When Biscuit the family terrier wouldn’t leave an old antler alone, John and Sandra Palmer-Snellin spotted a new eco-business venture opportunity.
John Palmer-Snellin and Biscuit in front of their antler stack
John Palmer-Snellin had a sudden lightbulb moment when he picked up a piece of naturally fallen off antler from his wife’s tame deer. Biscuit, the family Border Terrier, wouldn’t leave the antler alone and began chewing on it; Staglers, the dog chew specialist, was soon founded. Staglers now provides sustainable and eco-friendly shed deer antler chews. John is passionate about nature, photography, falconry, and of course his beloved dogs – Biscuit and Dodger. The Stagler business catchphrase is ‘Just Ask John’. John served in the Royal Marines, and went on to be a Personal Protection Officer to RT Hon Edward Heath for three years before joining Dorset Police, where he was the first, and only, full-time force Wildlife Officer, speaking at local schools and educating young children on the importance of nature.
The issue of dog chews
Finding the right chew is an issue many dog owners tussle with. Raw bones carry bacteria (and smell), but cooked bones beome brittle and cause choking hazards. Leather hide chews can contain all manner of chemicals – and swiftly become soft, stinky and messy. Commercially packaged chew sticks don’t last long, especially for bigger dogs, and many are filled with unnecessary sugars. Staglers think they have the solution.
Farmer Palmer’s deer
John’s wife Sandra, Director of Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park, grew up on a farm surrounded by animals. 23 years ago she and her brother, Philip Palmer, opened the farm to the public for family-friendly days out. Sandra owns a herd of red deer that children often meet and feed at the family-run farm, a firm favourite activity. Like many species of deer, only stags have antlers and they shed on a seasonal basis, allowing new ones to develop (the antlers are a ‘status symbol’ in the mating ritual). Although Staglers don’t use Farmer Palmer’s deer antlers to form their business, they were inspired by these local Red Deer.
The right Stagler for your dog?
“Choosing the appropriately sized antler is important for your dog” John Palmer-Snellin commented “our ‘Just Ask John’ service allows the customer to receive a bespoke cut, weight and sized dog chew depending on their breed and chewing habits. “Staglers are rich in protein, so dogs do not need to chew more than a half-inch or so per day; this is what makes them last a whole lot longer than your average dog chew. My passion has always been with animals, wildlife and nature – so to be working directly with people and their beloved pets makes it all worthwhile”.
The local couple are often branded ‘The Dog Whisperers’ as they supply eco-friendly, non- smelly and natural dog chews that outlive the lifetime of an ordinary dog chew.
Trying to access important data locked into the phone of a deceased relative can be a nightmare. But Apple has launched a new ‘Digital Legacy’ programme to overcome this problem. Senior Associate Solicitor Adam Hillier reports.
shutterstock
Advances in phone technology have seen us progress from ‘just a mobile telephone’ resembling a small brick into the sleek multi-purpose devices that most of us now use. There really is an app for everything, easily downloadable, straight onto your phone. All this data remains locked safely within the phone through a combination of passwords, unique thumbprints, or other security measures. However such protection can mean that without careful forward planning, a sudden unexpected death of a family member could lead to their mobile phone blocking access to their personal or professional material. Under the iCloud Terms of Service, the deceased person’s data would effectively die with them.
A new solution
Apple is now attempting to simplify this problem for users of iPhones, iPads, MacBooks and other such devices. In its recent iOS update (15.2), it has introduced its new Digital Legacy program. Digital Legacy allows the individual to select and send a message via their phone to a maximum of five people requesting that they become Legacy Contacts. They are most likely to be family members or friends but could also perhaps be trusted professionals like solicitors or accountants who may have been appointed as Executors to act in their Will.
When the Legacy Contact is notified, the message shares a unique access key with them, and this is then automatically stored in their Apple ID settings. Additionally, Apple do still require proof of death via a death certificate; meaning that nobody can attempt to access the data whilst the individual is still alive.
Easy access when needed
It would be prudent to check with your Legacy contact that they are happy to have this responsibility before sending the message and if they do not own an apple device themselves or perhaps it is too old to update to iOS 15.2, you can instead print a copy of the access key for them or leave such information with your Will. After you have died, your chosen Legacy Contacts would be able to access your Apple account data from the phone in a simplified and organised manner, rather than a timely, expensive, and likely unsuccessful legal battle with Apple, who would fight to protect their customer’s privacy. I would suggest that when you prepare new Wills or update existing ones, careful consideration is given to your digital data and suitable precautions put in place to assist loved ones after death.
