The Link
Our Autumn 2025 issue is out now. Click here to read the latest news from Dorset Blind Association.
Author: brownbooth
DBA Christmas raffle 2025: A record-breaking success!
We are delighted to announce that this year’s Dorset Blind Association Christmas Raffle raised an incredible £4,623 — our highest total ever. This fantastic result will directly support blind and partially sighted people across Dorset through our services, activities, and community support.
Thank you to everyone who bought tickets, sold tickets, donated prizes, or helped spread the word!
We would like to extend a particular thank you to Parkstone Eyecare Opticians, who once again generously helped sell raffle tickets on our behalf. Their ongoing support year after year makes a genuine difference
Thank you to Our Prize Donors
We are extremely grateful to the local businesses who generously donated prizes. Your support helped make the raffle so popular.
- Macrow & Son jewellers – Eone – Designer tactile watch (worth £250)
- Ludere Studio – 2 x Photography session + £100 towards framed prints
- Conker Gin Distillery – Distillery tour
- Palmers Brewery, Bridport – Brewery Tour tickets
- Moonfleet Manor Hotel – Afternoon tea for two
- Parkstone Chiropractic – Sports massage
- LyfeHealth – One-hour massage
- Olive Tree, Bridport – Two-course lunch for two
- Knoll House Hotel & Spa – Cream tea for two
- Blandford Fashion Museum – Family ticket + drink and cake
- Bennetts Water Gardens, Weymouth – Tickets
- Southbourne Nails and Spa – Voucher
- The Cowshed, Lychett Minster – Cream tea for two
- Lulworth Castle – Family ticket + car parking
- Brownsea Island (National Trust) – Family voucher
- Compton Acres – Voucher
- Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens – Family ticket to the Swanery
- Castle Gardens, Sherborne – Voucher
- Walled Garden Restaurant, Sherborne – Voucher
- The Sanctuary Beauty Rooms, Sherborne – Goodie bag + Voucher
- Café D’Urberville, Sherborne – Tea and cake for two
- The Circus Lifestyle Boutique, Sherborne – Homeware prize
- Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum – Admission for two adults
- Nothe Fort – Family day ticket
- Dorchester Museum & Art Gallery – Two free admission tickets
- Melbury Boutique & Gallery, Sherborne – Voucher
- Sherborne Castle – Complimentary ticket
- The Makers Yard, Sculpture by the Lakes – Two free admission tickets
- Beauty by Rochelle, Shaftesbury – Voucher
- Johnsons Dry cleaners, Canford Cliffs – Fizz, chocs and picture frames
- Orchard Park Garden Centre, Shaftesbury – voucher
- Ye Olde Two Brewers, Shaftesbury – Voucher
- ALuxe Beauty, Yeovil – Voucher
- Serenity Nails & Beauty, Dorchester – Voucher
- Plaza Cinema, Dorchester – cinema tickets
- Morrisons – Quartz heater
- Tesco , Asda and Waitrose – Hamper items
How Your Support Helps
Funds raised through the Christmas Raffle directly support blind and partially sighted people across Dorset, enabling us to provide one-to-one community support and advice, run social groups that tackle loneliness and isolation, offer practical help and specialist equipment, and deliver inclusive activities that help people live more independent, connected and confident lives. Every ticket sold helps change lives for the better.
From everyone at Dorset Blind Association, thank you for helping make our 2025 Christmas Raffle such a success. We are incredibly grateful for your continued support.
10th Anniversary Dorset Blind Association Motor Show returns to Lulworth Castle – Bookings go LIVE!
Lulworth, Dorset — November 2025 — The Dorset Blind Association Motor Show returns for its 10th anniversary on Sunday 17th May 2026 at the stunning Lulworth Castle. While the charity has been supporting people with sight loss across Dorset since 1918, this milestone marks a decade of one of the South’s most popular motoring events.
