Open Meeting Friday June 14^th,  6 – 7.30pm. Martinstown Village Hall.

Open to Members and Valley residents.  Updates on activities, light refreshments and short interesting presentations on local natural history. A chance to meet up with members and the Core Group, ask questions, get involved in our projects and join our growing band of Greeners!

Bees, Bugs and Butterflies Saturday July 6 ^th– from 10-12am. Village Hall.

A morning of activities for young people to learn about the importance and wonder of insects. Come along and make bug hotels to attract helpful insects into your garden. Children must be accompanied by a responsible person. Materials supplied. A donation would be appreciated.

Community Asset Transfer

The Application Form is with Dorset Council and we expect a reply in a few weeks. So far we have had one comment from villagers about this. If you do have any comments, suggestions or questions please email or use the box in the village shop. Don’t forget to buy something while you are there.

Playground hedge

The young trees have suffered over the winter and several have had to be replaced. Once the fence is removed please take care not to damage the young trees so that eventually they will form a fine hedge.

Water quality

GM is working with Citizen Science to monitor the stream from Winterbourne Abbas to West Stafford in 6 locations every month. The results are fed back to Wessex Water as part of an effort to lower sewage discharges.

Travel by Bus

Many thanks to Dorset Action Transport Group and in particular Les. They have worked really hard and got First Bus to reinstate the X51 bus service. This means we can now catch a bus to Dorchester, Weymouth, Bridport, or Axminster. There are up to 6 buses a day. The service is a trial run up to September. If it is not used we are likely to lose it again.

Gardening Eco Tips – Cut your carbon in the garden.

Here are some reminders that will help make better choices for the planet when you buy plants

1. Use peat-free compost.
2. Read the label. Was it grown in the British Isles or imported? Imported plants carry a greater risk of introducing pests and diseases.
3. What is the pot made of? Is it plastic or something biodegradable?
4. How long will it last? Is it worth buying annuals or perennials which last longer?
5. Is it good for insects? Choose plants with simple flowers – ones without lots of petals. They are more likely to attract bees and butterflies.