When Food Is Medicine

By

-

23 June 2025

Expert Karen Geary’s quick guide to the most common therapeutic diets, designed to support your health, not just your waistline

We often think of diets as a way to lose a few pounds before summer, but some diets serve a far more important role – supporting chronic health conditions. From gut health to autoimmune disease, therapeutic diets aren’t about trends or quick fixes. They are targeted nutritional approaches designed to reduce symptoms, manage conditions and, in some cases, improve long-term health outcomes.
But here’s the key difference: many therapeutic diets are not meant to be followed forever. They often involve elimination phases, careful reintroductions, or a specific nutrient focus – and using them without personalised guidance can do more harm than good.
This is where professional support, such as a registered nutritional therapist or dietitian, becomes essential, especially when dealing with complex issues such as gut health, thyroid conditions, certain cancers or autoimmune disease. Here’s a quick guide to some of the most common therapeutic diets and when they might be appropriate:

Gluten-free
What it is: A diet that eliminates all gluten-containing foods (wheat, barley, rye). Essential for those with coeliac disease and often adopted by people with autoimmune conditions, such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, due to potential gluten sensitivity. Some people also choose to eliminate gluten “mimics” such as corn, oats and even dairy, as these can cross-react in sensitive individuals.
What it’s great for: Managing coeliac disease, non-coeliac gluten sensitivity and may help reduce inflammation in autoimmune thyroid disorders.
Watch outs: It’s not inherently healthier or designed for weight loss. Many gluten-free packaged foods are highly processed.
Focus on whole, naturally gluten-free foods and seek testing before self-diagnosing gluten intolerance or removing entire food groups unnecessarily.

Low FODMAP
What it is: A short-term elimination diet that reduces fermentable carbohydrates known as FODMAPs (Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides and Polyols), which can trigger bloating, pain and IBS symptoms. It is designed to be followed in phases, with gradual reintroduction.
What it’s great for: Clinically proven to reduce symptoms of IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth) and some functional gut disorders, eg bloating and diarrhoea, where no ‘disease’ is identified but symptoms persist.
Watch outs: It’s restrictive and not designed for long-term use. Without proper reintroduction, it can negatively impact gut microbiome diversity. Best followed with professional guidance to ensure gut health is supported throughout.

Ketogenic
What it is: A very low-carb, high-fat diet that switches the body into ketosis, where it burns fat for fuel instead of glucose. Originally developed for epilepsy management, it now has broader therapeutic applications.
What it’s great for: Neurological conditions like epilepsy and cognitive decline, managing chronic fatigue, blood sugar regulation and as adjunct support in metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes. It is also showing promise for supporting mental health and neurodivergent conditions such as ADHD. Early research suggests that by providing ketones as an alternative energy source for the brain, keto may help stabilise mood, focus and cognitive performance.
Watch outs: Can be nutrient-poor if not carefully planned. Long-term keto may not suit everyone and should be monitored.

Modified Mediterranean
What it is: A diet rich in olive oil, fish, vegetables, legumes, nuts and whole grains, with minimal processed foods and moderate dairy, meat and wine. The Med diet is known for its anti-inflammatory and heart-protective properties.
What it’s great for: Supporting cardiovascular health, managing type 2 diabetes and blood sugar balance, reducing risk of cognitive decline and lowering overall inflammation. It also promotes gut microbiome diversity thanks to its fibre and polyphenol content.
Watch outs: While flexible and sustainable, weight management still requires attention to portion sizes – especially with breads, pasta and wine. It’s a lifestyle, not a prescriptive “plan”, so some people need guidance to avoid slipping into too many refined carbs.

Anti-inflammatory diet
What it is: Less a formal diet, more a way of eating focused on reducing inflammatory triggers – emphasising colourful vegetables, omega-3-rich foods (like oily fish and flaxseed), nuts, seeds, herbs and spices (like turmeric), while limiting processed foods, sugar, refined carbs and trans fats.
What it’s great for: Managing chronic inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, skin issues (eczema, psoriasis), cardiovascular disease, autoimmune conditions and as supportive care alongside cancer treatment. Its focus on low glycaemic index (GI) foods, antioxidants and moderate healthy fats makes it a strong foundation for reducing systemic inflammation.
Watch outs: It can feel vague without professional input, as there’s no strict rulebook. Some people focus too much on “superfoods” without addressing hidden inflammatory triggers like stress, poor sleep, or food sensitivities.

DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension)
What it is: Originally developed to lower blood pressure, DASH focuses on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and low-fat dairy, while reducing sodium, red meat and processed foods.
What it’s great for: Clinically proven to reduce high blood pressure, support heart health and lower risk of stroke and kidney disease. It’s a balanced, sustainable approach for anyone managing cardiovascular risk factors.
Watch outs: Some versions still promote low-fat dairy and higher carbohydrate intake, which may not suit everyone, especially those with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes. Sodium reduction should also be personalised – not everyone benefits from ultra-low salt diets.

Autoimmune protocol (AIP) / modified paleo
What it is: An elimination diet designed to reduce potential dietary triggers of autoimmune flare-ups. It removes grains, dairy, legumes, nightshades, eggs, nuts, seeds and processed foods, focusing on nutrient-dense meats, fish, vegetables (except nightshades) and healthy fats. After a period of elimination, foods are carefully reintroduced.
What it’s great for: Individuals with autoimmune conditions such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus or psoriasis who are looking to identify food triggers, reduce symptoms and support gut healing.
Watch outs: It’s highly restrictive in the elimination phase and not intended as a permanent diet. Without guidance, it can lead to nutritional gaps or an overly fearful relationship with food. Functional testing and personalised reintroduction phases are key to making it effective and sustainable.

Plant-based / whole food plant-based (WFPB)
What it is: A diet centred around unprocessed plant foods – vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, nuts and seeds – while minimising or excluding animal products and processed foods.
What it’s great for: Supporting cardiovascular health, type 2 diabetes management, kidney health and reducing cancer risk. Rich in fibre, antioxidants and phytonutrients, it’s known for its role in chronic disease prevention.
Watch outs: Going plant-based doesn’t automatically mean healthy – ultra-processed vegan foods are still processed. Nutrients like B12, iron, omega-3 and zinc may require careful planning or supplementation.

A final note
These diets are powerful tools designed to manage or support specific health conditions – not trends to follow blindly. Many involve elimination phases, reintroductions, or nutrient focus that require expertise to get right. Used incorrectly, they can lead to nutritional gaps or make symptoms worse. If you’re considering a therapeutic diet, especially for gut health, autoimmune conditions, or chronic disease, work with a qualified professional to personalise the approach – and remember, food is just one part of the bigger picture.

Dorset’s Wessex Internet secures £50m national investment to connect rural homes, farms and community groups

By

Laura

-

23 June 2025

1

Wessex Internet, the independent broadband provider founded on a family farm in North Dorset, has announced a major funding boost that will significantly expand its reach across the rural South West. On 23rd June, the company confirmed a £50 million investment from the National Wealth Fund, supporting its mission to connect some of the hardest-to-reach homes and small businesses in the country.

Wessex Internet’s success lies in working with the land, not around it: laying cables through fields in partnership with farmers and landowners

The investment – combined with £72 million in public subsidy through the government’s Project Gigabit scheme and further capital from shareholders – will enable Wessex Internet to grow its full-fibre network from 40,000 to around 137,000 premises. Many of these are small businesses, community projects and isolated farms in areas long neglected by larger national providers.

While the numbers are impressive, the company’s approach remains grounded in its local roots. From its base near Blandford, Wessex Internet has grown carefully and independently – resisting buyouts and mergers – choosing instead to build a business focused entirely on rural communities. Its success lies in working with the land, not around it: laying cables through fields in partnership with farmers and landowners, avoiding unnecessary road disruption, and tailoring each connection to the realities of rural life.

‘As many broadband providers scale back, we have continued to grow by focusing on rural, hard-to-reach areas that others overlook,’ said Hector Gibson Fleming, CEO of Wessex Internet. ‘Our focus has always been on ensuring that these regions can access reliable full fibre broadband, which supports local economic development and long-term community needs. Our success is rooted in that purpose.’

The impact is already being felt. Voiceover artist Natalie Cooper moved to her dream home near Shaftesbury in Dorset, complete with her own studio – but with barely any mobile signal and broadband under 1Mb.
‘Now, thanks to Wessex Internet, we have full fibre direct to the property,’ she said. ‘I can confidently deliver a consistent, high-quality service to my voiceover clients around the world.’

