Open Farm Sunday was a fabulous day out

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22 July 2023

Barbara Cossins, founder of Love Local Trust Local, was thrilled with the success of Open Farm Sunday – but there is work still to do, she says

I can’t believe it’s been a full five years since we last did Open Farm Sunday back in June 2018.
It was a significant day – I sat down afterwards and decided we had to do something to help the public know which foods they could trust again. It was the time of fake farms on supermarket food packaging and the public buying things that weren’t as they were labelled; of the Red Tractor label on goods that had been wrapped and packaged with the Union flag, when the origin was actually Poland, Italy, New Zealand or elsewhere.
We are still hearing stories of cheap, rotting meat finding its way into our food chain – food that has been imported from abroad and then re-processed, re-wrapped and sold as British. Unbelievable!
We British farmers have to use our voices – we must fight back against the corruption of our food labelling.
Here in Britain, we farm to some of the highest standards in the world. We need to stand up for that … shout it from the rooftops.

Another success
Roll forward five years and 2023’s Open Farm Sunday was another amazing day. Yet again a huge number of people came to see us – I hope they all came not just because it’s a lovely free day out in the countryside, but also because they wanted to learn about what they are eating. They wanted to be educated on how their food is produced and to meet the farmers who are doing the hard work first-hand – the people who tend the animals, grow the crops and produce the milk, cheese, beer, cider and more. It is an opportunity for them to find out where the food on the table comes from, how it’s made and much more.
Some of the Love Local Trust Local award winners from the last three years joined us for Open Farm Sunday too, showcasing their local produce. Visitors were able to sample and buy some of these amazing Dorset producers’ goods. It felt very much as though we were there together as the LLTL community – a great feeling. Many of our wonderful Love Local Trust Local sponsors also came and supported us, getting involved in helping to educate and chat with the public.
Chef Eric from Restaurant Les Enfants Terribles came to sample some of the award-winning Book & Bucket Company cheese for his menu. Dirty Dog joined us with his wonderful homemade pizzas, Purbeck Ice Cream brought their delicious ice cream, Steph White of White Star Catering brought her van to cook Rawston Farm burgers and sausages … and many more that I haven’t room to list. What a gathering of Dorset’s foodie finest.
A big thank you to all our staff, who gave up their time off to help make the day such a success. It’s a huge task to put on such an event, and there is no way we could do it every year, but it is important for farmers to engage with the public, to help educate everyone on where food really comes from – and that it is not from the supermarket shelves. Hopefully, everybody who came to see us learned something new.

In Jezza we trust
One thing that was very evident was that a lot of people had watched Clarkson’s Farm, and were more interested and understood a little more than they did before. Like him or loathe him, Jeremy Clarkson is spreading great knowledge of food and farming to more people in the UK.
So remember that all of us, farmers and consumers (and watchers of farming programmes), must continue to fight our corner. We must always support local food, our farmers and all our producers and growers.

We’re shortlisted for a Future of Media award!

By

Laura

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22 July 2023

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We don’t usually like even suggestion-swearing on our socials, but sometimes the occasion calls for it. BL**DY HELL we’re SHORTLISTED for a Press Gazette Future of Media international award!

“The judges were looking for technical excellence, evidence of audience and commercial success and editorial brilliance.” – Press Gazette Future of Media Awards

And on the shortlisting of the BV in the top six:

“Since its launch in 2020, The BV has successfully established itself as a respected digital publication representing the culture and lifestyle of rural Dorset. Through its efficient and profitable operations, continuous assessment and refinement, and a small but dedicated team, it has achieved significant growth and reader engagement.”

No pressure though – we’re only competing with the Sun, the Metro, two different Reach plc projects, and Kyiv Independent …

Reader’s letters, polluted waters and Holtby & Co

By

Laura

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22 July 2023

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The first of The BV’s July podcasts – in which we hear all the letters, Jenny interviewing Andrew Livingston on the issues around phosphates in our rivers – and whether its the farmers or the water companies to blame –and Terry meets George Holtby of Holtby & Co in Sherborne.

Editor’s Letter from Laura in which she muses on her optimism for the future, plus all the reader’s letters from June
Farmers can be prosecuted for damaging short stretches of river, but when will water companies be held accountable for their actions? Jenny talks to Dorset farmer and journalist Andrew Livingston.
George Holtby of Holtby & Co in Sherborne previously worked as a porter at Christie’s in South Kensington – the busiest saleroom in the world – where he absorbed knowledge ‘by osmosis’. He ended up in Sherborne by accident, and has now set up for himself in the Old Yarn Mills. Terry hears about how and where he buys, and George’s plans for the future (‘I want to buy better!’).

The BV podcast goes beyond the pages of the magazine, providing you with exclusive insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and in-depth conversations with our guests. If you haven’t seen it yet, be sure to take a look at the July issue of the BV here or visit our website to explore the articles and stories featured.

A Bridport businessman

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Editorial team

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21 July 2023

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This month, Barry Cuff has selected photographic cards published by Claude Hider of Bridport, all from the 1920s. As well as producing postcards of Bridport and West Bay, he was a prolific recorder of scenes in many of the surrounding villages. He was known for driving around in his open-top Model T Ford, which made frequent appearances in the cards.