For more information contact Adam Hillier: [email protected] 01935 846165
Enjoy big views with ever-wide skies on Dorset Walks as you complete the circle from Lower Ansty – starting with easy parking in the village, then a few simple climbs to enjoy the best of Hog Hill looking out over The DWT’s now wildlife reserve at Lyscombe Bottom and then down via the Dorsetshire Gap ridge.
To follow this route using the Outdooractive App, please find the route here.
The view from Henning Hill, looking north across Melcombe Bingham to Nordon Hill and the Dorsetshire Gap to its left.
Bingham’s Melcombe is a beautiful estate – do wander out of your way to visit the church and pause to enjoy the view of the gardens.
At this time of year there are swathes of snowdrops on the Bingham’s Melcombe estate
Don’t forget to pause and look back towards the coast as you approach Nettlecombe Farm on the front edge of Hog Hill
Don’t carry on up the apparently very obvious path over Henning Hill; you turn right BEFORE the barn to get to this view. We admittedly go straight on through the gate (wrong) Every. Single. Time.
Perhaps also opt to walk the footpath around the front of Nordon Hill from the Dorsetshire Gap – the views are spectacular, but the rough path runs awkwardly across a steep hill: you’ll potentially spend all your time trying not to break an ankle. We did it once, but now always opt for the simpler-going route around the back, and sadly miss the view!
The view north from the Dorsetshire Gap ridge – it’s after this point you will bear left round the back side of the ridge, and miss out on the amazing right hand views!
This route is filled with great lunch spots, but my top two would be the cross dykes on Hog Hill – one of my favourite spots to sit and enjoy the view – or from the Dorsteshire Gap ridgeline, with spectacular views both sides.
The Dorsetshire gap crossroads – it’s never not muddy! But the trees on your right at this point
NB the Gap crossroads is always muddy – do watch your footing as you descend.
All of our monthly ‘Take a hike’ features of Dorset walks can be seen here. The routes we feature have always been created and walked recently by ourselves, so you know you can trust them – we aim for unpopulated routes with as little road and as many views as possible! You can always see the route and follow it yourself via the free Outdoor Active app – see all our routes in the app here. All images Laura Hitchcock
“I’ve been lucky. I don’t need anycredit, I just like to help where I can”
Taff Martin is a surprisingly bashful Welshman; a Falklands Veteran, he’s the driving force behind Abbey104 radio station, and until recently a gigging musician. He serves on Sherborne’s Chamber of Trade committee and organises some of the biggest festivals in the town.
Taff Martin Abbey 104
Raised in the tiny Welsh mining village of Bargoed, Taff Martin grew up within a musical family, playing in his Dad’s Country band, with his brother on lead guitar. At the age of 16 ( and two months!) Taff literally ran away to sea, joining the Navy as a helicopter mechanic in ‘78, where he found playing guitar in the mess helped make friends.
By 1979 he was based at Yeovilton, working on the then- brand new Lynx helicopters. In 1981 Taff joined a small ships flight in the Fleet Air Arm squadron 815. After a tour of Russian seas he was aboard the HMS Glasgow, the first ship in the Falklands at the start of the conflict. He saw HMS Sheffield get hit, and the Glasgow itself was bombed on the 12th May – Taff made it back to the UK in June 1982. In 1984 Taff was invited to dinner by his boss “come meet my niece. You might get on, and if you don’t it’s a free dinner”. Taff ending up staying for the whole weekend, and spent most of it talking to ‘the niece’ Lynda – they met again the following Saturday, and the very next weekend Taff asked Lynda to marry him. They’ve been married for 37 years this year.
Retiring the band
Taff formed a band of his own in the mid 80s, and continued to gig thoughout the South West until arthritis put paid to his lead guitar days “I’m determined to not be ‘Taff, who used to be good at guitar’. You’ve got to know when to quit”.
His retirement gig at the Digby Hall in 2017 was so good, he told everyone he’d be retiring again the following week, and the week after that he’d be retiring in Yeovil… Once he’d given up the band, Taff needed a new focus – and by serendipity he was asked to help out at Abbey104, Sherborne’s community radio station. Taff was quickly asked to run the station; it’s a passion project, and he’s been galvanising the volunteer team ever since, as well as presenting his own Country Music show. In 2016 Taff was asked to help with the organisation of the Queen’s birthday concert festival in Sherborne – it was such a success he did it again in the two following years. COVID caused a break, but the Sherborne Summer Festival is back for 2022, still with Taff at the helm. “I feel I’ve had a lucky life. I’m not a big earner, but I like to put things back into the community. I don’t really like to be noticed, I just do what I can, and I know about festivals, music and entertainment – all it costs is my time” Taff’s also a long-standing active member and previous Vice-Chair of the Sherborne Chamber of Commerce committee, assisting with events like the Festive Shopping Day and FiverFest, and is a familiar face to most in and around the town.