The 2026 show promises to be the biggest and best yet, featuring hundreds of vehicles—from classic cars and sports cars to show-stopping supercars. Visitors can also enjoy live entertainment, family-friendly activities, artisan stalls, and local food vendors, all set against the iconic backdrop of Lulworth Castle.
“We’re thrilled to be hosting the Dorset Blind Association Motor Show for its 10th anniversary,” says Samantha Baker, Community Relations Officer. “This milestone is a fantastic opportunity to bring together car enthusiasts, families, and the local community for a day of spectacular vehicles, entertainment, and fun—while raising vital funds for people living with sight loss across Dorset.”
Car owners are encouraged to book early, as exhibitor spaces sell out quickly each year. Entry for exhibitors is £17 per person, which includes vehicle display space, a breakfast roll, hot drink, and access to Lulworth Castle.
Last year’s event was a huge success, attracting over 6,000 visitors, over 250 vehicles, and raising more than £37,000 in support of the Dorset Blind Association’s services.
Gary Neild, CEO of Blue Sky Financial Planning, the event’s Platinum Sponsor, said:
“Blue Sky is proud to have supported the DBA Motor Show over many years. Hitting the 10th anniversary is a huge milestone, and we’re thrilled to be part of the celebrations again. It’s wonderful to see how the event has grown while raising funds for such vital local services.”
The showground opens to the public at 10:30am, offering a fun-filled day for all the family. With live entertainment, a children’s activity area, artisan stalls, and local food, it promises a unique day out—and entry is free for spectators.
Car owners wishing to exhibit their vehicles should book early to secure a space: DBAMotorShow2026.eventbrite.co.uk. For more information about attending, volunteering, or sponsorship opportunities, contact Sam Baker at communityrelations@dorsetblind.org.uk or call 01202 712865.
Dorset Blind Association Christmas Raffle 2025 – Win Fabulous Prizes!
It’s that time of year again — the Dorset Blind Association Christmas Raffle is here! Members will soon be receiving their tickets in the new issue of The Link, and we’re excited to offer a fantastic range of prizes that will make this year’s raffle our most thrilling yet.
Incredible Prizes to Win
From luxurious treats to memorable experiences, there’s something for everyone:
- Restaurant vouchers for a special night out
- Days out for family or friends
- Premium spirits for the connoisseurs
- Luxury hampers packed with festive goodies
- Designer watch for a timeless prize
- Photography sessions to capture memories
- Salon treatments for some well-deserved pampering
And that’s just the start — there’s more to discover when you buy your tickets!
Where to Buy Tickets
Tickets are just £1 each (or £5 for a book) and can be purchased:
- At any of our 12 Dorset charity shops:
Southbourne, Parkstone, Poole, Christchurch, Wimborne, Blandford, Shaftesbury, Dorchester, Weymouth, Bridport, Sherborne, Ferndown
Find your nearest shop here - From your local Community Support Worker at upcoming social groups.
- If you haven’t received your tickets yet, or need more, call Jo in the office on 01202 712 865.
The draw will take place on Tuesday 9th December and all winners will be contacted directly.
Help Us Spread the Cheer
Your support makes a huge difference. By buying a ticket, you’re not just entering to win amazing prizes — you’re helping Dorset Blind Association provide vital services to visually impaired people across Dorset.
Get your tickets, encourage friends and family to join in, and let’s make this year’s Christmas Raffle bigger and better than ever!
Dorset Link Newsletter – Autumn 2025
The Link
Our Autumn 2025 issue is out now. Click here to read the latest news from Dorset Blind Association.
A wonderful afternoon of art raises Over £1,000 for Dorset Blind Association
We are delighted to share the success of Alexander Dakers’ fundraising art exhibition, held on Sunday 31st August at the beautiful Green House Hotel in Bournemouth.
The free event welcomed guests to an inspiring afternoon filled with stunning artwork, drinks, canapés, live music, and a raffle. One of the highlights was the opportunity to see the incredible painting Alexander created live at this year’s Dorset Blind Association Motor Show at Lulworth Castle, alongside his wider body of work that has captivated audiences worldwide.
