THE Shaftesbury community is being invited to take part in this year’s VE Day celebrations This year marks 80 years since the end of the Second World War and Shaftesbury is marking this with a special ceremony and celebration next Thursday (May 8) People are being asked to assemble at the Town Memorial on Park Walk at 10.50am for a short service at 11am This will be followed by a wreath-laying service The Rifles and the Royal British Legion all expected to lay wreaths This will form a prelude to celebrations at Castle Hill at 6.45pm food and the lighting of the beacon at 9.30pm A spokesperson for the council said: “Join us as we commemorate 80 years since VE Day honouring the bravery and sacrifices of those who served during the Second World War and the lighting of the beacon as we pay tribute to the VE and VJ Day generation “A meaningful event for all ages – come together with the community to remember Follow us on Subscribe to the Salisbury &Avon Magazine The New Stour & Avon Magazine The Purbeck Gazette The new Saville Theatre has been green lit Alex Wood Planning permission for the construction of the new Saville Theatre on Shaftesbury Avenue has been approved was purchased by Yoo Capital in 2021 with plans to bring it back into use as a performance space A new 622-seat theatre will form the centrepiece of the site with famed circus company Cirque Du Soleil initially attached as a potential resident for the performance space The development will also feature a boutique hotel operated by citizenM and a food and drink offering by Incipio Group Plans include reinstating the original entrance on Shaftesbury Avenue and revealing a long-covered glazed arch window which will form part of a new foyer and staircase leading into the auditorium The proposals have been shaped by several years of consultation and engagement with the local community The redevelopment is being led by London-based architects SPPARC and includes the restoration of the Art Deco façade and the Gilbert Bayes frieze Drama through the Ages Yoo Capital is also leading the redevelopment of Olympia London – a major new theatre in the western part of the city The approval comes after many months and correspondences from bodies such as the Theatres Trust and Historic England which highlighted potential restrictions involved in having the theatre located underground while hotel space occupies the upper levels said that the plans had “benefits outweighing the minimum necessary harm” and this was “the least harmful returning theatre use within a building reimagined to the highest design quality” and a “once in generation opportunity” The Theatres Trust CEO Joshua McTaggart told WhatsOnStage today that the approval represented “a missed opportunity to deliver something truly transformative for both the building and the local area.” He added that: “While Theatres Trust shares Camden Council’s ambition to see the building returned to use so it can contribute to economic growth and placemaking in the West End Theatres Trust maintains that the development will not deliver the venue’s full potential Get the best deals and latest updates on theatre and shows by signing up for WhatsOnStage newsletter today New episodes of Turtlebox Productions’ preschool series Mini Explorers have premiered on the Shaftesbury Kids YouTube channel and will air on the U.S.-based streaming service Yippee TV on May 9 The series combines live-action and animation to create a scripted walkthrough of a fictional first-person adventure game in which miniature kid avatars run and leap through real-world settings like tidal pools In addition to being available now on the Shaftesbury Kids YouTube channel new episodes have been picked up by Yippee TV to air beginning May 9 Shaftesbury acted as the original commissioner for the new episodes More info on Banijay Kids & Family's Totally Spies!. is made with the financial participation of the Shaw Rocket Fund “Kids really responded to the video game-inspired format of Mini Explorers! so when we had the opportunity to produce more episodes with financial support from the Shaw Rocket Fund we seized the opportunity,” said Kat Kelly Hayduk co-partner and executive producer at Turtlebox Productions in addition to Shaftesbury Kids’ YouTube channel opening the door to an even bigger audience.” Liquid Rock Entertainment has become the exclusive global distributor for the complete BabyTV catalog TV Kids Daily provides updates on the children's media business TV Kids delivers comprehensive information and analysis on the world of children's programming It is produced by the same team behind World Screen the leading source of information for the international media business DSDHA has been given permission for updated plans to refurbish a Shaftesbury Avenue office block Eight years ago, the practice received the green light for plans to remodel 125 Shaftesbury Avenue early 1980s office block in the heart of London’s theatre land That scheme replaced an earlier refurbishment proposal by John Robertson Architects with owner Almacantar selling the site to Dutch developer Edge which now plans to develop it with Mitsubishi Estate London to designs by DSDHA which were approved by Camden’s planning committee on Monday (28 April) The former telephone exchange will have its floor plates extended at levels six to 10 with a two-storey extension added and courtyards infilled the scheme will feature 862m2 of retail space and amenity space on new terraces The scheme retains around 75 per cent of the existing building and adds a pedestrian route between New Compton Street and Old Compton Street featuring light-toned reconstituted stone and brass-coloured metal fins and columns Although Historic England had initially expressed concerns about the design for the corner the Shaftesbury Avenue and Stacey Street it was appeased after DSDHA amended the massing and introduced a cornice to lighten the appearance of the upper storeys Planners at Camden Council said the scheme ‘has been carefully modulated and the façades treated to respect and respond to its differing contexts and would not cause harm to the setting of the surrounding heritage asset’ They added: ‘This proposal delivers a high-quality contextual design that significantly improves the existing building through a retention-focused approach minimising carbon impact and maximising reuse.’ Mitsubishi Estate London chief executive Shinichi Kagitomi said: ‘It is well established that the West End office market is currently chronically undersupplied ‘This approval will be welcomed by the occupier community and we are looking forward to delivering much-needed new office space.’ The planning approval was given minutes before Camden Council also gave the green light to SPPARC to add a ‘floating’ hotel above a Grade II-listed Art Deco theatre at 135 Shaftesbury Avenue Our extensive retrofit of 125 Shaftesbury Avenue will be an exemplary model of both sustainable refurbishment and socially and historically responsive architecture and one that both responds to and enhances its unique context permeable and inviting public realm is integral to our ambition for the site and it will strongly support and connect to Camden Council’s wider biodiversity initiatives and network of new pedestrian routes as well as providing extensive external amenity for tenants TagsDSDHA Offices Refurbishment West End BDP’s College of Arts & Society at Coventry University has been named… Lewisham Council has given Turner Works planning permission for a mixed-use regeneration… Wandsworth Council has given Gehry Partners planning permission for two more residential… Southwark Council has approved tp bennett’s plans for a 25-storey student tower… Edge Shaftesbury will be expanded to 250,000 sq ft Green Street’s global news publications are not provided as an investment advisor nor in the capacity of a fiduciary Our global organization maintains information barriers to ensure the independence of and distinction between our non-regulated and regulated businesses is authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN 482269) and a private limited company incorporated in England and Wales with company number 06471304 The current 1980s structure at the site will undergo a transformation into a modern 250,000ft² office building Camden Council’s planning committee in the UK has granted planning permission for the renovation of EDGE Shaftesbury – also known as the 125 Shaftesbury Avenue project- an office-focused redevelopment in Central London This project is being delivered by developers Edge and Mitsubishi Estate London The existing 1980s structure of EDGE Shaftesbury will undergo a transformation into a modern 250,000ft² office building featuring a revitalised reception on Charing Cross Road along with significant terracing The building is situated on a 1.2-acre freehold site just south of Tottenham Court Road station offering direct access to several key underground lines in the city EDGE Shaftesbury is claimed to be historically a hub for companies such as BT providing affordable art studios and exhibition spaces Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis aims to meet the evolving needs of London’s businesses This project includes the creation of Caxton Walk a new pedestrian route enhancing local permeability and activating underutilised areas The redevelopment will also improve the surrounding public realm with new paving targeting Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) Excellent