THE HILL AUGUST 2018 £1 Yearly Subscription £6

Baker Arms Cross Stores & Post Office

Gold Hill Farm Shop The Saxon Inn

Please Support your local shops, pubs & businesses especially during the closure of Haywards Lane from 16th July for up to 18 weeks THE BAKER ARMS GOLD HILL ORGANIC FARM 01258 860260 With The Hill going ‘colour’ we thought it was an opportune moment to remind people of all the www.bakerarms.co.uk activity that happens at the farm. Follow us on Facebook @Bakerarmsdorset Where else can you have all your organic needs at your fingertips, view world class art, watch glass- We would like to thank all those who have made us blowers sculpt beautiful vases, tone your body, get so welcome during our first 6 months in the village, your pooch trimmed, taste Artisan cheese and top it you know who you are! off in the vibrant cafe featuring veg straight from the We would particularly like to thank all those who fields around you? supported the events we have hosted - Pheasant fest, And all this under the backdrop of Hambledon Hill. the pub quiz, open acoustic night, Gypsy Jazz Jam Gold Hill Organic Farm has all this and more. and the recent ‘Bikers night’, all the events were a lot of fun. Community is at the heart of everything Sara and Andrew do at the farm. They love running the farm We will continue to host events and hope you shop and meeting such lovely customers. They have continue to support and enjoy them, our beautiful encouraged a business community at the farm and a pub, Beer Garden, and Daisy Cottage. holistic approach from the food you eat to your body Our 2nd Biker’s night will be held on Thursday being pampered. rd 23 August from 6pm. Sara & Andrew Thanks, James & Desi

THE SAXON CROSS STORES & POST OFFICE The Summer is well and truly with us, and what better way to enjoy it than sitting in our beer garden under Open: Mon to Fri: 7.00am to 7pm (not closed for lunch) Sat: 8am to 6pm Sun: 8.30am to 12.30pm the shade of our mighty oaks. Quenching your thirst Fresh: Milk, Yoghurt, Veg, Fruit, Bread, Pies etc (known with a long cool drink and just chilling out. for our Cornish pasties & organic bread), Sandwiches & We have lighter options on our menu for the smaller Rolls made daily. Frozen Foods, Ice Cream. Fresh Flowers appetite in addition to a range of summery salads. and Plants. Newspapers & Magazines. Groceries. Off Plus of course our usual range of Good Pub Grub Licence. Coal and Logs. Seasonal gifts. Greetings cards. including the Specials board which regularly has fresh Office stationery. Toys. Confectionery. Biscuits. Tea and fish delivered from our local supplier. Coffee. All day breakfast, light lunches, coffee and tea, homemade Also, a date for your diary. Our 6th ‘Saxon Beer & cakes, scones & teacakes to eat in or take away. Cider Festival’ will be held on Friday 31st.August, Post Office services include: • Car Tax, Car & Home Saturday 1st.Sept and Sunday 2nd.September. We will Insurance • On Demand Bureau for Euros • Pre-order on open at 12 o’clock on Friday and be open all day other foreign currency (0% commission to over 70 Saturday & Sunday. Come and join us for fantastic countries) • Travel Insurance • Personal Banking with all beer and Cider Great Food and Great Company the major banks. Bill Payments, including BT, Gas, Electricity, Water, Council Tax and Argos. There is no (yourselves) charge for payments through the Post Office • Mobile We no longer open on Tuesday Lunch time session Top Up; UK & International Phone Cards • Post Office for the foreseeable future, we will open again from Credit Card (0% commission when used abroad) • Gift 6pm, and all other sessions during the week both Vouchers (ideal for Birthdays & Christmas) and Travel lunchtime and evenings. Cards (currency on a secure card). Helen & Peter Eileen, Rose & Andrew

The Hill August 2018

£1

Yearly Subscription (12 issues) £6

A MAGAZINE FOR ALL WHO LIVE AROUND HAMBLEDON HILL IN CHILD OKEFORD, MANSTON, HAMMOON AND HANFORD FIRST ISSUED IN 1967

VOLUME 51, NUMBER 8 CIRCULATION 525

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Telephone: Guttering (cleared or replaced) 07960 712778 •UPVC fascias and soffits

•Patios 01258 860804 •Fencing •Property maintenance •Small building works •Repointing

Ham Down Woodland Burial Ground A beautiful and peaceful place to be laid to rest Greenhaven overlooking Hambledon Hill LANDSCAPES Bere Marsh Farm, Shillingstone, Blandford, Dorset Tel: 01258 860284 “Professional quality landscaping for all budgets” email: [email protected] www.hamdown-greenburial.co.uk Dave Bennett ALEC ANGELL Tel: 01258 861490 PAINTER & DECORATOR EXTERIOR and INTERIOR Garden Design : Walling : Decking Work done with Care and Pride Paving :Planting : Lighting : Irrigation Estimates free Advice and Consultation Contact 01258-860812 or 0788 1911434 www.greenhavenlandscapes.co.uk

3 CURATE’S CORNER - Rev’d Karen A very warm welcome from the new Curate’s Corner! It is wonderful to finally be here in the Okeford Benefice and to be your Curate for the next few years. Firstly I would like to say a huge and heartfelt ‘thank you’ to everyone who attended my Ordination Service, and who has been praying for both Chris and I. I am very grateful, and please be assured that my prayers have been with you and will remain so. The Ordination Service was truly humbling and very beautiful. The whole day was a joy and I was blessed to be joined by members of my family, old friends and folk from the Benefice. I have memories which I will always treasure. Prior to Ordination, my husband Chris and I lived in Essex. We were born and bought up in Harlow, a new town on the far west of the County. I have worked in Education for the last 28 years, spending the last 10 as a Pastoral Support Manager in a challenging Secondary Academy in Harlow. Psalm 139 says that “You have read my thoughts from afar.” God certainly read my thoughts and chose to place me I rural Ministry in this most beautiful part of Dorset. I feel incredibly blessed to be among you. My heart has always been in rural ministry and I am looking forward to working with Rev’d Lydia who has a huge amount of experience in rural ministry. Her energy of passion for the Benefice as she lives out the gospel in her ministry are inspirational. My hope is that I will get the opportunity over the next few years to be out and about in the villages and to get to know you a bit more. Please keep introducing yourselves and I will keep trying to remember your names better! Bear with me as I learn new faces and places. All Priests are initially Ordained as a Deacon which is a servant ministry. I will wear my Stoles worn to one side, to remind me of Jesus tying a towel around himself. He did this before he washed the feet of the disciples as an act of service to them. My ongoing prayer is that I will be a servant to the Okeford Benefice, reflecting the transformative nature of God’s abundant love. My intention is to serve with an open heart, in humility and with a love for both the people and God’s creation. I look forward to the next few years with hope excitement and with the knowledge that God has understood our thoughts from afar. Rev’d Karen RECTOR’S RAMBLINGS Home visiting Part of being a Christian is about caring for our neighbour – Jesus’ main commandment was to love God and to love your neighbour as yourself. Many people like to visit people for all sorts of reasons – perhaps someone has been bereaved or is lonely or just home from hospital. Other times it can be to offer more long-term support where a family may be going through dementia or a terminal illness. If you do home visiting (and worry that you shouldn’t be or don’t know if you are “doing it right”) or would like to start doing home visiting, please let Rev Lydia know. Pastoral visiting is a hugely important part of what we do as a church community and I would like to encourage all of us in this ministry. There is a 10-week course that I can run for anyone interested in helping with this or who wants to build their confidence. Rev’d Lydia 4 YOUR CHURCH Since we reported last month we have gained a new curate! Karen Wilson joined our Benefice on1st July and we are delighted to have her on board. You may see her wandering about the village hoping to meet and greet as many of you as possible, so we hope that everybody will make her very welcome. On Sunday 1st July a party of us sallied forth to the cathedral (most of us in a coach) to witness Karen's ordination to be a Deacon. The weather was beautiful, the cathedral was packed and the service was beautiful. Afterwards, the majority of the party from our Benefice joined Karen and her family for a picnic outside the cathedral. It was a very special day for Karen and we do warmly welcome her to our Benefice. There will be no coffee morning in August, but there will be another "Just as I Am" service in the Church Centre in Shillingstone on 5th August at 3.30. This is a simple, quiet little service with a familiar Bible reading and hymns followed by tea and cake. Those who have come have enjoyed it. On Saturday 1st September there will be a cider and sausage evening in the orchard of Seville House in Upper Street. Everybody welcome so we hope to see as many of you as are able to come. In the meantime, we hope that you are all enjoying this wonderful summer! Keith Allen