Thanks to Alexander’s generosity, and the support of everyone who joined us, the event raised over £1,000 to help Dorset Blind Association continue supporting members all across the county living with sight loss.
We’d like to say a heartfelt thank you to Alexander, the team at the Green House Hotel, and to all who attended for making this such a memorable occasion.
Arts by the Sea Festival hosts special accessible tour with Dorset Blind Association
Arts by the Sea Festival hosts special accessible tour with Dorset Blind Association
Dorset Blind Association is delighted to announce an exciting collaboration with Arts by the Sea Festival, bringing a specially designed guided tour for people living with sight loss.
Arts by the Sea Festival, Bournemouth’s annual weekend-long celebration of art, culture, and creativity, runs from Friday 26th to Sunday 28th September, offering a vibrant programme of performances, installations, and activities that are free and open to the general public.
The free tour will take place on Sunday 28th September, with Festival Public Engagement Officer, Leigh Hayler, leading participants on a sensory, descriptive journey through the highlights of the festival.
The experience has been created to ensure that blind and visually impaired people can fully engage with the festival, enjoying its creativity, colour, and atmosphere in an inclusive way.
Sam Baker, Community Relations Officer at Dorset Blind Association, said:
“We’re so pleased to be working with Arts by the Sea, who have gone above and beyond to make the festival welcoming and accessible. Opportunities like this really help break down barriers and allow our members to experience the joy of community events alongside everyone else. We’d especially love to welcome working-age visually impaired people who may not yet be connected to our social groups – this is a brilliant chance to meet others, explore the festival, and find out more about our activities for people of all ages.”
Arts by the Sea is Bournemouth’s annual festival of art, culture and creativity, attracting thousands of visitors every year. It runs from Friday 26th – Sunday 28th Sep. The guided tour marks a positive step in widening accessibility and ensuring more people can benefit from the event.
Dorset Blind Association has been providing practical and emotional support for people with sight loss since 1918. The charity supports more than 1,000 visually impaired members across the county and offers community groups, equipment advice, home visits, and much more.
Event Details
Date: Sunday 28th September 2025
Time: Tour starts at 10.45am and finishes at 5pm
Location: Arts by the Sea Festival, Bournemouth
Price: FREE to attend
For more information or to book a place, email Heather@dorsetblind.org.uk or visit dorsetblind.org.uk
Dorset Blind Association Shaftesbury shop to celebrate official opening with the Mayor and Deputy Mayor
Dorset Blind Association is delighted to announce the official opening of its new charity shop in Shaftesbury. The ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place on Friday 11th July at 11:00am, with Mayor Virginia Edwyn-Jones and Deputy Mayor Cllr Greg Williams in attendance to mark the occasion. The public is warmly invited to come along and join in the celebration.
The shop, located at 10 Bell Street, Shaftesbury SP7 8AR, has already received a warm welcome from the local community since its soft launch in April.
“We’ve been so encouraged by the friendly welcome from customers in Shaftesbury,” says Melissa, the Shop Manager. “There’s a real community spirit here, and we’re proud to be part of it. We’re currently in real need of donations and always keen to welcome new volunteers!”
The Shaftesbury shop is open Monday to Saturday, 9:00am–4:00pm, and sells a wide range of pre-loved items including clothing, books, homewares and accessories. All proceeds go directly to supporting Dorset Blind Association’s vital services.
“This new shop is a huge step forward in helping us continue our work across North Dorset. Every bag of donated goods and every purchase helps us provide essential support to people living with serious sight loss across Dorset,” adds Sam Baker, Community Relations Officer. “Our shops are an important part of our service delivery, including a mini equipment and advice/resource centre making Dorset Blind Association even more accessible to the public”.”
Donations of quality, saleable goods are very welcome and can be dropped off during opening hours. The team is also looking for friendly, reliable volunteers to join their shop crew – even just a few hours a week can make a big difference.
