Dorset

Countryside

No 173 August - October 2015

Volunteers Reg Charity No 1071723 www.dcv.org.uk Who we are, what we do, where, why and how . .

DCV is . . . A DCV day lasts . . .

• A practical conservation group run by volunteers • 10.00a.m. – 5.00p.m. approximately including since 1972 doing practical work in the breaks for drinks (which are supplied) and lunch countryside that would not otherwise be done (please bring your own lunch) • Volunteers are male and female, from all walks of life and from all over the county FINDING DCV . . . • Work is seasonal, e.g. woodlands in winter -

hedgelaying, coppicing; in summer dry stone walling, clearing ponds, footpath work • Maps with the task programme (at the back of this newsletter) show the locations of task sites • Organisations we work for include: Wildlife Trust, Heritage Coast Project, Natural • DCV website dcv.org.uk , Amphibian Reptile Conservation Trust • Facebook • We work at weekends throughout Dorset • Look for DCV’s yellow arrows near the worksite or the DCV information board may show an • No super-human strength or special skills needed, or attendance on every task or even for explanatory note the whole weekend - any time is a bonus for us • If unsure of the worksite try to arrive by 10.00 to and for you! meet other volunteers. The worksite may be some way off. Lost? give us a call on 07929 961532 DCV offers . . . (after 10.00 a.m.)

FOOD & DRINK • Practical care for the environment • Opportunity to learn new skills - training given • Use of all necessary tools • Please bring your own lunch • Beautiful countryside, social events, fun & • DCV provides free hot/cold drinks and biscuits companionship during the day - bring your own mug if you wish • Occasionally DCV may hold a shared lunch or YOU should bring . . . supper (aka bring a dish) when it is usual for people to bring some food to share around

• Stout footwear (steel toecaps if possible)

• Old clothes (wear layers) Long trousers and • Note: If you have a medical condition or allergies sleeves are best of any sort, please carry a card and bring • Tough gloves (we have some to sell/lend) necessary medicines. If you wish, bring this to the • Waterproofs, sun block, sun hat, insect repellent attention of the task leader. Please complete the • Lunch and some water “in case of emergency” details at the end of the • Don’t forget an up to date tetanus jab newsletter, and bring on task. “In case of

emergency details” can be inserted into a small key Reaching a task . . . fob which can be attached to your rucksack. Key fobs are available from Richard Meatyard. • If you need, or can offer, a lift phone Richard Meatyard or Peter Warren 3 days before a task • All youngsters are welcome, but should be • Lifts from Wool station (toolstore is nearby) accompanied by a responsible adult. • Travel links: http://www.morebus.co.uk/ https://www.dorsetforyou.com/travel-dorset/rail EDITORIAL

Welcome to the late summer newsletter. Summer! What Summer? Like us, you may have blinked and missed Summer or are you one of those who like sub 20°c temperatures? But for most of us one day of Summer at a time is not enough to do all we would like - go on task, walk over downland looking at flowers and butterflies, go for a swim, have a BBQ. Heaths and downlands are at their best for flowers and insects during June, July and August. Hedgerows too should be awash and where there are insects there should be birds. So when we do get a nice day then make the effort to go out to watch wildlife and connect with nature, on task or midweek.

We have received much sad news recently with the deaths of DCV members Malcolm Woodcock, Roy Smith, Elizabeth Rostant and also Liz Agate, BTCV volunteer who wrote many of the BTCV handbooks and designed the garden at Tyneham. There are tributes and photographs in this newsletter. If anyone wants full size photos then email the newseds.

The DCV AGM is here again. Last year’s was very successful, very well attended and we all had a very chatty and good time, so we highly recommend you attend this year’s, on 12th September. Our speaker will be Richard Edmonds from the team which should be really interesting. As always, bring some food to share at suppertime.

A few gentle reminders: Membership fees - if you haven’t paid, it’s never too late.

We’re working in more rivers and streams so please adhere to the clean boot policy (see article in this newsletter)

Remember to protect yourself on task with long trousers that can be tucked in and long sleeved shirt to protect you from the sun, ticks, bites, stings and scratches.

With adverse weather in mind, watch out for floods on minor roads. Keep your phone with you, fully charged and topped up. Take a map and use alterative routes if necessary. The popular pond task at Tyneham will be followed by a BBQ - we need to know numbers, please contact Richard if you want to come.

On the maps pages we have included some bus numbers from major towns to or past task sites for those of you who are adventurous enough to try.

Thanks to all who have contributed to this newsletter, be it memories, photos, articles, time or effort.

We have some helpings of beautiful scenery and great views at Fontmell Down and Hambledon Hill this quarter. We also have oodles of hidden Dorset at Kingcombe and West Milton. Do come along and see for yourself. Co-ordinator’s report Richard Meatyard

As I sit and write this, Easter Apparently the other beach clean finally right to clear the silt from seems a long time ago and a lot groups along the coast also had above the gabions behind the seems to have happened since a low attendance. barn. then. We usually have the Easter weekend off but this year we had It is something of a rarity for us After Tyneham we arrived at the a two weekend break as the to work on the same site two start of our invasives season. Tyneham task following Easter weeks running but this was the Possibly due to the cool spring had to be cancelled at short case at Avon Heath. The first the Himalayan Balsam was notice. Getting back in to the weekend there was fencing, one showing no signs of flower at swing of things after a two week of our traditional Summer Hooke on our first weekend break took a bit of time it seems activities but not one we do on a there. However, the native as numbers on task were regular basis. The second species seem to have excelled unusually low for a few weeks. weekend was the Orchis visit and wading through head high and an unseasonal Rhody hemlock water dropwort trying to With a complete absence of bashing session along with the spot the tri-leafed enemy was footpath works, unusual for an various festivities associated with slow, painstaking work. early Summer programme, an Orchis visit (more of which Thankfully a brisk breeze did a walling has featured large in the elsewhere in the newsletter). pretty good job of keeping the list of activities. By the time you Thanks to some heavy rain the worst of the biting insects away are reading this we will have day before we were even able to although there was no shortage spent the best part of 5 have a bonfire although local of nettles waiting to catch out the weekends at where it feedback suggested this wasn’t unwary. seems that a fast as we build up entirely popular with the a section of wall another section neighbours trying to wash their Our annual visit to Greenlands in falls down. cars. search of yellow instead of pink was likewise blessed with a stiff We also had a weekend working Our annual visit to the cool breeze that kept the horse on the churchyard wall at Upwey. Sheepwash was flies and other biting insects This had been expected to give once again a hot sunny day. So away and temperature bearable us several weekends work for advantage was taken of the on a bright sunny weekend. Our plenty of people. In the event newly opened shop selling ice traditional fields are starting to unforeseen technical issues creams for afternoon teabreak. show the effects of our regular meant that only a small section Thankfully we seem to be attention so on Sunday afternoon of wall was suitable for us to making steady progress here we made a start on a new area rebuild, restricting the rebuild to and the Winter had been kind to towards the Agglestone rock, only 4 people. So apologies to the sheepwash so it was where the rabbit burrows mean the many that turned up on the possible to complete all the that the quad towed weed wiper Sunday to find that apart from a essential work in the single day can’t be used. half day clearing up there was allocated. nothing for them to do. Tasks this quarter have also A Sunday of varied activities at brought news of two previous After last year when we had an Tyneham, in conjunction with DCV members, that we have not independent beach clean, this good weather and a “bring a seen or heard from for some year we were back in sync with dish” lunch attracted a turnout of considerable time. Elizabeth the Great Dorset Beach Clean. 16, more than double our current (Upwey) and Roy Although the weather was warm average. Even with a rather (Symondsbury) when Irma, his and bright the DCV turnout was leisurely lunch plenty was long time friend from Germany rather muted. There was also no achieved and the dry weather in came to join us on task. shortage of rubbish so we only the proceeding weeks meant that just completed our usual stretch. after 18 months conditions were Remembering Malcolm Woodcock

Malcolm and I met on a BTCV conservation holiday Christmas 1998 in Malton North Yorkshire; a happy week of scrub bashing, eating and socialising. Malcolm was quiet but impressed with his hard work, appreciation of my cooking and extensive conservation knowledge. We realised we were fairly local to one another and he spoke about the DCV and how I could possibly join a task.

