West Dorset Living Aug

YOUR FREE COPY

AUG/SEP 2026

dorset

THE LATE

SUMMER TABLE

A CELEBRATION OF SEASONAL

PRODUCE, SIMPLY PREPARED

living

PUZZLE

PAGE

Tea break

teasers to

entertain

IT’S SHOW

TIME

THE MELPLASH

SHOW RETURNS

SMART AUTUMN

HOME UPGRADES

THE CHANGES TO CONSIDER NOW TO

WINTER-PROOF YOUR HOME

FOOD & DRINK • EVENTS • LIFESTYLE • INTERVIEWS • TRAVEL

18 14

A JACK

C O N T E N T S

INTERIOR SUMMER UPDATES LOOKS

Editor Katie Thomson

e katie@minervapublications.co.uk

Assistant Editor Kate Norris

Publisher Sally Thomson

Pre Press Manager Rebecca Rose

Contributors

Angela Cave, Louise Thomson,

Pete Lawrence

TASTE STEIN OF THE INTERVIEW SEASON & RECIPE

22 10

FOR ADVERTISING

Account Manager Laura Rodney

e laura@minervapublications.co.uk

t 01225 984501

Front Cover courtesy of Melplash Agricultural

Show

18 04

HOME COMPETITIONS

RENOVATIONS

27

PLANTS GARDENING FOR TIPS

POLLINATORS23

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The opinions expressed within are not

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A NOTE

NOTE

from the editor

from the editor

This edition arrives as summer

begins to soften into early autumn

— a time for making the most of

warm

I had

days,

my

enjoying

first

local

English

events

and

strawberry

gently turning

this week,

our thoughts

and my

to word, the season it was ahead. beyond Inside, delicious you’ll

find - perfectly ideas for late-summer sweet, it was days a

out, very food good and advert drink inspiration, for eating

home seasonally. updates, I’ve garden tried to advice echo

and this features in all my to help recent you fruit ease and into

September vegetable feeling purchases, inspired. and it’s

had a transformative effect on

Before my cooking that, however, - everything we want just to

pay

tastes

tribute

better

to someone

- more

who

vibrant,

has

been a much-valued part of our

needing less seasoning and

magazines for almost a decade.

just overall very tasty.

We were deeply saddened to

hear I’m of making the death the of our most garden of

expert, cooking Matthew whilst I Biggs still have VMH, a

who kitchen passed - mine away is in due May to at the be

age ripped of 65. out For in two many weeks readers, and

Matthew’s it will be camping gardening stove column and

was

air frying

a familiar

for two months

and trusted

from

feature, offering practical advice,

there! I’ve already picked my

seasonal wisdom and an

infectious

kitchen,

enthusiasm

but it got me

for

thinking

plants.

about all the other areas that

Best need known updating for his in appearances

my home. If

on you are Gardeners’ thinking of a Question similar

Time, refresh, Matthew please check combined out our

vast home horticultural pages this knowledge edition -

with they’re warmth full of and inspiring humour. trends A

professional and a few timeless gardener classics. for more

than 25 years, he studied at

Pershore College of Agriculture

and

We’ve

the Royal

also got

Botanic

some

Gardens,

lovely

Kew, editorial before on going the best on to plants write

many for pollinators books and - become it’s never one

of been Britain’s so important most to respected support

gardening wildlife in voices. the garden.

Recently The competition awarded the guide Victoria this

Medal issue is of a bumper Honour, one one - we of

horticulture’s

have an outdoor

highest accolades,

furniture

Matthew was also admired for his

set from Bramblecrest worth

determination during his battle

with nearly bowel £3,000, cancer, plus a cordless including

his lawnmower work helping worth to £679 create to get a

therapeutic that garden garden in shape. at Mount This,

Vernon plus a Hospital. lot more makes it well

worth a look and an enter!

We are enormously grateful

for We Matthew’s will be back contribution again to in

this August magazine. - I’ll be fully His rebooted columns

encouraged readers to embrace

and recharged into summer

the seasons and appreciate the

natural

mode.

world.

See you

He

then!

will be greatly

missed, and our thoughts are

with his family, friends Katie and the

many gardeners he inspired.

Katie

www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 3

Weymouth Pavillion

Thursday 10 September, 7.30pm

FROM DARKNESS

to light

Vaughan Williams

Five Variants of Dives

and Lazarus

Mendelssohn

Violin Concerto

Massenet

Meditation from Thaïs

Bizet

Symphony in C

Michal Oren

Conductor

Tamsin Waley-Cohen

Violin

weymouthpavilion.com 01305 783225

4 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk

With over 35 years’ experience,

at Dream Cottages we are proud

to take care of some of Dorset’s

most beautiful, characterful and

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To book your holiday, or to find

out more about our property

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website or get in touch today.

01305 789000 dream-cottages.co.uk


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I A O A A F T Z B L X Q P S L

J R R L D L M P K A G W X X L

U D N G Q Z Q H W I B F M N O

C A H A M B U R G E R S F E U

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SUDOKU

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★ ★ ★ ★ ★ THE TIMES

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ THE TELEGRAPH

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ THE INDEPENDENT

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ BBC MUSIC MAGAZINE

“Pure Pleasure” THE GUARDIAN

Armonico’s

GREAT BIKE CHALLENGE

CHARITY CONCERT!

