It’s June – which means roses! But also that the Thorngrove glasshouses are awash with summer colour. Kelsi-Dean Buck shares some EMA news
EMA students demonstrated amazing planning, teamwork, communication and gardening skills while working on Shaftesbury in Bloom
June is here – and to be six months into 2024 just doesn’t feel possible! Spring appears to have passed us by in the blink of an eye, and now we’re about to welcome summer. Is your garden summer ready? As always, we’re on hand to provide some inspiration to help you make the most of your outside space. Recent visitors to Thorngrove will have seen our glasshouse has been transformed, and it’s bursting with late spring and early summer colour. Come and lose yourself among the bedding choices – maybe build your own hanging basket or find a new addition (there’s always room for one more). Of course, with June comes Rose Season. For the next month or so they will be stealing all the attention at Thorngrove. They are among our most popular plants, so if you’re looking to fill some gaps in your garden, don’t delay! Our huge and diverse range of roses mean there’s something for all themes and garden sizes – come and pick up yours today! Shaftesbury in Bloom On a community project note, we are absolutely delighted to share insight to the amazing work our Employ My Ability (EMA) students and Adult Social Care day service users did in our continued collaboration with Shaftesbury in Bloom. Together they created 130 troughs, 14 planters, three towers and they also assisted in the installation of these plants around Shaftesbury. ‘We began involving EMA education students and the Adult Social Care team in Shaftesbury in Bloom in 2023, and they did an outstanding job. We received wonderful feedback from the community last year, so we’re back for a second year planting with them. It’s been fantastic to see all the students engaged, both on-site and out in the community,’ says Charlotte from Thorngrove. When you’re next out and about in Shaftesbury, keep your eyes peeled for our plants and the amazing work by EMA students. They all demonstrated amazing planning, teamwork, communication and gardening skills and we couldn’t be happier with the results! This ongoing collaboration with Shaftesbury allows our students and service users to really see their hard work flourish in the community. It brings immense pride to all involved. Amazing work, everyone!
If you’re reading this in early June, I’d like to flag up that our sister site, The Walled Garden in Moreton, is hosting a Dog Show on Sunday 9th June. Plants from Thorngrove will be available at the garden shop, and we’ll be raising funds for both Employ My Ability and Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. It’s set to be a huge day of family fun and entertainment where your pooches will be the stars of the show.
Have a brilliant month everyone, and we look forward to seeing you in the garden centre and café here in Gillingham!
Right. I’m not going to mention The Win. Because to be honest I’m actually starting to bore myself. I recently stumbled upon a TikTok that resonated a little too much. In the video, an email draft was being edited: phrases like “Thank you so much for replying” were deleted, and “I’m afraid I seem to have a slight issue with …” was changed into “There’s a problem with…” The original (familiar) language was steeped in apology, and a reluctance to assert. This hit home, if I’m honest. As a lifelong people-pleaser, I’m inclined to say yes to everything, to be perpetually accommodating. This month, in particular, I’ve felt the strain as I tried to juggle too many commitments, sometimes at the expense of my own well-being. Saying no is challenging – there’s a financial hit if it’s work, but perhaps even more than that because we all want to be seen as capable and dependable. We aim to be the hero that’s needed. To be all-conquering. Especially in the month you’re told that you have, indeed, conquered (did I mention we won a major national award?). This drive to please, to not inconvenience others, isn’t unique to women – though I do see a stark difference even in my own family, where my sons seem to have no qualms about asserting themselves, about taking up space. They don’t shy away from being direct. It’s something I’m actively trying to teach my daughter – that her voice matters, her opinion counts, that she doesn’t have to shrink to accommodate others. Singer Halsey gave an excellent speech a few years ago. It finishes with “I’m here to say that I’m not sorry for being… inconvenient. You were not put on this earth to make everybody else’s life easier. So please, be inconvenient.” As I proudly watch my almost-adult children mature with confidence, I’m striving to follow their lead. To stop apologising. To be a little more inconvenient.