Malcolm wrote to me a few weeks later inviting me to a task scrub bashing on Hambledon Hill staying overnight at a local village hall. Taking a friend with me off I went with some trepidation to meet Malcolm and the DCV. It proved an enjoyable weekend with the DCV friendly and welcoming but by Sunday afternoon Malcolm and I dropped all pretence of work and sat on the steep slope chatting. A walking date was arranged and so began our relationship. Many tasks followed particularly memorable a trip to France with Orchis, Xmas tasks and meals, river clearance and Cerne Abbass.

After we married, home ownership (particularly the garden), work commitments and becoming parents to Toby meant we no longer were able to come out regularly on task; Malcolm even gave up his role as treasurer and we became occasional visitors sometimes with Toby.

Malcolm was diagnosed with Oesophageal Cancer in December 2005, he survived after treatment and surgery but had a further reoccurrence in March 2009 and then retired in 2010. Malcolm spent a happy 5 years pottering in the garden and house and was able once again to take an active role in conservation volunteering both in the village hedge laying and with the local BTCV midweek group, weekends being generally reserved for family time.

DCV was a central part of Malcolm’s life for so many years providing companionship, friendship, and meaningful exercise as well as feeding his passion for conservation. Using his folding bike, trains, buses and lifts he was able to join most tasks and relished the opportunity to explore many hidden parts of Dorset and the countryside he loved. We couldn’t travel anywhere in Dorset without Malcolm regaling Toby and I with tales of tasks in the locality.

Sadly the cancer returned and Malcolm died in May. He is buried in Higher Meadow Natural Burial Ground Corscombe, overlooking many of the places which held such happy memories for him including Kingcombe and Brackets Coppice; still doing his bit for conservation preserving beautiful meadowland. Jane Woodcock

Malcolm and DCV

Malcolm joined DCV in the early 1990s. Haziness around the precise date perhaps indicates his natural quietness, but with his friendly personality he gradually he got to know us and happily joined in the usual task banter, very soon becoming a regular on the overnight stays in village halls. Obvious from the beginning was Malcolm’s enjoyment and love of conservation work, helping to conserve the countryside, as well as his physical strength – not just working on task, but often cycling there and back. By 1996 he was brave enough to take on the role of Treasurer, which he carried out diligently for the next six years.

It was quickly evident that Malcolm’s pride and joy then was his Brompton folding bicycle enabling him to reach DCV tasks in far flung corners of the county. He wrote a lengthy article entitled “The Folding Stuff” aptly describing two of his favourite passions – his folding bicycle and counting money! He extolled the virtues of the folding bike but admitted it had one drawback - it made no DCV task inaccessible. From a chance encounter Malcolm realised he was not alone in devotion to the folding bike and was delighted to discover, and attend, a Folding Bike Forum in Weymouth.

In 1997 Malcolm joined the very first ever DCV French exchange trip. A week long affair of two parts - DCV’s first meeting with Orchis joining them for a beach clean, and for the local littoral service, some heathland work and scrub clearance around an old lavoir – communal laundrette. That was the day job, evenings spent in a restored Napoleonic fort were another matter altogether. Like everyone, Malcolm thoroughly enjoyed this trip.

