Glam, glitter and irresistible hooks – MUD were the kings of the dancefloor in platform heels.

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20 August 2025

Back in the 70s, no school disco was safe from the swaggering stomp of Tiger Feet, the rock’n’roll charm of Lonely This Christmas, or the sheer joy of Dyna-mite. Their energy-packed hits, crafted with the songwriting genius of Chinn and Chapman and producer Mickie Most, became the soundtrack to a generation. MUD scored 3 UK No.1s, 11 Top 10s and 15 Top 40 hits – not to mention success across Europe and beyond.

These days, two of the original members still take to the stage: Rob Davis (now a Grammy-winning songwriter for the likes of Kylie Minogue and Sophie Ellis-Bextor) and Ray Stiles – who answered our questions with a grin and a glint.

And if you’re about to dismiss MUD as a one-era wonder, let’s talk about Ray Stiles for a moment.

Since 1988, Ray’s been part of The Hollies – yes, that band, the ones in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, who brought us The Air That I Breathe and He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother. He’s toured the world countless times, still selling out shows across the UK, the US, Scandinavia, Australia and more. Now that’s a career.

Ray Stiles on The Hollies’ tour of New Zealand

But when he’s not globe-trotting or laying down basslines, Ray’s also partial to Chinese food, Maltesers and his spaniel’s curly hair and long eyelashes – as we found out when we hit him with our Random 19 Q&A…

19 (mostly) sensible questions with Ray Stiles of MUD

What was the last song you sang out loud in the car?
I never have music – or the radio – on in the car

What was the last film or box set you watched – and would you recommend it?
I recently watched (for the second time) Downton Abbey. I missed it when it was originally on the TV but found it a bit later. Just the best drama with amazing actors – Maggie Smith is a hero of mine

It’s Friday night, you have the house to yourself, and no work allowed. What are you doing?
I’d just sit and watch TV!

Your go-to comfort meal?
Chinese food …

What little luxury would you buy with £10?
Two boxes of Maltesers

The best crisps flavour?
Cheese and onion

And the best biscuit for dunking?
McVitie’s digestive

What book did you read last year that stayed with you – and why?
The Subtle Art Of Not Giving A F**k – an amazing guide to live a happy, stress-free life by concentrating on the things that really matter to you and leaving out those that don’t

What’s your secret superpower?
I don’t have a superpower, I just try hard in everything I do – but it doesn’t always work out, which can really frustrate me

Bertie the beautiful American Cocker Spaniel

Cats or dogs – and tell us about yours?
We have an American Cocker Spaniel called Bertie. He has curly hair and long eyelashes. He’s very beautiful (as you can see from the photo)

What’s your most annoying trait?
I can be very slow at getting round to doing things – but I do a good job when I get there … I think

What totally irrational thing makes you unreasonably cross?
I don’t get cross, but I do get irritated if I’m trying to follow up on something and don’t get an answer back (e.g. on email)

What shop can you not pass without going in?
Tech shops and music shops

What was your first job – and what did it teach you?
I worked in the architects section of the London Electricity Board in Waterloo, London. It showed me that a daily job was not for me – I needed to join a band and get out into the world

What completely ordinary thing brings you disproportionate joy?
Completing a job or task that I worked out for myself

What was the last gift you gave someone?
A father-and-son linked bracelet which sums up our amazing relationship (he’s thirty-four)

What in life is frankly a mystery to you?
How darts players can hit those tiny squares on the dartboard to score 180 time after time!

Chip shop chips or home-baked cake?
Chip shop chips

You have the power to pass one law tomorrow, uncontested – what would you do?
I’d ban traffic wardens. They just upset people for no good reason! Ha ha ha …

Catch MUD live at The Exchange!

📅 30th August 2025
🕢 7.30pm
🎟️ Tickets £25
📍 The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, Dorset

Expect Tiger Feet, Oh Boy, Lonely This Christmas, Dyna-mite and a whole lot of glam-fuelled nostalgia. MUD still know how to have a good time – and take the audience with them.

