It’s our 60th issue – Happy 5th Birthday to The BV!
This month, we’re digging into what happens when dog rescue centres get it wrong, talking to Minette Batters ahead of this year’s Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show (and yes, there’s a six-page show special too), and – staying on a theme – catching up with Simon Ledger, the voice of every agricultural show you’ve ever been to. Whether it’s scurry racing, prize bulls or steam engines, it’s Simon who talks you through the finer points of what you’re watching in the main ring.
We’re also looking at why North Dorset needs a tech college, talk to Matt Riggs about a Parkinson’s diagnosis at 48, the Dorset insider is telling us to BRACE for Dorset’s new Local Plan (50,000 more houses anyone?), and this month’s Grumbler is grumpy about twins (the town variety). I sat down with James Gibson-Fleming, and the Okeford Butterboys are 125.
My top reads this month:
- Unlicensed rescue centres – when they get it wrong, dogs and families pay the price. One Dorset family’s heartbreaking story lifts the lid on a poorly regulated sector.
- ‘Flip-flopping is killing confidence’ – Farming needs clarity, not chaos. Minette Batters speaks frankly ahead of her appearance at the G&S Show.
- Six-page Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show special – what’s on, what’s not to miss, and why we’ll see you at the main ring.
- In farming, Andrew surprises everyone with a column in praise of Trump. Also: the NFU’s Tim Gelfs wants to know why on earth we’re importing tomato-shaped water.
- The Tizzards are back! After a summer off, Chris Wald catches up with Courtenay ahead of the new racing season.
- And yes – of course – our usual ridiculous amount of amazing readers’ photography.
The BV – every month we’re jam-packed with Dorset and some frankly stunning photography. And it’s FREE. Why wouldn’t you want a flick through?
