Shaftesbury Food Festival returns for 2026

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24 April 2026

Highlights this year include the annual cheese race – enjoy the spectacle of people racing 23kg cheeses UP Gold Hill – plus MasterChef stars, the street market packed with more than 100 food and drink stalls and a brand new food trail.

Shaftesbury Food Festival 2026 returns over the May bank holiday weekend (2nd & 3rd) with a new food trail, demonstrations by three MasterChef winners and finalists – and Gold Hill Cheese Race, with contestants carrying 23kg truckles UP the steep cobbled Gold Hill.

Add to these highlights the regular festival market, a sold-out quiz and a food-themed exhibition and you have a recipe for a tasty banquet celebrating the great food producers and hospitality scene in North Dorset.

The Cheese Race is the eccentric heart of the event – if the idea of running up that hill isn’t enough, imagine doing it with full weight truckles! This test of strength, stamina and very strong legs is Sunday morning’s big event and not to be missed. Crowds line the cobbled hill to savour every moment of pure theatre that sets the tone for the day.

One of the new features is the food trail. On Saturday 2nd, the festival looks outside Shaftesbury to some of the finest food businesses who will be opening their doors for the first Shaftesbury Food Festival Food Trail. This self-guided journey offers rare access to producers, farms and makers that shape Dorset’s food identity. Visitors are invited behind the scenes for tastings, conversations and a deeper understanding of the craft behind the region’s most distinctive flavours.

Participating locations include: Sorelle Dorset at Motcombe, Compton McRae at Semley, Madjeston Milk Station & Animal Park, Primrose Organic Produce at Marshall, Gold Hill Organic Farm at Child Okeford, Stoate & Sons’ historic Cann Mills, just south of Shaftesbury on the A350, Sprigs Co at Pythouse Kitchen Garden near Tisbury, Dorset Blue Vinny at Woodbridge Farm, near Stock Gaylard, Olives Et Al at Sturminster Newton, and Breezy Ridge Vineyard, off the A350 near Melbury Beacon.

The opening night Friday 1st May is an already sold-out Great Food quiz at Sorelle, the farm-based cafe at Motcombe. Hosted by locally-based private chef and regular television food presenter Philippa Davis and Carolyn Hopkins, the cheesemonger famed for her iconic 1969 Citroen HY Truckle Truck van, the evening brings together locals and visitors in a lively, convivial start that sets the tone for the days ahead.

The twin highlights of Sunday’s programme are the MasterChef demonstrations and the street market, where you can sample and buy many of the region’s most delicious products, from charcuterie to ice cream. Coinciding with the return of MasterChef to our screens, with its new presenting team Grace Dent and Anna Haugh, the festival stage will host three former stars of the competition, starting at 11.30am, with the 2014 MasterChef champion Ping Coombes, whose demonstration will combine bold flavours and personal storytelling.

The cheese race – carry a 23kg truckle up Gold Hill

At 1pm, 2014 MasterChef finalist Anurag Aggarwal will be featuring dishes from his Indian heritage – he is the author of the cookbook Indian Made Easy. The third demonstration, at 2.30pm, features Shelina Permalloo, who in 2012 became the first woman of colour to win MasterChef. Now a well-known cookbook author, restaurateur and television chef, she specialises in the food of her native Mauritius.

Brought to life by a volunteer-led team from Shaftesbury & District Chamber of Commerce, with support from Shaftesbury Town Council and The Kitchen Table Dorset bookshop, the festival is rooted in the community, rich in provenance and with an unmistakable sense of place. The street market on Sunday sees more than 100 food and drink producers showcasing artisan Dorset produce alongside international flavours, with an emphasis on quality, provenance and personality.

At 2pm on Sunday, Shaftesbury’s unique ancient tradition, the Byzant, begins at the Town Hall. The Byzant Ceremony, which dates back to 1364, takes its name from the ceremonial mace, which is usually on display in the town museum. Its significance relates to the precarious water supply which Shaftesbury suffered, with its hilltop position. The town had problems with a reliable water supply, until an agreement was reached with neighbouring Enmore Green, down the hill, to use their well water in return for some tribute including silver pennies, bread and ale. Traditionally, wildflower posies called Tussie Mussies are handed out for participants to carry on the walk down the ancient route to Enmore Green.

