The Dorset Life Podcast

Potholes, Para Jiu Jitsu, and Dorset’s Innovative Workspaces

In this episode of the BV Podcast, hosts Terry Bennett and Jenny Devitt delve into inspiring solutions, incredible personal achievements, and innovative ideas that are reshaping Dorset and beyond.
Pothole Prevention: A Geothermal Revolution
Dr. Benny Tsu from Surrey University introduces a groundbreaking geothermal system to prevent potholes. By regulating road temperatures with shallow geothermal energy, Dr. Tsu explains how this eco-friendly approach could eliminate potholes caused by freeze-thaw cycles – saving millions in repairs and improving road safety.
"We’re thinking: why not regulate the pavement temperature year-round to stop cracks from forming in the first place?"
Paul Skivington: Para Jiu Jitsu World Champion
After a life-altering motorbike accident ended his army career, Paul Skivington didn’t just overcome the odds – he shattered them. Paul became the UK’s first World Para Jiu Jitsu Champion, winning double gold at the Abu Dhabi Championships in 2024. His story of resilience and determination is nothing short of inspirational.
"Jiu jitsu has literally changed my life. It’s almost 100% sparring, but without the heavy contact—it’s about skill and strategy."
Hinton Workspace: A New Era for Rural Working
Alice Fox-Pitt unveils Hinton Workspace, a state-of-the-art co-working hub in Hinton St Mary. Designed to counter the challenges of home working, this innovative space offers flexible solutions for local businesses, complete with eco-friendly facilities, breakout spaces, and even dog-walking services.
"We’re creating a ‘yes space’—somewhere people can thrive, feel productive, and enjoy their work environment."
DocBike: Saving Lives on Two Wheels
Dr. Ian Mew discusses DocBike, a Dorset-based charity that equips medical professionals with motorcycles to provide faster roadside care for accident victims. The initiative has already reduced biker fatalities in the county by 50%.
"The last thing we want to do is dampen anyone’s spirit. By promoting safer riding, we’re helping motorcyclists enjoy their bikes while staying out of harm’s way."

Dorset food fights, housing plans and Christmas trees

From housing battles to Christmas trees, the first BV podcast of December is packed! Hosts Terry Bennett and Jenny Devitt explore the controversial housing development in West Wincanton to the challenges facing the local food and drink sector—and they dive into the fascinating world of Dorset Christmas tree farming.
Housing Crisis – Growth vs Greenbelt
"Dorset doesn’t need sprawling estates—it needs modest, affordable homes for locals who actually want to live and work here."
Fanny Charles investigates the West Wincanton Development, a proposed 650-home project that’s sparking debates about balancing housing needs, greenbelt preservation, and community infrastructure. While some see it as an opportunity for affordable homes and modern amenities, others fear the loss of farmland and the strain on local resources.
Fanny discusses the importance of brownfield development, ensuring affordable housing provisions, and holding developers accountable for promises like green spaces and biodiversity net gains. The episode highlights the need for local voices in planning decisions to prevent short-sighted urban sprawl.
Food and Drink Sector – Overlooked and Underfunded?
"Dorset’s food and drink producers are invisible in the council’s plans—yet they’re the backbone of our local economy."
This month’s anonymous Grumbler column asks Does Dorset Council care about its thriving food and drink sector? Dorset’s producers are celebrated for their quality and innovation, yet critics argue that they’re underfunded, overlooked, and absent from local growth strategies.
With Wiltshire’s food fairs serving as an example of success, the call for better support, events, and funding for Dorset’s producers rings loud and clear. The podcast emphasizes the sector’s potential to boost economic growth and tourism, provided the council invests in the right strategies.
The Secret Life of Christmas Trees
"People don’t realize the sheer work involved—each tree gets 10 touch points a year to create that perfect Christmas shape."
Pete Hyde reveals the magic (and hard work!) behind Dorset’s finest Christmas trees. From trimming techniques to pest management and needle retention secrets, Pete shares tips on picking and caring for the perfect tree this holiday season.
He also reminds listeners why real trees are a greener option than artificial ones—and how buying local supports Dorset’s economy while reducing environmental impact.
These interviews were based on articles found in December’s BV, which can be read here … grab a coffee and jump in to the Dorset-ness. News, opinion, people, wildlife, art, farming, what’s on, horses … and frankly stunning photography.
Did we mention it’s FREE?
The BV is Dorset’s go-to magazine – named ‘Best Regional Publication in the UK’ (ACE Awards) and ‘Regional News Site of the Year’ (Press Gazette) in 2024. Brimming with Dorset’s people and places, it’s too good to miss!
 