Taff has lived in Sherborne with his wife Lynda since 1990, and in 2021 he published a book ‘Working for the Weekend’, combining useful tips on playing in a local band, with tales from his own 40 years of gigs.
Taff’s eight music choices, along with how and why they stuck in his life:
Elvis Presley – One Night.
This was on an EP called A Touch of Gold Volume 2, and I first heard it on an old Dansette record player when I was about 8 or 9 years old. I had never heard anything like it. At the time it was all flower power on the radio, and suddenly hearing Elvis for the first time at full throttle changed my life.
Johnny Cash – Folsom Prison Blues
This was one of the first songs I learned to play on the guitar – my older brother Clint was lead guitarist in our Dad’s Country band, and there was never any question that I’d learn too.
Status Quo – Dear John
From their album 1982. I’m pretty proud that I was probably the first person in the Southern Hemisphere to get this album! I knew it was coming out mid April whilst I was in the Falklands, so I sent a cheque home for my brother to buy the album, had him record it and then send the cassette down to me. I wanted to be first on the ship to have it!
Carole King – Where you lead
The Tapestry album was the one that me and Lynda listened to all the time when we first met. So many great memories, and an unbelievably good album.
Eagles – Peaceful Easy Feeling
From their debut album, this took me years to learn the solo. I eventually found out they used a special device inside the guitar! I just love the sound and feel of this song, and can always imagine cruising down a USA Highway listening to it.
Colin Blunstone – Say you don’t mind
A rock singer using nothing but strings – violin and cello – all through this song proves you don’t need loud drums to get your point across. It’s just a beautiful song.
Chuck Berry – Johnny B Goode
This song is all you need to know about rock and roll guitar. It never fails to make me smile, and lights up any gig. I played it so many times on stages throughout the South West.
Guy Clark – My Favourite Picture of you
A singer telling the story of his wife through pictures. One of the finest song writers I have ever heard. They say a picture paints a thousand words, but Guy Clark singing about his wife (who had passed away) creates so many images in the listener’s mind, it’s stunning.
And if the waves were to wash all your records away but you had time to save just one, which would it be? Elvis. He’s the whole reason I started.
My book
To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee. I first read it at school in the 70s, but its message is still important and relevant today. The film, for once, was just as good as the book with Gregory Peck perfect for the role of Atticus Finch.
My luxury item
Definitely would have to be a guitar. Just because I can’t sing doesn’t mean I won’t sing on my deserted island. It will keep dangerous animals away as well!
As an Experienced IFA Administrator you will be member of a team providing support to 3 financial planners
Your duties will be focussed on, but not restricted to, providing a pro-active approach to client servicing and business processing.
Requirements:
Have previous experience as an IFA Administrator
Have knowledge of investments and pensions administration
Have knowledge of Intelliflo and platform providers
Have exceptional attention to detail
Must be at ease on the telephone
Be highly organised
Benefits:
Competitive salary reflecting level of experience
Death in Service, Contributory Pension, employer-sponsored private medical insurance and 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
Assistance with improving your industry qualifications and continuing CPD
All the tea and coffee you can drink, the occasional foodie Friday or tasty Tuesday and a dynamic vibrant workplace!
The Job:
37.5 hours per working week
Office based role in Shaftesbury with free parking
The company’s ethos is one of sustainability and responsible investing; acting with the utmost degree of integrity and professionalism at all times. Wessex Investment Management is a “Living Wage Employer” a member of The Organsiation for Responsible Businesses and a signatory to the United Nation’s Principles for Responsible Investing.
If you want to know more contact Lisa Bailey via email [email protected] or on 01747 859411
WEESEX INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT
NUMBER ONE, The Wincombe Centre, Wincombe Business Park, Shaftesbury, SP7 9QJ
Wessex Investment Management Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Clayesmore School has now seen the completion of a large solar PV system installation by Shaftesbury’s Wessex Electrical. The firm installed 790 PV panels across the two roofs. The solar array will generate circa 150,349 kWh and provide a saving of approximately 64 tonnes of CO2 per year.
The savings are equivalent to planting & maintaining 11.85 hectares of woodland; that is nearly 23 football fields, or 5,000 car parking spaces!
Wessex Electricals Director, Ali Morgan, commented “We have worked with Clayesmore for over three decades providing electrical, fire & security solutions and we are delighted to expand our existing remit to include renewable energy solutions. It is great to see the results of the teams’ hard work, the benefits provided to the school from the solar panel array and the contribution that this is making to their sustainability strategy.”
