When Storm Chandra swept through Dorset on the night of Monday 26th January, the impact was immediate – and dramatic. By Tuesday morning, flooding had brought damage and disruption to towns and villages across the county. Forty roads were closed, fire crews responded to back-to-back calls from stranded motorists, and countless homes and business owners were left clearing up sodden premises. With groundwater still rising, many routes were still under water on Wednesday, and commuters were left to navigate a patchwork of road closures. Patrick Brown, a resident of Thornicombe Park, near Blandford, kindly shared images of his daughter Rosie in her wheelchair being evacuated out of the flood. ‘Rosie was taken into respite care in Dorchester. The water was almost three feet deep and rising, and we are extremely thankful and grateful for the quick response from the evacuation team and other residents.’ George Hosford’s drone image captured the water heading to the site: ‘The spring had broken, and the fields are already waterlogged so the water ran straight across the top, down to the mobile home site which sits in a hollow.’ In the midst of the chaos, our readers did what they do best – capturing the extraordinary scenes all around them. From submerged lanes and swollen rivers to eerily still fields turned to lakes, these images tell the story of the storm in Dorset. Thank you to everyone who shared their photos. We couldn’t include them all, but here’s a powerful selection – just hover your mouse over the images to see where they are and who took them.
He has been convicted of animal cruelty after dozens of animals were found emaciated, neglected and dying after repeated welfare failures
A north Dorset farmer has been convicted of animal cruelty and banned from keeping sheep after dozens of animals were found living in severe neglect, with some dying as a result of poor conditions. Nigel Anthony Turner, 56, of Ryme Intrinseca near Sherborne, pleaded guilty to 19 offences at Weymouth Magistrates’ Court. The charges followed a series of welfare inspections carried out by Dorset Council’s Trading Standards service and the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).
Images taken by Dorset Council Trading Standards officer of the sheep on Mr Turner’s field
The court heard that concerns were first raised in January 2025, when Trading Standards received a complaint about the condition of sheep being kept in a field at Ansty. An initial site visit found 140 sheep grazing on land with very little available feed and no evidence of any supplementary food being provided. Many of the animals were described as emaciated and in poor condition. Eleven sheep were already deceased. During the inspection, officers found one lamb trapped in a water-filled ditch and two ewes close to death. A veterinary officer from APHA was called to the scene. One ewe was euthanised due to the severity of its condition, and the trapped lamb later died during examination. The vet instructed Mr Turner to provide immediate care and shelter to another ewe that was unable to stand. However, when Trading Standards officers and the vet returned the following morning, the ewe had not been moved and had died. Further concerns were identified during follow-up visits. Several rams were being kept in the same field, leading to indiscriminate breeding, including ewes being in lamb at an age deemed too young. Guilty On a return visit on 4th February 2025, officers found that many sheep remained in poor condition, with some well below acceptable bodyweight. Several animals were also not ear-tagged, a legal requirement for sheep identification. Mr Turner was asked to provide movement and medicine records for the flock but failed to do so. Despite his guilty plea at Weymouth Magistrates’ Court on 28th October 2025, further welfare checks carried out ahead of sentencing found continued issues, including lame and underweight sheep. Reflecting the seriousness of the offences, the court imposed a 12-week prison sentence, suspended for 12 months. Mr Turner was also ordered to pay a £154 victim surcharge and £500 towards prosecution costs within 56 days. In addition, he was banned from owning or keeping sheep for a period of two years.
Images taken by Dorset Council Trading Standards officer of the sheep on Mr Turner’s field
Appalling, shocking case Local sheep farmer Ali Tory said the case was deeply distressing, but stressed that it did not reflect normal farming practice: ‘Fortunately, cases like this are rare – most farmers care very deeply for their livestock,’ she says. ‘We also spend long hours keeping records up to date, as required by law. It’s extremely distressing to see animals subjected to these conditions, and I commend Trading Standards for pursuing a conviction in this case. ‘There is always a risk of fresh fodder running low after a dry summer or a hard winter, but allowing animals in your care to deteriorate to this extent is simply not acceptable. The condition of the sheep clearly shows the land was overstocked, and the continued lack of action even after vets and inspectors attended the site is deeply concerning.’ Cllr Gill Taylor, Dorset Council’s Portfolio Holder for Public Health and Prevention, Cllr Gill Taylor, Dorset Council’s Portfolio Holder for Public Health and Prevention said: ‘The vast majority of livestock keepers in Dorset care passionately about their animals and so it is very disappointing and frustrating when cases like this happen. ‘This was an appalling and shocking case of animal neglect, and we will not tolerate such acts of cruelty. ‘Our trading standards team will investigate cases like this thoroughly and take steps to ensure they are not repeated.’
