Is it a scam?

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15 November 2024

A local expert from Citizen’s Advice provides timely tips on consumer issues.

Q: ‘I keep reading about people losing money in scams and I am worried that it might happen to me. What can I do to minimise the risk?’

A: It’s not easy to spot financial scams so it’s important you know what to look out for. Here is a quick guide to six financial scams:

Investment scams: scammers often use fake celebrity endorsements to promote false investments on social media. Scammers can also make fake investment firms seem legitimate by setting up clone websites of real companies. Check for a padlock icon next to the URL in the address bar, and instead of relying on a clickable link in an email or text, search on Google for the company – official websites are positioned higher in the search results since they have existed longer and have more links from other websites.
Friend-in-need scam: be wary if a friend or relative messages you urgently asking for money as it could be a scammer pretending to be your loved one to exploit your willingness to help. Before responding to unexpected messages requesting financial help, call your family member or friend directly to confirm the request. Many families choose a simple, memorable password to protect more vulnerable members from scammers posing as loved ones, posting urgent messages.
Romance scams: be wary if someone you met on a dating platform avoids video calls and meeting you in person, but starts asking for urgent money due to emergencies.
Pension scams: the two main types of pension scam are pension review scams and early pension release scams. Remember that professional advice on pensions is not free – any unexpected calls for reviews or offers are more than likely a scam. Hang up and find a reputable professional locally.
Debt help on social media: some financial influencers use social media to promote debt solutions in a misleading way. The solutions may give inaccurate advice which can put your finances at risk.
Parking QR codes: QR phishing is where fake QR codes are placed in areas such as car parks where you might scan and pay for your parking at ticket machines. If you find a QR code for payments at car parks, watch out for any tampering signs, and pay attention to the website you’re led to – be sure the QR code takes you to a legitimate site. When in doubt use one of the parking apps, and only pay through those.

If you’ve been scammed:
• Don’t feel embarrassed — scams can happen to anyone
• Report the scam as soon as possible
• Check if you can get your money back by contacting your bank immediately
• For more information, check our website https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/scams/

Godmanstone | THEN AND NOW

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Editorial team

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14 November 2024

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Step back in time with our ‘Then and Now’ feature, where vintage postcards from the Barry Cuff Collection meet modern-day reality. Explore the past and present on the same page, and see the evolution of familiar local places. ‘Now’ images by Courtenay Hitchcock

The Street is remarkably unchanged on the left, though the wall on the right has been replaced by garden hedges.

Today’s large village green is not there in the old postcard. At that time, the river extended into a large pond

The Smith’s Arms in Godmanstone dates back to 1420 and originally served as a smithy. According to local legend, the pub’s licence was granted by Charles II, who requested some refreshment when his horse had thrown a shoe and he stopped at the smithy. When the smith explained he had no licence to serve ale or porter, the King instantly granted one by Royal Charter, starting a 350-year career for ’the smallest pub in England.’
The tiny public house measured just 11ft 9ins by 15ft, the ceiling barely clearing the head of patrons over six foot tall and it had just six tables. In the 1960s, the pub was sold to John and Linda Foster. John had been a top jockey who rode in three Grand Nationals, but had to retire from racing after a serious riding accident. The couple ran The Smiths Arms very successfully until the mid-2000s when John’s deteriorating health forced the couple to retire.

Sun, not floods, for the 29th Stickler!

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14 November 2024

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The Stickler – officially The Dorset Three Peaks – involves 1,500 ft of gruelling climb as runners ascend Okeford Beacon, Hod Hill and Hambledon Hill.

