Blandford-based Christmas gift suggestions - Part 3

It's getting serious now. You have less than two weeks to get all those presents sorted. Blandford Forum, of a weekend, is bustling with people all out to secure gifts. It's good news for the shops which have had a horrible year of it, in general. In this, the third installment of our gift guide, we have further pointers for places to go in the town for gifts that are just a little more interesting, or unique. After all, a gift should reflect your feelings towards the recipient, as much as it provides a benefit to them - and its hard to do that with some chainstore mundanity. So go local, go independent. If you missed the first two parts of this article, you can see part 1 here and part two here. Otherwise, read on...

New Parents

New parents are always easy to buy for, there is no 'stuff' consuming vortex quite as powerful as a baby and while its important not to forget that the parents are still people who need presents too, few will be miffed at your interest in their new addition. Cobwebknits.co.uk takes cute to a whole new level with its range of hand created baby wear, mostly inspired by vegetables and fruit - you can order on line or Set Fair 4 Trade has a selection in stock. Ragtags, down Barnack Walk, has a great deal of baby wear and young kids clothes in general.

For a more offbeat present, consider organising the proud parents a photoshoot. After all, baby's don't stay that way for long, and it takes a real talent to get one looking photogenic, so head to Blandford Studios for the professional touch.

Antique Buff

When buying antiques as gifts, its a safe bet to go for unusual rather than valuable. Some people have trends within their collections which make them easier to buy for but most people who like or collect old things are mostly interested in the curiosity value, so think odd. Blandford has a few great shops for nosing about in. Of course, our plethora of charity shops is a good place to start, but for a more focussed selection, try The Alchemist's Daughter, round the corner opposite the Crown's beer garden. Or head down to Blandford St. Mary for a dig through the Corner Shop. Go with no clear idea in your head what you're after, and you'll likely come away with something.

Furry Friends

In our house, pets are as much part of the christmas celebrations as the people and they all get a present or two. Dogs in particular enjoy the unwrapping of an interesting smelling parcel or a curiously squeaky soft bundle. Sometimes the wrapping paper is more appreciated than the gift itself. While there is the good pet stall at the market, Allinghams in Barnack Walk is a more regular destination and they're nice people too. They've got bones and foody treats as well as toys for almost any kind of animal you could think of.