Following a day of conquering the enormous hills of Devon and Dorset,

racing from school workshops to care home concerts (with a few pub busking

stops along the way), some of the world-class singers and instrumentalists of

Armonico Consort will perform highlights from the GREATEST ORATORIO

OF ALL TIME…Handel’s Messiah, alongside the iconic Zadok the Priest.

Every performance will also help raise vital funds to establish children’s

choirs and dementia choirs across the region, bringing the transformative

power of music to people of all ages.

SUPERSIZE

Tickets are just £14.50 each

POLYPHONY

Venetian Blinders!

8 Sept, 6pm - St Peter’s Church,

Budleigh Salterton

9 Sept, 6pm - St Michael the

Archangel Church, Lyme Regis

11 Sept, 6pm - The Minster Church

of St Cuthburga, Wimborne Minster

3

1

OCTOBER, 7pm -

LIGHTHOUSE, POOLE

2 OCTOBER, 7pm -

EXETER CATHEDRAL

Supersize Polyphony 3 UK Cathedrals tour has been generously

sponsored by Jamie and Alison Justham

ARMONICO CONSORT 25TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT

For those who have loved the cinema sound effects of our polychoral

performances from Spem in Alium in 40 parts surrounding the audience, to

the effervescent drama of the Francesco Scarlatti 16 part works, this is all

of that, plus more. We will be working with special guest choirs around the

UK in celebration of our momentous milestone.

Carols by

CANDLELIGHT

Carols by Candlelight has become a firm tradition of Armonico Consort’s festive

programme over the past 25 years. What better way to enjoy the warmth and

joy of the Christmas season than in the sublime candlelit setting for a feast of

carols, combining traditional favourites and newly discovered works.

Due to popular demand and with this selling out year after year, we have now

added more dates this December around the UK. Be sure to secure your tickets

to avoid disappointment and join us for the most anticipated concert of the year!

Don’t miss out on the chance to purchase Armonico Consort’s recent carols

recording ‘Noel’ which will be available this Christmas.

On sale from August 2026

16 DECEMBER, 7.30pm -

ST PETER’S, PARKSTONE,

POOLE

TICKETS: www.armonico.org.uk

Registered charity no 1103159

Introducing Andy Day's

Roarsome New Series!

Andy Day – who is loved by children as one of the

best-known stars of preschool television, including

the hugely popular ‘Andy’s Adventures’ and ‘Andy

and the Band’ – brings his signature humour and

energy to this dino-tastic new young fiction series!

Deep in a land where mountains rumble and volcanoes

roar…Where deserts and oceans are alive with excitement…

Dinosaurs gather for the most thrilling sport in history, to

watch the…

DINO RACERS!

It’s race day at Rumble Ridge, and the Dino Racers are getting

ready to put their totally roarsome race cars through their paces.

Join Trexy, Bumper, Stretch, Flappa and Zoomer as they compete

in the Jungle and Lava Cups, and navigate not just the track but

tricky teammates too. Who will get stuck in the mud – and who

will speed their way to glory?

DINO BOY SAVES THE ZOO

Dylan is a pretty ordinary kid. Except for one thing: when he

sneezes, he turns into a dinosaur!

He’s one of a kind. Or is he . . .?

When Dylan goes on a school trip to the zoo, his dinosneezes

make him the main attraction - until he hears a

BUUUUURRRRRPPP and a ROOOAAAARRR that changes

everything. Will Dylan be able to prove he’s the best dino

kid ever?

With over 30 different dinosaurs to discover in this story, this is

a brilliantly funny, heartwarming adventure that shows us how

extraROARdinary true friendship can be.

“I have had so much fun writing Dino Dad and Dylan the Dino

Boy, and I could not be more excited to be sharing my brand-new

series, Dino Racers! I’m so lucky to have a career in children’s TV

that’s lasted since 2007 and is still going! Now I feel even luckier

to have been welcomed so warmly into the wonderful world of

children’s books – and connecting with so many readers over the

past two years.

When thinking about what I wanted to write next, I looked back

on the moments I fell in love with books – and the times I’ve seen

my own little ones fall in love with books, too. I wanted to write

a story that helps younger readers find this spark – a book that

children who might be more easily distracted (or be tempted to

choose a video game) would really love, and would want to keep

reading! Dino Racers was my answer!

Find Andy’s Dino Dad and Dino Racer books on

www.penguin.co.uk

MELPLASH SHOW

THURSDAY 27 th AUGUST

Celebrating Farming & rural life by the sea!

Buy Early Bird tickets and save!

Adult Advance Ticket £23.50 (on the day £26 card only)

FREE admission for

Children aged 16 years & under

Advance ticket savings

available now online

For more information visit

www.melplashshow.co.uk


Becky Embroidered

Waistcoat, £52 and

Rhea Cutout Maxi

Skirt, £59, both

FatFace

Waistcoat,

£36, M&S

BUTTER

YELLOW

A soft but confident dose of colour -

offering a warmer, sunnier alternative

to classic neutrals for the season

ahead. From pale buttercream and

whipped vanilla tones to richer,

custard-like yellows, the palette feels

fresh, optimistic and surprisingly

easy to style across fashion,

interiors and everyday accessories.

