The 39th Volunteers’ Week runs from 1st to 7th June, joining thousands of charities and voluntary organisations across the country in recognising the contribution volunteers make. The Blackmore Vale Partnership (BVP) is gearing up to celebrate their Health Champion volunteers who work with local GP practices to provide community support. During Volunteers’ Week, a member of the wellbeing team from the BVP will be holding a drop-in at The Exchange in Sturminster Newton, during their regular Country Market between 9.30 and ll.30am. It’s a great opportunity to have a chat over a cuppa and find out more. Jackie Monckton, Social Prescriber says: ‘Our volunteers provide a range of essential support in our local community: groups for bereavement, carers support, menopause and Parkinson’s. They have established Community Larders, assist with community clinics for older people and providing opportunities like Coffee Companions, Wellbeing Walking and more.’ Rowan Chambers, a Volunteer Health Champion, says ‘I find volunteering incredibly rewarding. It really has been one of the best things I have ever decided to do.’ For more information on available activities or to find out how to get involved yourself, simply contact the wellbeing team for a chat on 01747 856786.
We know, we’re the perfect excuse for a long glass of something cold and putting your feet up in a shady spot of the garden. It’s not loafing, it’s ‘catching up on the news’. You’re so welcome.
In the June issue:
Farmers can be prosecuted for damaging short stretches of river, but when will water companies be held accountable for their actions, asks Andrew Livingston
From rural countryside to critical care: Cllr Jane Somper’s massive job. Tackling many of Dorset’s challenges, most people are unaware of the importance, scope and complexity of Jane’s multi-faceted role
You just can’t get the staff… The UK’s first post-Brexit trade deals begin amid agricultural industry concerns and severe labour shortages.
Where can you go on a £2 bus fare? What does the bus price cap mean for people in Dorset – and just how far can you actually go?
Two staples of Sturminster Newton celebrate 50th anniversaries this month. In ‘From avocado baths to the Michelin Guide: Plumber at 50’, Richard and Alison Prideaux-Brune share the fascinating and occasionally hilarious story of the early days of the restaurant with rooms. Just a week later on the other side of the Stour, Anne and Tony Smith came to Candy’s newsagents. As the traditional family-run newsagents celebrates its half-century, Anne and her son Ashley reflect on surviving industry shifts, local changes – and personal losses
Pack up a picnic and go to a play! Balmy summer nights are coming; it’s time to take the risk and book for one of the many open air plays coming to a garden or a field near you. Gay Pirrie-Weir has an extensive round up of the open air theatre in Dorset this summer. It’s time to book your tickets!
Two fascinating interviews in this episode; Jenny chatted with wildlife writer Jane Adams about the dawn chorus (and her efforts to hear a very disappointing one!), and also to market director Jules Bradburn about the brilliantly successful launch of the new monthly Independent Shaftesbury Market.
Wildlife writer Jane Adams grew up in the suburbs, and vividly recalls the first time she shared her morning tea with the waking birds ” In the past, I didn’t understand why people got so excited about the dawn chorus. Wasn’t it just a bunch of birds singing ridiculously early in the morning?”
Roger Guttridge tells the story of Dorset’s first newspaper and the ‘Sherborne Men’ who ‘rode Sherborne’ to distribute it
There’s a major new independent market in Shaftesbury – the launch event had more than 70 stalls, and was a resounding success with almost 6,000 people visiting. The monthly event will boost tourism and trade, says market director Jules Bradburn, who already runs the hugely popular independent Sherborne market which she has grown to 200 stalls. She spoke to Jenny about how it’s going, and about some of the incredible artisans, producers and traders that are finding a new audience.
Jim Bettle makes a living from an ancient craft, fuelling his passion for a more sustainable country. One of very few British charcoal producers, by the end of August he’ll produce more than 35 tonnes of sustainable British charcoal from within his North Dorset woodland ‘office’.
Despite Studland being one of the busiest tourist spots in Dorset, this route takes you away from the crowds across the quietly stunning heathlands that sit behind the famous beaches, right next door to RSPB Arne. If you’ve been watching Springwatch, you may just be feeling inspired to get out on those wild heathlands yourself.
Don’t be put off by the outlined length of the route – it’s truly endlessly adaptable. Tracks and paths criss-cross the whole area, meaning you can chop it to any length you choose.
