Happy Winter Solstice

The winter solstice or hibernal solstice occurs when one of the Earth’s poles has its maximum tilt away from the Sun.  This astronomically marks the beginning of lengthening days and shortening nights 🙂

The solstice is usually celebrated with festivals, spending time with loved ones, feasting, singing, dancing and fires – most of which is disallowed under current Government restrictions.  People were told not to travel to Stonehenge as they would not be allowed access.

There is the conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn to observe which was in an earlier post:

A Christmas Star On The Solstice

And, of course we now look forward to lengthening days and shorter nights.

Happy Solstice.

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Your Pets & Vets at Christmas

Unfortunately, our closest furry, feathered or hairy companions can become ill over Christmas causing great distress to their owners.  If your pet has medication, make sure you have enough as Veterinary practices will be closed over the festive period.  Here is the latest information from 4 local vets for the remainder of 2020.

Christmas Garland

Girling & Bowditch, Tunnel Road, Beaminster: 01308 862312

Closed over Christmas. Don’t forget to order any food and medications you need for your pets before they close.

Monday 21st December: 8:30am – 7pm by appointment
Tuesday 22nd December: 8:30am-7pm by appointment
Wednesday 23rd December: 8:30am – 7pm by appointment
Thursday 24th December: 8:30am – 2pm by appointment
Friday 25th December: CLOSED
Saturday 26th December: CLOSED
Sunday 27th December: CLOSED
Monday 28th December: CLOSED
Tuesday 29th December: 8:30am – 7pm by appointment
Wednesday 30th December: 8:30am – 7pm by appointment
Thursday 31st December: 8:30am – 7pm by appointment
Friday 1st January: CLOSED
Saturday 2nd January: 9am – 12pm by appointment
Sunday 3rd January: CLOSED

They provide 24 hour emergency cover; if you have an emergency please call them on 01308 862312 and a Vet will answer your call.Christmas Garland

Bredy Veterinary Centre, Bridport: 01308 4567771

The latest update on their website from 16/10/20 reads:

During this lockdown, we are still here for you – open 8.30am-5pm Mon-Fri & 9-1 on Sat. We also have an emergency service 24/7. Please ring us if your pet is sick. If you’re not sure if you need to see a vet, please ring us for advice. We are not allowing clients into the building. We do have an outdoor wooden shelter at the back of the practice for clients to use. Please ring us 01308 456771 to make an appointment or order medicines, flea/tick/worm treatments and food. You can also order online on our website.Christmas Garland

Haydon Vets, Gore Cross, Bridport:013088 456808

Closed over Christmas.

Please note that any order placed after 5pm on Wednesday 23rd December will not be delivered to the practice until Tuesday 29th December. If you are aware that your products or medication arrive via special delivery, please allow extra time for these to arrive and do not hesitate to order these now by calling 01308 456808.
Haydon Vets Christmas 20
Christmas Garland

Kingfisher Veterinary Practice, Tower Hill Road, Crewkerne: Tel – 01460 72443

The latest update on their website reads:
Since the Covid 19 outbreak we been operating reduced working hours of 8.30-5pm weekdays, due to the significant increase in staffing required to deliver veterinary services. From August 3rd we are pleased to say that our opening hours will extend to 6pm. Routine consultations will be until 5.30pm. Outside of these hours we will of course be available 24/7 for urgent treatments.
We would ask all of our clients to bear with us during this difficult time, and especially to be patient and civil when attending our surgeries. Delivering our services during this time has been very challenging, and this can sometimes mean slightly longer waiting times.
Drug and food collections continue to be delivered via a no-contact approach. Please remember to phone us at least 24 hours in advance of visiting the surgery to collect these.
Many thanks,
Kingfisher VetsChristmas Garland

#Broadwindsor,#Dorset,#Pets,#ChristmasHours,#Vets,#Animals,#Christmas2020,#SocialDistancing,#BeKind,#BeSafe,#StaySafe

Urgent Temporary Closure of Potwell Farm Road, Mosterton

On Monday 21st December at 9.30am until 3.30pm, all vehicles will be prohibited from proceeding along Potwell Farm Road, Mosterton between Littlewindsor Farm junction and the entrance to Potwell Farm.
This is to enable BT safe access to overhead network cable renewal to restore customers out of service.
The alternative route will be signposted – Mosterton Cross – A3066 – B3164 – Littlewindsor Farm Junction.