and retaining approximately 75% of the existing structure to reduce embodied carbon aligning with Edge and Mitsubishi’s goals of achieving absolute net zero by 2050 This project adds to Edge’s portfolio of sustainable office developments in London such as EDGE London Bridge and EDGE Liverpool Street and reflects Mitsubishi Estate London’s investment in the city’s commercial spaces Edge UK managing director Fons van Dorst said: “We’re pleased to have received planning permission for our innovative scheme EDGE Shaftesbury This project is an important milestone in our London portfolio and will create a high-quality sustainable office building in a central West End location “We’re looking forward to working with Mitsubishi Estate London to deliver a building that supports modern ways of working and adds real value to the local area.” In a contract awarded in January 2025, Mitsubishi Estate London and CO-RE engaged Multiplex for a £500m ($623.9m) redevelopment of the former ITV studios into a mixed-use development on London’s South Bank Give your business an edge with our leading industry insights View all newsletters from across the GlobalData Media network The Saville Theatre was transformed into a two-screen cinema in 1970 Business Sign up for our email featuring expert insight and funding opportunities for entrepreneurs 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Read our privacy notice The West End is to get a new live performance venue after planners gave the green lights to plans to restore the art deco Saville Theatre on Shaftesbury Avenue to its original use after more than half a century Camden council gave the thumbs up a proposal from Olympia developers Yoo Capital to turn the 1930s venue into a live performance space hosting two shows a night and a new boutique hotel operated by citizenM It will serve as the London base for the Cirque du Soleil acrobatic performance company Originally designed by English architect Sir Thomas Bennett the Saville Theatre first opened its doors at 135-149 Shaftesbury Avenue in 1931 It hosted regular plays and musicals throughout the 1930s to 1960s It doubled as a live music venue from 1966 onwards under the direction of Beatles manager Brian Epstein, hosting acts including Jimi Hendrix Its original interiors were lost by the time it was transformed into a two-screen cinema in 1970 with two further screens added after it became an Odeon in 2001 SPPARC's proposals will re-introduce a 622-capacity theatre with seating arranged across three levels accessed via the reimagined historic entrance on Shaftesbury Avenue The internal arrangement of the auditorium can be re-configured into a range of formats a thrust stage or traditional proscenium arch will be the operator’s fifth London location SPPARC’s restoration will include repair and cleaning of its original 40-metre-long frieze by British sculptor Gilbert Bayes, Drama Through the Ages, described by Historic England as one of the most important sculptural works of its age The original 1930s glazed arched window above the theatre’s main entrance will also be brought into practical use for the first time said: “Our ambitious vision will return the Saville Theatre to its rightful position as a cultural landmark at the heart of London’s West End a key part of the UK’s cultural offering and rivalled only by New York’s Broadway when it comes to global theatre destinations Martin Freeman calls out ‘annoying’ fans for following him for long periods Original Coronation Street star Philip Lowrie dies aged 88 Meal2Deal: on a mission to make food poverty history “The addition of a hotel not only supports visitor experience with suitable accommodation reflected in buildings of a similar age like The Savoy “With the design inspired by the building’s fascinating history the Saville’s long-awaited revival will meet the needs of contemporary theatre goers to allow it to once again host world class live performance for the next 100 years and beyond.” managing partner of developers Yoo Capital said: “We are incredibly proud to have received planning approval for the revival of 135 Shaftesbury Avenue “The Saville Theatre holds a unique place in London’s cultural memory and this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to restore its legacy while creating something truly new for the West End our vision has been to deliver a destination that honours the building’s rich history while embracing the energy and diversity of London’s creative future We’re excited to work with world-class partners – Cirque du Soleil and architects SPPARC – to bring this landmark back to life as a home for world-class entertainment Prince Louis steals the show at VE Day parade as he keeps dad William looking sharp and mimics brother George Prince Louis steals show with sweet antics at VE parade VE Day 2025 fashion: best looks from the day VE Day 2025 fashion: Princess of Wales to Lady Victoria Starmer Royals watch historic flypast as huge crowds turns out for VE Day 80th anniversary Royals watch historic Red Arrows flypast for VE Day 80th anniversary UK tourists face major travel shake-up as Dubai airport set to close David Beckham’s 50th birthday bash in London 'shut down' by council over noise complaints David Beckham’s 50th birthday bash 'shut down' over noise complaints Shaftesbury Capital has reported strong annual results with valuations up 4.5% a further indication that the real estate market has turned a tide Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value" Tak Lee opposes Shaftesbury fundraise – On 30 January Shaftesbury announced that it had received a statement from Mr the ultimate beneficial owner of a 25.02% stake in the company The statement indicates that the shares ultimately owned by Mr Samuel Tak Lee will be voted against the following resolutions to be proposed at […] Results season has been a depressingly gloomy affair over the last two or three years for property analysts but a series of 2024 reports posted this week show that the clouds are parting and the light is starting to peer through for real estate 2024 was a very positive year for the […] the real estate sector had a tumultuous 2020 some property sectors and companies that performed well during the year what can be gleaned from looking at the performance of individual property companies during an unprecedented year of disruption This website is for information purposes only and is not intended to encourage the reader to deal in the security or securities mentioned Please review our cookie, privacy & data protection and terms and conditions policies and please select your place of residence and whether you are a private or professional investor Edge and Mitsubishi Estate London have secured planning consent for the refurbishment of 125 Shaftesbury Avenue in Central London will transform the existing 1980s structure into a 250,000 sq ft modern office building called EDGE Shaftesbury Located on a 1.2-acre freehold site just south of Tottenham Court Road station the site was previously home to companies including BT Approximately 75% of the existing structure will be retained significantly reducing the scheme’s embodied carbon and the scheme will also incorporate green roofs and biodiversity-enhancing planting and will repurpose materials wherever possible said: “We’re pleased to have received planning permission for our innovative scheme EDGE Shaftesbury We’re looking forward to working with Mitsubishi Estate London to deliver a building that supports modern ways of working and adds real value to the local area.” chief executive of Mitsubishi Estate London added: “It is well established that the west end office market is currently chronically under-supplied This approval will be welcomed by the occupier community and we are looking forward to delivering much-needed new office space – and a major rejuvenation of an existing building – right in the heart of the west end.” said: “Our extensive retrofit of 125 Shaftesbury Avenue will be an exemplary model of both sustainable refurbishment and socially and historically responsive architecture as well as providing extensive external amenity for tenants.” Don’t miss our top stories and need to know news every day in your inbox delivered straight to your inbox – for FREE BE News is the only free-to-air online news service to cover the entire built environment industry its mission is to connect and inform the whole community – spanning commercial property planning and engineering – via one platform WEBSITE DESIGNED & BUILT BY WHITE LABEL Please register (for free) below or login to continue reading Full-year figures for Shaftesbury Capital (SHC) support the notion that the worst could be over for London’s commercial landlords We will wait to see if any nascent recovery is nipped in the bud by the impact of government tax increases but Shaftesbury’s metrics are certainly heading in the right direction The value of the group’s West End properties increased by 4.5 per cent on a like-for-like basis driven by 7.7 per cent growth in estimated rental value (ERV) offset by a marginal outward yield movement of 13 basis points Shaftesbury completed 473 leasing transactions a 9 per cent increase from the end of 2023 was particularly noticeable in the retail (36 per cent of ERV) and food and beverage sectors (34 per cent of ERV) AN arrest has been made after a falcon which was reportedly stolen from the Shaftesbury area had its head and legs removed Police are appealing for witnesses