Country Matters 2020
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COUNTRY MATTERS
Welcome
to our award winning publication
Cover: Running Hare, Mere Down by James Lynch
James has achieved recognition for his landscape paintings of the West Country in which he sometimes includes wildlife. He uses the ancient medium of egg
tempera, making his own paint from raw pigments, egg yolk and water. Egg tempera paintings have a haunting luminosity. James exhibits in London and
Wiltshire and accepts commissions. www.james-lynch.co.uk
Editors:
Mark Lewis, Marlise Jolliffe
Proof Readers:
Marilyn Wright
Artwork:
Shaun Hodge
Show/Farm Sale photos: Rob Nolan
Printed by:
Remous Print Ltd., Barton View Bus Park,
Sheeplands Lane, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 4FW
tel: 01963 250920 www.remous.com
The contents of this publication are intended as guidance and general
interest. It does not constitute legal advice and can be no substitute
for considered advice on specific problems. Although every effort
has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information printed in
this publication, Symonds & Sampson LLP cannot accept liability for
errors and omissions. The views expressed in this publication are not
necessarily those of Symonds & Sampson LLP.
THE SENIOR PARTNER’S MESSAGE
SENIOR PARTNER’S MESSAGE
THE
Andrew Robinson BSc FRICS FAAV
is everything at Symonds & Sampson?” This is the question most frequently
posed to me by our clients and friends. It is understandable; we’re currently in a
time of great structural, economic and legislative change which is inevitably causing
"How
confusion in residential, agricultural and commercial sectors. We aim to provide clarity.
Our partnership has spent a significant amount of time considering the changing landscape. We
anticipate a number of challenges for our clients in the short and medium term, which has led to
considerable investment in our technology, and the continuing professional development of our staff.
We have strengthened some of our divisions and, in particular, we have brought in an experienced and
established commercial team to broaden our base.
We cherish our position as the leading firm of chartered surveyors in the region and appreciate that not
only are our clients’ needs changing but also the range of people we advise is now much more diverse.
However, whoever the clients may be, they all seek trusted professional advice and a truly outstanding
service. I believe that we have the right blend of people, of different ages and experience, to provide
this. Our aim is to develop and nurture enduring relationships with clients and their families by always
providing impartial advice and building trust for generations.
We are very aware of the pressures of modern life on our clients as well as our staff. Our chosen charity
in 2020 will be four regional branches of Mind covering Dorset, Devon, Somerset and Wiltshire. The
charity educates people about the symptoms of mental ill health – what they are, what to expect and
how to spot them. It will also educate people about what they can do when they experience symptoms
themselves or recognise them in someone they know, and challenge the stigma and equality of this
often paralysing illness. We will be holding a number of fundraising events throughout the year and we
hope you will feel able to support us.
You will notice the striking image by James Lynch on the cover of the magazine and, throughout Country
Matters, we are highlighting the vast amount of artistic talent across our region. If you like a particular
image, please do contact the artist.
I hope you enjoy the articles in this year’s magazine and, in answer to the question at the beginning, we
continue to go from strength to strength with the help of our dedicated and experienced team who are
ready to offer advice on anything you put to us throughout the year.
3
PROFESSIONAL
AND PLANNING
Peep behind the curtain at S&S with
insights from our Managing Partner and
a rural surveyor. Discover the difference
between benchmarks and trig points, how
schoolchildren are turning Dorchester
plastic-free, and how we can help manage
your residential or commercial assets.
Read on for sartorial suggestions, good
news for art lovers, and profit-boosting
rural planning advice. Get the low down
on barn conversions, floristry, and the link
between bats and planning applications.
There’s the buzz of beekeeping and a
cautionary tale about runaway pigs.
Your tax planning toolkit, tips on how to
diversify for success, and our expert guide
to maximising planning opportunities.
t Summer Blues, Colmer’s Hill by Marion Taylor,
www.dorsetpaintings.co.uk
2020
Vision
In conversation with
Richard Miller, our Managing Partner
How does Symonds & Sampson maintain
its competitive edge?
We have the freedom to maintain a true breadth of services,
built up over many decades, whereas many of our competitors
are owned by outside shareholders whose primary focus is
often the next year-end dividend. It is this range of skills and
activity that gives the essence of who we are.
Is your business recession-proof?
I would hope so, but inevitably, with a fair
proportion of our costs being staff overheads,
we have to be constantly mindful of possible
economic challenges ahead when recruiting
for planned growth. We don’t have to react as
dramatically as other estate agencies to changes
in the market. If residential property is affected
we can rely on other disciplines to maintain profitability .
How does the Limited Liability Partnership
structure work for you?
We have various categories of partner which enables
ambitious people to move up the ladder. Initial promotion
to a salaried partner reflects ambition and gives kudos but
without any financial liability.
Further promotion to non-equity partner reflects in the
individual a wider appreciation of our overall business and
their responsibility. They get a greater slice of the profit
without any capital outlay.
My day now is more
of a juggling act, with
emails a constant
attention-grabber
It means that the step up to
being invited to become a
full equity partner is part of a
gradual process that allows
talent to move up and get a feel
for the business and all that it
encompasses.
Do you need to be in the high street?
Personally no; with my rurally-focused professional work I am
based in a modern office in Poundbury where parking and
access for clients is easier. The internet has changed the nature
of estate agency and we constantly question whether we need
so many offices. The answer is that everything is under review,
but for now we believe that a high street presence is important
for our residential sales and lettings teams.
Has the internet changed the way you work?
Ironically, providing a breadth of service can require more
resources because of the internet. We have to know
everything about a property – its idiosyncrasies, things to do
with listed buildings, easements, restrictive covenants or how
a property could be affected by planning issues.
What are the main challenges?
Symonds & Sampson employs more than 150 full- and parttime
staff, and recruitment of younger professionals is a
particular problem in rural areas. They want the job, but in a
glitzier location!
What changes have you seen over the last
30 years?
The increased pace of working life. My day now is more of a
juggling act, with emails a constant attention-grabber. There
is an expectation from clients to have answers straight away.
What advice then would you give to your
younger self?
I would say delegate more. I have tended to think it will be
quicker if I do what’s needed, but it would have made my life
easier if I was better at delegating and trusting other people
to get on with it.
Interview by Alex Foster, Director & Chartered Financial Planner,
Ward Goodman, as part of a report to appear in DECISION
magazine
Richard Miller MRICS FAAV
Managing Partner Poundbury
rmiller@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01305 236574
6
Know your
Benchmarks
from your
Trig Points
All will become clear, thanks to Richard Mogg, surveyor in our Wimborne office
Benchmarks
Have you ever spotted a strange marking on the side of a
church or building and wondered what it was? If it had a
chiselled horizontal line with an arrow head below, it could be
a benchmark.
These are used by surveyors so that an angle-iron could be
placed to form a ‘bench’ for a levelling rod, thus ensuring that
a levelling rod could be accurately repositioned in the same
place in the future.
A major project to map out
the shape of Great Britain
began in 1936
The height of a benchmark is calculated relative to the
heights of nearby benchmarks in a network extending from
a fundamental benchmark – a point with a precisely known
relationship to the vertical datum of the area, typically mean
sea level.
Trig points
You may have seen these on Ordnance Survey (OS) maps. Trig
points are the common name for triangulation pillars. These
are concrete pillars, about 4’ tall, which were used by the OS in
order to determine the exact shape of the country.
They are generally located on the highest piece of ground
in the area, so that there is a direct line of sight from one to the
next. By sitting a theodolite (an accurate protractor built into
a telescope) on the top of the pillar, accurate angles between
pairs of nearby trigpoints could be measured. This process is
called triangulation.
A major project to map
out the shape of Great
Britain began in 1936. The
network of triangulation
pillars, with accurately
known positions, led to
the excellent OS maps we
enjoy today.
Creech Barrow Hill Trig mark
The coordinate system used on these maps is known as
the national grid, and it is essential that you are familiar with
this system if you are to get the most out of OS maps, or their
website https://osmaps.ordnancesurvey.co.uk.
Benchmark Salkeld Bridge
Richard Mogg MRICS
Building Surveyor Wimborne
rmogg@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01202 843190
7
A Day in the Life
of a Rural Surveyor
Tess Tidman qualified in 2017 and works from our Wimborne office
I always have plenty to do before I
6.30am: set off for work. Living in Lulworth,
I’m lucky enough to have my little flock of Hebridean sheep
nearby so I’ll feed them and check I haven’t lost any (it has
happened!) before I leave for Wimborne.
When I arrive in the office, I’ll check
my emails. My days are normally split
50-50 between time in the office and
time out and about meeting clients. I
am heavily involved in valuation and
planning work as well as grant applications, utilities work,
compensation claims, land sales and recently a lot of jobs
involving rights of way.
I head off to my first appointment – a planning application
on a curtilage listed outbuilding that a client wishes to
convert to holiday lets. My visit involves inspecting the
building and the site to assess how access, construction, visual
outlooks and the proposed plans might be deemed to impact
the Grade II listed farmhouse next door.
Then I head west to carry out a probate valuation for a dairy
farm on the coast. I sit down with my client to make sure I
have all the details I need before inspecting the farmhouse,
farm buildings, land and stock.
Back in the office for lunch. After a
1.00pm: busy morning, I find myself with an
afternoon at my desk. This gives me a chance to squeeze in
a meeting with our building surveying team, also based in
Wimborne, to get their advice on the best possible layout for
the proposed holiday let in my first meeting of the day. Once
I have their thoughts on a sensitive conversion, I start drafting
my covering letter and compiling the rest of the planning
application.
Dorset born and bred,
I thoroughly enjoy working in
the area where I grew up
The phone rings with a gentleman
3.30pm: who has a two-acre parcel of land
on the outskirts of Wimborne that he would like to sell. As he
is lucky enough to have a couple of brick barns on the plot, I
advise him on the potential to secure
outline planning for a residential unit
which would likely give him the highest
increase in value at the least expense
to himself, and recommend an auction
sale in the spring. I arrange to go out to
see the site for an appraisal the following week.
One last check of my emails then
5.00pm: I’m off to a local firm of accountants
for a continuing professional
development (CPD) event on
farm accounts. We are in an
industry that prides itself on
working collaboratively with all
manner of professional advisers
– accountants, solicitors and
banks managers. Our CPD is a
way of getting to know other
professionals whose areas of work overlap our own, and from
whom we can learn in order to best advise our clients.
Finally, I am back in the car and on my way home to
Lulworth. As soon as I get in, I’ll be lighting the woodburner
and organising dinner.
Tessa Tidman
Rural Surveyor Wimborne
ttidman@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01202 843190
8
A World First
in Dorset
Will Wallis from our Dorchester office reveals
why Dorset is getting VIP treatment
If you’ve found yourself on the A35 between
Dorchester and Bridport recently you might have
wondered what on earth is being built now.
However, you can breathe a sigh of relief that
this eyesore is temporary and part
of the National Grid’s Visual Impact
Provision (NGVIP) project.
NGVIP makes use of a fund made
available by Ofgem and creates an
opportunity to enhance the West
Dorset landscape and transform
the views from the Hardy Monument and the South Dorset
Ridgeway.
It will achieve this by removing 22 unsightly electricity
pylons between Winterbourne Abbas and Friar Waddon,
replacing them with 9km of underground cables and leaving
an unblemished skyline.
This is the first time a project of this kind has been
undertaken anywhere in the world for the sole benefit of
improving the surrounding landscape.
Of course, this
all sounds simple
enough, but it
is in fact a major
engineering
challenge
made trickier
by current land
uses, ecological
impact, the
topography of
the countryside
and archaeological interest.
I have been involved with the project since the early
planning stages of the scheme, working on behalf of seven
of the landowners who have been, or will be, affected by the
scheme and have seen first-hand some of the challenges the
venture has faced.
This is the first time a
project of this kind has been
undertaken for the sole benefit
of improving the landscape
Dorset has a historically rich landscape and the preservation
of archaeological interest has been paramount. More than 147
excavation trenches have been dug and a burial chamber of
seven mid-6th century bodies were discovered on a client’s
farm, as well as evidence of Bronze Age
barrows, a potential Roman settlement and
medieval cemetery, so far.
Moving on to the 21 st century, the
construction of the scheme has impacted on
other aspects of farming and rural businesses
where negotiations and agreements have
had to be made, including negative impacts on a client’s poultry
farm, agreeing bio security measures for a pig unit, the knock-on
effects to a campsite business, and disruption as footpaths have
been diverted to private land.
The engineering itself is also vastly different from most
new underground cables that some landowners may have
experienced with easements in the past. However, as usual
the land will be fully reinstated, with the landowner receiving
negotiated compensation and able to resume farming practice
once the cables are installed.
A lot of consideration has been given to the environmental
impact of the scheme and the Reconnecting the Ridgeway
Project was awarded £400,000 from the Landscape
Enhancement Initiative (an important part of NGVIP). With
this they will be laying hedges, planting an orchard, creating
a daffodil nursery, restoring boundary features and creating
wildlife ponds to encourage biodiversity.
Initial work on this scheme started back in 2015 and the
project will be completed in 2022 at a total cost of £116m.
Let’s hope once the project is finalised many of us can enjoy
the ‘unblemished’ landscape and appreciate the work which is
being done to restore and enhance our environment.
Will Wallis MRICS FAAV
Rural Surveyor Dorchester
wwallis@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01305 236572
9
Plastic Free
Dorchester
Who can help cure our addiction to plastic?
The answer, it seems, is the next generation
Pupils at Damers First School in Poundbury have
become eco-warriors. Led by Edd Moore – year 3
teacher and Eco Co-ordinator – the children have
formed the Eco Crew and they’re on a mission to
make Dorchester plastic free.
Damers achieved ‘Plastic Free Schools’ status in May 2018 and
now the Eco Crew has its sights set on the
town. They’ve got off to an impressive start.
So far, the Eco Crew has been interviewed
by the BBC, visited London to petition
Michael Gove, and presented at various
meetings to encourage businesses to be
plastic free.
By writing letters, giving presentations to
influential groups, and attending shows, farmers’ markets and
fairs, they have persuaded almost every school in Dorchester
and more than 80 businesses to go plastic free.
The Eco Crew is targeting single use plastic, and is asking
businesses across Dorchester to eradicate three single use
items within their premises. This could be as simple as no
longer stocking plastic cups and moving to reusable bottles.
The Eco Crew has championed eco products including
‘waxtastic’ – an alternative to clingfilm – at a number of shows.
They also take in recycling from local businesses in order to
fund sustainable projects at the school, and have written and
performed a song about being plastic free.
Thanks to the efforts of the Eco Crew, shops and boutiques
are replacing plastic bags with paper ones, and using wooden
hangers. Those in the hospitality trade are providing guests
with reusable, branded water bottles, supplying loose tea
rather than tea bags, and offering toiletries in tins or paper
packaging.
All stress the importance of putting pressure on their
suppliers to make the necessary switch away from plastic.
Together with key organisations and businesses in
the town, the Eco Crew has put in place a plastic free
plan. The objectives include setting up a community-led
The Eco Crew has
persuaded more than
80 businesses to go
plastic free
steering group; instigating the Surfers Against Sewage
plastic free schools education programme; getting local
council commitment, and working with local businesses,
organisations and community groups to spread the word and
minimise the amount of disposable plastics.
As a result of Damers’ work, and with support from
Dorset Council, Dorchester Town Council,
Dorchester BID (Business Investment
District), Litter Free Dorset, Duchy of
Cornwall, Sir Oliver Letwin, local WI Groups
and the Dorchester Lions, Dorchester has
been awarded ‘Plastic Free Community
Approved’ status by Surfers Against Sewage.
The award
recognises the
work done
to reduce
the impact
of single use
plastic on the
environment.
Dorchester
is the third
location in
Dorset to
receive this accolade and the Eco Crew is the first group of
children to lead such a campaign.
There are some great initiatives that are being driven by
youngsters throughout our region, and Symonds & Sampson
will be engaging with these groups to make sure we are
supporting the next generation.
Jan Merriott BSc (Estate Management) MRICS
Commercial Surveyor Dorchester
jmerriott@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01305 261008
10
Property
Management
Services
Need help managing your residential or
commercial assets? George Rogers explains
how Symonds & Sampson can make life easier
Symonds & Sampson takes great pride in providing
the highest level of service in the management
of residential and commercial assets. We have
established strong working relationships with
stakeholders across the board, and are well positioned to not
only protect our clients’ property interests, but to maximise
property and asset values through our proactive and focused
management approach.
Commercial assets
We believe
robust landlord
and tenant
relationships are
the foundation
of successful
property
management
and underpin
commercial property values. As a firm, we offer tailored day-today
management services of commercial property assets on
behalf of our clients.
A key principle of our management service is focused on
ensuring commercially let premises
remain occupied in accordance
with their respective leases, and fully
compliant with prevailing industry
legislation – ensuring our clients’ position
and property interests are safeguarded at
all times.
We are also able to provide professional advice in relation to
the preparation and administration of service charges for multilet
commercial property assets. We work in close collaboration
with solicitors and other legal representatives to assist in the
structuring of commercial leases, and develop property-specific
management strategies for and on behalf of our clients.
Areas we cover include commercial lease advisory,
client accounting and financial administration services,
property inspections, market rent/valuation appraisals, and
development consultancy.
Residential blocks
We are able to take on the
day-to-day administration
of all property managementrelated
matters
Leasehold properties
such as flats are those
where a lease has been
granted for a period of
time by the freehold
owner. Sounds simple?
It sounds simple but
leasehold properties
come with a number of management responsibilities that can
often be overlooked and, if left unmanaged, result in breaches
of insurers’ and/or freeholders’ requirements. This can expose
leaseholders to potential negligence liabilities – an unwanted
management headache for all concerned!
Symonds & Sampson offer a range of bespoke services for
residential management companies – ensuring residential
buildings remain compliant with prevailing legislation, and
continue to be safe and pleasant environments for residents.
We are able to take on the day-to-day administration
of all property management-related matters, including
management accounting, overseeing service contracts and
maintenance works, administering insurance, and working
closely with new and established resident directors and/or
management committees to ensure
positions are safeguarded and peace
of mind.
We are also well equipped to
provide professional valuation advice
and support in respect of leasehold
extensions, in accordance with
prevailing Leasehold Reform Act legislation.
To discuss the management of your commercial property
assets, or if you are looking for help with any residential
management matters, do not hesitate to contact us.
George Rogers BSc MRICS
Commercial Surveyor Yeovil
grogers@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01935 382904
11
Beau
Ties
Jonathan Cheal, agricultural solicitor at Mogers Drewett,
champions the need for individuality in the professions
T
he professions, and certainly the solicitors’
profession, have always tended to be places of grey
uniformity. The livery for male solicitors was always
sober suits and ties, but it now seems to have given
way to a dumbed-down drabness, and largely tieless. This is a
pity.
All the more reason, therefore, to uphold
traditional standards and even better to
celebrate individuality, style and a bit of
colour.
Fancy waistcoats for auctioneers and
land agents should be encouraged, as
should ties for solicitors; especially ties aligned east-west rather
than north-south, and of course self-tied.
Bow ties should always be self-tied (it is just like tying a
shoelace). Clip-on bow ties are an abomination; anyone found
wearing one should be sent to the Tower.
Monocles, spats, two-toned shoes – all these have their
moments and their adherents, but colourful waistcoats for land
agents are as unusually welcome as bright bow ties for rural
solicitors.
Your correspondent is an inveterate bow tie wearer. Many is
the time my wife has been asked by farming clients whether I
wear one at home and, if so, whether I am still wearing it when I
come to bed [that’s quite enough of that, Editor].
I have
approximately 60
bow ties hanging
on my wardrobe
door, and am never
known to wear the
same one two days
running.
Clip-on bow ties are an
abomination; anyone
found wearing one should
be sent to the Tower
A word of advice for the young professional: always try to
stand out from the herd. Be egregious. That way it’s easier to
get known. As you build your career and your reputation, it
is so much easier to become well known if you have some
eccentricity or difference which sets you apart.
Of course, it’s easy enough for a bloke
to adopt a dress style which gives him a
trademark, so to speak; but for the lady
professional it is more difficult. The best
advice would probably be to continue to
dress with style, and be yourself.
The hinterland of any professional is
important in terms of getting known and also in terms of
building a relationship with the client. Always include a list of
your interests at the bottom of the CV, and the more unusual
the better. These will always be useful in interviews.
For some, the particular interest may be sailing or Sudoku,
horses or hockey (in my case, it’s things as eclectic as collecting
books, conducting military tours, baroque music, G&S patter
songs, ley lines, county cricket, and cryptic crosswords). But
whatever it is, it’s important to show there is more to you than
just work.
If anyone is inspired by this article to adopt the elegance
of the bow tie, it will not have been written in vain. Lessons
in tying the bow tie are
available; I charge in
guineas and/or cognac.
Jonathan Cheal
Solicitor – Agriculture
jonathan.cheal@mogersdrewett.com
07901 332642
12
Dress for
Success
Struggling with what to wear in the workplace? Our Axminster style maven
Angela Gillibrand has tips for the well-dressed woman
Jonathan Cheall’s advice to women is to “dress with
style and be yourself” but what does this mean
in practice? Today, the majority of women are in
employment and more than
ever are working in what was thought of as traditionally
male professions. Where does this leave
women, who do not have the uniform of a
suit in its different guises?
Debrett’s suggests for working women:
“A neat, tailored look is best for business …
and smart accessories.”
Thank goodness we have left the era of
power dressing, high heels, full make-up and corporate dress
codes banning trousers.
There is endless advice from the press and influencers on
the internet how to create a capsule wardrobe, especially on a
limited budget or when you are starting your career. Focusing
on a few classic tailored pieces, possibly with a twist, can be a
wise investment.
Despite the well-worn phrase “don’t judge a book by its cover”,
humans are visual creatures and we all make unconscious
judgments within a short time of meeting somebody. There
is truth in “you never get a second chance to make a first
impression”.
Dressing well is a form of good manners. For both men
and women, personal presentation combined with wearing
appropriate clean and pressed clothes is essential.
Best foot forward
Wearing unpolished shoes speaks volumes – making an effort
shows respect. According to Marilyn Monroe: “Give a girl the
right shoes and she can conquer the world”, although I don’t
imagine she was referring to the wellies and sensible shoes
many of us wear as we visit clients on farms, tackling barbed
wire fences in all weathers.