1860 Vanilla Tile,

bakedtiles.co.uk

Katie Dress, £69,

hauslife.co.uk

Trendsetters

OUR FAVOURITE LIFESTYLE FASHIONS & FINDS

‘Crème

Brûlée’ Paint,

Graham &

Brown

Leather Mary

Janes, £80,

Oliver Bonas

Ceramic Egg

Holder, £14.95,

hauslife.co.uk

Yellow Shirred Blouse

£35, Laura Ashley Fatface

Satin Trousers,

£28, M&S

Canvas Print, £39.95,

desenio.com

Scalloped Blouse,

£58, Oliver Bonas


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Book a test drive or scan the code to find out more.

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Wimborne, BH21 7ED

01202 897688

info@porschebournemouth.co.uk

www.porschebournemouth.co.uk

HOW TO GET THE MOST FROM

A SCHOOL OPEN DAY

As the new school year approaches, Emily Roberts from the

Independent Schools Council shares her tips for making the

most of school open days...

Every parent wants to give their child

the best start in life, and this naturally

includes choosing a school that best

suits their child’s needs. For many this

can be a daunting task, and it can be

hard to know where to start.

An independent education remains a

popular choice for families, with lots

of different schools to choose from

including day and boarding, single-sex

and co-educational, and schools with

specialisms such as in the arts or sport.

Open days give families the opportunity

to see first-hand whether a particular

school is the right fit. Some schools also

run virtual open days, making it possible

for families to explore what a school has

to offer from the comfort of their own

home.

There are many different aspects to

consider when attending an open day,

so to help ease the process, here are

some top tips for parents considering an

independent school for their child:

Narrow down your choices

If you live in an area with a number of

good schools nearby, create a shortlist

and take time to plan your school

visits. The ‘Find a School’ tool on the

ISC website is particularly useful, as it

enables you to refine your search by

distance, residency type, age range, fee

assistance options and more! If you are

considering a school which is further

afield, it’s worth making a day of it so you

and your child can get a feel for the area.

Think about the school’s specialism

or focus

All independent schools are different,

offering unique specialisms and

strengths. Ask yourself what type of

school would best suit your child – are

they sporty, academic or creative? If

you have an academic child you might

like to consider a selective school,

whereas if your child is very creative,

you might prefer a school with excellent

arts provision and facilities. The most

important thing is to speak to your child

about what type of school they can

imagine themselves in.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions

Teachers expect parents to be inquisitive

and are well prepared to answer

questions, so ask teachers everything you

want to know; it’s always best to speak

up if you have any queries or concerns!

Important areas that you might ask about

include class sizes, the subjects on offer,

methods of assessment, extracurricular

activities and pastoral support.

It would also be worthwhile learning more

about how the school communicates with

parents; it’s important that you feel wellinformed

and able to discuss any matters

pertaining to your child’s progress or

wellbeing. If you are considering a

boarding school for your child, take the

opportunity to find out more about the

on-site accommodation, flexi-boarding

options and what activities take place

over the weekends.

Chat to pupils as well as staff and ask

them about their experiences at the

school. Much can be learned from

observing their behaviour – do they seem

happy, confident and at ease in their

environment, are they engaged with their

lessons and wider activities?

Make a follow-up appointment

An open day allows you to build an

impression of what type of school is on

offer. So, if you are happy with what you

see, book a follow-up appointment with

the school. This will enable you to speak

more personally with the headteacher or

registrar and provide another opportunity

to ask any further questions or raise

concerns you might have.

The independent sector is diverse, with a

huge array of schools and approaches to

education on offer. Make the most of your

open days, and use the experience to

guide you as you choose the right school

for your child.


CONTACT

US HERE

Where Potential is Discovered

and Futures Are Shaped

OPEN DAY: SATURDAY 19 SEPTEMBER

Continuous Education from Reception to Year 13

A Community Where Every Child Belongs

Inclusive Excellence That Inspires Children to Believe

Opportunities That Empower Children to Become

01747 812122 | clayesmore.com | Iwerne Minster, Blandford Forum, DT11 8LL

The Late-Summer

TABLE

Make the most of the delicious overlap between summer

and autumn with three colourful seasonal recipes

ROASTED PEACH,

TOMATO AND

BURRATA SALAD

Serves 4 as a starter or light lunch

Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 15 mins

Roasting the fruit briefly intensifies

its sweetness, while creamy

burrata, fragrant basil and toasted

almonds make this simple salad feel

wonderfully indulgent.

INGREDIENTS

4 ripe peaches or nectarines,

stoned and cut into wedges

400g mixed cherry tomatoes, larger

ones halved

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp runny honey

2 x 150g balls of burrata

A handful of fresh basil leaves

30g flaked almonds

1 tbsp balsamic vinegar or glaze

1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Salt and freshly ground black

pepper

METHOD

Preheat the oven to 220°C/200°C

fan/gas mark 7. Arrange the peach

wedges and tomatoes on a large

baking tray, drizzle with the olive oil

and honey, season, and toss gently.

Roast for 12–15 minutes, until the

peaches are lightly caramelised and

the tomatoes have softened but still

hold their shape.

Meanwhile, toast the almonds in

a dry frying pan for two or three

minutes until golden.

Leave the fruit to cool for five

minutes, then spoon onto a serving

platter with the tray juices. Tear

over the burrata and scatter with

the basil and almonds. Finish with

balsamic vinegar or glaze, extra

virgin olive oil and black pepper,

and serve slightly warm.

