An Ansty business has raised thousands for charity. During the first lockdown last year Carol Wallis and Immy Robinson of Brewery Farm and The Fox Inn came up with an energetic way to raise money for local good causes.

The Ansty Ambler is a charming guide to walks, of varying lengths in the surrounding area.

Carol said: “It came up when my sister and I went on a holiday to the Lake District. We had two dogs and no idea where to walk. We have lots of people staying here with their dogs.

“When I’m walking around the village I quite often meet people with the book in hand!”

The Ansty Ambler is available for a £2 charitable donation and so far it has raised over £1000, with £500 donated to Milborne St Andrew First School, which will help build a play area, and £500 to Hazelbury Bryan Primary School in Sturminster Newton.

Mrs Waring, headteacher at Hazelbury Bryan said: “We were very overwhelmed and we have arranged a mental health and well-being day on Wednesday, January 5  for all staff and children.”

The Fox Inn also holds a monthly raffle which raises more than £200 each time. Donations have been made recently to the Ducks and Drakes Cancer Trust and The Cat’s Protection League. They’ve also raised over £700 for Dorchester Intensive Care Unit in memory of a local resident and last year donated £500 to Cheselbourne School.

Carol said: “The guide is ongoing and we continue to fundraise. We’ve sold over 1000 copies this year and are looking forward to more fundraising this year.”