The July 2025 edition of the Bride Valley News can be read HERE

The deadline for copy for any month’s issue is mid-day of the second Thursday of the preceding month. All material for publication must be sent to the Village Correspondent. For Litton Cheney this is: John Firrell, Tel: 01308 482313 email: jfirrell20@gmail.com

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Litton Cheney Parish Council The Next Parish Council Meeting will be on Tuesday 8 th July – 7pm Come and join us at the next PC meeting in the Meeting room of LATCH. Democratic Time allows you to bring up various points that concern you, or make you happy (praise and occasional brickbat accepted). At our July meeting, Andrew Price will be standing down from the Parish Council. Since joining the council, Andrew has used his considerable experience from his many years as Dorset Council’s County Planning Officer which eventually led to his well- earned retirement. As a result we have managed to deal with numerous issues with a fair degree of expediency and know- how which clearly has helped produce the appropriate solutions. We thank Andrew for his tremendous efforts on our behalf and wish him more peace and time not having to worry (too much) about HGV’s taking the short cut through the village on their way to and from Parks Farm Cheese Dairy. IT Matters – Are you ready for Windows 11? With little to report on Full Fibre provision to Litton Cheney as it is almost complete with the exception of the properties in Chalk Pit Lane which are awaiting the overhead cabling to be completed, my attention is now focussing on Microsoft Windows 10 With the Windows 10 Operating System nearing end of support during October this year, what does that mean to those of us still using it…? Well for starters it doesn’t mean that your PC/ Laptop is going to stop working, but it does mean that because Microsoft will stop producing updates and fixes that you will become more and more susceptible malware, hackers and the such like. There is the option of a free upgrade to Windows 11 if your current PC configuration is capable of supporting it. The best way to check this is to use Microsoft’s own PC Health Check app to check your system requirements through Windows Update. If it fails Microsoft's compatibility test for Windows 11, saying its hardware doesn't meet the requirements, then it may be that you will need to purchase a new PC or laptop that does…… Or do you…?!?! If your test results show that your PC failed the compatibility test for Windows 11 primarily due to the absence of a required " Trusted Platform Module v2.0 " or TPM, be aware that this is often disabled by default on older hardware. If this hardware is included in your hardware, the TPM can be enabled within what is known as the BIOS to make their systems compatible without needing to purchase new computers, thereby avoiding unnecessary expenses. Changes to the BIOS should really only be carried out by someone with in depth computer knowledge. Rob Matthews rob.matthews@littoncheney.org.uk Considerate Parking There are times during the various days and weeks in the life of a village like Litton Cheney, when trying to find a convenient place to park your car, that is close to your house, and unlikely to be blocked in by other vehicles becomes nigh on impossible. Like most villages possessed of narrow lanes and few parking spaces, and totally lacking a regular bus service, the question of where to park often bubbles to the surface. All we can ask of you is to be considerate, and if it is possible to park your car in your garage or on the drive please do so. Also, on Thursdays and alternate Fridays, you need to leave space for the bin lorries. Many thanks in anticipation of your considerate parking. What’s on at Litton and Thorner’s Community Hall (LATCH) in July REGULAR EVENTS Mondays 3.30 – 4.30 Big Q (term time only) Tuesdays 4.45 – 5.45 Short Mat Bowls (Ron Davidson 482661) Wednesdays 4.45 – 5.45 Table Tennis (Ron Davidson 482661 or Paul Kingston 482162) 7.00 Mindful Movement (Jane Hutchins 07882 527697) Thursdays 9.15 – 11.15 First Steps Toddlers (fortnightly, term time only) OTHER EVENTS Tuesday 8 th 7.00 Parish Council in meeting room [NEW TIME] Saturday 5 th Gardening Club Social for members and guests Time t.b.c. .Monday 21 st 7.00 Gardening Club meeting Tuesday 22 nd 7.00 CPR Training Sunday 27 th 10.00 Yoga with Nadiya Wynn (nadiyasime@hotmail.com) CPR Training – Learn How You Might Save A Life – Tuesday 22 nd July at LATCH Everyone is very welcome to join a training session on cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the use of a defibrillator which is being held on Tuesday 22 nd July commencing promptly 19:00 at LATCH. Following a cardiac arrest, time is of the essence and intervention at the earliest opportunity can help to significantly improve survival chances and recovery outcomes. The sooner CPR is administered and professional care in attendance the better the prognosis. Learning CPR and the use of a defibrillator may help to save the life of a family member, friend or neighbour. Even if you have undertaken similar training in the past this may well act as a useful refresher. The session is free but donations to the Royal Life Saving Society will be very welcome. For further information please contact Pete Dennis on 01308 482 760. Thorner’s School Report Apologies for the absence of a report – Gone to the Fete. Back in full flow next month. Thorner’s Litton Cheney Fete – Sorry about the deluge! From our valiant reporter on the spot – Claire Moore:- 2025 will be a Fete to remember!