This postcard of The Street in Charmouth was never posted

This postcard of Shipton Gorge was posted to Thornton Heath, Surrey, in 1931

Perhaps from a seaside holidaymaker, this card of Burton Bradstock was sent to Plaistow, London, in 1926

This postcard of the railway at Toller Porcorum was posted to Yeovil in 1934

Claude Hider often took views with people in, unusual at the time, and seems to have chosen images which he knew would sell in his Bridport shop, which he ran until 1952.
Most early 20th century photographers would handwrite a location or reference directly onto the negative – after processing it would then appear on the final image as white writing.

‘No one should feel alone’

By

Editorial team

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21 July 2023

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The NFU used its summer reception to shine a spotlight on the unique pressures on rural mental health, says county advisor Gemma Harvey

The NFU published the results from its recent survey into farmers’ mental health ahead of its summer reception. Representatives from the UK’s farming charities, alongside almost 100 MPs and peers, attended the reception, which was themed around ‘talking mental health’.

Root causes need addressing
NFU President Minette Batters opened the reception with a speech highlighting the results from the survey, which revealed spiralling input costs, unfairness in the supply chain and the increase in rural crime, are having a significant negative impact on farmers’ mental health.
Minette said the results make for ‘harrowing’ reading and that it was the responsibility of the NFU to ‘encourage members to talk, and to help them find the services provided by the wonderful charities in this room, should they need it.
‘Farmers are keeping the nation fed during tough times. Stress and anxiety take a toll on our members, which is why we’re focusing on rural mental health.’
The results are supported by the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (EFRA) committee’s report on rural mental health. Published in May, it calls for DEFRA and the DHSC (Department of Health and Social Care) to establish a new, joint rural mental health policy and delivery team. The NFU has welcomed the report and agrees with the EFRA select committee’s calls for a review of the current emergency funding mechanisms, echoing the need to establish a dedicated rural mental health funding stream.

Breaking the stigma
Minister for mental health Maria Caulfield reiterated the need to prioritise mental alongside physical health and noted the particular challenges farmers face: ‘I recognise that farmers face rising costs and uncertainty, which is having an impact. Rural communities have pressures that other communities don’t.
‘Early intervention is needed to make a difference and make access to support easier via local community face-to-face help and digital packages.
‘There is still a stigma around loneliness, but it should be no barrier to asking for help.’
NFU student and Young Farmer ambassador Darcy Johnson echoed the need for farmers to reach out: ‘It’s brilliant that so many people are here today, supporting the issue and willing to talk. This will break the stigma of mental health.’

Access to nature vital
‘Britain’s farmers can provide part of the solution to improving everyone’s mental health,’ Minette said, referring to research which shows that regular access to nature can help improve physical and mental wellbeing.
‘Farming can, should and must play a role in the overall health and wellbeing of our nation.’

Don’t struggle in silence
Following the publication of the NFU’s survey results, NFU Vice-President David Exwood called on the government to address the root causes of the issues impacting on farmers’ mental health.
‘While we are starting to see a culture change within our sector, where talking about mental health is becoming more and more accepted, there are still too many farmers and growers simply ignoring the signs and struggling on in silence.
‘I hope today’s event shows there is support out there, as we mark the start of an important conversation. If you or your family are feeling under stress or overwhelmed, start that conversation today.’

Sponsored by Trethowans – Law as it should be

Fewer builders and big internationals

By

Editorial team

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21 July 2023

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Finally we are starting to see fewer and fewer builders on the yard and it’s looking fantastic! Everything now has its place or near enough! The horses are fully settled and loving spending most their time out in the fields!

Freestyle R – Image Luke Perrett Photography

After a very successful Bicton with both Cor Y Taran and Freestyle R finishing double clear in the 2*L we headed to our most local event Nunney International.

Cor Y Taran did a lovely dressage, clear showjumping and withdrawn xc due to the ground being on the firm side. I’m incredibly excited to be stepping him up to Intermediate at his next run at Upton in a weeks time!

Freestyle R and Equador MW were both in the CCI3* at Nunney. Two nice dressage test with room for improvements. Both had a pole SJ and clear xc! Freestyle R has now qualified for CCI4*s and we head to Aston 4* next week!

After a cold and wet spring we are now having a very dry summer and the horses are having to deal with the ground changing from muddy to hard! Icing the horses legs becomes more and more important as we try and prevent any concussion up the legs.

After a very busy move, mixed in with some Big Internationals and lots of abandon events, I managed to have a few days away from the horses to go to Glastonbury festival which I’m very fortunate to live within 10mins of the festival. An incredible weekend watching the best artist from around the world and now I’m really looking forward to getting on with some big summer Internationals!

School Caretaker | Fairmead Community Special School

By

Editorial team

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21 July 2023

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37 HOURS PER WEEK – 52-week contract

(Monday-Thursday 8 – 4pm, Friday 8 – 3.30pm)

Grade 13 Points: 7-11 (£21,968- £24,054) – Subject to experience.