Grab your tickets now from The Exchange

Anne Marie, Baroness van Tuyll van Serooskerken

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Editorial team

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20 August 2025

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Passed 17th August 2025

Previously of Caundle Marsh

Anne Marie, Baroness van Tuyll van Serooskerken, died peacefully at home in Vogelenzang surrounded by family on 17th August 2025. Much loved mother of Alexandra, Helen and Julia and wife of Georges. Funeral to follow in Oxfordshire.

A cappella excellence in Dorchester: one night only

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Editorial team

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20 August 2025

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Music lovers are in for a rare treat this September as the internationally acclaimed Gentlemen of St John’s College, Cambridge return to St Peter’s Church in Dorchester for one night only.
On Saturday 6th September at 7pm, this celebrated vocal ensemble – affectionately known as ‘The Gents’ – will perform a programme spanning more than 600 years of music. From Renaissance polyphony to contemporary arrangements, their concerts are known for exquisite blend, impeccable musicianship and engaging charm. A septet of singers from the choir’s rich tradition will take the stage, bringing the unique sound and heritage of St John’s College Chapel to the heart of Dorset.

The Gentlemen of St John’s College, Cambridge, will be performing for one night only in Dorchester

The Gents last performed at St Peter’s two years ago, drawing a full house and widespread praise. With their reputation for selling out performances across Europe, the US and Asia, early booking is strongly recommended.
Formed from the choral scholars of St John’s College, The Gents are a professional touring group who perform both sacred and secular works worldwide. Their acclaimed discography and international tours have made them one of the most respected male vocal ensembles in the UK.
Further details and tickets (from £14) can be found on the Music at St Peter’s website: musicatstpetersdorchester.org

Council tax changes coming?

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Editorial team

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20 August 2025

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Q: My neighbour told me that the way we pay council tax is changing but I can’t see anything about that in my recent council tax bill. Can you explain?

A: The government is currently consulting on the administration of council tax including:
Changing the ways council tax is billed, collected and enforced
modernising the support available in the system
supporting councils to improve efficiency
The government says that it is aiming to create a fairer and more efficient system for taxpayers and local authorities.
One of the proposals is to change council tax billing from 10-months to 12-months. Another is to amend how council tax is collected – including giving households more time before councils can demand full payment, and placing a cap on the fees when councils seek liability orders for unpaid tax.
Other issues which are up for consultation include:
modernising council tax disregards, to ensure they continue to support those they were intended to
improving efficiency in billing for councils.
exploring whether there is anything the government can do to remove barriers to effectively challenging bandings
Tom MacInnes, Director of Policy at Citizens Advice, said:
‘Spreading council tax payments over 12 months rather than 10 is a good start – it will help people to budget more effectively, especially those on lower incomes.
‘We also welcome the government’s review of how council tax is collected – something Citizens Advice has been campaigning for.
‘Council tax is our second biggest debt query area, narrowly behind energy arrears. A quarter of clients with council tax arrears need advice about dealing with bailiffs, which can be a terrifying experience. Current rules mean small debts quickly spiral out of control – worsening hardship rather than providing the support people need to get back on their feet.’
You can read the full consultation document online at https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/modernising-and-improving-the-administration-of-council-tax and, if you want to respond, you can do so either online or by emailing [email protected] or by writing to:
Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government Local Tax Team,
Local Government Finance
SE Quarter – 2nd Floor
Fry Building
2 Marsham Street
London SW1P 4DF
The consultation closes on 12th September 2025.

Record-breaking summer at Museum of East Dorset as Minecraft adventures draw the crowds

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Editorial team

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20 August 2025

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It has been a summer to remember at the Museum of East Dorset, where visitor numbers have soared by an impressive 250% following the launch of Minecraft-inspired family activities.

Since the start of the school holidays, Wimborne’s much-loved museum has welcomed wave after wave of children and parents eager to take part. The programme has combined the familiar world of Minecraft with the museum’s heritage setting, encouraging playful discovery and imagination – and all without a screen in sight.