As we experience hotter summers, our work clothing often
struggles to keep pace. If you can wear it at the beach or in a
nightclub it will probably not impress the clients or put them at
ease. We are all brand ambassadors for
both our companies and ourselves. The
overall impression we leave with clients
may affect their decision on whom to
employ.
Women have the advantage of a more
flexible dress code and the potential
to express their individuality. We recognise many successful
women by their unique signature style. They know who they are,
what suits them and what they want to say about themselves.
Focusing on a few classic
tailored pieces, possibly
with a twist, can be a
wise investment
C’est chic
As a child I have vivid memories of my francophone
grandmother’s regular exhortations on manners, deportment
and appearance, as well as avoiding the major failing of not
being “bien dans sa peau”.
This elegant, adventurous woman had lived all over the world
and was at ease in any situation. At the time I didn’t understand
her maxim of stand straight, shoulders back, look people in the
eye and shake their hand. She knew that if you look and feel
good by being true to yourself, it communicates confidence.
Or as fashion designer Rachel Zoe puts it: “Style is a way to say
who you are without having to speak.”
Angela Gillibrand
Farms and Rural Axminster
agillibrand@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01297 33122
13
An Interest
in the Arts
If you enjoy hearing about all aspects of arts
– from fashion and literature to paintings
and architecture – The Arts Society West
Dorset could be the place for you
Not many people know about The Arts Society. But
it’s big, with more than 90,000 members in over
380 local societies, and we are lucky enough to
have one right here in West Dorset.
In 1968 a group of eight local arts and antiques groups
came together to form
what was then the National
Association of Decorative
and Fine Arts Societies,
catchily shortened to
NADFAS. A young woman
named Patricia Fay had
spearheaded this, later receiving an OBE in recognition of her
vision.
Sadly, Patricia died aged 46 but a fund was established in her
memory to provide grants to three areas: young arts; regional
and local museums and galleries; and skills development.
Just before the 50 th anniversary celebrations, NADFAS
became The Arts Society and we became The Arts Society
West Dorset. The name was the only thing that changed; the
society continues to celebrate and promote all aspects of arts,
welcoming everyone to hear about them in all their fascinating
diversity.
The Arts Society works on the principle that the arts enrich
our lives and bring people together who have an interest in all
things artistic. It’s remit is vast, encompassing among others
things, literature, gardens, fashion, architecture, painting,
sculpture, art history, glass, jewellery, silver and gold. It provides
lectures, workshops and visits not only locally and nationally,
but also internationally.
The West Dorset branch began in 1988, helped into life
by one of Patricia Fay’s original founding members, Pamela
Charlton, who had moved to the area. As well as a season of
excellent lectures, the local committee also organises special
interest days and outings to exhibitions, with occasional longer
trips away if there is enough interest.
Locally we draw on The Arts Society’s pool of speakers, many
of whom are published or curators of notable exhibitions.
Recently this included Antiques Roadshow’s Paul Atterbury and
Ian Pickford.
The monthly lectures are now
taking place at the Town Hall,
Bridport, meeting on the third
Thursday of the month
The speakers’ knowledge and enthusiasm is informative
and infectious, often opening up new areas of interest. You
don’t need to have knowledge or even
an interest in the subject to enjoy the
presentations. In fact it is often the case
that the lectures you think
will interest you least are a
real surprise. My favourite a
couple of seasons ago was
on the early 20 th century
fashion designer, Mariano
Fortuny – and I thought I
wasn’t the least bit interested in fashion.
We have started this season in a new,
more central location. The monthly
lectures are now taking place at the Town
Hall, Bridport, meeting on the third Thursday of the month.
We hope the central location will mean that people can
meet for lunch in one of the great local cafes and pubs in
Bridport, and of course parking is available close by. Around 50
members attend each month and visitors are always welcome.
The full programme and membership details can be found
on the website at www.taswestdorset.org.uk
Joining Us
Fees are £50 for individual and £85 for joint membership,
including membership of the national organisation and
its quarterly magazine.
Visitors are welcome at a cost of £7.50 per lecture
To find out more:
Telephone or email:
Mrs Sandy Lovelock
Membership Secretary
The Arts Society West Dorset
Tel. 01305 848390
Email. info@taswestdorset.org.uk
Web: taswestdorset.org.uk
14
Rural
Planning
Planning conditions can be a burden. Don’t allow your rural property
to be unreasonably encumbered
Planning permissions will always be granted
subject to conditions which are used to mitigate
any adverse effects of a proposed development,
and which provide the
Local Planning Authority (LPA) with the
framework to ensure the development
is undertaken in accordance with the
plans.
Planning obligations or S106
agreements, on the other hand, are
legally binding agreements between the property owner and
the LPA, which run with the land and therefore impact future
owners as well as current ones.
In rural planning, S106 agreements are commonly found in
association with permission granted for agricultural workers’
dwellings. These consents will be subject to the standard
planning condition restricting occupation to someone
currently or previously employed in agriculture. On top of
this, LPAs also insisted the applicants enter into a S106 which
ties the whole property together and prevents the ability
to sell any part away from the whole, or to let the property
separately. This in turn has a negative impact on values.
The most recent National Planning Policy Framework
(NPPF), dated February 2019, offers some clarity on the use
and application of planning conditions and obligations. It
clearly states that planning obligations (S106s) should only be
used where it is not possible to address unacceptable impacts
through a planning condition and that the ‘doubling up’ of
conditions and obligations is no longer acceptable.
As a result of this, we have been successful in securing the
removal of the S106 agreement for a number of clients.
The removal of the S106 does not remove the agricultural
occupancy condition but it does lift the restriction over the
whole property, meaning that owners have the freedom to
sell or let part of their property without the need to have to
revert to the LPA.
We have been successful in
securing the removal of the
S106 agreement for
a number of clients
In practical terms this also results in an uplift of value and
removes potential difficulties when charging property as
security for a mortgage.
S52 agreements are the predecessor
of S106 agreements. For anyone who
still has a S52 agreement in place,
these are treated in the same way as
S106s and can therefore be cancelled
following an application to the local
planning authority.
Change of use in West Dorset
The old West Dorset DC Local Plan contains policy SUS3
which deals with the change of use of redundant buildings
to dwellings. The only instances where such a change of
use was acceptable under this policy was where the new
dwelling could be tied to the farmhouse by way of a S106
agreement.
This flew in the face of the NPPF and, after much
discussion with the planning department, the requirement
has been dropped – meaning it is now possible to secure
planning for change of use of agricultural buildings to
unrestricted dwellings in certain circumstances.
This is of particular relevance to those within Areas of
Outstanding Natural Beauty which are unable to take
advantage of Class Q permitted development rules.
Edward Dyke FRICS FAAV
Partner, Head of Professional Services
edyke@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01258 472244
Robyn Harper MRICS FAAV
Rural Surveyor Sturminster Newton
rharper@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01258 472244
15
Flower
Power
The rise of the instagram florist, the popularity of huge installations, and the
push for a greener industry. Caroline Redpath hails the floral revolution
F
lowers are always evolving with the seasons but
recently the floral industry itself has been one of
revolution.
The rise of social media has transformed the
way brides find both their florists and their floral aspirations
for their weddings. Floral designers now attract social media
followings in their thousands, many initial enquiries coming
through platforms such as Instagram or Facebook.
Ten years ago, the emphasis was on bricks and mortar
shops to mark your presence. Now, new florists are stylists
with an Instagram account as a
shopfront. The ease with which new
florists can establish themselves has
made the floristry industry a much
more attractive career path. Every week
I receive requests for work experience
or freelancing from numerous start-ups.
Pinterest is overflowing with floral imagery; however, this
can be described as a double-edged sword, some claiming
it stifles creativity, providing an encouragement to replicate
ideas, rather than promoting innovation, and setting
unrealistic expectations.
However, it is the most wonderful starting point to
understand likes and dislikes in flowers, building up colour
palettes and inspiration for floral installations.
Think hanging floral displays,
cascading staircases and
impactful entrances
This leads us on to the rise of the floral installation. We have
seen a dramatic increase in stand-alone installations, focusing
a budget in one area, rather than lots of smaller arrangements.
Think hanging floral displays, cascading staircases and
impactful entrances. These have been both encouraged by
the Pinterest imagery and public events such as Harry and
Meghan’s wedding.
Enabled by the community of florists over Instagram, there is
now a drive towards eco-friendly floristry. The movement away
from floral foam to water-sourced mechanics in all structures is
crucial. As is the use of recyclable vessels
such as glass rather than disposable
plastics trays. Flowers being wrapped
in paper rather than plastic sleeves are
also helping to improve the industry’s
ecological footprint.
As important is the
provenance of the flowers.
There are British flower
farms popping up all over
the country, alongside
sourcing flowers from
reputable wholesalers,
and Fair Trade. I, like many
florists, have a little cutting
patch, where l produce a
few blooms which don’t
travel well.
Changes are usually seen
most quickly in London, with top florists being at the forefront
of the huge installations or new foam-free mechanics, yet
with Dorset and Somerset now a major wedding venue
destination, these hot topics are on our doorstep.
Caroline can be found on Instagram @fleur_provocateur,
or her website www.fleurprovocateur.co.uk.
Photographs by Katharine Davies
16
Beautiful Barns
We specialise in bringing barn conversion projects to the property market.
Having just completed her own, Annabel Douglas shares her top tips
Project management
Seeing your project evolve is rewarding
but the whole build process is very
fluid, with constant compromises and
decisions being required. Unless you
employ a project manager, prepare to get
very involved. Know your strengths and
weaknesses, and get help if necessary.
Services
Electricity, water and drainage – these
should be your first consideration. If you
can access mains services, life will be so
much easier. Installation can be costly and
a project in itself.
Phone lines are another issue. I am yet to
get a landline due to technical difficulties
with the supplier being unable to locate
my property! Thank goodness for mobiles.
Community Infrastructure
Levy
Assuming planning has been secured, it is
important to be aware of the Community
Infrastructure Levy which some councils
apply to barn conversions. Self-build
exemptions are available but must be
applied for prior to commencing work –
check with your council.
Building regulations
We’re talking health and safety, asbestos
surveys and insurance. Ensure you are
up to speed with requirements. You can
apply to your council direct or employ a
firm to oversee building regulations for
you. Look into both options as they vary in
cost and method.
Security
Unfortunately, rural crime is prevalent. I
was reminded of this the first week of my
build when an extension cable was stolen
one night. After this, everything was either
locked up or tied down. Materials and
equipment are expensive; you don’t want
to have to replace them.
Prepare yourself for a
challenging ride full of
extreme highs and lows
Finding a builder and good
contractors
Personal recommendations are very
important. Choose carefully and expect to
wait for the best people to be available.
Going bespoke
I love my barn’s bespoke features – the
green oak beams, sliding outer door,
limestone floor – but each part made the
build more complicated and costly.
It is important to ensure the design is
practical. My metal roof looks great, but
is noisy when it rains. And my brother
was right when he said oak bi-fold doors
would be awkward due to the wood
warping.
Only go bespoke where it is really
necessary or makes a difference. My
kitchen was from a
large DIY retailer but
the bespoke worktop
makes people think it
is high end.
Landscaping
Check any landscaping planning
conditions and make sure they are
adhered to; then prepare for another
project. Colour chart for gravel, anyone?
VAT
You currently only have to pay 5% VAT
on certain items relating to your barn
conversion. It is therefore essential to
gather all receipts and claim within the
designated timeframe as this can be a
large saving.
Time and money
Unless you are really organised and/
or lucky, you will require more than
originally planned. Make sure you have a
contingency fund.
The end result
Was it hard work? Yes – I’m not going
to lie! Prepare yourself for a challenging
ride full of extreme highs and lows.
Was it worth it? Definitely yes. I love my
barn and the fact every element reflects
my taste. It’s my own mini ‘Grand Design’
in the Dorset countryside, with room for
a pony.
Annabel Douglas MRICS FAAV
Planning/Rural Surveyor Bridport
adouglas@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01308 422092
17
Let’s Hang
Out Together
Bats and other protected species
may affect your planning application.
Annabel Douglas explains how to
minimise disruption
Vampires were a childhood fear so I have been rather
unlucky to be woken up in three different houses
with a bat flying around my bedroom! Despite
screaming hysterically with a duvet over my head,
I am pleased to report none of them bit me and, as a result, I
am now rather fond of bats and find them quite fascinating.
In the UK there are 18 different species of bat. Bats are
nocturnal and use sound to navigate to detect obstacles in
flight, find their way into roosts and forage for food – a trick
called echolocation.
Bats and their roosts are protected by law. It is illegal to
damage, destroy or disturb any bats or roosts without official
consent. A roost is “any place that a wild bat uses for shelter
or protection and the roost is protected whether bats are
present or not”.
Bats and other protected species should be considered
when undertaking development work. Depending on the
type of development proposed, the local council will require
an ecology survey to be undertaken by a qualified licensed
environmental consultant.
Surveys should be carried out at the optimum time of year
when species are most active. If species are located, it may be
necessary to undertake further surveys. The consultant will
then prepare a report and biodiversity mitigation plan which
will suggest suitable measures; this will then be agreed by the
council. For bats these could include bat boxes, incorporation
of existing roosts into new buildings and bat barns/houses.
Not all species are fortunate enough to enjoy legal
protection. West European Hedgehogs are listed as a UK
Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) priority species as there has
been a noticeable decline in hedgehog numbers in recent
years. The BAP list is still used to inform wildlife priorities at
various levels of governance across the UK, although it has
been superseded.
Give nature a home
While developers are obliged
to provide mitigation
measures for protected
species, it is important we
try to give all nature a home,
protected or otherwise.
Bat boxes and hedgehog
houses make a nice addition
to any outdoor space and
there are a range of designs
available. Sadly we can’t
guarantee a swift ‘sale’ to the
first bat or hedgehog. As
with all real estate, location,
location, location is vitally
important and, just like
humans, animals can be very
picky!
Bat box – Blackdown Wood Crafts
The UK has a number of protected
species which need to be considered
in the planning process
• Great crested newts
• Badgers
• Bats
• Hazel or common dormice
• Water voles
• Otters
• Wild birds
• Reptiles
• Protected plants
• White-clawed crayfish
• Invertebrates
• Freshwater fish
• Natterjack toads
• Ancient woodland
and veteran trees
Hedgehog house – Blackdown Wood Crafts
Annabel Douglas MRICS FAAV
Planning/Rural Surveyor Axminster
adouglas@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01297 33122
18
No Bees,
No Honey,
No Work,
No Money
Tessa Tidman and Nick Rymer enjoy
the buzz of beekeeping
Have you ever considered donning a stylish
yet practical beekeeping suit, lighting up
a smoker and harvesting honey? Well, you
should!
There is nothing more satisfying than
keeping your own bees, but to a novice
it can seem daunting. Panic not! There
is a wealth of information and help out
there.
Across the UK, there is a network
of beekeeping associations ready to
help you kick start your hobby. In Dorset alone there are five
associations – Dorchester and Weymouth, Blandford and
Sturminster Newton, East Dorset, Sherborne and West Dorset
– and they are all happy to help.
Location, location, location
If you’ve decided beekeeping is something you’d like to try,
then first you must determine where to locate your hive.
Bee hives can be found in all sorts of locations, from fields
to rooftops, but there are a few key considerations to ensure
your bees are happy and productive – giving them enough
clearance to exit and enter the hive, keeping them in dappled
sunlight to avoid overheating in summer, and of course
ensuring you can easily access it to harvest your honey.
All the gear
Once you have found the perfect spot, you will need to kit
yourself out with the necessary tools for the job. This can be
expensive, but you can pick up some second hand bargains at
local auctions or online.
The essentials include:
• Suit – don’t forget gloves
• Hive and frames
• Smoker
• A hive tool
Bees from Buckfast Abbey in
Devon are known for being
happy and docile
Once you have all the kit, you’ll need some bees. It is possible
to set up a bait hive during the spring, but a safer option would
be to order a nucleus from a reputable supplier. Bees from
Buckfast Abbey in Devon are known for being happy and docile.
An alternative and cheaper option is to add your name to
your local beekeeping association’s
swarm list. During the swarming season
(May to July), they will receive numerous
calls from members of the public asking
them to remove rogue swarms. At this
point, they will call those members who
have registered for a swarm and deliver it to your door. A word
of caution – a colony that has swarmed can be more aggressive
and difficult to handle for a beginner.
Harvest your honey
Once you have your bees, you will have to wait a little before
you can reap the rewards. As such, you shouldn’t take any honey
in the first year as the colony will need food for the coming
winter. Bees will cover a wide area to gather pollen – up to three
miles. So your surroundings will have a direct impact on flavour,
texture and colour.
Now, for the most exciting part – harvesting that honey. A
word of advice: your kitchen might get sticky. If you’re lucky
enough to have runny honey, you can pop the frames into the
honey extractor and voila! The honey can be easily decanted
into jars ready to eat.
If, however, your bees have a taste for heather, you may have
to eat the honey straight off the comb as it will be too thick to
remove from your frames.
Breakfast will never be the same again!
Tessa Tidman MRICS & Nick Rymer MRICS FAAV
Rural Surveyors Wimborne
ttidman@symondsandsampson.co.uk
nrymer@@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01202 843190
19
The Great Escape
A-J Monro is a respected Partner of the firm, manages two of our offices and is a star
of the agricultural valuers scene – but he’s being put to the test by his runaway pigs
In 2018, my family and I purchased our ‘forever
home’ at Affpuddle. The property had a gently
sloping lawn which appeared to be mainly formed
of moss, weed and ivy. It was evident that drastic
action was required to bring it back to life. My wife bravely
suggested pigs were the answer;
A-J, we’ve had a call from
your neighbour to say pigs
are currently running
around his garden
our lives have never been the same.
When I was growing up, I
was surrounded by arable farms
and horses – thereby hands-on
experience with livestock was quite
limited.
Having undertaken what we thought was an adequate
job of fencing the front lawn with old equine electric tape,
we purchased our first five pigs – rare breed Mangalitsa,
a Hungarian pig which is part boar and resembles a cross
between a sheep and a pig with a coarse but very curly coat.
Within 10 minutes of arriving, our five little pigs proved that
old equine electric tape was ineffective against their strong
will and thick coats. Passing traffic would have seen my wife,
myself, our two children and Duncan Joynt (a local contractor
and farmer) dashing about trying to herd these speedy
woollen tanks back into their makeshift paddock. New electric
fencing tape was required.
Not content with just five Mangalitsa pigs, we then
acquired three Oxford Sandy and Blacks to join the team,
who settled in relatively quickly once the pecking order was
established.
After two months, the moss-covered lawn was more akin to
a very badly ploughed field. As a result, a portion of one of the
fields was professionally fenced out to provide a permanent
pig paddock. This seemed ideal; “no getting out of there” we
naively said.
Unfortunately it appears the paddock was not sufficiently
stockproof, as a message from one of my colleagues proved: “A-J,
we’ve had a call from your neighbour to say pigs are currently
running around his garden.”
A frantic dash home revealed that the pigs had done the limbo
under part of an old fence. My neighbour politely
pointed out that pigs particularly liked rose bushes!
We have endured a further two or three escape
attempts by these fluffy bullets. They appear to
have speed and stamina to put a serious runner to
shame. Sadly, I do not! As a result, four of the chief
troublemakers are now in piggy heaven.
We have now taken on five Tangalitsas. This is a cross between
Mangalitsa and Tamworth and gives a very attractive ginger pig
which appears to be even more determined to escape. Ours can
extract themselves from a field through an apparently nonexistent
hole.
Having now reached the end of our first summer at Affpuddle,
we are branching out further as my wife kindly gave me three
Ruby Red Devon cows which will bring the sum total of animals
(including chickens, dogs, pigs and cattle) on the holding to
roughly 130 legs.
In January 2020 one of our Mangalitsa’s gave birth to four
piglets, the father being our Tangalitsa boar, so this number will
continue to rise, I am sure.
There is one particular phrase that Duncan Joynt said to me
when we were discussing breeds of cattle and pigs: “There’s a
reason they are rare breeds.”
A-J Monro MRICS FAAV
Partner Wimborne
amonro@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01202 843190
20
Your Tax
Planning
Toolkit
We look at the advantages of holding commercial property in your pension
Self-Invested Personal Pensions (SIPPs) and Small
Self-Administered Schemes (SSASs) are Governmentapproved
pension schemes which enable individuals
and companies to manage their own investments
within their pension fund.
They offer a range of investment opportunities, including
commercial property and land holdings, and may even borrow
to fund those investments.
Commercial real estate such as
Holding property in a
Self-Invested Pension
could help to reduce your
Inheritance Tax exposure
retail, industrial or office buildings
are often held within pension
funds to ‘hedge’ against inflation,
helping the value of your pension
pot and retirement income keep
pace with the rising costs of living.
The advantages of holding
commercial property in your pension can go well beyond
hedging against inflation, as Peter Noble, rural tax adviser at Old
Mill, explains: “For commercial property owners looking to build
a pension pot or to preserve the value of their property across
multiple generations, SIPPs and SASSs can be a great addition
to the tax planning toolkit.”
Some of the ongoing tax benefits are well known:
• Rental income and capital growth of assets in a pension
fund are free from both Income and Capital Gains Tax
(CGT).
• Better still, where the pension’s assets are used in your
own business, the market rent paid to the pension fund is
allowable as a deduction against your business profits.
Holding property in a Self-Invested Pension could also help to
reduce your Inheritance Tax (IHT) exposure.
“Let’s say that you hold a property in your estate that is not
expected to qualify for IHT reliefs,” explains Peter. “Your executors
could face an IHT charge of up to 40% of the property’s value at
your date of death. Gifting the property to a family member or
trust could help to reduce that IHT charge, possibly even to nil,
but are you happy to lose control of the property?”
Peter continues, “One alternative would be to hold the
property in a SIPP or SSAS. This would allow you to retain
control, to benefit from the rental income over the course of
your lifetime, and to pass the pension fund to a nominated
beneficiary on death completely free of IHT. In certain
circumstances there could also be Income Tax benefits for your
beneficiaries when they come to take the pension.”
As with any tax planning, your individual circumstances need
to be carefully considered. However, for a taxpayer with the
right set of circumstances, holding property in a SIPP or SSAS
can be very beneficial indeed.
Old Mill provides administration and accounting for pension
schemes and is able to offer technical and
investment advice.