… this one is sure to create memories to last a lifetime amongst Litton’s history books that’s for sure!! Let’s just say… the torrential rain and threat of thunder and lightening certainly didn’t wash away the smiles of those braving the elements to run the day’s events including a dog show, hobby horsing, welly wanging…. and BBQ!…but the Chef’s at least kept dry under the Ford Farm (thank you FF for donating the amazing cheese hampers for the raffle!) marquee - whilst flippin’ burgers that went down a storm (pardon the pun!). Let’s hear it for the BBQ chefs – Jay & Andy! Despite the weather, we, in true village style, ploughed on in waterproofs and wellies and had a splashing time! Headmaster Mr Sitch probably didn’t even notice the heavy rain whilst getting totally drenched on the Soak the Sitch stall!! A huge Well Done to Eggardon pupils for opening the fete with fantastic Maypole dancing…. big thanks to all those who did the teas and plants and cakes as well as the wonderful tombola and all the local businesses who supported the raffle! Teachers, TSA, your contributions to this event are hugely appreciated as is that of the School Governors. Finally, to the drenched gatekeepers, car park attendants and helpers, plus all those who came in support, and contributed their hard earned cash. Thanks to Treasurer Graham working through the night, it seems at the time of going to press that the fete has produced net takings of £3,700 – an incredible result! Bravo Zulu to all who came, went, toiled, got ever so slightly damp and with forever smiles. One last word – To those furry friends who didn’t manage to win a prize at the dog show, and arrived back home wet and bedraggled. Your very presence made the day – maybe next year it will be your turn, and perhaps even the sun will shine and tails will wag! Bride Valley Gardening Club Having been lucky enough to visit the Chelsea Flower Show this year I came away with my head buzzing with a wealth of new plant names. 67 to be precise, jotted in my note book and all needing investigation to see if they would be suitable for our chalky soil - when they would then be added to my wish list. Not for me the Show Gardens displaying unlikely combinations of plants that would never successfully grow together and which regularly have us fooled and mean mistakes are discovered a little too late! Enjoying a wide range of speakers and garden topics, club members will always be sure to hear an expert on the chosen subject, learn something new and have their questions answered. Our next speaker will be Sally Morgan, organic gardener, small holder and writer, talking to us about 'Creating a Kitchen Garden'. She is a contributor to Amateur Gardening, Bloom and other garden magazines and we are very much looking forward to her visit. An experienced and much in demand speaker Sally has spoken at the RHS Hampton Court Flower Festival and last year travelled much further afield as speaker at the Northwest Pacific Flower Show in Seattle. The meeting, open also to non members (£2) will be on Monday July 21st at 7.30pm. Doors open at 7.00 for refreshment, chat and plant sales. If any of the new members who joined at our last meeting read this and come along please make yourselves known if we don't instantly spot a new face. Ali Halliday (balletboots@live.com) EXCITING AND CREATIVE ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN DURING AUGUST Creative clay .Friday 8 th August 10.00am – 12.30am Age 7+ £6.00 Dress for mess and make sea-life clay pinch pots and perhaps create your own octopus Booking is essential as places are limited. The Mushroom Show by Scratchworks Theatre Monday 18 th August 2.00pm – 3.00pm Physical comedy and interactive games, bringing together the world of fungi with science music and puppetry.Age 5+ Children must be accompanied by an adult Children £8, Adults £6, Family £24 Both events to be held at LATCH in Litton Cheney and tickets for both are available from Patricia, tel./text 07799612941 / 01308 482514 or book online via Artsreach.co.ukth