The street market runs all day, with live music, busking and entertainment, including the Steps in Time junior dancers, led by Penny-Jane Swift, bringing traditional Maypole dancing, colour and rhythm into the town centre. Shaftesbury Arts Centre hosts A Feast For The Eyes, an exhibition of food-inspired artwork by Maja Barker, Alison Turner, Joanne Rutter, Kate Toms, Becca Perl, Lucy Bentley and Charlotte Lorimer. The Grosvenor Arms is the venue for the children’s art competition, with prizegiving at 3pm.

For those worried about parking when the town centre is closed, there is dedicated Park & Ride at Port Regis School, with capacity for up to 600 cars – £5 per car. Advance booking available: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/park-and-ride-to-shaftesbury-food-festival-tickets-1987056807401

Yeovil nursing home rated ‘Outstanding’ by care regulator

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Editorial team

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24 April 2026

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A specialist nursing home in Yeovil has been rated ‘Outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), following its latest inspection.

Cooksons Court provides nursing care, respite stays and longer-term residential support, and is part of the not-for-profit Somerset Care Group. The purpose-built home, which marked its tenth anniversary in 2025, sits close to its sister home Grovelands, which also holds an ‘Outstanding’ rating.

Specialist nursing home, Cooksons Court in Yeovil, is rated Outstanding by the CQC © Somerset Care Group

Inspectors highlighted the standard of care and the experience of residents, noting that people were treated ‘with kindness and compassion’ and supported in making their own choices while maintaining dignity. Residents were described as feeling safe, comfortable and fully involved in planning their care, while relatives praised staff for their support during difficult periods.

The report also found the home to be ‘spotless clean and well maintained’, adding: ‘Everyone we spoke with without exception told us the home was lovely and the team were wonderful.’

Bright and well-equipped bedrooms at Cooksons Court © Somerset Care Group

These findings reflect feedback shared through independent reviews, where families and residents describe a consistently supportive environment. One relative said: ‘Our experience has been excellent, he had a really warm welcome and made to feel at home straight away. Nothing has felt like too much trouble. The room is lovely and having a view is great. All the staff are lovely and offer help when required. I’d highly recommend this nursing home to anyone.’

Comfortable and welcoming communal spaces at Cooksons Court © Somerset Care Group

Another reviewer said: ‘What a fantastic place. Everyone is always welcoming & smiling as soon as you walk through the door. My sister-in-law has been in Cooksons Court for over 3 years. She has always had the utmost care. Nothing is too much trouble. We live 2 hrs away so don’t get to see her very often. The staff always keep us informed for everything that’s going on. Every day there’s different activities for the residents to take part in.’

A respite resident added: ‘Resident for respite care after open heart surgery. Came to Cooksons Court after being discharged from hospital. Booked originally a 2 week stay but have added an extra week. Medical staff, carers etc fantastic. Caring service. No one can do enough for me. Food delicious. Very impressed. Admin staff also so helpful.’

Sunny days in the accessible garden at Cooksons Court © Somerset Care Group

Registered Manager Kristie Chubb said: ‘We are so pleased that Cooksons Court has officially been rated as ‘Outstanding’ by the CQC. Those of us who live or work here already regard Cooksons Court as a very special place, but to have this formally recognised by our care regulator is the icing on the cake.’

To enquire about Cooksons Court, please visit www.somersetcare.co.uk/cooksons or contact Somerset Care’s friendly and knowledgeable care advisors on 0800 8174 925.

Things to See and Do on the Jurassic Coast

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Editorial team

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23 April 2026

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The Jurassic Coast contains some of the most idyllic parts of Dorset. It features jaw-dropping scenery, fascinating family-friendly attractions, and dozens of exciting activities along its beaches and charming seaside towns. Here’s what you need to do to get a true taste of this 95-mile stretch of coastline.

