah Hodgson, join terminally-ill 75-year-old Marilyn McDonald’s attempt at a daring wing walk, dip into Peter Morgan’s award-winning cheese, and uncover the debates around Yeovil’s Stroke Unit. Plus, discover the inspiring journey of Sarah Rampton and the work of her charity, In Jolly Good Company. Just click play below to listen now
Encountering seals on the Dorset shore is increasingly common – Dorset Wildlife Trust’s seals expert Sarah Hodgson chats to Jenny about why there is technically no Dorset population, what you should do if you see one and why certain frisbees should be avoided when on the beach. See the full article in the June issue here – https://bvmag.co.uk/DorsetSeals
In spite of her terminal illness, 75-year-old Marilyn McDonald planned a daring wing walk to raise funds for Dorset charity Countrymen UK. She talks with Terry about the charity, and why she decided to try standing on top of an aeroplane instead of simply having a cake sale (‘Possibly not one of my better ideas! But it’s about raising awareness as much as money, and you wouldn’t be interviewing me if I’d just sold some cakes!’. See the full article with pictures of Marilyn in the June issue here – https://bvmag.co.uk/wingingit
Peter Morgan of Cranborne’s Book and Bucket Cheese Company talks to Jenny about his award-winning cheesemaking – made from very local milk which is from cow to cheese in under 24 hours. Peters talks to Jenny about setting up the business just as Covid hit, the joy of seasonal cheese, and his most recent launch of a new cheese, Stowaway – you might say it was literally launched, as the new product has been created specifically for the Queen Anne cruise ship, the latest addition to the Cunard fleet.
Yeovil’s Stroke Unit controversy – amid the public debate, Rachael Rowe looks at the pros and cons of NHS Somerset’s plans to centralise services (Terry reads)
Sarah Rampton’s tenacity stood her in good stead when she was made redundant from the Alzheimer’s Society. She promptly set up her own charity, In Jolly Good Company and now supports more than 200 people (open to all, not just those with dementia) across groups in Wimborne St Giles, Wimborne, Blandford, Shaftesbury, West Moors and Kingston Lacy. She talks to Jenny about what happens on a Jolly Day, from yoga sessions to a guided walk. See the story here https://bvmag.co.uk/InJollyGoodCompany
Some topics come up again and again – nutritionist Karen Geary tackles the perennial summer weight loss question
After a soggy spring, the early summer sun is out as I write. Every year this means my inbox starts filling up with queries from people looking for help with weight loss. It’s really easy to get confused by current ‘healthy eating guidelines’. Do we count calories? Too triggering for many. Should we follow the NHS Eatwell Guide plate? Please don’t! It is just SO out of date, and doesn’t use the latest research. Let me show you how. My professional governing body, the British Association for Nutrition and Lifestyle Medicine (BANT), works on the basis that no one single diet is right for everyone. However, they have two infographics which provide a great basis for when it is not possible to get detailed, personalised advice. The infographic shown below is for weight loss. On their website is their general wellbeing plate. What is great about the weightloss plate is that half of it is made up with vegetables – half leafy veg and the other half ‘other’ veg, such as cauliflower, onions and squashes. These are all high in fibre, which is the cornerstone of our diet, supporting both metabolic health and gut function.
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Aim for five to seven cups of veg a day. Fruit isn’t included in the plate – you will see it separately on the infographic – no more than one piece a day when losing weight, and ideally low sugar fruits such as berries and apples. Protein features strongly – more than a third of the plate. We should be eating protein with every meal. It helps to keep us fuller for longer, which is especially helpful when trying to lose weight! There is a lower proportion of carbs and grains – this taking up less than a quarter of the plate, and combined with root vegetables. It focuses on grains in their natural forms, like millet and quinoa. Olive oil is recommended as the best to use as an everyday fat in moderation. Up to two tablespoons of olive oil is good for both heart and gut health. Butter is also an option. I’d also add ghee or avocado oil if you’re looking to cook with it at high temperatures. And yes, I know this all sounds fine in theory, but how does it all look in practice? Breakfast: 180g Greek yogurt (high protein), with 90g berries (frozen is fine). Add your choice of seeds, and maybe some flax. Two poached eggs with half an avocado, maybe some kimchi or tomatoes. Or poach the eggs in a shakshuka (spicy tomato sauce). Small piece of genuine sourdough or rye bread. Note the BANT plate is not big on food made with flour while losing weight, but a small portion a day often makes it much easier to be consistent with your food choices. Lunch: Tinned mackerel or salmon with a rice or chickpea salad (mostly salad). Try a simple dressing made with olive oil and cider vinegar. Or a veg omelette or frittata made with two eggs (add some liquid egg whites if you want more protein).