In the fullness of time, Malcolm met Jane, their relationship blossoming on many a DCV task. So much so that by 2002, Malcolm had a new pride and joy and altogether more serious responsibilities than DCV finance, handing over the role of Treasurer. Marriage, home ownership, parenthood were not to be taken lightly and Malcolm threw himself into these with loving delight. Malcolm was a big part of DCV tasks for a couple of decades, on virtually every task, reliably and cheerfully working away, in all weathers. Thank you Malcolm for the time you spent with us, you’ll be with us on task. Memories of Malcolm Malcolm cycled miles to get to from those who knew him DCV sites as he didn’t drive. Many years ago we were working near Hurn Airport on a bitterly In my memory Malcolm and Malcolm was always there on cold day when frost had covered ‘overnights’ are task, every week for years, come the countryside and turned it inseparable. We would arrive rain or shine. He would white. The usual fire was roaring at a village hall, Malcolm sometimes arrive on his away when Malcolm arrived and, extracting his trusty Brompton Brompton folding cycle or get after parking his bike, he stood and an assortment of baggage the train and a lift, carrying his by the fire and gently steamed and plastic carriers from a folding bike in its special cover. my enduring memory of him! A kindly car lift. The contents He never complained about the lovely, courteous man who will were soon to be seen in some work or conditions and was a man always be remembered fondly. part of the hall, scattered in of little words, but gradually he Audrey Duddell piles of a less than tidy opened up. He told us he was manner. Malcolm never cooked, from Kent and the difference at least in my recollection. But between a man of Kent and a I remember Malcolm as the first he busied in the kitchen, Kentish man. He worked as a one up at weekend sleep-overs at dishing out cider, cutting programmer for Westland village halls. I have fond vegetables for our veggie dish helicopters. He lived in a memories of being brought a cup of the day and helping to caravan, which conjured up of tea, first thing!!! He was an prepare the DCV classic - apple images of cold and damp, but it absolute darling!! crumble. The local pub was probably a mobile home. We Good at cooking, if I remember followed till late hours and would sometimes rib him about correctly and I seem to think he dominoes at which no one whether he kept his money was never in trousers, always in excelled, then more crumble under the mattress and if he got shorts. But it was a long time ago back at the hall. a better night’s sleep the more now. A very good volunteer, On waking after a crumble and money he had there. Malcolm always hard working and alcohol fuelled night I would would usually stay overnight on dependable. I remember the hear Malcolm alone busying in task weekends and would usually fold up bike that I never saw the gloom of the early morning help with the washing up. At the unfolded, or I might have gone light. Soon the sounds of a pub his favourite tipple was into the world of Bromptons a kettle, then of mugs and tea White Lightening cider, which good deal sooner! He was a kind pot on table. Of curtains being had a very high alcoholic and gentle man, who was taken drawn and rousing of the content, one pint was enough. from us far too soon and will be sleeping. Then close a kindly After the pub, usually around greatly missed. voice breaking through my midnight, we’d walk back to the Will Blight slumber deep in the warmth of village hall and tuck into my bag, and a hot steaming leftovers of the meal and then brew of tea. By far the best to bed. Malcolm went on the Malcolm, put the kettle on, early drink of the day. very first DCV visit to in the morning. Because that is Doug Normandy, a week long affair, what he did. When Malcolm, and ten or twelve DCV plus two other DCV members, stayed rangers from the County Council. Web site set up in the Lo and behold Malcolm could overnight with us, he was always memory of Malcolm first up, doing the washing up, speak French, at least a lot and put the kettle on for our http:// better than most of us. Yet malcolmwood- another hidden talent unearthed. morning tea & coffee. cock.muchloved.com/ Lesley We all miss you Malcolm. Don Simcock Malcolm’s lovely qualities were Memories of Malcolm eloquently and movingly evident from those who knew him at his funeral, at the burial site looking out over a tract of west Giving Malcolm a lift to tasks In my early days with DCV I Dorset and towards Somerset, on wintry mornings. didn't know many people and where he lived and worked and His caravan was damp and when Malcolm made me feel very contributed so much to DCV’s getting in my car the windows welcome on task. He always had activities over many years. Many would steam up and a damp time for a hello and how are you, with a big smile. It was Malcolm were the woodland tasks in that smell from his yellow coat who taught me how to hedgelay area that saw him arrive by bike, would fill the air. at Kingcombe some years after I work a full day – or residential Malcolm would ride his old first joined (and he once told me weekend, as was our wont – then bicycle to tasks carrying its that it was his favourite embark on the unfeasibly long own weight in spares, spokes reserve). I remember him being and arduous journey home, often and tubes etc. a very patient teacher and I in the dark, cold and wet, to his When I bought a canoe admired his skill and hard work Malcolm was my first victim to lonely caravan home. And in the ethic. He always seemed very 'at go paddle with me. One trip summer months, did he not home' working in the great always wear that DCV t-shirt, lead to him falling in a canal outdoors too. It was lovely to latterly not only illegible but lock in the centre of Banbury occasionally hear stories and virtually transparent? unable to swim a passer by and news about his life outside of John myself pulled him out. (He was DCV, for example his solo wearing a buoyancy aid) walking trip across Iceland, later I remember Malcolm cycling long Jonathon Vellam meeting Jane for the first time distances to task, like all the on a conservation working way to Hambledon Hill from his When I think of Malcolm, I holiday, and later their holiday home near Yeovil. Working all think of his smiling face, his at St Anne's Head in day cutting scrub on a steep kind and generous character, Pembrokeshire, staying in a hillside, perhaps staying for the his love of DCV tasks and lighthouse! Tess overnight stay at a local village ability to work hard all day, his hall, with the usual hearty DCV steamed up glasses, yellow Malcolm, going nearly everywhere evening meal and the visit to the waterproof, numerous carrier on his trusted fold up Brompton bike, loaded up with all the kit for local pub. Then working all the bags and the faithful folding a weekend away! Travelling by next day, before cycling back bike. One end of day at train and then cycling to where we home in the evening. Could that Brackett’s Coppice a tree trunk would be working, sometimes he be called dedication beyond the had become overheated from would be in luck and someone call of duty? Peter standing too near to the fire. would find him peddling or walking Malcolm poured water from the up a hill and stop and give him a Malcolm’s the new chap and kettle onto the trunk which lift. Even after cycling or walking strong as an ox” is how someone then proceeded to steam quite half way across Dorset he would described the new member to spectacularly. He shared his arrive with a smile, before hacking me. He became principal tea dreams with us of one day away the undergrowth. Remember the tales of walking in Scotland maker when we stayed overnight owing a house and the pride and Iceland (wading across a river in a village hall. However, one and joy shone in his face when of glacier melt water!). He was a warm night at Pound Cottage, he gained not only this but also lovely friendly man always keen to Peter decided to sleep outside, Jane and Toby. You’ll be fondly welcome new members as well as so when Malcolm brought the remembered on task Malcolm. enjoying a good game of dominoes morning cuppa, he placed it on Val and a few ciders in the pub after a the adjacent stile like a bedside hard days work. table! Viv Steve & Sara Jarrett Malcolm in photos Thanks to all those who sent in photos Great feedback for . . . . . Great Dorset Beach Clean

Despite the lower than normal turnout for this year’s Great Dorset Beach Clean, DCV has received thanks and appreciation for a job well done. So, if you were there on the day, give yourself a big pat on the back!

Statistics for the day, see below - comparisons with previous years/other areas, available upon request.

Dear All, From Don Moxam

I enclose the results of this year’s Great Dorset Beach "Yesterday afternoon I had a walk on Clean with my thanks for all your great efforts Please for pass this contributing to the success of this The event. results this year were Abbotsbury Beach and it was just on to your staff, and volunteers. fabulous. In particular I found the You will notice that less excellent, despite only rolling out 20 beaches from the stretch between the car park and the usual 27 beaches along the coast. This is due to the numbers of bags were filled in general. Tank Teeth free of litter and what with milder winter than on previous So this year winters we didwhen not thehave coast so had the flowers and sunshine it was a very endured many storms. much rubbish blow up or in, as the case may be. pleasant experience. I wonder if you would be kind enough to pass on my The reactions from all our beach masters has been We positive are thanks to Gareth and his DCV team and I hope everyone took advantage of the discounted refreshments on offer in your area, if appropriate. who did a wonderful job as did you in all very grateful to the companies who offered these organising and managing the clean

discounts as they are a good reward for all the hard work to - collect the rubbish on the beach. up."

I am also very thankful for the work by the authorities to collect the rubbish from each beach that is carried out by This has Dorset Waste Partnership and the great efforts that have Most of us are aware that the been done to recycle the rubbish on the day. amount of rubbish washed up

certainly reflected in the greater number of bags that have on our beaches is still small been collected for recycling this year. I am very grateful for compared to the amount I hope that you all enjoyed the day. already in the sea and still your help, without which none of this would be performed. being added to. Plastics in our

Jenny Penney oceans is one of the major Senior Coastal Ranger & Coordinator of the Great Dorset Beach problems the world has to Clean - Coastal Ranger Team overcome. Dorset Countryside

Beach Total sacks of Total no of Adults Children Total Feedback sacks plastic bags volunteers bottles for recycled recycling (already included in sack total) Abbotsbury 48 0 20 19 2 21 9 volunteers from Dorset Conservation volunteers collected rubbish for the whole day. On the west side of the beach : Mostly fish hooks and line, fishing net pieces, drinks cans and bottles, some glass and cloth; On the east: Mostly party debris: drinks cans, plastic bottles. Iron from the old radar station also collected, broken chair, polystyrene, bucket, light tube Memories of Roy Smith Thanks to all those who sent in memories and photos

It was so sad to hear about Roy, Malcolm was very fond of him, always admired how hard he would work, although we would worry about Polly getting lost in the mud at places like Brackets. Roy always had something interesting to say in his quiet way and Malcolm appreciated his knowledge and experience . Jane Woodcock

In DCV we welcome all ages and abilities. Roy was already well into retirement when he joined us and was always a willing worker. As his physical capability declined he was still willing to come out and do the little he could. We enjoyed his company and his gentle ways; a true gentleman. Viv

During recent years, on days that I was leading, Roy would always tell me that as he took a bit longer to get to site and his work had slowed a little he would work longer than some others, and he did. He tended to take shorter tea and lunch breaks than most others, and was typically one of the last to leave at the end of the day, so that he got what he considered to be a respectable amount of work done. And he certainly achieved that aim. We can all hope that in our later years we will be as active and with such an enthusiasm for life as Roy. Gareth More memories of Roy Smith