Spotting scams and Buffy the Dorset nursing legend | BV Podcast

From practical advice on scams to thought-provoking discussions on local environmental issues, and talking to a local community nurse – hosts Terry Bennett and Jenny Devitt bring you the latest BV podcast
Staying Scam-Savvy
Terry sits down with Rachel Rogers from Dorset’s Citizens Advice, who provides crucial tips on avoiding some of the most common current scams. From investment scams to romance fraud and even sneaky QR code traps in parking lots, Rachel highlights how to stay vigilant in an increasingly digital world. Her advice? Always think twice, verify sources, and don’t let pressure tactics sway you!
Dinah’s Hollow: A Road Controversy
Next, Jenny delves into the ever-ongoing debate over Dinah’s Hollow, an ancient Holloway in North Dorset. Fanny Charles updates us on the controversial plans for tree felling and slope stabilisation aimed at preventing landslips. With a hefty price tag of £8 million, the proposed project has drawn local opposition, citing its impact on biodiversity and the area’s historic character. As Fanny explains, alternative solutions, like the Red Rock proposal, could potentially address all the safety concerns with less environmental damage and lower costs.
Buffy Wareham: A Nursing Legend
This month also marks a major milestone as Buffy Wareham, a practice nurse at the Blandford Group of surgeries, celebrates 50 years in nursing. Buffy reflects on her journey from training in 1970s London to her current role in Dorset. Through anecdotes of resilience, adaptability, and compassion, she shares insights on how the field has evolved—and why she’s still passionate about it today.“You have to be interested in people, and you have to be kind. Good qualities like listening are so important. Sometimes, people just need to see a familiar face and know someone is there for them.”
These interviews were based on articles found in November’s BV, which can be read here … grab a coffee and jump in to the Dorset-ness. News, opinion, people, wildlife, art, farming, what’s on, horses … and frankly stunning photography. Did we mention it’s FREE?
(We’re proudly 100% digital, so the only way to read us is right here online.)
The BV is Dorset’s go-to magazine – this year named ‘Best Regional Publication in the UK’ (ACE Awards) and ‘Regional News Site of the Year’ (Press Gazette). Brimming with Dorset’s people and places, it’s too good to miss!

The Tenant Farmer's Take: Like it or lump it

In this episode of the BV Podcast, hosts Terry Bennett and Jenny Devitt dive into some of the hottest topics affecting Dorset’s communities. From the housing crisis to farmers grappling with recent policy shifts, there’s plenty to unpack.
Terry and Jenny kick off the podcast with letters from readers – an eclectic mix of perspectives on everything from barn owl chicks to concerns about Dorset Council's “Litter Lotto", as well as editor Laura's letter.
Dorset’s Politicians Speak Out
As usual for the first episode of the month, the spotlight turns to Dorset’s political voices:
Simon Hoare, MP for North Dorset, critiques Chancellor Rachel Reeves' budget and warns of its potential consequences for small businesses and rural economies.
Ken Huggins of the Green Party tackles the global implications of Trump's presidency alongside local concerns about Labour's economic policies.
Edward Morello, MP for West Dorset, offers a thoughtful perspective on the Assisted Dying Bill, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding vulnerable individuals.
Gary Jackson of the Lib Dems advocates for stronger trust between central and local governments, calling for meaningful devolution.
Housing Crisis: A Rural Perspective
The new Grumbler column shines a light on Dorset’s housing dilemma, challenging the push for new builds on greenbelt land while thousands of homes sit empty. The anonymous writer passionately argues for sustainable solutions that preserve the countryside and prioritise affordable housing in urban areas.
A Farmer’s Take: Inheritance Tax and Food Security
In an insightful interview, Jenny sits down with tenant farmer George Hosford, who unpacks the recent budget’s implications for agriculture. From inheritance tax changes to the abrupt end of farming subsidies, George offers a candid look at the challenges facing small farms. He questions whether current policies truly support food security or merely increase dependence on imported goods.
As George puts it, “We’re almost certain to reduce the amount of food being grown in this country, while making it harder for small farmers to stay in business.” His nuanced views—touching on tenant farming, environmental commitments, and the inequities of land ownership—make for essential listening. "...that's pretty controversial, and a lot of landowners won't like to hear me say that, but that's my belief. Like it or lump it."
 