Dinner: An easy traybake – Chicken portions roasted on mixed veggies all cooked in the oven with some olive oil. Or perhaps some salmon baked in parchment, served with broccoli and sweet potato fries.
Karen welcomes questions and queries via Amplify Nutrition for personal advice
Brian Graham explores deep time in his mesmerising abstract paintings – from prehistoric music-making to Thomas Hardy’s Great Heath
During the Covid pandemic, and between the lockdowns, Brian concentrated on Dorset in his paintings, occasionally revisiting standing stones and ancient sites. But it was also ‘my time,’ he says, describing his recent paintings as ‘exploring my interior world.’ He has painted a series of homage to sculptors he particularly admires – Hepworth, Caro and Frink, who lived in Dorset for many years until her death. The pictures shown here are all recent work in his studio, and give some idea of his techniques and use of textures – and his impish sense of humour! All images: Gay Pirrie-Weir
We dig for the gods that leave no bones* There is a line in a song by Johnny Flynn and Robert Macfarlane that comes to mind when you look into Brian Graham’s deep and mysterious paintings. Often inspired by archaeological discoveries, palaeontology, burial sites and the marks that our Neolithic forebears made on the cliffs and caves where they lived, the Purbeck artist finds his source material not only in visits to ancient sites, but in his reading and in conversations with archaeologists, palaeontologists, historians and philosophers. In the introduction to Starting from Scratch, a 2011 exhibition at the Hart Gallery in London, he writes about the impact of Homo Britannicus, a 2006 book by Chris Stringer who outlined what was then known about our earliest ancestors. The latest research indicated that Britain was occupied by ancient beings, possibly as far back as 950,000 years.
‘It taxes the imagination to contemplate these nearly one million-year-old pioneering peoples and their unrelenting struggle for survival,’ says Brian. ‘In order to acknowledge their tenacity, bravery and ambition, I felt compelled to pay homage to the vestiges of their achievements, in a series of representations that look at the evolutionary marks they have tantalisingly left behind.’ His researches and visits to many locations including chalk and gravel pits, beautiful landscapes, contemporary business parks, railway stations, eroding cliff faces and even an adventure park, were ‘profoundly moving.’ The sort of challenges these early peoples encountered is shown in the powerful Starting from Scratch series of paintings, such as Stoneham’s Pit, Crayford, Kent. Brian says: ‘A period of severe cold was looming, signalled by the skeletal remains of mammals large and small: muskox, lemmings and ground squirrels. Early Neanderthals stood their ground for a while – beautiful prepared core flint flakes were found in close proximity to woolly rhinoceros jaws.’
Making music A few years later, Brian’s ever-inquiring artist’s imagination drew him to music – and to the way our ancient forebears may have made it. The result of these researches, journeys and explorations was Towards Music, a memorable exhibition at the gallery of The Salisbury Museum in the Cathedral Close in 2018. Brian loves music and his wide tastes and knowledge are evident in the sources, titles and themes of these 40 equally-sized, painted reliefs – Miles Davis, Shostakovich, Evelyn Glennie, Ravel, Satie, Bach, the dancer Sylvie Guillem … names that for a music lover instantly evoke passion, discipline, rhythm and music-making. In even the earliest peoples, the drive to create seems to have been irresistibly strong. Cave paintings in France, often hundreds of yards into caverns or deep underground, show the efforts that people made to paint things they knew, in places where they had to make some form of light by which to work, as well as making the materials with which they painted or carved their subjects. Some of the oldest – the lions and rhinos of the Chauvet Cave in south eastern France – are thought to be around 30,000 to 32,000 years old. In Ireland, the detailed carvings on the kerbstones around the massive Knowth burial mound and its neighbour, the even more spectacular Newgrange, with its winter solstice sunrise light path 25 yards into the centre, were made around 5,000 years ago and are older than Stonehenge. Music making, singing and instruments are frequently shown in paintings from medieval times – they have helped to inform much of the early music movement, which has sought to recreate both the vocal and instrumental sounds of past centuries. The themes and textures in Brian’s paintings reflect this evidence of our prehistoric ancestors’ drive to create.