after they received a report that two peregrine falcons and a peregrine lanner falcon hybrid were stolen or escaped following forced entry to three aviaries at a rural property near Shaftesbury between 10pm on April 13 and 7am the following day At least three peregrine eggs were also reported as stolen from an artificial nest Dorset Police Rural Crime Team have now arrested a 34-year-old man from Shaftesbury on suspicion of burglary and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal He has been released on police bail as officers continue their investigation PC Sebastian Haggett said one of the birds died after “its head and legs were removed” “We are continuing to investigate this incident and we are appealing for anyone with information who has not already spoken to police to come forward,” he said READ MORE: Falcons and eggs stolen in Shaftesbury aviary break in READ MORE: Jousting knights and daredevil riders to wow crowds at Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show “Evidence gathered at the scene of this incident suggests that these birds have suffered terribly with one of them having their primary feathers removed causing injury while another bird died after its head and legs were removed we are still trying to locate the remaining birds and their eggs to ensure they get the appropriate medical attention they need to prevent further suffering “Their owners are heartbroken by what has happened so we are keen to find those believed to be responsible and hold them accountable for their actions.” Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police by calling 101, using reference number 55250052806 or to make a report via the Dorset Police website. Click here to stay updated with crime news from your New Blackmore Vale. CAMPAIGNERS have criticised plans to close day centres that offer “vital” services for elderly residents and adults with special needs across Dorset This comes as Dorset Council looks to reorganise the way it delivers adult services across the county with it considering closing several centres and replacing these with a ‘hub and spokes’ model There are currently 11 day centres operating throughout the county – but only five would be retained under the new model These hubs would provide a place to meet friends and sign up for activities while the ‘spokes’ would connect people to specialist services But campaigners say that removing these centres could leave people isolated with Stour Connect in Sturminster Newton becoming the hub for north Dorset cabinet portfolio lead for adult social care said the proposals would give people greater choice and opportunity and reduce “the need for sometimes old and draughty buildings that are no longer fit for purpose.” the council is facing a wave of opposition to the plans with campaigners concerned over the immediate and local impact on its users – some who have been attending the same centres for decades READ MORE: Shock and sadness as elderly friendship clubs face the axe across Dorset READ MORE: Shaftesbury man arrested after falcon has its head and legs removed Many day centre users and their families got in touch with your New Blackmore Vale to express their shock and concern over the plans as they say that the centres are not only well-used but are vital to users’ wellbeing whose father attends the Shaftesbury Trinity Centre in Bimport She said her father is not in a position to drive to Sturminster Newton should the Trinity Centre close and like many of the people who depend daily on the support of the day centre even slight changes to his routine have a tremendous impact on his mental and physical health,” she said “He walks with crutches and cannot walk far; the next closest day centre would be too long a drive for him and he cannot park close enough to walk from the car to the door – at the Trinity Centre he can stop right outside Dr Briant is concerned over the impact the potential closure could have on her father Picture: Dr Briant “The council are claiming the day centre is underused but I have been there many times and it is always busy and full of elderly people “The council needs to understand how devastating closing this centre will be to some of the most vulnerable people in Dorset Dorset Council claims the Trinity Centre only sees a maximum of four attendees a day A spokesperson said: “We appreciate that the current consultation might be a cause of concern to current users of the building in Shaftesbury but want to assure everyone that no decision has been taken and we are actively working with people to find the best way of supporting not just those who use the building at the moment but also those that might have additional needs within the community “Our aim over the three-month consultation is to find better ways of enabling users to actually have greater choice and flexibility in what they can do and ideally as close to their home as possible.” They added: “In the most recent weeks there have been eight Dorset Council users and three self-funders across the week (we are only aware of the self-funders who use DC transport) there is a maximum of four people attending at any given day (usually a Friday) but the majority of days there are approximately two to three people attending per day Dr Briant said the Trinity Centre provides key services such as checking that people are taking their medication and making sure they are looking after themselves he feels useful and helpful,” she added “The day centre isn’t just about ‘activity provision’ it creates a close community of people with relationships connections that revolve around meeting in that place every day… those relationships will be torn apart and lost if the council closes the day centre “They seem to think because these people are disabled and elderly the continuity of their relationships is irrelevant The people this will impact are terrified.” There is no direct bus between Shaftesbury and Sturminster Newton making attending the proposed hub difficult for those unable to drive MP Simon Hoare (Conservatives/North Dorset) wrote about the proposed closures in his latest column in the last issue of the New Blackmore Vale He said his inbox is full of people anxious over the plans adding that he is doing all that he can to ensure that these “vital local services are continued” He said: “The council’s plans are fundamentally wrong youngsters with very complex needs and a growing population through new housebuilding locally.” These worries have been echoed by many readers who volunteers at the Blandford Connect Centre at Heddington Drive Mary says that the new model means changing a system that is “working well” and that her son would struggle to understand the need to change his routine “For people that have been going to the same centre for 20 years you can imagine – especially if they have a disability – its very difficult to understand why their services are being moved,” she said The Blandford Connect Day Centre could close under the proposals Picture: Google “This is even more difficult as a parent and many who have been told about the proposed closures are quite upset She added that the changes would break up tight-knit community groups that have developed over the years parents and other users of the Blandford Connect Centre believes Dorset Council views the money as cost-cutting measures They said the council should focus on making the centre more financially viable with increased efforts to get other community groups to use it rather than go down the route of closures to save money “The way they are suggesting is not acceptable which will put extra pressure on already stressed parents “They are suggesting the centre is underutilised and costing the Dorset Council money in upkeep.” They added: “We see alternatives to making the centre work and made it known to Dorset Council instead of disrupting a community of people of varying ages and personal needs taking into account some of this community have been there for over 20 years and have made friendships.” the authority directly commissions places for 21 people for the Blandford Connect Centre with 12 to 14 people attending on its most popular day these users would have to travel roughly 20 minutes by car to the proposed hub in Sturminster Newton with many of the users then reliant on carers/family members for a lift rather than accessing a centre close to their home Dorset Council says the proposals came about as a result of asking people who use these centres about their experiences as they say many would like a “wider choice of local activities with more flexible options” as well as activities during the weekend and evenings People have until June 9 to have their say on the online consultation To view the consultation, click here. A petition calling for Dorset Council to reconsider their proposal has reached 1,804 signatures. POLICE have issued a partial closure order at a house in Shaftesbury following “persistent anti-social behaviour and crime” This prevents anyone who is not the legal tenant emergency services or representatives of Sovereign Housing Group from entering the property The order gives police powers to enter the premises and remove persons who are not authorised to be there Breach of the order is a criminal offence and can result in a fine and/or imprisonment North Dorset Police said the property itself has been subject to ongoing issues for nearly two years with “persistent anti-social behaviour and crime occurring as a result of