5 CHURCH CALENDAR FOR AUGUST SIDESMEN READER

Wednesday 1st August: 10.30am Holy Communion – Millbrook House SUNDAY 5th AUGUST – TENTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY 9.00am Parish Communion (said) – Shillingstone (Rev L Cook) (Exodus 16:2-4,9-15; Ephesians 4:1-16; John 6:24-35) 10.00am Matins – Okeford Fitzpaine (Mrs S Rawlinson) (Psalm 78:23-29; Exodus 16:2-4,9-15; John 6:24-35) 10.30am Parish Communion – Child Okeford (Rev L Cook) (Mrs J Housley Mrs V Beech (Exodus 16:2-4,9-15; Ephesians 4:1-16; John 6:24-35) (Mrs V Beech Eucharistic Assistant: Mrs D Lagerberg Intercessor: Mrs R Allen 3.30pm Just as I am – Shillingstone Church Centre (Rev K Wilson & Rev L Cook) SUNDAY 12th AUGUST – ELEVENTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY 9.00am Morning Worship – Hammoon (Mr S Vestbirk & Rev K Wilson) (1 Kings 19:4-8; John 6:35,41-51)) 10.00am Morning Worship – Okeford Fitzpaine (Mrs S le Riche) (1 Kings 19:4-8; John 6:35,41-51) 6.30pm Evensong – Shillingstone (Mr M Riley & Rev K Wilson) (Psalm 34:1-8; 1 Kings 19:4-8; John 6:35,41-51) Wednesday 15th August: 10.30am Prayer and Praise – Millbrook House SUNDAY 19th AUGUST – TWELFTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY 10.00am Family Praise – Okeford Fitzpaine (Rev K Wilson & Mr P Willetts) (Readings to be advised) 10.30am Matins – Child Okeford (Mrs S Rawlinson) (Mrs D Bucknall Mr I Crowther (Psalm 34:9-14; Proverbs 9:1-6; John 6:51-58) (Mrs S Clayton Intercessor: Mrs S Clayton 10.30am Parish Communion – Shillingstone (Ckergy tba) (Proverbs 9:1-6; Ephesians 5:15-20; John 6:51-58) SUNDAY 26th AUGUST – THIRTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY 9.00am Holy Communion Order 2 – Child Okeford (Rev L Cook) Mr M Lewis Mr M Lewis (Ephesians 6:10-20; John 6:56-69) 10.00am Parish Communion – Okeford Fitzpaine (Rev L Cook & Mrs S le Riche) (Joshua 24:1-2a,14-18; Ephesians 6:10-20; John 6:56-69) 10.30am Family Service – Shillingstone (Mr M Riley) (Reading to be advised) 6.30pm Evensong – Manston (Rev L Cook) (Psalm 34:15-22; Joshua 24:1-2a,14-18; John 6:56-69) SUNDAY 2nd SEPTEMBER – FOURTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY 9.00am Parish Communion (said) – Shillingstone (Rev L Cook) (Deuteronomy 4:1-2,6-9; James 1:17-27; Mark 7:1-8,14-15,21-23) 10.00am Morning Worship – Okeford Fitzpaine (Mrs S le Riche & Mr M Riley) (Deuteronomy 4:1-2,6-9; Mark 7:1-8,14-15;21-23) 10.30am Parish Communion – Child Okeford (Rev L Cook) (Mr K Allen Mrs L Crighton (Deuteronomy 4:1-2,6-9; James 1:17-27; (Mrs R Allen Mark 7:1-8,14-15,21-23) Eucharistic Assistant: Mrs W Billington Intercessor: Mrs S Clayton

6 FLOWER ARRANGERS Date Child Okeford 5th August Mrs Partridge 12th August Mrs Partridge 19th August Mes Billington & Courtney 26th August Mes Billington & Courtney 2nd September Mes Coote & Crowther

80 AND 60 YEARS Miss Sylvia Stokes will be 80 years old on 16th September and has devoted 60 years to being Sacristan at the Church of the Holy Rood, Shillingstone. Quite something to be proud of!

7

PURPOSE MADE JOINERY Hopefield' Doors, Windows, Wardrobes, Kitchens etc The Hollow NIGEL BASTABLE LTD Child Okeford Quality Carpentry & Joinery Tel: 01258-860459 Property Alterations and Repairs www.nigelbastable.co.uk

www.rjclocks.co.uk

Antique clock restoration

All manner of restoration work undertaken From clocks, music boxes, barometers, small items of furniture to scientific instruments. Everything from mechanical to case work. All work guaranteed for12 months Robert Jones, Sturminster Newton, Dorset Telephone: 01258 817 111 Mobile: 07760 385 161 Email: [email protected]

Manor Barn, Child Okeford, DT11 8EF Tel: 01258-860638 [email protected] www.manorbarnbedandbreakfast.co.uk Cari and Peter Sorby

Five Star luxury accommodation at the foot of Hambledon Hill. Easy access. Two ensuite ground floor bedrooms with private sitting room.

CHILD OKEFORD VILLAGE HALL Richard Rowe Central village venue for all occasions including parties, weddings, christenings, PICTURE FRAMING social events and meetings. Excellent advice and Expert framing The current regular users are: Badminton. Oils, water colours, prints, photographs etc Table Tennis. Short Mat Bowls. Wives’ Group. Gardening Club. Art Group. Flower Gilding, wash line mounts, dry mounting Arranging Club. Lunch Club. Restoration of oils, water colours & prints Can collect and deliver For further information please contact Tel. 07968 235566 Rowena Carmichael Tel: 01258 860169 Unit 3, Vale Farm, West Orchard, SP7 0LJ www.childokefordvillagehall.org.uk

8 SHROTON ARMISTICE 100 On 10 and 11 November 2018, at Shroton Village Hall, there will be a exhibition to commemorate the heroes from our village who fought in World War 1 and the people who were left at home. There will be visual displays both written and photographic of local history/people, some of the battlefields where our fallen heroes still lie, memoirs, poetry readings and military artefacts. It will be a time honour our predecessors who gave up everything for us 100 years ago. I would love to hear from anyone who has any local family photos of that era, or has interest/expertise in WW1 or who would like to help at the event. Judith 01258861565.

HAMBLEDON THEATREGOERS ‘ABIGAIL’S PARTY’ will be held in the Salisbury Playhouse on the 15th November at 2.15 p.m. and the invitations are in the post. She needs to know numbers for catering purposes by September 20th but she has a generously-sized reception room and will be happy to accept a large crowd to enjoy the open afternoon with her. Once we have all recovered from subsequent Christmas parties, there may yet be another one to look forward to in February, this time hosted by the Hollywood star, Marina Gregg. We hear that Miss Gregg is hoping to find time to welcome us to her home in the New Year before she returns to Los Angeles. Final details of the party should be known in October as she will be able to confirm her 2019 diary commitments by then. Please contact me in the first instance if you would like to come to Abigail’s house with me. Penny Nicholson 863442 ([email protected])

9

HAPPY 80th BIRTHDAY TO CHILD OKEFORD WI

Child Okeford WI celebrated its 80th birthday at our July meeting. A home baked birthday cake, provided by Pam Morris, was cut with great style, by Brenda Martin, one of our past presidents and a long serving WI member. Members and invited guests enjoyed their celebratory refreshments despite the heat. We were also entertained by Terry White, of The National Trust, who gave an illustrated talk on Brownsea Island. Terry is an NT volunteer with many years experience of working on the Island. He shared his great depth of knowledge and enthusiasm for this special place. He gave us an insight in the historical background of the island. It has a colourful historical story: From Vikings to a World War 2 decoy site to divert enemy bombers away from Poole: from a pottery factory to a place for Edwardian society to hold their summer soirees to the internationally renowned wild life sanctuary it is today. Many colourful character have shaped the islands past. Notably the recluse Mary Bonham-Christie whose actions led, eventually the island to be dedicated to wildlife and, of course, Lord Baden Powell and the growth of the world wide Scouting movement. Terry also informed us about the rich variety of flora and fauna across the island including the famous red squirrel. Terry is a great story teller and was a throughly entertaining speaker. There is no meeting in August. Our next meeting is on Monday 10th September where we will host “The Alpaca experience “. 2pm at The Community Centre. Visitors welcome at £3.50 per head. For more details or a chat about joining our WI please contact :