LEMON AND

HERB CHICKEN

TRAYBAKE

with Courgettes and Feta

Serves 4–6

Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 55 mins

Crisp-skinned chicken, golden

potatoes and tender courgettes

roast together in a lemony herb

dressing. Crumbled feta added

towards the end brings a fresh,

salty finish.

INGREDIENTS

750g baby new potatoes, halved if

large

2 courgettes, cut into thick rounds

2 unwaxed lemons

4 garlic cloves, finely chopped

3 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp dried oregano

1 tsp dried thyme, or several fresh

thyme sprigs

6 large skin-on, bone-in chicken

thighs

150ml chicken stock

150g feta

A small handful of fresh thyme

leaves

Sea salt and freshly ground black

pepper

METHOD


fan/gas mark 6½. Place the

potatoes in a large roasting tin.


Dorset Shellfish are a Weymouth fishing family who

catch all of their own crab, lobster and line caught fish

in the waters around Portland. They cook, prepare and

sell their produce which is made into dressed crabs,

dressed lobsters, pates, crab cakes and more.

Find them at Sherborne, Shaftesbury and Poundbury

Farmers Markets and also their premises on Portland,

open Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 10-1.

Check out their social media or website for opening hours.

Find them at Canford Cliffs Village Hall

every Thursday 8.30-1pm

ONLINE SHOP IS NOW OPEN!

07881632311 | lfi @dorsetshellfish

www.dorset-shellfish.co.uk


Finely grate the zest of one lemon

over them, then add the garlic, two

tablespoons of olive oil, oregano,

thyme and plenty of seasoning.

Toss everything together.

Arrange the chicken thighs among

the potatoes, skin-side up. Rub the

remaining olive oil over the chicken

and season well.

Cut the zested lemon into wedges

and tuck these around the chicken.

Pour the stock into the base of the

tin, avoiding the chicken skin so

that it can become crisp.

Roast for 30 minutes.Remove

the tin from the oven and add

the courgette rounds. Turn them

through the cooking juices without

disturbing the chicken too much.

Return to the oven for another 20

minutes, until the potatoes are

tender and the chicken is golden

and completely cooked through.

Crumble the feta over the tray and

add a few slices or wedges of the

remaining lemon. Roast for a final

five minutes.

Scatter with fresh thyme and spoon

the lemony pan juices over the

potatoes and courgettes before

serving.

BLACKBERRY

AND APPLE

GALETTE

Serves 6–8

Prep: 25 mins, plus chilling | Cook:

40–45 mins

This free-form tart is much

easier than a traditional pie but

looks beautifully impressive.

Apples provide structure while

blackberries collapse into a glossy,

jewel-coloured filling.

INGREDIENTS

For the pastry

250g plain flour

40g caster sugar

A pinch of fine salt

150g cold unsalted butter, cut into

cubes

1 egg yolk

2–4 tbsp ice-cold water

For the filling

3 medium eating apples

200g blackberries

60g light brown or caster sugar

1½ tbsp cornflour

Finely grated zest of ½ lemon

1 tbsp lemon juice

½ tsp ground cinnamon

1 tsp vanilla extract

To finish

1 egg, beaten

1 tbsp demerara sugar

Crème fraîche, softly whipped

cream or vanilla ice cream, to serve

METHOD

Place the flour, sugar and salt in a

bowl. Rub in the cold butter until

the mixture resembles coarse

breadcrumbs, then add the egg

yolk and two tablespoons of icecold

water. Mix with a knife, adding

a little more water if needed, until

the dough comes together. Shape

into a disc, wrap and chill for 30

minutes.


fan/gas mark 6 and heat a large flat

baking sheet inside.

Core and thinly slice the apples,

then toss with the blackberries,

sugar, cornflour, lemon zest and

juice, cinnamon and vanilla. The

cornflour will thicken the juices and

help keep the pastry crisp.

Roll the pastry between two sheets

of baking paper into a rough 34cm

circle. Remove the top sheet and

arrange the fruit in the centre,

leaving a 5cm border. Leave behind

any excess liquid in the bowl.

Fold the pastry edges over the

fruit, pleating as you go. Brush

with beaten egg and sprinkle with

demerara sugar.

Transfer the galette, on its baking

paper, to the hot tray and bake for

40–45 minutes, until deeply golden

and bubbling.

Leave to rest for 15 minutes so the

filling can settle, then serve warm

or at room temperature with crème

fraîche, cream or vanilla ice cream.


TUNE IN

FOR...

Great Music

News

Travel

Weather and

Information for Your

Local Area...

PLUS What’s On in

Dorset


THE SMART AUTUMN

HOME UPGRADE

As summer gives way to autumn,

the way we use our homes changes

almost overnight. Garden doors

are closed a little earlier, evenings

are spent indoors again, and small

frustrations we ignored through

warmer months suddenly become

harder to miss: the draught by the

back door, tired kitchen flooring, a

chilly bathroom, a gloomy hallway,

or a garden room that is too cold to

use once temperatures drop.

Autumn is a natural time to reassess

the home. It sits neatly between the

ease of summer and the demands

of winter, offering a useful window

to plan improvements that make

day-to-day life warmer, smarter and

more comfortable. Whether you

are planning to stay put or thinking

about a future move, well-chosen

upgrades can make a home more

enjoyable now while supporting its

long-term appeal.