I only knew Roy as an old man He always worked quietly and At one time Roy was a stalwart but remember how he always tirelessly, often seen slowly of the DCV especially in the worked away, steadily and pulling large bundles of West of Dorset. He would always quietly and had to be forced to branches to the fire wrapped turn up with a dog, firstly his stop for lunch and tea breaks! I in a rope. Sitting talking to him large black poodle, Lisa, then was always in awe of how much on one of those occasions, he lately Polly 1 and Polly 2. I stamina he had for. I loved to told me it reminded him of a remember one time he came hear his stories about the sea favourite Walt Disney without his beloved Polly 1 and as birds he had rescued and nursed character of his, who tumbled we were working he told us the back to health for release into down a hill with a bundle (or sad story of how it was attacked the wild again. Once, when he log) shouting ‘ wheeeeee! ‘ and killed by a much larger dog found out I was interested in which he sang out loud, on the beach. Roy was upset but World War II, he carefully laughing. I saw a side of him I he still carried on working. explained his role using radar hadn’t seen before, a young Having not seen him on western signals for navigation which was animated Roy. I saw him tasks for some time he fascinating. around after he reappeared this time he told us Tess stopped attending tasks. On his wife had died, again he was one occasion, the young Roy upset but felt better for telling having a night out with his us about it. Sometimes Roy was Reliable Roy - He often turned grandson and his friends going quiet and got on with his work. up, usually accompanied by his into the Indian restaurant. Not His usual phrase was “tell me dog, originally a large, black bad for an 80+ year old! where the work’s needed”. Other poodle, then later, a much Ann times he was chatty telling us smaller dog called Polly. Once about his walks with Polly and given the instructions on what to what birds he had seen. Having do, he would work steadily all My memory of Roy sees him known Roy for a long time I know day, or possibly longer if allowed. working steadfastly away all remarkably little about him. He We usually had to almost day on tasks in the west of was just always there. forcibly get him to stop for Dorset, reluctantly stopping Don lunch & tea breaks. It was for breaks only after being important that the leader told called several times, him when to stop, I do half accompanied by his little dog Roy toiled away, steadily and suspect that if we left him who I was always afraid would productively, all day on our behind, he might still be there come to grief. He was a kind tasks, in the manner of men of working the next time we visited and gentle man, a man of few his stamp. Many years ago we the site! words but when regaling a repaired a bridge across a Peter story, his face would light up stream in Brackett’s Coppice, showing another Roy. He had a filling gabion baskets. Roy spent passionate and sincere all day fetching bucket loads of I remember Roy well and worked enjoyment of the natural world small stones, scavenged from the in the group with him for many and loved coming out with DCV stream bed, a bucket in each years on a number of tasks from - how glad we are that he hand. Towards the end it was 2003 , until he was unable to get could share that with us. suggested that his arms had got to tasks anymore. A favourite much longer during the day, photo is of him sitting for lunch Val bringing forth a warm and at Swyre with the piglets lengthy chuckle as he paused in gathering around him and a smile mid-stream. on his face. John Roy’s friend Irma was at the Sheepwash task last quarter and told us that Roy was not well and was currently living with his son in Sussex. We thought we would write to him on behalf of all his friends in the DCV, wishing him all the best. A few days later we received a phone call from his grand daughter telling us that Roy had died at the end of June but had been very pleased to receive our letter, He had written a reply which she kindly posted to us.

Extracts from Roy Smith’s letter

I must try to write a few words to thank you for your lovely letter – I find it hard to say how much I appreciated it.

I’m afraid some drastic things have befallen me since the happy days when I was able to help out at tasks and I will cut the cackle as short as possible.

In February last year while walking with my bike at the Crown roundabout, I was knocked down by a car – there was no explanation and the police were fully sympathetic but could take no action due to lack of witnesses. I was patched up at Dorchester hospital and released into the care of my son Mark and his wife Francene (Frances?), a qualified nurse, who didn’t want me to be alone in a big house. They lived at Bognor . . . . it was decided to put our pennies into a fund to buy a bungalow together. They often say how much they like it here which is a relief to me, as I was worried the move had been for my benefit.

. . . the bungalow has an annexe and a workroom, but I’ve hardly been able to use the latter...... I’ve had a good innings and wonderful times to look back on and how can I begin to thank Fran and Sam (granddaughter) for the way they’ve looked after me.

I’ll wish you all God speed with your busy lives and lots of interesting tasks – I’ll be with you in spirit.

Roy Smith

Locals go wild about

Following months of campaigning by Dorset Wildlife Trust (DWT), worried locals and over 10,500 letters sent to the Secretary of State, the development of a large solar station on the SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest) in , has been halted by the Department of Communities and Local Government. There will now be a public enquiry.

Rampisham Down is a 72 hectare (178 acre) site set in the heart of the Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and provides habitat for rare groupings of plants and fungi, including waxcaps, harebell and orchids. It is also one of the largest areas of lowland acid grassland left in the UK, and was designated a SSSI in March 2014.

In January 2015, West Dorset District Council voted to approve an application to build a 24- megawatt solar station on Rampisham Down. This decision was made against the advice of the Government wildlife body, Natural England.

DWT’s Chief Executive, Dr Simon Cripps said: “We are delighted that this decision has been called in. Together with the help of concerned partners like RSPB and CPRE, and members of the public, we have raised serious concerns that undermining the designation of a SSSI is not only harmful for Rampisham Down but also sets a worrying precedent for the protection of similar sites. In the case of Rampisham, there is an alternative site which could be used, and which we support fully. The rare habitat on this site has already been designated a priority site by ecologists and the Government. It is now in our view the Government’s responsibility to ensure this protection continues.” Advanced Dry Stone Walling Techniques

Much of the dry stone walling DCV large stone can be used either Taper the wall as you build making does is what we may call “rustic”. dug into the ground or used on sure each new course is slightly Walls built in a hurry using no new the side less seen or used as a further in than the last. Any pinning stone and often in keeping with step up so two building stones of stones to make more stable nearby walls. Built in a hurry would be used to come up to should be done from the back so because we only have a limited height. these don’t fall out when the wall time booked in, maybe one or two When building use larger stones settles. days and no chance for a return. at the bottom and smaller at the Through stones are a good idea if Sometimes we rob other walls to top. The larger stones can bear you have any and start putting make good the one we are more weight. Use the best them in from about halfway up the working on as many stones break looking stone on the most seen wall. These add stability and over time. side and put as much length into spread the weight over the wall It may be a good idea for the wall as possible, this and not just in one spot. Through volunteers to talk to the task prevents the stone rolling out stones are usually in short supply leader or lead waller so we are all when put under pressure from or non existent in Dorset. The next doing the same thing and also so above. best thing is three quarter stone. we don’t unwittingly introduce Hearting stone should not be These can be used either side by faults into the wall. building stone but a mixture of side and interlocking if there is Here are a few tips to increase our larger and smaller irregular room to build on the opposite side skill level. shapes to help bind the wall as it or on top of each other from both Laying out the stone when taking settles. Take time to place it sides. the wall down. Make piles of thoroughly, don’t just tip it in. The Coping or cap smaller stones and fill buckets or idea is to ensure building stones stones go on top bags with hearting stone to fill the are fixed in place and do not of the wall, they inside. Very large base or wobble or shift. Ensure all nooks are not just a foundation stones can be left next and crannies are filled with pretty sight but to the wall. Keep all other stone a hearting and all building stones provide weight safe distance away, allow yourself supported. Use larger pieces for and stability to room to work. Be safe. the majority of the space and keep the wall Foundations can use large or then pack with smaller stones. intact. Use heavy stones that span oversize stones Build the wall in layers by the wall or interlock smaller ones. that would not choosing a depth of stone for be suitable for that course and keep the course Clearing up the work site at the walling with. level. Using a line pinned at end of the project makes the site Try to interlock either end of the wall can make it tidy and safer for walkers and the stones and easier to keep the courses level. stock the farmer may have in the have good Stand back to get a good look at field. Left over stone should either building the wall to see if any stone is go to the next area to be repaired surfaces sloping and that it looks similar to or stacked neatly in a pile so the showing. Extra the existing walls. landowner can take it away.