The Big Yellow Bus Garden Project, a volunteer-run community garden in Shillingstone, Dorset, could not afford broadband access until Wessex Internet stepped in to sponsor the project. Now it has the connectivity to support school visits, share resources and stay in touch with supporters.

Wessex Internet have received £50m NWF investment

Wessex Internet’s expansion comes at a critical moment. With rural businesses under pressure, digital connectivity is no longer a luxury – it’s the backbone of modern rural life, supporting everything from small-scale manufacturing and online services to family farms and voluntary organisations.

Ian Brown, Head of Banking & Investments at the National Wealth Fund, said: ‘Every home and business in the UK deserves access to fast, affordable and reliable broadband. Our financing for Wessex Internet will ensure that under-served rural communities benefit – areas where connecting homes and businesses to fast fibre makes the greatest difference, improving connectivity and supporting local economies.’

Wessex Internet has won continued backing from its major investors, including Aberdeen, the global investment company and a key equity partner. Their original investment highlights the growing role of independent providers in delivering rural broadband infrastructure. Wessex Internet is proving that rural deployment can be both technically feasible and commercially attractive.

‘Everyone in the business is proud of the huge impact that Wessex Internet has had on the communities we serve – connecting families, strengthening businesses and empowering local organisations,’ said Gibson Fleming.

Making a great salad

By

Editorial team

-

22 June 2025

0

With barbecue season in full swing, this month I thought I’d suggest some tips on making a great salad. I’ve also included an example of a salad I’ve made using the tips below – Heather x

The key for any good salad is to layer the salad with flavours and textures. If you try and hit the main areas mentioned below, it will transform your average, lettuce-heavy, empty-flavoured dish to a delicious and complex accompaniment that will stand up to the strong flavours on the barbecue.

Creamy/fatty
This is usually in the form of a dressing, but it could be avocado too. Cheese can also help here.
Bitter
Usually some fresh rocket leaves or kale helps, you don’t need too much of this.
Sharp
A squeeze of lemon or lime juice, or perhaps some pomegranate seeds or orange pieces. You can also include pickled items here too, like pickled radishes or onion.
Tangy
Use some feta cheese or sour cream/yoghurt in the dressing
Crunchy
Add some croutons, carrots, sweetcorn or roasted nuts (a lovely sprinkle of hazelnuts or cashews really help make a salad sing)
Salty/Umami
Consider sardines or tuna, soy sauce, or even roasted tomato halves
Sweet
This might be chopped dates or roasted sweet potato. You can also try some fruit: peaches often work well
Fresh
This is your traditional salad ingredients – your chosen lettuce (whether that’s iceberg, Romaine or Little Gem), cucumber, bell peppers and peas.
Earthy
Roasted vegetables, especially root vegetables, work well. A traditional UK option is beetroot, but be adventurous by trying other root veg like carrots.
Grains/pasta/beans/pulses can make up the base of the salad: do experiment with options that have a flavour of their own, such as cooked lentils or wild rice.

Heather’s salad for barbecue

Ingredients

No need for measurements here because it’s a very relaxed dish – just use roughly equal amounts of the above ingredients.

Cucumber
Sweet peppers
Rocket leaves
Dates
Pomegranate seeds
Cashews
Feta cheese
Sweet potato

Method

Peel, chop and roast the sweet potato in a little oil in a hot oven, probably 180º fan, for about 25 minutes until soft but still holding shape.
Roast the cashews for a couple of minutes in a hot dry pan until golden, just to enhance the flavour.
Then it’s just chop everything up and mix in a big bowl until you are happy. You could also add wild rice if wanted to make it more substantial.
I added the feta cheese for both the creaminess and the tang!

Is my PIP about to be cut?

By

Editorial team

-

21 June 2025

0

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

Q: My mum has been claiming Personal Independence Payment for three years and I claim carers’ allowance so I can help her. We’be been told that PIP is going to be cut very soon and we are worried about how we are going to cope without that money coming in. What should we do?

A: We realise that recent announcements have caused a lot of concern to people claiming PIP – and to those who care for them.
However, it is worth noting that no changes have yet been made.
The changes are being proposed via a Green Paper entitled Pathways to Work: Reforming Benefits and Support to Get Britain Working. A Green Paper is a government consultation document that outlines proposed policies or legislation, and seeks feedback from the public and other stakeholders before the government makes a final decision. It’s essentially a way to gauge public opinion and gather input on different policy options.