Go Fossil Hunting

The cliffs along the Jurassic Coast are full of fossils, particularly on the beaches between Charmouth and Lyme Regis. You can hunt for them by strolling along the shoreline or joining a guided fossil walk. With a keen eye and a little bit of luck, you might find some Ammonites or Belemnites!

To learn more about the region’s fossil history, visit Charmouth Heritage Centre, Lyme Regis Museum, or the Museum of Jurassic Marine Life. At Lyme Regis, you’ll even get a chance to learn more about the most famous fossil hunter, Mary Anning.

Explore Corfe Castle

Corfe Castle is an impressive historic site that’s worth a little detour inland. It was built by William the Conqueror nearly a thousand years ago, and has served as a fortress, palace, and prison over the years before its destruction. Visit it to learn about its glory days or head up to West Hill for the best views.

The castle stands above the Corfe Castle Village, which is perfect for some afternoon tea with scones, jam, and cream.

For a bit of nostalgia, check out the Corfe Castle railway station. It offers a full-size steam train journey through the idyllic Purbeck countryside to Swanage.

Walk in the Footsteps of Dinosaurs

If you would like to take a walk through history, literally, check out Spyway Dinosaur Footprints near Keates Quarries. There are over 100 fossilised dinosaur tracks made by giant sauropods like Brachiosaurus 140 million years ago.

For some more prehistoric fun, head over to Jurassic Discovery in Seaton. It offers a world-class animatronic dinosaur exhibition, complete with life-size moving dinos that move, blink, roar, and growl.

There, you can explore fossil displays or watch a short documentary on their extinction. If you’re travelling with kids, they can take a Dino Detective Trail Guide to hunt for clues as they learn about these magnificent giants that once roamed the earth.

Marvel at Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove

Durdle Door is one of the most iconic landmarks in the county. Its highlight is the breathtaking natural arch, created over thousands of years by waves crashing into the limestone. You can view it from the cliff top or take the steep flight of steps down to the beach to get closer. If the weather is right, it’s a great spot for a dip.

Once you’re done with Durdle Door, take a short walk on the South West Coast Path toward the picturesque Lulworth Cove. It’s about a mile away, so it’ll take around 30 minutes.

There, you’ll get to explore the Lulworth Crumple, Stair Hole, and the Fossil Forest. You can also swim on the pebble beach or pop into the Visitor Centre to learn more about the bay. Take some time to enjoy a snack, pint, or ice cream along Main Street with some beautiful views of the cove. It’s the perfect place to unwind with a quiet break, reading or enjoying casino games online.

Explore the Coast by Sea

Experience the beauty of the coast from the water through a guided kayak tour. It lets you get up close to the striking white cliffs, iconic Old Harry Rocks, secluded coastal bays, and hidden coves that can’t be reached from land. If you would like to explore at your own pace, you can rent a kayak and embark on a solo adventure.

How to Get Around the Jurassic Coast

The best way to explore the Jurassic Coast is by car. If you don’t have one, you can use the affordable Jurassic Coaster bus service, but some routes are only available in the summer and spring.

Name that village …

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Editorial team

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23 April 2026

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Last month’s mystery postcard was successfuly named quite swiftly on Facebook – it was Cowgrove, just outside Wimborne!
This month Barry has offered a clue: ‘A difficult one possibly if you are not a drinker.’ Not sure that helps much!
Do you know these cottages? Is that house up on the hilltop a clue? We can’t help – because no, we don’t know either. There’s no prizes. You just get the smug satisfaction of solving a postcard mystery. If you recognise it, let us know – we’ll reveal the answer next month.

Final call for young netballers – Bryanston trials close soon

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Editorial team

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23 April 2026

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Young netballers across Dorset and the South West have just a short window to apply for trials at a new Netball Centre of Excellence launching at Bryanston School in partnership with London Pulse.

Trials take place on 17th May, but applications are now open – and expected to fill quickly.

The programme is aimed at players aged 13–16 (Years 9–11) and forms part of a new performance pathway designed to strengthen progression into regional and national-level netball. While based in Dorset, the trials are open to players from across the country.

The session will include warm-up, drills and match play, with selectors assessing movement, ball skills, decision-making and overall game understanding, alongside attitude and coachability. Selection will focus on long-term potential, not just current performance.