Could the weather have been any more perfect for this year’s Stickler race? Now in it’s 29th year, regular runners have come to expect flood-like conditions and some were apparently disappointed by the lack of wading required! But nobody was disappointed by the beautiful sunshine and the opportunity to run in a vest at the end of October.
The Dorset Three Peaks involves more than 1,500ft of gruelling climb, beginning with the infamous Stickle Path. Runners ascend three locally-renowned peaks along the beautiful Stour Valley – Okeford Beacon, Hod Hill and Hambledon Hill.
This year more than 570 runners registered, and there were 510 finishers. Local runner Dave Hewes from North Dorset Triathlon Club was under very strict instructions to get around safely as it was his stag do – he was getting married the next day! Luckily he achieved both, and we wish huge congratulations to him and his new wife. The Doddlers’ own Jane Feather ran it as a birthday present to herself (it takes all sorts – Ed), and what better way to spend the day?
The 2024 winner was Charles Ford, who completed it in a time of 1:06:02. First female over the line was Anna Philps from Purbeck Runners in 1:19:20. Second and third males were Christopher Peck from Egdon Heath Harriers (1:06:44) and Matthew Harris from Oxford University AC (1:08:32).
The second and third females were Emma Hines from Swindon Harriers (1:20:02) and Ali Young (1:21:16). The winning female team was from Chippenham Harriers, consisting of Liliano Soto, Juliette Hatt and Julia Maddocks. Winning men’s team was the Dorset Doddlers team of Christopher Wright, Rich White and Tom Mitchell. Well done all!
The race organisers would like to say an enormous thank you to everyone who made the 29th Stickler such a success. The race is only ever as good as its volunteers (the Stickler has more than 80), and the consensus is that these are the best.
The organisers send special thanks to the Dorset Doddlers running club, local community volunteers, Ann Powell and all at the Shillingstone Church Centre, Shillingstone Station, the residents of the local villages who are always so patient and supportive, and the amazing sponsors Hall and Woodhouse, Honeybuns and Up and Running Bournemouth.
Keep Sunday 26th October 2025 free for next year’s event when Adam Frampton will be stepping up for his first Stickler as Race Director.

An evening with Harry Meade

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13 November 2024

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Kingston Maurward Equestrian Centre will be hosting a lecture demo evening with one of Britain’s leading event riders, Harry Meade, on Wednesday 20th November. Harry will be bringing some of his own horses, as well as coaching a group of local riders on their own horses. The Kingston Maurward team say ‘This is a one-off event, and not to be missed!’
Harry is widely respected for his quiet and sympathetic riding style and ability to produce young horses to he very top level. He has completed 24 5*events, with multiple top placings.
Born into an equestrian family (his father Richard was a triple-Olympic gold medallist), Harry spent most of his childhood in the saddle, developing a natural feel and instinct that would become key in his later successes. He has built enduring partnerships with a number of sensitive but talented horses that have gone on to thrive at top level. Harry is driven by the challenges and the excitement of competing at top level and representing his country.
‘Early bird’ tickets (£25) are available until 13 Nov. After this, tickets will cost £29.
Booking via Equoevents or call 01305 215016

Second-hand book fair returns to Dorset Museum

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13 November 2024

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Book lovers, collectors and bargain hunters alike can look forward to thousands of high-quality books on sale at unbeatable prices, just in time for Christmas: Dorset Museum & Art Gallery is thrilled to welcome back its popular second-hand book fair on Saturday, 23rd November from 10am to 4pm in the museum’s Victorian Hall.
In addition to the museum’s own bookstands, the fair will feature stalls from the Hardy Society and Nangle Books, offering a rich selection of titles across various genres, including Dorset history, travel, music, art and gardening. With both fiction and non-fiction available, there’s something for everyone – whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast or simply looking for a great read.
Entry to the fair is free, and visitors are encouraged to bring their own bags as part of the museum’s commitment to sustainability. All proceeds from the museum’s bookstands will support the upkeep of Dorset Museum & Art Gallery and its collections, preserving Dorset’s heritage for future generations.
In preparation for the fair, the museum is accepting donations of quality second-hand books until Monday, 18th November 2024. Every donation is appreciated and contributes to the success of this popular annual event.

North Dorset Railway is making tracks!