Laura x
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On our new council I am concerned about the notable lack of North Dorset councillors in the new Dorset Council, with only one representative from Sherborne. North Dorset’s issues are not the same as those in Weymouth, Chickerell, and Dorchester – and Councillor Nick Ireland’s focus on these places potentially sidelines North Dorset’s issues. It’s vital for the council to ensure all regions, including ours, have a voice that’s heard and influential in decision-making. How will the council address this underrepresentation and guarantee that North Dorset’s interests are recognised? Gavin P, Blandford
On the tourist’s view The recent letter from a visitor highlighting their concerns about sheep worrying in Dorset captured an outsider’s perspective that many of us might overlook. The tourist’s suggestion for a culture of accountability is a good one – can more stringent measures to enforce dog control, such as mandatory leashing in rural areas or near livestock be enforced on a local level, much like dogs on beaches are? Bryan Green, Verwood
No singing from the tower? It was so very sad to see that yet again The Choir of Sherborne Abbey did not sing from The Abbey Tower on Ascension Day morning. For the past few years this ancient tradition has just been dropped, with seemingly no concern. I wonder what the reasoning for this is? I presume it can’t be health and safety as it would apply to the other churches. Magdalen Oxford and St Johns Cambridge, together with many other churches, manage it … so what has happened to Sherborne Abbey? Soon all these ancient traditions will be gone forever, as those of us who witness and remember, will pass on and incomers will have no idea just how much of Sherborne has been discarded, cancelled or changed at a whim. Bring in the new but please do not destroy our ancient heritage. There is room for all. Shirley Fooks, Sherborne
Thank you We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the gentleman who came to our rescue on Bank Holiday Monday at the Sherborne County Show. We had followed instructions to park on the field opposite Castle Gardens, and we ended up on a steep incline. Upon our return we were unable to move the car due to the wet slippery conditions. A gentleman with his Land Rover and winch managed to get us moving – all we know is his wife was showing sheep at the show. The young lady parked next to us with her family was also in the same position requiring help. There was yet another family who, having pushed their car out of a difficult situation, offered to push our car. Surely the organisers of the SCS car parking should factor in their risk assessment contingencies, such as having a vehicle on standby to help tow cars stuck in the field, rather than rely on the kindness of strangers? Carol Porter, Leigh
When passing horses Ah, it’s that blissful time of year again when our serene lanes are suddenly bustling with tourists*, who, bless their hearts, seem to treat passing horses as some kind of advanced driving test they weren’t prepared for. Yes, we all share the road, but that doesn’t mean our equine friends are ready to dodge cars like they’re in a game of Frogger. Most drivers know the mantra: pass wide and slow. Of course, knowing isn’t the same as doing – I know I should eat broccoli, but here we are. And here’s a bonus fun tip: please don’t start slowing down when you’re so far back that my horse starts wondering if you’re bringing the post. The longer you take creeping up, the more my horse ponders his life choices and the twitchier he gets. Also, remember a startled horse doesn’t just stop; it bolts sideways faster than you can say, ‘Was that a squirrel?’ They’re more likely to take a fear-induced leap towards the road than away from it. So, while you might think giving us a friendly honk to say hello is a nice gesture, it’s actually more like announcing the apocalypse to my horse. Fret not, we already know you’re there, thanks to our lack of a metal fortress around us. And for those feeling extra generous, why not add ‘no revving your engine to impress us’ to the list of no thank you’s? Frankly, my horse is unimpressed by your horsepower. Let’s keep the roads safe and the local wildlife (and yes that includes horses) calm. S D, Shaftesbury *I lied. It’s not just the tourists that are the problem.
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In this issue: William Fox-Pitt says goodbye to 5* Eventing – he tells us what he loves most about eventing, and his plans for the future … plus he answers 19 Random Questions. He’s NOT A DUNKER! | Page 14 Can wildlife at Lyscombe aid the housing crisis? Andrew Livingston looks how the Nutrient Neutrality Scheme bought the farm in a strategic approach to saving Poole Harbour | Page 4 Spring Countryside Show is on 8th and 9th June – we’ve got everything you need | Page 30
Plus a too-short wingwalker, some Jolly Good Company, a round up of ALL the open air theatre on in Dorset this summer (hint: A LOT), everything you need to know about Dorset cheese, stupid ducks, local history’s moved to the back … and approximately a bazillion pages of What’s Ons. Oh, and in case you missed it, the small fact that The BV magazine has been awarded ‘Regional Publication of the Year’ at last month’s NMA’s in Mayfair. Why are you still here? Go! Grab a coffee, and have a READ!
One of our all time favourite walks, this is a day hike we return to again and again. There are probably better titles for a walk with such great views and varied landcsapes, but when we’re deciding where to go, the conversation will usually go: ‘Folly Round?’ *questioningly raised eyebrow* ‘Sure. I’ll pack some sandwiches.’
And Folly Round it has remained for all the years we’ve been walking it. There’s easy parking in a small roadside layby at Folly, then it’s almost all Dorset National Landscape on a circular route out to Mappowder and back up and over the always-magnificent Dorsetshire Gap.
Despite using some of the Wessex Ridgeway and passing across the spectacular Dorsetshire Gap, it’s still rare to meet many people on the route. The views are worth the stiff huff up the hills, we promise!
One word of warning – in the winter months it can be a little tough going with the chalky mud. However, on an early summer’s day? I defy anyone to find a more beautiful walk in Dorset. NB – Do follow the route outlined, not the actual footpath: in a couple of places the path has been moved, or is impassable and we had to find a workaround. Most notably, the bridleway through the copse at Noake Farm simply doesn’t exist anymore, as far as we can tell – instead you need to enter the field and walk up the hill in front of you to the gate at the top, and then back down the other side to rejoin the route. From there you enter a green lane which in summer is usually shoulder high in nettles – instead of whacking your way through sting alley, simply use the gateway to enter the field on your left, and continue on the outside of the hedge to rejoin the path further along.
Milton Abbey is seeking an organised, efficient, and enthusiastic individual to support the Deputy Head (Development and Admissions) who will contribute to the day-to-day running of the admissions.
We are looking for an enthusiastic and positive person, with excellent communication and IT skills and a high level of attention to detail and accuracy in their work and capable of dealing confidently with a range of people and situations, and able to work independently and as part of a busy team.