Pam Morris, President 01258 863791 Gaynor Cox, Secretary 01258 861145

Or visit: Our website: www.childokefordwi.wordpress.com Our WI Email address : [email protected] Our Twitter feed : @ChildOkShoWI Contributed by Gaynor Waring - Communications Team

CHILD OKEFORD COFFEE MORNING The next Coffee Morning will be on Saturday 4th August, At Child Okeford Village Hall Entry £1. Good Raffle prizes, Cakes, Books, C.D, D.V.D CARDS, Veg And more. If you need picking up let me know. Sylvia Holdeman 01258 861055

10 CHILD OKEFORD GARDENERS CLUB July Report Although attention this month will focus upon the Annual Village Show in August, mention must first be made of recent events. The visit to Forde Abbey on Wednesday June 20th has been well received with the gardens, house and plant centre thoroughly explored. The fountain in the grounds was watched by many; you just had to check the wind direction to select your viewing spot before trying to estimate the height of the waterspout. At Hey Day on Saturday June 23rd the Club stall was well stocked and well visited. A donation from takings has been made to the Hey Day committee for their charity CORGI. Many thanks go to all who organised the stall and the many who donated the superb assortment of plants. Jenny Scorgi invited members to her garden for the Summer Social on Wednesday July 4th resulting in an enjoyable evening in perfect weather with a superb view across the garden and fields beyond. Many thanks go to all who attended and contributed finger food for the buffet, the organising group and, of course, to Jenny for the invitation. Next Event Saturday 11th August at the Village Hall 2:30pm – 4:30pm. The Annual Village Show Entry is open to both members and non-members. First time entrants will enjoy free entry to all classes. Any report you may hear that only members may enter is totally mistaken. Many of the classes are firm favourites but there are new classes ( details below) Show Schedules are available from Cross Stores and The Bakers’ Arms, The Saxon Inn and the Pilgrim Fryer (when you pick up your supper on Thursday 3rd August) and should answer any queries that may arise. You may also contact Roger Hull (01258 863418) or myself if you wish to speak to someone. Class F – `Made by You’ This will be an `Arts & Crafts’ class which will allow exhibits not covered by any other class using any medium or material; maximum size 15ins x15ins. This will only be open to amateur exhibitors for items not previously exhibited or sold. Exhibits must have been completed by the entrant. New This year exhibitors may enter two exhibits in this class but the second exhibit must be in a different medium or material. (size as above) Children’s Entries Children’s entries will be particularly welcome in all classes. The Kath Foot Cup is awarded to the Under 16 entrant gaining most points across the Show. All Under 12 entrants will receive a certificate to celebrate their participation. Photographic Section New for this year the Photographic Section, as advertsed in previous copies of this magazine, includes a Video Class. The subject is of your choice but must not be longer than 1 minute. It should be entered on either a memory stick or memory card in mp4 format. You should bring it to Registration and leave it to be downloaded onto a computer. The card or stick will, of course, be returned on Show Day. Registration Registration will take place at Laurel Farm, Station Road on Thursday August 9th between 6:00pm and 8:00pm. Remember to keep a copy of your list of entries and class numbers. Photographs mounted as per schedule should also be brought to registration so they can be displayed for the Show. On the Saturday morning, bring your exhibits to the Village Hall between 9:30am and 10:45am and place each behind its entry card which will be on a table with the class number. Lots of help will be available! 11 Station Road and Hayward Lane Closure Registration will take place at Laurel Farm, Station Road on August 9th, just be aware Station Road may or may not be closed to vehicular traffic depending on the progress of the work being undertaken by Wessex Water. Future Events Wednesday 5th September in the Village Hall at 7:30pm David Usher will talk on ‘Care and Management of Trees and Shrubs’ with plants for sale. As we always say ` All are welcome’ and we hope to see you at our events. May all grow well in your garden. Keith Leighton (Vice Chair) ph 01258 861462

GOLD HILL ORGANIC FARM Ridgeway Lane, Child Okeford, Dorset DT11 8HB, 01258 861916 www.goldhillorganicfarm.com Email: [email protected]

I am sure walkers have noticed us at various times of the day armed with watering cans and water tanks trying to keep our vegetables at least alive if not growing. We have no water source in the fields and this summer is starting to rival the summer of ’76. I hope the photo explains it all.

This exceptional summer weather has bought out everyone’s bright and cheerful summer frocks. We Precision Watering look forward to seeing you still in summer mode in the farm shop. As well as the farm shop at Gold Hill Organic Farm there are: James’s Cheeses. Award winning Cheeses made from local milk and matured on the farm. Rachel Sargent. Landscape Artist, runs various worksops in painting and printing methods. Emsie Sharp. Glass-blower extraordinaire, runs glassblowing day courses. The Art Stable. Exhibits eight shows a year of contemporary and twentieth century artists. As well as presenting a continually changing mixed selection of work in the second gallery. Minna Hepburn. Keeps you fit and toned with her pilates classes and massages. Tina Ellis. Will trim your dog to keep it cool in the summer and keep it clean for the winter. Metrorod. For all your drainage and septic tank needs. The Cafe run by Sharon Foxton. A cafe to chill, chat and relax, in a uniquely quirky atmosphere.

We also put on cultural events and on 15 September we see Screen Bites coming to the farm, further details next month.

Sara Cross

12 24 Hour Service Edward’s Taxis & private hire Serving the Three Okefords 4 to 7 seats – wheelchair accessible vehicles

Local or long distance: airports, Eurostar, assisted shopping, hospital appointments

Telephone 01258 860730 or mobile 07772 231913 w

The Baker Arms, Child Okeford 01258 860260 www.bakerarms.co.uk Follow us on Facebook @Bakerarmsdorset James and Desi, the new owners, wish you a warm welcome. A freshly prepared & ever changing menu is available. We are now taking reservations for Daisy Cottage our ‘Home away from Home’ letting cottage, further details & images are available on our website.

ALL JOBS MJ WAREHAM MAINTAINING PROPERTY CARPENTER, JOINER, GENERAL BUILDER, FOR OVER 30 YEARS PAINTER AND DECORATOR GENERAL REPAIRS 3, Gold Hill DECORATING INSIDE AND OUT Child Okeford WOODWORK/JOINERY Dorset DT11 8HD FLOORING & TILING Tel: 01258 860665 UPVC FASCIAS & GUTTERING PLUMBING AND ELECTRICS NO VAT – FREE ESTIMATES Okeford Tree Care

No job too small – contact All aspects of tree work undertaken, Nigel Marks Tel: 01258 472466 including detailed inspections and surveys

Prompt and reliable service Fully qualified and insured Chisel Barn Free quotations and advice

Luxury barn with spectacular views between Contact Stuart Carter Phone: 01258 861998 Mobile: 07982 040139 Hambledon and Hod Hill overlooking the River E-mail: [email protected] Stour

Two holiday lets sleeping four and six people that can be rented separately or together Lucinda Sunnucks - Chisel Farm DT11 8HH Tel 01258 863413 [email protected] www.chiselbarn.co.uk

Tuesday’s class is for Portman Hall, Shillingstone Mondays: 9.30am – 10.30am over 50s Child Okeford Community Centre Tuesdays: 10.00am - 11.00am The Latin-Inspired, The Exchange, S. Newton £5.00 per class easy-to-follow, Wednesdays 9.30am - 10.30am

Nicola Thommes - 0788 792-1717 dance fitness class Stourpaine Village Hall [email protected] Thursdays 9.30am-10.30am