The Bridport Local Area Partnership (BLAP) is here for the community. Current members of the partnership include Bridport Town Council, 10 Parish Councils and more than 80 community organisations and individuals working to improve the social, economic, and environmental wellbeing of Bridport and surrounding areas. For information or if you have a piece you would like included in the BLAP Bulletin, please contact Jo Hughes by email at jo.hughes@bridport-tc.gov.uk West Bay Discovery Centre - New Exhibition A new 2025 exhibition entitled 'Pier Terrace Through Time' marks the 140th Anniversary of West Bay's most iconic building, Pier Terrace. Pier Terrace is a building that fascinates local people and visitors equally, and has appeared in TV and film. The building and those who have lived or stayed there, are part of a rich history that we aim to bring to life in this exhibition that starts 1st July 2025 running until February 2026. The West Bay Discovery Centre is open Tuesday to Sunday, 11.00am - 4.00pm. Free entry - donations welcome. Bridport Museum - Railway Walks & 0 Commencing Thursday 3rd July and running weekly throughout July and August will be a series of talks about the Bridport branch railway line. The talks will take place at the Bridport United Church Hall, East Street, Bridport commencing at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £8 and are available to purchase from Bridport Museum. There will also be two Bridport branch railway line walks and talks on Thursday 8th July and Thursday 24th July commencing at 11.00am. Tickets for the walks and talks cost £5 and are available from Bridport Museum. Bridport Library - A Cuppa & Company Drop into Bridport Library, South Street, Bridport every Friday from 10.00am - 12.00pm for a warm welcome, free cuppa and a chat. Bridport Gig Rowing Club - Annual Regatta The Bridport Gig Rowing Club who are based at West Bay will be holding their Annual Regatta in West Bay on Saturday 5th July from 10.00am - 4.00pm (weather permitting). Come and see the local rowing team competing with Cornish Gig racing clubs from along the West Coast. There will also be lots of activities on shore including a raffle and stalls. The Bridport Gig Rowing Club has around 100 members operating 5 racing gigs. The club welcomes new members from the age of 11 upwards. Visit their website for further information. Bridport Leisure Centre - Community Fun Day This Saturday 5th July Bridport Leisure Centre will be holding a Community Fun Day from 10.00am to 8.00pm as part of the Leisure Centre’s 50-year anniversary fundraising campaign! Highlights of the day will include: Half Hyrox Event Inflatables Hot & Tasty Food Van Mad Mitch Whippy Ice Cream Van Mini Games SupaStrikers Bridport Young Performers Stalls Exclusive Membership Offers Cake sale with teas and coffee available for a donation Open bar from 1.00pm Centre Tours Plus a Fantastic Prize Raffle. For full details of the day, please visit the Leisure Centre website. Bridport Food Bank - Bingo Night This Saturday 5th July, Bridport Youth & Community Centre will be hosting a Bingo Night to raise money for the Bridport Food Bank. Doors will open at 5.00pm with eyes down at 7.00pm. Children are welcome and hot and cold drinks and snacks will be available to purchase. Bridport Youth & Community Centre - Volunteers Needed Bridport Youth & Community Centre Trust was created to promote positive youth development, establish an inclusive community hub, address social isolation and promote well-being particularly for those under 21 and over 55. As a charity run by part-time staff and volunteers, we are looking to build up our bank of volunteers. If you believe in the work that we are doing and feel that you have the skills and time to support us as a volunteer, please come along to one of our volunteer information drop-in sessions to find out more. We will be hosting the drop-in sessions on Tuesday 8th July, 2.00pm - 3.00pm and Thursday 10th July, 11.00am - 12.00pm at the Bridport Youth & Community Centre, Gundry Road, Bridport. Bridport Cohousing Tours of Hazlemead In order to focus efforts on getting the Common House ready for use with safe access for all, the July afternoon tour (fully booked) of Bridport Cohousing at Hazlemead will be the last monthly tour for this year. The tours planned for the remainder of 2025 have been postponed and we have contacted those who had already booked. We will advise of future dates when we plan to recommence the tours. Age UK North, South & West Dorset - Brain Training Brain training (also known as Maintenance Cognitive Stimulation Therapy ) is a proven programme of group activity and stimulation suitable for those with mild cognitive impairment, early stage dementia or memory loss. Regular attendance can increase quality of life, enhance communication skills and help with low mood. The sessions are held in small groups and focus on you rather than the memory loss. Activities (such as reminiscence, quizzes and games) are designed to be interesting and fun, and focus on opinions rather than facts which means you can never be wrong. Each session lasts for an hour with time for refreshments. Brain training sessions are offered in 7 week blocks. Spaces are limited to 10 people and booking is essential with priority given to those booking all 7 sessions in a series. The cost is £35 per series of 7 sessions or £6 per single session - subject to availability. The next block commences on Tuesday 15th July, 1.30pm - 2.30pm and will run weekly for 7 sessions (no session on 12th August). Sessions will be held at Bridport Youth & Community Centre, Gundry Lane Bridport. For more information or to book, please call 01305 269444. Bridport Town Council Community Grants Scheme Bridport Town