CERNE ABBAS HORSE long-distance ride: Once again, a long distance horse called Cerne Giant Ride takes place, with the village as its base, in Sunday, May 20.

Organiser Anthony Sargent, a passionate endurance rider himself, and his team will once again welcome more than a hundred riders on Beauvoir Fields, near Cerne Abbas Surgery – by kind permission of the Digby family.

Why not come along for a visit to admire many handsome and fit horses - or even take part?

Even if you are new to the sport, there is the possibility to try out one of the shorter distances on the day, provided your horse and you are fit enough.

The horses undergo at least two vettings, which means being checked over by a qualified vet – one at the start, the other one at the end.

The day starts at 8am and ends in the late afternoon.

The riders will complete various distances, starting from Beauvoir Fields.

They range from 18 miles through to 52 miles and offer the perfect opportunity to enjoy the stunning Dorset countryside.

Refreshments will be available, camping and corralling facilities exist.

Do pay the ride a visit if you are in the area – the horses are best admired in the morning, when they start or mid-afternoon, when they return.

For more information contact Anthony Sargent on 01300 341102.

A CHRISTIAN Aid Coffee Morning will be held in The Vicarage on Tuesday, May 15.

It will take place from 10:30am – noon.

Do pop along to enjoy a cuppa in good company whilst finding out more about this charity.

MINTERNE MAGNA OPEN Day: As every year, Minterne Gardens is holding its Open Day on Sunday, May 20 from 11am – 4:30pm.

The event is held in aid of St. Andrew’s Church and features Classic Cars, a BBQ, a Bouncy Castle, an Art Exhibition in Minterne Hause and of course Cream Teas!

Tickets are £ 3 for adults, under 16’s go free.

Why not come along to enjoy the magnificent gardens and attractions on offer and combine it with a visit to the Cerne Giant Endurance Ride, held in Cerne Abbas?

For more information visit www.minterne.co.uk or telephone 01300 341370.

SPRING Evening Walks: A reminder that Head Gardener Ray Abraham is once again leading a series of spring walks in Minterne Gardens.

They are held every Thursday, up until and including Thursday, June 7.

Please book for these events as they are free of charge but numbers will be restricted.

Contact Mrs Panchen on 01300 341370 or e-mail enquiries@minterne.co.uk to find out more or secure your place.

BUCKLAND NEWTON OPEN Gardens are being held on Sunday, June 24 this year.

Please note this date in your diaries, you will be able to admire around ten beautiful gardens, all in aid of Julia’s House and the Holy Rood Church.

Plants and local produce will be for sale as well as refreshments.