13 CHILD OKEFORD PARISH COUNCIL Child Okeford Parish Council met twice during July 2018, on the 2nd and 3rd. Planning A public meeting was held on 3rd July to discuss a major planning application to build 68 houses on the site of Beehive Storage, on the Manston Road. About 40 people were present to give their views to the Parish Council. A significant number of different objections were voiced, with many people expressing concern about the unsustainability of this site for housing of any kind. All the comments were noted to be included in the Parish Council’s response. At an extra PC meeting, immediately following the public meeting, the Council agreed to submit an objection to the development. There were a number of grounds for the objection but the main points centred on the fact that the site is outside the village settlement boundary; is a considerable distance from the village centre,such that almost all journeys to and from these homes would be by car; the road is unsuitable for pedestrian use and already too heavily used. There is no supporting evidence of local need for 68 homes, which would place unsustainable pressure on local services. The full response, and those of residents, can be seen on the Dorset for You website. The decision will be made in due course by North Dorset District Council. On other planning matters, the Council raised no objection to an application for a riding arena for private use at Melway House. The Council also noted that the appeal against the refused application to turn the Saxon Inn into residential property is to be heard by public examination. Again, details of this can be found on Dorset for You. Footpaths Not surprisingly, given the wonderful dry weather we have enjoyed, the footpaths are all dry and clear. A broken style on the path between Shaftesbury Road and Gold Hill and a gate on Pine Walk both need some repair and the Rangers have been asked to attend to this. Highways The purchase of a Speed Indicator Device is now in hand and installation, which will be done by County Highways, should be completed over the summer. Meanwhile, Highways have been asked to repaint the worn road markings through the village. The speed limit signs have all been cleared of vegetation, but this might regrow so please notify the Parish Clark of any signs which become overgrown. It is worth remembering that it is the responsibility of every landowner to cut back hedges or verges which obscure traffic visibility and August is a good time of year to give hedges a trim. Steam Fair Tickets Once again the Parish Council has received complimentary tickets to the GDSF, which we pass on to the Community Centre, Village Hall, school and Church Fete, for fundraising. Litter Pick Thanks to the residents who joined the litter pick at the end of June. Several bags full were gathered, including a significant number of drinks cans.

QUEEN ELIZABETH II PLAYING FIELD TRUST At its meeting on 2 July the Trustees reported that the Community Centre had been decorated inside, thanks to the volunteers who helped, and a new picnic table has been purchased from funds raised by Hey Day. The next CORGI project is to install a pump track on the playing field and a funding application will be submitted in September. A new six member Management Committee is now in place to manage the Community Centre. At their first meeting they identified a number of maintenance tasks which need attention. There is no Parish Council meeting in August, the next meeting will be held on Monday 2nd September 2018, at 7 pm, in the Community Centre. Cllr Sherry Jespersen. 860482.

14 THE CHILD OKEFORD COMMUNITY CENTRE The Rudes are back in town. On a sunny Saturday evening the Rude Mechanical Theatre company made their annual visit to Child Okeford to perform their play Oberon’s Cure at the Recreation Ground. 150 people enjoyed picnics before the performance and then sat back to soak up the Comedia Del Arte style of the show which is a bit like pantomime but with white faces and slapsticks. One appreciative audience member described it as Shakespeare on speed. It was good fun helped by good weather. Many thanks to the villagers who provided accommodation for the players and to Charles Upton for organising the event. John Nash We also are having some barbecues at the Community Centre, while the good weather lasts. The first was on the 27th July. The next is planned for the 24th August. Keep a lookout for our posters around the village or keep up to date by visiting our Facebook Page. Otherwise if you would like to organise your own event, the venue is perfect for an outdoors venue. Please contact Kirsty on [email protected] Andrew

THE ART STABLE Child Okeford, DT11 8HB 01258 863866 open Thurs - Sat 10-3 The Art Stable will be open by appointment only in August, but will be reopening on 15 September with a solo show by Peter Sedgley, details below: Peter Sedgley is a leading figure in the Optical and Kinetic movements who came to prominence during the 1960s. Born in London, Sedgley studied architecture before devoting himself solely to visual art from 1959. Peter Sedgley’s first solo exhibitions in 1965 were held at McRoberts and Tunnard Gallery, London and Howard Wise Gallery, New York. He was included in the influential Responsive Eye exhibiiton at MOMA, New York in 1964 and was a prizewinner at the Tokyo Biennale in 1965.

It was during the sixties that his initial interest in light and movement were developed. The transformation of these two intangible forces, together with his search for different ways of using colour as a carrier for optical communication, have become his life-long themes.

In the 1960’s Sedgley started experimenting with dichroic glass which has the unique property of transmitting one colour while reflecting its complimentary. This opened up new ways of working and led to the creation of kinetic pieces during the 1980’s and 90’s and since 2000 to the construction of what Sedgley has called ‘Windomes’. The works are both mirrors, in which viewers can see themselves and windows into a passageway beyond.

In 1971 Sedgley was invited by the DAAD to Berlin where he took up residence and during the 80’s and 90’s won large scale public commissions, mainly in Germany, working with light and sound in collaboration with composers. In 2000 Kelly Ross presented the first solo exhibition of Peter Sedgley’s work in London for seventeen years, to coincide with his 70th birthday and The Art Stable has presented two solo exhibitions of his work. He was included an exhibition reviewing the 60’s, Summer of Love: Art of the Psychedelic Era at Tate Liverpool in 2005 and Traces du Sacre at the Pompidou Centre in Paris in 2010. He has many works in public collections including Tate, London, Victoria and Albert Museum, the Government Art Collection and the Walker Art Centre, Minneapolis.

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CHILD OKEFORD CENTRE FOR CARE AND LEARNING (COCCL) We now have a full programme of 8 meetings arranged for the 2018-19 season. Programme cards will be distributed throughout the village in August, but readers may find it helpful to have advance information - • September 17. Hilary Townsend - “A Blackmore Vale Childhood”. • October 15. Rev Stewart Timbrell - “Wonders and Blunders” • November 19. John Combes - “Exploring the Dorset Stour” • December 3. Gordon Le Pard - “Picking Darcy’s Pocket” • January 14. Pete Finklaire - “Adventures in Mountaineering” • February 4. Barry & Becky Gransden - “Five Thousand miles away - headhunting …..” • March 11. Paul Hyland - “Trips and Odysseys - a Travel Writer’s Journey” • April 8. Jennie Spiers - “Dorset Artists” Several of our speakers have village connections. Hilary Townsend was a great friend of the late Kath Foot. Pete Finklaire sometimes attends our film nights, and his wife Sue belongs to our Badminton Club. Paul Hyland performed magic at the Gardeners’ Club Dinner in 2018. Meetings will generally be held in The Ark’s room (the extension to St Nicholas School). Admission £5, to include tea/coffee and biscuits. Bookings to T 860767. Grahame Downer.

LINO CUTTING WORKSHOPS I will be running 3 lino cutting workshops through August at my studio at Gold Hill Organic Farm, Child Okeford. DT11 8HB Linocutting on Saturday 4th and 11th August 10.30 - 4.00. More info here https://www.rachelsargent.co. uk/linocutting Also a Two-Block Linocutting Workshop on Saturday 18th August. 10.30 - 4.00. More info here. https://www.rachelsargent.co. uk/two-block-linocuts The first two linocutting workshops are suitable for beginners or those of you with some previous experience can use the class to develop your ideas and projects. The third class involves cutting 2 linocuts that will be inked in different colours and printed one on top of the other to create a two colour print. It is useful if you have done a linocutting workshop first. I will be running more workshops during the autumn. Details to follow. Let me know if you are interested in the classes or ring me on 07957 452 853 for more details. Rachel Sargeant

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The Baker Arms Folk Session 2nd Thursday every month, next on 9 August James and Desi 860260

CHILD OKEFORD WALKING GROUP We had an excellent, interesting walk in June led by Eilidh and David. In lovely weather (not too hot) we covered the beautiful scenery around the centre of Hardy country passing his cottage and school in Upper and Lower Bockhampton and the estate which is now Kingston Maurward College. A good lunch was taken at The Royal Oak, Milborne St. Andrew. There is no walk in August and the next one will be on September 20th led by Carolyn and Rose; more details on this in the next issue of The Hill together with the report on the July walk. Roger Hull Tel: 863418 Email: [email protected]

DAVE & DAPHNE MATTHEWS It is with more than a tinge of regret that we will be leaving this beautiful part of the world to reside in 'Sunny Norfolk'. However it's time to be nearer the majority of the family and relieve them, and indeed both of us, from the great pleasures of the M25. We tried to catch up with as many of the lovely friends and acquaintances as we could before we left, all of whom have been a pleasure to know, but found it a very difficult task as there are so many. Consequently, this is to say goodbye and thanks collectively, and wish you all the very best of health and good luck in everything you do. Fond Regards Dave & Daphne Matthews

ST NICHOLAS WIVES' GROUP

At our July Coffee Morning one of our members offered to host our August meeting in her garden in Knotts Close. This is a change to our published programme which should now read: 'Wednesday, August 8th, 3.00pm. Afternoon tea at 12, Knotts Close'. Those who would like to attend are asked to phone Margo (860286) with numbers. As always guests, husbands and friends, will be warmly welcomed. Maureen Soward – 860647

BLANDFORD MUSEUM www.blandfordtownmuseum.org – 01258 450388 Friday 31st August from 5.30pm Last Friday Summer Social in the Museum Garden. Refreshments. All welcome.