Minecraft fans are flocking to the Museum of East Dorset this summer

From day one, the activities have struck a chord. Families have been creating their own ‘Player Skins’ at craft tables, making masks, and sculpting in clay. Others have grabbed a spade at the interactive Sandbox Mining zone to uncover hidden treasures, or followed the Mob Hunt Trail through the galleries in search of blocky intruders. The costume station, where youngsters can dress up as a Creeper, Enderdragon or another Minecraft character, has also proved a favourite.

On certain dates, the Garden Room has even been reimagined as a Mob Arena, complete with NERF Minecraft bows and crossbows for brave visitors to test their skills against mobs of the night.

Operations Manager Andy Putt said: “The Minecraft sessions have offered a fresh and engaging way for young visitors to connect with local history – learning about architecture, archaeology and community heritage in the process. There’s even been a bit of maths thrown in which the kids don’t seem to have minded!”

Arthur and Lorna Downing enjoying Minecraft fun this summer

Parents and grandparents have praised the activities for sparking creativity and making the museum a place the whole family can enjoy together.

Arthur and Lorna Downing, aged 8 and 10 from Corfe Mullen, visited with their mum and grandparents. Arthur said: “I’ve loved the Mob Arena shooting range and building at craft table.” His sister Lorna added: “Finding all the hidden figures on the museum trail was great fun.”

Museum Director Francesca Hollow said: “We’re absolutely delighted by the response. This initiative has shown how a modern trend like Minecraft can open new doors to learning and spark an interest in heritage. It’s been wonderful to see the museum buzzing with so many youngsters and full of energy and excitement. The Museum of East Dorset continues to prove that history isn’t just something to look at – it’s something to build, explore and bring to life.”

The Minecraft programme runs until Saturday 6th September, and tickets give unlimited entry to the museum for a full year. For more information and booking, visit www.museumofeastdorset.co.uk

Peter Thomas Reay

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Editorial team

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19 August 2025

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24/3/57 – 11/08/25

Died on 11th August 2025 aged 68yrs.

Much loved and sadly missed husband, father, grandfather and friend.

Funeral service to be held at Yeovil crematorium on Friday 29th August at 12noon.

Family flowers only please, but donations kindly accepted in Peters memory for Weldmar Hospice care of David Rivett funeral directors 30 Lyde Road Yeovil Somerset BA21 5AT – 01935 433737

Magic under the stars –and the clouds

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Editorial team

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19 August 2025

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Fans of Swan Lake – arguably the greatest of all classical ballets – had an unexpected treat at Covent Garden Dance Company’s 2025 Ballet under the Stars at Hatch House near Tisbury. A serious viral illness forced the withdrawal of Lauren Cuthbertson, and the change of soloist meant two changes to the programme, including a heart-stopping finale pas de deux from Swan Lake, performed by the exquisite Emma Hawes, with her dance partner Gareth Haw.
It was a great disappointment for regular audiences, who were looking forward to the return to Hatch of the famous dancer, a principal guest artist with the Royal Ballet. Everyone hoped for a speedy recovery for Lauren, but Emma Hawes, leading principal dancer with English National Ballet, was no mere stand-in. She captivated everyone with her beautiful shapes and feather-light classical perfection, in a touching pas de deux from Giselle, with Haw, who is also a leading principal dancer at ENB.
They followed this, rounding off a magical evening, with the great Swan Lake pas de deux, possibly the most famous in all classical ballet, here given a matchless beauty and poignancy by a ballerina whose return to Hatch will be eagerly awaited!

Emma Hawes and Gareth Haw, Swan Lake Act 2. Ballet Under the Stars. www.coventgardendance.com © Alice Pennefather

A joyful smoulder
The evening lived up to the name ‘ballet under the stars’ on both Friday and Saturday – Sunday’s rain did nothing to dampen the experience, and if the stars were mostly hidden in the sky, they were very much on show on stage under the marquee in the beautiful 17th century walled garden.
Courteney Celeste Fox, probably the Caribbean’s most famous dancer and now the Cultural Ambassador for the Bahamas, gave a joyfully smouldering performance of In Time, a new work which she choreographed, danced to a score composed and performed by Bahamian jazz trumpeter Giveton Gelin, who also performed two solos.
For lovers of contemporary dance, there were two astonishing pieces created by Ekleido and danced by company founders and joint artistic directors Hannah Ekholm and Faye Stoeser. Performing to a powerful and mainly electronic score, the pair – dressed in gothic-influenced glittering black – gave the world premiere of their new work, Clinquant, this year’s Dicky Buckle Fund new work.