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13 November 2024

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North Dorset Railway in Shillingstone has reached a major milestone, with the first new track being laid north of Haywards Lane since 1967.
Volunteers have prepared the trackbed with stone, ballast, sleepers and track, which will eventually connect back to the station’s existing track. Contractors have also started work on a new car park, set to relieve parking pressure on the industrial estate and enable larger events at the station.
Shillingstone Station was featured in the first programme of Channel 4’s recent Abandoned Railways from Above series, showcasing its scenic views and historical appeal. Visitors are always welcome to explore the station, enjoy exhibits, visit the museum and signal box, and relax in the Mark 1 carriage cafe when the weather is not so good.

Christmas is coming
Santa’s annual visit will take place on Sunday, 15th December, from 11am to 3pm. Children can meet Santa and receive a gift for £4.50 per child, with proceeds supporting the railway’s restoration. Bookings are essential by phone or in person at the station.
northdorsetrailway.co.uk
Shillingstone Station is open on Wednesdays, Saturdays, Sundays and select Bank Holidays from 10am to 4pm.

Iron chancellor or rusty rhetoric?

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12 November 2024

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Labour’s lack of preparation and tax-heavy approach risk undermining small businesses and rural economies, warns Simon Hoare MP

After the General Election, I said that, in the interests of North Dorset and the wider country, I wished the incoming government well. I meant it. I am working collaboratively with ministers on certain issues and working ‘across the aisle’ on others. I am, however, becoming increasingly worried that the Government, despite its mammoth majority, appears to be so hesitant on some issues and plain ill-informed on others. My worries only grew when speaking to a Labour veteran, who told me how anxious many were on the government benches at just how underprepared they were for government. Labour’s victory was not a surprise one. We have to ask what they have been doing, for all those long years in opposition?
Preparing detailed, radical, dial-turning policy has not been done. Opinion Polls seem to suggest a growing disquiet with the Government. Local government by-elections – where Labour is losing ground – is turning theoretical polls into actual votes. Labour’s honeymoon lasted about as long as a Las Vegas shotgun marriage.

Dorset’s life blood
I write this on the cusp of the Budget, and it is worrying that the PM cannot define what a working person is – or indeed how the tax system should operate for them.
My anxiety is that Labour feel they can hike as many taxes as possible on business, and that those businesses will simply hang around and pay them: threats to end the 25 per cent tax free on personal pensions has already seen massive numbers of pensions being drawn down early.
Labour clearly still does not get small business.
Micro and small businesses are the life blood of the North Dorset economy and the Chancellor has them firmly in her sights. She appears to be unaware of how job-destroying her policies will be to this vital sector. She may have buttered up the CBI, but she has ignored the Federation of Small Business. Labour’s rural ignorance will become apparent if the Government changes the decades-standing approach to farm taxes. Too many small family farms will disappear under the weight of tax bills. This will change, for ever, and not for the better, the environment of rural North Dorset. Business confidence is falling just when it needs a shot in the arm.
People did not like paying increased tax under the last government but they understood it was because of the public spending undertaken during Covid. No one is buying this £22bn black hole fantasy that Labour has dreamt up. Still less are they buying that the economy was broken. Falling interest rates? Falling inflation? Rising business confidence and investment? No house repossessions or at scale business failures … If that is broken then it is a strange definition of the word.

Rub their noses in it
We all want a reliable public sector but Labour’s lack of understanding that you can only fund it sustainably through the endeavours of the private sector, through entrepreneurs, investors and risk takers who create the profits and jobs that generate the tax that pays for public services. Exempting public sector bosses, while crippling private sector ones, merely rubs the private sector’s nose in it.
What my inbox is telling me, and those of most MPs irrespective of party, is that people are furious at having been lied to at the General Election by Labour: “We will be pure and whiter than white until the offers of Taylor Swift tickets, suits, glasses and God knows what come along …”
One thing the British people hate is hypocrisy.
They would know there would be rising taxes within three months of forming a government, so why lie about it during the election campaign? The self-styled Iron Chancellor is already looking somewhat rusty. I am not certain she will pass her MOT.