persons frequenting the property.” A spokesperson added: “This order is an important step in addressing the issues this property is generating in the area and hopefully over the coming weeks we will see a significant reduction in such incidents occurring here we would like to encourage the local community to report any issues of anti-social behaviour crime or breaches of the partial closure order at the address Anyone who witnesses anyone entering the property or becomes aware of people in the property who are not permitted to be there is asked to call 101 to report the issues Click here for more crime news from your New Blackmore Vale. THREE aviaries were broken into near Shaftesbury at the weekend with two peregrine falcons and eggs reported as missing The aviaries at a rural property in Shaftesbury were broken into sometime between 10pm on Sunday (April 13) and 7am on Monday (April 14) Two peregrine falcons and a peregrine lanner falcon hybrid were either stolen or escaped following forced entry with at least three peregrine eggs stolen from an artificial nest Dorset Police said evidence suggests one of the birds sustained an injury to its wings READ MORE: Police launch appeal after Shaftesbury dog attack READ MORE: Shaftesbury’s first Cuckoo Day to take place later this month stated: “Evidence at the scene suggests at least one bird is likely to have significant injuries to its wings and we are working hard to get it home so that it can receive veterinary care “We are releasing pictures of birds that look similar and a peregrine egg for reference “I am asking if anyone has any information to get in contact quoting the reference number below” Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police via their website or call 101 using reference 55250052806 Click here for more crime news from the New Blackmore Vale. and receive alerts when they’re in the news Proactive financial news and online broadcast teams provide fast informative and actionable business and finance news content to a global investment audience All our content is produced independently by our experienced and qualified teams of news journalists Proactive news team spans the world’s key finance and investing hubs with bureaus and studios in London We are experts in medium and small-cap markets we also keep our community up to date with blue-chip companies commodities and broader investment stories This is content that excites and engages motivated private investors The team delivers news and unique insights across the market including but not confined to: biotech and pharma crypto and emerging digital and EV technologies Proactive has always been a forward looking and enthusiastic technology adopter Our human content creators are equipped with many decades of valuable expertise and experience The team also has access to and use technologies to assist and enhance workflows Proactive will on occasion use automation and software tools all content published by Proactive is edited and authored by humans in line with best practice in regard to content production and search engine optimisation Shaftesbury Capital PLC (LSE:SHB) shares leapt 10% after it announced the sale of a 25% stake in its Covent Garden estate to Norway's sovereign wealth fund The FTSE 250-listed property developer will receive cash proceeds of £570 million with the deal giving a £2.7 billion value to the Covent Garden market and surrounding streets which is in line with its valuation at the end of December Norges Bank has been Shaftesbury's largest shareholder for many years Shaftesbury CEO Ian Hawksworth called the deal a "long-term and said the investment by a major global investor "demonstrates the quality of our portfolio" and "brings together two long-term investors who have a shared confidence in and ambitions for the growth prospects of the Covent Garden estate and the West End" The company has earmarked the proceeds for acquisitions with its EPRA loan-to-value ratio is set to fall from 27% to 16% the group will have access to £1.1 billion of liquidity The deal will also be earnings enhancing for Shaftesbury from the reduction in finance costs resulting from lower net debt Shaftesbury Capital will retain 75% ownership and full management control of the estate The estate generated £104 million in annualised gross income last year with an estimated rental value (ERV) of £134 million and a net initial yield of 3.6% Sign up to receive alerts and news direct to your inbox Autonomix Medical CEO Brad Hauser joined Steve Darling from Proactive to announce a significant milestone in the company’s development of breakthrough neuro-modulation technology The company has released a compelling new video testimonial from a patient who participated in the initial phase of.. Proactive Investors Limited, trading as “Proactiveinvestors United Kingdom” is registered in England with the Company Registration number 05639690. Group VAT registration number 872070825. You can contact us here Market Indices, Commodities and Regulatory News Headlines copyright © Morningstar. Data delayed 15 minutes unless otherwise indicated. Terms of use MORE than 100 homes can be built at the edge of Shaftesbury following the approval of plans Persimmon Homes has been given the green light by Dorset Council to build 107 houses on land south of the A30 Salisbury Road in Shaftesbury The houses would form part of a wider development with Persimmon already granted permission to build 55 houses to the west of the site Both developments would share an access onto the A30 Persimmon would also provide land for a new school in the future as well as “flexible commercial uses” which will form a care home Persimmon originally planned to build 135 houses but reduced this down to 107 following concerns surrounding the proposed layout READ MORE: Refurbished King’s Arms in Shaftesbury set to re-open this month READ MORE: “Impractical” Gillingham & Shaftesbury Spring Show cancelled three and four bed houses and bungalows which would include 34 “affordable” units comprising of 24 affordable rent and 10 discount market units with some shared ownership The plans were approved at a meeting of the Northern Area Planning Committee at Dorset Council on Tuesday (November 5) Melbury Abbas and Cann Parish Council raised concerns the infrastructure in Shaftesbury would not be able to cope with the impact of new houses “There are not enough Drs and dentists available to man the existing practises,” it read “Where are all these people going to work All will need to use their cars as public transport is near non existent – so much for saving the planet.” It added: “With a minimum of 1,048 new houses built in the last 20 years I think Shaftesbury has reached its limit.” speaking on behalf of Persimmon at the meeting said they have been working with Dorset Council so that the scheme “meets the local needs of the area” and will provide a mix of starter homes for first time buyers as well as larger family homes “Approximately £700,000 will be invested into local services and infrastructure… primarily in health services and local schools,” he added Unbelievable what is going on.No one cares about the bigger picture.No bus service that can be relied on,trains unreliable and too much heavy traffic allowed on narrow roads .No bus shelters that may encourage more use if buses were more often .Hundreds more people and no more doctors,dentists,schools etc.So sad how communities are being ruined and can never be replaced Dorset council have reduced parking facilities in the town since the closure of the cattle market and all they are interested in is to increase their income from their extortionate rates to line their pockets without any improvement to local infrastructures There has to be sensible consideration given to town planning and infrastructure given in the building of new homes anywhere Of particular concern are medical and dental practices pharmacy services and hospital specialist waiting lists for existing Shaftesbury residents but if anything can be done to reconsider local infrastructure including parking services I have already mentioned then PLEASE do so – that is what good town planning is and what it should be There doesn’t seem to be any evidence of wider thinking on these issues visited Shaftesbury Park Primary School this week to renew the school’s prestigious LabelFrancÉducation accreditation marking the school’s decade of excellence in French education The LabelFrancÉducation recognises schools outside France who contribute to the promotion of French language and culture Shaftesbury Park became the first school in the UK to ever receive the prestigious award Council Leader Councillor Simon Hogg visited the school to witness this special moment reaffirms the school’s dedication to exceptional French language education Council Leader Councillor Simon Hogg applauded the exceptional dedication of the Shaftesbury Park community: “This recognition is a testament to the unwavering passion of the school’s teachers and the resilience of its students It was an honour to visit Shaftesbury Park and celebrate its position as a beacon of French learning not just in our local community but internationally as well.” Shaftesbury Park introduced its pioneering bilingual stream in 2013 creating an immersive French language education programme that spans from nursery to year six to develop French proficiency progressively By the time they complete their primary education at age 11 many students have