There are very few public footpaths across RSPB Arne itself (understandably so), but that doesn’t mean the area can’t be explored. It is surrounded by beautiful heathland – and as the crowds all head to the beaches the heathlands generally remain peaceful even in the height of the season.
We walked the route on a hot Saturday in May; the roads towards Studland were busy enough, but if you’re planning on a visit during July and August, or a weekend in June and September, we’d suggest making an early start to avoid the traffic. We parked easily on the roadside – but again, we suspect this will be trickier in-season.
Spot Corfe Castle sitting in the distance, queen of all she surveys
The scenery and views are surprisingly varied along the route – the wide open gorse-filled heathland gives way to tall pine forests, and there are also sections through lush farmland, deciduous forest paths, one section gives a wonderful view of Corfe Castle and there of course plenty of stunning sea views across Poole Harbour.
The route itself is incredibly simple – all the paths are clearly marked, and it’s almost entirely flat walking. The final section is a gentle incline, but not one you really notice, even after 11 miles, as the views across the sea are so spectacular!
Do take lots of water on a hot day – there are some pleasantly shady sections, but also long stretches on open heathland which gives glorious views, but no respite from the sun.
Parts of the route are on popular cycle paths, so do keep an ear out for those.
And after a lot of rain the section before Sharford Bridge becomes quite boggy, so be prepared!
Joan Margaret Standerwick, formerly of Shaftesbury, passed away peacefully at Penhellis Nursing Home, Helston.
A dearly loved wife to the late Bob Standerwick, and much loved mum to Colin, Trevor, Carolyn & Kevin. A loving Nana, Great Nana & Great Great Nana to her 16 grandchildren, who will be sadly missed.
Dorset County Show is preparing for an event of unparalleled magnitude, making it the must-see event of the season. Creatures both large and small will be making their grand entrance, some for the very first time.
From Saturday, September 2nd to Sunday, September 3rd, the County Show promises to deliver exceptional value. For those who seize the early bird offer by midnight on Thursday, June 1st, tickets are available at a mere £17 – a substantial £6 off the gate price.
Dorset Axemen new attraction for 2023
This year’s event is pulling out all the stops. For fans of the equine, there’s the Heavy Horse Village, a tribute to the gentle giants of the horse world. Demonstrations of heavy horse logging will be presented by Dorset’s own Toby Hoad, a rare talent in this ancient art. Attendees can witness the age-old bond between man and horse, reminiscent of a partnership over 10,000 years in the making.
Adding a dash of spirited competition, Shetland pony racing will debut at the County Show. These energetic ponies, known for their speed and agility, are sure to impress spectators.
HH logging New attraction for 2023
Monster trucks are set to bring a different kind of horsepower to the County Show. The arrival of Big Pete and his sidekick, The Grim Reaper, will be announced by the roar of their engines as they dominate the showground in a spectacular display of mechanical power.
Livestock competitions offer another facet of entertainment, as the county’s finest rare breeds, cattle, pigs, goats and sheep vie for the title of County Show Champion.
All creatures great and small
The idyllic woodland area will be the backdrop for the famed Dorset Axemen, whose skills hark back to the era before modern machinery. Attendees will be treated to displays of rapid chopping and crosscut sawing, demonstrating the sheer physical strength of these traditional woodworkers.
The newly introduced Crafter’s Avenue invites onlookers to appreciate the finesse of Dorset’s finest craftspeople. Here, visitors can witness an array of heritage crafts, such as basket weaving, spinning, and whittling.
Gourmands will delight in the event’s gastronomical offerings. In the newly launched Food and Drink Area, the county’s best producers will present an array of local, British delights, catering to every palate. Following high demand, two Food Halls will be available to satisfy even the most discerning foodie.
Heavy horses
Show Organiser, James Cox, stated, “Our revised approach for this year highlights the very best of Agriculture, Countryside, Rural Life, and the outstanding Food, Drink, and Crafts that Dorset has to offer. We’re uniting Dorset – from coast to countryside, and across all towns – in a grand harvest celebration.”
Despite the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, the show offers a valuable experience for all, particularly as children attend for free. The 10.5 hours of entertainment make it an offer not to be missed.