Successful players will be offered places on a structured development programme running from September, with weekly training over approximately 20 weeks. The pathway links into regional development centres and national league opportunities with London Pulse.

For players already competing at club or school level and looking to push further, this is a rare opportunity to access high-level coaching without leaving the region.

Applications are open now – but places are limited.

Applications for the trial will close on 24 April and can be made online: https://londonpulsenetball.com/product/london-pulse-bryanston-centre-of-excellence-trials-17-05-2026/

Spring sausage casserole

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Editorial team

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22 April 2026

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‘A super simple supper that I call a transitional casserole: perfect for early spring. It’s not that heavy I-need-the-warmth-and-carbs type, nor is it ‘oh no it’s too hot for stew’. I made mine with some local Farm Girl Sausages’ Dorset Pork with Wimborne Honey – small batch, locally reared and butchered sausages. I use basil and tomato sauce that makes it perfect for spring.’ – Lizzie

Serves 2 | prep 20 mins | Cooking 80 mins

Ingredients

1 packet sausages
1tbs sunflower oil
750g onion, celery, carrots and swede (use a mix of any veg), roughly chopped to equal bitesize pieces
1 glass red wine
(use stock if preferred)
260g new potatoes
400g tin tomatoes
1 tablespoon pesto
Fresh basil leaves

Method

Fry the sausages in a frying pan with the sunflower oil until browned all over.
Add the mixed vegetables to a roasting pan and pour a glass of wine (or stock) over and season. Cover with foil and cook at 190ºC/gas mark 5 until softened – around 30 minutes.
In a jug, mix the tomatoes (break them up if they’re whole) and pesto.
Add the sausages and uncooked potatoes to the roasting veg, and pour on the tomatoes/pesto mix. Tear the basil over the top. Mix well.
Re-cover with foil, and place back in the oven for around 25 minutes.
Stir the casserole, and put it back in the oven for a further 25 minutes.
When the potatoes are tender the dish is ready to serve: this is great with some crusty bread.

Lizzie Crow is better known to most as Lizzie Baking Bird. From her tiny bakery in West Dorset, Lizzie creates an impressive range of sweet and savoury bakes, which you’ll find at Poundbury and Wimborne Farmers’ Markets, Bridport Market and the county’s food festivals and agricultural shows. A member of the Guild of Food Writers, Lizzie has won numerous Great Taste Awards. Find her on lizziebakingbird.co.uk

Cross border recycling dispute

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Editorial team

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21 April 2026

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Residents of Milborne Port are facing significantly increased travel distances to dispose of household recycling following a decision by Dorset Council to no longer permit Somerset residents to use the Sherborne recycling centre. The change means that many residents who previously relied on the nearby Sherborne facility must now travel considerably further afield if they are to avoid being charged. The nearest alternatives are Yeovil Recycling Centre, requiring a 26-mile round trip, or Castle Cary Recycling Centre, a 28-mile journey.

It is understood that Somerset residents may still be able to use the Sherborne site, but at a cost of £8.50 per visit. This raises serious concerns about practicality and fairness. Residents question who is likely to pay £8.50 to dispose of small or low-value items such as an almost empty rusty tin of paint, electrical appliances larger than those that fit in a plastic bag, or small amounts of unwanted wood, stone or similar materials.
This development has raised numerous concerns about environmental impact, accessibility and fairness – particularly for rural residents who already face limited local services. Increased travel distances are likely to result in higher carbon emissions, additional fuel costs and inconvenience for households attempting to responsibly dispose of waste.
Efforts to raise these concerns at a parliamentary level have so far gone unanswered. Since August, repeated correspondence has been sent to local MP Sarah Dyke, highlighting the issue and its environmental implications. Despite public statements identifying environmental protection as a priority, no response has been received.
Residents argue that the policy contradicts broader sustainability goals by effectively discouraging recycling through reduced accessibility and the introduction of additional costs. There are also concerns that longer travel requirements or usage fees may lead to an increase in fly-tipping or improper waste disposal.