Although in force for five days, it is anticipated that the work will be completed by the 21st December.

Any unauthorised Person who uses or permits the use of the road(s) indicated in contravention of the Notice will be liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding £1,000.

For more information on any Roadworks or Closures, please contact:
Dorset Highways Traffic Team01305 221020 or email: trafficteam@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk.
For more information on the Work being undertaken, please contact:
BT01234 773833

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Christmas At Redlands Yard

There’s so much at Redlands Yard, some last minute shopping or simply take time out to relax, spoil yourself and enjoy a coffee or hot chocolate with some delicious cake.  Only one week to go and you still can’t think of what to buy? Many of the retailers at Redlands Yard do Gift Vouchers.  All their Christmas details are below. Have a wander!Christmas GarlandFoxy Cottage at Redlands YardFoxy Cottage. The shop has now developed an identity all on its own and has relaunched as Foxy Cottage with Sarah Williams at the helm. With beautiful gifts, clothing, beauty products, items for the home, soft furnishings and even an amazing deli stocked full of wonderful local supplies – this is definitely the place you’ll find those last minute gifts and gifts that tell your person they are loved.

  • Open Tuesdays – Sundays 10am – 4pm – there’s already 25% off all their Christmas decorations!
  • Christmas Eve, Sarah is open 10 – 2pm with a special offer of 25% off all Christmas products and 50% off all Christmas cards.

The Painted Nail, BroadwindsorThe Painted Nail.  The bespoke nail salon that specialises in everything Nails. At the time of publishing, there is availability with Claire on the 23rd but otherwise they are fully booked prior to Christmas. The girls are working up until 23rd, open for one day on the 30th Dec. then reopening on the 5th Jan. 2021.
The team would like to thank all our clients for their continued support throughout this difficult year. 😘 ” – Toni Rodway

A reminder that The Painted Pooch will be closing in the new year due to Gerri relocating but she too would like to thank all customers for their support.

Earth Design Earth Design. An amazing choice of gifts from around the world, many unique within the UK. You will find quality gold and silver gemstone jewellery, beautiful stone sculptures for the home or garden and natural stone vases with incredible vibrant colours.  With relaxing music and a collection of inspiring books – your visit will be something special. With BBC’s Animal Park back on our screens for Christmas it’s a great time to let you all know we stock a range of Kate Humble toiletries “Humble – spoil yourself not the environment

  • Open everyday till Christmas 10.30am – 4pm.

Thank you to our lovely customers for supporting us this year and we wish you all a very merry Christmas.” – Lisa & Paula.Christmas GarlandThe Wobbly CottageThe Wobbly Cottage. Rich & Dani ‘s speciality is long fermentation Sourdough bread, made using traditional methods over 48hrs and simply incorporating flour, water, salt & their beloved Starter. Their Christmas menu includes a substantial Scotch egg with their own curry mayo @ £2.50 and Mince pies at £1 each. Spiced nuts @ £3/300gm or a whole Spiced Apple cake @ £10 could be the ideal fresh Christmas gift.

  • Open until midday on Christmas Eve and then again Tuesday 29th & Wednesday 30th

 after which they will be taking a well earned break until Tuesday 5th January 2021.
We’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone for their support, kindness and business in what has been a very odd and hard year for everyone. May 2021 bring the change we all hope it will. Merry Christmas!
” – Rich and Dani.

Dimensions Hair StudioDimensions Hair StudioNo appointments available before Christmas as Steph & her team offer their clients the luxury they deserve at an affordable price and giving them an experience that makes them feel and look great. The salon offers all types of treatments, from cutting and colouring, to perming and shampoo and sets.
Merry Christmas to all our wonderful clients. We hope you all have a lovely time and keep safe. We look forward to welcoming you all back in the New Year.” – Steph Frampton.

Upholstery WorkshopThe Upholstery Workshop.  Relocated from the village square, Tony has settled quickly at Redlands Yard and offers you quality fabric and quality service.

  • Open Monday – Friday 10.00am – 5.00pm.

Many Thanks to all my customers for their much valued custom over this difficult year. Wishing everyone a Happy and Healthy Christmas and a much better 2021.” – Tony Simmil.

Christmas Garland

Little Boutique In A BoxLittleBoutiqueInABox. Helen offers customers fashion that is comfortable, relaxed, timeless, and affordable. With a relaxed atmosphere in her spacious shop, you are quickly at ease to browse.