Fairmead Community Special School transforms the lives of pupils aged between 4-19 years with additional learning needs (MLD and ASD). The school works in partnership with parents/carers and other stakeholders to develop our pupils in becoming positive individuals who make a valuable contribution to their community.

The post holder will work under the direction of the Headteacher/School Business Manager to provide a clean, healthy and safe environment for the benefit of the pupils and staff of the school. This is a vital role within the school being responsible for the maintenance and security of school buildings. The successful candidate will also need to demonstrate that they have good communication skills to be able to work within a Special School whilst undertaking the requirements of this post with enthusiasm and motivation. The applicant must have a full UK driving licence.

Fairmead School is committed to safeguarding the school community. All job applications must contain the disclosure of any spent convictions and cautions. The school will carry out pre-employment vetting procedures, which include an online search for shortlisted candidates and the successful outcome of an enhanced DBS

Visit the school: Prior visits can be arranged, please contact by email: [email protected]

The full details of this role (Job Description, Specification and application form) can be found on http://dasjobs.co.uk/job/caretaker-116/ or the school website: www.fairmeadschool.com under the vacancies tab.

Closing Date: Thursday 24th August Interview Date: Tuesday 29^th August

Rose Engineering declared Family Business of the Year!

By

Editorial team

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20 July 2023

0

Rose Engineering, a family-run business based in Dorset, has recently achieved success in the national Family Business of the Year awards. The company was founded in 1986 by Mervyn and Sue Rose, and it specialises in constructing steel-framed buildings, groundworks, and repairs. At the awards ceremony – held in London on June 21st – Rose Engineering was crowned the winner in the South, Southwest & Wales category and also secured a top 10 spot for the national public choice award.
Tom Rose Managing Director, says: ‘We are beyond thrilled to have won the award for our region. So much hard work has gone into growing our company in recent years, and to have this recognised at a national awards is just amazing. We’re an ambitious, growing company and I’m looking forward to seeing us grow further in the future. I want to thank the whole of our team for their continued commitment to helping us succeed.’
The Family Business of the Year awards, organised by Family Business United, recognise the hard work and contribution of family businesses. Paul Andrews, CEO of Family Business United, said: ‘Family businesses are the engine room of the UK economy. Six million family firms employ around 14 million people across the country – they make a massive impact each and every day.’
The team at Rose Engineering have worked hard to create a quality service and employee focused company. As a highly regarded company in the local area, the award is well deserved.
Anita Beaumont, Finance & Marketing, adds, ‘We’re so proud to have been recognised in a national award, we’ve all worked so hard to get here, growing and adapting to make us better at what we do. The judges praised our resilience over the last couple of years, through COVID and Brexit, as well as our commitment to our staff, to quality and our future growth plans.’

Smash Burger Tacos

By

Editorial team

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20 July 2023

0

I’ve seen these on TikTok and Instagram recently and they looked so good I had to give them a try.
Suitably impressed, I found these delicious tacos were quick to make and if I hadn’t thrown some chips in the oven too, they would have been on my plate in a mere 15 minutes. Even my nearly-18-year-old and 16-year-old were impressed, leaving the table with clean plates and smiles on their faces. Every parent of teens knows that’s a rare and definite win.
I have also added here my version of a burger sauce, but I’ve kept my ingredients to a set of
ratios instead of weights – that way you can make enough for two people or for 200 people, just keep the ratios the same.

Ingredients

For the burger tacos

500g 5% beef mince
1 small onion, finely diced
salt and pepper
Pack of 8 mini flour tortillas

For the burger sauce

3 parts mayonnaise
2 parts tomato ketchup
1 part mustard (slightly less if you are using a strong mustard)
1 part juice from the jar of gherkins.
Finely chopped gherkins to taste

To serve

Iceberg (or other) lettuce
Grated cheese

Heather Brown is a food writer, photographer and stylist. A committee member of The Guild of Food Writers, Heather runs Dorset Foodie Feed, as well as working one-to-one with clients.

Method

To make the sauce, simply add all of the ingredients in a bowl, season with salt to taste and give the mixture a really good stir. Set to one side.

To make the tacos:

In a bowl, add the onion and the beef mince and mix really well. Season with salt and pepper to taste and make sure the mixture is really well combined (I use my hands).
Roll the mixture into eight balls – each will be just bigger than a golf ball.
Squash (or ‘smash’) each ball into each of the tortillas so that it spreads over the surface, about 0.5cm thick.
On the hob, heat a frying pan until very hot. Add a little oil and place a tortilla on the pan with the meat side down. If you have a large pan you may fit two in! Press down with a spatula and hold the tortilla so that it sizzles in your pan.
Once you get a nice, deep brown colour to the meat, flip to the other side (it only needs a minute on the second side). Check to see if the meat is cooked – if it is still a bit pink, then turn it back to meat side down and press down firmly again until cooked. The meat is thin, so it only takes a couple of minutes to cook, especially when it is pressed into the hot frying pan.
Repeat this process for each tortilla: I used two frying pans and I kept the cooked tortillas in a dish in a warm oven until they were all cooked.
Once cooked, we filled these with lettuce, more gherkins and lashings of the burger sauce. If you want cheese, you can add this to the taco in the pan and let it melt.