Remembering Liz Agate

Some of our more ancient members might remember Liz Agate from the early 1980s. She came out on some summer tasks mainly to do with erosion control and step building. She was under contract with BTCV (British Trust for Conservation Volunteers} to write the iconic handbook on footpaths, now used by most organisations working in the countryside. She wanted to study different techniques and also to practise them too. I remember her working with DCV at Badbury rings in August 1982 and meeting her again on Mt Snowdon the same month when I helped on building a new path on the Pyg track. Her first book for BTCV was the Footpaths book (1983) and many others followed with revisions of other handbooks. Liz on a DCV task helping with Recently we met again at Tyneham, she had created the flower garden at erosion control at Badbury Rings. Tyneham Farm as she knew the project manager Lynda. She died March 2015 Don Simcock CLEAN BOOT POLICY

Help protect our native Crayfish Our native Crayfish - the White Clawed Crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes) - are under threat. The creature is very susceptible to a virulent fungal disease - crayfish plague that can kill them. This disease is carried by the non native North American Signal Crayfish ( Pacifastacus leniusculus) which is present in our rivers and streams.

Don’t be the one to spread water-borne disease, or invasive aquatic species! We can inadvertently carry this disease on our wellington boots and waders. The fungal spores can remain viable for 6-22 days without a host under wet or damp conditions.

What can we do? We have been asked by the DWT to follow the Check Clean Dry procedure. We need to make every effort to ensure this disease is not carried from one stream to another. NB: This is a practice we should be following for all pond and stream related tasks so that we don't inadvertently cause cross contamination.

Please ensure your

boots and waders are cleaned, disinfected and dry before entering any river or stream

1 & 2 August Bere Stream, Milborne St Andrew, Mid Dorset Balsam pulling 15 & 16 August Tyneham, Purbeck Pond digging 22 & 23 August Upton Wood, Upton border Clearing ditches & stream 13 September East Stoke Fen, near Wool Cutting birch

Seasonal tips on staying safe

Protect your eyes: • use sunglasses to protect against glare and sun • use goggles when using a mattock or pick on stony ground • when cutting back scrub or brambles, keep your head as far back as possible

Protect your skin against the sun: • sun cream or block is a must in spring through to autumn - it’s all too easy not to notice getting burnt when working • wear a hat to protect your face and neck • wear a shirt with long sleeves and collar

Dehydration: • drink more water - little and often is best • keep a bottle of water near to where you are working • work steadily and don’t over exert yourself

Attacks: • wear insect repellent when necessary • carry your own antihistamine (either as a cream or pills) if allergic to bites wash skin if you come into contact with any plant sap to prevent blotching A letter from the past

Peter Westgate handed me the attached letter some time ago and I had almost forgotten it. From memory of my chat with Peter I think it is this letter that alerted Peter to the special value of the valley at West Milton and led to the purchase of the land by the Leggett Trust, land which has now passed to the Dorset Wildlife Trust as a new reserve. And because of this letter DCV has enjoyed many tasks in the valley over the years, plus lots of farmhouse tea and cakes. As we have a task here in October I thought it might be good to reproduce the letter for the newsletter with a short introductory sentence.

A letter from the Sunday Times In May 1989 a Sunday Times correspondent wrote to a friend in Dorset describing a secret valley he had walked through in the west of the county. The valley had enchanted him with its remote and timeless qualities, its richness of wildlife. That friend was Peter Westgate who had connections with a charitable trust. The Leggett Trust acquired the land, securing protection of its special character and wildlife, and its management by a local farming family. For many years since DCV has helped the Leggett Trust and farm in managing the land - cutting back scrub, hedgelaying, clearing along an ancient holloway, and at the end of a task enjoying tea and cake back at the farmhouse. The Leggett Trust recently passed the land to the Dorset Wildlife Trust as a new reserve. We return to the valley at West Milton this October. The letter that started this fortuitous chain of events was recently given to DCV. It is reproduced below. Doug Kite

BRIAN JACKMAN is an award- winning journalist and author with a lifelong passion for travel and wildlife. For 20 years he worked for The Sunday Times, during which time he was voted Travel Writer of the Year in 1982. In that same year he also won the Wildscreen ’82 award for the best commentary script, Osprey, at the first International Wildlife and Television Festival in Bristol. In 2008 he was voted runner-up Travel Writer of the Year.

Today he still writes for The Sunday Times, but his work also appears in The Daily Telegraph, BBC Wildlife Magazine, Travel Africa, Country Living and Conde Nast Traveller, where he is a contributing editor. Although his travels have taken him around the world, he is best known as Britain’s foremost writer on African wildlife safaris, and has spent more than two years in total under canvas in the bush.

Brian is also a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, a member of The British Guild of Travel Writers, a trustee of the George Adamson Wildlife Preservation Trust and a patron of Tusk Trust. He is married, with one daughter and two grandchildren, and lives in Dorset. Some memories of Elizabeth Rostant

A few months ago DCV started a Elizabeth was an enthusiastic I first met Elizabeth at Loscombe on a project at Upwey church. We were volunteer who made a strong hedgelaying task and I was asked to impression on all that she met and teach her some of my skills. The day working in the churchyard worked alongside. She will not be went well, we did some clearing out repairing and stabilising two holes forgotten by those in DCV who she and layed a few pleachers. As always in the boundary drystone wall. One volunteered alongside. Anonymous. with first timers and billhooks it isn’t of our volunteers was chatting to easy to deliver the right amount of the client and must have We have recently learned that force to the right area, but Elizabeth mentioned one of our members Elizabeth died last year. In her time soon picked this up and began to lay Elizabeth who lived in Upwey but with DCV she showed a lot of pleachers on her own. hadn’t been seen by DCV for enthusiasm for tasks in which she I didn’t see much of her that Winter but some time. They were shown her participated. It was very clear that she the next year she had changed. She had an extensive knowledge of botany was more chatty and out going, but grave, she had died the year that she was keen to share with those also seemed distracted and unable to before, in 2014. Here are a few around her. Helen Gorman concentrate on the job in hand. As a memories volunteers have sent in. task leader I found it more difficult to When it became known that the slight direct her and she would often end up I encountered Elizabeth mainly mound, with a fading bunch of flowers by doing her own thing (not unusual through the BTCV (as it was then) on it, which we were walking across in amongst volunteers). I remember one midweek group, when she would Upwey churchyard contained the task I was leading, we were cutting occasionally arrive at any time of the remains of Elizabeth, we were moved scrub and she began almost working day, do her own thing on the to give pause, ... This was immediately to question why we were site...This however, was just the accompanied on my part with a tinge doing it and then countless other outward appearance of a much more of remorse in that she is the only questions some of which were complex character … All in all not a volunteer at whom I have sworn. impossible to answer. After a few happy soul when we knew her, but John Marsh years she came out less with DCV and one that we should, perhaps, have Elizabeth’s enthusiasm and then stopped coming completely. We tried to understand a little more. She knowledge led her on a quest to find now know why. A troubled soul now at continued to be a regular attendee at out more about the habitats we rest. the church in Upwey in spite of worked on and our method of working. Donald Simcock everything, and I am told that the She came out on many tasks and I church was packed for her funeral. hope she found enjoyment and John Marshall fulfilment on these days. May she rest in peace now. Val

How much water do we need to use ?