Council’s Community Grant Scheme is now open. Grants are awarded each year to local charitable, voluntary or other similar bodies but are not for private organisations or individuals. For 2025/26, the Town Council particularly welcomes, but not exclusively, applications that demonstrate a benefit in terms of youth and young people. Further information, the application form and guidance is available here. If you would like a paper copy please call the Town Council on 01308 456722. The closing date for applications is Thursday 21st August at 5.00pm. Late applications will not be accepted. Bridport Town Council Consultation Bridport Town Council has produced a draft management plan for the Burton Road to West Bay trailway area. This area has never been designated an open space and does not currently have a management plan so Bridport Town Council want to formalise this and hopefully work with a volunteer group to manage the area. The review considers current uses and looks to improve the area for wildlife and community use. The draft management plan has split the area into six key sections and the management plan process includes a community consultation to define the aims, objectives and actions for the next five years. The draft management plan is available to view here. The consultation postcard can be viewed here and can be returned to the town council office or to the Bridport Tourist Information Centre. The closing date for comments is 31st August 2025. Dorset Council Housing Allocation Policy Consultation Dorset Council has launched a 12-week consultation to examine how people are prioritised for the housing register. All responses received will help shape the council’s next housing allocations policy. A new housing allocation policy will have to factor in local need alongside national regulations and guidance. The consultation is open to everyone and local organisations that have a view on affordable housing are also urged to have their say. To take part, visit the website at Housing Allocation Policy Consultation - Dorset Council - Citizen Space or complete paper copies available in your local library. The consultation ends at midnight on 24th August 2025. Dorset Council Capital Leverage Fund Round 6 Dorset Council's Capital Leverage Fund Round 6 is now open. The aim of the Capital Leverage Fund is to support community and cultural organisations to deliver capital projects which provide new and improved facilities for our communities and residents. The fund also helps organisations secure additional investment from funders outside of their organisation. Capital grants of between £1,000 and £25,000 are available to fund up to 20% of the total project costs. For more information click here. Dorset Home Library Service What could be better than getting lost in a good book? If you, or someone you know, love reading but find it difficult to get books from the library due to caring responsibilities, health or mobility issues, the free Home Library Service is here to help. Royal Voluntary Service (RVS) volunteers choose library books and talking books individually for each person and deliver them every three weeks. Not only do you get a regular supply of books but also a visit by a trusted volunteer who you get to know over time. All our volunteers are DBS checked and carry an ID badge. To find out more, contact RVS in Dorset on 01305 236666 or email dorsethomelibraryservice@royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk. You can also speak to staff about the service at your local library. Access Wellbeing Hubs Access Wellbeing offers mental health and wellbeing support to anyone aged 18 and over via welcoming hubs and drop-in spaces around Dorset. Over recent months, the programme has expanded to reach more communities and in West Dorset, services are now in Bridport, Lyme Regis, Beaminster and Maiden Newton and are staffed by friendly wellbeing coordinators, who can take the time to listen, then help people to access the right support and advice. Find out more here. Healthwatch Dorset Annual Report In 2024-25 Healthwatch Dorset listened to over 7,000 Dorset residents, supporting them to have their say about health and social care and get information and advice about local services. Read their annual report to find out how they used residents feedback to help NHS and social care decision makers prioritise the issues that matter most to local people to make care better. The Bridge Magazine This month's edition of the Bridge Magazine features a fond farewell to Bridport Town Clerk Will Austin, information on men's support groups, reports from the five BridportTown Council Wards and upcoming events and community groups. The Eggardon & Colmers VieThe July edition of the Eggardon and Colmers view magazine is now available. Thisincludes updates and events from Askerswell, Broadoak, Dottery, Eype, Loders,Powerstock and Symondsbury. Bride Valley News The July edition of the Bride Valley News is now available and includes updatesand events from Burton Bradstock, Litton Cheney, Shipton Gorge, Puncknowle andSwyre.

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