The smartest autumn improvements

are not always the biggest or most

expensive. Often, they are the ones

that solve everyday problems:

better glazing, warmer floors,

improved lighting, more storage,

efficient heating, or a kitchen that

works properly for family life.

START WITH

WARMTH AND

COMFORT

Before choosing colours, finishes

or statement pieces, it is worth

thinking about the basics: heat,

light, insulation and flow. A beautiful

room will never feel truly inviting if it

is draughty, poorly lit or expensive

to keep warm.

Windows and doors are a good

place to begin. Older glazing can

allow heat to escape, making rooms

harder to warm and bills more

difficult to manage. Modern double

or triple glazing, composite doors,

aluminium systems and well-fitted

bi-folds or sliding doors can all

help improve comfort, security and

appearance. For period homes,

specialist companies can often

advise on sympathetic options

DESIGN TIP

Think about where an upgrade

will have the biggest daily impact.

Kitchens, bathrooms, living rooms,

hallways and bedrooms usually

work hardest in autumn and

winter. Prioritise improvements

that make these spaces warmer,

brighter or more practical.

that improve performance without

compromising character.

Heating is another area where a

thoughtful upgrade can transform

everyday living. Underfloor

heating, efficient radiators, smart

thermostats and improved boiler

or heat pump systems can all

help create a more consistent

temperature. Bathrooms, kitchens

and open-plan living spaces

particularly benefit from properly

planned heating, as these are

often the rooms used most during

autumn and winter.


We have moved!

A local family run company

with 30 years experience

We are specialists in the following areas:

• All colours of UPVC doors

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• Aluminium sliding and

• bi-fold doors and

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• Blinds inside glass

• Sky pod roofs

Windows | Conservatories | Doors

Roman Hill Business Park, Unit G1,

Broadmayne DT2 8LY

Tel: 01305 759020

Email: info@clarkeswindows.com

clarkeswindows.com

DESIGN TIP

Heating and lighting should be part

of the design from the beginning.

Underfloor heating, radiator

positions, sockets, dimmers, task

lighting and exterior lighting all

need early planning.

It is also worth considering the

less visible improvements. Loft

insulation, draught-proofing,

secondary glazing, roof repairs

and better ventilation may not offer

the instant visual impact of a new

kitchen, but they can make a major

difference to how a home feels and

performs.

KITCHENS THAT

WORK HARDER

The kitchen often comes back into

focus in autumn. After a summer of

lighter meals and outdoor eating,

cooler weather brings slow cooking,

baking, Sunday lunches, school

routines and Christmas planning. It

is the room where practical design

really matters.

A full redesign can be one

of the most rewarding home

improvements, but smaller

Olive & Barr

changes can also have strong

impact. Replacing tired worktops,

updating cupboard fronts, installing

better lighting or rethinking storage

can make the space feel refreshed

without starting from scratch.

For those planning a complete

project, autumn is a good time to

speak to local kitchen designers,

particularly if you hope to have

work completed ahead of spring

entertaining next year.

The best kitchens balance form

and function. Deep drawers,

pantry cupboards, boiling water

taps, integrated recycling, durable

flooring and layered lighting all help

a kitchen cope with real family life.

Natural materials, warm neutrals,

soft greens, rich woods and aged

brass finishes remain popular

choices for creating a space that

feels both current and timeless.

BATHROOMS

AS EVERYDAY

RETREATS

Bathrooms have moved far beyond

the purely practical. As routines

become busier in autumn, a welldesigned

bathroom can offer a

Lindi Wall Light, £125, lightsandlamps.com

small but meaningful sense of

calm at the beginning and

end of the day.

For some homeowners, the

priority is comfort: better heating,

improved ventilation, non-slip

flooring or a more powerful

shower. For others, it may be

about creating a spa-like feel

with natural stone, brushed brass

fittings, soft lighting, large-format

tiles or a freestanding bath. Even

cloakrooms and en-suites can feel

special with careful design, mirrors,

wall lights or bespoke storage.

Autumn is also a useful time to

tackle bathroom issues because

condensation and poor ventilation

become more noticeable as

windows stay closed. Extractor

fans, heated mirrors and good

airflow should be considered as

carefully as tiles and taps.

FLOORING,

LIGHTING AND

FINISHING

TOUCHES

Few upgrades alter the mood of a

room as quickly as flooring. It affects

warmth, acoustics, maintenance and

style, and is especially noticeable in

autumn when people spend more

time indoors.

Carpet remains popular for

bedrooms, staircases and sitting

rooms, adding softness and warmth

underfoot. In hallways, kitchens

and boot rooms, practicality

often comes first. Engineered

wood, luxury vinyl tiles, porcelain,

stone and laminate can all offer

hardwearing surfaces that cope

with muddy shoes, pets and

everyday traffic. If you are replacing

flooring, it may also be worth

considering underfloor heating,

particularly in kitchens, bathrooms

and extensions.

Lighting is equally important. As

evenings draw in, poor lighting

can make rooms feel flat, cold or

impractical. The most successful

schemes use layers: ceiling lights

for general illumination, wall lights

and lamps for atmosphere, and

task lighting for cooking, reading or


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working. Exterior lighting

can also improve safety

and security as darker

evenings return.

FLEXIBLE

SPACE FOR

MODERN

LIVING

Braywick

Pendant, £180,

darlighting.co.uk

One of the lasting

shifts in home design

has been the demand

for flexible space. Garden

rooms, studios, insulated

outbuildings and converted

garages can provide

valuable extra room without

the disruption of a major

extension.