As we gladly leap into early summer, Caz Richards of Dorset Food & Drink picks her must-have local foods this month
The 2023 watercress season gets underway almost at the same moment that King Charles III receives his crown! So what better way to celebrate the start of the ‘green’ King’s reign than with lashings of the green stuff that is so good for you? It’s grown in Dorset and just over the border in Hampshire. For anyone planning a street party or just celebrations with the family, we’ve got a couple of simple quiche alternatives to the official Coronation Quiche – we suggest that the soggy spinach is replaced with watercress. Try this Green Quiche with Watercress, Leeks & Peas recipe from the Watercress Company. And don’t forget the delicious salads to accompany them; we have one patriotically red, white, and blue and another with a passing nod to the classic Coronation Chicken. You can find the salad recipes here. Seasonal eaters out there, we thank you, and we at Dorset Food & Drink salute you (with a slice of quiche of course). Remember to eat your greens!
Sip in style, sans alcohol If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic tipple to toast the new King, apple or pear juice are refreshing alternatives to offer your guests. Dorset Nectar Cider offer a lovely range of zingy juices, including a delicious blend of Devonshire Brown, Sweet Coppin and Porter’s Perfection – delicious on their own, or add sparkling water and a shot of Dorset Ginger for an extra kick! Alternatiovely, try the gorgeous range from Curious Kombucha made by Emma Davies. Kombucha is a fermented tea drink full of probiotics and prebiotics that promote gut health. It’s mildly effervescent and slightly tart, low in sugar and non-alcoholic.
When the Moon hits your eye … If you’re looking for an authentic slice of hot Italian summer, then a trip to Bridport may be in order. Ilaria Padovani relocated from Verona to Bridport in 2013 and established Mercato Italiano, supplying the finest formaggi e salumi to customers via a weekly market stall and food events that she imported directly using her Italian contacts. A move meant finally offering customers the ability to experience authentic Napoletana-style pizza (and some of the best coffee in town!). The menu is filled with delicious, hand-crafted, Napoletana style pizzas made with authentic Italian ingredients imported by Mercato Italiano. Margherita Classica? Prosciutto Toscano? Perhaps a Vegano … there’s something for everyone. Do book ahead – opening hours are Wednesday to Saturday, 5pm to 11pm (last orders 9pm). Check out the menu and book a table mercatoitaliano.uk
Feeling saucy? Did you know From Dorset With Love recently launched a new range of sauces? They’re itching to rock your barbecues this summer! Choose from Tomato, Brown, Sweet Chilli, Honey BBQ or Smoky BBQ. You can buy online, but be warned; the BBQ sauces go fast, so maybe stock up if you can! fromdorsetwithlove.co.uk
In a triumphant week for The Queen’s Arms in Corton Denham, the charming pub has once again secured Gold from Taste of the West – the second consecutive year – and also received a prestigious five-star rating after an anonymous visit from an AA inspector.
Both the Taste of the West judges and the AA inspector experienced The Queen’s Arms incognito, allowing them to form unbiased opinions of the establishment – from first impressions to staff interactions and, of course, the quality of the food. The AA inspector praised The Queen’s Arms, stating it was “a pleasure to visit” and admiring the “consistent quality levels throughout.” The inspector highlighted the “personable team,” “enjoyable, accomplished cooking and quality produce,” and the “stylish public areas” that have been tastefully refurbished to maintain character and enhance appeal. Similarly, the Taste of the West judges commended the “very high standard” of service and “high-quality food.” They remarked that The Queen’s Arms caters to everyone, whether visitors are relaxing with board games or savouring the excellent food. The pub is evidently popular among locals, who visit after walking their dogs, as well as diners seeking a quality dining experience. Doune Mackenzie-Francis, the director, expressed excitement over the awards and praised the team for their dedication to delivering exceptional service and food.
The Queen’s Arms, which opened in July 2021 after a lockdown refurbishment, continues to thrive under the guidance of head chef Rich Townsend and food and beverage manager Danny Emney, with sensational seasonal dishes like Castlemead Chicken with wild garlic and hand-crafted bay leaf gin.
The Queen’s Arms is open seven days a week from 11am to 11pm. Follow thequeensarms.com for more information on upcoming special events, like Fish and Fire on 23rd May (booking is recommended!).