I was astonished recently when reading a water company magazine (as one does ) to learn that in 1900 the average Briton used 10 litres of water per day and in 2000 we used an average of 100 litres a day. Some estimates are as high as 150 litres a day. This is rising by 1% every year. If we add in the amount industry, food production and processing uses on our behalf as consumers it goes to over a staggering 3400 litres per person a day. This hidden side is called virtual water, as we don’t see it being used but we use the end product. How have we achieved this? Setting aside the virtual water, we probably use more in washing, cleaning our teeth and cooking and considerably more where technology has come into our lives. Washing machines, dish washers, car washes, power washes, the humble hose we use to water our garden and wash our cars all increase the amount of water we use without thinking about it. Some of us remember the great drought of 1976 when no rain fell for what seemed months. The result was a hosepipe ban and car washes shut. We have had some wet summers since then but even wet summers and wet winters don’t seem to be replenishing the water table and reservoirs as fast as we use the stuff. As most of us do not pay for water through a meter we are unaware of just how much we are using and as we can only have an effect on the 150 litres it seems an impossible task for us to reduce water consumption. We can save water if we change our habits and I mean repetitive habits, the things we do every day. So start small and change today. ASSOCIATION ORCHIS - DCV EXCHANGE Photo page

More praise for our DORSET COUNTRYSIDE VOLUNTEERS hard work - always nice to receive and pass on ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Thank you and the DCV Saturday 12th September 2015 team for a great day at Tyneham (Sunday 21st June) 6.30 p.m. yesterday. Didn’t it all look splendid at the Village Hall end of all that effort? It is always nice when you can Speaker: get instant results from a day’s Richard Edmonds, Jurassic Coast Project hard toil. I am particularly pleased with the clearance and Please bring food and drink to share new sign at the entrance to the farm –what a difference! Best wishes and thanks to all (Tyneham Farm Put the date in your diary now and come along to Lynda Price enjoy this annual reunion. Project Manager) ASSOCIATION ORCHIS - DCV EXCHANGE

On Friday 15th May members of very enjoyable dinner with a leaves Poole at 8.30 on Friday Association Orchis, the French choice of desserts. The evening morning and we will return on conservation group with whom was given an additional interest Sunday leaving Cherbourg at we are twinned arrived in Poole by Viv providing information and 18.30 and arriving back in Poole for their annual visit. models celebrating the at 21.45. anniversary of Magna Carta. Saturday saw us cutting and If you would like to join us on this burning rhododendron at Avon As the tables were cleared and exchange please advise me in Heath South Park. This was crockery/cutlery washed a game order that I can ensure a site close to and of garden Jenga was started. accommodation etc is arranged. ideal for most of the DCV Over an hour later with everyone Your ticket should be members who support these taking part and cheers booked through Nikki at Brittany exchanges. It was also large sometimes as blocks were Ferries whose contact details are enough for members to be able withdrawn and an atmosphere included in the contacts page of to spread out and cut large which could be cut the pile of this Newsletter. Remember to branches without danger of wooden blocks finally fell. mention the DCV's twinning causing injury to other members connection to secure our as branches came crashing On Sunday we visited various discount. Brittany Ferries have down. sites in the New Forest including confirmed that they would only the Knightwood Oak, the Deer charge £23 return per person We had some excitement at Park and the Reptile Centre. travelling Friday and returning various stages of the day with This was all followed by a picnic Sunday on the dates mentioned. crashing branches, a large fire at the Anderwood Inclosure. Bookings should be made affecting neighbouring houses Unfortunately it was then directly with Nikki. and setting fire to a standing necessary to take our guests to tree! the ferry port at Portsmouth and These are always very enjoyable say farewell until the next time. weekends and if anyone would Chris with help from some of the like further information please ladies again produced a lovely It was agreed the return don't hesitate to contact me. The picnic. In the evening we exchange to St Vaast in only cost is the cost of the ferry adjourned to the village hall at Normandy would be on the ticket. Wimborne St Giles where the weekend commencing Friday Terry Gillott ladies led by Helen produced a 25th September. The ferry

DCV SOCIALS

The Orchis weekend went well, everyone seemed to enjoy the Saturday evening meal, the session ended with one of the longest Jenga sessions ever!!

The evening walk, Corfe Castle to Scotland farm went well with 6 volunteers attending and a sunny warm evening. The picnic and later the pub were also very enjoyable.The AGM will be held on Saturday 12th September at West Stafford VH. Following the business of the evening there will be a meal followed by a talk. Please bring a dish and bottle to share. The visit to France with Orchis will take place the weekend of 25th September, please join us it is always such an enjoyable experience. D C V DIARY 2015

Date Task Site Client Work 1 & 2 August Milborne St Andrew Dorset Wildlife Trust Balsam pulling Nr Bere Regis 9 August Hambledon Hill National Trust Scrub cutting Sunday North Dorset

15 & 16 August Tyneham MOD / Tyneham Farm Pond clearing + BBQ Purbeck Project Saturday evening - contact Richard 22 & 23 August Upton Wood Poole Borough Council Clearing ditches and Poole Purbeck border stream 30 August Swyre Drystone walling Private Sunday West Dorset 5 & 6 September Fontmell Down National Trust Scrub cutting North Dorset 12 September DCV AGM West Stafford VH Business, guest speaker, Saturday Bring food to share + a drink To start 6:30 pm food & socialising 13 September East Stoke Fen Dorset Wildlife Trust Cutting birch Sunday Near Wool 19 & 20 Townsend Dorset Wildlife Trust Scrub cutting September Purbeck 26 & 27 Fishpond Bottom National Trust Willow cutting September West Dorset 1 October Planning Meeting At Viv’s - 7:45 pm Thursday 4 October Tyneham MOD / Tyneham Farm Various Sunday Purbeck Project 10 & 11 October Compton Down National Trust Scrub cutting North Dorset 17 & 18 October West Milton Dorset Wildlife Trust Scrub cutting West Dorset 24 & 25 October Kingcombe Meadows Dorset Wildlife Trust Scrub cutting Clocks go back Sunday West Dorset DCV mobile: 07929 961532 (task hours)

Keep a note of the DCV mobile phone number - a task may have to be cancelled last minute, or finish early, e.g. adverse weather conditions. If coming out later in the day, phone to check the task is still running. D C V TASK PROGRAMME : August - October 2015