  • Open 11-2.30, Tuesday to Saturday, up to & including Christmas Eve.
  • Reopening 10am 5th January 2021 with a SALE!

    Hello to all my wonderful customers… thank you all so so much for all your support since we opened at Redlands Yard in September. It’s not been an easy time to open a new business but your feedback and encouragement has been amazing and I am so grateful. Thank you all so much and I wish you all a safe and happy festive holiday. See you on the other side! Love Helen x” – Helen Atkins.

Sophia’s Choice. The newest unit in the yard, opening just two weeks ago, Charlie and her team are already Fully Booked for treatments before Christmas but the shop will be open for last minute gifts & pressie ideas:

  • Friday 18th 9.30am – 3.00pm
  • Saturday 19th  10.00am – 2.00pm
  • Next week: Wednesday 23rd 10.00am – 2.00pm
  • Christmas Eve 10.00am – 1.00pm.

I’d like to thank all my loyal customers & clients for their love and support over this past year. And a big thank you to the Broadwindsor community for the warm welcome when I moved up to Redlands Yard. Wishing everyone a peaceful and joyful Christmas.” – Charlie Hughes.

Gallery of Makers. Projecting Christmas loveliness, Clare invites you to “Come and enjoy a focussed array of “gifting goodies

  • Open 7 days a week until Christmas Eve 11am -3pm.

Look out for Galleries Making Space in the new year. Workshops in the Gallery, Sundays and Mondays, undecided at this time whether Tuesday and Thursday evenings will be included.” – Clare Colby.

Christmas GarlandLast and by no means least . . .

Stableyard Restaurant, BroadwindsorThe Stableyard Restaurant. You cannot visit Redlands Yard and not stop by The Stableyard Restaurant for a breakfast, a lazy lunch or a coffee and a slice of some of the best cake in the region. A wonderful sunny spot to enjoy a lunch, the Restaurant serves as the perfect place to escape to when you need to work away from home, meet up with your friends or celebrate a special occasion.
For over 30 years, the restaurant has been the gathering place for locals and visitors alike. All the meals are home-cooked from scratch, using only the best fresh local produce by the marvellous Linda Paget and her team.

Stableyard Christmas TreeOpen every day up to 2pm on Christmas eve.

  • This Saturday, 19th –  they have a Breakfast Offer on: Buy a Big Breakfast and get a Small Breakfast FREE.
  • Sunday Lunch – Puddings are Half Price when you buy a Roast Lunch.
  • Takeaway are available Everyday.
  • Open every day for breakfast, lunches, coffee and lots of cakes.

They are going to stay closed during Christmas and New year and will re open on Tuesday 5th January 2021.
Merry Christmas and a happy new year to all of our customers, friends and family. And thank you so much to everyone that has supported us since August opening. Linda and team. xxx” – Linda Paget.

Christmas GarlandMerry Christmas Everyone!

#Broadwindsor,#WestDorset,#RedlandsYard,#FoxyCottage,#ThePaintedNail,#TheStableyardRestaurant,#GalleryOfMakers,#TheWobblyCottage,#TheUpholsteryWorkshop,#DimensionsHairStudio,#SophiasChoice,#EarthDesign,#LittleBoutiqueInABox,#Love,#MerryChristmas,#ShopLocal,##SpecialOffers#GiftVouchers#SpoilYourself,#SupportSmallBusinesses,#LastMinuteGifts,#WomenInBusiness,#SocialDistancing,#WearYourMask,#BeKind,#BeSafe,#StaySafe

Dorset Remains in Tier 2

The Government has announced that Dorset remains in Tier 2 after they re-examined the tier system.

Several factors are considered when looking at the tier system. Along with headline infection rates, the Government also looks at the infection rate in older people, the impact on the care sector and pressure on local hospitals – all of which continue to be a concern in the area.

The Director of Public Health for Dorset and BCP Councils commented: “Although people may feel frustrated and disappointed by this decision…Tier one restrictions would not be enough to continue to bring our rates down, and we would risk having to go back into tougher measures.

Dorset is the 6th lowest in England, according to the latest rolling seven-day rate of new cases of Covid-19 for every local authority area in England. However, over the last week the rate has increased to 45.4 per 100,000 people compared to 39.6 a week ago.  Recent figures also show four more coronavirus patients have died in Dorset hospitals.  We’re simply not ready to move to Tier 1 yet.