The consultation
There is a consultation running now on the proposed changes. The consultation, which runs until 30 June, sets out plans and proposals to reform health and disability benefits and employment support
The government says it is “keen to hear views from a wide group of people, in particular disabled people and people with health conditions” and that it is “committed to putting the views and voices of disabled people and people with health conditions at the heart of everything [it does].”
A description of the consultation and details of the consultation events are here and links to the Green Paper itself and the consultation questions are here and here There is both an audio and a BSL version. There are 20 consultation questions and also the opportunity for a free text reply.
If you would like to add your voice and comment on the proposed changes, you should respond to the consultation (and yes, unfortunately, it will take a couple of hours) and also contact your MP to express your views.
Finally, if you have been considering applying for PIP and would like to do so before any future changes are implemented, the details on how to do so are on the Citizens Advice website.

Bradford abbas | THEN AND NOW

By

Editorial team

-

20 June 2025

0

We love pairing a vintage postcard with a photograph taken in the same spot today. Alongside the postcards, we feature a newspaper article from the same time and place – a little glimpse of life when the card was posted.

Bradford Abbas, with a new war memorial on the left

The scene is remarkably unchanged a century later. ‘Now’ images by Courtenay Hitchcock

BRIDPORT NEWS
SHERBORNE POLICE COURT, MARCH 14th, 1902
A YOUNG GIRL WEARY OF LIFE
ALLEGED ATTEMPTED SUICIDE

On the 6th inst., at the Sherborne Police Court, Rebecca Anne King, 16 years of age, daughter of Henry King, of Bradford Abbas, was charged with attempting to commit suicide on the Monday previous in Bradford Hollow. Henry King, labourer, said prisoner was his daughter, and was 16 years of age. She had not been living at home lately—not for the last three years. She had been at the Rev. Mr. Locke’s home for about two years, at Misterton. Witness saw her last on Monday morning near Bradford. He wished her good morning. No other words passed between them, She went towards Yeovil. He was surprised to hear afterwards that she had been stay ing at Bradford Abbas. He knew she had left Mr. Locke’s home and gone into service in Yeovil. He thought she was still in service. He did not notice anything peculiar about her when they met. He did not know why she left home at 13 to go to the Rev. Mr. Locke’s home. He had nothing to do with her leaving. Witness had other children at home by another wife, aged 3,9, 12, and 14 respectively. On Monday he received a message at about 4.40 p.m., and in consequence he went to Bradford Hollow, and looked for his daughter, but could not find her. He was by himself. He went back into Bradford, and from what he there heard he proceeded to the other Hollow. He found his daughter in a dry ditch lying down. She was unconscious. He could get no answer from her whatever. He pulled her out of the ditch on to the bank, where she commenced vomiting. Her clothes were not disarranged, and she had her hat on. Witness ordered a trap, and with the assistance of George Chainey, the driver, he carried his daughter to the vehlcle, and they drove to his house. He telegraphed for Dr. Colmer, of Yeovil, who came in about an hour. The police also came that night, and took her in custody the following day. George Jeanes, a keeper of Mr. Clayton’s, at Bradford Abbas, said he was in the Hollow between three and four when he saw something lying on the ground. He found it was the prisoner. He tried to rouse her, but he failed. He put her inside the ditch for care, and then went up the road, He met his niece, who came with him to see if she could recognise the girl. He despatched his niece to tell Mr. King, he himself going home. In about an hour he returned, and found that her father had gone to fetch her. Dr. Colmer said he received the telegram about 7.45, and immediately went over to Bradford. He found the girl on the couch downstairs, She was in a semi-conscious condition. The pupils of her eyes were slightly dilated. There was a whitish vomit on her cape. There were no signs of irritation on her throat or lips, and no particular odour from her mouth. There were no signs of violence. Her pockets were searched, and several notes found, addressed to a young man at Yeovil and to her relations. In one of these, read by the Clerk, the girl said “I have been loneiy since my mother died.”—The doctor, continuing his evidence, said the girl told him nothing, but he concluded she had taken something. There was nothing to lead him to a conclusion as to what it was. The vomit had not yet been analysed. He made a superficial examination of the girl, and came to the conclusion that she was not enciente. P.C. Ford detailed his visit to the King’s house. After the girl had taken some tea, she became fairly sensible, and said she took 3d of gin and 2d of carbolised oil on Sunday. She further stated she had thrown the bottle away in the hollow, but though he had searched he could not find it. Prisoner, on being charged, said she had nothing to say.—The Bench committed her for trial at the next Quarter Sessions.