These interviews were based on articles found in November's BV, which can be read here ... grab a coffee and jump in to the Dorset-ness. News, opinion, people, wildlife, art, farming, what's on, horses ... and frankly stunning photography.Did we mention it's FREE?
(We’re proudly 100% digital, so the only way to read us is right here online.)
The BV is Dorset’s go-to magazine – this year named 'Best Regional Publication in the UK' (ACE Awards) and 'Regional News Site of the Year' (Press Gazette). Brimming with Dorset's people and places, it’s too good to miss!

From local agri-legend Matthew Holland to baby-saving Dr. Michael Fernando | BV Podcast

In this episode of the BV Podcast, hosts Terry Bennett and Jenny Devitt bring us conversations with three Dorset locals, each with their own unique story.
Terry speaks with Dr. Michael Fernando, consultant paediatrician at Yeovil Hospital, about his work in Afghanistan. Michael shares how his team navigated complex cultural and logistical challenges to deliver life-saving neonatal training. He reflects on the power of collaboration and local resilience, saying, “People’s hopes for their children can overcome almost any obstacle.”
Jenny catches up with Anne Dearle, organiser of a special 30th-anniversary concert in Sherborne attended by Princess Anne. Anne looks back on decades of fundraising for Save the Children, highlighting the significance of the event and the royal visit.
Lastly, Terry sat down with local agri-legend Matthew Holland, who started working for C&O Tractors in Blandford as a 16-year-old in 1978. He's still at the firm, and has grown into a local institution for the Dorset agricultural community. He talks to Terry about his passion for vintage tractors, firefighting (he’s been a part-time firefighter for Blandford station for the last 39 years), and making top-quality cider with his family.
 
These interviews were based on articles found in October's BV, which can be read here ... grab a coffee and jump in to the Dorset-ness. News, opinion, people, wildlife, art, farming, what's on, horses ... and frankly stunning photography. Did we mention it's FREE?
Why wouldn’t you take a look?
(We’re proudly 100% digital, so the only way to read us is right here online.)
The BV is Dorset’s go-to digital magazine – this year named 'Best Regional Publication in the UK' (ACE Awards) and 'Regional News Site of the Year' (Press Gazette). Brimming with Dorset's people and places, it’s too good to miss!

Dorset Voices, Big Issues: Housing, Farming, and Hidden Science

Welcome to the first October episode of the BV Podcast! In this episode, hosts Jenny Devitt and Terry Bennett cover key stories from Dorset.
Covering the most recent political columns, they discuss the economic challenges facing local pensioners and farmers, with MP Edward Morello calling for urgent changes. Ken Huggins explores the issue of electoral reform and political donations.
We also hear from Gary Jackson, who talks about the need for more affordable housing, and Simon Hoare MP, who shares his thoughts on the role of the state and citizen responsibility.
Jenny chats with author Rachael Rowe about her new book, The Science Lover’s Guide to London. Rachel shares intriguing stories about lesser-known scientific wonders in the capital, including a revolving door shaped like DNA and that the first plastic ever made was in Hackney. As Rachael puts it, “There’s science hidden around every corner – you just have to look for it!”
Our readers also get involved in this episode, with the month's letters to the editor. We hear from a passionate farmer defending the future of Dorset’s wildlife, and a frustrated resident sharing concerns about dangerous traffic on local roads. One reader wonders if ti's time to raise the alarm over a potential threat to our sycamore trees.
These interviews were based on articles found in October's BV, which can be read here ... grab a coffee and jump in to the Dorset-ness. News, opinion, people, wildlife, art, farming, what's on, horses ... and frankly stunning photography. Did we mention it's FREE?
Why wouldn’t you take a look?
(We’re proudly 100% digital, so the only way to read us is right here online.)
The BV is Dorset’s go-to digital magazine – this year named 'Best Regional Publication in the UK' (ACE Awards) and 'Regional News Site of the Year' (Press Gazette). Brimming with Dorset's people and places, it’s too good to miss!