17 The Saxon Inn Child Okeford Come to your friendly old village pub

Excellent home cooked food Good selection of Real Ales Cosy bars and log fires Large Garden and Superior Alfresco Dining Area Four en-suite Bedrooms Ring Peter or Helen on 01258-860310

CHILD OKEFORD COMMUNITY CENTRE Monday – Friday Your venue for coffee mornings, childrens 8am – 6pm parties, family celebrations etc at Playing, Learning, Having Fun competitive rates All year round Full kitchen facilities For more information or to make a booking Baby Room Toddler Room Call 01258 860477 Pre-school Room www.facebook.com/ChildOkefordCommunityCentre Breakfast, After School & Holiday Clubs High quality play and learning RB BURROWS & SON experiences tailored to meet each (ROGER BURROWS) child’s individual needs PLUMBING & HEATING ENGINEER Good links with school and easy access to well -equipped outdoor GAS SAFE/OFTEC Registered installer play areas and countryside

www.thearkchildokeford.co.uk 8, Millbrook Close, Child Okeford, Blandford, Dorset 01258 861066 [email protected]

M&M Stoves & Chimney Services CL WALTERS Child Okeford Painter & Decorator Your local friendly HETAS Qualified Engineer High Class ● Fully Certified chimney sweep ● Installation of Multifuel/wood burning Stoves Domestic & Commercial ● Installation of liners and twin wall systems ● Chimney Construction, Pointing & Capping Work ● CCTV Surveying Estimates Free Call Jason on ● Free no obligation quote 01258 861586 Tel: 01258 -471676 ● Fully HETAS Insured ● For all your chimney needs.

Man & Van A.R.O Cleaning Service A competitively priced & reliable fully insured service. Offering house moves, office moves or single items. Carpet Cleaning, Chimney Any distance 7 days a week. Sweeping, Domestic Cleaning, Contact Tim 01963 204205 0r 07745 858440 email [email protected] One stop shop for all your home & business cleaning needs.

Ring 07772231913. www.aroservicingltd.co.uk

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Call Andrew on 01258 837092, weekdays or weekends

Jake Trim

Electrician Sturminster Newton DT10 1BQ

Domestic 07964 407 665 Agricultural [email protected] Commercial

AUTO DIAGNOSTICS Steve Bealing ~ Painter and Decorator ~Interior & Exterior SERVICING, REPAIRS AND MOTs Friendly Professional Service TO ALL MAKES AND MODELS Competitive rates with no VAT (SERVICING CARRIED OUT TO NEW VEHICLES All jobs considered WITHOUT AFFECTING WARRANTY) Tel: 01258 861803 ~ Mob: 07815 957296 RENAULT SPECIALIST WITH 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE. COURTESY CARS AVAILABLE. Polly "Bs" FREE LOCAL COLLECTION AND DELIVERY Local lady doing Holistic Treatments Massage, Reflexology Indian Head Massage & Ear Candling SERVICE. Also Beauty Treatments, Facials, Waxing Eyelash & Eyebrow tinting. Manicure & Pedicure Nail cutting and Hard Skin Removal 14D, SUNRISE BUSINESS PARK, HIGHER Appointments available during the day & evenings. SHAFTESBURY ROAD, BLANDFORD FORUM Some treatments available in your own home. Gift vouchers available. DORSET DT11 8ST Ring Pauline for a chat on 01258 880084 / 07760303332 TEL: 01258 480456 Dorset Hypnotherapy • Anxiety, Fears, Phobias • Confidence, Weight, Exam Nerves • Smoking. Public Speaking

Reflexology - to restore and maintain good health using foot and hand reflexes. Healing massage - To gently ease away stresses and strains and to restore the natural flow of energy. Email [email protected] Rowena Carmichael

DHP MAPHP MAR ART(Regd) MTI

01258 860169 [email protected] Award winning free -range eggs for farm gate sale beginning www.dorsethypnotherapy.com February . Google Map SP7 0LH. Lamb half or whole ready to order – 6, The Hollow, Child Okeford [email protected] (Opposite the village hall) Stuart & Vanessa Chadwick – Tel 07976 563024 tuart & Vanessa Chadwick Tel: 0797 656 3024 19

MANSTON AND HAMMOON VILLAGE HALL As usual the 1st Saturday of the month is our coffee morning. This will be 4 August 10.30 - 12.00 in Manston. We have scrumptious cakes, tea and coffee. Everyone is very welcome to enjoy a good chat and a relaxing couple of hours. Don’t forget to book up soon if you’re a regular user of the hall as bookings are filling up fast. Contact Carin on 07766 764878 Maria - Secretary. - Village Hall Committee

CHILD OKEFORD ARCHIVE A final dip into “One Hundred Years in Childe Okeford 1883 - 1983”. This is our final visit to this excellent book for now and a full copy of an original version is available to read on the village web site (childokeford.org – the Village -Village History & Archive – The Village Archive – Booklets)

“A little higher up the road, laying some way back off the road, is the Saxon Inn which was previously called the New Inn. Originally there were three cottages here with a beer house in the middle. Some strange tales are told about these. A carpenter, named Moore, at one time lived in the first cottage and drowned himself in the river, reputedly because his cottage was wanted by the beer- house. In the third cottage a very old lady named Mrs. Newman, although she was very ill at the time, died after drinking Lysol (a disinfectant). The landlords at that time were a Mr. & Mrs. Stodard. A party for their 25th wedding anniversary had been arranged and a turkey and a cake cooked at Mr. Fudge's bakery. At the last minute, however, Mr. Stodard had disappeared.

The turkey and cake were given to Blandford Hospital, and a week or so later the body of Mr. Stodard was found in the belfry of Blandford Parish Church - he had hung himself. The next landlord died playing skittles, and there is a story that the original man to be turned out of his cottage put a curse on the pub, causing all these violent deaths. However, a lady who knew all these people was quite sure none of the occupants of the cottages would have cursed anyone.

In the fifties a Mrs. M.E. Hart was in charge of the off-licence which later became the New Inn, and in September 1955 she arranged to have a Harvest Thanksgiving Service* held there, conducted by the Rector, Dr. R. Taylor. Afterwards the produce was sold by auction for the benefit of the National Institute for the Blind. This proving a successful venture, it was repeated for several years. The name of the Inn was changed to the Saxon in the mid-sixties when another company took it over.”

* Newspaper cuttings featuring the service can be seen on the village web site (Village History & Archive – This Month from the Archive)

David Pope (861411) [email protected]

20 STURMINSTER NEWTON FLORAL GROUP Sturminster Newton Floral Group are pleased to welcome Tracey Griffin to our open meeting on September 12 2018. Tracey is a multi awarding winning floristic designer. The most recognisable medals would be Floral Designer of the Year for NAFAS ( National Association of Floral Arrangement Societies ) 2017 and a gold medal in 2013 at the world famous RHS Chelsea Flower Show. She gaining exceptionally high marks with her outstanding design, one of only 2 gold medals given in the Chelsea Florist of the year competition that year. Tracey is a National Demonstrator travelling the UK & beyond. These demonstrations give Tracey an outlet to let her creative side go a little wild, whether she is wowing Flower club members that will sit back and enjoy the entertaining and inspiring afternoon or evening, or to professional florists where the audiences will gain sound business tips, new techniques and guidance on how to use the latest product in an innovative way. Tracey is a highly skilled Chelsea Gold medal winning florist with a wealth of experience, her creativity and designs are second to none, but as a florist will never lose sight of the most important thing... the clients happiness. We look forward to welcoming anyone who loves flowers and flower arranging to this event on Wednesday 12 September 7,30 pm at the Exchange Sturminster Newton. Admission to non Sturminster Newton Floral Group members £12, Tickets available on the door or in advance from 01258 473902 or 01258 472024.