*At the Quarter Sessions in the April, Rebecca was indicted for taking a quantity of carbolised oil, with intent to kill herself, but the Grand Jury found No Bill – they did not believe there was sufficient evidence, and essentially, refused to accuse her of wrongdoing.

Yeovil Junction was within Dorset until 1991. Taken in 1918, it was a major railway hub connecting Yeovil Town with the main line to Taunton and Salisbury, with two platforms serving three tracks

In 2025 the Yeovil Railway Centre, a small railway museum, is in the G.W.R. transfer shed built in the 1860s and the S.R. turntable has been restored to working order for the servicing of steam locomotives – image Courtenay Hitchcock

Butter Miracle: The Complete Sweets!Counting Crows – Abbey104 Album of the Month:

By

Editorial team

-

20 June 2025

0

It’s easy to overlook how consistently brilliant Counting Crows have been across their career. Aside from their breakthrough, ubiquitous 1993 hit single Mr. Jones, their two biggest hits have been wholly unrepresentative novelty singles: one a saccharine soundtrack effort for a Shrek movie (Accidentally In Love) and the other an ill-advised, hip-hop inspired reading of Joni Mitchell’s Big Yellow Taxi. A cursory glance at the title and artwork of their latest LP is enough to deter all but the most ardent fans from venturing further.
But push past these missteps, and the rewards are great. Counting Crows – one of the most underrated and under-appreciated bands of the last 30 years – have delivered their best work since 2002’s Hard Candy, with a record that pairs five brand-new songs on side one with the 2021 E.P. Butter Miracle: Suite One on side two.

The frequent callbacks to American states and female protagonists, a consistent feature of singer Adam Duritz’s lyrics, remain, but there are also fresh ideas to explore. On bluesy opening number With Love, From A-Z, Duritz sends a love letter from the road which feels as honest and heartfelt as anything he’s written (‘I may leave you a lot, but I won’t leave you alone, …these words are the essence of me’) On Boxcars, an urgent, grungy powerhouse with a chorus reminiscent of early Foo Fighters, he laments a disenchanted, disconnected generation (‘Mom and Dad and a couple of kids staring at the screen, makes it easier on you, makes it easier on me’).
But the highlight here is the beatles-esque, instant pop classic Under The Aurora. While lines like ‘I wanna believe in something’ feel tired for a band who proclaimed ‘I don’t believe in anything’ over 30 years ago, the chorus refrain of a songwriter finding his place in the world (‘Where is there a place for me among the millions, humming and humming and humming away’) finds them at their best: poignant, yearning, and catchy as hell. By some kind of miracle, they’ve hit the sweet spot yet again. – 4.5/5 stars

Matthew Ambrose presents Under The Radar on Tuesday evening at 7pm on Abbey104. Broadcasting on 104.7FM and online at abbey104.com.

The South Coast’s favourite car show just shifted up a gear

By

Editorial team

-

20 June 2025

0

Classic & Supercar Sunday is back – and 2025 promises the biggest and boldest show yet! Now held at the spectacular Canford School near Wimborne, this year’s event brings more space, more horsepower, and more family-friendly fun than ever before.
Since its grassroots beginnings in 2022, the show has grown rapidly. ‘Canford represents a huge step forward,’ says Zander Miller, Director of Aperta Events. ‘It gives us the scale and facilities to take things to the next level – we’re turning into ultimate car event of the summer.’
Expect hundreds of dream machines, live entertainment and plenty of surprises throughout the day. Canford’s iconic sunken lawn will showcase a curated display of exceptional vehicles, from rare classics to head-turning supercars – all set against a stunning historic backdrop.