Your G.P. will contact you re: being vaccinated.

Please follow the Government guidelines and stay safe!

#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#Drimpton,#Dorset,#BWGPC,#SameRules,#Covid19,#Coronavirus,#Christmas,#Vaccine,#SouthSomerset,#SomersetWest,#Taunton,#Devon,#BeSafe,#StaySafe

 

No Dragons For Tea

We no longer see Public Information Films on the television of young children playing with a box of matches and causing a house fire.  This gave parents the opportunity to discuss with their children what would happen if a fire started in the home.

Children and young people start to play with fire for various reasons, ranging from natural curiosity in toddlers to older children using firesetting to express feelings of anger or emotional distress. Without help and guidance, this ‘firesetting behaviour’ can increase and lead to more serious consequences – serious personal injury and damage to homes, schools and property.

Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and RescueDorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue recommend that if you have young children, why not get them to make an escape plan? Their education pages have lots of useful information to help children understand the importance of fire safety in the home.  

No Dragons for Tea: Fire Safety for Kids (& Dragons) is a fun and easy way to remember what to do in case of fire.  It shows children that learning about fire safety doesn’t have to be scary.  The story ends with “The Dragon’s Fire Safety Rhyme” – a fun and easy way to remember what to do in case of fire.

Listen to the story read by author, Jean E. Pendziwol

The hardback book is available for approx. £6 from Amazon and other book stores as are Jean E. Pendziwol’s other books:

  • “A Treasure at Sea for Dragon and Me”
  • “The Tale of Sir Dragon Dealing with Bullies for Kids”
  • “Once Upon a Dragon Stranger Safety for Kids”

#Broadwindsor,#Dorset,#DWFireRescue,#NoDragonsForTea,#FireSafety,#KeepChildrenSafe,#Educate,#Books,#JeanEPendziwol,#SocialDistancing,#WearYourMask,#BeKind,#BeSafe

 

Dorset In Tier 2 From 2nd December

Health Secretary Matt Hancock has announced where we are in the Government’s 3 tier system (as shown below), when the National Restrictions end on 2nd December.

At the time of publishing, the Government’s Postcode Checker has crashed and you are asked to try again later.

  • Here in Dorset, we are in Tier 2
  • South Somerset, Somerset West, Taunton and Devon are also in Tier 2 at this time.

Tier 2Tier 3

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Chimney Fires

The Dorset & Wiltshire Fire Rescue team have already attended several chimney fires this month.

If you haven’t already had your chimney swept ready for winter, make sure you get yours cleaned before the cold weather really kicks in.
Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue

More advice on chimney safety and some useful links can be found on their website HERE.

#Broadwindsor,#Dorset,#Firefighter,#DWFRS,#ChimneyFire,#ChimneySweep,#SocialDistancing,#BeKind,#WearYourMask,#BeSafe

Happy Hallowe’en From Broadwindsor House

The residents and staff at Broadwindsor House have had lots of fun this week baking cupcakes ready to decorate for today’s spooky festivities.


BW House - Halloween

There has been a lot of laughter and today they have already been dancing using photo props and winning prizes with a ‘Pass the Pumpkin’ game.

#Broadwindsor,#BroadwindsorHouse,#Dorset,#ElderlyCare,#CareHome,#Fun.#PassThePumpkin,#Laughter,#BeKind,#BeSpooky,#BeSafe

 

 

 

Winter Opening Hours At Bridport Recycling Centre

A reminder that from today (Thursday 1 October) the Household Recycling Centres (HRCs, or “the tip”) change to Winter opening hours – 10am to 4pm daily.

The Recycling Centre is located at Broomhills Nursery, West Bay Fields, Bridport, Dorset DT6 5LB.

There are van and trailer restrictions: Vans must have a valid permit or a hire agreement of a maximum of 3 days.
Vehicles that don’t require a permit can use a trailer, but the maximum trailer size is 1.2 metres wide and 1.8 metres long (approx. 6ft x 4ft).

#Broadwindsor,#WestDorset,#EcoGroup,#Dorset,#DoYourBit,#Recycle,#BridportRecyclingCentre,#WinterHours,#SocialDistancing,#Covid-19,#WearYourMask,#BeKind,#BeSafe