Small shop, big heart – plus all the letters

The BV: from the heart of the Blackmore Vale

The May BV Podcast begins, as it does every month, with this month’s letter from the editor and all the latest reader’s letters. Next we hear from our local political party representatives, and their timely commentary on the state of the world. Lastly we have an interview with Carole Jones, who gives us a peek behind the scenes of a social supermarket in North Dorset.

• Letter from Laura, the editor
• Letters to the editor
• Populism in politics always over-simplifies issues. Effective and lasting political change requires active listening across divides, says MP Simon Hoare
• Mike Chapman of North Dorset LibDems urges us and the government to do more ...
• Pat Osborne of North Dorset Labour questions whether the coronation of a new monarch should prompt a wider deabte about our British head of state, and the implications for democracy
• Ken Huggins of the Green Party says it's time to wake up and see the flood
• The Vale Pantry in Sturminster Newton is a new breed of community service, offering food and practical help to those who are struggling. Jenny spoke to Carole Jones to hear its story.