successfully achieved the A2 certificate from the DELF (Diplôme d'Études en Langue Française) a significant milestone equivalent to a strong GCSE pass the school serves as a registered DELF exam centre supporting families in navigating these important assessments The school has also established enriching partnerships with Francophone schools worldwide (schools which teach French as a first language) offering students broader cultural experiences and fostering a global perspective Head Teacher at Shaftesbury Park Primary School says: “I am immensely proud that our school has received its second reaccreditation of the LabelFrancÉducation This recognition celebrates a decade of our commitment to delivering a high-quality bilingual curriculum I am deeply grateful to our dedicated staff and governors who have worked tirelessly to develop an exceptional bilingual learning experience for our children We are indeed preparing them for a globalised world equipping them with skills and cultural awareness that will last a lifetime.” highlighted the significance of this achievement: “Our bilingual stream was the foundation for our exciting vision to develop children who think about their world The renewal of the LabelFrancÉducation reflects both the invaluable support of the Institut Français and the exceptional work of our staff in delivering on that vision and setting up our pupils for linguistic Wandsworth Council is proud of Shaftesbury Park Primary School’s commitment to innovative language-rich education that not only transforms the future of its students but also strengthens international cultural ties Sign up to our newsletter THE Santander branch in Shaftesbury will close later this year This comes after Santander announced it is set to close 95 branches across the UK The bank said these closures are needed due to an increasing number of people switching to online banking rather than in-person The Wimborne Minster branch will close on Monday Santander says all locations where branches will close will be covered by new Santander community bankers providing face-to-face money management and general support for customers The bank has seen a rapid movement of customers choosing to do their banking digitally with a 63% increase in digital transactions since 2019 while financial transactions completed in branches reduced by 61% in the same period READ MORE: Blandford and Dorchester Lloyds bank branches set to close this year READ MORE: Shaftesbury painter’s Pine Walk watercolours earns spot in prestigious London exhibition A spokesperson for Santander UK said: “As customer behaviour changes we are ensuring that our branches remain fit for the future “Our new combination of full-service branches counter-free branches and reduced hours branches aims to provide the right balance between digital banking and face-to-face money management and guidance we must move with customers and balance our investment across all the places where we interact with customers to deliver the very best for them now and in the future “Closing a branch is always a very difficult decision and we spend a great deal of time assessing where and when we do this and how to minimise the impact it may have on our customers we believe that the introduction of our new community bankers and the exciting plans we have for our remaining network of 349 branches and work cafés alongside the rapid and innovative improvements to our award-winning mobile banking app will provide the right balance of digital banking and human interaction when required.” SHOPPERS can enjoy two nights of late-night shopping in Shaftesbury over November and December The events serve as the perfect opportunity to get a start on Christmas shopping and support the many independent businesses in the town The first late-night shopping event takes place until 7.30pm on the same day as the ever-popular Christmas lights switch-on This will be followed up with more late-night shopping at the Cygnet on December 12 again until 7.30pm “It’s the place to be for sheer interest and variety,” a spokesperson said through painters to jewellers to textile and felt artists will each give you a friendly welcome and tell you about their latest creations “The super Cygnet offers a veritable cornucopia of creative delights.” Shaftesbury Christmas market is also taking place this year on Sunday with parking for Blue Badge holders at the top of High Street SHB : Shaftesbury ties up with Norges Bank in Covent Garden Capital & Counties (CAPC) and Shaftesbury have reached an agreement on a £3.5bn all-share merger The merger of the two West End of London landlords which will be called Shaftesbury Capital Plc had been rumoured for years and it was confirmed last month that talks were taking place Under the terms of the proposed merger […] Capital & Counties this week confirmed it was in talks to buy a 26.3% stake in rival West End landlord Shaftesbury in what would be the first steps in a long-mooted merger of the two groups is in discussions to buy Hong Kong billionaire Samuel Tak Lee’s […] SOME of the most popular postbox toppers that have featured at the top of Shaftesbury’s iconic Gold Hill are set to be auctioned off to raise money for important causes has been catching the eye of passersby as she has been decorating the postbox with crocheted masterpieces for the past two years Some of the impressive designs feature depictions of The Great Wave off Kanagawa by Japanese artist Hokusai and the Hovis ‘boy on the bike,’ which featured in a famous advert that saw him pushing a basket of bread up Gold Hill The designs have received thousands of likes on post box topper Facebook pages and have been keenly observed by residents and visitors alike who look forward to the latest instalment READ MORE: Shaftesbury’s FOLDE Dorset shop in the running for Independent Bookshop of the Year – again! READ MORE: Fundraiser launched for “essential upgrades” to Shaftesbury Lido these popular toppers are being auctioned off at Shaftesbury Town Hall on Saturday Money raised will support Friends of Westminster Hospital, breast cancer awareness charity BooBs and mental health charity, The Brave and Determined Company (BADCO) Postbox toppers have become increasingly more popular over the years The creative craze sees artists create crocheted or knitted decorations that sit on the top of the postbox Winnie the Pooh and Piglet visiting Eeyore with a gift of carrots These are often inspired by current affairs or locally important people and events and they bring a smile to their communities Elizabeth created her first post box topper using some leftover wool This didn’t deter the talented artist as she set about making new toppers each month much to the delight of Shaftesbury residents Elizabeth said: “Crocheting predominates in old age as it can be done in the super comfort of a recliner!” For more information about the event and how the silent auction will be run A 17TH century Shaftesbury pub is set to re-open after a refurb later this month Wiltshire-based hospitality firm Chickpea Group has been hard at work making over the King’s Arms The pub is a short stroll from the iconic Gold Hill and a spokesperson for Chickpea said the building was “packed with charm period features and a large open fireplace Members of the Chickpea team have been busy working on a full refit of the space redecorating to add “a rich colour palette of deep greens and reds the King’s Arms will operate from 11am to 11pm offering drinks and “pub bangers” in the 100-cover dining space “The Kings Arms has all the characteristics of a great pub: a roaring fire and plenty of space,” said Chickpea co-founder “We think our model will work nicely there and we’re looking forward to swinging the doors back open after a particularly long period of closure the pub’s former games room will be redesigned with a separate entrance and used as a revolving “pop-up concept” giving the team the chance to bring in “seasonal special guests Check if you already have access from your company or university With a MRW subscription you’ll get access to: Connecting decision makers to a dynamic network of information Bloomberg quickly and accurately delivers business and financial information Office developer Derwent marked up the value of its portfolio by 4.1% in 2024 as the growth in its rental values doubled to 4.3%, the highest since 2016, according to a statementBloomberg Terminal Thursday which mostly owns and builds offices in London’s West End and the periphery of the City of London now expects rents to rise as much as 6% this year Shaftesbury Capital has agreed to sell a 25% stake of its Covent Garden estate to Norges Bank Investment Management (NBIM) as part of a strategic partnership Shaftesbury Capital will retain management control as well as a controlling 75% interest in the estate The transaction values the Covent Garden portfolio at £2.7bn and is expected to generate gross cash proceeds of approximately £570m for Shaftesbury Capital Located in the heart of the West End of London Shaftesbury Capital’s Covent Garden estate is centred around the Piazza with 74% of the property value represented by retail and food and beverage and 26% by office and residential The portfolio has a net initial yield of 3.6% and an estimated rental value of £134m as at 31 December 2024 The portfolio comprises some 220 buildings and over 850 units Shaftesbury Capital said the proceeds from the transaction may be used for a variety of options including