DBA Shaftesbury Shop Details:
📍 Address: 10 Bell Street, Shaftesbury SP7 8AR
📞 Telephone: 07849 641 153
📧 Email: shaftesburyshop@dorsetblind.org.uk
Adventure for All: Land & Wave Leads Inclusive Kayak Expedition with Dorset Blind Association
Studland, Dorset – On Monday 9 June, Dorset-based adventure company Land & Wave delivered an unforgettable guided kayaking experience for members of the Dorset Blind Association, taking visually impaired participants on a journey along the stunning Studland coastline to Old Harry Rocks.
The event saw six visually impaired adventurers paired with six trained Land & Wave instructors, who acted as sighted guides on double sit-on-top kayaks. Together, the pairs paddled through the tranquil waters of Studland Bay, experiencing the iconic Jurassic Coast in a truly immersive way.
“This was a fantastic opportunity for our instructors to develop a deeper understanding about how to provide a fantastic immersive adventure for people who are visually impaired,” said Rosie Tanner, Director at Land & Wave. “Adventure should be for everyone, and this trip showed the power of inclusive experiences in the great outdoors.”
This was the second event Land & Wave has delivered in collaboration with the Dorset Blind Association. In 2024, the team took Amar Latif (blind adventurer, BBC One Show presenter, and Celebrity MasterChef contestant), rock climbing at Dancing Ledge as part of a fundraising campaign for the charity.
Sam Baker, Community Relations Officer, Dorset Blind Association said, “Our members had an incredible day—many had never tried kayaking before, and to do so in such a beautiful setting with expert, supportive instructors was truly special. We’re so grateful to Land & Wave for making adventure accessible and creating unforgettable memories.”
By providing bespoke adventures and training their team to act as guides, Land & Wave continues to advocate for equality, diversity, and accessibility in outdoor activities. The organisation is committed to developing their instructors’ skillsets, ensuring that disabilities are not a barrier to enjoying nature and challenging oneself through adventure.
“There were smiles, laughter and real connections being made out on the water,” added Rosie, “It was a reminder that the outdoors can—and should—be a space where everyone belongs.”
Local businesses help drive raffle success at the DBA Motor Show
We’re still buzzing from this year’s Dorset Blind Association Motor Show—and it’s time to thank the brilliant local businesses who made our charity raffle such a highlight.
The raffle plays a key role in our fundraising on the day—helping us continue to support blind and partially sighted people across Dorset—and it simply wouldn’t be possible without the kind-hearted support of our local community.
We were thrilled to receive a brilliant range of raffle prizes this year, generously donated by the following businesses:
- Studland Watersports & Sauna Hut – Private sauna session for up to six people
- Elegant Clinic – £100 voucher
- Knoll House – tea for two
- Fili’s restaurant – £50 voucher
- The Crown Hotel, Blandford – lunch for two
- David Lloyd Poole – Family weekend pass
- Vanilla Hair Salon – Cut and blow dry, and neck/shoulder massage
- B&Q, Christchurch – Air fryer
- Sculpture by the lakes – 2 day passes
- Lyfe health – massage
- The Libertine – 3 course meal for 2 with wine
- Brownsea Island – family pass
- Poole Harbour Watersports – paddleboard hire for 2
- Castle Inn, Lulworth – £50 vouchers
- Parkstone Chiropractic – sports massage
- Compton Acres – Family pass
We also extend our heartfelt thanks to: HK Law, Ludere Studio, Howards Motor Group, Johnsons Cleaners, The Village Vine, Tesco, Iceland, Rick Stein, Sandbanks, Maravi coffee, Mabel and Jacks, House of Heels and Saltrock for their wonderful contributions of additional prizes.
Each donation helped make our raffle table a highlight of the event—and every ticket purchased supports our vital work across the county.
We encourage our supporters to show their appreciation in return. Whether it’s booking a table, popping into a shop, or recommending a service to friends, your support helps these generous businesses continue doing what they do best.
Thank you once again to all our prize donors—and to everyone who bought a ticket!