1 & 2 August: Milborne St Andrew, North Dorset Possibly , Kingcombe, West Dorset on Sunday Milborne St Andrew OS 194 This weekend we return to the banks of the Bere Stream to again do battle with Himalayan balsam. This introduced plant has colonised wetlands across the country, becoming a nuisance in the conservation of our natural habitats. It’s only an annual but incredible numbers of seedlings can appear each spring. And they grow fast, by mid-summer easily overtopping the native To Blandford plants and suppressing them with dense shade. Fortunately they are easily pulled up – though the really big ones can put up stiff resistance - and once removed that’s a whole lot less seeds to start another generation of plants next year. We shall be doing a sweep down the riverside below the village removing those that escaped attention in earlier tasks. To Dorchester NB: If we clear all the balsam on Saturday (unlikely) we shall return to the River Hooke on Sunday to continue the balsam pulling there. Check with Peter or Richard or on the web site /email before setting out. At Milborne we park on the south edge of the village between Manor House and Dairy House. In the village look out for DCV arrows. Bring wellies for Park at Dairy, splashing about in the water, or boots for wet ground. And as balsam often Manor Farm grows among nettles or sharp leaved plants it’s best to bring some clothes to SY 804 972 protect your legs and arms. Gloves can be provided on the day if you don’t have any. * Clean boot policy

Sunday 9 August: Hambledon Hill, North Dorset Hambledon Hill OS 194 Summer trips to this National Nature Reserve were a regular part of our task programme. At that time it was managed by Natural England. Now most of the reserve has passed into the ownership of the National Trust and they have invited us back. The management remains the same and the need at this time of year is dealing with ‘baby scrubs’. Despite nibbling by sheep and cattle, hawthorn and other spiny scrubs readily grow in the tussocky grassland. Left alone these baby scrubs would soon develop into thickets, pushing out the abundance of wild flowers, butterflies and other insect life. Mechanical cutting across steep and rough slopes is not practical. So hand cutting is still needed. We shall be encouraging the scrubs to vacate a steep slope with loppers and perhaps a bowsaw for those that provide more robust resistance. Their remains we stack on a big net to be rolled, with much fun, down the hill to a waiting fire site. This tends to be a leisurely task with lots of time to chat and admire the hill top views over the Park in field behind cottages beyond lay-by surrounding countryside. toward village approx NB: At this site ticks can be nuisance on some occasions. Long, light SY 836 124 coloured trousers tucked into socks of walking boots (you’ll need these for the steep slopes) are best in seeing them and keeping any from ones legs. Remember to bring a hat and sunscreen if the weather is sunny. Parking is now available in a field behind the cottages just beyond the lay-by towards Child Okeford. Look out for DCV arrows.

15 & 16 August: Tyneham, Purbeck This weekend continues a theme of late summer tasks involving Tyneham OS 194 & 195 wetness and mud - in ponds, in ditches and in fen. Just how wet and muddy depends on your sense of adventure. Staying dry is available but that would miss the fun. On this occasion the wetness and mud are provided by Tyneham village pond. The village and surrounding land was requisitioned by the wartime government in 1943 for training use by British forces. Peace came but the army stayed. The village is now a time capsule, a glimpse into everyday rural life before the changes brought by the second half of the 20th century. A few years ago the pond had almost completed filled with silt brought in by a small stream. We have been digging out sections of the pond year by year to give the pond wildlife time to recover. There is more to do. We shall be digging out another section into buckets and wheelbarrows for those with the muscles to cart it off for disposal in nearby scrub. If we have time and plenty of willing volunteers we shall also tackle silt that is choking the stream behind the old barn at the Tyneham Farm end of the site. NB: Park in the visitors car park (SY 882 802) at the end of the lane – you will pass the pond on the way in. We hope to have waders available to use but bring your wellies, and wear suitable old clothes for the mud, great fun and entertaining the tourists too! And if it’s sunny, don’t forget the sun cream. * Clean boot policy D C V TASK PROGRAMME : August - October 2015

22 & 23 August: Upton Wood, Purbeck-Poole border Our theme of wet and muddy tasks continues at this area of urban Upton Wood OS 195 greenspace on the edge of Poole. Despite its location, bounded by the Upton by-pass and the residential edge of Upton, this site has a good mosaic of wildlife habitats ranging from mature woodland to relic heath and even a heathland mire. For local people the site provides an escape from the built environment, a readily accessible place for everyday contact with the natural world. Flowing through the site are some streams and ditches. Provided conditions are suitable we shall be exploring this watery world clearing out unwanted debris. Mostly this will be leaf litter, branches and overhanging bramble and scrub. Although as we have found on past tasks other items are also possible, including whole and various bike parts. There may be other tasks requiring our attention on the mire, another wet place but usually only damp underfoot at this time of year. Here our attention is likely to be on cutting out bramble and other scrub growing among the Molinia tussocks. NB: Bring wellies if you have them for splashing about in the streams. * Clean boot policy Bus No 8 & 9 & 128 runs from Poole to Upton

Sunday 30 August: Swyre, West Dorset Swyre OS 194 For the bank holiday we are returning for a day in the tranquil valley that lies behind the village. Here we have been restoring drystone walls that surround and divide the fields. Even on the busiest of days the sounds of sheep, free roaming turkeys and hens, and swallows overhead are all that is likely to disturb the peace and quiet. The task will focus on a tall boundary wall which has partly collapsed. We started restoring this wall earlier in the summer but progress is slow as each stone coarse needs to be fixed with lime mortar to provide extra strength. The work space is also rather tight. So we may also tackle a section of collapsing, ivy covered wall near-by which we can rebuild in the more traditional way without mortar. There will be lots of jobs, from collecting and sorting stone to mixing and applying mortar. And for those less sure of their stone walling skills there will be more experienced DCV wallers on hand to provide help and guidance. Park in village near to NB: Park in Swyre village centre near the telephone box (SY 528 church. Task site through 883) just off the main road and look out for the distinctive DCV signs farm entrance on West to the task site. side of village Bus No X53 runs from Weymouth and Poole

5 & 6 September: Fontmell Down, North Dorset This is the first of two tasks this autumn that take us to the high Fontmell Down OS 183 scarp of the Wessex Downs in the north of the county. Here the chalkland drops abruptly to the Blackmore Vale along a north curving arc dissected by deep dry valleys and rising to the high promontory To of Melbury Hill. The incredibly steep slopes defied attempts at agricultural improvement and they have retained some of the finest chalk grasslands in Dorset. They are grazed by cattle and also Lay-by sheep to keep the grass sward in suitable condition for chalkland ST 888 185 plants and butterflies. But thorn scrub also grows and tends to be avoided by the livestock. Small patches provide shelter for insects NT car park and cover for downland birds but in abundance they can soon grow ST 886 187 into thickets and replace the grassland. So a balance is needed. We shall be scouring across one of the steeper slopes with loppers and bowsaws in hand to cut out a mix of ‘baby scrubs’ and larger patches invading the grassland. Then there will be the challenge of getting the cut brash to a bonfire if conditions are suitable. Our stove, perched on whatever level ground we can find, will provide hot mugs of tea and coffee, to be enjoyed with an eclectic selection of biscuits while admiring the countryside views beyond. NB: Meet at the NT car park; we may move on from here to another part of the reserve, so look out for the DCV sign board with directions. Bring stout shoes for tramping over the steep ground. D C V TASK PROGRAMME : August - October 2015

Sunday 13 September: East Stoke Fen, Purbeck As the name suggests this site is wet and, from experience at past East Stoke Fen OS 194 tasks, has the muddiest, stickiest ground ever encountered. The site lies in the floodplain of the River Frome, on a low-lying area where water collects from groundwater seepage and inflowing streams. Parts are almost permanently flooded. Here a history of To Wool vegetation change has been traced back thousands of years from analysis of plant remains in the peat. Around the edges the ground is less wet and this allows willows to establish and grow. But a dense invasion of birch is unwanted, shading out more valued fen vegetation. We shall be cutting back this birch and either burning or stacking them on higher ground. Those inclined to go into the mud can burn up all the excess calories from the food at the previous evening’s AGM. The rest of us might stay on firmer ground and watch! * Clean boot policy. NB: Do remember our AGM at a local village hall on Saturday evening. There will be lots of food and a guest speaker – see Park on lane elsewhere in newsletter for details. On Sunday bring wellies if you SY 862 863 have them, otherwise stout waterproof boots should be fine on the And walk to site drier ground.