You can report suspected notifiable animal diseases and urgent concerns about farm animal welfare issues 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by calling 03000 200 301
February is here. Finally. After what felt like the longest January on record, February’s BV arrives with muddy boots, sharp opinions and a slightly soggy squirrel on the cover – which feels about right, frankly.
This month’s issue tackles some big, uncomfortable stories. We look closely at the Dorset farmer prosecuted for animal cruelty. There’s a lot on the flooding – a HUGE gallery of Dorset underwater, plus why it keeps happening, who’s paying the price, and what it means for communities who are increasingly tired of clearing up and starting again.
Elsewhere, we have the cheering news that the Government has finally decided that a 73% biodiversity loss probbably is seriously bad for everyone, everywhere, all at once. So that’s good.
In actual good news, Dorset’s own world champion Ruby White had a very good weekend in Sweden. I won’t spoil it for you.
The letters page is bursting. Lizzie’s got us all making mac ’n’ cheese (like we need any encouragement). Tamsin’s let slip just how unhinged she and The Sass Queen actually are, and Rupert Hardy introduces us to the North Dorset farm labourers who were secretly trained to be Britain’s last, lethal line of defence.
Try it. You might likeit (but go and make a coffee first, you might be here for a while) (and grab a biscuit while you’re at it – calories don’t count when it’s raining. True facts.).
This circular Cranborne Chase walk is a beautifully diverse route taking in a stunning National Landscape of chalk downland, ancient forests, green lanes and wide views.
There’s easy parking in the less-well-known Lower Car Park at the back of Martin Down, and then it’s easy paths across diverse Dorset landscapes, climbing the ridge for fantastic views and staying with it before moving into woodlands and descending back across the National Landscape. Your feet barely touch a road, it’s all well-signed footpaths and bridleways.
This route is a personal favourite of ours, and it’s a beautiful route at any time of year (and being chalk downland it tends not to be too soggy even after heavy rain). These images are from late last spring when the bluebells were just starting to appear – but we last walked it to check it just a few weeks ago. It was winter, and the day was grey, cold and damp … and consequently so were the pictures. So I thought I’d cheer your viewing with a little much-missed sunshine instead.
Starting out with easy parking in the less well known Lower Car Park at the back of Martin Down, I always think the first climb from the car is the worst; it’s not steep but it does just Keep. Going. Up. But it’s all easy paths across diverse Dorset landscapes, switching into both the Hardy Way and the Jubilee Trail. When you reach the summit of Pentridge Hill, have a quick explore through the pine trees to appreciate the views on the other side before moving on into woodlands and descending back across the National Landscape of Cranborne Chase. Your feet barely touch a road, it’s all well-signed footpaths and bridleways.
Important Note: If the weather has been wet then do take our alternative, one mile shorter variation here which has a diversion around the corner near Boulsbury Farm. As the track passes through a large pig unit it follows a narrow track which is often unpleasantly filled with slurry: we have repeatedly found it is impassable after wet weather.
Leweston School has been awarded the Royal College of Organists’ highest level of accreditation, recognising excellence in organ teaching, performance and musical outreach.
The accreditation follows a successful submission and assessment visit last term and represents the Royal College of Organists’ most prestigious endorsement – often described as the organisation’s ‘gold standard’. It marks a significant milestone for Leweston’s thriving music department.
The award reflects excellence in organ teaching, playing and musical development, placing Leweston among schools meeting nationally and internationally recognised standards in organ performance and choral accompaniment. It also acknowledges the work of School Organist Mr Paul Cheater, whose leadership and expertise were central to achieving the accreditation.
As part of the process, Leweston welcomed an RCO representative for a full-day visit, during which Dr Milestone, Mr Whittle and Mr Cheater were interviewed about the school’s organ programme. Current organ students joined Mr Cheater and former pupil Eleanor Shortman to give a short recital, followed by a demonstration lesson with student Martha B.
The assessor, Mr Simon Williams, was particularly impressed by the number of students who chose to attend the recital voluntarily during their lunch break, including many who do not play the organ themselves.
What the accreditation means for Leweston
Becoming an RCO-accredited school brings a range of educational and cultural benefits, including enhanced opportunities for pupils, with organ students gaining access to the full suite of RCO resources and a structured progression of examinations from beginner to diploma level.