The Great Heath It is not just ancient people and their music, art and struggle for life that inspire Brian Graham. Living in Dorset all his life, he is also deeply engaged with its dramatic geology and coastline, and the landscapes that are such an integral part of Thomas Hardy’s writing, particularly the Great Heath – Hardy’s Egdon Heath, which is almost a character in its own right in The Return of the Native. This was the theme of Brian’s 2019 exhibition at Sladers Yard, West Bay, which drew particularly on his own childhood memories of time spent on the heath, which once covered so much of East Dorset. This particular landscape was mostly created during the Bronze Age, he says, citing the large number of tumuli across the area, but the story goes back much further – the former river Solent meandered across the sandy heath and material found indicates human occupation for perhaps 500,000 years. Music and landscape meet here with literature and art – Thomas Hardy described the heath to Gustav Holst as “a vague stretch of remoteness” and the composer responded with a melancholy tone poem, Egdon Heath, which he considered his masterpiece (though it is less-known than the much-loved Planets suite). As well as this vast back story and his own childhood memories, Brian was able to draw on a memorable and rare personal experience – driving back across Wareham Heath his headlights picked up “a spectral aerial ballet of whirring intensity” … it was a nightjar, that most elusive of all the UK’s nocturnal birds.
Major collections Brian was born in Poole in 1945 and, throughout his life, has lived and worked in Dorset, where the ancient geology and dramatic coastline have long been an inspiration. He had his first exhibition in 1979 and soon became known for his powerful and heavily textured paintings. In 1992, he won first prize at the Royal West of England Academy annual autumn exhibition, and he was chosen as the first Bournemouth International Festival Artist. Until it closed, he was for many years represented by London’s Hart Gallery, who brought his work to international attention at major art fairs including Glasgow, Nimes and Geneva. He has work in many national and private collections, including the Natural History Museum, which has his large portfolio project, The Book of Boxgrove. He has worked across genres with archeologists, writers, Dorset poet Paul Hyland, and in 2013, the North Dorset composer Sadie Harrison wrote Hidden Ceremonies 1: 9 Fragments after paintings by Brian Graham, for solo piano.
I first encountered Brian Graham’s paintings more than 40 years ago at an exhibition in Bournemouth – I am often drawn to abstract landscapes. I find the artist’s response to that indefinable sense of place can often be better conveyed in texture, layers and shades of natural forms and colours, rather than a figurative representation. You respond differently to the abstract landscape because it is porous to your own memories and imagination – FC
*The quote is a line from Coins for the Eyes, which is used as the theme music for Professor Alice Roberts’ television series, Digging for Britain. The song is included on the 2023 album The Moon Also Rises, with music by Johnny Flynn and lyrics by writer, poet and naturalist Robert Macfarlane.
Feltham’s Farm Organic Cheeses has clinched the title for Best Organic Cheese at the Artisan Cheese Awards 2024 with its renowned La Fresca Margarita, also securing a Gold in the Fresh Class. The competition saw an impressive turnout with over 600 entries from across the UK and Ireland, setting the stage for a fiercely contested event. La Fresca Margarita stood out among stiff competition, surpassing well-known hard cheeses such as Caws Teifi Heritage and Holden Cheese’s Hafod Cheddar in the Organic category. La Fresca Margarita is crafted as a soft Organic Queso Fresco, and is made from the finest single-source organic milk provided by neighbouring Somerset farm Godminster’s herd. Owner and cheesemaker Marcus Fergusson says: ‘People are really coming back to these young, fresh, un-aged cheeses, and we are delighted that judges are also recognising how simple cheese is often the hardest to make really well – this win is tribute to Michael Leech and the cheesemaking team.’