Symonds & Sampson’s
commercial property services
Symonds & Sampson are able to assist in
providing formal Red Book valuations for
both SIPP and SSAS purposes as well as other
tax-related matters. In addition, we offer a number of other
commercial property services including:
• Commercial Agency
• Commercial Property Management
• Landlord and Tenant Matters
• Commercial Lease Advisory
George Rogers BSc MRICS
Commercial Surveyor Yeovil
grogers@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01935 382904
Charlie Snow BSc
Commercial Surveyor Yeovil
csnow@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01935 423526
Ryan Holmes AssocRICS MARLA
Commercial Dorchester
rholmes@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01305 261008
Peter Noble
Old Mill Accountants
peter.noble@cm.uk
01935 709423
21
Diversify
for Success
Inheriting a country estate may sound like a dream come true, but what about
the upkeep? The owners of Stock Gaylard found they had to get creative
Andy and Josie Langmead and their three
children moved to Stock Gaylard Estate near
Kings Stag in 2002 when
it passed to them from
Josie’s step-grandfather, Colonel Yeatman.
The house dates back 300 years and
the parish church within the grounds to
the 13 th century. The estate itself is noted
in history well before the 15 th century and is now some 1,800
acres of farmland, woodland and the deer park, with much of it
designated a Site of Scientific Interest (SSI).
The Langmeads’ main
ethos is the preservation and
conservation of the grounds
and its features, as well as
the historic property that
comes with it. This is not a
cheap business and so their
diversification businesses
were born.
From just a handful of
stalls, the event has grown
to be quite the show
The fair was an idea borne out of Andy’s passion for
conservation and the remarkable Crusader Oak which lies at the
Everybody yurts
heart of the fair and is believed to be over
700 years old, named after the Crusader
buried in the church at around the same
time. The fair also features the ancient Oak
Avenue that runs through the park.
While juggling the growing fair, the Langmeads also decided
to establish a glamping business and the estate now has four
off-grid glamping sites, all at least half a mile from each other so
guests are left totally undisturbed.
Uniquely, they offer private sites for large groups with a large
communal area, proper kitchen facilities and private bathroom
just for the group. All the sites run totally on solar power for the
lights, fridges and other electricals; gas bottles provide cooking
and instantly warm showers, but guests’ favourite is the woodfired
open-air bath.
Fair deal
Alongside the more usual means of revenue, including
property rentals and farm tenancies, is the Oak Fair which Andy
introduced 15 years ago.
From just a handful of stalls, the event has grown to be quite
the show. In 2019, around 11,000 people flowed through the
gates over the two days. With over 250 exhibitors, arena shows
including heavy horses, falconry and lumber jacking, a fabulous
food market, tree climbing, archery and axe throwing, it is
becoming a popular destination.
Pub and grub
As if this wasn’t enough, the summer of 2019 saw the
Langmeads purchase and renovate The Green Man pub in
Kings Stag, headed up by son, Jack. The pub not only gives
glampers a lovely local, but can be used as an outlet for some of
the farm’s meat and venison from the deer park.
The estate’s latest plan is to hold an Obstacle Mud Run in
spring 2020 so watch this space!
Immy Robinson
office@stockgaylard.com
01963 23511
22
Planning
Ahead
Expert guidance makes all the
difference when it comes to
maximising planning opportunities and
our qualified staff are ready to help
Class R conversions
Class Q permitted development enables a simplified
approach to converting agricultural buildings to dwellings, an
opportunity that many farmers have capitalised on. But have
you ever come across Class R?
Class R is the lesser known alternative that enables the
conversion of qualifying agricultural buildings to flexible
commercial use, including Class A1 (shops), Class A2 (financial
and professional services), Class A3 (restaurants and cafés),
Class B1 (business), Class B8 (storage or distribution), Class C1
(hotels) and Class D2 (assembly and leisure).
Under Class R, the building must have been used solely
for the purpose of agriculture on an established agricultural
unit since 3 July 2012, or when it was last in use. Any building
brought into use after this date will only qualify if it has been
maintained in that use for a minimum of 10 years.
The cumulative floor space to be converted must not
exceed 500m 2 . The building must not be used as a military
explosives storage area or safety hazard area; it must not be
listed, and it must not be a scheduled monument.
Finally, depending on the size of the building you wish
to convert, the 56-day notice to establish if prior approval is
required may not always be needed.
It must be noted that Class R only allows for the ‘change
of use’ element and does not cover any operational
development required to convert a building, so planning
permission is required if you need to make any alterations to
the external appearance of the unit.
So why convert a farm building under Class R and not
Class Q? There is one key difference: the ability to utilise your
Class R permitted development rights in designated areas
such as AONB and National Parks where the use of Class Q is
prohibited.
There are, of course, other factors such as location, local
demand and financial issues when considering the route of
Class R. However, in a time of uncertainty in agriculture, it is
important to identify opportunities to maximise the potential
in an asset and explore alternative – potentially lucrative –
income streams.
Permitted development rights
The aim of the General Permitted Development Order 2015
(GPDO) – otherwise referred to as permitted development – is
to speed up the planning process and ultimately deliver more
housing to the UK’s under-supplied residential market.
The GPDO lists a number of conditions which a proposed
development must fulfil, and gives local authorities a say on
some aspects of design and siting. However, because of the
speed in which a local planning authority must respond,
usually 30 days, and the legislative powers which permitted
development provides to the developer, this can be a
challenge.
It is the responsibility of local government, developers
and real estate professionals to produce buildings which are
attractive and form the basis of a home.
I am pleased to say that Symonds & Sampson has been
involved in a number of projects which seek to promote
a good standard of living, such as Court Ash in Yeovil
which saw an unused office building converted under the
GPDO into contemporary apartments, offering a variety of
accommodation which is both affordable and high quality.
It shows that permitted development can provide good
quality housing by repurposing old and tired buildings.
Annie Helliwell BSc Hons MRICS FAAV
Rural Surveyor Salisbury
ahelliwell@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01722 334323
23
RESIDENTIAL
AND LETTINGS
We delve into the history of the picture
postcard, the delights of the daily commute,
and the story behind Sherborne’s Pageant
Gardens. There’s a shout-out for heritage
buildings, the joy of fishing, and the milestones
that mark our highways and byways. We
discover what it takes to open your garden
for charity, how S&S supported our troops
in WWI, and conduct a straw poll on thatch.
There’s food for thought in Weymouth, military
memories in Fontmell Magna and Wellington,
and a round-up of smart home technology.
We review another good year for property
sales, and forecast lucrative opportunities for
investors in commercial property. Our lettings
team consider the merits of residential and
holiday lets, give us an insight into a day in the
life of a property inspector, and reveal their top
picks from a bumper crop of lettings.
t Winter by Annie Taylor,
www.annie-taylor.com
Wish You
Were Here
Jane Moir traces the history of
the picture postcard
It is some years since the BBC would broadcast
an SOS message, after the shipping forecast and
before the news, asking someone to contact their
relative usually because someone was gravely ill.
The person would invariably be on holiday in Britain or
France where the longwave signal could be picked up.
Now with constant contact through mobile phones and
emails there is no need for these irregular BBC messages.
I was thinking about this when looking through the rack
of postcards on holiday in Cornwall because until recently
this would have been the most popular way of sending a
written message to family and friends, and I wondered when
it started.
Early days
Postcard collectors, or deltiologists,
can tell you it began in 1870 when the
Post Office produced plain cards with a
stamp, but it took 14 years for the first
picture postcard to appear.
Cheeky designs
Look around your local
house clearance auction
or flea market and you are
bound to see postcards
Having been brought up in the Carry On film era, my eyes are
drawn to the saucy postcards. These began distribution in the
1930s and at their peak 16 million were sold in a year.
They were often a little tacky, relying on the innuendo
involving big-busted ladies and put-upon husbands. The
Government of the day, concerned
about falling moral standards, cracked
down on the rudest and it was not
until the 1960s, possibly because
Hattie Jacques and Sid James and their
double entendres were popular at the
cinema, that they made a revival.
Many saucy postcards are, naturally, not appropriate today
but should we take them for what they are? Is it part of our
national history and our DNA?
Look around your local house clearance auction or flea
market and you are bound to see postcards from this era
showing not only the seaside but also cities and places
abroad.
Many were printed during the First World War with a studio
portrait of a soldier, and the first humorous cartoons appeared
to keep people’s spirits up.
The rather risqué postcards of the Victorian era featured
scantily clad ladies or tastefully posed nudes in diaphanous
drapes and were considered rather daring at that time but
would probably not raise disapproving eyebrows today.
Social media shake-up
I chatted to the woman in the shop and asked whether
she sells many saucy postcards these days. “I hardly sell any
postcards, full stop,” she replied and we discussed social media
sites like Instagram.
“People used to send postcards when they were on holiday
but now they just post ‘happy’ pictures from their phones
several times a day.
“After all, who can be bothered to write to one person
when a tweet of 140 characters will say all that’s needed to
not just one friend, but hundreds?”
With an interest in all things vintage, her comments gave
me cause to reflect on how times have changed so that many
traditions and memories of my childhood are being rapidly
replaced by modern technology and the internet. When was
the last time you sent a postcard?
Jane Moir MNAEA
Residential Wimborne
jmoir@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01202 843190
26
The Daily
Commute
Would girl-about-town Milly English swap
The London Office for the delights of Dorset?
At a Symonds & Sampson property forum at The
London Office, I spoke to a man about why he
wanted to move out of London and he just said:
“The commute.”
I understood what he meant as I
remembered how I had fought through
the crowds of workers, tourists and
day trippers that morning as I travelled
underneath our wonderful capital to get
to work.
Apparently, Londoners spend more
time commuting to work than anywhere else in the UK –
sometimes it feels like it.
I seem to see the same people every day. The sprinters
hurrying to get somewhere quicker than anyone else – are they
perpetually late or did they hate the train journey as much as
the rest of us and just can’t wait to get out?
The people lost in their
music or podcasts making
a last-minute lunge for the
doors, assuming they can
push past the door huggers
who block everyone’s way,
even though they have a
seven-stop ride.
Those who balance
themselves, almost afraid to
touch anything in case they pick up germs, and the others who
cling on to the central poles, making it almost impossible to
grab a stabilising force that is not human.
Then there’s the heat and random blasts of hot air and smoke
that gust through the thoroughfares as we are taken into the
bowels of the city.
On a beautiful day, however, nothing can be as uplifting
I had fought through the
crowds that morning as
I travelled underneath
our wonderful capital
to get to work
as a walk from a few stops before the usual exit, through the
parks and along the streets where the shops yawn, stretch and
prepare for the day ahead.
Surely our prospective escapee will
miss all this? He looked past me and
recalled visiting a friend on the Dorset/
Devon border earlier in the year.
“I woke up at 6am wondering why it
was so quiet; no roaring traffic, banging
of car doors or wailing sirens. My friend
made his wife a cup of tea and then we
walked the dogs for three miles over the fields without seeing
another soul.
“After breakfast and a shower, I drove with him to his office
– through the winding lanes enjoying the primroses, bluebells
and the waft of wild garlic as it drifted through my open
window. I glanced over the open fields and saw the morning
sun dancing on the sea and reminded myself to walk
along the beach after lunch so that I could inhale the
sea air and look at the Jurassic coast. The radio traffic
report warned listeners about tailbacks on the M25
and I felt very smug! His commute was 12 minutes.”
He was sold on the idea of moving out of London
and I introduced him to one of the Symonds &
Sampson team who was soon seducing him with a
number of beautiful properties.
To borrow from Daphne du Maurier: Dorset is “a
thing of grace and beauty, exquisite and faultless”, but I’m not
ready for the big move yet!
Milly English
The London Office
milly@tlo.co.uk
020 7839 0888
27
The Pageant
Gardens at
Sherborne
Andy Wakinshaw, residential partner in
our Sherborne office, recounts the story
of the town’s Pageant Gardens
Sherborne was founded in 705AD and, at one point,
it was the capital of the Kingdom of Wessex. King
Alfred’s brothers Ethelbert and Ethelbald were
buried in the town’s abbey. The 12 th century saw
the creation of a romantic castle, and in the 16 th century
Sherborne was home to a glorious Tudor mansion built by Sir
Walter Raleigh.
When, in 1904, Canon Mayo of the nearby Longburton
village informed the Church Council that the town’s 1200th
anniversary was approaching, it was decided that it would be
fitting to have a local ecclesiastical celebration.
Pomp and pageantry
An ex-Sherborne schoolmaster was a
renowned playwright and he staged
a theatrical spectacle – ‘the mother of
all pageants’ – with a cast of 900.
The pageant took place in the
ruins of the 12 th century castle and
consisted of 11 episodes, beginning
with the coming of Ealdhelm in 705
and ending with a visit from Sir Walter Raleigh in 1593.
In between, the whole story of Sherborne was told,
from intense battles with Danish marauders in 845 and the
imposition of the Benedictine Order on greedy drunken
monks in 998, to the foundation of the 12 th century castle and
the receiving of the school’s charter in 1550.
Religious themes and lessons loomed large, unsurprising
due to the pageant’s origins, as did the notion of a Merry Olde
England, complete with maypoles and Morris dancing.
The pageant made a
case for remembering
Sherborne’s role in the
larger life of the nation
Local history was joined to the history of England with
the arrival of kings and noble figures, as the pageant made a
case for remembering Sherborne’s role in the larger life of the
nation.
Garden delights
The present Pageant Gardens in the
town are situated close to the railway
and opposite Digby House, just a few
hundred yards from our office.
This two-acre garden, with bandstand, was designed in
1905 by FW Mayer
for Veitch and
Son of Exeter. The
land was donated
by Colonel F
Wingfield Digby
in memory of
his father. The
money raised at
the mother of all
pageants contributed towards the landscaping.
Well worth a visit on a sunny afternoon and ideal for quiet
contemplation, this lovely garden is an oasis of calm.
Andy Wakinshaw
Residential Partner Sherborne
awakinshaw@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01935 814488
28
Better by Design
Chris Drake, residential manager of our Sherborne office, on the importance of
preserving and enhancing our wonderful towns and villages
T
he post of housing minister is a little bit like
pass the parcel but we would hope that, once
the music stops, the better policy ideas are
unwrapped and then passed along to ensure that
they become law.
One of the better ideas is the National Design Code which
will encourage greater community involvement in shaping
new homes and creating the kinds of places in which people
genuinely want to live. It will illustrate how well-designed
places that are beautiful, enduring
and successful can be achieved in
practice
The idea is that there will be a
presumption in favour of homes on
streets – with front doors, quality
facades, roofs complying with local
tradition, and respecting concerns for local vernacular and
heritage. And a presumption, for the first time, in favour of
tree-lined streets.
Similarly, the Future Homes Standard will ensure gold
standards for sustainable, environmentally friendly homes
which, like our garden cities of the past, will actually stand
the test of time. Every new home from 2025 will have lowor
zero-carbon emissions and the highest levels of energy
efficiency.
Local heroes
There is also talk of a Heritage Preservation Campaign where
local communities and heritage groups will be encouraged
to get far more involved in identifying the historic buildings in
their area so they can be central to the process of recognising,
defining and protecting the buildings they truly value.
It will see local people coming forward to nominate the
buildings and community assets they cherish – protecting
them for future generations. The Government will be backing
It will illustrate how places
that are beautiful, enduring
and successful can be
achieved in practice
this programme with £700,000 of investment – giving
counties the tools, funding and expertise they need.
This builds on the £95m that the Government announced
in 2019 to unlock the economic potential of 69 historic high
streets to ensure that these important places can be refreshed
and renewed.
At the heart of this will be local people, as well as a new
team of heritage activists, who will be working across
England to find these buildings and get them listed, locally or
nationally, as soon as possible.
Environmental focus
This will go hand in hand with
Government plans to protect the
planet, as there is more recognition
that we must be building to last.
Research shows that the construction, demolition and
excavation of old homes generates around three-fifths of total
UK non-hazardous waste every year.
Developers are rediscovering the value in the renovation and
refurbishment of Victorian terraces. Like the Welsh Streets
of Liverpool – streets that were under serious and needless
threat of being knocked down. These are now in a new wave
of regeneration and renewal.
The housing ministry also need to be ambitious, creative and
imaginative in repurposing commercial and public buildings.
This all sounds rather exciting but how long will a housing
minister stay in post? There have been 16 since 2000 but let
us hope that the music keeps playing and we can see these
exciting ideas come to fruition.
Chris Drake MNAEA
Residential Manager Sherborne
cdrake@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01935 814488
29
Gone
Fishing
Jeremy Smith, residential partner in our
Yeovil office, recalls the thrill of the catch
My father was, and
indeed still is, a
very passionate
fisherman so I guess
I was always destined to follow in his
footsteps – my mother has a photo of
me digging for worms for bait at the
age of three! My very first fish was a
small perch, just a few ounces, and I’ve
never looked back.
As a ninth birthday treat, my father
took me fly fishing. We fished a water
called Peckhams Copse in Sussex and
during this trip I had my very first take
on a fly rod. I was hooked, excuse the
pun, on this form of fishing.
In the mid-1980s we moved to
Dorset and very soon I was into beach
casting and fishing for cod and bass.
After some years, the lure of the fly
returned and I started fishing locally in
the trout lakes at Pallington, Flowers
Farm and Tolpuddle.
I had my first double-figure trout at
Tolpuddle and in 1995 caught the lake
record rainbow trout at 15lb 10oz, which I understand still
stands to this day.
I developed a passion for “stalking” big trout at waters such
as Dever Springs, Avington and Lechlade. My current brown
trout record is 17Ib 1oz, while the rainbow best is 18Ib 2oz.
Around 2008, I decided to combine my passion for fishing
with travel, and have been fortunate to visit Thailand, Egypt,
Belize, Australia, Florida Keys, Canada and Gambia where
My very first fish was a small
perch, just a few ounces,
and I’ve never looked back
I’ve caught all sorts of exotic fish of all
shapes and sizes. I have a trip booked to
Texas to fish for alligator gar in July 2020.
At home I have a very tolerant
partner and have many fishing pictures
up!
People often ask me to name my
favourite catch, which is always difficult
as they all meant different things to
me. The biggest fish I have caught is a
440lb arapaima in Thailand. But If I had
to pick one fish that I would catch again
it would be the 350lb sturgeon from
Canada which was, as the Canadians
would say, “awesome!”
I have also recently been fishing for
sharks out of Falmouth on very light
tackle, which is great sport and all fish
are boated, unhooked and returned
extremely quickly.
The boat I fish with now offers
diving cages to watch these amazing
blue sharks as conservation is hugely
important to the fishing family.
Even now I will occasionally go down
to a local pond just to float-fish for rudd or roach as, even at
50 years old, seeing that float go under makes me feel like a
little boy again!
Jeremy Smith MNAEA
Residential Partner Yeovil
jsmith@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01935 423526
30
Marking
the Miles
For the eagle-eyed traveller along Britain’s
highways and byways, milestones provide a
fascinating link to the past, says Richard Taylor
Have you ever wondered why there is a
milestone beside a road in the middle of
nowhere? A milestone is one of a series of
numbered markers placed along a road or
boundary at intervals of one mile or occasionally, parts of a
mile; typically sited at the side of a road.
They were essential way points in times when maps were
rare and travel was on foot or horseback. They gave guidance
to travellers, assuring them that they were on the right route
and showing the distance to their destination.
The Romans first defined the centre of Imperial Rome with
the Golden Milestone (hence the saying “all roads lead to
Rome”) and milestones were originally obelisks made from
granite, marble or other local stone.
The Romans built roads to enable
soldiers with their equipment and
provisions to cross the country faster;
they measured distance to assist
timing and efficiency, placing a large
stone as a distance marker every
thousandth double-step. Latin for
thousand is ‘mille’ and the distance was 1,620 yards.
Post the Roman era, roads were constructed to meet
local needs but over the years roads fell into disrepair. An
Act of Parliament in 1555 made local parishes responsible
for maintaining them and later in the 16 th century, with the
advent of Royal Mail, staging points focused attention on the
road again.
They were essential way
points in times when maps
were rare and travel was on
foot or horseback
The 1,760-yard statute mile was introduced in 1593
although the length of ‘miles’ varied across the country so a
system of accurately measured mile markers was necessary.
From the 1700s, Turnpike Trusts were set up to build
stretches of road paid for by the levying of tolls at a series of
turnpike gates. From the late 1700s, milestones were placed
on all turnpike roads to mark miles,
thus informing travellers of distance
and direction to their destination
and also to assist coaches to keep
to schedule and change horses at
coaching points.
Cerne Abbas had numerous
coaching inns, being on the coaching route from Dorchester
to Sherborne. There is a milestone on the edge of the village,
on the original route.
The advent of the railway eventually brought about the
demise of many coaching inns and consigned the turnpike
system to history, contributing in large measure to the
bankruptcy of a number of the trusts.
Milestones were superseded by taller posts which were
deemed more suited to faster, motorised road transport.
Today, milestones are used as references by maintenance
engineers and emergency services to direct them to specific
points where their presence is required.
In the UK there are driver location signs placed every 500
metres along each side of a motorway and on some other
major roads.
Richard Taylor FRICS
Partner Dorchester
rtaylor@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01305 756967
31
Open
Gardens
There’s more to taking part in the National Garden Scheme than just weeding the
borders and throwing open the gates, as Phillipa Sage discovered at her patch
– The Hay Barn in Kingstone, Ilminster
Georgie Wakinshaw speaks to Phillipa about
opening her gardens for the first time in 2019.
You took part in the NGS scheme for the first time in 2019.
What made you decide to apply?
A dear friend, who has now sadly
passed away, used to open her garden
in Dowlish Wake. We used to swap
plants and enjoy gardening. Even while
seriously ill she nagged me to open my
garden and so one day, while visiting
another NGS garden I plucked up the
courage and picked up the leaflet.
How long was it from first deciding to take part to actually
opening the garden?
In July 2018 the local co-ordinator came to visit my garden and
I was delighted when she thought it was suitable. I then had to
formally enter my garden by the October in order to get it in the
Yellow Book for 2019.
How would you describe your garden in
terms of style?
A formal cottage garden wrapping around
a barn conversion, with lots of paths inviting
you to wander through the various areas.
These include dry areas with droughtresistant
plants, perennial borders and a
working area with cut-flower beds.
How many helping hands
did it take on the day?