Leweston will also be connected to national networks, receiving invitations to specialist courses, events and conferences, and taking part in initiatives that support organ education. The accreditation further helps attract talented young musicians and encourages visits from high-profile performers. Leweston already hosts termly recitals from renowned ‘celebrity organists’, who offer professional-level performances to the school community.
As an accredited school, Leweston can also act as a regional hub for organ and church music, hosting workshops, concerts and collaborative projects with local schools and churches. This includes outreach to young musicians who may not otherwise have access to an instrument.
Supporting the future of organ music
At a time when the UK faces a national shortage of organists, Leweston’s commitment to training young players is particularly valuable.
The school is proud to celebrate the achievements of its student organists, including Martha B and Penny H, whose enthusiasm and musicianship reflect the strength of Leweston’s organ programme.
Both students benefit from Leweston’s close link with Sherborne Abbey, where they have the opportunity to play the Abbey organ. Martha performed ‘Con Grandezza’ by Charles Vincent as the opening piece for Mr Cheater’s organ recital at Sherborne Abbey last term, and both students regularly perform in the school’s lunchtime organ concerts in the Leweston Chapel alongside guest ‘celebrity’ organists.
Welcome to February’s BV Puzzles page – your free spot for a quick brain workout. Complete the crossword, test your logic with a classic sudoku, or relax with our massively popular seasonal Dorset-themed jigsaw: this month we have some sunlit pussy willow, just as it’s burst into bloom. See Jane Adam’s nature column this month – it’s a top tier winter feast for bees right here. No logins, no printouts – just free puzzles updated every month right here on The BV. Perfect for puzzle fans across Dorset and beyond, our digital puzzles work on mobile, tablet or desktop. Enjoy a quiet moment of challenge with new puzzles published every issue of The BV magazine.
It’s the first BV Podcast of the year, and Jenny Devitt’s pulled together a trio of conversation starters from the January issue – from Dorset Council handing over public loos like they’re Christmas cast-offs, to the unexpected emotional power of a well-meant thank you.
Editor’s Letter – No pom poms this year Laura Hitchcock skips the usual New Year rallying cry and offers something more honest instead: a nod from one tired grown-up to another. “We’re still here. Still showing up. Still muddling through. For January, that’ll do.”
Dorset Insider: Unwanted gifts and the council’s ‘fire sale’ Ever been given a Christmas present you really didn’t want? Try a toxic dump site, derelict loos, or some rewilded verge no one asked for. This month, our anonymous parish councillor takes aim at Dorset Council’s asset disposal scheme – and what happens when ‘devolution’ really means ‘dumping the problem on the parishes.’ “The offers for my own patch include an area of land that we, the parish, already own.”
Grumbler: Is Dorset the county Visit Dorset forgot? A new glossy tourism video has racked up hundreds of thousands of views – and barely shows rural Dorset at all. This month’s anonymous Grumbler isn’t just grumbling, they’re calling out the coastal bias baked into Dorset’s glossy marketing campaigns. Roughly three quarters of the county is rural, and the quiet erasure of inland communities from the county’s public image has real consequences. “You can’t keep selling Dorset as a playground for the already well off, and then wonder why its rural economy struggles to survive.”
The Power of Thank You – John Sloper on Gratitude John Sloper, CEO of Dorchester charity Help and Kindness, joins Jenny to talk about the unexpected importance of saying thank you – and how gratitude can be a radical act in a world that feels increasingly disconnected. “That thank you is a kind of gateway. It builds the fabric of community.”
These stories come from January’s BV – available now at bvmag.co.uk/Jan26. News, opinion, people, places, and the best of rural Dorset – all in one free digital magazine.
The BV – named 2024’s Best Regional Publication in the UK (ACE Awards) and Regional News Site of the Year (Press Gazette). Always worth your ears.
See all the previous episodes of The BV podcast here – or find it on your preferred podcast platform
celebrating 25 years in business this January, marking a quarter of a century protecting homes and businesses across Dorset, Hampshire and Wiltshire. Founded in 2001 by David Vowles, the family-run firm has grown from a one-man venture into a trusted regional name. Clients now range from private homeowners and stately homes to national brands including Costa, Toni & Guy and Carpet Barn.