Ekeido, Splice. Ballet Under the Stars. www.coventgardendance.com © Alice Pennefather

The fund, created in memory of the noted dance critic, is supported by Covent Garden Dance Company, and enables the creation of new works by emerging choreographers. The second piece, the mesmeric, almost robotic Splice, saw the two dancers in shiny black and white, like balletic space travellers!
Each of the dozen pieces – performed in three acts, between the three courses of dinner – showcased exceptional dancers. It was thrilling to see Joy Womack and Xander Parish in Stravinsky’s The Firebird, Zai Calliste’s seductively virile Hereafter, and Royal Ballet principals Sarah Lamb and William Bracewell in the enchanting pas de deux from Prokovief’s Cinderella.
Next year marks the 20th anniversary of the founding of Covent Garden Dance Company, which will return with Ballet under the Stars on 24th to 26th July 2026.

Dorset Council reveals draft Local Plan – 50,000 new homes by 2040

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Laura

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18 August 2025

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Dorset Council has published its Local Plan Options Consultation 2025, setting out where thousands of new homes, employment land, traveller sites – and even areas for wind and solar power – could be located over the next two decades.

The consultation documents for housing here https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/documents/d/guest/appendix-a-opportunity-sites-for-housing include site-by-site suggestions for every town and village across the Dorset Council area. Wherever you live, this is the document that will shape your community’s future.

This is the first opportunity to see the draft proposals and to have your say before decisions are made.

Dorchester’s planned housing allocation in Dorset Council’s draft Local Plan

What is the Local Plan?

Every council must set out a long-term strategy for where housing, jobs and infrastructure should go. Dorset’s Local Plan will guide development across the county for the next 15–20 years.

Why does it matter?

The draft identifies potential sites for:

50,000 new homes by 2040
Employment land for businesses
Gypsy & Traveller sites
Renewable energy projects including wind and solar farms

Last month, our Dorset Insider column warned that housing targets have doubled under the new Labour government. Dorset must now build 3,283 homes a year – up from 1,700. That means the 25,000 homes already planned are not enough; a further 25,000 must be found.
Brownfield sites will still be prioritised, but the council has confirmed that land in a new ‘grey belt’, as well as open countryside, may also be used.

How can I respond to the Dorset Local Plan?

The consultation runs from 18th August to 13th October 2025.

You can read the full consultation documents, including the site options for each town and village, on Dorset Council’s website: Dorset Council Local Plan Options Consultation 2025.
Responses can be made online, via paper form, or at drop-in events being held across Dorset throughout September and October.

Why you should act now

The sites listed in this draft are not yet final – but once included in the adopted Local Plan, they will shape Dorset’s landscape and communities for decades to come. If you care about what gets built in your town or village, now is the time to look at the proposals and submit your views.

Mind the gap – why North Dorset needs a technical college

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Editorial team

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18 August 2025

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No skills, no STEM, no jobs: without local training, North Dorset risks becoming a housing corridor with no future for its young people

When the Government recently invited proposals for general further education colleges to become one of ten construction technical excellence colleges (CTECs), local MP Simon Hoare wasted no time in raising the profile of North Dorset in parliament. His request to the Secretary of State for Education for departmental support for a technical college was met with an opaque response from Janet Daby, parliamentary under-secretary of State for Education: ‘The area of North Dorset is well served by four neighbouring further education colleges and a range of independent training providers, who provide a broad range of technical and vocation provision.’
The response was dismissive: it may have ticked the box but it missed the point.
The real question isn’t about how North Dorset fits on a national map of provision – it’s about the future of our local economy and our young people. Why is a technical college so important for North Dorset?