Two on the car park, two on
the entrance gate, one selling
plants, and five people on a
rota for the tea and cake stall
What was the hardest thing about opening the garden?
The practicalities of getting it ready. It was pretty much non-stop
from spring through to summer, but a good friend who is the
garden manager at RHS Hyde Hall came down to help and also
six wonderful friends and colleagues with whom I have been
taking my RHS qualifications all did some hard labour in return
for lunch!
Were you anxious?
Despite all our hard work I naturally worried it was good enough.
I’d also made sure we had some aerial photos of the barn and
gardens, some before the farm was converted into houses,
and people remarked on how much it had been transformed.
Bearing in mind it was designed by my late-husband Roger, it
really felt like he was here with us throughout the day.
What was the most enjoyable part about
opening the garden?
I thought I might not like feeling “on show”
but I chatted to so many people and really
enjoyed myself.
What is your favourite part of the garden?
The trio of silver birch and bench at the
back of the garden.
Are there any bits you don’t like very much?!
Yes! My driveway has far too much gravel and I’d like to take part
of it to use as a Mediterranean-style garden with herbs including
rosemary and thyme, and verbena.
Anything you’d do differently next time?
Don’t order so many scones! Everyone offered to
make cakes and I kept saying yes, but it’s so easy to
over-cater and I now have a freezer full of scones
and clotted cream.
Do you know how much you raised?
Our first day in July raised an amazing £1,207.
Will you do it again?
Absolutely!
What would you say to anyone who is interested in opening
their own garden?
Do it. You meet some wonderful people and learn so much too.
If you are interested in opening your own garden, more
information can be downloaded from the National Garden
Scheme at www.ngs.org.uk
Georgie Wakinshaw BSc
Residential Ilminster
gwakinshaw@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01460 200790
32
Frontline
Fundraising
Anabel Merriman on how our firm
helped support the troops in WWI
At the outbreak of the first world war, the Soldiers,
Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA)
was the only charity set up to care for the
families of servicemen.
Just days after the start of the war, the Government called
upon the charity to help ensure families were not left to
struggle by the departure of men heading to the front. Within
a few weeks, the charity had grown from 7,000 volunteers to
more than 50,000.
After the first 15 months of the war, more than £5m had
been raised by The Prince of Wales’ National Relief Fund. Our
firm held auctions to raise funds, and soldiers and families were
grateful and reliant on this charity and upon the Red Cross.
Voluntary aid
Members of the British Red Cross and
the Order of St John were organised
into Voluntary Aid Detachments (VADs).
All members were trained in first
aid and some trained in nursing, cookery,
hygiene and sanitation. The majority of
female VADs volunteered as nurses, trained
by the Red Cross. They were dispatched
throughout the UK and Europe during the
conflict.
During the war, they supplied auxiliary
hospitals and convalescent homes for
wounded servicemen. Many people offered
their properties to the cause. Hospitals were
set up in town halls, elementary schools, and
private houses.
Red Cross working parties throughout the
country organised the supply of clothing
for soldiers in hospital. They also made vital
hospital items such as bandages, splints, swabs and clothing.
Their work was coordinated by The Central Work Rooms.
Fund raising
We have found a unique record of how our firm helped raise
funds in 1916 which included coordinating the British Farmers’
Red Cross Fund in an appeal to raise £500,000.
The collecting cards have the name of the collector and
details that it is an appeal for sick and wounded soldiers. It was
We have found a unique
record of how our firm helped
raise funds in 1916
not only money that was given, and it is quite touching to see
how everyone was prepared to do their bit, however small.
Some donated as little as two shillings and sixpence, others five
dozen eggs, half a sack of potatoes, cheese, geese and ham.
Our firm also held an auction of donated items including
cattle, donkeys, sheep, swine, dogs,
implements, poultry and rabbits,
flowers and vegetables. The total sale
on 16 June 1916, including a sale of
flags, was £770 3s 5d.
By the end of the war the Red
Cross had provided 90,000 VADs, who had
volunteered at home and abroad.
Over 1,786 auxiliary hospitals had been
established, with patients arriving by staffed
ambulances, hospital trains and motor
launches. After the war, equipment from the
auxiliary hospitals was distributed to local
general hospitals, rehabilitation centres,
sanatoriums and other medical centres.
Over £21,885,035 had been raised through
fundraising efforts and the majority of the
money was spent on hospitals, medicine,
clothing and care for the sick and wounded.
Our firm and the farming fraternity of
Dorset did their bit for the cause and it is
something we are very proud of.
Today this is still a thriving charity for servicemen and their
families, now known as SSAFA The Armed Forces Charity.
www.ssafa.org.uk
Anabel Merriman MNAEA
Residential Sturminster Newton
amerriman@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01258 473766
33
Food for
Thought
Weymouth is rapidly acquiring a reputation as a foodie destination.
Jon Summers tantalises your taste buds
T
hink Weymouth and Portland and what comes
to mind? Boating, regattas, sailing wins at the 2012
Olympics – all of which established the Sailing
Academy as the UK’s leading
centre for water sports.
The Olympic legacy put watersports
at the forefront of growth across new
commercial enterprises. It’s been the
lever to attract house builders, investors
and homeowners in recent years. Great
news for the region, however, it’s not
the only area in which we’re excelling.
While every seaside town may think
it has the best fish and chips in the UK
(the Marlboro on Weymouth harbour
bridge, hands-down winner!), the
area has recently been widening its
culinary repertoire and establishing
itself as a go-to foodie destination.
An article in The Guardian said:
“Forget the Olympics and the world
heritage Jurassic coastline; the most
exciting thing about Weymouth is
the harbour.”
The harbourside is bustling with
crabbers, scallop dredgers, sole
netters and whelkers. All supply
the kitchens of the established
restaurants – and growing number of
new eateries – along the surrounding
coastline with fresh produce for locals
and visitors alike.
The UK’s largest and most
prestigious seafood festival takes
place around the harbour each year. Attracting thousands of
visitors and a stellar line up of top chefs – including the likes of
Mark Hix and Mitch Tonks – who have a well-reported passion
for seafood.
The UK’s largest and most
prestigious seafood festival
takes place around the
harbour each year
Mitch Tonks, who opened his new Rockfish restaurant in
the town in summer 2019, was recently quoted in the local
press as saying: “Weymouth could become a top foodie
destination.”
The award-winning Crab House Café
at Ferrybridge continues to receive
rave reviews and draws diners from far
and wide. The proprietors also run the
more rustic, yet equally successful, Billy
Winters waterside café nearby.
Just two examples of an
array of eateries, situated in
stunning coastline, with ease
of access to both Weymouth
harbour and Portland marina,
drawing some prestigious
vessels into the area (one of the
world’s largest super yachts,
Black Pearl, was anchored in
Weymouth bay in 2019).
Suffice to say, if you have
not experienced Weymouth,
its harbour, beaches, seafood
restaurants – nor sampled the
delights of the seafood festival
– you really have missed out.
Perhaps we’ll see
Weymouth’s international
reputation equal that of
Padstow as a result of the “top
chef” effect? In the coming
years, it may well be the plaice
to be!
Jon Summers MNAEA
Partner Head of Residential
jsummers@symonds&sampson.co.uk
01305 217993
34
Know your
John Sanders Photography
Thatch
The West Country is well known for thatched properties, but what is thatch,
where does it come from and how is it grown and harvested?
Georgina Browning explains
Historically, covering a roof in locally gathered
plant material such as heather, sedges, grasses,
bracken, cereal and water reed was the obvious
way of providing weather protection. In more
modern times, properties tend to be thatched in water reed or
“combed” or “long straw” wheat reed.
Water reed
Being a wetland species, water reed is predominantly gathered
(in the UK) from the reed beds of Norfolk and Suffolk. Harvested
yearly, during the winter, it can grow between one and two-andhalf
metres long.
Although it is no longer necessary to harvest water reed
by hand, harvesting with converted rice cutting or flotation
machines is still a labour-intensive process.
The machinery resembles large, handguided
lawn mowers and once the reed is
cut it needs to be “cleaned out”, “knocked
up”, dried and gathered into bundles.
On a good day, a reed cutter working
alone can harvest between 60 and 70
bundles of reed. A well-managed reed bed can yield around 750
bundles of reed per hectare, but an average roof can need 1,500
to 2,000 bundles to cover it and today, home-grown supply is
insufficient to meet UK demand.
As a result, most “Norfolk reed”, as it is commonly known, is
imported from Turkey, Austria, Hungary, Poland, the Ukraine and
China.
It is widely thought that water reed is the most durable of
thatching materials and that, with appropriate maintenance, a
roof can last upwards of 30 years. However, much depends on
the prevailing weather, the aspect of the house, the pitch of the
roof and, of course, the thatcher’s skill.
Water reed is the most
durable and, with appropriate
maintenance, a roof can last
upwards of 30 years
which is harvested before becoming fully ripe and processed
carefully in order to avoid mechanical crushing.
Farmers producing thatching straw will grow varieties such
as Maris Widgeon (the only commercially available wheat
suitable for thatching), Squareheads Master, N59 or Triticale (a
wheat/rye cross).
The wheat is cut using old reaperbinders
when the stem nodes are still
green and “stooked” to stand in the
field to ripen and dry for at least “three
church bells”.
The reed is then finished differently
depending on whether “long
straw” (which produces the shaggy thatch more common in
Bedfordshire, Suffolk and parts of Hampshire) or “combed wheat
reed” (more common in the West Country) is to be produced.
For combed wheat reed, the sheaves are passed through a
reed comber, mounted on a threshing machine, which removes
the leaf and grain without crushing the straw. Unlike long straw,
the stems are not bruised by threshing and all the butt ends lie
in the same direction. The resulting straw, commonly referred to
as “Devon reed”, is then bundled ready for use.
As a rule of thumb, straw yields are around 3.5 tonnes per
hectare and between three and five tonnes of material would
be needed to thatch a three-bedroom cottage.
John Sanders Photography
Wheat reed
The production of straw for thatching has become a niche
industry. Thatchers require long stemmed straw (up to 150cm)
Georgina Browning BSc (Hons) MRICS
Compliance Officer Poundbury
gbrowning@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01305 236577
35
The First
Postumous
VC
The charming Dorset village of Fontmell Magna remembers
the bravery of Philip Salkeld, son of the village rector
If you visit Fontmell Magna, situated between
Shaftesbury and Blandford, it’s worth stopping
at St Andrew’s Church. There you will find a
memorial to Philip Salkeld, the first recipient of a
posthumous Victoria Cross.
Philip Salkeld was the son of the village rector. At the age
of 26, he was a lieutenant in the Bengal Engineers during the
Indian Mutiny in 1857.
The reason for the mutiny, also known as the rebellion,
was fed by resentments born of diverse sensitivities,
including invasive British-style social reforms, harsh land
taxes, summary treatment of some rich landowners and
princes, as well as scepticism about the improvements
brought about by British rule.
The final trigger was provided by the ammunition for the
Enfield rifle. These rifles, which fired Minié balls, had a tighter
fit than the earlier muskets, and used paper cartridges that
came pre-greased. To load the rifle, sepoys had to bite the
cartridge open to release the powder. The grease used on
these cartridges was rumoured to include tallow derived
from beef, which would be offensive to Hindus, and pork,
which would be offensive to Muslims.
The storming of Delhi was one of the key engagements of
the Indian Mutiny. During the attack on 14 September 1857,
Colonel George Campbell of the 52 nd Light Infantry led his
column to the critical Kashmir Gate. He sent a small party of
Bengal Engineers, under Lieutenant Duncan Home, to pack
explosives under the gate.
A firing party of the 52 nd covered them as best it could,
but half of the exposed sappers were killed. Lieutenant Philip
Salkeld was mortally wounded, but Sergeant John Smith
managed to touch off the explosion that blew a hole in the
gate.
As Bugler Robert Hawthorne of the
52 nd sounded the attack, the British
troops poured through the opening.
The recapture of the City of Delhi
had begun.
The VC citation reads: “Lieutenants
Duncan Charles Home and Philip
Salkeld, Bengal Engineers, upon whom
the Victoria Cross was provisionally conferred by Major-
General Sir Archdale Wilson Bart, KCB, for their conspicuous
bravery in the performance of the desperate duty of blowing
in the Cashmere Gate of the Fortress of Delhi, in broad daylight,
under a heavy fire of musketry, on the morning of the
14 September 1857, preparatory to the assault, would have
been recommended to Her Majesty for confirmation in that
distinction, had they survived.”
In Dorset, £800
was raised by public
subscription for
the erection of the
monument and for
outfitting two younger
brothers for military
cadetship. Money
left over was spent on a bridge at Plumber Manor, on the
Sturminster Newton to Hazelbury Bryan road.
With grateful thanks to the National Army Museum, Memorials to
Valour.co.uk and Wikipedia.org
Giles Wreford Brown BA (Hons) MNAEA
Residential Partner Sturminster Newton
gwb@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01258 473766
36
Forging a
link with the
Iron Duke
Tim Bennett discovers how a small
market town in Somerset became
associated with the Duke of Wellington
Having spent most of my 48 years in and
around the market town of Wellington, I am
rather ashamed to admit I have never delved
too deeply into the
history and facts of the great man Arthur
Wellesley, 1 st Duke of Wellington.
I have probably walked to the
monument that stands proudly on top
of the Blackdown Hills overlooking the
town at least 100 times, so I was intrigued to find out some
more about the 1 st Duke.
Although Wellington is remembered as a British military hero,
and was honoured with land and titles in England during his
life, he was actually born in Dublin. However, he never thought
of himself as Irish and claimed, perhaps less than tactfully, that
“because a man is born in a stable it does not make him a horse”.
Political ambitions
Wellington was a man with ambition and was twice elected
prime minister after retiring from the battlefield. But Wellington
had already worked in politics long before that; he went into
the Irish parliament at just 20 years of age, where he served for
five years.
Wellington is undoubtedly best known as the military hero of
the battle of Waterloo and often wore dark clothes without
decoration so that enemies would not be able to distinguish
him from other officers in the field. Because of this, he wasn’t an
easy target and could stay close to the front line.
Though he rarely showed emotion, Wellington cried when
he read the list of dead after Waterloo. He strove to avoid
unnecessary bloodshed and would retreat rather than sustain
heavy casualties or defeat. He was upset by the sight of battle
carnage and never glorified warfare, putting him in line perhaps
with a more modern mindset.
Though he always demanded obedience, in person
Wellington was reserved, raising his voice only at officers he
considered pampered. As a junior officer, he often failed to
punish the men who thieved and pillaged on his watch.
The Somerset connection
Arthur Wellesley was offered
a peerage and became
Marquess of Wellington
But why is a small market town in Somerset linked inextricably
with this great man?
Following his victory at the Battle of
Talavera in the Peninsular War, Arthur
Wellesley was offered a peerage. He
discovered that a manor in the parish
of Wellington was available. It was also
reasonably close to the family name, so
he became Marquess of
Wellington.
According to the
book Wellington as
Military Commander by
Michael Glover, Arthur
Wellesley first signed
himself “Wellington” on
16 September 1809. At
the Battle of Waterloo
in 1815, he was already
further elevated to the
peerage rank of the Duke
of Wellington.
Wellington died at
Walmer Castle in Deal on
14 September 1852 and his
body lies in the crypt at St
Paul’s Cathedral.
The Wellington
Monument in Somerset was designed to commemorate
his victory at the Battle of Waterloo. Construction of the
original design commenced in 1817 and building was
completed in 1854. It is now owned by the National Trust.
Tim Bennett
Residential Ilminster
tbennett@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01460 200790
37
Smarthome
Technology
Calton Stockley clicks on the high-tech gadgets
now available in ‘smart’ new-build homes
New homes are often ‘smart’ homes, packed with
voice-activated and remote controlled gadgets
designed to make your life easier. They are the
latest step on the journey towards ‘connected
domesticity’, performing functions such as allowing you to
see who is at the door, turn on the
heating and dim the lights even
when you’re not at home. Some
can even play your favourite song
as soon as your face is recognised
by the smart door and you walk in!
Here’s a look at the latest in home
tech.
Walk from room to
room with the sound
of a favourite radio
show, album or
playlist following you
Lighting
New homes can offer intelligent exterior lighting –
programmed to react to schedules, astronomic clocks,
incoming and outgoing vehicle direction, and occupancy.
Audio
Some of the most interesting additions are automation
and audio-video infrastructure, including discreet speakers
throughout the home as well as outdoor areas.
Music servers, playlists and streaming services allow you to
walk from room to room with the sound of a favourite radio
show, album or playlist following you. This has become a
reality in smart home technology and is very often an option
in new-build homes.
Indoors, home lighting
doesn’t have to be
restricted to just the
simple ceiling pendant.
Mood lighting combines a
variety of different lighting types such as downlights, ceiling
lights, concealed lights and much more. By combining these
lighting types and using coloured light, you can create various
lighting scenes for watching TV, reading a book, hosting a
dinner party or having a relaxing bath.
You can also install lights that turn on and off as you enter
and exit a room.
Security
There are dozens of wifi-enabled security camera systems
marketed to the domestic user these days, but we are
now seeing facial
recognition
abilities so that
only those
programmed
as friends or family
can get access to the
home. No need to
change the locks –
just block a caller!
38
Window dressing
Voice-activated, smartphone-connected blinds or curtains will
open and close on command.
Instant hot water
This feature has been available for some
time – but things have moved on. The
latest versions now also dispense
sparkling and chilled water
direct from the tap.
The new function makes
life in the kitchen even easier. It
saves you time and space, means you no longer
need to buy your sparkling water in plastic
bottles, and is completely safe.
Renewable heating alternatives
Not new and not really a gadget, but the
prevalence of renewable heating alternatives shows that
developers are aware of the environment. The benefits are:
• You could be entitled to receive government payments
through the Renewable Heat Incentive.
• Reduced energy bills.
• Easy to maintain, saving you money on potential repair
costs.
• More efficient than conventional heating systems.
• Renewable energy source (heat from air or
underground) whereas fossil fuels will run out eventually
Electric car charging
The other area which has changed is the increasing number
of electric cars that are being sold. England will be the first
country in the world to introduce mandatory electric car
charging points for new-build homes.
All new homes in England will have to be fitted with
charge points for electric vehicles, as the Government seeks
to facilitate the infrastructure improvements necessary for the
planned mass-adoption of electric vehicles.
The news comes as the Department for Transport has
announced a public consultation on the subject. If the
planned changes to building regulations go through,
it would force homebuilders to install charge points so
potential owners could easily charge their plug-in hybrids and
electric cars at home.
The move would mean buyers of new-build homes would
not need to make use of the Government’s home charger
subsidy scheme, which has seen almost 100,000 wall boxes
installed.
And once you move in…
The iKuddle detects when your cat enters the tray, scoops up
the soiled litter, automatically seals it in an airtight bag, and
dispenses a burst of deodorant to get rid of unwelcome odours.
Now that is cool – but let’s hope the power doesn’t fail!
Calton Stockley MNAEA
New Homes and Developments Poundbury
cstockley@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01305 251154
39
A Selection of Sales
Weycroft Axminster
Period riverside cottage with a range of outbuildings,
fishing rights and set within grounds of about 6.5 acres
Symondsbury Bridport
A delightful detached Grade II Listed four bedroom
former Curate’s house.
Stoke Abbot Beaminster
A Grade II Listed early 17 th Century converted watermill
set in a secluded country location with glorious views.
Portland
An historic reconstructed Portland stone house overlooking
the Jurassic coast.
Sandford Orcas Sherborne
One of the most tranquil gardens, set in around 1 acre
and with a stream, in this favoured village.
Stour Provost
About 0.75 acres of lovely formal gardens with an
abundance of plants and shrubs.
40
Buckland Newton Dorchester
A classic Georgian façade on a former Pitt Rivers Estate
Gentleman’s Residence.
South Cheriton Wincanton
Reputedly built by the firm of the renowned Nathaniel
Ireson in the late 18 th century.
Chilbridge Wimborne
Formerly part of the National Trust estate dating back to
the 18 th century.
Stourpaine Blandford
A 16 th century thatched cottage with mature cottage
gardens and extensive orchard.
Forton Chard
Stunning gardens including herbaceous borders, sculpture,
fruit garden and bluebell woods with natural springs.
Purbecks
Extensive gardens, mixed woodland, sheltered pasture
and water meadows adjoining the River Piddle.
41
Stubhampton Blandford
A period 17 th century modernised property with
countryside views over the Cranborne Chase.
Ryall Bridport
A substantial house with wonderful views over the
Marshwood Vale.
Stoke Abbot Beaminster
Located on the edge of the village with views over the
surrounding countryside.
Hilfield Dorchester
Enjoying an elevated position with panoramic views of
unspoilt Dorset countryside
North Cadbury
One of the biggest new homes in the area, successfully
sold off market to a couple from Hong Kong.
Poundbury
A beautifully designed 4 bedroom home close to the
vibrant Queen Mother Square.
42
Lyme Regis
Established guest house and building plot with stunning
views over the Golden Cap.
Poole
A substantial and impressive 5/6 bedroom family home on
the water’s edge with fabulous panoramic harbour views
Eype
Four bedroom barn conversion set in about 7.4 acres
with wonderful views to the sea.
Weymouth
A fantastic waterfront home enjoying breathtaking sea
views.
43
High Street
Heroes
The town centre commercial property market offers some lucrative
openings for investors, says Ryan Holmes
T
own centre commercial property investments
have fallen victim to the perception that they are
overcomplicated and risky. Not so.
The reality is that the majority continue to offer
good returns on rents received, even if capital growth is often
limited. More often than not, they are
a good source of income with strong
rental returns, but won’t necessarily offer
brilliant growth in the capital value of the
investment over time.
The industry is going through
unprecedented change. Advancements in technology have
accelerated the evolution of shopping habits and the way
we work, which has had a major impact on long-established
traditional occupiers in both the retail and office sectors.
Changes in our shopping habits have prompted the Royal
Institution of Chartered Surveyors to issue guidance notes to
all RICS-registered valuers in the commercial property sector,
advising that due caution should be applied when providing
clients with valuation advice on such properties.
Put simply, the way most of us live, work and shop has
changed dramatically over the past 20 years which has put
companies who have not managed to evolve alongside our
habits out of business. I could recite any number of examples,
from the recent demise of Thomas Cook to the sad end of
They are a good source
of income with strong
rental returns
Woolworths over a decade ago, with more than a few others
sandwiched between the two.