What’s new in 2025
– Street food village: gourmet burgers, artisan coffee, cocktails and local favourites
– Bigger Family Zone: more room, more activities, all-day entertainment
– Mini Rovers: the electric Land Rovers return. Still FREE for kids, complete with driver’s licence
– Live rock band: keeping the energy high all day.
Headline sponsor Daizun Investments returns in 2025, backing Aperta’s mission to create standout experiences. ‘We’re car enthusiasts ourselves,’ says CEO David Rogers. ‘This event brings people together to celebrate some of the world’s most iconic cars. We’re looking forward to an unforgettable day.’

Got Something in the Garage?
Do you own something special? A rare classic, a beautiful restoration or a head-turning supercar? Apply now to exhibit and share your pride and joy.

TICKETS ON SALE NOW – early booking is advised. Sunday 24th August,
10am to 4pm
£19 adult/£10 over 5s/£45 family. Canford School, BH21 3AD
apertaevents.com

In the company of bees

By

Editorial team

-

19 June 2025

0

From CPR on the kitchen floor to spinning honey in a shed, Stephen Toop found peace, healing and purpose in beekeeping on a Dorset farm

Stephen Toop working on his hives in the Tarrant Valley
All images: Courtenay Hitchcock

Exuding the ruddy glow of someone who spends his days outdoors, Stephen Toop sits at a small kitchen table in his cosy farmworker’s cottage. It was in this very kitchen that a near-death experience changed his life – for the better.
A dairy hand since leaving school – his dream job since childhood – Stephen collapsed at home on a break between milkings. His quick-thinking wife Dawn performed CPR, bringing him back to life.
That moment was a turning point: Stephen needed something calmer, where he could be alone. No mobile phone and away from the pressures of modern-day farming. Most of us would likely opt for yoga, but Stephen chose to surround himself with thousands of bees!

Stephen Toop, who came to beekeeping while searching for a calm, stress-free occupation after a near-death experience

‘I chill and chat with my bees,’ he says. ‘They tune into me, and I tune into them. There’s a real connection. The level of their buzzing tells me whether to leave them alone.’
Now running 45 hives across Tarrant Monkton’s Manor Farm, with around 80,000 bees per hive, Stephen has found his sanctuary.
‘I’ve always been fascinated by bees. I’m dyslexic and struggled at school, but a brilliant teacher, Mr Spring – to whom I’m forever grateful – introduced me to environmental studies. The school kept ducks, chickens and bees, and I was able to learn in a practical way which suited me much better.’
Initially, Stephen invested in two garden hives, plus a hot tub as a thank you to Dawn for saving him. Unfortunately, the bees also enjoyed using the tub for water, leading to a stung Dawn!
After chatting with farm bosses James and Barbara Cossins, Stephen was loaned field corners for his expanding hives. He joined a local beekeeping club, gained a first qualification and was allowed to take Saturdays off from his farmwork from May to August to continue his studies.

Stephen Toop looks after more than 3.5million bees, with 45 hives scattered throughout the Tarrant Valley in field margins and unproductive farm corners

The bees now play a valuable role on the farm. During what’s known as ‘the spring flow’, they are moved around the fields to pollinate crops. ‘They work in tandem with the farm,’ explains Stephen. ‘Once the oil seed rape is finished, I move them to pollinate the beans.
In the ten years Stephen has been taking hives to the fields, there’s been a significant increase in crop yields. The farm is also experimenting with different grass seeds – chicory, cornflower, red clover and white clover provide bee treats and enhance biodiversity.
The farm has turned areas of unproductive ground into nectar strips for the bees. Barren earth has been transformed into a honeybee highway of wildflowers where bees can rest and refuel.

The smallest livestock
Though beekeeping started as an escape, it’s now Stephen’s second career. His day starts at 3am with the cows, and then he tends his bees between milking sessions. ‘They’re livestock, not just insects you leave in a garden. They must be checked every seven days for diseases and overcrowding, which could lead to swarming.’
In the evenings, his cottage has become a base for a micro-business, producing delicious honey and its by-products. Dawn creates beautiful honey wax melts and candles at the kitchen table. Meanwhile Stephen cracks on with the sticky task of spinning hundreds of pounds of honey in a processing unit in his garden shed.
With real North Dorset provenance, their award-winning Tarrant Valley Honey is sold a few miles away at Rawston Farm Shop and features in dishes at the farm-owned Langton Arms pub. Due to demand for his honey, a website is coming soon.
‘It’s pure goodness in a jar,’ says Stephen. Some customers swear by its medicinal properties, often using it on ulcers and eczema. Stephen discovered the healing effects himself when honey he was spinning inadvertently soaked into his chest – and soothed his own eczema.

