On a free-spirited artist, marine pollution and politics

The BV: from the heart of the Blackmore Vale

You can never say the BV provides a predictable array of subjects!
In the politics columns this month, Simon Hoare MP agrees that climate change is all around us – but he is confident that it is being acted on by the government. He also takes time to discuss vaping – our next public health crisis?
In a mock exam for politicans, Mike Chapman of the North Dorset LibDems has a long list of questions he'd like to see someone in the government provide serious, grown up answers to.
In a seemingly endless line of rage-inducing news items, Ken Huggins from the North Dorset Green Party has found a brighter story to cheer about. And Pat Osborne from North Dorset Labour is similarly positive about a local cricket club. In the light of national news around racism and classism in the sport, he's proud to share the hard work that has gone into making grassroots local clubs thoroughly inclusive.

Jenny talks to Julie Hatcher, Dorset Wildlife Trust's Marine Protection Officer, on their new campaign Save Our Wild Seas, raising both awareness and funds for practical steps to reduce the pollution on our beaches. Julie discusses the importance of our seagrass nurseries in Dorset in particular.

Artist Philip Sutton RA is now 95 and lives – and still paints – near Bridport. Author and journalist Fanny Charles talks to Jenny about the renowned colourist who has never followed fashion, but has led a fascinating life.