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September 2020 September 2020

through the village to the cemetery, where the service was held. The church bells
were rung. My owner wanted to take me but it was too hot. We went for a walk NEWS FROM WESTMINSTER
up there the next day it is a lovely peaceful spot and close to the field where
Elaine kept her sheep. She was a true country woman. This summer will be remembered for a number of
reasons, and perhaps also for the good weather,
I was taken to the war memorial for the short ceremony to mark VJ day. It was
raining so there were not very many there. There were prayers, a two minutes which at the time of writing have reached a record
silence and the bells were rung by four bell ringers. The first time since lockdown high. Many of you know that cricket is one of my
that more than one person has been able to ring. Apparently they were all passions (I did manage to play a match), and I am
masked up and the belfry windows were open. At times like this it is important not pleased that restrictions on playing team sport are
to forget dreadful things happen in the world and are still happening now. gradually being eased. I hope by the time you read
this that more aspects of life, such as amateur music
At least at the time of writing it is cooler. We have no County Show or no Steam making will also be permitted.
Fair this year. Still loads of people here on holiday so the roads are busy. My
owner gets up early takes me for a walk goes shopping and is back in the Village Having restrictions in place has been difficult for us
by ten before holiday makers all get up and are out and about. all, but the vast majority have been sensible and
used common sense, which has meant that many restrictions have now been
Our garden shed is still full of rubbish and the house is untidy what’s new. We lifted. The Government will not be slow to act if it necessary to put in place
have had some socially distanced parties outside. My arthritis is better but I will further restrictions, but whilst being careful, we must begin to get back to normal.
always be lame. We will have to see next month what happens next.
Many of you will have enjoyed taking advantage of the Eat Out to Help Out
Jenny Stone Scheme, as have I, whether with a coffee and cake in a café, or a meal out in
the evening. It’s great that so many local pubs, cafés and restaurants have
been able to take advantage of the scheme in so many different places. As life
gets more back to normal, it is good to see support for many of our excellent
local businesses.

I have had numerous meetings with councillors across the political spectrum, as
we continue to discuss cross party working to support the community. There
have been some excellent community support initiatives during lock down, and I
continue to be impressed by the work of so many groups right across the
constituency, and I know that there are many unsung heroes working extremely
hard in voluntary roles to help their friends and neighbours. I want to say thank
you to you all.
I have also visited several local businesses, tourist attractions, charities and
community groups to discuss how they are changing in response to the
coronavirus. I have been incredibly impressed by how well people have
adapted, in order to keep their business going, and yet still keep people safe.
Whether healthcare settings, children’s entertainment, car repairs, or health and
fitness, everyone is doing their best to stay positive.
I was pleased to meet recently with the local Neighbourhood Policing Team to
discuss how they are dealing with anti-social behaviour. The government has
awarded an extra £266,000 to Dorset from the safer streets fund which is great
news for our area.
Both BCP and Dorset Councils have been working hard to manage the high

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