This has had a knock-on effect on other sectors within
the industry, with demand rising in the warehouse, storage
and distribution property market where modern retailers
seek comparatively cheap storage for goods which are then
displayed on virtual shopfronts via the
internet.
The result is an obvious and
continuous increase in the departure of
traditional town centre occupiers, which
lazy commentators label the “death of the high street”. I would
argue that the high street is far from finished. We are just at the
start of a new phase in the transformation of the high street.
The commercial property industry faces challenges in
coming years, but there are more opportunities arising for
creative investors and developers. Enquiries from commercial
occupiers offering fresh consumables such as cafés, or products
that are impractical to ship or don’t lend themselves to internet
sales, as well as those offering services such as hairdressing and
beauty salons, are on the rise.
Permitted development allowing the conversion of upper
floors from commercial space (generally offices) to residential
accommodation provide further opportunities for value to be
added to high street properties.
The industrial and warehouse sectors have seen a major
increase in demand from both investors and occupiers,
compressing yields. With values of town centre retail buildings
falling in general, there are some lucrative openings for
investors, provided they have good professional advice.
There is, therefore, merit in considering exploring town
centre property investments, especially while most are looking
the other way!
Ryan Holmes AssocRICS MARLA
Commercial Surveyor Dorchester
rholmes@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01305 261008
44
Long-term
Residential Tenancies
vs Holiday Lets
Karen Mitchell breaks down the pros
and cons of each form of letting
HMRC has sprung a few nasty surprises on buy-to-let investors
over recent years: 3% stamp duty, and a curb in mortgage
interest relief have impeded the opportunity to make a
decent return. Add to this the recently
introduced tenant fee ban which is
deemed to favour tenants, and all of
our sales offices report a reduction in
the number of properties being bought
by investment landlords.
Holiday lets are a different matter;
letting a furnished property as a holiday let actually offers
some significant tax advantages. Mortgage interest payments,
council tax and utility bills can be off-set against income for
tax purposes. This has seen a significant growth in holiday
accommodation throughout our region, much of which
is self-managed by owners using sites such as Airbnb and
HomeAway.
Every year, many landlords of holiday
accommodation invite us to discuss
their options – particularly during the
autumn at the end of a hectic summer
season. Some are looking for tenants
over the winter months, while others
have become disillusioned and are
considering longer-term lettings.
When you weigh up the balance
of comparatively high weekly rents from holiday letting
against the figures you might expect from longer-term
letting, holiday letting looks attractive. However, they are hard
work with change-overs often occurring more than once a
A furnished property as
a holiday let offers some
significant tax advantages
Long-term letting, particularly
when using a managing
agent, gives a landlord
assurance that all legislation
will be taken care of
week. Add to that garden maintenance, high wear and tear,
and upkeep of all furnishings. We are fortunate to live in a
beautiful area of the country, popular with holidaymakers, and
consequently there is plenty of short-term
accommodation available. But outside
the high season, supply of property can
outstrip demand, resulting in prolonged
empty periods when heating and running
costs can mount up. Insurance companies
often impose winter un-occupancy
restrictions or additional requirements for visits.
Long-term letting, particularly when using a managing
agent, gives a landlord assurance that all legislation and safety
regulations will be taken care of. So, while there is a flux of
holiday letting available, the current shortage of longer-term
rental properties is driving rents up, and over the course of
a year there is perhaps a smaller
difference in net returns than you
might expect.
Symonds and Sampson Lettings
and Property Management manage
more than 900 properties throughout
the region. For a rent appraisal and
landlord guidance, please contact your
local office.
Karen Mitchell MARLA
Lettings Yeovil
kmitchell@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01935 423526
45
A Day in
the Life of
a Property
Inspector
Adrienne Mathias has worked in our property management
department for two years
It’s an early start to get the horses
6.00am: done and the children off to school.
I usually pop into our property
8.30am: management department in
Poundbury. It’s a great time of day to catch up with my
colleagues, before heading out to some
of our 1,000 (just under) fully managed
properties across Dorset, Devon, Somerset
and Wiltshire.
The property management department
is a very busy one. We all bring different
skills and are
a tight-knit team who work very
closely together. I download the list
of properties and note any issues
which need particular attention.
Having been with the company
for two years, many of our tenants
are familiar with me, and my Airedale
terrier who often accompanies me
to work. His favourite place to work
is West Bay, as at lunchtime he gets a
run on the beach.
This role provides the
best work views on a
daily basis! Dorset is a
beautiful county
My first visit of the day is to a
9.30am: Grade II listed manor house. The
grounds are extensive, and recent tree work has taken place.
This visit definitely calls for wellies!
The property retains many original features, such as
fireplaces, wood panelling and traditional plaster. Over time,
cracks have appeared in some of the walls, which is inevitable.
These are closely monitored and documented.
I notice a small water mark on the ceiling of the top floor,
which could indicate an issue with the roof or guttering. I report
this to the allocated property manager who instructs our local
specialist contractor to investigate. I photograph the recent tree
works so I can report back to the landlord and demonstrate
what has been done.
The tenant of this property owns a terrier herself, and has
known mine since he was a puppy. Before we leave, the Airedale
is treated to some rather splendid snacks from the local butcher.
The second visit
11.00am: of the day is a
modern apartment in town. The tenant has
recently called in to say the property is damp.
Upon visiting the property, it is evident that
the ‘damp’ is in fact condensation caused by
poor ventilation. I discuss ways to manage and
eliminate the problem with the tenant. This role often calls
for a gentle and diplomatic approach, and we take pride in
working in a courteous and constructive manner alongside
our tenants and landlords to overcome any such issues.
I call into the local office to
12.30pm: collect the keys for my afternoon
visits. Working in all the areas I cover, I am lucky enough to
know many of the Symonds & Sampson team. It’s always great
to get the opportunity to touch base with my colleagues
across the region.
When all the visits are complete, I
4.00pm: return to the property management
office to compile the reports. The reports are reviewed by
the property managers who address any maintenance issues,
before being sent to our landlords.
After a productive day at work, the Airedale and I head
home. Once the horses, dogs and other family members are
done, it’s time to relax!
Adrienne Mathias
Inspection Clerk Poundbury
amathias@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01305 236576
46
A Selection of Lettings
Blandford Forum, Dorset
Studio flat within a pretty Grade II Listed building, located
in the popular market town of Blandford.
Donhead St Andrew, Dorset
A country house of great style set amid beautiful
countryside in a rural yet accessible location.
Kilmington, Devon
A charming two bedroom cottage, retaining several
character features.
Wincanton, Somerset
An immaculately presented 19 th century farmhouse with
beautiful large gardens, in a lovely rural setting.
Charmouth, Dorset
A detached bungalow with breath taking views across
the Jurassic Coast, situated in a quiet location.
Tarrant Monkton, Dorset
Unique 4 bedroom barn conversion in the heart of the
Tarrant Valley overlooking the surrounding farmland.
47
AUCTIONS
Discover what it takes to be a firstclass
auctioneer, relive auction
highlights from 2019, and find
out why buyers are flocking to
country house sales. We turn the
spotlight on historic Parnham
House, get creative with the
Guggleton Farm Arts Project,
and step into the ring at Frome
Market. There’s also a chance to
spot a familiar phizog among our
‘Farming Faces’, and rekindle fond
memories from another busy year
at our farm dispersal sales.
t Christmas Rose in Lustreware Jug by Vanessa Bowman,
www.vanessabowman.co.uk
What does it take to be a
First-Class Auctioneer?
Five of our finest offer their insights into the ‘dark art’ of auctioneering
How did you become an auctioneer?
Lester Williams: “My father believed that a farm should be
passed to the eldest son, so my brother took over our farm on
the edge of Exmoor. I still wanted to be involved in agriculture
and was passionate about going to market, so I asked our
local firm of auctioneers if I could work at their market for free
to gain experience. I was hooked.”
How important is preparation?
Lester Williams: “Knowing your buyers and sellers is vital. If you
know that a particularly strong buyer is attending the auction
in person or on the phone, you can have the confidence to
encourage entries from the seller. It is a two-way game – you
need the lots but you must also have buyers. Leaving matters
to chance can be dangerous.”
Mark Lewis: “My father was an auctioneer and most holidays
in my formative years were spent with him at market and on
farms, so it was a natural career choice for me.”
What was the first lot you sold?
Mark Lewis: “Standing hay, that had ‘gone over’, with just one
farmer in attendance. It could have been a disaster but he
helped me out by bidding on my first call.”
Mark Northcott: “A Friesian bull calf in 1974 at Sturminster
market.”
Lester Williams: “Between school and Cirencester I worked
for an estate agent in Minehead and they offered me the
opportunity to help sell at a house
clearance auction – the first lot I offered
was a lawn mower.”
Charlie Coleman: “A pony at Beaulieu
Road pony sales after the auctioneer at
the time was taken ill. I remember the
600 guinea reserve! I had been waiting
for a long time to have my first chance at selling and was due
to begin with the vegetables and produce. To be thrown in
like this will stick with me forever.”
It is a delicate balance
between being affable
and entertaining but also
in control of the room
Greg Ridout: “I’m a bit of a geek when it comes to
machinery, so when we catalogue an auction I try to
scribble down every bit of a machine’s specification. We also
spend weeks on the phone to buyers before every auction
to drum up bidders and ascertain values. We have one shot
at doing our best for our clients and I want to be the best at
what we do.”
What distinguishes a good auctioneer
from the mediocre ones?
Mark Northcott: “It has always been said that anyone can sell
anything on a good trade but when the economic climate
is tricky and bids are not forthcoming the
skilful auctioneer will draw on their many
years of experience.”
Mark Lewis: “You must really enjoy
what you are doing and engage, while
empathising, with both buyers and sellers,
and read body language. People in the room
will be nervous; if they are relaxed and enjoying the auction
they will bid more freely. It is a delicate balance between being
affable and entertaining but also in control of the room.”
50
Greg Ridout:
“Confidence and a
calm head, when
you have to think
on your feet, is
paramount.”
Charlie Coleman:
“By having the
charisma to enjoy
and embrace what
you are selling,
which leads to
a good rapport
with vendors and
purchasers. It’s also
vital to maintain
respect and
achieve the best
possible outcome.
Without the respect of both vendors and purchasers, the
rostrum can be a very lonely place.”
Which lot sticks in your memory?
Mark Lewis: “We had a herd of cows to auction near
Dorchester but my father was taken ill on the day of the sale.
My client, Suzy Vincent, said to me afterwards: “That was the
day you changed from a boy into a man!”
Greg Ridout: “Auctioning a 1948 Series 2 Field Marshall
tractor fitted with an aviation cab at West Stafford for £18,500.”
Lester Williams: “A Welsh sheepdog at the Bath & West
Show.”
A bad auctioneer will …
Mark Northcott: “Mumble, stutter and make it obvious when
they are struggling. I have seen auctioneers shout and become
aggressive, trying to intimidate the audience. It never works.”
Mark Lewis: “Make it very clear when they do not have the
bid!”
Greg Ridout: “You need a rhythm and you need to stay calm.
Rushing because of nerves ultimately makes you miss bids and
knock items down too fast.”
How often are you asked to give a
demonstration?
Greg Ridout: “Each year a group of school and university
friends go to Devon shooting, and every time I have to stand
on the table after the evening meal and sell something while
they all shout and heckle!”
Mark Lewis: “I give regular talks to all sorts of societies from
the WI to Young Farmers and schools. The demonstration of
selling at speed usually wakes up the audience.”
Mark Lewis FRICS FAAV FNAVA
Partner, Head of Agency
mlewis@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01258 474266
Lester Williams MRICS FAAV
Partner Sherborne
lwilliams@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01935 818513
Mark Northcott MRICS FAAV
Partner Yeovil
mnorthcott@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01935 382909
Greg Ridout MRICS
Rural Partner Yeovil
gridout@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01935 382909
Charlie Coleman FLAA
Rural Auctioneer Yeovil
ccoleman@symondsandsampson.co.uk
07494 588013
51
2020 AUCTIONS
“A cracking result in all the circumstances. The children are highly
delighted and extremely impressed with your calm efficiency.
Well done you.”
Auction
Friday 21 February 2020
at 3pm
Auction
Friday 27 March 2020
at 2pm
Auction
Wednesday 8 April 2020
at 2pm
Auction
Friday 24 April 2020
at 2pm
George Dannatt
Katie Scorgie
Adrian Gray
Lusea Warner-Gale
The Allendale Centre
The Digby Hall
The Guildhall
The Digby Hall
Hanham Road Wimborne BH21 1AS
Hound Street Sherborne DT9 3AB
West Street Axminster Devon EX13 5NX
Hound Street Sherborne DT9 3AB
Auction
Friday 29 May 2020
at 2pm
Auction
Friday 12 June 2020
at 3pm
Auction
Thursday 16 July 2020
at 2pm
Auction
Friday 24 July 2020
at 2pm
Clare Trenchard
Olivia Nurrish
Chris Wilmshurst
Caro Lester
The Digby Hall
The Allendale Centre
The Guildhall
The Memorial Hall
Hound Street Sherborne DT9 3AB
Hanham Road Wimborne BH21 1AS
West Street Axminster Devon EX13 5NX
Digby Road Sherborne Dorset DT9 3NL
Auction
Friday 25 September 2020
at 3pm
Auction
Friday 30 October 2020
at 2pm
Auction
Friday 11 December 2020
at 2pm
James Lynch
Laurence Belbin
Hilary Buckley
The Digby Hall
Hound Street Sherborne DT9 3AB
The Digby Hall
Hound Street Sherborne DT9 3AB
The Digby Hall
Hound Street Sherborne DT9 3AB
52
Property
Auction
Highlights
From cottage renovations to commercial shops, agricultural land,
development sites and the usual eclectic lots we travelled to four
counties in 2019 sourcing the very best lots for you
Most legal downloads: 753 legal documents were
downloaded by the bidders for Sycamore Drive, Yeovil which
then sold for 61% above guide.
Highest price
above guide:
Penwithen Lodge, a
detached lodge house, sold
for 135% above guide!
Most bids: 64 for an
individual village building
plot in Marnhull, Dorset.
Most distant bidders: The Cayman Islands, 4,600
miles from Dorset, but they were unsuccessful!
Most historical: The Billet, Sutton Mandeville, Wiltshire.
This was a World War I officers’ billet overlooking the badges
carved into the hillside. It had fallen into disrepair but we
received interest from as far afield as Canada.
Biggest surprise: The Boat Deck, Weymouth, Dorset
where the buyer paid cash for the full sale price. The bank
were not very pleased when we tried to pay in cash at 4.25pm
on a Friday!
Highest attendance: Our sale in Wimborne in June
attracted a crowd of about 500 people who saw a 100%
clearance.
Best commercial lot: A commercial ground lease
until 2034 with an income of £7,000 pa attracted interest from
numerous London and regional investors. The sale price of
£200,000 was 33% above guide.
Highest land price: £22,000 for 3.95 acres near
Wincanton. The whole village seemed to be keen to buy.
Highest woodland price: £14,300 for 2.2 acres of
mixed deciduous indigenous trees near Sherborne, Dorset.
Best wreck: Corhampton Road, Bournemouth is a
detached house with some internal cracks. Buyers were not
deterred and after 84 viewings and 413 legal downloads the
sale price was 37% above guide.
Best building plot: Near Blandford, Dorset where
a site for two semi-detached houses sold, after 42 bids, for
£420,000 – 97% above guide.
Best potential development site: Townsend
Road, Seaton, Devon. A house for renovation and a large
garden with development possibilities and views towards the
sea. The sale price was £635,000.
Most unusual:
Kinghay, East Knoyle,
Wiltshire. A wooden
bungalow set in grounds
of about 0.67 acres.
Described by one viewer
as a piece of paradise, it
sold to a buyer in Italy.
Most viewings: Churchfields, Salisbury, Wiltshire had a
very short marketing period and we had 81 viewings in three
weeks.
Best buy bidding blind: Market Place, Warminster,
Wiltshire a commercial shop premises with two flats above
returning an income 11%. The buyer from London checked
Google street view and that was good enough to make him bid.
Most interesting: A pair of cottages near Taunton,
Somerset requiring complete renovation with no internal
viewings allowed.
Lowest price: A lock-up garage in Poole sold for £9,250
Auction entries welcomed – cottages and
houses for improvement, building plots,
agricultural land and commercial lots.
Please contact Mark Lewis 01258 473766
53
Country
House
Auctions
Drawn by the allure of hidden treasures with impeccable provenance,
buyers are flocking to country house sales, says Garry Batt
Duke’s auctioneers has found that country house
auctions are having a renaissance in Dorset
and across the UK. At a time where provenance
and originality are becoming more and more
important, fresh market material from long untouched country
houses is growing in value.
Some country houses can offer items
that have been hidden in the house,
unseen by the general public, for hundreds
of years. Moreover, due to the distinguished
nature of the owners of these properties,
the items offered often have both long and
important recorded histories.
Items to be sold at auction from a country house sale receive
additional attention as they appeal to the antiques trade and
invested locals. Duke’s recent experience selling the contents
of Moigne Combe house demonstrated this; locals who had
grown up near the property, or had even worked on the estate,
came to view in high numbers.
Curios and collector’s items
This encouraged an overall increase in the values of the items
sold, with interested parties wanting to acquire a memento
from the house. This showed most obviously with the lower
end and normally less valuable items to be sold.
For example, Duke’s sold a “Dumpy” doorstopper, originally
valued between £50 and £100, for £190 including buyer’s
premium. This is almost twice the top end of the estimate and
more expensive than if you were to buy one new.
Traders were drawn to the
fact that this bookcase
had been hidden in the
house for so long
The exceptional items from this sale also performed to a
very high level; as well as interest from private buyers, the top
traders of the country all competed and pushed the price of
lots higher.
The outstanding lot from the sale, a fine George I burr walnut
bureau bookcase in the manner of Peter Miller, was estimated
at £40,000-60,000. Traders were drawn
to the fact that this bookcase had been
hidden in the house for so long, it
therefore had the desired novelty and
freshness that appeals to the market.
Also, it had a greatly significant
provenance, it was perhaps the most
important item in a collection that was passed down through
generations of the renowned Bond family. The competing
dealers bid until the price finally settled on a total of £120,000
including buyer’s premium.
Noble provenance
This sale clearly exhibited how there is rising value placed on
items with the allure of a country house provenance.
Duke’s auctioneers has also sold the contents of
Athelhampton House, one of the most important Tudor manor
houses in England. Embracing the resurgence of recent country
house sales, the owners of Athelhampton elected to sell a large
part of the interior through Duke’s. This decision is testament
to the increasing reception of country house sales in the public
eye and will have been influenced by notable results from
previous sales.
At Duke’s auctioneers we believe the resurgence of country
house sales is a wholly positive signal. We believe that there has
become a wider appreciation for both locally and historically
significant items. The market has proven that exciting fresh
antiques are still appropriately, highly valued.
Garry Batt MRICS
01305 265080
dukes-auctions.com
54
Historic House
When Parnham House was sold in 1896, it was among the finest
homes in Britain. Caroline Childs-Chaffey looks back
Parnham House is a 16 th century Grade I listed
house just outside Beaminster in Dorset. Historic
England describes the house as “exceptionally
important” but the auctioneers in 1896, when
the property was sold on the open market for the first time,
preferred “an ancient Elizabethan mansion” and “a well-known
country seat in West Dorset”.
It certainly has quite a history. A house
had been on the site since the 1400s and
was owned by the Strode family until 1764.
Famous owners
History books report that the property was
sold after the death of Sir Henry Oglander, but the trustees
were selling under a trust contained in the will of the late
Admiral Sir R.O.B. Fitzroy who had died in 1865.
He was an English officer of the Royal Navy and a scientist
who captained HMS Beagle during Charles Darwin’s famous
voyage.
He was a pioneering meteorologist who made accurate
weather predictions which he called forecasts and he
established what became the Met Office and created systems
to get weather predictions to sailors and fishermen.
That is why Fitzroy is one of the points on the shipping
forecast.
It is amusing to see this
almost lazy description of
paintings that could be
priceless today
The sale included 38 best Persian, Turkey, Axminster and
Brussels carpets; large silk damask and other window curtains;
a semi-grand piano forte; stuffed birds; cut-glass chandeliers;
12 complete bedroom suites, and kitchen and other culinary
requisites.
There was also a manual fire engine and 36 leather buckets
which, considering the recent events, is
quite poignant.
The library, silver and paintings were
taken to London for sale by Christie,
Manson and Woods. Highlights included
books on natural history voyages,
together with French and Italian literature.
The paintings listed included Annibale Carracci (the virgin
and child with cherubs), a Poussin (a landscape with buildings
and figures), and a Van Dyck (a youth in red dress – oval). It is
amusing to see this almost lazy description of paintings that
could be priceless today.
Fittings and contents
The sale particulars gave the
purchaser the option to buy
the contents at valuation, but
they clearly did not want them,
so they were put to auction.
HY Duke & Son held a
three-day sale in December
1896 on site, referring to
the “costly contents of this
ancient mansion including the
valuable old English furniture
of the best manufacture in
excellent condition”.
There was also the Strode gold signet ring engraved with
the Strode coat of arms which had been lost for many years
but was found when excavating Beaminster tunnel!
Parnham was bought by Vincent Robinson who erected the
market cross in the town in memory of his sister.
Caroline Childs-Chaffey
Residential Beaminster
ccchaffey@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01308 863100
55
Isabel de Pelet BEM
Art of the Matter
We turn the spotlight on Guggleton Farm Arts Project in Stalbridge, Dorset,
with its thriving programme of workshops, lectures and exhibitions
Guggleton was opened in December 1995 by
Isabel de Pelet BEM, particularly known for her
promotion of artists in Dorset, especially the
young and up-and-coming.
Guggleton’s principal gallery
had been a carthorse stable and the
smaller studios were lean-to calf stalls.
While the buildings were converted,
Isobel made sure that they, and the
yard, were sympathetically modernised and still retained their
recognisable features, so that locals could remember when
and where the herd of cows came up Station Road for milking
twice a day.
Guggleton was founded to allow newly graduated artists to
have studio space for working, supported with guidance and
help.
Isabel believes that “artists working alongside and within
an active community create a positive way to enrich and
stimulate all those who involve themselves”.