NEWS FROM THE SPRINGHEAD TRUST Mill Lane, Fontmell Magna, SP7 0NU Tel: 01747 811853 Email: [email protected] www.springheadtrust.org.uk

Thursday 2 August – The Miracle Theatre’s annual visit to Springhead, performing Chekhov’s The Cherry Orchard. Tickets are available from Artsreach or the Springhead office: £12 adult, £10 Friend of Springhead, under 18 £8, and family £32. The outdoor performance starts at 7.00pm and refreshments will be served. However, the garden will be open for picnicking from 5.30pm. Remember to bring a torch, chair, cushions and wrap up warm!

Sunday 12 August – Ninebarrow, a multi-award-winning folk duo who are impressing audiences across the country with their innovative and captivating take on the folk tradition, are coming to play at Springhead. Described by Mark Radcliffe as sounding like ‘two halves of one voice’, by Seth Lakeman as ‘a fantastic duo’ and by Kate Rusby as ‘absolutely amazing’ Jon Whitley and Jay LaBouchardiere combine breath-taking vocal harmonies and melodies, delivering songs that are inspired and rooted in the landscape and history of the British Isles. https://www.ninebarrow.co.uk/

Tickets are available from www.ticketsource.co.uk or call Springhead: £12 in advance, £14 on the door, Friends of Springhead and U17 £10. The outdoor performance starts at 7.30pm and refreshments will be served. However, the garden will be open for picnicking from 6.00pm. Remember to bring a torch, chair, cushions and wrap up warm!

Bank Holiday Monday 27 August, Open Garden, 10-5, café serving refreshments and light lunches. Admission £3.50, under 16 and Friends of Springhead free. Dogs on leads welcome and assisted wheelchair access Kate Partridge Coordinator – Friends of Springhead

21 WILDLIFE NEWS First a fascinating tale from Renee Preece, who lives in Chalwell, (and who has lived in Child Okeford all her life). Last summer/autumn she regularly had in her garden a male blackbird which had a deformed beak; the top part of the beak pointingh straight up in the air. She fed it sultanas and currants which it was able to eat by turning its head sideways. To her surprise, the bird reappeared this spring, but now lacking completely its top beak. (She was very surprised that it had made it through the winter without a beak). It nested in the hedge between her garden and her sister Pam's garden next door. She again fed it with sultanas and currants, and it became very tame coming right up to her to be fed; to such an extent that the bird would scold her loudly when she did not have any food for it. The blackbird successfully raised two broods, but is still around, though not quite so frequently and not so demanding for food. Renee thinks that the top part of the beak may be beginning to grow back, but says it it is quite difficult to get a good look at it. (I've subsequently googled 'beak regrowing', and it turns out that a badly damaged beak does not grow back.) Roger Hull saw a spotted flycatcher on the telephone wire outside 3 Portman Drive on 30 June He says that he knows this summer migrant well as one nested every year over the front door of the house he grew up in in Lincolnshire many years ago. This one was showed typical flycatcher behavior - darting flight and return to same perch. He said that he had not seen one in recent years. (Not surprising as their numbers in the UK have crashed sixfold in the last 30 years.) Following on from my mention of the lack of swifts in the village, we went up Hambledon Hill on a hot evening at the end of June, and saw quite a few swifts, but all flying on the Shroton side of the hill; there were none on the CO side of the hill! However, Alan Blundell subsequently reported that he saw a solitary swift over The Hollow, and Roger Hull also reported that he had seen some flying around the church. And then sitting in the garden on a hot, sunny afternoon in early July I first heard, then saw, a large flock of swifts swirling around high overhead. Alan Blundell also reported that he found a peacock nesting in the compost bin at his allotment. Other sightings reported by Alan earlier in the year were (a) what he thought was a great white egret down by the river (though still quite rare compaed with the little egret they are increasing in number in the UK), and (b) a pair of buzzards having a battle with a pair of red kites. With regard to swallows and house martins, which I was also bemoaning the lack of, Susan Schwarz from The Manor emailed that she had lots of martins nesting happily there, so much so that they have had to postpone decorating the exterior of the house indefinitely! She also said that she had had a one off visit from a hoopoe. (I looked on the internet and discovered that they do not breed in the UK, at least, as yet, and the 100 or so that do turn up in the UK on their summer migration from Africa have overshot continental Europe, and presumably return there.) Africa have overshot continental Europe, and presumably return there All contributions to me at [email protected]

22

Child Okeford Gardeners’ Club

presents

The Annual Show 2018

Child Okeford Village Hall

Saturday August 11th at 2.30 pm

For exhibiting your vegetables, fruit, flowers, baking & photography

Continuing our new Arts & Crafts category & introducing Video Clips

Open to All

Prizes presented by Mr Tim Hooker at 4 pm

Schedules available at Cross Stores & Pubs

THE CHALLENGE It’s with regret that I have had to defer my place on the Jurassic Coast Challenge this year as I’ve managed to injure my leg, so I can’t walk very far. I plan to be fighting fit for next year and fingers crossed they’ll be a team of us. Thanks for all your support. Abi Rudd

23 A DOG’S LIFE July: (Ed: apologies, missed from July Hill) The sun has been fully out for at least five hours as White and I set out on our daily walk and it’s quite hot already. I’m a bit embarrassed ‘cos White is wearing a pair of green shorts which reveal a couple of white—what else, knobbly knees. I try to pretend that I’m delighted that he should be so bold as to make such a presentation to the general public without warning, but I’m also delighted that we are taking our usual morning route over the fields behind the house, across Melway Lane and on down to the fields beyond the big house, where we are seldom likely to meet anybody. It will in due, course, happen I’ve no doubt; but let it be once the afore said knees are satisfactorily weathered! But, if I can manage to be serious for a moment, It is splendid that we have been able to enjoy this spell of fine weather, even if the hose has to come out to keep the garden from wilting. Have I mentioned before that White has played the age card and persuaded a splendid young fellow with red hair—I don’t think I’ve ever seen a dog with red hair—to come and cut the lawns around the house. I can see that, for an old chap like White, it is expecting a bit much. After all, the garden is on a slope and the mowing machine gets heavier every year—so he tells me. Anyway, he does take to cuttings to the Tip where he can pretend that he has actually mowed the lawns himself! There is a lot of grass to mow, and the garden looks so much better once it has been done. Now, what else has happened? I remember!! There has been some sort of celebration, ‘cos they have been together for a long time. I think somebody said that it has been fifty five years, but I can’t imagine that anyone could have put up with White that long; it must be something like four dog lifetimes! Anyway, they gave that as an excuse to spend the other evening in the pub, and came back very pleased with themselves! I think I’ve mentioned that White is complaining that he feels as if there is a red hot coal in his right buttock! I don’t really understand what he is talking about, but now long suffering Grey has taken to coming on the evening walk with me. It’s very pleasant ‘cos I don’t get the grunting that he has taken to on the late shift! Until the next time, look after yourselves. August: Ed and I are getting in a bit of a muddle (Ed- as above, the muddle is all mine!) about which month’s issue this piece is aimed at; I don’t think it matters too much, so when he gets this he may wish to save it for another month. If so, he will be sensible enough to let White know so that he can stop me from doing another one for a month or so…how complicated can life get in Child Okeford? So, on the basis that you may not have the undoubted privilege of reading this until some time in early autumn, I will try to dwell more on falling leaves than scorching sunny days….which may become challenging since the sun is shining, there is not a cloud in the sky and there are no falling leaves to be seen! Anyway, what’s new? Well, rumour has that we are moving; there is a ‘For Sale’ sign outside the house, which means they must have plans to change abodes—neat that, eh? I could have said ‘move house’ but I think that, because we are only going up the road—full details to follow next month, ‘changing abodes’ is more posh. You may be amused to learn that someone asked, when seeing the For Sale sign, whether it was just the garages that were on the market! White tells me that the reason that nobody has come to look round is that the ‘market is very quiet at the moment’. He seems confident that, once summer has drifted into autumn things will perk up; well. We’ll see. To be honest, I‘m not keen on leaving this place; I like to roam around the garden and sit under the tree at the top of the front lawn, keeping an eye out for people coming in by the garage; and, anyway, I don’t like ‘change’. Also, from what I can gather from their discussions, the place is smaller and doesn’t have much of a garden; but, I’ll find out when the time comes, and I’ve not got much choice if I want regular meals and a comfy blanket to sleep on at night near a radiator; and if we’re still here at come Christmas I’ll not complain! So, until next month, look after yourselves; and, you never know, we might still be here! BELLA