Sails to charcuterie, via dancing mice and asian hornets

In this episode of the BV Podcast, Terry Bennett and Jenny Devitt explore fascinating local stories from Dorset. Topics include the historical significance of Coker Cloth with Professor Terry Stevens, Jane Adams' adventure with mice in her attic, the alarming spread of Asian hornets with Andrew Livingston, and the inspiring story of James and Lucy Smart’s charcuterie business, The Real Cure, celebrating 10 years of success.
Coker Cloth and Global Exploration – Interview with Professor Terry Stevens“From these small villages with ordinary people doing remarkable things, we changed the world.”
Professor Terry Stevens discusses his new book, "Bucked in the Yarn," which uncovers the rich history of Coker Cloth – sailcloth made in the tiny villages of East, North and West Coker in Somerset. From Charles I's flagship, to Nelson's favourite and influencing the America's Cup, this sailcloth played a key role in maritime history. Terry shares anecdotes about his upbringing in East Coker, the process of researching the cloth's history, and the innovations that made Coker Canvas the best sail material in the world for more than 300 years.
Mice in the Attic – Jane Adams’ Wildlife Story“It did sound like a mini herd of elephants up there... and when I got up there all I found was a few mice droppings.”
Jane Adams recounts her humorous experience with mice that made their way into her attic. Her humane efforts to relocate them were not altogether successful initially! She also discusses the differences between wood mice and house mice, as well as their nesting habits and unique characteristics.
The Threat of Asian Hornets – Andrew Livingston’s Insight“Where they have established in Europe, they are predating on pollinating insects including honeybees. It’s like a supermarket for them – just a massive ready-to-eat supply.”
Asian hornets pose a significant threat to Britain’s pollinators, including honeybees. Andrew Livingston talks about how they got here, and highlights the growing concerns around their spread across the UK and how the public can help spot and report these hornets. The Somerset Beekeepers Association's president provides details on the hornets’ identification and emphasizes the importance of public vigilance to prevent further spread.
The Real Cure – James and Lucy Smart’s charcuterie  business“It’s easy to make good charcuterie once… It’s much more difficult to do it week after week. Consistency is the key.”
James and Lucy Smart are the founders of The Real Cure, a successful North Dorset charcuterie business celebrating its 10th anniversary. They share insights into their sustainable practices and commitment to quality in producing charcuterie. The business has grown from a weekend hobby to an award-winning producer, using venison, pork, and beef from local sources. James and Lucy discuss the principles guiding their production, sustainability efforts, and their journey from farmer's markets to being stocked in outlets like Fortnum & Mason.
These interviews were based on articles found in September's BV, which can be read here ... grab a coffee and jump in to the Dorset-ness. News, opinion, people, wildlife, art, farming, what's on, horses ... and frankly stunning photography. Did we mention it's FREE?
Why *wouldn't* you want a flick through?
(*don't forget, we're proud to be purely digital. The only way to read us is right here online!)
Frankly, it's so jam-packed with Dorset goodness, it'd be rude not to.
The BV is the rural monthly digital magazine from Dorset, this year named 'Best Regional Publication in the UK' (ACE Newspaper & Magazine Awards) and also 'Regional News Site of the Year' (Press Gazette's Future of Media Awards)

Charles Church's 19 questions, and Dorset Council on its 'Nature Emergency'

As ever for the first episode of the month, we start with Laura's 'letter from the editor'. Then we hear from the local politicans – Terry and Jenny read the latest columns from Ken Huggins of the Green Party, Gary Jackson of North Dorset LibDems and Edward Morello, MP for West Dorset.
In the September BV's equestrian section, Sally Cooper interviewed Charles Church. She asks him about his journey to becoming one of the world's leading equestrian painters, from washing dishes in Newmarket to Royal commissions. Charles also takes on the Random 19 questions.
(see the interview and photographs of Charles Church in his studio on the BV website)
Interview © Gee Fox at Zizzy Studios
 
As Dorset Council tackles biodiversity loss, the BV has looked at its recent declaration of a Nature Emergency. Jenny sat down with Dorset Council leader Nick Ireland to understand exactly what this means, and how effective it can be. Jenny also tackles Nick on the council's continued use of glyphosate.
 
September's BV can be read here ... grab a coffee and jump in to the Dorset-ness. News, opinion, people, wildlife, art, farming, what's on, horses ... and frankly stunning photography. Did we mention it's FREE?
Why *wouldn't* you want a flick through?
(*don't forget, we're proud to be purely digital. The only way to read us is right here online!)
Frankly, it's so jam-packed with Dorset goodness, it'd be rude not to.
The BV is the rural monthly digital magazine from Dorset, this year awarded 'Best Regional Publication in the UK' (Newspaper & Magazine Awards)