Sutton Poyntz

Well the crows have all gone, thanks to the wonderful array of scarecrows around the village. 

They are gradually being put away for another year, in the hope that they can be recycled! 

Photos have been taken so that you can be reminded what they were like when you come to the Veg Show and cast your vote(s).

 

And talking of the Veg Show, you'll all be busy getting your produce ready for July 29th. 

Of course that includes your showstopper cakes, jams and pickles which are being introduced this year. 

Just to remind you, here is the list of classes for 2023:

 

To be measured:

Beauty contest, to be decided by popular vote:

To be judged by tasting panel (whose identity will be kept secret to avoid bribery and corruption):

And... of course the vote for the best Scarecrow!

 

Since you've managed to read this far, I can also just add a couple of reminders:

- Meeting about Bus Services at Preston Village Hall at 6pm this evening.  (I'm indebted to one reader who asks how to get there without a bus?  In fact Louie can arrange transport if needed...)

- Coffee (and Cake and Chat) Morning on Friday at 1030 as usual.  

- Save the date: Sunday 30th July (the day after the Veg Show) - the Mission Hall Trust Fundraising Committee are holding a Village Picnic - details to follow!

 

J & S

Those of you with a good memory and who have lived here quite a while might remember that there used to be a bus service for Sutton Poyntz.

 

The pandemic gave the First Bus company an excuse to withdraw the service., but despite numerous requests they tell us there is not enough demand to justify reinstating it.

 

Our hard-working councillors continue to press on our behalf to get the bus services improved.  For the next instalment of the debate, we've been asked by Louie O'Leary (Dorset Councillor, Littlemoor & Preston ward) to inform/remind you that there will be a public meeting on Wednesday 5th July about bus provision in the area.  It's at 6pm at Preston Village Hall and a good turnout will demonstrate that there is a demand!

 

J & S

They're about, hiding in long grass waiting for your dog's nose to poke around.

If you think your dog's been bitten get it to the vet asap.

More or less the only local vets who carry the anti-venom are:

Southfield Vets, South Walks, Dorchester DT1 1DU, tel: 01305 262913 (24/7) 

 

Take care out there!

J & S

 

 

More info here.

What are the signs of an adder bite on dogs?

The most common place for an adder to bite a dog is the face or the legs. If your dog is bitten, you will usually notice an immediate swelling. If you look carefully, you may be able to spot two small puncture wounds at the centre of the bite.

The swelling can quickly become severe, especially if the dog has an allergic reaction to the venom, this can result in breathing issues.

Other signs could include:

A small dog may be affected more than a larger dog. The amount that the dog has moved after being bitten will also make a difference, as will the location of the bite. Speed is of the essence.

Just a short note to advise of stuff to put in your diaries.

 

Saturday 1st July - the Mission Hall Fundraising group are holding a Table-top sale.  It opens (to buyers) at 10:30 and runs until 12:30.  (Sorry about previously announcing 10:00 opening)

Friday 7th July - Coffee Morning as usual

 

 

Saturday 29th July - Veg show

 

J & S

 

ps - I'm told that Jackie Greet has a stash of plastic plant trays from your Open Gardens Plant Stall donations.  If you want them back arrange it with her on 01305 833557 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

We knew we had a great Biodiversity team in our village.  Now it's been recognised by no less than the King himself!  Well, to be precise, John Newbould has been awarded the British Empire Medal for voluntary services in Ecological Surveying and Reporting in HM King Charles III's Birthday Honours List!  One of his National Trust volunteer colleagues, Helen, organised it all, but a number of other people were asked to provide testimonials.  In due course the Dorset Lord Lieutenant will present him with the medal.

 

If you haven't already signed-up to receive John's monthly Biodiversity Newsletter then drop him an email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

J & S