24 LOCKSMITHS 24/7 Quantum Locksmiths • Locks changed/repaired, UPVC specialists • Key cutting, doors/windows repaired • Lock Out/Gain Entry, DBS Checked & fully insured, No VAT Reg Hogg 01258 721236, mobile 07900196426

Plumbing & Heating by Knight Plumbing & Heating Services Gas Safe no. 546449 07791303302 - 01258 861372 [email protected]

KEITH ALLEN BAFRA Member, City and Guilds Qualified Tel: 01258 860068 or Mob: 07717 827427

RESTORATION AND CONSERVATION WORK Repairs & Restoration to all Antique & Period Furniture, Longcase and Bracket Clocks Veneering and Repairs to Veneer, Marquetry Repairs French Polishing, Staining, Colour Matching & Finishing

ELM HOUSE STUDIO HUW LEWIS Child Okeford DT11 8EJ Former horticultural student from Pottery made in Dorset by Kingston Maurward Cath and Jerry Broadway Ceramic artists I will mow your lawn s Brightly coloured Earthenware and & do any basic gardening or manual work for Stoneware Ceramics £12 an hour Studio Pottery for all occasions Telephone: 01258 863662 Please contact me on: 01258 863800 Email: [email protected]

WELL TRODDEN PATH A lifestyle approach to being fit and well.

Offering Sports and Remedial Massage, Personal Training and Stott Pilates. An holistic take on wellbeing and fitness to work towards your goals and ambitions. With Matt and Kate, qualified and insured fitness professionals. Please call for more details (01747 811920) or look at our lovely website. www.welltroddenpath.co.uk or email: [email protected]

Izzy Cotton [email protected] Going on holiday? Need someone to look after your pets or walk your dog? BESPOKE HAND CARVED: Going out? Need a babysitter? MEMORIALS & CREMATION PLAQUES Want some help at your event or party? PET STONES, HOUSE NAMES, FIREPLACES Need someone to take in the mail and water the plants ALL RELATED MASONRY PRODUCTS when you’re away? Produced at our workshops at Farringdon, Nr Blandford Have you got a mailshot you’d like delivered locally, or need someone to stuff envelopes? Tel: 01747 811602 or 01202 698075 To get in touch please call or text: [email protected] 07553 157061 or 01258 863651 www.dorsetstonememorials.co.uk 25

GARDENERS’ QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS EVENING Durweston Village Hall Saturday 4 August Tickets £10.00 7-9.30pm

REFRESHMENTS AND PLANT SALES David Hurrion, Associate Editor of the Gardeners’ World Magazine, Rosie Yeomans, writer for Gardeners’ World, garden designer, gardening expert and plants woman and Tamsin Westhorpe, writer, editor, lecturer and specialist in practical gardening will answer all your garden queries.

Tickets are available from: Harts Garden Store Sturminster Newton Age Concern Office, Stour Connect, Sturminster Newton Child Okeford Stores Booked over the phone on 01258 475582 Purchased on the night if not already sold out

All proceeds will go towards the support of all services provided by Age Concern North Dorset.

CHILD OKEFORD VILLAGE HALL The regular activities of the Hall are continuing, including the Coffee Mornings on the first Saturday of the month. We hope to replenish our stock for the bookstall, and if you have books to offer please contact Christine or myself on T 860767. In the months ahead there will be a number of special events promoted by the Hall. On 18 August at 2.00 p.m. there will be an Artsreach event for children and parents, plus a workshop. “Tales from the Trees” is performed by the Squashbox Theatre: tickets are now on sale at the Cross Stores and from Rosemary Blundell (T 861621). To quote from a review “Original, funny and fantastically engaging*. Recently we have heard of another Artsreach production which is to come our way. On 15 December a group called the Churchfitters will perform “Christmas Cracker”. Three chaps, whose instruments will include fiddle, flute, banjo, guitar and ukulele. Again to quote “Foot-stompingly fast fiddle mixed with infectious funk-rock bouzouki”! Sounds like a good prelude to Christmas! And a fortnight earlier on 1 December, there will be a Christmas Fayre which we hope will be as successful as last year’s. And before all this, while summer still lasts, we look forward to hosting the annual Village Show. Grahame Downer.

26 MINDFUL – WHO WE ARE AND WHAT WE DO IN 2018 Mindful is a small registered charity created to support local projects in North Dorset for older people with mental health problems and their carers and people of any age who have memory loss and dementia. The people that we aim to support come from the local towns of Shaftesbury, Gillingham and Stalbridge and surrounding rural villages. Mindful has an established management committee of Trustees. Our Treasure is a solicitor working at Rutters office in Shaftesbury. In order to flourish Mindful relies on members and volunteers and the ideas, skills, expertise, help and enthusiasm that they bring with them. Their support is vital. The projects and activities that the current volunteers and Trustees of Mindful are involved in are: • Funding and organising a fortnightly Mindful café in Gillingham • Funding and organising a monthly Mindful café in Stalbridge • Funding and organising a fortnightly Mindful Marching On men’s activity group in Gillingham • Assisting/organising travel to activities or events – to enable people living in rural locations to access our cafes and groups • Help with information and advice for both individuals and their carers • Helping to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and memory loss • Development of more activities, social events and outings – in December we all enjoyed a delicious Christmas lunch at the Coppleridge in Motcombe and we are currently organising a summer day out to Athelhampton House in August Our group activities are attended by people from North Dorset towns and surrounding villages. Everyone is welcome. If you would like to know more about any of our activities or are interested in supporting or getting involved with Mindful, then please contact Sally Nutbeem 01747 852153 or [email protected] .

CHILD OKEFORD FLOWER ARRANGING CLUB At our June meeting we spent a pleasant afternoon sharing ideas to illustrate the theme ‘As I walked along the shore’. Some designs were literal interpretations using grasses, cultivated wild flowers and a variety of shells and pebbles while others were more abstract and sought to invoke memories of favourite holiday destinations. In July, we were treated to an afternoon of creative flower arranging by NAFAS demonstrator Katie Baxter from Ringwood. Katie’s theme was ‘The Joy of Flowers’ and she entertained us as she created five colourful arrangements in a series of exotic containers. She shared many good ideas with us and several lucky audience members won the demonstration flowers in the raffle. This month we are holding a practical workshop 'Squaring the Circle' on Tuesday 21st August in Child Okeford Village Hall starting at 2.15pm. If you'd like to try your hand at flower arranging then please come along and join us. Step by step help is available and further details and a worksheet can be obtained from Sue Brown on 01258 863775.