In autumn, the quality of

a garden room becomes

especially important. A

summerhouse that works in

July may not be comfortable

in November unless it has

proper insulation, heating,

lighting and ventilation. If

the space is intended as

a home office, gym, guest

room, creative studio or

teenage den, it needs to

cater for year-round use.

Storage is another practical

upgrade worth considering.

Coats, boots, school bags,

sports kit and umbrellas

all need somewhere to

go. Built-in cabinetry, boot

rooms, utility spaces,

under-stairs storage and

fitted wardrobes can make a

home feel calmer and more

spacious while making daily

routines easier.

ADD VALUE

BY SOLVING

REAL

PROBLEMS

It is tempting to think of

home improvements purely

in terms of resale value,

but the most worthwhile

upgrades usually begin with

real-life problems. A cold

room, dated bathroom,

cramped kitchen, leaking

roof, dark entrance or

DESIGN

TIP

Not every upgrade

adds the same value

to every home. Before

committing to a

major project, speak

to experienced local

specialists, from glazing

companies and kitchen

designers to flooring

experts, electricians

and heating engineers.

underused garden can all

affect how much you enjoy

your home.

Estate agents often point

to kitchens, bathrooms,

energy efficiency, kerb

appeal and flexible living

space as areas that

influence buyer perception.

However, quality matters.

Poorly finished work,

cheap materials or badly

planned layouts can do

more harm than good.

Investing in skilled local

trades, proper design and

durable materials is often

more cost-effective in the

long run than choosing the

quickest fix.

Autumn is a season of

preparation, but it is also a

season of possibility. With

the right improvements, a

home can become warmer,

brighter, more efficient and

more enjoyable through the

months ahead.

Cascada Lily White Oak Extra Matt Hardwood Floor, quick-step.co.uk

Nkuku


Notes from the garden...

WATERING WOES AND

BOUNTIFUL BEES

By Angela Cave

It’s that time of the year and our gardens are

still growing and producing for us - but they

are thirsty and have worked hard! Watering

is key now and conserving water equally

so. The best time to water is in the evening

so that the roots have the coolest part of

the day to absorb the moisture and it is less

likely to evaporate.

I am sure we are now very aware of not

wasting water. I keep a bucket in my kitchen

so when I have washed vegetables I put the

water in the bucket for use later. Likewise

my dehumidifier - I have an old house - is

very generous too!

Bird baths, water for bees and insects

to drink, they all need attention and my

blackbird loves a cool evening splash about.

Not in the birdbath for some reason but in a

small poultry feeder I keep filled with water

for insects - fussy blackbird!

I have several water butts too and any rain

to replenish them is a treasured joy.

The cooler weather has brought out the

bees and butterflies again too. We can

all keep a lookout for tired bees and bee

organisations recommend carrying a little

sugar water vial in case we come across

one. 70% of bees live in the ground so

do be aware when digging - bees need

all the help they can get. There are some

great books and posters available to teach

children about bees too, so important to

ensure we care for one of our most precious

garden visitors. The British Bee Charity, The

Bumblebee Conservation Trust and The

British Beekeeper’s Association have great

advice on bees, plants to attract bees and

bee information too - check them out.

The summer has seen us all out in our

gardens more and now is a good time to

consider how we have used it. What bits

work, what bits don’t work and what we

would like to enjoy next year….

That is one of the joys of gardening - there

is always something new to plan.

‘It was the bumble bee and the

butterfly who survived, not the

dinosaur’ – Meridel Le Sueur

Angela trained at Lackham College before

spending a year at the Sir Harold Hillier

Gardens in Romsey. While at Lackham,

she won the RHS Student Award and

later became a member of the Guild of

Horticultural Trade Show Judges, judging

at prestigious events including the Royal

Bath & West Show, the Shrewsbury Flower

Show, and the Royal Cornwall Show.

Although no longer actively involved in

horticulture, her garden is bursting with

plants, and she spends her days off

tending to it while constantly resisting the

temptation to buy “just one more plant!”

Celebrating

26

YEARS


Award

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A lifestyle tailored to you

Residents’ quality of life is at the heart of everything we do,

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Trusted to care

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To find out more please call 01929 768204 or visit www.dormycare.co.uk

.

PINE MARTIN GRANGE

PLANNING WELL

FOR LATER LIFE

Thinking about later life can feel daunting,

particularly when decisions are being

made in response to illness, bereavement

or a sudden change in circumstances.

But planning early can make the years

ahead feel calmer, more secure and more

enjoyable — whether you are considering

your own future or helping an older parent

or relative explore their options.

From choosing where to live to

understanding care, finances and legal

matters, the most useful approach is to take

things one step at a time...

START WITH THE LIFESTYLE, NOT THE

LABEL

One of the biggest decisions in later life is where to live, but it

helps to begin with a simple question: what sort of day-to-day

life would feel good?

For some, staying in a much-loved home is the priority, perhaps

with adaptations, extra support or regular help. For others,

the idea of moving somewhere easier to manage — with less

maintenance, better accessibility and a ready-made community

— can be a positive step rather than a last resort.

Retirement communities vary hugely. Some offer independent

living with private apartments or houses, shared facilities and

social activities. Others provide additional support on site, which

can be reassuring if care needs change over time. When visiting,

look beyond the brochure: ask about service charges, future

care provision, transport links, guest accommodation, meal

options, pets, parking and what happens if needs increase.

