Category: Opinion Column

Here you’ll find The BV’s regular anonymous opinion columns: The Dorset Insider – written by a long-serving parish councillor, offering an informed look at local politics and community affairs — and The Grumbler, a monthly open column where guest writers air their frustrations, amusements and strong opinions. Together they bring Dorset’s voices to life, with sharp insights, wry humour and plenty to agree (or disagree) with.

Dorset community news

Councillors need to be able to rock the boat

When I first asked what type of work I’d be doing as a new parish councillor, I was firmly told that all I would...

7 October 2025

Dorset community news

Spare us the hunting sermon

It’s a delicate balance: rural tradition, public opinion, and the spotlight of a major agricultural show. So when the Hound Parade commentary at this...

16 September 2025

Dorset community news

The road to nowhere

Running alongside the Dorset Local Plan consultation is another, almost as important: the Local Transport Plan, a joint plan between Dorset Council and BCP...

15 September 2025

Dorset community news

Time to untwin the nonsense?

Quick question: does anyone remember voting on whether Bournemouth should be symbolically married to Netanya in Israel? No? Me neither. But here we are...

11 August 2025

Dorset community news

Dorset braces for 50,000 more homes

“Come and hear about the Local Plan,” they said. “At last!” I thought. Now I can deal with the good, the bad and the...

2 August 2025

Dorset community news

Rural rescue and hard lessons | The Dorset Insider

I got a call to help break into a neighbour’s home this week. George was elderly, not in the best of health, and his...

20 July 2025

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A Pony Club Summer

18 October 20220

Local chief instructor Mouse Berry looks back on busy months of Pony Club activities as the season grows colder The lighter evenings and better weather...

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