27 BUS SERVICES I note that wef 25 June our bus provider (South West Coaches) which was awarded the franchise only 12 months ago has been changed to Buses of Somerset – part of the First Group. I do not recall seeing any notification of this intention and my concerns are listed below: 1) Our Saturday Service has been discontinued completely; this will leave some residents of our villages effectively cut-off at week-ends. 2) The 10.08 Service to Blandford has been changed to 11.03. Up until 25 June the 10.03 would give you just over an hour to do some shopping and return to Child Okeford to arrive about 12.05. Now, unless you can shop in 10 minutes you will have to wait 2 hours for the next bus back at 13.40, arriving about 14.05 !! The buses now run to Tesco but If you need to go to Poole the earliest you can arrive there (using your bus pass) is now 12.30 3) The earlier bus is now 9.13 and this means that you cannot use your bus-pass on this earlier trip. It appears that there has been no local consultation and the impact on those people who need to go shopping or make hospital visits in Blandford or Poole could be considerable. The buses to Sturminster and Yeovil have not changed a great deal and there is a return from Blandford at 19.40 which would previously have been a “Not in Service” bus as the vehicle has to return to Yeovil depot. However this may benefit Shillingstone but not Child Okeford or Okeford Fitzpaine as it runs along the main road only. I would urge anyone who is concerned or affected to contact me on 01258 860078 or e-mail me at [email protected] and I will endeavour to liaise with any other action groups and to write to Dorset County Council, and our MP. I have already contacted the bus company but, as yet, have received no response. Tony Ward

THANK YOU The regular readers amongst you will be aware that Kate is, from now, taking a well deserved break from editing The Hill. When Kate and I took over from Pat Soward at the end of 2012 the intention was for us to share editorial duties on a broadly 50-50 basis. Unfortunately work commitments meant that, almost immediately, my ‘Hill time’ was drastically reduced. Kate therefore finished up editing The Hill essentially single handed until I retired in December 2016. So, my grateful thanks go to Kate - enjoy the break! Richard Muffett

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SCAM CALLS Fraudsters are cold-calling people, falsely stating that they are calling from one of the well-known UK telecommunication service providers. They claim to provide a ‘Telephone Preference Service’ - an enhanced call-barring service, which includes barring international call centres. The fraudsters will ask you to confirm/provide your bank account details, and will tell you that there is a one-off charge for the service. Instead you will see monthly debits deducted from your account, which you have not authorised. The fraudsters often target older people. The direct debits are set up without any written confirmation of the direct debit instruction, which is supposed to be sent within three days. And if you attempt to call back or try to cancel the direct debit, it is likely that you will be unable to get through, or your request will be refused. Protect yourself: • There is only one Telephone Preference Service (TPS). The TPS is the only official UK 'do-not- call' register for opting out of live telesales calls. It is FREE to sign-up to the register. TPS never charge for registration. You can register for this service at http://www.tpsonline.org.uk. Or Call 08450 700 707. • You will receive postal confirmation of genuine direct debits. If you notice unauthorised payments leaving your account, you should contact your bank promptly. • Always be wary of providing personal information, or confirming that personal information the caller already claims to hold is correct. Always be certain that you know who you talking to. If in doubt hang up immediately. For advice on this, or to report something to Trading Standards, call the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 03454 04 05 06 29 WHAT’S ON August: 2 The Cherry Orchard, Springhead p20 4 Lino cutting workshop p15 4 CO coffee morning p9 4 Gardeners’ Q&A evening p25 4 Manston & Hammoon coffee morning p19 5 Just as I am service p4 8 St Nicholas Wives meeting p16 9 Baker Arms folk session p16 11 CO Gardeners’ Club Annual Show p10, 22 (registration 9 August) 11 Lino cutting workshop p15 12 Ninebarrow, Springhead p20 17 Hill copy deadline p29 18 Tales from the trees p28 18 Lino cutting workshop p15 21 CO flower club workshop p26 22 CO Lunch club p8 23 Baker Arms Biker’s Night (inside Hill cover) 24 Community Centre BBQ p14 27 Open Garden, Springhead p20 31 Blandford Museum social evening p16 31 Saxon Beer & Cider Festival to 2 Sept (inside Hill cover) September: 1 Cider Fest & BBQ p6 2 CO Parish Council meeting p13 5 CO Gardeners’ Club meeting p11 10 CO WI meeting p9 12 Sturminster Newton floral group p20 15 Screen Bites p11 15 The Art Stable show p14 17 COCCL meeting p15 20 CO Walking group p16 EDITORS’ NOTES Following the move to commercial printing earlier this year we thought it would be good to experiment with colour if the right opportunity arose. Given the recent road closure we decided celebrating the village shops and pubs was an excellent subject for the front cover. The timing was such that we were also able to include colour photos from the Hey Day on the back cover. Thanks go to David Pope for designing both covers. We have concentrated on the shops and pubs in Child Okeford this month, however if you are a business in The Hill ‘area’ affected by the road closure email us and we will try to include details next month. Please could we have your copy for the next edition by Friday 17 August, 0900. We welcome contributions by email to [email protected] or please pop them through the door at Highlands, opposite the ‘old’ Post Office. It is also helpful if you would leave a phone number. The letters and articles published in The Hill are accepted in good faith and the views expressed are not necessarily the views of the Editors, whose decisions on publication are final. The Hill is published by the Child Okeford Parochial Church Council & printed by Sarum Graphics

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THE OKEFORD BENEFICE www.okefordbenefice.org Facebook @okefordbenefice Rector and Assistant Rural Dean: The Rev’d Lydia Cook 863774 / [email protected] (Lydia’s day off is Saturday) Assistant Curate: Rev’d Karen Wilson 861051/ [email protected] (Karen’s day off is Monday) Licensed Lay Minister: Mr Mark Riley 860718 Lay Worship Leaders: Mr Steve Vestbirk 860910; Mr Peter Willetts 861065; Mrs Abi Rudd 861367 Lay Pastoral Assistants: Ms Carolyn Angelucci 860049; Mrs Ruth Allen 860068; Please direct all enquiries regarding Baptisms, Weddings and Funerals to Lydia The benefice is grateful to be served also by retired Lay ministers Details of all services throughout the Benefice will be found on page 5 Parish Council Clerks Child Okeford with Manston PCC Child Okeford PC [email protected] Secretary: Mr Merlin Lewis: 863800 Correspondence Secretary: Mrs Ruth Allen: 860068 Manston and Hammoon PC Emma Smith 01258 473895 Churchwardens [email protected] Bookings Child Okeford Child Okeford Village Hall Mr Simon Baird: 860477 Rowena Carmichael: 860169 Mr Keith Allen: 860068 [email protected] [email protected] Hammoon Child Okeford Community Centre Mr Charlie Poe: 860325 Kirsty Baird 01258 860477 Mr Steve Vestbirk: 860910 Manston Village Hall Mrs Carin Ljungdell: 472825 The Hill Shillingstone Parish Magazine Subscriptions: Editor and Magazine Advertisements Alan Blackman: 860118 [email protected] Diana J Lewis: 472704 [email protected] Distribution: Mrs Sally Bolton: 861088 The Fippenny News Editor and Advertisements Editor: Derek Day: 861979, Richard Muffett: 860010 [email protected] [email protected] community.com: Editor The Community Office, The Exchange: 471456

DUNCAN HITCHINGS THE NOBLE CLEANER Master Craftsman All Domestic Cleaning Duties FURNITURE AND CABINET MAKER Cleaning, washing, ironing etc. General daily duties. All ironing now www.duncanhitchings.co.uk undertaken, free collection and deliveries. Individually designed, bespoke wooden furniture, (Excludes weekends) kitchens, doors and windows, beautifully crafted and Here to help make life easier installed by Duncan Hitchings Please call Miss Ball Unit 2a, Barnhaven Farm, Rivers Corner, Sturminster 07938389250/01258 861651 Newton, Dorset, DT10 2AD [email protected] 07814 601 291 e: [email protected]

HEY DAY 2018 Hey Day and Night enjoyed by all The sun shone and the village came together for another fun Hey Day. Children certainly seemed to enjoy the day with all the activities and entertainment and their parents seemed happy sitting in the sun enjoying the bands playing and the food and wine on offer. There were 14 stalls representing different charities, village clubs and organisations as well as a number of trade stalls. Many of them seemed busy much of the afternoon and I hope they felt the day was a success and we look forward to inviting them again next year. A hard fought game of skittles between the Saxon and Baker Arms resulted in the Manor Cup moving to the Saxon for 2018. It was a beautiful evening with a spectacular sunset and even those who thought their dancing days were over boogied the night away to Tom and the Clementynes. The Hey Day committee are pleased to announce that we made a significant profit and have been able to donate over £3000 to CORGI (Child Okeford Recreation Ground Improvement). This has paid for the new picnic table (see photos on back page) and will help with plans to add to the play equipment for children (and adults?!). There are too many people to thank whose contributions made the day a success. You know who you are and your support was really appreciated to the extent that we may well ask you again in 2019! Geoff Sparrow [email protected] 07970550017

P.S. The bottle of champagne for the programme hasn't been claimed. If you have programme 249 please call me. We have some outstanding lost property: a front door key on a rope, a mobile phone and a picnic blanket.

HEY DAY 2019!

SATURDAY 22 JUNE