WHILE most gardeners are tolerant folk who generally acknowledge the fact that weeds are only wild flowers in the wrong place, Martinstown WI members may now view them in a somewhat different light.

They now realise that they could well be sitting on a goldmine of natural remedies after they were given a talk on weeds as medicines by Lucy Jones from Cattistock.

I am afraid dandelions did not endear themselves any more despite the fact that their wonderful medicinal properties have been used effectively for hundreds of years.

  • I AM afraid that a few red herrings of my own prevented me from attending the recent presentation of 'Murder at the Kings Arms' by the Red Herring Theatre Company, before a packed out audience.

Everyone had turned up complete with their own picnic suppers and drinks which no doubt added to the convivial atmosphere!

There was, too, the spine-chilling anticipation of waiting for someone in the audience to be murdered sensibly the murderer got rid of the detective!

Good to know that there is such an abundance of top quality local talent who gave such pleasure to an appreciative audience and in so doing raised nearly £300 for village hall funds.

  • I UNDERSTAND that the Martinstown Scout Group is flourishing, with many activities both indoors and outdoors for the three sections of Beavers, Cubs and Scouts.

I gather that there is no problem with regards to uniformed helpers though, obviously, there is always room for volunteers to come along and offer help.

However, financial support is always a very necessary item on the agenda to back up the leaders and this is given by the group committee of non-uniformed people. At the moment they are struggling along with the fundraising.

There must be some residents of the Winterbourne Valley who would be willing to organise some fundraising events for the group?

To learn more contact Jenny on 01305 889023.

  • TRADITIONALLY, the Harvest Thanksgiving service took place in St Martin's church at 11am on Sunday, September 28 and included the baptism of Amelia Sophia Monteith.

Sadly, the Rev Rosemary Bassett will be leaving the benefice and life will not be quite the same without her and of course her supportive husband and bellringer, Trevor.

Rosemary's final service will be in Martinstown church this Sunday, October 5 at 10.30am.

The valley will not be left without a Shepherd, for the Team Rector of Dorchester will become the 'Priest in Charge' of the four parishes and will live in the Martinstown Rectory.

The next meeting of the Martinstown WI will be at 7.45pm on October 13 in the village hall and should be of great interest, for John Tweed will speak on the Olympics at Portland.

Visitors are most welcome to attend.

Look out for Maggie Robertson's shoebox appeal to make a difference to a child in need. The object is to fill a medium-sized shoebox with gifts for a boy or girl, age ranges 2-4yrs, 5-9yrs or 10-14yrs.