The BV Magazine - February 2024

In this issue

In this issue:
• The Blackmore & Sparkford Vale Hunt have been suspended after drone footage shows a fox being killed. We’ve spoken to both sides, and have a balanced look at the issue | Page 4
• Award-winning writer Sam Peters looks for a game-changing playbook with ex-All Black Jerome Kaino’s rugby clinic at Clayesmore as they work to make the game safer for everyone| Page 34
• In his Farm Tales column, Andrew Livingston shares a streak of Dorset daring rescues – but points out there’s a thin line between humourous mishaps and farming tragedies | Page 56
• Dorset’s leisure centres and recreation grounds at risk – as local communities fight to save their facilities, Rachael Rowe highlights the clash between budget cuts and public health priorities | Page 8
• The Ice Milers of Shaftesbury Lido – it might be actually freezing, but the open air pool has transformed into a hub of cold water swimming camaraderie | Page 20
• A grassroots revolt against The Jockey Club’s closure decision has created a ‘Kitchen Cabinet’ which is breathing new life into Wincanton Golf Course – and has earned them a reprieve | Page 22
• Polecats have quietly been making a secretive but fragrant return, says wildlife writer Jane Adams. So why aren’t we all shouting about them like we do the otters? | Page 64
•Plus there’s pages of brilliant community news, 12 pages of What’s On’s, more wildlife, farming, art, food & drink … and I’ll not bang on again about the BRILLIANT reader’s photography (page 100)
The BV – every month we’re jam-packed with Dorset goodness. News, opinion, people, farming, wildlife … and frankly stunning photography. And it’s FREE. Why wouldn’t you want a flick through?