The gap
North Dorset does not currently have a technical college to bring skills to the local area. Students wanting to train in science, engineering and technical skills have to leave the area to train in Bournemouth, Weymouth and Yeovil. Many do not return, finding a new life in other parts of the region.
So what difference would a technical college make to the North Dorset economy and future jobs market?
The economic resilience of a community lies in the strength of its local workforce, and while that relies on recruiting people to work, the aspect that often gets overlooked is training, which can maintain a sustainable supply of skilled workers.
Training and developing people in technology, science and engineering can be a game changer when it comes to attracting businesses to an area. The shortage of science and technology skills in Britain is estimated to cost the economy £1.5 billion a year. With local facilities available, regions can move from poverty and high unemployment to a thriving economy – technical colleges bridge the gap between the available workforce and the evolving requirements for the job market. In a rural area, a construction and technical college would open up a plethora of opportunities.
Build it here
Councillor Val Pothecary has been working to get a science technical college in Gillingham for a long time. In June she raised the further education gap at a meeting on the economy at Dorset Council (see video below): ‘We have further education colleges in the south of Dorset but we have very little in the north. We have a fantastic high school in Gillingham, which draws in kids from all over. But they have nowhere to go for further education. They can’t get to Bournemouth or Weymouth and back in a day.
‘Wages are lower in North Dorset. We need to encourage bigger and better businesses to come here. We have the land. If we could get technology businesses it would be great.
‘However, the skill shortage in the area is the reason they don’t come. If we could get really good quality further education resources here, we would get forward-thinking businesses – including those involved with STEM* and green energy. We are being told to build many more houses – but we need jobs as well.
‘Why should all the further education budget go to the south of the county? If we could have some of it here in the north, we could massively improve education and wages. It would change the landscape of North Dorset – we could have opportunities with things like robotics.
‘Not everyone wants to go away to study, and some don’t have the academic suitability. A local college would make travel more affordable to our young people. If we can come up with the right plan and get a partnership with one of the universities, we can open up so many opportunities.’

Four-hour commute
The Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership has published a report on its strategy for economic growth via skills improvement in Dorset** to meet the critical gaps in STEM subjects. Published in March 2025, the report focuses on areas surrounding higher and further education colleges: there is absolutely no mention of North Dorset in the paper. This misses the opportunity to spread skills training and make it more accessible. One glance at the ‘opportunities map’ for development shows a sharp cluster of options in the BCPO area, and a significant gap anywhere further north of Dorchester.
Cameron Shaw is 16, from Sturminster Newton, and is about to go to Yeovil College to study automotive engineering: ‘I’ll be in further education and then hopefully get an apprenticeship. It is – and isn’t – easy to get an apprenticeship at the moment: there are lots of places offering them, but the competition is very high.
‘There’s just more going on in Yeovil – more businesses, more options. Compared to somewhere like Stur … well, there’s not a lot in Stur. I have my own transport and the college provides support with fuel costs.’
While Cameron does not think a new college in North Dorset would make a difference to his own personal situation, he can see the value for those who don’t have transport, for example:
‘It could be good – people who don’t have transport have to spend four hours on a bus getting to Yeovil and back each day.’

Looking back to look forward
Robert Boyle, he of Boyle’s Law and one of the founding members of the Royal Society and a pioneer of modern science, spent much of his life in Stalbridge. In 2027, North Dorset will mark the 400th anniversary of his birth – a timely opportunity not just to celebrate his legacy, but to reignite the area’s scientific spirit. What better tribute than to invest in the next generation of innovators? A technical college – the Robert Boyle Institute? – in the Blackmore Vale wouldn’t just fill a skills gap – it could become a lasting legacy of scientific excellence, rooted in the very landscape that shaped one of Britain’s greatest scientific minds.

STEM subjects are science, technology, engineering and mathematics
** Click to read the full Framework for Economic Growth for the Pan Dorset Area report