acquisition opportunities in both Covent Garden and across the wider group said: “We are pleased to announce the formation of a £2.7 billion long-term This investment by a leading global real estate investor demonstrates the quality of our portfolio This partnership brings together two long-term investors who have a shared confidence in and ambitions for the growth prospects of the Covent Garden estate and the West End “Through partnering with private capital this transaction leverages our operating expertise and assets enhancing growth and expansion opportunities across our portfolio whilst strengthening our financial position and providing significant optionality to the group “As demonstrated by our recent 2024 results Shaftesbury Capital’s portfolio is anticipated to deliver long-term sustained income and value growth we are well-positioned to capitalise on market opportunities in London’s West End.” The acquisition marks NBIM’s second major venture into London’s real estate market this year, with the group having taken a stake in a mixed-use property portfolio in Mayfair from Grosvenor for £305.7m added: “We are delighted to announce our investment into the Covent Garden estate creating a long-term partnership with Shaftesbury Capital This investment underscores our belief in the strength of London with the portfolio complementing our other high quality West End investments Covent Garden is one of the world’s most recognised retail leisure and cultural destinations and we look forward to supporting Shaftesbury Capital’s management team with their strong track record of delivering the growth potential of this prime West End estate.” a new Sri Lankan street food concept from the founders of Kolamba is set to open in London’s Covent Garden this summer Mango has opened at The Lexicon in Bracknell as the scheme welcomes 23,039 sq ft of new retail The Spanish fashion brand has taken a 19,210.. Lidl has unveiled plans to open over 40 new stores across the UK in the current financial year The supermarket retailer – which operates over 980 UK stores – said.. © 2025 Completely Property Technology Limited part of The Completely Group Limited Developers Edge and Mitsubishi Estate London have secured the green light for their £150m plan to overhaul the 125 Shaftesbury Avenue building in Central London Camden Council’s planning committee unanimously approved the office-led scheme which will see a 1980s block transformed into 250,000 sq ft of workspace with a new-look entrance on Charing Cross Road and rooftop terraces will retain around 75% of the existing structure to cut embodied carbon and is targeting BREEAM Excellent as part of Edge’s push for sustainable design The project will increase the building’s height from 11 to 13 floors will be created to link New Compton Street with Old Compton Street The project professional team includes architect DSDHA working with M&E engineer SWECO and structural consultant AKT II Gardiner & Theobald is the cost consultant This approval will be welcomed by the occupier community.” which sits just south of Tottenham Court Road station SHAFTESBURY is set to celebrate the arrival of the 6 million or so migratory birds as they return to Great Britain – with the town’s first Cuckoo Day The birds start arriving from Africa from mid-March to the end of May having negotiated such enormous obstacles as the Sahara Desert and the Mediterranean April 24 the Shaftesbury Nature Collective is hoping to raise the profile of the cuckoo in particular an important harbinger of spring with his iconic call “We need to conserve the wild places on our doorstep such as woodlands and reedbeds for this and many resident species,” a spokesperson said READ MORE: Shaftesbury artist on the “worrying” decline of cuckoos – and how the town’s nature serves as his muse READ MORE: Find the flock and enjoy Gillingham and Shaftesbury Show for free the two events are taking place later this month Karen Wimhurst and other clarinetists will be offering cuckoo calls while choirs will proceed from the town hall to Park Walk singing cuckoo songs An Evening with Mike McCarthy at The Grosvenor Hotel ex-environment editor of The Independent and author of Say Goodbye to the Cuckoo and The Moth Snowstorm will give a talk about the wonders of bird migration highlighting the cuckoo and the swift at The Grosvenor Hotel Tickets are free but should be booked from Folde Bookshop on Gold Hill. Daily news, insight and opinion from the world of restaurants 06-Feb-2025 Last updated on 06-Feb-2025 at 11:00 GMT Wilkinson has played a major role in central London’s restaurant scene since joining the company in June 1997. Announcing the move on LinkedIn, she said she would be taking time off to spend more time with her family. Working across Shaftesbury Capital’s central London portfolio that includes Carnaby, Soho, Chinatown, Seven Dials, Covent Garden and Fitzrovia she has been pivotal in curating successful restaurant hubs including setting up, developing and evolving the F&B offer at Kingly Court, breathing new life into Chinatown with the reintroduction of regional Chinese cuisines, and helping return Charlotte Street to its restaurant-focused heyday. In her post she mentioned a couple of her favourite milestones that have included building Kingly Court into one of London’s most popular independent dining destinations and taking calculated risks on ‘emerging, founder-led concepts’ including Dishoom, Kiln, Polpo, Flat Iron, Le Bab, Island Poke, Kolamba, The Palomar, Darjeeling Express, Kricket, Bancone, Temper, Cahoots, Mamason’s, Evelyn’s Table, and Breadstall. She also described the post-pandemic rejuvenation of Fitzrovia, working with operators including MJMK and Woodhead Group and establishing al fresco dining in Gerrard Street, Chinatown for the first time as other key moments in her long and notable career. “I [have] been fortunate to collaborate with an incredible array of colleagues, agents, consultants and operators over the years and hope to carry these connections with me into the next chapter, whatever shape that takes,” she says. Commenting on the move, Simon Anderson, food hall and hospitality consultant said of Wilkinson: “Unlike many landlords, you truly understand the needs and pressures of opening and running a hospitality business.” Last year Wilkinson was ranked as one of industry’s most influential people in Restaurant’s Power List. Whet your appetite with beers from the European UnionPaid for and content provided by European Union Staffing costs rising — how smart hiring solutions are helping UK restaurantsPaid for and content provided by YoungOnes Lost Revenue from Downtime: How It Cripples Your Delivery App Visibility and SalesPaid for and content provided by Deliverect Toronto-based production outfit Shaftesbury has named veteran production executive Susan Alexander as its senior director of creative The appointment comes five months after Alexander left Corus where she spent more than 15 years overseeing development and production on dozens of scripted series including legal drama Family Law (Global) led by president and chairman Christina Jennings is behind long-running series including CBC’s Murdoch Mysteries and Citytv’s Hudson & Rex “Susan Alexander is one of Canada’s smartest creative executives – a career spanning both production and broadcast,” said Jennings tenacity and ability to bring the best out of a story We love that creators think highly of Susan She will be a strong addition to our creative team.” THE Gillingham & Shaftesbury Spring Show is no more Organisers said the decision to axe the event came after “lengthy deliberation” as the “current financial climate deems it unviable and impractical for us to continue” “Since 2022 the Spring Countryside Show has been a celebration of local producers however the challenges the show encountered throughout the course of this year now far outweigh the benefit of proceeding with the event,” a spokesperson added “We would like to take this opportunity to thank all exhibitors visitors and volunteers who have supported the event over the last three years READ MORE: New dates for Spring Show after bad weather postpones event “Your unwavering dedication truly made the event what it was “We hope to see you on August 13 and 14 with the return of the Gillingham & Shaftesbury Agricultural Show.” The 2023 Spring Show, planned for April, was delayed due to poor weather before going ahead in early June at the Turnpike Showground Search More results... Hit new show Just For One Day – The Live Aid Musical is coming to the West End playing the Shaftesbury Theatre in London from May 2025 The show premiered at The Old Vic theatre in London earlier this year, scoring positive reviews from the critics and playing to a record-breaking 99% full houses across the run Just For One Day is set to play the Shaftesbury Theatre in London from 15 May 2025 Directed by Luke Sheppard (& Juliet, Starlight Express), Just For One Day is written by John O’Farrell (Mrs Doubtfire with Live Aid’s Bob Geldof collaborating on the project The show will once again star Craige Els (Doctor Who, Matilda The Musica) as Bob Geldof following his acclaimed performance in The Old Vic production There have been consistent rumours about a West End transfer for the show. Since The Old Vic run, the show has also announced that it is transferring to Toronto’s CAA Ed Mirvish Theatre from 28 January to 16 March 2025. The musical is about Live Aid, the global concert phenomenon