Townsend OS 195 19 & 20 September: Townsend, Purbeck This nature reserve is situated high on the limestone ridge above . The grassland is valuable for its wildflowers, including a Dorset speciality the early spider orchid. Over the years, despite nibbling by grazing livestock, thorny scrub has steady encroached and squeezed the grassland into narrow rides and openings. A big effort is taking place to push the scrub back into thickets within a grassland setting. We shall be continuing from our tasks last autumn and winter, cutting scrub along a wide front with surviving grassland. The task last September coincided with heavily cropping blackberries and even damsons in places. Hopefully we shall find the same this time and can enjoy an autumn harvest along with lots of friendly banter and our teas and coffees freshly brewed on the remains of the cut scrub. Come for all or part of the Park on Panorama road. Look for DCV white day and catch up on the chat. board. DCV tools trailer NB: Park on Panorama Road near the bottom of the hill as we will be by reserve shall probably use the bottom reserve entrance nearby. entrance Bus No 50 runs from Bournemouth to Swanage. Bus No 40 runs from Poole to Swanage.

26 & 27 September: Fishpond Bottom, West Dorset This task takes us to the far west of the county, to the slopes below Lambert’s Castle. Here there are wonderful views across Fishpond Bottom OS 193 a patchwork of small grassland fields to the sea at Charmouth. Despite the lofty elevation many of the fields contain wetland areas. This is caused by groundwater seeping out of the ground and draining downhill. These seepages support a vegetation Park at Chapel rich in wetland plants among the more familiar grasses. The SY 367 983 fields are grazed but willow can readily establish in the wet soil. Left unchecked it grows to form a ribbon of scrub along a seepage, replacing the diversity of wild flowers. We shall be tacking one such area of willow scrub in our usual ruthless way with bowsaws, loppers and bonfire. And over our breaks enjoying willow brewed teas and coffees and views down the valley and to Coney’s Castle (where we have a task in the winter). NB: There is parking near the little church (SY 367983) on the lower road heading west from the Fishpond Bottom junction. Look out for DCV arrows. Bring wellies for the wettest ground but waterproof boots should be fine with careful footwork. D C V TASK PROGRAMME : August - October 2015

Sunday 4 October: Tyneham, Purbeck Our return visit to this site is timed to complete the year’s management around the old farmhouse buildings before the onset of more inclement weather over the winter. The meadow areas will have their final cut of any unwanted tall vegetation, opening up the sward for the growth of spring flowers. The cuttings will go to a very large compost heap. Depending on priorities, the stream may need some attention where constricted by summer growth, and there may be some coppicing and bramble removal in the shrub areas. So there are likely to be a range of jobs to suit all tastes. There will also be time to see the results of our pond clearance in August, with hopefully clear water allowing observation into the underwater world. At this site we have the luxury of picnic tables at which to enjoy our breaks and lunch, served with hot drinks from our trusty stoves. And if the weather is wet there is shelter in the old barn. NB: Park at the far end of the visitors car park (SY 882 802) at the end of the lane – the old farm lies beyond over the bridge and up valley to left. See Tyneham map 15 & 16 August for directions.

10 & 11 October: Compton Down, North Dorset This weekend we return to the high downland in the north of the county. Here the chalk downs drop dramatically to the Blackmore Vale far below. The chalkland in this area escaped the widespread arable conversion of land in the 20th century. It is still a landscape of rolling open grassland, rich in wildflowers, butterflies and other insect life. Traditional grazing practice with sheep and sometimes cattle maintains this character, but grazing alone is insufficient to keep the open grassland. Thorny scrub can naturally establish. Left alone it would grow into dense thickets and eventually develop to woodland. So it is cut, keeping some as shelter for insect life and birds. Our task for the weekend is to open up an area of grassland, cutting out the unwanted scrub. On this occasion we shall be visiting a new task site on the northern part of the downs. The views are spectacular, to be enjoyed with our bonfire brewed teas and coffees, biscuits and plenty of chat. NB: Meet at NT car park and follow DCV sign and arrows to Compton Down. Bring stout shoes for tramping over the steep ground. See Fontmell map 5 & 6 September for directions.

17 & 18 October: West Milton, West Dorset It’s been a few years since we last visited this task site deep within West Milton OS 194 a valley descending from the . At this time of year there are wonderful colours as the woods, trees and fields take on autumn tints, and berries hang in abundance in the hedgerows. And on the hillsides lengthening shadows pick out the contours, animal tracks and old cultivation terraces. The land was acquired by a private trust to protect its special qualities (see article in newsletter) and was recently bequeathed to the Dorset Wildlife Park & park at Trust as a new reserve. While the ownership has changed it farm continues to be managed by the same farming family that we have SY 505 963 known for many years. On this occasion, as in the past, we shall be clearing back thickets of scrub. This will maintain a balance between the species rich grassland and a scatter of growing scrub providing cover and shelter for birds and insect life. There was mention of farmhouse teas when booking the task and we are often treated to homemade cake at the end of the day. No promises, but just the scenery makes this task well worth the journey. NB: The route from the farmhouse up into the valley can be very muddy after wet weather. Waterproof boots should be fine with care, and our task site is on dry, sloping ground.

24 & 25 October: Kingcombe Meadows, West Dorset Kingcombe OS 194 This nature reserve is a fantastic reminder of a countryside rich in biodiversity and which is now almost lost to the intensification of agriculture during the late 20th century. The fields are small, uneven, and wet seepages drain down the land. And the plantlife in the fields varies with the soils and wetness, and comprises many species. One of the most striking features is the network of tall, thick hedges bounding the fields and defining green lanes - old trackways leading through the land. There are nearly 200 hedges in total. They contain many fine oaks and curious old ‘mocks’ of ash – their gnarled and twisted trunks covered with lichen, moss and ferns. In places the hedges merge into small copses and thickets of scrub. For generations there would have been a low tech battle between those farming the land and the scrub. The former hacking it back and the latter re-growing year on year. The battle was never won, always creating scrub and grassland at various stages, ideal for a diversity Park at Pound of wildlife. Today that battle continues on this reserve and in the old fashion cottage way. We have been asked to cut back an area of mixed scrub. This we will SY 554 989 use to feed a healthy bonfire to keep us

warm and provide our speciality brews of Clocks go back tea and coffee. And at this time of year the one hour Sunday autumn colours in the hedges and woods should be quite a sight. 25th October. NB: Meet at Pound Cottage. Enjoy the lie-in.