Guggleton has received interest from all over the UK and
overseas. Isabel is on the Arts Committee of the Royal Bath
and West Show – furthering her belief in
linking artists to their community.
At the beginning of 2019 a search for
a new studio led Deanne Tremlett to The
Gugg. Since that time, Deanne has helped
in the continuing development of Isabel’s
vision, as it is one which entirely mirrors her
own.
Deanne says, “At Guggleton we are about Deanne Tremlett
We aim to provide a
welcoming environment for
the creation of the new
creativity and development. We aim to provide a welcoming
environment for the creation of the new, in whatever form
that might take for the individual.
“We support established artists
by providing them with a space to
experiment; new artists with the
network, structure and exposure to
develop; and raw artists with the
opportunity to grow.
“Exhibitions at the Guggleton vary from season to season
with one core theme – growth. We are, after all, occupying a
farmyard.
“We hope to be able to demolish the threshold/barrier
issues that face many Fine Art institutions [those which make
people feel like places are ‘not for them’] by remaining true
to our community; while at the same time building on and
growing the receptivity of the surrounding area to the arts.
“That said, we aim to offer support over every aspect
of a person’s creative outpouring, with a programme of
exhibitions, events, workshops and talks that develop both
the exhibitor and the viewer; entertaining and stimulating
while remaining playful and relevant.
“If our approach to life and the arts in any way coincides
with your own, then there are many ways that you can
become involved at the yard.”
Guggleton Farm, Station Road, Stalbridge, Dorset DT10 2RQ
01963 363456
Open Tuesday-Saturday 11am–3pm
ann.guggleton@gmail.com
56
FROME MARKET
OPENING TIMES
Monday
TB Orange Market
Wednesday
10:30am (Monthly)
Calves
10:00 am
Pigs
10:15 am (Fortnightly)
Sheep
10:30 am
Dairy Cattle
11:00 am
Weaned Calves
11:30 am (Fortnightly)
(following the sale of calves)
Prime Cattle/Cull Cows 11:30 am
Friday
Store Cattle
Store Sheep
10:30 am
10:00 am (Monthly)
57
58
Faces from
a farm
Dispersal Sale
59
Farm Dispersal
Sale Highlights
Another busy year for our farm dispersal sales team means that 2019 will be
remembered for large crowds, great prices and more than 10,000 acres of straw
Highest prices:
Tractor: £77,500 – 2018 Case Optum 270
CVX sold to a farmer 120 miles away.
Telehandler: £36,300 – 2018 Massey
Ferguson TH7038 with 1,630 hours.
Combine harvester: £49,000 – 2012
Massey Ferguson 7370 Beta.
Sprayer: £69,000 – 2012 Bateman RB35.
Vintage tractor: £17,000 – 1975 Massey
Ferguson 1200 with 6,500 hours.
Biggest sale turnover: Cowdray Home
Farms in Sussex.
Biggest sale number of lots: Green
Services, Piddletrenthide – 503 lots.
Total number of lots in 2019: 10,450 –
that’s a 20% increase on 2018.
Most difficult lot to sell? All we can say
is that the colour is crucial.
Most discussed lot: Bateman RB35
sprayer – we ran a social media
campaign challenging people to guess
the price. Three people were within
£500 of the £69,500 sale price.
Furthest buyer: Inverness (626 miles)
or Cookstown Northern Ireland (11
hours if you catch the traffic at the
wrong time).
Wettest sale: The Axminster collective
sale was a torrential day which made
writing sale prices down on the sale
sheets a challenge.
60
Hottest day: Holloway Farm at
Shillingstone; sun screen, hats and icecreams
were the order of the day.
Amount of grass and maize silage
sold: 3,320 tons.
Acres of straw sold: 10,375.
The number of bales sold: Silage 6,333.
Hay 5,371, Straw 13,896.
Total: 25,600
Most surprising price: Ferguson
halftracks selling at £2,500 for Colin
Foot. He told us they were valuable!
Where did our buyers come from? 24
counties plus Ireland, Scotland, Jersey, Isle
of Wight and the Isle of Man.
Largest crowds: For Stuart Buckland at
Blandford, and Martin Brown at Maiden
Bradley, Wiltshire. Family, friends and
farmers came in their droves.
Charities supported:
Future Roots with a donation of
£3,418.60
The Sarah Burkeman Memorial Fund
for the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity
with a donation of £4,400 for the sale
of the John Deere 2650 on behalf of the
executors of Mrs Fiona Burkeman.
Best thank-you: “Thank you for making
the sale so memorable. The outcomes
were completely beyond our expectations
… you gave us all confidence and
encouragement as well as lightening the
load with humour. You have all made a lifechanging
day an enjoyable and rewarding
experience.” Martin and Rosie Brown
Mark Northcott MRICS FAAV
Partner Yeovil
mnorthcott@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01935 382909
Greg Ridout MRICS
Rural Partner Yeovil
gridout@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01935 382909
Charlie Coleman FLAA
Rural Auctioneer Yeovil
ccoleman@symondsandsampson.co.uk
07494 588013
Rachael Holder
Farm Sales Yeovil
rholder@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01935 382909
61
AGRICULTURE
Our must-read assessment of the
farmland market, highlights from
favourite farm sales, details of the new
Environmental Land Management
Scheme, and how ‘farm to fork’ is
championing local produce. We
look at insect-friendly farming and
the unusual names our farmers
give their fields – Soggy Bottom,
anyone? There’s time to raise a glass
to the region’s wine producers, before
taking a whistlestop tour of Dorset
film locations. We offer advice on
the value of an agricultural tenancy
when a partnership breaks down, and
introduce you to the next generation.
t Lady with a Basket by Kim Creswell,
www.kimcreswell.co.uk
The Farmland Market
As market leaders in our region, we have our finger on the farmland pulse. Andrew Tuffin,
Head of Farm Agency, provides an insight into factors affecting the current market
If you are reading this, you probably own land or
wish to buy land and are interested in the current
– and future – state of the farmland market. The
headlines are: falling supply, variable demand and
diverging values.
Supply
Less than 100,000 acres was advertised for sale in Farmers
Weekly during 2019, a year-on-year decline of 40%. This is
the lowest amount since 2004, the year before single farm
payment was introduced.
Political uncertainty and the expected but largely
undetermined change to support
payments is delaying decisions to
market land more than it is affecting
values.
The main reason for sale continues
to be retirement, followed by change in
ownership policy and death. Forced sales through debt are
present but relatively low in number.
Demand
On a national scale tax breaks, low interest rates, rollover
money and healthy investor interest continue to provide the
fundamental demand for farmland. Combine this with low
supply and the market has been more robust than many
predicted.
On a global scale the increasing population is driving
the requirement for food and energy production, often
conflicting with environmental sustainability. These are
competing uses of both productive land and marginal land
which is becoming more relevant as technology advances.
Britain is better placed than many drier areas of the world
to continue with food and energy production in the long
term. Our established property laws, transport network and
weaker pound will make UK farmland an attractive longterm
proposition for investors and international buyers.
Buyer type
Falling supply,
variable demand
and diverging values.
Commercial farmers now only account for approximately 50%
of land buyers, whereas historically this has been around 60%.
Weaker cereal and beef prices have not helped confidence but
the largest deterrent is uncertainty about the future of subsidies
and trade deals. I dare say I will be reporting the same in 12
months.
Corporate and individual investors are becoming more
prominent. Attracted by long-term capital growth and less
volatility than other types of property and the stock market,
many view farmland as a safer asset.
The slight cooling of bare land values since their 2015 peak
has created an opportunity for investors to make
a reasonable return. This potentially opens doors
to farmers to rent, contract farm or take grass
keep to provide the landowner with a return on
capital or to keep the land tidy.
Residential and lifestyle buyers can have a
huge influence on value. With many still earning good bonuses,
land and even whole farms in the right locations, often
adjoining existing property or near good private schools, can
achieve a substantial premium.
Quality is sometimes less of a factor in these circumstances.
For instance land with a view is, by its nature, often sloping
pasture. In the right area it can achieve as much as arable land;
in the wrong area, not even farmers want it.
Following an often lengthy planning process, proceeds from
development land sales are filtering through to farmers and
landowners who are seeking to rollover gains.
Investors and rollover buyers tend to seek larger parcels
of arable land with a minimum of 200 acres and preferably
over 500 acres. Such parcels tend to create the most interest,
therefore it is important to market widely
Conservation-minded buyers – usually individuals or charity/
trust funds – sometimes express interest in marginal land, but
the land often requires specific attributes such as woodland,
water or accessibility, to be of value to them.
64
Values
Most farmland is achieving between £7,500 and £9,000 per acre
excluding small blocks under 10 acres, and woodland. However,
the range of values is extremely wide, achieving from £6,000
per acre to £15,000 per acre.
Nationally, average values are a fraction down year-on-year
and around 15% below the peak in 2015. However, values are
40% higher than 10 years ago and 250% higher than 20 years
ago.
Regionally, we have not experienced quite the same fall since
the 2015 peak. Demand for smaller parcels of land can be fierce
with some exceptional prices being achieved.
Farms often have surplus farm buildings and we work closely
with our planning and development colleagues to achieve
Class Q consents and disposals. A premium is often achieved by
attaching land to a plot, and we are always pleased to advise.
The future
Continuing uncertainty over Government policy and support,
together with healthy rents being received by retired farmers,
will continue to restrict supply in 2020 resulting in fewer
transactions.
However, hopefully as trade deals are agreed, supply will
start to improve in the medium term.
The range of values will continue to increase, although still
hover around the £8,000-£9,000 per acre average.
Andrew Tuffin
Rural Partner Head of Farm Agency
atuffin@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01258 474268
Jack Edwards
01722 334323
Wiltshire & Hampshire
The Farm Agency Team
Ross Willmington
01297 33122
Devon
Andrew Tuffin
01258 474268
Dorset & Somerset
Will Wallis
01305 236572
Dorset
65
Tuffin’s Top 10
As a Partner in the firm and our Head of Farm Agency, Andrew Tuffin is an
unrivalled expert in the business of buying and selling farms.
Here he picks his highlights from Symonds & Sampson’s 2019 sales
Best Farm
Most Satisfying
Stafford Farm, Dorchester
483-acre arable farm with 3 dwellings and traditional farm
buildings. Guide £5.3m. 20 viewings by investors and
farmers, national and local. 7 offers. Sold above guide.
Hardest Work
Lower Bowridge Hill Farm, Gillingham
109-acre grassland farm for improvement. We had sold
the deceased’s dairy herd in 1999. 46 viewings and sold
as a whole to a farmer.
Quickest Sale
Looke Farm, Dorchester
422-acre farm with 3 dwellings, pasture and a shooting
range. Sale agreed, fell through, repackaged, remarketed
and sold in excess of original guide price.
Park Farm, Charminster
99-acre residential and equestrian holding. Under offer
for a figure in excess of guide after just 2 weeks and
completed within 3 months from instruction.
66
Longest Sale
Quickest Resale
Haslemere Farm, Yeovil
90-acre livestock farm with attractive ag-tied bungalow
and good range of farm buildings. Sold after 13 months
of marketing.
Best House
Ewe Barn, Hazelbury Bryan
Class Q barn in 4 acres. Sold at auction to neighbouring
farmer. Sold on barn with 1 acre to an underbidder, with
the farmer keeping three acres.
Most Competition
Limbury Farm, Bridport
44-acre residential farm with an immaculate Grade II*
country house set in enchanting gardens with a lake.
Agreed in 2 weeks, over guide after stiff competition.
Most Potential
Carters Farm, Axminster
69 acres of pasture land offered by auction in 8 lots.
Purchased by 6 different buyers in total, each lot well
over guide and averaging £11,000 per acre.
Furthest West
Coulston, Westbury
100 acre pasture farm and barns with consent to convert
to 2 detached contemporary dwellings. Offered in 10
lots and sold to 7 different buyers.
Stoodleigh, Tiverton
101 acre residential farm offered in 3 lots and sold as
a whole. Worked in conjunction with Paul Heard Rural
Professional Services, Wellington.
67
Farm
to Fork
From bustling markets to farm shops, there’s a host of tempting alternatives
to the identikit supermarket chains. Zoe Brain encourages us to take our
pick of locally grown produce
It’s a sad fact that many consumers have lost
sight of where their food comes from and how
it is produced – choosing highly processed, over
packaged, branded produce over locally sourced
goods. Where food was once a huge part of communities, it is
often now just a sideshow.
In a bid to fight back, the ‘farm-to
fork’ movement created a concept that
has become one of the fastest growing
trends in the nutrition world.
NFU President, Minette Batters says:
“Safe, traceable, affordable food that is
produced to high standards of animal
welfare and environmental protection
is a right for all, and British farmers should be the number one
supplier.”
Tasting the difference
Supermarket produce is often grown and processed with
shelf-life top of mind. These products may have been
transported over long distances and will often have been
sitting in distribution centres before arriving at the store and
eventually making it on to the shelves.
In contrast, much of the local produce you’ll find at farmers’
markets and farm shops has been picked within the previous
24 hours. In addition to the advantage in freshness, growers
who cater to local customers aren’t constrained by harvesting,
packing, transport and shelf-life quality issues. Instead, they
have the freedom to select, grow and harvest their produce to
ensure the highest qualities of freshness, nutrition and taste.
Ditching the weekly shop
Farmers’ markets and farm shops are an excellent way to source
local produce. Most rural towns have one, and they’re popping
up in big cities too. According to the National Farmers’ Retail
and Markets Association (FARMA), there are over 4,000 farm
shops and over 500 farmers’ markets in the UK.
Much of the local produce
you’ll find at farmers’
markets and farm shops
has been picked within the
previous 24 hours
The concept of ‘food miles’ has been widely investigated.
Data produced from the National Food Agency reveals that
34% of shoppers give reducing food miles as the main reason
to buy local food. It is obvious that local food means lower
transport costs, less pollution and freshness of produce.
The food miles concept helps
shoppers change their habits in an
intuitive way and should be utilised to
convey the wider environmental benefits
of local food.
Keep it local
Amid the current uncertainties
surrounding the future of British
agriculture, an increasing number of farmers are diversifying
away from their core farming enterprises in a bid to safeguard
the long-term sustainability of their business and gain a reliable
source of income.
With the 21 st century providing hectic schedules, we can
easily be forgiven for a mad ‘one dash does it all’ to our nearest
supermarket. So, while
‘local’ is no longer
our only option, and
sometimes convenience
is paramount, we can
choose to reap the
benefits of going back
to our roots.
Buying local foods
is not only sustainable
but supports local food producers and ensures more money
stays in the local economy and goes to those who work hard to
ensure that food goes from the farm to our fork.
Zoe Brain BSc Hons
Graduate Surveyor Poundbury
zbrain@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01305 236571
68
The Future
of Farming
T
he Common Agricultural Programme will
soon be replaced by The Future Farming and
Countryside Programme. Developed by DEFRA,
the new services and interventions are being
designed to support farmers and land managers.
Under the programme, current land-based payments to
farmers will be phased out over a seven-year period, starting
in 2021, and succeeded by a new Environmental Land
Management Scheme (ELMS). The scheme is planned as part
of a system paying ‘public money for public goods’.
Under the new system, farmers and land managers can
enter into a contractual agreement with the Government to
produce environmental land management plans providing
outcomes, for which they will be paid.
However, DEFRA has not yet determined the level of
payments which will be made under the new scheme.
Objectives
The scheme will be delivered through
farmers and land managers on a 25-year
environmental plan which aims to support
the following:
• Clean air and clean and plentiful water.
• Thriving plants and wildlife.
• Reduction in and protection from environmental hazards.
• Adaptation to and mitigation of climate change.
• Beauty, heritage and engagement with the environment.
Lucy Carnell digs into the details of the new
Environmental Land Management Scheme
The concept is
payment for outcomes:
‘the more you do, the
more you get paid’
A new relationship with land managers will be formed
through a contract to deliver public goods, alongside market
productions, rather than a direct subsidy.
The idea behind the scheme is to trigger ambition through
providing land managers with choice and control. Prescribed
directions on how to achieve outcomes
will not be provided – the farmer or land
manager will focus on how to achieve the
outcome and improve quality with guidance
from an expert adviser.
The onus is on the farmer and land
manager to demonstrate compliance. The
concept is payment for outcomes: ‘the more you do, the more
you get paid’.
Timeframe
DEFRA is currently developing a design for the new ELM
scheme and is testing new ideas. The developing and testing
phase is likely to continue until 2021.
Once developed and tested, the new scheme will be
implemented on a large-scale national pilot from 2021 until
2024. From 2025, the ELM scheme should be in full operation.
Lucy Carnell MRICS
Rural Surveyor Yeovil
lcarnell@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01935 382901
69
Insect-friendly
Farming
The National Pollinator Strategy aims to
provide insects with food and a home.
Harold Makant of Natural England
explains how landowners can benefit
from doing their bit
Remember how insects used to accumulate on
car windscreens? You may not see so many
nowadays as they are in decline. Studies have
shown this to be a problem across many
parts of Europe. The economic value of pollination to crop
production in the UK is estimated to be approximately half a
billion pounds a year.
To address the declining situation, the Government
produced a National Pollinator Strategy in 2014. A key part
of the strategy asks that farmers and landowners incorporate
a range of beneficial management
practices on their farms to improve the
provision of food and habitat for insects.
Options available
Mechanisms to improve pollinator
habitat are available within the existing Countryside
Stewardship schemes. The range of options, available under
both higher and mid-tier will help create new habitats within
the farmed landscape for pollinators and form a central
element of the wildlife packages on offer.
For the arable or mixed farmer, two of the more focused
options are AB1 nectar flower mix (£511/ha), and AB8 flower
rich margins and plots (£539/ha).
The main difference is that the AB1 plots use a narrow range
of legumes to create a huge amount of pollen and nectar in
A good time to do the work
is late summer when the
soils are warm
the summer months with a shorter expected plot life, while
the broader mix of species in AB8 such as knapweed, birds-foot
trefoil, yarrow wild carrot and fine grasses will provide a longer
lasting mixture that produces flowers for an extended period
that appeals to a wider range of insects and is more persistent.
The options are not exclusive to arable farmers. Grassland
farmers can also do their bit with the GS4 herb and legume
rich sward option offering a payment of £309/ha. With a good
mixture containing deep-rooted plants such as sanfoin, lucerne
or plantain, the sward has good drought resistance and remains
productive for both grazing stock and
insects.
Think about location
With a bit of thought about location, the
options can be used to connect known
hot spots of insect activity or to provide stepping stones so that
a butterfly like the Small Skipper that does not like to venture
far from food sources can move across the landscape.
Scientific work has shown that, to make a landscape
pollinator friendly, there must be a number of 0.25 ha plots
scattered around 500m apart.
Establishment is key with the plots. Prepare a good fine
seedbed and broadcast the seed on to the surface, and lightly
roll to enhance seed and soil contact.
Get the timing right
A good time to do the work is late summer when the soils are
warm and soil moisture levels are increasing. Frequent topping
in the first year is vital to aid establishment.
Adopt a cutting regime that will enable a proportion of the
plot to flower later in the season to give the insects as long a
feeding season as possible and for those that hibernate, such as
the Brimstone, a vital late season feed.
Harold Makant
Natural England
Harold.makant@naturalengland.org.uk
70
A Field by Any
Other Name
From ‘Ding Dong’ to ‘Second Humpy’,
Philip Greenway has a field day with
meadows’ monikers
If, like me, you grew up on a farm, you’ll be familiar
with names such as Home Field, Eight Acres (or
equivalent number), Cow Field, Orchard, Bottom
Field, Top Field and The Meadow.
But what about the more unusual
names? Borrow Bread, Dear Bought,
Purgatory, Gaudy Close and Ding Dong
are some examples that Farmers Weekly
highlighted from A New Dictionary of English
Field Names by Dr Paul Cavil (The English
Place-Name Society, £22) – a new book on field name origins.
Contributors also came up with a few interesting examples:
“My wettest horror field is perfectly named – it’s the Black
Bog!”
“We have a First Humpy and a Second Humpy; so named as
they’re both humpy and one is in front of the other.”
“Warren Field, Hump Back Field, Junk Field (used to be full of
old scrap), and my personal favourite The Big Square Field.”
“Soggy Bottom. I am sure Mary Berry would have approved.”
“There was Slates on a Cotswold farm I worked on. The
Cotswold brash was so thick it was hard to spot the soil but it
still grew a good crop. Here in flat Suffolk we have Hillies near
us – the only gentle slope for miles.”
“10 Acre … but the field is actually only five acres.”
“Starveacre and Worlds End are probably the most amusing
I’ve come across.”
“Mud Pightle, Shepherds Hills and Bulfers.”
“We have one called Cheesecake. I don’t know why.”
As you can see from the above, field names may have
derived from just about anything. The majority of names,
however, would have come from Anglo-Saxon origins and
passed down the generations.
Many would never have been written down, although old
tithe maps and tenancy agreements would have been two
sources of evidence of any historical data.
The old OS plans usually had a three-digit number relating to
the parish in which it was located, and the more recent national
grid series of plans have given each field a four-digit number
based on its grid reference. Neither of these series of plans did
What we have with
field names is part of
the rich tapestry of the
English language
anything to preserve the individuality or historic context of old
field names.
As a chartered surveyor, I have always taken time to write
down information on field names where
possible. I can’t imagine my father saying
to me as a young man, “Go down to OS
319 and spread the manure.” Much more
evocatively he would have said, “Go ‘n’
spread the muck on Sourdown.” I would
have known exactly what to do!
What we have with field names is part of the rich
tapestry of the English language. It is ever-changing, largely
undocumented and capable of being lost forever, unless we
write it down and make use of it.
Field names from Buckland Newton 1856
I suggest that all landowners and farmers take a few
minutes to write all they know about the names of their fields,
and preserve this declining fragment of our past – before it
disappears altogether.
Philip Greenway
Valuations Yeovil
pgreenway@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01935 382902
71
Vine &
Dandy
Dorset and East Devon has become prime wine-growing territory.
Patrick Woodford toasts the success of three top producers
T
he last 20 years or so has seen a surge of interest
in UK winemaking particularly, though by no means
exclusively, in southern England, as an accidental
by-product of climate change.
Rising temperatures now mean that growing conditions are
close to those found in the Champagne region of France. Marry
that with sheltered, free-draining, south-facing slopes and the
underlying conditions become ideal for wine production, in
particular sparkling wine.