that took place on 13 July 1985, organised by Rock stars Bob Geldof and Midge Ure to raise money for the Ethiopian famine crisis. The songs in Just For One Day are many of the hits performed at the Live Aid event, including songs from Bob Dylan, David Bowie, The Who, U2, Queen, The Police, Elton John, Paul McCartney, The Pretenders, The Cars, Status Quo, Paul Weller, Sade, The Boomtown Rats, Bryan Adams, Diana Ross, Ultravox and more. The opening of Just For One Day at the Shaftesbury Theatre in London in May 2025 is neatly timed for the 40th anniversary of Live Aid on 13 July 2025 A number of celebrations will take place to mark the 40th anniversary of Live Aid in 2025 and Just For One Day the musical in the West End will play a central part in celebrating this important music milestone with a special gala performance on 13th July 2025 This December is also the 40th anniversary of hit charity single “Do They Know It’s Christmas?”, the original spark which led to the Live Aid event. Sir Bob Geldof plans to celebrate with a 40th anniversary supercut of the song Craige Els is to star as Sir Bob Geldof in the West End production of Just For One Day with further casting for the West End production to be announced Also in the creative team are musical supervision arrangements and orchestrations by Matthew Brind The show is produced with permission of The Band Aid Charitable Trust which will benefit from 10% of all ticket sales Broadway – and London – theatre owner Nederlander Theatres No Guarantees (A Mirror, The Hills of California) Burnt Umber Productions (Stereophonic, Appropriate) and Stephen C Byrd (Cabaret, Sister Act) Bob Geldof said in a statement: “My comment before I saw Just For One Day was that “It better not be s***” I have never been to a show where night after night there is a standing ovation at THE INTERMISSION! Producer of Just For One Day said: “Just For One Day was the fastest selling musical in The Old Vic’s history The story of how the world united together through music has captivated audiences of all ages We are thrilled to be able to bring this production to The Shaftesbury Theatre in the West End opening on the 40th Anniversary of the Live Aid concerts with the same timeless songs renowned creative team and a hugely talented company.” Just For One Day is playing at the Shaftesbury Theatre in London from 15 May 2025 Currently playing at the Shaftesbury Theatre is Mrs Doubtfire Book tickets to Just For One Day at the Shaftesbury Theatre in London Comments and reviews are subject to our participation guidelines policy, which can be viewed here Our policy is for readers to use their REAL NAMES when commenting Sign-up for Offers Shows | Offers | Musicals | News Please note: All tickets are subject to availability. Ticketing powered by members of the Society of Ticket Agents and Retailers [Read more] Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy | Cookies Policy which also owns vast tracts of London’s wider West End long-term partnership with Norges Bank Investment Management (NBIM) Shaftesbury Capital has exchanged contracts for the sale of a 25% non-controlling interest in the Covent Garden estate to NBIM The Transaction values the Covent Garden estate at £2.7 billion in line with its independent property valuation as at 31 December 2024 with expected gross cash proceeds of approximately £570 million The CR2 and CR3 bus routes between Gillingham and Shaftesbury and Gillingham and Sturminster Newton are to get a new Saturday service Central government funding to Dorset Council will be used to provide a Saturday service on the routes with the same frequency as Monday to Friday The funding will also aim to boost the connectivity of the services for passengers Revealing the news to Gillingham Town Council at a recent meeting Dorset Councillor Val Pothecarysaid she was ‘very pleased’ with the new services and improved connections ‘It’s a bit of a small win I think,’ she said In a later statement Dorset Council said that the local improvements were part of a wider series of projects and improvements across the county This will include increasing bus service frequencies and trialling an electric minibus to promote a sustainable Developed in partnership with local transport operators the council’s delivery plan was approved on Thursday 20 March and will achieve improvements in areas such as Weymouth while maintaining enhanced routes between Wimborne In November 2024 the Government announced £670m to enable local authorities to deliver their Bus Service Improvement Plans (BSIP) Dorset was allocated £3.3m of Bus Grant funding with which the council aims to boost public transport use conditional on its submission and publication online will benefit residents and visitors while supporting Dorset’s environmental and social goals Service 2 (Weymouth – Littlemoor): Increased frequency and route diversion via Mount Pleasant Park and Ride operating every 15 minutes Monday-Saturday and every 20 minutes on Sundays Service 10 (Weymouth – Dorchester): Weekend services enhanced to 15-minute intervals on Saturdays and 20-minute intervals on Sundays Service 13 (Bournemouth – Wimborne): Joint funding with BCP Council to maintain enhanced service levels introduced in February 2024 Saturday services for CR6 (Bridport – Yeovil) New Community Transport Service: Launch of a pilot enhanced community transport provision using an electric vehicle – a vital first step towards a zero-emission fleet Replacement and modernisation of Real-Time Information (RTI) displays and shelters at targeted locations across the county Recent engagement for Dorset’s Local Transport Plan (LTP4) highlighted better public transport as the number one priority among residents Dorset Council funds and contracts core routes that connect the county’s market towns and remains determined to deliver a transport network that better meets the demands of its communities Dorset Council’s Cabinet Member for Place Services said: ‘The projects we’ve planned for 2025/26 are incredibly exciting and represent a real opportunity to enhance public transport in Dorset From improved bus services to infrastructure upgrades and electric vehicle trials these improvements will make transport more accessible Dorset remains disadvantaged by the current funding allocation formula having received the fourth lowest revenue allocation in the Southwest region The money we’ve received from Government is only a small part of what is required to transform the bus network across Dorset and longer-term funding is key to us achieving our BSIP vision ‘We will work closely with our MPs to advocate for fairer funding in the future to truly unlock the potential of public transport across our county.’ To find out more visit www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/bus-service-improvement-plan Gillingham & Shaftesbury News is an online community newspaper covering Gillingham Shaftesbury and surrounding villages such as East Stour Privacy Policy Disclaimer Advertising Terms & Conditions POLICE are appealing for a dog owner to “do the right thing” and make themselves known to the force after a dog attacked another dog in Shaftesbury last month A couple were approached by a bull terrier-type dog when walking their Labrador in a field in the Long Bottom area at around 4pm on March 23 The bull terrier-type dog proceeded to attack the Labrador and the victim was bitten on his hand when trying to protect his Labrador from the attack The Labrador suffered an injury to its ear which required veterinary treatment A man and woman who were with the bull terrier-type dog apologised after the attack and left a number – but the victim received no response when they called READ MORE: Shaftesbury’s first Cuckoo Day to take place later this month READ MORE: Microchip your dog – or face fine, council warns Dorset Police are now appealing for the dog owners to “do the right thing” and come forward so the force can take their account of what happened “We are also keen to hear from anyone who witnessed this incident or who has any information that might assist our enquiries,” a spokesperson added Those with information that could help or anyone that witnessed the incident are asked to get in touch with police on 101 using reference number 55250040656 Family pay heartbreaking tribute to 25-year-old Aidan Chapman as they tell of ‘parent’s worst nightmare’ News | Crime Get our award-winning daily news email featuring exclusive stories One of four people injured when a car ploughed into them in the West End on Christmas Day has died in hospital Aidan Chapman, 25, was one of a number of pedestrians hit on Shaftesbury Avenue in the early hours of December 25 when a Mercedes mounted the pavement Mr Chapman passed away from his injuries on New Year’s Eve, police confirmed on Thursday His parents said in a statement that his family are “devastated.” “The loss of our beautiful son is a parent’s worst nightmare we are utterly devastated with the loss of Aidan funny soul and the world is a darker place without him Mr Chapman was among people that were stuck by a vehicle on Christmas Day close to the Sondheim Theatre in the heart of London’s West End Ten teens injured in New York nightclub shooting as gunmen open fire on queue Police appeal after sexual assault at Leicester Square tube station Children among 12 dead in Montenegro after gunman opens fire in rampage Man accused of driving partner to suicide tells jury: I am not a monster Anthony Gilheaney, 