The department can become very busy, therefore the capacity to work effectively under pressure in a busy office is a must. You will work in a supportive team and full training will be given.
The successful applicant will be required to assist in ensuring that all admissions enquiries are handled professionally, courteously, efficiently, and effectively.
You will be part of a friendly and supportive team, and training will be available to enhance skills. Staff also benefit from 25 days annual holiday plus bank holidays, free parking and a free refreshments and three course hot lunch during term time.
Further details may be obtained from our website or from HR on 01258 882306 or email [email protected]. Applications must be submitted on the school’s application form. The closing date for applications is Monday 24th June 2024. Please note that we are not accepting applications for this position through any employment agency and all applications should be made direct to the school.
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role.
Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.
Milton Abbey School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The appointment will be the subject of an enhanced disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service. Additionally, please be aware that Milton Abbey School will conduct online searches of shortlisted candidates. This check will be part of a safeguarding check, and the search will purely be based on whether an individual is suitable to work with children. To avoid unconscious bias and any risk of discrimination a person who will not on the appointment panel will conduct the search and will only share information if and when findings are relevant and of concern.
Please note that our school is a no smoking site.
Milton Abbey School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The appointment will be the subject of an enhanced disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service. Please note that our school is a no smoking site. | www.miltonabbey.co.uk | Registered Charity No 306318
A well organised, skilled professional and versatile team-player is required from September 2024 to run the School Office and to assist the Head.
This is a part-time term time only role: 0830– 1700 two days a week; 0900-1300 Saturdays. Work pattern and hours may be flexible for the right candidate.
Closing date 9am Friday 14 June 2024 Interviews w/c 17 June 2024
Terry speaks to Ian Girling to discover just what the Dorset Chamber of Commerce does – and also to find out the insider guide to the prestigious Dorset Business Awards.
Jenny visits Alex Woodhouse to find out about the popular summer pop up restaurant at Supper at Pleck
Terry spoke to Dick Bennet about the Sherborne Squat Thrusters, a 50-year-old circuit training group with an average member age of 73: ‘the circuit has admittedly got a little more gentle as we’ve got older… and the rehydration in the pub afterwards is just as important!’ They are always happy to welcome new members – they get particularly excited if it drops their average age a bit. People in their 50s and 60s and even younger are very welcome – it is requested that they just don’t show up the older members too much.
Wakely Cox is a fourth generation farmer just outside Dorchester – and a hugely respected advocate for Dorset farming. He’s the current chair of Dorset NFU, and one of his other roles is as chair of the Poole Harbour Agricultural Group, challenging the Environment Agency and the apportioned ‘farmer nitrate pollution’ of Poole Harbour. He talks to Jenny about how farming has changed since his grandparents time.
Chloé van Soeterstède with Mark Wigglesworth Photo by Mark Allan
The distinguished conductor Mark Wigglesworth has been announced as the new chief conductor of the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra. He will take up the role at the start of the orchestra’s 2024-25 season in September, when Kirill Karabits, the BSO’s inspiring Ukrainian-born chief conductor for the past 15 years, becomes Conductor Laureate and artistic director of the Voices from the East programme Wigglesworth, who has been the BSO’s principal guest conductor since 2021, is one of the world’s leading conductors, recognised for his outstanding musicianship, extraordinary interpretations and breadth of repertoire. He has worked with the Berlin Philharmonic, London Symphony, New York Philharmonic and Royal Concertgebouw orchestras and performed at the world’s most prestigious opera houses. He will be the first British conductor to hold the BSO post in more than 60 years, and he is expected to conduct five weeks in his first season, increasing to nine weeks from 2025/26. He says: “The BSO embraces the role of a 21st century orchestra with talent, experience, passion and care. The commitment the entire organisation shows to the many thousands of music lovers across the South West of England is inspirational and I am extremely excited to be joining them at a time when classical music’s undeniable force for good has never been more vital to the quality of our communities.”
An exciting journey The new principal guest conductor will be Chloé van Soeterstède. The announcement follows her recent guest appearances, where she has won praise from the BSO’s musicians and audiences alike. She was appointed the Taki Alsop Fellow 2019-21 by former BSO principal conductor Marin Alsop and was a Dudamel Fellow with the Los Angeles Philharmonic in its 2021-22 season. She trained as a viola player before turning to conducting, and is a passionate advocate for music education. Matt King, the BSO’s principal percussion and musician trustee, says: “Concerts with Mark are a highlight in the schedule, and we’re delighted at his appointment as chief conductor. We have enjoyed a broad mix of repertoire together in recent years, with music from Mahler and Mozart to Sibelius, Shostakovich, and Wagner – it will be exciting to continue this journey. Chloé has been a real revelation and brings energy and fresh insight to the podium; we are looking forward to the next few years together.” BSO chief executive Dougie Scarfe says: “We’re excited to share the truly world-class live performances that both Mark and Chloé will undoubtably bring to people throughout the South West over the coming years. Life-empowering live music is at the core of what we do, and we’re thrilled Mark and Chloé share our vision for how an orchestra can proudly serve communities in and beyond the concert hall.” bsolive.com