UNDERSTANDING CARE OPTIONS

Care is not one-size-fits-all. Support might begin with a few

hours of help at home each week, such as assistance with

meals, medication, washing, dressing or companionship.

Live-in care may suit those who want to remain at home but

need more consistent support. Residential care homes provide

accommodation, meals and personal care, while nursing homes

offer support for people with more complex medical needs.

It is worth arranging a care needs assessment through the local

authority, even if you expect to pay privately. This can help

clarify what level of support is appropriate. Families should also

be realistic about what they can manage themselves. Wanting

to help is natural, but caring can be physically and emotionally

demanding, and outside support can protect relationships as

well as wellbeing.

LEGAL PLANNING: DO IT EARLY

Some of the most important later-life planning should happen

while everyone is well. A will should be up to date and reflect

current wishes. Lasting Powers of Attorney are also vital,

allowing trusted people to make decisions about finances,

property, health and welfare if someone loses capacity in the

future.

Without these documents, families may face delays and stress

at exactly the wrong time. It is sensible to take proper legal

advice, especially where property, blended families, business

interests or inheritance tax may be involved.

MONEY, PROPERTY AND PRACTICALITIES

Later-life financial planning is about clarity. That may include

pension income, savings, investments, property value, care

costs and entitlement to benefits or allowances. A regulated

financial adviser can help families understand what is affordable

now and what might be needed later.

Downsizing can release money and reduce daily strain, but it is

also emotional. Give yourself time to sort possessions gradually,

rather than waiting until a move becomes urgent. Start with

practical categories — paperwork, furniture, clothes, kitchen

items — and involve family where appropriate. The aim is not to

erase a life, but to make the next chapter easier.

KEEP THE CONVERSATION OPEN

The best planning is rarely a single decision. Circumstances

change, and so do people’s wishes. Gentle, regular

conversations are often better than one big family meeting. Ask

what matters most: staying local, keeping a garden, being near

grandchildren, maintaining independence, feeling safe, or having

company close by.

Handled well, later-life planning is not about loss of control. It

is about preserving choice, dignity and peace of mind — so

that when decisions do need to be made, they are guided by

thoughtfulness rather than panic.


Selwood House

Care Home

Residential, Dementia, Respite Care

Our luxury care home in Charlton

Down is led by kindness,

compassion and dignity. We

offer the highest standards of

Residential, Dementia and Respite

care with our state-of-the-art

facilities. Our highly trained care

teams deliver the kind of care we

would want all our loved ones

to receive.

Enquire today

Oxhey Lane, Carpenders Park,

Near Watford, Hertfordshire, WD19 5RJ

01305 01923 982510 084 404

Chestnut Road, Charlton Down,

Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 9FN

www.countrycourtcare.com

or email

claire.masterson@countrycourtcare.

Suffering with knee pain?

Solution now available at The Winterbourne Hospital

• Over 20 years of research and development. 9

PROVEN RESULTS

even 5 years post-treatment. 2 have been made for human use. 9

• Safe and effective 6,8 for its intended use, • Around 1,200,000 syringes of 2.5% iPAAG

Are you struggling with knee osteoarthritis?

There’s a groundbreaking, non-surgical

treatment now available at The

Winterbourne Hospital that is redefining

treatment for patients living with knee pain.

Revolutionary Treatment for Knee

Osteoarthritis

Knee osteoarthritis is the most common form of

arthritis, affecting millions of people worldwide.

While joint replacement surgery is effective, it

is also a major invasive procedure with a lengthy

recovery period. But now, there’s an alternative.

Introducing Arthrosamid ®

Arthrosamid ® is a non-biodegradable injectable

polyacrylamide hydrogel (2.5% iPAAG) implant

consisting of 2.5% crosslinked polyacrylamide

and 97.5% water. It is administered via a simple,

one-step procedure performed under local

anaesthesia by a qualified physician, such as

an orthopaedic surgeon or rheumatologist 1

— ensuring you’re in and out of the clinic the

same day. Arthrosamid ® is proven to maintain

a significant, long-lasting reduction in knee OA

pain 2,3 — even five years post treatment. 2

How does Arthrosamid ® work?

Arthrosamid ® is the first and only permanent

injectable implant that integrates with the

knee’s synovial tissue, 4 forming a scaffold that

softens and increases tissue elasticity. This leads

to decreased joint stiffness, reduced pain, and

improved knee function. 5,6,7

What our experts say:

Arthrosamid®

represents

an important

advancement in joint

care. It focuses on

delivering long-lasting

pain relief while

supporting improved mobility, which is key

for patients living with knee osteoarthritis.

Arthrosamid® offers the best of both

worlds - it’s a straightforward outpatient

procedure, with patients able to walk into

and out of the clinic the same day, yet it

has the potential to provide sustained,

longer-term benefits. The latest evidence

suggests that Arthrosamid® continues to

provide meaningful pain relief even up to

five years after injection.

The key, as always, is taking an individual

approach to care, working closely with

each patient to understand their needs

and set clear expectations, including their

chances of achieving significant pain

relief and maintaining an active lifestyle

without the need for surgery.

Arthrosamid® offers huge potential and

is an exciting addition to the treatments

we can provide our patients here at

Winterbourne Hospital.