30, was initially charged with four counts of attempted murder after the incident It is said Gilheaney had been banned from driving prior to the incident when the four pedestrians were hit He was reportedly arrested minutes after the “violent attack,” according to a police spokesperson The other injured victims were identified as Tyrone Itorho Met Police have since confirmed that Mr Chapman’s death is being treated as a homicide It means the attempted murder charge relating to the death could be updated to murder Officers offered their condolences to Mr Chapman’s family following news of his tragic death and appealed to the public to come forward if they have dash cam footage from the area at the time They also confirmed that the incident wasn’t terror related Police previously said the incident is believed to have started with an “altercation” outside a nightclub “Our thoughts are with the victim’s friends and family at this difficult time,” said Detective Chief Inspector Wayne Jolley “My team are continuing to conduct enquiries to establish all the facts surrounding the circumstances however it has been confirmed as an isolated incident which is not terror-related “We would appeal to anyone who holds any CCTV or dash cam or mobile phone footage of the incident to come forward as well as anyone else who might have had contact with the suspect that evening.” Gilheaney,who lives in Longfield in Harlow has also been charged with driving dangerously on Fleet Street and possession of a small knife in nearby Lincoln's Inn Fields He appeared to face all the charges for the first time at Westminster magistrates court on Friday and is due to appear the Old Bailey later this month. You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser or activate Google Chrome Frame to improve your experience Take part in the 2025 Charity Shops Survey the survey provides detailed benchmark data giving you a better understanding of the charity retail sector. Deadline for submissions is 4th July Take part and find out more Disability charity Livability has changed its name to Shaftesbury in an aim to highlight its heritage in its 180th year The charity began using the name Livability more than 15 years ago but now wants to draw on the history of one of its founding organisations the seventh Earl of Shaftesbury and his work on social reform which recorded an income of £49.8m in the year to March 2023 said renaming as Shaftesbury was part of the charity’s “far-reaching growth and transformation plan” Shaftesbury said it consulted widely because “we recognise that the people we support our staff and key stakeholders are the experts when it comes to our brand and charity” Those who took part included people it supports The charity also said its “look” remains the same this change lets us tap into our rich heritage and history helping us become better known,” it said on its website “We believe this will attract more supporters like you so that we can reach and support more people living with disabilities “We kept our brand because it continues to depict so well what the charity does Police officer have arrested four people after a raid on an address in Shaftesbury as part of a wider operation to crack down on the drugs trade Special Constabulary and officers from East Dorset Neighbourhood Policing Team executed a warrant at an address in Shaftesbury and a quantity of suspected class A drugs were found These included more than 300 grams of what was believed to be amphetamine A suspected stun gun device and an extendable baton were also reportedly located at the address more than 90 people were arrested and £40,000 cash seized during a week of activity across the South West targeting county lines and child criminal exploitation The five South West forces joined together last week for the tenth iteration of Operation Scorpion the regional crack down on drug dealing and associated crime which ran in conjunction with the national County Lines Intensification Week The week of activity – from Monday 25 November 2024 to Sunday 1 December 2024 – had a particular focus on child criminal exploitation (CCE) where criminals groom and exploit young people into carrying out crimes on their behalf This often involves drugs and county lines as gangs use children and vulnerable people to sell drugs and move monies officers worked with partners to conduct a range of community-led engagement activities on CCE educational stalls at high-footfall locations in towns and cuckooing checks for vulnerable adults and children A range of enforcement activity also took place as warrants across the counties resulted in tens of thousands of pounds of cash being seized and Class A and B drugs being taken off the streets In Dorset activity during the week included operations targeting two suspected high harm county lines as well as safeguarding checks high visibility patrols and joint working with partners and other forces two suspected county lines were closed and a number of weapons were seized including a stun gun more than £15,000 worth of suspected cocaine and more than £200,000 worth of suspected cannabis An operation by Poole Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) targeted a suspected county line which was reportedly linked to child exploitation and resulted in three arrests In the BCP area a total of three suspected cannabis factories were located and dismantled said: ‘The success of this latest intensification week further demonstrates our commitment to relentlessly pursuing those involved in the supply of class A drugs in our communities and by working with our regional partners it gives us the best chance of disrupting the supply networks ‘We are also very much aware that there is often exploitation of young people and other vulnerable individuals linked to the reported supply of class A drugs and this latest Operation Scorpion has seen us focus on raising awareness of the signs that someone may be being exploited ‘As ever we remain indebted to our local communities for reporting information, not only in relation to suspected drug related activity, but also in relation to the possibility that someone may be the subject of exploitation. For more information on what to look for visit https://www.dorset.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/cl/county-lines/.’ Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said: ‘These results serve to highlight why Operation Scorpion is such an important tool in making not only Dorset a hostile environment for illegal drugs and those who peddle them ‘Shutting down two suspected county lines recovering weapons including zombie knives and a stun gun and seizing more than £200,000 of suspected cannabis are terrific results and go some way towards making Dorset a safer place to be ‘Alongside the warrants and robust enforcement from the Force this iteration of Operation Scorpion was also about raising awareness and tackling exploitation so it is reassuring to see that six children were also safeguarded during this week Dorset Police’s work goes way beyond arrests and warrants it enables vulnerable people in our communities to be protected and that is vital in our fight against illegal drugs ‘These results would not be possible without the crucial intelligence reported by members of the public and that’s why I would urge people in Dorset to continue to tell us about issues in your community Your report could be the missing piece of puzzle and help to make results like these possible ‘Our work in Dorset will continue apace – targeting criminality safeguarding vulnerable people and working closely with our neighbouring forces to put a ring of steel around the South West.’ People can report information about suspected drug related activity at www.dorset.police.uk and hit the ‘Report Your Intelligence’ icon on the homepage to share what you know you can report anonymously to Crimestoppers by calling on 0800 555 111 or via their website AWARD-winning fashion chain Fairfax & Favor looks set to open a branch in Shaftesbury which specialises in “British luxury fashion and rural vogue” has applied for permission to install signage at the former HSBC specialising in boots and shoes “inspired by country life” having won numerous awards for their products the company boasts six stores – with a seventh set to grace Shaftesbury It has applied for permission to install signage for a shop at the former bank The chain is set to move into the former HSBC in Shaftesbury “The proposed sign will be fitted in front of the existing ‘Midland Bank Limited’ sign which will not be damaged by the installation other than by screw fixings into the masonry,” the application said “Careful consideration has been given to the proposed signage to ensure that the significance of the heritage asset will be sustained while providing a viable use of the property “The proposed sign is intended to comprise hand painted gloss lettering on a painted timber backing all in Fairfax & Favor style and colours (gold lettering on black background).” A SHAFTESBURY road was blocked this afternoon when crates of MEAT spilled out of the back of a truck The incident happened on St John’s Hill at around 12.15pm today (January 2) with upturned containers – and their spilled contents – blocking the route Police said officers were sent to the scene to manage traffic while the meat was cleaned up The winner of best pun in the social media comments in response to the gaffe has to be ‘You can’t pork there mate’…