Mid-century modern Blandford | POSTCARDS FROM A DORSET COLLECTION

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11 November 2024

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This month Barry Cuff has chosen two postcards with scenes no doubt familiar to older locals – Blandford Forum a little more than 60 years ago

Sent in December 1961 to Mr & Mrs Daniel (who appear to be Eve’s parents) in Barton on Sea, this lovely shot of the busy Blandford Market Place is not only instantly recognisable to locals in 2024, but no doubt is the Blandford of plenty of local childhoods. Eve is clearly a teacher in Blandford – if any readers remember having a Miss Daniel as a teacher in the 1960s, do let us know!
‘Many thanks for Mum’s letter and for ‘Which?’ I’m nearing the end of reports & am again almost on top of marking, often fighting – & winning! – Some battles. Yet another gale blowing – amazingly variable weather during last week, including snow. Blisses(?) have moved to another house in Chichester. Much love, Eve’

The Salisbury Street area remains familiar, with Durden’s still occupying Durden’s Corner. Henry Durden, born in 1807, established Blandford’s first museum. A Durden is recorded as a grocer in a 1791 trade directory, indicating the family’s early presence in the town. Henry’s museum, located within his shop, gained a strong reputation, showcasing ancient urns, more than 2,000 years old, all unearthed within an eight-mile radius of Blandford. The collection also included prehistoric artefacts from Hod Hill and nearby barrows, as well as flint arrowheads, bracelets and coins. The British Library preserves the ‘Catalogue of the Museum of Local Antiquities collected by Mr Durden of Blandford’ (compiled by George Payne in 1892). Durden frequently acquired items found by locals, often during ploughing or while walking on the local hill forts and barrows.
Postcard sent on 22 October, 1954 to a Mrs Simpson in Surrey:
‘My dear Cis. Just a PC to hope you are all well. I am getting on alright but leg not quite healed yet & have not been allowed to get out of bed yet. Shall be glad when I do, 4 months is a long time to be in bed. Best love to you all. Yours Mary xx Hope to see you soon’

Debating dignity: the Assisted Dying bill

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11 November 2024

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We have not yet had time to unpick the detail of the new government’s first budget.
As I write I do not know to what extent Labour is committed to fixing the problems left by the last administration, or if it is simply continuing on with business as usual.
Instead, I thought I would address one of the major pieces of legislation due to come before Parliament very soon: The Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill – commonly referred to as the Assisted Dying Bill.
First, I think it is important to deal with the facts of what this legislation proposes: there is a lot of misinformation both in the press and online.
As of today, the full text of the bill has not been published. Once it has, there will be time set aside to debate the legislation in Parliament and propose amendments, before any vote takes place.
The merits – or otherwise – of what the bill actually says, and not the hyperbole that surrounds it, is what matters.
What the MP proposing the bill has made very clear is that the change of law will only apply to adults who have a terminal prognosis, and have less than 12 months to live. They must also be cognitively healthy and therefore able to make an informed decision themselves.
It will not apply, blanket-like, to people living with a disability, mental health condition or long term/chronic pain, the elderly or anyone else – ONLY those with a terminal diagnosis, who have less than 12 months left to live, and are cognitively competent.
Importantly, it will require the agreement of two doctors and a judge before the patient’s decision can be agreed to.
The safeguarding mechanisms that the bill puts in place will, without doubt, influence how MPs vote.
No one will support a change in the law that risks anyone being forced or coerced into make a decision against their will.
While I will keep an open mind until the full details of bill are published, if it does achieve the high level of safeguards I wish to see, then I am currently minded to support a change in the law.
That said, I strongly believe we should be focused on dramatically improving assisted living (or palliative care) so that people do not have to endure pain and suffering, and can properly enjoy their final days with those they love and who love them.
Edward Morello MP
West Dorset