A spokesperson from Clayesmore school said “Clayesmore are always looking to improve their sustainability and will, when possible, strive to reduce our carbon footprint. Projects like installation of PV, Biomass and LED lighting will always be considered. In the last seven years, we have been able to install both a comprehensive biomass system to the site, and have two significant PV solar panel systems installed. One was in conjunction with a replacement roof to our Sports Centre in 2015, and the following year we installed a similar system to our new Senior Design & Technology extension.
Both of these systems have helped us meet our Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS) requirements which we assess every 4 years, and also generate power which we can use internally and also export externally back to the grid. Wessex supported us right from the concept design phase through to completion of the project, and onwards in technical and maintenance support.
Lucy Mignot from Blanchards Bailey explains the thorny issue of ‘fraudulent calumny’ – which is far less romantic than it sounds.
If you think ‘fraudulent calumny’ sounds like something from a Shakespeare play, you wouldn’t be far wrong. The concept of pouring poison in the ear was a common theme for the playwrite. Sadly however it is still very much relevant today in the context of wills.
Fraudulent calumny occurs when one person poisons a will-maker’s mind against someone who would otherwise be their natural beneficiary, and as a result the will-maker disinherits the person they have been poisoned against, or leaves them less than they would be expected to receive. If fraudulent calumny can be proved, the will is invalid and will be set aside, reverting to the will-maker’s previous will or, if they did not have one, the intestacy rules.
Sibling rivalry
In practice, these disputes are often between siblings, where one is alleged to have spread lies about the other to a parent. There are cases where it was alleged that a parent had been deceived into believing that one of their children had stolen from them, was a shopaholic and spendthrift, or was untrustworthy.
Fraudulent calumny will only be established if the person casting the aspersions knew that what they were telling the will-maker was untrue – or they did not care whether it was true or not, and there is no other explanation for the disinheritance.
It is a subtle form of undue influence where, rather than being forced into making changes against their will, the will-maker makes the changes of their own volition because their perception of the person they are disinheriting has been skewed. Fraudulent calumny is often missed by inexperienced or non specialist lawyers to the disadvantage of the client claiming that the will should be set aside.
If you are concerned that a will may have been affected by deliberate deception or you believe it may not be valid for any other reason, it is essential that you seek specialist legal advice from a contentious probate expert. Contact Lucy Mignot on 01305 217 303 or [email protected]
Monthly updates from the various North Dorset Police Teams. This month’s news from Blandford’s Police Sergeant Jane Hammond
Blandford’s policing team worked hard to ensure everyone’s safety in the aftermath of Storm Eunice this month, says PS Jane Hammond
It’s been a busy few weeks, made ever more challenging by Storm Eunice. She certainly kept the teams busy!
We were able to deal with incidents during the storm, and also the aftermath of fallen trees and power lines with the help of Dorset Council and many other agencies. I was proud of all our teams and their hard work, helping to keep people safe. The teams were also engaged with following up on crimes and anti-social behaviour; we are committed to putting victims first and being tough on crime. We do rely on our communities to tell us what they know and want you to continue to report incidents. This assists us to detect crimes and be in the right places at the right times to help prevent incidents.
“Thank you to everyone who dropped by our joined-up surgery in #Blandford with local Councillors Byron Quayle and Nocturin Lacey-Clarke and to Dorset RoadSafe. Surgeries are great for crime prevention advice, Neighbourhood Policing priority surveys, Dorset Alert sign ups and to discuss any concerns and issues or pass on information. Everyone is welcome.”
“Damage has been caused in the play area where ‘graffiti’ has been sprayed over the play equipment. Road side furniture has also been damaged. This was reported earlier in the week.”
“Avoid Church Hill as there is a limb balancing precariously on a power line. There are ongoing reports of fallen trees & branches in Dorset. Others down at Milldown Road, Blandford. #NecessaryTravelOnly is still advised and if you do have to go out please exercise utmost vigilance.”
On our social media you can see advertised where and when your local police teams will be in your communities for you to speak to in person.
We love these ‘engagements’ – some of them include partner agencies with whom we work to keep our communities safe. Please also look at our Dorset Police Web pages – ‘Neighbourhood Policing’, where you can see the faces and names of your local neighbourhood police officers and Police Community Support Officers (known as PCSOs).
For details on your local team’s future engagements please refer to our website. As always, if you wish to contact us follow the links. 79 You can report non urgent matters via 101, and remember if you see a crime in progress or a person in danger call 999.