‘This is such a landmark for us,’ says David, who has over 30 years’ experience in the security industry. ‘We’re proud to deliver tailored security solutions – and at competitive prices – whether it’s for a first-time homeowner or a major retailer.’ The business is very much a family affair. David’s wife Sally runs the Wimborne office, son William is a fully qualified engineer, daughter Imogen supports online presence and daughter-in-law Tia helps with marketing. The team marked the anniversary with a visit from the Mayor of Wimborne, Cllr Jeff Hart, alongside local police and representatives from Wimborne BID. Guardall is accredited by the SSAIB, with services that are police- and insurance-approved. It offers 24/7 callouts and prides itself on personal service. ‘Our customers are part of the Guardall family,’ says Sally. ‘Many have been with us for years.’ Looking ahead, Guardall is expanding into network technology to improve home and business Wi-Fi, and plans to recruit more apprentice engineers to continue the company’s legacy.
To celebrate, Guardall is offering 10% off all new intruder alarm installations until 31st March 2026 – quote CODE25Guardall.
This month Barry Cuff has chosen a 1906 postcard of the Green Dragon in Piddletrenthide. To accompany it we found a news story from an inquest held there just six years later. The following story was reported in the Bridport News on Friday 8th November, 1912.
Quite a sensation was caused in this village on the news being circulated that Mrs. Hunt, wife of Mr. W. J. Hunt, blacksmith, had died suddenly while sitting in her chair after partaking of some bread and cheese on Friday night. The deceased was 69 years of age. On Monday an inquest was held into the circumstances of the death by Mr. F. B. La Maunsell, Bridport, coroner for West Dorset, at the Green Dragon Inn. The following composed the jury: Messrs. A. Baker (foreman), T. H. Payne, W. C. Groves, senr., W.C. Groves, Junr., G.W. Gillingham, F. Peek, J. Hicks, A. Baltitt, G. Gale, A. Davis, P. Churchill, and W. M. Elsworth. After viewing the body, the following evidence was taken: William James Hunt, of Piddletrenthide, blacksmith, said that he was the husband of the deceased, whose age was 69 years. About a fortnight ago his wife. who had before been in good health, fainted. She had suffered from rheumatism for the last year or two. After one fainting fit she seemed better than witness had known her for a long time. Her appetite was good and always hearty. On Friday last she took some bread and cheese and a glass of ale for her supper about 10.30, and was sitting in her chair. Witness thought deceased had dropped asleep. He touched her but she did not move or speak. She seemed gone in an instant. She was still in her chair at the table. Witness rubbed her hands and called to his son, saying “Mother’s gone Charlie, she is gone. She is dead,” The doctor came the following day. Witness was satisfied that deceased could not have taken anything to disagree with her. She had been very short of breath for a long time and had to walk very steadily. Charles Mathew Hunt, son of the deceased, stated that he lived at home with his father, and was a carpenter. He was home on Friday last, sitting in the next room to his mother, having supper by himself. His father called out and said that mother was dead. That was about 10.15 p.m. Witness went and lifted up his mother’s chin, felt her pulse and spoke to her but she was dead. He could not feel any pulse. The fainting fit, referred to by his father, lasted about a quarter of an hour and occurred just after dinner. He (witness) thought it was indigestion. His mother seemed quite well again after and went to his workshop the same afternoon, talking about his work. Dr. Dalton, of Cerne Abbas, stated that he had attended the deceased within the last three or four years, so that she was known to him, but for no serious illness, and be had within the last few months seen her in going past her house. He (witness) considered that deceased died from heart failure, as there seemed to be a distinct history of indigestion after meals occasionally and probably the heart failure was brought on by distention of the stomach. Death would be quite instantaneous. The appearance of the body after death would be consistent with this. Witness saw deceased on Saturday about 11 a.m. A verdict of death from cardiac syncope occasioned by Indigestion was returned.
The Green Dragon is still recognisable today, though it is better known now as The Piddle Inn. The 1906 postcard was sent from the village to Mr C Andrews, simply addressed ‘The Staff, Herrison, Nr Dorchester’. Herrison House was the Dorset County Asylum. Opened in 1863, 1904 had seen the opening of Herrison House for private patients and by 1913 there were 957 patients at Herrison Hospital. The card reads: M.D.C Awfull disappointed over letter but if you make your arrangements as suggested don’t think under circumstances could do better. I shall go by earlier train Thursday & ask Mrs Farrer to meet me at Central as I don’t like an hour there, no one to talk to. Intended evening letter this eve but no time so will before I go out tomorrow afternoon. If anything happens you can’t do as you suggest let me know then will travel according yours AD