Iain Findlay,

Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon

Call us or book your consultation online today

www.circlehealthgroup.co.uk/winterbourne 01305 263 252

37225 3887 MKT ADV / 06.2026

ARTHROSAMID ®

JOINT INJECTIONS

Fast access

to tailored treatment

The Winterbourne Hospital prioritises fast access to appointments, diagnostics and

treatment. You can book a consultation to see one of our specialist consultants usually

within 48 hours, without a referral.

• Expert-led care

• Flexible appointment times

• Fast and easy access to MRI and X-ray

• Flexible payment plans

• Your choice of care

• Local Dorchester hospital

References: 1. Arthrosamid®, Instructions For Use. Release Date March 2022. 10082-003. 2. Bliddal, H., et al. (2025) A Prospective

Study of Polyacrylamide Hydrogel Injection for Knee Osteoarthritis: Results From 5 Years After Treatment. Presented at WCO-IOF-ESCEO

2025. 3. Bliddal, H., et al. (2024) 3 year follow-up from a randomized controlled trial of intra-articular polyacrylamide hydrogel injection

in subjects with knee osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis and Cartilage. Vol 32 (6): 770-771. 4. Christensen, L., et al. (2016). Histological

Appearance of the Synovial Membrane after Treatment of Knee Osteoarthritis with Polyacrylamide Gel Injections: A Case Report. Journal

of Arthritis. Vol 5: 217. 5. Bliddal, H., et al. (2021) Polyacrylamide Hydrogel Injection for Knee Osteoarthritis: A 6 Months Prospective

Study. J Orthop Res Ther. Vol 6 (2). 1188. ISSN 2575-8241. 6. Bliddal, H., et al. (2024). Polyacrylamide gel versus hyaluronic acid for

the treatment of knee osteoarthritis: a randomised controlled study. Clin Exp Rheumatol. Vol 42(9):1729-1735. 7. Henriksen, M., et al.

(2018). Intra-articular 2.5% polyacrylamide hydrogel for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis: an observational proof-of-concept cohort

study. Clin Exp Rheumatol. Vol 36(6):1082-85. Epub 2018 Jul 18. PMID: 30148430. 8. Bliddal, H., et al. (2024). Effectiveness and safety of

polyacrylamide hydrogel injection for knee osteoarthritis: results from a 12-month follow up of an open-label study. J Orthop Surg Res. Vol

19: 274. 9. Data on file.

Call us or book your consultation online today

www.circlehealthgroup.co.uk/winterbourne 01305 263 252

Live your life the

way you choose

Promotional Partnership

Live every day your way at Anning House in

Weymouth where you can continue with muchloved

hobbies, try new activities and make new

friends all in a welcoming, safe environment...

From pampering sessions in the hair and beauty salon, movie

marathons in the cinema, to socialising in the café and bar –

enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle tailored to you.

CHOOSE WHAT MAKES YOU HAPPY

At Anning House you can fill your day with activities you enjoy.

From crafting, baking and gardening to laughter-filled days out,

we’ll support you to live life to the full.

For restful moments or quieter days, you can enjoy a natter over

afternoon tea with friends and family in the café or simply enjoy

the sunshine with a good book in our landscaped gardens.

FULFILLING LIVES AND DREAMS

Dreams really can come true with our Wishing Tree initiative,

which all residents can take part in. When you hang your wish on

our tree, we will do our best to make it happen, no matter how

big or small your request is.

HOME-COOKED MEALS TO SAVOUR

Care UK’s award-winning dining experiences focus on providing

choice and accessibility for all. Meals are tailored to suit any

dietary needs you may have, including modified diets if you have

difficulties with swallowing (dysphagia). Rest assured that no

matter your needs, you’ll enjoy high-quality, tempting meals, as

well as sweet and savoury treats.

Dine in restaurant-style surroundings, with the reassurance

that our team is ready to step-in if you need a helping hand at

mealtimes. In-room meals are also available if needed.

TRUSTED TO CARE

At Care UK, we’ve been delivering high quality, person-centred

care for over 40 years. That’s why over 16,000 families across the

country trust us to care for their older loved one.

To find out more about Anning House call 01305 897 695 or visit

our website careuk.com/anning-house

Cross Road, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 9QX

careuk.com/anning-house

Wolfeton Manor

Supported by the Affinity Group

Owing to popular demand within the local community,

Wolfeton Manor is pleased to continue offering a short stay

service, called respite care.

This service is designed to provide anyone needing a short

term break to experience the excellent facilities Wolfeton

Manor has to offer. As well as offering the client a holiday, it

can sometimes help provide the main carer with a much

needed rest.

The home has a friendly relaxed atmosphere and we also

welcome residents that need a longer more permanent stay at

Wolfeton Manor.

“It’s a very pleasant place to be, staff are friendly.

Food and accommodation is excellent” - Resident

To find out how we can help you

please call Wolfeton Manor on: 01305 262340.

Email: admin@wolfetonmanor.com

www.wolfetonmanor.com f

Act Now, Age Better

Regular activity helps

us live well and

age better.

Visit www.ageuk.org.uk/actnow

and get inspired!

Age UK, 7th Floor One America Square, 17 Crosswall, London, EC3N 2LB.

Registered charity number 1128267.

or

Scan the QR code with your

smart phone camera


West Dorset Living Aug - Sep 2026

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