All profits are reinvested into bee care: ‘My ethos isn’t about how much honey I produce. It’s all about caring for the bees.’
Stephen is in the throes of setting up a local beekeeping social club, and has recently hosted his first beekeeping experience. ‘I’m aiming them at anyone who would like to understand more about bees and bee-keeping. We open up the hives and people get a chance to build their own honey-spinning frames.’
Are all the stings worth it?
‘If I get stung it’s my own fault for rushing or not concentrating. You can’t hurry bees – that’s what I love about them.
‘Plus, the bonus is a sting is the cheapest and best of all Botox!’

Tarrent Valley Honey – image Courtenay Hitchcock

Join Stephen for A Bee Experience on 6th July at Rawston Farm, Tarrant Rawston – 2pm, £60 per person (£100 per couple).
Protective equipment will be provided and afternoon tea
is also included.
To book, call 07488 311024 or email [email protected]

This is not your village fête pottery tent

By

Editorial team

-

18 June 2025

0

Raku flames, wheel-throwing and sculptural centrepieces – Potfest South West is a must for collectors, creatives and curious visitors alike

From 4th to 6th July, Turnpike Showground near Shaftesbury plays host once again to Potfest South West – a major event in the UK’s ceramic calendar. More than just a marketplace, it’s a chance to explore the breadth and depth of modern ceramic artistry, meet the makers behind the work, and experience the dynamic processes that bring clay to life.
Now in its fourth year, the South West show is the youngest in the Potfest family – but has quickly become a favourite. With its spacious countryside setting, laid-back atmosphere and exceptionally high standard of exhibitors, the event draws collectors, interior designers, architects, gallerists and curious visitors alike. Whether you’re looking for the perfect mug or a sculptural centrepiece for your home or garden, this is the place to find it.

Meet the makers
One of the unique pleasures of Potfest is the opportunity to engage directly with almost 100 exhibiting potters – each selected for originality, craftsmanship and professional practice. It’s a rare chance to talk about form, glaze, technique and inspiration with the person who created the piece. The work spans everything from finely thrown domestic ware to large-scale sculpture, delicate jewellery to conceptual installations. Every item is hand made – often one of a kind – and most artists are happy to take commissions or discuss their wider body of work.
In addition to the exhibitors’ stands, live demonstrations run throughout the weekend. These free sessions offer insights into the craft: try your hand at wheel-throwing slab-building, slip decoration and glazing. Whether you’re a potter yourself or simply curious about how raw clay is transformed into functional or sculptural objects, this is a fascinating chance to learn from highly skilled, professional makers.

The drama of Raku
Adding a theatrical edge to the event is the hugely popular Raku firing display – a traditional Japanese technique that embraces unpredictability and heat. Watching the process unfold is unmissable: pots are removed from a red-hot kiln and placed in sawdust or combustible materials, where they smoke and cool to reveal iridescent, crackled or metallic finishes. It’s a fiery, smoky spectacle that never fails to draw a crowd – and a reminder of the elemental nature of ceramics.

Not just collectors
While Potfest South West is a serious event for collectors and curators, it’s also enjoyed by anyone with an interest in handmade craft or art or contemporary design. Families are welcome, there’s food and drink on site, and the open rural setting gives space for children to roam and visitors to linger. Many makers exhibit work suitable for outdoor display, and garden ceramics are a growing highlight of the show.

Browsers enjoying Sarah Sullivan’s Serenity Heads

Why Potfest matters
Potfest South West reflects a growing appreciation for ceramics as both an artistic medium and a sustainable, tactile alternative to mass production. Buying directly from makers supports independent businesses, reduces wasteful shipping, and offers genuine transparency in how objects are made. It’s also immensely rewarding – you’ll leave with something not just beautiful, but very personal.
Whether you’re adding to a collection, hunting for a thoughtful gift, or simply looking for a day out with substance, Potfest South West delivers. It’s three days of clay, creativity and conversation – and a rare window into one of the UK’s most vibrant creative communities.

Potfest South West runs from 4th to 6th July at Turnpike Showground, near Shaftesbury. Adults £6.50, under 16s go free.
Visit potfest.co.uk for tickets and to preview the full list of exhibiting potters.