A small but increasing number of landowners are seeing the
establishment of vineyards and winemaking as a diversification
opportunity with many spin-offs, including tasting tours,
corporate events, farm tourism and visitor-related activities.
Wine production itself can be a very volatile experience
with wide variations in annual grape yields according to
weather conditions. While 2018 was a bumper year for growers,
it followed several much more variable years including a
complete washout in 2012.
Added to this uncertainty, in the early years there is a period
of significant capital expenditure for little or no return from
the growing crop. The economics can look daunting with the
establishment of infrastructure and planting of vines costing
from £10,000 to £12,000 per acre, and annual maintenance
costs of between £3,000 to £4,500 per acre.
Many owners of larger vineyards have taken the step of
investing in their own winery, employing
winemaking experts and producing their
own-brand wine.
Other smaller producers may
grow on contract and receive
around £1,500 to £2,500 per
tonne delivered, or they
may send their grapes to a
larger winery for processing into their own-brand wine which
they receive back for onward sale after paying a processing and
storage charge.
My work with vineyards has encompassed valuation and tax
arrangements, tenancy work and planning, while across the
firm we have dealt with a number of sales, usually as part of
larger, mixed use businesses and often including a residential
element. Establishment costs added to underlying agricultural
land value are unlikely to be returned in enhanced capital value
at present.
In the following pages we look at three established and
successful vineyards in Dorset and East Devon: Langham
Wine Estate near Milborne St Andrew, Bride Valley Vineyard at
Litton Cheney, and Castlewood Vineyard near Axminster. Each
produces its own high-quality own-brand range of still and
sparkling wines. Visit their websites to find out more.
Patrick Woodford MRICS FAAV
Partner Dorchester
pwoodford@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01305 236573
72
Wine
and Song
Each year, the harvest from
Castlewood’s boutique
vineyard is enjoyed at the
summer wine festival
What started as a childhood fascination with
hedgerow fruits has seen Rob Corbett make
the bold move to establishing a vineyard and
making wine on his family’s 200-acre dairy and
arable unit near Axminster in Devon.
In the mid-1990s, a block of steep
land not suited to growing cereal crops
or silage was planted with vines. “The
hillside is south-facing – essential in the
northern hemisphere if the vines are to
get enough sunshine. This area is comparable to France’s Loire
Valley and we have our own little micro-climate,” says Rob. “It’s
mild here and we’re just 2.5 miles away from Lyme Bay.”
Managing vines and making wine while running the core
dairy business makes certain times of the year extremely busy.
Installing two robotic milking systems has, however, provided
flexibility for Rob to pursue his winemaking passion. Pruning
and trellising starts in December and goes through until
March. Rob tends
to all 5,000 vines
himself.
Grape harvest is
typically from late
September onwards;
then winemaking
begins. The wines
are fermented in
both stainless steel
and three-year-old
Burgundy barrels
before being bottled
and allowed to
mature for two years
in Castlewood’s old
stone barns.
Five hundred tickets go
on sale on 1 March and
quickly sell out
Rob makes both sparkling and still white wine, growing
Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier and Bacchus grape
varieties to create the desired results.
Planting to first harvest was a four-year wait. The first
commercial vintage was in 2010 and
this lay in the cellar for two
years. So, in 2012, he had
his first 1,000 Castlewood
bottles to sell.
Instead of choosing
to supply local farm shops and restaurants,
Rob invited everyone into his vineyard for the
inaugural Castlewood Wine Festival, and sold
his entire vintage in one day!
Back then he knew 80% of his customers,
but business has grown to the point where
he now knows only 20% directly. And the
annual one-day ticketed wine festival
continues. Five hundred tickets go on sale
on 1 March and quickly sell out.
Rob now produces more than 8,000
bottles of Castlewood wine each year –
selling at the festival, to private customers,
and through a few select restaurants.
“We use the passage of time to clarify the wine – not
chemicals or filtration. It’s important that we maintain the
integrity of our product,” says Rob.
His next plan is to produce a semi-soft lactic cheese from
the herd’s milk to pair with the wines. Rob says: “We’re still
developing a recipe and involving all the chefs who buy our
wines in the development process. It’s a really fun journey and
we’re only just at the beginning!”
For further information and sales,
visit www.castlewoodvineyard.co.uk or call 01297 552068.
73
Bubbly
Personality
Meet sparkling wine producers,
Langham Estate in Dorset
At the heart of the Langham Estate sits the
magnificent Bingham’s Melcombe Manor
House, a Grade I listed house that has changed
little since the reign of Edward VI. Acquired by
John Langham in 1980, Bingham’s Melcombe is now the heart
of Langham Agricultural Enterprise, today extending to over
2,500 acres.
The Langham Vineyard was established by John Langham
on a very small scale but, in 2009,
John’s son, Justin Langham, decided
to develop his father’s project into a
commercial venture and planted 30
acres of land at their Crawthorne Farm
site near Milborne St Andrew.
With a south-facing aspect, chalk
soils and a unique micro-climate,
Crawthorne provides the perfect
terroir for ripening the classic Champagne grape triumvirate
of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier.
Well-established hedgerows provide natural wind breaks
and habitat for a large variety of beneficial species. The
ability to grow their own grapes means that picking can take
place at optimum ripeness without restriction of contract
purchasing and this results in a better quality wine.
With the winery located
a short distance from the
vineyard, the grapes are
picked and processed
within a few hours
canopy and promoting biological control organisms, the
effects of disease are kept to a minimum. Grapes are handpicked
and rigorous vineyard selection ensures that only the
highest quality grapes arrive at the winery.
Housed in a characterful old barn, the winery provides
a fusion of the old and the new. With a selection of
temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, as well as used
French barriques, Langham Wine has all the tools required to
produce exceptional wines.
With the winery located a short
distance from the vineyard, the grapes
are picked and processed within a few
hours, avoiding the need for transport
and risk to the grapes in transit.
As an adjunct to the commercial
farming operations, Langham Wine
employs five staff holding roles in
vineyard management, winemaking, sales and hospitality, as
well as many
seasonal
staff during
the picking
season.
Organised
tastings in the
wine tasting
room, catering
and events at
the Vineyard
Café, vineyard
tours and
other activities
supplement
the core purpose of successful wine production.
Wines produced include classic Cuvée non-vintage, Blanc
de Blancs Reserve, Rosé NV, Blanc de Noirs 2013, and Blanc de
Blancs 2011. Wines produced on the estate have won many
awards including, most recently, Supreme Champion at the
Wine GB annual competition.
As a policy, the vineyard is working towards reducing
chemical intervention. This is being achieved through diligent
canopy management. By increasing the airflow through the
For further information and sales,
visit www.langhamwine.co.uk or call 01258 839095.
74
Grape
Expectations
The owner of Bride Valley Vineyard in West Dorset
has years of experience in the wine trade
Steven Spurrier is one of the most influential and
celebrated individuals in the wine trade. In 2009
he and his wife
Bella established
Bride Valley Vineyard on
the stunning West Dorset
coast between Bridport and
Dorchester. The vineyard
now produces a number of
award-winning wines under
the Bride Valley label and
offers regular tours and tastings for visitors from around the
world.
The opportunity to produce
his own wine was too
much for Steven to resist
Steven and Bella made Litton
Cheney their home in 1987 and Steven
was keenly aware of the potential for
growing vines on his wife’s 200-acre
farm on the edge of the village. The
clean, chalky soil was almost identical to that found in the
Champagne region of France and the fine south-facing slopes
offered a favourable climate for the cultivation of Chardonnay,
Pinot Noir and Pinot
Meunier vines – classic
Champagne grape
varieties.
Having spent a
lifetime in the trade, the
opportunity to produce
his own wine was too
much for Steven to
resist. So 44,000 vines
from Pépinières
Guillaume –
considered the
world’s best
vine nursery – in
north Burgundy
were matched to the climate and subsoil, and planted over 25
prime acres on Bella’s farm.
The first harvest was gathered in 2011 and the grapes taken
to Ian Edwards (2012 English Winemaker of the Year) at nearby
Furleigh Estate. Three elegantly sparkling wines produced in
the traditional Champagne method were released in 2014 – a
classic, clean Blanc de Blanc, a Brut Reserve and a rosé
for summer drinking named Rosé Bella in honour of
his wife.
After this promising start Bride Valley Vineyard
struggled for a number of years with smaller-thanhoped-for
crops but the wonderful summer of 2018
renewed everyone’s faith in the productivity of the
Dorset countryside. Almost 60,000 bottles were
produced, and Bride Valley Wines made its first still
varieties – Dorset Chardonnay and Dorset Pinot Noir released
in 2019.
In 2018, Bride Valley Vineyard also
produced the UK’s first ever Crémant,
which immediately scooped an SWA
silver award. The Dorset Crémant is
deliciously creamy on the pallet due to its
slightly lower fizz compared to traditional sparkling wines. The
2019 harvest, despite the cold and the rain, did not disappoint
and the future and continued quality of Bride Valley Wines, and
indeed English wines in general, appears to be rosy.
Wine tourism is also on the increase and to accommodate
growing numbers of visitors Bride Valley Vineyard has recently
invested in a dedicated art and tasting room, with Steven’s
cornucopia of pictures, artefacts and awards on display.
From this setting – a charming stable block opening on to
the back garden of Steven and Bella’s home in Litton Cheney
– the Bride Valley team
host regular events.
Guests can tour the
vines, spend pleasant
moments enjoying the
beautiful Dorset views
with glass in hand and
take home some bottles
of fine English wine at
cellar door prices.
For further information and sales,
visit www.bridevalleyvineyard.com or call 01308 482767.
75
Wessex
The Only Way is
©2014 TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX FILM CORPORATION ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Thomas Hardy classics, Oscar-winning blockbusters, and TV mini-series:
our beautiful county has played a starring role on screen.
Andrew Carless is ready for his close-up
©1967 METRO-GOLDWYN-MAYER.
Some of the most beautiful countryside in
Britain can be found in Dorset. Whether you like
dramatic coastlines, sweeping
countryside or pretty
cottages, the county has the lot.
Little wonder, then, that film directors
have been drawn to Dorset when they
have needed a brilliant location for a
film.
We would expect films based on
Thomas Hardy’s novels to be filmed in
Dorset. It would be sacrilege to go anywhere else and the
county has been the back drop to Far from the Madding
Crowd twice, The Mayor of Casterbridge and, of course, Tess of
the d’Urbervilles. Was there ever such a vulnerable heroine as
Nastassja Kinski?
And in a reworking of a Hardy novel, Stephen Frears,
himself a former Dorset resident, directed Tamara Drewe with
Bond-girl Gemma Arterton taking on the role of journalist
Tamara based on the comic strip by Posy Simmonds.
Sherborne School has also been popular, with films such
as The Imitation Game, The Browning Version and Goodbye,
Mr Chips, and the mini-series Wolf Hall all shot in and around
the quad.
Milton Abbey School was used for television’s To Serve
Them All My Days and the brilliant Ripping Yarns.
Iconic film stills have been shot in the county; The French
Lieutenant’s Woman was filmed in Lyme Regis and famously
uses The Cobb as a dramatic backdrop, with a hooded Meryl
Steep looking out to sea.
The town was also used for the 1995 and 2007
adaptations of Jane Austen’s Persuasion, whilst Emma was
filmed in Evershot and Dorchester.
The famous chandelier
scene in Only Fools and
Horses was set up at
Clayesmore school in
Iwerne Minster
The coast has been used in other films; Portland Harbour
took centre stage in the 2008 film The Boat that Rocked starring
Rhys Ifans, Bill Nighy and Nick Frost about
a pirate radio station in the North Sea.
Most recently, of course, West Bay has
featured on the small screen in the multi
award-winning Broadchurch, while the illfated
Harbour Lights is thankfully a distant
memory.
Nanny McPhee was partly filmed in the
Purbecks, as well as Mansfield Park and
the darkly comic Mike Leigh film Nuts in May. In 1997, Stephen
Fry portrayed
Oscar Wilde in
the film Wilde;
scenes were
shot around
Swanage
Pier, Lulworth
and Studland
beaches.
The Blackmore Vale was the back drop to Fair Stood the Wind
for France, and the famous chandelier scene in Only Fools and
Horses was set up at Clayesmore school in Iwerne Minster.
So, the next time you walk into a pub and think someone is
the spitting image of a famous actor, you may be right. You may
even be asked to be an extra. You will, however, never outshine
the Dorset countryside.
Andrew Carless
Partner Accounts
acarless@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01305 236560
©BBC
76
Splitting
Headache
What is the value of an agricultural
tenancy when a partnership falls out?
Philip Pollard explains
Anyone setting up a family farming business
does so in the belief there will never be any
disputes, but sadly that is not always the case.
When families fall out, the impact can be
dramatic for all concerned.
I was involved in a complex
arbitration to consider the value of
an agricultural tenancy following
the unfortunate break up of a
family farming partnership.
There was a significant amount
of legal input, especially to
establish whether the tenancy was
held as an asset of the partnership. It was, so the benefit of
the tenancy had to be valued which became a significant
threat to the ongoing farming business.
Therefore, I would recommend that you think carefully
before making the tenancy an asset of the partnership
because, if the tenancy has to be valued, it could put a
significant strain on the ongoing partners when having to pay
an outgoing partner
The farm in question was on an estate where it was agreed
that the landlord would not make a payment for the tenancy.
So we had to work out the benefit to the ongoing partners
of having a tenancy under the Agricultural Holdings Act., and
thus a lower rent than an FBT.
I would recommend that
you think carefully before
making the tenancy an
asset of the partnership
Even though the tenancy was non-assignable, it still
had a value. There is case law detailing how you value a
tenancy based upon the profit rent, which is the difference
between the open market rent and the rent paid under
an Agricultural Holdings Act Tenancy. This can be a
considerable amount.
I approached my valuation on behalf of
the ongoing partners in two ways. First,
I looked at the market rent, taking into
account all the factors of the particular
farm.
Second, I looked at the sustainability
argument which is what the farm
was producing by way of profits and, having allowed a
reasonable return to the partners, what it could afford to pay
in terms of rent. My valuation, which was a balance of my
two methods, led me to value the tenancy at about £400 per
acre.
The valuer for the outgoing partner based his value on
a large profit rent, so that his valuation came to just under
£2,000 per acre. We were some way apart and on 600 acres
that meant there was a lot at stake, the Valuers were about
£750,000 apart!
The arbitrator was a well-respected QC. He was an expert
on the law, but his understanding of farming businesses
and valuation were secondary to his legal expertise. He
dismissed my sustainability approach, but accepted my
analysis of the rent and based his award on a rent that was in
line with my proposal.
The arbitrator came to a fair result which was much closer
to my valuation but the stress and threat to the ongoing
business was significant. .
When setting up your family partnership it is essential
to take professional advice. Speak to your solicitor and
accountant, but also make sure that you speak to your valuer
to gain a true understanding any future claims.
Philip Pollard FRICS FAAV
Partner Salisbury
ppollard@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01722 334323
77
Agricultural Finance
The Agricultural Mortgage Corporation (AMC) is a specialist provider of
medium/long term finance for farmers and landowners.
A
key selling point for AMC has always been its
light touch ‘lend and leave’ approach coupled
with its ability to lend over a longer term. AMC
supports UK farming businesses by lending
them funds over 5 to 30 years for any business purpose.
Lending is split between land purchases, capital investment,
restructuring bank overdraft or term debt and working capital.
Restructuring debt and spreading loan repayments over a
longer period or switching borrowing onto an interest only
basis are all ways that AMC may help to save costs. AMC is
able to offer long term interest-only loans and applications
for this facility are increasing from farmer’s whose banks are
unable or unwilling to offer such facilities.
Whether to take out long term fixed rate loans or to stay
with a variable rate loan is always a difficult decision to make,
especially where we have been at such a low base rate for
so many years. Fixed rate money is currently very affordable
with the cost of funds still below the 1% mark at the time
of writing. Many over the last year have opted for fixing but
what is right for one may not be for another and each case is
different.
With signs of more land coming on the market in 2020
AMC don’t just lend to traditional farmers but also provide
Rural Business Loans to non-farming clients providing they are
able to offer agricultural security and service the debt.
The Symonds & Sampson LLP team of AMC agents includes
Edward Dyke, A-J Monro and Greg Ridout all of whom will be
pleased to answer any questions you may have.
We must improve
our buildings
this year
We need to
restructure the
partnership
Guaranteed working
capital would help
our plans
Purchase the
neighbouring
farm/land
Restructuring our
debt could help
manage costs
Total minimum AMC loan £25,001 (AMC Flexible Loan £30,001)
Edward Dyke
01258 474261
Greg Ridout
A-J Monro
07817 517467 07867 555838
symondsandsampson.co.uk
78
The Next
Generation
79
AND FINALLY
A look back at a fabulous year for our
charity fundraising, all the fun of the
rural shows, and interviews with the
show secretaries. You can rely on us
to give you great advice – even down
to the best pubs and restaurants –
so don’t miss our tips for excellent
eateries. Then join us as we stand at
the required distance, tip our heads
to one side and contemplate our
favourite paintings, before trying our
hands – and legs – at gig rowing and
yoga, and look forward to raising
funds and awareness for our 2020
charity, Mind.
t Detail from ‘The Swimmer’, triptych by Rosanna Chittenden,
www.rchittenden.co.uk
Helping
Hands
Staff have been extraordinarily busy all year – donning aprons, throwing themselves
out of planes and facilitating numerous auctions, parties and challenges
Wessex Heartbeat was created to ensure that patients
and their families undergoing treatment at the Wessex Cardiac
Centre are provided with the best possible care and support.
The charity strives to improve every single aspect of cardiac care,
from education and prevention, to treatment and rehabilitation.
The combination
of world-class clinical
teams and significant
investment in the
Wessex Cardiac Centre
have turned it into one
of the leading cardiac
centres in the UK and
Internationally.
Bournemouth Hospital Charity raises funds to
help enhance the care and treatment of patients at the Royal
Bournemouth and Christchurch Hospitals.
Through donations, the charity purchases specialist medical
equipment beyond the reach of NHS budgets to ensure that
patients at the hospital have access to the latest cutting-edge
technology and treatment.
James Monro, the father of A-J Monro of our Wimborne
office, was one of the finest heart surgeons of his generation.
He was also a former Chairman of Wessex Heartbeat and carried
out thousands of life-saving operations at the Bournemouth
Hospital.
With two undeniably worthy causes standing to benefit, the
staff set about raising a target of £10,000.
They have been extraordinarily busy all year – donning
aprons, throwing themselves out of planes and facilitating
numerous auctions, parties and challenges.
How we raised the money
Annie Helliwell, Derryn Pollard and Jack Edwards of Salisbury
completed the Great South Run in October; and Philip Pollard,
Tim Hale and Theresa Wootton ‘enjoyed’ tandem sky diving –
jumping from 10,000ft in September. As an office they have
raised well over £5,000.
Trudi Gumbrell, Jess Weymouth, Sam Brown and Andrea
Lowden-Todd also took the opportunity to jump out of a plane,
completing a 15,000ft sky dive in July raising over £2,000. Very
brave!
A 15-strong group of ladies from Symonds & Sampson
marched more than six miles along Bournemouth seafront
at twilight in May and beat their fundraising target by over
116%! The girls raised an impressive £648.
Fast becoming a much anticipated annual event, Rymer’s Rally
– a tractor rally organised by the Wimborne office’s Nick Rymer –
raised a whopping £5,800 for the charities in May. In attendance
were a total of 64 tractors, seven Land Rovers, an Austin pick-up
and a 124-year-old steam engine! The band, barbecue and over
450 guests all contributed to what was a spectacular day.
Rymers Rally will be back in May 2020 when funds from this
hugely popular event will be donated to local charity ‘In Jolly
Good Company’.
The Great British Bake Off came to the Sturminster Newton
office when staff brought in all manner of tasty homemade
delights for their coffee and cake morning in June. The office
raised over £250.
On a gloriously sunny
afternoon in Beaminster, the office
hosted a garden party complete
with Pimms and canapes. Mr
and Mrs Brooks kindly let us use
their beautiful and immaculately
presented garden for the event
which raised £628.
Most recently, Immy Robinson,
Will Wallis and Carol Wallis, hosted a fantastic murder mystery
evening at their pub, The Fox at Ansty. With the help of the
Dorset Drama Group providing their excellent acting skills, the
evening was a great success raising over £1,100.
We would like to thank everyone who has helped organise
our events this year and those who have come along and
supported our fundraising efforts.
The staff at Symonds & Sampson have smashed their £10,000
target, raising just over £14,750 for Wessex Heartbeat and
Bournemouth Hospital.
We look forward to another year of fundraising for our
nominated charity in 2020.
Peter Grout-Smith MNAEA
Residential Poundbury
pgs@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01305 251154
82
My First Sky Dive
by Philip Pollard (aged 63¼)
The things we do for charity! Philip Pollard and colleagues from our
Salisbury office raised funds – and their adrenaline levels
I
still don’t know what made me say the words “I’ll do
a sky dive” to raise money for Symonds & Sampson’s
charities, but before I could change my mind my
secretary, Theresa, and colleague Tim Hale had
agreed to join me so I couldn’t back out.
The date was set for 7 September
2019 and we arrived at Go Sky Dive to be
inducted for our sky dive. The induction
was short, a 5 min video and another 5
mins being shown a few essentials!.
The plane was tiny, but 16 of us, eight
instructors and eight
students squeezed in.
During the flight there
was some nervous fistpumping,
but not much
conversation.
As we approached
the dropzone, the red light came on. Theresa was first out of the
plane because she didn’t want to hear anyone else screaming!
That’s when everything became a bit
surreal. When it was my turn to leave
the aircraft I thought, “I just hope this
all goes well!” and focused on the brief
training we had been given.
We jumped; the instructor got
control of the freefall, and suddenly
we were flying vertically downwards
at 125mph. All I noticed was the rush
of wind and the exhilaration. I did not get much chance to
look around but did see the ground rapidly approaching.
Surprisingly at no time was I at all concerned!
Suddenly there was a shout in my ear and the instructor
shoved his hand in front of me and counted down five
Theresa was first out
of the plane because
she didn’t want to hear
anyone else screaming!
The most nervous moment
was when the instructor
said he was going to
check the parachute had
deployed correctly!
seconds. I heard the parachute deploy, felt a jolt, and suddenly
all became quiet and serene. The most nervous moment was
when the instructor said he was going to check the parachute
had deployed correctly!