A geographical solution
A simple and practical solution has been proposed: adopting a geographic approach whereby households within a defined radius – such as postcodes located within six miles of Sherborne – would be granted free access to the recycling centre, regardless of council boundaries. Such an approach would reflect the realities of local geography, reduce unnecessary travel and support environmental objectives.
Local voices are calling for urgent dialogue between Dorset Council, Somerset Council and parliamentary representatives to find a fair and environmentally responsible resolution. Suggestions include reinstating cross-border access agreements, reviewing the proposed charges or implementing a proximity-based access system.
Without intervention, the burden will remain on residents who are being asked to travel further, pay more and emit more – simply to recycle their waste responsibly.

The Grumbler – the open opinion column in The BV. It’s a space for anyone to share their thoughts freely. While the editor will need to know the identity of contributors, all pieces will be published anonymously. With just a few basic guidelines to ensure legality, safety and respect, this is an open forum for honest and unfiltered views. Got something you need to get off your chest? Send it to [email protected]. The Grumbler column is here for you: go on, say it. We dare you.

Motocross action and lifesize 13ft dinosaur at Dorset Spring Show

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Editorial team

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20 April 2026

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The Dorset Spring Show returns to Puddletown on 9th and 10th May, opening the county’s open-air event season with a programme that leans into spectacle this year, led by headline motocross stunt rider Jamie Squibb.

Squibb’s freestyle team will roar into the Spring Arena, performing high jumps and mid-air tricks – including leaps of more than 30 metres onto a lorry-mounted landing ramp.
If that’s not enough, the Bike Battle BMX team will bring a different kind of precision riding, with fast-paced displays running across the weekend.
The show balances that high-adrenaline edge with the more traditional countryside demonstrations you might expect from the team behind the Dorset County Show.
Away from the main arena, there’s plenty to keep the crowds busy: new for 2026 is the Circus Skills workshop (anyone can take part) and shows, and watch out for the full-sized dinosaur who will be roaming the site! Also new this year are the fire dancing performances, the music stage, wood carving demonstration, hands-on pottery workshops.

Sheepdog displays return – and, as the team point out, with working collies guiding goats into pens in front of a busy crowd, ‘anything can happen’. The Dorset Spring Show offers a full day out for all ages: the Spring Farm offers a chance to meet sheep, pigs, cattle, goats and alpacas, while shire horses take centre stage in the Heavy Horse Village.
Now established as an early fixture in Dorset’s events calendar, the show continues to offer a brilliant family day out.
The show takes place at Birch Lane Showground, near Puddletown (DT2 7LN), with free parking available. Children go FREE (aged 15 and under), adult tickets £14 until 2nd May. Full details and tickets can be found at dorsetspringshow.co.uk.

Own a piece of Blandford history – Conyers of Blandford for sale

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Editorial team

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20 April 2026

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After 21 years at the helm of Arthur Conyers’ Gunshop and Fishing Tackle, Justin Frampton is offering this long-established and much-loved Blandford business for sale, alongside the adjoining Conyers Home & Country, launched in 2019.

Offered as a complete going concern – lock, stock and barrel – the sale includes a new lease agreement with the landlord, providing a solid foundation for continuity and future growth.

Arthur Conyers, proudly trading since 1886, is the oldest shop in Blandford Forum and a cornerstone of the town’s country community. Renowned for its knowledgeable service and traditional values, the business supplies shotguns, rifles, angling equipment and country clothing to a loyal and longstanding customer base.

The decision to sell comes as Justin turns his focus to Houghton Springs Trout Farm and his other business interests.

Importantly, the business benefits from an experienced and dedicated team. Bryan, who has been with the company for 21 years, remains a highly valued member of staff, supported by Suzie in Conyers Home & Country. Both are keen to stay on and provide continuity for a new owner.

Offered as a complete going concern – lock, stock and barrel – the sale includes a new lease agreement with the landlord, providing a solid foundation for continuity and future growth.

This is a rare opportunity to acquire a heritage retail business with deep roots in the local community and a strong reputation built over generations.

For further information, please contact Justin at [email protected] or visit the shop to discuss in person.