I was asked whether I wanted to do any
spins and turns and I declined, saying that
I was quite happy to be a steady Eddie!
As we floated down, I had a wonderful
view of Stonehenge, Old Sarum and the
Cathedral, the views were amazing.
We came in to land at about 15mph. I
made sure I followed my instructions to the letter, keeping my
legs out and landing on my bottom with a bump, but in one
piece.
It is interesting to note that Theresa was first out of the
aircraft but last to land. I was middle one out and middle one
to land, and Tim, who was last out of the aircraft but, being an
adrenaline junkie, requested the tight turns and spins on the
way down, was first to land!
We have been incredibly well supported by friends, family
and clients, and have made a significant
contribution to Symonds & Sampson’s
chosen charities and the Salisbury
Hospital Stars Appeal.
Our Just Giving page is still open if
anybody wishes to contribute. Please
go to www.justgiving.com/teams/
symsamsalisbury
Philip Pollard FRICS FAAV
Partner Salisbury
ppollard@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01722 334323
83
84
Show
Dogs
Axe Vale
Show
Show Date 2020
20–21 June
85
86
Honiton
Show
Show Date 2020
6 August
87
88
Gillingham
& Shaftesbury
Show
Show Date 2020
19 August
89
90
Melplash
Show
Show Date 2020
27 August
91
92
Dorset County
Show
Show Dates 2020
5 September
– 6 September
93
The Greatest Showmen
Who would win the accolade? We meet Will Hyde, Secretary of the Dorset
County Show, and James Cox, Secretary of the Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show
as they prepare for their 2020 events
Dorset County Show,
5-6 September 2020
Will Hyde took
on the role of
Show Secretary
in 2017.
What experience
do you have?
My background is farm
management and
agricultural consultancy
– but I have no event management
credentials whatsoever! I stewarded
for a number of years at the Royal Bath
& West Show and from there started
commentating in livestock sections across the South West.
What ideas do you have for changing the show?
I want to increase our presence in the rural community and
facilitate more industry-based events throughout the year.
I also want to change our education fund so that it is more
proactive in providing resources for schools.
Where do you see the show in five years’ time?
In the livestock and equine areas, I want to have more
national qualifying classes and industry-based competitions
such as national breed shows, and classes that showcase
youth initiatives.
In the trade area, I want us to be more selective over the
quality of trade stand we attract, creating a better display.
Our two-day show
delivers 60,000 visitors
Why is your show the best in Dorset?
Dorset County Show is very different from other shows. In
2006 we took on the mantle of being ‘The County Show’
and we’ve risen to the challenge. Our two-day show
delivers 60,000 visitors and significantly higher entries
across all sections.
If you weren’t doing this job, what would you
be doing?
I would be farming sheep. My family helped to develop the
Dorset Down breed eight generations ago and we have
farmed them ever since on the same site in Wool. We have
the oldest and largest flock of Dorset Downs and I have a
strong desire to continue that family tradition.
What is the hardest part of your job?
Managing people and their expectations. Almost
everything that happens is reliant on someone
or something else. I have to maintain the lines of
communication to make sure no one’s time is wasted and
that everyone’s efforts are recognised and appreciated.
What is the most enjoyable part of your job?
Interacting with different groups, businesses and
individuals. Some of the discussion is highly technical and
specialised, particularly when it comes
to logistics, infrastructure and regulation.
And I also discuss how to improve visitor
satisfaction which is normally creative,
contemporary and dynamic.
In your opinion what are the wider benefits
of agricultural shows to the local community
and the economy?
The most important role we provide is an opportunity for
the agricultural community to interact and socialise. In the
modern day this is increasingly important for rural mental
health and to combat insular behaviour. The show is timed
perfectly for farmers to come together and, hopefully,
celebrate a prosperous year. In hard times it provides a safe
forum for farmers to meet and recognise that we are all in
this together.
94
Gillingham & Shaftesbury
Show, 19 August 2020
James Cox
became Show
Secretary in
June 2019.
What experience
do you have?
My first experience of
agricultural shows was
losing against my friend
Lucy in the decorated
wellie competition at
the Dorchester Show! As competing
was not my strong point, I took up a
stewarding role at the County Show,
which later led to an office job. I
progressed to the Royal Bath & West of
England Society, working on Grassland UK, The Dairy Show
and The Royal Bath & West Show.
Gillingham & Shaftesbury is
a ‘proper’ agricultural show
where business gets done
What ideas do you have for changing the show?
I would like to see more family entertainment while
continuing to expand our existing brilliant offering to
the agricultural visitors. We are eager to introduce an
educational branch
as we feel now
more than ever that
agricultural societies’
core aims should be
supporting the future
of our outstanding
industry.
Where do you see the show in five years’ time?
The vision is to be Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire’s most
loved and true agricultural and countryside show, with
greater emphasis on teaching people in our region about
where their food comes from.
Why do you think your show is the best in
Dorset?
Because it is a ‘proper’ agricultural show where business
gets done! The show welcomes around 100 agricultural
stands and is a networking opportunity for farmers and farm
managers to meet with buyers, suppliers and dealers, while
trade stands and sponsors get to catch
up with existing customers and meet
potential new ones.
Being located in North Dorset allows
us to celebrate everything great about
the Great British countryside with
visitors from across Dorset, Wiltshire and Somerset joining us
for a rural day out for all the family.
What has been your biggest challenge for the
Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show?
Learning the names of more than 200 invaluable show
stewards.
What is the most enjoyable part of your job?
Working with our passionate committee members and
stewards – the ideas and comradery is like nowhere else.
I also love joining the dedicated showground team for
coffee and cake in the barn. They work hard throughout
the year to make the showground look pristine for the busy
summer season of events, including caravan rallies and the
show itself.
What are the wider benefits of agricultural
shows to the local community and the
economy?
The shows are built on the generosity of volunteers. The
local community becomes a ‘show family’ for a few weeks
and gathers together year after year.
These events are a showcase of rural life, of agriculture,
and the countryside, and everything great within it.
Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show puts the consumer in
contact with the producer – the food halls are filled with
delicious food produced within the region, and in the craft
marquees you’ll find everyone from local stick-makers to
artisan craft producers.
95
Les Mirabelles, Nomansland, New Forest
The best French cuisine this side of the Channel
with a wine list to rival the best of the best.
A-J Monro, Partner
Our
Favourite
Pubs &
Restaurants
Brassica, Beaminster
Fantastic food, superb service in a relaxed atmosphere –
what more could you want?
Emma Hawker, PR & Marketing Consultant
Beckford Arms, Fonthill Gifford
Beautiful location, exceptional food and service, and
delicious wines.
Chloe Hooper, Sturminster Newton residential
You can’t beat a personal
recommendation so we asked the S&S
team to share their go-to eateries and
bars at home and further afield
The Acorn Inn, Evershot
Worthy winner of Best Pub and Chef of the Year at
the Dorset Food, Drink & Farming Awards.
Adam Taylor, Dorchester residential
The Pilot Boat, Lyme Regis
Lovely sun-trap terrace and a fantastic bar to enjoy
cocktails and live music.
Naomi Garner, Dorchester residential
Harbour Inn, Lyme Regis
From New Year’s Eve to a hot summer’s day, the best
memories have been made here.
Tim Bennett, Ilminster residential
Hall’s Kitchen, Weymouth
The owner was a chef on the QE2 and specialises in
seafood dishes. Brilliant.
David West, Poundbury residential
Ali Barbour’s Cave Restaurant, Mombasa
If you’re ever in Kenya’s oldest city, don’t miss this jawdropping
place.
Jeremy Smith, Yeovil residential
Vinny at Six, Dorchester
Stylish lounge bar and restaurant with a very friendly
atmosphere.
Peter Grout-Smith, Poundbury residential
The Stapleton Arms, Buckhorn Weston
Lovely atmosphere, great food and always a warm
welcome.
Lucy Carnell, Yeovil rural
Yalbury Cottage, Lower Bockhampton
The impeccable service and varied menu bring us back
time and time again.
Jon Summers, Partner, Head of Residential
96
Applecross Inn, Strathcarron
Dog-friendly pub in the Scottish Highlands with amazing
sea views and the freshest seafood.
Lucy Nolan, Dorchester lettings
Horseshoe Inn, Ebbesbourne Wake
Home-cooked grub and the most impressive array of
ancient ironmongery on every wall!
Nick Rymer, Wimborne rural
Masala, Dorchester
The best Indian restaurant! Fantastic menu, lovely
welcome, and always full of our friends.
Jan Merriott, Dorchester commercial
Plumber Manor, Sturminster Newton
Entertaining owners and staff, wonderful food and great
atmosphere.
Clare Burt, Poundbury lettings
Dorset Burger Company, Weymouth
What’s not to like? The staff are the friendliest people you
could hope for!
Daniel Magee, Bridport residential
Les Belles Perdix de Troplong-Mondot,
St Emilion,
Sublime! Lunch on the terrace overlooking the vineyard
and lavender beds. Superlative fare and wine.
Richard Taylor, Partner
The Fountain Head, Branscombe
A proper pub with no pretentions. Local Branscombe
beers, good pub grub and colourful locals!
Ross Willmington, Partner
Tytherleigh Arms, between Chard
and Axminster
Seriously, the food is the best out there!
Charlie Snow, Yeovil rural
Seaside Boarding House, Burton Bradstock
A great clifftop terrace and bar for a sundowner; now
with Taste of the West gold.
Andrew Carless, Partner
Rick Stein’s Seafood Restaurant, Padstow
It’s been a fixture since 1975 and reminds me of great
times on holiday.
Michelle Powell, Dorchester residential
The Ship Inn, Weymouth Quay
The perfect place for our Thursday ‘date night’ and start to
an early weekend!
Hilary Stockley, Poundbury residential
The Idle Rocks, St Mawes
Right on the estuary with magnificent views and the
sound of the sea. Perfect.
Stuart Philipps, Dorchester residential
Guildhall Tavern, Poole
French restaurant with superb service in delightful
surroundings. Try the seafood dishes.
Jane Moir, Wimborne residential
Shell Bay, Studland
Stunning setting and exquisite food to match; must be
experienced.
Neal Wilson, Wimborne residential
The Chetnole Inn, Chetnole
A lovely local pub. Go there for the super buzz and
excellent food.
Marlise Jolliffe, Sturminster Newton auctions
Surfside, Polzeath
One of the best views in England from the restaurant.
After dark, a visit to the absurdly wild and wacky Rum Bar
is a must.
Mark Lewis, Partner, Head of Agency
The Greyhound Inn,
Sydling St Nicholas
With flagstone floors and open fireplaces,
this country pub has fabulous food.
Jessica Weymouth, PR & Marketing
The Wheatsheaf Inn,
Woodford Valley
For good walks, good beer and good food –
if you remember to book a table!
Robyn Harper, Sturminster Newton rural
97
Picture Perfect
A survey of the S&S team reveals our varied
tastes in art – from Botticelli to Banksy
Nataraja by Bridget Riley
British modern art. Visually stunning and
polarises opinions. Love it.
Emma Hawker, PR & Marketing
Consultant
An Allegory with Venus
and Cupid by Bronzino
One of my go-to paintings in the
National Gallery and my screen saver.
Mark Lewis, Partner
Whistlejacket
by George Stubbs
Almost life-size and
almost alive.
Robyn Harper,
Sturminster rural
Blue Water Lilies
by Claude Monet
Simply spellbinding.
Richard Taylor, Partner
98
Going to Work by LS Lowry
Reminds me of one of my old
schools in Yorkshire as it hung in
their corridor.
Michelle Powell, Dorchester
residential
The Trinity
by Andrei Rublev
Our vicar gave me a copy to
mark my confirmation. It sits
on my desk at home and is
very special to me.
Ross Willmington, Partner
There is Always Hope by Banksy
Thought-provoking, as always.
Tim Bennett, Ilminster residential
River Frome Below Dorchester
by local artist Colin Willey
My wife organised it for a major birthday.
A favourite fishing haunt – she had to pray
Loneliness of Autumn that I didn’t bunk off work for a few hours
by Leonid Afremov
while he was there!
I love the way Afremov finds colour Richard Miller, Partner
in darkness. He paints exclusively
night-time scenes and makes them come alive.
Jessica Weymouth, PR & Marketing Co-ordinator
Primavera by Sandro Botticelli
Remembering an unexpected childhood enchantment at
the Uffizi.
Angela Gillibrand, Axminster rural
The Hunt in the Forest by Uccello
A rich, colourful, bustling tableau; surprisingly modern for 1470.
Andrew Carless, Partner
A Bar at the Folies-Bergère by Manet
Manet’s impression of Impressionism; I could look at
this picture for hours. So much going on – spot the
dangling legs! A great night ahead, for sure!
Jan Merriott, Dorchester commercial
Girl with a Pearl
Earring,
Johannes Vermeer
Her stare and smile shine as
light from the darkness –
the most beautiful portrait
ever painted.
Brigit Lyons-Davis,
Axminster residential
The Basin of San Marco on
Ascension Day 1732 by Canaletto
Wonderful energy and movement, and well
before the cruise ships!
Chris Dacombe, Wimborne rural
The Fighting Temeraire by Joseph Turner
A beautiful portrayal of an old dog’s final journey,
aided by the young replacement in a dramatic
setting.
A-J Monro, Partner
99
Oarsome
If you want to gain friends, fitness and a few
blisters, give gig rowing a try, says Sally Reid
I
turned 50 at the start of 2019, and my treat to myself
was a ‘Learn to Row’ course at Bridport Gig Rowing
Club in West Bay. My daughter had started rowing
the previous summer,
and was keen to secure her place in
the junior squad competing in the
Jurassic League, a summer series of
regattas hosted and contested by gig
clubs in Langstone, Poole, Swanage,
Weymouth, Portland, Bridport, Lyme
Regis, Sidmouth and Exmouth.
“Why don’t you join the ladies’ squad?” they said. That is how
my mid-life crisis began.
Joining the squad mid-season, so not being affiliated to a
particular crew, I was fortunate enough to
fill in with four ladies’ crews, competing in
11 races, and winning 6.
The races are usually around 2 to 3
kilometres, and a lung-busting burst from
start to finish. Getting a good start is key,
hopefully giving you clear water and
advantage at the first buoy turn.
The races can be pretty hairy; nobody
wants to give an inch, so clashing oars
or even collisions are fairly common. But the buzz is incredible,
and somehow you manage to find energy that you thought
you’d left in your teenage years!
The club is a wonderful community, held together by the
many coxes and volunteers who do all the hard work so that
people like me can pitch up, jump in a boat and row.
We had a very successful season with Bridport being
crowned Jurassic League champions for a third successive year.
Other clubs are closing in on us though, so it’ll be hours on the
rowing machine over the winter to give us a head start for 2020.
The buzz is incredible, and
somehow you manage to find
energy you thought you’d left
in your teenage years
The highs include my first win (in a crew with my sister
Rachel at the Swanage Regatta in June), and the delight when
a dolphin swam alongside our boat for an hour off West Bay in
September.
The lows? Blisters (lots of them),
and ‘gigger’s arse’ – that rubbed-raw
patch on your ‘tailbone’. Enough said;
I should buy shares in the makers of
hydrocolloid dressings!
The origins of Cornish Pilot Gig
Rowing, to give the sport its full title, came from ship pilots
racing to incoming vessels to guide them into the harbour. The
first pilot on-board was paid, therefore he sought to retain the
best coxswain and crew.
The gigs we race are modelled on those
traditional wooden seafaring rowing boats
– crewed by six rowers and a coxswain,
32 feet long and built of elm. At Bridport,
we have three racing boats, Brydian, Blaez
and Dagger and two fibreglass training
boats, Bathsheba and Bucky Doo.
The racing season starts with the world
championships in the Scilly Isles in May.
Bridport Ladies A crew’s gruelling winter
training was rewarded with a brilliant 16 th place in 2019 – the
best ever result for a Dorset crew.
The summer sees local leagues through Cornwall, Devon and
Dorset, with junior, ladies’ and mens’ squads racing in a range of
categories. It’s enormous fun and I highly recommend it.
Sally Reid
Marketing Manager Poundbury
sreid@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01305 571274
100
Inhale the Future,
Exhale the Past
Yoga is a way to unwind, recharge and find a place of peace.
Our very own expert, Becky Stimpson, wants to bend your ear
– and the rest of your body
A
divine mix of movement, meditation and breath
work, yoga has rooted its place firmly in my life.
My personal journey started just after I had my
second child, almost seven years ago. I’d seen
a post on Instagram of a lady bending herself into a pretzelshaped
posture, and others of people in perfectly poised
handstands and backbends on sunset adorned beaches. I
thought, “I want to do that!”
I immediately threw myself into the physical part of yoga –
attempting to balance on my head, standing on my hands, and
other such contortions. Little did I know at the time that the
physical side would eventually become the least important part
to me.
As time went on, I started to really understand how yoga
feels. Rather than just taking myself through a sequence of
exercises, it started to sink in why I was doing what I was doing
and how it could really benefit me on the inside.
I was learning new things about myself all the time – my
body, my mind, my breath and the world around me. Yoga
started to change me as a person and I worked out that it can’t
cure problems or remove life’s obstacles, if anything it made me
face things head on and challenge myself to a whole new level.
7 Types of Yoga Explained
There are many forms of yoga, and
each has its own focus.
1 Ashtanga – An energetic style of yoga linking flowing
movements with the breath in a set sequence.
2 Bikram – Otherwise known as Hot Yoga where the
room is heated to around 35°C.
3 Hatha – A general form of yoga using physical postures
and techniques to align the mind, body and spirit.
4 Lyengar – A style of yoga focusing on alignment.
5 Kundalini – Meaning ‘coiled like a snake’, a system to
release pent up energy with movement, breathing and
meditation.
6 Yin – A slow paced and relaxing form of restorative
yoga to release muscle tension.
7 Viniyoga – Adaptable to any person, an in-depth form
of yoga therapy.
I began to find similarities between the yoga and
meditation I was practicing on the mat to my everyday life off
the mat. They overlapped in a surprising way and I discovered
a practice to live my life in a way that really meant something
to me.
My passion turned into an opportunity to embark on yoga
teacher training, which I completed with the British Wheel of
Yoga in the summer of 2018. Being able to share my love of
yoga with others makes my heart sing.
Yoga can be practiced anywhere, from the comfort of your
bedroom to the mountains of Tibet. But wherever you are, I
hope it brings as much joy to you as it does to me.
5 Ways that Yoga
can Benefit You
Looking for reasons to give it a try?
These benefits to your physical and
mental health should encourage you
to roll out the mat.
1 Increases flexibility, muscle strength and posture.
2 Ability to breathe better, increase energy and vitality.
3 Reduce stress and release tension.
4 Boosts emotional health and encourages self-care.
5 Improves concentration, focus and balance.
Becky Stimpson
Lettings Blandford
rstimpson@symondsandsampson.co.uk
01258 458473
101
2020 Charity
This year we will be supporting four local Mind organisations, raising
awareness and vital funds to tackle mental health problems
F
or 2020, we are proud to partner with
four regional branches of the charity Mind
who work tirelessly to provide services and
support to anyone suffering from mental
health issues in the local community.
Covering Dorset, Devon, Somerset and Wiltshire,
these local organisations are not funded by the national
Mind charity in the UK, so staff in our offices will be
motivated by the fact that our efforts will support our
local communities.
Every year, one in four of us will experience a mental
health problem. These local Mind organisations are a
vital part of the journey to good mental health. We hope
we can count on your support for these very important
local charities.
Dorset Mind 01202 315329
Devon Mind 01752 512280
Somerset Mind 01935 474875
Wiltshire Mind 01225 706532
It’s Good to Talk
Mental health is the biggest hidden problem facing farmers today.
We can provide practical help with many of the stress factors and
signpost to the support available
Britain’s farmers have a proud reputation for the
attention they give to their livestock, crops
and machinery, but when it comes to taking
care of themselves
and their own mental wellbeing
they can fall short.
Farmers are unique in that they
live and work in the same place.
They work long hours, often in
isolation, with very little time to switch off. Looking out of the
windows of the farmhouse usually results in peering into the
cubicle shed, across a field of sheep, or seeing that broken
machine outside the workshop. These constant reminders
mean there is no easy way to get away from the workload.
Combine that with the other mental health risks associated
with agriculture, such as financial pressures, the vagaries of
the weather, ever-changing bureaucracy and the unknown
being thrown in for good measure, and it’s no surprise that
individuals can reach breaking point.
Speaking to someone who
is not directly involved can
make a huge difference
We all have a responsibility to look after our family, friends
and colleagues, but more often than not speaking to someone
who is not directly involved can make a huge difference.
Within our on-site sales department
at Symonds & Sampson we have a very
professional and practical team who
understand the difficulties and problems faced
by farmers. Many of us come from agricultural
backgrounds and have hands-on experience.
We have dealt with nearly every situation before – family
debt, death, divorce and dispute, often referred to as the ‘four
Ds’. And we can also help with the fifth D – depression. We can
direct you to organisations or charities that may be of help, and
we deal with support groups such as the Farming Community
Network, the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution, and the
Addington Fund.
Farmers don’t need to struggle with mental health issues
alone. Please take that first step. Pick up the phone and ring us
on 01935 382909. We’re on your side.
102
FROME MARKET
Wiltshire
Somerset
SALISBURY
Devon
AXMINSTER
ILMINSTER
STURMINSTER NEWTON
YEOVIL
SHERBORNE
BLANDFORD
BEAMINSTER
Dorset
WIMBORNE
BRIDPORT
DORCHESTER & POUNDBURY
WAREHAM
Hampshire
AXMINSTER
01297 33122
BURRATON
01305 236237
POUNDBURY
01305 251154
WAREHAM
01929 508324
BEAMINSTER
01308 863100
DORCHESTER
01305 261008
SALISBURY
01722 334323
WIMBORNE
01202 843190
BLANDFORD
01258 452670
ILMINSTER
01460 200790
SHERBORNE
01935 814488
YEOVIL
01935 423526
BRIDPORT
01308 422092
LONDON
0207 839 0888
STURMINSTER NEWTON
01258 473766
FROME MARKET
01373 831140
symondsandsampson.co.uk
symondsandsampson.co.uk
symondsandsampson.co.uk